Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Growth Characterization and Optimization of Cyanobacterial Isolates from the Arabian Gulf

Growth Characterization and Optimization of Cyanobacterial Isolates from the Arabian Gulf Luis Flavio Siller Rodriguez Photoautotrophic organisms have been highlighted as carbon capture and conversion platforms for sustainable production of agricultural and chemicals in KSA. Previously two cyanobacterial strains, Geitlerinema spp. CT7801 and CT7802, were isolated from an industrial brine outfall site in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Initial characterization of their growth characteristics showed growth at high temperature (38 ◦C) and high salinity (≥ 60 PSU), making them potentially good candidates for industrial applications. In this study, quantitative growth assays were performed using standardized methods developed for the analysis of Red Sea photosynthetic microorganisms supported by microscopic observations, optimal growth media preference assays, CO2 concentration effect, photoperiod effect, mixotrophic and heterotrophic growth tests. Data was recorded for absorbance (600 and 750 nm wave lenght), dry cell weight (DCW), colorimetric observations, and chlorophyll a content. Both CT7801 and CT7802 exhibited a clear preference for Walne’s Red Sea medium. An analysis on media composition highlights B and Fe as growth enhancers, as well as a base requirement of seawater. Tests on the effect of supplied concentration of CO2 showed that air enhanced with 1 % v/v CO2 allows approximately 2-fold 5 increase in DCW for Geitlerinema spp. CT7802. Photoperiod tests showed that continuous light is disadvantageous for phototrophic growth of Geitlerinema spp. CT7801 and CT7802. Results for mixotrophic and heterotrophic growth of Geitlerinema spp. CT7801 and CT7802 revealed their ability to metabolize glycerol. Analysis on the complete genome of CT7802 identified three key enzymes, glycerol kinase, glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and triosephosphate isomerase, that may catalyze the glycerol metabolic pathway in the strain. Utilization of glycerol, a residue of the biodiesel industry, might provide a sustainable alternative for growth of Geitlerinema sp. CT7802.
Study on Integrated Benefit of Rainwater Resources Utilization in Small Watershed on the Loess Plateau

Rainwater resources utilization is an effective measure for solving wa ter resources shortage and eco,environmental rehabilitation in Loess Plateau of China.Research of rainwater resources integrated benefit evaluation is a core pr oblem concerning development of dryland agriculture,soil and water environmental protection as well as coordinated economic and eco,environmental development.No wadays the evaluation models and indicators system of rainwater resources mostly use economic benefit maximum as optimized objection function,regardless of soci al benefit and eco,environmental benefit.Especially research of rainwater resour ces integrated benefit in Loess Plateau is inadequate.Based on the current situa tion of rainwater resources utilization and the characteristic of converting rai nwater into rainwater resources,applying analytic hierarchical process theory,th is paper establishes the mathematical model and indicators system for integrated benefit evaluation of rainwater resources utilization by taking small watershed as a research unit and rainwater resources as a research object.The evaluation indicators system is proposed based on characteristics and principles of scienti fic,practical and concise.The indicators system includes three aspects such as e conomic benefit,social benefit and eco,environmental benefit and systematically reflects rainwater resources utilization features in small watershed.Because of the complex relation of indicators factors,synthetically benefit evaluation incl udes quantitative and qualitative aspects.The evaluating model and the indicator s system are applied to evaluate synthetically the status of rainwater resources utilization in Nihegou watershed in Shaanxi Province.The evaluation model playe d an important role in the evaluation and management of rainwater resources sust ainable utilization and eco,environment construction on the Loess Plateau.
Crinoids from the Late Jurassic of the Nutzhof section (Lower Austria, Gresten Klippenbelt)

Tithonian to Berriasian sediments of the Blassenstein Formation exposed at the Nutzhof section, 5 km north of Hainfeld, in the Gresten Klippen Belt were sampled for crinoids. Only the Tithonian part of the section proved suitable for bulk sampling. Four crinoid taxa (Balanocrinus sp., Saccocoma tenella (Go L dfuss , 1831), Crassicoma ? sp. , and Phyllocrinus belbekensis Arendt , 1974) could be documented. Among these, only S. tenella and probably Crassicoma ? sp. appear to be autochthonous; the others are interpreted as transported based on preservation and size range. The observed changes in lithology and microfauna may reflect geodynamically induced palaeogeographic changes and/or basinal deepening.
STRATIGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION AND PALEOENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS OF PEDOGENIC FEATURES AND TRACE FOSSILS FROM THE LOWER PERMIAN OF KANSAS

Cumulative paleosols in core from the Lower Permian (Asselian-Sakmarian) Council Grove Group of western Kansas contain a diverse suite of pedogenic features, including carbonate nodules, gleying, trace fossils, rhizoliths, rhizohalos, peds, and cutans. Climatic variability during the interval of soil formation resulted in overprinting and close stratigraphic juxtaposition of both humid and arid climate indicators. Variability is likely the result of exposure to multiple 5 th -order eustatic and climatic cycles during the lowstands of 4 th -order cycles. The distribution of pedogenic features across formations also indicates a shift toward more humid conditions during a larger 3 rd -order regression. Paleosol character was strongly influenced by regional topography and paleogeographic position, as well as the climate changes accompanying these hierarchical glacioeustatic cycles. Abundant trace fossils (Naktodemasis isp.) were likely produced during soil formation by root-feeding insect larvae. Biologic activity assisted in consolidation and stabilization of eolian and alluvially deposited sediments, creating updip topography that reduced accommodation for subsequent deposition. Lack of accommodation prevented the deposition of small-scale, 5 th -order cycles that are expressed as lithologic changes in stratigraphically equivalent outcrops across the state. These outcrops reveal a series of stacked paleosols with discrete exposure surfaces that are separated by thin limestones, rather than the thin, cumulic paleosols seen in core. The lack of biostabilization and topography, and the generally lower relief outside of the Anadarko Basin made these areas more susceptible to small-scale variations in sea-level and climate.
soil testing as a base for modifying fertilizer recommendations of groundnut

Groundnut (Arachishypogaea L.) is one of the most important leguminous crops. The groundnut seed contains about 45 to 50% oil, 25 to 30% digestible protein, 20% carbohydrate and 5% fiber and ash which make a substantial contribution to human nutrition. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to improve the growth, yield and yield components as well as nutrient status of groundnut grown on newly reclaimed sandy soil by applying NPK levels as a soil fertilizer alone or combined with foliar feeding of some essential micronutrients and comparing these treatments with rates based on soil testing. Summer field experiment was carried out in Ismailia Training Center, Ismailia governorate, during the growing seasons 2009 and 2010 to explore the effects of different NPK treatments on growth, yield and nutrients uptake of groundnut (Arachis hypogea, L. cv. Giza 6), grown on an irrigated loamy sand under a wheat-groundnut cropping system. Six NPK combinations were tested in the first season, while one more treatment was added in the second season as control treatment. The obtained results indicated that the NPK doses based on soil testing improved all yield components and resulted in improving nutrient concentrations in peanut leaves which induced significant increase in pods and straw yield as compared to other treatments. Based on two years results, it could be concluded that, application of NPK based on soil testing plus micronutrient foliar spray might be the best for crop nutrient status, seeds yield and its components and seed protein content
Telehealth use and work stress among Chinese health care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic

Telehealth services in China rapidly expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic. The work stress of health care providers (HCPs) associated with providing telehealth care services in China has been less studied. Our study describes the telehealth services provided by hospitals in China and examines the relationships between telehealth use and work stress of HCPs in China during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a survey research design, HCPs aged 18 or older in China were electronically recruited from October 19 to November 10, 2021 (n=1,073). After preprocessing, data from 1,036 HCPs were used for further analyses, which included descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression models. Results showed that 64.29% of Chinese hospitals reported virtual physician-to-physician consultations, and 59.94% of Chinese HCPs conducted online physician consultations. Lower levels of HCP work stress was associated with live video conferencing (p=0.04), online physician consultations (p=0.00), and higher levels of team collaboration (p=0.00) and team trust (p=0.00). Work stress was also positively correlated with COVID-19 stress (p=0.00), working hours (p=0.00), and the interaction between live video conferencing and COVID-19 stress (p=0.04). HCPs’ work stress decreased by using live video conferencing and online patient care. However, the positive effects of live video conferencing may decrease with the increase in COVID-19 stress for HCPs. Our findings encourage efforts to develop extensive coverage of telehealth service systems in China to promote HCPs’ virtual communication and collaboration to relieve HCPs’ work stress and support their well-being.
Comparison of ultrasonic versus side-vented needle irrigation for reductions in bacterial growth and postoperative pain: A randomized controlled trial

Background: Postoperative pain affects 16%–25% of root canal therapy patients. The irrigating system and irrigants used should reduce bacterial load without irrigant extrusion beyond the root canal apex, potentially reducing postoperative pain and discomfort. Aim: This study aims to compare the effects of passive ultrasonic irrigation and side-vented needle irrigation on postoperative pain and bacterial load in single-rooted teeth with pulp necrosis. Materials and Methods: Eighty patients with pulpal necrosis in single-rooted teeth were randomly categorized into two groups (n = 40 each): Group A (side-vented needle irrigation) and Group B (passive ultrasonic irrigation). Bacterial samples were collected using sterile paper points after initial access cavity preparation (S1) and standard endodontic instrumentation + irrigation (S2). Bacterial growth was assessed on MacConkey and blood agar. Pain was recorded 30 min preoperatively and 6, 12, 24, and 48 h postoperatively. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square test, independent t-test and paired t-test. Results: Irrigation with Irrisafe tips showed increased number of bacteria-free samples and a significant reduction in postoperative pain (at the 6 and 12 h time-points) when compared to side-vented needle. Conclusions: Passive ultrasonic irrigation with Irrisafe tips may be more effective than side-vented needle irrigation in reducing postoperative pain and intracanal bacterial load in patients undergoing endodontic treatment.
Genetic variations of type 2 and type 3 von Willebrand diseases in Thailand

Aims Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is an inherited haemostatic disorder with a wide range of bleeding phenotypes based on von Willebrand factor (VWF) levels. Multiple assays including VWF gene analysis are employed to correctly diagnose VWD and its subtypes. However, data on VWF mutations among Southeast Asian populations are lacking. We, therefore, aimed to explore genetic variations in Thai patients with type 2 and type 3 VWD by whole exome sequencing (WES). Methods In this multicentre study, Thai patients with type 2 and type 3 VWD, according to the definitions and VWF levels recommended by the international guidelines, were recruited. WES was performed using DNA extracted from peripheral blood in all cases. The novel variants were verified by Sanger sequencing. Results Fifteen patients (73% females; median age at diagnosis 3.0 years) with type 2 (n=12) and type 3 VWD (n=3) from 14 families were enrolled. All patients harboured at least one VWF variant. Six missense (p.Arg1374Cys, p.Arg1374His, p.Arg1399Cys, p.Arg1597Trp, p.Ser1613Pro, p.Pro1648Arg) and one splice-site (c.3379+1G>A) variants in the VWF gene were formerly described. Notably, six VWF variants, including three missense (p.Met814Ile, p.Trp856Cys, p.Pro2032Leu), one deletion (c.2251delG) and two splice-site (c.7729+4A>C, c.8115+2delT) mutations were novelly identified. Compound heterozygosity contributed to type 2 and type 3 VWD phenotypes in two and one patients, respectively. Conclusions Type 2 and type 3 VWD in Thailand demonstrate the mutational variations among VWF exons/introns with several unique variants. The WES-based approach potentially provides helpful information to verify VWD diagnosis and facilitate genetic counselling in clinical practice.
Roles of Trap States in the Dynamic Degradation of Polycrystalline Silicon Thin-Film Transistors Under AC Gate Bias Stress

This article investigates the effects of different kinds of trap states on the degradation of polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) thin-film transistors (TFTs) under alternating current (ac) gate pulse bias stress. P-type TFTs with different ON-state and subthreshold characteristics are fabricated, and thus, different distributions of donor-like tail states and deep states are achieved. The decrease of ON-state current is the dominant degradation phenomena for all the TFTs due to trap state generation occurring during the pulse rising edges. TFTs with higher donor-like trap states show severe degradation. It is attributed to the higher transient lateral electric field and hole concentration due to the higher donor-like deep state density, while acceptor-like trap states do not contribute to the degradation of p-type poly-Si TFTs under ac gate bias stress.
Effects of Forest Disturbance on Vegetation Structure and Above-Ground Carbon in Three Isolated Forest Patches of Taita Hills

The structure and species composition of undisturbed natural forests serve as benchmarks for understanding forest carbon storage potential for reduced carbon emissions. Even though Kenya is seeking to stabilize forest cover, reverse degradation and increase forest cover through mechanisms such as REDD+, there is relatively little information on inherent forest carbon storage potential or its response to disturbance. Comparative studies were undertaken in three remnant fragments of indigenous forests in Taita Hills, Kenya to characterize the structure and forest carbon storage potential of undisturbed, moderately and heavily disturbed sites within these forests. The sensitivity of forest carbon storage estimates to different methods of tree biomass estimation were also examined, including estimates which used DBH, tree height and wood density from extracted tree cores. Disturbance altered the forest structure, reduced species diversity and decreased the capacity of the forests to sequester carbon. The forests’ capacity to sequester carbon reduced by between 9.2% and 70.7% depending on the site (forest fragment) and level of disturbance. Models with DBH and wood density gave higher quantities of carbon of between 0.9% and 44.4% for sites exhibiting different levels of disturbance. The present results suggest that disturbance had strong influence on forest structure, species diversity and carbon stocks and therefore maintaining the forests’ ecological integrity over the long-term may prove difficult if the frequency and intensity of disturbance increases. Moreover, development and implementation of effective mitigation strategies to reduce carbon emissions will require the use of local biomass models since they are accurate.
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF LOCAL RESIDENTS AT BIEN HOA CITY -VIETNAM ON PREVENTING DIOXIN EXPOSURE THROUGH FOODS

5,6,7 Thus, local people at Bien Hoa City, especially those living at or nearby Bien Hoa Air Base have probably been facing with higher risks due to exposure to dioxin in the environment, especially through consuming local contaminated foods. This warranted special attention and intervention measures to reduce the risk of dioxin exposure were urgently needed. Currently, the dioxin average daily intake from all sources for local people could not yet be quantified due to the lack of info rmation on the frequency of food consumption and dioxin levels in all types of high-risk foods being consumed by local people. Nevertheless, there were substantial scientific evidences 5,6,7 showing that local residents at Bien Hoa have been facing with higher health risks due to dioxin exposure. A KAP study would be needed to see the pattern of Knowledge-Attitude-Practice among those local people living in the highest polluted area with dioxin (Tan Phong and Trung Dung communes) and this was conducted by the VPHA. The results of this study were served as base-line evidence for developing an effective intervention program. Material and methods This was a cross sectional survey designed to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of the local residents toward dioxin and ways to prevent dioxin exposure through foods at Trung Dung and Tan Phong communes, Bien Hoa City, Vietnam. A sample of 400 households at these two communes was randomly selected from the list of local households using systematic random sampling scheme. 400 food handlers from selected households, aged 16-60 were interviewed. Data was analized using SPSS 13.0 and Stata 9.0. Results and discussion
The Role of Self-Control Dimensions, Game Motivation, Game Genre, and Game Platforms in Gaming Disorder: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Findings

Introduction Gaming disorder (GD) is the result of an interplay between gaming-related factors, individual factors, and environmental factors. Current research primarily highlights single types of factors. Consequently, the present study simultaneously analyzed the role of individual factors, such as self-control dimensions and motives for gaming, and gaming-related factors, such as game genres, and gaming platforms in GD among female and male gamers. Additionally, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of these factors in relation to GD both cross-sectionally (Study 1) and longitudinally (Study 2). Methods Study 1 comprised 620 active gamers (M=22.16 years; SD=2.99), and Study 2 comprised 405 active gamers (M=28.05 years; SD=4.51). The instruments used in the studies included the Gaming Disorder Test, the nine-item Internet Gaming Disorder Short-Form (IGDS9-SF), Motives for Online Gaming Questionnaire, Video Game Questionnaire, and Self-Knowledge New Sheet. Results The results showed that GD was associated with (i) self-control deficits associated with difficulties in implementation control and taking actions related to goals without unnecessary delay, (ii) retaining information about intentions and long-term plans, (iii) refraining from immediate, impulsive behavior, and (iv) inhibiting emotional reactions. GD was also associated primarily with escape, coping, and competition motives for gaming. However, the longitudinal study showed that social, fantasy, and skill-development motives were also related to GD development over time. The action game genres associated with GD but were not very important for GD over time. The cross-sectional study results indicated a negative relationship between GD and tablets and consoles used as gaming platforms. However, the longitudinal study showed that desktop computers and consoles use as gaming platforms were associated with the GD over time. Moreover, gaming-related factors explained only 9% of the variance in the GD model among female gamers and only 10% of the variance in the GD model among male gamers in cross-sectional study. In contrast, individual factors such as self-control dimensions and gaming motivation explained 32% of the variance in the GD model among both female and male gamers. Conclusion Individual factors, such as self-control dimensions and motives for gaming, were more important in explaining GD than gaming-related factors, such as game genres and gaming platforms. Moreover, self-control deficits and motivation related to escape, coping and competence can be important factors to consider in the prevention and treatment of GD.
Regular Practice of Physical Activity Improves Cholesterol Transfers to High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Other HDL Metabolic Parameters in Older Adults

The effects of regular physical activity on two important anti-atherosclerosis functions of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), namely its capacity to receive both forms of cholesterol and its anti-oxidant function, were investigated in this study comparing older adults with young individuals. One-hundred and eight healthy adult individuals were enrolled and separated into the following groups: active older (60–80 yrs, n = 24); inactive older (60–79 yrs, n = 21); active young (20–34 yrs, n = 39); and inactive young (20–35 yrs, n = 24). All performed cardiopulmonary tests. Blood samples were collected in order to assess the following measures: lipid profile, HDL anti-oxidant capacity, paraoxonase-1 activity, HDL subfractions, and lipid transfer to HDL. Comparing active older and active young groups with inactive older and inactive young groups, respectively, the active groups presented higher HDL-C levels (p < 0.01 for both comparisons), unesterified cholesterol transfer (p < 0.01, p < 0.05), and intermediate and larger HDL subfractions (p < 0.001, p < 0.01) than the respective inactive groups. In addition, the active young group showed higher esterified cholesterol transfer than the inactive young group (p < 0.05). As expected, the two active groups had higher VO2peak than the inactive groups; VO2peak was higher in the two younger than in the two older groups (p < 0.05). No differences in unesterified and esterified cholesterol transfers and HDL subfractions were found between active young and active older groups. HDL anti-oxidant capacity and paraoxonase-1 activity were equal in all four study groups. Our data highlight and strengthen the benefits of regular practice of physical activity on an important HDL function, the capacity of HDL to receive cholesterol, despite the age-dependent decrease in VO2peak.