bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A New Strategy of bi-Alkali Metal Doping to Design Boron Phosphide Nanocages of High Nonlinear Optical Response with Better Thermodynamic Stability
Authors: Baloach Rimsha , Ayub Khurshid , Mahmood Tariq , Asif Anila , Tabassum Sobia , Gilani Mazhar Amjad 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Nonlinear optical materials possess high rank in fields of optics owing to their impacts, utilization and extended applications in industrial sector. Therefore, design of molecular systems with high nonlinear optical response along with high thermodynamic stability is a dire need of this era. Hence, the present study involves investigation of bi-alkali metal doped boron phosphide nanocages M2@B12P12 (M = Li, Na, K) in search of stable nonlinear optical materials. The investigation includes execution of geometrical and opto-electronic properties of complexes by means of density functional theory (DFT) computations. Bi-doped alkali metal atoms introduce excess of electrons in the host B12P12 nanocage. These electrons contribute towards the formation of new HOMO, thus reducing HOMO-LUMO gaps. The reduced HOMO-LUMO gap ranges from 0.63eV to 3.69eV. The diffused excess electrons also come up with increased hyperpolarizability values of complexes i.e. up to 4.0×104au. TD-DFT calculations have been performed to examine crucial transition states and for UV-VIS analysis. IR and DOS spectra have been plotted to support our obtained results. Non covalent interaction (NCI) calculations along with quantum theory of the atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis were carried out to understand the bonding interactions between alkali metal atoms and B12P12 nanocage. All obtained results suggest bi-alkali metal doped nanocages as exceptionally stable materials with improved NLO response and superb candidates for their vast applications in optics.
Assessment of metal(loid) contamination and genotoxicity of agricultural soils
Authors: Kumar Vaneet , Singh Sandip , Nagpal Avinash 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Soil, a connecting link between biotic and abiotic components of terrestrial ecosystem, receives different kinds of pollutants through various point and nonpoint sources. Among different sources of soil pollution, contaminated irrigation water is one of the most prominent sources affecting soils throughout the globe. The irrigation water (both surface and groundwater) are increasingly getting polluted with contaminants such as metal(loid)s due to various anthropogenic activities. The present study was conducted to analyze metal(loid) contents in agricultural soil samples (N = 24) collected from fields along the banks of rivers Beas and Sutlej flowing through Punjab state of India, using Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Florescent (WDXRF) Spectroscopy. The soil samples were also analysed for their genotoxic potential using Allium cepa root chromosomal aberration assay. The rivers Beas and Sutlej are contaminated with municipal and industrial effluents in different parts of Punjab. The soil samples analyzed were found to have higher contents of Arsenic, Cobalt and Chromium when compared with reference values given by various international agencies. Pollution assessment using different indices like Index of geo-accumulation, Enrichment factor and Contamination factor revealed that the soil samples were highly polluted with cobalt and arsenic. The Allium cepa assay revealed that maximum genotoxicity was found in soil samples having higher contents of As and Co. Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlation between the different metal(loid)s which indicated common sources of these metal(loid)s. Therefore, efforts must be taken to reduce the levels of these metal(loid)s in these agricultural soils.
Epidemiology of Road Traffic Accidents and Injuries in Nigeria: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ngene Samuel Osobuchi , Adeola Olatoun Adefunke , Ukoma Chi-kadibia T , Duru Augustine Nwakuche , Olaniyan Kayode Olaoluwa , Onwuchekwa Chinemerem Eunice , Ezeonu Chinonyelum Thecla , Daboer Jonathan Chi , Odimegwu Chioma Laura , Iloanya Peter Chika , Okoye Helen Chioma , Ikeagwulonu Richard Chinaza , Asiegbu Uzoma Vivian , Nnamani Amaka Obiageli , Okoye Ifeoma Joy , Nna Emmanuel Okechukwu 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: About 1.35 million people die annually worldwide due to road traffic accidents. Road traffic injuries cause considerable economic losses to individuals, their families, and to nations as a whole. About 93% of the world's fatalities on the roads occur in low-and middle-income countries, even though these countries have approximately 60% of the world's vehicles. Road Traffic Accidents constitute the third leading cause of trauma related deaths in Nigeria. It is a substantial public health problem that deserves a systematic review.Methods and Analysis: We developed a search strategy using MeSH, text words and entry terms. Nine databases will be searched, including PubMed, African Journal Online, Embase, Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science and ResearchGate. Only observational studies, retrievable in the English language will be included. The primary outcome is prevalence of road traffic injuries in Nigeria. The secondary outcomes include proportion of road traffic accidents in Nigeria, patterns, predictors and consequences of road traffic accidents in Nigeria. Identified studies will be screened and selected based on inclusion criteria using Rayyan QCRI screening tool, by independent reviewers with dual blinding. Data items will be extracted into predefined forms in Microsoft Excel before exporting to CMA version 3 for analysis. Every selected study will have their NIH quality scores and Cochrane risk of bias reported. Studies will be assessed for methodological and statistical heterogeneity. Publication bias will be assessed using Funnel Plots and test of asymmetry. Results will include forest plots, pooled prevalence with standard error, variance, relative weights assigned to studies and heterogeneity test. Further analysis will include subgroup analysis and meta-regression using both categorical and quantitative variables.Discussion: This protocol will enable a transparent, accurate and reliable method for determining pooled prevalence, standard error and 95% CI of road traffic injuries in Nigeria. Patterns and outcomes of RTA in Nigeria will also be assessed. Evidence generated by this protocol will likely inform policy on prevention of RTA in NigeriaTrial Registration Number: This protocol is registered with PROSPERO, with registration number CRD42021226956.
The migration and transformation of chromium during co-processing of cement raw meal mixed with chrome-polluted soil
Authors: Xiao Haiping , Li Yan , Wang Mingwei , Yan Dahai , Liu Zhong 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
To efficiently dispose of chrome-polluted soil, we tested the co-processing of raw meal mixed with chrome-polluted soil in a tube furnace (laboratory experiments) and a cement rotary kiln (field-scale experiments). The migration and transformation reactions of chromium were analyzed and the environmental risk was evaluated. The average mass balance value was 91% for the laboratory experiments. In field-scale experiments, the mass balance values were 110% for the control experiments and 84% when 1% soil was treated. Therefore, only a small amount of Cr was volatilized into the flue gas. The average total Cr concentration in the soil samples was 403.25 mg/kg, and the ratio of Cr(VI) to total Cr was 1.83% or less. On average, 45.15% of Cr(III) was oxidized to Cr(VI) in laboratory experiments, while 87.94% of Cr(III) was oxidized in field-scale experiments, and the difference could be a result of the different calcination conditions. The materials in the cement rotary kiln make full contact with oxygen, and in this high temperature and oxidizing atmosphere, abundant CaO and MgO promote the oxidation of Cr(III) to CaCrO4. SiO2, Al2O3, and Fe2O3 reduce CaCrO4, which inhibits Cr(III) oxidation. The Cr concentration in the cement products was well below the Chinese standard limits. Therefore, the treatment of 1% chrome-polluted soil with a cement rotary kiln is experimentally safe.
Effect Of n-Amyl Alcohol/Biodiesel Blended Nano Additives on the Performance, Combustion and Emission Characteristics of CRDI Diesel Engine
Authors: Nutakki Prabhu Kishore , Gugulothu Santhosh Kumar , Ramachander Jatoth , Sivasurya Mulugundam 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This paper deals with the study on the influence of the effects of iron oxide nanoparticle additives when added to ternary fuel (diesel + Mahua methyl ester + Pentanol) on the emission, combustion and performance characteristics of a four stroke, single cylinder, common rail direct injection diesel engine working at a constant speed and varying operating scenarios. Doping is done in various proportions to the nanoparticle additives with the help of a homogenizer and ultrasonicator where the cationic surfactant used is CTAB (cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide). Iron oxide nanoparticles were used as additives in fuel in the dosages of 40 ppm, 80 ppm & 120 ppm respectively and TF (Ternary fuel) is obtained by mixing 10% pentanol, 20% Mahua and 70% diesel together is used for the experimental study. The experimental study revealed that while using the nanoparticle additives blended ternary fuel (i.e., TF80) the number of harmful pollutants like smoke (5.38%), HC (6.39%), carbon monoxide (10.24%) and NOx etc. has reduced to a considerable extent and there was a commendable improvement in the BTE by 8.8%. So, we can summarize that when ternary fuel and nano additives are blended together the combustion and performance of the engine was improved considerably and pollutant emissions were decreased.
The Clinical Relevance of Luteal Phase Progesterone Support in True Natural Cycle Cryopreserved Blastocyst Stage Embryo Transfers: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Waldman Ian , Racowsky Catherine , Disler Emily , Thomas Ann , Andrea Lanes , Hornstein Mark 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: More than 67% of all embryos transferred in the United States involve frozen-thawed embryos. Progesterone supplementation is necessary in medicated cycles to luteinize the endometrium and prepare it for implantation, but little data is available to show if this is beneficial in true natural cycles. We evaluated the use of luteal phase progesterone supplementation for cryopreserved/warmed blastocyst transfers in true natural cycles not using an ovulatory trigger.Methods: Retrospective cohort study in a single academic medical center. We studied the use of luteal phase progesterone supplementation in patients undergoing true natural cycle cryopreserved blastocyst embryo transfers. Our primary outcome measure was ongoing pregnancy rate, with other pregnancy outcomes being evaluated (i.e. implantation rate, miscarriage rate, ectopic rate, and multifetal gestation). Categorical data were analyzed utilizing Fisher’s exact test and all binary variables were analyzed using log-binomial regression to produce a risk ratio. Results: 229 patients were included in the analysis with 149 receiving luteal phase progesterone supplementation and 80 receiving no luteal phase support. Patient demographic and cycle characteristics, and embryo quality were similar between the two groups. No difference was seen in ongoing pregnancy rate (49.0% vs. 47.5%, p=0.8738), clinical pregnancy rate (50.3% vs. 47.5%, p= 0.7483), positive HCG rate (62.4% vs. 57.5%, p=0.5965), miscarriage/abortion rate (5.4% vs. 2.5%, p=0.2622), ectopic pregnancy rate (0% vs. 1.3%, p=0.3493), or multifetal gestations (7.4% vs. 3.8%, p=0.3166).Conclusion(s): The addition of luteal phase progesterone support in true natural cycle cryopreserved blastocyst embryo transfers did not improve pregnancy outcomes and therefore the routine use in practice cannot be recommended based on this study, but the utilization should not be discouraged without further studies. Capsule: Progesterone supplementation as luteal phase support in true natural cycle cryopreserved blastocyst transfers does not improve ongoing pregnancies.
Diversity of KIR genes and their HLA-C ligands in Ugandan populations with historically varied malaria transmission intensity
Authors: Tukwasibwe Stephen , Traherne James A. , Chazara Olympe , Jayaraman Jyothi , Trowsdale John , Moffett Ashley , Jiang Wei , Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Rek John , Arinaitwe Emmanuel , Nsobya Samuel L. , Atuheirwe Maxine , Mubiru Frank , Anguzu Godwin , Jagannathan Prasanna , Cose Stephen , Kamya Moses R. , Dorsey Grant , Rosenthal Philip J. , Colucci Francesco , Nakimuli Annettee 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Malaria is one of the most serious infectious diseases in the world. The malaria burden is greatly affected by human immunity, and immune responses vary between populations. Genetic diversity in KIR and HLA-C genes, which are important in immunity to infectious diseases, is likely to play a role in this heterogeneity. Several studies have shown that KIR and HLA-C genes influence the immune response to viral infections, but few studies have examined the role of KIR and HLA-C in malaria infection, and these have used low-resolution genotyping. The aim of this study was to determine whether genetic variation in KIR and their HLA-C ligands differ in Ugandan populations with historically varied malaria transmission intensity using more comprehensive genotyping approaches.Methods: High throughput multiplex quantitative real-time PCR method was used to genotype KIR genetic variants and copy number variation and a high-throughput real-time PCR method was developed to genotype HLA-C1 and C2 allotypes for 1,344 participants, aged 6 months to 10 years, enrolled from Ugandan populations with historically high (Tororo District), medium (Jinja District) and low (Kanungu District) malaria transmission intensity. Results: The prevalence of KIR3DS1, KIR2DL5, KIR2DS5 and KIR2DS1 genes was significantly lower in populations from Kanungu compared to Tororo (7.6% vs. 13.2%: p=0.006, 57.2% vs. 66.4%: p=0.005, 33.2% vs. 46.6%: p<0.001 and 19.7% vs. 26.7%: p=0.014 respectively) or Jinja (7.6% vs.18.1%: p<0.001, 57.2% vs. 63.8%: p=0.048, 33.2% vs. 43.5%: p=0.002 and 19.7% vs. 30.4%: p<0.001 respectively). The prevalence of homozygous HLA-C2 was significantly higher in populations from Kanungu (31.6%) compared to Jinja (21.4%), p=0.043, with no significant difference between Kanungu and Tororo (26.7%), p=0.296. Conclusions: The KIR3DS1, KIR2DL5, KIR2DS5 and KIR2DS1 genes may partly explain differences in transmission intensity of malaria since these genes have been positively selected for in places with historically high malaria transmission intensity. The high-throughput multiplex real-time HLA-C genotyping PCR method developed will be useful in disease association studies involving large cohorts.
Cholesterol Alters Mitophagy By Impairing Optineurin Recruitment And Lysosomal Clearance In Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Roca-Agujetas Vicente , Barbero-Camps Elisabet , de Dios Cristina , Podlesniy Petar , Abadin Xenia , Morales Albert , Marí Montserrat , Trullàs Ramon , Colell Anna 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Emerging evidence indicates that impaired mitophagy-mediated clearance of defective mitochondria is a critical event in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. Amyloid-beta (Ab) metabolism and the microtubule-associated protein tau have been reported to regulate key components of the mitophagy machinery. However, the mechanisms that lead to mitophagy dysfunction in AD are not fully deciphered. We have previously shown that intraneuronal cholesterol accumulation can disrupt the autophagy flux, resulting in low Ab clearance. In this study, we examine the impact of neuronal cholesterol changes on mitochondrial removal by autophagy.Methods: Regulation of PINK1-parkin-mediated mitophagy was investigated in conditions of acute (in vitro) and chronic (in vivo) high cholesterol loading using cholesterol-enriched SH-SY5Y cells, cultured primary neurons from transgenic mice overexpressing active SREBF2 (sterol regulatory element binding factor 2), and mice of increasing age that express the amyloid precursor protein with the familial Alzheimer Swedish mutation (Mo/HuAPP695swe) and mutant presenilin 1 (PS1-dE9) together with active SREBF2.Results: In cholesterol-enriched SH-SY5Y cells and cultured primary neurons, high intracellular cholesterol levels stimulated mitochondrial PINK1 accumulation and mitophagosomes formation triggered by Ab while impairing lysosomal-mediated clearance. Antioxidant recovery of cholesterol-induced mitochondrial glutathione (GSH) depletion prevented mitophagosomes formation indicating mitochondrial ROS involvement. Interestingly, when brain cholesterol accumulated chronically in aged APP-PSEN1-SREBF2 mice the mitophagy flux was affected at the early steps of the pathway, with defective recruitment of the key autophagy receptor optineurin (OPTN). Sustained cholesterol-induced alterations in APP-PSEN1-SREBF2 mice promoted an age-dependent accumulation of OPTN into HDAC6-positive aggresomes, which disappeared after in vivo treatment with GSH ethyl ester (GSHee). The analyses in post-mortem brain tissues from individuals with AD confirmed these findings, showing OPTN in aggresome-like structures that correlated with high mitochondrial cholesterol levels in late AD stages. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that accumulation of intracellular cholesterol reduces the clearance of defective mitochondria and suggest recovery of the cholesterol homeostasis and the mitochondrial scavenging of ROS as potential therapeutic targets for AD.
Substance use, and substance use disorder, in relation to COVID-19: Protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Kumar Navin , Janmohamed Kamila , Nyhan Kate , Martins Silvia S , Cerda Magdalena , Hasin Deborah , Scott Jenny , Pates Richard , Ghandour Lilian , Wazaify Mayyada , Khoshnood Kaveh 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is creating severe issues for healthcare and broad social structures, exposing societal vulnerabilities. Among the populations affected by COVID-19 are people engaged in substance use, such as people who smoke, vape (e-cigarette use), use opioids, cannabis, alcohol, psychoactive prescription drugs or have a substance use disorder (SUD). Monitoring substance use and SUD during the pandemic is essential, as people who engage in substance use or present with SUD are at greater risk for COVID-19, and the economic and social changes resulting from the pandemic may aggravate SUD. There have been several reviews focused on COVID-19 in relation to substance use and SUD. Reviews generally did not consider on a large range of substance use variants or SUDs. We plan a scoping review that seeks to fill gaps in our current understanding of substance use and SUD, in the COVID-19 era.Methods: A scoping review focused on substance use and SUD, in relation to COVID-19, will be conducted. We will search (from January 2020 onwards) Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Africa-Wide Information, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, Global Health, WHO Global Literature on Coronavirus Disease Database, WHO Global Index Medicus, PsycINFO, PubMed, Middle Eastern Central Asian Studies, CINAHL Complete, and Sociological Abstracts. Grey literature will be identified using Disaster Lit, Google Scholar, HSRProj, governmental websites and clinical trials registries (e.g. ClinicalTrial.gov, World Health Organization, International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and International Standard Randomized Con-trolled Trial Number registry). Study selection will conform to Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewers’ Manual 2015 Methodology for JBI Scoping Reviews. Only English language, original studies investigating substance use and SUD, in relation to COVID-19 in all populations and settings will be considered for inclusion. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and abstract data. A narrative summary of findings will be conducted. Data analysis will involve quantitative (e.g. frequencies) and qualitative (e.g. content and thematic analysis) methods.Discussion: Original research is urgently needed to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 on substance use and SUD. The planned scoping review will help to address this gap.Systematic Review registrations: Systematic Review Registration: Open Science Framework (osf/io/tzgm5).
Cognitive rehabilitation interventions after stroke: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhao Qing , Wang Xue , Wang Tao , Dmytriw Adam A. , Zhang Xiao , Yang Kun , Luo Jichang , Bai Xuesong , Jiang Nan , Yang Bin , Ma Yan , Jiao Liqun , Xie Yunyan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and 53.4% of stroke survivors suffer from post-stroke cognitive impairment. Post-stroke cognitive impairment can increase hospitalization rate and cost of care, and decrease the quality of life of stroke patients. To date, multiple cognitive rehabilitation interventions have been tested in stroke populations with post-stroke cognitive impairment. However, the most efficacious intervention has not been established. This systematic review aims to compare the efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation interventions for patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment.Methods: We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, CINAHL, PubMed, and clinical trial registries to identify eligible randomized clinical trials with no restrictions in the date of publication and language. Studies conducted with patients aged 18 or over, with the presence of cognitive impairment after being diagnosed with stroke will be included. Studies will be restricted to randomized controlled trials comparing a cognitive rehabilitation intervention with another intervention. The primary outcome is any clinical changes in the general or specific cognitive domain (e.g. executive function, attention, memory, or perception). The secondary outcomes that will be collected include adverse effects (e.g. stroke, disability, or mortality) and quality of life. Two independent reviewers will assess articles to identify trials eligible for inclusion. Data extraction and risk of bias assessment of the included studies will also be done independently. Any discrepancies will be solved by discussion, or a third reviewer will be consulted if necessary. A meta-analysis will be carried out if appropriate.Discussion: This systematic review for patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment will assess the efficacy of cognitive rehabilitation interventions. And our results will help clinical decision-making and support the development of clinical practice guidelines.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020173988