bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
METHODS OF RESEARCH OF THE STATE OF THE FOOT AND FITNESS OF ITS ARCH FOR LOAD MODES
Authors: Evtuhova L. A. , Ignatenko V. A.
Published: February 2022

We conducted a comprehensive study and received data characterizing the state and functional readiness of the foot of schoolchildren in terms of its arch flatness in various load modes: with no load, the load of 50 and 100 % of body weight. The study revealed the weakened ligament-muscular apparatus of the foot in the adolescents with the pathology of the musculoskeletal system, i.e. dysplastic scoliosis of degree I (70 S) in all the modes. 25 % of the examined schoolchildren with faults in posture with the arch of the foot in the anatomical state without any load made the so-called «risk group» with individual signs of the state «before flattened foot», i.e., close to the qualitative assessment «flat foot». When the load of the body weight on the foot was 50 %, the flatness index increased up to 85.7 % in girls, 87.5 % in boys with dorsopathy and 10.4-59 % in the school children with the correct posture. The subsequent 100 % increase in the load on the foot was characterized by static deformation of the foot arch in all the examined people, 25 % were diagnosed with «flat foot».
THE EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ACUTE DISORDERS OF CEREBRAL CIRCULATION IN POPULATION OF THE CITY OF GOMEL AND GOMEL REGION
Authors: Ivantsov O. A.
Published: February 2022

The epidemiological features of a cohort of patients with acute disorders of cerebral circulation living in Gomel and Gomel region have been analyzed. The absolute prevalence of patients with ischemic stroke has been shown. It has been revealed that men significantly prevailed in nosological subgroups of stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage. The age features of peaks of incidence rate and gender distinctions of patients with stroke have been ascertained.
THE RISK FOR DEVELOPMENT OF HEMATOLOGIC MALIGNANCIES IN DIFFERENT GROUPS OF THE POPULATION AFFECTED BY THE CHERNOBYL DISASTER
Authors: Cheshik A. A. , Veyalkin I. V. , Nadyrov E. A.
Published: February 2022

The subject of study was the population affected by the Chernobyl accident, (1-4 groups of primary registration). We studied cases of hematologic malignancies (ICD-10: C90-96) for the period 1986-2012. The standardized ratios of their incidence were calculated and analyzed. The analysis of the indices of the incidence ratios revealed a significantly higher risk of development of multiple myeloma and malignant plasma cell neoplasms, lymphoid leukemia and myeloid leukemia (in men) in the group of the liquidators. The fourth group of primary registration had a significantly higher risk for development of lymphocytic leukemia and myeloid leukemia (in men).
Testing the effect of bioturbation and species abundance upon discrete-depth individual foraminifera analysis
Authors: Lougheed Bryan C. , Metcalfe Brett
Published: February 2022

Abstract. We used a single foraminifera enabled, holistic
hydroclimate-to-sediment transient modelling approach to fundamentally
evaluate the efficacy of discrete-depth individual foraminifera analysis
(IFA) for reconstructing past sea surface temperature (SST) variability from
deep-sea sediment archives, a method that has been used, amongst other
applications, for reconstructing El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The
computer model environment allows us to strictly control for variables such
as SST, foraminifera species abundance response to SST, as well as
depositional processes such as sediment accumulation rate (SAR) and
bioturbation depth (BD) and subsequent laboratory processes such as sample
size and machine error. Examining a number of best-case scenarios, we find
that IFA-derived reconstructions of past SST variability are sensitive to
all of the aforementioned variables. Running 100 ensembles for each
scenario, we find that the influence of bioturbation upon IFA-derived SST
reconstructions, combined with typical samples sizes employed in the field,
produces noisy SST reconstructions with poor correlation to the original SST
distribution in the water. This noise is especially apparent for values near
the tails of the SST distribution, which is the distribution region of
particular interest in the case of, e.g. ENSO. The noise is further increased in the
case of increasing machine error, decreasing SAR and decreasing sample size.
We also find poor agreement between ensembles, underscoring the need for
replication studies in the field to confirm findings at particular sites and
time periods. Furthermore, we show that a species abundance response to SST
could in theory bias IFA-derived SST reconstructions, which can have
consequences when comparing IFA-derived SST distributions from markedly different mean
climate states. We provide a number of idealised simulations spanning a
number of SAR, sample size, machine error and species abundance scenarios,
which can help assist researchers in the field to determine under which
conditions they could expect to retrieve significant results.
A machine-learning-guided adaptive algorithm to reduce the computational cost of integrating kinetics in global atmospheric chemistry models: application to GEOS-Chem versions 12.0.0 and 12.9.1
Authors: Shen Lu , Jacob Daniel J. , Santillana Mauricio , Bates Kelvin , Zhuang Jiawei , Chen Wei
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Global modeling of atmospheric chemistry is a great
computational challenge because of the cost of integrating the kinetic
equations for chemical mechanisms with typically over 100 coupled species.
Here we present an adaptive algorithm to ease this computational bottleneck
with no significant loss in accuracy and apply it to the GEOS-Chem global
3-D model for tropospheric and stratospheric chemistry (228 species, 724
reactions). Our approach is inspired by unsupervised machine learning
clustering techniques and traditional asymptotic analysis ideas. We locally
define species in the mechanism as fast or slow on the basis of their total
production and loss rates, and we solve the coupled kinetic system only for
the fast species assembled in a submechanism of the full mechanism. To avoid
computational overhead, we first partition the species from the full
mechanism into 13 blocks, using a machine learning approach that analyzes
the chemical linkages between species and their correlated presence as fast
or slow in the global model domain. Building on these blocks, we then
preselect 20 submechanisms, as defined by unique assemblages of the species
blocks, and then pick locally and on the fly which submechanism to use in
the model based on local chemical conditions. In each submechanism, we
isolate slow species and slow reactions from the coupled system of fast
species to be solved. Because many species in the full mechanism are
important only in source regions, we find that we can reduce the effective
size of the mechanism by 70 % globally without sacrificing complexity
where/when it is needed. The computational cost of the chemical integration
decreases by 50 % with relative biases smaller than 2 % for important
species over 8-year simulations. Changes to the full mechanism including
the addition of new species can be accommodated by adding these species to the
relevant blocks without having to reconstruct the suite of submechanisms.
SSolar-GOA v1.0: a simple, fast, and accurate Spectral SOLAR radiative transfer model for clear skies
Authors: Cachorro Victoria Eugenia , Antuña-Sanchez Juan Carlos , de Frutos Ángel Máximo
Published: February 2022

Abstract. The aim of this work is to describe the features of and to
validate a simple, fast, accurate, and physically based spectral radiative
transfer model in the solar wavelength range under clear skies. The model,
named SSolar-GOA (the first “S” stands for “spectral”), was developed to
evaluate the instantaneous values of spectral solar irradiances at ground level or
at a given altitude of the atmosphere. The model requirements are designed based on
the simplicity of the analytical expressions for the transmittance functions
in order to be easily replicated and applied by a wide community of users
for many different applications (atmospheric and environmental research
studies, satellite remote sensing, solar energy, agronomy and forestry, ecology,
and others). Although spectral, the model runs quickly and has sufficient
accuracy for the evaluation of solar irradiances with a spectral resolution
of 1–10 nm. The model assumes a single mixed molecule–aerosol scattering
layer where the original Ambartsumian method of “adding layers” in a
one-dimensional medium is applied, obtaining a parameterized expression for
the total transmittance of scattering. Absorption by the different
atmospheric gases follows “band model” parameterized expressions. The
input parameters must be realistic and easily available since the spectral
aerosol optical depth (AOD) is the main driver of the model. The validation
of the SSolar-GOA model has been carried out through comparison with
simulated irradiance data from the libRadtran package and with direct and global
spectra measured by spectroradiometers. Thousands of spectra under clear
skies have been compared for different atmospheric conditions and solar
zenith angles (SZA). The SSolar-GOA is validated by a quantitative
comparison with libRadtran, showing that it underestimates direct normal,
global, and diffuse spectral components with relative differences of
+1 % (RMSE % = 4.6–8), +3 % (RMSE % = 5.3–8), and 8 %
(RMSE % = 9.3–9.6), respectively, when the SZA varies from
6 to 60∘. Compared with the measured
irradiance data of the LI-1800 and ASD spectroradiometers, the relative
differences of direct normal and global components are within the overall
experimental error, about ±2 %–12 % (RMSE % = 5–8.3), with
underestimated or overestimated values. The diffuse component presents the
highest degree of relative difference that can reach ±20 %–30 % and
RMSE of 25 %–50 %. The relative differences depend strongly on the spectral
solar region analysed and the SZA, but the high values of RMSE are due to
the artifice generated by the different spectral resolution of the
absorption coefficients of both models. Model approach errors combined with
calibration instrument errors may explain the observed differences. The
SSolar-GOA v1.0 is implemented in Python and open-source licensing.
Modelling hourly evapotranspiration in urban environments with SCOPE using open remote sensing and meteorological data
Authors: Duarte Rocha Alby , Vulova Stenka , van der Tol Christiaan , Förster Michael , Kleinschmit Birgit
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Evapotranspiration (ET) is a fundamental variable for assessing water balance and the urban heat island (UHI) effect. Terrestrial ET is deeply dependent on the land cover as it derives mainly from soil evaporation and plant transpiration. The majority of well-known process-based models based on the Penman–Monteith equation focus on the atmospheric interfaces (e.g. radiation, temperature and humidity), lacking explicit input parameters to precisely describe vegetation and soil properties. The model
soil-canopy-observation of photosynthesis and energy fluxes (SCOPE) accounts for a broad range of surface–atmosphere interactions to predict ET. However, like most modelling approaches, SCOPE assumes a homogeneous vegetated landscape to estimate ET. As urban environments are highly fragmented, exhibiting a mix of vegetated and impervious surfaces, we propose a two-stage modelling approach to capture most of the spatiotemporal variability of ET without making the model overly complex. After predicting ET using the SCOPE model, the bias caused by the assumption of homogeneous vegetation is corrected using the vegetation fraction extracted by footprint modelling. Two urban sites equipped with eddy flux towers presenting different levels of vegetation fraction and imperviousness located in Berlin, Germany, were used as study cases. The correction factor for urban environments increased the model accuracy significantly, reducing the relative bias in ET predictions from 0.74 to 0.001 and 2.20 to −0.13 for the two sites considering the SCOPE model with remote sensing-derived inputs. Model errors (RMSE) were considerably reduced in both sites, from 0.061 to 0.026 and 0.100 to 0.021, while the coefficient of determination (R2) remained similar after correction, 0.82 and 0.47, respectively. The novelty of this study is to provide hourly ET predictions combining the temporal dynamics of ET in a natural environment with the spatially fragmented land cover in urban environments at a low computational cost. All model inputs are open data and available globally for most medium-sized and large cities. This approach can provide ET maps in different temporal resolutions to better manage vegetation in cities in order to mitigate the UHI effect and droughts.
VIRTUAL REALITY AND CAPTURED REALITY FOR CULTURAL LANDSCAPE COMMUNICATION
Authors: Calisi D. , Botta S.
Published: February 2022

Abstract. In the last twenty years, the process of digitization of art and cultural heritage in general has undergone considerable developments pursuing purposes of conservation and analysis, first, but also of dissemination and knowledge of the works themselves or of the sites of historical - archaeological – architectural interest. For years, museums and archaeological sites have begun to digitize their assets to make them usable on online platforms. In this way, multiple high-resolution digital archives and virtual reconstructions of the sites were born that provide immersive experiences to the user. Above all, the latter stimulate the cinematographic and videogame industries to continuous research to improve the immersive and interactive experience, thanks to the use of virtual reality devices applied to increasingly detailed digital models, in some cases obtained thanks to the most modern detection instruments.
THE CONSERVATION OF THE SMALL CLOISTER OF SANT’AGOSTINO IN BERGAMO: THE SURVEY OF THE TOMBS AND THE EPIGRAPHS
Authors: Cardaci A. , Versaci A. , Azzola P.
Published: February 2022

Abstract. The restoration of the small cloister of the former monastery of Sant’Agostino, located in the upper town of Bergamo is the last act of the redevelopment of this important monumental site. During the work, several graves were found underground. The stone slabs that covered them show fragments of epigraphs allowing to date the structures for a period from the 14th to the 15th centuries which needed to be deepened. A knowledge project, specifically intended for the interpretation of the inscriptions was then initiated. To this end, an experiment was carried out, aiming to compare RTI photography and digital photogrammetry combined with the use of grazing light.
HIGH ACCURACY 3D DIGITISATION OF THE GOETHE ELEPHANT SKULL USING HAND-HELD 3D SCANNING SYSTEMS AND STRUCTURE FROM MOTION – A COMPARATIVE CASE STUDY
Authors: Kalinowski P. , Füldner K. , Mittmann M. , Schierbaum A. , Luhmann T.
Published: February 2022

Abstract. The Goethe Elephant skull is a cultural object of great interest. For the highly accurate 3D digitisation of the object, a hand-held 3D scanning system (Creaform GO!Scan) and Structure-from-Motion (DSLR camera) were used. The aim is a complete spatial reconstruction with a resolution of 0.5 mm and an accuracy level of approximate 0.5 mm. The skull consists of three parts, which have very complex but also very simple surface structures. For both methods the data acquisition and processing is described in detail. In both cases, a complete textured meshed 3D model could be calculated without shadows due to the use of camera-fixed lighting. The 3D models fulfil the desired target resolution and accuracy, verified by independent reference lengths and by the manufacturer's specifications. In addition, the colour values of the texture were calibrated with the help of the ColorChecker Digital SG. A visual and geometric comparison of the two models shows that both methods are very well suited for high-precision 3D object reconstruction on a similar level of accuracy. Furthermore, the advantages and disadvantages of the methods are compared. The main advantage of the applied hand-held scanner is the real-time verification of the model during data acquisition. The established SfM convinces with its flexibility regarding resolution and camera positioning.
ANALYTICAL REPRESENTATION OF ARCHITECTURAL BUILT HERITAGE. A SKETCH-TO-BIM APPROACH
Authors: Argiolas R. , Bagnolo V. , Cera S. , Sanna G.
Published: February 2022

Abstract. HBIM methodology is increasingly used for the management of all aspects of architectural heritage, from survey and analysis to conservation, management and restoration issues.Application of HBIM are the so-called Scan-to-BIM processes in which the artifact is surveyed with digital techniques of laser scanning and photogrammetry. These techniques result in point clouds, the basis of the subsequent process of informative and geometric modelling of the artifact. The resulting "smart models" are composed of parametric objects rich in information that can be easily updated at any time.The proposed methodology aims at integrating a study of architectural orders, whose results become preparatory to the subsequent phases of survey and modeling, to the classic Scan-to-BIM workflows. In particular, in the modeling these results have allowed a more targeted choice of techniques used.The method has been applied to the atrium of the former Jesuit College of Santa Croce in Cagliari, which today hosts one of the seats of the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture of the University of Cagliari; in particular, the atrium of the east body of the former Jesuit College, designed by the Piedmontese architect Antonio Felice De Vincenti, has been modelled.
OPEN SOURCE AND AFFORDABLE TERRESTRIAL LASER SCANNER
Authors: Pyae A. B. , Nyan Lin N. N. , Zaw Z. Z.
Published: February 2022

Abstract. This paper explores the development of an affordable terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) system based on low-cost components and open source software. This paper enumerates components implemented and integrated in both hardware and software aspects. Primarily, the proposed system depends on Mid-40 LiDAR sensor and utilizes Point Cloud Library (PCL), Open Source Computer Vision Library (OpenCV) and Robotic Operating System (ROS) for system operation and data processing. Furthermore, this paper discusses sensor calibration and fusion methods available and implemented in the processing pipeline. The goal of this work is to produce an open source package of software system and hardware designs of a robust version of the TLS system that can be shared and easily reproduced by individuals and communities for their applications.
IMMERSIVE VISUAL EXPERIENCE FOR WAYFINDING ANALYSIS
Authors: Bianconi F. , Filippucci M. , Cornacchini F. , Seccaroni M.
Published: February 2022

Abstract. The research presents a new digital approach to wayfinding analysis in immersive reality, integrated with biosensors for the interpretation of data surveyed. The three-dimensional model of the actual state of the Hall of Perugia Railway Station was realized, considering and detecting the present signage, and it was developed a specific algorithm for a multi-platform graphics engine, able to register an interaction mediated by HMD devices. Wayfinding experiences in immersive reality are developed guaranteeing to the user to move freely to complete the missions assigned. The algorithm in this phase runs in the background and records the movements of users and their pupil, saving them in a special file. In the second phase, instead, the real data processing and the subsequent representation of the collected information take place. Starting from its current state, the Station hall is transformed inserting different elements, derived by the aim of developing four scenarios, to analyse different users’ response in wayfinding. A three-dimensional heat map of visual attentions is created and the different scenarios can be valued for their impact in the user wayfinding, the results are then confronted with the neuro-analysis obtained by EEG instruments and biosensors. In this way, it is possible to value the impact of the environment and spatial orientation cues, by quantifying and qualifying the impact of the project choices.
Nowcasting thunderstorm hazards using machine learning: the impact of data sources on performance
Authors: Leinonen Jussi , Hamann Ulrich , Germann Urs , Mecikalski John R.
Published: February 2022

Abstract. In order to aid feature selection in thunderstorm nowcasting, we present an analysis of the utility of various sources of data for machine-learning-based nowcasting of hazards related to thunderstorms. We considered ground-based radar data, satellite-based imagery and lightning observations, forecast data from numerical weather prediction (NWP) and the topography from a digital elevation model (DEM), ending up with 106 different predictive variables. We evaluated machine-learning models to nowcast storm track radar reflectivity (representing precipitation), lightning occurrence, and the 45 dBZ radar echo top height that can be used as an indicator of hail, producing predictions for lead times of up to 60 min. The study was carried out in an area in the Northeastern United States for which observations from the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-16 are available and can be used as a proxy for the upcoming Meteosat Third Generation capabilities in Europe. The benefits of the data sources were evaluated using two complementary approaches: using feature importance reported by the machine learning model based on gradient-boosted trees, and by repeating the analysis using all possible combinations of the data sources. The two approaches sometimes yielded seemingly contradictory results, as the feature importance reported by the gradient-boosting algorithm sometimes disregards certain features that are still useful in the absence of more powerful predictors, while, at times, it overstates the importance of other features. We found that the radar data is the most important predictor overall. The satellite imagery is beneficial for all of the studied predictands, and therefore offers a viable alternative in regions where radar data are unavailable, such as over the oceans and in less-developed ares. The lightning data are very useful for nowcasting lightning but are of limited use for the other hazards. While the feature importance ranks NWP data as an important input, the omission of NWP data can be well compensated for by using information in the observational data over the nowcast period. Finally, we did not find evidence that the nowcast benefits from the DEM data.
An approach to identify the best climate models for the assessment of climate change impacts on meteorological and hydrological droughts
Authors: Collados-Lara Antonio-Juan , Gómez-Gómez Juan-de-Dios , Pulido-Velazquez David , Pardo-Igúzquiza Eulogio
Published: February 2022

Abstract. This paper describes the benefits of using more reliable local climate scenarios to analyse hydrological responses. It assumes that Regional Climate Model (RCM) simulations are more reliable when they provide
better approximations to the historical basic and drought statistics after
applying a bias correction to them. We have investigated whether the best
solutions in terms of their approximation to the local meteorology may also
provide the best hydrological assessments. We have carried out a
classification of the corrected RCM simulations used for both approximations. This has been applied in the Cenajo basin (south-eastern
Spain), where we show that the best approximations of the historical
meteorological statistics also provide the best approximations for the
hydrological statistics. The selected RCMs were used to generate future (2071–2100) local scenarios under the RCP8.5 emission scenario. The two selected RCMs predict significant changes in mean precipitation (−31.6 % and −44.0 %) and mean temperature (+26.0 % and +32.2 %). They also predict higher frequency (from 5 events in the historical period to 20 and 22 in the future), length (4.8 to 7.4 and 10.5 months), magnitude (2.53 to 6.56 and 9.62 SPI) and intensity (0.48 to 1.00 and 0.94 SPI) of extreme meteorological droughts. These two RCMs also predict higher changes in mean streamflow (−43.5 % and −57.2 %) and hydrological droughts. The two RCMs also predict worrying changes in streamflow (−43.5 % and −57.2 %) and hydrologically extreme droughts: frequency (from 3 to 11 for the first model and 8 events for the second model), length (8.3 to 15.4 and 29.6 months), magnitude (from 3.98 to 11.84 and 31.72 SSI), and intensity (0.63 to 0.90 and 1.52 SSI).
Comparison of sediment composition by smear slides to quantitative shipboard data: a case study on the utility of smear slide percent estimates, IODP Expedition 353, northern Indian Ocean
Authors: Phillips Stephen C. , Littler Kate
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Smear slide petrography has been a standard technique during scientific ocean drilling expeditions to characterize sediment composition and classify sediment types, but presentation of these percent
estimates to track downcore trends in sediment composition has become less
frequent over the past 2 decades. We compare semi-quantitative smear slide composition estimates to physical property (natural gamma radiation, NGR)
and solid-phase geochemical (calcium carbonate, CaCO3 %)
measurements from a range of marine depositional environments in the
northern Indian Ocean (Bay of Bengal, Andaman Sea, Ninetyeast Ridge)
collected during International Ocean Discovery Program (IODP) Expedition 353. We show that presenting smear slide estimates as percentages, rather
than abundance categories, reveals similar downcore variation in composition
to the more quantitative core analyses. Overall downcore trends in total calcareous components from smear slides (foraminifers + nannofossils +
shell fragments + authigenic carbonate) follow similar downcore trends to samples measured by CaCO3 coulometry. Total lithogenic components
(clay + mica + quartz + feldspars + lithic grains + vitric grains
+ glauconite + heavy minerals + iron oxides) and clay from smear
slides track reasonably well with NGR measurements. Comparison of site
averages of absolute percentages of total calcium carbonate from coulometry
and total calcareous components from smear slide observations reveals an overestimation in carbonate percentages in smear slides (likely due in part
to underestimation of the clay fraction), especially in sediments rich in smectite clays. Differences in sediment color between sites and settling of
clay particles during slide preparation may contribute to this discrepancy.
Although smear slide estimates range in accuracy depending on the training
of the operator, we suggest that sedimentologists describing cores obtained
during scientific drilling can use the percent estimates of sedimentary
components in smear slides to identify trends and cyclicity in marine
sediment records.
ATA DA 32ª SESSÃO ORDINÁRIA DA ACADEMIA NACIONAL DE MEDICINA, RELATIVA AO 192º ANO ACADÊMICO
Authors: Costa Aboudib Jr . José Horácio
Published: February 2022

REALIZADA NO DIA 21/10/2021, QUINTA FEIRA, ÀS 18 HORAS, NA PLATAFORMA DE REUNIÕES ONLINE ZOOM MEETINGS. Presidente: Acad. Rubens Belfort Mattos Jr. Secretário-Geral: Acad. Carlos Eduardo Brandão Mello
Évaluation à distance d’un cours en présentiel en contexte de COVID-19 et les défis de l’inégalité numérique
Authors: Darius Venus
Published: February 2022

L’enseignement supérieur en République démocratique du Congo (RDC) fait face à plusieurs défis, dont la précarité numérique qui complique le fonctionnement des acteurs éducatifs. Après avoir passé environ un an et demi comme professeur dans une université congolaise, la pandémie de COVID-19 nous a contraint à quitter le pays. Malgré le manque de ressources numériques de cette université fonctionnant totalement en présentiel, nous avons pu effectuer toutes les activités du cours à distance. Au terme de cette étude ethnographique, nous présentons les limites des adaptations réalisées au regard de l’inégalité numérique observée parmi les étudiants et qui est un échantillon de l’inégalité sociale qui sévit dans tout le pays.
Et si les cas de plagiat et de tricherie étaient liés à la nature des activités d’évaluation?
Authors: Hébert Marie-Hélène , Fontaine Sylvie
Published: February 2022

La pandémie de COVID-19 et la fermeture des établissements d’enseignement qu’elle a entrainée ont conduit le personnel enseignant à s’interroger sur la manière d’apprécier les apprentissages des apprenants à distance. Dans cet article, nous examinons la voie de l’évaluation authentique pour proposer aux apprenants des activités d’évaluation qui les amènent à faire usage de créativité et, ce faisant, à diminuer les cas de plagiat et de tricherie.
Study of the Synthesis and Characterization of Poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylamide)-kaolinite Composite Reference to Adsorption of Cd and Pb from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Munazzah Saeed Munazzah Saeed , Manzoor Iqbal Manzoor Iqbal , Mahmood Iqbal Mahmood Iqbal , Sayed Muhammad Salman and Sadiq Afridi Sayed Muhammad Salman and Sadiq Afridi
Published: February 2022

A novel poly(acrylic acid-co-acrylamide)/ kaolinite composite was produced by copolymerization of partially neutralized acrylic acid and acrylamide with sawdust for crosslinking applying Bis-acrylamide having linear formulae (C₇H₁₀N₂O₂.), (H₂C=CHCONH) 2CH₂, potassium persulfate, K2S2O8 as initiator and sodium sulphite used as accelerator to reduce the polymerization time. Physiognomy of the composite was performed by techniques viz., Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-Radiation Diffractometry (Crystallography), Structural-Equation-Modeling, Energy-Dispersal X-Radiation-Analysis and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller methods. Divalent cadmium and lead electrolytes (adsorbate) adsorption on the adsorbent (composite) in aqueous solution was studied in batch experiments optimizing reaction parameters like “IA” of equilibrium amount, “CT” (wet time), neutrality (alkalinity and acidity) and calefaction (thermal reading). The quasi 2nd order kinetic archetypal ensued by AK. Adsorption isotherrms were applied to the empirical statistics which fitted well with a) Irving-Langmuir-isotherm and b) Freundlich adsorption isotherm. The supreme adsorption dimensions, qm (from Irving-Langmuir isotherm) at 25oC, were 28.57 mg g-1 and 32.25 mg g-1 for divalent cadmium and lead electrolytes, respectively. Data of activation energy (12.148 kJ mol-1 and 7.165 kJ mol-1 for divalent cadmium and lead electrolytes respectively) indicated physio-absorption. Results of thermodynamic parameters like ∆Go, ∆Ho and ∆So for both divalent cadmium and lead electrolytes suggested the phenomenon of the endothermic and spontaneity nature of the process. The newly synthesized composite attributed to its cost effective and environment friendly nature of the synthesis which will be deemed as a capable substance for the exclusion of adsorbent divalent cadmium and lead electrolytes from aqueous suspensions.
One-Pot Fabrication of K-Doped g-C3N4/SiO2Composite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity for Degradation of Tetracycline
Authors: Min keng He Min keng He , Jin Zhang Jin Zhang , Fang yan Chen Fang yan Chen , Ke keShu Ke keShu , Yu bin Tang Yu bin Tang
Published: February 2022

K-doped g-C3N4/SiO2composite (SiO2/K-CN) was synthesized by a facile thermal polymerization with potassium chloride, melamine and nano-silica as raw materials. The as-prepared SiO2/K-CN was characterized by various measures. The photocatalytic activity of SiO2/K-CN was tested via the photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline under visible-light irradiation. The results showed that the specific surface area of SiO2/K-CN catalyst was 28.16m2/g, which is larger than that of pristine K-doped g-C3N4. Both K-doping and silica-combination can reduce the recombination rate of photo-generated electrons-holes pairs and broaden the region of visible light-harvesting. Compared with the pristine K-doped g-C3N4 and composite SiO2/g-C3N4, SiO2/K-CN exhibits distinctly higher photocatalytic activity for degradation of tetracycline. The enhanced photocatalytic performance of SiO2/K-CN is attributed to the increased specific surface area and the synergistic effect of K-doping and silica-combination in both accelerating separation of charged carries and improving visible light-absorption. During photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline, superoxide radicals play the most important role, followed by holes.SiO2/K-CN complex has excellent stability and shows promising application in photocatalytic degradation of organic contaminants in water.
Synthesis and Characterization of Sm-Ho-CeO2 Compounds Produced by Different Synthesis Methods
Authors: Ahmet Hamdi BAKIR and Handan ZL TORUN Ahmet Hamdi BAKIR and Handan ZL TORUN
Published: February 2022

The most important part of a solid oxide fuel cell is the ceramic electrolyte. In this study, cerium oxide (CeO2) was used as the ceramic electrolyte, and different dopant types were used to increase total conductivity. In this study, the most commonly used Sm, and the less frequently used Ho elements were doped simultaneously. As a result, the effect of dope and different synthesis methods on electrolyte properties was evaluated. Three rates were studied with the total amount of Sm-Ho being 20%. The effect of the dopant types on conductivity with critical radius effect was investigated. These dope types were placed in a CeO2 crystal lattice by using the sol-gel and hydrothermal methods. After synthesis, the stable phase was obtained at room temperature. X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) was used for phase determination. The thermogravimetry (TG) determined mass change. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used in the analysis of surface morphology. Total conductivity measurements were measured by the four-probe dc method. After synthesis processes, cubic compounds were obtained. The total conductivity values of the cubic phases samples obtained by two different synthesis methods were compared. The highest conductivity was observed in the sol-gel compounds. The highest electrical conductivity Ce0.80Sm0.10Ho0.10O2 system sol- gel; 6.92x10-3(Ωcm)1- at 655 oC. It was found that the compound obtained as a result of the evaluations could be used ceramic electrolyte application.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Anticancer Activity of Substituted Quinazoline Derivatives
Authors: Bo Wang Bo Wang , Zhi qiang Cai Zhi qiang Cai , Xiao yu Shi Xiao yu Shi , Xiang Li Xiang Li , Shuai Li Shuai Li , and Ji xin Li and Ji xin Li
Published: February 2022

News series of substituted quinazoline derivatives has been synthesized from 3,4-dihydro-7-methoxy-4-oxoquinazoline-6-yl acetate (1) by five-step procedures including chlorination, amination, hydrolysis and etherification. The structures of target compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR, element analysis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The results showed that the compound 8c exhibited remarkable inhibitory activity against MCF-7 cell lines with inhibition rate value of 38.45 %, which was comparable to that of the positive control Gefitinib (inhibition rate = 13.25 % for MCF-7). The initial relationship between structure and activity was worth further exploration.
A Novel Magnetic Nanocatalyst Fe3O4@TiO2-H5IO6 for the Green Synthesis of 4-Substituted-1,5-benzodiazepine Derivatives
Authors: Fatemeh Ahmadzadeh Fatemeh Ahmadzadeh , Bahador Karami Bahador Karami , Mahnaz Farahi and Jamileh Etemad Mahnaz Farahi and Jamileh Etemad
Published: February 2022

In this study, periodic acid-functionalized magnetic support (Fe3O4@TiO2-H5IO6) as a new, benign and recyclable nanocatalyst was prepared by anchoring / periodic acid onto TiO2-coated nano-Fe3O4. This catalyst was applied to achieve a high-efficiency, low-cost and eco-friendly approach for synthesizing 4-substituted-1,5-benzodiazepines with the multicomponent reactions of aromatic aldehydes, o-phenylenediamine, and dimedone. The / periodic acid group on Fe3O4@TiO2 possesses both Lewis and Brand#248;nsted acidity, which is responsible for the high catalyst activity. The obtained results show that the catalyst performance has been acceptable in the presented research. / The catalyst could be recovered and reused up to six times without any notable decrease in its activity.
Preparation, Preliminary Characterization and Antiangiogenic Activities of Polysaccharides from Pomegranate Peels
Authors: Chunlin Ke and Zuomei Li Chunlin Ke and Zuomei Li
Published: February 2022

In the present study, the crude polysaccharides from pomegranate peels (CPP) were prepared by compound enzyme-extraction technology, and the response surface methodology was used to optimize the extraction parameters. Box–Behnken design (BBD) was applied to estimate the effects of extraction temperature, extraction pH, and dosage of compound enzyme on the yield of CPP. A mathematical model with high fitness was obtained. Extraction temperature, extraction pH, and dosage of compound enzyme exhibited independent and interactive effects on CPP yield. CPP were purified by macroporous resin HP-20 and Sephadex G-100 column chromatography to afford purified fraction of CPP-2. The relative molecular weight of CPP-2 was 93.5 kDa. In CPP-2, and FT-IR spectra showed that the main components among CPP-2 may be pectic polysaccharides.The effect of CPP-2 on angiogenesis was measured in vivo by using the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. The results demonstrated that CPP-2 suppressed angiogenesis in chicken embryos.
A Review on Measurement of Concentration of Heavy Metals in the Muscles of Mugil cephalus
Authors: Fehmeeda Afzal Fehmeeda Afzal , Sonia Tariq Sonia Tariq , Ashraf Nadeem Ashraf Nadeem , Samiullah Samiullah , Jafar Iqbal Jafar Iqbal , Khalil Hasni Khalil Hasni , Muhammad Aslam and Shaikh Sanaullah Muhammad Aslam and Shaikh Sanaullah
Published: February 2022

Heavy metals are an important class of compounds that is increasing in environment due to the anthropogenic activities. They are extremely toxic to human beings and animals. Many of them enter the water through industrial waste and effect the aquatic life. Fishes, for example, are an important source of food and they get effected by heavy metals when they ingest the infected sediments, mud and water. Heavy metals enter the food chain when infected fishes are consumed and effect humans as well. We highlight the recent (10-15 years) published work on measuring the levels of heavy metal in Mugilcephalus (Flathead mullet) fish. Out of all the methods compared and discussed in this paper, Atomic absorption spectroscopy was found to be the most preferred method and most commonly used by researchers because of its ease and cost. The most commonly used unit for metal detection in muscles was g/g (dry weight).The results also summarize advantages and drawbacks of methods used to digest muscles of the said species and heavy metal measurement. In selected studies, the levels of metals were also compared with the safe limits set by WHO, FAO and USEPA. This gives a lot of information about the edible fitness of the M.cephalus.
Comparison between Fructose Amine and Hemoglobin A1C Level to Evaluate Glycemic Control in Sudanese Diabetic Control.
Authors: Elobied Mohamed Elamin Abdelsamee , Mahdi Fadlallah Elneeima Ahmed
Published: February 2022

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM), commonly referred to as diabetes, is a group of metabolic diseases with high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period, and  is one of the most severe and frequent human disorders. Fructosamine is a generic name given to a compound known as plasma protein ketoamines. Fructosamine together with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) are used to monitor the state of hyperglycaemia in diabetics.

Objectives: This study aimed to compare between HeamoglobinA1c and Fructosamine in Sudanese diabetic patients in Omdurman Teaching Hospital and Diabetic and Endocrine center in Bahri.

Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study.  Automated colorimetric determination of fructosamine for each of the 50 blood samples of the study group was carried out according to specific procedure. Latex enhanced immuno-assay method for hemoglobinA1c (HbA1c)  determination  based on the interaction between antigen molecules (HbA1c) and HbA1c specific c antibodies coated on latex beads was carried out according to a specific procedure. Control group criteria should be clear because it is confused.

Results: HbA1c% and Fructose amine were measured on the same sample in 50 diabetic patients. There is a significantly direct positive correlation between levels of fructose amine (mmol/L) and HbA1c% among the studied group (P-value = 0.001 < 0.05).  Sensitivity and specificity of fructosamine and HbA1c to detect blood glucose. hemoglobin A1C has (86%) sensitivity and (25%) specificity while fructosamine has (63%) sensitivity and (55%) specificity.

Conclusion: In diabetes serum fructosamine  assay can better reflect average blood glucose concentration over the previous 2-3 weeks and HbA1c is better reflective over the previous 8-10 weeks there for fructosamine can be used as routine test while HbA1C as a  first -line screening test.
Biofertilizer gel contains Phosphate Solubilizing Microbes (PSMs) plus and its effect on phosphate dynamics in Inceptisols Jatinangor-Indonesia
Authors: Mega Kartika Hermawan  , Betty Natalie Fitriatin A  , Nenny Nurlaeny
Published: February 2022

Dependence on inorganic fertilizers is a major risk in today's food supply efforts, along with the increasing population. One of the efforts to reduce this risk is to apply biological fertilizers that are specially formulated on the suitable carrier material so that they are able to work effectively and efficiently in substituting the need for inorganic fertilizer inputs and increasing plant yield components. Inceptisol series Jatinangor has characteristic soil texture is dominated by clay fraction, neutral pH 7.01. Under neutral conditions, in general, nutrients in the soil tend to be more readily available, but the availability of P is actually very low at only 2.82 mg.kg-1 of soil. In this neutral to alkaline pH, the solubility of metal cations Ca and Mg increased, indicated by a high Ca2+ content of 12.60 cmol.kg-1 and Mg2+ which was also high at 4.91 cmol.kg-1. The nutrient imbalance is also due to the low C-organic content of the soil, namely 1.83%, so that the soil's support capacity is low. Low organic C causes the presence of indigenous microbes which is quite high, especially PSMs, namely 1 x 104 cfu.g-1, which is not able to increase the availability of soil nutrients, especially P due to lack of carbon sources. The experiment aimed to determine the compatibility and characteristics of inoculants in the biofertilizer gel contains PSMs plus (BG) and its effect on the dynamics of phosphate in Inceptisols Jatinangor. BG contains a consortium of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and phosphate solubilizing fungi (PSF) which are packaged in hydrogel carriers and additives. The PSB used were Bacillus subtillis, Pseudomonas maleii, and Bulkholderia cepacea, while the PSF used was Trichoderma asperellum. The experiment were carried out in vitro at the Soil Biology Laboratory of Universitas Padjadjaran in collaboration with PT Agritek Tani Indonesia and at the Experimental Land of the Department of Soil Science of Universitas Padjadjaran. The experimental design used in this study was a single randomized block design (RBD) with 9 treatments and 3 replications, consisting of treatments (control: 0 BG + 0 P); (1 P); (1 BG); (1 BG + ½ P); (1 BG + ¾ P); (1 BG + 1 P); (½ BG + ¾ P); (¾ BG + ¾ P); and (1 ½ BG + ¾ P). The dose of fertilizer used was BG 50 kg. ha-1, SP-36 100 kg.ha-1, Urea 350 kg.ha-1, KCl 50 kg.ha-1, and sheep manure as basic fertilizer 2 t.ha-1.The results showed that each isolate had the ability to dissolved phosphate, produced IAA, and one of them was antagonistic against the fungal pathogen Fusarium sp.. The combination of fertilizers had an effect on regulate soil pH, and increasing phosphatase activity, soil available P, soil potential P, and PSMs population in the soil. The formulation of 1 BG + ¾ P consistently showed the best effect on soil phosphate dynamics in Inceptisols Jatinangor.
Governance of risk management programs: Learning from Québec's Farm Income Stabilization Insurance program
Authors: Clerson Frédérick
Published: February 2022

Involving stakeholders in program decision-making can support existing programs and reduce tensions against the state. However, to be involved, stake­holders may request specific mechanisms to influ­ence program design or outcomes. This paper ana­lyzes the design of four consultation mechanisms and the resultant stakeholder experiences in a pro­vincial Canadian program called Farm Income Stabilization Insurance (FISI). The program offers a protection against low prices. The findings of this paper are based on 18 semi-structured interviews conducted with current and former participants familiar with the mechanisms. An analysis is accomplished through Arnstein’s ladder of citizen participation and Glasser’s choice theory. Results show that stakeholder representation can be im­proved by adequately designing consultation mech­anisms and implementing specific actions. Recom­mended practices include separating political and technical discussions, asking a third party to take charge of the consultation mechanisms and prepare information, formally laying down recurrent mech­anisms, and involving high-ranking individuals in the discussions.