bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RAFT Polymerization of MMA in the Channels of Different Mesoporous Materials
Authors: Xue Tao , Wei Yan , Yu Caili , Zhou Zhongqun , Zhang Faai
Published: October 2022

Reversible addition fragmentation transfer (RAFT) polymerization is of key significance for its suitability for most monomer and well-studied reaction mechanism. Herein, a serial of mesoporous silica (MS) materials, including rod-liked and spherical SBA-15, spherical MCM-41, and MCM-48, were successfully synthesized and modified by silane coupling agent γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH550). The modified MS was utilized as a microreactor for reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) using a xanthate as a chain transfer agent and AIBN as an initiator. Note that modified MS had lower specific surface area and pore volume while maintained the original morphological structure. Owing to the confinement effects, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) prepared from internal mesoporous channels featured with higher molecule weight and initial thermal decomposition temperature than these from conventional RAFT polymerization. More importantly, the PMMA obtained from the spherical SBA-15 and modified MCM-48 exhibited the highest molecule weight. This work provided a novel approach to design of polymer microstructure for a wider application, such as in drug release.
Effect of transferrin-modified liposomal curcumin on proliferation inhibition of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wei Xue-Qin
Published: October 2022

Curcumin can inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of a variety of tumor cells, including oral tumor, but its use is severely limited by its low bioavailability and stability. In this study, transferrin-modified liposomal curcumin was constructed to detect its inhibition on oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line HN4 and compared with liposomal curcumin and curcumin solution (curcumin dissolved in PBS (pH7.4, 0.01Mol/L)). Firstly, curcumin solution (Cur), liposomal curcumin (Cur-Lips) and transferrin-modified liposomal curcumin (Tf-Cur-Lips) were prepared. The regulatory effects of Cur, Cur-Lips and Tf-Cur-Lips on the internal and external disposal of curcumin were investigated by curcumin release in vitro and pharmacokinetics in vivo in rats. Then, HN4 cells were treated with Cur, Cur-Lips and Tf-Cur-Lips at different concentrations, respectively, and cck-8 was used to detect the effect of different experimental groups on HN4 cells proliferation. Finally, to investigate the molecular mechanism of curcumin inhibiting the proliferation and apoptosis of HN4 cells, the expression levels of apoptosis-related genes P53 and Fas was detected and compared by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR in Cur, Cur-Lips and Tf-Cur-Lips groups. We found that compared with Cur, Cur-Lips metabolic time was significantly prolonged, and transferrin modification could further improve the stability of liposomal curcumin and prolongate liposomal curcumin metabolic time. Compared with Cur and Cur-Lips, Tf-Cur-Lips can significantly enhance the proliferation inhibition of HN4 cells, induce their apoptosis, and up-regulate the expression of apoptosis-related genes P53 and Fas. In conclusion, compared with Cur and Cur-Lips, Tf-Cur-Lips have stronger inhibitory effect on oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line HN4. This study will provide a new option for construction a long-term targeted curcumin delivery system against oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Structural Characterization of Protective Non-Neutralizing Antibodies targeting Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus
Authors: Durie Ian , Tehrani Zahra , Karaaslan Elif , Sorvillo Teresa , McGuire Jack , Golden Joseph , Welch Stephen , Kainulainen Markus , Harmon Jessica , Mousa Jarrod , Gonzalez David , Enos Suzanne , Koksal Iftihar , Yilmaz Gurdal , Karakoc Hanife , Hamidi Sanaz , Albay Cansu , Spengler Jessica , Spiropoulou Christina , Garrison Aura , Sajadi Mohammad , Bergeron Éric , Pegan Scott
Published: October 2022

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV) causes a life-threatening disease with up to a 40% mortality rate. With no approved medical countermeasures, CCHFV is considered a public health priority agent. The non-neutralizing mouse monoclonal antibody (mAb) 13G8 targets CCHFV glycoprotein GP38 and protects mice from lethal CCHFV challenge when administered prophylactically or therapeutically. Here, we reveal the structures of GP38 bound with a human chimeric 13G8 mAb and a newly isolated CC5-17 mAb from a human survivor. These mAbs bind overlapping epitopes with a shifted angle. The broad-spectrum potential of c13G8 and CC5-17 and the practicality of using them against Aigai virus, a closely related nairovirus were examined. Binding studies demonstrate that the presence of non-conserved amino acids in Aigai virus corresponding region prevent CCHFV mAbs from binding Aigai virus GP38. This information, coupled with in vivo efficacy, paves the way for future mAb therapeutics effective against a wide swath of CCHFV strains.
Impact of Attributes of People with Mental Disorders on Barriers to Access to Care: A Web-based Survey
Authors: Tamura Masaki , Oshima Fumiyo , Hongo Minako , Oshita Emiko , Shimizu Eiji
Published: October 2022

Despite the availability of evidence-based treatments and support measures for mental disorders, very few people with mental disorders seek treatment and use mental health services. Studies reveal that barriers to access to care, like treating stigma, practical issues (financial deprivation), and attitude problems toward receiving care, cause delays in using medical services. However, insufficient knowledge exists regarding patient attributes, increasing their likelihood of experiencing substantial barriers to access to care. This study investigated how attributes like gender, age, hospitalisation history for treating mental disorders, and psychiatric diagnosis affect barriers to access to care for people with mental disorders.
We conducted a secondary analysis of a web-based survey by Hongo et al. on standardising the Barriers to Access to Care Evaluation Scale version3-Japanese version (BACEv3-J). Hongo et al. selected 268 adults with mental disorders who had received mental health services within the past 12 months. Participants responded online using the BACEv3-J, which we quantitatively examined for their attributes’ effects on the total and subscale (treatment stigma and non-stigma) scores.
Women experienced more barriers to access to care than men, particularly non-stigma-related barriers. Age and treatment stigma had a significant negative correlation, whereas age and non-stigma-related barriers had no significant correlation. Hospitalisation history for treating mental disorders and the difference in psychiatric diagnosis did not affect barriers to access to care.
This study showed that attributes, like gender and age, affect barriers to access to care. Patient characteristics must be considered during interventions to encourage them to receive care.
Whether the Golgi Protein 73 Could Be A Diagnostic Serological Marker in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Meta Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wu Li-Na , Li Xiao-Qing , Luo Xia , Liu Shui-Wei , Zhang Le , Nawaz Shah , Ma Li-Na , Ding XiangChun
Published: October 2022

Background & Aim: The Value of Golgi protein 73 (GP73) in the diagnosis of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial, especially in its differentiation between HCC and cirrhosis. Besides, some papers showed that GP73 levels are correlated with liver fibrosis. This study conducts a meta-analysis to evaluate the Value of GP73 in diagnosing HCC and differential diagnosing HCC from liver cirrhosis.
Methods: 40 studies with a sample size of 8314 cases concerning the accuracy of GP73 in the diagnosis of HCC were selected through a systematic review. Seven of these studies included a total of 438 HCC samples and 426 cirrhosis samples and calculated the sensitivity and specificity of GP73 for differential diagnosing HCC from cirrhosis. QUADAS (quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies) was used to evaluate the quality of literature. Statistical Analyses were performed using StataSE16 software.
Results: The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio and the area under the curve were 0.79(95%CI 0.74-0.83), 0.85(95%CI 0.80-0.89), 5.4( 95%CI 3.8-7.5), 0.25(95%CI 0.20-0.31), 22(95%CI 13-35), and 0.88 for GP73 diagnosing HCC; 0.74(95%CI 0.64-0.81),0.70(95%CI 0.49-0.85), 2.40(95%CI 1.3-4.7),0.38(95%CI 0.23-0.61), 6(95%CI 2-19), and 0.78 for GP73 differential diagnosing HCC from liver cirrhosis.
Conclusion: The results suggest that GP73 has a high diagnostic value for HCC and a moderate value for differential diagnosis of HCC from liver cirrhosis.
Foliar application of silicon, selenium, and zinc nanoparticles modulate lead and cadmium toxicity in sage (Salvia officinalis L.) plants by optimizing growth and biochemical status and minimizing metal accumulations
Authors: Bakhtiari Mitra , Sadati Fereshteh Raeisi , Sadati Seyede Yalda Raeisi
Published: October 2022

Different techniques have been used to alleviate metal toxicity in medicinal plants, accordingly, nanoparticles (NPs) have a noticeable interest in modulating oxidative stresses. Therefore, this work aimed to compare the impacts of silicon (Si), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) NPs on growth, physiological status, and essential oil (EO) of sage (Salvia officinalis L.) treated with foliar application of Si, Se, and Zn NPs upon lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) stresses. The results showed that Se, Si, and Zn NPs decreased Pb accumulation by 35, 43, and 40%, and Cd concentration by 29, 39, and 36% in sage leaves. Shoot plant weight showed a noticeable reduction upon Cd (41%) and Pb (35%) stress; however, NPs, particularly Si and Zn improved plant weight under metal toxicity. Metal toxicity diminished relative water content (RWC) and chlorophyll, whereas NPs significantly enhanced these variables. The noticeable raises in malondialdehyde (MDA) and electrolyte leakage (EL) were observed in plants exposed to metal toxicity, however, they were alleviated with foliar application of NPs. The EO content and EO yield of sage plants decreased by the heavy metals but increased by the NPs. Accordingly, Se, Si, and Zn NPS elevated EO yield by 36, 37, and 43%, respectively, compared with non-NPs. The GC/MS analysis showed that the primary EO constituents were 1,8 Cinoele, α-thujone, β-thujone, and camphor with different amounts of heavy metals and NPs. According to principal component analysis (PCA), α-thujone and camphor were justified by F1, while 1,8 cineole and β-thujone were explained by F2. This study showed that NPs especially Si and Zn increased plant growth by modulating Pb and Cd toxicity.
Chemical composition, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of the essential oils extracted from Citrus sinensis peels by hydrodistilation and microwave methods.
Authors: hacib hinda , Lakache Zineb , Aliboudhar Hamza , Laasami Affaf , Tounssi Hassina , Hamil Somia , Kameli Abdelkrim
Published: October 2022

The present study is devoted to evaluate in vitro the Chemical composition, the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of essential oils extracted by hydrodistilation and microwave from the plant peels of Citrus sinensis. The extraction provided yields of 0,26% and 0,02% respectively. The essential oils were analyzed by GC-MS whose major component is limonene has a remarkable percentage (78,192 %) and (58.6%) respectively for the essential oil extracted by HD and MW.The results of the antioxidant potential of essential oils were noticeable in each of essential oils with a noticeable priority to the essential oil extracted by hydrodistilation. The evaluation of the antioxidant power by the free radical scavenging method (dpph) showed that the essential oils studied have good antioxidant activity, especially for the oil extracted by HD having presented an IC50 of (13,07±0,169) mg / ml, while BHT and Ascorbic acid, showed very potent and effective anti-free radical activity with IC50 of the order of (19,54±0,32) μg / ml and (1,17±0,05) μg / ml respectively. According to the β-carotene / linoleic acid test, the oxidation of β-carotene was effectively inhibited by the two essential oils of Citrus sinensis peels with a percentage of inhibition of (56,46±0,76) % and (31,39±1,49) % respectively for HD and MW. Eo extracted by HD is more active than Ascorbic acid (15,43%). In the antibacterial test, the activity was evaluated by the disc-diffusion method, the two types of sweet orange essential oils inhibited the growth of five bacterial strains out of six: The best activity was obtained against E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Agrobacterium with a diameter of the zone of inhibition between 70 and 84 mm, with the exception of the strain of Bacillus subtilis, there is no zone of inhibition has been observed.
Catalytic degradation of "trinitrogen" by Fe-Ce-SiO2 aerogel@TiO2
Authors: Li Jie , Yang Yuxiang , Han zhiyong , Huang yan , Yuan hongming , Ni chaoying
Published: October 2022

The "Three nitrogens" [Ammonia nitrogen (NH4 + -N), Nitrate nitrogen (NO3 − -N) and Nitrite nitrogen (NO2 − -N)] from industrial or domestic wastewater can lead to eutrophication of water bodies, ammonia The conversion of nitrogen into nitrate nitrogen will cause high nitrogen and oxygen demand (NOD), which will also lead to methemoglobinemia, and the high content of nitrite in the water body will increase the risk of cancer. In this paper, SiO2 aerogel is used as a carrier to synthesize Fe-Ce bimetal-doped composite materials (Fe-Ce/SiO2 and Fe-Ce-SiO2/TiO2) for the adsorption and degradation of "three nitrogens". The effect of metal Fenton reagent (Fe-Ce/SiO2) Fenton catalysis and photo-Fenton cooperative catalysis (Fe-Ce-SiO2/TiO2) on the degradation efficiency of "three nitrogens". SiO2/TiO2 was prepared by dipping method, and Fe and Ce bimetals were loaded on the surface of SiO2/TiO2 material, and the effect of photo-Fenton oxidation on the degradation rate of "three nitrogen" under different materials was explored. The results showed that: when the dosage of catalyst was 0.01 g, pH value was 11.0, and the concentration of H2O2 was 80 mmol/L, the photocatalytic efficiency was the best, and the degradation efficiency of "three nitrogen" remained above 70%.
NEMS/MEMS carbon functionalization: A prospective expression
Authors: TOMAR Pankaj
Published: October 2022

Nanotechnology is an emerging scientific domain for innovative application in biomedical, electronics, bio functionalities, tribology, and energy generation. Nano cellulose, carbon black, black carbon, carbon dots, and graphene family members are functional structures due to unique physiochemical properties and electron transfer efficacy. The transformation of physiochemical or morphological properties of carbon nanoparticles may lead to biological activities for evolution of reactive oxygen species. Disruption of biological membrane due to supramolecular adhesion of hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amino functional groups is a biomechanical mechanism of cytotoxicity of carbon nanomaterials. The surface tension and Gibbs free energy of bio-membrane is affected by the loading of carbon nanomaterials.
Electrochemical Detection of Some Water Soluble and Fat Soluble Vitamins by Using Bare Pencil Graphite Electrode
Authors: SARUHAN TOLGA , ADUN PERİHAN , ÖZÇİL İHSAN EROL
Published: October 2022

Vitamins are a group of organic compounds needed in small quantities by the body to perform its essential functions like growing, regulating metabolism and maintain a healty immune system. In recent years, substantial efforts have been focused on development of simplified, fast and cost-effective approaches for vitamin analysis. Aim of this study was electrochemical detection of some water and fat-soluble vitamins individualy and simultaneously by using bare pencil graphite electrode (PGE). Vitamins of C, B1, B6, B12, A, D3, and E were selected and electrochemically analyzed in pharmaceutical preparates. Simultaneous analysis of water-soluble vitamins by using DPV with PGE can be promising technique for the determination of vitamin C and B6 or vitamin B1, B12 and B6. In the case of fat-soluble vitamins, resolution between vitamin D3 and E was not satisfactory. However, vitamin A and D or vitamin A and E could be detected in a single run. Limit of detection of the selected vitamins were quite low (4-548 µg/ml).
Molecular Mechanisms of Holliday Junction Branch Migration Catalyzed by an Asymmetric RuvB Hexamer
Authors: Fu Tian-Min , Rish Anthony , Shen Zhangfei , Chen Zhenhang
Published: October 2022

The Holliday junction (HJ) is a universal DNA intermediate of homologous recombination that is involved in many fundamental physiological processes. In bacteria, RuvB, a motor protein of the AAA+ ATPase superfamily, drives branch migration of the Holliday junction with a mechanism that had yet to be elucidated. Here, we report two cryo-EM structures of RuvB in complex with DNA and nucleotides, providing a comprehensive understanding of HJ branch migration. Six RuvB protomers assemble into a spiral staircase, in the shape of a ring, with DNA in the central pore. Four protomers of RuvB hexamer interact with the backbone of the DNA substrate, suggesting a pulling-and-revolving mechanism of DNA translocation with a basic step size of 2 nucleotides. Moreover, the variation of nucleotidebinding states in our RuvB hexamer supports a sequential model for ATP hydrolysis, ADP release, and ATP reloading, which occur at specific positions on the RuvB hexamer. Furthermore, the asymmetric assembly of RuvB also explains the 6:4 stoichiometry between RuvB and RuvA, which assembles into a complex to coordinate HJ migration in cells. Taken together, we provide a comprehensive framework for the mechanistic understanding of HJ branch migration facilitated by RuvB motor protein, which may be universally shared in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.
Effects of solid retention time and exposure mode to electric current on Remazol Brilliant Violet removal in an electro-membrane bioreactor
Authors: Belli Tiago José , Bassin João Paulo , Vidal Carlos Magno de Sousa , Hassemer Maria Eliza Nagel , Rodrigues Caroline , Lapolli Flávio Rubens
Published: October 2022

The performance of an anoxic-oxic membrane bioreactor electrochemically assisted (A/O-eMBR) was assessed as an alternative for azo dye (Remazol Brilhant Violet -RBV) removal from textile wastewater. The A/O-eMBR was operated under three experimental conditions (runs I, II and III), in which different solids retention time (SRT) (45 and 20 d) and exposure mode to electric current (6´ON/30´OFF and 6´ON/12´OFF) were assessed. The reactor exhibited excellent performance on the decolorization process for all experimental conditions, with average dye removal efficiency ranging from 94.3 to 98.2%. Activity batch assays showed that the dye removal rate (DRR) decreased from 16.8 to 10.2 mg RBV L− 1 h− 1 when the SRT was reduced from 45 to 20 d. a behavior attributed to the lower biomass content under these conditions. When the exposure mode was 6 ON´/ 12´OFF, a more substantial decrease of DRR to 1.5 mg RBV L− 1 h− 1 was noticed, suggesting a possible inhibitory effect on dye removal via biodegradation. By reducing the SRT to 20 d, a worse mixed liquor filterability condition was observed, with a membrane fouling rate (MFR) of 0.979 kPa d− 1. In contrast, the use of electric current to exposure mode of 6 ON´/ 12´OFF resulted in lower membrane fouling propensity, with a MFR of 0.333 kPa d− 1. A more attractive cost-benefit ratio in terms of dye removal was obtained by using the exposure mode of 6´ON/30´OFF, for which the energy demand was estimated at 21.9–22.6 kWh kg dye− 1removed, 92–99% lower than that observed for the mode of 6´ON/12´OFF.
Protective mechanism of Scutellarin against pyroptosis network in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Guo Xi-Liang , Li Na , Xu Min , Wang Yu-Fei , Liu Xue-Zheng , Wang Ting-Hua
Published: October 2022

Objective
To investigate the regulation and network mechanism of SCU on pyrodeath gene in diabetic retinopathy.
Methods
The animal model of DM was established and the retinopathy was observed by HE staining, Ni staining and immunofluorescence staining. The retinopathy of SCU group was significantly improved. DR gene, cell pyrophoric gene and astragaloside IV gene were queried, Venny intersection was performed, GO and KEGG analysis was performed, PPI protein interaction was performed, and Hub gene was screened for molecular docking verification.
Results
4084 genes related to DR were screened from GeneCards and OMIM databases. Using GeneCards, TCMSP and Swiss Target Prediction databases, 120 SCU therapeutic targets were obtained. Using GenenCards database, 357 targets related to coke decay were retrieved. Drug, disease and phenotypic targets were analyzed online using the Draw Venn Diagram website, and 12 cross targets were obtained. Through GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of common targets, 659 BP related items, 7 CC related items, 30 MF related items, and 70 signal pathways were screened out. Eleven proteins were screened to interact with the cross-target PPI network, and 11 proteins were subsequently docked with the SCU. The results show that SCU has good binding activity to the core.
Conclusion
SCU can regulate the death reaction of DR coke through multi-target and multi-pathway, and reveal its possible mechanism.
Does benefits-of-breastfeeding language or risks-of-formula-feeding language promote more-positive attitudes toward breastfeeding among nurses?
Authors: Toda Ayumi , Nanishi Keiko , Shibanuma Akira
Published: October 2022

Background. Nurses are crucial in helping new mothers to learn the necessary skills and overcome the difficulties of breastfeeding. Few studies have explored appropriate language for nursing education on breastfeeding. We assessed the impact of the language used on breastfeeding attitudes among Japanese nurses.
Methods. A quasi-experimental study was conducted online in Japan among 174 nurses who had work experience in obstetrics or pediatrics. Participants were allocated to three groups to receive different text messages as the intervention (the benefit of breastfeeding for Group 1; the risk of formula feeding for Group 2; the importance of childcare for Group 3 as the comparison). The Japanese version of the Iowa Infant Feeding Attitude Scale (IIFAS-J) was used to assess breastfeeding attitudes before and after reading the texts. Also, participant reactions to the text were assessed by their responses to three statements. ANOVA, the chi-square test, and the t-test were used for outcome assessments.
Results. The post-test IIFAS-J score was significantly higher than the pre-test score only for Group 1 (p < 0.01). The percentage of nurses who agreed with the content of the text was 70.7% in Group 1 and 48.3% in Group 2. The percentage of nurses who reported discomfort with the text was 34.5% in Group 1 and 55.2% in Group 2. No significant difference among groups existed regarding interest in the text. In all three groups, participants who agreed with the text had higher post-test IIFAS-J score than those who disagreed with the text (6.85 points higher, p < 0.01 in Group 1; 7.19 points higher, p < 0.01 in Group 2; 8.00 points higher, p < 0.02 in Group 3). Discomfort with the text and interest in the text were associated with higher post-test IIFAS-J score in Group 1 and Group 2 but not significantly associated in Group 3.
Conclusions. “Benefits of breastfeeding” language is suggested to be better than “risks of infant formula” language for producing a positive attitude to breastfeeding in nursing education.
Trial registration. This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN000023322). Registered 05/08/2016.
A gradient smoothing technique-based S-FEM for simulating the full impacts of anomalies on seepage solutions and its application in multi-parameter seepage inversion
Authors: Lei Yi , Dai Qianwei , Zhang Bin , Kong Chongyang , Yang Junsheng
Published: October 2022

Searching for the precise solution of free surface has remained the main bottleneck in analyzing the unconfined seepage problem for earth-rock dams. To seek a tradeoff between searching efficiency and accuracy, and as a first attempt to explore the full impacts of seepage anomalies and its varying location on the multiple seepage parameters for the typical heterogeneity issues, this paper proposes a novel approach by combining the smoothed finite element method (S-FEM) and gradient smoothing technique (GST). Considering the practicality limitation due to huge calculation burden resulted from solving the internal integral of elements, the proposed method optimizes the shape functions calculation and explores the specific influence of division manner of smoothing cells on the computational efficiency and accuracy. To demonstrate the novelty and computational efficiency of the GST-based methodology, we performed a series classical model tests involving classic homogeneous and complicated inhomogeneous media models. We focused on the specific impacts of anomalies with varying degrees of permeability on the multiple parameters for seepage inversion, including water head, free surface solution, overflow point, seepage velocity and fluid pressure. The evidence implies that the significant influence of anomalies existence deserves high concern. More importantly, the results also demonstrate that our method improves the capacity of maintaining the high accuracy of seepage solutions with a preferable efficiency in handling the heterogeneous cases of earth dam, which provides great potential for developing multi-parameter seepage inversion, the accuracy of our GST-based seepage simulation is a significant step towards commercially-viable applications of multi-parameter seepage inversion.
Mapping the Competencies and Entrustable Professional Activities of Medical Ethics for Faculty Members
Authors: Mashayekhi Jannat , Mafinejad Mahboobeh Khabaz
Published: October 2022

Introduction
The present study aimed to develop core competencies and Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) for faculty members through participating in faculty development courses in the field of medical ethics.
Methods
This study included five stages. First, based on the literature review and interviews with 14 experts and through inductive content analysis, categories and subcategories were extracted. Second, content validity of the core competency list was assessed by 16 experts using qualitative and quantitative approaches. Third, based on previous phase, a framework for EPAs was developed by research taskforce in two sessions through consensus. Fourth, content validity of the list of EPAs compiled based on three-point Likert was evaluated by 11 medical ethics experts from necessity and relevance perspective. Fifth, EPAs were mapped by 10 experts to the developed core competencies.
Results
After literature review and interviews, 295 codes were extracted, which were further classified into six categories and 18 subcategories. Based on the validation results, five core competencies and 23 EPAs were developed that were required for faculty members in the field of medical ethics. Identified core competencies included teaching, research and scholarship in the field of medical ethics, communication skills, moral reasoning, and decision-making, policy-making and ethical leadership.
Conclusion
Medical teachers can be strongly effective in moralizing healthcare system, and present findings showed that faculty members should acquire extensive core competencies and EPAs for proficiently integrating medical ethics in curricula. Faculty development programs can be designed in the field of medical ethics for faculty members to help them acquire core competencies and EPAs.
Sexuality in People with Motor Disability; Taboo, or Right?
Authors: Sologuren-García Gema Natividad , Linares Carmen L. , Flores Jackeline R. , Mendoza-Mamani Katty , Pilco Rinna M. , Escobar-Bermejo Gloria , Sotelo-Gonzales Soledad , Palza-Portugal Guicela
Published: October 2022

Background
Globally 1 in 7 people experience some type of disability. In Latin America, as in other regions, there are programs focused on protecting sexual and reproductive rights. However, in Peru don’t exist programs, protocols, or guidelines that include a specialist (sexologist or trained health professional) in the health system, which allows for improving the quality of life and well-being of this population. Therefore, the study aims to analyze the experience of sexuality of people with motor disabilities to propose actions that contribute to improving their quality of life.
Methods
The interpretive phenomenological approach and the semi-structured in-depth interview with 60 questions were used, which was applied to 7 people (4 women and 3 men) with acquired motor disability.
Results
In this study observed diversity in the experience of sexuality. While some people experience it without fear; others have canceled their sexual activity. It could be because, in addition to physical limitations, they experience psychosocial limitations such as pain, functional alterations, depression, low self-esteem, discrimination, exclusion, stigma, socio-environmental barriers, etc. Therefore, the study reflected the double discrimination suffered by women (for being a woman and having a disability) and the absence of sexual education, counseling, or sexual therapy by specialized professionals. Other factors are the influence of religion, society, and culture that might condition and limit their sexuality. This reflects the current situation in Peru and other countries in the region, where the sexuality of persons with disabilities continues to be a complex and ambiguous issue.
Conclusions
The review of the profile and level of specialization of the health services professionals involved in the integral medical care of people with disabilities and their couples is required because of their need for adequate and specialized attention for their better adaptation to the new condition.
Personal Exposure Monitoring of Respirable Particulate Matter of University Students during Winter Season
Authors: Iqbal Sana , Baig Sofia
Published: October 2022

Respirable Particulate Matter (RPM) in indoor microenvironments (MEs) is a major concern due to its health impacts along with the fact that people spend, on average, 70-80 % indoor. Therefore, in this study the exposure of students to RPM was monitored and analysed on main campus of a University during university working hours. A set number of students were selected and their exposure to RPM was monitored. Basically, Particulate Mass Concentration (PMC) and Particle Number Count (PNC) was monitored and analysed. calibrated air pump with nylon cyclone (size separation) and Dylos DC 1100 Pro (improvised for portability) was used for this purpose. Besides personal exposure, the PMC and PNC were also monitored in most frequently identified microenvironments separately. The correlation between PNC and PMC was investigated. We found that for a student personal exposure, the mean concentration of RPM was 251 µg/m3 and the relationship between PNC and PMC of microenvironment was found to be significantly correlated.
Phytogeographical regions of Egypt: first open-source geospatial data and its applications
Authors: Keshta Amr
Published: October 2022

Objectives: To our knowledge, this is the first attempt for digitizing the Egyptian phytogeographical regions through incorporation of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) techniques including geo-referencing ground data of old-history paper maps. The main objective for the current study was digitizing and creating the first open-source geospatial data for the Egyptian phytogeographical regions and to make them readily available for usage by researchers - making this study novel.
Data description: Geospatial data were created for the Egyptian phytogeographical regions based on ground data paper map showing the boundaries of each region in the country, Egypt. Digitization of the boundaries of each region was executed using ArcMap 10.4 followed by quality checks executions for ensuring the quality and accuracy of the created geospatial data. The data created in this study are available as file geodatabase (.gdb) and shapefile. Having the Egyptian phytogeographical regions available for GIS analysts and cartographers as geospatial data is a powerful tool for further research applications including phytoremediation, biodiversity, conservation, GIS, and remote sensing studies.
A rare confusing presentation carpal tunnel syndrome as first sign of Hypothyroidism and Rheumatoid arthritis: A case report
Authors: Harna Bushu , Arya Shivali
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) can be an initial sign of underlying undiagnosed disorders like hypothyroidism or rheumatoid arthritis. The erosive type of CTS is rare and generally requires carpal tunnel release surgery as a treatment modality Case: A 55-year-old gentleman presented with paraesthesia and spontaneous digital ulceration of the distal finger in both hands over 5 months. Initially managed as some vascular disorder by physicians. Later on, in nerve conduction studies, CTS was diagnosed. The patient was further investigated for etiology leading to the diagnosis of hypothyroidism and rheumatoid arthritis. These were managed with medications and CTS was managed with the surgical release. The paraesthesia was relieved post-surgically and digital ulceration healed over a few weeks. Conclusion: Digital ulcerations can be a presentation of CTS rather than vascular/vessel disorder. The physician should be aware of CTS erosive variety and further investigate the etiology like hypothyroidism, and rheumatoid arthritis. The etiological factors should be treated first before embarking on surgical carpal tunnel release.
Random Forest-based prediction of performance gap of the Clean Development Mechanism projects
Authors: Cho Haein
Published: October 2022

The performance of climate technology implemented under Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) is varied in terms of Certified Emission Reductions (CERs) issuance rate, a ratio of the actual CER issued of the total CER expected, ranged between 2% and 193%. In this study, we propose a novel approach for estimating the CER issuance rate (i.e., lower or higher than 100%) by using random forest algorithms. Unlike previous studies, we associate 1443 indicators related to economy, environment and society from 28 countries with the outcome of CER issuance rate of 3338 CDM projects and examine mixed effects of local context-driven indicators. Data preprocessing and feature selection techniques are applied to extract important indicators with which classification and prediction are conducted across different types of CDM technologies. The highest accuracy and F-measure of the developed prediction model are achieved from wind projects (84%, 92%, respectively). The obtained results exhibit possibilities of capturing the performance gap through machine learning algorithm. Moreover, we recommend adopting local demand-driven indicators to enhance the usability of the proposed approach.
The research of early warning and intervention model in psychological crisis for adolescents with cancer：a historical controlled trial
Authors: Yu Lu , Mo Lin
Published: October 2022

Background: Cancer is one of the main causes of death among children and adolescents. Researchers are committed to improving the current situation of cancer among adolescents. Our purpose is to construct a model of early warning intervention for adolescents with cancer and explore its application effects.
Methods: Children with cancer in the treatment period from December 2019 to October 2020 in our hospital were selected as the research object; 173 children from December 2019 to March 2020 were selected as the control group; and 172 children from July 2020 to October 2020 were selected as the intervention group. Routine nursing model was adopted for control group and the early warning and intervention model was applied for intervention group. The DASS-21 scale was used before and 3 months after intervention.
Results: After the intervention, the anxiety, depression, stress level and incidence rate of the intervention group were lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: the psychological crisis early warning and intervention model can effectively improve the psychological problems of adolescents with cancer.
Official Turnover and Corporate ESG Practices: Evidence from China
Authors: yang youde , Xu Guanghua , Li Ruiqian
Published: October 2022

In recent years, environmental, social, governance (ESG) have gradually received widespread attention. However, few studies have focused on the impact of situational factors on corporate ESG practice decisions. Based on this, this paper analyzes a sample of 9428 observations of Chinese A-share listed firms during the period 2009-2019 in an attempt to explore the impact of local officials' turnover on corporate ESG practices, and analyze the boundary effects of this impact at three levels: regional, industry, and corporate. Our results suggest that: (1) Turnover of local officials can lead to changes in economic policies and reallocation of political resources, which can stimulate companies' "risk aversion motive" and "development motive" and thus promote their ESG practices; (2) This effect will be enhanced by the high level of government intervention, the high level of competition in the industry, and the private sector. (3) Further test finds that turnover of local officials can have a significant impact on corporate ESG only when the officials are abnormal turnover and when the regional economic development is good in the current period. This paper enriches research related to decision-making scenarios of corporate ESG practices from a macro-institutional perspective.
The twisting direction of nAChR α7-ivermectin is opposite to that of the activated state
Authors: Yang Yue , Arai Tatsuya , SASAKI DAISUKE , Inagaki Hidetoshi , Ohashi Sumiko , Kuramochi Masahiro , Sekiguchi Hiroshi , Mio Kazuhiro , Kubo Tai , Sasaki Yuji
Published: October 2022

The alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR α7) is composed of five α7 subunits arranged symmetrically around a central pore. nAChR α7 is localized in the central nervous system and immune cells and could be a target for treating Alzheimer’s disease and schizophrenia. Acetylcholine (ACh) is a ligand that opens the channel, although prolonged application results in a decrease in the response. Ivermectin (IVM) was reported as one of the positive allosteric modulators, since the binding of IVM to the channel enhances ACh-evoked alpha 7 currents. The molecular dynamics of the ligand-bound state of nAChR α7 have not been exhaustively studied. We utilized a diffracted X-ray tracking method to monitor the twisting and tilting motion of nAChR α7 without a ligand, with ACh, with IVM, and with both ACh and IVM (ACh_IVM). The results showed that nAChR α7 twisted counterclockwise with the channel opening in the presence of ACh and clockwise without the channel opening in the presence of IVM. The mechanism of channel opening may be due to the twisting of the five α7 subunits together, where one or more of them are squeezed and move downward or upward.
Source-specific Ecological Risk of Atmospheric PM2.5-Bound Metals and Implications for Air Pollution Control: A Regional Perspective from China
Authors: Lin Weiwei , Zhang Hedi , Lai Yuming , Zhuang Shuling , Wei Qiannan , Fu Shaojie , Mai Dejian , Yuan Luan , Wei Qing , Yue Dingli , Hu Qiansheng
Published: October 2022

Atmospheric PM2.5-bound metals are a globally recognized environmental concern that poses a great threat to regional ecosystem health. Determining their ecological risk and sources is imperative for devising effective control strategies. However, little is known about source apportionment of ecological risk of heavy metals bounded to PM2.5. We aimed to quantify the source-specific ecological risk of PM2.5-bound heavy metals from a regional perspective. From December 2014 through July 2016, 23 types of PM2.5-bound metals were measured at nine cities in the Pearl River Delta (PRD), China, one of the most economically dynamic regions in the world. An integrated approach incorporating a receptor model and an ecological risk assessment method was developed to evaluate the source contribution to ecological risk from PM2.5-bound metals. We quantified the ecological risk of six potentially toxic metals (Cd, Pb, Cu, As, Zn, Cr), their total potential ecological risk index (PERI) in the PRD was 1107.81, almost twice the standard for extremely high ecological risk (600). The high potential ecological risk was mainly due to Cd. Higher ecological risks arose from industrial and vehicle emissions, followed by coal burning, dust emissions and heavy oil burning. This study provides some evidence that atmospheric Cd at levels lower than the World Health Organization standard can still pose serious ecological risk, and highlights the importance of vehicle non-exhaust emissions in ecological risk caused by airborne metals, providing new insight into the control strategy for PM2.5.
Sustained high expression of BTLA on CD4+ T cell contributes to high rate of bacterial infection and mortality in patients with HBV-related acute-on-chronic liver failure via CD4+ T cell exhaustion
Authors: Zhang Jiming , Yu Xueping , Yang Feifei , Sun Jian , Qiu Chao , Zheng Yijuan , Zhao Weidong , Yuan Songhua , Zeng Dawu , Long Jianfei , Zhu Mengqi , Zhang Xueyun , Wu Jingwen , Ma Zhenxuan , Zhu Haoxiang , Su Milong , Xu Jianqing , Li Bin , Mao Richeng , Su Zhi-Jun
Published: October 2022

Hepatitis B virus-related acute-on-chronic liver failure (HBV-ACLF) is characterized by susceptibility to infection and T-cell immune exhaustion. Moreover, expression of the B- and T-lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA), which maintains T-cell immune tolerance, increases in HBV-ACLF patients. However, the mechanisms underlying BTLA expansion in HBV-ACLF patients, and whether BTLA can induce T-cell immune exhaustion and increase the risk of infection remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that BTLA expression was significantly increased in the T effector memory subtype and all subgroups of circulating and intrahepatic CD4+T cells from patients with HBV-ACLF. The prevalence of BTLA+CD4+T cells was positively correlated with disease severity, prognosis, and infectious complications. BTLA expression was upregulated by the IL-6 and TNF-α signaling pathways, but blocked by their inhibitors. Crosslinking of BTLA phosphorylated the SHP1/2 protein and activated the PI3K-Akt-GSK-3β pathway to inhibit the activation, proliferation, and cytokine production of CD4+T cells while promoting their apoptosis; contrastingly, BTLA knockdown promoted their activation and proliferation. BTLA−/− ACLF mice showed increased secretion of cytokines, CD4+T-cell activation, and reduced mortality and bacterial burden. Together, these data will be helpful for elucidating the pathogenesis of HBV-ACLF and in the identification of new drug targets.
Suicidal Behaviors and Associated Factors among Ethiopian Patients Attending an Emergency Department
Authors: Wordefo Dureti Kassim , Kassim Faiz Mohammed , Birhanu Elizabeth , Mamo Girma
Published: October 2022

Background: Emergency departments (ED) are an important site for screening patients with suicidal behaviors. However, there is insufficient data in low-and middle-income countries regarding the magnitude of suicidal attempts among patients attending EDs. Therefore, the present study aimed to screen suicidal behavior and factors associated with suicide in patients attending an ED of Addis Ababa Burn, Emergency and Trauma Hospital, Ethiopia.Method:A facility-based quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted between April and June 2018. A total of 398 participants were recruited using a consecutive sampling technique. The collected data collected includes structured questionnaires containing sociodemographic determinants, chronic medical illness conditions, substance use characteristics, social support level, common mental disorders screening, suicidal behaviors assessment and suicidal attempts reason and methodResults:The prevalence of suicidal behavior and suicidal attempts were 8 % and 6.3 %, respectively. Suicide was attempted most frequently in the 18-24 age group. There was no overall difference in sex distribution for suicidal attempts. However, there were sex-based differences when the age group was taken into consideration. The commonest underlying reason for the attempt was social reasons (44 %), while the most frequently reported attempt method was hanging (36 %). No single factor was found to be significantly associated with the suicidal attempt.Conclusion:Although suicidal behaviors are more common in patients attending the ED than in the general population, these facts have previously been ignored in patient attending EDs. The present findings support the need for a more detailed assessment of suicidal behaviours in patients attending ED.
Study on the influence of ultrasonic assisted cutting on the surface quality of CFRP
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , Song Chaosheng , Tong Jinglin , Li Lulu , Wu Mingqiang , Zhao Bo
Published: October 2022

In order to study the influence of machining methods and parameters on the surface quality of carbon fiber reinforced composites (CFRP) in the cutting process, the finite element simulation model of ultrasonic assisted cutting CFRP was established, the simulation results show that the damage degree of CFRP in the machining process is reduced by the introduction of longitudinal ultrasonic, the additional torsional ultrasonic vibration of the tool improves the surface quality most significantly, and the damage degree characteristic is significantly affected by the fiber angle (angle between cutting speed direction and fiber direction). To verify the correctness of the simulation model, the ultrasonic assisted torsion and longitudinal cutting tests of CFRP discs were carried out respectively, and compared with the ordinary cutting process, the test result shows that the fiber cutting angle is the main factor affecting the surface roughness of CFRP, the introduction of ultrasonic changes the mechanism of the tool on the workpiece and the mode of fiber fracture, and effectively inhibits the surface damage of CFRP, which is consistent with the simulation model. When the tool is subjected to additional torsional vibration, the surface roughness can be reduced by about 4∼6 µm, the effect of ultrasonic is better in the low-speed area, and the direction of fiber can be weakened by high-speed processing. When the amplitude is in the range of 0∼6 µm, with the increase of amplitude, the advantage of ultrasonic is more obvious, and the directional inhibition of fiber is more obvious.
Contribution to the study of groundwater quality and validation of their vulnerabilities to pollution using GIS. Case of the Plio-Pleistocene aquifer of the Essaouira syncline - Morocco
Authors: OUZERBANE Zakaria , HMAIDI Abdellah EL , ESSAHLAOUI Ali , LOULIDA Soumia , OUALI Anas El , NAJINE Abdessamad
Published: October 2022

In coastal areas, groundwater is the main source of consumption for drinking water, industry and agriculture. The Essaouira syncline is part of the Moroccan Atlantic coast, it is an area which is given a heavy responsibility in the socio-economic development of Morocco. The study area is limited to the north by the Jbeb Hadid, to the south by the Tidzi river, to the east by the reliefs of the South Chiadma, the reliefs of the North Haha and the diapir of the Tidzi, and to the West by the 'Atlantic Ocean. In this article, we have tried to study the quality of groundwater by applying multi-criteria methods and to validate the pollution vulnerability map established by the DRASTIC method. The combination of GIS and multi-criteria analysis confirms the validity of the DRASTIC map with a better correlation between areas with high concentrations of chemical elements in groundwater and areas of very high vulnerability to pollution.