bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shifted Chebyshev Spectral Method for Two-Dimensional Space-Time Fractional Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Oloniiju Shina , Nkomo Nolwazi , Goqo Sicelo , Sibanda Precious
Published: May 2022

In this study, we present a numerical method for solving two--dimensional space--time fractional partial differential equations (FPDEs), where the solutions of the FPDEs are expanded in terms of the shifted Chebyshev polynomials. The numerical approximations are evaluated at the Chebyshev-Gauss-Lobatto points. In the case when the FPDE is nonlinear, we employ a Newton-Raphson approach to linearize the equation. Both the linear and nonlinear cases lead to a consistent system of linear algebraic equations. The scheme is tested on selected FPDEs and the numerical results show that the proposed numerical scheme is accurate and computationally efficient in terms of CPU times. To establish the accuracy of the method, we also present an error analysis which shows the convergence of the numerical method. These positive attributes make the proposed method a good approach for solving two--dimensional fractional partial differential equations with both space and time fractional orders.
Modeling of Multiple Fatigue Cracks for Aircraft Wing Corner Box Based on Non-ordinary Sate Peridynamics
Authors: Han Junzhao , Wang Guozhong , Zhao Xiaoyu , Chen Rong , Chen Wenhua
Published: May 2022

In this work, we have developed a non-ordinary state-based peridynamic model for multiple crack initiation and propagation due to compression-compression fatigue load. In each loading cycle, the fatigue loading is redistributed among the peridynamic solid body, leading to the progressive fatigue damage initiation and propagation in an autonomous fashion. The proposed fatigue model parameters are firstly validated by 3D numerical benchmark tests, and then it is applied to simulate widespread fatigue damage evolution of the aircraft wing corner box. The modified constitutive damage model has been implemented into the peridynamics framework at finite strain. Furthermore, the criterion algorithm from multiple initiation to propagation is discussed. It is shown that the numerical results obtained from peridynamics simulations are in general agreement with those from the experiment data. The comparison of experimental and numerical results indicates that the proposed non-ordinary state-based peridynamics fatigue model has the ability to capture the multiple crack initiation and propagation and other features of the aluminium alloy material.
Discussions on Hardy-type inequalities via Riemann-Liouville fractional integral inequality
Authors: Benaissa Bouharket
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we have shown that in the article entitled “New Riemann-Liouville generalizations for some inequalities of Hardy type” the Theorem 3.3 is false and that a necessary condition on the order α must be in Theorem 3.1 and Theorem 3.2. Additionally, the correct Theorem 3.3 and a new result with negative parameter are given; these results will prove using the Hölder inequality, and reverse Hölder inequality.
Analysis of modern systems for electronic control of knowledge of future specialists of pharmaceutical profile based on moodle: problems and prospects of improvement
Authors: Diiev Yevgen , Radziievska Iryna , Sherman Mykhailo , Kulichenko Alla , Vovk Svitlana , Biriukova Maryna
Published: May 2022

Development of methodological and axiological settings that contribute to the effectiveness of modern systems of knowledge control of pharmaceutical students in the system Moodle. The synergetic philosophical-scientific method was applied to provide a versatile consideration of the problems of using distance learning format. Demonstrated the active use of the Moodle learning environment by pharmacy students of these institutions of higher education. Elements, by means of which knowledge control was carried out, confirmed its effectiveness, since the results of knowledge assessment of students conducted in Moodle mostly coincided with the examinations and qualification examinations (in particular, KROK). Among the key guidelines, we note openness, implying the comprehensibility of tasks; dynamism, providing the possibility of changing or adjusting control tasks; the educational and pedagogical value of control forms, forming an effective system of assessment of knowledge and skills of students; compliance with moral and psychological standards when conducting control in the distance learning system Moodle. Prospects for further research we see the creation of an international unified system of control of the relevant branches of knowledge (in our case - pharmaceutical specialty) based on the initial environment Moodle.
Education in times of change: the contributions of the laboratory project for the new times (PLNT)
Authors: Oliveira Gilvando Inácio de , Brazão José Paulo Gomes
Published: May 2022

This article aims to report the possibilities of change in school practices of the Project Laboratory of New Times - (PLNT), linked to the formative actions of the NGO - CEAP (Centre for Studies and Pedagogical Advice), based in Salvador da Bahia. The Laboratory is dedicated to the construction of innovative methodologies, appropriating itself to a pedagogical practice centred on creativity, protagonism, self-didacticism, problem-solving capacity and autonomy in students' learning. We used a qualitative methodology. It was found that the project's formative actions broke the traditional practices and played an active role in the socio-political reality of the students, connecting all pedagogical actions with global events. The pedagogical action of learning with technological mediation, valued the students' socio-educational context and their possibilities of emancipation.
Development of Online-Based Digital Learning Media for Geography Subjects at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri I Wonosobo
Authors: Ariani Farida , Ghansyam G.A.
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, learning media is growing in line with the rapid development of information technology. This research was conducted in connection with the need for learning media that can be used anywhere and anytime without any limitation of place and time. This study aims to develop online learning media products for geography learning. The research method used was the Research and Development (R&D) method. The research subjects were students of class X Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 1 Wonosobo. Data collection techniques used the methods of observation, interviews, questionnaires, and documentation. Questionnaires were employed to determine the feasibility of online-based learning media, whereas data analysis techniques utilized percentage techniques. From the study results, it can be concluded that the online-based learning media developed can be said to be good by experts. It can be seen from the testing results on students to determine the level of media feasibility based on predetermined criteria/indicators. Thus, this learning media deserves to be used as an alternative learning media with a good category (88%), namely with details on educational criteria with good results (93%), appearance criteria with good results (85%), and technical criteria with good results (89%). Hence, online-based learning media for geography class X is feasible to use as a choice of digital learning media.
THE EFFECT OF VARIATION CONCENTRATION AND DEPOSITION PARAMETER TO THE OPTICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND THE CRYSTALLITE PROPERTIES OF ZINC OXIDE
Authors: Arsyad Waode Sukmawati , Ulpiani Ulpiani , Anugerah Muh. Angga , Aba La , Usman Ida
Published: May 2022

The objective of the study was to obtain the ZnO thin films with variation concentration of zinc acetate dehydrate (ZAD), and variation of spin coater speed and rotation time. We observed the effect of the former parameters on the optical characteristics that comprised of the spectrum of absorption, transmittance, and ZnO crystallite size from UV-Vis spectrometer and XRD orderly. For the analysis of the effect of the variation of concentration, ZAD diluted into ethanol with the concentration 0.1M, 0.25M, 0.5M, 0.75M dan 1M, with the addition of diethanolamine (DEA). Then it was deposited above the glass substrate with spin coater, continued by the heating on the hotplate with the number of layers variation. For the analysis of deposition parameter effect on the transmittance and the size of ZnO crystal, we used 0.25M ZnO precursor solution with the addition of DEA, then deposited by speed and time of rotation of spin coater of 1230 rpm, 2500 rpm, and 3200 rpm for 10, 15 and 30 seconds of each. The smallest absorbance value 0.05 obtained for single layer 0.1M ZnO, while the maximum transmittance value obtained for three-layer 0.25M ZnO. Concentration variation did not affect the energy gap, whose value was approximately 3.2 eV for all samples. From the XRD result, we found that deposition time affected the number of diffraction lines, the size of the crystallite, and the transmittance.
THE ANALYSIS OF SOUND TRANSMISSION LOSS ON LAMINATED GLASS
Authors: Utomo Fajar Budi , Setyo Bondan Dwi , Palupi Maharani Ratna , Putri Chery Chaen , Ragil P. Ninuk , Rusdjadi T. E. Dodi , Hermawanto Denny
Published: May 2022

Laminated glass is one type of glass that is commonly used for sound insulation (walls or doors). Tests related to the ability of insulating glass in Indonesia are still sporadic. One of the places to do this test is the SNSU BSN Lab. This Lab has a function to perform sound insulation level measurements commonly known as Sound Transmission Class (STC) and maintain to trace the ability of acoustic measurements. This paper describes the characteristics of Sound Transmission Loss (STL) of 12mm laminated tempered glass. The sample measurement method refers to ISO 10140-1 using two chambers (source and receiver room). Based on the study results, it was found that the laminated tempered glass sample was not good at reducing sound at low frequencies and tended to be good at high frequencies.
Tandem repeats ubiquitously flank and contribute to translation initiation sites
Authors: Maddi Ali M.A. , Kavousi Kaveh , Arabfard Masoud , Ohadi Hamid , Ohadi Mina
Published: May 2022

Background: While the evolutionary divergence of cis-regulatory sequences impacts translation initiation sites (TISs), the implication of tandem repeats (TRs) in TIS selection remains elusive for the most part. Hence, here we employed the TIS homology concept to study the co-occurrence patterns of all categories of TRs with TISs. Methods: Human, as reference sequence, and 83 other species were selected, and data was extracted on the entire protein-coding genes (n=1,611,368) and transcripts (n=2,730,515) annotated for those species from Ensembl 102. Two different weighing vectors were employed to assign TIS homology, and the results were assessed in 10-fold validation. Results: On average, every TIS was flanked by 1.19 TRs of various categories within the 120 bp upstream sequence. We detected statistically significant enrichment of non-homologous TISs co-occurring with human-specific TRs. On the contrary, homologous TISs co-occurred significantly with non-human-specific TRs. 2,991 human genes had at least one transcript flanked by a human-specific TR in their upstream flanking region, and nervous system development was the top enriched ontology term across those genes. Text mining of a number of the identified genes such as MYH2, TTN, SLC6A8, CACNA1A, and EIF5AL1 yielded predominant expression and functions in the human brain and skeletal muscle. Conclusion: We conclude that TRs are abundant cis elements in the upstream sequences of TISs across species, and there may be a link between all categories of TRs and TIS selection. The potential biological consequences of this link are discussed in human as the reference sequence in this study.
Inoculation effect of Pseudomonas sp. TF716 on N2O emissions during rhizoremediation of diesel-contaminated soil
Authors: Kim Ji-Yoon , Cho Kyung-Suk S.
Published: May 2022

The demand for rhizoremediation technology that can minimize greenhouse gas emissions while effectively removing pollutants in order to mitigate climate change has increased. The inoculation effect of N2O-reducing Pseudomonas sp. TF716 on N2O emissions and on remediation performance during the rhizoremediation of diesel-contaminated soil planted with tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) or maize (Zea mays) was investigated. Pseudomonas sp. TF716 was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of tall fescue. The maximum N2O reduction rate of TF716 was 18.9 mmol N2O·g dry cells− 1·h− 1, which is superior to the rates for previously reported Pseudomonas spp. When Pseudomonas sp. TF716 was added to diesel-contaminated soil planted with tall fescue, the soil N2O-reduction potential was 2.88 times higher than that of soil with no inoculation during the initial period (0 − 19 d), and 1.08 − 1.13 times higher thereafter. However, there was no enhancement in the N2O-reduction potential for the soil planted with maize following inoculation with strain TF716. In addition, TF716 inoculation did not significantly affect diesel degradation during rhizoremediation, suggesting that the activity of those microorganisms involved in diesel degradation was unaffected by TF716 treatment. Analysis of the dynamics of the bacterial genera associated with N2O reduction showed that Pseudomonas had the highest relative abundance during the rhizoremediation of diesel-contaminated soil planted with tall fescue and treated with strain TF716. Overall, these results suggest that N2O emissions during the rhizoremediation of diesel-contaminated soil using tall fescue can be reduced with the addition of Pseudomonas sp. TF716.
Smart root foraging strategy guides acclimation of tea (Camellia sinensis L.) plants to potassium heterogeneity
Authors: Ruan Li , Wang Liyuan , Cheng Hao , Wei Kang , Li Jianwu , Chang Scott X. , Ludewig Uwe
Published: May 2022

Purpose
Root foraging enables plants to obtain more soil nutrients in a constantly changing nutrient environment. Little is known about the adaptation mechanism of adventitious roots of plants dominated by asexual reproduction (such as tea plants) to soil potassium heterogeneity.
Methods
We investigated root foraging strategies for K by two tea plant (low-K tolerant genotype “1511” and low-K intolerant genotype “1601”) using a multi-layer split-root system. Root exudates, root architecture and transcriptional responses to K heterogeneity were analyzed by HPLC, WinRHIZO and RNA-seq.
Results
With the higher leaf K concentrations and K biological utilization indexes, “1511” acclimated to K heterogeneity better than “1601”. For “1511”, maximum total root length and fine root length proportion appeared on the K-enriched side; the solubilization of soil K reached the maximum on the low-K side, which was consistent with the amount of organic acids released through root exudation. The cellulose decomposition genes were abundant on the K-enriched side may have promoted root proliferation for “1511”. This did not happen in “1601”.
Conclusions
The low-K tolerant tea genotype “1511” was better acclimating to K heterogeneity, which was due to a smart root foraging strategy: more roots (especially fine roots) were developed in the K-enriched side; more organic acids were secreted in the low-K side to activate soil K and the root proliferation in the K-enriched side might be due to cellulose decomposition. The present research provides a theoretical basis for a better understanding of the adaptation strategies of clonal woody plants to soil nutrient heterogeneity.
Antibiotic-resistant status and pathogenic clonal complex of canine Streptococcus canis-associated deep pyoderma
Authors: Imanishi Ichiro , Iyori Keita , Také Akira , Asahina Ryota , Tsunoi Manami , Hirano Ryuji , Uchiyama Jumpei , Toyoda Yoichi , Sakaguchi Yoshihiro , Hayashi Shunji
Published: May 2022

Background
Streptococcus canis causes deep pyoderma in canines, which raises concerns about the risk of isolates from lesions acquiring an antibiotic-resistant phenotype. It is necessary to identify effective antibiotics and the characteristics of the pathogenic cluster for S. canis-associated deep pyoderma.
Results
The signalment, molecular typing, and antibiotic-resistant status of S. canis isolated from deep pyoderma lesions (27 strains) and oral cavities (25 strains) were analyzed. Older dogs tended to have S. canis-associated deep pyoderma (15 of 27 dogs over 10 years old). Veterinarians chose quinolones for 10/16 cases (62.5%), even though the rate of quinolone-resistant strains of S. canis is 38.5–59.6%. Although 71.1% of the strains showed resistance to three or more antibiotic classes (37/52), 94.3% (49/52) strains showed sensitivity for penicillins. We also identified β-lactamase activity among penicillin-resistant strains of S. canis. Clonal complex 13 (CC13) was detected only in lesions and formed independent clusters in the phylogenetic tree. One strain of CC13 was resistant to the anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus drugs, vancomycin and linezolid.
Conclusion
Although antibiotic-resistant strains of S. canis are isolated at a high rate, they can currently be treated with β-lactamase-inhibiting penicillins. CC13 may be a pathogenic cluster with high levels of antibiotics resistance.
Research on acute phase proteins and inflammatory cytokines biomarkers in dromedary camels (camelus dromedarius) with clinical endometritis
Authors: El-Deeb Wael , Abdel-Ghani Mohammed , Alhaider Abdulrahman , Fayez Mahmoud
Published: May 2022

Uterine diseases are prevalent in she-camel and lead to economic losses because of decreased fertility. The aim of this study is to look into the expression pattern of acute-phase proteins (APPs) and inflammatory cytokines in dromedary camels with clinical endometritis (CE) to highlight their role in immune-pathogenesis of the disease. Moreover, to identify the use of these parameters as a complementary tool for CE screening as well as investigate the efficacy of ceftiofur antibiotic. APPs and inflammatory cytokines were estimated in camels with CE. Values of APPs (Hp, SAA, and Fg), pro-inflammatory (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and ant-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) were higher in camels with CE than that of healthy control (P<0.05). The highest correlation was observed between HP and IFN-γ (r = 0.73), and IL-1β and IL-6 (r = 0.73), while the lower correlation was observed between Fg and IFN-γ (r = 0.25). Corynebacterium pyogenes and Arcanobacterium pyogenes were the most common pathogens involved in the etiology of CE. All investigated biomarkers demonstrated a high degree of recognition between CE camel and healthy controls (AUC was > 0.90). A higher proportion of camels with CE that were treated with ceftiofur (90%, P<0.0001) scored clinical cure after the first dose, while 10% required a second dose. In conclusion, CE causes increased APPs and inflammatory cytokines biomarkers indicating a significant acute phase response in diseased camels with CE. These changes in biomarkers could be beneficial for understanding immune-pathogenesis of CE in dromedary camels, clinical practice, and basic clinical research.
Efficacy and toxicity of combined inhibition of EGFR and VEGF in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer harboring activating EGFR mutations: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deluce Jasna , Maj David , Breadner Daniel , Boldt Gabriel , Raphael Jacques
Published: May 2022

Purpose: Dual inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways have demonstrated promising results for treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring EGFR mutations. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and toxicity of combined treatment with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and VEGF blockade.Methods: The electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library and EMBASE, were searched for relevant randomized trials between 2000 and 2020. The primary endpoints were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and adverse events (AEs). Pooled hazard ratios for OS and PFS, and odds ratios for ORR, DCR and toxicity were meta-analyzed using the generic inverse variance and the Mantel-Haenszel methods. Subgroup analyses compared PFS by gender, age, smoking status, EGFR mutation, intra-cranial disease and ECOG status.Results: A total of 1,246 patients from 6 trials were evaluated for analyses. Dual treatment decreased the risk of disease progression by 38%, but had no added benefit on OS compared to EGFR inhibition alone. There was no significant difference in ORR or DCR between treatments and more AEs reported in the dual treatment arm. The PFS benefit was consistent across all subgroups.Conclusions: This meta-analysis suggests combined inhibition of EGFR and VEGF pathways significantly improves PFS, with no interim OS benefit, and increases AEs. Mature OS data are needed along with results from trials exploring this strategy with 3rd generation TKIs to strengthen these results.
Tuning the properties of pineapple peel cellulose nanofibrils by TEMPO-mediated oxidation and ball milling
Authors: Lv Tianyi , Chen Yuan , Luo Yuyuan , Dai Difei , Feng Xin , Chen Hai , Yu Yong , Ma Liang , Zhang Yuhao , Dai Hongjie
Published: May 2022

In this study, the oxidized cellulose nanofibrils from pineapple peel (PP-TOCNF) were prepared by TEMPO-mediated oxidation followed by ball milling. The influence of oxidation degree on the structure and properties of PP-TOCNF were investigated, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscope (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and thermogravimetry (TG), as well as the potential application in aerogels. The results suggested that TEMPO oxidation facilitated the dispersion of PP-TOCNF due to the strong electrostatic repulsion between –COO− groups. Regulating oxidation degree by varying NaClO concentration could effectively adjust the –COO− content (0.167 ~ 0.550 mmol/g), zeta potential (-18 ~ -34 mV) and rheological properties. The obtained PP-TOCNF showed a long fibrillar structure, whose average diameter and CrI values gradually decreased with the increase of oxidation degree. The PP-TOCNF-based aerogels exhibited a light weight, good porosity, water absorption, and mechanical properties, which also can be easily adjusted by oxidation degree of PP-TOCNF. Furthermore, TEMPO oxidation improved the stability and shape recovery ability of aerogels in water.
Effects of Oregano Aromatic Water (Oreganum onites L.) Supplementation on Diets of Lactating Dairy cows on Milk Production Performance, Metabolic Health and Antioxidative Defense Mechanism
Authors: Özkaya Serkan , Taşkın Koray , Erbaş Sabri , Özkan Oktay , Neja Wojciech
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to validate the effect of oregano aromatic water (OAW) on blood parameters, oxidative stress, and production and composition of milk when used as a feed additive. Thirty lactating Holstein cows (average 570 kg), average 74 days in milk and 2.44 lactation number, were randomly divided into three groups for a period of 60-days. These groups included: (G1) control ration, (G2) control ration + OAW (10 mg/kg of DM), (G3) control ration + OAW (20 mg/kg of DM). Milk production (MP) were unaffected by OAW doses (P>0.05). The supplementation of OAW did not affect the milk composition, and somatic cell count (SCC) (P>0.05). OAW supplementation did not affect blood biochemical values except ketone and glucose. The glucose value increased as the ketone decreased with OAW supplementation (P<0.05). The hematological blood values were not found to be significant. Supplementing OAW resulted in greater (P<0.05) total antioxidant status in G2 and G3 than G1. The current study's findings indicated that OAW supplementation had no benefits for milk yield and milk composition. It also tended to improve Somatic Cell Counts, udder health, and the antioxidative defense mechanism.
Clinical Benefit and Safety of Ablation Index -Guided Higher-Power Ablation Protected by Impedance Spike Cut-off in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: guo fei , Xu Jian , Luo Jianfeng , Zhu Jing , Zhu Hongjun , Su Hao , Zhang Can , Xuan Jianwei
Published: May 2022

Aims: To evaluate the procedural effectiveness, efficiency and safety outcomes when using ablation index-guided higher-power ablation protected by impedance spike cut-off for atrial fibrillation (AF) up to 12-month follow-up in China.Methods：132 patients were consecutively enrolled. The endpoints included freedom from any atrial arrhythmia during 12-month follow-up, first-pass pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) rate, RF ablation time, procedure time and fluoroscopy time. Results: All patients achieved acute PVI and first-pass PVI rate was 87.9%. During 12-month follow-up, the overall success rate was 82.6%. The mean procedure time, total RF ablation time, baseline impedance value and fluoroscopy time were 55.3±11.3min, 36.0±8.5min, 118.5±9.4Ω and 7.1±3.6min, respectively. The spike cut-off occurred in 72 (54.6%) subjects and mostly during PVI at the anterior carina of right pulmonary vein (RPV) (25.8%), ridge between left atrial appendage and left pulmonary vein (22.0%), and inferior of RPV (16.7%). The overall major adverse event rate was 0.8%. The result of Cox regression analysis showed that gender, baseline impedance value and contact force were independent prognostic factors for recurrence.Conclusion: AI-guided higher-power ablation with impedance spike cut-off appears to be a safe and effective ablation technique for AF and leads to a high overall success rate at 12 months.
Development and validation of a quantitative food frequency questionnaire to assess free sugar intake among Sri Lankan preschool children
Authors: Mututanthri Shanika , Thoradeniya Tharanga , Samaranayake Anil , Harris Rebecca
Published: May 2022

Background: Monitoring the free sugar intake of preschool children is important for population health surveillance and evaluation of community-wide efforts at non-communicable diseases and dental caries prevention. Appropriate dietary assessments tools are also needed to underpin clinical prevention for patients. Thus, anappropriate dietary assessment tool applicable for large-scale, community-based studies without an excessive participant burden is needed, such as a quantitativefood frequency questionnaire that assesses dietary data retrospectively. Suchtools also need to be tailored and validated for the cultural context andpopulation concerned. Sri Lanka is currently lacking such a tool for use amongits pre-school population.Methods: In the development phase, a sample of 518 pre-school children and their caregivers were selected from pre-schools in the District of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Three 24-hour dietary recalls were collected from each child and based on that, a 67-item food frequency questionnaire was developed, including commonly consumed free sugar-containing food items. In the validation phase, 108 pairs of preschool children aged 04-05-years, and their caregivers participated. The relative validity of the food frequency questionnaire was assessed by comparing it with three, 24-hour dietary recalls. The test-retest reliability was assessed by repeated application of the food frequency questionnaire to the same population in six weeks intervals.Results: The free sugar intake values calculated from the food frequency questionnaire when compared with three, 24-hour dietary recalls indicated a good correlation, good agreement in cross classifying participants to tertiles based on their sugar intake levels and a good agreement in bland and Altman graphs at different food group levels and total free lsugar intake. The food frequency questionnaire measured sugar intake levels slightly higher than three 24-hour dietary recalls. Similarly, the free sugar intake values calculated by repeated application of the food frequency questionnaire also showed a good agreement at the group and individual levels as well as a good correlation.Conclusion: The newly developed quantitative food frequency questionnaire was found as a valid and reliable instrument to assess the free sugar intake among preschool children quantitatively as a total or by different food and beverage group levels.
Improvement in the neutron beam collimation for application in boron neutron capture therapy of the head and neck region
Authors: Hu Naonori , Tanaka Hiroki , Kakino Ryo , Yoshikawa Syuushi , Miyao Mamoru , Akita Kazuhiko , Aihara Teruhito , Nihei Keiji , Ono Koji
Published: May 2022

In June 2020, the Japanese government approved boron neutron capture therapy for the treatment of head and neck cancer. The treatment is usually performed in a single fraction, with the neutron irradiation time being approximately 30–60 minutes. As neutrons scatter in air and loses its intensity, it is preferable to bring the patient close to the beam port as possible to shorten the irradiation time. However, this can be a challenge, especially for patients with head and neck cancer, as the shoulders get in the way. In this study, a novel neutron collimation system was designed to allow for a more comfortable treatment to be performed, while not compromising the irradiation time. Experimental measurements confirmed the simulation results and showed the new collimator can reduce the irradiation time by approximately 60%. The dose delivered to the surrounding healthy tissue was reduced with the new collimator, showing a 25% decrease in the D50 of the mucosal membrane. Overall, the use of the newly designed collimator will allow for a more comfortable treatment of the head and neck region, reduce the treatment time, and reduce the dose delivered to the surrounding healthy tissue.
Evaluation and Correction of Sub-seasonal Forecast of Precipitation in Eastern China
Authors: Liu Li , Bai Huimin , Feng Guolin , Gong Zhiqiang , Zhou Botao
Published: May 2022

Assessing the capability of sub-seasonal dynamic model forecast of precipitation and proposing probable correction method is quite an important topic in current climate research field. From the perspective of rainfall amount, rainy days and rainfall-belt evolution, the sub-seasonal forecast ability of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) model for the main rainy-season precipitation in eastern China is evaluated up to 4-week (25–31 days) lead time. The evaluation results show that the forecast biases increase gradually with the increase of forecast lead time, characterized by the predicted rainfall amount obviously higher than observation and the rainy days much longer than observation. In order to decrease the forecast biases of rainfall amount and rainy days, the rainy day based correction (RDC) method is proposed in this study. Cross validation results of the RDC method indicate that the spatial correlation coefficient (SCC) of rainfall amount forecast of the ECMWF model with the observation increases by 0.61%-1.56% and the root mean square error (RMSE) decreases by 3.5%-7.6% up to 4-week lead time. While RDC method also modifies the number of rainy days, the SCC of rainy days increases by 12.96%-18.62%, and the RMSE decreases by 56.49%-63.78%. Furthermore, the problem of the number of continuous rainy days being too long in the model forecast is also improved by using the RDC method. Therefore, the RDC method presents the pretty good performance to improve the sub-seasonal forecast on rainfall amount, total rainy days and maximum continuous rainy days, which may be further applied in other models’ sub-seasonal forecasts.
Case Report of Congenital Methemoglobinemia: An Uncommon Cause of Neonatal Cyanosis
Authors: Lyle Allison N. J. , Spurr Rebecca , Kirkey Danielle , Albert Catherine M. , Billimoria Zeenia , Perez Jose , Puia-Dumitrescu Mihai
Published: May 2022

Background: Methemoglobinemia can be an acquired or congenital condition. The acquired form occurs from exposure to oxidative agents. Congenital methemoglobinemia is a rare and potentially life-threatening cause of cyanosis in newborns that can be caused by either cytochrome B5 reductase or hemoglobin variants known as Hemoglobin M. Case presentation: A term male infant developed cyanosis and hypoxia shortly after birth after an uncomplicated pregnancy, with oxygen saturations persistently 70-80% despite 1.0 FiO2 and respiratory support of CPAP+6 cm H2O. Pre- and post-ductal saturations were equal and remained blow 85%. Initial radiographic and echography imaging was normal. Capillary blood gas values were reassuring with normal pH and an elevated pO2. Investigations to rule out hemolysis and end-organ dysfunction were within acceptable range. Given the absence of clear cardiac or pulmonary etiology of persistent cyanosis, hematologic causes such as methemoglobinemia were explored. No family history was available at the time of transfer to our institution. Multiple attempts were made to obtain methemoglobin levels. Unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia >5 mg/dL (442 µmol/L) interfered with laboratory equipment measurement, making accurate methemoglobin levels unattainable. Initial treatment with methylene blue or ascorbic acid was considered. However, upon arrival of the presumed biological father, a thorough history revealed an extensive paternal family history of neonatal cyanosis due to a rare mutation resulting in a hemoglobin M variant. Given this new information, hematology recommended supportive care as well as further testing to confirm the diagnosis of congenital methemoglobinopathy. Whole genome sequencing revealed a likely pathogenic variation in hemoglobin. The neonate was discharged home at two weeks of age on full oral feeds with 0.25L/min nasal cannula as respiratory support, with close outpatient follow-up. By five weeks of age, he was weaned off respiratory support.Conclusion: Congenital methemoglobinemia should be considered in the differential diagnosis for newborns with persistent hypoxemia despite normal imaging and laboratory values. Accurate quantification of methemoglobin concentrations is challenging in neonates due to the presence of other substances that absorb light at similar wavelengths, including HbF, bilirubin, and lipids.
Characterization of Local Chicken of Trans-boundary region of Jammu & Kashmir (India)
Authors: Singh Simran , Taggar Raman Kant , CHAKRABORTY DIBYENDU , Kumar Dhirendra , Kumar Nishant , Azad Mandeep Singh
Published: May 2022

The study was conducted in the Poonch district of Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, India with the goal of assessing the qualitative and quantitative traits of indigenous chicken reared under natural production environment. Adult indigenous chicken reared by 55 randomly selected rural households were used for measuring the various qualitative and quantitative traits (n=117).The result showed predominant black plumage (38.46%), solid plumage pattern (75.21%), yellow skin colour (84.62%), yellow shank colour (81.20%), red earlobe colour (94.87%), single comb type (90.60%) and red comb colour (100%) in overall indigenous chicken population in field condition. Overall mean for body weight, body length, shank length, chest circumference and wingspan were1.84 ± 0.05 kg, 37.16± 0.32 cm, 9.33± 0.19 cm, 32.31± 0.30 cm and 35.64± 0.35cm, respectively. The correlations of body weight (BW) with other linear body measurements (BL, SL, CC and WS) were positive and significant (P<0.01). The body length (BL) could be the best predictor of body weight of indigenous chicken in linear nature of responses due to the highest adjusted R2 value (0.337). The rate of inbreeding was 0.50 % across the studied population. The distinctive variability in these traits is due to both genetic and environmental factors providing the foundation for further characterization of indigenous chicken population.
Deep-learning assisted label-free hematology analysis through defocusing a regular microscope
Authors: Hu Qinglei , Chen Duan , Li Ning , Liu Xiuli , Zeng Shaoqun , Lv Xiaohua , Chen Li , Xiao Yuwei
Published: May 2022

Hematology analysis is the most fundamental clinical test in differential diagnosis. The conventional way uses a laboratory hematology analyzer for complete blood count and requires highly trained professionals for morphology examination. The whole procedure is time- and labor-intensive, which severely affects the disease diagnosis efficiency. Meanwhile, the requirement for laboratory instruments and professionals impedes its popularization. Here, we proposed a deep-learning assisted, label-free hematology analysis technique through a regular microscope to solve these limitations. We have demonstrated that the subcellular morphology of unstained leukocytes, erythrocytes, and platelets can be revealed by simply defocusing a regular microscope. We have shown that this technique can automatically differentiate five-part leukocytes with high precision (mean average precision achieves 98.0%) and convert the label-free blood images into virtual Giemsa images with the assistance of deep-learning algorithms. The Pearson coefficients for the leukocyte counts from this technique and the manual counting method are large than 0.9083. The proposed technique can not only enhance the clinical hematology analysis efficiency but also has great potential to be quickly popularized since the regular microscope is a broadly used imaging tool.
Targeting HER2 mutant advanced biliary tract cancers with neratinib: results from the SUMMIT ‘basket’ trial
Authors: Harding James , Piha-Paul Sarina , Shah Ronak , Murphy Jessica , Cleary James , Shapiro Geoffrey , Quinn David , Braña Irene , Moreno Victor , Borad Mitesh , Loi Sherene , Spanggaard Iben , Park Haeseong , Ford James , Arnedos Monica , Stemmer Salomon , Fouchardiere Christelle de la , Fountzilas Christos , Zhang Jie , DiPrimeo Daniel , Savin Casey , Selcuklu S. Duygu , Berger Michael , Eli Lisa , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Jhaveri Komal , Solit David , Abou-Alfa Ghassan K
Published: May 2022

HER2 mutations are infrequent genomic events in biliary tract cancers (BTCs). Neratinib, an irreversible, pan-HER, oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor, interferes with constitutive receptor kinase activation and has activity in HER2-mutant tumours. SUMMIT is an open-label, single-arm, multi-cohort, phase 2, ‘basket’ trial of neratinib in patients with solid tumours harbouring oncogenic HER2 somatic mutations (NCT01953926). The primary objective of the BTC cohort was objective response rate (ORR). Among 25 treatment-refractory patients (11 cholangiocarcinoma, 10 gallbladder, 4 ampullary cancers), the ORR was 16%. The most common HER2 mutations were S310F (n = 11; 48%) and V777L (n = 4; 17%). Outcomes appeared worse for ampullary tumours or those with co-occurring oncogenic TP53 and CDKN2A alterations. Loss of amplified HER2 S310F and acquisition of multiple previously undetected oncogenic co-mutations were identified at progression in one responder. Neratinib demonstrated anti-tumour activity in patients with refractory BTC harbouring HER2 mutations. Future studies of rational combinations are warranted.
Damage assessment in one-nave churches and analysis of the most recurring mechanisms after the 2016-2017 Central Italy earthquakes
Authors: Ceroni Francesca , Casapulla Claudia , Cescatti Elvis , Follador Veronica , Prota Andrea , Porto Francesca da
Published: May 2022

The assessment of churches at a territorial scale is a suitable tool to have an overview of the seismic behaviour of this peculiar structural typology and to evaluate the current state of vulnerability based on empirical data. Fragility and vulnerability curves can also be obtained to perform the analysis of different seismic scenarios.The paper presents a detailed typological analysis of 633 one-nave churches, as a selected subset of the database previously examined by the authors, with the aim of evaluating the influence of some parameters such as: the masonry typology, the church dimensions, the presence of the bell tower, on the church vulnerability. After that, a specific analysis is carried out to assess the influence played by single mechanisms on the definition of the overall damage index, with the focus of providing qualitative evaluations and explicit vulnerability and fragility curves related to a selection of significant collapse mechanisms.
mRNA booster vaccination enhances antibody responses against SARS-CoV2 Omicron variant in individuals primed with mRNA or inactivated virus vaccines
Authors: Zhang Biyan , Huo Jianxin , Huang Yuhan , Teo Shuan Yong , Li Yan Feng , Toh Lim Kai , Lam Kong-Peng , Xu Shengli
Published: May 2022

The advent of Omicron variant globally hastened the requirement of a booster vaccination dose to confer continuous protection against symptomatic SARS-CoV2 infection. However, different vaccines are available in different countries and individuals who had adverse reactions to certain vaccine types require heterologous vaccine boosters. To understand the efficacy of different vaccination regimens in inducing humoral responses to SARS-CoV2, we examined plasma antibodies and frequencies of Omicron RBD-specific B cells in individuals who had different priming-booster vaccination regimens. We found that individuals with three homologous doses of mRNA vaccines had higher levels of IgG of all subclasses against RBD of Omicron than individuals with three homologous doses of inactivated virus vaccine. More importantly, individuals who received a booster dose of mRNA vaccine, regardless of the types of priming vaccine, had antibodies with higher neutralizing capability against the Omicron variant. Corroborating the antibody results, boosting with the mRNA vaccine increased the frequencies of Omicron RBD-binding B cells. Together, our data demonstrate that an mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273) booster enhances humoral responses against Omicron variant in individuals vaccinated with either two prior doses of mRNA or inactivated virus vaccine (CoronaVac or BBIBP-CorV), potentially providing more effective protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly by the Omicron variant.
Fully Fuzzy Linear Programming with Fuzzy Input Output Model: An Application for Turkish Economy
Authors: SEL Ahmet
Published: May 2022

All sectoral relations in an economy are examinable within the scope of input-output analysis. It is a hard task to create new input and output tables every year. Therefore, new input-output tables are accessible obtained for the relevant years by using update methods. Yet, the values in the new tables are not all exact results, and there are also uncertain situations involving predicted values. In this case, fuzzy numbers are applicable in input and output tables to evaluate uncertain situations. This study demonstrates, a new solution of fully fuzzy linear programming that has an integrability into fuzzy input output models. The developed model is based on the principle of decomposition of fuzzy input-output model. Using fuzzy numbers in coefficients, constraints and solutions enables the uncertain processes to be included in the model. The application example is the fuzzy input-output table for the Turkish economy and the fully fuzzy linear programming model that will maximize the Gross value added. The solution values of the developed model show that it yields appropriate results in evaluating the whole process in economy.Jel Codes: C44, C67, E2
Super-resolution microscopy enabled by high-efficiency surface-migration emission depletion
Authors: Pu Rui , Zhan Qiuqiang , Peng Xingyun , Liu Siying , Guo Xin , Liang Liangliang , Qin Xian , Zhao Ziqing , Liu Xiaogang
Published: May 2022

Nonlinear depletion of fluorescence states by stimulated emission constitutes the basis of far-field stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy1,2. Despite significant efforts over the past decade, achieving resolution below the diffraction limit at low saturation intensities by STED remains a major technical challenge3,4. By taking advantage of the surface quenching effect in NaGdF4:Yb/Tm nanocrystals, we report here high-efficiency emission depletion through nanocrystal surface migration. Under a dual-beam, continuous-wave, laser manipulation (975-nm excitation and 730-nm de-excitation), we achieved an emission depletion efficiency of over 95% and a depletion saturation intensity of 18.3 kW cm-2. Emission depletion by surface migration through Gd sublattices enables super-resolution microscopic imaging with an average lateral resolution of 20 nm and a Fourier ring correlation (FRC) resolution of 24-32 nm (depletion beam intensity, 1.09 MW cm-2). Our approach circumvents the fundamental limitation of high-intensity STED microscopy, providing autofluorescence-free, re-excitation-background-free imaging with a depletion saturation intensity over three orders of magnitude lower than conventional fluorophores. We also demonstrated super-resolution imaging of actin filaments of fixed Hela cells labelled with 8-nm Tm3+-activated nanoparticles. Combined with the outstanding photostability of lanthanide luminescence, surface migration emission depletion could provide a powerful mechanism for low-power, super-resolution imaging or tracking of biological dynamics without photobleaching.
Patient characteristics and dispatch responses of urinary tract infections in a prehospital setting in Copenhagen, Denmark: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Verhoeven Jeske , Christensen Helle Collatz , Blomberg Stig Nikolaj , Scholz Mirjam , Böbel Simone , Krafft Thomas
Published: May 2022

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is particularly common in young women and the elderly. The Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Copenhagen, Denmark can be reached by calling either of two dedicated telephone lines: 1-1-2 in case of an emergency and 1813 during general practitioner’s (GP) out-of-office hours (OOH). This study investigated characteristics of patients with symptoms of UTI calling the Copenhagen EMS and the response they received. Methods: A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted in which 7.5 years of telephone data on UTI from the EMS in Copenhagen were analyzed. Descriptive statistics and multinomial logistic regression were used to analyze patient characteristics, the timing of the incident and response. Patients’ age and gender were assessed and the use of urinary catheters, the timing of the incident, and the impact on the response were evaluated. Results: A total of 278.961 calls were included (78% female, mean age 47), with an average of 120 patients with UTI symptoms calling each day. Most people contacted the 1813-medical helpline (98%) and of those, the majority were referred to the emergency department (ED)(37%). Patients were more likely to be referred to the ED during the weekend compared to a weekday and less likely during OOH compared to in-office hours (IH). Patients with a urinary catheter were more likely to receive specialized care referred to as ‘other’. For the smaller proportion of patients calling 1-1-2, most people got a B (urgent) response (1.5%). The most likely response to be given was an A (emergency) or F (non-emergency) response during OOH compared to IH and on weekends compared to weekdays. Patients with a urinary catheter were more likely to receive a D (unmonitored transport) response. Conclusions: Since 2015, there was an increase in calls made to 1-1-2 and a decrease in 1813 antibiotic prescription rates and a subsequent increase in referral to the ED of UTI patients. Patients were referred less to the ED during OOH as they were likely to be sent to their GP the next day. During the weekend, patients were referred more to the ED for the likely reason that their GP is closed.