bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chloride and Sulphate Removal by Using N-GET System with Additional Filters
Authors: Musa S , Kadir M N Abdul , Zakaria N A , Lau T L
Published: May 2021

Groundwater is an alternative source of water for human consumption. Groundwater at Research Centre of Soft Soil (RECESS), Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) is one of the water sources that available to be used. Unfortunately, it has a high content of chloride and sulphate concentration in which originated from the mineral content in the ground. This research was conducted to identify the effectiveness of the Nature Groundwater Eco-Treatment (N-GET) system that has been designed at RECESS in removing sulphate and chloride concentration as well as pH and turbidity parameter. N-GET system is a natural treatment process without mixing any substances intended to improve the quality of groundwater can give benefits to users. N-GET system in this study uses two treatment tanks in the treatment of groundwater which are aeration tanks, sedimentation tanks, and three sets of filters which were activated carbon filter, Do-It-Yourself (DIY) filter, and ceramic filter. The chloride and sulphate parameters were tested with 12 numbers of the sample while pH and turbidity were tested with 63 numbers of the sample. Using combination with sedimentation and aeration, ceramic filtration were performing better by reducing the pH of the samples by 3.9% towards neutrality and removed 32.6 % of sulphate, 13.1 % turbidity, and 33.0 % of chloride concentration from RECESS groundwater in comparison to an activated carbon filter, Do-It-Yourself (DIY) filter. Then, the effectiveness of each filter based on design flow and types of particle size in the filter. Therefore, the capability of each filter able to remove the specific contaminant as designed need.
Metals contamination on soil and surface water (earth drainage) due to leachate migration from Piyungan land
Authors: Nursetiawan  , Amani N F M K , Shaylinda N M Z , Shahar M S , Mohd-Salleh S N A
Published: May 2021

Decomposition of solid waste has the possibility of leached its heavy metal content into the leachate. Leachate flows into soil and surface water, causing possible leachate contamination onto the surrounding area. Monitoring of heavy metals contaminant is crucial to control the migration of leachate. This study focusses on the migration of leachate metals from the Piyungan landfill into the surrounding soil area and earth drainage. Triplicate soil and earth drainage samples were taken at ground level for each station to be analysed using the Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Based on metals measurement in soil, there are two paths of leachate migration. Even though the concentrations of As, Ni, Cr and Mn were reduced from the landfill until the downstream, all sampling stations show a high concentration in the soil above the standard limit for a residential area. Besides, these metals also show the concentration above the standard limit for earth drainage. Soil contamination occurred ages ago before this study was conducted based on Cu, Ba, Li, V, Co, and Ti accumulated in soil based on high concentration detected. However, these metals show a low concentration in earth drainage during sampling work was conducted in this study. While Pb, Mg, Zn, Cd and Sr were not migrated due to low concentration in all sampling stations except the station nearest to the landfill area. In general, the metals contamination in soil and earth drainage from the landfill will be tended to the hazardous condition in future. In addition, surrounding the landfill area is a residential area with agricultural activities at downstream. Thus, the effect on residents and plants could contribute to the hazard of metals contamination.
Optimization Disaster Reacting Unit Based on Digital as a Disaster Mitigation on Indonesia National Roads
Authors: Utomo A B , Suryoaji T K , Friatmojo E K
Published: May 2021

DRU or Disaster Reacting Unit is a set of construction heavy equipment used for natural disaster mitigation response that affect to national roads and bridges. DRU consists of excavators, motor graders, wheel loaders, vibro rollers, dump trucks, and dozers. Digital-based DRU management using E-peralatan provides many changes compared to conventional methods including less standby time, faster equipment rental ordering time, cost certainty, time certainty, document administration certainty, and process certainty and can be used by anyone, at anytime, anywhere. Based on E-peralatan, the mitigation of natural disasters that require DRU can be carried out on target with a good number of units of equipment needed, location, and shortly time of mobilization to the location.
Effect of the Polypropylene Fibre as Replacement of Filler on Asphaltic Concrete Performance
Authors: Joohari M I , Rosaidi A N Che , Ismail M K , Habulat A
Published: May 2021

Flexible pavement is extensively used in Malaysia as the construction cost of the pavement is lower compared to the rigid pavement. The uppermost layer of the flexible pavement called surface course, is made from asphalt bituminous mixture. This layer is a flexible layer where it can deform if subjected to great loads. The most popular defect that can be seen in flexible pavement is rutting. This study investigated the effect of Polypropylene (PP) fibre in influencing the behaviour and properties of the bituminous mixture when fully replaced as a filler and to evaluate the compressive strength of it. Marshall Mix Design was first used to obtain the optimum binder content and lastly, the specimens were compressed using Uniaxial Compressive Test machine to obtain its compressive strength. From the study, PP fibre reinforced bituminous mixture increased the compressive strength, the value of Marshall stability and help to reduce the flow. With all the stated effects, Polypropylene is ideal for replacing the conventional filler as it helps to strengthen the pavement layer and thus might be able to help save the maintenance cost for the constant repair of the conventional pavement layer.
Evaluation and Statistical Analysis of HRS-WC Mixture Performance Modified with Tropical Latex
Authors: Setiawan Dian M , Rahmawati Anita , Mubarak Endrian
Published: May 2021

The Marshall characteristics of Hot Rolled Sheet-Wearing Course (HRS-WC) mixed with tropical latex as a substitute of the 60/70 penetration grade asphalt material were studied. The statistical analysis aiming to decide whether the tropical latex as a substitute of the 60/70 penetration grade asphalt material with levels of 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7% by weight of the asphalt would affect the Marshall performance of HRS-WC was conducted. The suggested content of the tropical latex usage in the HRS-WC mixture was analyzed. The analysis results showed that tropical latex could improve the Marshall characteristics of HRS-WC. However, the extreme percentage of tropical latex could potentially reduce HRS-WC stability. Statistically by analysis of variance (ANOVA), under 5% confidence level, latex utilization as substitution of the 60/70 penetration grade asphalt material with contents of 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7% only affected the flow parameter of HRS-WC mixture, among others Marshall characteristics (density, VMA, VFA, VIM, stability, and Marshall Quotient). Moreover, it is suggested to consider the usage of latex content in the HRS-WC mixture between 1% to 3%, in terms of the 60/70 penetration grade asphalt material substitution.
Geotechnical Characteristics of Soil Stabilised with Waste Steel Dust for Soil Improvement Works
Authors: Hanis Abdullah N H , Hashim N Najihah , Nizam Ismail B , Keria R , Ramli R
Published: May 2021

This paper reports on the research carried out onto a kind of waste material from the medication supply industry viz, the waste steel dust. This research focuses on the potential of the waste steel dust as soil stabiliser agent based on strength improvement. Soil stabilisation is conducted to enhance the geotechnical characteristics of the problematic soil, such as marine clay soil. The engineering properties of the marine clay soil has been determined such as particle size distribution, particle density and plasticity of the soil. The soil sample was mixed and compacted with different amount of the waste steel dust i.e. 5%, 10% and 15% for compaction and strength test. Dry weight technique was used to prepare these samples. Standard Proctor Test has been executed to determine the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and Maximum Dry Density (MDD) of the stabilised soil sample. Meanwhile, Unconsolidated Undrained Triaxial Test (UUT) has been done to obtain the undrained cohesion, cu
of the stabilised soil. Findings from this study shows that additional of waste steel dust in the marine clay soil is unbeneficial, because as the content of the waste steel dust increased, the value OMC increased and both of MDD cu
and decreased. Therefore, the waste steel dust alone incapable to become a soil stabiliser agent. However, based on the comparison with previous study, it is found out that the presence of activated agent could potentially increase the performance of the waste steel dust as soil stabilizer. Significant findings from this study would contribute additional literature knowledge related to soil improvement works using waste material.
The Strength Behaviour of Eggshell Powder Substitution on Soil-lime Stabilization
Authors: Diana W , Widianti A , Hartono E
Published: May 2021

This study explored the investigation into enhancing soil strength characteristics using eggshell powder (ESP) as a lime substitution on soil-lime stabilization. The ESP was naturally available while using this material, which could reduce cost and other environmental effects. The influence of varying percentages of eggshell powder as a lime substitution in changes of the strength and durability is observed based on the unconfined compression test conducted on two soil and two lime types (hydrated lime and quicklime). Influence factors were studied, including soil and lime types, ESP content, curing time, and durability against wetting-drying (w-d) cycles. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and the durability values of ESP-stabilized soils decreased, while ESP content increased. However, this value was higher than the unstabilized ones. The ESP substitution on soil-lime stabilization marginally affected the strength and durability of soil-lime stabilization. The UCS increased with the increasing curing period for all specimens. Soils with more clay particles reacted better to both hydrated lime and quicklime. Additionally, strength development occurred in soil-quicklime mixtures more than in soil-hydrated limes. Based on a durability test, it was known that the maximum ESP substitution was 50% from the Optimum Lime Content (OLC); beyond that content, the strength of soil might dramatically be degraded.
Development of Paver Block Containing Recycled Plastic
Authors: Gungat Lillian , Anthony Fulgentius , Mirasa Abdul Karim , Asrah Hidayati , Bolong Nurmin , Ispal Nurul Ariqah , Matlan Siti Jahara
Published: May 2021

Disposal of accumulated plastic waste daily is an exigent in solid waste management. Hence, this study investigated the possibility of utilizing plastics waste in paver block fabrication for the pedestrian walkway. The development of paver block containing recycled plastic was started with a trial mix in order to identify the appropriate method for paver block fabrication. Two methods which are heating and compression were observed during the trial mix before proceeding to full scale casting. Compression method was selected in the production of paver block for further test. There were two ratios of cement, sand and soil used in the design mix namely mixture A and mixture B. The plastic content used in each mix were 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25% and 30% by weight of sand. Laboratory tests conducted on the specimen were compressive strength, water absorption and skid resistance. Both mixtures were compared in terms of compressive strength in order to select the appropriate ratio. The results showed that mixture B produced higher compressive strength compared to mixture A. Replacement of 5% recycled plastic exhibits the highest compressive strength for mixture B, however for economical consideration the replacement can be utilized up to 30% recycled plastic content. Based on the water absorption test, the recycled plastic increases the water absorption. However, the skid resistance of the paver block was found higher than the requirements. Therefore, paver block made of recycled plastic incorporating locally available material has the potential for use in the construction of pedestrian path.
The Effect of Soil Porosity and Geopolymer Viscosity on Spreading Grouting in Weathered Clay Shale
Authors: Sumiyanto  , Wardani S P R , Munthohar A S
Published: May 2021

Fly ash geopolymer is a potential material for the stabilisation of clay shale. Therefore, this research determines the effect of soil porosity (n), binder activator ratio (f/a), and geopolymer viscosity on the injected grout volume (Vi
) and soil-grout column of weathered clay shale. The research was carried out using fly ash as a geopolymer binder, dissolved in Na2SiO3 and NaOH(10M) with an activator ratio of 1:1. The binder activator ratios were 0.50, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25, with injection applied in the compacted clay shale using three dry densities corresponding to the porosity of 0.42, 0.48, and 0.54. Furthermore, a cylindrical specimen with 46 mm diameter and 100 mm height was used to carry out this test. A hole with a diameter of 12 mm and 80 mm depth was bored at the centre of the specimen to model a fracture grouting method, which was injected with the geopolymer by applying a pressure of 100 kPa for 20 minutes. The research found that the higher the binder activator ratio, the lesser the viscosity obtained; therefore, the grout easily penetrated the pores between the soil particles. As a consequence, more volume of geopolymer could be injected in soil. Binder activator ratio lesser than 0.75 was ineffective for the injection method, and binder activator ration between 1.00 - 1.25 was recommended for the grouting injection method. A new equation to determine the grout diffusion was proposed based on this experiment, as written in the equation

(

R
i

/

R
b

)

n
⋅
f
/
a

=
K

(

V
i

/
π
⋅

R
b
2

⋅
L
)

n
⋅
f
/
a

.
Influence of the cutting material on tool wear, surface roughness, and force components for different cutting speeds in face turning of CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloys
Authors: Liborius H , Uhlig T , Clauß B , Nestler A , Lindner T , Schubert A , Wagner G , Lampke T
Published: May 2021

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) provide advanced properties like a high resistance to corrosion and wear. Concerning this and the elevated material costs wear protection layers are a possible field of application. Finish machining of these layers is necessary to achieve adequate surface properties. In the experimental investigations face turning of high-entropy alloy CoCrFeNi layers generated by spark plasma sintering is regarded. In this context, the influence of the cutting material and the cutting speed is analysed. For this, CBN tipped (two types), PCD tipped, CVD diamond tipped, and solid cemented carbide indexable inserts are used. Additionally, the influence of four different cutting speeds in the range between 100 m/min and 400 m/min is analysed. The feed and the depth of cut are kept constant with 0.05 mm and 0.1 mm, respectively. The geometrical surface properties are determined by tactile measurements and 3D laser scanning microscopy. The tool wear is analysed microscopically. Regarding the surface roughness, CBN tipped tools with a high content of boron nitride lead to the best results with the lowest roughness values irrespective of the cutting speed. The tool wear is also significantly reduced compared to the other cutting materials tested. The investigations represent the first results analysing the influence of the cutting material in machining of high-entropy alloys. Hence, this contributes to the enhancement of the field of application of HEAs.
Vacuum brazing and heat treatment of NiTi shape memory alloys
Authors: Tillmann W , Eilers A , Henning T
Published: May 2021

The pseudoelasticity of NiTi shape memory alloys is a unique material property which can be characterized by a complete recovery of a previously impressed component shape by a change of the thermal or mechanical load conditions after deforming. In contrast to the elastic deformation of ordinary materials like steels, twentyfold higher elastic strain rates up to 10 % are possible due to a temperature or a stress induced diffusion-free transformation of the crystal lattice between the austenite and martensite phases. Therefore, these superelastic alloys are frequently used as actuators, implants or stents so that there is an extraordinary high requirement of reliability and biocompatibility. In terms of joining, vacuum brazing might be a particularly suitable method to produce joined components which preserve a maximum of pseudoelasticity. Within the present research, it was shown that the vacuum brazing process at 1180 °C using pure niobium is well integrable into a solution annealing and a shape annealing heat treatment in a single furnace run. This led to a distinct tension plateau at around 285 MPa with an almost R-phase-free conversion of NiTi. Furthermore, it was proven that the share of the superelastic and proeutectic NiTiNb-phase was significantly increased with the dwell time.
Review on advances in thermoelectric conversion using ion-conducting polymers
Authors: Lei Bowen , Bai Shuxin , Ju Su , Yin Changping , Chen Chen , Zhang Jianwei
Published: May 2021

The ionic Seebeck effect has been extensively investigated in thermoelectric conversion due to the substantial Seebeck coefficient it promotes. In this context, polymer-based electrolytes have been reported as one of the good ionic Seebeck material categories, demonstrating extraordinary potentials in heat collection for wearable and adaptable hardware. In this review, we make a summary of the latest progress in the ponder for ionic thermoelectric systems based on organic polymer electrolytes and mixed ionic-electronic conductors. Moreover, the investigation on the electrodes utilise in ionic thermoelectric devices is discussed. Finally, the recent progress in novel applications of ionic thermoelectric systems, including ionic thermoelectric supercapacitors, transistors, and sensors, which utilise the materials mentioned above’ aggregate vital properties, is also discussed.
Magnetic field induction and magnetic force distribution profiles in plasma focus discharge device
Authors: LASHIN A A , ALLAM T M , EL-SAYED H A , AHMED Kamal M , WARD S A , SOLIMAN H M , ABOUELATTA M A
Published: May 2021

We report a simple-to-perform technique to investigate the distribution of the azimuthal magnetic field induction, B

θ
, and the induced magnetic force acting on the plasma current sheath (PCS) in a plasma focus (PF) discharge. This in situ measurement technique can undoubtedly be beneficial when other fast-imaging techniques are not available. techniques are not available. Experimental work was conducted in the low-energy Mather-type EAEA-PF1 device operated in argon. The axial distribution (B

θ
)
z
along the coaxial electrodes system was measured with a four magnetic-probe set technique at different radial distances (r = 2.625 × 10−2 to 4.125 × 10−2 m) within the annular space between the coaxial electrodes during the 1st and 2nd half cycles of the discharge current waveform, where inner electrode of coaxial electrode system has a +ve polarity and −ve polarity, respectively. Axial, radial and total magnetic force distribution profiles were estimated from B

θ
data. Investigation of PCS shape in terms of its inclination (curvature) angle, θ, along the axial rundown phase and the correlation between the magnetic forces per unit volume acting on the PCS, the inclination angle θ of the PCS, and the formation of a powerful PF action during the 1st and 2nd half cycles is carried out. Dependence of inclination angle, θ, on total magnetic force per unit volume acting on PCS axial motion was studied, separately, during the 1st and 2nd half cycles.
Liver transplantation for advanced liver-only colorectal metastases
Authors: Dueland S , Syversveen T , Hagness M , Grut H , Line P-D
Published: May 2021

Liver transplantation provided a 5-year overall survival rate of 100 per cent in patients with colorectal cancer who had undergone liver resection previously. Patients with extensive liver metastases (over 20 lesions) and a left-sided primary tumour had long survival, whereas those with an ascending colonic primary tumour had inferior survival after liver transplantation.
Circular RNA_0001495 increases Robo1 expression by sponging microRNA-527 to promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of bladder cancer cells
Authors: Feng Liuwei , Fu Dongmei , Gao Lei , Cheng Hepeng , Zhu Chaoyang , Zhang Guangwei
Published: May 2021

Bladder cancer (BCa) is a heterogeneous disease that poses great threats on public health. Increasing studies have identified the vital functions of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in BCa treatment. Hence, this current study set out to explore the modulatory role of circ_0001495 in BCa development. First, the expression of circ_0001495 was determined by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell biological processes were then analyzed after altering the circ_0001495 expression in T24 cells. Next, interactions among circ_0001495, microRNA-527 (miR-527) and roundabout guidance receptor 1 (Robo1) were investigated by dual luciferase reporter gene assay, RNA pull down assay and FISH assay. Lastly, xenograft tumors in nude mice were established to explore the effect of circ_0001495 in vivo. It was found that circ_0001495 was highly expressed in BCa tissues and cells, and was further correlated with poor prognosis in BCa patients. In addition, circ_0001495 inhibited the activity of miR-527 by acting as a sponge to sponge miR-527, which further elevated the Robo1 expression. Lastly, circ_0001495 was found to promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of BCa cells in vitro through the miR-527/Robo1 axis and promote the growth and metastasis of BCa tumors in vivo. Altogether, findings in our study highlight the promoting role of circ_0001495 in the progression of BCa by increasing Robo1 via sponging miR-527, representing a promising target for BCa management.
Association Cortex Is Essential to Reverse Hemianopia by Multisensory Training
Authors: Jiang Huai , Stanford Terrence R , Rowland Benjamin A , Stein Barry E
Published: May 2021

Hemianopia induced by unilateral visual cortex lesions can be resolved by repeatedly exposing the blinded hemifield to auditory–visual stimuli. This rehabilitative “training” paradigm depends on mechanisms of multisensory plasticity that restore the lost visual responsiveness of multisensory neurons in the ipsilesional superior colliculus (SC) so that they can once again support vision in the blinded hemifield. These changes are thought to operate via the convergent visual and auditory signals relayed to the SC from association cortex (the anterior ectosylvian sulcus [AES], in cat). The present study tested this assumption by cryogenically deactivating ipsilesional AES in hemianopic, anesthetized cats during weekly multisensory training sessions. No signs of visual recovery were evident in this condition, even after providing animals with up to twice the number of training sessions required for effective rehabilitation. Subsequent training under the same conditions, but with AES active, reversed the hemianopia within the normal timeframe. These results indicate that the corticotectal circuit that is normally engaged in SC multisensory plasticity has to be operational for the brain to use visual–auditory experience to resolve hemianopia.
Extracting the signed backbone of intrinsically dense weighted networks
Authors: Gursoy Furkan , Badur Bertan
Published: May 2021

Networks provide useful tools for analysing diverse complex systems from natural, social and technological domains. Growing size and variety of data such as more nodes and links and associated weights, directions and signs can provide accessory information. Link and weight abundance, on the other hand, results in denser networks with noisy, insignificant or otherwise redundant data. Moreover, typical network analysis and visualization techniques presuppose sparsity and are not appropriate or scalable for dense and weighted networks. As a remedy, network backbone extraction methods aim to retain only the important links while preserving the useful and elucidative structure of the original networks for further analyses. Here, we provide the first methods for extracting signed network backbones from intrinsically dense unsigned unipartite weighted networks. Utilizing a null model based on statistical techniques, the proposed significance filter and vigor filter allow inferring edge signs. Empirical analysis on migration, voting, temporal interaction and species similarity networks reveals that the proposed filters extract meaningful and sparse signed backbones while preserving the multiscale nature of the network. The resulting backbones exhibit characteristics typically associated with signed networks such as reciprocity, structural balance and community structure. The developed tool is provided as a free, open-source software package.
Actin binding to galectin-13/placental protein-13 occurs independently of the galectin canonical ligand-binding site
Authors: Li Xumin , Yao Yuan , Liu Tianhao , Gu Keqi , Han Qiuyu , Zhang Wenlu , Ayala Gabriela Jaramillo , Liu Yuhan , Na Heya , Yu Jinyi , Zhang Fan , Mayo Kevin H , Su Jiyong
Published: May 2021

The gene for galectin-13 (Gal-13, placental protein 13) is only present in primates, and its low expression level in maternal serum may promote preeclampsia. In the present study, we used pull-down experiments and biolayer interferometry to assess the interaction between Gal-13 and actin. These studies uncovered that human Gal-13 (hGal-13) and Saimiri boliviensis boliviensis (sGal-13) strongly bind to α- and β-/γ-actin, with Ca2+ and adenosine triphosphate, significantly enhancing the interactions. This in turn suggests that h/sGal-13 may inhibit myosin-induced contraction when vascular smooth muscle cells undergo polarization. Here, we solved the crystal structure of sGal-13 bound to lactose and found that it exists as a monomer in contrast to hGal-13 which is a dimer. The distribution of sGal-13 in HeLa cells is similar to that of hGal-13, indicating that monomeric Gal-13 is the primary form in cells. Even though sGal-13 binds to actin, hGal-13 ligand-binding site mutants do not influence hGal-13/actin binding, whereas the monomeric mutant C136S/C138S binds to actin more strongly than the wild-type hGal-13. Overall, our study demonstrates that monomeric Gal-13 binds to actin, an interaction that is independent of the galectin canonical ligand-binding site.
Do professional perspectives on evidence-based smoking cessation methods align? A Delphi study among researchers and healthcare professionals
Authors: Zijlstra Daniëlle N , Hoving Ciska , Bolman Catherine , Muris Jean W M , De Vries Hein
Published: May 2021

The use of evidence-based smoking cessation interventions (SCIs) can significantly increase the number of successful smoking cessation attempts. To obtain an overview of the knowledge and viewpoints on the effectiveness and use of SCIs, a three-round online Delphi study was conducted among researchers and primary care professionals (PCPs). The four objectives of this study are to gain an overview of (i) the criteria important for recommending SCIs, (ii) the perceptions of both groups on the effectiveness of SCIs, (iii) the factors to consider when counseling different (high-risk) groups of smokers and (iv) the perceptions of both groups on the use of e-cigarettes as an SCI. We found a high level of agreement within groups on which smoker characteristics should be considered when recommending an SCI to smokers. We also found that PCPs display a lower degree of consensus on the effectiveness of SCIs. Both groups see a value in the use of special protocols for different (high-risk) groups of patients, but the two groups did not reach consensus on the use of e-cigarettes as a means to quit. Making an inventory of PCPs’ needs regarding SCIs and their usage may provide insight into how to facilitate a better uptake in the primary care setting.
Representation Theory of a Semisimple Extension of the Takiff Superalgebra
Authors: Cheng Shun-Jen , Coulembier Kevin
Published: May 2021

We study a semisimple extension of a Takiff superalgebra, which turns out to have a remarkably rich representation theory. We determine the blocks in both the finite-dimensional and BGG module categories and also classify the Borel subalgebras. We further compute all extension groups between two finite-dimensional simple objects and prove that all non-principal blocks in the finite-dimensional module category are Koszul.
Influence of air equilibration time, sampling techniques, and storage temperature on enzymatic starch availability of steam-flaked corn
Authors: Trotta Ronald J , Kreikemeier Kelly K , Royle Randy F , Milton Todd , Harmon David L
Published: May 2021

Measuring enzymatic starch availability is commonly used as a quality control method to ensure steam-flaked corn manufacturing consistency in commercial cattle feeding operations. However, starch availability estimates can be variable. We conducted five experiments to evaluate factors influencing starch availability estimates of steam-flaked corn. In Exp. 1, sample handling methods were evaluated. Sifted flakes were immediately placed into a plastic bag, air equilibrated for 240 min, oven-dried, or freeze–dried. Directly oven-drying samples at 55°C decreased (P < 0.01) starch availability compared to other sample handling methods. In Exp. 2, sifted flakes were air equilibrated for 0, 15, 30, 60, 120, or 240 min. Air equilibration time did not influence (P ≥ 0.54) starch availability. In Exp. 3, samples were evaluated for effects of sifting through a 4-mm screen (flakes + fines vs. sifted flakes) and air equilibration time (0 vs. 240 min). Both sifting steam-flaked corn samples and air equilibration for 240 min increased starch availability (P < 0.01 and P = 0.02, respectively). In Exp. 4, we evaluated the effects of air equilibration time (0 vs. 240 min) on the two sifted portions (sifted flakes vs. sifted fines). There was an air equilibration time × sifted portion interaction for starch availability because air equilibration time increased (P < 0.01) starch availability of sifted fines but did not influence starch availability of sifted flakes. Concentrations of crude protein, soluble crude protein, neutral and acid detergent fiber, ether extract, and acid-hydrolyzed fat, Ca, P, K, Mg, S, Fe, Zn, Mg, and Cu were greater (P < 0.01) for sifted fines compared to sifted flakes. Starch availability and total starch concentration were greater (P < 0.01) for sifted flakes compared to sifted fines. In Exp. 5, effects of air equilibration time (0 vs. 240 min) and storage temperature (23°C vs. 55°ºC) on flakes + fines were evaluated. Storage of flakes + fines in heat-sealed foil bags at 55°C for 3-d decreased (P < 0.01) starch availability by 40.7%. Sifted flakes contained less moisture, greater total starch concentrations, and greater starch availability than sifted fines. Moisture, sifting, air equilibration time, and storage temperature influence starch availability of steam-flaked corn. Adoption of the strategies discussed in the current study will lead to more consistent estimates of starch availability.
First Preliminary Clinical Experiences Using Hyperspectral Imaging for Burn Depth Assessment of Hand Burns
Authors: Promny Dominik , Aich Juliane , Billner Moritz , Reichert Bert
Published: May 2021

The accurate assessment of burn wounds is challenging but crucial for correct diagnosis and following therapy. The most frequent technique to evaluate burn wounds remains the clinical assessment, often subjective depending on the experience of the physician. Hyperspectral imaging (HIS) is intended to improve on this subjective diagnosis by accurate and objective analyses of perfusion parameters. The purpose of this study was to analyze the ability of technical burn depth assessment and to investigate a link between a certain value to burn depth versus the value of healthy skin references. One hundred and eighteen HSI analyses were included in this study between July 2017 and July 2019. We analyzed 74 recordings with dorsal hand burns and 44 recordings of healthy skin on the dorsal hand as control group. HSI recordings’ investigation was performed with special interest to wound center, intermediate zone, and wound margin. The results indicate that a differentiation between burned tissue and healthy skin was feasible and also significant in almost all HSI analysis parameters (P < .05). No significant distinction between superficial and deep partial thickness burns could be determined. However, in the wound center, we recorded smaller values with a more pronounced tissue damage. Our preliminary results demonstrate that HSI can distinguish between normal and burned hands. However, as currently used, HSI could not accurately determine the depth of indeterminate burns.
Moving Forward in the Next Decade: Radiation Oncology Sciences for Patient-Centered Cancer Care
Authors: Coleman C Norman , Buchsbaum Jeffrey C , Prasanna Pataje G S , Capala Jacek , Obcemea Ceferino , Espey Michael G , Ahmed Mansoor M , Hong Julie A , Vikram Bhadrasain
Published: May 2021

In a time of rapid advances in science and technology, the opportunities for radiation oncology are undergoing transformational change. The linkage between and understanding of the physical dose and induced biological perturbations are opening entirely new areas of application. The ability to define anatomic extent of disease and the elucidation of the biology of metastases has brought a key role for radiation oncology for treating metastatic disease. That radiation can stimulate and suppress subpopulations of the immune response makes radiation a key participant in cancer immunotherapy. Targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy delivers radiation systemically with radionuclides and carrier molecules selected for their physical, chemical, and biochemical properties. Radiation oncology usage of “big data” and machine learning and artificial intelligence adds the opportunity to markedly change the workflow for clinical practice while physically targeting and adapting radiation fields in real time. Future precision targeting requires multidimensional understanding of the imaging, underlying biology, and anatomical relationship among tissues for radiation as spatial and temporal “focused biology.” Other means of energy delivery are available as are agents that can be activated by radiation with increasing ability to target treatments. With broad applicability of radiation in cancer treatment, radiation therapy is a necessity for effective cancer care, opening a career path for global health serving the medically underserved in geographically isolated populations as a substantial societal contribution addressing health disparities. Understanding risk and mitigation of radiation injury make it an important discipline for and beyond cancer care including energy policy, space exploration, national security, and global partnerships.
Leaf anatomical characteristics are less important than leaf biochemical properties in determining photosynthesis responses to nitrogen top-dressing
Authors: Xiong Dongliang , Flexas Jaume
Published: May 2021

The photosynthetic capacity of leaves is dramatically influenced by nitrogen (N) availability in the soil, as CO2 concentration in chloroplasts and photosynthetic biochemical capacity are related to leaf N content. The relationship between mesophyll conductance (gm) and leaf N content was expected to be shaped by leaf anatomical traits. However, the increased gm in mature leaves achieved by N top-dressing is unlikely to be caused by changes in leaf anatomy. Here, we assessed the impacts of N supply on leaf anatomical, biochemical, and photosynthetic features, specifically, the dynamic responses of leaf anatomy, biochemistry, and photosynthesis to N top-dressing in tobacco. Plant performance was substantially affected by soil N status. In comparison with the leaves of plants subjected to low N treatment, leaves of plants with high N treatment photosynthesized significantly more, due to higher CO2 diffusion conductance and photosynthetic biochemical capacity. The high gm in high N-treated leaves apparently related to modifications in the leaf anatomy; however, the rapid response of gm to N top-dressing cannot be fully explained by leaf anatomical modifications.
Medical Student Involvement in Disasters: How Can We Effectively Serve?
Authors: Winakor Jonah , Janatpour Zachary C , West James
Published: May 2021

During disasters, the roles of physicians, nurses, and ancillary medical staff are defined by their individual certifications, whereas the roles of medical students remain less clear. Medical students are unlicensed physicians-in-training, with variable degrees of skill and knowledge, and thus, their involvement in disaster response has historically varied. In light of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, many junior students were asked to remove themselves from the hospital setting, whereas some senior students graduated early to join the physician workforce. In this article, the authors will examine the psychosocial benefits and consequences of medical student involvement in prior disasters and developing attitudes in light of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. We conclude by offering our thoughts on medical student involvement in future disasters.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for the Treatment of Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Suicidal Ideation in Military Populations: A Scholarly Review
Authors: Exley Shannon L , Oberman Lindsay M
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Military mental health conditions, such as depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation, are currently understudied and undertreated. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is currently being considered as a treatment for these conditions; however, there exists a paucity of research in this area. This scholarly review will examine the limitations of the existing literature on the use of rTMS to treat depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation in service members (SMs) and veterans.

Materials and Methods

Publications that evaluated rTMS for the treatment of depression, PTSD, or suicidal ideation in military samples were identified via a PubMed search. Non-interventional rTMS studies, studies where the sample could not be confirmed to be primarily composed of SMs or veteran participants, studies without psychiatric outcome measures, and studies not published in a peer-reviewed journal were excluded from this review.

Results

This literature search identified 20 total publications (eight primary analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), one longitudinal analysis of an RCT, five open label trials, and six retrospective analyses of clinical data), inclusive of 879 participants. Eighteen studies utilized a protocol targeting the prefrontal cortex (PFC), and one of these also targeted the supplementary motor area (SMA) with the PFC (one study did not specify the stimulation site). Eight studies applied standard 10 Hz frequency stimulation, and four applied standard 1 Hz frequency stimulation. The remainder of studies applied alternative stimulation protocols including 5 Hz (two studies), 20 Hz (one study), a combination of 1 and 10 Hz (two studies), and theta burst stimulation (TBS) (two studies). Twelve studies reported significant results, including four RCTs, three open label studies, and five retrospective analyses.

Conclusions

rTMS offers a promising area of research for mental health conditions in military populations. However, the number of studies that focus specifically on this population are few in number and have many notable limitations. Further research is needed to validate the effectiveness of this tool for SMs and veterans.
Bamlanivimab Use in a Military Treatment Facility
Authors: Karr Eric , Chung Theodore , Burtson Kathryn , Markert Ronald , Kelly Devin
Published: May 2021

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), was first identified in 2019 in Wuhan, China, and has rapidly spread across the world. As of April 2021, SARS-CoV-2 has infected more than 140,000,000 and caused more than 3,000,000 deaths globally. In November 2020, the monoclonal antibody bamlanivimab was approved by the FDA for non-hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) who possessed risk factors for progression to severe COVID-19. This provided a treatment option that may help prevent hospitalization.

Methods

Patients who regularly received ambulatory care at a military treatment facility and who were diagnosed with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 and possessed risk factors for progression to severe COVID-19 were treated with a single, intravenous infusion (700 mg) of the virus-neutralizing monoclonal antibody bamlanivimab. The primary outcome was improvement of self-reported symptoms within 24 to 72 hours of receiving the infusion. The secondary outcome was prevention of disease progression requiring emergency department (ED) utilization or hospitalization related to COVID-19 within 30 days of infusion. Bamlanivimab was administered in accordance with the FDA’s approval and Defense Health Agency’s guidance, including follow-up within 72 hours of administration. Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval was obtained.

Results

Of the COVID-19 patients who were given the option of a bamlanivimab infusion, 40 accepted and 6 did not (40/46, 86.9%). Thirty-six of 40 patients in the treatment group were contacted within 72 hours. ED/hospitalization information was available for all 46 patients. In the treatment group, 94.4% (34/36) reported global improvement. Three of 40 (7.5%) patients in the treatment group required inpatient admission, and 2 of 40 patients (5%) required ED evaluation within 30 days of infusion. Therefore, 5 of 40 (12.5%) patients required evaluation shortly after infusion, while 2 of 6 (33.3%) patients who declined treatment required hospital evaluation or admission related to COVID-19 within 30 days of infusion (P = .15).

Conclusions

Global improvement of symptoms within 24 to 72 hours of infusion was reported by 94.4% of patients receiving bamlanivimab; however, statistical significance could not be determined due to the small sample size and lack of placebo group due to study design. Furthermore, ED visits and hospital admissions were analyzed, but with only six patients in the comparison group, the relative risk was not statistically significant and could not be precisely estimated. In the future, this study can be replicated with both larger control/treatment arms to validate the initial results of this small, retrospective, cohort study.
Stroke in Young Military Men With Heterozygous for MTHFR Gene Mutation or Factor V Leiden Gene Mutation Associated With Patent Foramen Ovale: Report of Two Cases and Therapeutic Strategy
Authors: Brisson Rodrigo Tavares , Arruda Josevânia Fulgêncio de Lima , Silva Liene Duarte , de Jesus Dilermando Leal Júnio , Zetola Viviane Flumignan , Kauffmann Nogueira Marcia Aparecida Camacho
Published: May 2021

We report two cases of Brazilian patients (a 22-year-old male and a 48-year-old male) with ischemic stroke, whose arterial vascular study and echocardiographic investigation did not reveal any steno-occlusive arterial disease or typical cardioembolic finding, such as atrial fibrillation or myocardial dysfunction. A transcranial Doppler ultrasound and a transesophageal echocardiogram showed a patent foramen ovale (PFO), and the laboratory screening for coagulation abnormalities showed heterozygosity for MTHFR C677T and A1298C in one of the patients and heterozygosity for factor V Leiden gene mutations in the other patient. The significance of the association of PFO with Methylenetetrahydrofolate (MTHFR) C677T and A1298C variants or factor V Leiden mutation is discussed as a possible cause of ischemic stroke through paradoxical embolism from a venous source. There is a high prevalence of these two mentioned conditions in the general population, so we discuss two cases in which indication for anticoagulant therapy or percutaneous closure of PFO prevails.
The Challenging but Imperative Path to Monoclonal Antibody Use Against COVID-19 for a Small Overseas Military Hospital
Authors: Shirk Spencer , Kerr Danielle , Saraceni Crystal , Hand Garret , Terrenzi Michael , McDermott Andrew , Paz David A
Published: May 2021

Upon the U.S. FDA approval in early November for a monoclonal antibody proven to potentially mitigate adverse outcomes from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections, our small overseas community hospital U.S. Naval Hospital Rota, Spain (USNH Rota) requested and received a limited number of doses. Concurrently, our host nation, which previously had reported the highest number of daily deaths from COVID-19, was deep within a second wave of infections, increasing hospital admissions, near intensive care unit capacity, and deaths. As USNH Rota was not normally equipped for the complex infusion center required to effectively deliver the monoclonal antibody, we coordinated a multi-directorate and multidisciplinary effort in order to set up an infusion room that could be dedicated to help with our fight against COVID. Identifying a physician team lead, with subject matter experts from nursing, pharmacy, facilities, and enlisted corpsmen, our team carefully ensured that all requisite steps were set up in advance in order to be able to identify the appropriate patients proactively and treat them safely with the infusion that has been clinically proven to decrease hospital admissions and mortality. Additional benefits included the establishment of an additional negative pressure room near our emergency room for both COVID-19 patients and, when needed, the monoclonal antibody infusion. In mid-January, a COVID-19-positive patient meeting the clinical criteria for monoclonal antibody infusion was safely administered this potentially life-saving medication, a first for small overseas hospitals. Here, we describe the preparation, challenges, obstacles, lessons learned, and successful outcomes toward effectively using the monoclonal antibody overseas.
Primordial black holes in the excursion set theory
Authors: Erfani Encieh , Kameli Hamed , Baghram Shant
Published: May 2021

We study primordial black holes (PBHs) formation in the excursion set theory (EST) in a vast range of PBHs masses with and without confirmed constraints on their abundance. In this work, we introduce a new concept of the first touch in the context of EST for PBHs formation. This new framework takes into account the earlier horizon re-entry of smaller masses. Our study shows that in the EST, it is possible to produce PBHs in different mass range, with enhanced power spectrum, which could make up all dark matter. We also show that in a broad blue-tilted power spectrum, the production of PBHs is dominated by smaller masses. Our analysis puts an upper limit $\sim \,$0.1 on the amplitude of the curvature power spectrum at length scales relevant for PBHs formation.