bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Interior Designers’ Attitudes toward Sustainable Interior Design Practices: The Case of Jordan
Authors: Mohsen Mousa S. , Matarneh Rana
Published: August 2023

Interior designers play a pivotal role in shaping the built environment and catalyzing positive change through the adoption of sustainable design practices. This study centers on the analysis of prevailing attitudes held by interior designers in Jordan towards sustainable interior design practices. Through a comprehensive methodology involving a literature review and a three-part questionnaire, the research explores the benefits, challenges, and integration of sustainability principles. The study highlights substantial awareness (85%) of sustainable interior design's environmental impact and resource preservation. Additionally, 81% acknowledge its enduring significance, and 89% recognize its diverse benefits. While 61% exhibit familiarity, 27% claim professional experience. Among sustainability indicators, energy efficiency scores 4.25, resource efficiency 4.27, and "Design aligns with laws and regulations by the Ministry of Labor" ranks highest at 4.37. This study significantly augments our understanding of sustainable interior design by introducing a comprehensive evaluation framework that encompasses the three sustainability dimensions. It equips decision-makers with a robust tool to identify specific practices that bolster sustainability performance, further advancing the field.
Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 5 (OSCPK5) Overexpression in Upland Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Water Deficit
Authors: Da Cruz Thaís Ignez , Rocha Dhiôvanna Corrêia , Lanna Anna Cristina , Dedicova Beata , Vianello Rosana P , Brondani Claudio
Published: August 2023

Water deficit greatly affects global crop growth and productivity, particularly in water-limited environments like upland rice cultivation, leading to reduced grain yield. Plants activate various defense mechanisms during water deficit, involving numerous genes and complex metabolic pathways. Exploring orthologous genes, linked to enhanced drought tolerance, can aid functional validation in target species using genomic data from model organisms. Here, we studied the OsCPK5 gene in upland rice, an AtCPK6 ortholog from A. thaliana, by overexpressing it in the BRSMG Curinga cultivar. Transformants were assessed under two conditions: water deficit applied 79 days after seeding, lasting 14 days, followed by 7 days of irrigation at 80% field capacity. Physiological data and samples were collected at R3, R6, and R8 stages. GM plants consistently exhibited higher OsCPK5 gene expression across stages, peaking during grain filling. During this phase, GM plants displayed reduced stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, and increased water use efficiency compared to non-GM plants under drought. GM plants also exhibited higher filled grain percentage in both irrigation conditions. Their drought susceptibility index was 0.9 times lower than NGM plants, and they maintained a higher chlorophyll a/b index, indicating sustained photosynthesis. NGM plants under water deficit exhibited more leaf senescence, while OsCPK5-overexpressing plants retained green leaves. Overall, OsCPK5 overexpression induced diverse drought tolerance mechanisms, hinting at potential for future development of more drought-tolerant rice cultivars.
Integrating Experimental Strain Functions and Machine Learning for Enhanced Finite Element Analysis of PEMFC Gasket Materials
Authors: Park Soo-Hyun , Kareem Akeem Bayo , Zoo Woo Jeong , Hur Jang-Wook
Published: August 2023

The degradation of Proton-exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) gasket materials is crucial in electric vehicles as it can cause hazardous hydrogen fuel leaks, which are usually due to high temperatures, pressures, and hydrogen fuel exposure. Degradation of gasket materials in PEMFC presents a critical concern for electric vehicle safety due to potential hydrogen fuel leaks. This study utilizes finite element analysis (FEA) to assess the suitability of gasket materials for PEMFC applications, focusing on aging and tensile conditions. The dual degradation framework, incorporating contact pressure and von Mises stress, is employed to evaluate Liquid Silicon Rubber (LSR) and Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) materials. Under aging techniques, the Yeoh model exhibits the least Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and computational cost of 0.27 seconds, while the Ogden model records the highest computational cost of 0.89 seconds. In evaluating MAE, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), and R-squared metrics, LSR and EPDM materials demonstrate respective averages of 0.25%, 0.275%, 0.945%, and 0.815%, 0.685%, 0.77%. Tensile testing (Uniaxial) reveals RMSE and MAE values of 0.30%, 0.40%, and 0.50%, 0.40%, respectively. FEA proves instrumental in identifying suitable gasket materials for PEMFC applications. LSR emerges as the superior choice, demonstrating enhanced FEA modelling performance under aging and tensile conditions. These findings contribute valuable insights to the design and development of improved gasket materials, bolstering the safety and reliability of electric vehicles.
Effects of Beryllium Addition on Microstructure and Performance of Al-Mg-Li Alloys
Authors: Huang Yang , Li Weiwei , Wu Mingdong , Xiao Daihong , Huang Lanping , Liu Wensheng
Published: August 2023

In this study, the effects of various beryllium (Be) addition (Be-free, 0.1, 0.25, 0.50 wt.%) on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion corrosion of the Al-Mg-Li alloys were systematically investigated. The best performance was obtained in alloy with 0.1 wt.% Be addition. Trace Be addition promotes the grain refinement of the as-cast alloy ingot and contributes positive effects to the recrystallization, bringing improvement of tensile property. Meanwhile, the best anti-corrosion behavior is also presented at 0.1 wt.% Be addition, due to its potential to reduce the width of precipitates free zone (PFZ). As the Be content increase to an excessive level, the comprehensive performance decreases. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that adding trace Be element into Al-Mg-Li alloys has a positive effect on the comprehensive service performance.
Coverage Analysis of LoRa and NB-IoT Technologies on LPWAN-based Agricultural Vehicle Tracking Application
Authors: Soy Hakkı
Published: August 2023

This study focuses on the recently emerged Internet of Vehicles (IoV) concept to provide an integrated agricultural vehicle/machinery tracking system through two leading low power wide area network (LPWAN) technologies, namely LoRa and NB-IoT. The main aim is to investigate the theoretical coverage limits by considering the urban, suburban, and rural environments. Two vehicle tracking units (VTUs) have been designed for LoRa and NB-IoT connectivity technologies that can be used as reference hardware in coverage analysis. On this basis, the closed-form explicit analytical expressions of the maximum transmission range have been derived using the Hata path loss model. Besides, the computer simulation results have been validated via the maps from XIRIO online radio planning tool. In light of the obtained findings, several evaluations have been made to enhance the LPWAN-based agricultural vehicle tracking feasibility in smart farms.
Field Experiment for Prequalification Scheme of Distribution System Operator on Distributed Energy Resource Aggregations
Authors: PARK JUNG-SUNG , KIM BAL-HO
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this paper is to summarize and share the field experiment results of KEPCO's project consortium to create a TSO-DSO-DERA interaction scheme. The field experiment was conducted based on the prequalification algorithm proposed in the previous research from the same consortium and was designed to verify the validity of the algorithm under realistic grid conditions. In addition, during the course of the field experiment, it was found that points that were missed or not given much importance in the existing prequalification algorithm could affect the completeness of the overall system, and then practical improvements were made to improve it. The demonstration results confirm that the proposed algorithm is effective in real-world grid environments and can help DSOs ensure the reliability of the distribution system while supporting DERA's participation in the wholesale market using the proposed prequalification scheme.
Исследование вихреразрешающим методом влияния дросселирования на спектры пульсаций давления в спаренном сверхзвуковом воздухозаборнике
Authors: Любимов Дмитрий Александрович , Lyubimov Dmitriy Alexandrovich
Published: August 2023

С помощью вихреразрешающего RANS/ILES метода исследовано течение в спаренном модельном сверхзвуковом воздухозаборнике (ВЗ) смешанного сжатия с системой слива пограничного слоя. Проанализировано влияние типа системы слива
пограничного слоя и дросселирования соседних ВЗ на особенности течения, уровень и спектры пульсаций давления в каждом из ВЗ. Рассмотрены варианты с одинаковым и различным дросселированием в каждом из ВЗ, общей и раздельной для
соседних ВЗ системой слива. Дано краткое описание метода расчета и граничных
условий. Представлены уровни OASPL в ВЗ в зависимости от степени дросселирования. Выявлено влияние дросселирования одного из ВЗ на течение и особенности 1/3-октавных спектров пульсаций давления в соседнем ВЗ.
Экспериментальная проверка метода и программы расчета низкочастотных пульсаций на границе струи натурной дозвуковой аэродинамической трубы замкнутого типа
Authors: Босняков Сергей Михайлович , Bosnyakov Sergei Mikhailovich , Ливерко Дмитрий Владимирович , Liverko Dmitrii Vladimirovich , Маленко В В , Malenko V V , Михайлов Сергей Владимирович , Mikhailov Sergei Vladimirovich , Морозов Александр Николаевич , Morozov Aleksandr Nikolaevich
Published: August 2023

Сопоставлены результаты нескольких серий расчетных и экспериментальных исследований, в которых низкочастотные пульсации полного давления в струе исследовались различными методами. Расчет выполнен методом LES (IDDES) с применением программы EWT-ЦАГИ. Эксперимент проведен с применением манометров, датчиков ИКД-100 и Kulite. Осуществлена визуализация потока. Показано, что
расчетные и экспериментальные данные находятся в приемлемом соответствии
друг с другом во всех областях, за исключением внешней границы струи, где расчетная сетка имеет недостаточное сгущение.
How Okun's Law Works in Fragile Five Countries: Panel Data Analysis
Authors: TEKGÜN Berrak , EROĞLU İlhan
Published: August 2023

Today, as in many countries, Economic growth and unemployment are important macroeconomic issues in developing countries that should be examined. This study aims to test the validity of the negative effect of unemployment on growth for the Fragile Five countries under the Okun Law. For this purpose, unemployment rate and growth rate data for the period 1991-2019 were used in the study. Panel ARDL analysis method was used in the study, which allows long and short-term results to be obtained and separate findings for each country. According to the findings obtained; For the Fragile Five country group, there was a negative and statistically significant relationship between growth and unemployment rate in the long-term results, while a positive significant relationship was found in the short-term results. Thus, when the general findings of the study were evaluated, it was seen that the assumptions of the Okun Law were valid
Presentación. Dostoievski (1821-1881)
Authors: Hernández Márquez Víctor M.
Published: August 2023

Existen otras capas de significado que no es necesario mencionar aquí, ya que forman parte del tema de los ensayos que conforman este dossier de homenaje tardío y pensado de paso como una leve réplica a la estúpida rusofobia desencadenada en el mal llamado “mundo libre” a raíz del conflicto bélico en Ucrania, pero también presente en las monótonas diatribas de la derecha de aquí y de más allá.
Semblanza de Itzel Aguilera
Authors: Aguilera Itzel
Published: August 2023

Itzel Aguilera, Museo de Arte de Ciudad Juárez Coordinadora de Exposiciones del Museo de Arte de Ciudad Juárez
PROFIL KARAKTER INTEGRITAS DITINJAU DARI KECERDASAN INTRAPERSONAL SISWA SD KELAS 3 DALAM MENYELESAIKAN MASALAH MATEMATIKA
Authors: Wahyu Susiloningsih  , Faizah Hanim
Published: August 2023

Dalam artikel ini akan dideskripsikan tentang karakter integritas siswa SD kelas 3 diinjau dari kecerdasan intrapersonal. Nilai karater integritas seorang siswa dapat terlihat dari siap yang teguh dan tercermin dalam mentaati peratran seolah, memaai seragam, mengmplan tgas tepat watuu. Sementara itu Kecerdasan intrapersonal era kaitannya dengan perasaan, emosi, serta segala jenis kemampuan terkait membedakan, menandai, memahami emosi serta mengarahkan pada pola tingkah laku seseorang. Penelitian yang dilakukan berjenis kulitatif deskriptif. Wawancara mendalam dengan masing-masing siswa digunakan dalam Teknik pengumpulan data yang selanjutnya data tersebut untuk mengetahui karakter integritas yang mereka tunjukkan serta di triangglasi dengan observasi untuk mengetahi validitas nilai karakter integritas siswa tersebut. Hasil tes pada siswa yang memiliki kecerdasan intrapersonal sejalan dengan hasil nilai karakter integrtas yang diamati bahwa nilai karater integrtas yang diambil oleh siswa dalam kecerdasan intrapersonal menunjuan hasil kurang bagus seperti tidak menggunakan seragam ketika webmeeting tidak menggumpulan tugas dengan tepat waktu. Sehingga dapat disimpulkan bahwa siswa yang memiliki kecerdasan intrapersonal menunjukkan nilai karakter integrtas yang rendah.
Analysis of Motility Characteristic of Pesisir Bulls Sexed Semen with Different Pre-Freezing Method Based on Computer Assisted Sperm Analyzer (CASA)
Authors: Wahyudi Dwiki , Udin Zaituni , Afriani Tinda
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to find  the best combination between pre-freezing method and layer of post sexing on semen quality of Pesisir Bulls. This study used 2 Pesisir Bulls. The semen was evaluated using Computer Assisted Sperm Analyzer (CASA). This study used factorial randomized block design with 2 factors. Factor A was sexed semen layer of BSA column with 2 level, whereas Factor B was pre-freezing method with 3 level. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used in this study for data Analysis. According to the analysis of variance, there is no interaction of the combination of two factors on each paramters. Pre-freezing method showed highly statistically significant effect (P<0.01) on the quality of motility on upper layer and bottom layer which was about (52.86-72.93%; 52.32-65.50%) and about (40.17-56.99%; 40.33-53.18%) on progressive motility. The value of Distance Curve Line on  (39.15-43.24 μm; 49.25-53.86 μm), Distance Average Path (22.38-24.60 μm; 26.52-29.94 μm), Distance Straight Line (17.32-19.07 μm; 20.93-24.25 μm). The value of Velocity Curve Line (88.67- 97.50 μm/s; 109.85-117.90 μm/s), Velocity Average Path (50.98- 55.63 μm/s; 59.32- 64.69μm/s), Velocity Straight Line (34.45-42.37 μm/s; 46.80-50.62 μm/s), Beat Cross Frequancy (23.91-25.17 Hz; 25.63-27.35 Hz), Straightness (0.75-0.77; 0.77-0.80), and Wobble (0.56-0.57; 0.53-0.55), highly statistically significant (P<0.01) on post sexing layers. Meanwhile, the value of Amplitude of Lateral Head (4.24-4.94 μm; 4.25-4.44 μm) showed highly significant effect (P<0.01) on factor A and factor B treatment, and value Linearity was about (0.42-0.44; 0.43-0.44) showed not significant effect (P>0,05) on every factor. According to the study, it can be concluded that the best treatment was treatment modified procedure layer by space the straw 16 cm every layers and The quality of post sexing X- and Y- spermatozoa motility effect on motility characteristic such as DCL, DAP, DSL, VCL, VAP, VSL, STR, WOB, ALH and BCF.
Differential responses to habitat structure and degradation by two Grassbirds (Fam. Locustellidae) syntopic in floodplain grassland
Authors: Jahan Israt , Round Philip D. , Thompson Paul M. , Savini Tommaso , Gale George A.
Published: August 2023

Wet grassland birds world-wide face mounting threats due to habitat destruction especially in the Indo-Gangetic foodplains, where in addition to intense human use, primarily for agriculture, there is a paucity of baseline information to inform conservation and management. We examined the response of two co-occurring foodplain grassland specialists, the globally threatened Bristled GrassbirdSchoenicola striatus(VU) and widespread but little-studied Striated GrassbirdMegalurus palustris(LC), to habitat structure and human use in foodplain grassland at two sites, one on the lower Ganges River and one on the Brahmaputra River, Bangladesh through point counts combined with vegetation surveys. Responses from the breeding seasons of 2018 and 2019 were assessed by linear models and bird densities estimated using distance sampling. Results indicate that the occurrence of Bristled Grassbird increased with homogeneous tall Saccharum grass cover but decreased with increased crop cover, which may be the main driver of its decline. Striated Grassbird showed a more generalized pattern of positive association with tall grassland vegetation including taller crops and exotic plants, but was also positively associated with grass harvesting indicating its avoidance of homogeneous tall grassland. Although the density of Striated Grassbirds at the Brahmaputra site was 3–4 times greater than that of Bristled Grassbird, it was nearly absent from the Ganges site, revealing previously unappreciated micro-habitat preferences. Comparison with a more common species provided a clearer understanding of habitat and human infuences on the more threatened grassbird. Long-term conservation of Bristled Grassbird requires careful management of grass harvesting and cattle grazing.
Neuronal tuning and population representations of shape and category in human visual cortex.
Authors: Janssen Peter , Bougou Vasiliki , Vanhoyland Michaël , Bertrand Alexander , Paesschen Wim Van , de Beeck Hans Op , Theys Tom
Published: August 2023

Object recognition and categorization are essential cognitive processes which engage considerable neural resources in the human ventral visual stream. However, the tuning properties of human ventral stream neurons for object shape and category are virtually unknown. We performed the first large-scale recordings of spiking activity in human Lateral Occipital Complex (LOC) in response to stimuli in which the shape dimension was manipulated independently from the category dimension. The neuronal representations in LOC were primarily shape-based, although we also observed category-like encoding for images of animals. Surprisingly, linear decoders could reliably classify stimulus category even in data sets that were entirely shape-based. In addition, many tuning curves showed an interaction between shape and category tuning. These results represent the first detailed study on shape and category coding at the neuronal level in the human ventral visual stream, furnishing essential evidence that reconciles human imaging and macaque single-cell studies.
Lopinavir-ritonavir versus darunavir-ritonavir for hospitalized COVID-19 patients
Authors: Paróczai Dóra , Bikov András , Blidaru Andreea , Bobu Emanuel , Bogdan Iulia , Marincu Iosif , Mihaicuta Stefan , Frent Stefan
Published: August 2023

Introduction
Combinations of protease inhibitors such as lopinavir and darunavir with ritonavir have been repurposed as treatments for COVID-19. Lopinavir-ritonavir (LPV/r) and darunavir-ritonavir (DRV/r) showed in vitro efficacy against COVID-19, but the results are conflicting for human studies. Thus, our aim was to compare the efficacy of LPV/r and DRV/r in COVID-19 patients admitted to a tertiary center in Romania.
Methods
A clinical dataset from 417 hospitalised patients was analysed. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were performed to compare in-hospital mortality and to assess factors associated with clinical improvement or fatal outcome.
Results
By day 10, more patients showed improvement with LPV/r and DRV/r (p = 0.03 and 0.01, respectively), only LPV/r was associated with improved survival compared to control arm (p = 0.05). The factors associated with mortality were: male gender (HR: 3.63, p = 0.02), diabetes (HR:2.49, p = 0.03), < 90% O2 saturation at admission (HR:5.23, p < 0.01), high blood glucose level (HR:3.68, p = 0.01), age (HR:1.04, p = 0.02) and > 25% lesion extension on chest CT scan (HR:2.28, p = 0.03).
Conclusion
LPV/r, but not DRV/r, showed a survival benefit in patients hospitalised with COVID-19, but these findings deserve further investigation in a randomized clinical trial.
Comparison of different suture techniques for laparoscopic vaginal cuff closure
Authors: Förster Christiane , Calabretti Iliana , Gubser Laura , Schötzau Andreas , Fellmann-Fischer Bernhard , Heinzelmann-Schwarz Viola , Zwimpfer Tibor
Published: August 2023

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a commonly performed procedure. However, one high-risk complication is vaginal cuff dehiscence. Currently, there is no standardization regarding thread material or suturing technique for vaginal cuff closure. Therefore, this study aimed to compare extracorporeal and intracorporeal suturing techniques for vaginal cuff closure using a pelvic trainer model. Eighteen experts in laparoscopic surgery performed vaginal cuff closures with interrupted sutures using intracorporeal knotting, extracorporeal knotting and continuous, unidirectional barbed sutures. While using an artificial tissue suturing pad in a pelvic trainer, experts performed vaginal cuff closureusing each technique according to block randomization. Task completion time, tension resistance, and the number of errors were recorded. After completing the exercises, participants answered a questionnaire concerning the suturing techniques and their performance. Experts completed suturing more quickly (p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively) and with improved tension resistance (p<0.001, p<0.001) when using barbed suturing compared to intracorporeal and extracorporeal knotting. Furthermore, the intracorporeal knotting technique was performed faster (p=0.04) and achieved greater tension resistance (p=0.023) compared to extracorporeal knotting. The number of laparoscopic surgeries performed per year was positively correlated with vaginal cuff closure duration (p=0.007). Barbed suturing was a time-saving technique with improved tension resistance for vaginal cuff closure.
A Multi objective Optimization Method for Simulating the Operation of Natural gas Transport System
Authors: Mohammad Nourhan. E. , Aly S. , Hussein Mostafa H.
Published: August 2023

The optimization of gas pipeline networks plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient and economically viable transportation of natural gas. In this research, we have developed a comprehensive mathematical model capable of analyzing diverse network configurations, encompassing both linear and branched topologies. Our scientific investigation aims to explore the optimization potential of gas pipeline networks, employing a sophisticated and systematic approach to enhance network design and operation. The overarching objective is to achieve maximum efficiency and reliability in gas delivery to customers. The optimization process focuses on minimizing power requirements, maximizing gas flow rate, minimizing the fuel consumption, and maximizing line pack to ensure the optimal utilization of the pipeline infrastructure. To accomplish these objectives, our study employs advanced mathematical models that accurately depict network behavior, cutting-edge simulation tools to explore various operational scenarios, and state-of-the-art optimization algorithms to identify the most favorable network configuration and operating conditions. To facilitate this optimization process, we have incorporated the VIKOR (VIekriterijumsko KOmpromisno Rangiranje) method, a potent multi-criteria decision-making technique. Through the application of this approach to two case studies, we have demonstrated its effectiveness in identifying optimal network configurations. Furthermore, we have conducted an analysis to determine the total cost and fuel consumption associated with different network configurations, offering valuable insights for decision-making purposes. The results of our study underscore the superiority of our approach in identifying more economical networks compared to existing methods. By embracing the proposed approach, gas transportation networks can be optimized to achieve superior cost-efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.
Quality Improvement in Public-Private Partnerships in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Iroz Cassandra B. , Ramaswamy Rohit , Bhutta Zulfiqar A. , Barach Paul
Published: August 2023

Background Public-private partnerships (PPP) are often how health improvement programs are implemented in low-and-middle-income countries (LMIC). We therefore aimed to systematically review the literature about the aim and impact of quality improvement (QI) approaches in PPP in LMIC. Methods We searched SCOPUS and grey literature for studies published before March 2022. One reviewer screened abstracts and full-text studies for inclusion. Study characteristics, setting, design, outcomes, and lessons learned were abstracted using a standard tool and reviewed by a second author. Results We identified 9,457 citations, of which 144 met the inclusion criteria and underwent full-text abstraction. We identified five themes for successful QI projects in LMIC: 1) leadership support and alignment with overarching priorities, 2) local ownership and engagement of frontline teams, 3) shared authentic learning across teams, 4) resilience in managing external challenges, and 5) robust data and data visualization to track progress. We found great heterogeneity in QI tools, study designs, participants, and outcome measures. Most studies had diffuse aims and poor descriptions of the intervention components. Few studies discussed the response to the finding and their willingness to change. Conclusions Empirical research is needed to explore the implementation challenges and contextual factors that influence how a PPP can best be implemented to improve population health. Vague descriptions of the structure of the PPPs and roles of public and private entities made it difficult to draw conclusions about the impact of the organizational governance on the outcomes of QI programs in LMIC. We outline a rich area future research, including the need for a clearer description of the interventions, uniform outcome measures, and focus on response to the findings. To improve research equity, more ownership and power should be shifted to local leaders and researchers.
Chronological change of tibial eminence after bi-cruciate retaining total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Inui Hiroshi , Yamagami Ryota , Kono Kenichi , Kawaguchi Kohei , Saita Kazuo , Taketomi Shuji , Tanaka Sakae
Published: August 2023

Background
Bicruciate-retaining (BCR) prostheses have been introduced to recreate normal knee movements by preserving both the anterior and posterior cruciate ligament. One of the surgical procedures essential to the success of BCR total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is preservation of the tibial eminence. However, in our clinical experience, we found that a well-preserved tibial eminence changed its shape chronologically after the operation. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of chronological changes in the tibial eminence after BCR TKA and its influence on the outcomes.
Methods
This study included 59 patients with BCR TKA. Radiographs taken at 2 weeks postoperatively and at an average follow-up of 3.2 years were used to assess the tibial eminence. The patients’ demographics, joint component gaps, and clinical scores were compared between the groups with chronological change (P group) and without change (N group).
Results
The chronological change of the tibial eminence was found in 22 cases (37%). The joint component gaps at extension were larger in P group than in N group. The scores in the symptoms and ADL subscales of the KOOS were significantly higher at 1 year postoperatively in N group than in P group. There were no significant differences between the two groups at the final follow-up.
Conclusions
Chronological changes in the well-preserved tibial eminence were found in approximately one third of the BCR TKA patients. The mean scores at 1-year postoperatively were lower in the patients with chronological changes in the tibial eminence than in the patients without changes.
Evaluation of Antibody-based Preventive Alternatives for Respiratory Syncytial Virus: A Novel Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis Framework and Assessment of Nirsevimab in Spain
Authors: Mestre-Ferrándiz Jorge , Rivero Agustín , Orrico-Sánchez Alejandro , Hidalgo Álvaro , Abdalla Fernando , Martín Isabel , Álvarez Javier , García-Cenoz Manuel , Pacheco Maria Carmen , Garcés-Sánchez María , Zozaya Néboa , Ortiz-de-Lejarazu Raúl
Published: August 2023

Background
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a highly infectious disease that poses a significant clinical and medical burden, as well as social disruption and economic costs, recognized by the World Health Organization as a public health issue. After several failed attempts to find preventive candidates (compounds, products, including vaccines), new alternatives might be available, one being nirsevimab, the first and only option approved for RSV prevention in neonates and infants during their first RSV season. The objective of this study was to develop a novel multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) framework for RSV antibody-based preventive alternatives and to use it to assess the value of nirsevimab vs. placebo as a systematic immunization approach to prevent RSV in neonates and infants during their first RSV season in Spain.
Methods
Based on a pre-established model called Vaccinex, an ad-hoc MCDA framework was created to reflect relevant attributes for the assessment of current and future antibody-based preventive measures for RSV. The estimated value of nirsevimab was obtained by means of an additive linear model combining weights and scores assigned by a multidisciplinary committee of 9 experts. A Re-test and three sensitivity analyses were conducted.
Results
Nirsevimab was evaluated through a novel framework with 26 criteria by the committee as a measure that adds value (positive final estimated value: 0.56 ± 0.11) to the current RSV scenario in Spain, by providing a high efficacy for prevention of neonates and infants. In addition, its implementation might generate cost savings in hospitalizations and to the healthcare system and increase the level of public health awareness among the general population, while reducing health inequities.
Conclusions
Under a methodology with increasing use in the health field, nirsevimab has been evaluated as a measure which adds value for RSV prevention in neonates and infants during their first RSV season in Spain.
Transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses provide insights into plant resistance of Alsophila spinulosa
Authors: Yang Wei-Cheng , He Qin-Qin , Jiang Yu , Zhang Li-Jun , Xiao Jia-Xing , Yang Jiao , Che Bing-Jie , Zhang Bing-Cheng , Chen Hang-Dan , Li Jiang
Published: August 2023

Background:
Tenthredinidae feeds on Alsophila. This study aimed to detect special metabolites that attract pests.
Metabolomics and transcriptomics analyses were used on the Alsophila spinulosa and Gymnosphaera metteniana var. subglabra samples.
Results:
The results of transcriptome changes indicate that differentially expressed genes (degrees) are involved, such as genes expressing kaempferol-3-O-glucoside-7-O-rhamnoside. It has a wide range of expression patterns in plants and may lead to the color and morphology of leaves of the A. spinulosa and G. metteniana var. subglabra.
Conclusions:
These results are helpful to identify effective biological control methods and provide a scientific basis for maintaining a good habitat for Alsophila spp. in the nature reserve in later stages.
Geochemical Study of the Sediments in Main Valleys East of Mosul city, Iraq
Authors: Al-Dabbagh Ali Hashim , Al-Youzbakey Kotayba Tawfiq
Published: August 2023

The geochemical alterations in the sediments along streams enable predicting processes transpiring on the Earth's surface, such as weathering, transportation, cation exchange, and more. Moreover, the sediments serve as an environmental indicator and facilitate a clearer comprehension of the geological conditions. In addition to being the primary repository for heavy metals (H.M.s), sediments can also act as a source of pollution associated with these elements. The study area is located on the eastern side of Mosul, northern Iraq. The valleys of Al-Rashediya, Al-Kharrazi, Al-Khosar Al-Danffilli, and Al-Shor descend from elevated regions towards the Tigris River. The sediments in these valleys encompass various constituents, including clay minerals, organic matter, iron oxides, carbonates, and H.M.s, as part of these components or adsorbed onto them. Thirty-six sediment samples were collected from these valleys and subjected to chemical analysis using the X-ray fluorescence technique to determine their chemical composition. Several statistical procedures were employed to examine the distribution of H.M.s in the sediments, including correlation coefficient and factor analysis. The factor analysis yielded four principal components, accounting for 80.86% of the total variance. The first, third, and fourth components elucidate the influence of weathering and transportation on different parent rocks, whereas the second component represents the impact of human activities. The impact of industrial, civil, and agricultural activities on these valleys was assessed using pollution indices such as the geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and the enrichment factor (E.F.).
Seasonal changes in male color patches and parasite load of the male lizard Sceloporus torquatus
Authors: Rivera-Rea Jimena , Gonzalez-Morales Juan Carlos , Megia-Palma Rodrigo , Bastiaans Elizabeth , Quintana Erendira , Manjarrez Javier
Published: August 2023

The parasite-mediated sexual selection hypothesis predicts that color expression in color patches of animals can honestly reflect male quality in terms of resistance to parasites. Sceloporine lizards have structural-based blue color patches that can act as intraspecific signals and may thus reflect immunocompetence. However, both color patch expression and intensity of parasitic infections in lizards can vary across seasons. In consequence, we might expect that coloration would honestly reflect immunocompetence to resist parasites only during the mating season. We sampled males of Sceloporus torquatus in central Mexico in spring, summer, and autumn and quantified the reflectance of two structural-based color patches (throat and venter), abundance of two categories of parasites (mites and hemoparasites), and lizards’ local inflammatory response to a mitogen (IRM) as a measure of immunocompetence. We examined whether (i) the coloration of lizards changed across seasons in the population, (ii) there is a relationship between coloration and parasite load and/or IRM, and (iii) the latter relationships remained consistent across seasons. Our study shows that color expression seasonally varied; the structural-based coloration of the two patches was significantly more intense in summer, before the mating season. Furthermore, the throat color was more intense in those males with lower parasite load and higher IRM. However, season had no effect on these relationships, suggesting that color expression in the males of S. torquatus can consistently reflect some components of their immunocompetence throughout the year, supporting the honesty of the structural-based coloration in this species.
Causal relationship between dietary intake and diabetic retinopathy: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cheng Yuxin , Chen Xuanyi , Zhu Guangyu , Sun Yue , Luo Shichun , Liu Yujie , Li Na , lu Xuejing
Published: August 2023

Aim
To examine the association between dietary factors and DR, proliferative DR, background DR
Materials and methods
We screened 17 dietary datasets from the IEU Open GWAS project (https://gwas.mrcieu.ac.uk/) and obtained the DR, background DR, and proliferative DR datasets related to diabetic retinopathy from the FinnGen biobank(https://r5.finngen.fi/).The inverse variance weighted method (IVW) was utilized as the primary method for Mendelian randomization analysis, and heterogeneity and pleiotropy analyses were incorporated to ensure the robustness of the results.
Results
The results of the study indicate that the intake of cheese could have a protective effect on background DR（OR：0.411,95%CI：0.203-0.833, P：0.014）. Furthermore, cheese intake was also found to be a protective factor for proliferative DR（OR：0.652，95%CI：0.443 -0.963，P: 0.032）. However, no significant causal association was observed between DR and the other dietary intake factors analyzed in the study.
Conclusion
Our study has shown that the consumption of cheese is associated with a decreased risk of both background DR and proliferative DR, However, more prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings in the future.
Noninvasive ocular ultrasound dynamic assessment of intracranial pressure with encephalitis
Authors: Li Cong , Zhang Shurui , Chen Ying , Zhang Jie , Wang Sibo , Liu Ying , Wang Li-juan
Published: August 2023

Background Patients with encephalitis and high intracranial pressure (ICP) may have increased optic disc height (ODH) and widened optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). This study investigated whether ONSD and ODH under ultrasound can dynamically evaluate the change of high ICP in encephalitis patients. Methods We recruited suspected high ICP patients who underwent lumbar puncture. The ODH and ONSD was measured before the lumbar puncture. ODH, ONSD and ICP were recorded at admission, two weeks followed up and one month followed up. We analyzed the correlation between ODH, ONSD, and ICP and its changes. The predicted fit was also compared by linear mixed-effects models. Results Totally, 56 headache patients with high ICP were enrolled. On admission, the correlation between ODH and ICP had an r value of 0.586 (P < 0.01), and between ONSD and ICP, an r value of 0.769 (P < 0.01). Two weeks followed up, no significant correlation between ODH change and ICP change (P = 0.536). But the change in ONSD was associated with changes in ICP (r = 0.572, P < 0.001). One month followed up, the correlation between ONSD change and ICP change were stronger than those between ODH change and ICP change (r = 0.667 vs. r = 0.435, P < 0.01). In linear mixed-effects model, ONSD had a better fitting value than ODH in the prediction model for ICP (P < 0.05). Conclusions Noninvasive ultrasonic ODH and ONSD are useful in assessing the presence of high ICP in encephalitis patients. ONSD is an earlier and more sensitive indicator for dynamically and noninvasively assessing the elevated ICP than ODH.
Oxidative Techniques for Naphtha Desulfurization: Review for Materials and Challenges in Refineries
Authors: Almansory zahraa , Almaliky Murtadha , Alkazrajy Jamal
Published: August 2023

The sulfur content in fuels, including naphtha, is subject to strict environmental regulations due to its harmful effects on air quality and human health. This research aims to contribute to the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly desulfurization processes and to explore the potential of oxidative techniques for naphtha desulfurization in refining industry. The research will encompass a range of sulfur compounds commonly found in naphtha, including mercaptans and thiophenes. Various naphtha samples with different initial sulfur concentrations will be examined under controlled conditions. The study will also consider the selection and characterization of catalysts, solvents, and oxidants for the oxidative desulfurization process. The findings of this study could potentially lead to the implementation of oxidative techniques as a viable alternative or complementary method to traditional desulfurization processes.
Reaction norm for genomic prediction of plant growth: modeling drought stress response in soybean
Authors: Toda Yusuke , Sasaki Goshi , Ohmori Yoshihiro , Yamasaki Yuji , Takahashi Hirokazu , Takanashi Hideki , Tsuda Mai , Kajiya-Kanegae Hiromi , Tsujimoto Hisashi , Kaga Akito , Hirai Masami , Nakazono Mikio , Fujiwara Toru , Iwata Hiroyoshi
Published: August 2023

Advances in high-throughput phenotyping technology have made it possible to obtain time-series plant growth data in field trials, enabling genotype-by-environment interaction (G×E) modeling of plant growth. Although the reaction norm is an effective method for quantitatively evaluating G×E and has been implemented in genomic prediction models, no reaction norm models have been applied to plant growth data. Here, we propose a novel reaction norm model for plant growth using spline and random forest models, in which daily growth is explained by environmental factors one day prior. The proposed model was applied to soybean canopy area and height to evaluate the influence of drought stress levels. Changes in the canopy area and height of 198 cultivars were measured by remote sensing using unmanned aerial vehicles. Multiple drought stress levels were set as treatments and their time-series soil moisture was measured. The models were evaluated using leave-one-environment-out cross-validation, in which a treatment-by-year combination was considered the environment. These results suggest that our model can capture G×E during the early growth, especially canopy height. Significant variations in the G×E of the canopy height during the early growth period were visualized using the estimated reaction norms. This result indicates the effectiveness of the proposed models on plant growth data and the possibility of revealing G×E in various growth stages in plant breeding by applying statistical or machine learning models to time-series phenotype data obtained with remote sensing.
Association between cardiometabolic index and erectile dysfunction among US adults: A cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2004
Authors: zhang xiansheng , zhang yuyang , wu xu , liu guodong , Feng Xingliang , Zhang Wei , jiang hui
Published: August 2023

Background: The cardiometabolic index (CMI), a new metabolic index, has had few studies exploring the relationship with erectile dysfunction (ED).
Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the association between CMI and ED in among U.S adult men from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Methods: The data for this study relied on the NHANES database. We used data from two separate NHANES datasets for the analysis: 2001-2002 and 2003-2004. Calculate CMI index: Triglyceride (TG) (mmol/L)/ High density lipid-cholesterol (HDL-C) (mmol/L) ×waist-height ratio (WHtR). We used multivariate logistic regression, subgroup analysis, and dose-response curves to assess the relationship between CMI and ED.
Results: From 2001 to 2004, 1367 adult male participants were identified. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that in the fully adjusted model 2, CMI was significantly associated with ED (OR=1.49, 95% CI: 1.09, 2.04) (p=0.017). Subsequently, we convert the CMI from a continuous variable to a categorical variable (tertile), the results showed that the risk of ED was significantly increased in the T3 group compared with the T1 group in the adjusted model 2 (OR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.12, 3.83, P=0.024). In the fully adjusted model 2, the results of the subgroup analysis showed that age ≥50 years (OR=2.31, 95% CI: 1.35, 3.95, P=0.005), BMI >30 kg/m2 (OR=1.78, 95% CI: 1.10, 2.90, P=0.023), hypertension (OR=1.89, 95% CI: 1.63, 3.45, P=0.020), diabetes mellitus (OR= 1.67, 95% CI: 1.13, 2.47, P=0.015), cardiovascular disease (CVD) (OR=1.54, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.10, P=0.011) and smoking (OR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.26, 3.39, P=0.007) categories were associated with a higher prevalence of ED
Conclusions: This study demonstrates a strong association between CMI and ED and an increased risk of ED with higher CMI levels. More prospective studies with large samples and good designs are needed to validate our results in the future
Management of Emphysematous Pyelonephritis in a Young Patient with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Souid Ahmed , Ma Abraham , Basin Michael , Bratslavsky Gennady , Goldberg Hanan
Published: August 2023

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant, neurocutaneous disorder with manifestations in multiple organs, including renal angiomyolipomas (AML). These benign tumors are monitored but may require embolization, medical management, or excision if large or bleeding. In this case study, we present a young patient with TSC who required embolization for a large AML. She suffered an extended hospital stay, including post-embolization syndrome and fetal loss, before developing gross hematuria and, finally, emphysematous pyelonephritis. Despite presenting with severe sepsis, she was managed conservatively with antibiotics and percutaneous drains. She markedly improved and was discharged with drains in place. Her case is unique because she is without classic risk factors for emphysematous pyelonephritis and has bilateral TSC-related AMLs.
Synergistic antibacterial activity of EGCGcombined with imipenem against planktonic Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and the evaluation of independent antibiofilm activity of EGCG
Authors: Zhang Longtao , Zhang Anran , Chen Qianqian , Hu Zhidong
Published: August 2023

Purpose
To explore the synergistic antibacterial activity of EGCG combined with IMP against planktonic CRKP and evaluate the independent antibiofilm activity of EGCG.
Methods
Broth microdilution method was determined the MIC of EGCG. synergistic antibacterial activity between EGCG and IMP against planktonic CRKP was assessed by the FIC index. MBIC and MBRC were determined to describe the antibiofilm activity of EGCG using a microtiter plate assay. PCR was carried out to detect the presences and the relative expressions of mrkA, wbbm and luxS gene in clinical CRKP strains.
Result
EGCG not only expressed a low tendency of bacterial resistance, but also dramatically increased the susceptibility of CRKP against IMP with a reduction in the MIC of IMP by up to 32-fold, even reversed the resistance to IMP. In addition, the sub-MIC of EGCG exhibited preferable antibiofilm activity, with MBIC90 of 8 µg/mL and MBRC of 64–128 µg/mL. PCR showed the highest correlation was showed between the mrkA and the biofilm biomass with a PCCS of 0.727 and the relative expression levels of the mrkA gene in the EGCG treated groups were down-regulated in a dose-dependent manner.
Conclusion
EGCG showed a high efficiency in synergistic antibacterial with a low tendency of EGCG-resistance development. And EGCG displayed the potential for prophylaxis and cure of biofilm-associated infections caused by CRKP via down-regulating the expression of mrkA gene.
Dual-site segmentally synergistically catalysis mechanism: boosting CoFeSx nanocluster for sustainable water oxidation
Authors: Zhang Jianan , Xu Siran , Yu Yue , XUE Dongping , Liu Mengli , zhao kaiyue , Xu Bingjun
Published: August 2023

Developing efficient oxygen evolution reaction electrocatalysts is essential to promoting sustainable clean energy conversion. However, the intrinsic activity and stability are compromised by the scaling constraint relationship between key oxygen intermediates *OOH and *OH for the conventional adsorbate evolution mechanism (AEM), and the lattice oxygen migration and structural reconstruction for lattice-oxygen-mediated mechanism (LOM). Herein, we proposed a unconventional Co-Fe dual-site synergistic mechanism (DSSM) on a single-domain ferromagnetic catalyst CoFeSx nanoclusters on carbon nanotube (CNT) catalyst (CFS-ACs/CNT), which can effectively break the scaling relationship without sacrificing stability. Co3+ (L.S, t2g6eg0) supplies the strongest OH* adsorption energy, while Fe3+ (M.S, t2g4eg1) exposes strong O* adsorption. These two types of sites synergistically promote the production of Co-O-O-Fe intermediates, thereby benefiting accelerating the release of triplet-state oxygen (↑O=O↑). As predicted, the prepared CFS-ACs/CNT catalyst exhibited less overpotential than that of commercial IrO2, as well as about 633 h stability without significant potential loss.