bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proof-of-concept studies with a computationally designed Mproinhibitor as a synergistic combination regimen alternative to Paxlovid
Authors: Papini Christina , Ullah Irfan , Ranjan Amalendu P. , Zhang Shuo , Wu Qihao , Spasov Krasimir A. , Zhang Chunhui , Mothes Walther , Crawford Jason M. , Lindenbach Brett D. , Uchil Pradeep D. , Kumar Priti , Jorgensen William L. , Anderson Karen S.
Published: April 2024

As the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to spread and mutate, it remains important to focus not only on preventing spread through vaccination but also on treating infection with direct-acting antivirals (DAA). The approval of Paxlovid, a SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro) DAA, has been significant for treatment of patients. A limitation of this DAA, however, is that the antiviral component, nirmatrelvir, is rapidly metabolized and requires inclusion of a CYP450 3A4 metabolic inhibitor, ritonavir, to boost levels of the active drug. Serious drug–drug interactions can occur with Paxlovid for patients who are also taking other medications metabolized by CYP4503A4, particularly transplant or otherwise immunocompromised patients who are most at risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection and the development of severe symptoms. Developing an alternative antiviral with improved pharmacological properties is critical for treatment of these patients. By using a computational and structure-guided approach, we were able to optimize a 100 to 250 μM screening hit to a potent nanomolar inhibitor and lead compound, Mpro61. In this study, we further evaluate Mpro61 as a lead compound, starting with examination of its mode of binding to SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. In vitro pharmacological profiling established a lack of off-target effects, particularly CYP450 3A4 inhibition, as well as potential for synergy with the currently approved alternate antiviral, molnupiravir. Development and subsequent testing of a capsule formulation for oral dosing of Mpro61 in B6-K18-hACE2 mice demonstrated favorable pharmacological properties, efficacy, and synergy with molnupiravir, and complete recovery from subsequent challenge by SARS-CoV-2, establishing Mpro61 as a promising potential preclinical candidate.
Threonine phosphorylation of STAT1 restricts interferon signaling and promotes innate inflammatory responses
Authors: Metwally Hozaifa , Elbrashy Maha M. , Ozawa Tatsuhiko , Okuyama Kazuki , White Jason T. , Tulyeu Janyerkye , Søndergaard Jonas Nørskov , Wing James Badger , Muratsu Arisa , Matsumoto Hisatake , Ikawa Masahito , Kishi Hiroyuki , Taniuchi Ichiro , Kishimoto Tadamitsu
Published: April 2024

Since its discovery over three decades ago, signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) has been extensively studied as a central mediator for interferons (IFNs) signaling and antiviral defense. Here, using genetic and biochemical assays, we unveil Thr748as a conserved IFN-independent phosphorylation switch in Stat1, which restricts IFN signaling and promotes innate inflammatory responses following the recognition of the bacterial-derived toxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Genetically engineered mice expressing phospho-deficient threonine748-to-alanine (T748A) mutant Stat1 are resistant to LPS-induced lethality. Of note, T748A mice exhibited undisturbed IFN signaling, as well as total expression of Stat1. Further, the T748A point mutation of Stat1 recapitulates the safeguard effect of the genetic ablation ofStat1following LPS-induced lethality, indicating that the Thr748phosphorylation contributes inflammatory functionalities of Stat1. Mechanistically, LPS-induced Toll-like receptor 4 endocytosis activates a cell-intrinsic IκB kinase-mediated Thr748phosphorylation of Stat1, which promotes macrophage inflammatory response while restricting the IFN and anti-inflammatory responses. Depletion of macrophages restores the sensitivity of the T748A mice to LPS-induced lethality. Together, our study indicates a phosphorylation-dependent modular functionality of Stat1 in innate immune responses: IFN phospho-tyrosine dependent and inflammatory phospho-threonine dependent. Better understanding of the Thr748phosphorylation of Stat1 may uncover advanced pharmacologically targetable molecules and offer better treatment modalities for sepsis, a disease that claims millions of lives annually.
Vortex beam induced spatial modulation of quantum-optical effects in a coherent atomic medium
Authors: Panchadhyayee Pradipta , Banerjee Aniket , Kumar Dutta Bibhas
Published: April 2024

We have studied two-dimensional absorption, gain, and corresponding refractive index profiles in a ladder-type three-level atomic system interacting with three coherent fields. One is a weak probe field considered as a plane wave, while the other two are the control fields taken as two Laguerre–Gaussian doughnut beams. Position dependence of two vortex beams induces the spatially modulated coherence at the condition of resonance, which enables us to obtain space-dependent absorption, transparency, gain without inversion (GWI), and refractive index enhancement in the present scheme. The azimuthal modulation of coherence effects is attributed to the presence of optical angular momentum of the vortex beams. Under the influence of an additional travelling wave field with the presence of two vortex beams, the present model leads us to obtain an ultra-large enhancement of refractive index at the resonant detuning of the fields. This phenomenon makes the atom-field system to play the equivalent role of a high-refractive-index prism. The role of near dipole–dipole (NDD) interaction on the modulation of position-dependent coherence effects has also been investigated. It has been shown that, without any inclusion of the travelling wave field in the system, the phenomenon of resonant enhancement of refractive index may also occur in the presence of NDD effect. The new way of generating spatially controlled GWI and nonlinear refractive index enhancement is specific to the present model. This work seems to be useful for finding its applications in spatially modulated coherence controlled electromagnetically induced transparency-based quantum devices like quantum optical memory, switches, and quantum logic gates, where the refractive index switching phenomenon is a prerequisite.
Toward flexible piezoresistive strain sensors based on polymer nanocomposites: a review on fundamentals, performance, and applications
Authors: del Bosque Antonio , Sánchez-Romate Xoan F , Sánchez María , Ureña Alejandro
Published: April 2024

The fundamentals, performance, and applications of piezoresistive strain sensors based on polymer nanocomposites are summarized herein. The addition of conductive nanoparticles to a flexible polymer matrix has emerged as a possible alternative to conventional strain gauges, which have limitations in detecting small strain levels and adapting to different surfaces. The evaluation of the properties or performance parameters of strain sensors such as the elongation at break, sensitivity, linearity, hysteresis, transient response, stability, and durability are explained in this review. Moreover, these nanocomposites can be exposed to different environmental conditions throughout their lifetime, including different temperature, humidity or acidity/alkalinity levels, that can affect performance parameters. The development of flexible piezoresistive sensors based on nanocomposites has emerged in recent years for applications related to the biomedical field, smart robotics, and structural health monitoring. However, there are still challenges to overcome in designing high-performance flexible sensors for practical implementation. Overall, this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on flexible piezoresistive strain sensors based on polymer nanocomposites, which can be a viable option to address some of the major technological challenges that the future holds.
3D printing of CaBi4Ti3.925(Nb2/3Mn1/3)0.075O15 ceramics for high temperature ultrasound transducer
Authors: Chen Yan , Peng Zhong , Wu Junwei , Cheng Zihua , Yuan Maodan , Zeng Lvming , Ji Xuanrong
Published: April 2024

Bismuth layer-structured CaBi4Ti3.925(Nb2/3Mn1/3)0.075O15 (CBTNM) piezoelectric ceramics have been prepared using stereolithography (SL) technology. The effects of various solid contents (76–82 wt%) of CBTNM ceramics on the slurry viscosity, phase structure, microstructure, and electric performance were studied in detail. At a solid content of 82 wt%, the ceramic exhibits good piezoelectric properties. The piezoelectric constant d
33, thickness-mode electromechanical coupling coefficient k
t, and Curie temperature Tc were 21 pC/N, 47%, and 790 °C, respectively. The piezoelectric constant of the ceramic has a good stability up to 500 °C. Furthermore, a high-temperature ultrasound transducer was designed and fabricated based on the CBTNM ceramic, and its pulse-echo performance was characterized from room temperature to 250 °C. The pulse-echo performance indicates that the −6 dB bandwidth and echo amplitude of the transducer decrease slightly, but still work normally up to 250 °C. These results indicate that the transducer fabricated based on CBTNM ceramics has potential in high-temperature testing applications.
Influence of HTS tape arrangement on the transverse compression performance of copper former CORC cables
Authors: Shi Yangyang , Ma Tao , Dai Shaotao , Liu Wenxu , Jin Huan , Qin Jinggang
Published: April 2024

CORC cables are subject to large transverse compression electromagnetic forces in fusion projects. Unfortunately, the electromagnetic force exceeding its critical transverse compression load will cause an irreversible decrease in its critical current. Therefore, it is particularly important to enhance the critical transverse compression load to ensure that the critical current does not decrease during operation. The winding method of high temperature superconducting (HTS) tape on the central former is variable. So the experimental study on how to increase the critical transverse compression load of CORC cable by changing the winding method of HTS tape is carried out in this paper. Firstly, the influence law of parameters of the number of HTS tapes per layer and the number of HTS tape layers on their transverse compression performance are analysed independently. The results indicate that increasing the number of HTS tapes per layer and the number of HTS tape layers can both improve the transverse compression performance of CORC cables. Whereas, in the case of a cable with a certain critical current demand (the same total number of HTS tapes), increasing the number of HTS tape layers necessarily reduces the number of HTS tapes per layer. Therefore, in order to compare the degree of influence of the above two parameters, we conducted transverse compression experiments on multiple groups of CORC cables with different winding methods (more layers with few tapes per layer or few layers with more tapes per layer) under the same critical current demand. The results show that under the same critical current demand, choosing the winding method that reduces the number of HTS tape layers and increases the number HTS tapes per layer can effectively improve the transverse compression performance of CORC cables. A 3D multilayer CORC cable transverse compression finite element model is also established to explain the inherent reasons for the differences in transverse compression performance of CORC cables under different HTS tape winding methods.
The sounds of science—a symphony for many instruments and voices: part II
Authors: ’t Hooft Gerard , Phillips William D , Zeilinger Anton , Allen Roland , Baggott Jim , Bouchet François R , Cantanhede Solange M G , Castanedo Lázaro A M , María Cetto Ana , Coley Alan A , Dalton Bryan J , Fahimi Peyman , Franks Sharon , Frano Alex , Fry Edward S , Goldfarb Steven , Langanke Karlheinz , Matta Chérif F , Nanopoulos Dimitri , Orzel Chad , Patrick Sam , Sanghai Viraj A A , Schuller Ivan K , Shpyrko Oleg , Lidström Suzy
Published: April 2024

Despite its amazing quantitative successes and contributions to revolutionary technologies, physics currently faces many unsolved mysteries ranging from the meaning of quantum mechanics to the nature of the dark energy that will determine the future of the Universe. It is clearly prohibitive for the general reader, and even the best informed physicists, to follow the vast number of technical papers published in the thousands of specialized journals. For this reason, we have asked the leading experts across many of the most important areas of physics to summarise their global assessment of some of the most important issues. In lieu of an extremely long abstract summarising the contents, we invite the reader to look at the section headings and their authors, and then to indulge in a feast of stimulating topics spanning the current frontiers of fundamental physics from ‘The Future of Physics’ by William D Phillips and ‘What characterises topological effects in physics?’ by Gerard ’t Hooft through the contributions of the widest imaginable range of world leaders in their respective areas. This paper is presented as a preface to exciting developments by senior and young scientists in the years that lie ahead, and a complement to the less authoritative popular accounts by journalists.
Bayesian and classical inference of the process capability index under progressive type-II censoring scheme
Authors: M Hasaballah Mustafa , A Tashkandy Yusra , Samson Balogun Oluwafemi , Bakr M E
Published: April 2024

This article uses the maximum likelihood technique, the bootstrap method, and the Markov chain Monte Carlo method to estimate the process capability index (C

py
) for the generalised inverted exponential distribution. These methods are all based on the progressive Type-II censoring scheme. In reliability analysis, the generalised inverted exponential distribution is a frequently used distribution, and the C

py
is a critical tool in statistical process control. The manuscript proposes a comparative study of the three methods for estimating C

py
, and their performance is evaluated using simulation studies. Furthermore, three examples of real data is examined to show all the estimation approaches. The results demonstrate that all three methods can provide accurate estimates of C

py
, with the Markov chain Monte Carlo method having an advantage in providing more information on the uncertainty of the estimates. The manuscript concludes that the proposed methods can be useful in practice for estimating C

py
for the generalised inverted exponential distribution based on progressive Type-II censoring scheme, providing an objective measure of process performance and helping organizations to optimize their production processes.
Probing the Kinematic Signatures of Planet Formation in the Gas Disk of MWC 480
Authors: Zhao Min , Yu Haochuan , Li Zhengxiang
Published: April 2024

The disk around MWC 480 has shown multiple substructures in both dust and gas observations, possibly suggesting ongoing planet formation in situ. In this paper, we explore the gas kinematics of the MWC 480 disk by analyzing the archival Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array observations of 12CO (J = 2-1), 13CO (J = 2-1), and C18O (J = 2-1). By modeling the line-of-sight velocities, inferred from the Doppler shifts of the emission lines, we are able to decompose the three-dimensional (3D) velocity field of the disk into rotational, radial, and vertical components. Further analysis reveals the presence of large-scale gas flows in the (r, z) plane. Notably, we identify potential meridional flows across various heights as traced by all three CO isotopologues in the 80–120 au region, possibly associated with ongoing planet formation activities in this region. Moreover, we find upward flows near 200 au for all three CO isotopologues, which may point to the presence of disk winds.
Investigating potential surface fresh water in karst Rembang using Topographic Wetness Index (TWI)
Authors: Widyasamratri Hasti , Poedjiastoeti Hermin , Noor Norzailawati Hj Mohd
Published: April 2024

Rembang regency, Central Java Province, where annually facing drought is laid in the northern part of Java coastal area. Geographically, Rembang has various typical of landscape where affects to the water availability. There are three main problems in Rembang for water management issues, lack of quantity, quality, and continuity. To identify the water availability in order to measure the water quantity and continuity, initial research to detect the surface water in river network was carried out by applied topographic wetness index (TWI) from remote sensing, ground checked observation and focus group discussion (FGD) to find out the existing situation. The result showed, TWI was successful to detect the surface water availability in Rembang regency catchment area from its range number. Those numbers indicate the potential of surface water in focus area although the water quantity is unstable.
Analysis of Knock Down Weir Stability Using Matlab Software
Authors: Siswanto Markhaban , Wahyudi S Imam , Soedarsono  , Parwanti Asnun
Published: April 2024

During the rainy season, there are still puddles of water in the village due to overflowing rivers and flooding due to landslides of embankments. Therefore, it is necessary to control the water and handle it quickly and precisely. Emergency Weir, which is ready to be installed, can be used to overcome this problem. It is named Knock Down Weir as Emergency Weirs that are effective, efficient, practical, can be arranged vertically, horizontally, can be stored and reassembled with 4 Forms of Arrangement and proven by Stability value > 1.5 based on the test on the support of wall roughness: hard stone, gravel, sand, clay and using Matlab application analysis. The simulation uses a model arrangement, namely: 1). Model L filled with sand + water; 2). The model I filled with sand + water; 3). Model L filled with water; 4). Model L filled with water. The result based on the Matlab application is obtained that the arrangement of model no. 1 (L shape) is the most stable against hard rock, gravel, sand and clay as support.
Study on the depth of cantilever sheet pile wall based on the type of soil where sheet pile embedded
Authors: Rochim A
Published: April 2024

The northern part of Semarang is known as a region having a thick depth of soft clay. In the construction of sheet pile wall for Terboyo Retention Pond dike Semarang must take into account stability aspect and financial aspect. The characteristic of granular soil is different from that of cohesive soil, and the stability aspect relies on the type of soil. This study aims to investigate the influence of the type of soils where sheet pile embedded to the theoretical depth of cantilever sheet pile wall. This research used the soil data from Terboyo Retention Pond of Semarang. Modelling of wall was differentiated based on the type of soil where sheet pile embedded whereas the type of soil above the dredge line was the same. Two type of soils where sheet pile embedded, clay and sand were modelled. The variation of soil parameters of both soils was also modelled. Safety factor for clay soil was taken 1.5. The result shows that different soil in which wall embedded give significant difference of length of sheet pile. Based on N-SPT, with the same N-SPT value theoretical depth of cantilever sheet pile wall in sand soil is deeper than that of in clay soil.
Analysis of Wear-Coated Asphalt Concrete (AC-WC) Modified With Addition of Steel Slag and Resin for Road Conditions Inlowed In Tide
Authors: Sulistyo J A , Azizah N U , Hapsari A
Published: April 2024

Causes of damage to road construction, among others due to the influence of excessive vehicle traffic loads, temperature, water (puddles), and pavement construction that does not meet technical requirements. Water (puddle) is one of the causes of damage or reduces durability for road construction with asphalt pavement. This study aims to examine the effect of asphalt mixture (AC-WC) with the addition of resin and steel slag aggregate on asphalt stability (AC-WC), Obtain Job Mix Design (JMD) for road conditions that are inundated by high tide and Assess the effect of immersion rob water against asphalt resistance (AC-WC) with the addition of resin and steel slag.

In this research, it can be said that we play a role and participate in building prosperity in the advancement of transportation and the development of technological civilization, through continuous research that is adjusted to continuous research. We carry out research with the aim of developing science and technology and applying the reconstruction of science and technology to provide solutions to be able to solve environmental and societal problems, where local wisdom forms the basis of research.

The research method used as a mix tester is the Marshall method, where from the Marshall test the results are obtained in the form of Marshall components, namely the volume weight of the test object, the value of stability, flow, voids in the mix (VIM), voids in mineral aggregate (VMA), void filled with asphalt (VFA), the thickness value of asphalt blanket or film and then can be calculated Marshall quotient. The last test was in the form of a Marshall immersion test. In the comparison of VIM, VMA and VFA above that for aggregate slag 25%, 50% and resin addition 5%, 7%, 10%, for resin content 5% and 10% did not meet specifications, however for 7% resin content meets the 2018 Revised Highways Technical Specifications. Based on the marshal test, there was only one that met the specifications of the binamarga, namely a test object with a resin composition of 7% by soaking for 7 days. The results of this study based on the Marshall test, the strength/stability value of the AC-WC asphalt mixture using a pen 60/70 asphalt mixture with steel slag and resin mining met the specifications. The stability value of asphalt AC-WC decreased with increasing variations in the resin content used in the mixture.
Performance Analysis of Unsignalized Intersection Using PTV VISSIM Software Modeling (Case Study of Sakra 4-way intersection, East Lombok)
Authors: Hadi S , Khairurrasyid
Published: April 2024

Sakra 4-way intersection is one of the unsignalled intersections in East Lombok. At certain times of the day, there are frequent traffic jams and queues of moving vehicles at this intersection because the area surrounding the intersection is a commercial area, as evidenced by the presence of settlements, markets, mosques, village heads’ offices, shops, and other shopping centers. This research aims to determine the movement of traffic flow at the 4-way Sakra intersections in East Lombok using Vissim software modeling. Data collection was obtained from literature studies and direct surveys at the research site. Direct questionnaires at the research location and literature reviews were used to collect data. Using PTV VISSIM software modeling, the intersection of Sakra East Lombok was modeled under the current conditions on Monday and Sunday. The results showed that values for Monday were Queue Length (Qlen) 34.77 m and Tundaan (VehDelay) 19.95 sec / skr. The value of Tundaan (VehDelay) on Sundays is 16.68 sec/skr, the value of Queue Length (Qlen) on Sundays is 23.76 m, and the service level of the junction (LOS) on Monday and Sunday is C (not good). And for the movement of vehicle flow passing at intersection 4 Sakra East Lombok, which indicates the density of vehicles traffic flow is moderate, internal traffic barriers begin to affect speed and drivers still have adequate discretion over their speed and the lane they use on the road.
A review of Enhancing Abrasion Resistance of Dry Geopolymer Ramie Fiber Composite Mortar in Hydraulic Structures
Authors: Ariyanto A S , Wahyudi S I , Mukhlisin M
Published: April 2024

Hydraulic structures, such as dams, spillways, and tunnels, suffer from severe abrasion and erosion due to the continuous flow of water and particles carried away. Such damage will result in expensive operating and maintenance of hydraulic structures. The purpose of this review is to discuss various abrasion testing methods as well as various efforts enhancing abrasion resistance, such as adding silica fume, and fibers, improving quality, and using geopolymers. In conclusion, the development of dry geopolymer methods offers great potential for use because they are more practical than wet geopolymer systems, however, the brittle nature of geopolymers is a weak point, which can be addressed by adding composite materials, such as ramie fiber. With the expectation that the matrix of composite geopolymer mortar with ramie fiber will have good abrasion resistance. Further research and development are needed to address existing challenges and establish this innovative construction material as a viable solution for sustainable hydraulic applications.
Mechanical Properties of Silica Fume Concrete in Marine Environment
Authors: Sudarsono I
Published: April 2024

Concrete is a common material used in marine structures. Cement, as a concrete-forming substance, contributes to global CO2 emissions. Reducing cement by adding Silica Fume transforms concrete into green concrete without reducing its quality. Concrete construction in the marine area is commonly affected by abrasive factors such as water penetration, waves, and sea currents. Concrete materials have good quality, as shown by their mechanical properties. This study examined how Silica Fume affected the mechanical characteristics of concrete. The specimens were made with variations of Silica Fume 5%, 7%, and 10% by weight of Cement, then cured with seawater. Tests are carried out for mechanical properties such as compressive strength, flexural strength, permeability, and abrasion mass loss. The test results showed that the compressive and flexural strength values achieved good results, and the weight loss and abrasion coefficient values were better than ordinary concrete.
Investigation of groundwater availability and geoelectric analysis to anticipate the scarcity of clean water in urban areas
Authors: Mulyadi Dudung , Biantoro Agung W.
Published: April 2024

The need for housing makes suburban areas of Jakarta such as Tangerang Regency, Indonesia, a location that continues to grow. AG Housing is a developer in the area that continues to build housing. In housing development, it is very important to pay attention to the magnitude of water needs, both domestic water needs and non-domestic water needs. A problem that often occurs is that housing developers do not take into account the long-term water needs of their residents, especially in water-scarce areas. Developers often do not check the condition and location of water content in the soil, resulting in water drilling being inefficient and wasteful. The aim of this research is to predict the clean water needs of residents of a housing complex and assess the condition of the water supply below the ground surface using the properties of electric current by flowing DC electric current. The method used in this research is a survey method and geoelectric analysis. This approach involves harnessing the characteristics of electrical current and directing it into the earth. Geoelectric measurements took a sample of 19 Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) measurement points with North South and East West trajectories in the area. The research results show that there will be an increase in population and an increase in water demand in TA Housing in the next 20 years. Geoelectrical analysis shows the type of soil and rock below the ground surface that will be used as a housing location. Geoelectric testing showed 8 potential points as drilled well locations with a sand layer thickness of between 36.26 m – 62.28 m, while the depth from the ground surface was between 1.01 m – 70.00 m.
Bridge Approach Model with Precast Concrete-cell Box Structure to Overcome Differential Settlement
Authors: Purwantoro A Didik Setyo , Pratikso  , Mudiyono R
Published: April 2024

The bridge approach road embankment has a very important role as a link between the road and the bridge. In the post-construction stage, there are many cases of bridge approach road embankments, especially those with high elevations, potentially experiencing differential settlement. To overcome this, an analysis and planning study was carried out in increasing stability and overcoming the differential decline that occurred in the bridge approach road structure, especially in the approach slab structure with the end of the bridge. So that a bridge approach road model was developed as a substitute for the mass of soil embankment by conducting experiments and making a prototype of the Precast Concrete-cell Box structure model, which was given the maximum repetition and gradual plan load. While the method used in this research is the prototype model method, by conducting loading and settlement experiments on the bridge approach, especially on the approach slab. Furthermore, analysis and simulation are carried out under the condition of reaction force and maximum loading. From the results of the analysis, in the loading test of 2,761.00 kg, 2,717.00 kg 2,974.00 kg on the prototype model, the value of the decrease in LVDT 1-2-3 was 0.00 mm, the loading test of 3,956.00 kg and 3,887.00 kg obtained the value of the decrease in LVDT 1 and LVDT 3 of 0.00 mm and LVDT 2 obtained a decrease value of -0.01 mm which indicates a bending / deflection occurs in the approach slab structure, but it is still safe and no structure is required..
Utilization of Fly Ash and Bottom Ash Waste of PLTU Jeranjang on Geopolymer Paving
Authors: Dewi E S , Darayani D H , Iskandar O
Published: April 2024

Waste is produced as fly ash and bottom ash from coal-fired power stations. PLTU in West Nusa Tenggara uses 13,000 tons of coal in one month, so it can be estimated that Fly Ash waste will be produced around 1,950-2,210 tons. Geopolymer concrete utilizes fly ash as an adhesive to replace Portland cement. Fly ash is used to make geopolymer concrete, which is created by polymerization reactions caused by alkali-aluminosilicate reactions that result in materials with strong structures. In this study, the ratio of the composition of the weight ratio of paste (fly ash and alkaline solution) with aggregate was 35:65. The aggregates used are sand and bottom ash. The test object is a prototype paving block with a specific dimension of 10cm x 21cm x 6cm. Mechanical testing using compressive strength and water absorption testing with a specimen life of 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. Testing of bottom ash and fly ash characteristics in the form of XRF testing. The XRF test results found that the bottom ash and fly ash of PLTU Jeranjang belonged to class F. The average test result of compressive strength at the age of 28 days for mix designs A, B, and C was 8.54 MPa, respectively; 10.29 MPa; and 16.10 MPa. Quality geopolymer paving can be applied to gardens and other interiors used. Another result of the absorption value of Mix design C of 8% shows the addition of fly ash can be utilized in place of some of the used cement in paving blocks that satisfy SNI 03-0691-1996 Quality C criteria.
Preferences of Tourists for the Comfort of the Semarang Old Town Area After Revitalization as a Heritage Tourism Destination in the City of Semarang
Authors: Puspitasari A Y , Rochani A , Khasanah Ramli W O S
Published: April 2024

Semarang Old Town Area has been designated as a National Cultural Heritage Area based on the Decree of the Minister of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia Number 682/P/2020. Revitalization of the Semarang Old Town Area abbreviated as KKLS is carried out with the aim of sustainable development and providing the benefit of increasing economic value for the local community by making minor changes to historic buildings, as much as possible to maintain authenticity, and if changes are needed, they must be carried out with careful consideration. After the revitalization, KKLS became one of the popular destinations by offering views of old buildings along with their historical value, being able to have a good influence on increasing economic activity and being able to become a strong tourist attraction for tourists. However, there are still problems related to the provision of public facilities such as toilets, parking, and lighting. Convenience is basically not only related to the availability of facilities but also regarding the psychology felt by tourists towards these facilities. The purpose of this research is to find out the comfort level of post-revitalization KKLS based on tourist preferences. The results of this research show that tourist feel comfortable, this is proven by six of the eight variables stating that they area comfortable.
Heart Rate Acceleration and Deceleration Capacities Associated With 24-Hour Circadian Blood Pressure Variation of Hypertension Patients
Authors: Wang Jijing , Xu Jinyi , Zhang Hengyuan , Qiu Yanyan , Zhang Na , Yan Fei , Ji Yanfang
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

To observe the relationship between 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure circadian rhythm and heart rate acceleration (AC), deceleration capacities (DC) in patients with hypertension.

METHODS

A total of 198 patients with essential hypertension were included and were monitored by 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure. Based on the nocturnal decline rate of systolic blood pressure, patients were divided into 2 groups: dippers (decline rate 10%–20%, n = 58) and non-dippers (decline rate <10%, n = 140). DC and AC values were calculated based on dynamic electrocardiogram data and compared between 2 groups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between DC, AC, and blood pressure and circadian blood pressure variation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the influencing factors of non-dippers.

RESULTS

Compared with dippers, AC increased, while DC, standard deviation of normal R–R intervals (SDNN), percentage of heart beats with difference between adjacent normal RR intervals >50 ms in the total number of NN intervals (PNN50%) decreased in non-dippers (P < 0.05). Pearson analysis showed that AC was positively correlated to nighttime systolic blood pressure (r = 0.297), slowest heart rate (r = 0.221) and negatively correlated to SDNN (r = −0.233) and PNN50 (r = −0.238), while DC was negatively correlated to nighttime systolic blood pressure (r = −0.300), 24-hour average heart rate (r = −0.144), slowest heart rate (r = −0.213), and positively correlated to SDNN (r = 0.230), PNN50 (r = 0.267) (all P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that in the model included AC, AC (odds ratio [OR] = 1.320, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.102–1.580, P = 0.003), age (OR = 1.029, 95% CI 1.001–1.057, P = 0.039), and 24-hour average heart rate (OR = 1.062, 95% CI 1.010–1.116, P = 0.02) were independent risk factors for non-dippers, while in the model included DC, DC (OR = 0.824, 95% CI 0.709–0.956, P = 0.011), age (OR = 1.027, 95% CI 1.001–1.055, P = 0.046), and 24-hour average heart rate (OR = 1.058, 95% CI 1.007–1.113, P = 0.025) were independent risk factors for non-dippers.

CONCLUSIONS

AC increases and DC decreases in patients with non-dipper hypertension. Nighttime systolic blood pressure positively correlates with AC and negatively correlates with DC. AC and DC are independent risk factors for abnormal circadian rhythm of blood pressure in hypertensives.
Synthesis and optical properties of tris(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)methyl-type luminescent radicals bearing multiple carbazole substituents
Authors: Yang Peiyuan , Nagata Masakazu , Fukumoto Hiroki , Nakashima Kouichi , Yasuda Takuma , Agou Tomohiro
Published: April 2024

Two tris(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)methyl (TTM)-type luminescent radicals, TTM-(3PCz)2 and TTM-(3PCz)3, bearing 2 and 3 9-phenylcarbazol-3-yl (3PCz) substituents, respectively, were synthesized and characterized. The photobleaching of these radicals was suppressed compared with that of previously reported TTM-type luminescent radicals, suggesting a favorable effect of the multiple electron-donating 3PCz groups on the photostability of the TTM-type radicals.
Re-examining Correlations Between Synonymous Codon Usage and Protein Bond Angles in Escherichia coli
Authors: Akeju Opetunde J , Cope Alexander L
Published: April 2024

Rosenberg AA, Marx A, Bronstein AM (Codon-specific Ramachandran plots show amino acid backbone conformation depends on identity of the translated codon. Nat Commun. 2022:13:2815) recently found a surprising correlation between synonymous codon usage and the dihedral bond angles of the resulting amino acid. However, their analysis did not account for the strongest known correlate of codon usage: gene expression. We re-examined the relationship between bond angles and codon usage by applying the approach of Rosenberg et al. to simulated protein-coding sequences that (i) have random codon usage, (ii) codon usage determined by mutation biases, and (iii) maintain the general relationship between codon usage and gene expression via the assumption of selection-mutation-drift equilibrium. We observed correlations between dihedral bond angle and codon usage when codon usage is entirely random, indicating possible conflation of noise with differences in bond angle distributions between synonymous codons. More relevant to the general analysis of codon usage patterns, we found surprisingly good agreement between the analysis of the real sequences and the analysis of sequences simulated assuming selection-mutation-drift equilibrium, with 91% of significant synonymous codon pairs detected in the former were also detected in the latter. We believe the correlation between codon usage and dihedral bond angles resulted from the variation in codon usage across genes due to the interplay between mutation bias, natural selection for translation efficiency, and gene expression, further underscoring these factors must be controlled for when looking for novel patterns related to codon usage.
In vitro and in vivo metabolic study of three new psychoactive β-keto-arylcyclohexylamines
Authors: Xu Linhao , Yan Hui , Tang Yiling , Liu Yu , Xiang Ping , Hang Taijun
Published: April 2024

Since the 2000s, an increasing number of new psychoactive substances have appeared on the illicit drug market. β-Keto-arylcyclohexylamine compounds play important pharmacological roles in anesthesia; however, because these new psychoactive substances have rapidly increasing illicit recreational use, the lack of detailed toxicity data are of particular concern. Therefore, analysis of their metabolites can help forensic personnel provide references and suggestions on whether a suspect has taken an illicit new psychoactive β-keto-arylcyclohexylamine. The present study investigated the in vitro and in vivo metabolism and metabolites of three β-keto-arylcyclohexylamines: deschloro-N-ethyl-ketamine, fluoro-N-ethyl-ketamine and bromoketamine. In vitro and in vivo models were established using zebrafish and human liver microsomes for analysis of Phase I and Phase II metabolites by liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry. Altogether, 49 metabolites were identified. The results were applied for the subject urine samples of known fluoro-N-ethyl-ketamine consumer screen analysis in forensic cases. Hydroxy-deschloro-N-ethyl-ketamine, hydroxy-fluoro-N-ethyl-ketamine and hydroxy-bromoketamine were recommended as potential biomarkers for documenting intake in clinical and forensic cases.
PypKa server: online pKa predictions and biomolecular structure preparation with precomputed data from PDB and AlphaFold DB
Authors: Reis Pedro B P S , Clevert Djork-Arné , Machuqueiro Miguel
Published: April 2024

When preparing biomolecular structures for molecular dynamics simulations, pKa calculations are required to provide at least a representative protonation state at a given pH value. Neglecting this step and adopting the reference protonation states of the amino acid residues in water, often leads to wrong electrostatics and nonphysical simulations. Fortunately, several methods have been developed to prepare structures considering the protonation preference of residues in their specific environments (pKa values), and some are even available for online usage. In this work, we present the PypKa server, which allows users to run physics-based, as well as ML-accelerated methods suitable for larger systems, to obtain pKa values, isoelectric points, titration curves, and structures with representative pH-dependent protonation states compatible with commonly used force fields (AMBER, CHARMM, GROMOS). The user may upload a custom structure or submit an identifier code from PBD or UniProtKB. The results for over 200k structures taken from the Protein Data Bank and the AlphaFold DB have been precomputed, and their data can be retrieved without extra calculations. All this information can also be obtained from an application programming interface (API) facilitating its usage and integration into existing pipelines as well as other web services. The web server is available at pypka.org.
PPI3D: a web server for searching, analyzing and modeling protein–protein, protein–peptide and protein–nucleic acid interactions
Authors: Dapkūnas Justas , Timinskas Albertas , Olechnovič Kliment , Tomkuvienė Miglė , Venclovas Česlovas
Published: April 2024

Structure-resolved protein interactions with other proteins, peptides and nucleic acids are key for understanding molecular mechanisms. The PPI3D web server enables researchers to query preprocessed and clustered structural data, analyze the results and make homology-based inferences for protein interactions. PPI3D offers three interaction exploration modes: (i) all interactions for proteins homologous to the query, (ii) interactions between two proteins or their homologs and (iii) interactions within a specific PDB entry. The server allows interactive analysis of the identified interactions in both summarized and detailed manner. This includes protein annotations, structures, the interface residues and the corresponding contact surface areas. In addition, users can make inferences about residues at the interaction interface for the query protein(s) from the sequence alignments and homology models. The weekly updated PPI3D database includes all the interaction interfaces and binding sites from PDB, clustered based on both protein sequence and structural similarity, yielding non-redundant datasets without loss of alternative interaction modes. Consequently, the PPI3D users avoid being flooded with redundant information, a typical situation for intensely studied proteins. Furthermore, PPI3D provides a possibility to download user-defined sets of interaction interfaces and analyze them locally. The PPI3D web server is available at https://bioinformatics.lt/ppi3d.
Peanut Smut in Argentina: An Analysis of the Disease, Advances, and Challenges
Authors: Paredes Juan Andrés , Cazón Luis Ignacio , Conforto Erica Cinthia , Rago Alejandro
Published: April 2024

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a globally high-value food crop, with Argentina ranking third in global peanut exports. However, Argentine peanut production faces a severe threat from a fungal disease, peanut smut, caused by Thecaphora frezzii. This disease is particularly prevalent in the Córdoba Province, where recent surveys have documented a gradual increase in the prevalence and incidence of peanut smut, becoming a significant challenge to peanut production. First identified in Brazil in the 1960s in wild peanut and later in Argentina in 1995 in commercial peanut fields, the disease has rapidly spread owing to its distinctive pathogen characteristics, including the lack of visible symptoms on aerial plant parts, spore spread, and survival, and with a lack of proactive efforts to develop and apply management strategies. This results in the gradual accumulation of teliospores of T. frezzii in soil, further exacerbating the problem in subsequent growing seasons by increasing the intensity of the disease and driving a reduction in crop yield and quality. This review summarizes recent research on peanut smut, focusing on disease assessment, molecular characterization, diagnosis and detection, epidemiology, host range and environmental conditions, and the latest advancements in management approaches, including fungicide spraying, breeding programs, cultural management, and biological control, aimed to enhance understanding and support effective disease management strategies in peanut production systems.
Host Range of Phytophthora spp. from Berry Crops in Huelva, Spain
Authors: Borrero Celia , María Pastrana Ana , Ordóñez Javier , Páez Juana Isabel , Orta María Salud , Avilés Manuel
Published: April 2024

Crop declines have been observed in raspberry and blueberry farms in the southwest region of Spain, which is the most important berry-producing area in the country. This study aimed to identify and characterize the pathogens associated with these diseases using molecular and morphological methods. Additionally, pathogenicity tests were performed on different raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry cultivars to determine possible susceptible hosts in the area. An isolate of Phytophthora cactorum was obtained from a symptomatic strawberry plant, an isolate of P. cinnamomi was obtained from a symptomatic blueberry plant, and isolates identified as P. rosacearum, P. rubi, and a previously unknown species named P. balkanensis were recovered from symptomatic raspberry plants. Results from the pathogenicity tests reported, for the first time, P. rubi causing root rot and wilting complex in Spanish raspberry crops. Additionally, P. cinnamomi was found to affect highbush blueberry production in Spain. Thus, this study provides valuable insights into the identification and characterization of Phytophthora spp. associated with the decline of blueberry and raspberry crops in Huelva. It also provides essential recommendations regarding the potential risks associated with the use of other types of berries as rotational crops and emphasizes the necessity for effective management strategies to mitigate crop losses. This is particularly critical given the limited soil disinfection alternatives available in Spain.
A meta-analysis comparing treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia with holmium laser enucleation and photoselective greenlight vaporization
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Tan Zicheng , Qiu Mengzhen , Zhang Longyang
Published: April 2024

Background

We compared the safety and efficacy of treating benign prostatic hyperplasia with photoselective greenlight vaporization (PVP) versus holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP).

Methods

Databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Chinese CBM, and CNKI) were searched for eligible studies evaluating HoLEP or PVP outcomes, published until May 2022. We analyzed the incidence of relative complications and postoperative outcomes, including the international prostate symptom score, maximum flow rate (Qmax), postvoid residual urine volume, quality of life index, and prostate-specific antigen levels.

Results

Eleven studies involving 4763 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The significant differences in postoperative Qmax at 1 month (mean difference [MD], 3.31, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.45–6.16, p = 0.02, I
2, 92%), 3 months (MD, 2.78, 95% CI, 0.53–5.02, p = 0.02, I
2, 89%), 6 months (MD, 2.13, 95% CI, 1.11–3.15, p < 0.0001, I
2, 87%), and 12 months (MD, 3.98, 95% CI, 2.06–5.89, p < 0.0001, I
2, 58%) further confirmed unique advantage of HoLEP over PVP. We used forest plots to determine significant differences in the severe complication rates among patients in the PVP and HoLEP groups (odds ratio, 0.05, 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.28, p = 0.0005).

Conclusions

Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate and PVP showed comparable international prostate symptom scores, quality of life index, postvoid residual urine volumes, prostate-specific antigen levels, perioperative factors, and total complication rates. Compared with PVP, HoLEP had a greater Qmax 1 year postoperatively, decreased energy expenditure, and fewer high-grade complications. These results need to be verified in long-term follow-up studies with well-structured randomized controlled trials.