bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STUDI ETNOBOTANI JENIS-JENIS TUMBUHAN BERACUN PADA SUKU DAWAN KECAMATAN FATULEU TENGAH, KABUPATEN KUPANG (Ethnobotany study of poisonous plants in Dawan Tribe Fatuleu Tengah Subdistrict, Kupang District)
Authors:   Program Studi Pendidikan Biologi, Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Kristen Artha Wacana Kupang, NTT, hendrik Arnold christian , Pinat Anriyani Ivanita ,   Program Studi Pendidikan Biologi, Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Kristen Artha Wacana Kupang, NTT, Ballo Apriliana ,   Program Studi Pendidikan Biologi, Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Kristen Artha Wacana, Kupang, NTT
Published: May 2021

Abstract Poisonous plants are plants containing a poison that can cause pain or death. The people of the Dawan Fatuleu Tengah tribe have used poisonous plants in their daily lives. However, these types of poisonous plants have not been well documented. The purpose of the present study was to determine the types of poisonous plants and their utilization by the Dawan Fatuleu Tengah tribe. The data collection was conducted by interviewing the respondents for the use of poisonous plants. The obtained results showed that eight types of poisonous plants from six families used by the Dawan Fatuleu Tengah tribe, namely arbila nuts (Phaseolus lonatus L.), tubaroot (Deris elliptica L.), cassava (Manihot esculent), sengon (Paraserianthes faltacataria L.), ginje (Thevetia peruvianan), kecubung (Datura metel L.), ceremai (Phyllanthus acidus L.), and biduri (Calotropis gigantean L.). The Dawan Fatuleu Tengah tribe community uses these poisonous plants to poison fish in the river for consumption, as a natural pesticide, to kill insect disease vectors, and for attacking the enemy. Abstrak Tumbuhan beracun merupakan tumbuhan yang mengandung racun dan dapat menyebabkan rasa sakit atau kematian. Masyarakat suku Dawan Fatuleu Tengah telah lama memanfaatkan tumbuhan beracun dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Namun, sampai saat ini jenis-jenis tumbuhan beracun tersebut belum terinventarisasi dengan baik. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui jenis-jenis tumbuhan beracun dan pemanfaatannya oleh suku Dawan Fatuleu Tengah. Teknik pengambilan data berupa pengambilan sampel responden dapat dilakukan dengan menghimpun keterangan melalui wawancara tentang pemanfataan tumbuhan beracun. Hasil penelitian yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahwa terdapat 8 jenis tumbuhan beracun dari 5 famili yang dimanfaatkan suku Dawan Fatuleu Tengah yaitu kacang arbila (Phaseolus lonatus L.), akar tuba (Deris elliptica L.), ubi kayu (Manihot esculenta), sengon (Paraserianthes faltacataria L), ginje (Thevetia peruviana), kecubung (Datura metel L), ceremai (Phyllanthus acidus L), biduri (Calotropis gigantean L). Masyarakat suku Dawan Fatuleu Tengah memanfaatkan tumbuhan beracun tersebut untuk meracuni ikan di sungai untuk dikonsumsi, sebagai pestisida alami, untuk membunuh serangga vektor penyakit, dan juga untuk menyerang musuh.
Power contamination and domination on the grid
Authors: Ainouche Amina , Bouroubi Sadek
Published: May 2021

The contamination game of a grid graph G(n,m) is a dynamic variant of the domination, similar to the power domination. This standard is introduced by Haynes, Hedetniemi and Henning in 2002, which is initially defined as a basic domination for a set of vertices S in a graph G, and then a propagation of this domination in all vertices of G, while starting with S. On the other hand, the contamination phenomena in G(n,m) is interpreted by an evolutionary automaton cellular, which aims to propagate viruses according to a given propagation rules. In this paper, we define a mathematical self-playing game called a contamination game based on the power domination, in which, we identify the minimum number of contaminant cells for G(n,m), called the contamination number and denoted γ(G(n,m)).
Factor generalized be-semigroups through homomorphisms
Authors: Saleem Sadaf , Hussain Fawad , Davvaz Bijan , Rahim Mohammad Tariq
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we generalize the concept of homomorphism from BE-semigroups to generalized BE-semigroups. In order to show the existence, we construct some examples. Furthermore, we characterize generalized BE-semigroups by using homomorphism. In particular, we show that through every homomorphism, we may get factor generalized BE-semigroup.
THE DATA ACQUISITION ROLE ON STATIC TEST FOR VALIDATION OF RX320 ROCKET MOTOR DESIGN
Authors: Setiadi Setiadi , Wicaksono Bagus , Kurdianto Kurdianto , Jihad Bagus H.
Published: May 2021

Data Acquisition System has a significant role, especially in static testing of a rocket, determining whether a rocket is declared eligible to fly or not based on the static rocket test. Static testing of the RX320 rocket involves several numerical data instrumentation components, including the Yokogawa DL850 and the CDA900 Signal Conditioner, and the PT750 Pressure sensor. It has functions to accept the physical force that occurs, measure and record the value of the Pressure force in the RX 320 Rocket Chamber at the time Static test during burning time is performed. From the record value of the RX 320 chamber pressure, it can be stated that the RX 320 is suitable for the rocket flight test. The calculation results of the chamber pressure design and the results of measurement and recording of RX320 static test data indicate that the Pressure Chamber RX320 value is still within the safe limits of the RX320 Rocket motor tube material strength.
EU and domestic regulation on the production of renewable hydrogen, constitutional issues related to the domestic regulation
Authors: Lengyel Attila
Published: May 2021

The purpose of the present article is to review the relevant, recently published EU and national strategy documents, the role of hydrogen set out in them, and some key regulatory elements concerning hydrogen in the field of energy, following the introduction of renewable hydrogen and its possible uses. The article also focuses on the principles of the Fundamental Law, which are related to hydrogen and its uptake, and shares the constitutional dilemmas that can be related to the currently limited domestic regulation concerning hydrogen. It should be emphasized that partial amendments are already being made to the relevant regulations of the European Union, and the development of the domestic regulation is expected to begin in the short term, thus contributing to the achievement of the 2050 carbon-neutrality goal and laying down the basics of the hydrogen economy.
The agricultural land trade
Authors: Zombory Katarzyna
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to provide a report on the conference titled The agricultural land trade. Theory and Practice, which was held on 26 November 2020 by Adam Mickiewicz University (UAM) in Poznań. The conference report deals with the three sessions of the conference in separate chapters, and in the end, it contains concluding remarks. In parallel with the presentation of the sessions, legal literature is provided in connection with each issue.
Family entrepreneurship as a resource for improving the quality of life of the family and its employment ..
Authors: Galas Marina
Published: May 2021

Family entrepreneurship as a resource to improve the quality of life of the family and its employment was the subject of discussions of the II Russian Gender Forum, which was held in Moscow on October 29—30, 2020 at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation. Moderator and initiator of the Forum, chairman of its Program Committee — Professor G. G. Sillaste, scientific head of the Department of Sociology and Science School “Gender and Economic Sociology” of the Financial University under the Russian Government, a member of the scientific and expert council under the Chairman of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly, defined the purpose of the Forum clearly — analysis of the realities and potential of the development of family entrepreneurship as a long-term social resource of the Russian economy and the quality of life. According to the scientist, family entrepreneurship is a promising technology for the development of a world of neuter gender entrepreneurship, an effective social practice that allows to combine the efforts and experience of family members in a single business useful for it and society, bringing to the family income, confidence in the future and better the quality of life. However, the expansion of family entrepreneurship requires not only the family initiative, but also consistent support from the state at all levels of its management activities. Discussions in numerous sections of the Gender Forum concerned the problems connected with the ways of improving the effectiveness of family and business activities, strengthening the economic solidarity of its members. organizing the exchange of experience, implementing family projects in promoting progressive economic ideas.
Women’s movement in the United States today
Authors: Zadvornova Julia
Published: May 2021

The article discusses the content and the history of modern women’s movement in the USA. The review of the American sociological literature was conducted to make a definition of the term “women’s movement”. The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the main periods in the development of the women’s movement that are referred to by the American researchers as waves. The review of the history of the women’s movement identified and characterized three waves of the women’s movement in the Unites States based on their goals, scale of activity, methods and results of the struggle for the gender equity in the American society. The author analyzed the large-scale network of American women’s organizations and formulated their typology based on their goals and functions. The article outlines the perspectives of the American modern women’s movement further development.
GLOBAL POLITICAL ECONOMY AS A SCIENCE
Authors: Lemeshenko P. , Lavruhina I.
Published: May 2021

The article considers the global political economy as science that emerged at the junction of economic, political and social disciplines. Based on the analysis of the concept of the global political economy, its main elements and levels of the study are revealed. Kinds of authority and global structures that form an international system, where the relationships between individuals and states take place, are revealed. Main scientific schools differing in the assessments of key actors, dynamics and opportunities for conflict and cooperation in the global political economy are defined.
Isotope fractionation (δ 13C, δ15N) and microbial community response in degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons by biostimulation in contaminated soil
Authors: Liu Heng , Wu Manli , Guo Xiqian , Gao Huan , Xu Yinrui
Published: May 2021

This study investigated the isotope effects of δ13C and δ15N and microbial response during biodegradation of hydrocarbons by biostimulation with nitrate or compost in the petroleum-contaminated soil. Compost and KNO3 amendments promoted the total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) removal accompanied by a significant increase of Actinobacteria and Firmicutes phyla. Soil alpha diversity decreased after 90 days of biostimulation. An inverse significant carbon isotope effect (εc = 16.6 ± 0.8‰) and strong significant nitrogen isotope effect (εN = -24.20 ± 9.54‰) were shown by the KNO3 supplementation. For compost amendment, significant carbon and nitrogen isotope effect were εc = 38.8 ± 1.1‰ and εN = -79.49 ± 16.41‰, respectively. A clear difference of the carbon and nitrogen stable isotope fractionation was evident by KNO3 or compost amendment, which indicated the mechanisms of petroleum degradation by adding compost or KNO3 are different.
Chlorhexidine-alcohol versus povidone-iodine as preoperative skin antisepsis for prevention of Surgical Site Infection in Cesarean Section
Authors: Luwang Athokpam Lenin , Saha Pradip Kumar , Rohilla Minakshi , Sikka Pooja , saha lekha , Gautam Vikas
Published: May 2021

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of chlorhexidine-alcohol and povidone-iodine as preoperative antiseptic skin preparation for prevention of Surgical site infection(SSI) after Cesarean Section(CS).Materials and Methods: A total of 311 eligible women who underwent CS were recruited in the study after fulfilling all the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients were randomized into two groups (153 in Chlorhexidine-alcohol Group and 158 in povidone-iodine Group) by computer-generated randomization table. Patients were followed for a period of 30 days in post operative period to monitor for SSI.Results: The overall rate of SSI was 7%, out of which chlorhexidine-alcohol group had 5.4% and povidone-iodine group had 8.6%. E.coli, K.pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii were the most common organism isolated. E.coli was found in 9.5% of the total SSI cases.Conclusions: The study found that the patients who received chlorhexidine-alcohol as skin antiseptic had less chance of developing SSI than those who received povidone iodine however it did not reach statistical significance.
Multifunctional and smart Er2O3–ZnO nanocomposites for electronic ceramic varistors and visible light degradation of wastewater treatment
Authors: AlAbdulaal Thekrayat Hassan , AlShadidi Manal , Hussien Mai , Vanga Ganesh , Bouzidi Abdel-Fatah , Rafique Saqib , Algarni Hamed , Zahran Heba , Abdel-wahab Mohamed Shaaban , Yahia Ibrahim
Published: May 2021

In this proposed study, Erbium (Er3+)-doped ZnO nanocomposites were prepared through the effective, basic, and green combustion method. The significant effects of Er-dopants on the structural, morphological features, dielectric and optical behaviors of the pure ZnO matrix as well as Er2O3–ZnO nanostructured materials were investigated applying X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transformation Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Vis spectrophotometer techniques. These results showed that the synthesized Er2O3–ZnO nanocomposites are well polycrystalline. The Er2O3–ZnO nanocomposites are almost uniformly distributed on the surface morphologies. Furthermore, UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, AC electrical conductivity, and dielectric properties' current-voltage characteristics were utilized to examine the influence of erbium-doping on the optical properties, energy bandgaps of the proposed Er2O3–ZnO nanostructured powder. The tested nano-samples were applied for the visible light photodegradation of p-chlorophenol (4-CP) and p-nitrophenol (4-NP). The Er-doped ZnO ratio affects the photocatalytic activity of the ZnO matrix. This current research substantiated that more than 99.5% of 4-CP and 4-NP were photodegraded through 30 min of irradiation. Four times, the Er: ZnO nanocatalysts were used and still displayed an efficiency of more than 96.5% for 4-CP and 4-NP degradations in the specified period = 30 min. The as-prepared Er2O3-ZnO nanostructured are considered novel potential candidates in broad nano-applications from visible photocatalytic degradation of waste pollutants to the electronic varistor devices.
Therapeutic Evaluation of Artesunate in IgA Nephropathy (TEATING) Study: A study protocol of a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Chen Qi , Wang Zi , Lv Jicheng , Liu Lijun , Li Hang , Sun Weiwei , Huo Yanhong , Guo Yingbo , Shen Cun , Li Shichao , Chen Zhenjie , Zhou Jingwei
Published: May 2021

Background

IgA nephropathy is the most common glomerular disease and a common cause of progression to end-stage renal disease in patients with kidney diseases. Proteinuria levels are critical to the prognosis of patients with IgA nephropathy, but many patients are still unable to effectively control proteinuria levels after receiving adequate RAAS blockers. Antimalarial drugs have shown good efficacy in the treatment of kidney disease in previous studies; however, there have been no strict designed randomized controlled trials to confirm the clinical efficacy of artesunate in IgA nephropathy patients. Therefore, we designed this clinical trial to compare the effect of artesunate versus placebo in patients with IgA nephropathy.
Methods

This study was a randomized, double-blind, three-group-parallel, placebo-controlled clinical trial. One hundred and twenty eligible IgA nephropathy patients at risk of progression were randomly divided into artesunate 100mg group, artesunate 50 mg group, and placebo group. Changes in proteinuria and renal function were measured after 6 months of intervention. The levels of Gd-IgA1, Anti-Gd-IgA1 in the patient's blood will also be tested to further understand possible immune mechanisms.
Discussion

Clinical evidence for artesunate treatment of IgA nephropathy is currently lacking, and we expect that the results of this trial will provide high-quality clinical evidence for artesunate as a treatment option for IgA nephropathy in the future.
Trial registration:

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2000038104, registration date: 10 September 2020. http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=61338&htm=4.
The relation of omentin gene expression and glucose homeostasis of visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissues in non-diabetic adults
Authors: Daneshafrooz Afsoon , Yuzbashian Emad , Zarkesh Maryam , Asghari Golaleh , Mirmiran Parvin , Hedayati Mehdi , Abooshahab Raziyeh , Fanaei S. Melika , Khalaj Alireza
Published: May 2021

Background
Adipose tissue (AT) is known as a passive reservoir for energy storage and an active endocrine organ responsible for the synthesis of bioactive molecules called adipokines. Omentin is known as an anti-inflammatory adipokine that can modulate insulin sensitivity. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between omentin mRNA expression and glucose homeostasis of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in non-diabetic adults.
Methods
VAT and SAT adipose tissues were collected from 137 adults, aged ≥ 18 years, who were hospitalized for abdominal surgery. Preoperative venous blood samples were taken from the participants before surgery to measure fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and triglyceride. BMI, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-B were calculated. Insulin levels were measured with Mercodia kits using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In order to obtain omentin mRNA expression, real-time PCR was performed.
Results
Overall, 91 (51.7%) subjects were healthy (without insulin resistance (IR)), and 46 (26.1%) participants were with IR. Fold changes of VAT and SAT omentin expression in IR subjects were 2.32 and 1.30, respectively (P > 0.05). After controlling for age and BMI, linear regression analysis indicated a significant positive association of SAT omentin expression with insulin concentration (β = 0.048; 95% CI: 0.009, 0.088, P = 0.017) and HOMA-IR (β = 0.173; 95% CI: 0.023, 0.323, P = 0.014). Moreover, a negative association of SAT omentin expression with HOMA-B (β=-0.001; 95% CI: 0.002, -0.001, P < 0.001) was observed.
Conclusion
This study's finding confirms a direct association between IR with omentin mRNA levels in SAT. Besides, the indicator of insulin sensitivity had an inverse association with omentin gene expression in SAT. This aspect of research suggests that omentin secretion from SAT has a strong link with insulin regulation.
Multi Criteria Group Decision Making Based On Q-Rung Orthopair Trapezoidal Hesitant Dombi Fuzzy Aggregation Operators
Authors: Fahmi Aliya , Aslam Muhammad , Ahmad Rehan
Published: May 2021

The paper determinations to present the impression of dombi aggregation operators for the q-rung orthopair trapezoidal hesitant dombi fuzzy numbers. The q-rung orthopair trapezoidal hesitant dombi fuzzy statistics is an imperative idea. On the other indicator, the association between the diverse combines of the qualities are well chronicled in rapports of dombi operators. Thus, possession these compensations of q-rung orthopair trapezoidal hesitant dombi fuzzy number, the impartial of this work is to describe numerous weighted averaging and geometric aggregation operators. The numerous possessions and the extraordinary cases of them are also derived. Further, the consequences of proposed new dombi aggregation operators are studied in view of some constraints. Finally, a multiple attribute decision making algorithm, based on the proposed operators, is established to solve the problems with uncertain data and exemplify with arithmetical instances. A relative assignment, domination check and discussion of the intentional approach are provided to authorize the methodology.
Existing form and distribution of fluorine and phosphorus in phosphate rock acid-insoluble residue
Authors: Li Rui , He Wei Long , Duan Jiangfei , Feng Shengxia , Zhu Ziyu , Zhang Yu
Published: May 2021

The phosphorus-sulfur two-step production process was developed in the wet-process phosphoric acid industry to solve phosphogypsum pollution. However, phosphate rock acid-insoluble residue is produced during this process as a new type of solid waste, which had a high potential for recycling. For process reasons, this type of residue still contains a certain amount of fluorine and phosphorus, which has a massive impact on the potential uses of phosphate rock acid-insoluble residue. Therefore, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman, electron probe spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to examine the existing form and distribution of fluorine and phosphorus in phosphate rock acid-insoluble residue. The mass fraction of F and P2O5 were 9.407% and 11.862%, respectively. Fluorine existed mainly in the form of fluorite, fluorapatite and metal fluoride. Phosphorus existed mainly in the form of fluoroapatite, phosphate, hydrogen phosphate and dihydrogen phosphate. The total phosphate, hydrogen phosphate and dihydrogen phosphate contents were much higher than that of fluoroapatite, whereas the fluoroapatite content was higher than that of fluorite and metal fluoride. Fluorine and phosphorus were distributed in the form of agglomerates in the phosphate rock acid-insoluble residue. Fluorine and phosphorus were partially correlated, showing a weak relationship in the high phosphorus area.
Overexpression of Osimertinib-resistant ABCG2 in Non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Wang Mei , Jiang Junyao , Du Yuxuan , Liu Shuaimei , Ge Xiaojun
Published: May 2021

Objective: Osimertinib is one of the commonly used chemotherapeutic drugs for treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Nonetheless, the eventual resistance developed by cancer cells to Osimertinib has led to limitations in its application. Accordingly, there is a significant need for identifying means of reversing Osimertinib resistance.Method: The CCK-8 method was employed in detecting cell proliferation and toxicity. Western blot analysis detected protein expression, cell invasion analysis was performed using transwell assays, and the concentration of Osimertinib was determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Result: In this study, we constructed Osimertinib-resistant cells, thus indicating the vital role of ABCG2 expression in formation of drug-resistant cells. Down-regulating ABCG2 expression in drug-resistant cells can reduce the lung cancer cells’ IC50, degree of proliferation and invasion. Combining use of ERK and PI3K inhibitors to inhibit ABCG2 expression is superior to employing a single inhibitor. Conclusion: Inhibiting the expression of ABCG2 can reverse the resistance of NSCLC cells to Osimertinib. Overexpression of ABCG2 is caused by the coactivation of the MAPK and the PI3K/AKT pathways.
Power Generation at Room Temperature -How to Design of the Sensitized Thermal Cell-
Authors: Kohata Haruki , Obinata Mitsugu , Ikeda Takumi , Sekiya Hayato , Mei Biao , Wang Ye , Mizukoshi Kazushi , Isobe Toshihiro , Nakajima Akira , Matsushita Sachiko
Published: May 2021

The effective utilisation of thermal energy is crucial to a world aiming at sustainable development goals. The sensitised thermal cell (STC) is a new thermal energy conversion technology, which was reported in 2017, for generating electricity via the redox reactions of electrolyte ions with thermally excited carriers in semiconductors. STC is attracting attention as a technology that could affect oil prices globally. Here, we report the successful construction of STC, which discharges and recovers well at room temperature, by studying the interelectrode and ion diffusion distances. The fabricated STC is thinner than 0.5 mm and can be rendered flexible. Further, STCs, which possess a power generation capacity of 0.1 mA, 100 mV per 1 mm2 area, and shall be installed “in” internet-of-things (IoT) devices, drainage pipes, and walls in the future.
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multicenter Study Assessing the Efficacy of Magnesium Oxide Monohydrate in the Treatment of Nocturnal Leg Cramps
Authors: Barna Olha , Lohoida Pavlo , Holovchenko Yurii , Bazylevych Andrii , Velychko Valentyna , Hovbakh Iryna , Bula Larysa , Shechter Michael
Published: May 2021

Background: Magnesium supplements are widely used for prophylaxis and treatment of nocturnal leg cramps (NLC). However, there is little evidence in support of their effectiveness. The main impediment stems from the lack of assessments of cellular absorption. In the current study, we tested the efficacy and safety of a magnesium supplement – magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH), for which increased cellular absorption rates were demonstrated in an ex-vivo setting. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study was conducted in hospitals and outpatient clinics in Ukraine, from February to August 2018. Eligible subjects received a capsule with MOMH 226mg or placebo, once daily, at bedtime, for a 60‑day period. The assessed parameters included frequency and duration of NLC episodes, quality of sleep, NLC-induced pain and quality of life sub-scores. The Fisher's Exact Test for comparison of groups by categorical variables was used. The Student’s test or Mann-Whitney test were used for between-group comparison at different timepoints. ANCOVA followed by contrast analysis was used for comparison of groups at the end of the study. Results: 175 (81%) out of 216 initially screened subjects completed the study. The number of NLC episodes has significantly decreased by the end of the study period as compared to baseline in both groups (p<0.001 for both). There was a significant between-group difference in the magnitude of reduction in NLC episodes (p=0.01), indicating a higher decrease in the MOMH group as compared to the placebo group (-3.4 vs -2.6, respectively). In addition, MOMH treatment resulted in a greater reduction in NLC duration (p<0.007) and greater improvement in sleep quality (p<0.001) as compared to placebo.Conclusions: MOMH was shown to be effective in the treatment of NLC as well as safe and well-tolerated. ClinicalTrials.gov identification number: NCT03807219, retrospectively registered on January 16, 2019.
Modulation of the expression of sirtuins and var genes by heat shock in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum: a pattern emerges
Authors: Anagu Linda O. , Hulse David R. , Horrocks Paul D. , Chakravorty Srabasti J
Published: May 2021

Background: In the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum the expression of ‘var’ virulence genes is regulated through epigenetic mechanisms. Its sirtuin epigenetic regulators have a direct effect on var gene expression patterns, are increased in a laboratory strain of P. falciparum exposed to heat shock and are positively associated with fever. A Gambia study extended this association to blood lactate and var genes commonly expressed in severe malaria, and between PfSir2A and group B var. A Kenyan study extended this association to between PfSir2A and overall var transcript level. These observations suggest a mechanism through which stress phenotypes in the human host might be sensed via a parasite sirtuin, and virulence gene expression modulated accordingly. Methods: In vitro experiments were conducted using laboratory and recently-laboratory-adapted Kenyan isolates of P. falciparum to follow up the correlative findings of the field study. To investigate a potential cause-and-effect relationship between host stress factors and parasite gene expression, qPCR was used to measure the expression of sirtuins and var genes after highly synchronous cultured parasites had been exposed to 2h or 6h of heat shock at 40°C or elevated lactate.Results: Heat shock was shown to influence the expression of PfSir2B in the trophozoites, whereas exposure to lactate was not. After the ring stages were exposed to heat shock; sirtuins, severe-disease-associated upsA and upsB var genes and var genes in general were not altered. More biological replicate experiments will be needed to confirm our observations. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that heat stress in laboratory and recently-laboratory-adapted isolates of P. falciparum results in a small increase in PfSir2B transcripts in the trophozoite stages only. By contrast, the association between hyperlactataemia and sirtuin/var gene expression that was previously observed in vivo appears to be coincidental rather than causative.
End-of-life upcycling of robust polyurethanes using a room temperature, mechanism-based degradation
Authors: Morado Ephraim , Ivanoff Douglas , Wang Hsuan-Chin , Johnson Alayna , Paterson Mara , Daniels Darius , Rizvi Aoon , Sottos Nancy , Zimmerman Steven
Published: May 2021

A major challenge in developing recyclable polymeric materials is the inherent conflict between the properties required during and after its life span. In particular, materials must be strong and durable when in use, but undergo complete and rapid degradation upon end-of-life. We report a new mechanism for degrading polyurethanes called CyclizAtion-Triggered CHain (CATCH) cleavage that achieves this duality. CATCH cleavage features a simple glycerol-based acyclic acetal unit as a kinetic and thermodynamic trap for gated chain-shattering. Thus, an organic acid induces transient chain breaks with oxocarbenium ion formation and subsequent intramolecular cyclization to depolymerize fully the polyurethane backbone at room temperature. With minimal chemical modification, the resulting degradation products can be repurposed into strong adhesives and photochromic coatings demonstrating the potential for upcycling. The CATCH cleavage strategy for low-energy input breakdown and subsequent upcycling may be generalizable to a broader range of synthetic polymers and their end-of-life waste streams.
Preexisting autoimmune disease is a risk factor for immune-related adverse events: a meta-analysis
Authors: Yamaguchi Atsushi , Saito Yoshitaka , Okamoto Keisuke , Narumi Katsuya , Furugen Ayako , Takekuma Yoh , Sugawara Mitsuru , Kobayashi Masaki
Published: May 2021

Purpose Patients with preexisting autoimmune disease (PAD) are often excluded from clinical trials assessing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Therefore, the safety of ICI therapy in patients with PAD remains unclear. Herein, we evaluated the incidence of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in patients with PAD when compared with non-PAD patients.Methods We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for eligible studies from inception to January 2021. Observational studies reporting the incidence of irAEs in patients with and without PAD were included. We then performed a meta-analysis of eligible studies using forest plots. The primary endpoint of this study was the incidence rate of irAEs between patients with and without PAD.Results We identified three prospective and three retrospective studies involving 206 patients with PAD and 3078 patients without PAD. In the meta-analysis, 128 patients with PAD (62.1%) experienced irAEs, which occurred in 51.9% of non-PAD patients, resulting in an odds ratio (OR) of 2.14 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.58–2.89). In the subgroup analysis, the incidence of irAEs was significantly higher in patients with PAD (OR = 2.19, 95% CI [1.55–3.08]). Furthermore, no significant heterogeneity or publication bias was detected, indicating that our meta-analysis could be generalized to clinical settings.Conclusion This meta-analysis demonstrated that PAD was a risk factor for irAE incidence. These results suggest that monitoring the occurrence of irAEs in patients with PAD is required to manage irAEs appropriately.
Construction of conductive hydroxyethyl cellulose/soy protein isolate/polypyrrole composite sponges and their performances
Authors: Zhao Yanteng , Yang Qiankun , Cheng Qianqian , Ai Junjie , Feng Mengna , Wang Chengshuang , Lv Xianping , He Meng , Chen Yun
Published: May 2021

In the present study, we have in situ synthesized polypyrrole (PPy) on the hydroxyethyl cellulose/soy protein isolate (HEC/SPI) sponges to construct electro-conductive HEC/SPI/PPy composite sponges (EHSS-Pn, n༞0). The composite sponges were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), conductivity and mechanical tests. The results indicated that EHSS-Pn still exhibit homogenous inter-connected macroporous structure for cell adhesion, proliferation and metabolism, indicating that the incorporation of PPy didn’t break the original HEC/SPI sponge structure. The electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of the HEC/SPI sponge were improved significantly by the incorporation of PPy. Cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility of all the sponges were evaluated by a series of in vitro experiments. The results of MTT assay and cell direct contact tests showed that the introduction of PPy didn’t cause any cytotoxicity and EHSS-Pn had good biocompatibility. Moreover, EHSS-Pn had good hemocompatibility and no significant side effects on the anticoagulant whole blood with the introduction of PPy. Therefore, the electro-conductive EHSS-Pn showed potential application in the tissue engineering field that requires electrical conductivity for stimulation or sensing such as neural tissue restoration.
Different Climatic Effects of the Arctic and Antarctic ice Covers on Land Surface Temperature in the Northern Hemisphere: Application of Liang-Kleeman Information Flow Method and CAM4.0
Authors: Jiang Shunyu , HU Haibo , Perrie William , Zhang Ning , Bai Haokun , Zhao Yihang
Published: May 2021

Ice covers in high latitudes play important role in the global atmospheric circulation and abnormal temperature distribution. The observations have revealed the differences in the interannual variability of the Arctic and Antarctic ice covers, but their respective climate effect is not clear. The Liang-Kleeman information flow method is used to reveal the causal relationships from the sea ices of the Arctic and Antarctic to the global air temperature. The results point out that changes of the Arctic or Antarctic sea ices both have significant impacts on the global air temperature. Especially for the air temperature in East Asia and North America, the interannual variation of the Antarctic sea ice has an even stronger impact than the Arctic ice covers. This causality is further proved by the General Atmospheric Circulation Model (CAM4.0). In the numerical experiments, the ice covers in Arctic and Antarctic are changed individually or simultaneously as the forcing fields, and then the respective climate effects are analyzed. The results show that both the Arctic and Antarctic ice cover variations can change the intensity of atmospheric baroclinic disturbance in mid-high latitudes of individual hemisphere, generating wave energy transmission across the equator in the meridional direction, and eventually causing air temperature anomalies in both hemispheres. Furthermore, the Antarctic ice covers are closer to the mid-high latitude atmospheric jets in the southern hemisphere. Therefore, the changes of Antarctic ice covers lead to a larger atmospheric wave-activity flux response, and quickly spread to the northern hemisphere, causing more significant temperature anomalies over the East Asia and North America.
The landscape of circulating platelet aggregates in COVID-19
Authors: Goda Keisuke , Zhou Yuqi , Nishikawa Masako , Kanno Hiroshi , Xiao Ting-Hui , Suzuki Takuma , Takizawa Shigekazu , Harmon Jeffrey , Ibayashi Yuma , Hiramatsu Kotaro , Nitta Nao , Kameyama Risako , Peterson Walker , Takiguchi Jun , Shifat-E-Rabbi Mohammad , Zhuang Yan , Yin Xuwang , Rubaiyat Abu , Deng Yunjie , Zhang Hongqian , Rohde Gustavo , Iwasaki Wataru , Yatomi Yutaka
Published: May 2021

A characteristic clinical feature of COVID-19 is the frequent occurrence of thrombotic events. Furthermore, many cases of multiorgan failure are thrombotic in nature. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, D-dimer testing has been used extensively to evaluate COVID-19-associated thrombosis, but does not provide a complete view of the disease because it probes blood coagulation, but not platelet activity. Due to this limitation, D-dimer testing fails to account for thrombotic events which occur despite low D-dimer levels, such as sudden stroke in young patients and autopsy-identified widespread microthrombi in multiple organs. Here we report the landscape of circulating platelet aggregates in COVID-19 obtained by large-scale single-cell image-based profiling and temporal monitoring of the blood of COVID-19 patients (n = 110). Surprisingly, our analysis shows the anomalous presence of excessive platelet aggregates in nearly 90% of all COVID-19 patients, including those who were not clinically diagnosed with thrombosis and those with low D-dimer levels (≤1 µg/mL). Additionally, results indicate a strong link between the concentration of platelet aggregates and the severity and mortality of COVID-19. Finally, high-dimensional analysis and comparison with other diseases reveal that COVID-19 behaves as a product of thrombosis (localized) and infectious diseases (systemic), as a cause of systemic thrombosis.
Analysis Combustion Efficiency in a Fluidized-Bed Combustor With a Modified Perforated Plate for Air Distribution
Authors: Erdiwansyah Erdiwansyah , Mahidin Mahidin , Husin Husni , Nasaruddin Nasaruddin , Muhtadin Muhtadin , Faisal M. , Gani Asri , Usman Usman , Mamat Rizalman
Published: May 2021

Combustion efficiency is one of the most important parameters, especially in the FBC combustion chamber. Investigations into the efficiency of combustion in FBC fuels using solid biomass waste fuels in recent years are increasingly in demand by researchers around the world. Specifically, this study aims to calculate the combustion efficiency in the FBC combustion chamber. Combustion efficiency is calculated based on combustion results from modification of hollow plates in the FBC combustion chamber. The modified hollow plate aims to control combustion so that the fuel incorporated can burn out and not saturate. The combustion experiments were tested using palm oil biomass solid waste fuels such as PKS, OPM, and EFB. The results of the measurements showed that the maximum combustion temperature for MCC fuel reached 863oC for M1 and 887oC on M2. The maximum combustion temperature measurements for M1 and M2 from OPM fuel testing reached 898oC and 858oC, respectively, while the maximum combustion temperature for EFB fuel was 667oC andM2 847oC, respectively. The rate of combustion efficiency with the modification of the hole plate in the FBC combustion chamber reached 96.2%. Thermal efficiency in FBC combustion chamber for OPM 72.62%, MCC 70.03%, and EFB 52.43%. The highest heat transfer rates for OPM fuel reached 7792.36 w/m, MCC 7167.38 w/m, and EFB 5127.83 w/m. Thus, modification of the holed plate in the FBC chamber showed better performance of the plate without modification.
Malignant cerebral infarction, systemic venous thrombosis and thrombocytopenia after ChAdOx1 nCov vaccination: a possible catastrophic variant of vaccine induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia
Authors: De Michele Manuela , Iacobucci Marta , Nicolini Ettore , Chistolini Antonio , Pulcinelli Fabio , Cerbelli Bruna , Merenda Elisabetta , Schiavo Oscar Gaetano , Sbardella Emilia , Berto Irene , Petraglia Luca , Caracciolo Nicoletta , Chiara Massimo , Truglia Simona , Toni Danilo
Published: May 2021

Vaccine induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia is a new syndrome recently described in young adults within two weeks from the first dose of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine and characterized by cerebral venous thrombosis. We report two cases of malignant middle cerebral artery (MCA) infarct and thrombocytopenia within 10 days after vaccination with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19. Patient 1 was a 57-year-old woman who underwent decompressive craniectomy despite two successful mechanical thrombectomies. Patient 2 was a 55-year-old woman who developed a fatal bilateral malignant MCA infarct. Both the patients had pulmonary and portal vein thrombosis and high level of antibodies to platelet factor 4-polyanion complexes.
Depressive Risk among Italian Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Children and Adolescents during Covid-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey
Authors: Serra Maria , Presicci Anna , Quaranta Luigi , Urbano Maria Rosaria Erminia , Marzulli Lucia , Matera Emilia , Margari Francesco , Margari Lucia
Published: May 2021

Background

Children and adolescents and low-income individuals are considered particularly vulnerable for mental health implications during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Depression is one of the most frequent negative emotional responses during an epidemic outbreak, mainly due to the imposed restriction of social contacts. We aimed to assess depressive symptomatology in a sample of Italian low-income minors and to determine if pandemic-related stressors and pre-existing neuropsychiatric diagnoses would behave as risk factors for depressive symptoms.
Methods

We performed a cross-sectional study during July 2020, at the end of the Italian first wave of COVID-19 pandemic. We recruited 109 Italian socioeconomically disadvantaged children and adolescents, from 7 to 17 years. We used an online survey to collect socio-demographic and clinical data and information about pandemic-related stressors, and to assess depressive symptoms with the Children’s Depression Inventory 2 (CDI 2), Parent Version (Emotional Problems subscale) and Self-Report Short Form. We performed logistic regression analysis to assess the association between depressive symptoms and potential risk factors for mental health.
Results

22% and 14% of participants showed depressive symptoms at the CDI 2 Parent Version and Self-Report, respectively. Participants coming from families experiencing a lack of basic supplies during the pandemic (34.9%) were more expected to show depressive symptoms at CDI 2 Parent Version. Participants with a pre-existing neuropsychiatric diagnosis (26.6%) were more likely to exhibit depressive symptoms measured by CDI 2 Parent Version.
Conclusions

The results of our study may be representative of a particular group of frail subjects, the socioeconomically disadvantaged children and adolescents, who were more vulnerable to depressive symptoms if they suffered from a paucity of essential supplies during the pandemic or had pre-existing neurodevelopmental disorders. The promotion of educational and child-care programs and activities could be crucial in sustaining the prevention of mental distress in those frail subjects who particularly need support outside the family.
Measurement of the diffusion coefficient in liquids using Fresnel diffraction from a phase step
Authors: Saber Ahad , Tavassoly Mohammad Taghi , Aalipour Rasoul
Published: May 2021

Fresnel diffraction from a phase step for measuring diffusion coefficient in transparent liquids is investigated. When a transparent glass plate immersed vertically in a cell containing two diffusing liquids is illuminated by a parallel beam of light, the diffraction pattern of the plate edge forms on a screen perpendicular to the beam direction and varies by diffusion. The gradient of the refractive index in the liquids is then obtained by analyzing the diffraction patterns at different times after the beginning of the diffusion process, from which the diffusion coefficient is determined. Using this method, we study the diffusion process of the sucrose-water solution and report the diffusion coefficient with a reliable accuracy.
Authentic Leadership Education: An empirical discussion from Pakistani higher education
Authors: Ekowati Dian , Shuairidi Fendy
Published: May 2021

The authentic style encourages leaders to be mindful of their strengths, weaknesses, and emotions, using practical methods for improving their leadership abilities. Identifying an authentic leader is a description of those who have positive beliefs, lead from the heart, set the highest standards of ethics and morality, and go beyond their interests for their followers' well-being. It is critical to understand where one stands on important moral and professional issues to become an authentic leader and then act on that knowledge. Authentic leaders, although specific characteristics, such as positive psychology, self-awareness, morals and ethics, and a person, transparency, and balanced processing; this study explores authentic leadership strengths and weakness empirically. The link between theory and practice applied settings and helps practitioners add value to professional growth has been discussed. The study also shed light on the importance of workforce development action plans, but the ties outlined herein show that casual relations and additional tests would help confirm the connections.
Selected ‘Starter Kit’ energy system modelling data for Morocco (#CCG)
Authors: Cannone Carla , Allington Lucy , Pappis Ioannis , Barron Karla Cervantes , Usher Will , Pye Steve , Brown Edward , Howells Mark , Walker Miriam Zachau , Ahsan Aniq , Charbonnier Flora , Halloran Claire , Hirmer Stephanie , Taliotis Constantinos , Sundin Caroline , Sridha Vignesh , Ramos Eunice , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Gritsevskyi Andrii , Moura Gustavo , Rouget Arnaud , Wogan David , Barcelona Edito , Rogner Holger
Published: May 2021

Energy system modelling can be used to assess the implications of different scenarios and support improved policymaking. However, access to data is often a barrier to starting energy system modelling in developing countries, thereby causing delays. Therefore, this article provides data that can be used to create a simple zero order energy system model for Morocco, which can act as a starting point for further model development and scenario analysis. The data are collected entirely from publicly available and accessible sources, including the websites and databases of international organizations, journal articles, and existing modelling studies. This means that the dataset can be easily updated based on the latest available information or more detailed and accurate local data. These data were also used to calibrate a simple energy system model using the Open Source Energy Modelling System (OSeMOSYS) and two stylized scenarios (Fossil Future and Least Cost) for 2020-2050. The assumptions used and results of these scenarios are presented in the appendix as an illustrative example of what can be done with these data. This simple model can be adapted and further developed by in-country analysts and academics, providing a platform for future work.