bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Industrial Agglomeration on Agricultural Green Production Efficiency: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Zhen , Lu Hui , Kang Xiaolan , Liu Bin
Published: July 2023

Understanding how industrial agglomeration affects agricultural green production efficiency is essential for green agricultural development. This study uses the super-efficient EBM-GML to measure and analyze the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics and core sources of dynamics of agricultural green production efficiency in China by using panel data from 30 Chinese provinces from 2006 to 2020. It also empirically investigates the relationships between industrial agglomeration, land transfer, and agricultural production efficiency. By using fixed, intermediary, and threshold effects models, the internal links between the industrial agglomeration, land transfer, and agricultural green production efficiency are examined. The findings indicate that the green production efficiency of Chinese agriculture exhibits the regional characteristics of being “high in the west and low in the east, high in the south and low in the north” in terms of space; in terms of time series, the overall trend is that of growing, with an average annual growth rate of 11.45%, and the growth primarily depends on the “single-track drive” of green technological progress. By promoting land transfer, industrial agglomeration can increase the agricultural green production efficiency and decomposition index. Land transfer has a double-threshold effect on the influence of industrial agglomeration on agricultural green production efficiency. As a result, this study suggests adhering to the idea of synergistic development, promoting agricultural green development, strengthening the development of industrial agglomerations, promoting the quality and efficiency of industry, improving land-transfer mechanisms, and placing a focus on resource efficiency improvements, as well as other policy recommendations.
Developing of a New Analytical Tool for Quantification of Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 – SPRi Biosensor.
Authors: Tokarzewicz Anna , Oldak Lukasz , Młynarczyk Grzegorz , Klekotka Urszula , Gorodkiewicz Ewa
Published: July 2023

A new biosensor based on Surface Plasmon Resonance Imaging detection technique for quantitative determination of Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 has been developed. The FGF-23 is mainly produced in the bone tissues as a phosphaturic hormone that upon secretion creates a trimeric complex with FGF receptor 1 and αKlotho. FGF-23 acts on the kidneys: it stimulates phosphate excretion and suppresses formation of active vitamin D. It has been proven that FGF-23 plays a role in bones’ carcinogenesis and its metastasis. The newly developed method based on the SPRi biosensor has been validated – the precision and accuracy as well as selectivity were acceptable and gave less than ±10% of recovery. The linear response of the biosensor ranges 1– 75 pg/ml. The limit of detection was 0.033 pg/ml and limit of quantification was 0.107 pg/ml. The biosensor was used to determine FGF-23 concentration in the plasma of healthy individuals as well as in the plasma of the patients with the clear cell carcinoma of the kidneys. The obtained results were compared with the results of the ELISA measurements. The determined Pearson correlation coefficients were close to 1 what showed that the newly developed biosensor can be used as the competitive method to the ELISA.
Metal-Organic Frameworks for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction into Formic Acid
Authors: Xie Wen-Jun , Mulina Olga M. , Terent'ev Alexander O. , He Liang-Nian
Published: July 2023

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are used in catalysis due to their high specific surface area and porous structure. The dispersed active sites and limited reaction space render MOFs have the potential for highly selective electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (ECO2RR). Meanwhile, formic acid (HCOOH) is attracting attention as a liquid product with high economic benefits. This review summarizes the MOFs and their derivatives applied for ECO2RR into HCOOH products. The preparation methods of MOFs as electrocatalysts and their unique advantages are discussed. A series of MOFs, and MOFs derivatives obtained by electrochemical reduction or carbonization processes are highlighted, including metal nanomaterials, carbon-based nanocomposites, single-atom catalysts, and bimetallic nanocomposites. Depending on the MOFs building units (metal ions and organic linkers) and the reaction conditions of derivatization, MOFs-based catalysts exhibit rich diversity and controllable modulation of catalytic performance. Finally, the challenges encountered at this stage and the future research directions of MOFs-based catalysts are proposed.
Modified Rice Bran Arabinoxylan by Lentinus Edodes Mycelial Enzyme as an Immunoceutical for Health and Aging – A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Ooi Soo Liang , Micalos Peter S. , Pak Sok Cheon
Published: July 2023

Rice bran arabinoxylan compound (RBAC) is derived from rice bran enzymatically treated with Lentinus Edodes mycelium. This review explores biologically active compounds and mechanisms of action that support RBAC as an immunomodulating nutraceutical in generally healthy and/or aging individuals. Thirty-seven (n=37) primary research articles fulfiled the selection criteria for review. Most research is based on Biobran MGN-3, which consists of complex heteropolysaccharides with arabinoxylan as its primary structure while also containing galactan and glucan. RBAC was found to invoke immunological activities through direct absorption via the digestive tract and interaction with immune cells at the Peyer’s patches. RBAC was shown to promote the innate defence by upregulating the macrophage phagocytosis and enhancing natural killer cell activity while lowering oxidative stress. Through induction of dendritic cell maturation, RBAC also augments adaptive immunity by promoting T and B lymphocyte proliferation. RBAC acts as an immunomodulator by inhibiting mast cell degranulation during allergic reactions, attenuating inflammation, and downregulating angiogenesis by modulating cytokines and growth factors. RBAC is shown to be a safe and effective neutraceutical for improving immune health, notably in aging individuals with reduced immune function. Human clinical trials with geriatric participants have demonstrated RBAC to have prophylactic benefits against viral infection and may improve their quality of life. Further research should explore RBAC’s bioavailability, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics of the complex heteropolysaccharides within. Translational research to assess RBAC as an nuetraceutical for the aging population is still required, particularly in human studies with larger sample sizes and cohort studies with long follow-up periods.
Porphyromonas gingivalis Peptidyl Arginine Deiminase (PPAD) in the Context of the Infinite Loop of Inflammation in Periodontitis
Authors: Prucsi Zsombor , Zimny Agnieszka , Płonczyńska Alicja , Potempa Jan , Sochalska Maja
Published: July 2023

Periodontitis is a widely spread chronic inflammatory disease caused by a changed oral microbiome. Although multiple species and risk factors have been associated with periodontitis, Porphyromonas gingivalis undoubtedly stands in the center as a keystone pathogen. The immune-modulatory function of P. gingivalis has been well characterized, but the mechanism by which peptidyl arginine deiminase (PPAD), a citrullinating enzyme, contributes to the infinite loop of inflammation is not fully understood. To determine the functional role of hypercitrullination in the context of periodontitis, we performed a comparative analysis on neutrophils stimulated by the wild type and the PPAD mutant strain that lacks an active enzyme. Our flow cytometric analysis revealed that PPAD contributes to the prolonged neutrophil survival upon bacteria stimulation, which was accompanied by aberrant IL-6 and TNF-α secretion in the experimental environment. To further elaborate on the complex mechanism by which citrullination sustains the chronic inflammatory state, we assessed the ROS production and phagocytic activity of neutrophils. Flow cytometry and colony formation assay demonstrated that PPAD obstructs the resolution of inflammation by promoting neutrophil survival and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines while making the bacteria itself more resilient to phagocytosis.
Hybrid immunity after a natural infection and vaccination with Sinopharm [Vero Cell] - Inactivated COVID-19
Authors: Vukčević Marija , Šerović Katarina , Nikolić-Kokić Aleksandra , Vujović Aleksandra , Blagojević Duško , Jovanović Tanja , Despot Dragana
Published: July 2023

Several vaccines against COVID -19 have been developed and licenced to enhance the immune response against SARS-CoV-2. Similarly, infection with SARS-CoV-2 before vaccination has been shown to provide significant protection against severe infection and hospitalisation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of three doses of Sinopharm vaccine and SARS-CoV-2 infection on the specific immune response in 103 volunteers, measuring neutralizing antibodies, anti-S1 IgG, anti-RBD IgM, anti-N IgM, anti-N IgG antibodies and interferon γ. Our results showed that the presence of cardiovascular diseases increased the level of anti-N-IgG antibodies, while endocrinological diseases decreased the level of neutralizing antibodies and anti-N-IgG antibodies, suggesting that these diseases alter the effect of vaccine immunity. In addition, there was a significant decrease in anti-S1 IgG levels 6 months and in anti-N IgG levels 18 months post-infection, while neutralizing antibody and interferon γ levels were constant at 3, 6 and 18 months post-infection. Therefore, our results confirm the importance of hybrid immunity as the strongest and most durable compared to exclusively natural or vaccine-induced immunity. Significant positive correlations were found between humoral and cellular immunity markers: neutralizing antibodies, anti-S1 IgG, anti-N IgG and interferon γ, indicating a unique coordinated response specific to COVID-19.
Treatment effects of probiotics on cognitive function and regulatory role of cortisol, IL-1β in adolescent patients of major depressive disorder
Authors: Shi Shaoli , Zhang Shuyou , Kong Lingming
Published: July 2023

To investigate effects of probiotics on cognitive function and regulation of cortisol and IL-1β in adolescents with depression. All 180 participants were randomly assigned into study group(treated by probiotics combined with sertraline hydrochloride) and control group(treated by sertraline hydrochloride). The repetitive Neuropsychological State Test (RBANS) and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) were administered in MDD patients. The levels of serum cortisol and IL-1β were detected by ELISA kit. Except speech function, immediate memory, visual span, attention function, delayed memory and RBANS in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group. The cortisol and interleukin1β in the study group were significantly downregulated than those in the control group. Except speech function, cortisol level was negatively correlated with RBANS total score and other factors in the study group. Interleukin-1β was negatively correlated with the total score of RBANS and each factor score. Cortisol and interleukin-1β were predictors of RBANS total score, which explained 46.80% of the variance. Cortisol had significant predictive effects on attention function and delayed memory, and interleukin-1β had significant predictive effects on visual span and speech function. It could concluded that probiotics can improve cognitive function in adolescents with depression by regulating cortisol and IL-1β levels.
Changes in Snow Surface Albedo and Radiative Forcing in the Chilean Central Andes Measured by In-Situ and Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Figueroa-Villanueva Luis , Castro Lina , Bolaño-Ortiz Tomás R. , Flores Raúl P. , Pacheco Diego , Cereceda-Balic Francisco
Published: July 2023

Snow-covered regions are the main source of reflection of incident shortwave radiation (ISR) on Earth’s surface. The deposition of light-absorbing particles (LAPs) on these regions increases the capacity of snow to absorb ISR and decreases surface snow albedo (SSA), which intensifies the radiative forcing leading to accelerated snowmelt and modifications of the hydrologic cycle. In this work we investigate changes in SSA and radiative forcing (RF) induced by LAPs in the Upper Aconcagua River Basin (Chilean central Andes) using remote sensing satellite data (MODIS), in-situ spectral SSA measurements, and the ISR (Chilean Solar Explorer platform) during the austral-winter months (May to August) for the 2004-2016 period. To estimate the changes in SSA and RF, we define two spectral ranges: i) an enclosed range (Ecr) between 841-876 nm, which isolates effects of Black-Carbon, an important LAP derived from anthropogenic activities, and ii) a broadband range (Bbr) between 300-2500 nm. Our results show that percent variations in SSA in the Ecr are higher than in the Bbr, regardless of the total amount of radiation received, which may be attributed to the presence of LAPs as these particles have a greater impact on SSA at wavelengths in the Ecr band than in the Bbr band.
Lack of Food Safety and Hygienic Practices among Street Vendors in Dhaka, Bangladesh: Implications for Consumers’ Health
Authors: Islam Sufia , Tanjia Nafisa , Mitra Amal Krishna , Hossain Sheikh Jamal , Hossain Afjal , Jasika Mahajuba Tanija , Suhi Suhana Sara
Published: July 2023

Food safety is a persistent global health challenge. Improper handling of foods increases the chances of food contamination, which may endanger the consumers’ health. The knowledge gap and improper hygienic practices of food handlers are the key factors for the transmission of foodborne diseases. This study aimed to investigate the level of food safety knowledge, attitudes, and practices among street food vendors in Dhaka City, Bangladesh. In this cross-sectional study, a randomly selected 350 street vendors from seven locations in Dhaka City were enrolled. Data were collected by trained interviewers using a questionnaire. Only 36.5% of the respondents had primary, and 48% had secondary education. The majority of the vendors who handled food in front of observers showed good handwashing practice. However, very few vendors showed positive attitudes for washing hands before handling raw or cooked food (3.7%), practicing good personal hygiene (1.2%), and other food safety attitudes (less than 1%). This study showed a significant correlation between the education level of the participants, work experience, and qualification of the head chef with knowledge about hand washing, wearing gloves, and food-borne illnesses. The study demonstrated that formal education played a significant role in vendors’ knowledge and practice of health safety measures of food handlers in preventing foodborne illness.
Association between Salivary Cortisol Levels, Dental Anxiety, and Dental Caries in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Padmanabhan Vivek , Islam Sofiqul , Habib Muneera , Abdulaziz Zainab , Goud Manjunatha , Chaitanya Krishna , Haridas Sheela , Rahman Mustahsen
Published: July 2023

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between dental caries, dental anxiety, and salivary cortisol levels in children visiting pediatric dental clinics and their implications on pediatric oral health. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a dental university in the UAE. A total of 60 children, aged 4-12 years, were included. Salivary cortisol levels were measured using an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) kit. Dental caries status was evaluated, and dental anxiety levels were assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS). Statistical analyses, including Mann-Whitney U test and Pearson's correlation coefficient, were performed to determine significant differences and associations. Results: The study group showed significantly higher salivary cortisol levels compared to the control group (p<0.0001). A strong positive correlation was found between salivary cortisol levels and dental caries status (p<0.001). However, no significant difference in dental anxiety levels was observed between the study and control groups (p=0.85). A strong positive correlation was found between dental anxiety levels and dental caries status (p<0.001). Conclusion: The findings indicate a significant association between salivary cortisol levels and dental caries, suggesting that higher cortisol levels are associated with active caries. Dental anxiety levels were positively correlated with dental caries. Understanding the relationship between these variables can contribute to better oral health strategies and interventions for children, emphasizing the importance of managing dental anxiety and stress in pediatric dental care. Clinical Significance: This study highlights the potential of salivary cortisol as a biomarker for assessing stress and its impact on oral health in children. By addressing dental anxiety and stress, dental professionals can provide child-friendly dental care, enhance preventive measures, and improve oral health outcomes in pediatric patients.
A Systematic Review of the Bioactivity of Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) Extracts in the Control of Insect Pests
Authors: Valdez-Ramirez Armando , Flores-Macias Antonio , Figueroa-Brito Rodolfo , Torre-Hernandez Maria E , Ramos-Lopez Miguel A , Beltran-Ontiveros Saul A , Beceriil-Camacho Delia M , Diaz Daniel
Published: July 2023

The use of botanical extracts of the plant Jatropha curcas (Euphorbiaceae) represents a valuable alternative to control insect pests and avoid the detrimental effects on the environment and health that arise due to synthetic chemical insecticides. Thus, we conducted a systematic review to summarize the published evidence on the bioactivity of J. curcas against insect pests. Electronic databases were searched to identify studies that assessed J. curcas extracts against insect pests in various types of crops. We included 39 articles that reported the insecticidal and insectistatic activity of several botanical extracts from J. curcas against insects of eight different taxonomic orders. The evidence demonstrates that aqueous and methanolic extracts from seeds and leaves, seed oil, and petroleum ether seed extracts were effective against insect pests of stored grains, aphids of cabbage, sorghum, fruit flies, and desert locusts. The extracts caused high mortality, controlled the populations, reduced oviposition, diminished hatchability, and increased the antifeedant effect. However, the type of solvent used to obtain the botanical extract and the method of application (contact or food) are fundamental to increase its bioactivity. Therefore, botanical extracts from seeds and leaves of J. curcas should be considered as an alternative against insect pests and may be incorporated into integrative and sustainable management for insect control.
Optimizing Vehicle Replacement in Sustainable Urban Freight Transportation Subject to Presence of Regulatory Measures
Authors: Ahani Parisa , Arantes Amílcar , Garmanjani Rohollah , Melo Sandra
Published: July 2023

Since the 1990’s, studies and pilot tests have been conducted to reduce traffic, accidents, and pollution due to urban freight transport (UFT). These ended up in several policies, regulations, and restrictions for UFT, such as low emission zones, delivery time windows, and vehicle size and weight restrictions. However, issues in UFT under regulatory measures still persevere. This study introduces an optimization framework for deriving an optimal combination of various types of vehicles with different capacities for vehicle replacement in UFT. This framework allows an understanding of how an urban freight company with a limited budget efficiently satisfies its freight demand within an urban area in the presence of regulatory measures by urban administrators. The introduced formulation, which is a mixed-integer linear programming, will assist the operator in choosing the best investment strategy for introducing new vehicles of certain types and sizes, for operation in different zones, into its fleet while gaining economic benefits and having a positive impact on the liveability of the urban area. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis is performed to consider the effects of specific uncertain parameters on the total cost. The numerical results show that the share of electric vehicles in the fleet increases, and they are more competitive than diesel vehicles.
Combination Optimization Method of Grid Section Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning with Accelerated Convergence Speed
Authors: Zhao Huashi , Wu Zhichao , He Yubin , Fu Qiujia , Liang Shouyu , Ma Guang , Li Wenchao , Yang Qun
Published: July 2023

Modern power system integrates more and more new energy and use a large number of power electronic equipment. This makes it face more challenges in online optimization and real-time control. Deep reinforcement learning(DRL) has the ability of processing big data and high-dimensional features, as well as the ability of independently learning and optimizing decision-making in complex environments. In this paper, we explore DRL based online combination optimization method of grid section for large complex power system. In our method, to improve the convergence speed of the model, we propose to discretize the output action of the unit and simplify the action space. We also design a reinforcement learning loss function with strong constraints to further improve the convergence speed of the model and facilitate the algorithm to obtain the stable solution. Moreover, to avoid the local optimal solution problem caused by the discretization of the output action, we propose to use the annealing optimization algorithm to make the granularity of the unit output finer. We verify our method on IEEE 118-bus system. The experimental results show that our model has fast convergence speed and better performance, and can obtain stable solutions.
Analisis Perbandingan Motivasi Kerja, Kedisiplinan, dan Kreativitas Guru di SD Negeri Se-Kecamatan Dolopo Berdasarkan Status Kepegawaian
Authors: Yenny Ika Fatmasari  , Andhita Dessy Wulansari
Published: July 2023

Keberhasilan suatu pendidikan tentu saja tidak lepas dari peran serta pemerintah dan komponen pendidikan yang terkait, salah satunya yaitu guru. Seiring dengan perkembangan zaman, maka guru dituntut untuk memiliki kompetensi unggul dalam perannya mewujudkan tujuan pendidikan nasional. Motivasi kerja, kedisiplinan dan kreativitas guru dalam mengajar sangat diperlukan untuk mencapai kinerja yang tinggi.  Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah guru PNS dan Non PNS di 28 SD Negeri se-Kecamatan Dolopo dengan jumlah sampel 87 guru PNS dan 66 guru Non PNS. Data yang diperoleh dari penelitian diuji prasyaratkan terlebih dahulu dengan uji normalitas multivariat dan uji homogenitas matriks varian-kovarian/Box’s M, kemudian dianalisis menggunakan uji MANOVA (Multivariate of Analisys). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui perbedaan motivasi kerja pada guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo, untuk mengetahui perbedaan kedisiplinan pada guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo, untuk mengetahui perbedaan kreativitas pada guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo, dan untuk mengetahui perbedaan motivasi kerja, kedisiplinan dan kreativitas secara simultan pada guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo. Hasil penelitian ini adalah: 1) tidak terdapat perbedaan motivasi kerja pada guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo dengan nilai probabilitas 0,075. 2) tidak terdapat perbedaan kedisiplinan pada guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo dengan nilai probabilitas 0,1571. 3) tidak terdapat perbedaan kreativitas guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo dengan nilai probabilitas 0,279. 4) tidak terdapat perbedaan motivasi kerja, kedisiplinan dan kreativitas secara simultan pada guru PNS dan Non PNS di SDN se-Kecamatan Dolopo dengan nilai probabilitas 0,336.
An artesunate pharmacometric model to explain therapeutic responses in falciparum malaria
Authors: Saralamba Sompob , Simpson Julie A , Choosri Noppon , White Lisa , Pan-Ngum Wirichada , Dondorp Arjen M , White Nicholas J
Published: July 2023

Background
The artemisinins are potent and widely used antimalarial drugs which are eliminated rapidly. A simple concentration-effect pharmacometric model does not explain why dosing more frequently than once daily fails to augment parasite clearance and improve therapeutic responses in-vivo. Artemisinins can induce a temporary non-replicative or “dormant” drug refractory state in Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites which may explain recrudescences observed in clinical trials despite full drug susceptibility, but whether it explains the dosing-response relationship is uncertain.
Objectives
To propose a revised model of antimalarial pharmacodynamics which incorporates reversible asexual parasite injury and temporary drug refractoriness in order to explain the failure of frequent dosing to augment therapeutic efficacy.
Methods
The model was fitted using Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo approach with the parasite clearance data from 39 patients with uncomplicated falciparum malaria treated with artesunate from western Cambodia and 40 patients from Northwestern Thailand reported previously.
Results
The model captured the dynamics of parasite clearance data. Its predictions are consistent with observed therapeutic responses.
Conclusions
A within-host pharmacometric model is proposed in which it is hypothesised that some malaria parasites enter a temporary drug refractory state after exposure to artemisinin antimalarials which is followed by delayed parasite death or reactivation. The model fitted the observed sequential parasite density data from patients with acute P. falciparum malaria, and it supported reduced ring stage activity in artemisinin resistant infections.
Recommendation Modelling based on Contextual Weather Data in an Adaptive Coaching System: A Semantic and Explainable Approach
Authors: Chatterjee Ayan , Ganesh K , Pahari Nibedita , Riegler Michael A.
Published: July 2023

Physical activities are of two types-indoor and outdoor. Outdoor exercise is an enjoyable way for individuals to improve their fitness; however, it depends on the weather. Staying active year-round can help to maintain strength, control weight gain, and improve overall health. The weather has been identified as a barrier to physical activity participation. The adverse weather conditions are most important to lead to reduced physical activity. As cold, rainy, foggy, and snowy weather settles in, individual exercise and physical activity may begin to decrease. The effects of heat stress and/or dehydration may lead to decreased physical activities. Physical activity is stressful in high ambient temperature and humidity. Cold injuries are a common result of exposure to cold during physical activities. Many people engage in physical fitness programs year-round in cold, wet or windy conditions (or a combination thereof), putting themselves at risk of injury from the cold. In this regard, a continuous evidence-based and goal-oriented monitoring system can be beneficial to guide people with automatic personalized recommendation generation to perform either indoor or outdoor activities based on the probabilistic distribution of external weather data. In this research, we have conceptualized the design of an automatic coaching system (eCoaching) that can generate recommendations based on the processing of contextual external weather data. Moreover, we have proposed an algorithm to annotate collected data, process and classify them, generate recommendations, and semantically represent the obtained knowledge using an Ontology. For the overall experiment, we collected weather data variations for one and a half years from thirteen cities of the Southern-Norway. Followed by, we added rule for indoor and outdoor activity types. The classification performance has been evaluated using the metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, brier-score, and Mathew’s coefficient (MCC) and achieves 99.99% accuracy with DecisionTree Classifier. Moreover, we used SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) and Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanations (LIME) to explain the classifications. The consistency of the Ontology model has been evaluated with reasoners and reasoning time. The Ontology model has been useful for semantic representation of collected and processed data, and the rule-based recommendation modeling with machine learning algorithm, a knowledge base and description logics.
Adaptive High-order Sliding Mode Control for Vibration Displacement System of Continuous Casting Mold
Authors: Yuan Na , Ma Zhuang , Zhou Jian
Published: July 2023

To solve the non-unique problem of inverse solutions of nonlinear periodic function and the uncertainties in the transmission mechanism of vibration displacement system of continuous casting mold driven by servo motor, an adaptive high-order sliding mode control(HOSMC) strategy based on nonlinear processing method is proposed. Firstly, a new nonlinear processing method is utilized to solve the problem that the output equation of the system has the non-unique problem of inverse solutions of a nonlinear periodic function, which is convenient for the controller design of displacement loop. Secondly, an adaptive HOSMC controller is proposed to suppress the uncertainties including the initial zero position deviation of the eccentric shaft, parameter perturbation, and fast time-varying load disturbance, and track the desired displacement accurately in the displacement loop system, and it is proved that the displacement tracking error is stable and convergent to the near origin in finite time. Finally, the simulation and experimental researches are all verified that the proposed control method is superior to the PI control method in the field and has better dynamic and steady-state tracking performance.
Insight into the Environmental Fate, hazard, Detection, and Sustainable Degradation Technologies of Chlorpyrifos - An Organophosphorus Pesticide
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Arshad Muhammad , Gacem Amel , Soni Sunil , Singh Snigdha , Kumar Manoj , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Tariq Mohd , Kumar Ramesh , Shah Deepankshi , Wanale Shivraj Gangadhar , Mesfer Mohammed Khaloofah Mola Al , Bhutto Javed Khan , Yadav Krishna Kumar
Published: July 2023

Pesticides play a critical role in terms of agricultural output nowadays. On top of that, pesticides provide economic support to our farmers. However, the usage of pesticides has created a public health issue and environmental hazard. Chlorpyrifos, an organophosphate pesticide, is extensively applied as an insecticide, acaricide, and termiticide against pests in a variety of applications. Environmental pollution has occurred because of the widespread usage of chlorpyrifos, and it is harming several ecosystems including soil, sediment, water, air, and biogeochemical cycles. While residual levels in soil, water, vegetables, foodstuffs, and human fluids have been discovered, chlorpyrifos has also been found in the sediment, soil, and water. The irrefutable pieces of evidence indicate that chlorpyrifos exposure inhibits the choline esterase enzyme, which impairs the ability of the body to use choline and as a result, neurological, immunological, and psychological consequences are seen in people and the natural environment. Several research studies have been conducted worldwide to identify and develop chlorpyrifos remediation approaches and its derivatives from the environment. Currently, many detoxification methods are available for pesticides such as chlorpyrifos, but recent research has shown that the breakdown of chlorpyrifos using bacteria is the most proficient, cost-effective, and sustainable. This current article aims to outline relevant research events and provide a summary of the possible breakdown of chlorpyrifos into a variety of compounds, along with a discussion of analytical summaries of current research findings on bacterial degradation of chlorpyrifos and the potential degradation mechanism.
The effect of smartphone distraction on depression among Chinese nursing students: the mediating role of rumination and social withdrawal
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Wu Man , Zeng Lijuan , Zhao Xueyang , Yu Yiqing , Hu Ting , Yang Fen , Han Yang Yang
Published: July 2023

Background
Smartphones have fully penetrated into the daily life of Chinese nursing students. While smartphones bring convenience to nursing students, they have also become an important risk factor for depression among nursing students. Among them, smartphone distraction is closely related to depression, and the prevalence of smartphone distraction among nursing students is gradually increasing. However, the potential mechanism of the effect of smartphone distraction on nursing students' depression is unclear.
Methods
A cross-sectional study design was used in this study. This study conducted an online questionnaire survey of undergraduate nursing students from several universities in Wuhan between September 2021 and May 2022. A total of 574 nursing students completed an online questionnaire in this study, which measured their levels of smartphone distractions, rumination, social withdrawal, and depression. The data were analyzed in this study using SPSS 25 and PROCESS 4.2.
Results
Smartphone distraction among nursing students had an impact on depression through four pathways: (1) Smartphone distraction significantly positively predicted depression (β = 0.353, P < 0.001); (2) Rumination (β = 0.199, 95% CI: 0.081 to 0.162) and social withdrawal (β = 0.061, 95% CI: 0.034 to 0.091) mediate the effects of smartphone distractions on depression, respectively; and (3) Rumination and social withdrawal played a chain mediating role in the effect of smartphone distractions on nursing students’ depression (β = 0.027, 95% CI: 0.015 to 0.042).
Conclusion
The negative impact of smartphone distraction on nursing students' mental health should not be taken lightly. Both schools and families should guide nursing students to use smartphones correctly and keep abreast of their motivation and thinking dynamics; enhance their social connection and social skills to reduce their risk of depression.
Determinants of common mental disorders among residents of Quiha town, Tigray, Northern Ethiopia: a case-control study
Authors: Mebrahtu Kalayu , Tesfay Kenfe , Sied Jemal , Girmay Bereket
Published: July 2023

Background: Common mental disorder (anxiety and depression) are the most prevalent mental disorders in the world. The study aimed to identify the determinants of common mental disorders among residents of Quiha town, northern Ethiopia.
Methods: A community based unmatched case-control study was employed with a total of 297 study subjects (99 cases and 198 controls) in Quiha town. Common mental disorder was measured by the self-reported questionnaire (SRQ 20) scale. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to determine between the independent and dependent variables.
Result: The study shows that participants who were Son/daughter (AOR = 0.37, 95% CI:0.14 - 98, P= 0.046) and being dependent (AOR = 6.50, 95% CI:1.17 - 36.20, P = 0.033), chronic illness (AOR = 2.52; 95% CI: 1.10 - 5.80, P = 0.030), stressful life event (AOR = 2.50; 95% CI: 1.20 - 5.13, P = 0.012), moderate stress level (AOR = 5.92; 95% CI:2.85 - 12.27, P = 0.000 ) and high perceived stress level (AOR= 122.82; 95% CI: 114.83 - 1063.60, P = 0.000) were significant factors of common mental disorders.
Conclusion:Factors like son/daughter, dependent, chronic illness, experiencing stressful life events, moderate and high perceived stress levels were significant factors of with common mental disorders.
Future Hydropower Expansion in Eco-Sensitive River Basins under Global Energy-Economic Change
Authors: Chowdhury AFM Kamal , Wild Thomas , Zhang Ying , Binsted Matthew , Iyer Gokul , Kim Son , Lamontagne Jonathan
Published: July 2023

Vast hydropower resources remain untapped globally, the deployment of which could provide energy-economic benefits but impact riverine ecosystems. Across eco-sensitive river basins, it is unclear how drivers of hydropower expansion, such as rapid economic growth and a low-carbon energy transition, could interact with countervailing forces, such as increasingly cost-competitive variable renewable energy (VRE). Using an integrated energy-water-economy model, we explore the effects of these forces on long-term hydropower expansion in the world's 20 most eco-sensitive basins, which have high ecological richness and untapped hydropower potential. We find that a low-carbon transition exerts the strongest development pressure, causing deployment exceeding 80% of exploitable potential in more than 72% of eco-sensitive basins by 2050, most of which have limited deployment today. Rapid economic growth induces such extensive deployment in only 44% of eco-sensitive basins. Enhanced integration of VRE reduces deployment, alleviating the impacts of rapid economic growth but not the low-carbon transition.
Green cocoon-derived sericin reduces cellular damage caused by radiation in human keratinocytes
Authors: Kakihara Nahoko , Sato Mami , Sato Momoko , Koguchi Mizuki , Yamauchi Shiori , Nakano Toshimichi , Sasamoto Ryuta , Sato Hideyo
Published: July 2023

Radiation therapy used in the treatment of cancer causes skin damage, and no method of care has been established thus far. Recently, it has become clear that sericin derived from silkworm cocoons has moisturizing and antioxidant functions. In addition, green cocoon-derived sericin, which is rich in flavonoids, may have enhanced functions. However, whether this green cocoon-derived sericin can reduce radiotherapy-induced skin damage is unclear. In the present study, we aimed at establishing care methods to reduce skin cell damage caused by X-irradiation using green cocoon-derived sericin. We investigated its effect on human keratinocytes using lactate dehydrogenase activity to indicate damage reduction. Our results showed that green cocoon-derived sericin reduced cell damage caused by X-irradiation. However, this effect was not observed when cells were treated before X-irradiation or with a sericin derived from white cocoons. In addition, dialysis-treated green cocoon-derived sericin decreased cytotoxicity-reducing effect. Our results suggest that green cocoon sericin mitigates the damaging effect of X-irradiation on cells, hence presenting potential usefulness in reducing skin damage from radiation therapy and opening new avenues in the care of cancer patients.
A Phase 3 Randomized Precision Medicine Clinical Trial Using Low-Dose Ondansetron (a 5-HT3 Antagonist) to Treat Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Johnson Bankole , Alho Hannu , Addolorato Giovanni , Lesch Otto , Chick Jonathan , Liu Lei , Reich Jack , Schuyler Vinzant , Rodd Zachary
Published: July 2023

Genetic predisposition may determine treatment response in alcohol use disorder (AUD). This 6-month, double-blind, randomized trial assessed ondansetron (0.33 mg twice daily; AD04) in genotype-specific AUD subjects stratified by drinking endophenotype (<10 (‘heavy’) or ≥10 (‘severe’) drinks per drinking day). In heavy drinkers, at study end (Month 6), the least-squares (LS) mean change in percentage of heavy drinking days from baseline was 8.5% greater with AD04 vs. placebo treatment (LS mean (standard deviation): -46.7% (2.7%) vs. -38.1% (2.9%); p<0.03), with a non-significant effect (LS mean difference: 7.0%, p=0.07) for Months 5 and 6 combined. AD04 vs. placebo treatment increased quality of life (odds ratio=3.4, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.03-11.45; p=0.04) and reduced AUD symptoms (mild symptoms: 33% vs. 39%; severe symptoms: 10% vs. 24%; p=0.05). AD04 had a similar adverse events profile to placebo. ADO4 showed promise as a precision medicine treatment for genotype-specific heavy drinkers.
Psychosocial dimensions of access and their association with contraceptive use and intention to use
Authors: ZAN Lonkila Moussa , ROSSIER Clementine
Published: July 2023

Background
Several studies suggest that psychosocial accessibility appears to be the key remaining hurdle to contraceptive use when issues of geographic and financial accessibility have been resolved. To date, the literature has considered various dimensions of psychosocial accessibility, which are not well measured by the two main sources of contraceptive data (DHS and PMA2020). In a previous work, we have designed a framework that outlines four subdimensions of cognitive and psychosocial accessibility and their theoretical relationship to contraceptive use and intention to use. This paper aims to study the associations between the cognitive and psychosocial dimensions of access to contraception with the contraceptive use and intention to use. It also aims to explore the mediation effect of psychosocial dimensions of access in the relationships between classical individual characteristics and contraceptive use and intention to use.
Methods
Data we used came from the 6th round of the PMA2020 survey in Burkina Faso in 2018–19. This survey included 2,763 households (98.4% response rate) and 3329 women (97.7% response rate). In addition to PMA's core questions, this survey collected data on psychosocial accessibility. Each group of questions was added to address one dimension. We use a multilevel generalized structural equation and mediation modeling to test the associations between psychosocial accessibility and contraceptive use, while controlling for other individual and contextual characteristics.
Results
Approval, contraceptive knowledge, and agency were associated with contraceptive use, while fears of side effects were not. Approval and agency explain part of the effects of education and parity on contraceptive use. Diffusion FP message had a positive effect on women contraceptive agency.
Conclusion
FP messages can help enhance women contraceptive agency, and then, contraceptive use, regardless of women age and parity. The analysis highlights the mediator effects of contraceptive approval and agency on the relationship between parity, and education and contraceptive use. It also confirms the effects of FP messages on women's contraceptive agency.
Treatment patterns and outcomes of BCG-treated non-muscle invasive bladder cancer patients in Germany
Authors: Doobaree Indraraj Umesh , Quignot Nadia , Jiang Heng , Lehmann Jan , Khachatryan Artak , Ghatnekar Ola
Published: July 2023

Background: Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) has a high rate of recurrence and progression. Nearly half of patients become unresponsive to guideline-recommended intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) treatment. We aimed to describe contemporary treatment patterns and outcomes of BCG-treated patients in Germany.
Methods: This observational, retrospective cohort study using German statutory health insurance data included NMIBC patients who received BCG instillation between 1st January 2012 and 31st December 2017. Patients were followed from BCG initiation for treatment patterns and from final BCG instillation for recurrence, progression to muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), death or end of follow-up (31st December 2019).
Results: Most of the BCG-treated cohort (N=1,049) were male with a mean age of 70.4 years. Overall, patients received a median (interquartile range) of 12.0 (6.0 – 18.0) BCG instillations over a median duration of 9.8 (2.3 – 21.3) months. After receipt of their final BCG instillation (median follow-up from final BCG instillation: 2.5 years), 57% of patients did not receive any further treatment while 11% had at least one evidence record of NMIBC recurrence and 30% progressed to MIBC. Among the 353 patients who received treatment following their final BCG instillation, 33% received mitomycin and 37% underwent a radical cystectomy.
Conclusions: A substantial proportion of patients with NMIBC who received further treatment after their final BCG instillation underwent a radical cystectomy, and one third were treated with mitomycin; treatment options after mitomycin varied. Findings from this study suggest an unmet need for optimal treatments for BCG-unresponsive patients who are at higher risk of recurrence but unable or unwilling to undergo radical cystectomy.
International Portfolio Investment, Institutional Quality, and Income Inequality: Evidence from Global Sample
Authors: Arogundade Sodiq , Yeboua Kouassi , Mdud Biyase
Published: July 2023

This study examines the effect of total portfolio investment and its sub-categories (debt and equity) on income inequality using a sample of 76 countries. The empirical results show that foreign portfolio flows worsen income inequality in recipient countries, regardless of the inequality indicators used. The study also digs deeper to examine the conditions under which international portfolio investment can have an inequality-reducing effect. The empirical evidence confirms our hunch that FPI, in the presence of good institutions, serves as a catalyst for bridging the gap between the rich and poor. In other words, domestic factors such as the quality of institutions modulate the link between portfolio investment flows and income inequality. The estimated results are reassuringly robust to alternative measures of inequality (Gini-index and Palma ratio), sub-categories of total portfolio investment (debt and equity), and various estimators such as IV-2SLS, Machado and Silva quantile regression, and JKS Granger non-causality results.
JEL classification: F3; P0; I30
Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 as novel markers for patients with type 2 diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Fang Yaxuan , Wang Bin , Pang Bo , Zhou Zijun , Xing Yunze , Pang Pai , Zheng Dingyuan , Zhang Gang , Yang Bo
Published: July 2023

Objective
To investigate the value of inflammatory markers including neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the prediction of type 2 diabetic kidney disease (T2DKD).
Materials and methods
This study used a cross-sectional survey research method. A total of 90 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were included and divided into three groups (A1, A2, A3) according to the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR). Observe and compare the basic information, clinical and laboratory data, and the inflammatory markers NLR, hs-CRP, MCP-1.
Results
High levels of NLR (OR=6.562, 95%CI 2.060-20.902, P=0.001) and MCP-1 (OR=1.060, 95%CI 1.026-1.095, P<0.001) were risk factors in the development of T2DKD. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under curve of NLR and MCP-1 in diagnosing T2DKD were 0.760 (95%CI 0.6577-0.863, P < 0.001) and 0.862 (95%CI0.7787-0.937, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The inflammatory markers NLR and MCP-1 are risk factors affecting the development of T2DKD, which of clinical value may be used as novel markers of T2DKD.