bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study of Single Structure Surface Dangerous Rock Mass Dynamic Characteristics Based on Constant Micromotion
Authors: Shi Anchi , Xie Mowen , Zhao Liuyuan , Zhang Xiaoyong , Wu Zhixiang , Wu Simiao
Published: May 2023

The dynamic parameters of a dangerous rock mass reflect the degree of damage of the structure of its surface. There is still an urgent problem to identify the dynamic parameters of a dangerous rock mass based on the characteristics of the constant micromotion at its site. To address this problem, a method is proposed to identify the dynamic characteristics of a dangerous rock mass undergoing excitation caused by constant micromotion: (1) the vibration of a dangerous rock mass undergoing excitation from constant micromotion is classified as forced undamped structural vibration with a single degree of freedom. The ratio of the amplitude of the spectrum of the dangerous rock mass to the amplitude of the spectrum of the bedrock is defined as the relative amplitude spectrum. The first-order natural frequency is identified from the relative amplitude spectrum. (2) Bedrock is the source of excitation of a dangerous rock mass. When a mechanical wave propagates to a dangerous rock mass, it crosses the porous surface of media with structural damage, and mechanical wave scattering occurs. The frequency domain of the mechanical wave changes. The center frequency shifts to a low frequency. By means of laboratory model tests, the changes in the dynamic parameters of models of a cantilevered dangerous rock mass and a sliding dangerous rock mass with structural surface damage are analyzed. It is concluded that (1) based on the theory of vibration mechanics, the first-order natural frequencies of dangerous rock masses can be obtained from their relative amplitude spectra. The first-order natural frequencies of dangerous rock masses undergoing constant micromotion are measurable. (2) The damage of the structural surface of a dangerous rock mass with macroscopic fractures can be identified by its first-order natural frequency. The center frequency cannot reflect the development of fractures. The damage of the structure of the surface of a dangerous rock mass with microscopic fractures can be identified by the change in the center frequency in its high-frequency band. The first-order natural frequency cannot reflect the development of fractures. (3) There are limitations in using single vibration mechanics theory or elastic wave scattering theory to analyze the damage of the structure of the surface of a dangerous rock mass; it is more effective to integrate both methods.
Interaction between Dietary Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K3 in Gilthead Seabream Larvae (Sparus aurata) in Relation to Growth and Expression of Bone Development-Related Genes
Authors: Sivagurunathan U. , Dominguez David , Tseng Yiyen , Zamorano María Jesús , Philip Antony Jesu Prabhu , Izquierdo Marisol
Published: May 2023

Vitamins D and K are essential fat-soluble nutrients that intervene in bone development processes among other biological functions. The present study is aimed at investigating the potential combined effect of dietary supplementation with vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and vitamin K3 (menadione) in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) larvae. For that purpose, seabream diets were supplemented with different combinations of vitamin D3/vitamin K3 (mg/kg diet) as follows: 0.00/0, 0.06/70, 0.06/170, 0.13/70, 0.13/170, 0.40/70, and 0.40/170. Feeding gilthead seabream larvae (22 days post hatch) for 21 days with the diets supplemented with 0.06-0.13 mg/kg vitamin D3 and 70 mg/kg vitamin K3 (diets 0.06/70 and 0.13/70) led to the highest larval growth and survival and the highest expression of important biomarkers of both bone development and health, such as bmp2, osx, and mgp, and calcium homeostasis, such as pthrp and casr. However, the increased supplementation with both vitamins at 0.40 mg/kg vitamin D3 and 170 mg/kg vitamin K3 (diet 0.40/170) reduced larval growth and survival, downregulated bmp2 and pthrp expressions, and upregulated osx and mgp, causing an unbalance in the relative expression of these genes. The results of the present study have shown the interaction between vitamin D3 supplementation and vitamin K3 supplementation in larval performance and gene expression related to bone development and calcium homeostasis, denoting the significance of a correct balance between both vitamins in larval diets.
Investigation on Mining-Induced Floor Water Inrush from Column and Its Control Based on Microseismic Monitoring
Authors: Liu Run , Zhi Guojun , Yang Shilei , Xu Xiaowei
Published: May 2023

Water inrush is the biggest threat for safe mining in the Ruifeng coalmine, located in North China. In the study mining area, the floor water inrush is mainly caused by mining activities and collapse column. In this article, the mechanical criteria of floor water inrush are obtained based on cusp catastrophe theory, which is used to assess floor water inrush risk in the Ruifeng coalmine. Theoretical analysis shows that floor water inrush is very likely to occur during coal mining without the influence of geological structures. Additionally, FLAC3D was used to simulate the damage of floor strata during the mining face advances. Numerical results show that the water inrush channel occurs in front of the mining face due to the influence of stress concentration. Therefore, a microseismic monitoring system was applied to monitor the formation of water inrush pathway. Field monitoring results show that two water inrush pathways were accurately predicted and positioned. Based on the microseismic monitoring results, target grouting was adopted to prevent water inrush. This study provides significant guidance for the prevention of floor water inrush.
Dynamic Analysis of the Project Investment Model with Time Delay and Density Constraints
Authors: Gao Debao
Published: May 2023

The purpose of research, invention, and production is to effectively supply demand, which requires not only financial support but also time to complete. First, the differential dynamic model among funds, demand, and research (including invention and production) with time delay is constructed by using the predator-prey theory. Second, the sufficiency of local asymptotic stability of the positive equilibrium point of the model is obtained by using the Hopf bifurcation theory and stability theory. Then, the formulas for determining the direction of Hopf bifurcation and the stability of the periodic solution are calculated by using the central manifold theory and normative theory. Finally, the evolution process of the differential dynamic model with controlled time delay is numerically simulated so as to verify the correctness of the relevant analytical conclusions.
In Search of Severity Dimensions of Traffic Conflicts for Different Simulated Mixed Fleets Involving Connected and Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Miqdady Tasneem , de Oña Rocío , de Oña Juan
Published: May 2023

This study aims to estimate the severity of conflicts that may arise from the introduction of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) by examining the vehicle paths generated by microsimulations of mixed fleets of human-driven vehicles and CAVs with different levels of automation (L1-L4 vehicles). The study assesses the severity of conflicts using a holistic approach that considers three dimensions: (1) proximity to collision, via the time-to-collision (TTC) indicator; (2) potential consequences of a conflict, via single surrogate safety measures such as maximum speed (MaxS) and vehicle speed difference (DeltaS); and (3) a combination of both dimensions to assign severity scores, via TTC and velocity vectors. The study’s findings suggest that moderate penetration rates of L3 and L4 vehicles (35–55%) show significant differences in the number of traffic conflicts with varying TTC values. Additionally, high penetration rates of L3 and L4 vehicles (above 55%) result in lower values of conflict consequences measures such as MaxS and DeltaS. Furthermore, the study shows that conflict consequences decrease if the follower is a L3 or L4 vehicle. The study’s findings also reveal that there is a considerable reduction in high severity conflicts when the penetration rate of CAV levels reaches 50%, and the full operation of L4 vehicles results in a 75.5% reduction in high severity conflicts. Therefore, this study provides valuable insight into the potential severe conflicts during the transition period from manual vehicle operation to full CAV operation. Overall, the study’s findings highlight the importance of assessing the severity of potential conflicts arising from the introduction of CAVs. By considering the proximity to collision and the potential consequences of conflicts, the study provides a comprehensive assessment of the severity of conflicts. This information can inform the development of policies and strategies to ensure the safe and responsible introduction of CAVs into our transportation systems.
Establishment and Test Effect of Artificial Intelligence Optimization Model Based on Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Zhou Chunrong , Jiang Zhenghong
Published: May 2023

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are often used in tasks involving vision processing, and unclear images can hinder the performance of convolutional neural networks and increase its computational time. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are related technologies, which are considered a branch of computer science, which are used to simulate and enhance human intelligence. In e-healthcare, AI and ML can be used to optimize the workflow, automatically process large amounts of medical data, and provide effective medical decision support. In this paper, the authors take several mainstream artificial intelligence models currently open on the market for reference. In this paper, the optimized model (AL-CNN) is tested for noise image recognition, and the AL-CNN model is established by using activation functions, matrix operations, and feature recognition methods, and the noisy images are processed after custom configuration. Not only does this model require no prior preparation when processing images, but it also improves the accuracy of dealing with noise in convolutional neural networks. In the AL-CNN in this paper, the architecture of the convolutional neural network includes a noise layer and a layer that can be automatically resized. After the comparison of the recognition experiments, the accuracy rate of AL-CNN is 20% higher than that of MatConvNet-moderate, and the accuracy rate is 40% higher than that of MatConvNet-chronic. In the second set of experiments, the accuracy exceeds MXNet and TensorFlow by 50% and 70%, respectively. In addition, the authors optimized the convolutional layer, pooling layer, and loss function of AL-CNN in different parameters, which improved the stability of noise processing, respectively. After customizing the two configuration optimizations, the authors found that the second optimized AL-CNN has higher recognition accuracy, and after the optimization test, the error rate can be continuously decreased as the number of recognition increases in a very short number of times.
Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Performances of Ultrathin CuBi2O4 Nanoflakes
Authors: Sekar Sankar , Sadhasivam Sutha , Nangai E. Kayalvizhi , Saravanan S. , Kim Deuk Young , Lee Sejoon
Published: May 2023

Semiconductor catalysts play a potential role for efficient electrocatalytic hydrogen production. In this work, copper bismuth oxide (CuBi2O4) nanostructures were synthesized via the coprecipitation method using two different Cu precursors: one is Cu(NO3)3·9H2O and the other is CuCl2. When using Cu(NO3)3·9H2O, the sample showed an interconnected and aggregated irregular spherical CuBi2O4 nanoparticle structure. On the other hand, the CuCl2-derived CuBi2O4 sample exhibited an interconnected ultrathin nanoflake structure. The CuBi2O4 nanoflakes displayed a higher electrochemically active surface area (160 cm2) than the CuBi2O4 nanoparticle (116 cm2). Accordingly, the CuBi2O4 nanoflakes revealed an excellent hydrogen evolution reaction performance with a low Tafel slope (117 mV/dec) and a small overpotential (384 mV at 10 mA/cm2 in 1 M KOH). These results specify that the CuBi2O4 nanoflakes are a suitable electrocatalyst material for high-performance water splitting.
The Steel Surface Multiple Defect Detection and Size Measurement System Based on Improved YOLOv5
Authors: Xu Yiming , Ding Ziheng , Li Wang , Zhang Kai , Tong Le
Published: May 2023

In the process of steel production, the defects on the surface of steel will adversely affect the subsequent processing of a product. Accurate detection of such defects is the key to improve production efficiency and economic benefits. In this paper, an end-to-end steel surface defect detection and size measurement system based on the YOLOv5 model is designed. Firstly, in consideration of the defect location and direction correlation in the production process, a coordinate attention mechanism is added at the head of YOLOv5 to strengthen the spatial correlation of the steel surface and an adaptive anchor box generation method based on defect shape difference feature is proposed, which realizes the detection of three main types of defects on the Pytorch deep learning framework. Secondly, BiFPN is used to strengthen the feature fusion and a transformer encoder is added to improve the performance of detecting small defects. Thirdly, calculate the conversion ratio between the pixel and the actual size according to the standard reference specimen and obtain the actual size through the pixel statistics of the defect area to achieve pixel level size measurement. Finally, the steel surface defect detection and size measurement system are designed in this paper, which consist of various hardware, related measurement, and detection algorithms. According to the experimental results, the comprehensive defect detection accuracy of this method reaches 93.6%, of which the scratch detection accuracy reaches 95.7%. The detection speed reaches 133 fps and the defect size measurement accuracy reaches 0.5 mm. Experimental result shows that the defect detection and size measurement system designed in this paper can accurately detect and measure various industrial production defects and can be applied to the actual production process.
Analyzing Influence of Mix Design Constituents on Compressive Strength, Setting Times, and Workability of Geopolymer Mortar and Paste
Authors: Oyejobi Damilola , Jameel Mohammed , Adewuyi Adekunle , Aina Samuel , Avudaiappan Siva , Maureira-Carsalade Nelson
Published: May 2023

Geopolymer concrete and mortar have evolved over the years as potential alternatives for reducing the greenhouse gases associated with cement production. This current research was aimed at investigating the optimum dosage and concentration of sodium hydroxide required to leach out silica and alumina oxides in the fly ash for geopolymerization to take place. Blackish grey fly ash from Morupule, Botswana, was synthesized by varying sodium hydroxide (NaOH) of 98% purity between 8 M and 14 M, respectively. The ratio influence of sodium hydroxide to fly ash in dissolving the oxides was carried out at the values of 0.55, 0.62, and 0.75. The results showed that the workability of the geopolymer mortar and paste decreased with the increase in the ratio of fly ash to alkaline activator. The highest workability was achieved at a ratio of 0.75 : 1. The compressive strength, setting time, and workability of geopolymer mortar and paste can be controlled by adjusting the ratio of fly ash to alkaline activator. A ratio of 1.5 : 1 was found to be the most suitable for achieving high compressive strength, while a ratio of 0.75 : 1 was found to be the most suitable for achieving high workability. Furthermore, the workability values were in the range of 105 to 143 mm, while the ranges of initial and final setting times were found to be between 280–350 and 950–1170 minutes, respectively. This study is significant because no previous study has carried out geopolmerization of the Morupule fly ash as a result of its unique characteristics. These findings have important implications for the development of sustainable construction materials. The main finding was that for optimum reaction to take place, and NaOH/fly ash ratio should be kept at 0.55 and molarity of 12 to avoid leaching of other oxides that might weaken the strength.
An Adult Case of Adenovirus-Associated Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Campbell Dewayne , Wong Gordon S. , Park Hyun , McLeod Gavin
Published: May 2023

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an autoimmune neurological disease that predominately affects pediatric population. Only a single fatal adult case of adenovirus-associated ADEM has previously been published by Qamar et al. in 2021. Here, we present an adult case of adenovirus-associated ADEM, which was diagnosed early in her clinical course. The patient was treated with the prompt initiation of steroids, intravenous immune globulin (IVIG), and plasmapheresis (PLEX), and the patient recovered fully. This case highlights the importance of early accurate diagnosis for other clinicians to treat adenovirus-associated ADEM in a timely fashion to prevent a potentially fatal outcome.
A Comprehensive Review: Interaction of Appearance and Behavior, Artificial Skin, and Humanoid Robot
Authors: Minh Trieu Nguyen , Truong Thinh Nguyen
Published: May 2023

The development of robotics is undeniable in recent years. Many developing contries face the growth of the elderly population, it is the premise and impetus for the development of research on humanoid robots to serve humans. Many studies on various aspects of robotics are carried out in different parts of the world. Many novel methods were introduced for the design of the robot’s external appearance, internal mechanisms, and gestures. Recent research on humanoid robots is designed to appear to be copies of the anthropometric indicators of real people, which may affect the security of other people’s identities. Besides, these robots cause a feeling of horror in the user if their appearance is in the position of the uncanny valley. Therefore, these designs need to be carefully considered before fabrication. Artificial skin is studied for various purposes such as ensuring collision safety for industrial users and helping robots to perceive basic tactile sensations. This review consists of the recent literature on the interaction of appearance and behavior of robot interaction, artificial skin, and especially humanoid robots, including appearance, such as android and Geminoid robots. This work can provide a reference for humanoid robot research, including uncanny valley hypotheses, artificial skin, and humanoid robots.
Fabrication of ECM Mimicking Bioactive Scaffold: A Regenerative Approach for MSC Mediated Applications
Authors: Koka Pavani , Chandramohan Yamini , Perumal Elumalai , Kavarthapu Avinash , Dhanasekaran Anuradha , Chandran Anusha , Gunasekaran Krishnamoorthy
Published: May 2023

Biomaterials are feasible resources that aids to replace damaged structures in our bodies. The most biologically active flora is Aloe vera which has many bioactive compounds that are anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and have ECM mimicking protein content which helps in the healing of wounds and also acts as an ECM factor for stem cell homing and differentiation. The Aloe vera containing 10

w
/
v

of gelatin was lyophilized. Scaffolds had sharper morphology, greater hydrophilic properties, and a Young’s modulus of 6.28 MPa and 15.9 MPa of higher tensile strength are desirable. In tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, biologically active scaffolds have been producing hopeful outcomes in both restoration and replacement, respectively. The objective of the present investigation is to test the idea that incorporating gelatin to Aloe vera scaffolds might enhance their structure, good biocompatibility, and possibly even bioactivity. The SEM picture of the composite scaffold revealed pore walls. The scaffolds had linked pores with diameters ranging from 93 to 296 μm. Aloe vera and the matrix interact well, according to the FTIR study, which could lead to a reduction in the amount of water-binding sites and a reduction in the material’s ability to absorb water. Aloe vera with 10% gelatin (AV/G) scaffold was investigated for different biological reactions of human gingival tissue mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in terms of cell proliferation, morphology, and cell migration. The results demonstrated the potential of the AV/G scaffold as a biomaterial that offers new insight in the field of tissue engineering.
The Perception of Farmers on Soil Erosion and Conservation Measures in the Surrounding Areas of Lake Ziway, Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia
Authors: Negasa Daniel Jaleta
Published: May 2023

The level of sediment deposited in the Lake Ziway is increasing through time as a result of soil erosion, and eventually the depth of the lake has decreased. Therefore, the objective of the study was to assess farmers’ perception of soil erosion and the conservation measures to the surrounding areas of Lake Ziway in the central Rift Valley of Ethiopia. The survey was made using purposive sampling techniques. The survey has considered the 14 Kebeles from the 3 districts adjacent to the lake. From each Kebele, 10 respondents were selected randomly. Totally, 140 respondents were selected from the community. The descriptive statistic was used to compare the dependent variables. The majority of respondents (92.2%) have observed the presence of soil erosion in the study area. The hillsides and slope areas are the major sources of soil erosion, according to 80% of the respondents. The respondents that have identified the most and least susceptible soils to erosion by their textural classes are sand soil (Biyyo Chirecha) (57.1%) and soft clay soil (Biyyo Bole) (1.4%), respectively. The soil erosion is increasing in their cultivated land and surrounding areas. The study has found that most of the respondents (86.5%) are participating in soil and water conservation activities. Leucaena leucocephala, Faidherbia albida, Azadirachta indica, and Schinus molle are the dominant tree species planted in the study area for soil and water conservation purposes. In conclusion, there is heavy soil loss due to erosion on cultivated land from the upland which directly deposited to Lake Ziway as sediment which decreases the lake depth. The study recommends that appropriate soil and water conservation measures and land management should be implemented on erosion prone areas in the Lake Ziway watershed with full participation of all stakeholders including the local farmers.
Sharp Bounds of Kulli–Basava Indices in Generalized Form for k-Generalized Quasi Trees
Authors: Afridi Sheeba , Khan Muhammad Yasin , Ali Gohar , Ali Murtaza , Nurhidayat Irfan , Arefin Mohammad Asif
Published: May 2023

Molecular descriptors are a basic tool in the spectral graph, molecular chemistry, and various other fields of mathematics and chemistry. Kulli–Basava

K
B

indices were initiated for chemical applications of various substances in chemistry. For simple graph

G

,

K
B

indices in generalized forms are

K

B

1

ϱ

G

=

∑

g
h
∈
E

G

S

e

g

+

S

e

h

ϱ

and

K

B

2

ϱ

G

=

∑

g
h
∈
E

G

S

e

g

.

S

e

h

ϱ

, where

S

e

g

=

∑

e
∈

N

e

g

d

G

e

, and for edge

e
=

g
,
h

, the degree is

d

G

e

=

d

G

g

+

d

G

h

−
2

and

ϱ
≠
0

is any real number. The graph

G

is said to be a

k
−
g
e
n
e
r
a
l
i
z
e
d

quasi tree if for the vertex set

U

k

⊂
G

having

U

k

=
k

,

G
−

U

k

is a tree and for

U

k
−
1

⊂
V

G

having

U

k
−
1

=
k
−
1

,

G
−

U

k
−
1

is not a tree. In this research work, we have successfully investigated sharp bounds of generalized

K
B

indices for k-generalized quasi trees where

ϱ
≥
1

. Chemical applications of the generalized form are also studied for alkane isomers with scatter diagrams and residuals.
Cross-Sectional Study on COVID-19 Prevention and Vaccination Status of Veterinary Colleges in Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Sanda M. E. , Ngene A. C. , Otuh P. I. , Oyeleye F. A. , Ogunro B. N. , Olorunleke S. O. , Nwokeoji E. A. , Kalu E. , Njoku N. U. , Ogbonna I. J. , Aronu C. J. , Okokon A. A. , Amadi J.C. , Akpan C. A. N.
Published: May 2023

COVID-19 vaccination and compliance with the established prevention protocols are integral to curbing the spread of the COVID-19 virus; however, there is a paucity of information on compliance with these measures among veterinary schools within southeast Nigeria. To fill this gap, we evaluated the vaccination status and individual’s perception of the preventive measures against COVID-19 infections. A cross-sectional study using a self-reported internet-based questionnaire was employed to obtain responses from students and staff of the veterinary colleges in southeast Nigeria. Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify significant factors associated with vaccination status and compliance with the COVID-19 prevention protocols by the respondents. A total of 183 individuals participated in the online survey. Although 75% (138/183) of the respondents revealed a willingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine, only 25.1% (46/183) of the respondents had received one or more doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. We observed that male respondents (28 ± 4.4% (95% CI 19–37)) had a higher percentage of vaccinated individuals than female respondents. Furthermore, the academic staff of the veterinary colleges were 39.70 (95% CI 2.50–630.65;

p
=
0.01

) times more likely to get vaccinated than undergraduate students. The educational status of the respondent greatly contributed to the willingness to get vaccinated, and individuals within the age bracket of 31 to 40 years were 10.2 ± 1.07 (95% CI 1.33–92.25;

p
=
0.03

) times less likely to comply with the COVID-19 prevention protocols. Although a high proportion of the respondents had a good perception of the COVID-19 prevention protocols, only 25.1% of the members of the veterinary colleges in southeast Nigeria had been vaccinated. Therefore, there is a need to create better awareness channels to improve the vaccination status of members of veterinary colleges in southeast Nigeria.
Contribution of Nontimber Forest Products Earn to Livelihood in Rural Households and the Type of Use: A Systematic Review
Authors: Derebe Binega , Alemu Asmamaw , Asfaw Zebene
Published: May 2023

The researcher conducted a review of 83 articles published between 2011 and 2021 to determine the nontimber forest products (NTFPs) income contribution and usage types based on spatial and temporal patterns. The study used a search, synthesis, appraisal, and analysis framework for review. The review included articles that only focused on the contributions of NTFPs for livelihood income and NTFPs usage type, while others not related to these two topics were excluded. For its literature search, more than half of the articles used Google Scholar, followed by Research4life, Scopus/Elsevier, EMBASE, and PubMed, respectively. In this study, excluding papers that (i) did not provide evidence on the income contribution of NTFPs, (ii) did not include articles that did not clearly explain the NTFPs use types, and (iii) were published before 2011, the reviewer was able to reduce the number of included articles (eligibility criteria or inclusion and exclusion criteria). 83 article papers were reviewed for the current review. The majority of the research for this review was carried out in India (19%), Ethiopia (13%), and Nigeria (11%). India was the first of the 17 both Asian and African countries to do research on the NTFPs’ contribution to rural household income and type of use. NTFPs contribute significantly to rural household revenue in 17 countries, ranging from a minimum of 9.5% in Zambia to a maximum of 40.19% in Myanmar. The average percentage of revenue from NTFPs across the 17 nations was 23.56%. Wild fruit, wild vegetables, medicinal plants, firewood, and crafts were the five NTFP usage types that were used by people in every country studied. Despite the fact that different countries utilize different types of NTFPs, the most commonly used types of NTFPs do not differ statistically (

P
>
0.05

). To prevent overexploitation, those top five NTFPs must be conserved as they gather across the regions. NTFP collection is a significant source of revenue for rural poor and people who live in and around the forest. There are many types of NTFPs in both Asian and African countries. So, this study shows that the rural people depend on the forest product and get many benefits from the forest especially in the NTFP usage type. In order to secure livelihood stability in this global biodiversity hotspot and to preserve plant and animal diversity, the cultivation and scientific harvesting of NTFPs are urgently required. It is necessary to increase capacity by teaching NTFP users how, when, and how much to harvest.
Associations between Physical Activity and Incidence of Cancer among Overweight Adults in Korea: Results from the Health Examinees-G Study
Authors: Choi Jaesung , Park JooYong , Kim Ji-Eun , Lee Miyoung , Kang Daehee , Shin Aesun , Choi Ji-Yeob
Published: May 2023

Although the protective effects of physical activity against several cancers are well established, evidence is inconsistent concerning Asian populations. Therefore, we assessed the association between the characteristics of physical activity and overall and type-specific cancer incidence in Koreans and examined the differences in association according to obesity status. Using prospective data from 112,108 participants in the Health Examinees study-G from 2004 to 2013, we evaluated the association between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and the incidence of overall and type-specific cancers using the Cox proportional hazards model. Self-reported LTPA participation, duration per week, intensity, type, and diversity were assessed. The incidence of overall and type-specific cancers, including colorectal, gastric, lung, breast, and prostate cancer and 13 obesity-related cancers, was identified using the Korea Central Cancer Registry from 1999 to 2018. Analyses were also stratified according to obesity status. In overweight males, participation in vigorous LTPA [HR, 0.84; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.72–0.97] and walking (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.72–0.98) were associated with a lower risk of cancer overall. Regarding cancer types, climbing was marginally associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer in overweight males (HR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.37–1.00). In normal-weight females, although there was an increased risk in those performing recreational activities, this risk was attenuated when those diagnosed with thyroid cancer were excluded. In the analysis for 13 obesity-related cancers, consistent associations were found. These findings suggest the need for greater public awareness regarding physical activity among overweight individuals within the Asian population.

Prevention Relevance:

Overall cancer risk is associated with leisure-time physical activity such as duration, intensity, type, and diversity in overweight males, but not in the general population. The decreased risk was most noticeable for colorectal cancer. Our results suggest that physical activity may reduce the risk of cancer among overweight Asian males.
Branched‐Chain Amino Acids in Computed Tomography–Defined Adipose Depots and Coronary Artery Disease: A PROMISE Trial Biomarker Substudy
Authors: Zhao Elizabeth , Giamberardino Stephanie N. , Pagidipati Neha J. , Voora Deepak , Ginsburg Geoffrey S. , Hoffmann Udo , Karády Júlia , Ferencik Maros , Douglas Pamela S. , Foldyna Borek , Shah Svati H.
Published: May 2023

Background

The interplay between branched‐chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism, an important pathway in adiposity and cardiometabolic disease, and visceral adipose depots such as hepatic steatosis (HS) and epicardial adipose tissue is unknown. We leveraged the PROMISE clinical trial with centrally adjudicated coronary computed tomography angiography imaging to determine relationships between adipose depots, BCAA dysregulation, and coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods and Results

The PROMISE (Prospective Multicenter Imaging Study for Evaluation of Chest Pain) trial randomized 10 003 outpatients with stable chest pain to computed tomography angiography versus standard‐of‐care diagnostics. For this study, we included 1798 participants with available computed tomography angiography data and biospecimens. Linear and logistic regression were used to determine associations between a molar sum of BCAAs measured by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy with body mass index, adipose traits, and obstructive CAD. Mendelian randomization was then used to determine if BCAAs are in the causal pathway for adipose depots or CAD. The study sample had a mean age of 60 years (SD, 8.0), body mass index of 30.6 (SD, 5.9), and epicardial adipose tissue volume of 57.3 (SD, 21.3) cm
3
/m
2
; 27% had HS, and 14% had obstructive CAD. BCAAs were associated with body mass index (multivariable beta 0.12 per SD increase in BCAA [95% CI, 0.08–0.17];
P
=4×10
−8
). BCAAs were also associated with HS (multivariable odds ratio [OR], 1.46 per SD increase in BCAAs [95% CI, 1.28–1.67];
P
=2×10
−8
), but BCAAs were associated only with epicardial adipose tissue volume (odds ratio, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.07–1.32];
P
=0.002) and obstructive CAD (OR, 1.18 [95% CI, 1.04–1.34];
P
=0.009) in univariable models. Two‐sample Mendelian randomization did not support the role of BCAAs as within the causal pathways for HS or CAD.

Conclusions

BCAAs have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiometabolic diseases, and adipose depots have been associated with the risk of CAD. Leveraging a large clinical trial, we further establish the role of dysregulated BCAA catabolism in HS and CAD, although BCAAs did not appear to be in the causal pathway of either disease. This suggests that BCAAs may serve as an independent circulating biomarker of HS and CAD but that their association with these cardiometabolic diseases is mediated through other pathways.
Effect of Adapted Mindfulness Training in Participants With Elevated Office Blood Pressure: The MB‐BP Study: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Loucks Eric B. , Schuman‐Olivier Zev , Saadeh Frances B. , Scarpaci Matthew M. , Nardi William R. , Proulx Jeffrey A. , Gutman Roee , King Jean , Britton Willoughby B. , Kronish Ian M.
Published: May 2023

Background

Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Despite availability of effective lifestyle and medication treatments, blood pressure (BP) is poorly controlled in the United States. Mindfulness training may offer a novel approach to improve BP control. The objective was to evaluate the effects of Mindfulness‐Based Blood Pressure Reduction (MB‐BP) versus enhanced usual care control on unattended office systolic BP.

Methods and Results

Methods included a parallel‐group phase 2 randomized clinical trial conducted from June 2017 to November 2020. Follow‐up time was 6 months. Outcome assessors and data analyst were blinded to group allocation. Participants had elevated unattended office BP (≥120/80 mm Hg). We randomized 201 participants to MB‐BP (n=101) or enhanced usual care control (n=100). MB‐BP is a mindfulness‐based program adapted for elevated BP. Loss‐to‐follow‐up was 17.4%. The primary outcome was change in unattended office systolic BP at 6 months. A total of 201 participants (58.7% women; 81.1% non‐Hispanic White race and ethnicity; mean age, 59.5 years) were randomized. Results showed that MB‐BP was associated with a 5.9‐mm Hg reduction (95% CI, −9.1 to −2.8 mm Hg) in systolic BP from baseline and outperformed the control group by 4.5 mm Hg at 6 months (95% CI, −9.0 to −0.1 mm Hg) in prespecified analyses. Plausible mechanisms with evidence to be impacted by MB‐BP versus control were sedentary activity (−350.8 sitting min/wk [95% CI, −636.5 to −65.1] sitting min/wk), Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet (0.32 score [95% CI, −0.04 to 0.67]), and mindfulness (7.3 score [95% CI, 3.0–11.6]).

Conclusions

A mindfulness‐based program adapted for individuals with elevated BP showed clinically relevant reductions in systolic BP compared with enhanced usual care. Mindfulness training may be a useful approach to improve BP.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifiers: NCT03256890 and NCT03859076.
Sociodemographic Factors, Policy Satisfaction, Perceived Character: What Factors Explain President Duterte’s Popularity?
Authors: Ducanes Geoffrey M. , Rood Steven , Tigno Jorge
Published: May 2023

The persistently high satisfaction ratings of President Rodrigo Duterte, despite various perceived policy missteps and in contrast to the pattern for previous Presidents, have puzzled pundits and scholars alike. Using three waves of the Social Weather Stations’ Social Weather Surveys, this article examines the extent to which sociodemographic factors, policy satisfaction, and perceptions of the character of the President could explain this ‘puzzle’. The three survey waves correspond to the beginning of President Duterte’s term, the period when he obtained his lowest net satisfaction rating, and the most recent available data at the time of this study. The study finds that sociodemographic factors, policy satisfaction, and perception of the President’s character all contribute to explaining his high satisfaction rating. Based on the most recent survey examined, perception of the President’s character appears to be the most important for distinguishing those who are satisfied from those who are dissatisfied with the President.
How Selected Pro-Duterte Facebook Pages Framed the ABS-CBN Shutdown Issue: A Discussion on Epistemic Discrediting in Echo Chambers
Authors: Divinagracia Anthony Andrew G.
Published: May 2023

This article looks into the discursive frames employed by selected pro-Duterte pages on Facebook that tackled the ABS-CBN shutdown and franchise denial issues in 2020. The legal frames were mostly derived from the findings of the lawmakers’ technical working group (TWG). The political frames, meanwhile, include ABS-CBN’s alleged biased reporting, the victory-over-oligarchs narrative pushed by the Duterte administration and other related pronouncements. The article identifies these frames as reinforcing layers to fortify the echo chamber behavior of pro-Duterte pages through an attack-amplify-attract stratagem. C. Thi Nguyen’s study resembling echo chambers anchored on “epistemic discrediting” was operationalized for this purpose. Data from the selected pro-Duterte pages were mined using the timeline feature of Crowd Tangle as the official social listening tool of Facebook. The article also explored the impact of pro-Duterte pages on ABS-CBN’s stature as a legacy media giant and on the Duterte presidency as a social media-driven administration.
Summoned Letters, the Disjointed Letters and the Talisman of Ibn ʿArabī
Authors: Rašić Dunja
Published: May 2023

Twenty-nine chapters (sūras) of the Qur’an begin with the disjointed letters (al-ḥurūf al-muqaṭṭaʿāt). These fourteen letters of the Arabic alphabet thus became known as the “openers of the chapters” (fawātiḥ aṣ-ṣuwar). This paper focuses on Ibn ʿArabī’s writings on three disjointed letters, namely, ʾalif-lām-mīm, as well as their meaning, and the power and the talisman he associated with them. This talisman was meant to capture the power of the disjointed letters, so that a spiritual Seeker could reach the totality of knowledge and unity with God.
Controllable Synthesis of Well-Monodispersed ZnS Nanospheres Through a Simple Sol–Gel Method and a Rapid Co-Phase Precipitation Method
Authors: Song Shixin , Zhang Mu , Li Xiaodong , Sun Xu-Dong , Fouad Hassan , Akhtar M. S.
Published: May 2023

In this study, the sol–gel method was used to prepare well-monodispersed ZnS nanopowders with a powder size of approximately 0.5 μm. The starting materials used were Zn(NO3)2 · 6H2O and C2H5NS. However, the
agglomeration problem of the powders was addressed by adding an appropriate amount of (C6H9NO)n. The sol–gel method successfully produced submicron-sized ZnS powders. To further reduce the powder particle size, a rapid co-phase precipitation method was employed.
This method involved using ZnCl2 and C2H5NS, which yielded ZnS nanopowders with a particle size of approximately 50 nm. The key focus of this method was on selecting the precipitating agent and emulsion to control the precipitation of ZnS nanoparticles. Both
methods resulted in finer powder particle sizes and higher powder purity compared to commercial ZnS powders. These improvements in the optical and mechanical properties of ZnS IR-transmitting ceramics are significant. Overall, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of using these methods
for synthesizing high-quality ZnS nanopowders.
Serum cortisol assay performance following the 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test
Authors: Atkins Jonathan S , Hawley James M , Owen Laura J , Clayton Jonathan , Scargill Jonathan , Keevil Brian G
Published: May 2023

Background

The 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test (ONDST) is recommended for the differential diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome and the investigation of adrenal incidentalomas. Despite documented variation in serum cortisol immunoassay performance, little has been published regarding its effect on the ONDST.

Aims

Assess the performance of three immunoassay platforms (Roche Elecsys II, Abbott Alinity & Siemens Centaur) when compared to a liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method.

Methods

Samples ( n = 77) sent to the laboratory as part of an ONDST were retrieved prior to disposal, anonymized, and analysed on all platforms. Samples with factors impacting immunoassay analysis quality were excluded. Results were statistically compared to an LC-MS/MS method that previously demonstrated excellent comparability to a candidate reference method.

Results

The Roche gen II showed a mean bias of −2.4 nmol/L and a Passing–Bablok fit of y = −0.9 + 0.97x. This was not affected by sex. The Abbott showed a mean bias −18.8 nmol/L, and a fit of y = −11.3 + 0.88x. This bias was −20.7 nmol/L in females versus −17.2 nmol/L in males. The Siemens had a mean bias of 2.3 nmol/L and a fit of y = 1.4 + 1.07x. This bias was 5.7 nmol/L in males versus −1.0 nmol/L in females.

Conclusions

Clinicians should be aware of the method-dependent variation that exists within serum cortisol analysis during the ONDSTs. Roche and Siemens aligned more closely with LC-MS/MS while the Abbot may cause a reduction in ONDST sensitivity. This data supports assay-specific cut-offs for the ONDST.
Light-Sensitive Injectable Prescription Drugs—2022
Authors: Elste Jessica M. , Ipema Heather J. , Denton Christie , Munir Faria , Alomari Ruba , Dazy Anna , Macrito Rosa , Szydlowski Nicole
Published: May 2023

This chart is an update to the 2014 article published in Hospital Pharmacy on injectable drugs that require protection from light. To update the chart, an online search of the FDALabel database was performed from inception through July 31, 2022 using the terms “protect” OR “light.” After filtering out drugs with non-injectable routes of administration, the list of generic drug names was combined with the 2014 list and duplicates were removed. The resulting list of drugs was then reviewed to determine whether the drugs require protection from light during storage, preparation, or administration. The reader should always consult the Food and Drug Administration-approved prescribing information for the most up-to-date information regarding the need for protection from light.
Systematic Review of Piperacillin-Tazobactam and Vancomycin Y-Site Compatibility: Consideration of Concentration and Solution Variability
Authors: Ingalls Emily M. , Yost Sarah , Waters C. Dustin
Published: May 2023

Simultaneous administration of vancomycin and piperacillin-tazobactam (VPT) poses significant challenges related to physical and chemical compatibility, as well as clinical practice. A systematic review of available literature related to VPT Y-site compatibility was performed. Data was collected from primary and tertiary sources. Seven articles were included in addition to one internal assessment and one review article and information from tertiary drug databases. The literature supports the simultaneous administration via Y-site of piperacillin-tazobactam 33.75 mg/mL in normal saline (NS) and vancomycin 4 to 8 mg/mL in NS. The same drug products at differing concentrations, diluents, storage conditions, or preparations outside of this recommendation should be considered incompatible.
Cefepime Versus Piperacillin-Tazobactam for the Treatment of Intra-Abdominal Infections Secondary to Potential AmpC Beta-Lactamase-Producing Organisms
Authors: Gamble Kelly C. , Rose Dusten T. , Chang Stephanie Y. , Hodge Emily K. , Jaso Theresa C. , Trust Marc D. , Daley Mitchell J.
Published: May 2023

Background: Recent studies have established cefepime as an effective treatment option for AmpC beta-lactamase (AmpC) Enterobacterales; however, the efficacy of beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitors is unclear. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine if piperacillintazobactamis an appropriate alternative to cefepime for the treatment of intra-abdominal infections (IAIs) secondary to AmpC-producing organisms. Methods: This multicenter, retrospective cohort study was conducted in hospitalized adults with an IAI caused by an AmpC-producing organism and received either cefepime or piperacillin-tazobactam for definitive treatment after a source control procedure. The primary outcome was a composite of surgical site infections, recurrent IAIs, or in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the composite outcome, hospital length of stay (LOS), microbiologic failure, study antibiotic duration, time to clinical resolution, and incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Results: This study included 119 patients. There was no difference in the primary outcome between the cefepime and piperacillin-tazobactam groups (35% vs 27%, P = 0.14). Microbiological failure was the only secondary outcome with an observed difference between groups (17% vs 0%, P = 0.01): hospital LOS (15 vs 13 days, P = 0.09), days of therapy (7 vs 7 days, P = 0.87), time to clinical resolution (7 vs 4 days, P = 0.30), and CDI (1% vs 2%, P = 0.58) were all similar.