bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State-of-practice on the mechanical properties of metals for armor-plating
Authors: Long Wendy , McClelland Zackery , Scott Dylan , Crane C.
Published: January 2023

This report presents a review of quasi-static and dynamic properties of various iron, titanium, nickel, cobalt, and aluminum metals. The physical and mechanical properties of these materials are crucial for developing composite armoring systems vital for protecting critical bridges from terrorist attacks. When the wide range of properties these materials encompass is considered, it is possible to exploit the optimal properties of metal alloys though proper placement within the armoring system, governed by desired protective mechanism and environmental exposure conditions.
US port connectivity and ramifications for maintenance of South Atlantic Division ports
Authors: Bain Rachel , Young David , Kress Marin , Chambers Katherine , Scully Brandan
Published: January 2023

This study utilized automatic identification system (AIS) data to quantify vessel traffic patterns within a predominantly US port network from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2020, with the methods validated using independent data sets collected between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2019. The analysis focused on South Atlantic Division (SAD) ports. AIS-derived data characterized individual ports’ traffic and port-to-port connectivity for the network. With foreign vessel entrances and clearances (E&C) data, the AIS-reported vessel characteristics enabled calculation of ships’ physical volume, which was a reasonable proxy for tonnage at many SAD ports. The PageRank algorithm was then applied to port-to-port traffic, revealing how individual ports participate in cargo movement through the network. PageRank scores also provided insight into the maritime supply chain beyond traditional traffic metrics. For example, many East Coast SAD ports ranked higher by PageRank than by raw tonnage. Because of the supply chain implications of shared vessel traffic, PageRank scores can augment tonnage metrics when prioritizing channel and infrastructure maintenance. Vessel volume, port-to-port connectivity, and PageRank scores reveal maritime supply chain resilience by identifying alternative destinations for cargo bound for disrupted ports, robustness across supply chains, and the effects of seasonality and disruptions.
The ontological constitution of res as simul totum and the doctrine of distinctions in Metaphysica of Nicholas Bonetus, OFM
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation, Ivanov Vitaly L.
Published: January 2023

The article examines the doctrine of thing in the “Metaphysics” created in the early 1330s by an original Franciscan theologian and philosopher Nicholas Bonetus. The article points to the historical-philosophical significance of this work. In the scholastic tradition, Bonetus’s “Metaphysics’ is argued to be one of the first large and independent treatises on metaphysics, i.e. it is not related to the tradition of commenting on Aristotle. It is also the first treatise in the history of philosophy under the title “Metaphysics”, named so by the author himself. First, we present the biography of the author of the treatise and briefly characterize the structure of his four-part “Opus philosophicum”, as well as emphasize the importance of the division between metaphysics and natural theology, for the first time in the history of the scholastic tradition not only declared as a project, but also im­plemented by Bonetus. Secondly, we examine the place that book III of the “Meta­physics” occupies in Bonetus’s entire metaphysical treatise, and determine the two main themes of this book: the doctrine of res and the doctrine on distinctions and identities. Thirdly, through the analysis of the Ist and IIIrd books of “Metaphysics” we demonstrate the connection, opposition and partial coincidence of two fundamental concepts of Bone­tus's metaphysics: the concept of being as being and the concept of thing. Additionally, the leading meaning of the concept of a thing as a simul totum, that is, a single “consti­tuted whole” from metaphysical elements (formalities, quidditative and individual differ­encies, intrinsic modes, properties), is clarified. Finally, we analyze the relationship be­tween the doctrine of res and the doctrine on distinctions in Bonetus and explain how the doctrine of real and formal distinction and identity is subordinated to the goal of ana­lytics of the metaphysical “constitution of res” and is built into the treatise on the thing. This, in turn, allows us to conclude that the main difference between the “formalist trea­tise” on distinctions and identities (and this is exactly how the content of the IIIrd book of Bonetus’s “Metaphysics” was perceived in the subsequent Scotist tradition), in com­parison with the corresponding treatises of Francis of Meyronnes and Peter Thomae, is precisely the role of the ontological concept of a thing as a “metaphysical whole” or in­dividual in Bonetus that determines his understanding of “formalities”.
The transformation of sensuality in postanthropocentric art
Authors:   Tyumen State University, Chistyakova Marina G. , Preobrazhenskiy German M. ,   Tyumen State University
Published: January 2023

This article explores the changing parameters of sensibility in the context of a postan­thropocentric paradigm in art. In particular, we address the mechanism of the construc­tion of affects building on the idea of their external autonomy in art. The fundamental disconnectedness of the realm of sensuality is described in the context of object ontolo­gies, via the modes of connectedness and conditionality that exist beyond the limits of individual experience. A generalized description of the procedures of the postanthro­pocentric paradigm of distributed aesthetics is provided. The article discusses the shift in the understanding of the function and autonomy of art associated with the emergence of object forms of art. The current situation in object art, in particular in total installa­tions, suggests a different paradigm of aesthetics. The specific workings of such a para­digm are clarified on the basis of the distinction between affect and emotion proposed by Brian Massumi in his conception of the autonomy of affect. The authors conclude that in deanthropologized environments sensuality operates as a chain of distributed af­fects associated with the effects of increasing intensity and inhibition of intensity through forms of appropriation of affect into a chain of successive instances of sensual­ity. The article’s general theoretical task is to describe the operation of affect structures under conditions of object deanthropologization. The applied task of the article is to de­scribe the mechanisms of understanding and perception of object forms of art, in partic­ular such a form as total installation.
Enhanced Deep Learning Frame Model for an Accurate Segmentation of Cancer Affected Part in Breast
Authors: Dewangan Kranti Kumar , Sahu Satya Prakash , Janghel Rekhram
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer is one of the primary causes of death occurring in females around the world. So, the recognition and categorization of breast cancer in the initial stage is necessary for helping the patients to have suitable action. In this research, a novel Spider Monkey-based Convolution Model (SMCM) is developed for detecting breast cancer cells in an early stage. Here, breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is utilized as the dataset trained to the system. Moreover, the developed SMCM function is processed on the breast MRI dataset to primarily detect and segment the affected part of breast cancer. Additionally, segmented images are utilized for tracking in the dataset that has identified the possibility of breast cancer. Moreover, the simulation of this approach is done by Python tool and the parameters of the current research work are evaluated with prevailing works. Hence, the outcomes show that the current research model produces improved accuracy for breast cancer segmentation than other models.
Genetic alterations of Keap1 confers chemotherapeutic resistance through functional activation of Nrf2 and Notch pathway in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Islam Syed , Qassem Khawlah , Islam Shafiqul , Parag Rashed , Rahman Mohammad , Farhat Walid , Yeger Herman , aboussekhra Abdelilah , Karakas Bedri , Noman Abu Shadat
Published: January 2023

Keap1 mutations regulate Nrf2 activity and lead to chemoresistance in cancers. Yet the underlying molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance are poorly explored. By focusing and genotyping head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) that had available pathologic and clinical data, we provide evidence that Keap1 displays frequent alterations (17%) in HNSCC. Functional loss of Keap1 results in significant activation of Nrf2 and promotes cancer cell growth, proliferation, and elevated cancer stem cell (CSCs) self-renewal efficiency and resistance to oxidative stress. Furthermore, decreased Keap1 activity in these cells increased nuclear accumulation of Nrf2 and activation of the Notch pathway, causing enhanced transcriptional alterations of antioxidants, xenobiotic metabolism enzymes, and resistance to chemotherapeutic treatment. Limiting the Nrf2 activity by either Keap1 complementation or by Nrf2 silencing increased the sensitivity to chemotherapy in Keap1-mutated cells and repressed the CSC self-renewal activity. Our findings suggest that Keap1 mutations define a distinct disease phenotype and the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway is one of the leading molecular mechanisms for clinical chemotherapeutic resistance. Targeting this pathway may provide a potential and attractive personalized treatment strategy for overcoming chemotherapeutic resistance conferred by Keap1 mutations.
In-Vivo and In-silico Studies Revealed the Molecular Mechanisms of Colocasia esculenta Phenolics as Novel Chemotherapy against Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia via inhibition of 5α‒Reductase and α1-Adrenoceptor.
Authors: Tusubira Deusdedit , Munezero Jonasi , Agu Peter Chinedu , Ajayi Clement Olusoji , Oloro Joseph , Namale Nathiim , Ssedyabane Frank , Nakiguli Caroline Kiwanuka , Adegboyega Abayomi E. , Aja Patrick Maduabuchi
Published: January 2023

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a major cause of lower urinary tract infections and erectile dysfunction thus a major contributor to lowering the quality of life among older men. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism of Colocasia esculenta (CE) as a novel agent for BPH chemotherapy. In Vivo, we assigned 45 male Wistar albino rats about 6 weeks old into 9 experimental groups (n=5). BPH was induced in groups 2-9 with 3 mg/kg of Testosterone Propionate (TP) subcutaneously. Group 2 (BPH) was not treated. Group 3 was treated with 5mg/kg Finasteride (standard drug). Group 4-9 were treated each with 200 mg/kg body weight (b.w) of CE crude tuber extracts/fractions (ethanol, hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, butanone, aqueous). At the end of treatment, we sampled the rats’ serum to check the level of PSA. In Silico, we conducted a molecular docking of the crude extract of CE phenolics (CyP) previously reported, targeting 5α‒Reductase and α1-Adrenoceptor linked to the BPH progressions. We adopted the standard inhibitors/antagonists (5α‒reductase: finasteride; α1-adrenoceptor: tamsulosin) of the target proteins as controls. Furthermore, the pharmacological properties of the lead molecules were studied in terms of ADMET using swissadme and pKCSM resources, respectively. Results showed that administration of TP in male Wistar albino rats significantly (p<0.05) elevated serum PSA levels whereas CE crude extracts/fractions significantly (p<0.05) lowered the serum PSA level. Also, fourteen of the CyPs bind to at least one or two of the target proteins with their binding affinity of between -9.3 to -5.6 Kcal/mol and -6.9 to -4.2 Kcal/mol, respectively. The CyPs possess better pharmacological properties compared to the standard drugs. Therefore, they have the potentials to be enlisted for clinical trials towards the management of BPH.
Clinical utility of overviews on adverse events of pharmacological interventions
Authors: Sachse Thilo , Kanji Salmaan , Thabet Pierre , Schmiedl Sven , Thürmann Petra , Guirguis Fadi , Sajwani Shellyza , Gauthier Marie-France , Lunny Carole , Mathes Tim , Pieper Dawid
Published: January 2023

Background
Overviews (i.e., systematic reviews of systematic reviews, meta-reviews, umbrella reviews) are a relatively new type of evidence synthesis. Among others, one reason to conduct an overview is to investigate adverse events (AEs) associated with a healthcare intervention. Overviews aim to provide easily accessible information for healthcare decision makers including clinicians. We aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of overviews investigating AEs.
Methods
We used a sample of 27 overviews exclusively investigating drug-related adverse events published until 2021 identified in a prior project. We defined clinical utility as the extent to which overviews are perceived to be useful in clinical practice. Each included overview was assigned to one of seven pharmacological experts with expertise on the topic of the overview. The clinical utility and value of these overviews was determined using a self-developed assessment tool. This included four open-ended questions and a ranking of three clinical utility statements completed by clinicians. We calculated frequencies for the ranked clinical utility statements and coded the answers to the open-ended questions using an inductive approach.
Results
The overall agreement with the provided statements was high. According to the assessments, 67% of the included overviews generated new knowledge. In 93% of the assessments, the overviews were found to add value to the existing literature. The overviews were rated as more useful than the individual included systematic reviews (SRs) in 85% of the assessments. The answers to the open-ended questions revealed two key aspects of clinical utility in the included overviews. Firstly, it was considered useful that they provide a summary of available evidence (e.g., along with additional assessments, or across different populations or in different settings that have not been evaluated together in the included SRs). Secondly, it was found useful if overviews conducted a new meta-analysis to answer specific research questions that had not been answered previously.
Conclusions
Overviews on drug-related AEs are considered valuable for clinical practice by clinicians. They can make available evidence on AEs more accessible and provide a comprehensive view of available evidence. As the role of overviews evolves, investigations such as this can identify areas of value.
Mapping out a One Health model of antimicrobial resistance in the context of the Swedish food system: A literature scan
Authors: Cousins Melanie , Parmley E. Jane , Greer Amy L. , Neiterman Elena , Lambraki Irene A. , Vanderheyden Matthew N. , Wernli Didier , Jorgensen Peter Søgaard , Carson Carolee A. , Majowicz Shannon E.
Published: January 2023

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) causes worsening health, environmental, and financial burdens. Modeling complex issues such as AMR can help clarify the behaviour of the system and assess the impacts of interventions. While models exist for specific AMR contexts (e.g. on-farm, in hospital), due to inadequate collaboration and data availability, how well such models cover the broader One Health system is unknown. Our study aimed to identify models of AMR across the One Health system with a focus on the Swedish food system (objective 1), and data to parameterize the models (objective 2), to ultimately inform future development of a comprehensive model of possible AMR emergence and transmission across the entire system.
Methods: Using a previously developed causal loop diagram (CLD) of factors identified as important in the emergence and transmission of AMR in the Swedish food system, an extensive literature scan was performed to identify models and data from peer-reviewed and grey literature sources. Articles were searched using Google, Google Scholar, and Pubmed, screened for relevance, and the models and data were extracted and categorized in an Excel database. Visual representations of the models and data were overlayed on the existing CLD to illustrate coverage.
Results: A total of 126 articles were identified, describing 106 models in various parts of the One Health system; 54 were AMR specific. Four articles described models with an economic component (e.g. cost-effectiveness of interventions, cost-analysis of disease outbreaks). Most models were limited to one sector (n=60, 57%) and were compartmental (n=73, 69%); half were deterministic (n=53, 50%). Few multi-level, multi-sector models, and models of AMR within the animal and environmental sectors, were identified. A total of 414 articles were identified that contained data to parameterize the models. There were major data gaps for factors related to the environment, wildlife, and broad, ill-defined, or abstract ideas (e.g. human experience and knowledge).
Conclusions: There were no models that addressed the entire system and few that addressed the issue of AMR beyond one context or sector. Existing models have the potential to be integrated to create a mixed-methods model, provided that data gaps can be addressed.
Trim-Away in adult animals through Nano-ERASER and its application in cancer therapy
Authors: Wang Mingming , Wang Junfeng , Wang Yuzhen , Raja Manikanda , Gupta Gourab , Hu Xiangxiang , Shi Shanshan , Chen Hexin , Fan Daping , Xu Peisheng
Published: January 2023

Trim-Away is a versatile intracellular protein degradation pathway that has been extensively explored in vitro. However, the in vivo application of Trim-Away is limited at oocyte and zygote stages due to the lack of an in vivo practical approach for intracellular antibody delivery. To broaden the application of Trim-Away, especially for clinical use, we developed a nanogel-based Nano-ERASER system. Here, we demonstrated that the intracellular delivery of anti-programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibody through Nano-ERASER could effectively deplete PD-L1 in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and induce cancer cell death. Furthermore, with the help of a tumor tissue-targeted nanogel, anti-PD-L1 antibody-loaded Nano-ERASER effectively inhibited tumor progression in a TNBC mouse model. These results confirmed that Nano-ERASER realized Trim-Away in adult animals for the first time, which could be an effective tool for disease treatment and studying gene/protein function both in vitro and in vivo.
Synthesis of Calcium Carbonate Loaded Mesoporous SBA-15 Nanocomposites for Removal of Phosphate from Solution
Authors: Tang Yaoyu , Wang Hao , Sun Wu , Li Dapeng , Wu Zhengying , Feng Yifei , Xu Nan
Published: January 2023

Removal of phosphate from water is very crucial for protecting the ecological environment since massive phosphorus fertilizers has been widely used and caused serious water deterioration. Thus, we fabricated a series of calcium carbonate loaded mesoporous SBA-15 nanocomposites with different Ca:Si molar ratio (CaAS-x) as phosphorus adsorbents via a simple wet-impregnation method. The multiply approach including XRD, N2 physisorption, TG-MS and FT-IR were used to characterize the structure, morphology and composition of mesoporous CaAS-x nanocomposites. The phosphate adsorption efficiency of the CaAS-x nanocomposites was studied through adsorption and desorption batch tests. Results showed that the increases of Ca:Si molar ratio (rCa:Si) favored the phosphate removal efficiency of CaAS nanocomposites, especially CaAS with the optimum molar ratio of Ca:Si as 0.55 showed the high adsorption capacity of 92.0 mg·g-1 to high concentration of phosphate (> 200 mg l-1). Note that the adsorption capacity of the CaAS-x exponentially fast grew up with increasing the phosphate concentration. Apparently, mesoporous structure of SBA-15 contributed to high disperse of CaCO3 nanoparticles leading to the multiplayer formation and fast growth of phosphate calcium precipitation. Therefore, mesoporous CaAS-0.55 nanocomposite is an environmental-friendly adsorbent for effective removal of high concentration of phosphate in neutral contaminated wastewater.
The uncertainty of infectious disease outbreaks is underestimated
Authors: Penn Matthew , Laydon Daniel , penn Joseph , Whittaker Charles , Morgenstern Christian , Ratmann Oliver , Mishra Swapnil , Pakkanen Mikko , Donnelly Christl , Bhatt Samir
Published: January 2023

Uncertainty can be classified as either aleatoric (intrinsic randomness) or epistemic (imperfect knowledge of parameters). The majority of frameworks assessing infectious disease risk consider only epistemic uncertainty. We only ever observe a single epidemic, and therefore cannot empirically determine aleatoric uncertainty. Here, for the first time, we characterise both epistemic and aleatoric uncertainty using a time-varying general branching processes. Our framework explicitly decomposes aleatoric variance into mechanistic components, quantifying the contribution to uncertainty produced by each factor in the epidemic process, and how these contributions vary over time. The aleatoric variance of an outbreak is itself a renewal equation where past variance affects future variance. Perhaps surprisingly, superspreading is not necessary for substantial uncertainty, and profound variation in outbreak size can occur even without overdispersion in the offspring distribution (i.e. the distribution of the number of secondary infections an infected person produces). Crucially, aleatoric forecasting uncertainty grows dynamically and rapidly, and so forecasting using only epistemic uncertainty is a significant underestimate. Therefore, failure to account for aleatoric uncertainty will ensure that policymakers are misled about the substantially higher true extent of potential risk. We demonstrate our method, and the extent to which potential risk is underestimated, using two historical examples: firstly the 2003 Hong Kong severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak, and secondly the early 2020 UK COVID-19 epidemic. Our framework provides analytical tools to estimate epidemic uncertainty with limited data, to provide reasonable worst-case scenarios and assess both epistemic and aleatoric uncertainty in forecasting, and to retrospectively assess an epidemic and thereby provide a baseline risk estimate for future outbreaks. Our work strongly supports the precautionary principle in pandemic response.
Comparison of effectiveness of Foley catheter versus vaginal misoprostol for cervical ripening in induction of labour in Gedeo zone public hospitals, Ethiopia, 2022. Quasi-experimental design
Authors: Temesgen Tesfaye , Figa Zerihun , Gido Rediet , Ahmed Abbas , Getachew Dawit , Andargie Melkam , Bedecha Fikru , Sefa Ahmedin , Abebe Mesfin , Alemu Asrat , Solomon Fitsum
Published: January 2023

Background
Induction of labor is defined as iatrogenic stimulation of uterine contractions to cause the delivery of fetus before the onset of spontaneous labour. An unfavorable cervix is a critical factor the obstetrician must overcome to improve the efficacy of induction of labor. At present, both medical and mechanical methods have been applied for cervical ripening in women with an unfavorable cervix. In developing countries like Ethiopia, conventionally cheap and feasible method used for preinduction cervical ripening is transcervical Foley’s catheter and misoprostol become practically important. So this study is designed to investigate the effectiveness of the most commonly ripening techniques (Foley catheter and vaginal misoprostol) in Gedeo zone.
Method
This is a quasi-experimental study to compare the effectiveness of Foley catheter and vaginal misoprostol for cervical ripening for labor induction. It was conducted in 120 pregnant mothers coming for induction who fulfil the inclusion criteria. Sixty mothers were assigned to the Foley catheter (group 1) and the remaining 60 mothers were grouped to misoprostol (group 2). Data was collected consecutively with a structured tool for both groups by trained data collector. Data analysis was done using the SPSS version 25. Chi-square analysis was used for comparing proportions of categorical variables while the student’s independent ’t’ test was used for comparing means of continuous variables where applicable. To calculate the time intervals, log rank test life table was used. P- Value was calculated to declare level of statistical significance at P < 0.05.
Result
the 41(68.3%) participants of folley catheter group and the 49(81.7%) of misoprostol group had favourable cervix within the 24 hrs. The mean time interval from the starting of ripening to favourable cervix was found shorter in the misoprostol group (10.27 ± 2.506) than the Foley catheter group (11.78 ± 2.151). In the induction of labor incidence of meconium was more in the misoprostol group than the Foley catheter group. The successful outcome of the induction was 33(80.5%) in Foley catheter group and (35(71.4%) misoprostol group. The mean time interval between starting of induction to delivery was almost the same between the two groups (7.56 + 2.97) and (6.96 + 2.226) respectively.
Measuring consumer demand for tires made without 6PPD
Authors: Cook Joseph , Sugiarto Wisnu
Published: January 2023

The tire byproduct 6PPD-quinone is lethal to several salmonid species when it is washed off roads into waterways. We study private consumer demand for a hypothetical, reformulated “Salmon Safe” tire with an online survey of n=695 vehicle owners in California, Oregon, and Washington. Using a pre-registered study design, we also test whether consumers comprehend information differently when the science component of the survey is presented as narrated video or static text and images, and whether forcing consumers to deliberate for 45 – 60 seconds affects their decision and choice certainty. We find that the median respondent would be willing to pay approximately 10% more, or $76, for a set of four reformulated tires, though approximately 25% of subjects were willing to pay $225 or more. Information presentation and forced deliberation had no effect on willingness to pay for reformulated tires or comprehension, but weak (and negative) effects on choice certainty.
Valorization of chicken viscera as natural raw material source: Application to hydrolysis of fatty esters for sewage treatment.
Authors: NEDJMA MELAIS , ARIBI-ZOUIOUECHE Louisa
Published: January 2023

"Chicken viscera" constitute very abundant domestic wastes interestingly investigated in the present paper. The efficiency of this crude slaughter co-product of high protein component, as biocatalyst, for the hydrolysis of fatty acid esters was reported and that, without any pre-treatment. The crude Chicken Intestines Powder (CIP) has shown a high reactivity for the hydrolysis of fatty esters. Two biocatalyst preparations were independently explored for the bioresolution of sec-phenyl alkyl carbinol esters: the CIP preparation and the crude Chicken Intestines Acetone Powder CIAP ​​preparation. The last one has shown good catalytic activity during the bio-hydrolysis in biphasic medium. Furthermore, the direct hydrolysis of milk fat using CIAP (500 mg) reveals the elimination of fats present in 50 ml of treated milk. These results open up very interesting prospects for the use of this biowaste for the treatment of milk fat.
The major TMEM106B dementia risk allele affects TMEM106B protein levels and myelin lipid homeostasis in the ageing human hippocampus
Authors: Lee Jun Yup , Harney Dylan , Kwok John , Larance Mark , Don Anthony Simon
Published: January 2023

Background
The risk for dementia increases exponentially from the seventh decade of life. Identifying and understanding the biochemical changes that sensitize the ageing brain to neurodegeneration will provide new opportunities for dementia prevention and treatment. This study aimed to determine how ageing and major genetic risk factors for dementia affect the hippocampal proteome and lipidome of neurologically-normal humans over the age of 65. The hippocampus was chosen as it is highly susceptible to atrophy with ageing and in several neurodegenerative diseases.
Methods
Mass spectrometry-based proteomic and lipidomic analysis of CA1 hippocampus samples from 74 neurologically normal human donors, aged 66–104, was used in combination with multiple regression models and gene set enrichment analysis to identify age-dependent changes in the proteome and lipidome. ANOVA was used to test the effect of major dementia risk alleles in the TMEM106B and APOE genes on the hippocampal proteome and lipidome, adjusting for age, gender, and post-mortem interval.
Results
Forty proteins were associated with age at false discovery rate-corrected P < 0.05, including proteins that regulate cell adhesion, the cytoskeleton, amino acid and lipid metabolism, and ribosomal subunits. Transmembrane protein 106B (TMEM106B), a regulator of lysosomal and oligodendrocyte function, was regulated with greatest effect size. The increase in TMEM106B levels with age was specific to carriers of the rs1990622-A allele in the TMEM106B gene that is associated with increased risk for frontotemporal dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and hippocampal sclerosis with ageing. Hippocampal lipids were not significantly affected by APOE genotype, however levels of myelin-enriched sulfatides and hexosylceramides were significantly lower, and polyunsaturated phospholipids were higher, in rs1990622-A carriers after controlling for APOE genotype.
Conclusions
Our study provides the first evidence that TMEM106B protein abundance is increased with brain ageing in humans, and the first evidence that the major TMEM106B dementia risk allele affects brain lipid homeostasis, with a clear effect on myelin lipid content. Our data implies that TMEM106B is one of a growing list of major dementia risk genes that affect glial lipid metabolism.
A qualitative assessment of cleaning and hand hygiene practices at shelters serving people experiencing homelessness during the COVID-19 pandemic, Atlanta, GA – May-June, 2020.
Authors: Besrat Bethlehem , Mosites Emily , Montgomery Martha , Garcia-Williams Amanda , Trautner Emily , Clark Kristie , Marshall Brittany , Vassell Cathryn , Rutt Candace , Jones Shantrice
Published: January 2023

Background: Cleaning practices and hand hygiene are important behaviors to prevent and control the spread of infectious disease, especially in congregate settings. This project explored hygiene- and cleaning-related experiences in shelters serving people experiencing homelessness (PEH) during May–June 2020 of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: We conducted qualitative, in-depth interviews by phone with 22 staff from six shelters in Atlanta, Georgia. The interview guide included questions about cleaning routines, cleaning barriers and facilitators, cleaning promotion, hand hygiene promotion, and hand hygiene barriers and facilitators. We analyzed interview transcripts using thematic analysis.
Results: Multiple individuals, such as shelter individuals (clients), volunteers, and staff, played a role in shelter cleaning. Staff reported engaging in frequent hand hygiene and cleaning practices. Barriers to cleaning included staffing shortages and access to cleaning supplies. Staff reported barriers (e.g., differing perceptions of cleanliness) for clients who were often involved in cleaning activities. Barriers to hand hygiene included limited time to wash hands, forgetting, and inconvenient handwashing facilities. Specific guidance about when and how to clean, and what supplies to use, were requested.
Conclusion: During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, shelters serving PEH in the Atlanta-metro area needed resources and support to ensure sufficient staffing and supplies for cleaning activities. As part of future pandemic planning and outbreak prevention efforts, shelters serving PEH could benefit from specific guidance and training materials on cleaning and hand hygiene practices.
Managing ammonia emission for multi-benefits in China
Authors: Wang Chen , Liu Zehui , Zhang Xiuming , Zhang Lin , Zhou Feng , Ti Chaopu , Adalibieke Wulahati , Peng Lingyun , Zhan Xiaoying , Reis Stefan , Liu Hongbin , Zhu Zhiping , Dong Hongmin , Xu Jianming , Gu Baojing
Published: January 2023

Atmospheric ammonia (NH3) has multiple impacts on the environment, climate change and human health. China is the largest emitter of NH3 globally, with the dynamic inventory of NH3 emission remaining uncertain. Here, we use the high-resolution secondary national pollution survey, integrated satellite data, 15N isotope source apportionment and multiple models to better understand those key features of NH3 emissions and its impacts in China. Our results show that the total NH3 emissions were estimated to be 12.3 Tg yr-1 in 2017 with three emission peaks in April, June and October. NH3 emissions have contributed approximately 23% to secondary PM2.5 formation, a 19.7% increase in nitrogen loading of surface waters, while ammonium deposition led to a decrease in soil pH by 0.0035 units and an increase in the terrestrial carbon sink by 83.4 Tg C yr-1. Reducing NH3 emissions in China would contribute to the mitigation of air and water pollution challenges, saving damage costs estimated at around 22 billion US dollars due to avoided human and ecosystem health impacts.
Short and long-read whole genome sequencing explains most undiagnosed Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Mallawaarachchi Amali , Hort Yvonne , Sullivan Patricia , Wedd Laura , Fowles Lindsay , Stevanonvski Igor , Deveson Ira , Simons Cas , Mallett Andrew , Patel Chirag , Furlong Timothy , Cowley Mark , Shine John
Published: January 2023

Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) is the most common monogenic cause of kidney failure and primarily associated with PKD1 or PKD2. Approximately 10% of patients remain undiagnosed after standard genetic testing. We aimed to utilise short and long read genome sequencing and RNA studies to investigate undiagnosed families. Patients with typical ADPKD phenotype and undiagnosed after genetic diagnostics were recruited. Probands underwent short-read genome sequencing, PKD1 and PKD2 coding and non-coding analyses and then genome-wide analysis. Targeted RNA studies investigated variants suspected to impact splicing. Those undiagnosed then underwent Oxford Nanopore Technologies long-read genome sequencing. From over 172 probands, 9 met inclusion criteria and consented. A genetic diagnosis was made in 8 of 9 (89%) families undiagnosed on prior genetic testing. Six had variants impacting splicing, five in non-coding regions of PKD1. Short-read genome sequencing identified novel branchpoint, AG-exclusion zone and missense variants generating cryptic splice sites and a deletion causing critical intron shortening. Long-read sequencing confirmed the diagnosis in one family. Most undiagnosed families with typical ADPKD have splice-impacting variants in PKD1. We describe a pragmatic method for diagnostic laboratories to assess PKD1 and PKD2 non-coding regions and validate suspected splicing variants through targeted RNA studies.
Acrodermatitis enteropathica during parenteral nutrition: a pediatric case report
Authors: Proli Francesco , Margiotta Gaia , Ferretti Serena , Drosi Alessandra , Valentini Piero , Buonsenso Danilo , Onesimo Roberta , Giorgio Valentina , Guerriero Cristina , Zampino Giuseppe , Lazzareschi Ilaria
Published: January 2023

Background: Acrodermatitis enteropathica is a rare disorder characterized by the triad composed by dermatitis, alopecia and diarrhoea. Its acquired form can be caused by inadequate zinc intake, malabsorptive processes, excessive renal or intestinal loss. A rare cause of acquired zinc deficiency is iatrogenic nutritional deficiency due to parenteral nutrition.
The diagnosis can be really difficult because the early clinical signs are non-specific and patient’s eventual comorbidities can often mask symptoms.
Case presentation: A 5-years-old child affected by several comorbidities, consequent to C. Koserimeningo-encephalitis occurred in the neonatal period, was admitted to Pediatric ward for acute pancreatitis and he had been fed via total parenteral nutrition for one month. Symptoms started approximately 15 days after the start of a standardised standardized parenteral nutrition mixture. The child presented with diarrhoea, alopecia and erythematous bullous skin lesions, distributed predominantly in acral and periorificial sites and not responsive to topical treatments. Zinc serum dosage were very low (10 µg/dL, with normal values 68-107 µg/dL). Clinical improvement was very fast after oral zinc supplementation (5mg/daily), with a rapid regularisation in the intestinal habits and re‐epithelialization of the skin lesions.
Conclusion: Trace elements are an essential component of parenteral nutrition. The supplementation of trace elements is a complex and important part of the parenteral nutrition prescription. Even few days of zinc shortage, especially in frail patients, may cause a severe dermatitis that can be easily prevented. Despite its rarity, acrodermatitis enteropathica should be strongly considered in the differential diagnosis of skin lesions for these patients.
Successful use of ECMO for life-threatening macrophage activation syndrome after treatment with tocilizumab in a sJIA patient
Authors: Yang Xi , Chen Yingfu , Dai Rongxing , An Yunfei , Yan Xin , Zhao Xiaodong , Tang Xuemei
Published: January 2023

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is a rare, potentially life-threatening condition in rheumatic diseases. The main treatment includes high-dose corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs, although cytokine inhibitors like anakinra or tocilizumab (TCZ) have been reported more recently. We report one case in a child with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA). He became progressively hypoxic and was transferred to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) after treatment with TCZ for 4 days. An immediate postintubation chest X-ray showed a diffuse exudative lesion. Despite efforts to continue mechanical ventilation and respiratory support, the patient continued to desaturate. Moreover, he subsequently developed haemodynamic compromise and was started on norepinephrine, ultimately requiring the addition of vasopressin and dopamine to maintain stable haemodynamics. After an intense but ineffective treatment, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was started after 16 h in the PICU. The patient was successfully weaned from ECMO support after 60 h. After discharge from the PICU, considering the severe refractory clinical features, we tried TCZ again. The patient developed anaphylaxis with palpitations and chest stuffiness after half an hour of TCZ infusion, and TCZ was stopped. As a type of biological agent, TCZ is commonly used in the treatment of sJIA. However, the development of MAS and anaphylaxis after the administration of TCZ for sJIA may be more common than previously thought. Paediatric rheumatologists need to be more careful when initiating TCZ for active sJIA. Moreover, we also want to emphasize the need for lifesaving techniques such as ECMO for sJIA patients in emergency situation.
An Improved Cobweb Grey Target Decision-Making Model for Multiple Kansei Images Based on Variable Weight Theory
Authors: Zhang Shutao , Wang Shijie , Su Jianning , Yang Zhiqiang , Liu Shifeng , Zhou Aimin
Published: January 2023

The use of constant weights reduces the accuracy of cognitive evaluation results, and the current design decision-making methods ignore the relationships between Kansei images. To solve these problems, an improved cobweb grey target decision-making method for multiple Kansei images based on variable weight theory is proposed. We take a hand-held electric drill as an example for exploration. First, according to the initial weight relationships of Kansei images, variable weight theory is used to identify the Kansei image variable weights of samples, and the variable weight comprehensive evaluation results for each sample are obtained. Then, based on the correlation and angle of the Kansei images, a cobweb diagram is drawn to represent the Kansei image relationship of each sample. Combined with the cobweb grey target decision-making model for multiple Kansei images, an improved cobweb grey target decision-making method for multiple Kansei images is constructed. The decision coefficients of 10 samples are obtained as 0.0567, 0, 0.0205, 0.0478, 0.0155, 0.0272, 0.0292, 0.0402, 0.0155 and 0.0470. Through the comparison and ranking of the decision coefficients, sample 2 is determined to be the relatively optimal design reference sample. Finally, the constructed model is compared with the cobweb grey target decision-making model for multiple Kansei images and the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). The difference coefficients of the three methods are obtained, namely, 0.5627, 0.4957 and 0.3613. The results show that the difference coefficient of the proposed method is the largest, and it can reflect the decision-making thinking of designers and improve the discrimination among the decision-making results to a certain extent.
Control of particle growth and enhancement of photoluminescence, adsorption efficiency and photocatalytic activity for zinc sulfide and cadmium sulfide using CoAl-layered double hydroxide system
Authors: Intachai Sonchai , Sumanatrakul Panita , Khaorapapong Nithima
Published: January 2023

The fabrication of zinc sulfide (ZnS) and cadmium sulfide (CdS) hybrids was carried out by the sulfidization of Zn(II) or Cd(II) adsorbed in dodecylsulfate modified CoAl-layered double hydroxide through solid-liquid reaction. The TEM images showed the nanocrystals of ZnS (2.61 nm) or CdS (3.29 nm) that orderly distributed on the nanosheets. The spectroscopic observations further confirmed the formation of ZnS or CdS nanoparticles in the hybrid as the evidence of the blue-shifted absorption onset, and the increase of the photoluminescence intensity relative to those of bare ZnS and CdS. In addition, the host-guest and/or guest-guest interactions promoted the greater optical performance, and adsorption and photocatalytic efficiencies. This research showed an interesting process for controlling the small nanoparticles of ZnS and CdS by intercalating in the interlayer space of CoAl-layered double hydroxide in the helping of dodecylsulfate, and for enhancing their photoluminescence intensity and performance for long time-period. Besides, the nanohybrids could be applicable as the adsorbent and photocatalyst on purifying wastewater contaminated with Congo red dye.
Analysis of the technological process of welding a membrane wall with Inconel 625 nickel alloy
Authors: Majerik Jozef , Slany Martin , Chochlikova Henrieta , Sedlak Josef , Zouhar Jan , Zemcik Oskar , Barenyi Igor , Kolomy Stepan
Published: January 2023

Research carried out by the authors of this paper is focused on the technological process of Inconel 625 welding with the MAG - CMT method. Inconel 625 was welded on the substrate material, which was 16Mo3 steel. Both materials are used to produce so-called bimetallic tubes, which in practice serve as part of the equipment intended for waste incineration. For this reason, the bimetallic tubes have to withstand extreme conditions during their operation. Therefore, bimetal pipes are highly stressed composite components that must resist corrosion in a chemically aggressive environment. For this reason, an extensive material and technological analysis of the production of pipe bends with a supercritical bend of 0.7D from bimetal pipes with Inconel 625 cladding was performed. In the welding process, the authors investigated the possibilities of the CMT method with and without divergence. The most important factor in deciding which method would be appropriate was to measure the amount of iron on the surface of the coating layer. The authors' paper builds on the authors' previous research in this area, which was mainly focused on research on critical bending of bimetallic tubes.
Disposal of household medications: practices and attitudes of pharmacists when dispensing medication
Authors: Michelin Aparecida de Fatima , Bonifácio Neuza Alves , Nagata Walter Bertequini , Silva Valéria Maria Savoya da , Gobbo Laura Emilia Michelin , Bresciani Katia Denise Saraiva
Published: January 2023

Background: Discarding pharmaceuticals in the garbage or into the sewage system are still the most common methods in many countries. This study aims to investigate the guidance provided by pharmacists to customers on the disposal of unused and expired household medications in São Paulo State, Brazil.
Method: The study population consisted of 630 pharmacists from the State of São Paulo, the majority were women under 60 years old, who work in pharmacies that dispense commercial drugs. They answered an online questionnaire with questions composed in three blocks: demographic, work, and academic information on the pharmacist; the disposal of household medications; and the reverse logistics of these medications. An invitation to participate in the questionnaire was made via WhatsApp, individually and collectively. Inferential statistics were performed using the chi-square test, and were considered significant when p<0.05%.
Results: Among the participating pharmacists, 56 (8.89%) and 216 (34.28%), respectively, stated that they rarely or never orient the customer regarding the disposal of unused and expired household medications, while 199 (31.59%) and 159 (25.24%), respectively, indicated that they almost always or always provide guidance. The frequency with which they provided guidance was influenced by the number of years since graduation (p=0.0047), the time they had worked in pharmacies and drugstores (p=0.0007), and whether or not they had a graduate degree (p=0.0181). Regarding the disposal of medications, among the 643 responses provided by the pharmacists, 516 (80.25%) indicated that they oriented customers to return them to a pharmacy.
Conclusion: A small number of pharmacists always orient customers on the proper disposal that should be followed for unused and expired household medications, prioritizing their return to a pharmacy. In general, these pharmacists have longer periods of work experience and higher academic qualifications. Thus, it is important to increase knowledge through professional training and further education programs.