bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation mechanism of near stoichiometric SiC fibers after air and Ar–H2O–O2corrosion at 1000–1500°C
Authors: Wang Yongshou , Wang Xiaozhou , Wu Shuang , Song Quzhi , Long Xin , Wang Yingde
Published: December 2022

The near stoichiometric SiC fiber has been reported to play significant roles in the application of aeroengine field. An in‐depth understanding on the degradation mechanism of the fiber during its corrosion in air and under a simulated aeroengine environment (PH2O:PO2:PAr = 14:8:78 kPa) will shine a light on the performance evaluations of the near stoichiometric SiC fiber‐based materials as well as the development of their potential applications. In this study, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and FIB‐TEM were utilized to analyze the mechanical properties and microstructure of the fiber. After oxidation in dry air and Ar–H2O–O2for 1 h, respectively, the fiber strength retention rate has been found to decrease with the increased oxidation temperature. The raise in oxidation temperature also led to the increase of the thickness and the crystallization rate of the oxide scale. The most different oxidation behaviors of SiC being treated under the simulated environment than in air are the lower oxidation activation energy and the higher crystallization activation energy for cristobalite. Water vapor can promote the oxidation reaction and inhibit the crystallization of cristobalite in the oxide scale. Few significant differences have been observed otherwise in the oxidation process and oxidation chromatography crystallization mechanism of fibers being treated under different conditions. The increase of oxide layer thickness and the formation of cristobalite impair the structural integrity and compactness of the oxide scale and thus lead to the deterioration of the mechanical properties of SiC fibers. Therefore, it is proposed that oxidation resistance of SiC fiber can be improved by insulating the reaction between the oxidizing agents and the SiC fiber or by increasing the crystallization temperature of cristobalite in the oxidation process and reducing the crystallization rate.
Why have Madagascar's mammals, despite being closely‐related to African open‐habitat specialists, failed to radiate into open grasslands?
Authors: Joseph Grant S. , Seymour Colleen L.
Published: December 2022

Seventy‐five percent of Madagascar is treeless C4‐grassland adapted to human‐lit fire, which likely succeeded pre‐human mosaics of forest, ericoids, grassy‐woodlands and some smaller treeless‐grasslands. In support of pre‐settlement Malagasy grasslands having evolved with many grassland specialist faunal elements, Bond et al. (2022) cite “considerable overlap” in African and Malagasy hippo diets, and suggest time‐scale hampered mammal radiation into treeless‐grasslands. We find, however, that faunal elements referenced are predominantly habitat generalists (not grassland specialists), that African and Malagasy hippos occupy significantly different feeding‐niches, and that despite shared Miocene timeframes, Malagasy non‐arboreal mammals remained forest‐adapted whilst species that share ancestry with them on the African mainland radiated into open habitats.
MNX1 mutations causing neonatal diabetes: Review of the literature and report of a case with extra‐pancreatic congenital defects presenting in severe diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Aly Hanan Hassan , De Franco Elisa , Flanagan Sarah E. , Elhenawy Yasmine I.
Published: December 2022

The MNX1 gene encodes a homeobox transcription factor found to be important for pancreatic beta cell differentiation and development. Mutations of the MNX1 gene that cause permanent neonatal diabetes mellitus (PNDM) are rare and have been reported in only two cases. Both cases presented with hyperglycemia, with one case having isolated PNDM while the other had PNDM and multiple neurologic, skeletal, lung, and urologic congenital anomalies resulting in death in early infancy. We describe the genetic and clinical features of a preterm male infant with a homozygous [c.816C > A p.(Phe272Leu)] MNX1 mutation. Our proband is the first case to present in severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), indicating severe insulin deficiency. Unlike the previously reported female case who had the same mutation and presented with isolated PNDM, our proband had hypospadias and congenital umbilical hernia and showed poor growth on follow up. Our case suggests that MNX1 mutations causing NDM can result in a range of extra‐pancreatic features and a variable phenotype, similar to other transcription factors causing NDM such as GATA6 and GATA4 mutations. We also cannot exclude the possibility of sex‐biased expression of MNX1 gene (which was recently reported for other monogenic/neonatal diabetes genes such as the NEUROD1 and HNF4A in humans) since the two male cases had associated multiple anomalies while the female case had isolated PNDM. Our report further defines the phenotype caused by recessive homozygous MNX1 mutations and explores potential new mechanisms regulating MNX1 gene expression which should be further explored.
A kind reminder—A qualitative process evaluation of women's perspectives on receiving a reminder of type 2 diabetes follow‐up screening after gestational diabetes
Authors: Nedergaard Julie B. , Nielsen Jane H. , Andersen Lærke M. B. , Dahl Tina A. , Overgaard Charlotte
Published: December 2022

Rationale, Aims and Objectives

Women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are more than eight times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes (T2DM) compared to women without GDM. Annual follow‐up T2DM‐screening is recommended, but participation rates decrease rapidly after the first year. In the North Denmark Region, an electronic reminder has been tested with the aim of improving follow‐up care for women with prior GDM. The aim of this study was to explore women's perspectives on receiving an electronic reminder, and the role of reminders in both women's decision‐making and informed choice regarding participation in follow‐up screening.

Methods

A qualitative process evaluation informed by a critical realistic perspective. Data consisted of 20 semi‐structured interviews with women previously diagnosed with GDM who had received the reminder. Interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The reminder affected women's decision‐making and informed choices through a range of mechanisms. Its personalized design prompted feelings of co‐responsibility and care from the healthcare system, supported continuity in women's care pathways, and helped women bridge the gap between healthcare sectors. Women's perception of diabetes risk and the importance of follow‐up influenced their decision‐making. Participation in follow‐up screening was influenced by several contextual factors, as women's everyday life impeded their prioritizing follow‐up screening. Women who experienced being met by their general practitioner (GP) with acknowledgement rather than stigmatization and received supportive information tailored to their life situation were more motivated to participate in future follow‐up screenings.

Conclusion

The reminder indicated both concern and co‐responsibility for women's follow‐up care after GDM and was well received by the women. It supported participation in follow‐up screening through an emphasis on shared decision‐making and informed choice. Women's interaction with their GP played a significant role.
Improving hearing quality in child welfare cases
Authors: Sage Judge Robin D. , Green Tara Grigg
Published: December 2022

Trained observers with vast experience observed and measured over 780 child welfare hearings in five sites to assess what was occurring in hearings. A tool was used to measure the hearing against an ideal standard. The sum and conclusions of those observations are contained herein with recommendations on how to improve the quality of court hearings.
Modeling and optimization of osmo‐sonicated dehydration of garlic slices in a novel infrared dryer using artificial neural network and response surface methodology
Authors: Malakar Santanu , Dhurve Priyanka , Arora Vinkel Kumar
Published: December 2022

This investigation aims to develop a novel infrared drying system and optimization of ultrasound‐assisted osmotic dehydration of garlic slices. RSM and ANN approaches are used for modeling and optimization of the process parameters. The factors sonication time, sonication temperature, and osmotic concentration, were considered to optimize responses, that is, solid gain (SG), weight loss (WL), rehydration ratio (RR), drying rate (DR), and allicin content (AC). The ultrasonic time and osmotic concentration had significant effects on mass transfer parameters and the quality of dried garlic slices. The optimum drying conditions were found at an ultrasonic temperature: 20°C, ultrasound time: 28.54 min, and osmotic concentration: 55.58% while the optimum responses were WL: 25.839%, SG: 3.557%, RR: 7.512, DR: 0.163 (g H2O/g.dm/min), and AC: 15.229 (mg/g). The prediction of the responses revealed that both RSM and ANN approaches can predict the model precisely but the ANN models showed higher accuracy.

Practical Applications

The developed lab‐scale infrared drying system can be used for drying other food commodities. The optimum drying performance plays a very prominent role based on the drying parameters and the quality attributes of the osmo‐sonicated assisted infrared drying. Enhancement of the drying performance depends on various factors like pretreatment, and actual drying condition prior to optimization. This research showed that increased drying performance in terms of mass transfer and quality attributes and optimum process conditions will be applied to the intelligent process design for any drying optimization for further development of large‐scale drying systems.
Drying kinetics and shrinkage rate of thin‐sliced pears in different drying stages
Authors: Kalantari Davood , Naji‐Tabasi Sara , Kaveh Mohammad , Azadbakht Mohsen , Majnooni Moein , Khorshidi Yuness , Asghari Ali , Khalife Esmail
Published: December 2022

In this research, the effect of different parameters of a convective hot air dryer on the mass transfer coefficients of thin‐sliced pears in different drying stages is analytically and experimentally investigated. According to the results, in the first stage of drying which begins from the initial moisture content (MC) of 87–57% in this study, the convective heat transfer coefficient, the inlet air temperature and the initial MC of the product had the highest influence on the mass transfer rate of the drying product. In the second drying stage (from 57 to 27% MC), the structure of internal pore of the fruit, the internal MC and the thickness of the cut layers are the most influencing parameters controlling the mass transfer coefficient of the product. In the third region of drying (from MC of 27% to the final MC), the inlet air temperature had the greatest effect on the rate of mass transfer from the product. In this region of drying, increasing the drying temperature from 50 to 60°C at an airflow velocity of 0.5 m/s, yielded increasing the effective diffusion coefficient from 1.19 × 10−7 to 4.09 × 10−7 m/s2. The results of this study showed that increasing the airflow rate in the third stage of drying reduces the effective mass transfer coefficient. The highest effective diffusion coefficient in the third region of drying for thin‐sliced pears was obtained equal to 6.24 × 10−7 m/s2 for drying temperature of 80°C and airflow velocity of 0.5 m/s.

Practical Applications

Pears (Pyrus communis L.) are bell‐shaped fruits that are in the range of green, yellow, brown, red, or a combination of these colors. This useful fruit is rich in potassium, vitamins, and minerals. There are 30 varieties of pears in the world and they are consumed cooked, compote, or raw. The drying process of fruits and vegetables by reducing the moisture of the product, prevents chemical and biochemical spoilage of the product and increases their shelf life. However, some undesirable physical and chemical changes such as discoloration, texture, and nutritional value may also occur during drying, which reduces consumer acceptance. Drying operations usually take place in the final stages and after other operations and lead to the production of the final product.
Preparation and characterization of edible whey protein nanofibrils and efficacy studies on the quality and shelf‐life of chilled food products
Authors: Hasan Zainab , Zeshan Basit , Hassan Ammara , Daud Nur Hardy A. , Sadaf Asma , Ahmed Naveed
Published: December 2022

Whey is the by‐product of cheese making which can be manipulated into edible films and coatings, it relies on its high viscosity, high hydrophobicity, and antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. In the present study, titanium‐based whey protein nanoparticles (WPNFs/TNPs) and whey protein isolates (WPI) were prepared and edible coatings and films were developed and characterized. The antimicrobial activity against common foodborne pathogens (S. aureus, E. coli, S. typhi, A. niger, P. expansum, and P. variotii) were conducted followed by their efficacy on six different chilled products analyzed on beef, chicken meat, mutton and fish meat, cheddar cheese and mozeralla cheese were selected for efficacy studies. The Scanning Electron Microscopy (Socaciu, Fogarasi et al.) revealed long and linear fibrils of WPNFs and with the addition of TNPs, the fibrils became denser. Fibril emulsions were expected to be more stable because of their high viscosity. Both the WPNFs/TNPs and WPI were smooth and homogenous surfaces without cracks or pore. The WPNFs/TNPs showed various degrees of antimicrobial activities against all the microbial strains and with the addition of nanoparticles, their interaction increased which further enhanced the quality of the product. Each film and coating had clear zones against all the desired microbes. The inhibition zones of WPI/TNPs were smaller than those of WPNFs/TNPs films. The addition of TNPs into with the nanofibrils enhanced the activity of nanofibrils and also it showed better and larger inhibition zones. The DPPH Radical‐scavenging activity of WPNFs/TNPs‐based samples was greater than that of the WPI/TNPs based samples. The highest was observed against the fish and mutton samples, followed by chicken and beef. The WPNFs/TNPs edible coatings decreased the microbial growth throughout storage for serval weeks. Our results may provide a basic understanding of the use of whey protein as an alternative for food safety of chilled food products.
Adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle improves metabolic status in coronary heart disease patients: A prospective analysis from the CORDIOPREV study
Authors: Romero‐Cabrera Juan Luis , García‐Ríos Antonio , Sotos‐Prieto Mercedes , Quintana‐Navarro Gracia , Alcalá‐Díaz Juan Francisco , Martín‐Piedra Laura , Torres‐Peña José David , Luque Raúl M. , Yubero‐Serrano Elena María , Delgado‐Lista Javier , Katsiki Niki , Kales Stefanos N. , López‐Miranda José , Pérez‐Martínez Pablo
Published: December 2022

Background and objectives

A Mediterranean lifestyle may prevent and mitigate cardiometabolic disorders. We explored whether adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle was prospectively associated with the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among coronary heart disease (CHD) patients.

Methods

The Coronary Diet Intervention with Olive Oil and Cardiovascular Prevention (CORDIOPREV) study was an interventional diet study to compare a Mediterranean diet with a low‐fat diet, in 1002 CHD patients. The Mediterranean lifestyle (MEDLIFE) index was used to assess adherence to a MEDLIFE at baseline, and after 5 years, in 851 participants from the CORDIOPREV study. Subjects were classified as having high (>13 points), moderate (12–13 points), and low (<12 points) adherence to the MEDLIFE. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the association between MEDLIFE adherence and the risk of MetS development or reversal.

Results

During the 5‐year follow‐up, CORDIOPREV participants with high adherence to MEDLIFE had a lower risk of MetS development (odds ratio [OR] 0.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.19–0.75, p < 0.01) and a higher likelihood of reversing preexisting MetS (OR 2.08 CI 95% 1.11–3.91, p = 0.02) compared with participants in the low MEDLIFE adherence group. Each additional one‐point increment in the MEDLIFE index was associated with a 24% lower risk of MetS development (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.64–0.90, p < 0.01) and a 21% higher likelihood of reversing preexisting MetS (OR 1.21 CI 95% 1.04–1.41, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Our results showed that greater adherence to a MEDLIFE reduced the risk of subsequent MetS development and increased the likelihood of reversing preexisting MetS among patients with CHD at baseline.
Unethical leadership: A review, analysis, and research agenda
Authors: Mitchell Marie S. , Rivera Gabriela , Treviño Linda Klebe
Published: December 2022

Leaders play a critical role in creating the ethics agenda in organizations. Their communications, decisions, and behaviors influence employees to act ethically or unethically to accomplish organizational goals. To be sure, various reviews within the behavioral ethics literature have highlighted the crucial role that ethical leadership plays in gearing organizations and employees ethically. Yet, numerous documented ethical failings in organizations have evidenced the impact of unethical leadership—where leaders’ unethical conduct or influence on employees promotes unethicality within organizations and generates harmful consequences. Therefore, understanding the darker side of leadership is important. The literature that has emerged in the organizational sciences on the study of unethical leadership, however, is fragmented, creating ambiguities and introducing potential confounds on what constitutes unethical leadership. We review this body of work, summarizing findings on the antecedents, explanatory mechanisms, and consequences of unethical leadership. We then provide an evaluation of the unethical leadership conceptualization, taking stock of previous conceptualizations, problems associated with past approaches, and offer considerations for a conceptualization to progress future scholarship. The goal is to engage scholarly conversation on how to evolve the unethical leadership domain without engaging in logical fallacy or post‐hoc rationalization. We offer practical implications for managers to address and minimize unethical leadership within their organizations and outline future research directions to advance our understanding of unethical leadership and its nomological network.
Trust, power, and organizational routines: Exploring government's intentional tactics to renew relationships with nonprofits serving historically marginalized communities
Authors: Cheng Yuan (Daniel) , Sandfort Jodi
Published: December 2022

Existing public management practices and organizational routines in the contracting regime have systematically created power asymmetry and distrust between government agencies and nonprofits serving historically marginalized communities. However, little is known about how the government could reform public bureaucracies to renew relationships with these important organizations and build trust. Through a process‐oriented inductive study of Minnesota's 2‐Generation Policy Network, we find that government's cascading trust‐building tactics both inside the bureaucracy and with nonprofits serving Black, Latino, Indigenous, and Immigrant/Refugee communities allowed them to create a new collaborative infrastructure that both changed organizational routines and built power to address racial inequities in the existing human service system. Power is not a zero‐sum game. By sharing resources and building trust with their nonprofit partners, government agencies and nonprofits collectively access more power for genuine public management reform to address systematic inequities.
Evaluating the impact of different spatial linkages on forum outcome interdependencies in polycentric systems
Authors: McLaughlin Danielle M.
Published: December 2022

In complex polycentric systems, decisions regarding the governance of certain subsystems (e.g., watersheds) are often determined by networks of diverse actors who participate across a range of forums tackling interconnected collective actions issues (e.g., water quality, biodiversity, flood management). Compounding this structural complexity are the multifaceted interdependencies that exist between forums across a system. Drawing on the Ecology of Games Theory (EGT), this article investigates the impact of different types of network linkages on outcome interdependence between forums. Using a series of spatial autoregressive models on data collected in a Tampa Bay water governance system, I find evidence that co‐membership and organizational networks serve as pathways for outcome spillovers between forums. Building theory that helps elucidate how different types of network relationships may influence outcomes across a system is critical for the continued development of EGT and the governance of polycentric systems.
Justice in Black and Brown: The impact of political control and representative bureaucracy on street level outcomes
Authors: Jackson William T. , Neshkova Milena I. , Meier Kenneth J.
Published: December 2022

This study tests the explanatory power of two prominent public administration theories—political control and representative bureaucracy—in understanding disparities in public service provision. While prior research focused on street‐level bureaucracy, we study here how political and group identities of top elected law enforcement officials affect the distribution of youth arrests, alternatives, and prosecutions among minority groups. Data from Florida's 67 counties between 2015 and 2020 demonstrate that sheriff's and state attorney's party affiliation, race, and ethnicity do affect street‐level outcomes. However, the effects are more pronounced for race than ideology. Also, representative bureaucracy appears more relevant for race than ethnicity and explains the behavior of Black sheriffs but not Black state attorneys.
Service-Learning and Physical Education in Preservice Teacher Training: Toward the Development of Civic Skills and Attitudes
Authors: Maravé-Vivas María , Gil-Gómez Jesús , Moliner García Odet , Capella-Peris Carlos
Published: December 2022

Purpose: This research analyzes the effects of a Service-learning program on the development of civic attitudes and skills on preservice teachers (n = 98). They provided a direct service of motor sessions aimed at children with functional diversity. Method: The topic was approached using a mixed methodological approach. A pre- and posttest quantitative analysis was performed on the results obtained after applying the Civic Attitudes and Skills Questionnaire, and a qualitative analysis was performed on the content of follow-up journals. Results: The quantitative results indicated a significant positive posttest, and qualitative analysis explained the civic skills and attitudes that the preservice teachers acquired. Discussion/Conclusion: Service-learning is a useful method for promoting the civic attitudes and skills of preservice teachers. The acquired learning specifically affected the different dimensions involved in achieving meaningful learning, an improvement in the skills and attitudes that are essential characteristics of an inclusive teacher.
MODELING THE EFFECTS OF INSECTICIDES ON CROP PRODUCTION IN THE PRESENCE OF INSECT POPULATION
Authors: MISRA ARVIND KUMAR , YADAV AKASH
Published: December 2022

In this research work, a nonlinear mathematical model is proposed and analyzed to study the adverse effects of insects on agricultural productivity by controlling the insect population using insecticides. In the model formulation, it is assumed that agricultural crops grow logistically and the growth rate of insects wholly depends on agricultural crops with Holling type-II functional response. It is further assumed that insects uptake insecticides; thus, the amount of insecticides decreases at a rate proportional to its amount and the density of insect population, and the growth rate of insect population decrease in the same proportion. The feasibility of all non-negative equilibria and their stability properties are discussed. Stability analysis specifies that agricultural crop consumption rate destabilizes the system; however, the spraying rate of insecticides stabilizes the system. The conditions for the existence of pitchfork and Hopf-bifurcation are derived. Considering the spraying rate of insecticides as time-dependent, we have also discussed the optimal control strategy to minimize both insect density and the associated cost. The numerical simulation validates the analytical findings.
IN-SILICO PERFORMANCE INVESTIGATION OF NANOPARTICLE-ASSISTED PHOTO THERMAL ABLATION
Authors: PALASH TORIKUL ISLAM , KAYSIR MD REJVI , ISLAM MD JAHIRUL , AZIZ SABIHA BINTE , MIMMA TASKIA NADRIBA , AKTHER NASRIN
Published: December 2022

In recent days, the number of cancer cases is escalating promptly around the world. In general, conventional ablation methods, encompassing comprehensive drawbacks, are employed to cure cancer. At present, photo thermal therapy (PTT) is showing great promise to the treatment of cancer. However, the effective implementation of this technology is utmost challenging as several parameters affect the tumor surroundings. In this work, the effects of different parameters on the performance of PTT have been thoroughly investigated by considering a realistic model of human tissue underneath the skin using a finite element solver, COMSOL Multiphysics. Two different conditions, with and without considering gold nanoparticles at tumor site, are investigated where a laser beam is used as a source of energy. Fluence rate, temperature distribution, and thermal damage are highlighted in this work. It is observed that by utilizing a miniature needle with integrated waveguide and gold nanoparticles, a tumor can be effectively eradicated along with assuaging the conventional drawbacks of PTT. This study would also be useful for designing operative PTT for different parts of human tissue.
EXTINCTION THRESHOLD IN A STOCHASTIC EPIDEMIC MODEL FOR ROTAVIRUS DYNAMICS WITH CONTAMINATED ENVIRONMENT
Authors: MALIYONI MILLIWARD , MAGAMBA KONDWANI , KADALEKA SOLOMON
Published: December 2022

Mathematical models for the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases have aided our understanding of the important factors that drive epidemic patterns. In this paper, we formulate and analyze a stochastic epidemic model, a continuous-time Markov chain, in order to understand rotavirus dynamics with a contaminated environment. The assumptions of the deterministic model are utilized in the formulation of the corresponding stochastic model. We perform both local and global stability analyses of the equilibria of the deterministic model with respect to the basic reproduction number. The extinction threshold for the stochastic model and conditions for either disease extinction or persistence are derived by employing the branching process to the infectious classes only. It is shown that the probability of rotavirus extinction obtained from the branching process is in excellent agreement with the numerically approximated probability. Numerical results indicate that the probability of rotavirus extinction is the highest if the contaminated environment introduces the virus into a totally susceptible population at the beginning of the epidemic process. Thus, a major rotavirus outbreak is likely if the virus emanates from infectious children at the onset of the epidemic. Results of sensitivity analysis showed that shedding of the virus into the environment by infectious children is the most sensitive parameter of the model. Further, it is shown that decreasing the shedding rate leads to an increase in the probability of disease extinction and vice versa. This, therefore, implies that disposal of stool of infectious children should be well managed if efforts to curb further spread of the disease or even eliminating it are to bear desirable fruits.
BISTABILITY, GENERALIZED AND ZERO-HOPF BIFURCATIONS IN A PEST CONTROL MODEL WITH FARMING AWARENESS
Authors: AL BASIR FAHAD , SAMANTA SUDIP , TIWARI PANKAJ KUMAR
Published: December 2022

Introduction of biopesticides and predators in the crop fields has a crucial impact on the pest management as the biopesticides induce infection among the pest population and the infected pests are easy to be captured by the predators. In this paper, we investigate a mathematical model for a pest management system with farming awareness-based inclusion of predators and biopesticides. The level of awareness among the farmers is assumed to grow at a constant rate besides its growth due to an increase in the pest population in the crop field. The proposed model is analyzed mathematically for the feasibility and stability of the equilibrium points; existence of Hopf bifurcation together with direction and stability of the bifurcating periodic solutions are discussed; sufficient conditions are derived for which the system does not exhibit any periodic solution. Our simulation results show that the activeness of farmers for employing biopesticides in the crop field potentially suppresses the oscillations and brings forth stability in the system. Further, we observe that the system showcases the appearances of Generalized Hopf bifurcation, Zero-Hopf bifurcation, transcritical bifurcation and bistability. Overall, our findings manifest that by imparting knowledge among the farmers regarding the use of biopesticides and predators in the crop fields, the pest population can be effectively controlled.
A NOVEL FRACTAL MODEL FOR SPONTANEOUS IMBIBITION IN DAMAGED TREE-LIKE BRANCHING NETWORKS
Authors: WANG PEILONG , XIAO BOQI , GAO JUN , ZHU HUAIZHI , LIU MINGXING , LONG GONGBO , LI PEICHAO
Published: December 2022

Spontaneous imbibition has attracted considerable attention due to its extensive existence in nature. In this study, we theoretically explored the spontaneous imbibition dynamics in a damaged V-shaped tree-like branching network by comparing with a parallel net with fixed constraints. Additionally, the imbibition capacity is characterized by two dimensionless quantities: imbibition potential and dimensionless imbibition time. The fractal theory is then used to generate the analytical expressions of these two dimensionless quantities. After that, the influence of structural parameters on the imbibition process is systematically investigated. It is found that a larger number of damaged channels will correspond to the lower imbibition potential and dimensionless imbibition time. Notably, the branching number N has an evident enhancement effect on the imbibition potential. A parameter plane is introduced to visualize parameter combinations, enabling the direct evaluation of the imbibition process in a specific network system. The physical mechanisms revealed by the proposed model provide effective guidance for imbibition process analysis in the damaged tree-like networks.
CHARACTERIZATION OF FOUR MAIN SALMONELLA SEROVARS, ALBANY, KENTUCKY, MBANDAKA, AND MONTEVIDEO, ASSOCIATED WITH CHICKEN LINES, FARMS, AND SAMPLE SOURCES IN SOUTHERN TAIWAN
Authors: Chu Chishih , Yu Chang-You , Kuo Ting-Chun
Published: December 2022

Poultry and its products are often referred to as reservoirs of Salmonella to infect humans. Salmonella serovars were determined from samples of terminated eggs (early-terminated eggs, EEs, and late-terminated eggs, LEs) on farms YA (layers), YB (native hybrid broilers, NHCs), and YF (NHCs); one-day-old chicks (OCs) on farm YB; and shoe covers (SCs) on farms YB, YC (broilers), YD (broilers), YE (NHCs), and YF using multiplex PCR and agglutination methods. One hundred isolates were examined for susceptibility to 13 antimicrobials and profiles of pulsotypes and plasmids. Nine serovars were identified as serogroup B Agona and Schwarzengrund, serogroup C1 Montevideo and Mbandaka, serogroup C2 Albany, Kentucky and Newport, serogroup E Weltevreden, and serogroup G Kedougou. Different from those in 2003, Albany, Kentucky, Montevideo, and Mbandaka were the predominant serovars that differed in chromosomal and plasmid variations and antibiogram profiles. Albany and Kentucky isolates had higher resistance levels to the antimicrobials than the Montevideo and Mbandaka isolates. The antibiogram differences among the serovars may be related to the presence of antibiotic resistance genes in Salmonella genomic island 1-F (SGI1-F) and plasmids in Albany isolates. Albany and Kentucky exhibited the largest chromosomal and plasmid variations, respectively. The main serovars associated with embryogenesis termination were Mbandaka and Montevideo in EEs and LEs, Newport in NHCs, and Kedougou in LEs from layers. Furthermore, Montevideo and Agona were the only serovars detected in OCs, and Albany and Kentucky were the main serovars on SCs. Farm management also affected the Salmonella prevalence and predominant serovars.
Blockchain-Integrated Advanced Persistent Threat Detection Using Optimized Deep Learning-Enabled Feature Fusion
Authors: Srinadh V. , Swaminathan B. , Vidyadhari Ch.
Published: December 2022

Through Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs), which can reveal data alteration, destruction, or Denial of Service attacks through the examples of exposed hardware and software, the information technology model advances. Moving Target (MTD) is a promising risk-reduction strategy that primarily relies on APTs by utilizing dynamic and randomization techniques on properties that are collaborated. Although there are various MTD approaches to implement the blind random mutation, it still produces better performance overhead as well as poor defense utility. Additionally, APT is a unique assault strategy that was typically developed by hacking groups to steal data or deactivate systems for enormous originalities and uniform countries. APT is a multi-stage, long-term representative, and it is difficult to identify attacks effectively using an outmoded approach. In this paper, Conditional Dingo Optimization Algorithm Deep Residual Network (CDOA-based DRN) is devised for APT detection. Moreover, correlation Tversky index-based similarity is designed for performing feature fusion. The hybrid optimization algorithm effectively increases the performance and reduces various real-world issues. Testing accuracy, True Positive Rate, and False Positive Rate of the newly developed CDOA-based DRN are 95.43%, 96.34%, and 91.43%, respectively, for better performance.
Enhancement of Tech-Sil25 Maxillofacial Silicone Mechanical Properties after Artificial Weathering through Addition of Nanoparticles
Authors: Fadhil Bunyan Shahad , Mohamad Suhaimi Fatanah , Mohidden Mostafa Zardawi Faraedon , Mohd Noor Siti Noor Fazliah , Zabidi Muhammad Azrul
Published: December 2022

Purpose. To evaluate the effect of nanosilica and nanoalumina addition in Tech-sil25 maxillofacial silicone before and after exposure to artificial weathering conditions. Materials and Methods. A total of 144 samples were divided into four groups, a control group (n = 12) and three test groups, nanosilica (NS) (n = 36), nanoalumina (NA) (n = 36), and a hybrid nanoparticle (HySA) (n = 60) at different weight percentages (1, 2, and 3 wt. %) was added to Tech-sil25. Samples were exposed to artificial weathering for 100 hours, and subjected to characterizations involving tear strength, shore A hardness, roughness, and tensile strength tests. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using a one-way ANOVA test to determine the level of significance between the groups. Results. After 100 hours of artificial weathering, the one-way ANOVA result shows a highly significant increase in tensile and tear strengths with a minimal increase in hardness and roughness observed in samples containing 2% nanosilica (NS) followed by hybrid nanoparticle (HySA) of 1% nanoalumina (NA) + 1% nanosilica (NS) compared with a control group and other groups. Conclusions. The addition of nanosilica (NS), nanoalumina (NA), and a hybrid nanoparticle (HySA) to the Tech-sil25 maxillofacial silicone improved its mechanical properties. The combination of several filler reinforcements is essential for enhancing silicone’s antiaging properties of silicone and maintaining some of its mechanical properties to prolong the service life.
Repair of Cranial Defects in Rabbits with 3D‐Printed Hydroxyapatite/Polylactic Acid Composites
Authors: Fan Guofeng , Yang Liu , Liu Dong , Wang Yongxin , Ji Wenyu , Tukebai  , Qin Hu , Wang Zengliang
Published: December 2022

Objective. The safety and efficacy of three‐dimensional‐ (3D‐) printed hydroxyapatite/polylactic acid (HA‐PLA) composites in repairing cranial defects were evaluated in a rabbit experimental model. Methods. Twelve New Zealand rabbits were selected as experimental subjects. Two holes (A and B), each with a diameter of approximately 1 cm, were made in the cranium of each rabbit. Hole A served as the experimental manipulation, and hole B served as the control manipulation. A 3D‐printed HA‐PLA composite was used for placement onto hole A, whereas autologous bone powder was used for placement onto hole B. Samples from the experimental holes and the control holes were collected at 30 and 90 days after surgery. The obtained materials were examined in terms of their morphologies and histopathologies and were also subjected to simultaneous hardness tests. Results. Both the 3D‐printed HA‐PLA composite and autologous bone powder were able to repair and fill the cranial defects at 30 days and 90 days after surgery. At 30 days after surgery, the microhardness of the area repaired by the HA‐PLA composite was lower than that of the area repaired by autogenous bone powder (p < 0.01), but neither of these treatments reached the hardness of normal bone at this time (p < 0.01). At 90 days after surgery, there was no statistically significant difference in the microhardness of the repaired area from the 3D‐printed HA‐PLA composite compared with that of the repaired area from autologous bone powder (p > 0.05), and there was no statistically significant difference in the hardness of the two repaired areas compared with that of the normal bone (p > 0.05). Hematoxylin‐eosin staining showed that bone cells in the HA‐PLA material in the experimental group grew and were arranged in an orderly manner. Bone trabeculae and marrow cavities were formed on the pore surface and inside of the HA‐PLA scaffold, and the arrangement of bone trabeculae was regular. Conclusion. 3D‐printed HA‐PLA composites can induce bone regeneration, are biocompatible, have the same strength as autologous bone powder, are able to degrade, and are ultimately safe and effective for repairing cranial defects in rabbits. However, further research is needed to determine the feasibility of 3D‐printed HA‐PLA composites in human cranioplasty.
Phytochemical Investigation and Therapeutical Potential of Cotinus coggygria Scop. in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Rahman Shahid , Jan Gul , Jan Farzana Gul , Rahim Hafeez Ur
Published: December 2022

Plants are a significant source for the development of new phytomedicines due to their great clinical benefits, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, fewer side effects, and more affordable therapies. Numerous plants used in traditional treatments, such as Cotinus coggygria Scop., have been effective in the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM). Therefore, the study is aimed at assessing the phytochemical, antioxidant, and antidiabetic properties of C. coggygria. The hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity was evaluated in Swiss male Albino mice by administering an oral dose of 150-250 mg/kg of C. coggygria extracts in alloxan-induced diabetic mice for 15 days. The antioxidant activity and phytochemical composition of the extracts were assessed by using α, α diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays and through standard chemical procedures. The effects of extracts on blood glucose, body weight, lipid profile, and biochemical parameters like total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipids (LDL), high-density lipids (HDL), plasma insulin, liver glycogen, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea, and creatinine were determined according to standard procedures. The activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide-dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) were also analyzed spectrophotometrically. The hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects with chloroform extracts of 250 mg/kg were found significant in the treatment of diabetes in alloxanised mice compared to the diabetic group. The haematological parameters such as TC, TG, HDL, LDL, creatinine, urea, AST, ALT, and ALP were significantly improved (

p
<
0.01

) by the chloroform extract of 250 mg/kg compared to the diabetic group. Treatment for 15 days showed significant elevation (

p
<
0.01

) of antioxidant enzymes. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), column chromatography (CC), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses tentatively identified different phytoconstitutents and metabolites in C. coggygria leaves, which have been reported to possess antihyperglycemic properties. In conclusion, the chloroform extract of 250 mg/kg of C. coggygria possesses significant hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic potential which may prove the claimed use of the plant in amelioration of diabetes and associated complications in folkloric medicine. Additional studies are required for the purification, characterization, and structural elucidation of bioactive compounds.
Construction and Validation of a Novel Immune Checkpoint-Related Model in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Fan ZhiXiang , Sun XinXin , Li Kun , Zhang YanYan , Zuo ShiKai , Li CanCan , Wan Shi , Huang DongMei
Published: December 2022

Background. With the highest mortality and metastasis rate, kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is one of the most common urological malignant tumors and not sensitive to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Immunotherapy, which proves to be effective and a big progression, such as PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors, is not sensitive to all KIRC patients. To predict prognosis and immunotherapy response, a novel immune checkpoint gene- (ICG-) related model is essential in clinics. Methods. From the public database-downloaded dataset, a novel ICG-related model for predicting prognosis and immunotherapy response in KIRC patients was built up and verified with R packages and Cox regression analysis. The Kaplan-Meier curve was plotted. Results. 39 ICGs were identified to have different expression in KIRC patients and enriched in immune-related biological pathways and activities. Three ICGs (CTLA4, TNFSF14, and HHLA2) were screened to generate KIRC-ICG model. The KIRC-ICG model was verified to be effective. With conducting KIRC-SYS model, KIRC-ICGscore was verified to be an independent factor regardless of age, gender, stage, grade, and TNM stage. Compared to the ICG-low subgroup, the ICG-high subgroup had more immune activities. KIRC-ICGscore was significantly positively correlated with the expression of Treg markers. KIRC-ICG model could also be reliable to predict immunotherapy response. Conclusion. The KIRC-ICG model was reliable to predict prognosis and immunotherapy response for KIRC patients and could be an independent factor regardless of clinical characteristics.
School Book Publishing
Authors: Seshadri Sesh
Published: December 2022

Educational publishing in India has contributed to the growth of human development. There is still much room for bringing in new thought processes and best practices. In this context, a few models that were followed in the past can be brought back for the good of the industry. These models all worked, and it is up to the industry to revisit and reform them. The dropout rate in schools is coming down and the number of schools will continue to grow. And that is great news.
Roli Books
Authors: Kapoor Pramod
Published: December 2022

Roli Books was set up in 1978 and tasted early success by bringing affordable, full-colour primary school textbooks to India. But the founder, Pramod Kapoor, followed through on his dream of creating indigenous, high-quality illustrated books for India, convinced that combining the content and editorial skills available in the country with international quality printing would be a winning proposition. Roli kept scaling up and expanded to multiple overseas markets while dealing with Indian policy challenges such as restrictions on third-country exports and the cap on book imports. After a challenging period in the late eighties and early nineties, Roli found success once again, buoyed by India’s economic liberalisation and the lifting of import restrictions. Since the late 2000s, Roli has invested in its domestic publishing programme, physical retail space, and annual exhibitions to build the brand. The next generation of the family continues to nurture and grow the company.
Sarat Book House
Authors: De Milinda
Published: December 2022

The journey of Sarat Book House, set up close to 70 years ago in Kolkata, documents the evolution and growth of a regional bookseller and publisher in India, and how it has adapted to the changing demands of the bookselling and publishing ecosystem. From early innovations such as opening shelves for customers to browse and curating a niche and rare list of specialist titles, the second generation of the family feels equally dedicated to the books business and has ushered in the next level of changes such as computerisation, starting Sarat’s own publishing and reprints lists, expanding to other parts of the country, and running its own press. Subject to systemic and evolutionary challenges, the publishing and bookselling ecosystem demands an agile, flexible yet long-term approach from players like Sarat Book House.
Problem of Choosing the Language of Communication: Ukrainian Realities
Authors: Sokolova Svitlana
Published: December 2022

The article analyses the situational change in the language behaviour (code switching) of representatives from different regions of Ukraine based on the data of a statistically significant mass survey of the adult population of different regions in 2017. The dependence of language behaviour on the language situation in a region is confirmed and certain patterns inherent in each of the regions are revealed. The use of the Ukrainian language has a similar dependence on the language situation in all regions, but at different levels: it is used more often when communicating with Ukrainian-speakers, officials, in education, etc. It is rarely used in the information sphere. The connection between the degree of Russification of a certain territory and the laws of language choice in a particular situation is revealed. The articles proposes using the results of mass surveys to study language behaviour through the prism of territorial features, which will help to pursue a balanced state language policy, adjusting tactics in accordance with regional language features.