bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and commissioning of a new collaborative multi-modality radiotherapy platform
Authors: Wang Zhongfei , Sun Xiaohuan , Wang Wei , Zhang Te , Chen Liting , Duan Jie , Feng Siqi , Chen Yinzhu , Wei Zhiwei , Zang Jian , Xiao Feng , Zhao Lina
Published: December 2022

Purpose: TaiChi, a new multi-modality radiotherapy platform that integrates a linear accelerator, a focusing gamma system, and a kV imaging system within an enclosed O-ring gantry, was introduced into clinical application. This work aims to assess the technological characteristics and commissioning results of the TaiChi platform.
Methods: The acceptance testing and commissioning were performed following the manufacturer’s customer acceptance tests (CAT) and several AAPM Task Groups (TG) reports/guidelines. Regarding the linear accelerator(linac), all applicable validation measurementsrecommended by the MPPG 5.a (basic photon beam model validation, intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)/volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) validation, end-to-end(E2E) tests, and patient-specific quality assurance (QA)) were performed. For the focusing gamma system, the absorbed doses were measured using a PTW31014 ion chamber (IC) and PTW60016 diode detector. EBT3 films and a PTW60016 diode detector were employed to measure the relative output factors (ROFs). The E2E tests were performed using PTW31014 IC and EBT3 films. The coincidences between the imaging isocenter and the linac/gamma treatment isocenter were investigated using EBT3 films. The image quality was evaluated regarding the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), spatial resolution, and uniformity.
Results: All tests included in the CAT met the manufacturer’s specifications. All MPPG 5.a measurements complied with the tolerances. The confidence limits for IMRT/VMAT point dose and dose distribution measurements were achieved according to TG-119. The point dose differences were below 1.68% and gamma passing rates were above 95.9% for the linac E2E tests. All plans of patient-specific QA had point dose differences below 1.79% and gamma passing rates above 96.1% using the 3%/2 mm criterion suggested by TG-218. For the focusing gamma system, the differences between the calculated and measured absorbed doses were below 1.86%. The ROFs calculated by the TPS were independently confirmed within 2% using EBT3 films and a PTW60016 detector. The point dose differences were below 2.57% and gamma passing rates were above 95.3% using the 2%/1 mm criterion for the E2E tests. The coincidences between the imaging isocenter and the linac/gamma treatment isocenter were within 0.5 mm. The image quality parameters fully complied with the manufacturer’s specifications regarding the CNR, spatial resolution, and uniformity.
Conclusion: The multi-modality radiotherapy platform complies with the CAT and AAPM commissioning criteria. The commissioning results demonstrate that this platform performs well in mechanical and dosimetry accuracy.
Assessment of Groundwater Quality Status by using Hydrochemical and GIS approach for the feasible study of Coastal Reservoirs
Authors: Suryawanshi Vijay , H Ramesh , Nasar T
Published: December 2022

Groundwater qualities of coastal aquifers in the Netravati and Gurapura catchment of Dakshina Kannada district Karnataka have been extensively monitored in post-monsoon seasons in 2021 and Pre-Monsoon 2022 to assess their suitability for domestic and drinking uses in four regions. Thirty-two groundwater samples were analysed for various physicochemical parameters such as GWL, pH, Oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Hardness (TH), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Total Dissolved solids (TDS), Temperature, Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Chloride (Cl), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Sulphate (SO4) and Carbonate and Bicarbonate. Most of these parameters fall under the permissible limits of BIS and WHO standards. Using hydrochemistry and the GIS method, the current study aims to evaluate the quality of groundwater (well water samples) in the Netravati river basin. The quality of the groundwater, indicates that coastal aquifers have gained prominence over the past ten years as a result of the using global demand for groundwater. According to the findings of the study, groundwater depletion and the rising seawater level are the primary factors that contribute to the saline condition of coastal wells during the pre-monsoon period. The study demonstrates that groundwater levels have been trending downward for some time. Seawater intrusion appears to be the main problem in the study area's coastal region, according to the study. The water quality index (WQI) results show that the quality of well water samples during the pre-monsoon session is much worse than during the post-monsoon session due to fresh rainwater during the post-monsoon session raises the groundwater level and increases the water's physical and chemical parameters. Based on the recommendations of the Hortons water quality index, groundwater quality is divided into four categories: excellent water quality (90-100), good water quality (71-90), poor water quality (51-70), and bad water quality (31-51).
Post Evaluation of Adaptive reuse of Architectural Heritage: A Case Study of Beijing Central Axis Historical Buildings
Authors: Yan Zhang , Zhang Qi
Published: December 2022

The reuse of architectural heritage is the basis of embodying its core value, bringing new life to heritage architecture, and is an important way to integrate it into contemporary development. In many current studies, the reuse of architectural heritage focuses on the research framework of reuse and the most effective method for the reuse of a certain building. In the whole process, the post evaluation strategy of reuse based on specific cultural background is ignored, and the reuse of heritage buildings is a dynamic process. Therefore, this study takes 9 heritage sites along the central axis of Beijing (including three types of single buildings, architectural complexes, and historical and cultural blocks) as examples, uses literature retrieval, analytic hierarchy process, and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation to extract the factors that affect the reuse of architectural heritage, and provides evaluation methods and strategies for the reuse of architectural heritage. Finally, a post evaluation framework for the reuse of architectural heritage is formed, which guides the relevant decision-making and optimization process.
Design, synthesis and Neuraminidase inhibitory activity of 4-methyl-5-(3-phenylacryloyl) thiazoles
Authors: Liu Yuyang , Yi Yang-Jie , Ye Jiao , Hu Ai-Xi
Published: December 2022

A series of 4-methyl-5-(3-phenylacryloyl)thiazoles based on chalcones were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their inﬂuenza neuraminidase (NA) inhibitory activity in vitro. A preliminary structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis showed that thiazoles bearing amide had greater potency. It also showed that mono-hydroxyl group at 4-position on phenyl ring was more effective than other electron-releasing groups or electron-withdraw groups. Compounds A2 and A26 were more potent against NA with IC50 values of 8.2±0.5 μg/mL and 6.2±1.4 μg/mL, respectively. Molecular docking study demonstrated that thiazoles skeleton was benefit for the NA inhibitory activity.
Preparation of Polypropylene-grafted Graphene and its application on Polypropylene/Graphene Nanocomposites
Authors: Zhang He-xin , Yan Xin , Han Wei , Liu Chen , Chen Yujian , Xia You-yi , Cai Zheng-guo , Yoon Keun-Byoung , Yang Jian-ming
Published: December 2022

In the past few years, graphene-based nanocomposites are a hot
topic in the fields of materials and chemistry owing to their
unique features. We describe a facile melt blending method for
preparing polypropylene/graphene nanocomposites in this article.
The first stage involved grafting graphene onto chlorinated PP
using the Friedel-Crafts reaction. The second stage involved the
use of the resulting PP grafted graphene (PPG) as fillers in a melt
blend with commercial PP. After being grafted with an organic PP
chain, graphene becomes lipophilic; consequently, the PPG can be
dispersed well within the PP matrix while retaining excellent
interface adhesion. As a result, the thermostability, mechanical
performance, and electrical conductivity of PP were significantly
improved through the addition of PPG fillers. Additionally, with 10
wt% of PPG fillers (equivalent to 5 wt% graphenes), the
conductivity approaches 6.8 Sm-1. As a result of this
research, a new method for producing high-performance PP has been
developed.
Effect of time to minimally invasive esophagectomy after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Loc Nguyen Vo Vinh , Vuong Nguyen Lam , Trung Lam Viet , Trung Tran Thien
Published: December 2022

Background: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) with docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5-fluorouracil/capecitabine (DCF/DCX) followed by esophagectomy has been the recommended treatment for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, the optimal interval from NAC to surgery has not yet been established. This study evaluated the impact of time to surgery (TTS) in the treatment of ESCC.
Methods: Between August 2018 and September 2021, 97 patients who underwent radical esophagectomy following 3-6 cycles of NAC with DCF/DCX for ESCC at a single hospital were analyzed. TTS was categorized into three groups: 16-41 days (group 1; 33 patients), 42-55 days (group 2; 29 patients), and 56-135 days (group 3; 35 patients). Survival outcomes included overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).
Results:Mean age was 59.6±6.8 years, and 95 patients were male. One patient had grade-3 anemia, 12 had grade-2 anemia, and four had grade-2 neutropenia; all other NAC-related toxicities were as grade 1. Regarding pathologic tumor response, 18.6% achieved complete response, 71.1% achieved partial response, and 10.3% had stable disease. Forty-eight patients (49.5%) had a postoperative complication, but only six (6.2%) with grade-IIIa and two (2.1%) with grade IV-a according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Median follow-up time was 24 months. Group 1 and 3 had worse OS (HR [95% CI]: 3.36 [1.16-11.7] and 1.83 [0.55-6.10]) and worse PFS (HR [95% CI]: 3.27 [1.25-8.53] and 1.61 [0.58-4.45]) compared to group 2.
Conclusion: The optimal TTS after NAC could be 6-8 weeks. The surgery should not be performed too early.
Reorientation Methodology for Reproducible Head Posture in Serial Cone Beam Computed Tomography Images
Authors: Mangal Utkarsh , Lee Sung Min , Lee Seeyoon , Cha Jung-Yul , Lee Kee-Joon , Yu Hyung-Seog , Jung Hong , Choi Sung-Hwan
Published: December 2022

Low dose and accessibility have increased the application of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Often serial images are captured for patients to diagnose and plan treatment in the craniofacial region. However, CBCT images are highly variable and lack harmonious reproduction, especially in the head's orientation. Though user-defined orientation methods have been suggested, the reproducibility remains controversial. Here, we propose a landmark-free reorientation methodology based on principal component analysis (PCA) for harmonious orientation of serially captured CBCTs. We analyzed three serial CBCT scans collected for 29 individuals who underwent orthognathic surgery. We first defined a region of interest with the proposed protocol by combining 2D rendering and 3D convex hull method, and identified an intermediary arrangement point. PCA identified the y-axis (anterioposterior) followed by the secondary x-axis (transverse). Finally, by defining the perpendicular z-axis, a new global orientation was assigned. The goodness of alignment (Hausdorff distance) showed a marked improvement (> 50%). Furthermore, we clustered cases based on clinical asymmetry and validated that the protocol was unaffected by the severity of the skeletal deformity. Therefore, it could be suggested that integrating the proposed algorithm as the preliminary step in CBCT evaluation will address a fundamental step towards harmonizing the craniofacial imaging records.
H2O2-mediated SRPED1 Inactivation Contributes to Resisting Ischemia-reperfusion Induced Oxidative Injury to Microglia
Authors: Wei Li , Li Xin , Wei Qianfeng , Chen Lin , Xu Li , Zhou Peng
Published: December 2022

Oxidative stress induced by ischemia-reperfusion is an important reason for the loss of neurons in the brain. In addition to direct oxidative toxicity that causes apoptosis of neurons and glial cells, oxidative stress can also cause complex physiological effects of related cells, such as activation of microglia to promote their repair effects on damaged areas. Here, we found that SPRED1, sprouty-related protein with an EVH1 domain 1, was significantly inhibited after ischemia-reperfusion by MCAO in rats, while the inhibition of SPRED1 responded to the up-expressed p65 proteins with the stimulation of H2O2. What’s more, we further revealed that SPRED1 tended to exert a unique role in maintaining intracellular homeostasis, which can re-activate the instinct of microglia upon the induction of H2O2 to resist oxidative toxicity. However, SPRED1 did not show such ability when it is only over-expressed but without H2O2 induction. In a word, these data revealed a potential role of SPRED1 in preventing cerebral ischemia-induced oxidative stress injury to nerve cells.
Microbe-responsive proteomes during plant-microbe interactions between rice genotypes and the multifunctional Methylobacterium oryzae CBMB20
Authors: Walitang Denver I. , Choudhury Aritra Roy , Parthiban Subramanian , Lee Yi , Jeong Bowon , Choi Geon , Cho Kun , Yun Sung Ho , Jamal Aysha Rizwana , Sa Tongmin
Published: December 2022

Background
Rice is colonized by plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) such as Methylobacterium leading to mutually beneficial plant-microbe interactions. As modulators of rice developmental process, Methylobacterium influences seed germination, growth, health, and development. However, little is known on the complex molecular responsive mechanisms modulating microbe-driven rice development. The application of proteomics to rice-microbe interactions helps us elucidate dynamic proteomic responses mediating this association.
Results
In this study, a total of 3908 proteins were detected across all treatments of which the non-inoculated IR29 and FL478 share up to 88% similar proteins. However, intrinsic differences appear in IR29 and FL478 as evident to the differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) and their associated gene ontology terms (GO). Successful colonization of M. oryzae CBMB20 in rice resulted to dynamic shifts in proteomes of both IR29 and FL478. The GO terms of DAPs for biological process in IR29 shifts in abundance from response to stimulus, cellular amino acid metabolic process, regulation of biological process and translation to cofactor metabolic process (6.31%), translation (5.41%) and photosynthesis (5.41%). FL478 showed a different shift from translation-related to response to stimulus (9%) and organic acid metabolic acid (8%). Both rice genotypes also showed a diversification of GO terms due to inoculation of M. oryzae CBMB20. Specific proteins such as peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (A2WJU9), thiamine thiazole synthase (A2YM28), and alanine—tRNA ligase (B8B4H5) upregulated in IR29 and FL478 indicate key mechanisms of M. oryzae CBMB20 mediated plant growth promotion in rice.
Conclusions
Interaction of Methylobacterium oryzae CBMB20 to rice results to a dynamic, similar, and plant genotype-specific proteomic changes supporting associated growth and development. The multifaceted CBMB20 expands the gene ontology terms and increases the abundance of proteins associated to photosynthesis, diverse metabolic processes, protein synthesis and cell differentiation and fate potentially attributed to the growth and development of the host plant. The specific proteins and their functional relevance help us understand how CBMB20 mediate growth and development in their host under normal conditions and potentially link subsequent responses when the host plants are exposed to biotic and abiotic stresses.
Nomogram as a predictive model for depression risk in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Du Dan , Zhang XianMing , Ding ChaoWei , Yuan YaDong
Published: December 2022

Background
Depression after chronic obstructive pulmonary disease（COPD）is associated with mortality rates and poor prognosis. This study aimed to develop a nomogram to identify the risk of depression in patients with COPD based on predictors.
Methods
The Cross sectional study included 494 COPD aged >20 years who were come from the 2005–2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database. The 345 subjects from the 2005–2008 survey comprised the development group, and the remaining 149 subjects comprised the validation group. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) binomial regression model was used to select the best predictive variables before further screening of multivariate regression model.The performance of the nomogram was evaluated on the basis of receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC), calibration curve, and clinical decision curve analysis (DCA).
Results
We reach a decision that there are 10 item,including
BMI,Race,Sex,Age,Education,marriage,hypertension,diabetes,CRP,MONO by LASSO regression model.Multivariate regression had selected 4 statistically significant variables for inclusion.as follow:Hypertension,MONO,CRP,Age.hypertension(Odds
Ratio[OR],0.836;95%confidence interval [CI],0.206-0.914; P = 0.028),MONO (OR, -2.652; 95% CI, 0.011 to 0.437; P=0.004), CRP (OR,0.238; 95% CI, 1.047 to 1.538; P=0.015) and Age (OR,0.031; 95% CI, 0.947 to 0.992; P=0.009).The AUC area under the curve for the training group was 0.774 whereas the validation group was 0.713, The predictive model was calibrated, and the DCA showed that the proposed nomogram had strong clinical applicability.
Conclusion
We have developed a simple nomogram to predict depression in COPD individuals based on Nomogram. External validation is needed to further demonstrate its predictive ability in primary care settings.
Synthesis of Some New 4-methylpiperazin-1-yl-methyl-4H-1,2,4-triazole-3- thiol Derivatives of Expected Anticancer and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: CEBECİ YILDIZ UYGUN , Karaoğlu Sengül Alpay , Altun Muhammed
Published: December 2022

Different series of annulated methylpiperazine derivatives were designed, synthesized traditional methods, ana structurally characterized. 1,2,4-Triazole-fluoroquinolone and 1,2,4-triazole–conazole hybrids are designed, synthesized, and investigated in vitro against a variety of common diseases. The structure of the newly synthesized compounds are characterized from spectral data (IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and LC–MS). The antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria is shown to be enhanced by many of the produced compounds. Also, some of the products are found to have strong antiproliferative effects against HeLa cervical cancer cells, whilst demonstrating cytotoxic effects toward normal cells. Compounds 6d and 6e showed intermediate anticancer activity.
Quality of life of patients with neurofibromatosis 1 – physical disability does not necessarily result in inferior mental health.
Authors: Bäzner Ute Marlies , Stauss Leonie , Kapapa Thomas , Wirtz Christian Rainer , Pala Andrej
Published: December 2022

Introduction
Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a chronic neurocutaneous disease with tremendous impact on quality of life (QoL). We have performed an analysis of disease severity, mental and physical QoL and compared the different severity classes of patients with neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1).
Patients and methods
We performed a prospective analysis of 89 patients with NF-1 which are included in the period of 1/2016 - 3/2018. Local records served as data source including demographic data, employment status, level of education, and marital status were evaluated. All patients received 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Additionally, numerical pain rating scale (NPS) Patients were stratified according to different severity of NF-1 and different visibility and severity of disease.
Results:
Out of 89 patients, severity grad 4 was identified in 42 (47.2%), moderate in 17 (19.1%), mild in 23 (25.8%) and minimal in 7 (7.9%) cases. According to visibility scale, severe grade 3 was found in 28 (31.5%), moderate grade 2 in 26 (29.2%) and mild grade in 35 (39.3%) cases. All SF-36 related data except for pain showed significantly lower values, if compared to the standard German population (p<0.001, physical component summary p=0.045). Sex, marital status and level of education showed no significant differences. Employment was significantly associated with better mental and physical status (p=0.028 and p=0.01 respectively) and age >40 was significantly associated with lower physical (p=0.027) but not mental component (p=0.362). According to the numerical pain rating scale, 7-10 were noted in 9 cases (10,1%), 5-6 in 10 patients (11.2%), 1-4 in 26 patients (29.2%) and no pain in 44 cases (49.4%). Physical component showed significant difference between different NPS grades (p<0.001) but no significance in mental component summery (p=0.06). Finally, we found no significant difference between different severity grades and visibility grades in mental component summery.
Conclusion:
The severity grade and visibility grade of patients with NF-1 does not necessarily results in decreased mental components and physical limitations in comparison with lower grades, so that symptomatic treatment should be considered even in patients with severe disability, since these still may have comparable QoL to less severe disabled patients with NF-1. Employment was associated with better QoL according to our results.
Impact of Transmitter Imbalances on the Security of Continuous Variables Quantum Key Distribution
Authors: Pereira Daniel Filipe Figueiredo , Almeida Margarida Ribau , Pinto Armando Humberto Moreira Nolasco , Silva Nuno Alexandre Peixoto
Published: December 2022

Continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) provides a theoretical unconditionally secure solution to distribute symmetric keys among users in a communication network. However, the practical devices used to implement these systems are intrinsically imperfect, and, as a result, open the door to eavesdropper attacks. In this work, we study the impact of transmitter stage imperfections on the performance and security of a Discrete Modulated (DM) CV-QKD system using M-symbol Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (M-QAM) and Amplitude and Phase Shift Keying (M-APSK) coupled with Probabilistic Constellation Shaping (PCS). Assuming two different modulation stage topologies, we first deform the constellations and then evaluate the secure key rate achievable with the deformed constellation. The presented results show that, due to the erroneously estimated channel parameters, non-monitored imbalances greatly reduce the system's performance, with situations where Bob and Alice estimate that no secure bits can be obtained while the real value of the key rate is still positive. Our results show the importance of monitoring these constellation imbalances and show that the optimal constellation may vary depending on the degree of device imperfection.
Caregivers’ Use of Herbal and Conventional Medicine to Treat Children with Sickle Cell Disease at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Eastern Uganda: A cross-sectional Study
Authors: Apolot Consiliate , Obakiro Samuel Baker , Mukunya David , Olupot-Olupot Peter , Matovu Joseph KB
Published: December 2022

Background: Evidence suggests that caregivers of children with sickle cell disease (SCD) normally oscillate between the use of herbal and conventional medicines but little evidence exists on the prevalence of and factors associated with use of both therapies in the extant literature. We examined factors associated with caregivers’ use of combined herbal and conventional medicine to treat children with SCD. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital in Eastern Uganda between January and March 2022. Caregivers of children with SCD aged 1 to <18 years attending the Sickle Cell Clinic at the hospital were interviewed using structured questionnaires. We collected data on caregivers’ socio-demographic characteristics, use of herbal or conventional medicine, perceptions of and intentions to use either or both therapies, self-reported use of either or both therapies, and community and health-related factors. A multivariable logistic regression model was computed to assess the factors independently associated with caregivers’ use of combined therapy to treat children with SCD, using Stata version 15.0. Results: Of the 372 caregivers interviewed, 341 (91.7%) were female. On average, Respondents aged 34.3 years (Standard Deviation [SD]: ±9.8 years). Thirty-seven percent (n=138) of the caregivers reported the use of both herbal and conventional medicine, 58.3% (n=217) reported use of only conventional medicine, while 4.6% (n=17) reported use of herbal medicine only. Higher odds of using combination therapy were found in caregivers aged 60+ years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 11.8; 95% CI: 1.2, 115.2), those with lower secondary education (AOR=6.2; 95% CI: 1.5, 26.0), those who believed in the safety and/or efficacy of herbal medicine (AOR=3.3; 95% CI: 1.5, 7.6) and those who thought that use of both therapies was safe (AOR=7.7; 95% CI: 3.5, 17.0). Conclusion: Slightly more than one-third of the caregivers reported use of combined herbal and conventional medicines to treat children with SCD, the majority of whom were of older age (>60%) and had lower secondary education. These findings suggest a need for targeted health promotion to educate caregivers about the dangers of using both herbal and conventional medicines in treating children with SCD in this setting. Keywords: herbal medicine, conventional medicine, complementary and alternative medicine, sickle cell disease, Uganda
Educational Program Promoting Report of Elder Abuse by Nursing Students: Pilot Study
Authors: Park Dahye , Ha Jeongmin
Published: December 2022

Background: Elder abuse is an important public health concern that requires urgent attention. One of the main barriers to achieve active response to elder abuse in a clinical setting is a low level of relevant knowledge among nurses. This study aims to develop an educational program to promote an intent to report elder abuse among nursing students and assess its effectiveness, with a focus on the rights of older adults.
Methods: A mixed method design was used with the Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, and Evaluate model. Twenty-five nursing students from Chungbuk Province participated in the study. Attitude toward older adults and knowledge of, awareness of, attitude towards, and intent to report elder abuse were assessed quantitatively and analyzed using paired t-test using SPSS 25.0. The feasibility of the program and feedback were collected qualitatively through group interviews and were analyzed using content analysis.
Results: After the education program, attitude toward older adults (Cohen’s d=1.08), knowledge of (Cohen’s d=2.15), awareness of (Cohen’s d=1.56), attitude towards (Cohen’s d=1.85), and intent to report elder abuse (Cohen’s d=2.78) increased, confirming the positive effects of this program. On the whole, all participants were satisfied with the contents and method of the program.
Conclusions: The method of program delivery should be improved and tailored strategies to boost program engagement among nursing students should be explored to implement and disseminate the program.
Genomic innovation, convergence and parallelism facilitated the ecological transition to life out of the sea in molluscs
Authors: Aristide Leandro , Fernández Rosa
Published: December 2022

Animals abandoned their ancestral marine niche and ventured into land multiple times across evolution, repeatedly overcoming major ecological challenges. These replicated evolutionary transitions constitute magnificent demonstrations of life’s capacity to evolve, and provide a rare opportunity to study the mechanisms driving large scale macroevolutionary convergence. However, the genomic underpinnings of the terrestrialization process remain largely unknown. Here, we investigated the macroevolutionary dynamics of gene repertoire evolution during convergent transitions out of the sea in molluscs. We find that despite deep temporal divergences, parallel expansions of ancient gene families played a major role in facilitating adaptation to non-marine habitats, highlighting the evolutionary potential of the pre-existing genomic toolkit. We further find evidence of functionally convergent lineage-exclusive gene gains, while overall family contractions seem mostly driven by neutral processes. Also, genomic innovations appear to have further fueled evolutionary independent habitat transitions. Collectively, these findings show that different evolutionary paths to genomic change (i.e. parallelism, convergence and innovation) can be simultaneously at play during major evolutionary transitions. Our results provide a genome-wide gene repertoire atlas of the molluscan terrestrialization that pave the way towards further understanding the functional and evolutionary bases of this process.
Amorphous Mn2SiO4: A potential manganese phase in the stagnant slab
Authors: Ye Zhilin , Xu Jingui , Fan Dawei , Zhang Dongzhou , Zhou Wenge , Xie Hongsen
Published: December 2022

Tephroite (Mn2SiO4), together with some manganese (Mn)-rich mineral inclusions, has been found in ophiolite-hosted diamonds, possibly originating from Mn-nodules and sediments that were once deposited on the oceanic floor and later subducted into the deep mantle, which provides evidence for oceanic crustal recycling. However, the state and behavior of tephroite under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions remain poorly understood. In this study, we conducted in situ synchrotron single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy of synthetic tephroite up to ~30 GPa and ~900 K. The XRD and Raman spectroscopy experiments in this study first show that tephroite undergoes a pressure-induced, irreversible, amorphous transformation above ~20 GPa. Temperature (<900 K) is found to be an insignificant factor governing the process of amorphous transformation. Amorphous tephroite may be a potential phase in a rapidly cooling oceanic lithospheric subduction slab stagnating at the bottom of the mantle transition zone.
Yakubovichite, CaNi2Fe3+(PO4)3, a new nickel phosphate mineral of non-meteoritic origin
Authors: Britvin Sergey N. , Murashko Mikhail N. , Krzhizhanovskaya Maria G. , Vapnik Yevgeny , Vlasenko Natalia S. , Vereshchagin Oleg S. , Pankin Dmitrii V. , Zaitsev Anatoly N. , Zolotarev Anatoly A.
Published: December 2022

Yakubovichite, CaNi2Fe3+(PO4)3, a new mineral containing up to 20 wt% NiO, represents a novel type of terrestrial phosphate mineralization featuring an extreme enrichment in Ni. The mineral was discovered in the Hatrurim Formation (Mottled Zone)—pyrometamorphic complex whose outcrops are exposed in Israel and Jordan in the area coincident with the Dead Sea Transform fault system. Nickel-rich minerals in these assemblages also include Ni phosphides: halamishite Ni5P4, negevite NiP2, transjordanite and orishchinite—two polymorphs of Ni2P, nazarovite Ni12P5, polekhovskyite MoNiP2; Ni-spinel trevorite NiFe2O4, bunsenite NiO, and nickeliferous members of the hematite-eskolaite series, Fe2O3-Cr2O3 containing up to 2 wt% NiO. Yakubovichite forms polycrystalline segregations up to 0.2 mm in size composed of equant crystal grains, in association with crocobelonite, hematite, other phosphates, and phosphides. It has a deep yellow to lemon-yellow color, is transparent to translucent with vitreous luster, and has no cleavage. Mohs hardness = 4. Yakubovichite is orthorhombic, Imma, unit-cell parameters of the holotype material: a = 10.3878(10), b = 13.0884(10), c = 6.4794(6) Å, V = 880.94(2) Å3, Z = 4. Chemical composition of holotype material (electron microprobe, wt%): Na2O 1.82, K2O 1.76, CaO 6.37, SrO 0.49, BaO 1.37, MgO 2.13, NiO 21.39, CuO 0.16, Fe2O3 18.80, Al2O3 1.06, V2O3 0.44, Cr2O3 0.15, P2O5 44.15, total 100.09. The empirical formula calculated on the basis of 12 O atoms per formula unit is (Ca0.55Na0.29K0.18Ba0.04Sr0.02)1.08(Ni1.39Mg0.26Fe0.243+V0.033+Cu0.01Cr0.01)Σ1.94 (Fe0.903+Al0.10)Σ1P3.02O12. Dcalc = 3.657 g cm–3. The strongest lines of powder XRD pattern [d(Å)(I)(hkl)]: 5.82(44)(011), 5.51(73)(101), 5.21(32)(200), 4.214(34)(121), 2.772(97)(240), 2.748(100)(202), 2.599(38)(400). Yakubovichite is the first mineral that crystallizes in the α-CrPO4 structure type. It has a direct synthetic analog, CaNi2Fe3+(PO4)3. Since yakubovichite is the first natural Ni-phosphate of non-meteoritic origin, the possible sources of Ni in the reported mineral assemblages are discussed. Pyrometamorphic rocks of the Hatrurim Formation were formed at the expense of the sediments belonging to a Cretaceous-Paleogene (Cretaceous-Tertiary) boundary (~66 Ma age). This geological frame marks the event of mass extinction of biological species on Earth that was likely caused by the Chicxulub impact event. The anomalous enrichment of pyrometamorphic assemblages in Ni may be related to metamorphic assimilation of Ni-rich minerals accumulated in the Cretaceous-Paleogene layer, which was formed due to a Chicxulub collision.
Cryptocurrencies and traditional assets: Decoding the analogy from emerging economies with crypto usage
Authors: Gupta Nupur , Mitra Pradip , Banerjee Debjani
Published: December 2022

This paper investigates the relationship of cryptocurrencies with four traditional assets: equity, fiat currencies, crude oil, and gold in Nigeria, Vietnam, the Philippines, Turkey, and Peru. According to Statista’s 2020 Cryptocurrency Adoption Survey, these five countries showed high levels of crypto usage and ownership. Emerging economies attract the attention of portfolio managers due to the high returns associated with assets originating from these countries. The paper explores the possibility of creating a multi-asset portfolio, including cryptocurrencies. Vector Autoregression Granger causality and Johansen Cointegration tests are conducted to study the relationship between each traditional asset and cryptocurrencies. The study period is from October 2017 to June 2021. The composite Crypto Index was created using the top seven cryptocurrencies based on market capitalization. The Granger Causality test results reveal no causality between Nigeria’s chosen traditional assets and the cryptocurrency index. In the case of the Philippines, there is a unidirectional causality relationship from crypto returns to currency returns; and gold returns to crypto index returns. In Vietnam, stock index returns cause crypto returns; in Peru, gold returns cause crypto returns; and in Turkey, crypto returns cause currency returns. None of the countries has exhibited a bidirectional relationship between traditional assets and the crypto index. The robustness of the causality relations is checked using the Johansen Cointegration test. All the assets taken under study, country-wise, are cointegrated with one another. Hence, when building a multi-asset portfolio covering these five emerging nations, cryptocurrencies do not offer investors diversification, hedging, or haven benefits.
Computational hydraulics: stage for the hydroinformatics act
Authors: Minns A. W. , Verwey A. , Warren I. R.
Published: December 2022

The journey from computational hydraulics to hydroinformatics is described through an overview that starts from the first applications of computer code to civil engineering problems, through the development of the method of characteristics - as a necessary step in the development of numerical methods - to the modern day, wide-spread application of fourth-generation modelling systems that are used to derive solutions to water-related, and particularly environmental problems. Mike Abbott's contributions to the scientific development of numerical methods and computational techniques are described. These contributions led to the publication of his seminal work Computational Hydraulics - Elements of the Theory of Free Surface Flows in 1979. At the same time, the authors of this chapter have all worked closely with Mike Abbott to translate his sometimes-esoteric writings into practical and commercially viable solutions. An important milestone in this journey was the establishment of the Computational Hydraulics Centre at the Danish Hydraulics Institute in 1970, which was a result of the recognition of the commercial importance of computational hydraulics and the need for further professionalization of the development of modelling systems. This was witnessed through the development of modelling systems like, for example, System21 (later MIKE 21) and the Système Hydrologique Européen (MIKE SHE). When tracing the development of computational hydraulics, Mike Abbott often referred to a number of generations of modelling methodologies and corresponding models, which has led to the current, fourth-generation modelling systems. Furthermore, as a natural progression of computational hydraulics, he discussed at length the developing social dimension of hydraulics and hydraulic modelling, which was seen as a first and necessary step towards hydroinformatics. This chapter concludes with an assessment of the extent to which the anticipated benefits of fourth-generation modelling may or may not have come to fruition and what this has meant in daily practice. These lessons learned are placed in the context of what this then means for future hydroinformatics applications.
Kinetic and isotherm studies on the removal of reactive Red 2 from aqueous solutions using phosphoric acid activated carbon
Authors: Mahmoudi Arezoo , Mousavi Seyyed Alireza , Atashkar Sheida
Published: December 2022

In the current study, an alternative precursor for the production of activated carbon (AC) is introduced using grape wood. The AC structures and functional groups were studied using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The efficiency of prepared AC has been investigated in the removal of Reactive Red 2 (RR2) from an aqueous solution. The effect of main variables, namely dye concentration (100–500 mg L−1), contact time (10–90 min), adsorbent dosage (0.25–12.25 g L−1), and initial pH (3–11) have been assessed on the adsorption process in order to find out the optimum conditions. Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin adsorption isotherm models were applied to describe the characteristics of adsorption behavior. Kinetic data were fitted to pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intra-particle diffusion models. Based on the results, the highest removal efficiency (97.96%) of RR2 dye was obtained at an initial concentration of 100 mg L−1, adsorbent dose of 12.25 g, contact time of 90 min, and pH 3, which indicated a significant sorption efficiency. The rate of the adsorption fitted well to a pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.99). In addition, the Temkin adsorption isotherm model was found to fit the experimental data (R2 = 0.99).
Investigation on the effective disposal of sludge from a water treatment plant
Authors: Vishwajith A. G. H. , Mahanama K. R. R. , Wijesinghe L. P. R. J.
Published: December 2022

Accumulation of water treatment sludge is a major environment problem in the water purification process. Recovery of waste constituents or reuse of sludge is a cost-effective method in handling this environmental dilemma. The present study investigates the suitability of sludge in the production of bricks and recovery of aluminum from the sludge accumulated at the Biyagama drinking water treatment plant (BDWTP) in Sri Lanka. The chemical parameters of total organic carbon, pH, total nitrogen content, total phosphorous content, heavy metals, and cation exchange capacity in samples were analyzed in different turbidity periods. The aluminum recovery was investigated both by acidic and by alkaline leaching processes. A mixing ratio of 3:1 (clay:water treatment sludge) was found to be suitable for manufacturing bricks having compressive strength, efflorescence, and water absorption parameters according to SLS 39:1979. The metal composition of manufactured bricks was compared with clay and water treatment sludge. The environmental impact of current landfilling was estimated by analyzing the leachate of this sludge for COD, NO3-, NO2-, PO43-, free NH3, SO42-, and metals. The heavy metal leachability of manufactured bricks was also analyzed to establish its suitability as an eco-friendly product.
Can activated carbon filtration of groundwater cause radiation safety problems?
Authors: Tyrväinen Jukka T. , Naarala Jonne , Turtiainen Tuukka
Published: December 2022

Activated carbon filtration is commonly used to remove groundwater contaminants in water utilities. During its use, also groundwater radon is adsorbed on activated carbon where it radioactively decays to Pb-210 within a few days. The intermediate stages of radioactive decay produce gamma radiation outside the filter, which can be harmful to health. In addition, EU legislation sets a clearance level of 1 kBq/kg for the Pb-210 concentration of waste, above which disposal of carbon waste can be complicated, depending on national legislation. This study focused on activated carbon filters from two groundwater plants. Measurements were made over the service lifetime of the activated carbon and included measurements of adsorption of radon from water to carbon, radiation dose rates outside the filters and Pb-210 concentrations in the carbon. The study observed a rapid decrease in the radon adsorption rate of activated carbon during the first year of use. This phenomenon has a significant effect on the concentration of Pb-210 in the activated carbon waste at the end of service life. The calculated forecast model clearly showed that the risk of exceeding the clearance level of Pb-210 increases if the radon concentration in the raw water exceeds 100 Bq/L.
Application of partial ozonation on tank truck cleaning concentrate and the influence on biodegradability and ecotoxicity: a pilot-scale study
Authors: Poelmans Sven , Nagels Maarten , Mignot Mélanie , Dewil Raf , Cabooter Deirdre , Dries Jan
Published: December 2022

This study investigates the pilot-scale ozone treatment of reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC), originating from variable tank truck cleaning wastewater. The influence of ozonation on short- and long-term biodegradation potential was examined through respirometry and Zahn–Wellens, respectively. Ecotoxicity was also examined for several concentrate batches and ozonation steps. Chemical oxidation through ozone had a beneficial effect on chemical oxygen demand removal, with a removal efficiency up to 56%. Formation of short-term biochemical oxygen demand (BODst) was induced for several, but not all batches, showing the potential of subsequent biological treatment of ozonated ROC. An increase in the inherent biodegradability through Zahn-Wellens was observed for all tested samples after ozonation, rising to a maximum of 68% after 3 hours of ozonation, highlighting the importance of sludge adaptation. Ecotoxicity, tested with Artemia franciscana and the saltwater algae P. tricornutum, showed initial decreases in algae inhibition after short ozonation periods. An increase in algae inhibition was, however, seen after prolonged ozonation for all tested ROC samples, pointing to the formation of ecotoxic by-products. Artemia showed no significant toxicity effects. When applying biological treatment through Zahn-Wellens, a decrease in ecotoxicity was observed for several samples, likely through biological oxidation of the produced degradation products.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation For Hepatitis B Virus-Related
Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cheng Fang , Huang Zhong , Wei Wei , Li Zhi
Published: December 2022

Background:

Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is a severe
complication with a poor prognosis. Recently, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based therapy for HBVACLF
has shown considerable promise. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to
evaluate the efficacy and safety of MSC transplantation for patients with HBV-ACLF.

Methods:

The PubMed, Cochrane Library, CNKI, and Embase databases were searched from their inception
to March 2021 for reports on MSC therapy for HBV-ACLF. We used RevMan 5.3 to perform the
systematic review and meta-analysis.

Results:

Four studies were ultimately included. Compared with the control treatment, allogeneic MSC
treatment resulted in a higher cumulative survival rate among ACLF patients (OR=2.27; 95% CI 1.35,
3.81; p=0.002). The umbilical cord-derived MSC (UC-MSC) group obtained a higher survival rate than
the control group (OR = 2.33; 95% CI 1.17, 4.63; p=0.02). The group with multiple interval peripheral
vein injections of MSCs obtained a higher survival rate than the control group (OR = 2.09; 95% CI 1.20,
3.67; p=0.01). None of the adverse events were MSC-related.

Conclusion:

Our study indicates that MSC transplantation can significantly increase survival rates by
improving liver function without severe adverse events. UC-MSCs harvested for allogeneic infusion via
peripheral veins appear to provide superior treatment for patients.
Factors Affecting the Presence or Absence of Interdental Papilla; An in-vivo study. Part II: Influence of Different Parameters on the Presence or Absence of a Black Triangle
Authors: Cunliffe Joanne , Goodwin Michaela , Mahasneh Sari A. , Pretty Iain
Published: December 2022

Background:

The distance from the crest of the bone to the contact point is crucial to the formation of a black triangle. This study looks into the influence of various clinical parameters on the absence of the interdental papilla.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to assess the different clinical parameters that can contribute to black triangle formation.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to determine the significance of various clinical parameters in the formation of black triangles.

Methods:

Patients included were those referred to the radiology department for periapical radiographs from the second premolars to the second premolars in both jaws. All the patients were clinically examined to assess the parameters investigated. Different Parameters were assessed which included tissue phenotype type, interproximal cleaning, and the presence of inflammation. The data was analysed using IBM SPSS version 19 and STATA.

Results:

It was found that the relative risk of patients who have a thin tissue phenotype is 1.20 times more likely to have a black triangle than patients with a thick tissue phenotype. Lack of interproximal cleaning resulted in 1.46 times more likely to have a black triangle. The presence of gingival inflammation caused1.32 times more likelihood of having a black triangle.

Conclusion:

The parameters that had a significant association were tissue phenotype, interproximal cleaning, and gingival inflammation. The amount of inflammation, the cleaning habits, and the tissue phenotype of the patient need to be taken into consideration when planning restorative work and care needs to be taken in the treatment planning, consent, and execution.