bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Versatile Suspended Lipid Membrane System for Probing Membrane Remodeling and Disruption
Authors: Sannigrahi Achinta , Rai Vishwesh Haricharan , Chalil Muhsin Vannan , Chakraborty Debayani , Meher Subrat Kumar , Roy Rahul
Published: September 2022

Artificial membrane systems can serve as models to investigate molecular mechanisms of different cellular processes, including transport, pore formation, and viral fusion. However, the current simulacrums such as SUVs, GUVs, and the supported lipid bilayers suffer from issues, namely high curvature, heterogeneity, and surface artefacts, respectively. Freestanding membranes provide a facile solution to these issues, but current systems developed by various groups use silicon or aluminium oxide wafers for fabrication that involves access to a dedicated nanolithography facility and high cost while conferring poor membrane stability. Here, we report the development, characterization and applications of an easy-to-fabricate suspended lipid bilayer (SULB) membrane platform leveraging commercial track-etched porous filters (PCTE) with defined microwell size. Our SULB system offers a platform to study the lipid composition-dependent structural and functional properties of membranes with exceptional stability in a high throughput fashion. With dye entrapped in PCTE microwells by SULB, we show that sphingomyelin significantly augments the activity of pore-forming toxin, Cytolysin A (ClyA) and the pore formation induces lipid exchange between the bilayer leaflets. Further, we demonstrate high efficiency and rapid kinetics of membrane fusion by dengue virus in our SULB platform. Our suspended bilayer membrane mimetic offers a novel platform to investigate a large class of biomembrane interactions and processes.
The Bioactive Phenolic Agents Diaryl Ether CVB2-61 and Diarylheptanoid CVB4-57 as Connexin Hemichannel Blocker
Authors: Dierks Anne , Vanucci-Bacqué Corinne , Schäfer Anne-Marie , Lehrich Tina , Ruhe Frederike , Schadzek Patrik , Bedos-Belval Florence , Ngezahayo Anaclet
Published: September 2022

Inflammation mediators enhance the activity of connexin (Cx) hemichannels especially in the epithelial and endothelial tissues. As potential release route for injury signals like (oligo)nucleotides, Cx hemichannels may contribute to long lasting inflammation. Specific inhibition of Cx hemichannels may therefore be a mode of prevention and treatment of long lasting, chronic sterile inflammation. The activity of Cx hemichannels was analysed in N2A and HeLa cells transfected with human Cx26 and Cx46 as well as in Calu-3 cells using the dye uptake as functional assay. Moreover, possible impact of the bioactive phenolic agents CVB2-61 and CVB4-57 on the barrier function of epithelial cells was analysed using Calu-3 cells. Both agents inhibited the dye uptake in N2A cells expressing Cx26 (> 5 µM) and Cx46 (> 20 µM). In Calu-3 cells, CVB2-61 and CVB4-57 reversible inhibited the dye uptake at concentrations as low as 5 µM, without affecting the gap junction communication and barrier function, even at concentrations of 20 µM. While CVB2-61 or CVB4-57 maintained a reduced dye uptake in Calu-3 cells, an enhancement of the dye uptake in response to stimulation of adenosine signaling was still observed after removal of the agents. The report shows that CVB2-61 and CVB4-57 reversible block Cx hemichannels. Deciphering the interaction mechanisms with Cx hemichannels could allow further development of phenolic compounds to target Cx hemichannels for a better and safer use in treatment of pathologies that involve Cx hemichannels.
Appropriate Human Serum Albumin Fluid Therapy and the Alleviation COVID-19 Vulnerabilities; An Explanation of the HSA Lymphatic Nutrient Pump
Authors: Johnson Andrew S. , Polese Gianluca , Johnson Max , Winlow William
Published: September 2022

COVID-19 and long COVID-19 vulnerabilities may be caused indirectly by albumin binding deficiency (ABD) which can be corrected by the correct administration of human serum albumin (HSA). The liver is the primary site of nutrient regulation and fluid volume maintenance, control of both is by changes to albumin concentration. In healthy subjects the HSA lymphatic nutrient pump (HSALNP) ensures continual pumping of nutrients from the liver are appropriately distributed to organs. Nutrients are delivered to cells according to the availability of binding to HSA. The HSALNP therefore maintains the correct nutrients and colloidal pressure balance in all tissues independently. In unhealthy tissues, following COVID-19 infection, the passage of HSA/nutrients through the interstitial spaces and lymph will be impeded. Fluid therapy into the periphery leads to dilution of essential nutrients attached to the protein-carriers such as albumin. The levels of albumin being charged by the liver with nutrients is critical in maintaining immune stability by maintaining nutrient support and colloidal pressure of cellular structures. The site of HSA binding by the liver is of great importance and direct infusion of albumin into the Hepatic Portal Vein is the most appropriate method of maintaining colloid pressure and cellular nutrient levels.
Liposome Formulation for Tumor-Targeted Drug Delivery Using Radiation Therapy
Authors: Stolarz Amanda J. , Chhetri Bijay P. , Borrelli Michael J. , Jenkins Samir V. , Jamshidi-Parsian Azemat , Phillips Joshua H. , Fologea Daniel , Gandy Jay , Griffin Robert J.
Published: September 2022

Targeted delivery of drugs or other therapeutic agents through internal or external triggers has been used to control and accelerate the release from liposomal carriers in a number of studies, but relatively few utilize energy of therapeutic X-rays as a trigger. We have synthesized liposomes that are triggered by ionizing radiation (RTLs) to release their therapeutic payload. These liposomes are composed of natural egg PE, DSPC, cholesterol, and DSPE-PEG-2000, and the mean size of the RTL was in the range of 114 to 133 nm, as measured by NTA. The trigger mechanism is the organic halogen, chloral hydrate, which is known to generate free protons upon exposure to ionizing radiation. Once protons are liberated, a drop in internal pH of the liposome promotes destabilization of the lipid bilayer and escape of the liposomal contents. In proof of principle studies, we assessed RTL radiation-release of fluorescent tracers upon exposure to a low pH extracellular environment or exposure to X-ray irradiation. Biodistribution imaging before and after irradiation demonstrated a preferential uptake and release of the liposomes and their cargo at the site of local tumor irradiation. Finally, a potent metabolite of the commonly used chemotherapy irinotecan, SN-38, was loaded into RTL along with near infrared (NIR) fluorescent dyes for imaging studies and measuring tumor cell cytotoxicity alone or combined with radiation exposure, in vitro and in vivo. Fully loaded RTLs were found to increase tumor cell killing with radiation in vitro and enhance tumor growth delay in vivo after three i.v. injections combined with three, 5 Gy local tumor radiation exposures compared to either treatment modality alone.
Contour-Based Metric for the Evaluation of Image Defogging without a Ground Truth
Authors: DeMas-Giménez Gerard , García-Gómez Pablo , Casas Josep R. , Royo Santiago
Published: September 2022

Fog, haze, or smoke are usual atmospheric phenomena that dramatically compromise the overall visibility of any scene, critically affecting features such as illumination, contrast, and contour detection of objects. The decrease in visibility compromises the performance of computer vision algorithms such as pattern recognition and segmentation, some of them very relevant for decision-making for the security or autonomous vehicle industries. Several dehazing methods have been proposed, however, to the best of our knowledge, all proposed metrics compare the defogged image to its ground truth for evaluation of the defogging algorithms, or need to estimate parameters through physical models. This fact hinders progress in the field as obtaining proper ground truth images is costly and time-consuming, and physical parameters greatly depend on the scene conditions. This paper aims to tackle this issue by proposing a contour-based metric for image defogging evaluation that does not need a ground truth image. The proposed metric only requires the original hazy RGB image and the RGB image after the defogging procedure. A comparison of the proposed metric with metrics currently used in the NTIRE 2018 defogging challenge is performed to prove its effectiveness in a general situation, showing comparable results to conventional metrics.
Sociodemographic and Economic Profile of Bicycle-Taxi Riders and Revenue Modelling in Quelimane, Mozambique
Authors: Jone Arlete Freitas , Runhungwe Solomon , Ferrao Joao Luis
Published: September 2022

Bicycling is a tremendously efficient means of transportation both in socio-economic and environmental sustainability parameters. Therefore, they are fast becoming the primary mode of transportation in some other parts of Africa. Quelimane is a city which is found in Mozambique where bicycle-taxi is a major means of transportation. However, very little is known about the social and economic profiles of these city bicycle-taxi riders. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the socio demographic and economic profile of bicycle-taxi riders. A cross-sectional study survey using a simple random probabilistic sample (n = 357, α = 0.05) was conducted. The questionnaire consisted of 20 items in five major groups, sociodemographic, economics, riding factors, safety and motivational factors. Pearson Chi square, t test and linear regression tests were carried out to test for statistical analysis. The activity is carried out mostly by males (98.9 %), under the age of 35 years. Their academic records, ranking highest, with secondary education background, bicycles are obtained through rental programs in order to perform taxing. After expenses, daily earnings generate a total revenue of USD 5.75. Sex, marital status, house type, years riding, bicycle make and meal per day, are associated with daily revenue income. Bicycle-taxi activity in Quelimane is an income generating activity. Mainly young citizens are involved due to the high unemployment rate. Nonetheless, bicycle taxing created an untapped market for self-employment, where the majority of youths in Quelimane generate their own revenue, thereby improving their livelihood.
Refractory Arterial Hypertension: Features of Neurohormonal and Water-salt Imbalanceand Approaches to Antihypertensive Drug Therapy
Authors: Kuzmin O. B. , Zhezha V. V.
Published: September 2022

Refractory arterial hypertension is characterized by a lack of control of target blood pressure, despite the prolonged use >5 antihypertensive drugs with different mechanisms of action, including longacting diuretic chlorthalidone and the mineralcorticoid receptor antagonists (spironolactone or eplerenone). The review presents the results of clinical studies devoted the elucidating peculiarities of the neurohormonal status and water-salt balance in such patients and developing new approaches to antihypertensive drug therapy based on them. According to these studies, individuals with refractory hypertension differ from patients with resistant hypertension with the higher of sympathetic nervous system activity and the absence of an increased of intrathoracic fluid volume, which indirectly indicates a significant decrease in the intravascular fluid volume. In this regard, the review focuses on the data obtained in assessing the clinical efficacy of sympatholytics clonidine and reserpine in patients with resistant and refractory hypertension, as well as renal sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitors, which suppress the sympathetic nervous system activity and can be used to overcome refractory hypertension in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Direct torque control based on second order sliding mode controller for three-level inverter-fed permanent magnet synchronous motor: comparative study
Authors: Guezi A. , Bendaikha A. , Dendouga A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction. The permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) has occupied a large area in the industry because of various benefits such as its simple structure, reduced moment of inertia, and quick dynamic response. Several control techniques have been introduced for the control of the PMSM. The direct torque control strategy associated to three-level clamped neutral point inverter has been proven its effectiveness to solve problems of ripples in both electromagnetic torque and stator flux with regard to its significant advantages in terms of fast torque response. Purpose. The use of a proportional integral speed controller in the direct torque control model results in a loss of decoupling with regard to parameter fluctuations (such as a change in stator resistance value induced by an increase in motor temperature), which is a significant drawback for this method at high running speeds. Methods. That is way a second order sliding mode controller based on the super twisting algorithm (STA) was implemented instead of PI controller to achieve a decoupled control with higher performance and to insure stability while dealing with parameter changes and external disturbances. Results. The simulation results carried out using MATLAB/Simulink software show that the model of direct torque control based on a three-level inverter-fed permanent magnet synchronous motor drive has better performance with second order sliding mode speed controller than the proportional integral controller. Through the response characteristics we see greater performance in terms of response time and reference tracking without overshoots. Decoupling, stability, and convergence toward equilibrium are all guaranteed.
Impact of fractional filter in PI control loop applied to induction motor speed drive
Authors: Hassainia S. , Ladaci S. , Kechida S. , Khelil K.
Published: September 2022

Introduction. One of the main problems of electrical machine control systems is to obtain a satisfactory performance in the rejection of load disturbances, as well as in the set-point tracking tasks. Generally, the development of control algorithms does not take into account the presence of noise. Appropriate filtering is, therefore, essential to reduce the impact of noise on the output of the controller, in addition to the machine output. Recently, there has been a great tendency toward using fractional calculus to solve engineering problems. The filtering is one of the fields in which fractional calculus has received great attention. The importance of filters in signal processing and other engineering areas is unquestionable Novelty. The proposed work is intended to be a contribution in the recent works conducted on the influence of the fractional filtering on the control robustness of induction machines control. Purpose. The main contribution of this research is the application of fractional filtering to the standard PI control loop for an induction motor speed drive. Methods. In order to assess its impact and benefit, different structures for introducing the filters are investigated, A first order filter is considered in different positions, whether before or after the controller or even in both positions at the same time, with a noise source. A review of the index performance evolution (the Integral Square Error, Integral Absolute Error and Integral Time Absolute Error) has allowed a configuration design of the filter. Results. Intensive simulations were performed with a control setup using integer and fractional order filters, which permitted to conclude that the fractional filters give better performance indices compared to the integer one and thus improve the dynamic characteristics of the system.
Single phase transformerless inverter for grid connected photovoltaic system with reduced leakage current
Authors: Janardhan G. , Surendra Babu N. N. V. , Srinivas G. N.
Published: September 2022

Introduction. Transformerless inverters are of vital importance in the field of grid connected solar photovoltaic systems offering higher efficiency than the conventional one. i.e., using transformer. General grid connected inverters are constituting of transformers requires more area besides the loss in them.  Problem. Eliminating transformers can cause leakage current due to the variation of common mode voltage which in turn due to parasitic capacitance effect. Research literature in transformerless inverters has addressed the problems of common mode leakage current issues by offering the study of different inverter topologies like H4, H5, H6 and HERIC etc. utilizing variety of modulation strategies like unipolar, bipolar pulse width modulations. Goal. The paper significantly presents a new transformerless inverter topology, analyzes common mode voltage and leakage current behavior of the system. The simulation is carried out for comparing the leakage current profiles with other transformerless inverter topologies in literature. Novelty. This paper gives an impression of the efficient transformerless inverter for grid connected photovoltaic system. Results. The various inverter topologies full bridge with different pulse width modulation techniques are analyzed and to determine the common mode voltages and leakage currents.
Sensors placement for the faults detection and isolation based on bridge linked configuration of photovoltaic array
Authors: Latreche S. , Khenfer A. , Khemliche M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction. The photovoltaic market has been increased over the last decade at a remarkable pace even during difficult economic times. Photovoltaic energy production becomes widely used because of its advantages as a renewable and clean energy source. It is eco-friendly, inexhaustible, easy to install, and the manufacturing time is relatively short. Photovoltaic modules have a theoretical lifespan of approximately 20 years. In real-life and for several reasons, some photovoltaic modules start to fail after being used for a period of 8 to 10 years. Therefore, to ensure safe and reliable operation of photovoltaic power plants in a timely manner, a monitoring system must be established in order to detect, isolate and resolve faults. The novelty of the proposed work consists in the development of a new model of sensors placement for faults detection in a photovoltaic system. The fault can be detected accurately after the analysis of changes in measured quantities. Purpose. Analysis of the possibility of the number and the position of the sensors into the strings in function of different faults. Methods. This new method is adapted to the bridge linked configuration. It can detect and locate failure points quickly and accurately by comparing the measured values. Results. The feasibility of the chosen model is proven by the simulation results under MATLAB/Simulink environment for several types of faults such as short-circuit current, open circuit voltage in the photovoltaic modules, partially and completely shaded cell and module.
Diagnosis and localization of fault for a neutral point clamped inverter in wind energy conversion system using artificial neural network technique
Authors: Abid M. , Laribi S. , Larbi M. , Allaoui T.
Published: September 2022

Introduction. To attain high efficiency and reliability in the field of clean energy conversion, power electronics play a significant role in a wide range of applications. More effort is being made to increase the dependability of power electronics systems. Purpose. In order to avoid any undesirable effects or disturbances that negatively affect the continuity of service in the field of energy production, this research provides a fault detection technique for insulated-gate bipolar transistor open-circuit faults in a three-level diode-clamped inverter of a wind energy conversion system predicated on a doubly-fed induction generator. The novelty of the suggested work ensures the regulation of power exchanged between the system and the grid without faults, advanced intelligence approaches based on a multilayer artificial neural network are used to discover and locate this type of defect; the database is based on the module and phase angle of three-phase stator currents of induction generators. The proposed methods are designed for the detection of one or two open-circuit faults in the power switches of the side converter of a doubly-fed induction generator in a wind energy conversion system. Methods. In the proposed detection method, only the three-phase stator current module and phase angle are used to identify the faulty switch. The primary goal of this fault diagnosis system is to effectively detect and locate failures in one or even more neutral point clamped inverter switches. Practical value. The performance of the controllers is evaluated under different operating conditions of the power system, and the reliability, feasibility, and effectiveness of the proposed fault detection have been verified under various open-switch fault conditions. The diagnostic approach is also robust to transient conditions posed by changes in load and speed. The proposed diagnostic technique's performance and effectiveness are both proven by simulation in the SimPower /Simulink® MATLAB environment.
Integrating COM-B and the Person-Based Approach to develop an ACT based therapy programme to raise self-determination in adolescents with obesity
Authors: Cox Jennifer S. , Searle Aidan , Thornton Gail , Hamilton-Shield Julian , Hinton Elanor C.
Published: September 2022

This paper details the development of the Adolescent Intrinsic Motivation AIM2Change intervention to support weight-management in young people previously unable to make changes whilst attending a tier 3 weight management service for children and young people. AIM2Change is an acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) based intervention that will be delivered one-to-one online over a seven-week period. To develop this intervention, we have triangulated results from a qualitative research study, patient and public involvement groups (PPI) and a COM-B (capability, opportunity, motivation, behaviour) analysis, in a method informed by the person-based approach. The integrated development approach yielded a broad range of perspectives and facilitated the creation of a tailored intervention to meet the needs of the patient group whist remaining pragmatic and deliverable. The next steps for this intervention will be in-depth co-development of the therapy sessions with service users, before implementing a feasibility randomised control trial.
Comparison of balanced crystalloid versus normal saline for fluid resuscitation in the early stages of acute severe pancreatitis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: yaqi sheng , Zhu Huadong , Sun Han
Published: September 2022

Background: Acute pancreatitis is a common acute inflammatory disease of the pancreas, with approximately 15-25% of them will develop into acute severe pancreatitis (SAP), and the prognosis is often extremely poor if the intervention is not actively given earlier. Previous studies confirmed that fluid resuscitation in the early stages of acute severe pancreatitis is very important. However, few studies have looked for the efficacy of balanced crystalloid in the early stages of SAP. Aim: To evaluate whether a balanced saline solution using in the initial fluid resuscitation therapy can reduce mortality and bring about fewer side effects than normal saline/0.9% saline in patients with SAP. Methods: This is a mono-center, randomized, normal saline-controlled trial which will be performed in emergency departments (ED) in China. The trial will include at least 180 patients who accord with the diagnosis of acute severe pancreatitis. Patients will be randomly assigned to either intravenous balanced crystalloid (intervention) or normal saline (control) which will be used for initial fluid resuscitation and maintenance fluids for up to 48 hours. We choose the sodium bicarbonate ringer liquid, a type of balanced salt solution which is not often studied in intervention group. The primary outcomes will be the mortality (endpoint follow-up is the 28-days survival) and the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI). The secondary outcomes include the incidence of hyperchloremia, other electrolyte levels in the early and late stages of SAP, CRRT utility time length , ventilator utility time length, ICU length of stay and total length of hospital stay.Discussion: This trail will provide high-quality evidence for the comparative effectiveness of Bicarbonate Ringer’s solution versus normal saline for the initial fluid management of SAP patients in emergency departments.Trial registration: Chictr.org.cn, ChiCTR2200059980. Registered on 14 May 2022.
Biomass yield and quality of Congo and Rhodes grasses in Northern Guinea Savanna of Nigeria for ruminant animal production
Authors: Akpensuen Tersur Theophilus
Published: September 2022

The study was conducted to evaluate forage dry matter and nutrient contents of Congo grass (Urochloa ruziziensis) and Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) in the Northern Guinea savanna of Nigeria for livestock production. A two (two grass species) by three years (2019, 2020 and 2021) factorial design was used. The experimental design was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design with four replicates. The forage crops were harvested at early bloom stage in each year. Urochloa ruziznsis was greater (p < 0.05) in plant height, number of tillers and leaves per plant compared to C. gayana. Foarge dry matter yield (14.1 t/ha) and Crude protein yield (1.7 t/ha) were also higher in U. ruziensis. The year 2020 produced higher dry matter yield, while the lowest value was recorded in the year establishment year (2019). On the other hand, C. gayana had higher (p < 0.05) fibre contents than U. ruziziensis. There was positive correlation between dry matter yield and the phonological variables, while a negative correlation existed between crude protein and crude fiber. The forage legumes an provide the basic nutrient requirement for maintenance in ruminants when fed with the two grasses, but the feeds should be supplemented with higher protein content feeds for highly production such as fattening and lactating animals. Overall, U. ruziziensis showed valuable forage grass in terms of dry matter yield and quality than C. gayana in the environment considered.
Antimicrobial activity of synthesized Graphene Oxide-Selenium nanocomposites: A mechanistic insight
Authors: Riyal Isha , Badoni Ayush , Kalura Shubham S. , Mishra Kavita , Sharma Himani , Gambhir Lokesh , Dwivedi Charu
Published: September 2022

Nanoparticles have recently gained interest as an anti-bacterial agent since they have large surface area to volume ratio and potential to compromise the integrity of bacterial cell membranes. Due to its versatility and anti-bacterial activity, graphene-based materials have drawn significant interest in biomedical applications. One of the greatest threats to life in the modern technological era is the pervasiveness of infectious diseases since bacteria cells are constantly updating themselves to resist antibiotics. In this presented study, GO-Se nanocomposite has been synthesized using polymer solution via a simple dispersion method. The structural and physicochemical properties of nanocomposite were investigated in detail. Staphylococcus aureus, Proteus vulgaris and Bacillus subtilis bacterial strains were employed to study the anti-bacterial activity of GO-Se nanocomposite. The results show that the synthesized nanocomposites have good efficacy as an anti-bacterial agent. UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, HRTEM, XPS and Raman spectroscopy were used to analyze the as-prepared GO and GO-Se nanocomposite.
Crystal fabric anisotropy causes directional hardening of the
Northeast Greenland Ice Stream
Authors: Gerber Tamara , Lilien David , Rathmann Nicholas , Franke Steven , Young Tun Jan , Valero-Delgado Fernando , Ershadi Reza , Drews Reinhard , Zeising Ole , Humbert Angelika , Stoll Nicolas , Weikusat Ilka , Grinsted Aslak , Hvidberg Christine , Jansen Daniela , Miller Heinrich , Helm Veit , Steinhage Daniel , O'Neill Charles , Gogineni Prasad , Paden John , Dahl-Jensen Dorthe , Eisen Olaf
Published: September 2022

The dynamic mass loss of ice sheets due to ice flow constitutes one of the biggest uncertainties in projections of ice-sheet evolution and sea-level rise. One central, understudied aspect of ice flow is how the bulk orientation of the ice-crystal lattice (fabric) translates to the mechanical anisotropy of ice. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of the depth-averaged fabric distribution and corresponding directional flow enhancement factors covering a large area of the Northeast Greenland Ice Stream onset region. Our results are based on a combination of methods applied to extensive airborne and ground-based radar surveys, ice-core observations, and numerical ice-flow modelling. They show a strong spatial variability of the horizontal fabric anisotropy and a rapid crystal reorganization on the order of hundreds of years coinciding with the ice-stream geometry. The ice in parts of the ice stream is found to be up to one order of magnitude harder for pure-shear deformation in flow direction compared to isotropic ice, while the shear margins are potentially softened for horizontal simple shear by a factor of two. The high spatial resolution and large-scale coverage of our results is unprecedented and significantly contributes towards more accurate ice-flow models and a better understanding of ice-stream dynamics. Moreover, our estimated time scale of crystal reorganization and methodological approaches can potentially also be transferred to the investigation of ice on extraterrestrial bodies and other geologic materials.
Perspectives of Lay Counselors Delivering a Brief Depression Treatment in the United States: A Mixed Methods Investigation
Authors: Woodard Grace S. , Mraz Amanda , Renn Brenna N.
Published: September 2022

Background: Task sharing is an implementation strategy which increases access to services by training and supporting treatment delivery by nonspecialists. Such an approach has demonstrated effectiveness for depression and other mental health outcomes; however, few studies have examined lay counselors’ perspectives of the acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of delivering mental health interventions. We examine quantitative and qualitative reports of lay counselors’ experiences delivering a brief structured behavioral intervention for depression (called “Do More, Feel Better” [DMFB]) to older adults. Methods: All lay counselors (N = 4) who delivered DMFB completed quantitative measures assessing their perceptions of acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness, and participated in a focus group, which provided insight into the quantitative ratings using an explanatory sequential mixed methods approach. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis and were double coded.Results: Lay counselors endorsed high acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of DMFB, with qualitative results providing some insight into specific barriers and facilitators which may be important to consider when planning to implement task sharing. Themes that emerged from qualitative data included supervision being highly acceptable and feasible, appropriateness of the intervention for lay counselors, and the feasibility of tailoring the intervention to clients. Lay counselors also expressed difficulty managing emotional investment in clients’ success and providing therapy during a pandemic and racial violence in the US.Conclusions: Our results can inform future implementation and sustainment of task sharing interventions to expand access to care.
Geomorphic controls on debris flow activity in the paraglacial zone of the SE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Jiao , Wang Hao , Jiang Yao , Zhang Guotao , Zhao Bo , Lei Yu
Published: September 2022

On the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, which is an area widely covered by alpine glaciers, two types of debris flow generally occur: glacier-related debris flows (GDFs) and rainfall-related debris flows (RDFs). It is widely accepted that topographic conditions influence debris flow activities; however, few studies have examined the differences between such influence on GDFs and RDFs. This study investigated the GDFs and RDFs in the periglacial area of the Parlung Tsangpo Basin, and calculated 12 geomorphic indexes to reveal the topographic features associated with these two types of debris flow. It was found revealed that lower values in the drainage area, main channel length, and relative elevation occurred in RDFs compared to the GDFs, whereas higher values in the channel gradient, relief ratio, and effective basin area appeared in RDFs. The discrepancy is mainly related to the different topographic and geomorphic shaping of modern glaciers. According to its geomorphological characteristics, the Parlung Tsangpo Basin can be divided into three sections: the upper V-shaped canyon section, middle wide valley section, and lower steep canyon section. The scale and frequency of debris flows in the upstream canyon region are substantially lower than those of debris flows in the downstream canyon region. Moreover, the frequency and scale of RDFs are substantially different to those of GDFs, primarily because of the different geomorphic evolutionary stages of debris flows gullies in different regions.
Effect of shading on physiological and reproductive parameters in Nelore cows
Authors: Silva Wilian Aparecido Leite da , Silva Eliane Vianna da Costa e , Ferreira Mariane Gabrielly Cesar Ribeiro , Gheller Janaina Menegazzo , Poehland Ralf , Sterza Fabiana de Andrade Melo
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the physiological and reproductive parameters of Nelore cows under different microclimatic conditions. The experiment was performed in Central Brazil, which has a tropical climate, dry winter, and rainy summer. The experimental groups were divided into an area with shading (5.8 trees/ha; n = 42) and an area with little shading (0.4 trees/ha; n = 42). We assessed physiological parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, surface body temperature, and vaginal temperature), and reproductive parameters (estrus detection, conception rate, and rate of pregnancy loss). Rectal temperature (p = 0.002), surface body temperature on the flanks, forehead, and shoulder (p < 0.001), and vaginal temperature (p < 0.001) of cows in the group with shading was significantly lower those of cows in the group without shading. Estrus was higher (p = 0.08) in the cows of the shaded group; however, no effect was observed in conception and pregnancy loss rates. In conclusion, shading (5.8 trees/ha) provided better thermal comfort for Nelore animals in this tropical climatic region. However, it did not affect the performance of fixed-time artificial insemination.
Thrombocytosis and eosinophilia in 32 Chinese neonatal incontinentia pigmenti patients.
Authors: Su Yufei , Zhang Huifang , Zongyi Zou , Ma Yingge , Zhang Huiping , Wen Jun , Li Hui
Published: September 2022

Introduction:
Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a rare X-linked dominant genetic disease that affects ectodermal tissue and is often misdiagnosed in the neonatal period. This study aimed to highlight the sequential clinical features and evaluate the prognosis of 32 neonatal IP patients.
Materials and methods
A retrospective descriptive analysis was performed using the clinical, blood analytical, pathological, radiological, genetic, and follow-up data of neonatal patients diagnosed with IP from 2010 to 2021 in Xi’an, China.
Results
Of the 32 patients, two (6.25%) were male. Thirty patients (93.75%) had eosinophilia (eosinophilic granulocyte count: 0.31-19.9⋅109, mean proportion of white blood cells: 20.98 ± 15.21%). Twenty patients (62.5%) had thrombocytosis (thrombocyte count: 139–975⋅109, mean count: 416.76 ± 176.82). Thirty-one patients (96.88%) exhibited the first three cutaneous lesions, characterised by erythema and superficial vesicles on inflammatory bases, in a linear distribution in the first week of age. Thirteen patients (40%) had combined nervous system abnormalities, and nine patients (28.13%) had retinopathy. Twelve patients (37.5%) had a molecular diagnosis and two types of genetic variants were detected in NEMO. Nineteen patients were followed up ranging from after 1 to 44 months. At follow-up, four patients displayed psychomotor retardation, and five patients developed a decrease in vision with astigmatism and amblyopia.
Conclusion
Thirty patients had eosinophilia, and twenty patients had thrombocytosis. Therefore, we speculate that the mechanism of injury and occlusion in microvessels may be related to platelet aggregation based on the increase in eosinophil cells and the release of inflammatory factors.
Characterization and in vivo toxicological evaluation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes: a low dose repeated intratracheal administrations study
Authors: Bubols Guilherme Borges , Arbo Marcelo Dutra , Peruzzi Caroline Portela , Cestonaro Larissa Vivan , Altknecht Louise Figueiredo , Fão Nuryan , Göethel Gabriela , Nascimento Sabrina Nunes , Paese Karina , Amaral Marta Gonçalves , Bergmann Carlos Pérez , Pohlmann Adriana Raffin , Guterres Silvia Stanisçuaski , Garcia Solange Cristina
Published: September 2022

This study characterized and investigated the toxicity of two multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) NM-401 and NM-403 at 60 and 180 µg after four repeated intratracheal instillations; follow-up times were 3, 7, 30 and 90 days after the last instillation. NM-401 was needle-like, long, and thick, while NM-403 was entangled, short and thin. Both MWCNT types induced transient pulmonary and systemic alterations in renal function and oxidative lipid damage markers in recent times. Animals showed general toxicity in the immediate times after exposures, in addition to increased pulmonary LDH release at day 3. In further times, decreased liver and kidney relative weights were noted at higher MWCNT doses. Lung histological damages included pulmonary fibrosis, for both MWCNT types, similarly to asbestos; single liver and kidney histological alterations were present. Repeated instillations led to persistent pulmonary damage at low doses and possibly the extrapulmonary effects may be associated with the consecutive exposures.
Evaluation of the Presence of Orthorexia Nervosa in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes and Its Relationship With Diabetes Self-management
Authors: ALTUN Hülya KAMARLI , OZYILDIRIM CANER , KOÇ Şeyma , AKSOY Hatice Nur , SAĞIR Beyza , BOZKURT Merve Sefa , KARASU Hakan
Published: September 2022

Purpose
This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between the presence of orthorexia nervosa and diabetes self-management in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Methods
The study included 373 individuals with type 2 diabetes between the ages of 18–65 who applied to Akdeniz University Hospital Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Polyclinic between January 2022 and May 2022. In the study, a questionnaire including sociodemographic data, information about diabetes, nutritional habits, ORTO-R and "Type 2 Diabetes Self-Management Scale" was used as a data collection tool. In addition, height and weight measurements were taken and body mass index (BMI) were calculated. Biochemical parameters were evaluated by accessing from the hospital system.
Results
46.1% of the participants were men, 53.9% were women and mean age was 57.5 ± 9.6 years. Low diabetes self-management is associated with an increase in fasting glucose (p < 0,05), HbA1c (p < 0,05), BMI (p < 0,01). ORTO-R scores were significantly higher in the group with low diabetes self-management (p < 0,001). Education level, presence of non-diabetic disease and diabetes-related complication, treatment method are the factors affecting diabetes self-management and ON. While medical nutrition therapy provides better diabetes self-management, it increases the susceptibility to ON.
Conclusion
ON is common in people with type 2 diabetes. Although medical nutrition therapy provides better self-management, it may increase susceptibility to ON.
Level of evidence:
Level V, cross-sectional study
In-situ suture based on a nasoseptal mucosal flap for repair of grade 3 leaks associated with an expanded endoscopic endonasal approach
Authors: Song Pingan , Hu Guowen , Xiong Yuanyuan , Lv Shigang , Li Shaoguang , Xu Jiang , Guo Hua , Wu Lei
Published: September 2022

Background
To investigate the reliability and efficacy of a modified technique for preventing postoperative grade 3 leaks associated with an expanded endoscopic endonasal approach (EEEA).
Method
This study was a retrospective review of 33 patients who presented with intraoperative grade 3 leaks after the use of an EEEA for resection of skull base lesions from January 2017 to February 2022. Patients who received the conventional method from January 2017 to December 2019 were included in Group A. Patients who received the modified in-situ suture technique from 2020 onward were included in Group B. The Whitney test and chi-square test or Fisher's exact test were conducted to analyze the differences in several postoperative outcomes between the two groups.
Result
Five cases of postoperative CSF leaks and a single intracranial infection occurred in Group A. No postoperative CSF leaks or intracranial infection occurred in Group B. The in-situ suture technique avoided the need to take autologous fat and fascia lata from the thigh (p < 0.001), reduced postoperative bed rest (p < 0.001), and decreased the incidence of postoperative CSF leaks (p = 0.049) and the total hospital stay (p = 0.011). No significant differences in re-repair, hospitalization costs or postoperative intracranial infection were noted between the two groups.
Conclusion
This modified technique could represent an effective and safe option for repairing grade 3 leaks associated with the EEEA. In the future, the focus should be on increasing the number of surgeries and continuing follow-up to monitor and evaluate the long-term efficacy of this approach.
Pollution and health risk assessment of heavy metals in the soil around an open landfill site in a developing country
Authors: Rouhani Abdulmannan , Shadloo Shabnam , Ehdaei Afsaneh , Hejcman Michal
Published: September 2022

Solid waste has always been an integral part of human life, and the production of these substances is increasing with the growth of the human population. One of the most critical environmental problems of the present age is the release of pollutants from landfills into the soil, surface, and groundwater of the surrounding environment. Thus, the main objective of this study is to evaluate the extent of soil pollution and potential ecological and health risks related to the disposal of municipal solid waste (MSW) near a landfill site in Kazerun, Iran. Soil samples were collected from inside the landfill (ILA), agricultural land (AGL), and nursery land (NUL) and analyzed for six heavy metals (HMs), including As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Zn. Results revealed that the HMs in ILA soils had moderate n to high pollution risk. As and Cd had the highest concentration in the study area, and all HMs were higher than the background value. Cluster analysis (CA) showed that studied metals might be characterized as two groups: group 1 (Ni, Cu, As, and Cd) related to anthropogenic activities in the study area. In contrast, group 2 (Cr and Zn), was associated with parent materials. The health risk assessment results showed that oral ingestion was the primary exposure path for elements, and children were more vulnerable to harmful health effects. Metals, namely Cu for adults and As, Cr, Cu, and Ni for children, pose maximum cancer risks. HQ and HI values were lower than the threshold limit, indicating no non-carcinogenic health risk to humans. Moreover, possible harmful impacts of HMs accumulation in nature and soil near human settlements call for appropriate planning for discharging toxic waste in these areas.
Green Synthesis of Piper nigrum Copper-based Nanoparticles: In-Silico Study and ADMET Analysis to Assess Their Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Cytotoxic Effects
Authors: Anusha Y. , Rajesh Nambi , Vani M. Vidya , Khadri Habeeb , Mohammed Arifullah , Riazunnisa Khateef , moussa Ashaimaa
Published: September 2022

Nano-biotechnology gained popularity and interest among scientists since it allowed for the green manufacturing of nanoparticles by employing plants as reducing agents. This method was safe, cheap, reproducible, and eco-friendly. In this study, the therapeutic potential of Piper nigrum fruit was mixed with the antibacterial activity of metallic copper to produce copper nanoparticles. The synthesis of copper nanoparticles was indicated by a colour change from brown to blue. Physical characterisation of PN-CuNPs was done by using UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, SEM, EDX, XRD and Zeta analyser. PN-CuNPs exhibited potential antioxidant, antibacterial and cytotoxic activities. PN-CuNPs showed improved free radical scavenging activity in a concentration dependant manner, reaching a maximum of 92%, 90% and 86% with DPPH, H2O2 and PMA tests. The antibacterial zone of inhibition of PN-CuNPs was the highest against S. aureus (23 mm) and the lowest against E. coli (10 mm), respectively. In vitro cytotoxicity of PN-CuNPs was demonstrated against MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. The green synthesis of P. nigrum fruit was an excellent approach to produce PN-CuNPs with significant biological properties. Furthermore, more than 50 components of Piper nigrum extract were selected and subjected to in-silico molecular docking using the C-Docker protocol in the binding pockets of glutathione reductase, E. coli DNA gyrase topoisomerase II and EGFR tyrosine to discover their druggability. Pipercyclobutanamide A (26), pipernigramide F (32) and pipernigramide G (33) scored the best Gibbs free energy 50.489, 51.9306, 58.615 Kcal/mol, respectively. The ADMET/TOPKAT analysis confirmed the favourable pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and toxicity of the three promising compounds; thus, preparing them for further studies to be introduced into pharmaceutical dosage forms, as antibacterial, antioxidant or antitumor drugs.