Wet oxidation procedure,i.e.,Walkley-Black (WB) method,is a routine,relatively accurate,and popular method for the determination of soil organic matter (SOM) but it is time-consuming,costly and also has a high potenti...Wet oxidation procedure,i.e.,Walkley-Black (WB) method,is a routine,relatively accurate,and popular method for the determination of soil organic matter (SOM) but it is time-consuming,costly and also has a high potential to cause environmental pollution because of disposal of chromium and strong acids used in this analysis.Therefore,loss-on-ignition (LOI) procedure,a simple and cheap method for SOM estimation,which also avoids chromic acid wastes,deserves more attention.The aims of this research were to study the statistical relationships between SOM determined with the LOI (SOMLOI) and WB (SOMWB) methods to compare the spatial variability of SOM in two major plains,Shahrekord and Koohrang plains,of Chaharmahal-va-Bakhtiari Province,Iran.Fifty surface soil samples (0-25 cm) were randomly collected in each plain to determine SOM using the WB method and the LOI procedure at 300,360,400,500 and 550 ℃ for 2 h.The samples covered wide ranges of soil texture and calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE).The general linear form of the regression equation was calculated to estimate SOM LOI from SOM obtained by the WB method for both overall samples and individual plains.Forty soil samples were also randomly selected to compare the SOM and CCE before and after ignition at each temperature.Overall accuracy of the continuous maps generated for the LOI and WB methods was considered to determine the accordance of two procedures.Results showed a significant positive linear relationship between SOM LOI and SOM WB.Coefficients of determination (R2) of the equations for individual plains were higher than that of the overall equation.Coefficients of determination and line slopes decreased and root mean square error (RMSE) increased with increasing ignition temperature,which may be due to the mineral structural water loss and destruction of carbonates at higher temperatures.A temperature around 360 ℃ was identified as optimum as it burnt most organic carbon,destroyed less inorganic carbon,caused less clay structural water loss,and used展开更多
Epidemiological studies indicate that treatment with metformin, an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, reduces the incidence of cancers. Activation of AMPK has also been reported to oppose tumor progression...Epidemiological studies indicate that treatment with metformin, an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, reduces the incidence of cancers. Activation of AMPK has also been reported to oppose tumor progression in diverse types of cancers and offers promising cancer therapy. Furthermore, AMPK is a primary regulator of energy metabolism and has also been implicated in cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, cell transformation, migration, and cancer. We have recently synthesized novel flavonoids, namely, triphenylmethanol derivatives (TPMs), but the effectiveness of the TPMs on the activity of AMPK remains unclear. We hypothesized that the novel TPMs would inhibit cancer cell proliferation through the activation of AMPK isoforms in cells. The effects of TPMs on prostate cells (PC-3) were investigated. Cells were exposed to TPMs for either 12 or 24 hr. at the respective doses of 0, 25, 50 100, and 200 µM based on the cell viability studies by the (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, a tetrazole) (MTT) assay. The results indicate that cells exposed to the respective doses of TPMs increased both phospho- and total-AMPKα1 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The effects of the increases for the phospho- and total-AMPKα in cells were greater for the 24-hr than the 12-hr. incubation. Further studies are currently going on to elucidate the specificities of the said insults in increasing the phospho- and total-AMPKα activities and for the other respective isoforms.展开更多
Organochlorine contaminants, such as triclosan (TCS), are present in major water sources across the United States. These antimicrobial compounds are widely used as multipurpose ingredients in everyday consumer product...Organochlorine contaminants, such as triclosan (TCS), are present in major water sources across the United States. These antimicrobial compounds are widely used as multipurpose ingredients in everyday consumer products. They can be ingested or absorbed through the skin and are found in human blood, breast milk, and urine samples. Studies have shown that the increased use of antimicrobial agents leads to their presence and persistence in the ecosystem, particularly in soil and watersheds. Many studies have highlighted emerging concerns associated with the overuse of TCS, including dermal irritations, a higher incidence of antibacterial-related allergies, microbial resistance, disruptions in the endocrine system, altered thyroid hormone activity, metabolism, and tumor metastasis and growth. Organochlorine contaminant exposures play a role in inflammatory responsiveness, and any unwarranted innate response could lead to adverse outcomes. The capacity of TCS and other organochlorine contaminants to induce inflammation, resulting in persistent and chronic inflammation, is linked to various pathologies, such as cardiovascular disease and several types of cancers. Chronic inflammation presents a severe consequence of exposure to these antimicrobial agents, as any changes could result in the loss of immune competence. Organochlorine contaminant levels were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2019-2020 and have consistently increased in response to the novel coronavirus (nCoV) (COVID-19) pandemic. Our previous research examined the overuse of products containing triclosan (TCS), which led to an increase in total trihalomethane (TTHM) levels affecting the quality of our water supply. We also investigated the impact of the FDA ban that now requires pre-market approval. To comprehend the consequences of excessive antimicrobial use on water quality, we conducted an analysis of the levels of total trichloromethane (chloroform), a byproduct of free chlorine added to TCS, in primary water so展开更多
The US Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is comprised of 143 islands, atolls, cays, and islets. Of the 143 localities, only 3 islands are inhabited: The mainland (often referenced as Puerto Rico), Culebra, and Vieques. To p...The US Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is comprised of 143 islands, atolls, cays, and islets. Of the 143 localities, only 3 islands are inhabited: The mainland (often referenced as Puerto Rico), Culebra, and Vieques. To properly analyze the water supply quality, the mainland will be the focal point for examining environmental and social injustices. Puerto Rico is a racially diverse but ethnically homogenous territory, with most of the commonwealth living below the poverty level. Access to clean water sources is always tenuous in Puerto Rico. Over 70 percent of the island is served by water, violating US health standards. However, the recent hurricanes made the situation even more detrimental. According to data reported between January 2015 and March 2018 by the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), 97 percent of the population of Puerto Rico utilizes a common drinking water system with one or more recent violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act for its testing requirements for lead and copper levels. The amounts found were far higher than any US state, meaning that virtually everyone on the island gets water from systems that violated testing or reporting requirements. In this study, we have collected and analyzed the levels of trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs), copper, lead, and total organic compounds (TOCs) in drinking water providing systems in Puerto Rico and compared them with the recommended levels of contaminants provided by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. Many of these reported contaminants can have serious and detrimental health effects after prolonged exposure to higher concentrations of the contaminants found in the drinking water sources of Puerto Rico.展开更多
Some Triptorelin<sup>®</sup> (TRP) conjugates of triphenylmethanol derivatives (TPMs) with optimized hydrophobicity were synthesized by reacting 2-substituted methoxy benzenes with 1,3,5-trioxane, fol...Some Triptorelin<sup>®</sup> (TRP) conjugates of triphenylmethanol derivatives (TPMs) with optimized hydrophobicity were synthesized by reacting 2-substituted methoxy benzenes with 1,3,5-trioxane, followed by the conjugation with TRP and sebacic acid to produce TRP-TPMs derivatives. Comparative antiproliferative assays between TRP-TPMs conjugates and the corresponding non-covalent physical mixtures of the TPMs derivatives and TRP were used to treat human acute lymphoblastic leukemia (CCRF-CEM), human ovarian adenocarcinoma (SK-OV-3) and mouse preadipocytes (3T3-L1) cells. TRP-TPMs conjugates at the 50 μM inhibited cell proliferation in CCRF-CEM, SK-OV-3 and 3T3-L1 cells by 21% - 37%, 24% - 73%, 37% - 56%, respectively following incubation for 72 h. These findings indicate that TRP-TPMs derivatives have the potential to enhance the biological activity of TRP.展开更多
This study evaluated the corrosion behavior of steel hooks embedded in GFRC,which were protected by a zinc-rich(96%Zn)galvanizing coating.The coating provided the hooks with active cathodic protection and a passive ph...This study evaluated the corrosion behavior of steel hooks embedded in GFRC,which were protected by a zinc-rich(96%Zn)galvanizing coating.The coating provided the hooks with active cathodic protection and a passive physical shield.Macrocell corrosion may form when the anode is smaller than the total steel surface.Thus,the steel hooks at the embedment juncture were additionally sealed against water ingress and air exchange using a construction sealant.The study was conducted in three phases in a salt-spray chamber.First,the electrogalvanized steel hooks embedded in GFRC were allowed to freely corrode for 7 days.In the second phase,the electrogalvanized steel hooks were painted with the zinc-rich coating and observed over 7 days.In the third phase,the steel hooks were protected by the zinc-rich coating together with a primer and construction sealant,and observed over 7 days.To evaluate the electrogalvanized hooks and the corrosion products formed,the thickness of the material was measured.Corrosion on the metal surface was inferred by studying the surface morphology of the hooks at various points of contact and after different periods of time.展开更多
The aim of this study was to verify the existence of business and strategic intelligence policies at the level of Congolese companies and at the state level, likely to foster progress and healthy development in the ea...The aim of this study was to verify the existence of business and strategic intelligence policies at the level of Congolese companies and at the state level, likely to foster progress and healthy development in the east of the DRC. The study was based on a mixed perspective consisting of objective analysis of quantitative data and interpretative analysis of qualitative data. The results showed that business and strategic intelligence policies have not been established at either company or state level, as this is an area of activity that is not known to the players in companies and public departments, and there are no units or offices in their organizational structures responsible for managing strategic information for competitiveness on the international market. In addition, there is a real need to establish strategic information management units within companies, upstream, and to set up a national strategic information management department or agency to help local companies compete in the marketplace, downstream. This reflects the importance and timeliness of building business and strategic intelligence policies to ensure economic progress and development in the eastern DRC. Business and strategic intelligence provides companies with an appropriate tool for researching, collecting, processing and disseminating information useful for decision-making among stakeholders, in order to cope with a crisis or competitive situation. The study suggests a number of key recommendations based on its findings. To the government, it is recommended to establish the national policy of business and strategic intelligence by setting up a national agency of strategic intelligence in favor of local companies;and to companies to establish business intelligence units in their organizational structures in favor of stakeholders to foster advantageous decision-making in the competitive market and achieve progress. Finally, the study suggests that studies be carried out to fully understand the opportunities and impact of business and stra展开更多
<strong>Background:</strong> Inquiry evidence-based practice (IBP) improves healthcare quality, reliability, and patient outcomes as well as reduces variations in care and costs. IBP and its practice in he...<strong>Background:</strong> Inquiry evidence-based practice (IBP) improves healthcare quality, reliability, and patient outcomes as well as reduces variations in care and costs. IBP and its practice in health care promote also many advantages, such as improvements of practices based on the attitudes and cognitive ideas. This study aims to assess the inquiry based on evidence (IBP) and its practices in two Health Care Facilities (HCFs) of Bujumbura to help the practitioners to understand its importance. <strong>Methods:</strong> A cross-sectional study design was used to analyze the importance of IBP and its practice in these two hospitals. The probability-sampling technique was used also to select 104 nurses from the Military Hospital of Kamenge and 55 nurses from the Van Norman Clinic. A questionnaire was used to collect data with two mains components, demographic data and knowledge and attitudes addressing the following parameters: evidence practice during inquiry, nursing theory, current analysis in nursing care oriented the evidence, prioritization of care, rational diagnostic, monitoring and assessment. <strong>Results:</strong> The findings from this study revealed a poor knowledge and attitude among participants towards Inquiry Based Practice. In all variables, participants were scoring less than 10%. However, majority of participants (76.5%) know the indicators of patients’ satisfaction with nursing interventions through survey-based practice and 74.1% argued to analyze their information collected. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> This study revealed a weak awareness on IBP and its importance during nursing practice among participants as for almost all variables, participants were scoring less than 10%, except for the indicators of patients’ satisfaction with nursing interventions through survey-based practice (76.5%). Therefore, in-service training and curriculum revision had been highlighted and recommended another to provide the best rational diagnosis and achieve the patient’s outcomes.展开更多
The aim of this study was to design a new emulsion liquid membrane(ELM)system for the separation of succinic acid from aqueous solutions.The concentration of succinic acid varied from 20 to 60 mmol·L^(-1).The pre...The aim of this study was to design a new emulsion liquid membrane(ELM)system for the separation of succinic acid from aqueous solutions.The concentration of succinic acid varied from 20 to 60 mmol·L^(-1).The prepared ELM system includes tributylamine(TBA)as a carrier,commercial kerosene as a solvent,Span 80 as a surfactant,and Na2CO3as a stripping agent.In order to control the membrane swelling,different values of cyclohexanone were added to the membrane phase.The effect of various empirical variables on the extraction of the succinic acid such as acid concentration in the feed solution,initial feed concentration,carrier concentration,the stirring speed of the extraction,Na2CO3,surfactant,and cyclohexanone concentrations,and treat ratio in the ELM system.The best result was obtained when TBA was used as the carrier.The final acid extraction efficiency was independent of pH variations of the aqueous feed solution.The extraction of succinic acid solution with a concentration of 40 mmol·L^(-1)was improved by increasing the treat ratio 1:7-1:3,stripping phase concentration 0.5-1.5 mol·L^(-1),stirring speed 300-500 r·min^(-1)and cyclohexanone concentration in the membrane phase 1.2-1.6 mol·L^(-1).No considerable effect on the extraction rate was observed for the carrier concentration in the membrane phase.But,the surfactant concentration in the feed phase showed a dual effect on the extraction efficiency.展开更多
Radioactive contaminants, such as radium, radon, and uranium isotopes are naturally present in drinking water, and gas and oil extraction like hydraulic fracturing can exasperate radionuclide leakage into groundwater....Radioactive contaminants, such as radium, radon, and uranium isotopes are naturally present in drinking water, and gas and oil extraction like hydraulic fracturing can exasperate radionuclide leakage into groundwater. The concentration of radionuclide in drinking water is dependent upon the water source and the underlying lithology within the aquifers. In United States, the Environmental Protection Agency regulates the level of radioactivity in drinking water via the gross alpha test, which is conducted to measure the emitted alpha particles as a result of the radioactive elements’ natural decay. Radionuclides, such as radium and uranium, are known to cause bone cancer and other forms of cancer. Communities with crippling water purification infrastructure may be at a higher risk of being exposed to radionuclides, and this is a significant environmental justice concern. The radionuclide concentrations for the metropolitan or most populated city in each state in the United States and its territories (Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and Guam) were analyzed and correlated to the annual household income, to determine any disparities that maybe present. Lower income communities had elevated levels of radionuclides when compared to higher income communities which had lower frequency in elevated radionuclide contaminants.展开更多
Water is one of the most essential resources required to sustain life. However, it could be detrimental to the health of those without access to water that is properly treated. Although the Safe Drinking Water Act of ...Water is one of the most essential resources required to sustain life. However, it could be detrimental to the health of those without access to water that is properly treated. Although the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 set regulations to protect citizens from naturally occurring and man-made contaminants, some people are still without clean and safe water, which is speculated to be because of their race. This research examines the disproportionality of available clean water provided by government sources in Michigan and its correlation with race and household income. In the study, it has been found that one of the leading causes of water contamination is industrial activity, with the automobile industry being responsible for approximately 300 million tons of lead contamination in water, and that the manufacturing company’s locations mostly centered in minority and low-income areas. Lower income cities, such as Hamtramck and Benton Harbor, have an average of 14.8 drinking water standard violations with the highest being 99 total violations, while higher income cities, like Novi and Bloomfield hills, have an average of 4 violations. Cities, like Flint and Detroit, which have a higher minority population, are 10 times more likely to have a water standard violation, and the minority population is proportionally related to the possibility of industrial manufacturing being located in those areas. These communities also face a higher risk of birth defects, developmental issues in children, and organ failure in adults, due to continuous exposure to water contaminants. Race as a direct causation could not be proven, but there are links to direct correlation through historical redlining and housing trends.展开更多
Sustaining a reliable and contaminant-free drinking water is becoming an increasing challenge worldwide due to human activity, industrial waste, and agricultural overuse. Surface water is the main source of drinking w...Sustaining a reliable and contaminant-free drinking water is becoming an increasing challenge worldwide due to human activity, industrial waste, and agricultural overuse. Surface water is the main source of drinking water around the world. However, groundwater is also becoming increasingly popular, due to its clarity and minimal need for processing to reduce turbidity. Over the years, the demand and growth in the agricultural industry has also been the means of groundwater contamination. Due to the health burden that raw water can pose, water must be processed and purified prior to consumption. Raw water quality can be compromised by physical, chemical (heavy metals and disinfection by-products), and biological contaminants. Biological contaminants can significantly impact immunocompromised populations, while chemical contaminants can impact the growth and development of young children. Although obtaining a steady and high-quality water flow to the general population is an increasing challenge, developed countries have utilized state-of-the-art technologies and techniques to provide contaminant-free water to their citizens. This research aims to provide information about the regulatory parameters, characteristics, and sources of safe drinking water in the world as a model for future use in the developing world. In this, secondary data was used to compare and contrast drinking water quality among countries in the European Union, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The data indicates that Ireland and the United Kingdom have relatively lower amounts of contaminants in their drinking water. Upon completing this research, it is recommended that countries desiring clean drinking water systems should initiate and invest in programs that control and protect treatment plants, water distribution systems, water sources, and catchments.展开更多
<strong>Introduction</strong><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><strong>:</strong> The treatment of viral hepatitis B is based on nucleotide...<strong>Introduction</strong><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><strong>:</strong> The treatment of viral hepatitis B is based on nucleotide analogs(s). In Burkina Faso, tenofovir is the most widely used because of its effectiveness and cost. The aim of this study was to describe viral hepatitis B under tenofovir in Ouagadougou. <b>Material and Method</b>: This was a longitudinal study, carried out in the outpatient department of the University Hospital of Tengandogo from May 1, 2013 to September 31, 2020, <i>i.e.</i> a period of seven (07) years and five (05) months. All patients with chronic hepatitis B virus who had been taking tenofovir for at least one year were included in the study. Cases of hepatocellular carcinoma and co-infections with hepatitis D, C and human immunodeficiency viruses were excluded from the study. <b>Results</b>: Of 321 patients with hepatitis B, 120 were on tenofovir and 34 were included in our study. These were 24 men and 10 women with an average age of 39 years. Hepatitis B was most often discovered following systematic or voluntary screening (44.1%) or pain in the right hypochondrium (23.5%). The mean initial viral load was 7.9</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""> </span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "="">log. Ten patients had moderate compliance and four were non-compliant. No side effects were reported in 91.3% of cases. The virologic response was complete in 72.7% of patients after six months. Nine out of ten patients showed a biochemical response after 16 months. A histological response was observed in 19/27 patients within a mean of 26.7 months. HBs seroconversion was found in 2/24 patients. <b>Conclusion</b>: Tenofovir is effective in the treatment of viral hepatitis B, but HBs seroconversion is rarely achieved.</span></span></span>展开更多
Trihalomethanes, such as chloroform, bromoform, dibromo(chloro)methane, and bromo(dichloro)methane, are present in the major watersheds across the United States. These chemicals play an important role in the developme...Trihalomethanes, such as chloroform, bromoform, dibromo(chloro)methane, and bromo(dichloro)methane, are present in the major watersheds across the United States. These chemicals play an important role in the development of cancer, have adverse reproductive outcomes, and were found to be present above the threshold established by the Environmental Protection Agency. To understand the impact of socioeconomic background on the quality of water and possible disparities, we have analyzed the levels of total trihalomethanes in the metropolitan areas in the major watersheds across the United States, in 2018, as they correlated to average household incomes. Our study found that Arkansas, Nevada, and Rhode Island demonstrated higher than federally mandated levels of total trihalomethanes in their watersheds. The median annual household and per capita incomes of the three states (Arkansas, Nevada, and Rhode Island) were lower than the national average. In addition, Delaware, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin, which had higher median income levels, demonstrated the lowest total trihalomethane levels across the United States.展开更多
This study explores stochastic approach to analyzing the forest fire spatial distribution from forest accessibility using 2-parameters Weibull distribution model. MODIS firespot data, as a proxy for forest fire locati...This study explores stochastic approach to analyzing the forest fire spatial distribution from forest accessibility using 2-parameters Weibull distribution model. MODIS firespot data, as a proxy for forest fire location, from 2001 to 2012 was analyzed by correlating its spatial distribution with the distance from settlement and road/lake in 11 Forest Management Units (FMUs) in South Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. (For more information,please refer to the PDF.)展开更多
Energy spectra of neutrons are important for identification of unknown neutron sources and for determination of the equivalent dose. Although standard energy spectra of neutrons are available in some situations, e.g.,...Energy spectra of neutrons are important for identification of unknown neutron sources and for determination of the equivalent dose. Although standard energy spectra of neutrons are available in some situations, e.g., for some radiotherapy treatment machines, they are unknown in other cases, e.g., for photoneutrons created in radiotherapy rooms and neutrons generated in nuclear reactors. In situations where neutron energy spectra need to be determined, unfolding the required neutron energy spectra using the Bonner sphere spectrometer (BSS) and nested neutron spectrometer (NNS) has been found promising. However, without any prior knowledge on the spectra, the unfolding process has remained a tedious task. In this work, a standalone numerical tool named ‘‘NRUunfold’’ was developed which could satisfactorily unfold neutron spectra for BSS or NNS, or any other systems using similar detection methodology. A generic and versatile algorithm based on maximum-likelihood expectation– maximization method was developed and benchmarked against the widely used STAY’SL algorithm which was based on the least squares method. The present method could output decent results in the absence of precisely calculated initial guess, although it was also remarked that employment of exceptionally bizarre initial spectra could lead to some unreasonable output spectra. The neutron count rates computed using the manufacturer’s response functions were used for sensitivity studies. The present NRUunfold code could be useful for neutron energy spectrum unfolding for BSS or NNS applications in the absence of a precisely calculated initial guess.展开更多
Herein we report an electrochemical DNA biosensor for the rapid detection of sequence (5’ AAT GGA TTT ATC TGC TCT TCG 3’) specific for the breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) gene. The proposed electrochemical genosensor is bas...Herein we report an electrochemical DNA biosensor for the rapid detection of sequence (5’ AAT GGA TTT ATC TGC TCT TCG 3’) specific for the breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) gene. The proposed electrochemical genosensor is based on short oligonucleotide DNA probe immobilized onto zinc oxide nanowires (ZnONWs) chemically synthesized onto gold electrode via hydrothermal technique. The morphology studies of the ZnONWs, performed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), showed that the ZnO nanowires are uniform, highly dense and oriented perpendicularly to the substrate. Recognition event between the DNA probe and the target was investigated by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in 0.1 M acetate buffer solution (ABS), pH 7.00;as a result of the hybridization, an oxidation signal was observed at +0.8 V. The influences of pH, target concentration, and non-complimentary DNA on biosensor performance were examined. The proposed DNA biosensor has the ability to detect the target sequence in the range of concentration between 10.0 and 100.0 μM with a detection limit of 3.32 μM. The experimental results demonstrated that the prepared ZnONWs/Au electrodes are suitable platform for the immobilization of DNA.展开更多
This study illustrates an innovative way to fabricate inkjet-printed tracks by sequential printing of Zn nanoparticle ink and curing ink for low temperature in situ chemical sintering.Employing chemical curing in plac...This study illustrates an innovative way to fabricate inkjet-printed tracks by sequential printing of Zn nanoparticle ink and curing ink for low temperature in situ chemical sintering.Employing chemical curing in place of standard sintering methods leads to the advantages of using flexible substrates that may not withstand the high thermal budgets of the standard methods.A general formulation engineering method is adopted to produce highly concentrated Zn ink which is cured by inkjet printing an over-layer of aqueous acetic acid which is the curing agent.The experimental results reveal that a narrow window of acid concentration of curing ink plays a crucial role in determining the electrical properties of the printed Zn nanoparticles.Highly conductive(~10^(5)S m^(−1))and mechanically flexible printed Zn features are achieved.In addition,from systematic material characterization,we obtain an understanding of the curing mechanism.Finally,a touch sensor circuit is demonstrated involving all-Zn printed conductive tracks.展开更多
文摘Wet oxidation procedure,i.e.,Walkley-Black (WB) method,is a routine,relatively accurate,and popular method for the determination of soil organic matter (SOM) but it is time-consuming,costly and also has a high potential to cause environmental pollution because of disposal of chromium and strong acids used in this analysis.Therefore,loss-on-ignition (LOI) procedure,a simple and cheap method for SOM estimation,which also avoids chromic acid wastes,deserves more attention.The aims of this research were to study the statistical relationships between SOM determined with the LOI (SOMLOI) and WB (SOMWB) methods to compare the spatial variability of SOM in two major plains,Shahrekord and Koohrang plains,of Chaharmahal-va-Bakhtiari Province,Iran.Fifty surface soil samples (0-25 cm) were randomly collected in each plain to determine SOM using the WB method and the LOI procedure at 300,360,400,500 and 550 ℃ for 2 h.The samples covered wide ranges of soil texture and calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE).The general linear form of the regression equation was calculated to estimate SOM LOI from SOM obtained by the WB method for both overall samples and individual plains.Forty soil samples were also randomly selected to compare the SOM and CCE before and after ignition at each temperature.Overall accuracy of the continuous maps generated for the LOI and WB methods was considered to determine the accordance of two procedures.Results showed a significant positive linear relationship between SOM LOI and SOM WB.Coefficients of determination (R2) of the equations for individual plains were higher than that of the overall equation.Coefficients of determination and line slopes decreased and root mean square error (RMSE) increased with increasing ignition temperature,which may be due to the mineral structural water loss and destruction of carbonates at higher temperatures.A temperature around 360 ℃ was identified as optimum as it burnt most organic carbon,destroyed less inorganic carbon,caused less clay structural water loss,and used
文摘Epidemiological studies indicate that treatment with metformin, an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator, reduces the incidence of cancers. Activation of AMPK has also been reported to oppose tumor progression in diverse types of cancers and offers promising cancer therapy. Furthermore, AMPK is a primary regulator of energy metabolism and has also been implicated in cell cycle progression, angiogenesis, cell transformation, migration, and cancer. We have recently synthesized novel flavonoids, namely, triphenylmethanol derivatives (TPMs), but the effectiveness of the TPMs on the activity of AMPK remains unclear. We hypothesized that the novel TPMs would inhibit cancer cell proliferation through the activation of AMPK isoforms in cells. The effects of TPMs on prostate cells (PC-3) were investigated. Cells were exposed to TPMs for either 12 or 24 hr. at the respective doses of 0, 25, 50 100, and 200 µM based on the cell viability studies by the (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide, a tetrazole) (MTT) assay. The results indicate that cells exposed to the respective doses of TPMs increased both phospho- and total-AMPKα1 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The effects of the increases for the phospho- and total-AMPKα in cells were greater for the 24-hr than the 12-hr. incubation. Further studies are currently going on to elucidate the specificities of the said insults in increasing the phospho- and total-AMPKα activities and for the other respective isoforms.
文摘Organochlorine contaminants, such as triclosan (TCS), are present in major water sources across the United States. These antimicrobial compounds are widely used as multipurpose ingredients in everyday consumer products. They can be ingested or absorbed through the skin and are found in human blood, breast milk, and urine samples. Studies have shown that the increased use of antimicrobial agents leads to their presence and persistence in the ecosystem, particularly in soil and watersheds. Many studies have highlighted emerging concerns associated with the overuse of TCS, including dermal irritations, a higher incidence of antibacterial-related allergies, microbial resistance, disruptions in the endocrine system, altered thyroid hormone activity, metabolism, and tumor metastasis and growth. Organochlorine contaminant exposures play a role in inflammatory responsiveness, and any unwarranted innate response could lead to adverse outcomes. The capacity of TCS and other organochlorine contaminants to induce inflammation, resulting in persistent and chronic inflammation, is linked to various pathologies, such as cardiovascular disease and several types of cancers. Chronic inflammation presents a severe consequence of exposure to these antimicrobial agents, as any changes could result in the loss of immune competence. Organochlorine contaminant levels were established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2019-2020 and have consistently increased in response to the novel coronavirus (nCoV) (COVID-19) pandemic. Our previous research examined the overuse of products containing triclosan (TCS), which led to an increase in total trihalomethane (TTHM) levels affecting the quality of our water supply. We also investigated the impact of the FDA ban that now requires pre-market approval. To comprehend the consequences of excessive antimicrobial use on water quality, we conducted an analysis of the levels of total trichloromethane (chloroform), a byproduct of free chlorine added to TCS, in primary water so
文摘The US Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is comprised of 143 islands, atolls, cays, and islets. Of the 143 localities, only 3 islands are inhabited: The mainland (often referenced as Puerto Rico), Culebra, and Vieques. To properly analyze the water supply quality, the mainland will be the focal point for examining environmental and social injustices. Puerto Rico is a racially diverse but ethnically homogenous territory, with most of the commonwealth living below the poverty level. Access to clean water sources is always tenuous in Puerto Rico. Over 70 percent of the island is served by water, violating US health standards. However, the recent hurricanes made the situation even more detrimental. According to data reported between January 2015 and March 2018 by the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), 97 percent of the population of Puerto Rico utilizes a common drinking water system with one or more recent violations of the Safe Drinking Water Act for its testing requirements for lead and copper levels. The amounts found were far higher than any US state, meaning that virtually everyone on the island gets water from systems that violated testing or reporting requirements. In this study, we have collected and analyzed the levels of trihalomethanes (THMs), haloacetic acids (HAAs), copper, lead, and total organic compounds (TOCs) in drinking water providing systems in Puerto Rico and compared them with the recommended levels of contaminants provided by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. Many of these reported contaminants can have serious and detrimental health effects after prolonged exposure to higher concentrations of the contaminants found in the drinking water sources of Puerto Rico.
文摘Some Triptorelin<sup>®</sup> (TRP) conjugates of triphenylmethanol derivatives (TPMs) with optimized hydrophobicity were synthesized by reacting 2-substituted methoxy benzenes with 1,3,5-trioxane, followed by the conjugation with TRP and sebacic acid to produce TRP-TPMs derivatives. Comparative antiproliferative assays between TRP-TPMs conjugates and the corresponding non-covalent physical mixtures of the TPMs derivatives and TRP were used to treat human acute lymphoblastic leukemia (CCRF-CEM), human ovarian adenocarcinoma (SK-OV-3) and mouse preadipocytes (3T3-L1) cells. TRP-TPMs conjugates at the 50 μM inhibited cell proliferation in CCRF-CEM, SK-OV-3 and 3T3-L1 cells by 21% - 37%, 24% - 73%, 37% - 56%, respectively following incubation for 72 h. These findings indicate that TRP-TPMs derivatives have the potential to enhance the biological activity of TRP.
基金Husnu Gerengi expresses his sincere thanks to The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey(TUBITAK)for his fellowship at the University of Bergamo,under the TUBITAK 2219 Postdoctoral Research Program(Program Project Number:1059B191900111)The authors are grateful to ZİNGA®and Sikaflex®for providing zinc-rich coating and construction sealant.Also,the authors thank Kader Dikmen,VolkanÖzdal and Volkan Akmaz of Fibrobeton Company R&D Center for their help during the sample preparation process.One of the authors Marziya Rizvi would like to acknowledge CSIR,New Delhi,India,for providing her RA fellowship.A part of this research work was initially presented at the 2nd International Conference and Exhibition on Corrosion and Surface Protection for Steel(CASP 2022)on May 26,2022,Istanbul,Turkey.
文摘This study evaluated the corrosion behavior of steel hooks embedded in GFRC,which were protected by a zinc-rich(96%Zn)galvanizing coating.The coating provided the hooks with active cathodic protection and a passive physical shield.Macrocell corrosion may form when the anode is smaller than the total steel surface.Thus,the steel hooks at the embedment juncture were additionally sealed against water ingress and air exchange using a construction sealant.The study was conducted in three phases in a salt-spray chamber.First,the electrogalvanized steel hooks embedded in GFRC were allowed to freely corrode for 7 days.In the second phase,the electrogalvanized steel hooks were painted with the zinc-rich coating and observed over 7 days.In the third phase,the steel hooks were protected by the zinc-rich coating together with a primer and construction sealant,and observed over 7 days.To evaluate the electrogalvanized hooks and the corrosion products formed,the thickness of the material was measured.Corrosion on the metal surface was inferred by studying the surface morphology of the hooks at various points of contact and after different periods of time.
文摘The aim of this study was to verify the existence of business and strategic intelligence policies at the level of Congolese companies and at the state level, likely to foster progress and healthy development in the east of the DRC. The study was based on a mixed perspective consisting of objective analysis of quantitative data and interpretative analysis of qualitative data. The results showed that business and strategic intelligence policies have not been established at either company or state level, as this is an area of activity that is not known to the players in companies and public departments, and there are no units or offices in their organizational structures responsible for managing strategic information for competitiveness on the international market. In addition, there is a real need to establish strategic information management units within companies, upstream, and to set up a national strategic information management department or agency to help local companies compete in the marketplace, downstream. This reflects the importance and timeliness of building business and strategic intelligence policies to ensure economic progress and development in the eastern DRC. Business and strategic intelligence provides companies with an appropriate tool for researching, collecting, processing and disseminating information useful for decision-making among stakeholders, in order to cope with a crisis or competitive situation. The study suggests a number of key recommendations based on its findings. To the government, it is recommended to establish the national policy of business and strategic intelligence by setting up a national agency of strategic intelligence in favor of local companies;and to companies to establish business intelligence units in their organizational structures in favor of stakeholders to foster advantageous decision-making in the competitive market and achieve progress. Finally, the study suggests that studies be carried out to fully understand the opportunities and impact of business and stra
文摘<strong>Background:</strong> Inquiry evidence-based practice (IBP) improves healthcare quality, reliability, and patient outcomes as well as reduces variations in care and costs. IBP and its practice in health care promote also many advantages, such as improvements of practices based on the attitudes and cognitive ideas. This study aims to assess the inquiry based on evidence (IBP) and its practices in two Health Care Facilities (HCFs) of Bujumbura to help the practitioners to understand its importance. <strong>Methods:</strong> A cross-sectional study design was used to analyze the importance of IBP and its practice in these two hospitals. The probability-sampling technique was used also to select 104 nurses from the Military Hospital of Kamenge and 55 nurses from the Van Norman Clinic. A questionnaire was used to collect data with two mains components, demographic data and knowledge and attitudes addressing the following parameters: evidence practice during inquiry, nursing theory, current analysis in nursing care oriented the evidence, prioritization of care, rational diagnostic, monitoring and assessment. <strong>Results:</strong> The findings from this study revealed a poor knowledge and attitude among participants towards Inquiry Based Practice. In all variables, participants were scoring less than 10%. However, majority of participants (76.5%) know the indicators of patients’ satisfaction with nursing interventions through survey-based practice and 74.1% argued to analyze their information collected. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> This study revealed a weak awareness on IBP and its importance during nursing practice among participants as for almost all variables, participants were scoring less than 10%, except for the indicators of patients’ satisfaction with nursing interventions through survey-based practice (76.5%). Therefore, in-service training and curriculum revision had been highlighted and recommended another to provide the best rational diagnosis and achieve the patient’s outcomes.
文摘The aim of this study was to design a new emulsion liquid membrane(ELM)system for the separation of succinic acid from aqueous solutions.The concentration of succinic acid varied from 20 to 60 mmol·L^(-1).The prepared ELM system includes tributylamine(TBA)as a carrier,commercial kerosene as a solvent,Span 80 as a surfactant,and Na2CO3as a stripping agent.In order to control the membrane swelling,different values of cyclohexanone were added to the membrane phase.The effect of various empirical variables on the extraction of the succinic acid such as acid concentration in the feed solution,initial feed concentration,carrier concentration,the stirring speed of the extraction,Na2CO3,surfactant,and cyclohexanone concentrations,and treat ratio in the ELM system.The best result was obtained when TBA was used as the carrier.The final acid extraction efficiency was independent of pH variations of the aqueous feed solution.The extraction of succinic acid solution with a concentration of 40 mmol·L^(-1)was improved by increasing the treat ratio 1:7-1:3,stripping phase concentration 0.5-1.5 mol·L^(-1),stirring speed 300-500 r·min^(-1)and cyclohexanone concentration in the membrane phase 1.2-1.6 mol·L^(-1).No considerable effect on the extraction rate was observed for the carrier concentration in the membrane phase.But,the surfactant concentration in the feed phase showed a dual effect on the extraction efficiency.
文摘Radioactive contaminants, such as radium, radon, and uranium isotopes are naturally present in drinking water, and gas and oil extraction like hydraulic fracturing can exasperate radionuclide leakage into groundwater. The concentration of radionuclide in drinking water is dependent upon the water source and the underlying lithology within the aquifers. In United States, the Environmental Protection Agency regulates the level of radioactivity in drinking water via the gross alpha test, which is conducted to measure the emitted alpha particles as a result of the radioactive elements’ natural decay. Radionuclides, such as radium and uranium, are known to cause bone cancer and other forms of cancer. Communities with crippling water purification infrastructure may be at a higher risk of being exposed to radionuclides, and this is a significant environmental justice concern. The radionuclide concentrations for the metropolitan or most populated city in each state in the United States and its territories (Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and Guam) were analyzed and correlated to the annual household income, to determine any disparities that maybe present. Lower income communities had elevated levels of radionuclides when compared to higher income communities which had lower frequency in elevated radionuclide contaminants.
文摘Water is one of the most essential resources required to sustain life. However, it could be detrimental to the health of those without access to water that is properly treated. Although the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974 set regulations to protect citizens from naturally occurring and man-made contaminants, some people are still without clean and safe water, which is speculated to be because of their race. This research examines the disproportionality of available clean water provided by government sources in Michigan and its correlation with race and household income. In the study, it has been found that one of the leading causes of water contamination is industrial activity, with the automobile industry being responsible for approximately 300 million tons of lead contamination in water, and that the manufacturing company’s locations mostly centered in minority and low-income areas. Lower income cities, such as Hamtramck and Benton Harbor, have an average of 14.8 drinking water standard violations with the highest being 99 total violations, while higher income cities, like Novi and Bloomfield hills, have an average of 4 violations. Cities, like Flint and Detroit, which have a higher minority population, are 10 times more likely to have a water standard violation, and the minority population is proportionally related to the possibility of industrial manufacturing being located in those areas. These communities also face a higher risk of birth defects, developmental issues in children, and organ failure in adults, due to continuous exposure to water contaminants. Race as a direct causation could not be proven, but there are links to direct correlation through historical redlining and housing trends.
文摘Sustaining a reliable and contaminant-free drinking water is becoming an increasing challenge worldwide due to human activity, industrial waste, and agricultural overuse. Surface water is the main source of drinking water around the world. However, groundwater is also becoming increasingly popular, due to its clarity and minimal need for processing to reduce turbidity. Over the years, the demand and growth in the agricultural industry has also been the means of groundwater contamination. Due to the health burden that raw water can pose, water must be processed and purified prior to consumption. Raw water quality can be compromised by physical, chemical (heavy metals and disinfection by-products), and biological contaminants. Biological contaminants can significantly impact immunocompromised populations, while chemical contaminants can impact the growth and development of young children. Although obtaining a steady and high-quality water flow to the general population is an increasing challenge, developed countries have utilized state-of-the-art technologies and techniques to provide contaminant-free water to their citizens. This research aims to provide information about the regulatory parameters, characteristics, and sources of safe drinking water in the world as a model for future use in the developing world. In this, secondary data was used to compare and contrast drinking water quality among countries in the European Union, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The data indicates that Ireland and the United Kingdom have relatively lower amounts of contaminants in their drinking water. Upon completing this research, it is recommended that countries desiring clean drinking water systems should initiate and invest in programs that control and protect treatment plants, water distribution systems, water sources, and catchments.
文摘<strong>Introduction</strong><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><strong>:</strong> The treatment of viral hepatitis B is based on nucleotide analogs(s). In Burkina Faso, tenofovir is the most widely used because of its effectiveness and cost. The aim of this study was to describe viral hepatitis B under tenofovir in Ouagadougou. <b>Material and Method</b>: This was a longitudinal study, carried out in the outpatient department of the University Hospital of Tengandogo from May 1, 2013 to September 31, 2020, <i>i.e.</i> a period of seven (07) years and five (05) months. All patients with chronic hepatitis B virus who had been taking tenofovir for at least one year were included in the study. Cases of hepatocellular carcinoma and co-infections with hepatitis D, C and human immunodeficiency viruses were excluded from the study. <b>Results</b>: Of 321 patients with hepatitis B, 120 were on tenofovir and 34 were included in our study. These were 24 men and 10 women with an average age of 39 years. Hepatitis B was most often discovered following systematic or voluntary screening (44.1%) or pain in the right hypochondrium (23.5%). The mean initial viral load was 7.9</span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""> </span></span></span><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "="">log. Ten patients had moderate compliance and four were non-compliant. No side effects were reported in 91.3% of cases. The virologic response was complete in 72.7% of patients after six months. Nine out of ten patients showed a biochemical response after 16 months. A histological response was observed in 19/27 patients within a mean of 26.7 months. HBs seroconversion was found in 2/24 patients. <b>Conclusion</b>: Tenofovir is effective in the treatment of viral hepatitis B, but HBs seroconversion is rarely achieved.</span></span></span>
文摘Trihalomethanes, such as chloroform, bromoform, dibromo(chloro)methane, and bromo(dichloro)methane, are present in the major watersheds across the United States. These chemicals play an important role in the development of cancer, have adverse reproductive outcomes, and were found to be present above the threshold established by the Environmental Protection Agency. To understand the impact of socioeconomic background on the quality of water and possible disparities, we have analyzed the levels of total trihalomethanes in the metropolitan areas in the major watersheds across the United States, in 2018, as they correlated to average household incomes. Our study found that Arkansas, Nevada, and Rhode Island demonstrated higher than federally mandated levels of total trihalomethanes in their watersheds. The median annual household and per capita incomes of the three states (Arkansas, Nevada, and Rhode Island) were lower than the national average. In addition, Delaware, New Hampshire, and Wisconsin, which had higher median income levels, demonstrated the lowest total trihalomethane levels across the United States.
文摘This study explores stochastic approach to analyzing the forest fire spatial distribution from forest accessibility using 2-parameters Weibull distribution model. MODIS firespot data, as a proxy for forest fire location, from 2001 to 2012 was analyzed by correlating its spatial distribution with the distance from settlement and road/lake in 11 Forest Management Units (FMUs) in South Kalimantan Province, Indonesia. (For more information,please refer to the PDF.)
基金support from the Neutron computer cluster from the Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong
文摘Energy spectra of neutrons are important for identification of unknown neutron sources and for determination of the equivalent dose. Although standard energy spectra of neutrons are available in some situations, e.g., for some radiotherapy treatment machines, they are unknown in other cases, e.g., for photoneutrons created in radiotherapy rooms and neutrons generated in nuclear reactors. In situations where neutron energy spectra need to be determined, unfolding the required neutron energy spectra using the Bonner sphere spectrometer (BSS) and nested neutron spectrometer (NNS) has been found promising. However, without any prior knowledge on the spectra, the unfolding process has remained a tedious task. In this work, a standalone numerical tool named ‘‘NRUunfold’’ was developed which could satisfactorily unfold neutron spectra for BSS or NNS, or any other systems using similar detection methodology. A generic and versatile algorithm based on maximum-likelihood expectation– maximization method was developed and benchmarked against the widely used STAY’SL algorithm which was based on the least squares method. The present method could output decent results in the absence of precisely calculated initial guess, although it was also remarked that employment of exceptionally bizarre initial spectra could lead to some unreasonable output spectra. The neutron count rates computed using the manufacturer’s response functions were used for sensitivity studies. The present NRUunfold code could be useful for neutron energy spectrum unfolding for BSS or NNS applications in the absence of a precisely calculated initial guess.
基金the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia for the ERGS grant(600/RMI/st/ERGS/5/3/fst12/2011)Universiti Teknologi MARA for financial support via postgraduate teaching assistant scheme(UPTA)to Nur Azimah Mansor for conducting this research.
文摘Herein we report an electrochemical DNA biosensor for the rapid detection of sequence (5’ AAT GGA TTT ATC TGC TCT TCG 3’) specific for the breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) gene. The proposed electrochemical genosensor is based on short oligonucleotide DNA probe immobilized onto zinc oxide nanowires (ZnONWs) chemically synthesized onto gold electrode via hydrothermal technique. The morphology studies of the ZnONWs, performed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), showed that the ZnO nanowires are uniform, highly dense and oriented perpendicularly to the substrate. Recognition event between the DNA probe and the target was investigated by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) in 0.1 M acetate buffer solution (ABS), pH 7.00;as a result of the hybridization, an oxidation signal was observed at +0.8 V. The influences of pH, target concentration, and non-complimentary DNA on biosensor performance were examined. The proposed DNA biosensor has the ability to detect the target sequence in the range of concentration between 10.0 and 100.0 μM with a detection limit of 3.32 μM. The experimental results demonstrated that the prepared ZnONWs/Au electrodes are suitable platform for the immobilization of DNA.
基金funded by European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement number 814485。
文摘This study illustrates an innovative way to fabricate inkjet-printed tracks by sequential printing of Zn nanoparticle ink and curing ink for low temperature in situ chemical sintering.Employing chemical curing in place of standard sintering methods leads to the advantages of using flexible substrates that may not withstand the high thermal budgets of the standard methods.A general formulation engineering method is adopted to produce highly concentrated Zn ink which is cured by inkjet printing an over-layer of aqueous acetic acid which is the curing agent.The experimental results reveal that a narrow window of acid concentration of curing ink plays a crucial role in determining the electrical properties of the printed Zn nanoparticles.Highly conductive(~10^(5)S m^(−1))and mechanically flexible printed Zn features are achieved.In addition,from systematic material characterization,we obtain an understanding of the curing mechanism.Finally,a touch sensor circuit is demonstrated involving all-Zn printed conductive tracks.
