bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryo- EM structure of the mycobacterial 70S ribosome in complex with ribosome hibernation promotion factor RafH, reveals the unique mode of mycobacterial ribosome hibernation
Authors: Kaushal Prem , Kumar Niraj , Sharma Shivani
Published: June 2023

Ribosome hibernation is a key survival strategy bacteria adopt under environmental stress, where a protein, hibernation promotion factor (HPF), transitorily inactivates the ribosome and slows down its overall protein synthesis. The mechanism is well studied in enteric bacteria, which mainly hibernate its ribosome in 100S disome form through a dual domain, long HPF (HPFlong) or a single domain, short HPF (HPFshort) in concert with another ribosome modulation factor. Mycobacterium tuberculosis encounters hypoxia (low oxygen) as a major stress in the host macrophages, and it overexpresses RafH protein, which is critical for its survival. The RafH, a dual domain HPF, an orthologue of bacterial HPFlong, hibernates ribosome in 70S monosome form only. Here we report the cryo- EM structure of Mycobacterium smegmatis, a close homologue of M. tuberculosis, 70S ribosome in complex with the RafH factor at an overall 2.8 Å resolution. The RafH N- terminus domain (NTD) is conserved and binds to the decoding center of the ribosomal small subunit, a similar binding for HPFlong NTD, but additionally it also interacts with the inter subunit bridge, B2a. Contrary to the HPFlong C- terminus domain (CTD), the RafH CTD, which is larger, binds to a unique site at the platform binding center of the ribosomal small subunit and sandwiches between bS1 and uS11 ribosomal proteins. The two domain connecting linker regions, which remain mostly disordered in earlier reported HPFlong structures, interacts mainly with the anti-Shine Dalgarno sequence of the 16S rRNA. The helix H54a of 23S rRNA, unique to the mycobacterial ribosome, adopts a different conformation and come close to RafH CTD, suggesting its role in ribosome hibernation. RafH inhibits in-vitro protein synthesis in a concentration dependent manner. Further, the modeling studies provided the structural basis for the incompatibility of mycobacterial ribosomes to form 100S like disome architecture.
A comparative study between backpropagation and general regression neural networks to predict tensile properties of fused filament fabricated parts
Authors: Cerda-Avila Steffany N. , Medellin-Castillo Hugo I , Cuevas-Tello Juan C.
Published: June 2023

The Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) process comprises a large number of process parameters that affect the resultant mechanical properties of the parts, and that generates uncertainties in the design for Additive Manufacturing process. The use of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) based on classification machine learning techniques such as Backpropagation Neural Networks (BPNN) have been proposed in the literature to evaluate the dimensional accuracy, surface roughness, compressive, flexural and tensile strength of FFF parts. As an alternative, in this paper a new General Regression Neural Networks (GRNN) approach, based on a regression machine learning technique, is proposed and compared with the performance of a BPNN to estimate the tensile structural properties of PLA-FFF parts using variable process parameters. The comparison and evaluation are based on their capability to accurately predict the experimental Ultimate Tensile Stress (UTS) and the Elastic Modulus (E). The results have shown that although the BPNN and the GRNN are able to estimate with high accuracy the structural behaviour of FFF parts, the new proposed GRNN better fits the experimental results and the current needs of Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM).
Differences in delivery hospitalization experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic by maternal race and ethnicity, Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System, 2020
Authors: Meghani Mehreen , Meeker Jessica , Zapata Lauren , Galang Romeo , von Essen Beatriz Salveson , Dieke Ada , Ellington Sascha , Simeone Regina
Published: June 2023

ObjectiveWe investigated maternal COVID-19 related experiences during delivery hospitalizations, and whether experiences differed by maternal race and ethnicity.StudydesignData from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System among women with live births between April–December 2020 were used. Adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) estimated associations between maternal race and ethnicity and COVID-19 related delivery experiences.ResultsAmong 12 879 women, 3.6% reported infant separation and 1.8% reported not being allowed support persons. Compared with non-Hispanic White women, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) (aPR=2.7; CI: 1.2-6.3), Hispanic (aPR=2.2; CI: 1.5-3.1), non-Hispanic Black (aPR= 2.4; CI: 1.7-3.5), and non-Hispanic Asian (aPR= 2.9; CI: 1.7-4.9) women reported more infant separation due to COVID-19. Not being allowed support persons was more common among AI/AN (aPR=5.3; CI: 1.8-15.4) and non-Hispanic Black (aPR=2.3; CI: 1.3-4.1) women.ConclusionsCOVID-19 related delivery hospitalization experiences were unequally distributed among racial and ethnic minorities.
Bilateral Nephromegaly and Spontaneous Tumor Lysis Syndrome as an Initial Manifestation of Pre-T Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Case Report and Review of the Literature.
Authors: Ivan Zepeda-Quiroz , Fernanda Coss-Rovirosa , Sebastian Toledo-Ramirez , Victor Gomez-Johnson , Daniel Juarez-Villa , Brian Garibay-Vega , Salvador Lopez-Gil
Published: June 2023

Background
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is relatively rare in adults and kidney manifestations are extremely infrequent. Acquired bilateral nephromegaly is a rare condition with many differential diagnoses. We describe the case of a patient with bilateral nephromegaly and spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome secondary to pre-T ALL, who required renal replacement therapy with recovery of renal function following treatment.
Case presentation: A 29-year-old man with an unintentional weight loss of 15 kilograms approximately, intermittent fever (one to two episodes per month), right flank pain radiating to the ipsilateral inguinal region, hyporexia and fatigue. An abdominal ultrasound revealed splenomegaly of 15.7 cm and bilateral nephromegaly (right kidney 144 x 105 x 88 mm and left kidney 143 x 82 x 60 mm). After an extensive approach, etiologies like tuberculosis, human immunodeficiency virus infection, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, herpes virus, and Epstein-Barr were excluded. After retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy, pre-T acute lymphoblastic leukemia and also a spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome were diagnosed. After chemotherapy there was improvement and he presented decrease in renal size is observed by imaging study.
Conclusion
The association between nephromegaly with pre-T acute lymphoblastic leukemia and spontaneous tumor lysis syndrome is very rare. In these cases, a multidisciplinary and integrated approach is required to improve outcomes, especially in terms of disease-free survival and recovery of renal function.
Comparative study on particle size and excess air during biomass combustion: temperature profile, unburned carbon, gaseous emissions and combustion efficiency
Authors: Guo Feihong
Published: June 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
College Students’ Disciplinary Expertise and Their Entrepreneurial Intentions: An Exploratory Study Based on Foreign Language Majors with Experience in Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Programs
Authors: Dong Xuyang , Fang Nan , Lin Jiaxin , Ye Long
Published: June 2023

Taking foreign language majors with experience in innovation and entrepreneurship training program (IETP) as samples, this study investigates the influence of disciplinary expertise on entrepreneurial intention. Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), a model was designed to examine the relationships among entrepreneurial intentions, perceived behavioral control, attitude toward entrepreneurship, subjective norms, IETP experience, foreign language self-efficacy and cultural intelligence. The data were collected through questionnaires and Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was adopted to test the hypotheses. The results show that: (1) perceived behavioral control and attitude toward entrepreneurship are sound predictors of entrepreneurial intentions but the influence of subjective norms on entrepreneurial intentions is insignificant; (2) IETP experience is directly related with perceived behavioral control and indirectly related with entrepreneurial intentions; (3) indicators of participants’ disciplinary expertise such as foreign language self-efficacy and cultural intelligence are directly related with IETP experience and indirectly related with entrepreneurial intentions. These six variables included in the research model account for 53.4% of the variance of entrepreneurial intentions.
The Economic Benefits of Implementing a Quantity-Based Drug Procurement Policy in Zhejiang Province
Authors: Wu MinJiao , Tang Huilin , Zhang Xihong , Chen Bo , Ye Lingchao , Yang sufeng , Tung TaoHsin , Chen Zhenyu
Published: June 2023

Objective We aimed to evaluate the implementation of China's purchasing with quantity policy and the economic benefits of drug price reduction by analysing the progress of purchasing with quantity and the actual savings in the purchasing cost of a medical group in Zhejiang Province.Methods Retrospective statistical analysis of a medical group for three consecutive years of drug procurement data, combined with the drugs and quantity in purchase and sale agreement, was conducted. Furthermore, the completion of the agreed quantity and the savings in the purchase amount were confirmed.Results The agreed quantity was 100%, and the quantity of some drugs was more than 200%. The purchasing with quantity policy was effectively implemented, and drug costs were significantly reduced.Conclusion The implementation of government-dominated drug procurement bidding and a series of related policies can effectively reduce drug costs.
Second-generation dual-channel visible light optical coherence tomography enables wide-field, full-range, and shot-noise limited human retinal imaging
Authors: Wang Jingyu , Nolen Stephanie , Song Weiye , Shao Wenjun , Wei Yi , Kashani Amir , Yi Ji
Published: June 2023

Visible light optical coherence tomography (VIS-OCT) is an emerging ophthalmic imaging method featuring ultrahigh depth resolution, retinal microvascular oximetry, and distinct scattering contrast in the visible spectral range. The clinical utility of VIS-OCT is hampered by the fundamental trade-off between the imaging depth range and axial resolution, which are determined by the spectral resolution and bandwidth, respectively. While the full potential of VIS-OCT is leveraged by a broad bandwidth, the imaging depth is inversely sacrificed. The effective depth range is further limited, especially in the shorter wavelengths, by the spectrally dependent roll-off of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). To address this trade-off, we developed a second-generation (2nd Gen) dual-channel VIS-OCT system with three major advancements including the first linear-in-K VIS-OCT spectrometer to decrease the roll-off, reference pathlength modulation to expand the imaging depth range, and per-A-line noise cancellation to remove excess noise, Due to these unique designs. this system achieves 7.2 dB roll-off over the full 1.74 mm depth range (water) with shot-noise limited performance. The system uniquely enables > 60° wide-field imaging which would allow simultaneous imaging of the peripheral retina and optic nerve head, as well as ultrahigh 1.3 µm depth resolution (water). Benefiting from the additional near-infrared (NIR) channel of the dual-channel design, this system was compatible with Doppler OC T and OCT angiography (OCTA). The comprehensive structure-function measurements enabled by this second-generation dual-channel VIS-OCT system is a significant advance towards adoption of VIS-OCT in clinical applications.
A improved fuzzy TOPSIS based on centroid of fuzzy numbers
Authors: Mun Jong-Hui , Mun Kyong-Ho
Published: June 2023

Fuzzy multicriteria decision making (fuzzy MCDM) problem has attracted the attention of many researchers in connection with its important interest in various fields. Fuzzy TOPSIS (Technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution) is one of the most widely used fuzzy MCDM methods, which is constantly evolving due to changes in the process of weight determination, the aggregation process, and the standardization method.
In this paper, we propose a improved fuzzy TOPSIS method to solve the fuzzy MCDM problem under the condition of group decision making. In this method, we determined the weights of the criteria according to the direct evaluation method by triangular fuzzy numbers and used a nonlinear normalization method.
Also, we evaluate the alternatives in terms of weighted relative closeness coefficient as well as the distance from positive and negative ideal solutions is solved based on the centroid concept of fuzzy numbers.
This method not only can overcome certain drawbacks inherent in existing fuzzy TOPSIS methods, but can also be widely applied in various fields. The proposed method is illustrated by a detailed numerical example.
Risk Factors for Central Visual Field Progression in Myopic Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Hung Chien-Wei , Hung Chih-Heng , Tu Pei-Ning , Chen Yi-Chun
Published: June 2023

Myopia was linked to the development and progression of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), on top of causing early central visual field (VF) involvement. The present study investigated the risk factors for central VF progression in myopic patients with POAG. We included 69 myopic patients with POAG with at least 3 years of follow-up and 5 reliable VF examinations. The rates of mean threshold changes at various VF regions were analyzed and clinical variables associated with faster central VF progression were identified using multivariate logistic regression. The presence of disc hemorrhage was associated with faster global (P = 0.013) and central VF progression (P = 0.046). Those tilted discs with lesser absolute degree of optic disc rotation were associated with faster VF progression in inferior-central region (P = 0.040). Comparative results showed those with < 15 degrees of optic disc rotation had faster VF progression in the inferior-central region (P = 0.017). In myopic patients with POAG, the presence of DH and those tilted discs with lesser optic disc rotation were associated with faster central VF progression.
Sexual dimorphisms in body proportions of Masai giraffe
Authors: Cavener Douglas R. , Wu-Cavener Lan , Bond Monica L. , Lohay George G. , Hou Xiaoyi , Pearce David L. , Lee Derek E.
Published: June 2023

Giraffes exhibit a large sexual dimorphism in stature and body mass. Whether sexual dimorphisms also exist in relative body proportions of the axial and appendicular skeleton has been debated, particularly regarding the evolution of the giraffe’s iconic long neck. We measured and analyzed the relative anatomical proportions of the neck, legs, and body trunk of the Masai giraffe (G.c. tippelskirchi) in captive and wild populations. We found that female Masai giraffes have proportionally longer necks relative to their forelegs than males. Moreover, the female body trunk is proportionally longer whereas male foreleg length and neck width are proportionally greater. The sexual dimorphisms in body proportions were found in both captive and wild Masai giraffes suggesting that these differences are genetically determined. We speculate that the proportionally longer female neck is to compensate for females’ overall shorter stature to expand access to forage and their longer trunk is to accommodate fetal growth. Males’ longer forelegs, which contribute to the overall anterior body stature, likely provides some advantage in physical intrasexual competitions. Differences in the proportions of major body components define sex phenotypes, but several male and female giraffes display opposite-sex phenotypes with a significantly higher level of discordancy seen in captive males. We speculate that body proportion sexual dimorphisms are maintained in the wild by natural and/or sexual selection, but in captivity selection is relaxed because of human-altered mating and feeding behavior resulting in a higher proportion of sexual dimorphism discordances.
Impact of Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction on the Protein Yield from Moringa Oleifera Lam Leaves and Its Functional Characterization
Authors: Kambuno Norma Tiku , Louisa Melva , Wuyung Puspita Eka , Supali Taniawati
Published: June 2023

Protein deficiency is a problem in the growth and development of children. Several studies reported that Moringa oleifera L. (MO) leaves contain protein, which can be used to balance the composition of amino acids and minerals in food. This study aimed to determine an extraction method for MO dry leaves, to obtain an optimal concentration of protein, and to identify the composition of amino acids, minerals, and bioactive compounds, as well as the antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity. An ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) method using ethanol was used to extract protein from MO dry leaves at 40°C for 60 minutes. The protein contents obtained from this extraction were 45.5%, with the composition of the dominant amino acid phenylalanine at 22.25 g/kg and the non-essential amino acid, glutamic acid at 60.03 g/kg. The macro and micro minerals were kalium (1174.23 mg/100g) and selenium (149 mg/100g). The standardization test of extracted MO quality revealed a low aflatoxin level of microbial contamination as well as a low level of heavy metal contamination. The antioxidant activity and cytotoxic activity showed IC50 values of 41.04 ppm and 182.66 ppm, respectively. We concluded that MO extracted with the UAE method produces qualified food-grade protein in high concentrations.
Biophysical Characteristics of Medo Watershed, Central Rift Valley Area of Ethiopia
Authors: Ahmed Kedir , Tesfaye Henok , Gadisa Muleta
Published: June 2023

Characterizing the biophysical features at a watershed level have a significant input for further improvements to promote sustainable and productive livelihood through the integration of different watershed components in participatory approach. The objective of this study was to assess the current biophysical of characteristics of Medo watershed, West Arsi Zone of Oromia, Ethiopia. To do so relevant data and tools were used; ArcGIS, Microsoft Excel sheet and fundamental formulae were applied for the analysis are some. The results of the study indicated that the major land use types in the watershed are agricultural land covering 50%, vegetation (shrubs, forests and, plantations) covering 24% and settlement covering 16% out of the total land use. Slope gradient of Medo watershed ranges from zero to more than 20 and the slope gradient of 2–5 and 5–10 cover the greatest in area coverage representing 201 ha and 170 ha respectively. We can also observe that about 8% out of the total area is subjected to severe erosion. Sandy clay loam was the dominant soil textural classes in the surface soils and Phaeozems, Retisols and Andosols are the dominant soil types, which cover 57%, 36% and 7% of the sub-watershed area for lower, middle and upper slope positions, respectively. Mean annual rainfall of the area ranges from 960.09 mm at lower part of the watershed to the 1304.93 mm at upper part of the watershed. Accordingly, Medo sub-watershed is laid in majority of at sub humid agro ecological zone. An assessment of the trees within the landscape of watershed showed some remnant natural forests and a wide variety of shrubby vegetation is encountered at all landscapes. About 40 percent of the watershed, is under high to extremely severe soil loss values (> 45 ton per hectare per year). The baseline study also identified that that natural resources degradation such as land, and or/ soil fertility, reduction and recent changes in the areas’ weather condition in line of climate change prevailing in current years are few of the many factors that are contributing to the land and crop productivity reductions in the area. Therefore, prioritizing the identified problem and preparing intervention of different technologies and development plans by participating communities and different potential stakeholders to solve the problems by taking into consideration the existing opportunities of the watershed.
Potential of digital chest radiography-based deep learning in screening and diagnosing pneumoconiosis
Authors: Zhang Yajuan , Zheng Bowen , Li Long , Zeng Fengxia , Wu Tianqiong , Cheng Xiaoke , Peng Yuli , Zhang Yonliang , Xie Yuanlin , Yi Wei , Chen Weiguo , Qin Genggeng , Wu Jiefang
Published: June 2023

Background
To improve the accuracy of pneumoconiosis diagnosis, a computer-assisted method was developed.
Methods
Three CNNs (Resnet50, Resnet101, and DenseNet) were used for pneumoconiosis classification based on 1,250 chest X-ray images. Three double-blinded experienced and highly qualified physicians read the collected digital radiography images and classified them from category 0 to category III. The results of the three physicians in agreement were considered the relative gold standards. Subsequently, three CNNs were used to train and test these images and their performance was evaluated using multi-class classification metrics. We used kappa values and accuracy to evaluate the consistency and reliability of the optimal model with clinical typing.
Results
ResNet101 was the optimal model among the three CNNs. The AUC of ResNet101 was 1.0, 0.9, 0.89, and 0.94 for detecting pneumoconiosis categories 0, I, II, and III, respectively. The micro-average and macro-average mean AUC values were 0.93 and 0.94, respectively. The accuracy and Kappa values of ResNet101 were 0.72 and 0.7111 for quadruple classification and 0.98 and 0.955 for dichotomous classification, respectively, compared with the relative standard classification of the clinic.
Conclusion
The ResNet101 model performed relatively better in classifying pneumoconiosis than radiologists. The dichotomous classification displayed outstanding performance, thereby indicating the feasibility of deep learning techniques in pneumoconiosis screening.
Tourist Perception of Restorative Environment: The Impact of Local Characteristics on Pro Environmental Behavior: A Case Study of Zhejiang Province
Authors: Wendy Gao Bo , Ge Yuemeng
Published: June 2023

The West Lake Scenic Area in Zhejiang Province is well-known and has promoted the growth of the local tourism economy. However, the low level of pro environmental behavior among tourists is a challenge faced by the current urban tourism industry. Studying its pro environmental behavior is an essential means to achieve sustainable development of the tourism industry. Tourists are the main body of pro environmental behavior in tourist destinations, and their pro environmental behavior is a key factor in promoting the sustainable development of tourist destinations. In the context of the construction of “beautiful China”, how to cultivate tourists’ pro environmental behavior has become a hot topic of current research on sustainable tourism. Based on this, this article introduced local characteristics, tourists’ positive emotions, and tourists’ restorative environmental perception into pro environmental behavior. Taking the West Lake Scenic Area in Zhejiang Province as a case study, the correlation between them was explored and analyzed using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The experimental results of this article indicated that in the investigation of factors in local characteristics, the lowest average scores of tourists on atmosphere and landscape were 3.7 and 4.4, indicating that the impact of various factors in local geology on pro environmental behavior is positive and effective. The sense of belonging of tourists to the tourist destination is the main driving force of tourists’ pro environmental behavior. This article introduced local characteristics into the impact mechanism of tourists’ sense of belonging on their pro environmental behavior in the West Lake tourist destination, and has achieved good results.
Research on the Impact of Social participation on Health level and Health equity of the middle-aged and elderly in China based on CHARLS2018: the moderation effect of health services utilization
Authors: Dong Huiqiu , Tang Shaoliang , Gong Yue , Zhao Xinghua , Qian Yuxin , Feng Yuli , Chen Lei , Sun Wenting
Published: June 2023

Objective Social participation is a determinant of active aging and has a significant impact on the health of the middle-aged and elderly. This study aims to analyses the impact of social participation on health level and health equity among the middle-aged and elderly in China, and examines the moderating role of health services utilization. Methods Data are extracted from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), which is a nationally representative survey for people in China aged 45 years and more. The Orderly Logistic model is used to empirically analyze the impact of social participation on health level and health inequality, and the role of health services utilization is explored. The Propensity Score Matching (PSM) is used to further test robustness. Results This study found that social participation significantly reduces health inequality and improves the physical and mental health of middle-aged and elderly residents. Health services utilization plays an important moderating role between social participation and physiological health and health inequality. Specifically, the higher the degree of health services utilization of middle-aged and elderly residents, the stronger the positive contribution of social participation to their physiological health, which is conductive to improving health equity. These findings remain robust after propensity score matching. Conclusion Social participation significantly affects the health level of middle-aged and elderly residents, and health services utilization, economic situation and health behavior are also important risk factors of health. Therefore, the government should improve the social participation support system of middle-aged and elderly residents, and promote active social participation among the middle-aged and elderly, especially the moderate participation of younger elderly, which is not only beneficial to health promotion, but also greatly beneficial to economic and social development, and effectively contribute to healthy aging of China in the long run.
Hip adduction and abduction strength profiles in elite and sub-elite female soccer players according to players level and leg limb-dominance.
Authors: Jaenada-Carrilero Eloy , Vicente-Mampel Juan , Baraja-Vegas Luis , Thorborg Kristian , Valero-Merlos Eloína , Blanco-Gimenez Paula , Bautista Iker J.
Published: June 2023

Background It is well established that isometric hip strength assessment represents an important part of the clinical examination of the hip and groin pain. In this sense, adduction:abduction ratio could be an interesting variable to consider. Little is known about hip adduction and abduction strength profiles in female soccer players. The aim of this study was to describe and compare the isometric hip adduction and abduction strength profiles and adduction:abduction ratio in elite and sub-elite female soccer players.Methods A descriptive-comparative study was designed. Eighty-four female soccer players were evaluated. Isometric hip-adduction and abduction strength were measured using a hand held dynamometer.Results Female elite and sub-elite soccer players displayed a mean and standard deviation (SD) on isometric hip-adductor strength for dominant (3.19 Nm/kg ± 0.69 vs. 2.40 Nm/kg ± 0.67) and non-dominant leg (3.32 Nm/kg ± 0.76 versus 2.42 Nm/kg ± 0.70), respectively. For isometric hip-abductor strength in elite and sub-elite players, a mean and SD of dominant (2.86 Nm/kg ± 0.56 vs. 2.07 Nm/kg ± 0.50) and non-dominant (2.80 Nm/kg ± 0.59 vs. 2.04 Nm/kg ± 0.43). In essence, elite players were stronger than sub-elite players on isometric hip-adduction (mean difference [MD] = 0.82 Nm/kg, CI95%= 0.42–1.12) and abduction (MD = 0.83 Nm/kg, CI95%= 0.54–1.12) both in dominant and non-dominant, leg, whereas no differences existed for hip adduction:abduction ratios between groups and legs.Conclusions Elite female athletes were stronger than sub-elite female players in hip adduction and abduction, whereas adduction:abduction ratio values did not differ between groups and legs.
One-dimensional topological phase and tunable soliton states in atomic nanolines on Si(001) surface
Authors: Song Biyu , Zhi Guoxiang , Hua Chenqiang , Wu Meimei , Dou Wenzhen , Gao Wenjin , Li Tianzhao , Niu Tianchao , Zhou Miao
Published: June 2023

Formation of exotic topological states on technologically important semiconductor substrate is significant from the aspects of both fundamental research and practical implementation. Here, we demonstrate one-dimensional (1D) topological phase and tunable soliton states in atomic nanolines self-assembled on Si(001) surface. By first-principles calculations and tight-binding modeling, we reveal that Bi nanolines provide an ideal system to realize a multi-orbital Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) model, and the electronic properties can be modulated by substrate-orbital-filtering effect. The topological features are confirmed by nontrivial end states with e/2 fractional charges for a finite-length nanoline and (anti-)soliton states at the boundary of two topologically distinct phases. We demonstrate that solitons are highly mobile on the surface, and their formation could be controlled by surface B/N doping. As these nanolines can extend several micrometers long without kinks, and quantum transport simulations suggest clear signatures of topological states characterized by transmission resonance peaks, our work paves an avenue to achieve 1D topological phase compatible with semiconductor technology and to engineer the properties with high tunability and fidelity for quantum information processing.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation with Beta Major Thalassemia: The Association between the PRES Occurrence and Class of Beta Major Thalassemia
Authors: Jafari Leila , Behfar Maryam , Tabatabaie soroor , Karamlou Yalda , Kashani Homa , Radmard Amir Reza , Mohseni Rashin , Naji Parisa , Ghanbari Fatemeh , Ashkevari Pooya , Mohammadi Shiva , Hamidieh Amir Ali
Published: June 2023

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only definitive curative option for β-major thalassemia patients (β-MT). Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a pervasive neurological complication which typically ensues HSCT. β-MT patients are prone to higher PRES incidence compared to other hematologic and non-hematologic disorders. Hence, these patients must be evaluated for PRES after HSCT. We included 148 (90 males and 58 females) β-MT pediatric patients who underwent HSCT between March 2015 and August 2022 in our Center. Patients were followed for 5 years. In tandem, based on our findings, the clinical imaging findings in 25 pediatric patients, which represent 16.9% of the cohort, corroborated the diagnosis of PRES. 14 of 112 patients (12%) with class I and II developed PRES however, 11 of 36 patients (30.5%) with β-MT-III indicated PRES manifestation. Our results indicated there was a significant correlation between class β-MT-III and PRES occurrence (P = 0.02). Additionally, acute graft versus host disease (aGVHD) occurred in 80% and 44.7% of patients in the PRES and non-PRES group, respectively (P = 0.001). The results of the Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the 5-year overall survival (OS) was 75% in the PRES group versus 92% in the non-PRES group was statistically significant between the two groups (P value < 0.0001). Our results indicated the diagnosis of PRES should be considered in β-MT pediatric patients.
An Evaluation of Pharmacy Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Risk Perceptions about HIV/AIDS
Authors: Alzahrani Fahad , Almohammadi Abdulrahman , Alhejaili Moayad , Almukhlifi Saad , Aloufi Emad , Alhudhayban Ahmad , Khan Abdulrahim
Published: June 2023

Background: In Saudi Arabia, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) remain serious public health concerns, despite considerable progress in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Considering that pharmacy students are future pharmacists, it is essential to determine their knowledge, attitudes, and risk perceptions towards HIV/AIDS.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was developed and administered to pharmacy students during their final academic year at Taibah University in Saudi Arabia. The data were analysed descriptively and inferentially using SPSS version 27. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to find the difference with a p-value of 0.05.
Results: A total of 130 pharmacy students responded to the questionnaire (76.64% response rate). The students’ knowledge about HIV/AIDS was low, with a mean knowledge score of 8.22 out of 15. Only 36.2% of pharmacy students were familiar with post-exposure prophylaxis, and only 11.5% knew the duration it takes for HIV to progress to AIDS. More than half of the students (60.8%) were unaware that antivirals are not effective in treating HIV/AIDS. Only 18.5% of students agreed that they were capable of counselling and treating individuals who are HIV-positive. A survey conducted among pharmacy students revealed that 46.2% of them did not receive adequate education on how to work with HIV/AIDS patients in a safe and responsible manner. Shockingly, 20% of the students were unwilling to assist HIV patients. Among pharmacy students, 54.6% recommended HIV testing for healthcare professionals, and 53.9% recommended it for patients before surgery.
Conclusion: The study highlighted inadequate knowledge among students as well as modest attitudes and risk perceptions towards HIV/AIDS. Saudi Arabian educational institutions and healthcare planners should implement educational interventions to enhance HIV/AIDS knowledge among healthcare students.
Cardiac Index and Heart Rate as Prognostic Indicators for Short-Term Outcomes in Septic Shock: A Retrospective Cohort Study from the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Ngan Chansokhon , Li Li , Wang Mingchun , Zeng Xueying , Lia Thongher , Zhou Liang , Liu Bo , Yin Wanhong , Kang Yan
Published: June 2023

Septic shock is a life-threatening condition associated with high mortality rates. Monitoring cardiac index (CI) and heart rate (HR) in the intensive care unit (ICU) is crucial for managing septic shock and predicting outcomes. However, the relationship between CI, HR, and mortality risk in septic shock patients remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between different levels of CI and HR and mortality in septic shock patients.
Using data from the MIMIC-IV version 2.0 database, sepsis and septic shock were defined according to sepsis-3 criteria. CI was calculated using cardiac output and body surface area. Restricted cubic spline curve analysis was employed to evaluate the incidence of CI in relation to 7-, 14-, 21-, and 28-day mortality. The optimal cutoff for predicted mortality was determined using the Youden index. Kaplan-Meier curves, Cox regression, and logistic regression were used to assess the association between CI, HR, and 28-day mortality.
Among 1498 septic shock patients, a U-shaped relationship between CI levels and mortality risk was observed (p < 0.001). CI levels between 1.85–2.8 L/min/m2 were associated with a mortality hazard ratio (HR) < 1, while low CI (HR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.01–3.49) and high CI (HR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.26–2.97) were associated with increased mortality risk. The area under the curve (AUC) for HR predicting mortality was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.64–0.76) with a cutoff value of 93.63 bpm. Patients were divided into six subgroups based on HR and CI characteristics, and survival analysis showed higher survival rates in the HR↓+CI normal group, HR↓+CI↓ group, and HR↓+CI↑ group.
In conclusion, our retrospective study suggests that monitoring CI and HR in septic shock patients can provide insights into the organismal response, hemodynamic consequences, and prognosis. Healthcare providers should closely monitor changes in these parameters in septic shock patients admitted to the ICU for effective management and treatment.
Design and optimization of thermosensitive injectable alginate-based hydrogels: potential for loading therapeutic compounds
Authors: Hasannejad Farkhonde , Arab Samaneh , Farahmand Leila , Darvishi Behrad , Bahraminasab Marjan
Published: June 2023

Injectable hydrogels with high biocompatibility and easy fabrication have numerous advantages over other drug delivery systems. These can be readily injected at the tumor site, causing high loads of drugs entrapped within their structures. The aim of the present study, therefore, was to prepare an optimal formulation of alginate-based hydrogels to be thermosensitive and injectable for loading therapeutic agents and drug delivery. Here, four constituents including hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), sodium alginate (SA), beta-glycerol phosphate (β-GP), and calcium chloride (CaCl2) were used to obtain the optimal formulations. A surface response methodology (RSM), namely Box-Behnken, in the design of experiment (DOE), was employed. DOE identified 27 hydrogels, which were synthesized accordingly. Based on the gelation temperature (as an objective function), two optimal hydrogel formulations were predicted by DOE and prepared for further analysis. Rheological tests, ART-FTIR, FE-SEM, biodegradability, swelling (at PH = 7.45 and PH = 6.5), and hydrogel biocompatibility to L929 cells (staining of Dihydroetidium (DHE), Phaloidine, and Acridine Orange (AO)) were performed. Furthermore, to demonstrate the potential of the optimum hydrogels for carrying and releasing therapeutic agents, menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells exosomes (Mens-exo) were used as a model drug, and their release rate and hydrogel degradability were evaluated. The results showed that all the constituents in the hydrogels except for HPMC had significant effects on the gelling process (temperature). The two hydrogel formulations with gelling temperatures of 35° C (H1) and 37° C (H2) were selected for relevant tests. ATR-FTIR and FE-SEM analyses indicated the suitability of chemical and morphological characteristics of both hydrogel samples. The obtained storage modulus (G ') and loss modulus (G″) for gelling temperature and time, strain and frequency tests showed that H1 hydrogel has more favorable rheological properties. Furthermore, in the evaluation of degradability at PH = 6.5, H1 hydrogel was degraded in a longer time (154 hours) and was more stable than H2 (100 hours). The cells loaded in the hydrogels also indicated the superior biocompatibility of H1 hydrogel rather than the H2. Moreover, the Mens-exo loading in H1 hydrogel exhibited a sustained release with reasonable degradability of the hydrogel. The results showed that the optimal hydrogels made up of HPMC, SA, β-GP, and CaCl2 were thermosensitive and injectable. In particular, the H1 hydrogel (SA = 0.889, HPMC = 2, β-GP = 5 and CaCl2 = 3.306) had high potential for loading therapeutic compounds.
Assessment of C-factor mapping of Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) , In Ain Maabed Area , Djelfa-Algeria
Authors: Belaid Lyes , Fakroun Mustapha Fouad
Published: June 2023

The purpose of our study is the evaluation of factor C, plant cover of the USLE model at Ain Maabed region in order to assess the effect of vegetation cover on the reduction of water erosion, among the novelties we have the calculation of factor C from satellite imagery Sentinel 2A. We'll also see how to build a geographic soil database on Arcgis 10.2.2 The results of the study indicated that the area of Ain Maabed is subjected to a continuous deterioration in vegetation between 19971 and 2018. Which in turn degrades the soil and increases water erosion. For the location of the study area, the study area is characterized by its agro-pastoral vocation, it is located under the longitude 2–53'5'" and 3–14'24'', and latitude between 34°54'50 "34°44'45"'
Oficina de controle de qualidade de gorduras vegetais
Authors: VITORIANO Talyssa , BARBOSA Isabella Ribeiro , MENDONÇA Andreza Pereira , RIBEIRO Sylviane Beck
Published: June 2023

Este relato aborda sobre atividades desenvolvidas durante a curricularização da extensão do projeto “Manejo de produtos não madeireiros: uso múltiplo de espécies amazônicas” realizada por graduandos da engenharia florestal do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciências e Tecnologia de Rondônia, objetivando capacitar acadêmicos do curso de farmácia do Centro Universitário Estácio de Ji-Paraná para o efetivo controle de qualidade de óleos vegetais, por meio da realização de testes analíticos e interpretação de dados obtidos. Os participantes receberam treinamento teórico e desenvolveram atividades práticas para determinação dos teores de acidez e peroxidação de óleos. Houve participação interativa por parte dos discentes com o esclarecimento de dúvidas e contribuições empíricas sobre o tema. Constatou-se que a oficina viabilizou a capacitação de recursos humanos, complementando a formação acadêmica para prática e interpretação de testes de controle de qualidade em óleos e gorduras vegetais.
(Re)Claiming our Crowns
Authors: Turner Maiya , Young Jemimah
Published: June 2023

Black women’s hair has long been a pillar of Black culture and community. However, hairstyles worn by Black women and girls are vilified by society and forced to conform to white, hegemonic standards of beauty. This has translated directly into educational spaces where Black girls experience heavy policing by school and district-wide policies that negatively impact their views of themselves and their hair. The push for, and subsequent stall of, the CROWN Act to be passed in US states has revealed just how deeply rooted hair discrimination is in society and schools. This editorial affirms and celebrates the role of hair in the Black community and its importance in educational institutions.
Examining Relationships Matter
Authors: Lane Tonisha B. , Patterson-Stephens Shawna M , Perez Ebony N , Foster Pierre Devona
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore how and why various relationships bolstered the success of Black women doctoral students by contributing to their motivation and persistence in graduate education. Using the voices of 14 Black women doctoral students within the United States and community cultural wealth as a theoretical lens, this qualitative study sought to examine the nature and importance of supportive relationships that existed during their graduate studies. Findings from this study revealed that family served as a motivator for enrollment and degree completion, a sounding board during trying times, and a space for processing the doctoral experience. Friends and professional associations transmitted various forms of social capital, and mentors served as advocates and facilitators of professional socialization. Additionally, social media played a significant role in helping Black women establish networks when there was limited visibility of or access to other Black women in their graduate programs. From this study, academic programs may be able to glean which aspects of these different relationship types (e.g., family, friends, mentors) matter and develop mechanisms for incorporating them into the experiences of Black women (and other minoritized groups) in doctoral programs.
Grown Black Woman Voice
Authors: Johnson Ahjah
Published: June 2023

Black women in higher education are situated in a hegemonic, white, patriarchal context of academia. As a result, Black women are (re)subjugated to a tumultuous existence in the academy as “others.” This is why the theory of Grown Black Woman Voice was developed. Grounded in Black Feminist Theory, misogynoir, and the theory of adultification, this framework emphasizes the importance of Black women’s development of voice, to ultimately construct their own existence in academia. This framework centers Black women as the authors of their experience and empowers Black women to be authentic, possess authority, and enact autonomy. Additionally, it emphasizes a theoretical explanation beyond concepts like “resistance” and “support” to complicate the ways Black women in higher education settings are positioned.
The “Strong Black Girl” Dilemma
Authors: Ncube Nolwazi Nadia , Evans Winters Venus , Greenlee E. Gale , Francis Aniah , Crooks Gabrielle , McCallum Eryn , McIntosh Carly , Taylor Hayley
Published: June 2023

This article explores the mental health of a group of young Black undergraduate women during the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and gendered anti-Black racism in the U.S. Drawing on intersectionality as a theoretical framework, the research participants reflect on how race and gender interact to shape their struggles and coping strategies during a period of racial unrest and a global health crisis. With support from the African American Policy Forum (AAPF) and using youth participatory action research, the student researchers undertook a qualitative study utilizing focus group discussions to answer the question, How did the dual pandemics impact the mental health practices of young Black women student researchers? The article analyzes their written reflections on their mental health and self-care practices, including barriers and bridges to community and professional mental health support. The research holds implications for scholars and practitioners interested in intersectional research and ethics of care in higher education, as well as mental health advocates committed to protecting Black girls and young women.
The Ford Female Achievement Model for Excellence (F2AME): Empowering Black Females for Success
Authors: Middleton Tanya , Ford Donna
Published: June 2023

The educational realities for Black female students attending predominantly White institutions (PWIs) are experiences too often omitted or sub-grouped with Black male student experiences. The academic resiliency of this dual minority group who continue to outpace their racial counterparts in postsecondary degree completion has received increased attention. Black females are double ‘minorities’ who contend with racism and sexism by virtue of being Black and female.  Therefore, the psychological and emotional costs of navigating through such unfavorable environments warrant a deeper conversation. This article reviews the academic climate, and socioemotional and psychological factors faced by Black females enrolled in two PWI contexts – gifted and talented education (GATE) and in higher education – with strategies for support and success framed in Ford’s Female Achievement Model for Excellence (F2AME).