bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact on Emissions Combustion and Performance of Diesel Engine Using Blends of Di Ethyl Ether with Cracked Transformer Oil
Authors: Saravanan R. , NavaneethaKrishnan P , Rengasamy M. , Manieniyan V.
Published: July 2023

The oil that comes out of the transformer leads to environmental hazards when it is disposed into land after the completion of its durability. This research work intends to capitalize on the feasibility of converting this transformer oil into an alternative fuel. The varying quantity of thermally cracked waste transformer oil (20%, 40%, and 60% v/v) is mixed with 10% v/v of Di Ethyl Ether (DEE) and blended with commercial diesel (CD) to make 100% volume. The purpose of this work is to observe the performance of blended fuel when compared to commercial diesel. To meet this objective, the physicochemical properties of blended oil were tested by ASTM standards and evidence for the presence of essential hydrocarbon was proved using FTIR analysis. The notable improvement as observed in WPDE60 blend for BSFC, BTE and in-cylinder pressure by 8.82%, 8.29% and 4.3%, respectively, when compared to CD at full load condition. Whereas, emission performances were reduced by 18.82%, 4.9% and 39.6% for unburned hydrocarbon, CO and smoke density, respectively. Based on the results obtained, WPDE60 blend is resembled the properties of commercial diesel and can be proposed as a fuel alternative for internal combustion engines.
A new automated approach for remote sensing recognition and yield estimation of cultivated alfalfa crop based on Sentinel-2 NDVI time-series data: A case study of Hexi Corridor, China
Authors: liu jie , Bao Xuying , Feng Qisheng , Fu Shuai , Miao Chunli , Li Yunhao , Liang Tiangang
Published: July 2023

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is an important forage source for grassland agricultural development, so it would be worthwhile to explore accurate and fast methods of alfalfa remote sensing identification and yield estimation. However, the traditional methods of identifying large areas of crops and yield estimation have some problems, such as the limited spatial resolution of remote sensing data and heavy reliance training data. In this study, based on Sentinel-2 high-resolution images and the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform to establish a cloud-free normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) time-series dataset, we proposed an effective method for alfalfa feature extraction and yield estimation method. The results show that (1) The producer’s accuracy, user’s accuracy, overall accuracy, and Kappa coefficient of alfalfa identification using a trough recognition algorithm were 98.51%, 91.67%, 94.26%, and 0.88, respectively. The total area of cultivated alfalfa identified in the study area in 2020 was estimated at 46,793.21 hm2, which was mainly distributed in areas in north of the Qilian Mountains; (2) NDVI had a highly significant correlation with alfalfa hay yield, and the power function regression model was the greatest, with an R2 greater than 0.65; (3) The annual unit hay yield of four alfalfa cuttings was estimated at 17,497.55-32,962.10 kg/hm2, with a total hay yield of 48.38×107 kg and an average hay yield of 4,464.95 kg/hm2. The method proposed has important application potential for automatic and rapid remote sensing identification and yield evaluation of large-scale cultivated alfalfa.
Regeneration impoverishment of Sahelian woody communities put them at risk in three land management types
Authors: Dendoncker Morgane , Vincke Caroline , Ndianor Ramata , Diouf Abdoul Aziz , Miehe Sabine , Ngom Daouda , Taugourdeau Simon
Published: July 2023

Trees play a key role in drylands. Monitoring woody communities regeneration and understanding the drivers of its success is crucial to apprehend their long-term persistence. While fire, grazing and water availability are key factors for regeneration in drylands, seeds arrival, germination and seedlings recruitment are still poorly studied in natural conditions in the West African Sahel. To promote regeneration, tree planting is a common tool used in West Africa. The cost is great, the success variable and their influence on spontaneous regeneration is unknown. In this study, we conducted field inventory to characterize the regeneration ability of woody communities in a Sahelian savanna. We investigated regeneration and adults stands in three land management types (plantations, communal grazing, old enclosures) to determine (i) the proportion of the regeneration modes and the influence of mature trees; (ii) the influence of management type and topography on regeneration; and (iii) their temporal dynamics. We first showed that the regeneration diversity is poor, with half of the adult species not recorded in the regeneration phase. Most of the regeneration came from true seedlings compared to resprout. Second, mature trees have a strong influence on regeneration density and composition. Third, topography influences regeneration density whereas we observed little effect of the land management type. Finally, historical data highlighted a steep decline of regeneration density these last decades. These results question the persistence of woody vegetation in Sahelian savannas and highlight the need to protect large trees, in suitable micro-sites such as depressions to favor regeneration.
Comparative analysis of the influence of partial replacement of cement with supplementing cementitious materials in sustainable concrete by using machine learning approach
Authors: Arora Rishabh , Kumar Kaushal , Dixit Saurav
Published: July 2023

Cement manufacturing is a major contributor to climate change because of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere throughout the process. In this paper, cement content of concrete has been partially replaced by using two supplementing cementitious materials (SCMs) materials like Silica Fume and Fly Ash. Characterizations of both materials has been conducted for their end use utilization in concrete applications. Extensive experimentation has been conducted to ensure the effect of partial replacement on the performance characteristics of concrete through compressive strength, flexural strength, and split tensile strength of concrete. It was observed that both the waste material has the ability to replace cement content without changing the performance of concrete. Finding indicating that replacement with proper mix design can improve the strength of green concrete. Silica fume have better response as compared to fly ash replacement on the strength characteristics of green concrete. Accuracy of experimental data has been validated by using machine learning approach. Experimental results are used to train the machine learning models. Metrics such as Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), R2 Score, and Cross Validations are used to evaluate the performance of models. According to the findings, the extreme Gradient Boosting Regression model performs better than any of the other models when it comes to predicting and validating the compressive strength, flexural strength, and Split tensile strength of green concrete mixtures. It achieves an R2 value of 0.9811 for the prediction of the split tensile strength, 0.9818 for the flexural strength, and 0.9127 for the compressive strength. The findings of this research shed light on the usefulness of regression models for predicting the properties of green concrete and for validating such predictions with experimental results in terms of accuracy. The replacement of 10–15% for both SCMs resulted good agreements for strength characteristics.
Profile of Orthopaedic Day Case Procedures at a District General Hospital (Retrospective study)
Authors: Aldhilan Mansour Mohammed , Tella Azeez
Published: July 2023

Background: The outcomes of orthopaedic day case procedures have been reported widely, but there is a paucity of reports from secondary health facilities such as district hospitals.
Aim: We aimed to perform a retrospective analysis of patient records, to capture the profile of day case procedures performed.
Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of day-case procedures carried out at the dedicated Day Surgery Unit of a moderate-sized district hospital in Saudi Arabia; between January 2021 and December 2022. The medical records of all the patients who had day-case procedures by the orthopaedic unit of the hospital were analysed.
Results: Within the study period, 71 out of a total 914 elective orthopaedic procedures were carried out as day cases, giving a day case surgery rate of 7.8%. The mean age was 25.3±12.2 (range, 4-55 years), and the male to female ratio was 6:1. The spectrum of the procedures was dominated by implant removal in 59 cases (83.1%). While the anaesthetic technique varied, all the patients were either ASA class I or II. There were minor complications in 10 patients (14.0%), with 7 of them (9.8%) needing inpatient admission. There was no cancellation of cases in our study.
Conclusion: We found day-case procedures to be safe and effective but with low utilization of the Day Surgery Unit, which can be improved through the development of a detailed protocol for day surgery in the hospital.
Changes in neurodegeneration and amyloid biomarkers in patients with COVID-19 neurological complications and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Barros-Aragão Fernanda G. Q. , Pinto Talita P. , Carregari Victor C. , Rezende Nathane B. S. , Pinheiro Thaís L. , Reis-de-Oliveira Guilherme , Queiroz Daniel C. , Fonseca Paula L. C. , Gonçalves Alessandro L. , Cabral-Castro Mauro J. , Freitas Gabriel R. , Vanderborgh Bart , Sudo Felipe K. , Mattos Paulo , Bozza Fernando A. , Rodrigues Erika C. , Rodrigues Rosana S. , Brandão Carlos O. , Souza Andrea S. , Aguiar Renato S. , Martins-de-Souza Daniel , De Felice Fernanda G. , Tovar-Moll Fernanda F.
Published: July 2023

COVID-19 induces acute and long-term neurological symptoms. Determining the mechanisms underlying acute neurological disease will lead to a better understanding of long-COVID and late-onset outcomes. Here, we investigate in detail a cohort of COVID-19 patients presenting neurological alterations. Clinical and neurological investigation, brain imaging, and bio-sample analyses were carried out. We tested the possibility that COVID-19 shares molecular links with Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-like neurodegeneration by analyzing the framework of ATN (amyloid, pathologic Tau, and neurodegeneration) biomarkers. Altered cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Tau and amyloid levels in severe COVID-19 patients were comparable to amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and AD patients. Increased CSF pro-inflammatory cytokine IL6 and Tau linked systemic inflammation and disease severity to central nervous system alterations. COVID-19 patients presented an altered CSF proteomic pattern, with inflammatory, coagulopathy, and amyloidosis pathways alterations. Collectively, our findings reveal some molecular links between COVID-19 neurological disease and neurodegeneration biomarkers associated with AD.
Marbles and schists from Bidzar (North Region of Cameroon) : characteristics and the use of schists as additives in blended cement production
Authors: DJIFACK Joilita Etekam , KANOUO NGUO SYLVESTRE , SABIHA Anas Boussaa , HAMADOU Toumba , BASUA Emmanuel Archelaus Afanga
Published: July 2023

This work presents the petrography et major element composition of marbles and schists found at the Bidzar CIMENCAM marble quarry (North Region, Cameroon). Part of the studied rocks were selected and combined with other characterized raw materials to process schist-blended cements. Marbles are white, yellow, pink, light to dark-grey, or dull yellow, pure or impure, calcitic, dolomitic or transitional type; with CaO (32–57 wt.%), MgO (0.49-24 wt.%), and SiO2 (0.09–8.4 wt.%). Schists are bluish-green chlorite schist, chlorite-bearing dark-grey schist, and yellowish-green sericite schist with SiO2 (26-47.3 wt.%), Al2O3 (11–16 wt.%), Fe2O3(8–15 wt.%), CaO (3–26 wt.%), and MgO (4–15 wt.%). The used cement raw materials include: clinker, gypsum, marble additive, low CaO bluish-green chlorite schist and low CaO chlorite-bearing dark-grey schist. Clinker, gypsum, and marble are all good for cement production. The two groups of manufactured blended cements are mainly composed of CaO (64.2–64.6 wt.%), SiO2 (18.0-18.5 wt.%) with significant and variable Al2O3, Fe2O3, MgO, SO3, and Na2O + K2O contents; all within the range in ASTM standard, and some reference cements. The LSF (1.11–1.15), HM (2.6–2.8), SAR (4.6–5.1), SR (2.8–3.1), and AR (1.5–1.7) varying from one group of cements to another, fall within the range of some reference OPC. The proportion of free lime (0.92–1.25%) in both processed cements, is within the range 0.8–2.25% for reference cement Multi X (CEMIX32.5R). The proportion of SO3 (1.6 to 2.3%,), LOI (8.9–13.8%), and IR (1.3-6.0%) in bluish-green schist-blended cements, range from 1.7 to 2.2%, 8.9 to 13.7%, and 1.3 to 10.6%, in dark-grey schist-blended cements. Part of these values are within those of reference cement and other OPC. The BSSA (4794 to 5794 cm2/g) and proportion of retained sieved fractions (4.13 to 11.1%) place the processed cements within high fineness type. The setting time (130–245 min) seem to satify cement standards. The compressive strength tests show a decrease in strength with the increase in proportion of schist; which could be due to the mineralogical composition of the used cements and their high IR.
Exploring the Possibility of Interacting Quintessence Model as an Alternative to the ΛCDM Model
Authors: Roy Nandan
Published: July 2023

This study examines interacting quintessence dark energy models and their observational constraints for a general parameterization of the quintessence potential, which encompasses a broad range of popular potentials. Four different forms of interactions are considered. The analysis is done by expressing the system as a set of autonomous equations for each interaction. The Bayesian Model Comparison has been used to compare these models with the standard Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model. Our analysis shows positive and moderate evidence for the interacting models over the ΛCDM model.
Deep LBP-Enriched Real-time Segmentation for Hair Defect Detection
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Wang Jie , Xu Xianwei , Yan Fei , Zeng Zhiqiang
Published: July 2023

Hair defects are common in the industrial production of medical syringes, posing a significant risk to product quality and efficacy. Detecting these defects in real-time is crucial for ensuring high-quality production.However, existing Deep semantic segmentation (DSS) methods, which generally have numerous network parameters,face significant challenges in real-time hair defect detection due to hair's unique characteristics, including its irregular and thin structure. Moreover, potential hair overlapping with the syringe further complicates the detection process. In this case, conventional DSS methods are hard to explore the accurate low-level visuospatial information that is critical for detecting hair defects. Considering the wide applicability and effectiveness of the handcrafted features, such as Local Binary Pattern (LBP) and Sobel operators, in defect detection, we argue that these features designed by skillful experts may encode rich prior knowledge about defects and may improve the performance of DSS models for hair defects on syringes.Inspired by this idea, this study proposes a Deep LBP-Enriched Real-time Segmentation (DLERS) method for hair defects detection, which maintains a lightweight network structure and leverages the LBP encoding mechanism to facilitate the effective transfer of domain prior knowledge.Besides, to alleviate the influence of the hair-like noise and fragmentary edges, we propose employing a joint loss function that combines the Dice loss, BCE loss, and Edge loss to train our network. To evaluate the performance of DLERS, we conduct experiments on one real-world syringe dataset.The competitive results (e.g., 85.36% MIoU and 149.1 FPS) prove the effectiveness of our method.
Production of renewable hydrocarbons through hydrodeoxygenation of crude oil from microalgae Scenedesmus sp. with “in-situ” hydrogen production
Authors: Díaz Gisel Chenard , Rossa Vinicius , Muchave Germildo , Viegas Carolina Viera , Cruz Yordanka Reyes , Aranda Donato Alexandre Gomes
Published: July 2023

Fatty materials hydroprocessing is one of the most promising routes for renewable hydrocarbons production in the range of aviation bio-kerosene and green diesel. This study investigated the feasibility of producing renewable hydrocarbons from crude oil of the microalgae Scenedesmus sp. Two technological routes were explored: Route 1 - hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of the microalgae crude oil with external hydrogen addition, and Route 2 - HDO of the microalgae crude oil with "in-situ" hydrogen production through glycerol reforming. Both routes employ the commercial catalyst NiMoS2/Al2O3, commonly used in removing contaminants in aviation kerosene and diesel refineries. Catalytic tests were conducted using a Design of Experiments (DOE) to evaluate the production of renewable hydrocarbons from the crude oil of microalgae Scenedesmus sp. Parameters such as temperature, glycerol amount, H2 partial pressure, and reaction time were varied to analyze the conversion of microalgae crude oil and the selectivity towards liquid hydrocarbons. Statistical analysis using ANOVA and response surface methodology demonstrated the possibility of producing renewable hydrocarbons from the crude oil of microalgae Scenedesmus sp. The proposed catalyst showed efficiency in converting triglycerides and fatty acids. Optimal conditions were identified for each route, resulting in positive conversion rates (≈100%) and high selectivity towards hydrocarbons, Route 1: 95.44% and Route 2: 94.37%. Most of the generated hydrocarbons were classified as renewable diesel, while the remaining portion belonged to the synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK) range. Route 2 demonstrated greater economic appeal as it enabled "in-situ" hydrogen production through glycerol reforming, eliminating the need for external hydrogen addition. Moreover, Route 2 achieved a higher hydrocarbon content in the aviation bio-kerosene range (72%) compared to Route 1, without the need for additional hydrocracking steps, along with 23% in the renewable diesel fraction up to 400 °C.
Spatial Structure and Network Characteristics of the Coupling Coordination Innovation Ecosystems in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area
Authors: Yang Zhichen , Li Xiangtao , Wang Fangfang , Chen Rongjian , Ma Renwen
Published: July 2023

Using the coupling coordination degree model and social network analysis, the spatial structure and network characteristics of the coupling coordination of regional innovation ecosystems in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area from 2010-2019 are explored in depth. The findings indicate that: (1) the kernel density curve is moving to the right, and the overall coupling coordination level is continuously optimized. The centre of gravity for coupling coordination shifts to the southeast, the elliptical area decreases year by year, and the trend surface always maintains a convex tendency toward the centre, with the coupling coordination level along the "Guangdong-Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Macao Science and Technology Innovation Corridor" becoming more and more prominent. (2) The spatial linkages in the Greater Bay Area are becoming closer, and there are significant spatial transaction costs in the regional innovation ecological network. In the face of the US-China trade war in 2019, Jiangmen and Zhaoqing's level of connectivity with other cities decreases significantly, and there is a risk of marginalization. (3) Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Hong Kong are the core nodes of the network. The "core-edge" spatial structure of the network is significant, displaying the dual traits of robustness and susceptibility.
Approximation of continuous functions on a compact set by solutions of elliptic equations. Quantitative results
Authors: Rozenblum Grigori , Shirokov Nikolai
Published: July 2023

We establish that a generalized Hölder continuous function on an (m−2)-Ahlfors regular compact set K in Rm can be uniformly on K approximated by solutions of a second order elliptic equation with mildly regular coefficients, with the rate of the approximation and the quality of the approximating function determined by the continuity modulus of the function.
Effectiveness of BNT162b2 and Ad.COV2.S vaccines against COVID-19-related hospitalisation among adult members of a private health insurance scheme in South Africa during the Delta and Omicron periods: a test-negative case-control study
Authors: Johnstone Siobhan L. , Shapiro Daniel , Chiwandire Nicola , Matoti Lundi , Whyte Carmen , Bultinck-Human Jolene , Mametja Selaelo , Getz Craig , Moyo Boldwin , Semenya Mabatlo , Walaza Sibongile , Cohen Cheryl , Groome Michelle J.
Published: July 2023

Background
COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness estimates from Africa are limited. These data can guide decisions on selecting priority groups in vaccine programs. This study estimated VE for BNT162b2 and Ad26.COV2.S against COVID-19-related hospitalisation, stratified by age group, time since vaccination and HIV-infection status for three SARS-CoV-2 surges in South Africa (driven by the delta, omicron BA.1 and omicron BA.4/5 variants) among ≥ 18 years old.
Methods
We applied a test-negative case-control design to hospitalisations for acute respiratory infections amongst members of a large medical scheme. Individuals receiving a single dose of Ad26.COV2S or two-doses of BNT162b2 were considered fully vaccinated and compared to unvaccinated individuals. Logistic regression models adjusted for age, comorbidities and documentation of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, were used to calculate VE.
Results
BNT162b2 was protective against COVID-19-related hospitalisation for all variant periods (VE 89.3% (95% CI, 85.9–91.9) for delta, reduced to 31.4% (95% CI, 19.1–41.9) and 22.7% (95% CI, 2.2–38.9) for omicron BA.1 and BA.4/5 respectively). VE estimates for Ad26.COV2.S, although lower than BNT162b2, were protective for all periods (48.8% (95% CI, 39.6–56.5), 19.8% (95% CI, 5.8–31.6) and 45.0% (95% CI, 29.8–57.0)). Protection was similar amongst those ≥ 60 years and younger age groups, and among people living with HIV and HIV-uninfected individuals.
Conclusion
Vaccination with either BNT162b2 or Ad26.COV2.S offered significant protection against COVID-19-related hospitalisation in PLWH and adults over the age of 60 years and therefore is an effective means of reducing severe outcomes in these high-risk populations in South Africa. VE against BA.4/5 waned with time since vaccination suggesting boosters may be necessary.
Indirect boundary stabilization of strongly coupled degenerate hyperbolic systems
Authors: Salhi Jawad , Moumni Alhabib , Tilioua Mouhcine
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we consider the energy decay of a damped hyperbolic system of two degenerate wave equations coupled by velocities when only one equation is directly damped by a linear boundary feedback. To this aim, we first prove that the proposed system is well-posed using the semigroup theory. Then, under the hypothesis that the coupling coefficient is positive and small, we show that the total energy of the whole system decays exponentially. The explicit energy decay rate is established by using the energy multiplier method.
MSC 2020: 35B40, 35L80, 93D15, 93D23
Evaluation of aspiration pneumonia (risk factors, treatment, diagnosis, prognosis) in Damascus Hospital between 2013 and 2022 (Retrospective study)
Authors: alkadri Ghina mhd ghiath zhahed , alkadri sedra ahmed , Fawares Maamoun AL- , Bardan Housam
Published: July 2023

Background: Due to the lack of biomarkers, epidemiological studies attempting to investigate aspiration pneumonia have been difficult, and this research aims to identify the risk factors for aspiration pneumonia, its pathogenesis, and their relationship to sex and age.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on fifty-five patients diagnosed with pneumonia during the period 1/1/2013 and 1/1/2022 from hospital patients in Damascus. All information in the patients' files was taken. Laboratory measurements and x-ray reports were taken and recorded in scientific forms. A group of patients who were admitted to Damascus hospital were studied according to the following admission criteria. All patients are 18 years of age or older. Pneumonia with significant clinical suspicion is inhalation.
While the exclusion criteria were as follows: patients under 18 years of age, damaged patients' files and files in which there was insufficient information to serve our study.
Results: The average age was 59 ± 12.891, and it was found that most of the patients are from the age group less than 65 years (50.9%), and the cases were distributed according to sex to (61.8% males), (38.2% females). 8 days, and with regard to medical history, the percentage of patients with diabetes and high arterial tension was the leading one, with rates of 22.5% and 31%, respectively.
conclusion: It was found that there was a statistically significant value between age and death, and it was found that there was no statistically significant value between sex and death, and it was found that there was no statistically significant value between the length of stay and death, and it was found that there was no statistically significant value between the length of stay and age.
Exploring the Effects of School Career Education Experiences on Career Competence of Multicultural Students by Regional Scale
Authors:   Human Engagement Institute, Oh Sung-Bae , Lee Yoo Jung
Published: July 2023

This study identifies the difference between career competency and school career education experience of multicultural students of different sizes of residence, and explores the influence of various factors, including school career education experience, on career competency by regional scale. To this end, the data of 1,085 people included in the 「Multicultural Adolescents Panel Study(MAPS)」was used, and statistical significance was confirmed through one-way ANOVA, post-hoc test, and multiple regression analysis. The analysis results are as follows. First, it was found that the career competency of multicultural students was significantly higher in the rural area. Second, the school career education experience of multicultural students was found to be significantly higher in large cities and small and medium-sized cities. Third, it was found that the factors influencing the career competency of multicultural students were different depending on the regional scale. School career education experiences had an influence in large cities and small and medium cities, but did not appear in rural areas. This study empirically confirmed the influence of regional scale factors on the career education of multicultural students, and suggests that a customized approach that considers regional scale factors is needed in future career education support for multicultural students.
Effects of climatic conditions and vegetation changes on actual evapotranspiration in Mu Us sandy land
Authors: Yang Liangyan , Shi Lei , Li Juan , Kong Hui , Wu Dan , Wei Jing
Published: July 2023

Based on the MOD16A3GF data, spatial regression analysis was conducted to explore the trends of the annual change of AET and the characteristics of its spatial distribution in Mu Us Sandy Land between 2001 and 2020. Combined meteorological data and NDVI data to analyze its effects on AET by trend analysis and correlation coefficient. The results showed that (1) The AET exhibited significant regional differences in Mu Us Sandy Land, with an overall low northwest and high southeast distribution pattern; (2) The AET showed a rapid upward trend from 2001 to 2020, with an average rate of change of 5.68 mm·a-1; (3) The correlation coefficient between AET and precipitation was 0.74, and there was no obvious correlation with temperature; (4) AET was consistent with the NDVI spatial distribution and interannual variation curves. Under the combined influence of precipitation and NDVI, AET increased significantly in Mu Us Sandy Land from 2001 to 2020. Precipitation was the main factor affecting climatic conditions of AET, and NDVI was the dominant factor affecting AET in the same period. This provides a theoretical basis and scientific basis for the conservation and protection of ecological water source in Mu Us Sandy Land.
Educação escolar indígena Kiriri
Authors: Cardoso Gabriel Novais
Published: July 2023

O presente trabalho trata da educação escolar indígena entre o povo Kiriri, localizado em um território de 12.320 hectares entre os municípios de Banzaê e Quijingue, Bahia. A educação, sob a perspectiva de sua integração entre o povo Kiriri, foi uma ferramenta fundamental para a reafirmação da identidade étnica e configurou-se como um espaço de “fronteira”. O objetivo desse trabalho foi aprofundar a compreensão das articulações entre a educação escolar indígena Kiriri, sua situação política, marcada por processos de cisões internas, e as dinâmicas inter e intraétnicas de distinção e afirmação da identidade nos distintos grupos Kiriri. O artigo baseou-se numa pesquisa etnográfica realizada no território indígena ao longo dos anos de 2016 a 2018, com grande foco na análise de entrevistas de interlocutores ligados à educação escolar indígena. À guisa de conclusão mais aprofundada para o presente trabalho, apresentase a importância da escola indígena como palco de manifestação de divergências políticas e disputas intraétnicas no povo Kiriri.
Desenvolvimentos recentes na proteção interamericana dos migrantes: um estudo à luz dos casos Roche Azaña y otros vs. Nicaragua e Habbal y otros vs. Argentina
Authors: Lodônio Dantas Beatriz , Oliveira Moreira Thiago
Published: July 2023

A presente pesquisa trata do desenvolvimento de standards migratórios dentro do Sistema Interamericano de Proteção aos Direitos Humanos (SIPDH). Nesse contexto, partiu-se da seguinte problemática: a partir do Caso Roche Azaña y Otros vs. Nicaragua e do Caso Habbal y Otros vs. Argentina, o SIPDH tem avançado ou retroagido quanto a proteção dos direitos das pessoas migrantes? Parte-se da hipótese que o SIPDH tem avançado para resguardar os direitos das pessoas migrantes por reforçar o direito das vítimas de acessarem a justiça e serem ouvidas no processo penal e por reiterar a aplicação das garantias mínimas da Convenção Americana sobre Direitos Humanos nos processos de caráter sancionatório relativos ao status migratório. O objetivo geral consiste em identificar a evolução de standards migratórios no SIPDH. Para tal, foi necessário compreender o surgimento do SIPDH e das suas garantias para migrantes, analisar os standards interamericanos migratórios, discorrer sobre o Caso Roche Azaña y Otros vs. Nicaragua e o Caso Habbal y Otros vs. Argentina e Cotejar com os standards migratórios já consolidados com os identificados nos referidos casos. O estudo tem natureza aplicada e qualitativa, pautando-se pelo método de abordagem dedutivo através das técnicas de procedimento de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental.
Curcumin Supplementation and Vascular Health: Is Gut Microbiota Involved?
Authors: Laudani Samuele , Di Domenico Federica Martina , Paladino Nadia , Guerrera Ida , Grosso Giuseppe , Godos Justyna
Published: July 2023

Curcumin is a polyphenol compound widely investigated for its potential health benefits. Clinical
evidence from randomized controlled trials shows substantial positive effects in healthy individuals but
contrasting results for patients with cardio-metabolic disorders. There is growing evidence that the gut microbiota
may play a role in curcumin transformation and absorption of more bioactive compounds, suggesting
that the baseline health status (or other unmeasured variables) may explain the observed variability of the
results.
Role of Nrf2 in Oxidative Stress, Neuroinflammation and
Autophagy in Alzheimer’s Disease: Regulation of Nrf2 by Different
Signaling Pathways
Authors: Kaur Karamjeet , Narang Raj Kumar , Singh Shamsher
Published: July 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-dependent neurodegenerative disorder
and the leading cause of dementia. AD is characterized by the aggregation of amyloid-ß
(Aß) peptide, increased levels of tau protein, and loss of redox homeostasis responsible
for mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. Excessive
accumulation of toxic Aß plaques activates microglia, which initiates neuroinflammation
and consequently accelerates synaptic damage and neuronal loss. Various proinflammatory
cytokines release, microglia proliferation, reactive astrocyte, and oxidative
(reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, level of antioxidant enzymes, redox
homeostasis, and lipid peroxidation) stress play a major role in AD. Several studies
revealed that nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) regulates redox
homeostasis and works as an anti-inflammatory in various neurodegenerative disorders.
D-Glutamate expression of transcription factor Nrf2 and its genes (glutamate-cysteine
ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and NADPH quinone
oxidoreductase I (NQO1)) has been found in AD. Nrf2-HO-1 enhances the expression of
antioxidant genes, inhibits microglia-mediated inflammation, and boosts mitochondrial
function, suggesting that modulators of this protein may be useful to manage AD. This
review focuses on the role of Nrf2 in AD, with a particular emphasis on the various
pathways involved in the positive and negative modulation of Nrf2, namely Phosphoinositide
3-kinase (PI3K), Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3), Nuclear factor
kappa-B (NF-κB), and p38Mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38MAPK). Also, we have
discussed the progress and challenges regarding the Nrf2 activators for AD treatment.
Preparation and Evaluation of the In situ Gel-forming Chitosan Hydrogels
for Nasal Delivery of Morphine in a Single Unit dose in Rats to Enhance
the Analgesic Responses
Authors: Kamali Hossein , Tafaghodi Mohsen , Eisvand Farhad , Ahmadi-Soleimani S. Mohammad , Khajouee Mina , Ghazizadeh Hosnieh , Mosafer Jafar
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

In this study, an in situ gel-forming chitosan hydrogel was prepared with the
use of glutamate salt of chitosan (Ch-Ga), β-glycerophosphate (Gp), and morphine (Mor). The paper is
focused on in vitro physicochemical properties and in-vivo analgesic effects of the prepared chitosan
hydrogel.

Method:

The thermosensitive properties of prepared chitosan hydrogel were evaluated during the different
temperatures and times. The physicochemical properties of chitosan hydrogel were investigated by infrared
(IR) spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). Also, its cell cytotoxicity effects were evaluated
in murine NIH/3T3 normal cells. Subsequently, the distribution of chitosan hydrogel in the nasal cavity of
rats and its analgesic responses were evaluated. The prepared chitosan hydrogel showed that it could be
gelled at the temperature of 34 °C before leaving the nose in the shortest possible time of 30 s.

Result:

The analgesic responses of the intranasal (IN) injection of chitosan hydrogel (IN-chitosan hydrogel,
10 mg Mor/kg) in a single unit dose in rat relative to the placebo and intranasal or intraperitoneal
(IP) injection of free morphine solution (IN-Free Mor or IP-Free Mor, 10 mg Mor/kg) via the hot plate
test, reveal that the IN-chitosan hydrogel could induce fast analgesic effects of morphine with maximum
possible effect (MPE) of 93% after 5 min compare to the IN-Free Mor and IP-Free Mor with MPE of
80% after 15 min and 66% after 30 min, respectively. Also, prolonged analgesic effects with MPE of
78 % after 6 h of injection were only seen in the IN-chitosan hydrogel injected group. The obtained
fluorescent images of rat’s brain injected with IN-chitosan hydrogel containing doxorubicine (Dox) as a
fluorescent agent showed that the mucosal adhesive and absorption enhancer properties of IN-chitosan
hydrogel resulting in longer presence of them in the nasal cavity of rats followed by more absorption of
Dox from the blood vessels of olfactory bulbs with a 74% color intensity compared to the IN-Free Mor
and IN-Free Dox with 15%.

Conclusion:

These data reveal that the IN-chitosan hydrogel could induce fast and prolonged analgesic
effects of morphine compare to the IN/IP-Free Mor, which could be considered as an in situ gel-forming
thermosensitive chitosan hydrogel for nasal delivery of wide ranges of therapeutic agents.
Transcription Factor EB: A Promising Therapeutic Target for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Shao Jie , Lang Yue , Ding Manqiu , Yin Xiang , Cui Li
Published: July 2023

Transcription factor EB (TFEB) is an important endogenous defensive protein that responds to ischemic stimuli. Acute ischemic stroke is a growing concern due to its high morbidity and mortality. Most survivors suffer from disabilities such as numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, facial droop, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, confusion, impaired balance or coordination, or loss of vision. Although TFEB plays a neuroprotective role, its potential effect on ischemic stroke remains unclear. This article describes the basic structure, regulation of transcriptional activity, and biological roles of TFEB relevant to ischemic stroke. Additionally, we explore the effects of TFEB on the various pathological processes underlying ischemic stroke and current therapeutic approaches. The information compiled here may inform clinical and basic studies on TFEB, which may be an effective therapeutic drug target for ischemic stroke.
Impact of Precision Nutrition on Microbiota and Obesity
Authors: Merra Giuseppe , Gualtieri Paola , De Lorenzo Antonino , Capacci Annunziata , Frank Giulia , Dri Maria , Di Renzo Laura , Marchetti Marco
Published: July 2023

The human body is colonized by trillions of microbes, that contribute to our health and
well-being. Many factors influence the composition and functions of the intestinal microbiota, including
the host's eating habits, which seem to have a significant effect. A healthy intestinal microbiota
is essential for proper metabolic function and homeostasis. Alterations in microbial composition
could dramatically cause obesity and diabetes, modifying and influencing host metabolism,
homeostasis, and central appetite mechanism. Brain reward signaling is mediated by the dopaminergic
mesolimbic system and plays an important role in the development of obesity. Dysregulation
of the energy balance causes obesity. Obesity is a serious health problem. The composition of the
intestinal microbiota influences various aspects of energy metabolism: digestion, food intake from
ingested foods, food components, and accumulation of excess fat. Therefore, the microbial community
can contribute significantly to the progression of obesity and its complications. A "tailored
nutritional approach" and more feasible and sustainable personalized nutritional strategies must be
developed to optimize the gut microbiome and improve host response.
Discovery of a Potential Allosteric Site in the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
and Targeting Allosteric Inhibitor to Stabilize the RBD Down State using a
Computational Approach
Authors: Li Tong , Yan Zheng , Zhou Wei , Liu Qun , Liu Jinfeng , Hua Haibing
Published: July 2023

Background:

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute
respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to a worldwide public health crisis. At
present, the development of effective drugs and/or related therapeutics is still the most urgent and
important task for combating the virus. The viral entry and associated infectivity mainly rely on
its envelope spike protein to recognize and bind to the host cell receptor angiotensin-converting
enzyme 2 (ACE2) through a conformational switch of the spike receptor binding domain (RBD)
from inactive to active state. Thus, it is of great significance to design an allosteric inhibitor targeting
spike to lock it in the inactive and ACE2-inaccessible state.

Objective:

This study aims to discover the potential broad-spectrum allosteric inhibitors capable
of binding and stabilizing the diverse spike variants, including the wild type, Delta, and Omicron,
in the inactive RBD down state.

Methods:

In this work, we first detected a potential allosteric pocket within the SARS-CoV-2
spike protein. Then, we performed large-scale structure-based virtual screening by targeting the
putative allosteric pocket to identify allosteric inhibitors that could stabilize the spike inactive
state. Molecular dynamics simulations were further carried out to evaluate the effects of compound
binding on the stability of spike RBD.

Result:

Finally, we identified three potential allosteric inhibitors, CPD3, CPD5, and CPD6,
against diverse SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Wild-type, Delta, and Omicron variants. Our
simulation results showed that the three compounds could stably bind the predicted allosteric site
and effectively stabilize the spike in the inactive state.

Conclusion:

The three compounds provide novel chemical structures for rational drug design targeting
spike protein, which is expected to greatly assist in the development of new drugs against
SARS-CoV-2.
WITHDRAWN: Antioxidant Potential of Thymus willdenowii Boiss & Reut. Aqueous Extract and Effect of its Supplementation on Hyperlipidemia and Paraoxonase-1 Arylesterase Activity in High-fat Diet-fed Rats
Authors: Elbouny Hamza , Ouahzizi Brahim , Sellam Khalid , Alem Chakib
Published: July 2023

Since the authors are not responding to the editor’s requests to fulfill the editorial requirement, therefore, the article has been
withdrawn from the journal Current Drug Therapy.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused.

The Bentham Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

BENTHAM SCIENCE DISCLAIMER:

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authors, if plagiarism or fabricated information is discovered. By submitting a manuscript the authors agree that the copyright
of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
Four Decades of the Comet Assay: pH Optimum of Lysis Buffer Still Needs to be
Elucidated
Authors: Heneberg Petr
Published: July 2023

The proper course and reproducibility of diagnostic techniques depend on narrowly defined reaction conditions,
including the reaction pH. Nevertheless, numerous assays are affected by an inaccurately defined reaction pH.
Buffers are sometimes suggested for use outside their useful pH ranges, which complicates the reproducibility of results
because the buffering capacity is insufficient to retain the disclosed pH. Here, we focus on the comet assay lysis
buffer. Comet assay is broadly used for quantifying DNA breaks in eukaryotic cells. The most widespread comet assay
protocols employ lysis of the cells before electrophoresis in a buffer containing Triton X-100, a high concentration of
NaCl, sodium sarcosinate, EDTA, and Tris, with some modifications. However, nearly all researchers report that they
use Tris buffer at pH 10, and some report the pH of the Tris additive alone. Alternatively, others report the pH of the
final lysis buffer. However, the lysis solution used in the comet assay is buffered at a pH outside the useful range of
Tris. Tris-based buffers have a useful pH range of 7.0 - 9.0. The buffer composed of 10 mM Tris has pKa 8.10 at 25°C
and 8.69 at 4°C. The cell lysis conditions used in nearly all modifications of comet assay protocols remain imprecise
and uncritically employed. Despite the pH of the lysis buffer likely has negligible effect on the detection of DNA
breaks, precise lysis conditions are highly important for the use of comet assay in the detection of base modifications,
which are often unstable and sensitive to pH.
Biopolymers and their Nanocomposites: Current Status and
Future Prospects
Authors: Aggarwal Neha , Dhiman Dipti , Kaur Navalpreet , Kaur Harjinder , Arti Sonika
Published: July 2023

For many years, petroleum-based polymers have been successfully enhanced by
the addition of nanoparticles as additives. Carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanoclays, 2-D
layered materials, and cellulose nano whiskers are a few of the several nanoreinforcements
that are currently being researched. In comparison to unmodified polymer
resin, the use of these nanofillers with bio-based polymers could improve a wide range of
physical properties, including barrier, flame resistance, thermal stability, solvent uptake,
and rate of biodegradability. This nano-reinforcement is a very appealing method to create
new functional biomaterials for a variety of applications because these enhancements are
typically achieved at minimal filler content.
Impact of Molecular Building Blocks on Dynamic Nature of Novel
Biomimetic Drug Delivery Systems as Ufasomes and Ufosomes:
Modification in Structure and Surface Charge
Authors: Singh Lovepreet , Kaur Lakhvir , Singh Gurjeet , Kaur Manjeet , Dhawan R.K. , Kaur Navdeep , Khajuria Nitish , Singh Sarvpreet
Published: July 2023

This review is focused on the self-assembly of different molecular building blocks at var-ious levels of complexity. In this perspective, we present the basic concept and recent research on the self-assembly of fatty acids and their derivatives, surfactants, and cholesterol. In addition, we discuss the conditions for designing and stabilizing novel vesicular drug delivery systems and how the flux changes due to the molecular structure of building blocks. Furthermore, the article provides a brief discussion on fatty acid and oleate self-assembly, which is becoming an emerging nanotech-nology because of its ability to alter the dynamic nature of the skin. These structures have been shown to enhance the skin permeability of drugs and other active compounds, making them poten-tial candidates for transdermal drug delivery. In conclusion, the self-assembly of various molecular building blocks at different levels of complexity has significant implications in the fields of drug de-livery, cosmetics, and nanotechnology. The ability to control and manipulate the self-assembly pro-cess offers a wide range of possibilities for the design of novel and efficient drug delivery systems.