bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Memetic Algorithm with a Novel Repair Heuristic for the Multiple-Choice Multidimensional Knapsack Problem
Authors: Yang Jaeyoung , Kim Yong-Hyuk , Yoon Yourim
Published: February 2022

We propose a memetic algorithm for the multiple-choice multidimensional knapsack problem (MMKP). In this study, we focus on finding good solutions for the MMKP instances, for which feasible solutions rarely exist. To find good feasible solutions, we introduce a novel repair heuristic based on the tendency function and a genetic search for the function approximation. Even when the density of feasible solutions over the entire solution space is very low, the proposed repair heuristic could successfully change infeasible solutions into feasible ones. Based on the proposed repair heuristic and effective local search, we designed a memetic algorithm that performs well on problem instances with a low density of feasible solutions. By performing experiments, we could show the superiority of our method compared with previous genetic algorithms.
An Investigation on Spiking Neural Networks Based on the Izhikevich Neuronal Model: Spiking Processing and Hardware Approach
Authors: Alkabaa Abdulaziz , Taylan Osman , Yilmaz Mustafa , Nazemi Ehsan , Kalmoun El
Published: February 2022

The main required organ of the biological system is the Central Nervous System (CNS), which can influence the other basic organs in the human body. The basic elements of this important organ are neurons, synapses, and glias (such as astrocytes, which are the highest percentage of glias in the human brain). Investigating, modeling, simulation, and hardware implementation (realization) of different parts of the CNS are important in case of achieving a comprehensive neuronal system that is capable of emulating all aspects of the real nervous system. This paper uses a basic neuron model called the Izhikevich neuronal model to achieve a high copy of the primary nervous block, which is capable of regenerating the behaviors of the human brain. The proposed approach can regenerate all aspects of the Izhikevich neuron in high similarity degree and performances. The new model is based on Look-Up Table (LUT) modeling of the mathematical neuromorphic systems, which can be realized in a high degree of correlation with the original model. The proposed procedure is considered in three cases: 100 points LUT modeling, 1000 points LUT modeling, and 10,000 points LUT modeling. Indeed, by removing the high-cost functions in the original model, the presented model can be implemented in a low-error, high-speed, and low-area resources state in comparison with the original system. To test and validate the proposed final hardware, a digital FPGA board (Xilinx Virtex-II FPGA board) is used. Digital hardware synthesis illustrates that our presented approach can follow the Izhikevich neuron in a high-speed state (more than the original model), increase efficiency, and also reduce overhead costs. Implementation results show the overall saving of 84.30% in FPGA and also the higher frequency of the proposed model of about 264 MHz, which is significantly higher than the original model, 28 MHz.
Atherosclerosis Development and Progression: The Role of Atherogenic Small, Dense LDL
Authors: Vekic Jelena , Zeljkovic Aleksandra , Cicero Arrigo F. G. , Janez Andrej , Stoian Anca Pantea , Sonmez Alper , Rizzo Manfredi
Published: February 2022

Atherosclerosis is responsible for large cardiovascular mortality in many countries globally. It has been shown over the last decades that the reduction of atherosclerotic progression is a critical factor for preventing future cardiovascular events. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) have been successfully targeted, and their reduction is one of the key preventing measures in patients with atherosclerotic disease. LDL particles are pivotal for the formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques; yet, they are quite heterogeneous, and smaller, denser LDL species are the most atherogenic. These particles have greater arterial entry and retention, higher susceptibility to oxidation, as well as reduced affinity for the LDL receptor. Increased proportion of small, dense LDL particles is an integral part of the atherogenic lipoprotein phenotype, the most common form of dyslipidemia associated with insulin resistance. Recent data suggest that both genetic and epigenetic factors might induce expression of this specific lipid pattern. In addition, a typical finding of increased small, dense LDL particles was confirmed in different categories of patients with elevated cardiovascular risk. Small, dense LDL is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, which emphasizes the clinical importance of both the quality and the quantity of LDL. An effective management of atherosclerotic disease should take into account the presence of small, dense LDL in order to prevent cardiovascular complications.
Identification of Non-Volatile Compounds That Impact Flavor Disliking of Whole Wheat Bread Made with Aged Flours
Authors: Cong Wen , Tello Edisson , Simons Christopher T. , Peterson Devin G.
Published: February 2022

Whole wheat flour has a shorter shelf life than refined wheat flour due to off-flavor development. An untargeted liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) flavoromics approach was applied to identify compounds that negatively impact the flavor liking in whole wheat bread made from aged flours. The chemical profiles of thirteen breads made from aged flours were obtained using LC/MS and modeled by orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) to predict flavor liking. Top predictive chemical features (negatively correlated) were identified as pinellic acid (9S,12S,13S-trihydroxy-10E-octadecenoic acid), 12,13-dihydroxy-9Z-octadecenoic acid, and 1-(9Z,12Z-octadecadienoyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. The sensory analysis confirmed the three compounds increased the bitterness intensity of the bread samples. The formation of the trihydroxy fatty acid bitter compound, pinellic acid (9S,12S,13S-trihydroxy-10E-octadecenoic acid), was impacted by the lipoxygenase activity of the flour; however, there was no influence on the formation of 12,13-dihydroxy-9Z-octadecenoic acid or 1-(9Z,12Z-octadecadienoyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine. Additionally, the concentrations of all bitter compounds were significantly higher in bread made from aged flour versus non-aged flour.
The Choice of Rhodium Catalysts in [2+2+2] Cycloaddition Reaction: A Personal Account
Authors: Pla-Quintana Anna , Roglans Anna
Published: February 2022

[2+2+2] Cycloaddition reaction is a captivating process that assembles six-membered rings from three unsaturations with complete atom economy. Of the multiple transition metals that can be used to catalyze this reaction, rhodium offers many advantages. These include high activity and versatility, but especially the ability to easily tune the reactivity and selectivity by the modification of the ligands around the metal. In this personal account, we summarize our endeavours in the development of efficient and sustainable [2+2+2] cycloaddition reactions to prepare products of interest, develop conditions in which the catalyst can be recovered and reused, and understand the mechanistic details that govern the selectivity of the processes.
Green Synthesis of Gold, Iron and Selenium Nanoparticles Using Phytoconstituents: Preliminary Evaluation of Antioxidant and Biocompatibility Potential
Authors: Shnoudeh Abeer Jabra , Qadumii Lana , Zihlif Malek , Al-Ameer Hamzeh J. , Salou Ruba Anwar , Jaber Abdulmutalleb Yousef , Hamad Islam
Published: February 2022

This study aimed at fabricating gold (Au), iron (Fe) and selenium (Se) nanoparticles (NPs) using various natural plant extracts from the Fertile Crescent area and evaluating their potential application as antioxidant and biocompatible agents to be used in the pharmaceutical field, especially in drug delivery. The Au-NPs were synthesized using Ephedra alata and Pistacia lentiscus extracts, whereas the Fe-NPs and Se-NPs were synthesized using peel, fruit and seed extracts of Punica granatum. The phytofabricated NPs were characterized by the UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDS) spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscope technique showed that the synthesized NPs surface was spherical, and the particle size analysis confirmed a particle size of 50 nm. The crystalline nature of the NPs was confirmed by the XRD analysis. All synthesized NPs were found to be biocompatible in the fibroblast and human erythroleukemic cell lines. Se-NPs showed a dose-dependent antitumor activity as evidenced from the experimental results with breast cancer (MCF-7) cells. A dose-dependent, free-radical scavenging effect of the Au-NPs and Se-NPs was observed in the DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay, with the highest effect recorded for Au-NPs.
Synthesis and Structure–Activity Relationship Studies of Benzimidazole-4,7-dione-Based P2X3 Receptor Antagonists as Novel Anti-Nociceptive Agents
Authors: Bae Jinsu , Kim Yeo-Ok , Han Xuehao , Yoon Myung-Ha , Kim Woong-Mo , Kim Yong-Chul
Published: February 2022

P2X3 receptors (P2X3R) are ATP-gated ion channels predominantly expressed in C- and Aδ-fiber primary afferent neurons and have been introduced as a novel therapeutic target for neurological disorders, including neuropathic pain and chronic cough. Because of its localized distribution, antagonism of P2X3R has been thoroughly considered, and the avoidance of issues related to CNS side effects has been proven in clinical trials. In this article, benzimidazole-4,7-dione-based derivatives were introduced as a new chemical entity for the development of P2X3R antagonists. Starting from the discovery of a hit compound from the screening of 8364 random library compounds in the Korea Chemical Bank, which had an IC50 value of 1030 nM, studies of structure–activity and structure–property relationships enabled further optimization toward improving the antagonistic activities as well as the drug’s physicochemical properties, including metabolic stability. As for the results, the final optimized compound 14h was developed with an IC50 value of 375 nM at P2X3R with more than 23-fold selectivity versus P2X2/3R, along with properties of metabolic stability and improved solubility. In neuropathic pain animal models evoked by either nerve ligation or chemotherapeutics in male Sprague-Dawley rats, compound 14h showed anti-nociceptive effects through an increase in the mechanical withdrawal threshold as measured by von Frey filament following intravenous administration.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Peptides Derived from Food Proteins
Authors: López-García Guadalupe , Dublan-García Octavio , Arizmendi-Cotero Daniel , Gómez Oliván Leobardo Manuel
Published: February 2022

Recently, the demand for food proteins in the market has increased due to a rise in degenerative illnesses that are associated with the excessive production of free radicals and the unwanted side effects of various drugs, for which researchers have suggested diets rich in bioactive compounds. Some of the functional compounds present in foods are antioxidant and antimicrobial peptides, which are used to produce foods that promote health and to reduce the consumption of antibiotics. These peptides have been obtained from various sources of proteins, such as foods and agri-food by-products, via enzymatic hydrolysis and microbial fermentation. Peptides with antioxidant properties exert effective metal ion (Fe2+/Cu2+) chelating activity and lipid peroxidation inhibition, which may lead to notably beneficial effects in promoting human health and food processing. Antimicrobial peptides are small oligo-peptides generally containing from 10 to 100 amino acids, with a net positive charge and an amphipathic structure; they are the most important components of the antibacterial defense of organisms at almost all levels of life—bacteria, fungi, plants, amphibians, insects, birds and mammals—and have been suggested as natural compounds that neutralize the toxicity of reactive oxygen species generated by antibiotics and the stress generated by various exogenous sources. This review discusses what antioxidant and antimicrobial peptides are, their source, production, some bioinformatics tools used for their obtainment, emerging technologies, and health benefits.
Influence of Initial pH Value on the Adsorption of Reactive Black 5 Dye on Powdered Activated Carbon: Kinetics, Mechanisms, and Thermodynamics
Authors: Vojnović Branka , Cetina Mario , Franjković Petra , Sutlović Ana
Published: February 2022

The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of initial pH value (pH0) on the isothermal adsorption of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) dye on commercial powdered activated carbon. Four initial pH values were chosen for this experiment: pH0 = 2.00, 4.00, 8.00, and 10.00. In order to investigate the mechanism of adsorption kinetic, studies have been performed using pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models as well as an intraparticle diffusion model. In addition, thermodynamic parameters of adsorption were determined for pH0 = 4.00. Results of this research showed that the initial pH value significantly influences the adsorption of RB5 dye onto activated carbon. The highest adsorption capacities (qe) and efficiencies of decolouration were observed for initial pH values of pH0 = 2.00 (qe = 246.0 mg g−1) and 10.00 (qe = 239.1 mg g−1) due to strong electrostatic interactions and attractive π···π interactions, respectively. It was also shown that the adsorption of RB5 dye on activated carbon at all initial pH values is kinetically controlled, assuming a pseudo-second-order model, and that intraparticle diffusion is not the only process that influences on the adsorption rate.
Quantitative Studies on the Interaction between Saposin-like Proteins and Synthetic Lipid Membranes
Authors: Sandin Suzanne I. , de Alba Eva
Published: February 2022

Members of the saposin-fold protein family and related proteins sharing a similar fold (saposin-like proteins; SAPLIP) are peripheral-membrane binding proteins that perform essential cellular functions. Saposins and SAPLIPs are abundant in both plant and animal kingdoms, and peripherally bind to lipid membranes to play important roles in lipid transfer and hydrolysis, defense mechanisms, surfactant stabilization, and cell proliferation. However, quantitative studies on the interaction between proteins and membranes are challenging due to the different nature of the two components in relation to size, structure, chemical composition, and polarity. Using liposomes and the saposin-fold member saposin C (sapC) as model systems, we describe here a method to apply solution NMR and dynamic light scattering to study the interaction between SAPLIPs and synthetic membranes at the quantitative level. Specifically, we prove with NMR that sapC binds reversibly to the synthetic membrane in a pH-controlled manner and show the dynamic nature of its fusogenic properties with dynamic light scattering. The method can be used to infer the optimal pH for membrane binding and to determine an apparent dissociation constant (KDapp) for protein-liposome interaction. We propose that these experiments can be applied to other proteins sharing the saposin fold.
Voice Syncretism Crosslinguistically: The View from Minimalism
Authors: Oikonomou Despina , Alexiadou Artemis
Published: February 2022

Voice syncretism is widely attested crosslinguistically. In this paper, we discuss three different types of Voice syncretism, under which the same morpheme participates in different configurations. We provide an approach under which the same Voice head can convey different interpretations depending on the environment it appears in, thus building on the notion of allosemy. We show that, in all cases under investigation, allosemy is closely associated with the existence of idiosyncratic patterns. By contrast, we notice that allosemy and idiosyncrasy are not present in analytic passive and causative constructions across different languages. We argue that the distinguishing feature between the two types of constructions is whether the passive and the causative interpretation comes from the Voice head, thus forming a single domain with the vP or whether passive and causative semantics are realized by distinct heads above the Voice layer, thus forming two distinct domains.
Can Artificial Intelligence Help in the Study of Vegetative Growth Patterns from Herbarium Collections? An Evaluation of the Tropical Flora of the French Guiana Forest
Authors: Goëau Hervé , Lorieul Titouan , Heuret Patrick , Joly Alexis , Bonnet Pierre
Published: February 2022

A better knowledge of tree vegetative growth phenology and its relationship to environmental variables is crucial to understanding forest growth dynamics and how climate change may affect it. Less studied than reproductive structures, vegetative growth phenology focuses primarily on the analysis of growing shoots, from buds to leaf fall. In temperate regions, low winter temperatures impose a cessation of vegetative growth shoots and lead to a well-known annual growth cycle pattern for most species. The humid tropics, on the other hand, have less seasonality and contain many more tree species, leading to a diversity of patterns that is still poorly known and understood. The work in this study aims to advance knowledge in this area, focusing specifically on herbarium scans, as herbariums offer the promise of tracking phenology over long periods of time. However, such a study requires a large number of shoots to be able to draw statistically relevant conclusions. We propose to investigate the extent to which the use of deep learning can help detect and type-classify these relatively rare vegetative structures in herbarium collections. Our results demonstrate the relevance of using herbarium data in vegetative phenology research as well as the potential of deep learning approaches for growing shoot detection.
The Effects of Edaphic Factors on Riparian Plants in the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Hanjiang River, China
Authors: Yang Jiao , Li Enhua , Zhou Rui , Xia Ying , Yang Chao , Zhang Yingying
Published: February 2022

It is important to understand the interactions between soil and plant in riparian zones to ensure ecosystem function. The effects of edaphic factors on plant composition and species diversity were investigated in the middle and lower reaches of the Hanjiang River (MLHR), China. A total of 154 species of herbs were recorded, and vegetation was divided into 32 clusters according to a two-way indicator species analysis (TWINSPAN). Cynodon dactylon and Paspalum distichum were the most common clusters, accounting for 22.7% and 12.5% of total samples, respectively. Hydric and mesic species were dominant in the first and second transects, with mesophytes dominating the third and fourth transects. First transects situated were mainly composed of perennials and annuals, respectively. Perennials in second transects were present in 83% of sites, and perennials in the third and fourth transects were present in 86% of the sites. Margalef richness index (Dma), Simpson dominance diversity index (D), Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H) and Pielou evenness index (Jsw) were higher in the first transects in some sites. The redundancy analysis (RDA) results indicated that soil moisture content was the dominant factor affecting hydrophilic vegetation types, and total nitrogen (TN) and soil organic matter (SOM) were the most critical factors affecting plant life history types and species diversities in this area.
Revisiting the Domestication Process of African Vigna Species (Fabaceae): Background, Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Panzeri Davide , Guidi Nissim Werther , Labra Massimo , Grassi Fabrizio
Published: February 2022

Legumes are one of the most economically important and biodiverse families in plants recognised as the basis to develop functional foods. Among these, the Vigna genus stands out as a good representative because of its relatively recent African origin as well as its outstanding potential. Africa is a great biodiversity centre in which a great number of species are spread, but only three of them, Vigna unguiculata, Vigna subterranea and Vigna vexillata, were successfully domesticated. This review aims at analysing and valorising these species by considering the perspective of human activity and what effects it exerts. For each species, we revised the origin history and gave a focus on where, when and how many times domestication occurred. We provided a brief summary of bioactive compounds naturally occurring in these species that are fundamental for human wellbeing. The great number of wild lineages is a key point to improve landraces since the domestication process caused a loss of gene diversity. Their genomes hide a precious gene pool yet mostly unexplored, and genes lost during human activity can be recovered from the wild lineages and reintroduced in cultivated forms through modern technologies. Finally, we describe how all this information is game-changing to the design of future crops by domesticating de novo.
A Novel Airborne Molecular Contaminants Sensor Based on Sagnac Microfiber Structure
Authors: Zhou Guorui , Xiang Siheng , You Hui , Li Chunling , Niu Longfei , Jiang Yilan , Miao Xinxiang , Xie Xiufang
Published: February 2022

The impact of airborne molecular contaminants (AMCs) on the lifetime of fused silica UV optics in high power lasers (HPLs) is a critical issue. In this work, we demonstrated the on-line monitoring method of AMCs concentration based on the Sagnac microfiber structure. In the experiment, a Sagnac microfiber loop with mesoporous silica coating was fabricated by the microheater brushing technique and dip coating. The physical absorption of AMCs in the mesoporous coating results in modification of the surrounding refractive index (RI). By monitoring the spectral shift in the wavelength domain, the proposed structure can operate as an AMCs concentration sensor. The sensitivity of the AMCs sensor can achieve 0.11 nm (mg/m3). By evaluating the gas discharge characteristic of four different low volatilization greases in a coarse vacuum environment, we demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed sensors. The use of these sensors was shown to be very promising for meeting the requirements of detecting trace amounts of contaminants.
Effects of Different Land Use Types and Soil Depth on Soil Nutrients and Soil Bacterial Communities in a Karst Area, Southwest China
Authors: Li Yuke , Gong Jiyi , Liu Jie , Hou Wenpeng , Moroenyane Itumeleng , Liu Yinglong , Jin Jie , Liu Jie , Xiong Han , Cheng Chen , Malik Kamran , Wang Jianfeng , Yi Yin
Published: February 2022

To reveal the effect of the interactions between soil depth and different land use types on soil nutrients and soil bacterial communities in a karst area, fifty soil samples from five different karst land use types in Huajiang town, Guizhou province, Southwest China were collected, and the soil bacteria were analyzed using high-throughput absolute quantification sequencing. Our results showed that land use types (LUT) and soil depth (SD) significantly influenced the content of soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), nitrate nitrogen (NN), ammonium nitrogen (AN) and available soil phosphorus (AP), and pH; further, the interaction of LUT and SD also significantly influenced SOC, NN, NA, AP, and pH. In addition, LUT clearly impacted the Chao1 and Shannon indexes, but, SD and LUT * SD markedly affect Chao1 and Shannon index, respectively. All the soil bacterial communities were significantly different in the five different five land use types according to PERMANOVA. Importantly, Acidobacteria and Proteobacteria were the predominant phyla at soil depths of 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm among all the LUTs. At 0–20 cm, TN, AN, and SOC exerted a strong positive influence on Acidobacteria, but NN exerted a strong negative influence on Acidobacteria; at 20–40 cm soil, TN and AN exerted a strong positive influence on Acidobacteria; TP exerted no marked influence on any of the phyla at these two soil depths. At 0–20 cm of soil depth, we also found that Chao1 index changes were closely related to the TN, SOC, AN, and NN; similarly, Shannon index changes were significantly correlated to the AN, TN, and SOC; the PCoA was clearly related to the TN, SOC, and AN. Interestingly, at soil depth of 20–40 cm, Chao 1 was markedly related to the TN and pH; Shannon was markedly correlated with the SOC, TP, AN, and AP; and the PCoA was significantly correlated with the TN and pH. Our findings imply that soil nutrients and soil bacteria communities are strongly influenced by land use types and soil depth in karst areas.
Physiological Responses to Drought, Salinity, and Heat Stress in Plants: A Review
Authors: dos Santos Tiago Benedito , Ribas Alessandra Ferreira , de Souza Silvia Graciele Hülse , Budzinski Ilara Gabriela Frasson , Domingues Douglas Silva
Published: February 2022

On the world stage, the increase in temperatures due to global warming is already a reality that has become one of the main challenges faced by the scientific community. Since agriculture is highly dependent on climatic conditions, it may suffer a great impact in the short term if no measures are taken to adapt and mitigate the agricultural system. Plant responses to abiotic stresses have been the subject of research by numerous groups worldwide. Initially, these studies were concentrated on model plants, and, later, they expanded their studies in several economically important crops such as rice, corn, soybeans, coffee, and others. However, agronomic evaluations for the launching of cultivars and the classical genetic improvement process focus, above all, on productivity, historically leaving factors such as tolerance to abiotic stresses in the background. Considering the importance of the impact that abiotic stresses can have on agriculture in the short term, new strategies are currently being sought and adopted in breeding programs to understand the physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses to environmental disturbances in plants of agronomic interest, thus ensuring the world food security. Moreover, integration of these approaches is bringing new insights on breeding. We will discuss how water deficit, high temperatures, and salinity exert effects on plants.
Insights on the Effect and Experience of a Diet-Tracking Application for Older Adults in a Diet Trial
Authors: van der Lubbe Laura M. , Klein Michel C. A. , Visser Marjolein , Wijnhoven Hanneke A. H. , Reinders Ilse
Published: February 2022

With an ageing population, healthy ageing becomes more important. Healthy nutrition is part of this process and can be supported in many ways. The PROMISS trial studies the effect of increasing protein intake in older adults on their physical functioning. Within this trial, a sub-study was performed, researching the added effect of using a diet-tracking app enhanced with persuasive and (optional) gamification techniques. The goal was to see how older adult participants received such technology within their diet program. There were 48 participants included in this sub-study, of which 36 completed the study period of 6 months. Our results on adherence and user evaluation show that a dedicated app used within the PROMISS trial is a feasible way to engage older adults in diet tracking. On average, participants used the app 83% of the days, during a period of on average 133 days. User-friendliness was evaluated with an average score of 4.86 (out of 7), and experienced effectiveness was evaluated with an average score of 4.57 (out of 7). However, no effect of the technology on protein intake was found. The added gamification elements did not have a different effect compared with the version without those elements. However, some participants did like the added gamification elements, and it can thus be nice to add them as additional features for participants that like them. This article also studies whether personal characteristics correlate with any of the other results. Although some significant results were found, this does not give a clear view on which types of participants like or benefit from this technology.
Mechanical Properties of Sustainable Metal Matrix Composites: A Review on the Role of Green Reinforcements and Processing Methods
Authors: Seetharaman Sankaranarayanan , Subramanian Jayalakshmi , Singh Ramachandra Arvind , Wong Wai Leong Eugene , Nai Mui Ling Sharon , Gupta Manoj
Published: February 2022

Growing concerns like depleting mineral resources, increased materials wastage, and structural light-weighting requirements due to emission control regulations drive the development of sustainable metal matrix composites. Al and Mg based alloys with relatively lower melting temperatures qualify for recycling applications and hence are considered as the matrix material for developing sustainable composites. The recent trend also explores various industrial by-products and agricultural wastes as green reinforcements, and this article presents insights on the properties of Al and Mg based sustainable metal matrix composites with special emphasis on green reinforcements and processing methods.
Exposure of South African Abattoir Workers to Coxiella burnetii
Authors: De Boni Liesl , Mall Sumaya , Msimang Veerle , de Voux Alex , Rossouw Jennifer , Frean John
Published: February 2022

Abattoir workers may contract Q fever by inhalation of Coxiella burnetii bacteria in aerosols generated by slaughtering livestock, or in contaminated dust. We estimated the seroprevalence of C. burnetii and examined the associated factors in a survey of South African abattoir workers. Coxiella burnetii seropositivity was determined by detection of IgG antibodies against C. burnetii phase II antigen. Logistic regression, adjusted for clustering and sampling fraction, was employed to analyze risk factors associated with C. burnetii seropositivity. Among 382 workers from 16 facilities, the overall seroprevalence was 33% (95% confidence interval (CI): 28–38%) and ranged from 8% to 62% at the facility level. Prolonged contact with carcasses or meat products (odds ratio (OR): 4.6, 95% CI: 1.51–14.41) and prior abattoir or butchery work experience (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.13–3.17) were associated with C. burnetii seropositivity. In contrast, increasing age and livestock ownership were inversely associated. Precautions to protect abattoir personnel from Q fever are discussed.
Protease-Based Subunit Vaccine in Mice Boosts BCG Protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Junqueira-Kipnis Ana Paula , de Castro Souza Carine , de Oliveira Carvalho Ana Carolina , de Oliveira Fabio Muniz , Almeida Vinnycius Pereira , de Paula Alisson Rodrigues , Celes Mara Rubia , Kipnis André
Published: February 2022

The significant number of people with latent and active tuberculosis infection requires further efforts to develop new vaccines or improve the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), which is the only approved vaccine against this disease. In this study, we developed a recombinant fusion protein (PEPf) containing high-density immunodominant epitope sequences from Rv0125, Rv2467, and Rv2672 Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) proteases that proved immunogenic and used it to develop a recombinant BCG vaccine expressing the fusion protein. After challenging using Mtb, a specific immune response was recalled, resulting in a reduced lung bacterial load with similar protective capabilities to BCG. Thus BCG PEPf failed to increase the protection conferred by BCG. The PEPf was combined with Advax4 adjuvant and tested as a subunit vaccine using a prime-boost strategy. PEPf + Advax4 significantly improved protection after Mtb challenge, with a reduction in bacterial load in the lungs. Our results confirm that Mtb proteases can be used to develop vaccines against tuberculosis and that the use of the recombinant PEPf subunit protein following a prime-boost regimen is a promising strategy to improve BCG immunity.
An Observational Study to Assess the Effectiveness of 4CMenB against Meningococcal Disease and Carriage and Gonorrhea in Adolescents in the Northern Territory, Australia—Study Protocol
Authors: Marshall Helen S. , Andraweera Prabha H. , Ward James , Kaldor John , Andrews Ross , Macartney Kristine , Richmond Peter , Krause Vicki , Koehler Ann , Whiley David , Giles Lynne , Webby Rosalind , D’Antoine Heather , Karnon Jonathan , Baird Rob , Lawrence Andrew , Petousis-Harris Helen , De Wals Philippe , Greenwood-Smith Belinda , Binks Michael , Whop Lisa
Published: February 2022

Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide with serogroup B being the predominant serogroup in Australia and other countries for the past few decades. The licensed 4CMenB vaccine is effective in preventing meningococcal B disease. Emerging evidence suggests that although 4CMenB impact on carriage is limited, it may be effective against gonorrhoea due to genetic similarities between Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This study protocol describes an observational study that will assess the effect of the 4CMenB vaccine against meningococcal carriage, IMD and gonorrhoea among adolescents in the Northern Territory (NT). All 14–19-year-olds residing in the NT with no contraindication for 4CMenB vaccine will be eligible to participate in this cohort study. Following consent, two doses of 4CMenB vaccine will be administered two months apart. An oropharyngeal swab will be collected at baseline and 12 months to detect pharyngeal carriage of Neisseria meningitidis by PCR. The main methodological approaches to assess the effect of 4CMenB involve a nested case control analysis and screening method to assess vaccine effectiveness and an Interrupted Time Series regression analysis to assess vaccine impact. Research ethics approvals have been obtained from Menzies and Central Australian Human Research Ethics Committees and the Western Australian Aboriginal Health Ethics Committee. Results will be provided in culturally appropriate formats for NT remote and regional communities and published in international peer reviewed journals. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04398849.
Low Adherence to Pneumococcal Vaccination in Lung Cancer Patients in a Tertiary Care University Hospital in Southern Germany
Authors: Mohr Arno , Kloos Mia , Schulz Christian , Pfeifer Michael , Salzberger Bernd , Bauernfeind Stilla , Hitzenbichler Florian , Plentz Annelie , Loew Thomas , Koch Myriam
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the adherence to vaccinations, especially pneumococcal vaccinations, in lung cancer patients. Methods: the study was performed at the University Hospital Regensburg, Germany. All patients with a regular appointment scheduled between 1 December 2020 and 29 April 2021 and who provided informed consent were included. Available medical records, vaccination certificates, and a questionnaire were analyzed. Results: we included 136 lung cancer patients (NSCLC n = 113, 83.1%, SCLC n = 23, 16.9%). A correct pneumococcal vaccination according to national recommendations was performed in 9.4% (12/127) of the patients. A correct vaccination was performed for tetanus in 50.4% (66/131), diphtheria in 34.4% (44/128), poliomyelitis in 25.8% (33/128), tick-borne encephalitis in 40.7% (24/59), hepatitis A in 45.5% (7/11), hepatitis B in 38.5% (5/13), shingles in 3.0% (3/101), measles in 50.0% (3/6), pertussis in 47.7% (62/130), influenza in 54.4% (74/136), and meningococcal meningitis in 0% (0/2) of the patients. Conclusion: adherence to pneumococcal vaccinations, as well as to other vaccinations, is low in lung cancer patients.
PELAKSANAAN HYGENE DAN SANITASI PADA DEPOT AIR MINUM ISI ULANG
Authors: Syahril Muhammad , Nyorong Mappeatty , Aini Nur
Published: February 2022

ABSTRAK

 

Depot air minum isi ulang merupakan salah satu kegiatan usaha yang mengarah kepada air bersih untuk memenuhi kebutuhan air minum masyarakat dan juga memenuhi gaya hidup masyarakat sekarang yang mengutamakan kepraktisan dan kemudahan dalam memenuhi kebutuhan hidup. Adapun tujuan dalam penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui aspek pelaksanaan depot isi ulang di Desa Sapta Marga Kecamatan Manyak Payed  Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang  sesuai dengan hygiene serta sanitasi. Jenis penelitian ini merupakan survei analitik dengan rancangan cross sectional study. Penelitian dilakukan di Desa Sapta Marga Kecamatan Manyak Payed  Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang dengan menggunakan teknik total sampling yaitu sebanyak 62 seluruh pemilik depot air minum sebanyak 31 orang dan pekerja (penjamah) depot air minum. Untuk menganalisis data tersebut digunakan uji regresi logistik.

Berdasarkan hasil penelitian diketahui bahwa hygiene dan sanitasi Air minum isi ulang di Desa Sapta Marga Kecamatan Manyak Payed Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang berhubungan dengan penjamah  (p=0,233), air baku (p=0,012), sedangkan standar lokasi dan  alat tidak berhubungan dengan hygiene dan sanitasi Air minum isi ulang di Desa Sapta Marga Kecamatan Manyak Payed Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, dapat disimpulkan penjamah, air baku, berhubungan dengan hygiene dan sanitasi Air minum isi ulang di Desa Sapta Marga Kecamatan Manyak Payed Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang. Sehingga adapun saran dalam penelitian ini diharapkan agar menjadi informasi bagi masyarakat mengenai hygiene dan sanitasi pada depot air minum isi ulang di Desa Sapta Marga Kecamatan Manyak Payed Kabupaten Aceh Tamiang agar lebih bijak dalam memilih depot air minum.
FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG BERHUBUNGAN DENGAN STATUS GIZI PADA ANAK BALITA DI LINGKUNGAN 15 KELURAHAN PEKAN LABUHAN
Authors: Simangunsong Pahala Maringan Jubel
Published: February 2022

ABSTRACTNutrition status is health relating to the use of eating pattern by body. Belawan Public Health center ranked4 with malnutrition status with the total of 196 (3.1%) below Medan Labuhan, Medan Helvetia, and MedanTuntungan. Malnutrition mostly occured at environment 15 that is, 8 babies suffering from malnutrition outof 2.047 babies, and 2 babies having bad nutrition. The research aims at finding out the relationshipbetween dependent and independent variables at environment 15, families of Pekan Labuhan, PekanLabuhan regency of Medan Labuhan in 2015. The research method is Cross sectional using total samplingtechniqe that 40 familes were taken as samples having babies. The research data were taken byperforming home visits from house to house, visiting to integrated post service (Posyandu) with interviewguide and questionnaires. The result of the study showed that 2 respondents (5%) experiencedmalnutrition, 8 respondents (20%) suffered from less nutrition and 30 respondents (75%) experiencedgood nutrition. Based on bivariate analysis, it was found that there was a dependent variable not having asignificant relationship with baby nutrition status; that is, variable of family income ( ρ-value = 0.108) and 4independent variables have a significant relationship with baby nutrition status; that is, variable of mother’s(ρ-value = 0.000), and the number of family member (ρ-value = 0.027). The research concludes that thereis a significant relationship between mother knowledge, mother attitude, mother education and the numberof family members on the baby nutrition status. Public Health Center is suggested to provide counseling tomothers having babies continually Mothers are suggested to visit Public Health Center routinely to checkup their baby nutrition
HUBUNGAN PENGETAHUAN DAN SIKAP PETUGAS LABORATORIUM TENTANG STANDAR OPERASIONAL PROSEDUR (SOP) DENGAN TINDAKAN PENCEGAHAN KECELAKAAN KERJA
Authors: Sinurat Buenita
Published: February 2022

ABSTRAKSetiap laboratorium harus mengadopsi sebuah pedoman keselamatan atau pedoman operasional yangmengindentifikasi bahaya yang telah diketahui dan potensinya, praktek dan prosedur yang rinci untuk menghilangkanatau meminimalisasi bahaya yang mungkin ada. Data observasi awal menemukan bahwa beberapa petugaslaboratorium masih belum patuh menerapkan Standar Operasional Prosedur dengan benar, seperti tidakmenggunakan sarung tangan pada saat pemeriksaan darah pasien. Petugas laboratorium sering tertusuk oleh jarumsuntik saat mengambil sampel darah ataupun saat menutup kembali jarum suntik. Petugas pun sering terkenatumpahan sampel darah, pecahan tabung reaksi, dan pecahan objek gelas saat bekerja. Penelitian ini dilaksanakandi Ruang Laboratorium Rumah Sakit Haji Medan yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan pengetahuan dansikap petugas laboratorium tentang Standar Operasional Prosedur dengan tindakan pencegahan kecelakaan kerja.Jenis penelitian ini adalah deskriptif analitik dengan rancangan cross-sectional. Sampel penelitian ini adalah 20 orangpetugas laboratorium di Rumah Sakit Haji Medan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terdapat hubungan yang signifikanantara pengetahuan (p value=0,009) dan sikap (p value=0,000) petugas laboratorium tentang Standar OperasionalProsedur dengan tindakan pencegahan kecelakaan kerja di Rumah Sakit Haji Medan. Diharapkan kepada petugaslaboratorium untuk meningkatkan upaya-upaya pencegahan kecelakaan kerja, kepatuhan dalam menerapkan SOPsehingga tidak terjadi kecelakaan kerja yang merugikan dirinya dan pasien.
JUMLAH, JENIS, FREKUENSI KONSUMSI MAKANAN, DAN STATUS GIZI ANAK BALITA DI KELURAHAN BELAWAN II
Authors: Samosir Frans Judea
Published: February 2022

ABSTRACT

 

The tendency of the prevalence of nutritional status of balita (below five year-old children) in Indonesia increased from 2007 to 2013: the status of malnutrition was from 5.4% in 2007 to 5.7% in 2013. Of the 1060 below five year-old children at Kelurahan Belawan II in 2016, two of them suffered from malnutrition. The objective of the research was to find out the correlation between the amount of food consumption, type of food consumption and  frequency of food consumption with the nutritional status of below five year-old children at Kelurahan Belawan II, Medan Belawan. The research used an analytic survey method with sectional design. The population was 1060 below five year-old children, and 53 of them were used as the samples and the respondents consisted of 53 mothers. The data of food consumption pattern were gathered by using a 24 Hour-Food Recall, and the nutritional status anthropometry with BB/U (Body Weight of Age).The data were analyzed by using chi-square test. The result showed that 98.1% of the samples of food consumption pattern were in good category, 96.2% of the type of food consumption was not varied, 100% of the samples of food consumption frequency was infrequent, so that all in all the samples of food consumption was not good. 62.3% of the samples were good nutritional status, 35.8% the samples were nutritional deficiency, and 1.9% of the samples were malnutrition. The result of the statistic analysis showed that there was no correlation of the amount of food consumption with the nutritional status of balita and the type of food consumption with the nutritional status of balita. There was correlation between the frequency of food consumption and the nutritional status of below balita. It is recommended that the mothers who have balita be provided with knowledge and skill on child nutrition in Posyandu (Integrated Health Service Post
HUBUNGAN PERILAKU DAN LINGKUNGAN RUMAH DENGAN TB PARU DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS PANYABUNGAN JAE
Authors: Alamsyah Kurnia alamsyah , Siregar Santy Deasy
Published: February 2022

ABSTRACT

     Pulmonary tuberculosis or pulmonary tuberculosis is a contagious infectious disease that attacks the lungs and bronchi. This disease is caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis which spreads through the air of human respiratory discharges. In 2017, the figure of Case Notification Rate / CNR (new case) of pulmonary TB (+) in North Sumatra was 104.3 / 100,000 population and Mandailing Natal District became an area second place with CNR of 187 / 100,000 population. One of the factors that can affect the recovery of pulmonary TB include behaviors such as knowledge, attitudes and actions as well as the environment such as ventilation area and occupancy density. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of behavior and home environment to the incidence of pulmonary TB in Panyabungan Jae Public Health Center in 2019. This type of research uses analytic survey method with cross sectional approach. The sample in this study were 56 people taken by total sampling technique. The results showed that the majority of respondents have less knowledge, negative attitudes, actions are not good, the area of ​​ventilation of the house does not meet the requirements and the density of dense occupancy with the majority of the occurrence of pulmonary TB. Bivariate test results found that there is a relationship between knowledge (p = 0.003), attitude (p = 0.010), actions (p = 0.013), ventilation area (p = 0.003) and density (p = 0.017) with the incidence of pulmonary TB in the Panyabungan Jae Public Health Center. It is expected that the community in the Panyabungan Jae Puskesmas area will be more active in carrying out the examination and treatment of new TB and following the management of pulmonary TB provided by health care workers. The next researcher is expected to be able to develop research on the factors that cause pulmonary TB in a region
PENGARUH PENGAWASAN DAN MOTIVASI TERHADAP LOYALITAS PERAWAT PELAKSANA DI RUANG RAWAT INAP RSU MITRA MEDIKA MEDAN
Authors: Putra Chairul Syah , Fitriani Arifah Devi , Simanjorang Asyiah
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Loyalty is the process of arising as a result of the desire to faithfully and serve either on its work, the group, boss and his company, this led to someone willing to make sacrifices for the sake of satisfying other parties or the public. Design research is a cross-sectional. The research sample was 74 managing nurses who worked in inpatient room RSU Partners Medical Medan. Test results showed bivariat between supervision with loyalty is earned value (GIS) p = 0.000, smaller than 0.05; then H0 is rejected and it can be concluded that there are influences of supervisory and loyalty between the implementing Partner in RSU nurse Medical Field. Test results of supervision with the loyalty between bivariat retrieved value p (Sig) = 0.000, smaller than 0.05; then Ho denied and it can be concluded that there is influence between motivation and Loyalty Partner in implementing nurse RSU Medika terrain. It is recommended to the RSU Partners to improve the supervision of the head of the Medical and nursing areas to sub-sections implementing nurse, and increase the motivation of nurses implementing loyalty so that implementing the better nursing and Medical Partners increasingly RSU good in providing the health service towards patients
WORKSHOP BODY MAPPING UNTUK MENINGKATKAN SELF-ESTEEM PADA ORANG DENGAN HIV (ODHIV)
Authors: Hartono Hartono , Samosir Frans Judea
Published: February 2022

Hingga Maret 2019 dilaporkan ada 338.363 kasus orang yang teinfeksi HIV di Indonesia. ODHIV mengalami tantangan secara fisik dan mental diakibatkan stigma dari diri dan masyarakat. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh dari pelaksanaan intervensi workshop body mapping dalam meningkatkan self-esteem (harga diri) pada ODHIV. Penelitian ini menggunakan quasi-experimental one group pretest- posttest design. Subjek penelitian adalah 30 orang dengan HIV yang direkrut menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Pretest dan Postest berupa kuesioner self-esteem diberikan kepada peserta sebelum dan sesudah workshop untuk mengumpulkan data yang dibutuhkan. Lalu, data diuji menggunakan paired sample t-test. Hasil dari penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tidak terdapat pengaruh workshop body mapping dalam meningkatkan self-esteem pada ODHIV.