bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comprehensive Study of the Flexural Behaviour and Damage Evolution of Composite Laminates using a Progressive Failure Model
Authors: idrissi Hamza El , Seddouki Abbass
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a new progressive damage model has been established with the aim of predicting the flexural behaviour and damage evolution of different composite laminates under three-point bending. In this proposed model, a progressive failure algorithm is developed for numerical analyses where the intra/interlaminar failure modes were considered for estimating the damage evolution. A set of gradual stiffness degradation rules were proposed to predict further damage evolution following damage initiation estimated by the combination of the three-dimensional Puck failure criteria and the cohesive zone model. The damage mechanics of composite laminates IMS194/CYCOM977-2 with ply sequence and AS4/PEEK with ply sequence are investigated by our proposed model. In addition, the present model's results were compared with those reported in the literature. Our findings indicate that the proposed model accurately predicts the failure of laminates, which is beneficial to the study of the damage mechanism of composite laminates.
Compactness of harmonic maps of surfaces with regular nodes
Authors: Park Woongbae
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we formulate and prove a general compactness theorem for harmonic maps of Riemann surfaces using Deligne-Mumford moduli space and families of curves.The main theorem shows that given a sequence of harmonic maps over a sequence of complex curves, there is a family of curves and a subsequence such that both the domains and the maps converge with the singular set consisting of only ``non-regular'' nodes.This provides a sufficient condition for a neck having zero energy and zero length.As a corollary, the following known fact can be proved: If all domains are diffeomorphic to S2, both energy identity and zero distance bubbling hold.
Diet and phylogeny shape the composition, diversity, and structure of the ant-gut bacterial community
Authors: Chen Defu , Liang Xiaoyun , Du Congcong , Chen Zhilin
Published: February 2023

The gut bacterial community provides various benefits and maintains a long-term symbiotic relationship with its host. Thus, uncovering its diversity and structure is fundamental for revealing its function in the adaption of its host. The composition, diversity, and structure of the gut bacterial community are affected by various factors including the taxon of the host. To determine the composition of the ant-gut bacterial community and the roles of diet and phylogeny in shaping the composition, diversity, and structure of the bacterial community, we analyzed the composition of the gut bacterial communities of 42 ant colonies (representing 38 species, 28 genera, and 7 subfamilies) using 16S rRNA sequencing. Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Firmicutes were the dominant bacteria in the ant gut, which was consistent with the composition of the gut bacterial communities of most insects. The alpha and beta diversity of the ant-gut bacterial communities both differed significantly at the OTU and phylum level with respect to all categories according to the diet and phylogeny of hosts at the overall, 75% and 50% core bacterial community, indicating that diet and phylogeny might play important roles in shaping the composition and diversity of the ant-gut bacterial community. Furthermore, CCA and RDA analysis implied that the phylogeny might be more important than the diet of hosts, indicating the host identity could play a more important role than external ecological factors in shaping the composition and structure of the ant-gut bacterial community at the subfamily level. Our results provide insights into the composition of the gut bacterial communities in multiple ant subfamilies and preliminarily reveal the roles of diet and phylogeny in shaping the composition and diversity of the gut bacterial community.
Skin microbiome differentiates into distinct cutotypes with unique metabolic functions upon exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Leung Marcus H. Y. , Tong Xinzhao , Shen Zhiyong , Du Shicong , Bastien Philippe , Appenzeller Brice M. R. , Betts Richard J. , Mezzache Sakina , Bourokba Nasrine , Cavusoglu Nukhet , Aguilar Luc , Misra Namita , Clavaud Cécile , Lee Patrick K. H.
Published: February 2023

Background
The effects of air pollutants, particularly polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), on the skin microbiome remain poorly understood. Thus, to better understand the interplay between air pollutants, microbiomes, and skin conditions, we applied metagenomics and metabolomics to analyze the effects of PAHs in air pollution on the skin microbiomes of over 120 subjects residing in two cities in China with different levels of air pollution.
Results
The skin microbiomes differentiated into two cutotypes (termed 1 and 2) with distinct taxonomic, functional, resistome, and metabolite compositions as well as skin phenotypes that transcended geography and host factors. High PAH exposure was linked to dry skin and cutotype 2, which was enriched with species with potential biodegradation functions and had reduced correlation network structure integrity. The positive correlations identified between dominant taxa, key functional genes, and metabolites in the arginine biosynthesis pathway in cutotype 1 suggest that arginine from bacteria contributes to the synthesis of filaggrin-derived natural moisturizing factors (NMFs), which provide hydration for the skin, and could explain the normal skin phenotype observed. In contrast, no correlation with the arginine biosynthesis pathway was observed in cutotype 2, which indicates the limited hydration functions of NMFs and explains the observed dry skin phenotype. In addition to dryness, skin associated with cutotype 2 appeared prone to other adverse conditions such as inflammation.
Conclusions
This study revealed the roles of PAHs in driving skin microbiome differentiation into cutotypes that vary extensively in taxonomy and metabolic functions and may subsequently lead to variations in skin–microbe interactions that affect host skin health. An improved understanding of the roles of microbiomes on skin exposed to air pollutants can aid the development of strategies that harness microbes to prevent undesirable skin conditions.
Renopreventive effects of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor MCC950 in chronic renal failure adenine model in rats
Authors: Sabra Mahmoud S. , Hemida Fahmy K. , Allam Essmat A.H.
Published: February 2023

Background: Chronic renal failure (CRF) is characterized by a great loss in renal function ending with reduced sodium filtration and suppression of tubular reabsorption that eventually leads to volume expansion. The objective of this study was to evaluate the possible renopreventive effects of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor MCC950 in adenine-induced CRF in rats.
Results: Results showed that the NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor MCC950 had a renopreventive effect that was established by a decrease in blood pressure measurements, and improvement of urinary, serum, and renal tissue markers as revealing organ damage. This was also revealed by the reduction of tubular expression of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL).
Immunohistochemical studies revealed that the worsened renal cellular changes indicated by raised expression of caspase-3 and IL-1β were prominently improved by NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor MCC950 administration.
Conclusion: The NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor MCC950 administration in the CRF rat model had renopreventive effects which may be a potential therapeutic approach to prevent the progression of CRF.
Biological effects of the frequent application of a copper-containing fungicide on the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Zamberlan Daniele , Rieder Guilherme , Silva Luis , Rocha Joao Batista Teixeira da
Published: February 2023

The increased consumption of pesticides has an environmental impact due to the dispersion of minerals. Bordasul® is a commonly used fungicide composed of 20% Cu, 10% sulfur, and 3.0% calcium to correct its deficiency in plants. The evaluation of fungicide effects in vivo models is designed to assess their impact on the environment more broadly. Drosophila melanogaster offers a unique model due to its ease of handling and maintenance. Here, the effects of Bordasul® were investigated, addressing the development, survival, and behavior of flies. Our findings showed that exposure to Bordasul® prevented the development of flies (p < 0.01). In addition to causing a significant reduction in memory retention (p < 0.05) and locomotion capacity (p < 0.001). Although fungicides are necessary to satisfy the world's food demand, we conclude that Bordasul® is highly toxic, and that safer media, such as biofertilizers, must be developed as effective alternatives.
An ultrasensitive colorimetric and fluorescent "turn-on" chemosensor based on Schiff base for the detection of Cu 2+ in the aqueous medium
Authors: Khan Sikandar , Muhammad Mian , Kamran Abdul Waheed , Al-Saidi Hamed M. , Alharthi Salman S. , Algethami Jari S.
Published: February 2023

In the present study, a new colorimetric and fluorescent "turn-on" chemosensor based on ((E)-1-((p-tolylimino)methyl)naphthalen-2-ol) SB was designed and characterized by FT-IR and 1H NMR. The photophysical properties of SB were investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy. SB showed an excellent colorimetric (yellow to yellowish brown) and fluorescent "turn-on" sensing response to Cu2+ in MeOH/Water (10/90, v/v) media. The "turn-on" response was observed due to inhibition of the photo-induce electron transfer (PET) process. The sensing mechanism of SB toward Cu2+ (2:1) was verified by job's plot, FT-IR, 1H NMR titration and DFT studies. The limit of detection (LOD) was calculated to be 0.0025 µg ml− 1 (0.0025ppm). This LOD value is lower than the tolerable limit for Cu2+ in drinking water set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (1.3 ppm). Furthermore, the test strip containing SB has also exhibited good sensitivity and selectivity of Cu2+ in solution medium as well as when supported on solid medium. All these results confirm that SB is a highly sensitive, selective and facile probe for the recognition of trace amounts of Cu2+ with potential sensing applications.
Diffusing the Innovation of Cloud Computing Implementation: International Marketing Organization Perspective
Authors: ASHOGBON Adewale D. , MARKHAM Paul A.
Published: February 2023

The risk associated with the cloud computing implementation has become a growing concern within the context of international marketing organizations. The staggering report of cloud computing implementation failures poses increasing challenges for organizations of sizes. Research studies have advocated the importance of using diffusion of innovation theory to mitigate the risk posture documented during implementation process. Therefore, the study addressed the lack of understanding of the diffusion of innovation theory in cloud computing implementation from the international marketing organization’s perspectives. The correlational quantitative-based study examined the diffusion of innovation theory. The DOI was used as a guiding theoretical framework for the study. The implementation factors were used to examine the influence of the diffusion of innovation in the cloud computing implementation process from the international marketing organization’s perspectives. Findings in this study confirmed DOI as a valid model to determine the successful implementation of cloud computing technology.
Detection of Copy Move Forgery Using Rootsift and Feature Point Matching
Authors: KOSHY LITTY , S PRAYLA SHYRY
Published: February 2023

The popularity of the internet has grown recently, making it simpler to broadcast and purchase digital content. This popularity suggests that counterfeiting has increased the susceptibility of multimedia to modification. A copy-move forgery is one of the most popular techniques for digital photo modification. Key point-based detection systems have successfully exposed copy-move forgery as a result of various digital assaults. On the other hand, these methods are useless when forgeries only involve tiny, smooth areas with a small number of crucial spots. A multi-scale feature matching based on the copy-move forgery detection technique was put into place to solve these problems. I believe the copy move method has some potential as well. Reduce the intensity threshold and rescale the supplied image to produce a reasonable number of key points in order to address those concerns in the proposed system initially. Then, a special multi-scale matching method is developed using scale clustering, overlapping grey scale clustering, and group matching modules. Present a novel iterative localization strategy that locates the forged region by utilising the resilience properties of each key points as well as its colour information. According to the experimental results, the suggested work's copy move forgery average is 1.375, compared to the existing system's average of 2.75, with standard deviations of 0.72 and 1.44, respectively. As a result, we can say that the proposed approach is more accurate and efficient than existing methods by more than 99.9%.
High-Harmonic Generation with a twist: all-optical characterization of magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene
Authors: Molinero Eduardo Bernal , Datta Anushree , Calderón María J. , Bascones Elena , Silva Rui E. F.
Published: February 2023

If we stack up two layers of graphene while changing their respective orientation by some twisting angle, we end up with a system that has striking differences when compared to single-layer graphene. For a very specific value of this twist angle, known as magic angle, twisted bilayer graphene displays a unique phase diagram that cannot be found in other systems. Recently, high harmonic generation spectroscopy has been successfully applied to elucidate the electronic properties of quantum materials. The purpose of the present work is to exploit the nonlinear optical response of magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene to unveil its electronic properties. We show that the band structure of magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene is imprinted onto its high-harmonic spectrum. Specifically, we observe a drastic decrease of harmonic signal as we approach the magic angle. Our results show that high harmonic generation can be used as a spectroscopy tool for measuring the twist angle and also the electronic properties of twisted bilayer graphene, paving the way for an all-optical characterization of moiré materials.
Discovery of novel small molecule inhibitors targeting progranulin-sortilin: A virtual high throughput screening approach
Authors: Anand Aishwarya , Jain Manav , Shah Ashish , Medhi Bikash
Published: February 2023

Introduction:Reduction in progranulin (PGRN) have been associated with various neurodegenerative diseases. PGRN binds with high affinity to sortilin (SORT), a membrane transporter, resulting in its cellular uptake and eventual degradation in the lysosome. Inhibition of the SORT-PGRN interaction has the potential to increase PGRN levels up to 2.5-fold.Methodology:A virtual screening of curated CNS library of >47K ligands was done with sortilin receptor (6X3L) through virtual screening workflow in Schrodinger suite. Co-crystallised ligand was used as a positive control. Docking was done through HTVS, then SP and finally XP model followed by binding free energy calculations (MMGBSA). Based on the result analysis of molecular docking, binding free energy and interactions, docked complexes were chosen for molecular dynamics (MD) studies. Drug likeliness and ADMET studies were also carried out.Results:The virtual screening workflow yielded 139 ligands. Two test ligands and a control were selected and further evaluated through molecular dynamics studies. Both the test ligands (1625 & 127) had comparative docking score (-5.96 & -6.46 kcal/mol) as that of control ligand (-6.21 kcal/mol respectively) and but better binding free energy (-54.66, -53.12 & -43.21 kcal/mol respectively). MD simulations confirmed the docking results for all the three ligands where our test ligand 1625 reached equilibrium quickly as compared to the rest. Our test compounds also showed favourable characteristics of a CNS acting drug and favourable ADMET properties.Conclusion:Our study results showed a promising CNS specific ligand as an inhibitor of PRGN-SORT interactions and has a potential to be developed as a drug through in-vitro and in-vivo studies.
Tuberculosis in Pregnancy after in Vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Zou Ju , Li Jie , Chen Chen , Chen Ruo-Chan
Published: February 2023

Background

Worldwide, tuberculosis (TB) remains an important cause of maternal mortality and morbidity, accounting for approximately one-third of annual deaths. Moreover, untimely TB treatment during pregnancy increases the risk of perinatal complications and poor fetal prognosis. Recently, there has been widespread use of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). However, its clinical characteristics and possible mechanisms of TB infection in pregnant women who conceive by IVF-ET remain unclear. Therefore, we report three cases of young pregnant women diagnosed with TB after IVF-ET and describe their diagnosis and treatment.

Case presentation

Three young women (age: 26–31 years) diagnosed with primary infertility underwent IVF-ET treatment. They lacked a history of TB or manifestations of activated TB before transplantation. After presenting with fever, cough, and headache at 5–12 weeks of pregnancy, they were diagnosed with miliary TB, disseminated TB, and tuberculous meningitis, respectively. Initially, the patients were on a daily fixed-dose combination of first-line anti-TB treatment (ATT), which comprised rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol, followed by medication adjustment during treatment for 6–12 months. Although all fetuses were lost, the patients achieved optimal outcomes after timely ATT.

Conclusions

This report demonstrates the increased risk of TB in pregnant women who conceive by IVF-ET. Therefore, it is important to carefully monitor these women even if they lack a history of or exposure to TB. Accordingly, prompt diagnosis and treatment of TB in these patients is necessary to optimize patient outcomes.
The Blue Tansy essential oil as eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor of the mild steel in 1 M HCl solution: Electrochemical study, DFTB computation and Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: ZRIOUEL WAFAA , BENTIS AZIZ , MAJID SANAA , HAMMOUTI BELKHEIR , GMOUH SAID
Published: February 2023

The chemical composition of Blue Tansy essential oil (BTES) was performed by gas chromatography (GC) coupled to a flame ionization detector (FID). The corrosion-resistance ability of the mild steel in hydrochloric acid solution using BTES was tested by means of weight loss measurements, Potentiodynamic polarization study and the Dynamic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The inhibition efficiency of BTES increased with the inhibitor concentration and its inhibitory behavior follow a damped oscillation. To explain the anti-corrosion mechanism of the BTES and to calculate quantum chemical parameters, the theory of the functional density of Tight bonding (DFTB+) computation and the Monte Carlo simulation were applied.
Long-term Evaluation of Viabilitity of Microfilariae and Iv Transplanted Adult Dirofilaria Immitis in Microfilaremic Dogs Treated With Low-dose, Short- and Long-treatment Regimens of Doxycycline and Ivermectin
Authors: McCall John Wilson , Mansour Abdelmoneim , DiCosty Utami , Fricks Crystal , McCall Scott , Dzimianski Michael Timothy , Carson Ben
Published: February 2023

Background: Microfilarial (mf) counts were monitored over 21.3 months for any rebound that might occur in counts and adulticidal efficacy was assessed following administration of low dosage with short- and long-treatment regimens of doxycycline and ivermectin to heartworm microfilaremic dogs.
Methods:Twelve heartworm-naïve Beagles infected with 10 pairs of adult Dirofilaria immitis by IV transplantation were randomly allocated to 3 groups of 4 dogs. All treatments started on Day 0. On Day 0, Group 1 (short-treatment regimen) received doxycycline orally at 10 mg/kg once daily for 30 days plus ivermectin orally (min., 6 mcg/kg) on Days 0 and 30. Group 2 (long-treatment regimen) received doxycycline orally at 10 mg/kg once daily until individual dogs became mf negative (72-98 days) and ivermectin every other week until individual dogs became mf negative (6-7 doses). Group 3 was the untreated control. Mf counts and antigen (Ag) tests were conducted. Dogs were necropsied for recovery and enumeration of heartworms on Day 647.
Results: Day -1 mean mf counts were 15,613, 23,950 and 15,513 mf/mL for Groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Mean counts for Group 1 and 2 declined until days 239 and 97, respectively, when all were negative. Group 3 had high mf counts throughout the study. There was not a rebound in mf counts in any of the treated dogs after they became amicrofilaremic. All dogs in Group 1 and Group 3 were Ag positive throughout the study and had at least 1 live female worm at necropsy. All dogs in treated Group 2 were positive for Ag through Day 154, but were antigen-negative on days 644 and 647, as all had only male worms.
Mean live adult worm recoveries for Groups 1, 2 and 3 were 6.8 (range, 5-8), 3.3 (range, 1-6) and 16.0 (range, 14-17), respectively, with a percent reduction in adult worm counts of 57.5% for Group 1 and 79.3% for Group 2.
Conclusions: This data lends support to the use of the American Heartworm Society Canine Guidelines for adulticide therapy recommendation of initiating doxycycline plus an ML treatment at the time of the heartworm-positive diagnosis.
Brain Tumor MRI Identification and Classification Using DWT, PCA, and KSVM
Authors: FARUQ OMAR , Jahi Islam Md , Ahmed Md. Sakib , Hossain Md Sajib
Published: February 2023

Background
Classification, segmentation, and the identification of the infection region in MRI images of brain tumors are labor-intensive and iterative processes. The optimum classification technique helps make the proper choice and delivers the best therapy. Despite several significant efforts and encouraging discoveries in this subject, precise segmentation and classification remain challenging tasks.
Method
In this study, we proposed a new method for the exact segmentation and classification of brain tumors from MR images. Initially, the tumor image is pre-processed and segmented by using the Threshold function for removing image noises. To minimize complexity and enhance performance used Discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) for getting the accurate in MR Images. Principal component analysis (PCA) are used to condense the feature vector dimensions of magnetic resonance images.Finally, for differentiate between benign and malignant tumor types, the Classification stage employs a pre-trained Support Vector Machine with several kernels, also known as a kernel support vector machine (KSVM).
Result
The efficacy of the suggested approach is also compared to that of other existing frameworks for segmentation and classification. Results demonstrated that developed approach is effective and quick, where as we obtained excellent accuracy and recognized the brain MR Images as normal and pathological tissues.
Artificial Intelligence Analysis of Diabetic Retinopathy in Retinal Screening Events
Authors: Vought Rita , Vought Victoria , Shah Megh , Szirth Bernard , Bhagat Neelakshi
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Patients with Type II Diabetes are at increased risk Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). Early detection and treatment of DR is critical for saving vision and preventing blindness. To address the need for increased DR detection and referrals, we evaluated the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for screening DR.
Methods: Patient images were obtained using a 45-degree Canon Non-Mydriatic CR-2 Plus AF retinal camera in the Department of Endocrinology Clinic (Newark, NJ) and in a community screening event (Newark, NJ). Images were initially classified by an on-site grader and uploaded for analysis by EyeArt, a cloud-based AI software developed by Eyenuk (California, USA). The images were also graded by an off-site retina specialist. Using Fleiss kappa analysis, a correlation was investigated between the three grading systems, the AI, onsite grader, and a US board-certified retina specialist, for a diagnosis of DR and referral pattern.
Results: The EyeArt results, onsite grader, and the retina specialist had a 79% overall agreement on the diagnosis of DR. The kappa value for concordance on a diagnosis was 0.69 (95% CI: 0.61-0.77), indicating substantial agreement. Referral patterns by EyeArt, the onsite grader, and the ophthalmologist had an 85% overall agreement. The kappa value for concordance on “whether to refer” was 0.70 (95% CI: 0.60-0.80), indicating substantial agreement.
Conclusions: This retrospective cross-sectional analysis offers insights into use of AI in diabetic screenings and the significant role it will play in automated detection of DR. The EyeArt readings were beneficial with some limitations in a community screening environment.
Resistance levels of cassava landraces to CMD, CBSD and vector whiteflies in Malawi
Authors: Musopole Hastings , Mtonga Andrew , Maruthi M.N.
Published: February 2023

Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) and cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) have been two major threats to cassava production in eastern and southern Africa. This study was designed to identify CMD- and CBSD-resistant cassava landraces and farmer-preferred varieties in Malawi for effective disease control. Thirty cassava landraces were collected from 17 districts across Malawi and evaluated for disease resistance a field experiment at the Chitala Research Station in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Cultivars Mbundumali and Pwani were used as susceptible and resistant controls, respectively. Data collected on foliar and root disease symptoms indicated that CMD was more prominent than CBSD during the study. Cultivars Pwani, Mkumba, R23-Sangwala, Sagonja, R31-Kamphunobi, R33-Chimphuno, R76-Kamphuno, MZ126, and R63-2020 showed relative dual resistance to both CMD and CBSD with the highest incidence of 25 and 18%, respectively. Some cultivars showed resistance to one disease and not the other. The lowest cumulative number of whiteflies (0.68 per plant) was observed on Pwani while the highest was seen on R42-Mwenemisuku with 6.33 per plant. However, various cultivars supported varied numbers of whiteflies and nymphs. Assessing relative virus quantities of the prevailing viruses, East African cassava mosaic virus (EACMV) and Cassava brown streak virus (CBSV) indicated that Pwani, Mkumba and Sagonja supported lowest amount of EACMV and CBSV. Our results collectively identified the presence of dual-resistant cassava which can be further exploited for managing both CMD and CBSD in Malawi.
A novel intergenic dSH3-irr insertion mutation in Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens causes its symbiotic incompatibility with soybean
Authors: jin yuhao , liu yuanhui , liu sheng , Wang Entao , Bacem Mnasri , Chen Wenfeng
Published: February 2023

Legumes and rhizobia collaborate to fix nitrogen in the host plant nodules, but some inadvertent mutation may generate unexpected symbiosis. We reported an altered host range symbiosis of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110 mutant dSH3_IP when associating with Sophora flavescens. Recently, we found SH3_IP cannot symbiose with original host soybean (Glycine max), and mutant influenced iron response regulator, which forms convergent gene pair with dSH3 in strain USDA110. The reason of symbiotic mismatching between soybean and dSH3_IP was explored through dual RNA-seq transcriptome and symbiotic characterization. We discovered dSH3_IP bacteroid assimilated more nutrition, triggered stronger immune responses and perturbed the symbiotic components in soybean nodules. Anyway, the incompatible symbiosis between dSH3_IP and soybean originated from intergenic insertion of dSH3-irr, which importance was not uncovered previously and may be used as a potential regulatory element in the future to regulate the SNF efficiency by artificial genetic design.
Macroscopic reconstruction of the lattice Boltzmann model for incompressible flows
Authors: Lu Jinhua , Adams Nikolaus A.
Published: February 2023

The present paper aims to clarify the mechanisms of the good numerical stability of the lattice Boltzmann model for incompressible flows and then construct a macroscopic solver that combines the good numerical stability of the lattice Boltzmann model and the flexibility of macroscopic algorithms in using nonuniform meshes. By introducing the second-order non-equilibrium momentto make entropy increase approximately in the collision process, we propose the non-equilibrium-moments-based reconstructed macroscopic equations of the lattice Boltzmann model for incompressible flows. Numerical investigations demonstrate that the discretized macroscopic equations can achieve even better numerical stability than the lattice Boltzmann model. It implies that the good numerical stability of the lattice Boltzmann model can be roughly explained by the entropy increase of the collision step and the diffusion process of the streaming step. However, the discretized non-equilibrium-moments-based reconstructed macroscopic equations are proven to have significant numerical errors at small kinematic viscosities. By combining them with the equilibrium-moments-based reconstructed macroscopic equations, a hybrid model that can achieve good numerical stability and accuracy at both small and large kinematic viscosities is proposed. Compared with the lattice Boltzmann model for incompressible flows, the hybrid model has better numerical stability, similar accuracy, and a significant advantage in using nonuniform meshes.
Scandian actinolite from Jordanów Śląski, Lower Silesia, Poland: Compositional evolution, crystal structure, and genetic implications
Authors: Pieczka Adam , Stachowicz Marcin , Zelek-Pogudz Sylwia , Gołębiowska Bożena , Sęk Mateusz , Nejbert Krzysztof , Kotowski Jakub , Marciniak-Maliszewska Beata , Szuszkiewicz Adam , Szełęg Eligiusz , Stadnicka Katarzyna M. , Woźniak Krzysztof
Published: February 2023

Scandian actinolite evolving to scandio-winchite (up to 5.45 wt% Sc2O3) has been found in chlorite-dominant xenoliths incorporated into marginal portion of a granitic pegmatite. The pegmatite intruded a blackwall schist zone developed around rodingite-type rocks exposed in a serpentinite quarry at Jordanów Śląski near Sobótka, ~30 km south of Wrocław, Lower Silesia, Poland. The amphiboles form irregular overgrowths around cascandite and represent a complex solid-solution series among actinolite and scandio-winchite end-members, with a trace contribution of “scandio-magnesio-hornblende.” Structural studies of a scandian actinolite crystal with composition A[☐0.995(2)K0.005(2)]Σ1B[Na0.24(5)Ca1.73(4)]Σ1.98(1)C[Mg3.74(7)Fe0.90(3)2+Mn0.04(1)Sc0.26(3)Al0.05(1)]Σ4.99(1)T[Si7.98(2)Al0.02(2)]Σ8.00O22(OH)2 revealed monoclinic C2/m structure with unit-cell parameters a = 9.8517(3), b = 18.0881(6), c = 5.28501(18) Å, β = 104.809(4)°, in which scandium is located solely at the CM2 site. Scandian amphiboles are uncommon in geological environments, and invite comments on the origin of the observed Sc enrichment in the amphibole structure. Textural appearance of the chlorite-cascandite-amphibole clusters suggests that the formation of the amphiboles is related to the evolution of the country rocks followed by partial alteration of blackwall schist xenoliths by pegmatite-forming melt.
SELF LIMITING TRANSIENT POLYURIA POST AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT
Authors:   PG Resident Year I, Department of General Surgery, MGM Medical College and Hospital,Navi Mumbai., Parthiban Akshaya , Kadam Sameer ,   HOD, Department of General Surgery, MGM Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Nayak Aditya ,   AssistantProfessor, Department of General Medicine, MGM Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai., Sathe Vishwas ,   Professor, Department of Anaesthesia, MGM Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai.
Published: February 2023

Polyuria is not an uncommon perioperative complication, following coronary artery bypass surgery. Diabetes insipidus (DI) results from inadequate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) from the pituitary gland (Central DI)or the absence of the normal response by the renal tubules to ADH(Nephrogenic DI).Here we present a 55 years old male who underwent Aortic valve replacement. Postoperatively he developed polyuria and was diagnosed with Diabetes insipidus (DI). Its most likely due toalteration within the left atrial non-osmotic receptor during cardioplegia.It can also be a dysfunction of osmotic receptors in the hypothalamus because of transient cerebral ischemia resultingdue to microthrombi during Cardio-Pulmonary Bypass.The patient recovered from symptoms without any administration of vasopressin.
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACHIEVEMENT OF THE OTTOMAN CONQUEST OF THE BALKAN IN THE 14TH CENTURY
Authors:   Research Centre for Arabic Language and Islamic Civilization, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia., Dalillah Mohd Isa Ammalina ,   Department of History and Civilization, Kuliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 53100 Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia., Omer Spahic ,   Department of History and Civilization, Kuliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 53100 Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia., Fathil Fauziah ,   Department of History and Civilization, Kuliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Science, International Islamic University Malaysia, 53100 Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia.
Published: February 2023

The Ottomans first made an appearance in the Balkan region after John Kantakouzenos requested Sultan Orhan Is assistance to win the Byzantine throne. During their later assistance, the Ottomans acquired Fort of Tzympe in Gallipoli as their base in the Balkan region. After the annexation of Gallipoli city, the Ottomans affirmed their intention to expand their territory westward that, in less than half of a century, they subjugated almost the entire Balkan region. The objective of this study is to analyse contributory factors for the achievement of the Ottoman conquest and expansion in the Balkans in the 14th century. This study applied historical approach and content-analysis method. This study discovered that the factors contributing to the achievement of the Ottoman rapid conquest and expansion in the Balkan in the 14th century are complex in that the weakening state of Balkan kingdoms, which has often been pointed out, is not the exclusive reason. Apart from the weakness of the Balkans political state, other factors include the absence of military assistance from the neighbouring kingdom to the Balkan rulers in fighting the Ottoman Empire, the strategic location of the Ottoman Empire providing abundant human resources close to the Balkans, the Ottoman military prowess including the high morale of the Ottoman army, the ingenuity of the Ottoman sultans who acted as military commanders in devising conquest and expansion strategy, the Ottoman method of conquest which ensured the continuous obedience of the Balkan region under Ottoman rule and the inclination of the Balkan people towards the Ottoman-Islamic rule rather than the Western-Catholic rule.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF EFFECTIVENESS BETWEEN TOPICAL INSULIN VERSUS NORMAL SALINE DRESSINGS IN MANAGEMENT OF DIABETIC FOOT ULCERS
Authors:   Professor & Unit Head, Department Of General Surgery, Jss Medical College & Hospital, JssaherMysuru, Karnataka, India., P.B Thrishuli , B.P Sunil ,   Senior Resident, Department Of General Surgery, Jss Medical College & Hospital, JssaherMysuru, Karnataka, India., Sai Deepika Y. ,   Post Graduate, Department Of General Surgery, Jss Medical College & Hospital, JssaherMysuru, Karnataka, India.
Published: February 2023

Foot ulcer is a common problem in diabetic patients and are seen as a common outpatient in General Surgery department all over the country. They result in significant morbidity, with prolonged duration of hospital stay as they present late to the hospital and due to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, ultimately requiring major amputations in some instances. A study has been attempted using topical insulin, to determine its role in wound healing. Aims &Objectives:To compare Topical Insulin versus Normal Saline dressings in management of Diabetic foot ulcers and to know the efficacy of Topical Insulin in Diabetic foot ulcers. Methods: An interventional study was conducted on 66 patients over 18 months (from Dec 2020 to June 2022) at JSS hospital, Mysuru. 66 patients were randomized into two subgroups of 33 patients each, the control and the experimental group. Normal saline dressings were done for the 33 patients in the control group and Topical Insulin dressings were applied for the 33 patients in the experimental group. Various parameters related to wound healing, viz. size, granulation tissue, type and presence of slough, pus etc. were studied on Day 1, 7 and 15 and data compared. Results:In the experimental group, the presence of granulation tissue was 97% and it was 39.4% in controls with a p value of <0.001 showing a significant increase in granulation tissue formation in experimental group.The percentage reduction of surface area among controls was 8.8% and among experimental group was 50% with a statistically significant p value of <0.001, which represent the effectiveness of Topical Insulin in wound healing and at a faster rate. Conclusion:This study has shown that using topical Insulin, the rate of promotion of granulation tissue was increased, rapid reduction in surface area of wound, rate of wound healing was improved ultimately leading to lesser morbidity, decreased amputation rates and decreased hospital stay.
Assessment of the water quality of the Niger River in Bamako, Mali, based on the Water Quality Index
Authors: Sangare Lamine Ousmane , Ba Sidy , Toure Amadou , Samake Mamoutou , Zheng Tong
Published: February 2023

The Niger River, threatened by human activities, is the main drinking water source for the population of Bamako city. This study assesses the trend of Niger River pollution in Bamako using the Water Quality Index (WQI). Fourteen parameters, namely Turbidity, Potential of Hydrogen (pH), Electrical Conductivity, Dissolved Oxygen, Total Dissolved Solids, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammonium, Phosphate, Sulphate, Chloride and Copper, were employed to characterise the Niger River water quality during the period from 2016 to 2020. Parameters were measured at 15 sampling locations. High values of Turbidity, pH and high concentrations of BOD5, COD, Nitrite, Ammonium and Phosphates were recorded. The results showed that the Niger River water quality was good for 4 months and poor for 5 months during the dry season in a low flow period. Moreover, the water quality was poor during the 3 months of the wet season in the high flow period. The calculated WQI average values ranged from 75 to 100, indicating very poor water quality from upstream to downstream of Bamako city. Therefore, the Niger River water is polluted and cannot be used for drinking or industrial uses without any treatment.
Activating Protein-1 (AP-1): A Promising Target for the Treatment of
Fibrotic Diseases
Authors: Pi Zixin , Qiu Xiangning , Liu Jiani , Shi Yaqian , Zeng Zhuotong , Xiao Rong
Published: February 2023

The fibrosis of tissues and organs occurs via an aberrant tissue remodeling process
characterized by an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, which can lead to
organ dysfunction, organ failure, and death. Because the pathogenesis of fibrosis remains
unclear and elusive, there is currently no medication to reverse it; hence, this process deserves
further study. Activating protein-1 (AP-1)-comprising Jun (c-Jun, JunB, JunD),
Fos (c-fos, FosB, Fra1, and Fra2), and activating transcription factor-is a versatile dimeric
transcription factor. Numerous studies have demonstrated that AP-1 plays a crucial
role in advancing tissue and organ fibrosis via induction of the expression of fibrotic
molecules and activating fibroblasts. This review focuses on the role of AP-1 in a range
of fibrotic disorders as well as on the antifibrotic effects of AP-1 inhibitors. It also discusses
the potential of AP-1 as a new therapeutic target in conditions involving tissue
and organ fibrosis.
Synthesis, in vivo Biological Evaluation and Molecular Docking Study of
Some Newer Oxadiazole Derivatives as Anticonvulsant, Antibacterial and
Analgesic Agents
Authors: Rana Kavita , Mazumder Avijit , Salahuddin  , Agrawal Anurag , Sahu Jagdish K.
Published: February 2023

Background:

The compounds containing heterocyclic cores with O, N and/or S atoms
are bioactive and valuable molecules in the field of drug discovery and development. There are
several applications in different areas for the molecules having oxadiazole moiety in their structures
viz. herbicides and corrosion inhibitors, electron-transport materials, polymers and luminescent
materials. Hence, demand for new anticonvulsant, antibacterial and analgesic agents has
turned into an imperative assignment in the area of medicinal chemistry to improve therapeutic
efficacy as well as safety.

Methods:

In the journey of new anticonvulsive, antibacterial and analgesic molecules with better
potency, some newer Oxadiazole analogues were attained by a sequence of synthetic steps with
the substituted acrylic acids. IR and 1H-NMR spectral data were used for the structure elucidation
of obtained chemical compounds. In this perspective, the anticonvulsant, antibacterial and analgesic
activities were evaluated for synthetically obtained newer chemical moieties. Furthermore, a
molecular docking study was performed to elucidate the binding modes of synthesized ligands in the
active pockets of Cox-1/2 enzymes, DNA Gyrase and GABA inhibitors.

Result:

It has been observed that all the synthetic molecules showed good analgesic activity
while A1 molecule demonstrated better analgesic activity. In the case of anticonvulsant and antibacterial
activity among other ligands, C1 molecule possessed profound anticonvulsant activity
whereas B1 molecule showed maximum antibacterial activity and molecular docking study also
endorsed the same consequences.

Conclusion:

It might be recognized from the present study that prepared compounds are distinctive in
lieu of their structure and noticeable biological activity. In the quest for a newer group of anticonvulsant,
antibacterial and analgesic molecules, these compounds might be useful for the society.
The Truncated Cone Effect in AFM Nanoindentation on Soft Materials
Authors: Kontomaris Stylianos-Vasileios , Malamou Anna
Published: February 2023

Background:

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) nanoindentation is the principal method
for the characterization of soft materials at the nanoscale. In most cases, pyramidal tips are used
and approximated to perfect cones. However, the extended use of the AFM tip may alter its sharpness.

Objective:

In many cases, a truncated cone shape is appropriate for tip modeling. In this technical
note, the equation that relates the force with the indentation depth when indenting an elastic halfspace
using a truncated cone is derived.

Methods:

The nanoindentation equation for a truncated cone tip is derived using the fundamental
differential equation that relates the sample’s contact stiffness with Young’s modulus.

Results:

When fitting Sneddon’s equation (which is valid for a perfect cone) on data obtained using
a truncated cone-shaped AFM tip, the results show a ‘pseudo-softening’ behavior.

Conclusion:

The AFM tip's sharpness in nanoindentation experiments is a crucial parameter for
obtaining the correct mechanical patterns of unknown samples.
Antioxidant Potentials and other Biological Activities of Protium
heptaphyllum (Aubl.). March: Mini-Review
Authors: Patias Naiéle Sartori , Gindri Sinhorin Valéria Dornelles , Sinhorin Adilson Paulo
Published: February 2023

Background:

Oxidative stress occurs when the cell's antioxidant defense system is insufficient.
This can be corrected by active antioxidant substances, which help to eliminate the consequences of the
damage caused or prevent the system from reaching the stress level.

Objective:

The actions of antioxidants can inhibit or delay tumor cells' appearance, delaying aging, and
preventing other cellular damage resulting from the redox imbalance. Therefore, the present work aimed
to research studies already published on Protium heptaphyllum (P. heptaphyllum) and its biological activities,
mainly antioxidant effects once resulting from phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids, present in
the plant.

Methods:

The methodology used was a literature review where information was collected from several
studies related to P. heptaphyllum, oxidative stress, polyphenols, and flavonoids in databases, such as
Scielo, PubMed, Google Scholar, LILACS, Chemical Abstract, ScienceDirect, among others in the period
from 2002 to 2021.

Results:

The main studies carried out with metabolites of P. heptaphyllum demonstrated several biological activities such as antioxidant, gastroprotective, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, antihyperglycemic, hyperlipidemic, among others. Although P. heptaphyllum has been little investigated by pharmacological studies, the results reported in this work may contribute to this plant species' chemical/ pharmacological knowledge. Therefore, the secondary metabolites present in the plant may become test targets in future clinical trials for the drug arsenal.

Conclusion:

It can be observed that P. heptaphyllum is a promising source of secondary compounds,
mainly flavonoids.
Prediction of Wind Loadings on Offshore Wind Turbines Using CFD
Authors: Bao Minghan , Abdussamie Nagi , AlThobiani Faisal
Published: February 2023

Analysing the structural response of offshore wind turbines (OWTs) requires a robust method to estimate environmental loadings associated with extreme weather conditions. This study aimed to accurately predict wind loadings on a non-rotating OWT using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code, Ansys Fluent package. The inlet velocity boundary condition was defined as a uniform inlet wind speed and then as a Normal Wind Profile (NWP). Three large wind speeds of 25 m/s, 40 m/s and 50 m/s were tested with the aid of the RANS equations and the Shear Stress Transport (SST) turbulence model. A thorough mesh convergence study was conducted for both 2D and 3D simulations, and their results were assessed using the Richardson extrapolation method. Overall, the NWP method was found to produce larger wind forces and moments in comparison with the uniform wind speed conditions (on average 52% and 63% higher, respectively), and its predictions were consistent with the estimations obtained using the simplified drag formula recommended by offshore standards (within approx. 7% difference for wind forces). This paper provided the preliminary steps towards investigating the structural integrity of OWTs under extreme weather conditions.