bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The violent death toll from the Iraq War: 2003–2023
Authors: Spagat Michael
Published: February 2024

From the beginning of the Iraq war, in March of 2003, to the present day, controversy has swirled around the death toll of the war. This paper narrows down the range of uncertainty for the numbers and trends in violent deaths in the war. I assemble and appraise all primary sources that cover the period from March of 2003 onwards—six sample surveys plus a casualty recording project (Iraq Body Count [IBC]). Data permitting, I present cumulative monthly figures with, for the surveys, 95% bootstrapped uncertainty intervals. The analysis uncovers a core of high-quality mainstream sources that are highly consistent with each another. In addition, there are three outlier surveys that are compromised by serious flaws and produce estimates far outside the mainstream. Discarding the outlying and flawed surveys reveals a clear picture of the violent death toll from the Iraq war. IBC figures, extended to include combatants, occupy a central position within the mainstream range of estimates. The strong consistency across the high-quality sources provides a rare validation of three war-death-measurement methodologies—household-based surveys, sibling-based surveys, and casualty recording. Methodological success notwithstanding, we must transcend the numbers to truly comprehend the human costs of the war.
Impact of combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema on lung cancer risk and mortality in rheumatoid arthritis: A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mori Shunsuke , Ueki Yukitaka , Hasegawa Mizue , Nakamura Kazuyoshi , Nakashima Kouya , Hidaka Toshihiko , Ishii Koji , Kobayashi Hironori , Miyamura Tomoya
Published: February 2024

Objective

Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) is a syndrome characterized by the coexistence of emphysema and fibrotic interstitial lung disease (ILD). The aim of this study was to examine the effect of CPFE on lung cancer risk and lung cancer-related mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study of patients newly diagnosed with lung cancer at five community hospitals between June 2006 and December 2021. Patients were followed until lung cancer-related death, other-cause death, loss to follow-up, or the end of the study. We used the cumulative incidence function with Gray’s test and Fine-Gray regression analysis for survival analysis.

Results

A total of 563 patients with biopsy-proven lung cancer were included (82 RA patients and 481 non-RA patients). The prevalence of CPFE was higher in RA patients than in non-RA patients (40.2% vs.10.0%) at lung cancer diagnosis. During follow-up, the crude incidence rate of lung cancer-related death was 0.29 and 0.10 per patient-year (PY) in RA and non-RA patients, and 0.32 and 0.07 per PY in patients with CPFE and patients without ILD or emphysema, respectively. The estimated death probability at 5 years differed between RA and non-RA patients (66% vs. 32%, p<0.001) and between patients with CPFE and patients without ILD or emphysema (71% vs. 24%, p<0.001). In addition to clinical cancer stage and no surgery within 1 month, RA and CPFE were identified as independent predictive factors for increased lung cancer-related mortality (RA: adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.65–4.76; CPFE: adjusted HR 2.01; 95% CI 1.24–3.23).

Conclusions

RA patients with lung cancer had a higher prevalence of CPFE and increased cancer-related mortality compared with non-RA patients. Close monitoring and optimal treatment strategies tailored to RA patients with CPFE are important to improve the poor prognosis of lung cancer.
Elemental iron protects gut microbiota against oxygen-induced dysbiosis
Authors: Ostrov Ievgeniia , Gong Yongjia , Zuk Joshua B. , Wickramasinghe Purni C. K. , Tmenova Irina , Roopchand Diana E. , Zhao Liping , Raskin Ilya
Published: February 2024

Gut dysbiosis induced by oxygen and reactive oxygen species may be related to the development of inflammation, resulting in metabolic syndrome and associated—conditions in the gut. Here we show that elemental iron can serve as an antioxidant and reverse the oxygen-induced dysbiosis. Fecal samples from three healthy donors were fermented with elemental iron and/or oxygen. 16S rRNA analysis revealed that elemental iron reversed the oxygen-induced disruption of Shannon index diversity of the gut microbiota.The bacteria lacking enzymatic antioxidant systems also increased after iron treatment. Inter-individual differences, which corresponded to iron oxidation patterns, were observed for the tested donors. Gut bacteria responding to oxygen and iron treatments were identified as guilds, among which, Escherichia-Shigella was promoted by oxygen and depressed by elemental iron, while changes in bacteria such as Bifidobacterium, Blautia, Eubacterium, Ruminococcaceae, Flavonifractor, Oscillibacter, and Lachnospiraceae were reversed by elemental iron after oxygen treatment. Short-chain fatty acid production was inhibited by oxygen and this effect was partially reversed by elemental iron. These results suggested that elemental iron can regulate the oxygen/ROS state and protect the gut microbiota from oxidative stress.
Regional variation of the cortical and trabecular bone material properties in the rabbit skull
Authors: Wang Linje , Meloro Carlo , Fagan Michael J. , Kissane Roger W. P. , Bates Karl T. , Askew Graham N. , Watson Peter J.
Published: February 2024

The material properties of some bones are known to vary with anatomical location, orientation and position within the bone (e.g., cortical and trabecular bone). Details of the heterogeneity and anisotropy of bone is an important consideration for biomechanical studies that apply techniques such as finite element analysis, as the outcomes will be influenced by the choice of material properties used. Datasets detailing the regional variation of material properties in the bones of the skull are sparse, leaving many finite element analyses of skulls no choice but to employ homogeneous, isotropic material properties, often using data from a different species to the one under investigation. Due to the growing significance of investigating the cranial biomechanics of the rabbit in basic science and clinical research, this study used nanoindentation to measure the elastic modulus of cortical and trabecular bone throughout the skull. The elastic moduli of cortical bone measured in the mediolateral and ventrodorsal direction were found to decrease posteriorly through the skull, while it was evenly distributed when measured in the anteroposterior direction. Furthermore, statistical tests showed that the variation of elastic moduli between separate regions (anterior, middle and posterior) of the skull were significantly different in cortical bone, but was not in trabecular bone. Elastic moduli measured in different orthotropic planes were also significantly different, with the moduli measured in the mediolateral direction consistently lower than that measured in either the anteroposterior or ventrodorsal direction. These findings demonstrate the significance of regional and directional variation in cortical bone elastic modulus, and therefore material properties in finite element models of the skull, particularly those of the rabbit, should consider the heterogeneous and orthotropic properties of skull bone when possible.
The role of minority language bilingualism in spotting agreement attraction errors: Evidence from Italian varieties
Authors: Masullo Camilla , Casado Alba , Leivada Evelina
Published: February 2024

Bilingual adaptations remain a subject of ongoing debate, with varying results reported across cognitive domains. A possible way to disentangle the apparent inconsistency of results is to focus on the domain of language processing, which is what the bilingual experience boils down to. This study delves into the role of the bilingual experience on the processing of agreement mismatches. Given the underrepresentation of minority bilingual speakers of non-standard varieties, we advance a unique comparative perspective that includes monolinguals, standard language bilinguals, and different groups of minority language bilinguals, taking advantage of the rich linguistic diversity of the Italian peninsula. This comparative approach can reveal the impact of various sociolinguistic aspects of the bilingual experience across different bilingual trajectories. We developed an auditory acceptability judgement task in Italian, featuring Subject-Verb agreement mismatches. Participants evaluated the stimuli on a 5-point Likert scale and reaction times were recorded. The results do not reveal significant differences between the speakers of standard languages: Italian monolinguals and Italian-Spanish bilinguals. Instead, significant differences are found between monolinguals and the two groups of minority language bidialectals, as well as between the bidialectal groups themselves: Italian-Pavese bidialectals were faster than both Italian-Agrigentino bidialectals and Italian monolinguals, while Italian-Agrigentino bidialectals were less accurate than both Italian-Pavese bidialectals and Italian monolinguals. This intricate picture is explained through variables associated with second language use and language switching. Our findings suggest that if bilingualism is viewed as a yes/no phenotype, it is unavoidable that the bilingual experience will remain a mystery linked to intensely debated results. If, however, one accepts that bilingual adaptations are shaped by the environmental ecology of each trajectory, variation across bilingual processing outcomes is unsurprising. Overall, we argue that specific sociolinguistic factors behind each bilingual experience can reveal where bilingual adaptations on language and cognition stem from.
Assessment of indoor radon distribution and seasonal variation within the Kpando Municipality of Volta Region, Ghana
Authors: Amable Anthony Selorm Kwesi , Otoo Francis , Kingsley Buah-Bassuah Paul , Kwabena Twum Anthony
Published: February 2024

This study uses CR-39 radon detectors to examine radon distributions, seasonal indoor radon variations, correction factors, and the influence of building materials and characteristics on indoor radon concentration in 120 dwellings. The study also determines the spatial distribution of radon levels using the ArcGIS geostatistical method. Radon detectors were exposed in bedrooms from April to July (RS), August to November (DS); December to March (HS), and January-December (YS) from 2021 to 2022. The result for the radon levels during the weather seasons were; 32.3 to 190.1 Bqm-3 (80.9 ± 3.2 Bq/m3) for (RS), 30.8 to 151.4 Bqm-3 (68.5 ± 2.7 Bqm-3) for HS and 24.8 to 112.9 Bqm-3(61.7 ± 2.1 Bqm-3) for DS, and 25.2 to 145.2 Bq/m3 (69.4 ± 2.7 Bqm-3). The arithmetic mean for April to July season was greater than August to November. The correction factors associated with this study ranged from 0.9 to 1.2. The annual effective dose (AE) associated with radon data was varied from 0.6 to 4.04 mSv/y (1.8 ± 0.1 mSv/y). The April to July period which was characterized by rains recorded the highest correlation coefficient and indoor radon concentration. Distribution and radon mapping revealed radon that the exposure to the occupant is non-uniformly spread across the studied dwellings. 15.4% of the studied data exceeded WHO reference values of 100 Bq/m3. The seasonal variation, dwelling age, and building materials were observed to have a substantial impact on the levels of radon concentration within the buildings.
Are anxiety, depression, and stress distinguishable in Italian adolescents? an examination through the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21
Authors: Iannattone Sara , Mignemi Giuseppe , Pivetta Erika , Gatta Michela , Sica Claudio , Cardi Valentina , Canale Natale , Spoto Andrea , Bottesi Gioia
Published: February 2024

The adolescents’ ability to discriminate between different negative emotional states is still under debate. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) serves as a useful tool to unravel this issue, yet the literature on its structural validity in young people is ambiguous. Therefore, this study aimed to expand knowledge on the emotional experience of youth by investigating the factor structure and psychometric properties of the DASS-21 in Italian adolescents. Six hundred fifty-five students (60.6% girls) aged 14–18 (M = 16.3 ± 1.29) completed an online survey containing the DASS-21 and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). To evaluate the factor structure of the DASS-21, several alternative models were tested, also adopting an Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM) procedure. Measurement invariance, reliability, validity, and latent means differences were addressed. The ESEM model with three correlated factors of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress yielded the best fit to the data, supporting a hierarchical structure of the DASS-21. In addition, this model was invariant across sex and age groups. The Anxiety scale predicted both positive and negative affect, while Depression predicted positive affect only. Finally, girls scored higher than boys on Anxiety and Depression, but no age differences emerged. Overall, our results indicate that anxiety, depression, and stress are distinguishable in Italian adolescents but, simultaneously, share an underlying condition of general distress, which may explain the comorbidity between internalizing problems. Such findings are discussed in terms of clinical and preventive implications for the adolescent population.
Osteo-inductive effect of piezoelectric stimulation from the poly(l-lactic acid) scaffolds
Authors: Das Ritopa , Le Duong , Kan Ho-Man , Le Thinh T. , Park Jinyoung , Nguyen Thanh D. , Lo Kevin W.-H.
Published: February 2024

Piezoelectric biomaterials can generate piezoelectrical charges in response to mechanical activation. These generated charges can directly stimulate bone regeneration by triggering signaling pathway that is important for regulating osteogenesis of cells seeded on the materials. On the other hand, mechanical forces applied to the biomaterials play an important role in bone regeneration through the process called mechanotransduction. While mechanical force and electrical charges are both important contributing factors to bone tissue regeneration, they operate through different underlying mechanisms. The utilizations of piezoelectric biomaterials have been explored to serve as self-charged scaffolds which can promote stem cell differentiation and the formation of functional bone tissues. However, it is still not clear how mechanical activation and electrical charge act together on such a scaffold and which factors play more important role in the piezoelectric stimulation to induce osteogenesis. In our study, we found Poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA)-based piezoelectric scaffolds with higher piezoelectric charges had a more pronounced osteoinductive effect than those with lower charges. This provided a new mechanistic insight that the observed osteoinductive effect of the piezoelectric PLLA scaffolds is likely due to the piezoelectric stimulation they provide, rather than mechanical stimulation alone. Our findings provide a crucial guide for the optimization of piezoelectric material design and usage.
INVENTÁRIO E AVALIAÇÃO DO GEOPATRIMÔNIO DO PARQUE NACIONAL DE UBAJARA, CEARÁ, BRASIL
Authors: Meira Suedio Alves , Nascimento Marcos Antonio Leite do , Silva Edson Vicente da
Published: February 2024

O Parque Nacional de Ubajara (Parna de Ubajara), Ceará, dispõe das principais feições cársticas do estado e do encontro entre a Depressão Sertaneja e o Glint da Ibiapaba. Apesar das potencialidades abióticas, fica evidenciado na literatura uma lacuna de conhecimento específico sobre esses elementos da geodiversidade. Nesse contexto, este artigo realiza o inventário e a avaliação quantitativa do geopatrimônio do Parna Ubajara, de acordo com critérios educativos, turísticos e científicos. No inventário foram utilizadas as metodologias de classificação segundo categorias temáticas pré-estabelecidas e de seleção de locais com características superlativas. A avaliação quantitativa seguiu o método do Sistema de Cadastro e Quantificação de Geossítios e Sítios da Geodiversidade do Serviço Geológico Brasileiro. Após as etapas de campo e laboratório foram inventariados onze locais de interesse geológico no Parna de Ubajara, os quais resumem a história geológica e são os melhores representantes das três categorias temáticas definidas. A avaliação quantitativa salientou a relevância do geopatrimônio ao classificar oito geossítios e três sítios da geodiversidade de relevância nacional. Salienta-se que esses locais devem ser foco de medidas de valorização e divulgação do geopatrimônio do Parna de Ubajara, contribuindo para a melhoria dos índices de conservação e das práticas educativas e turísticas já realizadas.
AVALIAÇÃO DE USABILIDADE DO GEOPORTAL DA INFRAESTRUTURA NACIONAL DE DADOS ESPACIAIS (INDE) COM A METODOLOGIA THINK ALOUD
Authors: Amorim Jaqueline Lima , Martins Vinicius Emmel , Camboim Silvana Philippi
Published: February 2024

A Infraestrutura Nacional de Dados Espaciais (INDE), a plataforma principal de dados geoespaciais do Brasil, é o foco deste artigo que avalia a usabilidade do seu geoportal. A INDE, por meio do seu portal, oferece acesso a dados geoespaciais e metadados de diversas instituições públicas. Para a avaliação de usabilidade, foram realizadas provas de tarefas utilizando a metodologia Think Aloud e aplicação do questionário SUS (System Usability Scale) através de entrevistas e questionário online. Embora os testes tenham demonstrado um índice de sucesso significativo, os participantes expressaram dificuldades na execução das tarefas, destacando o visualizador de mapas como o aspecto mais problemático do portal, devido à forma como os dados são apresentados. Esta apresentação pode ser um obstáculo para usuários não especializados, podendo até levar à desistência no processo de obtenção de dados. Os resultados obtidos através das entrevistas e questionários remotos enfatizam a necessidade e viabilidade de aplicar uma metodologia que leve em conta a opinião dos usuários na criação de sistemas eficazes.
FATORES DA PAISAGEM POTENCIALIZADORES DOS ATROPELAMENTOS DE FAUNA SILVESTRE EM UM TRECHO DA RODOVIA GO-080, GOIÁS - BRASIL
Authors: Cortez Helena Bernardes , Nunes Fabrizia Gioppo , Santos Alex Mota dos
Published: February 2024

Estudos sobre ecologia de estradas são importantes no Brasil, pois a fragmentação das paisagens para construção da infraestrutura dos modais rodoviários, põe em risco a fauna silvestre e seus habitats. Em vista disso, este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar os fatores que potencializam os atropelamentos de fauna silvestre, em um trecho de uma rodovia localizada no estado de Goiás, porção central do Brasil. No decorrer da pesquisa, foram realizadas 31 vistorias de campo, com 76 registros de ocorrências de animais vertebrados atropelados em dois períodos distintos, de junho de 2019 a abril de 2020 e novembro de 2020 a março de 2021. A coleta de dados possibilitou a geração de produtos cartográficos e análises estatísticas de K de Ripley-2D e da densidade de Kernel, que evidenciaram os hotspots de atropelamentos. Os resultados revelaram que 38% das ocorrências foram no período seco, em trechos da rodovia que atravessam áreas fragmentadas de vegetação florestal. As áreas de formação vegetal contemplam 77,05% do entorno da rodovia, onde foram encontradas 41 carcaças de animais, totalizando 53,9% dos registros observados.
METEOROLOGICAL AND CLIMATIC KNOWLEDGE THROUGHOUT HUMAN HISTORY AND THE CASE OF THE SEMIARID TROPICAL CLIMATE OF THE SEMIARID REGION OF BRAZIL: CONSIDERATIONS AND CHALLENGES FOR VULNERABILITY REDUCTION AND CLIMATE RISK MANAGEMENT
Authors: São José Rafael Vinícius de , Coltri Priscila Pereira , Greco Roberto
Published: February 2024

This study discusses the relationship between the understanding of climatic conditions and social and human development, focusing on reflections and challenges in the Brazilian semiarid region, northeastern Brazil. The objective was to demonstrate how weather, climate, meteorological, and climatic phenomena were characterized and understood by different civilizations as well as to elucidate how the tropical environment, with a focus on the semiarid region, was understood over time.To do so, a narrative literature review was carried out, including academic research.The search did not have a defined period of time, allowing for all articles, regardless of year of publication. In order to understand the evolution of the topic over the years, the methodology did not define a specific time window of articles. The oldest manuscript was published in 1967 and the most recent in 2021. In total, a sample of 46 scientific articles was reviewed. The results showed that knowing the atmosphere of planet Earth has been one of the ambitions pursued by humanity for a long time. We concluded that the logical understanding of weather and climate phenomena can be one of the main tools to develop effective strategies to adapt to climatic anomalies.
PLANTAS VASCULARES EM FRAGMENTO DE FLORESTA ESTACIONAL DECÍDUA, LIMITE LESTE DA CAATINGA, PARAÍBA, BRASIL
Authors: Cordeiro Joel Maciel Pereira , Souza Bartolomeu Israel de
Published: February 2024

Estudos florísticos na Caatinga têm sido amplamente discutidos nas últimas décadas, entretanto, pouco se sabe a respeito da composição florística de suas áreas limítrofes, especialmente na porção leste onde a Caatinga se sobrepõe a Mata Atlântica. Assim, o presente trabalho objetiva analisar a composição florística de um fragmento de Floresta Estacional Decídua no limite leste da Caatinga, Paraíba, Brasil. O levantamento foi realizado por meio de coletas botânicas aleatórias entre janeiro de 2021 e fevereiro de 2023, onde foram incluídas todas as plantas vasculares. Foram registradas 204 espécies pertencentes à 168 gêneros e 68 famílias, com destaques em número de espécies para Fabaceae, Malvaceae, Poaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Asteraceae, Bignoniaceae e Rubiaceae que incluem 52,4% das espécies registradas. Os gêneros mais representativos foram Croton L., Sida L., Mimosa L., Senna Mill., Cyperus L. e Handroanthus Mattos que incluem 13,7% das espécies. Entre os táxons registrados, 46 deles são endêmicos do Brasil, 14 são endêmicos do Nordeste, 18 são endêmicos da Caatinga e 16 constituem em novos registros para a Paraíba. Entre os novos registros, destacam-se a família Asteraceae com seis novos registros e a espécie Eugenia zigzag (Myrtaceae), recém descoberta pela ciência e ainda com poucas informações sobre sua distribuição geográfica.
ANÁLISE DO REGIME FLUVIAL DO ALTO RIO PARAÍBA NO SEMIÁRIDO PARAIBANO
Authors: Dornellas Patricia da Conceição , Silva Richarde Marques da , Xavier Rafael Albuquerque , Borges Neto Inocencio de Oliveira , Souza Jonas Otaviano Praça de
Published: February 2024

O alto curso do Rio Paraíba drena uma das regiões mais secas do Brasil, o Cariri Paraibano. Desde abril de 2017 o Rio Paraíba começou a receber águas da transposição do Rio São Francisco, alterando as características naturais do regime fluvial. Assim, o presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar o regime fluvial do alto Rio Paraíba antes da chegada das águas do Rio São Francisco. Para tanto, foram obtidos dados históricos de precipitação e vazão junto ao sistema HIDROWEB da ANA (2018), e os volumes dos açudes foram consultados através da AESA (2019). Foram aplicados tratamentos estatísticos a fim de caracterizar o regime fluvial e sua relação com a distribuição das chuvas. Os resultados mostraram que fevereiro, março e abril são os meses de maior vazão. Em média ocorrem 134 dias com fluxo no ano e há uma tendência de diminuição do número de dias com fluxo. O regime fluvial é de 2 a 4 meses, marcado por cheias de curta duração. Os açudes exercem forte influência no regime de vazão. O alto Rio Paraíba apresenta comportamento hidrológico típico de rios de terras secas, marcado pela variabilidade espaço-temporal da dinâmica fluvial e desconexão do fluxo hidrossedimentológico ao longo da bacia.
Thermal Comfort and Cognitive Performance under Glass Facade Buildings
Authors: Rizkiyah Ega , Mahachandra Manik , Purwaningsih Ratna , Prastawa Heru , Budiawan Wiwik
Published: February 2024

Glass is one of the most adaptable modern materials. However, the use of glass can have unfavorable effects such as glare, heat, and discomfort. This study focuses on the issue of designing contemporary glass buildings and facades in humid tropical environments to evaluate the thermal comfort of building occupants and assess its effects on the completion of cognitive tasks. The Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) parameter was used to measure thermal comfort, and the ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers) scale was used to assess thermal comfort perception. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment was used to assess eight female respondents’ cognitive abilities, and the cut-off point was 26. The WBGT has a temperature range of 25, 54°–28, 83°C, in terms of thermal sensation, 54% of respondents feel hot and 62% are uncomfortable. In the completion of cognitive tasks, 75% received a score of less than 26. The results show that there is an effect of thermal comfort on cognitive performance. Due to respondents feeling uncomfortable in high-rise buildings with glass facades, as well as with cognitive outcomes that are below the cut-off point, recommendations for improvement are needed to increase thermal comfort, such as double glass facades.
Comparison of Physical Properties and Strength of Geopolymer Mortar with White Soil Substitution and Mortar with Portland Pozzolan Cement under Corrosive Seawater Conditions
Authors: Priastiwi Yulita Arni , Adi Rudi Yuniarto , Hidayat Arif , Hanif Abi Nabil , Bima Bima
Published: February 2024

Construction also causes environmental pollution due to excessive cement production, so an alternative to cement is needed. Geopolymer is considered an alternative material to replace cement. This research compares three variations of mortar (PPC, geopolymer, and geopolymer with white soil) in a seawater environment. Research in the laboratory with 5x5x5 cm mortar specimens and test parameters for porosity, compressive and direct tensile strength, density, and absorption has been carried out. Microstructure due to immersion effect was also carried out but only on MGT15 mortar. The results showed that the PPC mortar had the highest compressive and tensile strength among the three variations, namely 27.80 MPa and 2.540 MPa at 28 days of age, the most negligible porosity and absorption were 1.124% and 76 gram/100cm2, and increased density after immersion. However, when immersing for 56 days, the decrease in strength reached 21%, while geopolymer mortar tended to be stable and even increased to 19%. Microstructure tests in the form of SEM and EDX on MGT15 showed the effect of seawater immersion, such as the presence of cracks, ettringite, and bad reactions. Soaking in seawater caused a decrease in some mortar strength supporting compounds and the appearance of 0.3% free chloride at 28 days of immersion.
Plastic Management on the Kelapa Island, Indonesia: Analysis of Community Perception and Participation
Authors: Hidayat Ramli Inaku Awaluddin , Hadiyanto Hadiyanto , Rya Abdurachim Henna , Hawali Abdul Matin Hashfi
Published: February 2024

Plastic waste is a substance that is no longer used and contains certain elastic materials that require heat energy to decompose. Plastic waste has a longer time to decompose, which is about 20 to 100 years. The purpose of this study is to identify public perception and participation in plastic waste management, analyze the relationship between internal and external factors and perceptions of plastic waste management, and analyze the relationship between public perception and participation in plastic waste management. The research was conducted through explanatory research with a cross-sectional design. The population in this study is the people of Kelapa Island, Seribu Islands, DKI Jakarta with a sample of 300 respondents. The results showed that there was a relationship between knowledge (p-value = 0.001) and the role of government/community leaders (p-value = 0.002) with perceptions of plastic waste management. There is a relationship between public perception and participation in plastic waste management (p-value = 0.000). The conclusion shows that the perception of the community as a whole is positive and community participation in the management of plastic waste is already high. It is hoped that the programs that have been successfully implemented need to be maintained, improved, and monitored regularly.
Bibliometric Analysis of HHO Gas Production by Electrolysis from 2013 to 2023
Authors: Purwono Purwono , Hadiyanto H , Arief Budihardjo Mochamad , Sila Puspita Annisa
Published: February 2024

HHO gas is one promising alternative as an alternative for fossil fuels, nevertheless, several challenges need to be overcome in order for HHO gas to become a viable option for global use. This paper presentsbibliometric analysis, HHO gases production methods, and challenges of using HHO gas. The primary objective of this review paper is to provide views, assessments, and evaluations of the published literature on HHO gas, both the production and use challenges of HHO gas. This review article uses several software programs including origin for graph visualization, Microsoft excel for processing data, and VOSviewer for analyzing bibliographic mappings. HHO production can be done by adding KOH electrolyte solution. Factors that affect the production of HHO gas include electrolyte properties, electrolyte concentration, and distance between electrodes. An increase in the concentration of the electrolysis solution leads to an increase in the production of HHO gas. The production of HHO gas can also be done with the addition of Na2CO3 or K2CO3 which can produce high H2 gas. The pre-combustion mercury removal technique using coal electrolysis produces hydrogen byproducts with 50% less energy than water electrolysis. A single Pt circuit at TiO2 support (Pt1/def-TiO2) forms a highly efficient photocatalyst for hydrogen production. The main challenges of HHO gas in terms of production, storage, distribution, safety, cost of HHO gas production.
The Effect of Composition, Pyrolysis Temperature and Adhesive Concentration on the Proximate Content and Calorific Value of Biobriquettes from Durian Skin, Corn husk and Fish Bones Waste
Authors: Novitrie Nora Amelia , Setiani Vivin , Camalia Aisyah Dinda
Published: February 2024

Briquettes are an alternative energy derived from biomass. Biomass material can be obtained from plantation waste such as durian peel, agricultural waste such as corn husk and waste from the fisheries sector such as fish bones. Waste of corn husks, durian peel and fish bones have the potential to become biomass material as an alternative energy. The aim of this research is to analyze the effect of variations in composition, pyrolysis temperature and adhesive concentration on the quality of biobriquettes and emissions resulting from the combustion process. The dried waste materials is then pyrolyzed for 4 hours at 350 ℃ and 500 ℃. Proximate testing was carried out to determine the quality of the biobriquettes. The parameters analyzed in this test include moisture content, ash content, volatile matter content, bound carbon content and heating value. The results of the study revealed that the best sample variations were found in briquettes with a composition of 50% durian peel [T1] [c2] : 50% corn husk with a pyrolysis temperature of 350℃ and an adhesive concentration of 7%. The level of CO emissions produced when burning briquettes is 1,700 mg/Nm3 and SO2 is 0.741 mg/Nm3.
Inorganic Waste Reduction Planning with The Implementation of Dipo Waste Bank (DWB) and Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) at Diponegoro University
Authors: Sumiyati Sri , Budihardjo Mochamad Arief , Ramadhan Bimastyaji Surya , Warsito Budi , Kusumasasmita Hanif , Rahman Ghifar , Putra Setiadi Hizkia Christian
Published: February 2024

Plastic waste is a global environmental problem that has existed for a long time and has not been resolved. On a worldwide scale, solid waste increased to 9.1 billion tons, of which 6.9 billion tons was plastic waste. Undip is one of the largest public universities.  As one of the universities that supports the achievement of SDGs Number 12 concerning waste management, Diponegoro University has a Waste Bank, namely the Dipo Waste Bank (DWB). The method used in this study is mass balance. Based on the projected waste generation from 2021-2030, the era of inorganic waste in the composition of plastic bottles at Undip is  42,577 kg/day. DWB is expected to realize independent and sustainable waste management within Diponegoro University (UNDIP). In its course, waste management efforts are felt to be lacking due to several obstacles and participation that are not optimal. There are three scenarios of reducing inorganic waste of  plastic bottles in  the study, namely the  baseline scenario,  the  Dipo Waste Bank (DWB) scenario can achieve the  target  of 20% of waste that can be recovered by DWB and Reverse Vending Machine (RVM).
Redox Status of Erythrocytes as an Important Factor in Eryptosis and Erythronecroptosis
Authors: Tkachenko Anton , Havránek Ondřej
Published: February 2024

Overall, reactive oxygen species (ROS) signalling significantly contributes to initiation and mo­dulation of multiple regulated cell death (RCD) pathways. Lately, more information has become available about RCD modalities of erythrocytes, including the role of ROS. ROS accumulation has therefore been increasingly recognized as a critical factor involved in eryptosis (apoptosis of erythrocytes) and erythro­necroptosis (necroptosis of erythrocytes). Eryptosis is a Ca2+-dependent apoptosis-like RCD of erythrocytes that occurs in response to oxidative stress, hyperosmolarity, ATP depletion, and a wide range of xenobiotics. Moreover, eryptosis seems to be involved in the pathogenesis of multiple human diseases and pathological processes. Several studies have reported that erythrocytes can also undergo necroptosis, a lytic RIPK1/RIPK3/MLKL-mediated RCD. As an example, erythronecroptosis can occur in response to CD59-specific pore-forming toxins. We have systematically summarized available studies regarding the involvement of ROS and oxidative stress in these two distinct RCDs of erythrocytes. We have focused specifically on cellular signalling pathways involved in ROS-mediated cell death decisions in erythrocytes. Furthermore, we have summarized dysregulation of related erythrocytic antioxidant defence systems. The general concept of the ROS role in eryptotic and necroptotic cell death pathways in erythrocytes seems to be established. However, further studies are required to uncover the complex role of ROS in the crosstalk and interplay between the survival and RCDs of erythrocytes.
Roadmap for the expression of canonical and extended endocannabinoid system receptors and metabolic enzymes in peripheral organs of preclinical animal models
Authors: Rosado‐Franco J. J. , Ellison A. L. , White C. J. , Price A. S. , Moore C. F. , Williams R. E. , Fridman L. B. , Weerts E. M. , Williams D. W.
Published: February 2024

The endocannabinoid system is widely expressed throughout the body and is comprised of receptors, ligands, and enzymes that maintain metabolic, immune, and reproductive homeostasis. Increasing interest in the endocannabinoid system has arisen due to these physiologic roles, policy changes leading to more widespread recreational use, and the therapeutic potential of Cannabis and phytocannabinoids. Rodents have been the primary preclinical model of focus due to their relative low cost, short gestational period, genetic manipulation strategies, and gold‐standard behavioral tests. However, the potential for lack of clinical translation to non‐human primates and humans is high as cross‐species comparisons of the endocannabinoid system have not been evaluated. To bridge this gap in knowledge, we evaluate the relative gene expression of 14 canonical and extended endocannabinoid receptors in seven peripheral organs of C57/BL6 mice, Sprague–Dawley rats, and non‐human primate rhesus macaques. Notably, we identify species‐ and organ‐specific heterogeneity in endocannabinoid receptor distribution where there is surprisingly limited overlap among the preclinical models. Importantly, we determined there were no receptors with identical expression patterns among mice (three males and two females), rats (six females), and rhesus macaques (four males). Our findings demonstrate a critical, yet previously unappreciated, contributor to challenges of rigor and reproducibility in the cannabinoid field, which has implications in hampering progress in understanding the complexity of the endocannabinoid system and development of cannabinoid‐based therapies.
Estimation of greenhouse gas emissions from rice and annual upland crops in Red River Delta of Vietnam using the denitrification–decomposition model
Authors: Trang Bui Thi Thu , Van Trinh Mai
Published: February 2024

This study used the denitrification–decomposition (DNDC) model and ArcGIS 10.1 to calculate and quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) potential from rice and annual upland crops in the Red River Delta of Vietnam. GHG emissions were monitored, analyzed, and calculated at experimental sites. The operating mechanism, sensitivity analysis of the parameters, calibration, and verification of the DNDC model for the GHG emission calculation were studied and performed, and a set of parameters was built. A good correlation between actual and simulated values was shown. From the data set of meteorological stations in and around the Red River Delta, the current land-use map, the topographic and soil map, a complex map of meteorology–soil–land use was built. Each unit of this map contains complete information about climate, soil, and crops as input data for modeling GHG emissions from crop production. From the spatial analysis and collected input data, GHG emissions were measured and calculated for the cultivated field of the Red River Delta (annual rice and upland crops) using the DNDC model. The model's outputs were used to build thematic maps on the distribution of global warming potential (CH4, N2O) for each unit of the complex map of climate, soil, and crops.
Eco-friendly palm oil directed synthesis of mesoporous titania for photocatalytic application
Authors: Thangaraj Preethi , Balachandran Abarna , Ramamurthy Rajarajeswari G.
Published: February 2024

Utilisation of templates facilitates the synthesis of titania samples with improved physico-chemical properties. When biomaterials are utilised as templates in the creation of inorganic materials, they can lead to constructed mesostructures via cost-effective and environmentally friendly synthetic pathways. Based on this context, the goal of this study was to assess the impact of palm oil on the surface properties and crystallite characteristics of titania nanoparticles. In this work, the various physico-chemical parameters such as thermal, surface area, porosity, crystallinity, chemical composition, textural and morphological characteristics of the palm oil (PO) templated titania were studied using various analysis techniques. Palm oil templated titania samples were synthesised using various amounts of palm oil as templates. The sample generated with a molar ratio of PO over titania precursor of 0.07 possessed large surface area (74.5 m2 g−1), small particle size (13.4 nm), uniformly dispersed spherical particles with good morphology and porosity among the various templated titania produced in this work. In addition, it was found to possess maximum photocatalytic efficiency in degrading the target 4-chlorophenol under UV irradiation.
Influence of graphene concentration on the properties of the composite prepared with poly(2-ethyl aniline) by mechanochemical method
Authors: Anaklı Duygu
Published: February 2024

In this study, poly(2-ethyl aniline)/graphene composites were prepared by a mechanochemical method, through in-situ polymerization of 2-ethyl aniline in the presence of graphene at different concentrations. Vickers microhardness, elastic modulus and electrical conductivity measurements were carried out as a function of the graphene concentration in the composite. Increasing the graphene content of the composite resulted in an increase in the conjugation length and carrier mobility of the polymer, and thus in the electrical conductivity of the composites. However, thermogravimetric analysis showed that the thermal stability of poly(2-ethyl aniline) increased with increasing graphene concentration. This study suggests the potential of graphene concentration to efficiently modify the morphological, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties of poly(2-ethyl aniline).
Decline in case rates of youth onset type 2 diabetes in year three of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kim Ahlee , Geller David , Min Hyojin , Miyazaki Brian , Raymond Jennifer , Vidmar Alaina P. , Zipursky Rachel , Chao Lily C.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To determine changes in case rates of youth onset type 2 diabetes in the three years following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A single-center, retrospective medical record review was conducted for patients newly diagnosed with T2D between 3/1/18 and 2/28/23 at a pediatric tertiary care center. The number of patients referred to CHLA with a T2D diagnosis date between 3/1/2020 and 2/28/2023 was compared to historical rates between 3/1/2018 and 2/29/2020. χ2 or Fisher’s exact test was used to compare categorical variables between each year and 2019.

Results

Compared to prepandemic baseline (3/1/19–2/29/20, 11.8±3.7 cases/month), there was a significant increase in new T2D monthly case rates in pandemic year 1 (3/1/20–2/28/21, 20.1±6.0 cases/month, 171 %, p=0.005) and pandemic year 2 (3/1/21–2/28/22, 25.9±8.9 cases/month, 221 %, p=0.002). Case rates declined in pandemic year 3 to 14.5±4.1 cases/month (3/1/22–2/28/23, p=0.43). Compared to prepandemic year 1, the frequency of DKA at diagnosis was higher in pandemic year 1 (13.3 vs. 5.0 %, p=0.009). The DKA rate in pandemic years 2 (6.8 %) and 3 (3.4 %) were comparable to prepandemic year 1 (p=0.53 and 0.58, respectively).

Conclusions

Youth onset type 2 diabetes cases and DKA rates in year 3 of the pandemic have returned to prepandemic level.
Learning how to mean in a second language: uses of system networks in L2 education
Authors: Arús-Hita Jorge , Matthiessen Christian M.I.M. , Xuan Winfred Wenhui
Published: February 2024

While approaches informed by Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) have been widely applied to the field of language education since the 1960s, the idea of the system embodying the meaning potential of language in context, represented as a system network, could be used to make a much more significant contribution to second language (L2) or foreign language education, where despite pioneering efforts the uptake of SFL has been less than in L1 education. In this paper, we will take stock of the ways system networks have been used in studies concerned with L2 education and at the same time we will highlight new opportunities to empower new studies and applications based on system networks as a way of engaging with the central notion of learning how to mean in a second/foreign language. We argue that system networks can make a very significant contribution to L2 education if they are given more attention and their deployment is highlighted. The uses considered in this paper include the following: Tracking language development systemically; diagnosing problems in L2 student texts; supporting sequencing in the curriculum of the learning of the L2 meaning potential; designing exercises based on options in system networks; guiding L2 learners by means of system networks as cartographic tools; contrasting L1 and L2 resources based on multilingual system networks; and supporting advanced L2 learners expanding their L2 uses by adding translation skills drawing on multilingual system networks. We will touch on these uses, highlighting those that have perhaps given the least attention in L2 education drawing on SFL, but which look very promising as we move ahead in the next couple of decades.
Crystal structure of (E)-3-(benzylideneamino)-2-phenylthiazolidin-4-one, C16H14N2OS
Authors: Seboletswe Pule , Zamisa Sizwe J. , Kumar Gobind , Singh Parvesh
Published: February 2024

C16H14N2OS, monoclinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 13.8369(4) Å, b = 15.8967(4) Å, c = 13.8600(4) Å, β = 109.983(1)°, V = 2865.11(14) Å3, Z = 8, R
gt(F) = 0.0439, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.1091, T = 296.15 K.
Drying characteristics and thin layer drying model of semi-mature rice paper
Authors: Wang Weichao , Yan Yan , Pan Zhao
Published: February 2024

The effects of different hot air speeds and temperatures on the drying characteristics of half-ripe rice paper were investigated by hot air convection drying experiments. The thin-layer drying experiments were carried out at three different combinations of air speeds of 1.97 m/s, 3.00 m/s, and 3.90 m/s and temperatures of 85 °C, 100 °C and 115 °C. The results show that among the 10 drying kinetic models selected, the Modified Page model is the most suitable model to describe the drying characteristics of the thin layer of half-ripe rice paper; the whole drying process exists obvious ascending, constant and descending processes; the effective moisture diffusion coefficient of half-ripe rice paper is in the range of 1.52656 × 10−9 m2/s–3.15816 × 10−9 m2/s, whose size increases with the increase of the hot wind speed and temperature. Its magnitude increases with the increase of wind speed and temperature; the drying activation energy of half-ripe rice paper is 6.55 kJ/mol calculated by Arrhenius equation.
Identification of hypoxia-immune-related signatures for predicting immune efficacy in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Wang Luping , Han Haote , Ma Jiahui , Feng Yue , Han Zhuo , Maharaj Vinesh , Tian Jingkui , Zhu Wei , Li Shouxin , Shao Xiying
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The therapeutic effect against triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) varies among individuals. Finding signatures to predict immune efficacy is particularly urgent. Considering the connection between the microenvironment and hypoxia, hypoxia-related signatures could be more effective. Therefore, in this study, we aimed sought to construct a hypoxia-immune-related prediction model for breast cancer and identify therapeutic targets.

Methods

Immune and hypoxia status in the TNBC microenvironment were investigated using single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) and Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and multivariate Cox regression analysis were employed to build a prognostic model based on hypoxia-immune-related differentially expressed genes. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and immunofluorescence staining were utilized to analyze the expression differences. Tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion indexes were used to indicate the effect of immunotherapy.

Results

We identified 11 signatures related to hypoxia and immunity. Among these genes, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL) 9, 10, and 11 were up-regulated in TNBC tissues compared to normal tissues. Furthermore, CXCL9, 10, 11, and 13 were found to enhance the effect of immunotherapy.

Conclusions

These findings suggest the value of the hypoxia-immune-related prognostic model for estimating the risk in patients with TNBC, and CXCL9, 10, 11, and 13 are potential targets to overcome immune resistance in TNBC.