bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complete Blood Count Inflammatory Ratios in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Children
Authors: Afify Mohamed Farouk , kamel asmaa khalf , Ali Marwa Waly Eldin
Published: July 2024

Background
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered the most common neuropsychiatric disorder in children. Many researchers have suggested that changes in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines could play a role in the pathogenesis of ADHD. We aimed in this study to evaluate the relationships between the CBC inflammatory markers (NLR, MLR, PLR, and MPV) and the severity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in children. Method: This study was a cross-sectional case-control study carried out on 80 ADHD children and 40 apparently healthy children as the control group. A complete blood count was obtained (white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, monocyte count, eosinophil and basophil counts, platelets, and mean platelet volume (MPV). Based on these counts, the neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and monocyte lymphocytic ratio were calculated. Results: CBC inflammatory ratios (NLR, MLR, and PLR) were considerably higher among children with ADHD than in the control group; moreover, a significant positive correlation was observed between the CBC inflammatory ratios (neutrophil/lymphocyte, monocyte/lymphocyte) and ADHD symptoms severity assessed by Conner's parent rating scale scores (total ADHD score, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention scores). Conclusions: The results of our study proved that inflammation plays a significant role in the intricate pathophysiology of ADHD and suggest that CBC inflammatory ratios can be used as an indicator for ADHD severity. This is easily obtainable and reliable in evaluating the role of inflammation in ADHD etiology.
Voices from the ICU: A qualitative study of healthcare providers’ decision-making experiences during the provision of life-sustaining treatment in intensive care units of public and private referral hospitals in Uganda
Authors: Odongo Patrick , Kamugisha Fred , Kutyabami Paul , Sewankambo Nelson K.
Published: July 2024

Introduction:The overall goal of intensive care treatment is to ensure patients return to an acceptable functional state, and, the decision-making in administering life-sustaining treatment (LST) is a key determinant of patients’ survival in intensive care units (ICUs). We explored the decision-making experiences and practices of healthcare providers (HCPs) regarding their use of LST in ICUs in Uganda.
Methodology:This was a phenomenological study, conducted in ICUs of a public and private hospital in Uganda’s capital Kampala. Twenty in-depth interviews were conducted with purposively selected clinicians involved in making decisions regarding the provision of LST in both hospitals. Data were thematically analysed using NVivo software, series 1.0.
Results:we found that, clinicians’ decision-making for administering LST followed a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition and engaged the patient’s family in the process. However, some dilemmas arose when the intensivists and the patient’s family disagreed on treatment decisions and in dealing with advanced directives. There were no standard guidelines followed while deciding on LST in the ICUs. The factors influencing decisions to withdraw or withhold LST included; financial capacity of the patient’s family, resource capacity of the hospital, status of clinical examination, patient’s age, response to treatment, and fear of litigations.
Conclusion and recommendations: whereas some clinicians’ practices were based on internationally recommended clinical ethical conduct such as engaging the patient’s family in decision-making, the lack of national and/or institutional standard processes that guide decision-making remains a challenge. Establishing structured and functional clinical ethics committees, treatment guidelines or protocols could guide decision-making and improve the survival of patients in these ICUs.
Analytical Method of Development and Validation for Determination of Canagliflozin And Metformin in API and Synthetic Mixture by RP-HPLC.
Authors: Bhavna Bhavna A. Patel , Falguni Falguni N. Patel , abhishek Abhishek K. Pandey , urpit Urpit R. Patel
Published: July 2024

There is a newly developed formulation for the management of the Diabetes is Combination of Canagliflozin with Metformin. As a result, an attempt was made to create and validate a simple, precise, accurate, and reproducible RP-HPLC technique for determining Canagliflozin and Metformin in a binary mixture, which was validated in accordance with ICH Q2 (R1). The mobile phase consisted of Acetonitrile: Phosphate Buffer (pH 3.5) (70:30 v/v), and the Chromatogram was obtained at 254 nm for the separation of the two compounds. The retention times for Canagliflozin and Metformin were 2.2 min and 4.2 min respectively. The linearity was seen in the concentration range of 15–40µg/ml and 10–30µg/ml with co-efficient of correlation, r2 = 0.9997and r2 = 0.9998 for Canagliflozin and Metformin, respectively. The Active Content of Canagliflozin and Metformin determined in the Binary combination from the suggested approach were 99.43% for Canagliflozin and 99.59% for Metformin after completing the Assay. Canagliflozin's LOD and LOQ values were 0.3433 µg/ml and 1.0421 µg/ml, while Metformin's were 0.5927 µg/ml and 1.7962 µg/ml. The discovered method was used to synthetic formulations for the specific identification of Canagliflozin and Metformin.
Genome-scale CRISPRi screen identifies pcnB repression conferring improved physiology for overproduction of free fatty acids in Escherichia coli
Authors: Cao Yingxiu , Fang Lixia , Hao Xueyan , Fan Jie , Liu Xiaolei , Chen Yaru , Wang Lian , Song Hao
Published: July 2024

Microbial physiology plays a pivotal role in construction of superior microbial cell factories for efficient biosynthesis of desired products. Here we identify that pcnB repression confers improved physiology for overproduction of free fatty acids (FFAs) in Escherichia coli through genome-scale CRISPRi modulation combining fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and next-generation sequencing (NGS). The repression of pcnB can enhance the stability and abundance of the transcripts of genes involved in the proton-consuming system, thereby supporting global improvements in membrane properties, redox state, and energy level. Based on pcnB repression, further repression of acrD increases FFAs biosynthesis by enhancing FFAs efflux. The engineered strain pcnBi-acrDi-fadR+ achieves 35.1 g l−1 FFAs production in fed-batch fermentation, which is the maximum titer reported to date in E. coli. This study highlights the significance of uncovering hidden genetic determinants that confer improved microbial physiology for enhancing the biosynthesis of desired products.
Wildfires drive multi-year water quality degradation over the western U.S.
Authors: Brucker Carli , Livneh Ben , Rosario-Ortiz Fernando , Yao Fangfang , Williams A. , Becker William , Kampf Stephanie , Rajagopalan Balaji
Published: July 2024

Wildfires can dramatically alter water quality with severe implications for human and freshwater systems. Although regional assessments of these effects can aid water managers in mitigation efforts, analyses to date have been limited by water quality data availability. Here, we unify observations from 245 burned catchments across the western U.S., applying a novel analytical framework to compare post-fire signals to baseline levels from 293 unburned basins for the period 1984–2021. Carbon, phosphorus, and turbidity exhibit significantly elevated levels (p ≤ 0.05) in the first 1–6 years post-fire, while nitrogen and sediment show significant increases up to 8 years post-fire. In each constituents’ peak post-fire response year, average loads of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus are 7–110 times pre-fire levels and sediment and turbidity 25–500 times greater than pre-fire. Higher responses are linked with greater forested and developed areas, with these characteristics respectively explaining up to 75 and 45% of inter-basin response variability. Overall, this analysis provides strong evidence of multi-year water quality degradation following wildfires in the U.S. West, as well as the influence of basin and wildfire features. These insights will aid in assessing watersheds’ vulnerability to the impacts of future wildfires.
Human blood index of Anopheles arabiensis in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yeshanew Solomon , Adugna Fasil , Nibret Endalkachew , Atenafu Getnet
Published: July 2024

Background
Malaria is a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia, with approximately 60% of the population being at risk to the disease. Anopheles arabiensis, the primary malaria vector, exhibits varied feeding behaviors influenced by factors such as geography, climate and control intervention. Understanding the mosquito's preference for blood meal is crucial for devising effective control strategies. This study thus aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing evidence on An. arabiensis' human blood index (HBI) in Ethiopia, with the goal of providing insights into its feeding patterns and informing targeted malaria control efforts.
Methods
A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple electronic databases to select relevant studies following the PRISMA guidelines. A format on an Excel Spreadsheet was prepared for data extraction; focused on study characteristics, including publication year, study location, mosquito collection methods, and proportion of HBI. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed using criteria adapted from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) appraisal checklist. STATA version-15 software was employed for data analysis, with random-effects models used to estimate the pooled HBI at 95% confidence intervals (CI). Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were conducted across regions and mosquito collection methods. Heterogeneity across studies was assessed using I2 test.
Results
Twenty studies published from 1997 to 2023 were included and a total of 15,028 blood-fed An. arabiensis were identified. The meta-analysis revealed a pooled HBI of An. arabiensis in Ethiopia was 31.4% (95% CI: 21.25–41.54). Subgroup analysis demonstrated varying HBIs across different regions, with the highest proportion observed in mixed region 3 (64.02%, 95% CI: 61.78–66.25) and the lowest in the Amhara Regional State (7.53%, 95% CI: -1.58-16.65). Temporal fluctuations of HBI were also evident over time, with the highest HBI recorded in 2014 (70.62%, 95% CI: 68.72–72.46) and the lowest in 2021 (0%, 95% CI: 0.00-1.30).
Conclusion
The present study showed that the pooled proportion of HBI in Ethiopia was 31.4%, which denotes the mosquito’s human blood meal preference in the country remain high. Yet, the proportion varies across regions and settings. Insights into its feeding patterns in the country highlight the importance of tailored malaria control strategies. Continuous surveillance and further research is warranted to understand the factors driving variations in HBI and to develop evidence-based prevention and control measures.
Near-global spawning strategies of large pelagic fish
Authors: Buenafe Kristine Camille , Neubert Sandra , Scales Kylie , Dunn Daniel , Everett Jason , Flower Jason , Suthers Iain , Granado-Dieseldorff Pablo , Dabalà Alvise , Esturas Kris Jypson , Mercer James , Richardson Anthony
Published: July 2024

Knowledge of spawning strategies of large pelagic fish could provide insights into their underlying evolutionary drivers, but large-scale information on spawning is limited. Here we use a near-global larval dataset for 15 large pelagic fish to build habitat suitability models and use these as a proxy for spawning grounds.We found considerable consistency in spawning in time and space, with 10 taxa spawning in spring/summer and 11 taxa spawning off Northwest Australia. Considering the vast ocean area where these large pelagic fish could spawn, these results suggest that the evolutionary benefits of co-locating spawning in terms of advantageous larval conditionsoutweigh the benefits of segregated spawning in terms of reduced competition and lower larval predation. The knowledge that many large-pelagic fish taxa co-locate their spawning could inform marine management through fisheries measures to protect spawners, and the placement of marine protected areas.
The Effectiveness of Online Educational Interventions on Imposter Syndrome and Burnout Among Medical Trainees: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hsu Chun Lun , Liu Cheng Heng , Huang Chih Chung , Chen Huey Ling , Chiu Yen Lin , Yang Chih Wei
Published: July 2024

Background: Imposter syndrome and burnout are highly prevalent among medical students and trainees, significantly impacting their mental health and professional development. The advent of online educational interventions provides a promising solution, offering accessibility and flexibility to tackle these issues. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of online educational interventions in alleviating imposter syndrome and burnout among medical learners.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and PsycInfo, identifying relevant studies published up to March 2024. Studies focused on online interventions targeting imposter syndrome and burnout among medical students, residents, and fellows were included, and their quality was assessed using the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument (MERSQI).
Results: Among the screened studies, six met our inclusion criteria, comprising four randomized controlled trials, one qualitative study, and one mixed-methods study. Their mean MERSQI score was 14.67 (SD 1.23), indicating a high methodological quality. The interventions adopted in these studies varied, including group coaching sessions, workshops, and provision of educational resources. Notably, two randomized trials demonstrated significant reductions in imposter syndrome symptoms after online interventions, compared with the control groups. On the other hand, results for burnout outcomes were equivocal, with some studies reporting improved emotional exhaustion scores and decreased burnout risk, while others found no significant differences.
Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that structured online educational interventions, particularly those incorporating coaching and cognitive reframing strategies, can effectively reduce imposter syndrome among medical trainees. However, the impact on burnout remains inconclusive. Further research is needed to optimize online program components and implementation strategies to comprehensively address both imposter syndrome and burnout in this population.
Mulberry fruit powder -Enriched bread：Development，Antioxidant and enzyme activity inhibition properties
Authors: Yin Jiajun , Pan Xiaoya , Zheng Jun'an , Zhang Xindi , Zhang Xiangrong
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to prepare a function bread by adding mulberry fruit powder, and investigate the influence on physical, sensorial and biological properties of the bread. The response surface optimization experiments were used to optimize the formulation of mulberry enriched bread. The contents of total polyphenols, total flavonoids and total polysaccharides in mulberry bread were determined by UV spectrophotometry. The antioxidant activity and enzyme activity inhibition properties of mulberry bread were also determined. The results showed that the highest sensory scores of mulberry breads were obtained when mulberry fruit powder, butter, yeast and salt were added at 11.3%, 5.8%, 1.2% and 0.9%. The total polyphenols, flavonoids and polysaccharides were 1.63 ± 0.01 mg/g, 1.05 ± 0.06 mg/g and 11.72 ± 0.1 mg/g. The DPPH radical scavenging, OH•ˉ radical scavenging and ABTS radical scavenging capacities of mulberry bread were 66.83 ± 1.23%, 48.53 ± 0.87% and 51.24 ± 1.51%. The α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition rate of mulberry bread was 15.86 ± 1.24% and 18.91 ± 1.87%, respectively. In vitro digestive experiments had shown that the addition of mulberry fruit powder could reduce the amount of glucose releasing, and slowing down the rise of postprandial blood sugar in humans. Mulberry fruit addition in bread production enables the formulation of high-nutritive, good antioxidative, low-energy bread; and enzyme activity inhibitory properties.
Neuronal segmentation in cephalopod arms
Authors: Olson Cassady , Schulz Natalie , Ragsdale Clifton
Published: July 2024

The prehensile arms of the cephalopod are among these animals' most remarkable features, but little is known about the neural circuitry governing arm and sucker movements1,2. Here, we investigated the cellular and molecular organization of the arm nervous system, focusing on the massive axial nerve cords (ANCs) in the octopus arms which collectively harbor four times as many neurons as the central brain3. We found that the ANC is segmented. In transverse cross sections, the ANC cell body layer wraps around the neuropil with no apparent segregation of sensory and motor neurons. In longitudinal sections, however, ANC neurons form segments, setting up a modular organization to the adjoining ANC neuropil. The septa between each segment are, in contrast, neuron-poor but contain nerve exits, vasculature and abundant collagen. Surprisingly, nerves exiting from neighboring septa differ in their fiber trajectories indicating that multiple adjoining segments must cooperate to innervate the arm musculature fully. The nerves for each sucker also exit through septa and set up a spatial “suckerotopy” in the ANC. A strong link between ANC segmentation and flexible sucker-laden arms was confirmed by comparative study of squid arms and tentacles. The ANC segmental modules represent a new template for understanding the motor control of octopus soft tissues. They also provide the first example of nervous system segmentation in a mollusc4.
Performance-aware Optimal Controller Placements Via Genetic Algorithms for Software Defined Networking
Authors: Nuguse Gutema Bote , Gemeda Ketema Adere , Ramulu Perumalla Janaki , Krishna T. Gopi
Published: July 2024

Software-defined Network is a new paradigm of providing the efficient network management using the concept of control and data place separation. Multi-controllers designing is a promising way to achieve reliability and scalability. However, it brings the new problem of controller placement in a distributed architecture. For this, two recent approaches of controller placement (CP) are based on controller placement simulated annealing (CPSA) and controller placement particle swarm optimization (CPPSO). However, these approaches are still not effective in placement of controllers. Thus, there is performance degrading of the systems. To solve these problems, the controller placement based on a Genetic Algorithm (CPGA) has been proposed in this research. The proposed CPGA has used the fitness value of each node to locate the controllers at their optimal place. Also, the GA operations continues until it gets the optimal placement of controllers and after locating the controller at their appropriate place, it was used for a long time in the case of near optimal rather than the existing approaches. The performance comparison has been done based on parameters such as throughput and delay. It is observed with comparison of CPSA and CPPSO that the proposed CPGA outperforms on given parameters. The proposed CPGA shows efficiency in placing controllers at their optimal locations.
Finite Element Method for minimizing geometric error in the bending of large sheets
Authors: Val Alain Gil Del , Penalva Mariluz , Veiga Fernando , Moussaoui Bilal El
Published: July 2024

Minimizing geometric error in the bending of large sheets remains a challenging endeavor in the industrial environment. This specific industrial operation is characterized by protracted cycles and limited batch sizes. Coupled with extended cycle times, the process involves a diverse range of dimensions and materials. Given these operational complexities, conducting practical experimentation for data extraction and control of industrial process parameters proves to be unfeasible. To gain insights into the process, finite element models serve as invaluable tools for simulating industrial processes for reducing experimental cost. Consequently, the primary objective of this research endeavor is to develop an intelligent finite element model capable of providing operators with pertinent information regarding the optimal range of key parameters to mitigate geometric error in the bending of large sheets. The average geometric error in curvature is recorded at 0.97%, thereby meeting the stringent industrial requirement for achieving such bending with minimal equivalent plastic deformation. As such, these findings present promising prospects for the automation of the industrial process.
Biological Applications of Yttrium oxide Nanocomposites synthesized from Aspergillus penicillioides and their Potential Role in Environmental Remediation
Authors: Vinayagam Yamini , Vijayarangan Devi Rajeswari
Published: July 2024

Industrial effluent contains hazardous metals like lead and nickel that must be eliminated to prevent serious illnesses. The biological production of nanocomposites, which uses a range of biological resources including microbes and plant extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents, has drawn a lot of attention in recent years. The goal of the current study is to generate Y2O3 nanocomposites, in a unique, feasible, and biodegradable manner by using biological substances. The characterization outcomes demonstrated that Aspergillus penicillioides was capable of extracellular synthesis of Y2O3 nanocomposites with a spherical shape. Using Y2O3 nanocomposites, lead and nickel were photocatalyzed. The effect of functional elements, like nanocatalyst dosage, pH, lead and nickel concentration, and the light source, was examined in the batch adsorption assessments. With a higher adsorption rate of 60% for lead and nickel concentrations of 4 µg/ml, 2 µg/ml for the nanocatalyst, and a pH of 6, the photocatalytic reduction of lead and nickel demonstrated the effectiveness of the Y2O3 nanocomposites as a catalyst. The pseudo-first, second order, Langmuir, and Freundlich models were used to explain the adsorption isotherm and its kinetics. The biological applications, which included analysis of bacterial protein leakage, antioxidant activity, and antibiotic activity, were also demonstrated. Eco-friendliness of the Y2O3 nanocomposite was determined by the hemolytic assay. Ultimately, our study exhibits the novel bio-based Aspergillus penicillioides-arbitrated Y2O3 nanocomposites that work well as a bioremediating agent.
Design of ionic liquids for HF/HFC-245fa superefficient separation: COSMO-RS selection and process assessment
Authors: Liao Yuan-Hao , Zeng Jijun , Yang Zhiqiang , Han Sheng , Zhao Bo , An Yu , Tang Xiaobo , Yu Tao , Zhang Wei , Lv Jian
Published: July 2024

Recycling HF is a significant issue in the field of organofluoride chemistry. The primary challenge in this process is the separation of azeotropes containing HF, such as the azeotropic mixture of HF and 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropane (HFC-245fa), which have similar boiling points. This study investigates the application of extractant distillation (ED) with four ionic liquids (ILs) for separating HFC-245fa/HF at the molecular scale, cell dimension, and systematic level (including the optimisation and analysis of ED). The optimal IL was first screened with COSMO-RS. Screening results confirmed that [Tf2N]-based ILs are the most suitable extractants. The effects of IL structure on F-gas solubility were analysed using surface charge density profiles and electrostatic potential. Four typical ILs were selected based on physical properties and thermodynamic performance. A continuous ED process for separating HFC-245fa/HF was simulated and evaluated in Aspen Plus using the selected ILs, resulting in 99.5 mol% HFC-245fa and 99.5 mol% HF. The optimal operation parameters were determined using sequential quadratic programming based on the purity requirements. Energy consumption analysis revealed that [C1Py] [Tf2N] is the optimal IL for HF/HFC-245fa separation from the process perspective, with heat and cooling duties of 467.82 kW and 304.80 kW, respectively.
Optimal Event-Enhanced Heterogeneous Dynamic Knowledge Graph construction for patient clinical pathway analysis
Authors: EDJINEDJA kokou , Barakat oussama , Omar Elfahim , Desmettre Thibaut , Robert-Nicoud Stephan
Published: July 2024

Purpose:: Clinical pathways (CPs) leave traces of patients and play a crucial role in the decision-making process of healthcare professionals. The purpose of this study is to uncover patient CPs from heterogeneous data and leverage the formalism method based on Event Graphs to depict them. Moreover, the structure gained can be memory space-consuming. Alternatively, this article aims to find a structural optimization algorithm to reduce memory space in polynomial time.
Materials and methods:: The presented approach uncovers CPs from the events log of patients admitted to the Emergency Department (ED) and depicts them using Event Graphs methodology. The presented approach defines a structural optimization problem centered on information theory to reduce memory space.
Results: The presented approach is evaluated on synthetic events data of patients extracted from MIMIC-3 and uses Neo4j framework and Docker to ensure respectively CPs analysis and method reproducibility.
Conclusion:: The experiment demonstrated a high capability of the CPs uncover algorithm to derive patient traces from the events log. The optimal structure minimizes the number of events while maintaining the amount of information provided.
Characterization of genetic resistance to cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)
Authors: Wu Yue , Hirakawa Hideki , Masuta Chikara , Onodera Yasuyuki
Published: July 2024

Objective
Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) is a significant pathogen causing quality loss in spinach. Although host genetic resistance is the primary method of managing CMV infection in this crop, CMV resistance genes are not widely utilized in spinach breeding programs as the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying resistance are not yet fully understood. CMV infections were therefore studied in different lines of spinach plants, and their progeny, to develop a model of the genetic basis of CMV resistance.
Results
Visual observations and RT-PCR assays revealed that three monoecious lines (03-258, 03-263, and 03-336) were susceptible to CMV, while three germplasm accessions (PI 699741, PI 699746, and PI 699758) and a near-isogenic line (NIL-M) exhibited resistance. A dioecious line (03–009) consisted of susceptible and resistant plants. Notably, resistant plants did not exhibit the lesions typical of the hypersensitive response; instead, they tended to show extreme resistance. Genetic analysis of progeny from the cross NIL-M × 03-336 indicated that a single dominant allele (designated SRCm1) controlled CMV resistance; analysis of sib-cross progeny populations derived from line 03–009 supported this conclusion. These results offer a valuable model for CMV resistance in spinach and will enhance future breeding programs.
Right-wing backing a meat tax? Experimental evidence from Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands.
Authors: Morren Meike , Banerjee Sanchayan
Published: July 2024

Meat consumption and the willingness to reduce it is closely linked to one's political ideology and convictions. Contrary to standard beliefs suggesting that left-leaning individuals are predisposed towards meat reduction policies, more than those in the center or right, we show these political divisions depend on the specifics of the policy and shouldn't be taken as the absolute norm. Using a conjoint experiment involving nationally representative samples from Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands (N=1,505), we find no significant differences in support for a hypothetical meat tax policy among participants of varying political ideologies. Interestingly, after controlling for country fixed effects and covariates, we find that right-wing voters support the meat tax policy significantly more than left-wing voters. Specifically, a shift towards the ideological right is only associated with diminished support when the policy includes a direct or indirect revenue recycling mechanism, accounts for the negative impacts of meat production in its costs, and emphasises environmental concerns over health. Predicted policy support can be further explained by differing levels of Schwartz's human values. Based on our findings, we argue that the politicisation of meat should acknowledge these nuanced differences, as electoral support may not uniformly align across all domains.
2-hydroxy-1- naphthaldehyde based Colorimetric probe for the Simultaneous detection of bivalent Copper and Nickel in an aqueous media
Authors: JOSEPH ABRAHAM , Arshad Muhammed
Published: July 2024

A neoteric colorimetric probe based on 2-hydroxy-1-naphthaldehyde (PMB3) was designed and synthesized for the real-time as well as on-site naked-eye detection of bivalent copper and nickel in aqueous medium. Various physicochemical methods were employed to characterize the probe, and its colorimetric response to different metal ions was meticulously investigated. The probe, PMB3, exhibited a sensitive colorimetric response to Cu2+ and Ni2+ ions among other competing metal ions, culminating in a prominent colour change from colourless to yellow. The stoichiometry of the ligand metal complexes was ascertained to be in a 1:1 ratio using Job's plot analysis, which was further corroborated by ESI-MS data. With detection limits of 4.56µM for Cu2+ and 2.68µM for Ni2+, the method was effectively extended to real sample analysis, ensuring propitious results that closely aligned with the actual values.
Comparative Assessment of Scientific Structure in Biomass-based Hydrogen from a Cross-domain Perspective
Authors: Okuda Kunihiko , Sasaki Hajime
Published: July 2024

Biomass-based hydrogen production is an innovative approach to realize carbon-neutral energy solutions. Despite their promise, both structures differ in terms of the biomass energy domain, which is at the entry point of the technology, and the hydrogen energy domain, which is at the exit point of the technology. In this study, we conducted structural and predictive analyses by cross domain bibliometric analysis to clarify the differences in the structures and perspectives of researchers in cross domains and to suggest ways to strengthen collaboration to promote innovation. Our study reveals that the hydrogen energy domain has a balanced discussion on realizing a hydrogen society using biomass-based hydrogen production technology, while the biomass energy domain has a strong interest in the process of processing biomass. We find that changing perspectives in any academic domain presents a different structure. This comparative analysis reveals the importance of synergistic progress through interdisciplinary efforts. By filling these gaps, our findings contribute to a roadmap for future research and policy development in renewable energy and highlight the importance of a unified approach to sustainable hydrogen production.
Simple Thermodynamic Model of Thermostats for a Liquid into a Tank: an Analytical Approach
Authors: Romero Robert Paul Salazar , Deaza Felipe , Zamudio José , García Leonardo
Published: July 2024

In this manuscript, we propose a simplified mathematical model based on the heat transfer laws to predict the temperature profiles of a liquid controlled by a simple thermostat. The model result in a set of linear ordinary differential equations ODEs with forcing which turn on and off at a priori unknown times TM = {ζ0, ζ1, . . . , ζM}. The p-th switch-time ζp ∈ Tp is calculated from the zeros of a function Q(χ) = Q(χ; ζ1, . . . , ζp−1) coming from analytical solutions of the system depending on the previous times ζ1, . . . , ζp−1. The mathematical problem can be solved by using standard techniques for solving ODEs once TM is calculated by M-successive iterations of the conditional expression Q(χ = ζp) = 0 and the Newton-Raphson method. We provide analytical expressions for the temperature as a function of time and TM considering direct (DC) and alternate (AC) feeding voltages. We solve the system using this numerical-analytical approach and compare it with the results of the 4th Runge–Kutta method finding a good agreement between both methods.
Taxonomy of high-pressure vibration spectra of zincblende semiconductor alloys – The percolation model applied to Cd(1-x)Zn(x)Te
Authors: Alhaddad Toni , Shoker Mohamad , Pages Olivier , Polian Alain , Torres Vitor , Godec Yann Le , Itie Jean Paul , Bellin Christophe , Beneut Keevin , Diliberto Sebastien , Michel Stephanie , Marasek Agnieszka , Strzalkowski Karol
Published: July 2024

Due to their simple structure (two bond species randomly arranged on a cubic lattice), the zincblende A(1-x)B(x)C semiconductor alloys (zb-SCA) set a benchmark to explore how physical properties are impacted by disorder. A longstanding controversy was whether the lattice dynamics (phonons), governed by the bond force constant, i.e., a local physical property, is “blind” to the alloy disorder or actually “sees” it. Over the past two decades, we introduced the percolation model (PM) that distinguishes between like bonds depending on whether they vibrate in “same” or “alien” environments (1-bond→2-phonon scheme). The PM seems to apply universally among zb-SCA, and hence would solve the controversy in favor of the second scenario. Here our aim is to take one step forward and complete in the main lines a PM-based taxonomy of high-pressure vibration spectra of zb-SCA. This might clarify how a disordered atomic alloy, seen by each bond species in terms of a “same/alien” composite (i.e., at the unusual mesoscopic scale) from the angle of the PM, behaves when the lattice shrinks under hydrostatic pressure. We focus on Cd(1-x)Zn(x)Te as the last sensitive pending case. This tidying-up exercise is attractive at the fundamental level and useful for projecting phonon-based devices involving zb-SCA.
Confident protein datasets for liquid-liquid phase separation studies
Authors: Pintado-Grima Carlos , Bárcenas Oriol , Iglesias Valentín , Arribas-Ruiz Eva , Burdukiewicz Michał , Ventura Salvador
Published: July 2024

Background
Proteins self-organize in dynamic cellular environments by assembling into reversible biomolecular condensates through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). These condensates can comprise single or multiple proteins, with different roles in the ensemble’s structural and functional integrity. Driver proteins form condensates autonomously, while client proteins just localize within them. Although several databases exist to catalog proteins undergoing LLPS, they often contain divergent data that impedes interoperability between these resources. Additionally, there is a lack of consensus on selecting proteins without explicit experimental association with condensates (non-LLPS proteins or negative data). These two aspects have prevented the generation of reliable predictive models and fair benchmarks.
Results
In this work, we used an integrated biocuration protocol to analyze information from all relevant LLPS databases and generate confident datasets of client and driver proteins. Besides, we introduce standardized negative datasets, encompassing both globular and disordered proteins. To validate our datasets, we investigated specific physicochemical traits related to LLPS across different subsets of protein sequences. We observed significant differences not only between positive and negative instances but also among LLPS proteins themselves. The datasets from this study are publicly available as a website at https://llpsdatasets.ppmclab.com and as a data repository at https://github.com/PPMC-lab/llps-datasets.
Conclusions
Our datasets offer a reliable means for confidently assessing the specific roles of proteins in LLPS and identifying key differences in physicochemical properties underlying this process. These high-confidence datasets are poised to train a new generation of multilabel models, build more standardized benchmarks, and mitigate sequential biases associated with the presence of intrinsically disordered regions.
Identification of promising therapeutic targets for nonischemic cardiomyopathy: integrated analysis based on multiomics
Authors: Shi Kaijia , Chen Xu , Zhao Yangyang , Chai Jinxuan , Qiu Jianmin , Shen Zhihua , Guo Junli , Jie Wei
Published: July 2024

Background
Nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NISCM) is a clinical challenge with limited therapeutic targets. This study aims to identify promising drug targets for NISCM.
Methods
We utilized cis-pQTLs from public databases and SNPs from the Finnish database. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to estimate the causal relationship between circulating plasma protein levels and NISCM risk. Proteins with significant associations underwent false discovery rate (FDR) correction, followed by Bayesian colocalization analysis. The expression of top two proteins, LILRA5 and NELL1, was further analyzed using various NISCM datasets. Descriptions from the Human Protein Atlas (HPA) validated protein expression. The impact of environmental exposures on LILRA5 was assessed using the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD), and molecular docking identified the potential small molecule interactions.
Results
MR analysis identified 255 circulating plasma proteins associated with NISCM, with 16 remaining significant after FDR correction. Bayesian colocalization analysis identified LILRA5 and NELL1 as significant, with PP.H4 > 0.8. LILRA5 has a protective effect (OR = 0.758, 95% CI, 0.670–0.857) while NELL displays the risk effect (OR = 1.290, 95% CI,1.199–1.387) in NISCM. Decreased LILRA5 expression was found in NISCM such as diabetic, hypertrophic, dilated, and inflammatory cardiomyopathy, while NELL1 expression increased in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. HPA data indicated high LILRA5 expression in neutrophils within normal heart and limited NELL1 expression. Immune infiltration analysis revealed decreased neutrophil in diabetic cardiomyopathy. CTD analysis identified sets of small molecules affecting LILRA5 expression, parts could stably bind with LILRA5.
Conclusion
LILRA5 and NELL1 are potential key therapeutic targets for NISCM, with LILRA5 showing particularly promising prospects in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Several small molecules interact with LILRA5, implying potential clinical implication.
Comparative genomic analysis and genome sequence of Halomonas salifodinae strain A2, isolated from the Zapotitlán Salinas Valley Puebla, México
Authors: León-Lemus Alberto , -García Martha Martínez , Cabirol Nathalie , Campos Jorge E. , Monsalvo-Reyes Alejandro
Published: July 2024

Here, we report the genome sequence of strain A2. The genome size was 3,855,926 bp, the GC content was 67.4%, and it contains 3509 genes, 62 tRNA, eight rRNA, and four snRNA. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16 S rRNA gene in the RDP, NCBI, and TYGS databases indicates that strain A2 belongs to Halomonas salifodinae. Also, MLSA analysis confirms that A2 is closely related to H. salifodinae. Phylogenomic and comparative genomic analysis using the ANIs and dDDH indicators classify H. salifodinae A2 and Bisbaumannia pacifica NBRC 102220 in a separate phylogenetic group of the genus Halomonas. The phylogenomic and pangenome analysis support the above, placing H. salifodinae A2 in a separate group with B. pacifica NBRC 102220. The pangenomic analysis shows 136,122 genes that comprise the pangenome with 317 core genes, 3457 shell genes, 132,332 accessory genome, and 691 unique genes. We found 29 genes for secretion systems in the genome analysis, 23 for Na + and K + ion transport, 6 BGC groups, a total of 12 genomic islands, an 8.2Kb gene prophage region, 15 regions associated with CRISPR and one CAS-TypeIF cas gene cluster region, 12 genes of biotechnological importance, 38 unique genes essential for adaptability and biotechnological relevance, as well as, 35 genes for the synthesis of compatible solutes. Furthermore, we propose the reclassification of the species within the genus Bisbaumannia.
Effect of process variable on production of thermoplastic vulcanizates based on SEBS/PP/LLDPE via reactive extrusion
Authors: Dana Mehri , Nabid Mohammad Reza , Zohuri Gholam Hossein , Shahidi Saeid Asadi , Yazdanbakhsh Sohail
Published: July 2024

Properties of thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) depend on their microstructure. Processing conditions including shear rate, processing temperature and shearing time can affect the final microstructure of TPVs. Morphological study of resultant TPVs was carried out using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The object of this study is to investigate the effect of temperature (210–230°C, 170–190°C, 150–170°C and 140–160°C) and speed of production process on the properties of TPV based on poly(styrene-b-(ethylene-co-butylene)-b styrene) triblock copolymer (SEBS)/polypropylene (PP)/linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) prepared via reactive extrusion. Melt flow index (MFI) of the prepared samples was sharply decreased (from 24.4 to 2.63 g/10 min at 190°C, 10 kg) with decreasing temperature (from 210–230°C to 170–190°C). However, hardness of the prepared TPVs was increased to a limiting value (80 shore A) with decreasing the process temperature. Compression set sharply decreased (from 70–49% at 120°C, 70 h) and it has reached to a limiting value (46%). The process temperature, however, is not significantly affected on the tensile strength and tensile strength at 20% extension of the TPV. The elongation has the lowest value in 170–190°C. Result of elongation at break after aging was improved (from 12.2–3.3%) with decreasing process temperature (from 140–160°C to 210–230°C). The lowest value of tensile strength (4.1%) was obtained in 170–190°C after aging. Due to the increase in speeds of the twin screw extruder (180 to 250 rpm, in 140–160°C) surface quality was suitable and smooth. Also TPV samples were prepared by either one-step or two-step reactors using the extruder system and the results were compared. In the one-step method, a pronounced higher value in elongation at break (897%) and MFI (6.8 g/10 min at 190°C, 10 kg) were observed. It was found that the results of heat aging were improved using the two-step process. The two-step process led to higher tensile stress at 20% extension (from 2.7 to 3.3 MPa), too. In addition, a comprehensive experimental study was carried out to achieve the optimal process conditions for the production of TPVs using the two-step process. In one method (method A), the curing agent was added in the first step of the production. Other components such as PP, antioxidant, which may interfere with the peroxide curing were mixed in the second step of the process. In another method (method B), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) was produced in the first step, and then curing agent was added in the second step of the productions. The TPV then was prepared in the second step of the process. Generally, the results show that the properties of the prepared TPV with the method B are superior to the method A.
High-quality quad-mesh generation for self-intersecting parametric surfaces
Authors: Nan Haolei , Xu Gang , Wu Haiyan , Gu Renshu , Xu Jinlan , Liu Yang
Published: July 2024

We propose a method for the high-quality quadrangulation of an input self-intersecting parametric surface. We first compute the algebraic representation of self-intersecting curves and cusp curves of the surface by the moving plane method. Sampling points are then generated on the singular curves and the boundary over the parameter domain. In order to ensure the correctness of mesh intersection topology, we compute feature points and the pair-points of the curve sampling points, which are fixed strictly throughout our method. A triangle mesh is generated over the domain with the singular curves as constraint lines, which is the input of quadrilateral mesh generation. We compute a cross-field aligned with the feature lines and construct a coarse layout of quad patches relying on the cross-field. As T-junctions are allowed in the layout, we solve an Integer Linear Program (ILP) problem to determine the number of edges, thereby ensuring that the generated mesh is conforming. Feature lines are preserved perfectly throughout the pipeline by imposing constraints. In conclusion, our method guarantees the neighborhood coordination of mesh intersections, while still producing high-quality quadrilateral meshes.
Extensive, reversible, and Controllable Reduction in Friction of Atomically Thin Two-Dimensional Materials through High-Stress Pre-Rubbing
Authors: Peng Yitian , Haoyang Su , Honglin Zhang , Lang Haojie , Zou Kun , Sun Junhui
Published: July 2024

Great efforts have been made to further reduce the friction on atomically thin Two-dimensional (2D) materials as solid lubricants due to their exceptional tribological properties and mechanical strength. In this work, the friction of atomically thin graphene has been extensively and controllably reduced through pre-rubbing under high stress, resulting in a reduction of the friction coefficient by up to a factor of six compared to the pristine graphene. Also, this reduction can be reversed by reciprocating friction under moderate stress. Furthermore, high-stress pre-rubbing allows for patterning intentional lubricating features on atomically thin graphene, such as nanometer-sized letters. This reduction in friction is attributed to a decrease in the maximum sliding potential barrier, induced by enhanced interactions between graphene and the substrate due to charge transfer at the interface undergoing high stress, as revealed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. These findings present a practical methodology for optimizing and controlling the performance of atomically thin 2D materials, with significant implications for applications in engineering and nanofabrication, and even in information storage.
Effect of temperature on total lipid content and fatty acid composition in six strains of Chrysophyta
Authors: Shen Shichang , Peng Ruibing , Jiang Xiamin
Published: July 2024

To determine the suitable temperature of and total lipid content and fatty acid composition in six strains of Chrysophyta and provide a scientific basis for its comprehensive utilization and development. The effects of temperatures on the growth were studied and their total lipid content and fatty acid composition were analyzed. The results showed that the most suitable growth temperature range of I. galbana (Tahitianstrain) H29 was 25 ~ 30 ℃, I. galbana 3011 was 25 ~ 30 ℃, I. galbana 3010 and I. zhanjiangensis were 25 ~ 35 ℃, I. galbana 8701 was 15 ℃, and I. galbana (daxidi) was 20 ~ 25 ℃. There were significant differences in total lipids and fatty acids contents in six strains of Chrysophyta. The contents of total lipids in the six strains of Chrysophyta were 17.47%~29.73%. Seventeen kinds of fatty acids were detected in six Chrysophyta, PUFAs accounted for 34.64%~57.03% of the total fatty acids. DHA accounted for 12.96 ~ 21.54%.