bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Emotions Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic through Death Education: A Qualitative Study in Italian Primary Schools
Authors: Testoni Ines , Palazzo Lorenza , Iacona Erika , Segalla Ottavia , Pizzolato Laura , Ferrari Lea
Published: July 2023

Background: The Covid-19 pandemic has globally impacted the lives of individuals, families, and children. In Italy, measures such as lockdowns and distance learning were implemented in schools, which affected the mental health of children and families. Methods: This article employs qualitative methodology to explore the experiences of children, parents, and teachers during the pandemic and lockdown, as well as the implementation of a death education project aimed at primary school children to help them process emotions and losses experienced during this period. Results: Distance learning posed challenges to the learning process and exacerbated social inequalities. Children suffered from limited social contact with friends and experienced negative emotions, including anger, fear, and concern for the health of their loved ones. The death education project provided a safe space for emotional expression and facilitated the acquisition of coping strategies. Open communication between adults and children about illness and death proved effective in mitigating the psychological impacts of loss and preventing traumatic bereavement. Conclusions: The findings highlight the utility of death education in enhancing children's ability to express their emotions and approach the topic of death morefrankly.
In the Alphaproteobacterium Hyphomicrobium denitrificans SoxR Serves a Sulfane Sulfur-Responsive Repressor of Sulfur Oxidation
Authors: Li Jingjing , Törkel Kaya , Koch Julian , Tanabe Tomohisa Sebastian , Hsu Hsun Yun , Dahl Christiane
Published: July 2023

In organisms that use reduced sulfur compounds as alternative or additional electron donors to organic compounds, transcriptional regulation of genes for enzymes involved in sulfur oxidation is needed to adjust metabolic flux to environmental conditions. However, little is known about the sensing and response to inorganic sulfur compounds such as thiosulfate in sulfur-oxidizing bacteria. In the Alphaproteobacterium Hyphomicrobium denitrificans, one strategy is the use of the ArsR-SmtB-type transcriptional regulator SoxR. We show that this homodimeric repressor senses sulfane sulfur and that it is crucial for the expression not only of sox genes encoding the com-ponents of a truncated periplasmic thiosulfate-oxidizing enzyme system but also of several other sets of genes for enzymes of sulfur oxidation. DNA binding and transcriptional regulatory activity of SoxR are controlled by polysulfide-dependent cysteine modification. The repressor uses the formation of a sulfur bridge between two conserved cysteines as a trigger to bind and release DNA and can also form a vicinal disulfide bond to orchestrate a response to oxidizing conditions. The importance of the sulfur bridge forming cysteines was confirmed by site directed mutagen-esis, mass spectrometry and gel shift assays. In vivo, SoxR interacts directly or indirectly with a second closely related repressor, sHdrR.
Role of ABC Proteins in Secondary Metabolism and Immune (= Defensive) Response in Seaweeds
Authors: Salgado Leonardo T. , Oliveira Louisi S. , Echevarria-Lima Juliana , Reis Vanessa M. , Sudatti Daniela B. , Thompson Fabiano , Pereira Renato C.
Published: July 2023

Laurencia seaweed species synthesize a broad range of secondary metabolites mainly terpenes, such as the elatol exhibiting ecological roles, such as defense against fouling and herbivores. Recently, an intricate cellular machinery was evidenced concerning terpenes biosynthetic pathways, storage inside corps en cerise - CC and regulated exocytosis in these species. But for seaweeds in general, the proteins involved in transmembrane transport of secondary metabolites remains unknown. Assays with Rhodamine-123 and cyclosporine A (CSA) revealed the presence of ABC transporters in CC membrane of Laurencia dendroidea. In vivo incubation assays with CSA resulted in CC morphological changes, reduced intracellular elatol concentrations and increased biofouling cover on the seaweed surface. Cultivation assays in the presence of a marine pathogenic bacteria induced the expression of ABC proteins belonging to the subfamilies ABCB, ABCD, ABCF and ABCG. The later subfamily is known to associated in the transport terpenes in plants. Our results shed new light on the role of ABC proteins in key mechanisms of the defensive system in seaweeds against fouling and herbivory.
Investigating Cryptosporidium spp. Using Genomic and Proteomic Techniques: Current Progress and Future Directions
Authors: Dąbrowska Joanna , Sroka Jacek , Cencek Tomasz
Published: July 2023

Cryptosporidiosis is a widespread disease caused by the parasitic protozoan Cryptosporidium spp., which infects various vertebrate species, including humans. Once unknown as a gastroenteritis-causing agent, Cryptosporidium spp. is now recognized as a pathogen causing life-threatening disease, especially in immunocompromised individuals such as AIDS patients. Advances in diagnostic methods and increased awareness have led to a significant shift in the perception of Cryptosporidium spp. as a pathogen. Nowadays, genomic and proteomic studies have played a main role in understanding the molecular biology of this complex-life-cycle parasite. Genomics has enabled the identification of numerous genes involved in the parasite's development and interaction with hosts. Proteomics has allowed for the identification of protein interactions, their function, structure, and cellular activity. The combination of these two approaches has significantly contributed to the development of new diagnostic tools, vaccines, and drugs for cryptosporidiosis. In this review, we summarize the major accomplishments in the field of Cryptosporidium research using genomics and proteomics.
Assessment of Stress Levels in Lactating Cattle: Analyzing Cortisol Residues in Commercial Milk Products in Relation to the Temperature-Humidity Index
Authors: Ataallahi Mohammad , Cheon Si Nae , Park Geun-Woo , Nugrahaeningtyas Eska , Jeon Jung Hwan , Park Kyu-Hyun
Published: July 2023

Chronic stress in dairy cattle industry has negative impacts on animal health, productivity, and welfare. It has been confirmed that cortisol transfers to milk and resists the high temperature during milk processing. This study evaluated the relationship between milk cortisol concentration (MCC) in commercial milk products and the temperature-humidity index (THI) at time of milk production. Eleven commercially produced pasteurized and sterilized milk products, purchased in Chuncheon, Korea, with production dates ranging from July to October 2021 were analyzed. The MCC was extracted using diethyl ether and analyzed using enzyme immunoassay. Average THI values based on microclimate data provided by the Korea Meteorological Administration were 77±0.8, 75±1.4, 69±1.4, and 58±1.8, in July, August, September, and October, respectively. The average MCC levels were 211.9±95.1, 173.5±63.8, 109.6±53.2, and 106.7±33.7 pg/mL in July, August, September, and October, respectively. MCC in July was higher than in August, September and October (p<0.05), while it was lower in September and October than in August (p<0.05). Significant variations in MCC were observed in commercial milk products across the four production months (p<0.05), except for two milk products. Overall, monitoring cortisol residue in commercial dairy milk products can be an alternative indicator of stress in dairy cattle of farms.
CO2 Prevents O2 Adsorption at Low-temperature Oxidation Stage of Low-Rank Coal: Laboratory Study and Molecular Simulation
Authors: Cheng Gang , Wang Haiyan , Tan Bo , Fu Shuhui
Published: July 2023

CO2 is widely used in the prevention and control of coal spontaneous combustion. In this manuscript, three low-rank coals with different metamorphic degrees were selected as the research objects. The temperature-programmed experiments, in-situ infrared cooling experiments, simulation of competitive adsorption of CO2 and O2 in coal pores, and simulation study of CO2 inhibition of coal oxygen composite reaction were used to obtain the role and effect of CO2 in preventing oxygen adsorption in coal at low-temperature oxidation stage. It is concluded that CO2 can displace the O2 near the pore wall to physically prevent the adsorption of O2. Through the change law of heating rate and kinetic analysis, it is found that CO2 can increase its activation energy by 5.3%-108.3% during the slow heating stage of coal, and reduce its heating rate. At around 120°C, coal loses the protective effect of CO2. From the changes of functional groups, it can be seen that when coal is cooled in CO2 atmosphere, mainly pyrolysis and condensation reactions occur due to the lack of O2. In addition, CO2 can also inhibit the chain reaction of coal's chemical adsorption of oxygen. This work provides a theoretical basis for CO2 prevention and control of coal spontaneous combustion.
Emotional Distress in Portuguese Cancer Patients: The Use of the Emotion Thermometers
Authors: Silva Sónia , Paredes Tiago , Teixeira Ricardo João , Brandão Tânia , Dimitrovová Klára , Marques Diogo , Sousa Joana , Leal Monick , Dias Albina , Neves Carole , Marques Graciete , Amaral Natália
Published: July 2023

Cancer patients may experience significant distress. The “Emotion Thermometers” (ETs) are a short visual analogue scale used to screen patients for psychosocial risk. This study aimed to assess emotional distress in a large sample of cancer patients attending psychological services at an NGO, and to explore factors that may contribute to it.

The ETs were answered by 899 cancer patients. They were, on average, 59.9 years old, the majority were female, had breast cancer, were under treatment or were disease-free survivors, and reported high levels of emotional distress, above the cut-off (≥5). A Generalized Linear Model was used to measure the association between the level of Distress and 33 items of the problem list. Four items - sadness, depression, sleep and breathing - were found to be significantly related to a higher level of Distress. Additionally, women and those who were in the palliative phase also had significantly higher levels of Distress.

Conclusions: The results confirm the need for early emotional screening in cancer patients, as well as the relevance of attending to the characteristics of each patient. Additionally, they highlight the utility of the ETs for the clinical practice, allowing to optimize the referral to specialized psy-chosocial services.
The Porous Structure of Peripheral Nerve Guidance Conduits: Features, Fabrication and Implications for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Wan Teng , Wang Yi-Lin , Zhang Feng-Shi , Zhang Xiao-Meng , Zhang Yi-Chong , Jiang Hao-ran , Zhang Meng , Zhang Pei-Xun
Published: July 2023

The porous structure is an important three-dimensional morphological feature of the peripheral nerve guidance conduit (NGC), which permits infiltration of cells, nutrients, and molecular signals, and the discharge of metabolic waste. Porous structures with precisely customised pore sizes, porosities, and connectivities were used to construct fully permeable, semi-permeable, and asymmetric peripheral NGCs to replace traditional nerve autografts in treatment of long-segment peripheral nerve injury. In this review, the features of porous structures and classification of NGCs based on these characteristics are discussed. Common methods for constructing 3D porous NGCs in current research are described, as well as the pore characteristics and the parameters used to tune the pores. The effects of the porous structure on the physical properties of NGCs including biodegradation, mechanical performance, and permeability were analysed. Pore structure affects the biological behaviour of Schwann cells, macrophages, fibroblasts, and vascular endothelial cells during peripheral nerve regeneration. Construction of ideal porous structures is a significant advancement in the regeneration of peripheral nerve tissue engineering materials. The purpose of this review is to generalise, summarise, and analyse the preparation methods for porous NGCs and their biological functions in promoting peripheral nerve regeneration to guide development of medical nerve repair materials.
Contralateral Hip Abductor Muscle Strength Associated with Comfort of Getting into and Out of the Car after Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Harada Tetsunari , Hamai Satoshi , Hara Daisuke , Fujita Tsutomu , Fujiyoshi Daisuke , Kawahara Shinya , Yamaguchi Ryosuke , Kawaguchi Kenichi , Nakashima Yasuharu
Published: July 2023

There are no studies that have investigated the characteristics of car use across THA patients, including those who do not drive. This study aimed to evaluate, in THA patients, (1) postoperative car usage, (2) comfort while entering and exiting a car, and (3) whether lower limb muscle strength affects action comfort. One hundred seventy-two post-THA patients completed the questionnaire in 2020, along with assessments of hip abductor and knee extensor muscle strength before surgery and at discharge. Patients whose overall comfort level was judged as “comfortable” were defined as the “comfort” group; others were placed in the “discomfort” group. Of the 172 patients, 161 reported car usage at a mean of 5.6 years after THA. Of these, 114 and 47 patients were placed in the "comfort" and "discomfort" groups, respectively. Patients in the "discomfort" group were three times more likely to experience discomfort using the contralateral side door than the surgical side door, and about twice as many patients experienced discomfort when entering as when exiting. Lower preoperative contralateral hip abductor muscle strength was the only independent predictor for discomfort. The take-home messages were that prevention of contralateral-side weakness may improve comfort during the action after THA.
Different Effects of Functional Food and Music Aerobic Exercise on Complete Blood Counts, Blood Biochemistry and Frailty of the Elderly
Authors: Yeh Shu-Hui , Lee Chia-Hua , Lee Ming-Tsung , Wang Jeng-Hwan , Pan Mu-Hsuan , Sung Wen-Chien , Yang Kuender D
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: The elderly who have chewing difficulty (CD) are prone to malnutrition, frail-ty, and sarcopenia, and those with insufficient physical activity (IPA) are also prone to frailty, overweight, and high blood cholesterol. There is an urgent need to prepare functional foods and to promote healthy physical activity for the elderly over 70 years of age to prevent poor nutri-tion and frailty. (2) Methods: This study prepared functional foods (FF) with softened chicken moose and milkfish without fin for the elderly and compared the different effects of FF from those of music aerobic exercise (MAE) on the complete blood counts, blood biochemistry, in-cluding nutrition index of albumin, and cholesterol levels, and frailty scores before and after in-stitution of FF and MAE among residents of long-term care institutes. (3) Results: The FF signif-icantly increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and albumin levels. In contrast, MAE significantly increased red blood cells (RBC), and decreased the rates of frailty items on fatigue feeling and low physical activity. In comparison between FF and MAE groups, we found that the FF for 5 weeks significantly improved better on HDL-C and MCV while the MAE for 10 weeks improved significantly better on hematopoiesis as increases in red blood cells and platelets. (4) Conclusions: Results from this study suggest that FF and MAE for the elderly have different ef-fects on nutrition status, blood biochemistry and frailty. A combination of both FF and MAE might provide better benefits of nutrition status, physical function, and frailty for the elderly.
CFD Model Verification and Aerodynamic Analysis in Large-Scaled Venlo Greenhouse Complex for Tomato Cultivation
Authors: Kibwika Anthony Kintu , Seo Hyo-Jae , Seo Il–Hwan
Published: July 2023

To address the challenges of climate change and food security, the establishment of smart farm complexes is necessary. While there have been numerous studies on the productivity and environmental control of individual greenhouses, research on greenhouse complexes is considerably limited. Conducting environmental studies during the design phase of these complexes poses financial constraints and practical limitations in terms of on-site experiments. To identify potential issues that may arise when developing large-scale greenhouse complexes, it is possible to utilize modeling techniques using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to assess environmental concerns and location issues before constructing the facilities. Consequently, simulating large-scale CFD models that incorporate multiple greenhouses and atmospheric conditions simultaneously presents significant numerical challenges. The objective of this study was to develop a guideline for verifying CFD models for a large-scale Venlo greenhouse, where acquiring field data before construction is not feasible for designing a greenhouse complex. The verification processes of the CFD models were conducted using 2D and 3D iterative simulations of a 2-hectare greenhouse model, using the improved Grid Independence Test (GIT) and wall Y+ approaches. Subsequently, the aerodynamic characteristics were analyzed in a 3D greenhouse model to access its performance when the wind direction was 90° in summer season. The findings revealed that a grid resolution of 0.8 meters and a first layer height of 0.04 meters were suitable for developing large-scale greenhouse models, resulting in a low Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 3.9% and a high coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.968. This process led to a significant reduction of 38% in the number of grid cells. These results will serve as design standards for large-scale greenhouses.
Coronary No-reflow After Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention – Current knowledge on Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, Clinical Impact and Therapy
Authors: Ndrepepa Gjin , Kastrati Adnan
Published: July 2023

Coronary no-reflow (CNR) is a frequent phenomenon that develops in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) following reperfusion therapy. CNR is highly dynamic and develops gradually (over hours) and persists for days to weeks after reperfusion. Microvascular obstruction (MVO) developing as a consequence of myocardial ischemia, distal embolization and reperfusion-related injury is the main pathophysiological mechanism of CNR. The frequency of CNR or MVO after primary PCI differs widely depending on the sensitivity of the tools used for diagnosis and timing of examination. Coronary angiography is readily available and most convenient to diagnose CNR but it is highly conservative and underestimates the true frequency of CNR. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging is the most sensitive method to diagnose MVO and CNR that provides information on the presence, localization and extent of MVO. CMR imaging detects intramyocardial hemorrhage and accurately estimates the infract size. MVO and CNR markedly negate the benefits of reperfusion therapy and contribute to poor clinical outcomes including adverse remodeling of left ventricle, worsening or new congestive heart failure and reduced survival. Despite extensive research and the use of therapies that target almost all known pathophysiological mechanisms of CNR, no therapy has been found that prevents or reverses CNR and provides consistent clinical benefit in patients with STEMI undergoing reperfusion. Currently the prevention or alleviation of MVO and CNR remain unmet goals in the therapy of STEMI that continue to be under intense research.
DSC Phase Transition Profiles Analysed by Control Charts to Determine Markers for the Authenticity and Deterioration of Flaxseed Oil during Storage
Authors: Islam Mahbuba , Kaczmarek Anna , Grygier Anna , Tomaszewska-Gras Jolanta
Published: July 2023

An approach of implementing X-bar and R control charts as a statistical control tool to monitor changes in the melting profile of fresh and stored flaxseed oils by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used. Phase transition melting profiles were collected after 0, 2, 4, 6 months of storing flaxseed oils, originated from five different cultivars. Four peaks at around -36, -30, -25, -12 °C were identified using the deconvolution analysis procedure, which enabled data to be collected on peak temperature (T), peak height (h) and the peak area (A), as well as the ratio calculated from these parameters. Control charts of DSC parameters, linked to the second peak (h2, A2) and calculated ratios of those parameters showed an increasing or decreasing trend within the storage time, thus were considered to be indicators of oil deterioration. Since DSC parameters related to the first peak (h1, A1) and third peak (h3, A3) remained unchanged within storage, they were established as the markers of flaxseed oil authenticity.
Preparation of Hybrid Films Based in Aluminum 8-hydroxyquinoline for Application in Organic Light-emitting Devices
Authors: Sánchez Vergara María Elena , Cantera Cantera Luis Alberto , Ríos Citlalli , Salcedo Roberto
Published: July 2023

In the present work we have investigated an organic semiconductor based on tris(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (AlQ3) doped with tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ), which can be used as a photoactive layer in organic light-emitting device (OLED). DFT calculations were carried out to optimize the structure of semiconductor species and get related constants in order to compare experimental and theoretical results. The semiconductor AlQ3-TCNQ was structurally characterized and their experimental IR spectrum was compared with that obtained through DFT calculations. Subsequently, AlQ3-TCNQ films with polypyrrole (PPy) matrix were fabricated, they were morphologically and mechanically characterized by Scanning Electron and Atomic Force Microscopy techniques. The maximum stress for the film is 8.66 MPa and the Knoop hardness is 0.0311. The film was analyzed in its optical behavior and the optical properties of hybrid film were found to exhibit two indirect allowed transitions at 2.64 and 3.44 eV. Finally, an OLED type was fabricated that was electrically characterized. Applying a cubic-spline approximation to fit cubic polynomials to the J-V curves, the ohmic to SCLC transition voltage VON and the trap-filled-limit voltage VTFL for the device were obtained. Then, the free carrier density and trap density for the device were approximated to n0=2.4787×10171m3 and Nt=1.7419×10291m3 respectively.
FTY720-Loaded Polymeric Micelles for Treatment of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Zhou Fangfang , Gong Xiyu , Hu Shuntai , He Yongju , Yang Binbin
Published: July 2023

Keywords: FTY720, self-assembled nanoparticles, intracerebral hemorrhage, neuroprotection
A Railway Track Extraction Method Based on Improved DeepLabV3+
Authors: Weng Yanbin , Li Zuochuang , Chen Xiahu , He Jing , Liu Fengnian , Huang Xiaobin , Yang Hua
Published: July 2023

Extracting railway tracks is crucial for creating electronic railway maps. Traditional methods require significant manual labor and resources, while existing neural networks have limitations in efficiency and precision. To address these challenges, a railway track extraction method using an improved DeepLabV3+ model is proposed, which incorporates several key enhancements. Firstly, the encoder part of the method utilizes the lightweight network MobileNetV3 as the backbone extraction network for DeepLabV3+. Secondly, the decoder part adopts the lightweight universal upsampling operator CARAFE for upsampling. Lastly, to address any potential extraction errors, morphological algorithms are applied to optimize the extraction results. Additionally, a dedicated railway track segmentation dataset is created to train and evaluate the proposed method. The experimental results demonstrate that the model achieves impressive performance on the railway track segmentation dataset and DeepGlobe dataset. The MIoU scores are 88.93% and 84.72%, with Recall values of 89.02% and 86.96%. Moreover, the overall accuracy stands at 97.69% and 94.84%. The algorithm's operation time is about 5% lower in comparison to the original network. Furthermore, the morphological algorithm effectively eliminates errors like holes and spots. These findings indicate the model's accuracy, efficiency, and the enhancement brought by the morphological algorithm in error elimination.
Remission Induction with Tacrolimus for Intractable Ulcerative Colitis: A Retrospective Study of Remission Rates, Maintenance at 52 Weeks, Drug-Specific Maintenance, and Safety
Authors: Ito Ayumi , Murasugi Shun , Omori Teppei , Nakamura Shinichi , Tokushige Katutoshi
Published: July 2023

Background and Aim: Tacrolimus is highly effective in intractable ulcerative colitis, but maintenance may be problematic. This study examined 52-week maintenance and adverse events.

Methods: This retrospective study of patients who used tacrolimus from April 2009 to December 2021 (N = 136) examined remission induction rates and background factors in the remission (n = 108) and non-remission groups (n = 28); 52-week maintenance; drug-specific maintenance (azathioprine [n = 58] vs tacrolimus [n = 12] and vs biological product [Bio, n = 8]); and adverse events.

Results: The mean observation period was 1230175 days. Remission occurred in 72.7%. Significant differences were observed in sex and endoscopic score (before treatment and 2 weeks after tacrolimus trough levels). Maintenance rate at 52 weeks was 61.6%; significant differences were observed in sex, hospitalization duration, and prednisolone during hospitalization (P < 0.05). Drug-specific 52-week maintenance was 67% with azathioprine, 54% with tacrolimus, and 37% with Bio. No tacrolimus-related serious adverse events occurred that led to discontinuation.

Discussion: Remission was more common in women with improved endoscopic scores after tacrolimus trough levels and patients with improved endoscopic scores after tacrolimus therapy. Remission maintenance was more common in women with a long hospitalization at remission and high total steroid dose. Results suggest that treatment with adequate prednisolone use during the period with more inflammation may improve subsequent maintenance.

Conclusions: In intractable ulcerative colitis, tacrolimus can induce remission even in patients who cannot use azathioprine for maintenance. Remission can be maintained with azathioprine, tacrolimus, or a Bio.
Influence of the Polymeric Matrix on the Optical and Electrical Properties of Copper Porphine-Based Semiconductor Hybrid films
Authors: Sánchez Vergara María Elena , Hernández Méndez Joaquín André , González Verdugo Daniela , Giammattei Funes Isabella María , Lozada Flores Octavio
Published: July 2023

In this study we assessed the electrical and optical behavior of semiconductor hybrid films fabricate from octaethyl-21H,23H-porphine copper (CuP), embedded in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and polystyrene (PS). The hybrid films were characterized structurally and morphologically by means of Infrared spectroscopy (IR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Subsequently, the PMMA:CuP and PS:CuP hybrid films were evaluated optically by UV-vis spectroscopy, as well as electrically, with the four-point collinear method. Hybrid films present a homogeneous and low roughness morphology, besides; the PS matrix allows the crystallization of the porphin, while the PMMA promotes the amorphous structure in CuP. The polymeric matrix also has an effect on the optical behavior of the films, since the smallest optical gap (2.16 eV) and onset gap (1.89 eV) and the highest transparency are obtained in the film with a PMMA matrix. Finally, the electrical behavior in hybrid films is also affected by the matrix: the largest amount of current carried is around 0.01 A for PS:CuP film, while for PMMA:CuP film it is 0.0015 A. Thanks to the above properties, hybrid films are promising candidates for use in optoelectronic devices.
Study on the Effect of Cold Deformation and Heat Treatment on the Properties of Cu-Ag Alloy Wire
Authors: Wu Xuefeng , Jia Hewei , Cao Jun , Su Chenghao
Published: July 2023

The effects of various drawing parameters and annealing processes on the structure and properties of Cu-Ag wires, containing 1 wt% silver, were investigated using specialized equipment including fine wire drawing machines, very fine wire drawing machines, heat treatment equipment, tensile testing machines, microcomputer-controlled electronic universal testers, resistance testers, and scanning electron microscopes. The results revealed that continuous drawing of Cu-1%Ag alloy wires led to elongation of the grains, resulting in a uniform and tightly fibrous microstructure. Moreover, the tensile strength of the alloy wire increased from 670 MPa to 783.9 MPa after a single-pass with a deformation of 14%. Subsequently, when the wire was drawn at a speed of 500 m/min, the tensile strength further increased to 820.1 MPa. After annealing the Փ0.08 mm Cu-1% Ag alloy wire, an increase in annealing temperature up to 500°C resulted in the wire's tensile strength decreasing from 820.1 MPa to 377.5 MPa. Simultaneously, the elongation increased from 1.94% to 15.21%, and the resistivity decreased from 1.931×10-8Ω·m to 1.723×10-8Ω·m. Additionally, when annealing was conducted at a rate of 80 m/min, the wire resistivity dropped to 1.635×10-8Ω·m.
Mesophilic and Thermophilic Fermentation of Waste Activated Sludge for Volatile Fatty Acids Production: Focusing on Anaerobic Degradation of Carbohydrate and Protein
Authors: Xiong Huilei , Liu Lanhua , Song Baodong , Shi Hanchang
Published: July 2023

The volatile fatty acids (VFAs) productions, as well as particulate organics decomposition, soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD) yield, and the VFAs production pathways, of mesophilic and thermophilic anaerobic fermentation were investigated. Batch experiments showed that the decomposition rate of volatile suspended solids (VSS), particulate carbohydrate (P-C) and particulate protein (P-P) followed the first-order kinetic model at different temperature. However, the intermediates， accumulated in the process of protein or carbohydrate digestion had a more significant inhibitory effect on the production of VFAs during the mesophilic anaerobic acidification process. Thermophilic fermentation led to more accumulation of VFAs compared to mesophilic fermentation. Then 13C stable isotope labeling experiment demonstrated that, acetic (HAc), propionic (HPr) and butyric (HBu) could be produced from carbohydrate and protein digestion, but valeric (HVa) was only generated from the degradation of protein. Finally, the possible pathway of HVa synthesis was proposed.
Anti-reflective Coatings Produced by Atomic Layer Deposition for Hybrid-Polymer 3D Micro-Optics
Authors: Astrauskytė Darija , Galvanauskas Karolis , Gailevičius Darius , Drazdys Mantas , Malinauskas Mangirdas , Grineviciute Lina
Published: July 2023

Laser direct writing allows for the fabrication of complex structures, which is particularly advantageous in micro-optic applications. However, the increasing demand for optics quality requires the lowest optical power loss, which can occur from unwanted reflections. This research demonstrates the possibility of forming an anti-reflective coating on hybrid-polymer micro-lenses fabricated by employing laser direct writing (LDW), without changing their geometry. Such coating deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) decreased the reflection from 3.3 % to 0.1 % at the wavelength of 633 nm for one surface of SZ2080™.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties of Polyester and PLA Nonwovens (And PES and Cotton Fabrics), Functionalized with Aquous Dispersions Containing Copper Silicate, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, or Hybrid Composite Oxide ZnO∙SiO2
Authors: Chruściel Jerzy J. , Olczyk Joanna , Kudzin Marcin H. , Kaczmarek Piotr , Król Paulina , Tarzyńska Natalia
Published: July 2023

Many stable water dispersions of various chemical compositions containing bioactive chemical compounds: copper silicate, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide (and other auxiliary substances) were developed and fabricated - they were used for preparation of thin hybrid coatings having very good antimicrobial properties against gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and yeast fungus (Candida albicans). Polyester (PES) nonwovens were modified by dip-coating, and PES and cotton fabrics - by dip-coating and coating methods.
Servant Leadership and Work Engagement among Contractual Employees
Authors: Putra Dhaifan Dewanda , Wicaksono Bagus , Satwika Pratista Arya
Published: July 2023

Several studies have found a correlation between servant leadership and work engagement, but a more in-depth study is still needed to analyze the relationship between the two in different research subjects, namely, honorary employees. This study aims to determine the relationship between servant leadership and work engagement among honorary employees. All respondents consist of 72 honorary employees selected using the total sample technique. The instruments used are the Utrecht Work Engagement Survey (UWES) and the Servant Leadership Scale. The results of the Spearman rank correlation test in this study show a correlation coefficient value of 0.559 (p < 0.05), which can be interpreted as a significant positive relationship between servant leadership and work engagement among honorary employees.

 
Subjective Well-Being and Trait Gratitude Among Chinese University Postgraduates
Authors: Yongle Zhong , Ming Yang
Published: July 2023

The purpose of the present study was to explore whether trait gratitude correlates with subjective well-being (SWB) among Chinese university postgraduates as well as gender and only-child differences in the mean scores on measures of SWB and gratitude. A sample of 50 Chinese postgraduates participated in the research including the measurements of trait gratitude and subjective well-being. The findings indicate that gratitude was not associated with all items of SWB. However, the results find that gratitude was significantly and negatively correlated to negative affect, besides, satisfaction with life was positively correlated to the lack of deprivation and the gratitude to society. And the level of gratitude could be different in terms of gender and only child. The results indicate that female and not only-child reported higher levels of gratitude in comparison with male and only-child postgraduates respectively.
Disinfection of Surfaces Contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus by UV Radiation of Low-Pressure Mercury-Vapour Lamp
Authors: Masyakin D. N. , Alferov A. E. , Kikot’ S. G. , Androshchuk I. A. , Kirillov V. B. , Kirillova S. L. , Koval’chuk E. A. , Kotov M. A. , Lopota V. А. , Rudoy I. G. , Solov’ev N. G. , Soroka A. M. , Trufanova V. V. , Chepurenkov N. Ya. , Shemyakin A. N. , Yakimov M. Yu. , Borisevich S. V.
Published: July 2023

The aim of the work was to determine the effective ultraviolet (UV) doses required for the disinfection of surfaces contaminated with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus using a low-pressure mercury lamp. Materials and methods. To carry out prompt disinfection of surfaces, a specially designed source of UV radiation with a power of 7.5 W at a wavelength of 254 nm in the form of a portable flashlight was employed, which has a high efficiency of UV radiation output and the possibility of long-term autonomous operation from a compact battery. In the studies, a suspension culture of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus with biological activity of 5.3∙106 PFU/ml was used. The objects of testing were plastic Petri dishes (disposable) and office paper (grade C, density 80 g/m2 ). Results and discussion. Doses of UV radiation that provide disinfection of surfaces contaminated with the COVID-19 pathogen with an efficiency of 99.0 % (paper) to 99.95 % (plastic) have been determined. The results obtained make it possible to recommend a portable UV irradiator for use in the practice of preventive measures to combat the spread of the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.
The First Case of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Caused by O/ME-SA/IND-2001 Virus in Kazakhstan
Authors: Nakhanov A. K. , Abeuov Kh. B. , Omarova Z. D. , Ermekbai T. T. , Burashev E. D. , Orynbayev M. B.
Published: July 2023

In Kazakhstan, foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks were recorded in 2011–2013 in the southern and eastern regions where FMD vaccination is in place. In January 2022, in Kiikty village of the Shetsky district, Karaganda Region, Republic of Kazakhstan, cases among cattle clinically similar to foot-and-mouth disease were reported. The aim of the research was to establish the cause of the disease and to perform the typing of the pathogen. Materials and methods. Samples from sick animals were tested using PCR, sequenced and typed in compliance with the protocol developed by the International Office for Epizootic Diseases (OIE). Results and discussion. A cytopathogenic agent has been isolated from the BHK-21 cell culture, identified through real-time RT-PCR and electron microscopically as FMD virus. Molecular genetic studies have revealed that the infection of cattle in the Karaganda Region was caused by the FMD virus circulating in the territory of the countries bordering Kazakhstan (China, Russia, Mongolia) and belonging to type O, topotype ME-SA, genetic line Ind-2001. FMD virus isolated in Kazakhstan is genetically related to the FMD line from Asia and is a new FMDV genotype for Kazakhstan, assigned to the ME-SA topotype of the Ind-2001 genetic line. This study once again proves the need for continuous genetic typing of FMD viruses to improve the effectiveness of preventive measures.
Co-Circulation of Coronaviruses among Rodents and Insectivores
Authors: Yashina L. N. , Smetannikova N. A. , Panov V. V.
Published: July 2023

Coronaviruses (family Coronaviridae, genera Alphacoronavirus and Betacoronavirus) are the causative agents of respiratory, intestinal and neurological diseases in humans and animals. Natural reservoirs of coronaviruses include bats, rodents and insectivores, however, the circulation of coronaviruses among rodents and insectivores in the Russian Federation has been unexplored. The aim of the study was to investigate the diversity of coronaviruses among rodents and insectivores co-inhabiting natural biotopes. Materials and methods. Rodents (68 specimens) and shrews of the genus Sorex (23 specimens) were caught in a limited forest area not exceeding 1.5 sq. km, in the vicinity of Novosibirsk. All samples were screened using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction followed by sequencing. Results and discussion. Four distinct coronaviruses have been detected in four species of small mammals. Rodent-borne coronaviruses were classed within subgenera Embecovirus, genus Betacoronavirus, and demonstrated host-associated phylogenetic clustering. The level of homology between the new RNA isolates from red-backed vole (Myodes rutilus), root vole (Microtus oeconomus) and field mouse (Apodemus agrarius) is 85.5–87.7 %. The nucleotide sequences of Siberian coronavirus isolates are closely related (>93 % homology) to previously published sequences in each of the carrier groups found in Europe and China, which suggests their common evolutionary origin. The coronavirus identified in the common shrew (Sorex araneus) belongs to the genus Alphacoronavirus, but is significantly different (>36 % difference) from earlier identified strains included in the genus. It has been shown that different coronaviruses co-circulate in a limited area among rodents and insectivores.
Epidemic and Epizootic Situation on Brucellosis in the Kyrgyz Republic
Authors: Kazybaeva Zh. S. , Nurmatov Z. Sh.
Published: July 2023

The aim of the study was to perform the epidemiological and epizootic analysis of the situation on brucellosis in the Kyrgyz Republic. Materials and methods. When assessing the incidence of brucellosis in the Kyrgyz Republic over the period between 1983 and 2021, official data of the Republican Center of Quarantine and Particularly Dangerous Infections, the Department of Disease Prevention and State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, the State Inspectorate for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Safety of the Kyrgyz Republic, and the National Statistical Committee of the Kyrgyz Republic were used. The obtained materials were processed applying Microsoft Excel 2010. Results and discussion. It is shown that the adverse situation on brucellosis among the population persists in the country: during the study period, the average incidence rate was 29.3 cases per 100 000 of the population. It is associated with constantly occurring epizootics among farm animals, especially small ruminants, which are the main source of human infection. A pronounced summer seasonality of brucellosis cases is noted, due to the participation of people in lambing and calving of animals. Since 2008, there has been a gradual decrease in the incidence of brucellosis among people, after the start of systematic mass vaccination against brucellosis in small ruminants. It is necessary to carry out the entire complex of anti-brucellosis measures and social mobilization of the population to stabilize the epidemic and epizootic situation in the country. The realization of the task will be facilitated by the development of the State Program to combat brucellosis for the interdepartmental integration of all efforts to prevent this dangerous infectious disease.
Analysis of Brucellosis Incidence and Molecular-Genetic Characteristics of Brucella Population in the Territory of the Russian Federation
Authors: Ponomarenko D. G. , Khachaturova A. A. , Kovalev D. A. , Skudareva O. N. , Lukashevich D. E. , Zharinova I. V. , Daurova A. V. , Germanova A. N. , Logvinenko O. V. , Rakitina E. L. , Kostyuchenko M. V. , Kuznetsova I. V. , Shapakov N. A. , Bobrysheva O. V. , Pisarenko S. V. , Manin E. A. , Maletskaya O. V. , Kulichenko A. N.
Published: July 2023

An analysis of brucellosis incidence in Russia in 2013–2022 and the data on genetic diversity of Brucella melitensis and Brucella abortus populations isolated in Russia in 1939–2022 are provided in the review. Over the past decade, the epidemiological situation in Russia has been characterized as unstable against the background of persistent unfavorable conditions for brucellosis in cattle and small ruminants. During the period of 2013–2022 (9 months), 4298 epizootic foci as regards brucellosis in cattle (89164 sick animals) and 371 as regards brucellosis in small ruminants (13569) were registered. The largest number of epizootic brucellosis foci was recorded in the North-Caucasian and Southern Federal Districts. In 2013–2022, on average, 327 cases of brucellosis among people were registered annually, the incidence rate per 100 000 of the population was 0.24. Up to 70–90 % of brucellosis cases were detected in the south of the European part of the country. A trend towards deterioration of the situation on brucellosis in Volga (Penza and Samara Regions) and Central (Smolensk, Voronezh and Tula Regions) Federal Districts is observed. There is a connection between the intensity of epidemic manifestations of brucellosis and the level of anthropurgic enzooty of territories. In 2022, 467 cases of brucellosis were reported (0.32 per 100 000 of the population), which is 42.8 % higher than annual average values over 10 years. In 2023, a measure of stability of incidence rates, by 20–25 % above average long-term values, is to be expected. Incidence of brucellosis in humans will be within the range of 380–410 cases (0.26–0.28 per 100 000 of the population). The results of genotyping of B. melitensis strains point to an increase in the proportion of isolates with an MLVA-profile characteristic of strains from enzootic as regards brucellosis countries of Middle East and North Africa over past 20–25 years, which can indicate importation (introduction) of the infection from these territories to Russia through small ruminants and/or biomaterial from them.
Pengaruh Pelatihan Kerja, Penempatan Posisi Kerja Dan Etika Kerja Islam Terhadap Produktivitas Kerja Pegawai (Studi Pada Dinas Penanaman Modal dan Pelayanan Terpadu Satu Pintu Provinsi Kalimantan Timur)
Authors: Putri Rizki Sintia , Nurzaroni Akhmad , Hamidy Anwaril , Hasbi Muhamad
Published: July 2023

ABSTRAK

Produktivitas merupakan ukuran yang sering digunakan untuk menentukan efektivitas suatu organisasi ataupun instansi.Tinggi atau rendahnya produktivitas organisasi ataupun instansi dilihat dari hasil yang dicapai (output) dengan input yang digunakan, artinya ada peningkatan efisiensi (waktu-bahan-tenaga), dan sistem kerja atau keterampilan tenaga kerjanya. Namun apabila efisiensi kerja pegawai tidak meningkat maka organisasi ataupun instansi tidak akan bisa berkembang. Salah satu ukuran keberhasilan DPMPTSP Provinsi Kalimatan Timur dalam upaya pencapaian tujuannya adalah meningkatnya produktivitas kerja pegawai yang dimana secara langsung berdampak pada kemajuan atau semakin berkembangnya DPMPTSP Provinsi Kalimatan Timur. Tercapainya suatu tingkat produktivitas tersebut tentunya dipengaruhi oleh berbagai faktor, hal yang menarik untuk diperhatikan yaitu mengenai pelatihan kerja, penempatan posisi kerja dan etika kerja Islam. Penelitian ini bertujuan buat mengetahui pengaruh pelatihan kerja, penempatan posisi kerja, dan etika kerja Islam terhadap produktivitas kerja pegawai pada DPMPTSP Provinsi Kalimantan Timur.

Jenis penelitian ini adalah metode penelitian kuantitatif. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian survei yang mana pengambilan data populasinya yaitu seluruh pegawai DPMPTSP Provinsi Kalimantan Timur yang beragama Islam dengan jumlah 48 orang. Sampel yang digunakan pada penelitian ini ialah sampling jenuh. Teknik pengumpulan datanya menggunakan kuesioner. Teknis analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis regresi linier berganda menggunakan SPSS tipe 21 For Windows.

Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa variabel pelatihan kerja berpengaruh signifikan terhadap produktivitas kerja karena memiliki nilai thitung 2,602 > ttabel 2,059. Sedangkan variabel penempatan posisi kerja tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap produktivitas kerja karena memiliki nilai sig. sebesar 0,306 > 0,05 dan nilai thitung -1,045 < ttabel 2,059. Dan variabel etika kerja Islam tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap produktivitas kerja karena memiliki nilai sig. 0,175 > 0,05 dan thitung sebesar 1,412 < ttabel 2,059. Pelatihan kerja, penempatan posisi kerja dan etika kerja Islam secara simultan berpengaruh signifikan terhadap produktivitas kerja karena tingkat nilai signifikan pelatihan kerja, penempatan posisi kerja dan etika kerja Islam sebesar 0,021 < 0,05 atau nilai Fhitung 3,858 > Ftabel 2,93. Koefisien determinasi menunjukkan bahwa ketiga variabel indepeden berpengaruh sebesar 22,8% terhadap variabel dependen sedangkan sisianya sebesar 77,2% dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain yang tidak digunakan dalam penelitian ini.
Pengaruh Kinerja Keuangan Terhadap Permodalan Bank Syariah Mandiri
Authors: Nur Siti Fahraheda , Parno Parno , Mainata Dedy
Published: July 2023

The financial performance seen through the ratio calculation has a relationship to the capital of Islamic banks. Bank Syariah Mandiri as the largest Islamic bank in Indonesia is a benchmark for the Islamic banking industry in Indonesia. The purpose of this study is to see the relationship between financial performance and capital adequacy of Bank Syariah Mandiri. By using secondary data from 2015-2019 and performing classic assumption tests, multiple linear regression tests, and hypothesis testing, the results showed that ROA had no significant effect on CAR. FDR has a significant negative effect on CAR. BOPO has no significant effect on CAR. NIM has no significant effect on CAR. NPF has a significant negative effect on CAR. The results of multiple linear regression analysis simultaneously show that ROA, FDR, BOPO, NIM, NPF simultaneously affect CAR