bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of )CeO(x-) CuO(1-x Nanocomposite by Simple Aqueous Route for Solar Cell Application
Authors: Salih Wafaa M. , Rheima Ahmed Mahdi , Kadhum Haider A. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This work concludes the synthesis of CeO-CuO nanocomposite by one-pot preparation method using three different molar ratios. The resulted nanocomposite was characterized using UV-Vis, XRD, SEM, EDX and TEM and the results show that this nanocomposite was found as spherical-like nanoparticles with high purity and the average particle size is in the range of 10-20 nm.. Furthermore, this nanocomposite was used in the solar cell application as photo anode and the results showed that the efficiency increase with increase of (x) content in the (CuO)x–(CeO2)1-x.
Mitigating Potentials of Antioxidant-Rich Plants in Earthworms Exposed to Glyphosate
Authors: Ayanda Isaac O , Ajayi Tolulope O. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that has adverse effects on non-target organisms. This present study investigated the toxic effects of glyphosate on earthworms and the potential of antioxidant-rich plants, Ocimum gratissimum and Telfairia occidentalis remediate these effects. Earthworms (Eisenia fetida) were placed into four groups and treated with concentrations of 1, 2 and 3% glyphosate in soil. The last group was a control group. The worms were collected on the 3rd, 7th and 14th, days post-exposure. During these intervals, the weight of the worms and activities of antioxidant enzyme - superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured to determine the level of antioxidant responses. Furthermore, the percentage of DNA fragmentation was measured to assess the level of DNA damage. Compared with the control group, earthworms exposed to glyphosate and fed with Ocimum gratissimum and Telfairia occidentalis showed varying responses, with increased activities of CAT, SOD, GSH and reduced levels of MDA. Also, decreased fragmented DNA was observed in earthworm groups fed with Ocimum gratissimum and Telfairia occidentalis in comparison with the group treated exclusively with the herbicide. These results suggest that toxicity from glyphosate exposure significantly reduced oxidative damage, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in Eisenia fetida by the antioxidant-rich plants. It is conceivable that soil organisms could suffer a significant mortality when exposed to high concentrations of glyphosate. The cultivation of these plants should be encouraged while caution should be exercised in the use of the herbicides.
Determinants of Acceptance of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) Vaccine Among Lebanese Health Care Workers Using Health Belief Model
Authors: Youssef Dalal , Abbas Linda Abou , Berry Atika , Youssef Janet , Hassan Hamad 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Since Health care workers (HCWs) are at high occupational risk for COVID-19, they are prioritized for immunization. This study aims to assess the acceptance rate of COVID-19 vaccine among HCWs and to identify its determinants.Methodology: A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted over the period extending from 10 to 31 December 2020 among Lebanese HCWs. The Health Belief Model (HBM) was used as theoretical framework. Descriptive statistics were reported using frequency with percentages for categorical variables. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were carried out to identify the factors associated with the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine. Adjusted odds ratio and their 95% confidence intervals were reported. The level of statistical significance was set at a p-value < 0.05. Results: A total of 1800 HCWs have completed the survey. Around half of them were frontliners aged between (30-49) years old. About two third (67.33%) have received their influenza vaccine this year. The acceptance rate of COVID-19 vaccine among surveyed HCWs was 58%. Being a male (aOR=1.988, 95% CI (1.411-2.801)), working in the frontline (aOR=1.610, 95% CI (1.173-2.209), and having received influenza vaccination this year (aOR=1.378, 95% CI(0.990-1.916))were significantly associated with higher COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. However, living in rural area (aOR=0.606, 95%CI (0.440-0.836)), personal history of COVID-19 (aOR=0.695, 95%CI (0.470-1.029), novelty of vaccine (aOR=0.424, 95% CI (0.255-0.706)), side effects (aOR=0.413, 95%CI (0.234-0.731), reliability of manufacturer (aOR=0.434, 95% CI (0.297-0.633) and vaccine frequency (aOR=0.580, 95% CI (0.403-0.836) were negatively associated with the willingness to take it. Remarkably, limited availability (aOR=2.161, 95% CI(1.461-3.197) and accessibility (aOR=1.680, 95% CI (1.141-2.474) to the vaccine were also positively associated to its uptake. Similarly, HCWs who perceived vaccine benefits were more likely to get vaccinated (aOR=11.048, 95% CI (7.993-15.269)). With regards to cues of action, having reliable and adequate information regarding the vaccine (aOR=1.979, 95% CI (1.361-2.878)), recommendation by health authorities (aOR=1.976, 95% CI(1.343-2.908)) or health facilities (aOR=2.684, 95% CI(1.804-3.994)) were positively linked to vaccine acceptance, whilst recommendation by family members (aOR=0.479, 95% CI(0.283-0.811)) was negatively related to it. Conclusion:Pointing out the factors driving moderate vaccine acceptance among HCWs via targeting messages addressing key concerns would be required to reach higher vaccination rate.
ARA-Linker-TGFαL3: A Novel Chimera Protein to Target Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Ghadaksaz Abdolamir , Fooladi Abbas Ali Imani , Hosseini Hamideh Mahmoodzadeh , Satari Taher Nejad , Amin Mohsen 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Efficacy of Community Factors in the Implementation of Community-Based Interventions to Improve Antenatal Care: Lessons from IMCHA Programme, Tanzania
Authors: Joseph Chakupewa , Maluka Stephen O 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Efforts to improve antenatal care have been heightened to reduce global maternal deaths. In resource-limited settings, community-based interventions play a pivotal role in improving antenatal care services. However, effective implementation of community-based interventions is influenced by prevailing community-related factors. Drawing from the community-based interventions implemented in Iringa Region in Tanzania, this paper underscores how community factors influenced implementation and ultimate improvement of antenatal care services.Methods: A qualitative case study design involving interviews (n=86) and focus group discussions (n=6). Data was collected in Kilolo and Mufindi districts in Iringa Region and analysed thematically. Results: The community readiness to adopt the interventions and effective local administrative systems were the key factors that influenced the implementation of the community-based interventions. Stakeholders’ engagement and the local health system support were also pivotal for improving antenatal care services. However, physical environment, bullying of implementers of interventions and family-related challenges constrained the implementation of the interventions.Conclusion: The performance of community-based interventions was highly determined by the community-related factors. In-depth understanding and adequate management of community engagement are important during the planning, development and implementation of the interventions. Inadequate community engagement may lead to community members reluctance to adopt and implement community-based interventions.
Predictive Analysis of the Pharmacokinetic and Toxicological Endpoints of Naphthalene and its Derivatives
Authors: Oso Babatunde , Agboola Olubukola , Awotula Ayodeji , Olaoye Ige , Akhigbe Godswill , Nwokeocha Emmanuel 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The study was conducted to determine the putative pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of naphthalene and its derivatives, hence determining their harmful effects, if any in the normal daily function of the human system. The effects of these compounds on hormonal homeostasis and the endocrine system were also evaluated. The pharmacokinetic ADMET (Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) properties were determined by running a computer-simulated prediction on the compounds based on their canonical SMILES (Simplified Molecular Input Line Entry System) structure using the pkCSM online prediction tool. The Canonical SMILES structures were obtained from the PubChem database. The predictive endocrine disruption potential was evaluated using the Endocrine Predictome computational tool which uses a molecular docking system to predict the interaction between the investigated chemicals and the affected nuclear receptors. The results showed that naphthalene and the derivatives have relatively high log P values, implying their respective lipophilicity; however, only naphthalene-1,2,6,7-tetrol could not permeate the blood-brain barrier. Moreover, all the selected compounds are substrates of the P-glycoprotein and do not inhibit their activity. The results also indicated that naphthalene and all four selected derivatives could have an inhibitory effect on the CYP1A2 enzyme and a disruptive effect on some endocrine functions due to their respective high binding affinity with endocrine receptors. In conclusion, the study showed that naphthalene and the derivatives could have adverse effects on the physiological function of the body vis-à-vis neurological damages, and various metabolic disorders. The predictive influence on the endocrine system also indicated the selected chemicals could induce detrimental changes in endocrine functions.
The Dynamics of a Four-Step Feedback Procedure to Control Chaos
Authors: Cánovas Jose S. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
In this paper we make a description of the dynamics of a four-step procedure to control the dynamics of the logistic map. Some massive calculations are made for computing the topological entropy with prescribed accuracy. This provides us the parameter regions where the model has a complicated dynamical behavior. Our computations also show the dynamic Parrondo's paradox ``simple+simple=complex'', which should be taking into account to avoid undesirable dynamics.
Analysis of Histomorphological/molecular Association and Immune Checkpoint Regulators in Epithelioid Glioblastoma and Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma: Are These Tumors Potential Candidate for Immune Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Mahajan Swati , Singh Jyotsna , Jha Prerna , Dandapath Iman , Chaturvedi Sujata , Ahuja Arvind , Bhardwaj Minakshi , Saran Ravindra Kumar , Garg Ajay , Sharma Mehar Chand , Manjunath Niveditha , Suri Ashish , Sarkar Chitra , Suri Vaishali 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
IntroductionEpithelioid glioblastoma (eGB) was adopted as a provisional entity in the 2016 WHO classification of central nervous tumors. Accurate diagnosis of eGBs and pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is sometimes challenging owing to overlapping histological and genetic features. There are limited reports on immune profile of these tumors. Materials and methodsTwenty one PXA’s [15 PXA, 6 Anaplastic-PXA (A-PXA) and 14 eGB’s were assessed for histopathological and molecular association and their immune profile was compared to primary (1°) GBs (n-18).ResultsPXA cases showed extensive whereas variable positivity for epithelial and glial markers was seen in A-PXAs and eGBs. All cases showed retained nuclear ATRX and INI-1. H3K27M or IDH mutation was seen in none. P53 mutation was more common in eGB’s (57%) and A-PXA (33.33%) as compared to PXA (13.33%). None of the 1° GB’s harbored BRAF V600E, which was observed in 57% PXA and 50% eGBs with 100% concordance between immunohistochemistry and sequencing. EGFR amplification was observed in 14% eGB’s and 66% of 1° GB’s. PDL1 and CTLA-4 expression was higher in eGB’s (71.4% & 57.1%), A-PXA (66.6% &100%) and PXA (60% & 66.7%) as compared to 1° GB’s (38.8% & 16.7%). T cell infiltration was also observed in majority of eGB’s and PXA (90-100%) cases in contrast to 1°GB’s (66%). ConclusionThis is the first comprehensive analysis highlighting homogenous molecular profile and immune microenvironment of eGB and PXA, suggesting that they are closely related. Upregulation of PD-L1, CTLA4 and increased TIL’s in these tumors suggests potential candidature for immunotherapy.
Genetically Encoded Dihydroxyphenylalanine Coupled with Tyrosinase for Strain Promoted Labelling
Authors: George Augustine , Indhu Mohan , Ashokraj Sundarapandian , Shanmugam Ganesh , Ganesan Ponesakki , Kamini Numbi Ramudu , Niraikulam A. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Protein modifications through the genetic code engineering method have a remarkable impact on macromolecule engineering, protein translocation, protein-protein interaction, and cell biology. Here, the newly developed molecular biology approach expanding the genetic code was used for fine tuning of protein for biological availability. For that non-canonical amino acid dihydroxyphenylalanine was genetically incorporated at the defined site in the protein. Further, the congener protein was enzymatically controlled for direct conversion of quinone for strain promoted click chemistry reaction. It yields a single product with defined stereochemistry and temporally controlled conjugation with BCN. The feasibility was explored for selective cell imaging and programmed cell death in HeLa cells.
Numerical Simulation of Reinforced Concrete Shear Walls Using Force-Based Fiber Element Method
Authors: KARATON MUHAMMET , Osmanlı Ömer Faruk , GÜLŞAN Mehmet Eren 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Reinforced concrete shear walls are the structural elements that considerably increase the seismic performance of buildings. Fiber elements and fiber-spring elements are used for the modeling of the inelastic behavior of these elements. The Fiber Element Method provides a certain amount of accuracy for the modeling of reinforced concrete shear walls. However, the studies related to this method are still in progress.
In this study, the efficiency of the force-based Fiber Element Method is investigated for different damping ratios and different damping types that used in the structural damping for reinforced concrete shear wall structures. Two shear wall structures that subjected to seismic loads are used for the comparison of numerical analysis and experimental results. The comparisons are achieved according to the absolute maximum values of the overturning moment, the base shear force, and the roof displacement. Rayleigh damping and stiffness-proportional damping types for the damping ratios that vary between 2-3% provide better results than mass-proportional damping. Additionally, the optimum number of fiber element for Rayleigh and stiffness-proportional damping types is determined for the optimum damping ratio that provides minimum differences between numerical analysis and experimental results. For these damping types, when the length of a fiber is smaller than 3% of the longitudinal length of the shear wall at the optimum damping ratios, the roof displacement differences between numerical analysis and experimental results are less than 2.5%.
Genetic Analysis of Oligo-Metastatic Breast Cancer: Correlation with Clinicopathological Features
Authors: Jiang Kuikui , Zhou Danyang , Xu Fei , Xia Wen , Zheng Qiufan , Lu Qianyi , Wang Liye , Lee Kaping , Luo Hanjia , Zhang Ping , Luo Rongzhen , Hong Ruoxi , Wang Shusen 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose: We aimed to identify the relationship between the genomic characteristics and clinicopathological features of oligo-metastatic breast cancer.Methods: Oligo-metastatic breast cancer diagnosed by pathology from January 2001 and August 2019 were identified and we matched the poly-metastatic patients based on the clinicopathological features of the oligo-metastatic patients included. The database of all genomic alterations was shown according to the FoundationOne CDx reports. Clinicopathological characteristics were collected and the results of next-generation sequencing were analyzed.Results: A total of 26 breast cancer patients were enrolled in our study, including 14 patients with oligo-metastatic disease and 12 patients with poly-metastatic disease. There was no significant difference in number of gene alteration, tumor mutational burden, variants of unknown significance (VUS), and actional mutation in oligo- and poly-metastasis. PIK3CA, TP53 and ERBB2 were the most common shared alterations identified in patients included. Based on the median time of oligo-progression disease (oligo-PD), we divided the patients with oligo-metastasis into longer oligo-PD group (oligo-PD > 31.04 months) and shorter oligo-PD group (oligo-PD ≤ 31.04 months). The analysis of PIK3CA mutation sites showed that H1047R was associated with a good prognosis in patients with metastatic breast cancer. HER2 positive patients with oligo-metastasis was more likely to have a good prognosis. In addition, VUS might also be a potential prognostic biomarker in metastatic breast cancer. Conclusion: Through the genetic analysis of oligo-metastasis, we found PIK3CA H1047R, HER2 and VUS might predict the different clinical outcomes of breast cancer patients with oligo-metastasis for the individualized treatment.
Combined melatonin-adipose derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy effectively protected the testis from testicular torsion-induced ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Chen Yen‐Ta , Chuang Fei-Chi , Yang Chih‐Chao , Chiang John Y. , Sung Pei‐Hsun , Chu Yi-Ching , Huang Chi-Ruei , Huang Kuan-Hui , Yip Hon-Kan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: This study tested the hypothesis that combined melatonin (Mel) and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADMSC) treatment was superior to either one alone on protecting the testis against acute testicular torsion-induced ischemia-reperfusion (TTIR) injury. Methods and Results: Male-adult SD rats (n=30) were equally categorized into group 1 (sham-operated control), group 2 [TTIR/by torsion of right/left testis (i.e., ischemia) with rotated 720 degrees counterclockwisely for 2h, then detorsion (i.e., reperfusion) to the original position for 72h], group 3 (TTIR + Mel/intraperitoneal administration/50 mg/kg at 30 minutes after ischemia, followed by 20 mg at 3h and days 1/2/3 after TTIR), group 4 (TTIR + ADMSC/1.2 x 106 cells/intravenous administration at 30 minutes after ischemia, followed by days 1/2 TTIR) and group 5 (TTIR + Mel + ADMSC). The result showed that the protein expressions of oxidative-stress (NOX-1/NOX-2/oxidized-protein), apoptotic/mitochondrial-damaged (mitochondrial-Bax/cleaved-caspase3/cleaved-PARP/cytosolic-cytochrome C) and fibrotic (TGF-ß/Smad3) biomarkers as well as testicular damage scores were lowest in group 1, highest in group 2 and significantly higher in groups 3/4 than in group 5, but they showed no difference between groups 3/4, whereas the protein expressions of androgen receptor (AR) and vimentin showed an opposite pattern of oxidative stress (all p<0.0001). The cellular levels of inflammation (MMP-9/MPO/CD68) exhibited an identical pattern, whereas the numbers of Sertoli cells, α-tubulin, AR and vimentin as well as thickness of seminiferous tubule exhibited an opposite pattern of oxidative stress among the groups (all p<0.0001).Conclusion: Mel-ADMSCs effectively protected the testis against TTIR injury.
The effects of forest fires on hospital admissions for respiratory diseases
Authors: Souza Amaury , Abreu Marcel Carvalho , Oliveira-Júnior José Francisco de , Aviv-Sharon Elinor , Cavazzana Guilherme Henrique , Fernandes Widinei Alves 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Objectives

To analyze the effect of spatially exposure to fire risk on the occurrence of respiratory diseases in the municipalities of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil.
Methods

This was an ecological study of spatial prevalence of hospitalization for respiratory diseases and fire risk using Monte Alegre index. This methodology reduces the risk as precipitation occurs, where the volume of rain (in mm) is considered as danger lane changer. The empirical Bayesian method and a multiple regression spatial response variable were used to model the prevalence of hospitalization for respiratory diseases, and the exposure variable fire hazard. For calibration, the proxies of fire outbreaks and surface ozone concentration, precipitation and humidity were used.
Results

We observed statistically significant associations between the prevalence of hospitalization for respiratory diseases and the risk of fire.
Conclusions

fire risks triggering fires are highly related to the prevalence of hospitalizations for respiratory diseases in vulnerable sub populations in the municipalities of the State of Mato Grosso.
Risk Perception of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Acceptability of a COVID-19 Vaccine in Nigeria
Authors: Iheanacho Chinonyerem , Enechukwu Okechuckwu Harrison , Aguyi-Ikeany Chinelo Nneka 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Vaccines are highly anticipated for the control of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, however their acceptance is critical for the desired benefit. This study assessed risk perception of COVID-19 and acceptability of its vaccine in Nigeria. It also assessed prediction of vaccine acceptance from risk perception. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based study was conducted among 410 participants in the six geo-political regions of Nigeria using a three-part questionnaire developed using Google forms. The questionnaire link was distributed via snowball method to consenting participants through online platforms. Descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square and binomial regression) using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 24 were used to analyze data, and p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.Results: A total of 410 respondents participated in the study and high risk perception of SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) was seen in 127(66.1%) of respondents. Vaccine acceptance was high in 233(56.8%) of respondents, and was significantly associated with geo-political region (P=0.028). Association between COVID-19 risk perception and vaccine acceptance showed that persons who had high risk perception of COVID-19 may not necessarily accept the vaccine (OR=0.450; 95% CI=0.297–0.683; P=0.000) and this was seen in persons with tertiary education (OR=0.458; 95% CI=0.297-0.706; P=0.000), married (OR=0.194; 955%CI =0.098-0.386; P=0.000), from South-south (OR=0.352; 95%CI=0.163–0.760; P=0.008) and North-central (OR=0.429; 95% CI= 0.189-0.972; P=0.043).Conclusions: High risk perception of COVID-19, and vaccine acceptance were relatively average. Regional and socio-demographic variations were associated with this finding, and it was also noted that high risk perception of COVID-19 may not likely result in vaccine acceptance. Strategic and targeted messaging on vaccine acceptance should be prioritised by stakeholders, to ensure successful vaccine implementation.