bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Locating Race in Mughal India
Authors: Gandhi Supriya
Published: January 2023

This article uses writings of the French traveler François Bernier (d. 1688) on race as an inroad into the question of locating race in Mughal India. I explore Mughal discourses of alterity through an examination of Persian writings from various genres composed during the long seventeenth century. In contrast to Bernier, these writings do not offer concepts equivalent to that of race. However, by invoking narratives of descent from Noah's son Ham, ideas of climatic and physiognomic humoralism, and the attribution of physical qualities or character traits to social groups, these works engage in practices of racialization while also at times undermining them.
Prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its association with lifestyle habits in adults in Chile: a cross-sectional study from the National Health Survey 2016–2017
Authors: Pettinelli Paulina , Fernández Tiziana , Aguirre Carolina , Barrera Francisco , Riquelme Arnoldo , Fernández-Verdejo Rodrigo
Published: January 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) represents an excessive fat accumulation within the liver, usually associated with excess body weight. A liver biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis, but it is inapplicable in population-based studies. In large populations, non-invasive methods could be used, which may also serve to identify potential protective factors. We aimed to (a) estimate NAFLD prevalence in the adult population in Chile by using non-invasive methods and (b) determine the association between the presence of NAFLD and lifestyle habits. The National Health Survey of Chile 2016–2017 was analysed. We included individuals aged 21–75 years, without infectious diseases nor risky alcohol consumption. NAFLD was detected by either fatty liver index (FLI; considers circulating TAG, circulating γ-glutamyl-transferase, BMI and waist circumference), lipid accumulation product (LAP; considers sex, circulating TAG and waist circumference) or their combination. Lifestyle habits were determined by questionnaires. We included 2774 participants, representative of 10 599 094 (9 831 644, 11 366 544) adults in Chile. NAFLD prevalence (95 % CI) was 39·4 % (36·2, 42·8) by FLI, 27·2 % (24·2, 30·4) by LAP and 23·5 % (20·7, 26·5) by their combination. The prevalence progressively increased with increasing BMI. Of note, less smoking and more moderate-vigorous physical activity and whole-grain consumption were associated with lower odds of having NAFLD, independently of BMI. At least one out of four adults in Chile is afflicted with NAFLD. Health promotion strategies focused on controlling excess body weight and promoting specific lifestyle habits are urgently required.
Morphometric analysis of schistosome eggs recovered from human urines in communities along the shoreline of Oyan River Dam in Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Bayegun A. A. , Omitola O. O. , Umunnakwe C. U. , Akande F. A. , Akinwale O. P. , Mogaji H. O. , Ademolu K. O. , Gyang V. P. , Odoemene S. N. , Stothard J. R. , Ekpo U. F.
Published: January 2023

There are growing concerns that communities characterized with surface water, where both humans and livestock interact for agricultural, domestic, cultural and recreational purposes, are likely to support hybridization between schistosome species infecting humans and livestock. This study therefore investigated the morphometrics of schistosome eggs recovered from human urine samples in four schistosomiasis endemic communities (Imala-Odo, Abule-Titun, Apojula and Ibaro-Oyan) along the banks of Oyan River Dam in Ogun State, Nigeria. Recovered eggs were counted, photographed, and measured with IC Measure™ for total length, maximum width and a ratio of egg shape. A total of 1984 Schistosoma eggs were analysed. Two major egg morphotypes were identified: the first represented 67.8% of the eggs, with the typical round to oval shape and mean length and width of 166 μm, 66.8 μm, respectively; the second represented 32.2% of the eggs and are more elongated, with a mean length of 198 μm, and width of 71.3 μm. Our results revealed significant variations in sizes of the schistosome eggs recovered (length: t = −35.374, degrees of freedom (df) = 1982, P = 0.000; weight: t = −10.431, df = 1982, P = 0.000), with the atypical shaped eggs appearing more elongated than expected. These eggs might represent individuals with some degree of contribution from Schistosoma bovis or possibly other Schistosoma species known to be present in Nigeria. Hence, this observation calls for further molecular studies to establish the genetic information about the miracidia from both atypical and typical eggs. It is also important to establish the presence of bona fide S. bovis infection in cattle and vector snails in the presumptive areas of hybridization.
Self-assessment in second language learning
Authors: Butler Yuko Goto
Published: January 2023

Self-assessment (SA), as an activity for reflecting on one's own performance and abilities (Black & Wiliam, 1998), has been a topic of interest to educators over the years. Among second language (L2) educators, SA began growing in popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, when L2 educators’ focus shifted from analyzing linguistic systems to examining how learners learn a language. Many can-do statements and SA descriptors have been developed for L2 language learning, including SA grids aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR, Council of Europe, 2022) and can-do statements prepared by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL) in collaboration with the National Council of State Supervisors for Languages (NCSSFL) (ACTFL, n.d.). Textbooks and other L2 learning materials, including online apps, often contain SA items. SA can be used in conjunction with other assessments, such as traditional objective assessments, peer assessments, and portfolios. Teachers are often encouraged to incorporate SA into their curricula as part of the promotion of constructivist approaches to education, which have been particularly popular since the late 1980s (e.g., Nunan, 1988; Tarone & Yule, 1989); SA resonates well with modern learning theories such as learner-centered education, self-regulated learning, and autonomous learning (Butler, in press).
“When Appearances Matter: A Taxonomy and Ethics for Demographic-Based Provider Requests”
Authors: Wu Carrie C. , Appel Jacob M.
Published: January 2023

Requests by patients for providers of specific demographic backgrounds pose an ongoing challenge for hospitals, policymakers, and ethicists. These requests may stem from a wide variety of motivations; some may be consistent with broader societal values, although many others may reflect prejudices inconsistent with justice, equity, and decency. This paper proposes a taxonomy designed to assist healthcare institutions in addressing such cases in a consistent and equitable manner. The paper then reviews a range of ethical and logistical challenges raised by such requests and proposed guidance to consider when reviewing and responding to them.
Public–private partnership in primary health care: an experience from Iran
Authors: Gharaee Hojatolah , Azami Aghdash Saber , Farahbakhsh Mostafa , Karamouz Majid , Nosratnejad Shirin , Tabrizi Jafar Sadegh
Published: January 2023

Aim:

The aim of this paper is to introduce the experience of applying public–private partnership (PPP) in providing primary health care (PHC) in East Azerbaijan Province (EAP), Iran.

Background:

Moving toward the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) involves using of all health-related resources. Certainly, one of the key strategies for achieving UHC is PPP. Since 2015, a PPP in PHC policy has begun in EAP as a major strategy for strengthening the health system and achieving UHC.

Methods:

In this case study, data were collected through interviews with stakeholders, document analysis, reviewing of health indexes and published studies. The data were analyzed using content analysis.

Finding:

PPP in PHC policy was designed and implemented in EAP with the aim of social justice, strengthening the health system and achieving UHC in the framework of health complexes (HCs). HCs provide a defined service package according to the contract. The reimbursement method is a combination of per capita, fee for services and bonus methods. Part of the payments is fixed and the other part is based on the pay for quality system and paid according to the results of monitoring and evaluation. According to the study results, the most important strength of the plan is to improve access to services, especially in marginalized areas. The main weakness is not providing infrastructures before the implementation of the plan, and the most important challenges are financial, political and organizational unsustainability and, sometimes, poor cooperation by the other organizations. The findings show that PPP in PHC in EAP is an effective strategy to provide social justice, implement family practice and achieve UHC.
Analysis of option-like fund performance fees in asset management via Monte Carlo actuarial distortion pricing
Authors: Peters Gareth W. , Chudtong Mantana , De Gaetano Andrea
Published: January 2023

A detailed analysis of management and performance fees for asset managers and investment funds is undertaken. While fund fees are considered as a cost of capital for investors, the structuring of such fee mechanisms in a fund can also influence a fund manager’s decisions and investment strategy, thereby also influencing the investment performance of the investors funds. The study undertaken will allow for an assessment of the effect of fee structures and the potential for asymmetric incentives to arise that may promote adverse risk-taking behaviours by the fund manager, to the detriment of the investor or retiree who places a portion of their retirement savings into such a managed fund with such fee structures. As such, understanding the mechanism of fee charging as well as pricing the fees correctly is vital. An exploration of the application of actuarial distortion pricing methods for complete and incomplete market valuation is performed on a variety of path-dependent option-like performance fee structures for various funds in the European and American markets. Furthermore, several scenario analysis and sensitivity studies are undertaken. The class of Net Asset Value models adopted are Lévy processes, and the pricing is performed via Monte Carlo techniques.
Increasing Precipitation Efficiency Amplifies Climate Sensitivity by Enhancing Tropical Circulation Slowdown and Eastern Pacific Warming Pattern
Authors: Li Ryan L. , Studholme Joshua H. P. , Fedorov Alexey V. , Storelvmo Trude
Published: January 2023

The role of precipitation efficiency (PE)—the fraction of column‐integrated condensate that reaches the surface as rain—in the global temperature response to CO2 rise is yet to be quantified. Here we employ 36 limited‐domain cloud resolving models (CRMs) from the Radiative‐Convective Equilibrium Model Intercomparison Project and find that they strongly imply higher PE at warmer temperatures. We then analyze 35 general circulation models (GCMs) from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 and find that increasing PE is associated with tropical circulation slowdown and greater eastern equatorial Pacific warming. These changes trigger pan‐tropical positive cloud feedback through stratiform anvil cloud reduction and stratocumulus suppression, resulting in higher Effective Climate Sensitivity (ECS). We find that in 24 of 35 GCMs matching the CRMs in simulating increasing PE with greenhouse warming, mean ECS is 1 K higher than in PE‐decreasing GCMs. Thus, further constraining PE sensitivity to temperature could reduce uncertainty over future climate projections.
Amplified Asymmetric Impact of ENSO Events on the Wintertime Pacific‐North American Teleconnection Pattern
Authors: Wang Xueqing , Yang Xiu‐Qun
Published: January 2023

El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) as the strongest tropical interannual signature has the most prominent impact on wintertime Pacific‐North American (PNA) teleconnection pattern. ENSO exhibits an increasing asymmetry in recent decades. This study quantifies its extratropical asymmetric impact on the amplitude of the PNA pattern, using a normalized asymmetry index defined as a ratio of asymmetric versus symmetric anomalies for El Niño and La Niña. Relative to the ENSO asymmetry, the extratropical asymmetric impact is largely amplified especially downstream by up to 82%. Such an amplification is attributed to noticeable increases, 83.6% (68.9%), in asymmetry of Rossby wave source (RWS) anomalies over two key regions of North Pacific, in which anomalous divergence induced by nonlinear condensational heating feedback and anomalous synoptic eddy forcing are two major contributors. The former contributes 39.3% (47.5%) over the western (eastern) North Pacific through increasing asymmetric RWS anomalies, while the latter contributes 29.5% (21.3%) through decreasing symmetric RWS anomalies.
Subsurface Ocean Temperature Responses to the Anthropogenic Aerosol Forcing in the North Pacific
Authors: Shi Jia‐Rui , Kwon Young‐Oh , Wijffels Susan E.
Published: January 2023

Separating the climate response to external forcing from internal climate variability is a key challenge. While most previous studies have focused on surface responses, here we examine zonal‐mean patterns of North Pacific subsurface temperature responses. In particular, the changes since 1950 driven by anthropogenic aerosol emissions are found by using a pattern recognition method. Based on the single‐forcing large‐ensemble simulations from two models, we show that aerosol forcing caused a nonmonotonic temporal response and a characteristic zonal‐mean pattern within North Pacific, which is distinct from the pattern associated with internal variability. The aerosol‐forced pattern with the nonmonotonic temporal feature shows a substantial temperature change in subpolar regions and a reversed change on the southern flank of the subtropical gyre. A similar characteristic pattern and nonmonotonic time evolution are extracted from the subsurface observations, which likely reflect the subsurface responses to the aerosol forcing, although differences exist with the simulated responses.
Field Evidence for the Initiation of Isolated Aeolian Sand Patches
Authors: Delorme P. , Nield J. M. , Wiggs G. F. S. , Baddock M. C. , Bristow N. R. , Best J. L. , Christensen K. T. , Claudin P.
Published: January 2023

Sand patches are one of the precursors to early stage protodunes and occur widely in both desert and coastal aeolian environments. Here we show field evidence of a mechanism to explain the initiation of sand patches on non‐erodible surfaces, such as desert gravels and moist beaches. Changes in sand transport dynamics, directly associated with the height of the saltation layer and variable transport law, observed at the boundary between non‐erodible and erodible surfaces lead to sand deposition on the erodible surface. This explains how sand patches can form on surfaces with limited sand availability where linear stability of dune theory does not apply. This new mechanism is supported by field observations that evidence both the change in transport rate over different surfaces and in situ patch formation that leads to modification of transport dynamics at the surface boundary.
A review on clinical use of CAD/CAM and 3D printed dentures
Authors: Alhallak Khaled , Hagi-Pavli Eleni , Nankali Ali
Published: January 2023

AimThe aim of this article was to review the current clinical application of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and three-dimensional (3D) printed dentures in dental clinics.

MethodsA systematic approach for searching PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search was performed using a variety of keywords including clinical use AND 3D printed removable dentures OR clinical use AND CAD/CAM removable dentures OR clinical use AND digital removable dentures. Selection criteria included articles written in English and reporting information on clinical applications of digital dentures between 2010 to January 2022.

ResultsThe findings outlined the main clinical advantages of digital dentures such as saving working time, satisfying clinical results and securing patients' records, and also requirement of additional visits to secure aesthetic patient satisfaction, good retention and ideal vertical dimension. Many studies recommended performing clinical try-in with regards to providing better results. It was also established that 3D printers are less expensive than milling centres and therefore can be afforded by individual dental professionals.

ConclusionDigital dentures are a promising option in treating edentulous patients, especially in remote areas where skilful technicians are rare. However, there are some limitations in their applications.
Cell-type-specific PtrWOX4a and PtrVCS2 form a regulatory nexus with a histone modification system for stem cambium development in Populus trichocarpa
Authors: Dai Xiufang , Zhai Rui , Lin Jiaojiao , Wang Zhifeng , Meng Dekai , Li Meng , Mao Yuli , Gao Boyuan , Ma Hongyan , Zhang Baofeng , Sun Yi , Li Shuang , Zhou Chenguang , Lin Ying-Chung Jimmy , Wang Jack P. , Chiang Vincent L. , Li Wei
Published: January 2023

Stem vascular cambium cells in forest trees produce wood for materials and energy. WOX4 affects the proliferation of such cells in Populus. Here we show that PtrWOX4a is the most highly expressed stem vascular-cambium-specific (VCS) gene in P. trichocarpa, and its expression is controlled by the product of the second most highly expressed VCS gene, PtrVCS2, encoding a zinc finger protein. PtrVCS2 binds to the PtrWOX4a promoter as part of a PtrWOX13a–PtrVCS2–PtrGCN5-1–PtrADA2b-3 protein tetramer. PtrVCS2 prevented the interaction between PtrGCN5-1 and PtrADA2b-3, resulting in H3K9, H3K14 and H3K27 hypoacetylation at the PtrWOX4a promoter, which led to fewer cambium cell layers. These effects on cambium cell proliferation were consistent across more than 20 sets of transgenic lines overexpressing individual genes, gene-edited mutants and RNA interference lines in P. trichocarpa. We propose that the tetramer–PtrWOX4a system may coordinate genetic and epigenetic regulation to maintain normal vascular cambium development for wood formation.
Genome-wide association study of school grades identifies genetic overlap between language ability, psychopathology and creativity
Authors: Rajagopal Veera M. , Ganna Andrea , Coleman Jonathan R. I. , Allegrini Andrea , Voloudakis Georgios , Grove Jakob , Als Thomas D. , Horsdal Henriette T. , Petersen Liselotte , Appadurai Vivek , Schork Andrew , Buil Alfonso , Bulik Cynthia M. , Bybjerg-Grauholm Jonas , Bækvad-Hansen Marie , Hougaard David M. , Mors Ole , Nordentoft Merete , Werge Thomas ,   iPSYCH-Broad Consortium, Belliveau Rich , Carey Caitlin E. , Cerrato Felecia , Chambert Kimberly , Churchhouse Claire , Daly Mark J. , Dumont Ashley , Goldstein Jacqueline , Hansen Christine S. , Howrigan Daniel P. , Huang Hailiang , Maller Julian , Martin Alicia R. , Martin Joanna , Mattheisen Manuel , Moran Jennifer , Neale Benjamin M. , Pallesen Jonatan , Palmer Duncan S. , Pedersen Carsten Bcker , Pedersen Marianne Giørtz , Poterba Timothy , Ripke Stephan , Satterstrom F. Kyle , Thompson Wesley K. , Turley Patrick , Walters Raymond K. , Mortensen Preben Bo , Breen Gerome , Roussos Panos , Plomin Robert , Agerbo Esben , Børglum Anders D. , Demontis Ditte
Published: January 2023

Cognitive functions of individuals with psychiatric disorders differ from that of the general population. Such cognitive differences often manifest early in life as differential school performance and have a strong genetic basis. Here we measured genetic predictors of school performance in 30,982 individuals in English, Danish and mathematics via a genome-wide association study (GWAS) and studied their relationship with risk for six major psychiatric disorders. When decomposing the school performance into math and language-specific performances, we observed phenotypically and genetically a strong negative correlation between math performance and risk for most psychiatric disorders. But language performance correlated positively with risk for certain disorders, especially schizophrenia, which we replicate in an independent sample (n = 4547). We also found that the genetic variants relating to increased risk for schizophrenia and better language performance are overrepresented in individuals involved in creative professions (n = 2953) compared to the general population (n = 164,622). The findings together suggest that language ability, creativity and psychopathology might stem from overlapping genetic roots.
Performance investigations on data protection algorithms in generalized multi protocol label switched optical networks
Authors: Monika  , Singh Simranjit , Wason Amit
Published: January 2023

In future generation networks, data protection is a crucial necessity particularly when information is sent on a system. Network protection has three objectives known as discretion, reliability and accessibility. The most common procedure exploited to attain this ambition is encryption. The Generalized Multi Protocol Label Switched (GMPLS) optical networks are designed to survive Internet Protocol’s (IPʹs) unreliable delivery. In this paper, GMPLS network is proposed with random users and then the data protection algorithms have been analyzed on proposed GMPLS optical network. The various algorithms involve Rivest Shamir Adleman (RSA) algorithm and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) algorithm. The considered algorithms are very popular but have not been implemented on GMPLS optical networks in the literature which shows the novelty of the presented work. The network performance is compared for these algorithms in terms of various parameters like blocking probability and latency. The results reveal that RSA reduces the blocking probability < 0.005 and latency < 0.007 ms. This shows that RSA gives better performance than AES algorithm and enhance the quality of service considering blocking probability, latency and overheads in GMPLS optical networks leading to enhanced data protection.
Zoledronic acid targets chemo-resistant polyploid giant cancer cells
Authors: Adibi Rezvan , Moein Shiva , Gheisari Yousof
Published: January 2023

Although polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs) are known as a key source of failure of current therapies, sufficient drugs to target these cells are not yet introduced. Considering the similarities of polyploid cells in regeneration and cancer, we hypothesized that zoledronic acid (ZA), an osteoclast-targeting agent, might be used to eliminate PGCCs. The 5637-bladder cancer cell line was treated with various doses of cisplatin to enrich polyploid cells and the efficacy of different concentrations of ZA in reducing this population was assessed. The metabolic profile of PGCCs was investigated with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Lipid profiles, mitochondrial density, and ROS content were also measured to assess the response of the cells to ZA. Cancer cells surviving after three days of exposure with 6 μM cisplatin were mainly polyploid. These cells demonstrated special morphological features such as fusion with diploid or other polyploid cells and originated in daughter cells through budding. ZA could substantially eradicate PGCCs with the maximal effect observed with 50 μM which resulted in the drop of PGCC fraction from 60 ± 7.5 to 19 ± 1.7%. Enriched PGCCs after cisplatin-treatment demonstrated a drastic metabolic shift compared to untreated cancer cells with an augmentation of lipids. Further assays confirmed the high content of lipid droplets and cholesterol in these cells which were reduced after ZA administration. Additionally, the mitochondrial density and ROS increased in PGCCs both of which declined in response to ZA. Taken together, we propose that ZA is a potent inhibitor of PGCCs which alters the metabolism of PGCCs. Although this drug has been successfully exploited as adjuvant therapy for some malignancies, the current evidence on its effects on PGCCs justifies further trials to assess its potency for improving the success of current therapies for tackling tumor resistance and relapse.
Codon optimality has minimal effect on determining translation efficiency in mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Soman Smitha , Chattopadhyay Somdeb , Ram Siya , Nandicoori Vinay Kumar , Arimbasseri G. Aneeshkumar
Published: January 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) is a slow-growing, intracellular pathogen that exhibits a high GC-rich genome. Several factors, including the GC content of the genome, influence the evolution of specific codon usage biases in genomes. As a result, the Mtb genome exhibits strong biases for amino acid usage and codon usage. Codon usage of mRNAs affects several aspects of translation, including accuracy, efficiency, and protein folding. Here we address the effect of codon usage biases in determining the translation efficiency of mRNAs in Mtb. Unlike most commonly studied organisms, Mtb carries a single copy of each tRNA gene. However, we show that the relative levels of tRNAs in the Mtb tRNA pool vary by an order of magnitude. Our results show that the codons decoded by the abundant tRNAs indeed show higher adaptability. Moreover, there is a general positive correlation between genomic codon usage and the tRNA adaptability of codons (TAc). We further estimated the optimality of the codon and mRNAs by considering both the TAc and the tRNA demand. These measures did not show any correlation with mRNA abundance and translation efficiency. There was no correlation between tRNA adaptability and ribosome pausing as well. Taken together, we conclude that the translation machinery, and the tRNA pool of an organism, co-evolve with the codon usage to optimize the translation efficiency of an organism. Thus the deleterious effect of maladapted codons is not pronounced.
Effect of breathwork on stress and mental health: A meta-analysis of randomised-controlled trials
Authors: Fincham Guy William , Strauss Clara , Montero-Marin Jesus , Cavanagh Kate
Published: January 2023

Deliberate control of the breath (breathwork) has recently received an unprecedented surge in public interest and breathing techniques have therapeutic potential to improve mental health. Our meta-analysis primarily aimed to evaluate the efficacy of breathwork through examining whether, and to what extent, breathwork interventions were associated with lower levels of self-reported/subjective stress compared to non-breathwork controls. We searched PsycInfo, PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov and ISRCTN up to February 2022, initially identifying 1325 results. The primary outcome self-reported/subjective stress included 12 randomised-controlled trials (k = 12) with a total of 785 adult participants. Most studies were deemed as being at moderate risk of bias. The random-effects analysis yielded a significant small-to-medium mean effect size,g = − 0.35 [95% CI − 0.55, − 0.14],z = 3.32,p = 0.0009, showing breathwork was associated with lower levels of stress than control conditions. Heterogeneity was intermediate and approaching significance,χ211 = 19,p = 0.06,I2 = 42%. Meta-analyses for secondary outcomes of self-reported/subjective anxiety (k = 20) and depressive symptoms (k = 18) showed similar significant effect sizes:g = − 0.32,p < 0.0001, andg = − 0.40,p < 0.0001, respectively. Heterogeneity was moderate and significant for both. Overall, results showed that breathwork may be effective for improving stress and mental health. However, we urge caution and advocate for nuanced research approaches with low risk-of-bias study designs to avoid a miscalibration between hype and evidence.
Fe3O4/SiO2 decorated trimesic acid-melamine nanocomposite: a reusable supramolecular organocatalyst for efficient multicomponent synthesis of imidazole derivatives
Authors: Fattahi Babak , Dekamin Mohammad G.
Published: January 2023

This article describes supramolecular Fe3O4/SiO2 decorated trimesic acid-melamine (Fe3O4/SiO2-TMA-Me) nanocomposite that can be prepared with features that combine properties of different materials to fabricate a structurally unique hybrid material. In particular, we have focused on design, synthesis and evaluation a heterogeneous magnetic organocatalyst containing acidic functional-groups for the synthesis of biologically important imidazole derivatives in good to excellent yields. The introduced Fe3O4/SiO2-TMA-Me nanomaterial was characterized by different techniques such as FTIR, XRD, EDX, FESEM, TEM, TGA and DTA. As a noteworthy point, the magnetic catalytic system can be recycled and reused for more than seven consecutive runs while its high catalytic activity remains under the optimized conditions.
Heatstroke risk informing system using wearable perspiration ratemeter on users undergoing physical exercise
Authors: Momose Hideya , Takasaka Mieko , Watanabe-Asaka Tomomi , Hayashi Moyuru , Maejima Daisuke , Kawai Yoshiko , Ohhashi Toshio
Published: January 2023

We constructed an informing system to users for the heatstroke risk using a wearable perspiration ratemeter and the users’ thirst responses. The sweating ratemeter was constructed with a capacitive humidity sensor in the ventilated capsule. The timing point for informing heatstroke risk was decided to change from positive to negative on the second derivative of sweating curve. In addition, a wearable self-identification and -information system of thirst response was constructed with a smartphone. To evaluate the validity of wearable apparatus, we aimed to conduct human experiments of 16 healthy subjects with the step up and down physical exercises. The blood and urine samples of the subjects were collected before and after the 30-min physical exercise. The concentrations of TP, Alb, and RBC increased slightly with the exercise. In contrast, the concentrations of vasopressin in all subjects remarkably increased with the exercise. In almost subjects, they identified their thirst response until several min after the informing for heatstroke risk. In conclusion, the wearable ratemeter and self-information system of thirst response were suitable for informing system of heatstroke risk. The validity of timing point for informing heatstroke risk was confirmed with changes in the thirst response and concentrations of vasopressin in blood.
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of pulmonary renal syndrome in West China
Authors: Tang Maozhi , Zhang Jun , Xu Xiaosong , Pan Qianguang , Zhao Hongwen
Published: January 2023

Pulmonary renal syndrome (PRS) is a rare and life-threatening syndrome. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) has been recently considered another phenotype of lung dysfunction in patients with PRS, but there are very limited data. The characteristics of fifty PRS patients were retrospectively reviewed after a 3-year follow-up, and the differences between PRS patients whose lung dysfunction presented as diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH group) and those with interstitial lung disease (ILD group) were also analyzed. The median age at diagnosis of PRS patients was 50.78 ± 17.88 years, and the main symptoms at disease onset were proteinuria (94.00%), hemoptysis (68.00%), dyspnea (32.00%) and fever (12.00%). DAH patients were younger and had significantly lower hemoglobin levels, a higher incidence of hemoptysis, and higher serum creatinine levels at onset than ILD patients. Univariate analyses of PRS patients showed that respiratory failure and the initiation of mechanical ventilation predicted patient death and that the initiation of hemodialysis and higher serum creatinine levels at onset predicted ESRD. Multivariate analyses showed that respiratory failure and anti-GBM antibody positivity could independently predict patient death. Survival analyses showed that 1- and 3-year patient survival rates and ESRD-free survival rate were not significantly different between the two groups. ILD was another important phenotype of lung dysfunction in patients with PRS. Poor outcomes were observed in PRS patients with ILD and in PRS patients with DAH.
Reference range of complete blood count, Ret-He, immature reticulocyte fraction, reticulocyte production index in healthy babies aged 1–4 months
Authors: Ringoringo Harapan Parlindungan , Purnamasari Lina , Yunanto Ari , Syahadatina Meitria , Hidayah Nurul
Published: January 2023

Establishing reference ranges of the complete blood count (CBC), reticulocyte hemoglobin content (Ret-He), immature reticulocyte fraction (IRF), and reticulocyte production index (RPI) helps diagnose a disease related to the changes in erythrocyte indices, white blood count, platelets, and reticulocytes, especially in babies. Therefore, the study aims to establish a reference range for CBC and reticulocyte parameters in healthy babies aged 1–4 months. The study design was a cross-sectional study with descriptive analysis of CBC and reticulocyte in babies aged 1–4 months. Three hundred forty-eight babies met the inclusion criteria. This study recruited 89 babies aged 1 month, 87 babies aged 2 months, 86 babies aged 3 months, and 86 babies aged 4 months. The P5-P95 reference range of healthy babies for hemoglobin (Hb) aged 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, and 4 months was 9.95 to 15.45 g/dL, 9.74 to 13.42 g/dL, 9.51 to 12.40 g/dL, and 10.04 to 13.10 g/dL respectively. The P3-P97 reference range of healthy babies for Hb aged 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, and 4 months was 9.60 to 15.90 g/dL, 9.46 to 13.97 g/dL, 9.26 to 12.82 g/dL, and 10.00 to 13.33 g/dL respectively. This study also defined reference ranges for CBC, Ret-He, IRF, and RPI. The reference range of CBC, Ret-He, IRF, and RPI for healthy babies aged 1–4 months in this study can be used as a benchmark.
On the removal efficiency of copper ions in wastewater using calcined waste eggshells as natural adsorbents
Authors: Chou Ming-Yu , Lee Tan-Ang , Lin Ying-Shen , Hsu Shan-Yin , Wang Ming-Fu , Li Po-Hsien , Huang Ping-Hsiu , Lu Wen-Chien , Ho Jou-Hsuan
Published: January 2023

Eggshells offer many advantages as adsorbents, such as affordability without special preparations other than pulverization and calcination. However, the manufacturing industry generally has a severe problem with high concentrations of heavy metals in wastewater. The purpose of this study was to use eggshell byproducts and calcined eggshell treatment for the adsorption of copper in an aqueous solution. The reaction time, metal concentration, adsorbent dose, temperature, and pH were evaluated using primary factors followed by the response surface method (RSM) to investigate the optimum conditions for eggshell byproducts and calcined eggshell adsorption treatment. The results of the one-factor-at-a-time experiment showed that the optimal adsorption rate was obtained from treatment at 24 h, 25 mg/L, 10 mg, and 25 °C. In addition, the effect of pH on the adsorption rates of eggshells and eggshells with membrane were detected at pH values of 5 and 5.9 and found to be 95.2, 90.5, and 73.3%. The reaction surface experiment showed that the best adsorption rate reached 99.3% after calcination at 900 °C for 2 h and a 20 min reaction. The results showed that eggshells, eggshell membranes, eggshells with membrane, and calcined eggshells could be applied to remove copper ions from industrial wastewater. The adsorption capacity of the calcined eggshell is better than that of the non-calcined eggshell and has good neutrality in acidic industrial wastewater. Therefore, it is convenient and practical for practical production and application. Likewise, this study conveys promising findings in the context of improving wastewater treatment based on a circular economy approach to waste reuse in the food industry and represents a valuable direction for future research.
Physical and radiographic features of degenerative retrolisthesis in Japanese female volunteers: an observational cohort study
Authors: Shimizu Mutsuya , Kobayashi Tetsuya , Chiba Hisashi , Senoo Issei , Mizutani Kozaburo , Sasai Kengo
Published: January 2023

Hundred and twenty four females with spondylolisthesis were divided into three groups (A group: anterolisthesis; P group: retrolisthesis; and AP group: antero-retrolisthesis), We reviewed their whole-spine radiographs and measured their standard sagittal parameters, including thoracic kyphosis (TK), pelvic incidence (PI), lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic tilt (PT), and sacral slope (SS). The muscle strengths of the trunk flexor, trunk extensor, iliopsoas, and quadriceps were measured. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the Short Form 36-item Health Survey–physical component summary (SF-36 PCS). PI, SS, and LL-TK of participants in the P group were significantly lower than those in the A and AP groups (PI: P group vs. A group, p < 0.001, P group vs. AP group, p = 0.01), (SS: P group vs. A group, p = 0.001, P group vs. AP group, p = 0.003), (LL-TK: P group vs. A group, p < 0.001, P group vs. AP group, p = 0.049). TK of participants in the P and AP groups was greater than that of those in the A group. (P group vs. A group, p = 0.04, AP group vs. A group, p = 0.0025). The SF-36 PCS score in the P group was lower than that in the A and AP groups. (P group vs. A group, p = 0.004, P group vs. AP group, p = 0.012). The muscle strengths of the trunk flexor and trunk extensor and quadriceps in the P group were lower than those in the A groups. (Trunk flexor: P group vs. A group, p = 0.012), (Trunk extensor: P group vs. A group, p = 0.018), (Quadriceps: P group vs. A group, p = 0.011). In conclusion, female participants with degenerative retrolisthesis had a smaller PI and SS and a larger TK, along with decreased physical function and QoL scores than those with anterolisthesis.
Resisting spread of environmental-pollution diseases due to Portland-cement industries: green nanoclay applications
Authors: El-Sheikhy Refat
Published: January 2023

New eco-friendly thermal-casting ductile CPNC-concrete and CPNC-mortar materials have been developed without Portland-cement or water-use. It needs three hours for thermal synthesis. It contains 5%, 10% or 15% green natural nanoclay–polymer nanocomposite CPNC as a bonding-agent instead of Portland-cement for mixing with sand and crushed-stones by heating at 250 °C in electric ovens. CPNC is a dry powder consisting of 5% montmorillonite (MMT) nanoclay and 95% high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The study includes mixing, thermal synthesis, mechanical, fracture, and ductility property testing, and characterizations of the chemical composition, microstructure morphology and homogeneity using EDAX, SEM and XRD. It has new properties, such as a homogenous-microstructure with bonding, self-compaction abilities, no-cracks, ductility, good compressive and tensile strengths, and good fracture properties. It does not exhibit steel corrosion; it has rapid processing, no-water curing, low-density, no-shrinkage cracks, no-sudden failure, no-pollution utilizing a new manufacturing technique. CPNC-concrete is developed to stop the Portland-cement industry problems, to produce a clean and green environment without Portland-cement damage for human beings and to conserve drinking water. It has potential for different applications in construction, and it is suitable for 3D techniques with fast construction. Furthermore, this material requires new special codes for design and construction.
Self-expandable metallic stents as a bridge to surgery in obstructive right- and left-sided colorectal cancer: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Kim Eui Myung , Park Jun Ho , Kim Byung Chun , Son Il Tae , Kim Jeong Yeon , Kim Jong Wan
Published: January 2023

The insertion of a self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) has been proposed as an alternative to emergent surgery (ES) for obstructive colorectal cancer (CRC). We aimed to evaluate the perioperative and oncologic outcomes of SEMS as a bridge to surgery in obstructive CRC, as compared with ES. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent curative resection of obstructive CRC at four Hallym University-affiliated hospitals between January 2010 and December 2019. All patients were analyzed overall colon, then according to the side of obstruction (overall, right or left). Of 167 patients, 52 patients underwent ES and 115 underwent SEMS insertion and surgery (SEMS group). The postoperative hospital stay and time to soft diet were shorter in the SEMS group than in the ES group for overall and both sided cancer. The SEMS group had lower rates of stoma formation and severe complications for overall and for left-sided cancer. The 5-year overall survival (P = 0.682) and disease-free survival (P = 0.233) rates were similar in both groups. SEMS insertion as a bridge to surgery was associated with faster recovery, a lower rate of stoma formation with similar oncologic outcomes to those of ES.
Characterization of the clomazone sorption process in four agricultural soils using different kinetic models
Authors: Ðurović-Pejčev Rada , Radmanović Svjetlana , Tomić Zorica P. , Kaluđerović Lazar , Đorđević Tijana
Published: January 2023

Determination of clomazone sorption kinetics explains sorption processes, mechanisms and rate-controlling stages occurring in soil. Knowing the soil composition and clay mineral composition enables the prediction of the clomazone leaching potential.
Dual redox-active porous polyimides as high performance and versatile electrode material for next-generation batteries
Authors: Goujon Nicolas , Lahnsteiner Marianne , Cerrón-Infantes Daniel A. , Moura Hipassia M. , Mantione Daniele , Unterlass Miriam M. , Mecerreyes David
Published: January 2023

Design of dual redox-active porous polymers towards high-energy density and performance organic electrode materials for lithium metal battery and symmetric all-organic battery applications.
Surface modification and adhesive-free adhesion of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and silicone gel containing oleophilic SiO2 powder by plasma treatment
Authors: Miyake Erika , Nishino Misa , Seto Yosuke , Komatsu Izuru , Endo Katsuyoshi , Yamamura Kazuya , Ohkubo Yuji
Published: January 2023

The adhesion strength of PTFE/silicone gel assembly was 0.01 N mm−1 when untreated, but 0.05 N mm−1 and cohesion failure of gel occurred when plasma-treated. When adding SiO2 powder to gel, the adhesion strength increased from 0.05 to 1.13 N mm−1.
Novel hybrids of thiazolidinedione-1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives: synthesis, molecular docking, MD simulations, ADMET study,in vitro, andin vivoanti-diabetic assessment
Authors: Srinivasa Mahendra Gowdru , Paithankar Jagdish Gopal , Saheb Birangal Sumit Rao , Pai Aravinda , Pai Vasudev , Deshpande Shridhar N. , Revanasiddappa B. C.
Published: January 2023

As compared to standard medicinal compounds, hybrid molecules that contain multiple biologically active functional groups have greater affinity and efficiency.
Photophysical and anion sensing properties of a triphenylamine–dioxaborinine trimeric compound
Authors: Tigreros Alexis , Bedoya-Malagón Camilo , Valencia Alejandra , Núñez-Portela Mayerlin , Portilla Jaime
Published: January 2023

The one-pot triphenylamine functionalization with multiple dioxaborinine groups gives the novel dye A2 with two-photon absorption and cyanide-sensing properties. The solvatofluorochromism of A2 was interpreted in terms of solvent dipolarity.
All polymeric conductive strain sensors with excellent skin adhesion, recovery, and long-term stability prepared from an anion–zwitterion based hydrogel
Authors: Lee Goeun , Seo Hyunsu , Kim Daewoo , Shin Seunghan , Kwon Kiok
Published: January 2023

Developing a high-performing hydrogel with long-lasting skin adhesion, high ionic conductivity, mechanical stability, and fatigue resistance is a crucial issue in the field of wearable electronic devices.
Visible-light driven p–n heterojunction formed between α-Bi2O3 and Bi2O2CO3 for efficient photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline
Authors: Zhu Baikang , Dong Qinbing , Huang Jianghua , Song Debin , Chen Lihui , Chen Qingguo , Zhai Chunyang , Wang Bohong , Klemeš Jiří Jaromír , Tao Hengcong
Published: January 2023

A polymer-assisted facile synthesis strategy for the polymorph-controlled α-Bi2O3/Bi2O2CO3 heterojunction effectively improves the degradation efficiency of tetracycline (TC) and Rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light.
KYb2F7:Er3+ based nanothermometers: controlled synthesis, enhanced red emission, and improved sensitivities via crystal-site engineering
Authors: Su Shaoshan , Song Wei , Wen Hongli , Mo Zhurong , Wan Tonghua , Yu Lin , Zhao Weiren , Hakeem Deshmukh Abdul
Published: January 2023

KYb2F7:Er3+ UC nanocrystal-based nanothermometers have greatly improved the SR with ion substitution of Ti4+, Ge4+, and Y3+ for Yb3+.
Diagnostik der Sepsis
Authors: Thomas-Rüddel Daniel
Published: January 2023

Sepsis occurs both community acquired and as a complication of hospital treatment. The symptoms are usually nonspecific and there is no diagnostic gold standard. The diagnostic
differentiation from other clinical pictures is difficult. Therefore, the (early) diagnosis of sepsis is still a major challenge for the clinician. Despite multiple biomarkers described in
the scientific literature sepsis is still primarily a clinical diagnosis. qSOFA can be a helpful screening tool.

Finding and treating the focus of infection is a crucial part of sepsis therapy. Chest X-ray and sonography have limited sensitivity for this purpose. A CT-scan with contrast should be done
at least in all patients where the focus of infection is still unclear. An MRI is necessary if spondylodiscitis is suspected, a transesophageal echocardiography if endocarditis is a possible
focus. Biomarkers are helpful in guiding therapy but are not part of the initial diagnosis criteria. Blood cultures and microbiological samples from the suspected foci of infection should be
taken in all sepsis patients. An initial lactate measurement is also part of the diagnostic workup and necessary for the diagnosis of septic shock.
Clinical characteristics of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in Germany – First data from the German NAFLD-Registry
Authors: Geier Andreas , Rau Monika , Pathil-Warth Anita , von der Ohe Manfred , Schattenberg Jörn , Dikopoulos Nektarios , Stein Kerstin , Serfert Yvonne , Berg Thomas , Buggisch Peter , Demir Münevver , Roeb Elke , Wiebner Bianka , Wedemeyer Heiner , Zeuzem Stefan , Hofmann Wolf P.
Published: January 2023

Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects more
than 18 million individuals in Germany. Real-world data help to better characterize the
natural history of disease and standard of care.

Methods The German NAFLD-Registry is a prospective
non-interventional study initiated by the German Liver Foundation and aims to describe
clinical characteristics and observe outcomes in patients with NAFLD recruited in secondary
and tertiary care.

Results From this ongoing study, baseline data of the first 501
patients (mean age 54 years, 48% women) were analysed. 13 % of the study population had a high
risk for advanced fibrosis (FIB-4 ≥2.67), approximately one-third had a liver stiffness value
≥9.6kPa measured by transient elastography, and the clinical diagnosis of liver cirrhosis was
present in 10%. Typical comorbidities were more prevalent in high risk as compared to low risk
patients (FIB-4 <1.3) including arterial hypertension (85 vs. 42%), hypercholesterolemia
(39 vs. 16%), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (69 vs. 26%). Patients with T2DM (192/501)
had a higher NAFLD disease burden as shown by liver stiffness values ≥9.6 kPa (51%) and
clinical diagnosis of cirrhosis (20%). Statins were used in 22% of the main population, while
in diabetic patients, metformin, GLP-1 agonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors were used in 65, 17, and
17%, respectively. Uptake of life-style interventions such as physical exercise or nutritional
counselling was generally low.

Conclusion First data of the German NAFLD registry show that
approximately every 10th patient has advanced NAFLD, highlights T2DM patients as a high-risk
group and gives insights in the use of comedication and life-style interventions in secondary
and tertiary care.