bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Structure, Thermal and Linear/Nonlinear Optical Properties of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene/Nickel Chloride (ABS/NiCl 2 ) Composites for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Elsharkawy Wafaa B. , Azzam M. A. , Elqahtani Z. M. , Fahmy T. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene/nickel chloride (ABS/NiCl2) composites are prepared using the casting method. Structure of these composites is investigated by XRD and FTIR spectroscopy. XRD measurements revealed that the structural properties of ABS host polymer have been modified after doping with NiCl2. Various structural parameters such as crystallite size (D), lattice strain (ε) and dislocation density (δ) are estimated. ATR-FTIR spectra exhibited a clear change in the intensity and position of some of the main bands of the ABS polymer such as, Ni(OH)2, C ≡ N, C = O and C = C which confirms the interaction between ABS terpolymer and NiCl2. Coats–Redfern approach has been applied to explore the effect of NiCl2 on the kinetics of thermal degradation of pure ABS and ABS/NiCl2 composites. The results showed that the activation energy of every thermal degradation stage increases with increasing NiCl2 content confirming that the thermal stability of ABS/NiCl2 composites has been enhanced. The optical parameters such as Urbach energy (EU) and bandgap energy (Eg) are investigated in terms of the absorption coefficient. The dispersion parameters such as, oscillator energy (E0), dispersion energy (Ed), transition moments (M− 1 and M− 3) and oscillator strength (f) are evaluated by applying the single oscillator model (SOM). Effect of NiCl2 on the linear/nonlinear optical (NLO) parameters is investigated. Our results clearly revealed that doping ABS with NiCl2 improved the nonlinear optical properties, which are preferred for optoelectronic device applications.
Study on the Structure Characterization and Swelling Properties of the CMSM
Authors: Liu Xiaokai , He Hao , Zhou Lijuan , Zhao Baiyun , Zhao Xuan , Wang Chenxu , Wang Li 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In order to further understand the potential applications of cellulose membrane materials in adsorption, drug delivery, and biomedical applications, to optimize their material properties, improve their performance, and expand their application fields, carboxymethyl Salix powder (CMS) was prepared by etherification reaction using Salix powder (SPP) as the raw material. Carboxymethyl Salix powder membrane (CMSM) was subsequently prepared through wet spinning technology. The swelling properties of CMSM were investigated. The results showed that the swelling degree reached the maximum at 45 minutes, pH 5, temperature of 65°C, and a NaCl concentration of 0.04 mol/L, reaching 7.95 g/g. Through model fitting, it was found that CMSM fits well with the Fickian diffusion model in the early stage, while the entire swelling process fits well with the Schott model. Characterization results indicate that the structure of CMSM is loose, porous, and uneven on the surface. This structure facilitates the diffusion of water molecules and enhances the water absorption performance of CMSM. The structure of CMSM is similar to the disordered structure of glass or plastic, presenting an amorphous structure. Additionally, CMSM exhibits good thermal stability. Key wards: Cellulose membrane; Swelling property; SPP; CMS ———— Xiaokai Liu and Hao He contributed equally to this work.(779960624@qq.com; hehao030533@163.com) Corresponding author at: College of Material Science and Art Design, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University. Hohhot 010018, China E-mail address: wlndcl@126.com (Li.Wang)
A Green one-pot three component synthesis of thiazolidine-2,4-dione based bisspirooxindolo-pyrrolidines with [Bmim]BF 4 : their in vitro and in silico anti- TB studies
Authors: V Rukya Naik , Gamidi Rama Krishna , Kumari Jyothi , Sri Dharmarajan , Basavoju Srinivas 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A simple and effective three-component one-pot green methodology was employed for the synthesis of a new thiazolidine-2,4-dione based bisspirooxindolo-pyrrolidine derivatives using [Bmim]BF4 ionic liquid via [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction. It is an environmentally benign, column chromatography-free, shorter reaction time, good yield and easy product isolation method. The synthesized compounds 10a-x, were thoroughly characterized by using various spectroscopic methods like FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Mass spectrometry and finally by single crystal X-ray diffraction method. In vitro anti-tubercular (anti-TB) activity studies were carried out on these synthesized compounds, and they showed good to moderate anti-TB activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv strain. The compound 10a exhibited good anti-TB activity, with an MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) value of 12.5 µg/mL, and the compounds 10m, 10o and 10r showed moderate activity with an MIC value of 25.0 µg/mL. Remaining compounds exhibited poor activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Ethambutol, rifampicin and isoniazid were used as standard drugs. Furthermore, in silico molecular docking experiments on the TB protein (PDB ID: 1DF7) were carried out to understand the binding interactions, and they showed least binding energy values ranging from − 8.9 to -7.2 kcal/mol.
The transformative role of sustainable procurement in decarbonizing the construction industry
Authors: Sipp Elisa , Marty Justine , Tosi Laetitia 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Our study delves into the imperative need for decarbonization within the construction industry. Specifically, we investigate the procurement function's role in steering this transition towards a more sustainable industry. Employing a two-fold methodology, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to examine the existing academic discourse on sustainable procurement. Subsequently, we conducted semi-structured interviews with procurement professionals from three prominent construction companies. Through this combined approach, we aim to understand how procurement practices are adapting to integrate corporate social responsibility (CSR) principles and achieve low-carbon objectives. Our findings underscore the significant transformation underway within the procurement function, positioning buyers as pivotal figures in the decarbonization agenda. They grapple with the challenge of balancing economic gains with environmental performance, a task facilitated by enhanced integration of sustainability objectives within their decision-making processes. Despite these advancements, obstacles such as sectoral disparities in sustainability maturity and the necessity for substantial investments in greener alternatives persist, warranting further exploration and strategic interventions.
A National Dental Practice-Based Research Network phase II, cluster-randomized clinical trial assessing nicotine replacement therapy sampling in dental settings: Study protocol for the Free Samples for Health (FreSH) study
Authors: Fang Pearl , Adkins-Hempel Melissa , Lischka Tamara , Basile Sarah , Rindal D. Brad , Carpenter Matthew J. , Kopycka-Kedzierawski Dorota T. , Dahne Jennifer , Helseth Sarah A. , Levy Douglas E. , Truong Arthur , Leo Michael C. , Funkhouser Kimberly , Louis David , Japuntich Sandra 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Cigarette smoking has major detrimental effects on oral health. Tobacco interventions in dental settings are effective, but rarely delivered. The American Dental Hygienists Association recommends that oral health providers: Ask patients about tobacco use, Advise quitting tobacco use, and Refer to state quitlines (Ask-Advise-Refer; AAR). While AAR connects patients to counseling, it does not directly connect patients to medication. Nicotine replacement therapy sampling (NRTS) is an empirically supported intervention to provide starter packs of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to people who smoke. NRTS combined with AAR could be an effective tobacco treatment intervention for dental settings.
Methods
This manuscript describes the study protocol for the Free Samples for Health (FreSH) study, a group randomized clinical trial testing the effectiveness of NRTS + AAR vs. AAR alone on long-term smoking abstinence. Fifty dental practices in the Midwest and Northeast nodes of the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network are randomly assigned to provide AAR and either a 2-week supply of 14-mg nicotine patches and 4-mg nicotine lozenges (NRTS condition) or an electric toothbrush (ET condition). Approximately 1,200 patients who currently smoke—regardless of interest in quitting— are recruited during dental visits. Participants complete a baseline survey in-person, then after visit, 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up surveys remotely. The primary outcome is carbon monoxide-confirmed 7-day point prevalence abstinence from combustible tobacco measured at 6 months post-enrollment. Secondary outcomes include: 24-hour intentional quit attempts, change in cigarettes smoked per day, NRT utilization, attitudes toward NRT, intention to use NRT, and intention to quit smoking. A key informant process evaluation and cost effectiveness analysis will provide information for future implementation of NRTS.
Discussion
This is the first clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of NRTS on promoting smoking cessation in dental settings. If effective, this treatment could be implemented to increase the provision of smoking cessation interventions in dental settings to provide an additional treatment access point for people who smoke.
Trial Registration:
Registered at ClincalTrials.gov (NCT05627596) on 11/25/2022.
Long-lasting Residual Efficacy of Actellic ® 300CS and Icon ® 10CS on Different Surfaces against Anopheles stephensi, an Invasive Malaria Vector
Authors: Nikpoor Fatemeh , Vatandoost Hassan , Hanafi-Bojd Ahmad Ali , Raeisi Ahmad , Mirolyaie Abdolreza , Mojahedi Abdol-rasol , Yaryan Masoud , Banar Ahad , Abbasi Madineh 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: Anopheles stephensi, an invasive malaria vector, has developed resistance to several commonly used insecticides, including DDT, Dieldrin, Malathion, and synthetic pyrethroids. In response to this challenge, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended the use of Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS for Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) to control pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes. This study aimed to assess the current susceptibility status of An. stephensi to the Diagnostic Concentration (DC) of some insecticides in Iran, and the residual effectiveness of Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS against this malaria vector.
Method: Susceptibility of An. stephensi populations from the south of Iran was evaluated against Deltamethrin 0.05%, DDT 4%, Malathion 5%, Bendiocarb 0.1%, Synergist assay PBO 4% with Deltamethrin 0.05%, and intensity assay with 5x DC of Deltamethrin (0.25%) and Bendiocarb 0.5%. Laboratory cone bioassay tests for evaluation of the residual efficacy of Actellic®300 and Icon®10CS insecticides on different surfaces commonly found in human dwellings, such as cement, mud, plaster, and wood were conducted by using the WHO test kits and the standard testing protocols.
Results: The An. stephensi populations in Bandar Abbas were found to be sensitive to Malathion 5% and Deltamethrin 0.25% (5X DC) but resistant to DDT, Deltamethrin 1x DC, and Bendiocarb (1x DC and 5X DC). In laboratory cone bioassay tests, the mortality rates of An. stephensi exposed to Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS on various surfaces were consistently above 80% for Actellic®300CS on all substrates throughout the 300-day after-spraying period. However, for Icon®10CS, the mortality rates were above 80% on plaster and wood substrates for 165 days and on mud and cement substrates for 270 days after spraying. Both Actellic®300CS and Icon®10CS showed 100% mortality 72 hours after each test on all substrates for the entire 300-day after-spraying period.
Discussion and Conclusion: The study highlights the varying levels of resistance of An. stephensi Hormoodar populations to different insecticides and demonstrates the consistent performance of Actellic®300CS in controlling these mosquitoes on various surfaces. The findings suggest that long-lasting CS formulations may be more effective for malaria vector control compared to the current options. Further research is needed to validate these findings in field settings and assess the impact of these insecticides on malaria transmission.
The Art of Cerebral Revascularization: An Illustrative Case Series of Bypass Techniques for Complex Intracranial Aneurysms
Authors: Sánchez José Luis Acha , Bocanegra-Becerra Jhon E. , Ruiz-Yaringaño Arturo J. , Avendaño Diego Hidalgo , Hoyos Andrea Celeste Cifuentes , Yrene Miriam Lizeth Guerrero , Rodriguez-Calienes Aaron 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Complex intracranial aneurysms (CIAs) comprise a subset of lesions with defiant vascular architecture, difficult access, and prior treatment. Surgical management of CIAs is often challenging and demands an assessment on a case-by-case basis. The generational evolution of bypass surgery has offered a long-standing potential for effective cerebral revascularization. Herein, we aim to illustrate a single-center experience treating CIAs.
Methods
The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical records of patients treated with cerebral revascularization techniques at Hospital Nacional Dos de Mayo, Lima, Peru during 2018–2022. Relevant data were collected, including patient history, aneurysm features on imaging, preoperative complications, the intraoperative course, aneurysm occlusion rates, bypass patency, neurological function, and postoperative complications.
Results
Seventeen patients (70.59% female; median age: 53 years) received treatment for 17 CIAs (64.7% saccular; 76.5% ruptured). The most common clinical presentation included loss of consciousness (70.6%) and headaches (58.8%). Microsurgical treatment included first, second, and third-generation bypass techniques. In 47.1% of cases, an anastomosis between the superior temporal artery (STA) and the M3 segment was predominantly used, followed by an A3-A3 bypass (29.4%), STA-M2 bypass (17.6%), and an external carotid artery to M2 bypass (5.9%). Intraoperative aneurysm rupture occurred in 11.8% of cases. Postoperative complications included ischemia (40%), cerebrospinal fluid fistulas (26.7%), and pneumonia (20%). At hospital discharge, the median Glasgow Coma Scale score was 14 (range: 10–15), and 58.2% of patients had a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of ≤ 2. At the six-month follow-up, 82.4% of patients had an mRS score ≤ 2, and the morbidity rate was 17.6%.
Conclusion
CIAs represent a wide spectrum of defiant vascular lesions with a poor natural history. Among the long-standing microsurgical techniques, bypass surgery offers the potential for definitive treatment; however, it merits extensive training and manual dexterity. Our case series illustrated the paramount role of cerebral revascularization for CIAs with a critical approach on a case-by-case basis to provide optimal technical success and neurological outcomes.
Influence of sea stratification and troposphere stability over the Coastal Squall Lines of Eastern Amazon
Authors: Silva Douglas Vieira da , de Camargo Ricardo , Veleda Doris , Silva Thiago Luiz do Vale 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between oceanic and atmospheric parameters and their relation with the occurrence of Coastal Squall Lines (CSL) in the Eastern Amazon. Utilizing a minimalist set of stability and stratification parameters, results indicate a significant coherence in the 8 and 12-month period in bulk parameters, potentially linked to the discharge of the Amazon River and the convective regime of Western Tropical Atlantic. A cross-wavelet analysis shed light on the relation of CSL frequency with the local and remote oceanic stratification and atmosphere stability parameters. Additionally, composite analyses reveal shifts in the distributions of these parameters during CSL occurrences, highlighting the sensitivity of CSL to environmental variables. These outcomes reveal the need to consider the influence of local shelf sea stratification to enhance the precision of CSL characterization. While this study covers this gap, further research considering the mechanistic approach is needed to improve the understanding of mesoscale convection at the Eastern Amazon.
Ground-motion models for earthquakes occurring in the United Kingdom
Authors: Douglas John , Aldama-Bustos Guillermo , Tallett-Williams Sarah , Daví Manuela , Tromans Iain J. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

This article presents models to predict median horizontal elastic response spectral accelerations for 5% damping from earthquakes with moment magnitudes 3.5 to 7.25 occurring in the United Kingdom. This model was derived using the hybrid stochastic-empirical method based on an existing ground-motion model for California and a stochastic model for the UK, which was developed specifically for this purpose. The model is presented in two consistent formats, both for two distance metrics, with different target end-users. Firstly, we provide a complete logic tree with 162 branches, and associated weights, capturing epistemic uncertainties in the depth to the top of rupture, geometric spreading, anelastic path attenuation, site attenuation and stress drop, which is more likely to be used for research. The weights for these branches were derived using Bayesian updating of a priori weights from expert judgment. Secondly, we provide a backbone model with three and five branches corresponding to different percentiles, with corresponding weights, capturing the overall epistemic uncertainty, which is tailored for engineering applications. The derived models are compared with ground-motion observations, both instrumental and macroseismic, from the UK and surrounding region (northern France, Belgium, the Netherlands, western Germany and western Scandinavia). These comparisons show that the model is well-centred (low overall bias and with no obvious trends with magnitude or distance) and the branches capture the body and range of the technically defensible interpretations. In addition, comparisons with ground-motion models that have been previously used within seismic hazard assessments for the UK show that ground-motion predictions from the proposed model match those from previous models quite closely for most magnitudes and distances. The models are available as subroutines in various computer languages for ease of use.
Preliminary survey on infection rate of Biomphalaria pfeifferi with Schistosoma mansoni in Qeha, Shinta and Dimaza river sites around Gondar town, northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Awoke Ashebir , Aemero Mulugeta , Awoke Deribew 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
Schistosoma mansoni is a significant public health concern, as it is transmitted through infection with cercariae released from Biomphalaria species-infested water.
Method
In order to collect Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails from the rivers of Dmaza, Shinta, and Qeha in Gondar town, a one-time snail collection was conducted using a scoop and handpicked method.
Result
A total of 242 Biomphalaria pfeifferi snails were collected from Shinta (22.3%), Qeha (32.2%), and Dimaza (45.5%) rivers. Among these, 85 (35.1%) were found to be shedding S. mansoni cercariae.
Conclusion
The survey findings indicate a high infestation rate of snails with the S. mansoni parasite. The frequent shedding of cercariae highlights the urgent need for comprehensive intervention measures in the study area.
Stereotactic radiotherapy vith CyberKnife-M6 in patients with limited brain metastases originated from lung cancer
Authors: Sarihan Sureyya , Tunc Sema Gozcu , Irem Zenciye Kiray , Kahraman Arda , Ocakoglu Gokhan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

PurposeThe effect of stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) with CyberKnife-M6 (CK-M6) on local control (LC) and overall survival (OS) in patients with limited brain metastases (BM) originated from lung cancer was investigated.MethodsA total of 64 BM of the 35 patients were treated between 2018 to 2022. The median age was 63 (39–80). Median lesion size was 11 mm (2–40). Resection cavity or intact metastasis was contoured as gross target volume. Planning target volume (PTV) was created with 0–2 mm margin. A median of 24 Gy in 3 fractions (18–30/1–6) was applied to 64 lesions. Median treatment duration was 19 min (12–35).ResultsThe median follow-up was 13 months (1–48) at February 2023. The median prescription isodose covering 95% of PTV was 86.1% (80- 95.01%). During the follow-up, LC was obtained as 70% (39/56) in the evaluated lesions. Asymptomatic radionecrosis was observed in 20% (11/56) of lesions at a median of 9 months (6–20). The mean OS from SRT was 20 months (± 2,92). In multivariate analysis, disease-specific graded prognostic assesment score ≤ 2 (p = 0.043, HR: 3,11, 95% CI: 1,03–9,93), treatment duration ≤ 19 min (p = 0.021, HR: 2.29, 95% CI: 1,13 − 4,64) and absence of LC at 12 months (p = 0,007, HR: 5,46, 95% CI: 1,57 − 18,97) were unfavorable factors in terms of OS.ConclusionWith a median treatment duration of 19 min, CK-M6 based cranial SRT was found to be effective, safe and comfortable.
A compact continuous-wave intracavity frequency doubling Pr:YLF ultraviolet laser at 360 nm
Authors: Ruan Jianjian , Zhang Zichen , Sun Dong , Lin Hongyi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
We demonstrated a continuous-wave (CW) ultraviolet laser (UV) at 360 nm generated by intracavity frequency doubling of Pr:YLF laser at 720 nm. It was more compact and simpler than the reported UV laser, because a straight cavity was adopted. The entire length of the laser is 75 mm, and the resonant cavity length is only 25 mm. By using an InGaN laser diode (LD) emitting at 444 nm with a maximum incident power of 3.1W, we achieved the CW UV laser with an output power of 252 mW. The optical to optical conversion efficiency was up to 8.1%, and the output power stability was better than 2% in 2 hours. It can be applied in spectral analysis, material analysis, bioengineering, optoelectronic detection, medical treatment, etc.
First evidence of predation on the native endangered Galemys pyrenaicus by the invader specie American mink using eDNA tools in Extremadura (Spain).
Authors: Fernandez-Garcia Jose Luis 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In recent years it has been claimed that the introduction of invasive species significantly damages ecosystems. Their ability to adapt has been overestimated, without considering the consequences they could have on the native fauna. One of the clearest examples is the American mink (Neovison vision), which has also been postulated as a large predator. Its diet includes small native mammals such Mediterranean water shrew (Neomys anomalus), also one of great importance, Iberian desman (Galemys pyrenaicus), which today is seriously endangered due to the population decline it has suffered in recent years.
There are very few studies that have been carried out in the Central System Mountains of the region of Extremadura that help to understand the impact of the diet of these invasive species. Thanks to non-invasive sampling through faecal collection and non-invasive genetic techniques, we can track the impact of predators such as mink and. The assay was developed using the TaqMan probe design for duplex RT-PCR simultaneously targeting the CYB genes of the native species G. pyrenaicus and Neomys anomalus, demonstrating the evidence of the presence of micromammals. Therefore, the assay has high analytical sensitivity for both target species, and is a tool that will helps to monitor the damage of invasive species.