bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MOF-derived Fe2O3/MoSe2 Heterostructure for Promoted Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Huang Liming , Tao Leiming , Pang Kui , He Shuying , Zhu Guanhua , Duan Linhai , Wen Chenglin , Yu Changlin , Ji Hongbing
Published: March 2023

Due to the low activity and poor selectivity of current artificial nitrogen fixation catalysts, there is an urgent need to develop efficient and environmentally friendly Electrochemical ammonia synthesis (EAS) electrocatalysts. Electrochemical ammonia synthesis is considered an environmentally friendly and sustainable method for artificial nitrogen fixation. Herein, Fe2O3 nanoparticles assembled on MoSe2 (Fe2O3/MoSe2) were first developed and regarded as an efficient electrocatalytic nitrogen fixation catalyst with high electroactive. The Fe2O3/MoSe2 composites exhibited excellent NRR activity with an NH3 yield of 55.52 µg∙h− 1∙mg− 1 at -0.5 V and Faradaic efficiency of 9.6% at -0.6 V vs. RHE. Notably, the Fe2O3/MoSe2 composites exhibited excellent stability and durability in recycling tests. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the interfacial charge transport from Fe2O3 to MoSe2 could significantly enhance the Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) activity of Fe2O3/MoSe2 by promoting the conductivity of Fe2O3/MoSe2 and reducing the free energy barrier for the rate-determining of *N2 to *N2H formation step. This work provides a promising avenue for the green synthesis of NH3.
BRLMSESCT: Design of a Bioinspired Reinforcement Learning Model for Side-Effect Analysis of Spinal Cord Tumours
Authors: Mohanty Rajanikanta , V Ramana T , rout Narendra kumar
Published: March 2023

Due to improper postures, and unhealthy lifestyle of millennials, there has been an exponential increase in spinal cord related diseases. These include Slip Discs, Spine Injuries, Tumours, etc. each of which has multiple side-effects on the human body. To analyze these conditions, a wide variety of image processing models are developed by researchers. But most of these models do not analyze side-effects of spinal cord tumours on other body parts, due to which their applicability is limited when used for clinical trials. The main novelty of this work is to analyze side effects resulting due to spinal cord tumours, and to perform this task a novel Bioinspired Reinforcement Learning Model for Side-Effect Analysis of Spinal Cord Tumours is discussed in this text. The proposed model initially uses a Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) based on combination of Long-Short-Term Memory (LSTM) & Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) for extraction of highly dense image features. These features allow the model to estimate tumour positions in Computer Tomography (CT) scans. The extracted features are classified via the RNN Model, which assists in high accuracy classification & localization of spinal cord tumours. These classification & localization results are linked with blood reports to estimate side-effects on kidney, lungs, heart activity and vitamin levels. To perform this correlation, a Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) Model is used, which assists in linking tumour type, and size with blood report parameters. The GWO Model evaluates a fitness function, that fuses tumour levels with its side-effects on individual body parts. This fusion is done via analysis of temporal blood reports, which evaluates effects of different tumour types-and-sizes on individual body parameters. Due to a combination of GWO with LSTM & GRU based RNN, the model is capable of showcasing high accuracy of tumour classification, with better precision of correlation with side effects when compared with state-of-the-art models. It was observed that the proposed model was able to achieve 98.5% accuracy for tumour classification, 96.4% correlation precision with kidney diseases, 95.8% correlation precision with lung diseases, 96.2% correlation precision with heart diseases, and 91.5% correlation precision with vitamin deficiencies. Due to such a high performance, the model is capable of deployment for real-time clinical applications.
Geoinformatics of soil loss using GEE in Tigray regional state of Ethiopia.
Authors: Islam Zubairul , Belay Fikre , Hadgu Tadesse Brhane , Teshale Haftom , Debebe Yalembrhan
Published: March 2023

Soil loss and its geostatistical analysis was studied at the kebele level in Tigray. The method applied to estimate soil loss was the revised universal soil loss equation. Earth Engine's public data archive was used for data collection. The R-factor was developed from the SM2RAIN-ASCAT (2007–2021) global daily satellite rainfall data, the K-factor was developed from USDA-3A1A1A_M/v02 soil data, the C-factor was derived from MODIS/006/MOD13A2, and LS factor was derived from WWF Hydro SHEDS Hydrologically Conditioned DEM. By integrating all factor, the soil loss was obtained by the RUSLE model. Spatial Autocorrelation (Morans I) statistic was used to identify the pattern of soil loss and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) linear regression was used to model a soil loss in terms of its relationships to R, K, LS, C, and P factors. The grouping analysis tool was used to Group kebele based on soil loss. The results indicate that the estimated average soil erosion is 82760 t ha− 1 y− 1. The pattern of soil loss at the kebele level was found highly clustered with a z-score of 23.39. The groping analysis tool divides the kebele into five categories to identify the cause of spatial variation of the soil loss in Tigray. Groups 1, 4 & 5 were found as in the outlier positions due to the high LS factor. The results deliver valuable information for decision-makers and planners to take suitable land administration measures to minimize the soil loss. It, therefore, indicates google earth engine is a significant platform to analyze the RUSLE model for evaluating and mapping soil erosion quantitatively and spatially.
Validation of a clinicopathological prognostic score for elderly patients undergoing endoscopic endonasal surgery for pituitary adenoma: a single center 10 years’ experience and review of the literature
Authors: PERNA Giuseppe DI , DE MARCO Raffaele , PESARESI Alessandro , PORTONERO Irene , BALDASSARRE Bianca Maria , PERANO Francesco , PRENCIPE Nunzia , GROTTOLI Silvia , BERTERO Luca , CASSONI Paola , GARBOSSA Diego , LANOTTE Michele Maria , ZENGA Francesco
Published: March 2023

Objective
Evaluate the effectiveness of surgery for pituitary adenomas in the elderly and the reliability of the Trouillas score in patients with ≥ 65 years old.
Methods
A single center retrospective observational study was conducted for the period 2012–2020 recruiting all the patients over 65 years old underwent to primary endoscopic endonasal removal of both functioning and non-functioning pituitary adenomas. Radiological and histopathological features were examined for classification. Time-to-relapse was estimated using Kaplan-Meier product limit.
Results
103 patients were recruited. Mean age at surgery was 72.2 years (range 65–83). The majority of tumors were non-functioning macroadenomas (83%). A gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 46/73 (63%) of young elderly (age 65–74) and 14/30 (47%) of old elderly (age ≥ 75). According to Trouillas' classification criteria, 57 tumors resulted to be grade 1a, 8 grade 1b, 33 grade 2a, and 5 grade 2b. The mean TTR was 32.3 months ± 18.5. Mitotic index (p = 0.024) and a Trouillas grade (p = 0.048) remained statistically significant at multivariate analysis. Patients with Trouillas grade 1a/2a showed better rates of TTR than patients with Trouillas grade 1b/2b (mean DFS: 82 vs 49 months, p = 0.006) although the number of patients representing the second group (13) demands a critical interpretation of the result.
Conclusions
The possibility to predict tumor’s regrowth can define different timing for follow-up and could justify a more aggressive surgical treatment even among elderly patients, aiming to achieve GTR and significantly reduce the need for redo surgery.
Green synthesis of ZnO dopped Piper chaudocanum leaf extract by co-precipitation method: characterization, antibacterial and anticancer activity
Authors: Thao Truong Thi , Tam Khieu Thi
Published: March 2023

In this study, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were synthesized from Piper chaudocanum leaf extract by co-precipitation method with different processes and extract volumes. Biosynthesized ZnO NPs were characterized by various techniques including XRD, FTIR, FESEM, PL test, UV-Vis DRS, and compared to chemically synthesized ZnO NPs. Most of the ZnO NPs samples were pure and had a hexagonal wurtzite phase. The particle sizes were about 22 to 40 nm and had a characteristic part of the Piper chaudocanum extract on the surface of ZnO NPs. The particle sizes, surface features and optical properties of samples depend on the order of the reaction steps and the extract volumes. The ZnO NPs synthesized by adding the extract to zinc acetate solution before adjusting pH were potent antimicrobial agents against pathogenic bacteria. The highest antibacterial activity was observed against P. aeruginosa (42 nm) and S. aureus (39 nm). Moreover, these ZnO NPs were moderately effective on KB cells with the IC50 value of 43.53 ± 2.98 µg/mL.
Consequences of adopting national consumption-based climate targets alongside the territorial commitments under the Paris Agreement
Authors: Morfeldt Johannes , Larsson Jörgen , Andersson David , Johansson Daniel , Rootzén Johan , Hult Cecilia , Karlsson Ida
Published: March 2023

National emission reduction targets under the Paris Agreement have a territorial focus, incentivizing mitigation actions domestically. Here we scrutinize the theoretical basis for adopting complementary consumption-based net-zero emission targets and assess the consequences of adopting such proposed targets for Sweden. We apply scenario analyses based on a prospective lifecycle assessment framework. The framework is a hybrid between bottom-up simulations – for passenger travel, construction and housing, and food – and top-down analyses covering remaining consumption. In this work, we show how consumption-based climate targets accentuate the need for new demand-side climate policies that contribute to reducing emissions along value chains of products and services. Combining advanced mitigation technologies with behavioral changes could achieve emission reductions from 9.8 tons of carbon dioxide equivalents per capita in 2019 to between 2.7 and 4.8 tons by 2045 for Swedish residents, depending on global decarbonization pathways.
Imbalance multiclass Problem: A robust Feature Enhancement-based Framework for Liver Lesion Classification
Authors: Hu Rui , Song Yuqing , Liu Yi , Zhu Yan , Feng Nuo , Qiu Chengjian , Han Kai , Teng Qiaoying , Ul Haq Imran , Liu Zhe
Published: March 2023

The classification of liver lesions in CT images is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases. Since the characteristics of different classes of lesions are similar and the degree of differentiation is not obvious, it is difficult to accurately classify different classes of liver lesions, especially imbalanced multiclass distribution. To this end, we propose a novel feature enhancement-based framework for imbalanced liver lesion classification. Specifically, a liver lesion processing method is introduced to expand data based on Augmentor. Besides, dual feature enhancement based on feature refinement extraction and feature global correlation is designed to enhance feature extraction ability. To further alleviate the problem of class imbalance, the improved loss function based on standard Cross-Entropy (CE) is also adopted to make the network pay more attention to the class with fewer samples. Experiments on 551 liver lesions in 120 patients showed that: 1) Our proposed framework improved the classification performance of liver tumors under imbalanced multiclass data distribution; 2) The dual feature enhancement was lightweight and efficient which enhanced the semantic expression of overall features without introducing additional parameters.
Multi-Objective linear fractional solid transportation problem with uncertain variables
Authors: Joshi Vishwas Deep , Saini Rachana , Singh Jagdev
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the multi-objective linear fractional solid transportation problem (MOLFSTP) under uncertainty is studied, where all parameters are treated as zigzag uncertain variables. For the uncertain MOLFSTP model, the expected value model (EVM) and the optimistic value model (OVM) were established using two different ranking parameters of the uncertainty principle. Using the principal basis of uncertainty, both models are converted to correlated deterministic form and then to a single-objective model using a two-resolution method. Fuzzy programming method using distance minimization and linear membership functions. Next, we use Lingo 17.0 optimization tools to solve a two-model single-objective problem and arrive at a Pareto optimal solution. Lastly, numerical outcomes demonstrate the application of the model and the algorithm.
The Impact of Word-of-Mouth Communication on Consumer choices and Satisfaction: An Empirical Study of Students’ Perspective
Authors: Khoshtaria Tornike , Matin Arian , Mercan Metin , Kikutadze Vasil , Abrakhamia Gigi
Published: March 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Corneal Reverberation Artifacts on Ocular Ultrasound
Authors: BANERJEE MOUSUMI , Azad Shorya Vardhan , Mandal Sohini , Nayak Shreya , Venkatesh Pradeep , Chawla Rohan
Published: March 2023

Objective: To describe a novel reverberation artifact named corneal reverberation artifact in ocular ultrasound.
Design: Prospective observational study.
Subjects: 30 eyes with decompensated corneas were grouped into two groups- group A (with positive corneal reverberation on USG) and group B (without reverberation artifact).
Methods: 30 eyes with decompensated corneas were studied to compare the characteristic anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) findings in eyes with reverberations observed on ultrasound (similar to IOL reverberations) and eyes with no reverberations.
Main outcome measures: Characteristic reproducible findings on ASOCT in eyes with positive reverberation.
Results: ASOCT images in group A eyes revealed a distinct transition from hyperreflective part of the cornea to iso-reflective cornea. A sharp demarcation line could be appreciated between anterior and posterior part of the cornea. ASOCT images in group B eyes did not have any drastic change in reflectivity from hyper to iso-reflective portion of the cornea. A uniform blending of reflectivity between anterior and posterior part of the cornea was noted in group B.
Conclusion: Sharp difference in reflectivity between anterior and posterior part of the cornea might contribute to the characteristic artifact noted in our patients.
Data-Driven Two-stage Appointment Radiotherapy Scheduling Model for Resource Optimization at a Tertiary Cancer Center
Authors: Jia Fan , Carter Michael , Raman Srinivas
Published: March 2023

Background: The timely delivery of radiotherapy (RT) is crucial to cancer care, and excessive delays in RT have been associated with detrimental oncological and psychological outcomes. Prior to receiving RT on treatment units (Linear accelerators), there are a few processes that need to take place including simulation (on CT simulators), radiotherapy plan generation/optimization and quality assurance. The assignment of patient schedules on CT simulators and Linear accelerators is currently done manually at most cancer centers. We propose that data-driven optimization of patient scheduling has the potential to improve wait-times, and optimize use of departmental resources.
Methods: A two-stage Mixed Integer Programming model was developed to optimize the patient appointment scheduling process and to forecast machine utilization. The model was tested with historical institutional data from Princess Margaret Cancer Center. By analyzing the dataset and simulating historical patient arrivals, the model output is evaluated by comparing patient wait time statistics and monthly machine utilization against what occurred during this time frame.
Results: Testing our model on data from 2019-06 to 2020-02, we found a reduction in average wait time from 11.2 to 6.7 business days for standard category patients. The number of standard patients exceeding the wait time target of 10 business days were reduced from 118 to 15 patients each month. In addition, our model could accurately estimate future machine utilization for both CT simulators and linear accelerators based on the model output appointments, which could facilitate better planning and utilization of departmental resources.
Conclusion: Our scheduling model has the potential to reduce the standard patient wait time for radiation treatment without compromising the wait time for urgent patients. The model can be also used to forecast department resources and machine utilization based on the output of the scheduling model. Radiotherapy departments could use this model to generate patient appointment schedules as well as to reduce machine idle time or appointment over-booking.
Green Synthesis of Size-controlled Silver Nanoparticles and Their Anti- Cancer Potentiality
Authors: Kabir M. F. , Rahman M. Z. , Ferdousy J. , Ullah A.K.M atique , Razzakul I. M. , Rahman M. M.
Published: March 2023

Silver nanoparticles are now well recognized as one of the most prevalent kinds of materials that are put to use in a wide variety of biomedical applications, most notably as an anti-cancer agent. In the current investigation, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were effectively produced by reducing silver + ions by employing the leaf extract of Artocarpus heterophyllus as a source of reducing and capping agents. By altering the quantity of the silver nitrate solution, we successfully produced three distinct kinds of Ag-nanoparticles that were mediated by Artocarpus heterophyllus leaf extract. The X-ray diffraction analysis first confirmed the formation of metallic silver, where peaks were found at fixed angles. The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) method was also used to validate the crystal geometry of the Ag-NPs, revealing that the Ag-NPs had a face-cantered cubic structure. The calculated average crystallite sizes of Sample-1 Ag-NPs, Sample-2 Ag-NPs, and Sample-3 Ag-NPs were found to be 20.34 nm, 16.99 nm, and 18.88 nm, respectively. Ag nanoparticles were also confirmed from EDX analysis, and firm Ag peaks, including several organic compound peaks. The nanoparticle’s range was between 120 nm and 220 nm, and the average particle size was near 170 nm, as found in the SEM image, and accumulation was observed in the SEM image. Using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, our research group was able to determine the functional groups of organic compounds that might be responsible for reducing agents and the presence of capping agents on the surface of Ag NPs. The cell viability test was used to assess the cytotoxicity using the HeLa cell, a human carcinoma cell. The results revealed that the produced Ag NPs demonstrated toxicity against carcinoma cells.
Research on Distributed Photovoltaic Day-ahead Scheduling and Consumption Strategy
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Chen Yanbo , Wang Deshuai , Liu Yuxiang
Published: March 2023

Under the background that the proportion of distributed photovoltaic connected to the distribution network increases year by year, optimizing the photovoltaic absorption capacity of the distribution network is of great significance. Aiming at the problem that photovoltaic output cannot be absorbed locally, this paper proposes an optimization scheme for distributed photovoltaic systems that considers demand-side response and energy storage. In this paper, particle swarm optimization support vector machine (PSO-SVM) was used to predict photovoltaic output ahead of the day, and the kernel width function and penalty coefficient of SVM were optimized by particle swarm optimization algorithm to obtain the prediction data with high accuracy. Then, starting from the constraints of node voltage not exceeding the limit, line power flow not overloading, and energy storage system not exceeding the limit, and aiming at the maximum photovoltaic absorption capacity, a distributed photovoltaic absorption model is established. Taking IEEE14 node power distribution system as a simulation example, the influence of energy storage system and flexible load on photovoltaic consumption rate is analyzed. Finally, the ipopt solution toolbox is used to solve the model in MATLAB, and the power distribution scheme of the power distribution system is calculated with the goal of maximizing the photovoltaic absorption capacity. The simulation results show that the optimization scheme of the photovoltaic microgrid system considering the energy storage system and the demand-side response proposed in this paper can effectively reduce the photovoltaic power station's light abandonment rate, and realize the photovoltaic on-site consumption to meet the regional load supply, which is a good source of photovoltaic power in the region. The application provides feasibility guidance.
On dispersive quantization and fractalization for the Kawahara equation
Authors: Kim Seongyeon
Published: March 2023

We study the dichotomy phenomena of solutions to the Kawahara equation with bounded variation initial data. The phenomena, called Talbot effect, are that at rational times the solution is quantized, while at irrational times it is a continuous nowhere differentiable function with fractal profile. Such is unknown for the Kawahara equation yet, which is a fifth-order KdV type equation. For the purpose, we obtain smoothing estimates for the nonlinear Duhamel solution, which, combined the known results on the linear solution, mathematically describes the Talbot effect.
2020 Mathematics Subject Classification. Primary: 35B45; Secondary: 35Q53.
Identification of a novel competing endogenous RNA network linked to the prognosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Ma Luping , Song Yongcheng , Li Changtao , Li Qiang , Huang Qianqian , Liang Weihua , Wang Chengyan , Wang Qinzhang
Published: March 2023

According to mounting evidence, competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNA) play a significant role in the tumorigenesis and development of cancer. Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common malignancy among men. Nevertheless, reliable indicators for the early diagnosis and prognosis of Pca are still lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to identify competing endogenous RNA networks as novel prognostic predictors of PCa.
The Cancer Genome Atlas was used to download the RNA transcriptome and clinical data of 498 Pca and 52 non-Pca tissues. Differentially expressed messenger RNAs (DEmRNAs) were identified using the edgeR package. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to evaluate the correlation with survival. TargetScan and MiRDB were used to predict potential DRD5‒targeting microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). In addition, StarBase and GEPIA2 were used to validate regulatory and prognostic relationships. DEmRNAs, target miRNAs, and lncRNAs were identified, and a ceRNA network in PCa was constructed. A total of 1,603 Pca-specific differentially expressed genes (767 upregulated and 836 downregulated) were identified. In addition, 3 hub mRNAs, 26 miRNAs,and 2 lncRNAs were identified as a result of stepwise prediction and validation from mRNA to lncRNA. Finally, C9orf170/hsa-miR-153-5p/DRD5 was identified as a prognosis-related network in PCa through further screening. In this study, we constructed a novel ceRNA network in PCa in which each component was prognosis-related.
Moho Depth Variations in North West Iran estimated from the Moho reflected phases
Authors: Alidoost Fatemeh , Bayramnejad Esmaeil , Shomali Zaher Hossein
Published: March 2023

In this study, we picked Moho reflected phases and used them to estimate the spatial variation of the Moho depth in northwestern Iran. Moho reflected phases are secondary phases which can be observed at the distance range between 60 and 200 km. We used earthquakes with depth shallower than 40 km that occurred from 1996 to 2017 and collected the approximate travel-time of 200 PmP and 150 SmS high quality phases recorded by 15 seismic stations. We used the differential travel-time of direct and Moho reflected phases to estimate the depth of Moho. The results of the reflected phases PmP and SmS are very similar in character. Although differences are also observed, especially in the northern part of the studied area where piercing points are not well distributed. The results of the inversion of P data are more reliable owing to the accuracy of the picking of P- compared to S- phases. According to the results, the depth of Moho is in order of 45 km in the south part of NorthTabriz Fault and shallower towards eastern part of the study area beneath the Talesh Mountains, 43.2 km. Moho increases from the north Tabriz fault to south of the study area and becomes approximately 45 km.
Prediction of postoperative disease-free survival in gastric cancer patients using preoperative peripheral blood platelet-lymphocyte ratio: a retrospective study of 3392 patients from two centers
Authors: Liang Siyuan , Wei Chuanyi , Tang Liping , Gao Jie , Long Ziwen , Wang Yanong
Published: March 2023

Background: Gastric cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death, and postoperative recurrence in gastric cancer patients often indicates a poor prognosis. In recent years, biochemical composite indicators, such as peripheral blood platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), have been found to predict recurrence and metastasis in various cancers.
Methods: We retrospectively recruited patients who underwent radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer at Fudan University Affiliated Cancer Hospital from 2011 to 2019 and randomly divided them into training and internal validation groups. We calculated the relationship between clinical indicators, PLR, and gastric cancer recurrence and metastasis in the training group and validated the model in the internal validation group and Guangxi Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital.
Results: The results of the multivariate analysis in the training group showed that TNM staging (HR, 3.69; 95% CI, 2.904.72; P<0.001), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) (HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.091.92; P<0.011), and peripheral blood PLR (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.09~1.88; P<0.010) were independent risk factors for postoperative recurrence and metastasis in gastric cancer patients. The column chart model established based on independent risk factors showed a good predictive performance in the internal and external validation groups.
Conclusions: Preoperative peripheral blood PLR is an independent risk factor for predicting postoperative recurrence and metastasis in gastric cancer patients, and the column chart model established by combining PLR with clinical indicators can accurately and efficiently predict postoperative recurrence and metastasis in gastric cancer patients.
Valorization of bean agricultural wastes for the production of polymeric composites
Authors: Miranda Eduardo Hélio Novais , Gomes Diogo Antônio Correa , de Andrade Gabriele Melo , Mendes Lourival Marin , Júnior José Benedito Guimarães
Published: March 2023

The objective of this study is to evaluate the characteristics of polymeric composites containing different bean residue levels for polymer replacement. To this end, agricultural residues were first reduced to particles and characterized "in natura" through tests for moisture content, bulk density, content of extractives, lignin and ash and by thermogravimetry technique. Then, particles of both materials were dried and selected based on their granulometric fractions to make low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites with substitution levels of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40% bean residues. The polymeric material and the bean stem and pod particles were hot-extruded to obtain strands and then pellets; the resulting materials were then molded and hot-pressed. After fabrication, the specimens were subjected to physical testing for humidity, density, water absorption, and flammability and to mechanical testing for tensile strength. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed to evaluate the fracture regions of the specimens that were broken during mechanical testing. The results indicated that the physical–mechanical properties of the composites were negatively affected by the characteristics of the lignocellulosic material and by the increased number of pores caused by the presence of the waste material.
Verbal autopsy and outbreak investigation of anthrax in Livestock and Wildlife at the Virunga National Park Interface Area, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Muhindo Désire Selemani , Pongombo Boniface Lombe , K. Eddy Syaluha , K. Harvey Kamboyi , Mulinda Ézéchiel Bushu , Mwehu Tatiana Banze , Malengela Léon , Ngumuna Florent , Dib Halawi Abdel-Amir , Shawa Misheck , Mulumbu Justin Masumu
Published: March 2023

Anthrax is a worldwide environmentally transmitted fatal zoonotic disease with socioeconomic and public health impacts. It frequently occurs among livestock and wildlife in North Kivu province, Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, due to a poor animal health control system, it is poorly understood and managed and often underreported. Therefore, to understand, document, and report the epidemiology of anthrax in this province, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2015 involving arbitrarily selected 120 farmers to access their knowledge on clinical manifestations, transmission, prevention, attitudes, and practices concerning anthrax. Subsequently, a field investigation was conducted in 2021 during an anthrax outbreak to investigate the disease trend and routine practices. We established that most farmers know and can identify anthrax; they greatly fear and try to prevent it despite some unhealthy practices associated with handling and eating anthrax-contaminated meat. Extensive transhumance livestock management systems, anthropogenic activities, and the lack of a surveillance program have primarily contributed to anthrax outbreaks in North Kivu province. The presence of anthrax in this region was confirmed by detecting Bacillus anthracis, the etiological agent, during an outbreak investigation. Hence, the need for collaborative efforts for continued surveillance effectively manage anthrax outbreaks to reduce this serious threat to health and livelihood in this area.
The roles of apolipoprotein E ε4 on neuropathology and neuroinflammation in patients with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: He Mingyue , Lian Tenghong , Guo Peng , Zhang Weijiao , Zhang Yanan , Huang Yue , Liu Gaifen , Guan Huiying , Li Jinghui , Luo Dongmei , Zhang Weijia , Zhang Wenjing , Qi Jing , Yue Hao , Wang Xiaomin , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2023

Background
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 is one of the greatest risk factors for sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the relationship between APOE ε4 and different cognitive domains, pathological proteins and neuroinflammatory factors in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is still unclear. This study aimed to explore the roles of APOE ε4 on the neuropathology and neuroinflammation in AD patients.
Methods
AD patients were divided into the APOE ε4 carrier and the APOE ε4 non-carrier groups according to APOE genotypes. Demographic information, cognitive function, the levels of neuropathological proteins and neuroinflammatory factors in CSF were compared between the two groups, and the correlations among the above-mentioned variables were subsequently analyzed.
Results
APOE ε4 carriers had significantly worse performances in overall cognitive function and individual cognitive domains (P < 0.05) than the non-carriers. β amyloid protein (Aβ)1-42 level from the APOE ε4 carrier group was significantly lower than that from the non-carrier group (P = 0.023), which was associated with worse cognitive function. The nitric oxide (NO) level was significantly elevated in the APOE ε4 carrier group compared to the non-carrier group (P =0.016), which was significantly and positively correlated with the Trail Making Test (TMT)-A-time (r = 0.21, P = 0.026) and TMT-B-time (r = -0.38, P < 0.01).
Conclusion
APOE ε4 is associated with poorer cognitive function of AD, particularly the early symptoms of memory, language and attention. APOE ε4 is associated with lower Aβ1-42 level in CSF, and the more numbers of APOE ε4 are carried, the lower level of Aβ1-42 is measured. APOE ε4 is associated with elevated NO level in CSF, which is linked to the impaired cognitive domains of attention and executive function.
Flexible Topology for Mitigating the Congestion of Urban Power Grids with Dynamic Thermal Rating
Authors: Su Yi , Teh Jiashen
Published: March 2023

Urban power grid (UPG) combines transmission and distribution networks. Past studies on UPG congestion mitigation have focused on relieving local congestion while ignoring large-scale energy transfer with safety margins load balancing. This situation is expected to worsen amid the proliferations of renewable energies and electric vehicles. In this paper, a two-layer congestion mitigation framework is proposed, which considers the congestions of UPG with flexible topologies. In the upper-layer, the PSO algorithm is employed to optimize the power supply distribution (PSD) of substation transformers, known as upper-layer PSD. The lower-layer model recalculates the new PSD, known as the lower-layer PSD, based on the topology candidates. A candidate topology is optimum when the Euclidean distance mismatch between the upper- and lower-layer PSDs are the smallest. This optimum topology is tested by the standard power flow to ascertain its feasibility. The optimum transitioning sequence between the initial and optimum topologies is also determined by the two-layer framework to minimize the voltage deviation and line overloading of UPG considering dynamic thermal rating. The proposed framework is tested on a 56-node test system. Results show that the proposed framework can significantly reduce congestion, maintain safety margins, and determine the optimum transitioning sequence.
Personality and image as predictors of the intention to revisit and recommend tourist destinations
Authors: Joel Cruz-Tarrillo Jose , Liliana Haro-Zea Karla , Effer Apaza Tarqui Edison
Published: March 2023

Undeniably, the new normality caused by COVID-19 presents an enormous challenge for tourist destinations to become more attractive to visitors. Thus, the purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of destination personality and image on tourist behavior in Peru. This quantitative and cross-sectional analysis targeted 998 national tourists via a non-probabilistic convenience sampling. The study employed AMOS 24 statistical software for exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The results showed positive effects of social innovativeness (β = 0.374), performance (β = 0.404), and honesty (β = 0.191) on an affective image. Likewise, the study confirms the favorable effects of social innovativeness (β = 0.524), performance (β = 0.156), and honesty (β = 0.280) on a cognitive image. Furthermore, the effects of a cognitive image on the intention to revisit (β = –0.756) and intention to recommend (β = –0.756) are also measured. In addition, the findings support the positive effects of an affective image in intention to revisit (β = 1.549) and intention to recommend (β = 1.547); all results obtained a significance less than 0.05 (p < 0.001). This study concludes that brand personality is a valuable concept that can suggest strategies to improve the brand image, so the personality of tourist destinations should be congruent with the personality of tourists.
Rolling and whip phenomenon of hollow rotor slipping on internal stator
Authors: Nikiforov A. N.
Published: March 2023

Dynamic features of a rotor that rolls without or with whipping and slipping of own inner surface on a rigid stator are discussed. Change in the whirling direction associated with the rolling of the rotor from backward to forward was confirmed experimentally, i.e. in the case of an internal type for the stator-limiter in the direction of rotor rotation. Identification of dynamic behavior is made on the basis of eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes, motion orbits of an eccentric point (on the rotor), Campbell diagrams and AFC. The calculation of such characteristics has done using an original mathematical approach developed by the author earlier in order to describe the backward motion of common rotor on an external stator. A good agreement is obtained between the theoretical frequencies and amplitudes of vibration and the experimental ones. Therefore, the author’s technique is also suitable for the revealed forward rotor motion around the internal stator.
Cuando los costos, cuentan
Authors: Arrarte Ana María , Yano Daichi
Published: March 2023

Este trabajo busca abordar un tema relevante pero muy poco tratado en materia arbitral: los costos. La percepción común es que los Tribunales Arbitrales no dedican una parte importante de su análisis a la distribución y recuperabilidad de los costos arbitrales, pese a que esta decisión es una parte fundamental del Laudo y una herramienta esencial para emitir una decisión justa.
Self-reported Knowledge and Practice of Saudi Dental Hygiene Students Towards the use of Chlorhexidine Mouthwash
Authors: Mulla Mushir
Published: March 2023

Aim:

To assess the knowledge and practice of Saudi dental hygiene students regarding the use of mouthwashes in clinical practice.

Background:

Mouthwashes are chemical plaque control agents which are widely used for the prevention of tooth decay, gaining fresh breath, reducing plaque and calculus formation, and reducing gingival inflammation. Chlorhexidine is considered a gold standard mouthwash because of its substantivity action. Thus, it is very important for dental practitioners to understand the knowledge and practices regarding the use of Chlorhexidine mouthwash

Objective:

The primary objective of this study was to find dental hygiene students’ knowledge about chlorhexidine mouthwash and its side effects and also identify their practice toward the use of mouthwashes as plaque inhibiting agents.

Methods:

An online version of a pre-tested and validated questionnaire was used to test the knowledge and practices towards the use of Chlorhexidine mouthwash. Thus, A Cross-sectional questionnaire survey was carried out in Saudi Arabia on dental hygiene students.

Results:

A total of 144 filled questionnaires were obtained out of which 88% were male and 12% were female. After converting the scores into percentages, any score <60% was categorized as a poor score, 60-80% as an average score, and >80% as a good score. Dental hygiene students showed an average knowledge about Chlorhexidine mouthwash with a score of 62.27% and also poor practice with a score of 57.98%.

Conclusion:

The findings of this Cross-sectional study demonstrate that most of the Dental hygiene students in Saudi Arabia have got average knowledge and poor practice about the usage of Chlorhexidine mouthwash.

Clinical Significance:

Being the oral health care providers, it is mandatory for dental hygiene students to have adequate knowledge regarding the usage of mouthwashes. With optimum knowledge, they will be able to deliver the right information to the patients thereby ensuring the proper practice of the same.
Potential Side Effects of Comprehensive Fixed Orthodontic Treatment: A Narrative Review
Authors: Alotaibi Saud
Published: March 2023

Orthodontics is a specialty derived from dental sciences that starts by diagnosing, preventing, intercepting, modifying growth, and treating all dentofacial discrepancies. Medical interventions can cause harm besides their benefits. This review is done to evaluate the most common potential risks that can be caused by orthodontic treatment and detect the most common factor in the treatment that may lead to this hazard. The review was conducted based on PRISMA-S guidelines for literature search strategy for systematic reviews. Despite all the beneficial effects of orthodontic treatment, it also has negative effects on oral and peri-oral structures and social well-being. It is also important to obtain informed consent from patients before the initiation of any orthodontic procedure, especially in cases with a history of trauma or known adverse reactions.
Association between Continuity of Primary Care and Chronic Conditions among Patients in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Chowdhury Sultana Mubarika Rahman , Zhou Mengping , Li Kuang , Hu Nan
Published: March 2023

Background:

One important aspect of primary care is the association between continuity with primary care providers (PCPs) and chronic conditions among patients. However, there is a lack of literature to specifically address these issues in countries with large populations, such as China.

Objective:

The goal of this study is to examine the effect of chronic conditions on the continuity of primary care among patients from a cross-sectional survey conducted in Guangdong province, China.

Methods:

Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the effect of chronic conditions on continuity. Effect modification by residency status (migrantsvs. locals) on the relationship between the number of chronic conditions and continuity was also assessed. The intermediate effect of the existing contract between patients and PCPs was also evaluated for examining the relationship between chronic conditions and continuity of primary care.

Results:

Participants with chronic conditions had 2.32 (95% CI: 1.78 - 3.04) times the odds to continue with their PCPs for one year or more. Compared to those without any chronic condition, individuals with one chronic condition had 2.03 (95% CI: 1.49 - 2.75) times, and more than one chronic condition had 3.00 (95% CI: 2.01 - 4.49) times the odds to continue with their PCPs. The residency status of the participants did not modify the effect of the number of chronic conditions on the continuity of primary care. The contract between patients and their PCPs was found to be an intermediate factor for the relationship between chronic conditions and continuity.

Conclusion:

To strengthen the connection between patients with chronic conditions, PCPs may reinforce the relationship between providers and patients, thus ultimately benefitting the patients. The results of this study can serve as a reference for policymakers.
The Economic Crisis (2008-2019) and Health Care in Zimbabwe: A Structured Literature Review
Authors: Mangundu M , Roets Lizeth , ES Janse van Rensburg
Published: March 2023

Background:

The multi-prolonged nature and severity of the economic crisis (2008-2019) in Zimbabwe provided a distinct prospect to analyse the impact of economic crisis on the healthcare system. According to the System Model, the possible effect on health infrastructure, material resources, human resources, and financial resources is relevant.

Aim:

The structured literature review aimed to conduct an analysis of available evidence referring to the impact of economic crisis on health care in Zimbabwe between 2008 and 2019.

Methods:

A search of publications in English with inclusion criteria of timeframe between January, 2008 and December, 2019 that referred to the effect or impact of the economic crisis on health care was conducted utilising databases, such as Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, Pubmed, and UNISA repository. A thematic analysis for data extraction and synthesis was carried out. Exclusion criteria referred to irrelevance to the objectives and inappropriateness.

Results:

A total of 87 research publications were identified on various databases for analyses, 75 were excluded at different stages of screening, and 12 were included in the study. The thematic analysis, conducted according to the steps explained by Tesch (in Creswell 2014), revealed economic effects on health care in four themes: public health infrastructure, health workers, medical drugs, and public health expenditure and management, which were affected by an economic crisis.

Conclusion:

The effects of the economic crisis were evident in terms of negative changes in the healthcare delivery system, including a reduction in medical drug supply, loss of human resources, reduced financial resources, and an increase in the disease burden.
JOB INVOLVEMENT AND JOB RELEVANT INFORMATION IN MODERATING BUDGETING PARTICIPATION ON BUDGETARY SLACK
Authors:   Institut Pemerintahan Dalam Negeri (Institute of Governance of Home Affair), Huseno Tun , Wati Linda ,   Universitas Bung Hatta
Published: March 2023

Budgetary slack frequently happens in local governments. This can also occur due to indications of individual behavior lowering the income target to facilitate the achievement of local government budgets. The purpose of the study was to examine and analyze job involvement and job relevant information moderating budgetary participation on budgetary slack with empirical study on the regency of Sijunjung. The sample of this research is echelon II, III and IV officials in government of Sijunjung Regency. The sampling technique use in this study is a purposive sampling technique. The sample used in this studi were 59 respondents. The analysis of Partial Least Square (PLS) based on variance is the analytical technique used in this research. The results of the study found that budgetary participation has a positive and significant effect on the level of budget slack reduction. Job involvement was not evidenced to moderate the effect of budgetary participation on the level of budget slack reduction while job relevant information was evidenced to moderate the effect of budgetary participation on the level of budget slack reduction and is in quacy moderation. Suggestions for further research should be to examine the entire regional apparatus organization (OPD) in Sijunjung Regency to see budget slack in the budget preparation process and how employee involvement and information can reduce gaps in employee participation in budget preparation. In the participatory budgeting process, the government must consider the factors that influence budget participation, which can have an impact on budgetary slack, such as job involvement and job relevant information.
Morphological analysis of the retina in salt-loaded KK-Ay mice, obese and type 2 diabetic model
Authors:   Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Functional Anatomy, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Kitashirakawa Oiwake-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan, Maekawa Tatsuya , Sasase Tomohiko ,   Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Functional Anatomy, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Kitashirakawa Oiwake-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan, Shinohara Masami ,   Clea Japan Inc.1-2-7, Higashiyama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8533, Japan, Ohta Takeshi ,   Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Functional Anatomy, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University Kitashirakawa Oiwake-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
Published: March 2023

Retinopathy, one of the microvascular complications in diabetes, can cause blindness. Salt-loading is known to exacerbate microvascular damage and may affect retinopathy. In this study, we investigated the effect of salt loading on early lesions of diabetic retinopathy. Male C57BL/6 and KK-Ay mice were salt-loaded with 1% sodium chloride (NaCl)-containing drinking water for 12 weeks. In addition, to determine the effects of high fat and high sucrose, a high fat/high sucrose diet was also fed to the 1% NaCl-loaded group of mice of both strains. Retinal thickness was measured at an arbitrary location from the optic nerve disc, and thinning of the retina was observed in KK-Ay mice compared to C57BL/6 mice. Salt-loading caused retinal thinning in C57BL/6 mice, but not in KK-Ay mice. In KK-Ay mice, the effect of salt-loading may have been masked by the effects of obesity and diabetic status during this experimental period. There was also a small effect of QF on the retina, suggesting that dietary components other than salt loading may affect retinopathy.