bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Folate intake: literature review and results of an adapted Food Frequency Questionnaire
Authors:   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Balashova M.S. ,   K.G.Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management, Moscow, Russian Federation, Nikitin I.A. ,   K.G.Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management, Moscow, Russian Federation, Orlova O.Yu. ,   Saint Petersburg National Research University of Information Technologies, Mechanics, and Optics, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Mutallibzoda Sh. ,   K.G.Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shiryaeva M.M. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Semeykina V.I. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Zhuchenko N.A. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: March 2024

Folic acid is a vital nutrient necessary for many biochemical reactions that ensure the conversion of amino acids, nucleotide synthesis, and methylation processes. The prevalence of folic acid deficiency in different countries ranges from 5 to 20%. The combination of folate deficiency and individual characteristics of folate cycle genes can lead to an increase in homocysteine levels, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, cancer, congenital disorders, and other conditions. Objective. To study folate intake in the adult population using a questionnaire technique. Patients and methods. The study enrolled 106 patients aged 19 to 58 years (mean age: 23 years). We used a clinically validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) developed by Cambridge University, translated and adapted by us considering national dietary patterns. Results. A relative folate deficiency (<200 mcg/day) was observed in 56.6% of those interviewed, of whom 11.3% consumed <100 mcg of folate per day. Less than half (42.5%) consumed enough folate (>200 mcg/day). Conclusion. The study revealed a high prevalence of folate and vitamin B6 deficiency, which may be a predisposing factor for the development of hyperhomocysteinemia and its associated adverse conditions. Key words: food frequency questionnaire, homocysteine, nutrition, folic acid, folate, folate cycle
Actualization of terminology in practice: semantic boundaries and specificity of the concept in dietetics
Authors:   Federal Research Center of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Mosсow, Russian Frderation, Petukhov A.B. , Novodranova V.F. ,   A.I.Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Mosсow, Russian Federation,   Institute of Linguistics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Mosсow, Russian Federation, Nikityuk D.B. ,   Federal Research Center of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Mosсow, Russian Frderation
Published: March 2024

The logical and linguistic analysis of the concept in the science of nutrition is carried out, and the system of semantic relations of English-language language forms which have practical significance and participate in medical terminology is investigated. The naming of the concept in dietetics on the basis of scientific terminological word formation is carried out. Key words: language of science, medical terminology, nutrition science, nutritology, nutrition, dietetics, potulentia
EFEKTIVITAS MODEL PROJECT BASED LEARNING TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR SISWA DI SMAN 2 KAYUAGUNG
Authors: Mei Mei , Safitri Sani
Published: March 2024

This research serves to determine the effectiveness of the Project Based Learning (Pjbl) model on student learning outcomes at SMAN 2 Kayuagung. This type of research is qualitative research, namely analyzing the effectiveness of the Project Based Learning (Pjbl) model on student learning outcomes at SMAN 2 Kayuagung. With a sample of 10 students at SMAN 2 Kayuagung. Data was taken using qualitative techniques, namely observation, questionnaires and interviews. After that, analyze to get a percentage of student learning outcomes at SMAN 2 Kayuagung. Data analysis uses the Likert Scale technique and the final results obtained in the research on the effectiveness of the Project Based Learning (Pjbl) model on student learning outcomes at SMAN 2 Kayuagung are EFFECTIVE for implementing the Project Based Learning model to improve student learning outcomes at SMAN 2 Kayuagung. The effectiveness of the Project Based Learning (Pjbl) model on student learning outcomes at SMAN 2 Kayuagung is so great that the author hopes that the principal or teachers will always use and develop learning variations so that students can achieve satisfactory learning outcomes.

 

Abstrak

Penelitian ini berfungsi untuk mengetahui Efektivitas Model Project Based Learning (Pjbl) terhadap hasil belajar siswa di SMAN 2 Kayuagung. Jenis penelitian ini yaitu penelitian kualitatif yaitu menganalisis Efektivitas model Project Based Learning (Pjbl) terhadap hasil belajar siswa di SMAN 2 Kayuagung. Dengan sampel yaitu 10 peserta didik di SMAN 2 Kayuagung. Data diambil dengan menggunakan teknik kualitatif yaitu Observasi, kuesioner dan wawancara. Setelah itu analisis untuk mendapatkan persentasi tentang Hasil belajar peserta didik di SMAN 2 Kayuagung. Analisis data memakai teknik Skala Likert dan Hasil akhir yang didapat dalam penelitian Efektivitas model Project Based Learning (Pjbl) terhadap hasil belajar siswa di SMAN 2 Kayuagung  yaitu EFEKTIF untuk penerapan model Project Based Learning guna meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa di SMAN 2 Kayuagung. Efektivitas Model Project Based Learning (Pjbl) terhadap hasil belajar siswa di SMAN 2 Kayuagung sangat besar sehingga penulis berharap kepala sekolah atau guru-guru Selalu menggunakan serta mengembangkan variasi pembelajaran agar siswa bisa mencapai hasil belajar yang memuaskan.
THE COMPARISON OF 2D DOSE PATIENT-SPECIFIC QUALITY ASSURANCE BETWEEN MONTE CARLO-CONVOLUTION AND MODIFIED CLARKSON INTEGRATION ALGORITHM
Authors: Azzi Akbar , Pawiro Supriyanto Ardjo , Mart Terry
Published: March 2024

A sophisticated machine of radiotherapy treatment process follows the complexity of the quality assurance (QA) measurement. Non-measurement QA becomes one of the solutions to reduce the medical physicists’ workload. However, this method has not been clinically established. This study compared two non-measurement methods of patient-specific quality assurance (PSQA) to find the feasible algorithm for the adaptive radiotherapy process. Monte Carlo-based (MC) PSQA used a phase space file of the medical linear accelerator (Linac) to obtain the photon energy fluence and forward projected to the isoplane. In contrast, Modified Clarkson Integration-based (MCI) used a non-uniform fluence map in the isoplane. For the modulated intensity, we used a pair of the dynamic log files of the multileaf-collimator (MLC) and then employed them in the algorithms. The dose distributions of MC and MCI methods were compared to the treatment planning system (TPS) using gamma index analysis. We found that the gamma pass rates (GPR) for MC-TPS and MCI-TPS were 99.54% and 99.57%, respectively. Further, the dose distribution in the off-axis region for the MCI method showed lesser accuracy due to the higher secondary dose contribution. The linac log file information can be used and calculated into a 2D dose distribution using both MC and MCI methods, providing high-accuracy results.
Surgical Margins in Musculoskeletal Sarcoma
Authors: Quirion Julia C. , Johnson Samuel R. , Kowalski Brooke L. , Halpern Jennifer L. , Schwartz Herbert S. , Holt Ginger E. , Prieto-Granada Carlos , Singh Reena , Cates Justin M.M. , Rubin Brian P. , Mesko Nathan W. , Nystrom Lukas M. , Lawrenz Joshua M.
Published: March 2024

» Negative margin resection of musculoskeletal sarcomas is associated with reduced risk of local recurrence.

» There is limited evidence to support an absolute margin width of soft tissue or bone that correlates with reduced risk of local recurrence.

» Factors intrinsic to the tumor, including histologic subtype, grade, growth pattern and neurovascular involvement impact margin status and local recurrence, and should be considered when evaluating a patient's individual risk after positive margins.

» Appropriate use of adjuvant therapy, critical analysis of preoperative advanced cross-sectional imaging, and the involvement of a multidisciplinary team are essential to obtain negative margins when resecting sarcomas.
Team Approach: Diagnosis, Management, and Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Arrest in the Athlete
Authors: Cusano Antonio , Inclan Paul M. , Jackson Tyler , Weiss Leigh J. , Barnes Ronnie P. , Kinderknecht James J. , Taylor Samuel A. , Rodeo Scott A.
Published: March 2024

» Sudden cardiac events during sports competition are rare but tragic occurrences that require a timely, comprehensive response by well-prepared athletic trainers and medical providers. This sequence should prioritize prompt emergency medical system activation, immediate initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated early defibrillation (AED), and comprehensive advanced life support efforts.

» Exercise-induced cardiac remodeling, referred to as the “athlete's heart,” refers to a host of adaptive changes that increase cardiac chamber size and wall thickness to allow for greater pressures and volumes during exercise. This remodeling phenotype may overlap with other inherited cardiomyopathies and cardiac abnormalities, which can complicate clinical care. The long-term implications of this electrical and structural remodeling on cardiac function are unknown.

» Although the best screening strategies to optimize primary prevention of sudden cardiac arrest is an evolving topic, the effectiveness of CPR and early defibrillation use in treating out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest has been well-established, despite their reported underuse.
CARL Library Impact Framework
Authors: Robertson Mark
Published: March 2024

In December 2021, the Canadian Association of Research Libraries (CARL) released the CARL Library Impact Framework (CLIF).  While library impact has been a topic of discussion for many years, CLIF offers a new contribution to the dialogue on the demonstration of impact of research libraries.  The concept of impact pathways was borrowed from the Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences report entitled Approaches to Assessing Impacts in the Humanities and Social Sciences.  To realize the impact pathways concept, CLIF has adapted a logic model framework.  This approach provides users of CLIF with a way to represent a more complete arc of influence of research libraries systematically and visually. By design, CLIF encourages the use of assessment techniques and tools beyond the quantitative data collection and descriptive statistics often used by research libraries. This paper provides an overview of CLIF, its genesis, intent, structure, and possibilities for its application in research libraries.
Perkawinan di Bawah Umur pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19 Perspektif Perubahan Sosial (Studi Kasus di Kabupaten Ponorogo)
Authors: Uswatul Khasanah  , Agus Purnomo
Published: March 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact on the social sector. One of the smallest institutions in the social system that is affected is the family, namely the occurrence of underage marriages. Based on data released by the Religious Courts Agency, the phenomenon of child marriage has tripled. In 2019 there were 23,126 cases, and in 2020 it increased to 64,211 cases. This increase in underage marriage also occurred in Ponorogo Regency. Based on data from the Ponorogo Regency PA, in 2019 there were 97 cases, and in 2020 it increased to 235 cases. From exposure to these facts, this study aims to analyze the impact of social changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic on the increase in underage marriage in Ponorogo Regency, analyze the form of social processes due to the Covid-19 pandemic on the increase in underage marriage in Ponorogo Regency, and analyze the role of agents of social change in the increase in underage marriage due to the Covid-19 pandemic in Ponorogo Regency. This research includes field research, with qualitative methods and a sociological approach. The results of this study can be concluded that first, there are social changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic which have an impact on increasing underage marriage in Ponorogo Regency, which includes three aspects, namely structure, family function, and environment. Second, the form of the social process of change above is social development. Third, there is a change in the role of the community as agents of social change due to the Covid-19 pandemic which has an impact on increasing underage marriages.
Potensi, Regulasi, dan Problematika Sertifikasi Halal Gratis
Authors: Nur Kasanah  , Muhammad Husain As Sajjad
Published: March 2024

The research, which aims to determine the potential, regulations, and problems of the Free Halal Certification (Sehati) initiated by the Ministry of Religion through the Halal Product Guarantee Agency (BPJPH), is descriptive qualitative research that uses a phenomenological approach and a legal approach. The results show that the free halal certification program's potential success is supported by many micro and small business actors and the majority of the Indonesian Muslim population as a market. Free Halal Certification Regulations for Micro and Small Businesses are carried out using the halal self-declare with assistance from the Halal Product Process Facilitator (PPH) based on Law no. 33 of 2014, PP No. 39 of 2021, PMA No. 20 of 2021, Kepkaban No. 77 of 2021 and Kepkaban No. 33 of 2022. Problems that arise in the implementation of Sehati include: lack of socialization and information about the existence of the program, the role of stakeholders is not optimal, PPH assistants who are less thorough in verifying so that many files are returned, not yet business actors who are not responsive to Sehati regulations and digital services, the lack of maximum assistance in the process of halal products.
Implementasi Kewarisan pada Keluarga Penyandang Disabilitas di Desa Karangpatihan (Perspektif Sosiologi Hukum)
Authors: Arip Mahendra  , Ahmad Junaidi
Published: March 2024

In the discussion of inheritance, there are two critical aspects: assets and relatives. So, inheritance must be regulated to realize justice among the heirs. However, the heirs stipulated in the inheritance law guidelines do not always have perfect mental health or are persons with disabilities. Heirs of persons with disabilities cannot carry out legal actions, agreements, or obligations. Being an heir means managing the inheritance to benefit the bereaved family. Thus, the researcher wants to analyze further the implementation of inheritance in the Karangpatihan Village community with a sociological perspective of law, starting from the analysis of the concept of inheritance, the legal basis used, and how somebody can fulfill disability rights. This research is field research with an inductive and qualitative approach. Judging the proposed problem formulation shows that this research is fundamental and empirical. The data was obtained through observation, interviews, documentation, and triangulation. The stages of data processing include the locations of re-examination, data classification, data analysis, and conclusions. The study is reviewed with the theory and indicators of the sociology of law, and findings are obtained from connecting the results of data analysis with the formulation of the problem or anxiety of the researcher. The results showed that the implementation of inheritance in families with disabilities practiced their concept or with the idea of hereditary division, as long as they could maintain harmony, meet daily needs, and not cause conflict. And the protection of inheritance rights in families with disabilities independently does not have the ability, but using collectivity or the use of shared assets, using the concept of cooperation in maintaining inherited assets.
Incorporating Connectivity Information in Spatiotemporal Graph Convolution Model for Traffic Flow Prediction
Authors: Huo Boyan , Bao Shumei , Chen Chen , Lv Xiaoyi , Chen Cheng , Zhang Ziyuan , Zhang Xiaokun
Published: March 2024

Traffic flow prediction is extremely important for intelligent transportation systems. Accurate traffic flow prediction not only depends on the traffic flow data of the predicted node itself, but also on the traffic flow data of other nodes. These nodes can be mainly divided into the adjacent nodes of the predicted node, the multi-order adjacent nodes corresponding to different prediction durations, and other nodes. In this paper, by constructing an incidence matrix to integrate these nodes' information, the strong correlation between the adjacent nodes and the predicted node is first verified by the Pearson correlation coefficient. Secondly, the multi-order adjacent nodes corresponding to different prediction durations are calculated based on the distance and speed between different nodes. To address the influence of other nodes, a global correlation measurement function is used to evaluate the overall traffic information in Euclidean distance and Manhattan distance, enhancing the learning ability of global information. The incidence matrix is constructed by integrating the information of adjacent nodes, multi-order adjacent nodes, and global information. Finally, as a supplement to the multi-order adjacent information, traffic speed is added as external information. In this paper, a spatiotemporal graph convolution model constructed by Graph Convolutional Network (GCN) and Gate Recurrent Unit (GRU) is used to model the spatiotemporal correlation of data. The experimental results on the London M25 highway dataset show that the proposed model achieves good performance compared with other baseline methods.
Knowledge and practices of youth awareness on death and dying in school settings: a systematic scoping review protocol
Authors: Allard Émilie , Coupat Clémence , Lessard Sabrina , Therrien Noémie , Godard-Sebillotte Claire , Létourneau Dimitri , Nguyen Olivia , Côté Andréanne , Fortin Gabrielle , Daneault Serge , Soulières Maryse , Gall Josiane Le , Fortin Sylvie
Published: March 2024

Background.
Awareness-raising and education have been identified as strategies to counter the taboo surrounding death and dying. As the favoured venue for youth education, schools have an essential role to play in informing future decision-makers. However, school workers are not comfortable addressing the subjects of death and dying, which, unlike other social issues, have no guidelines to influence awareness of these subjects in youth.
Objectives
. To systematically explore the knowledge and practices on raising awareness about death and dying in schools, the viewpoints of the people involved (young people, school workers; parents), and the factors that either promote or hinder awareness practices.
Method.
The scoping review method of Levac, Colquhoun and O'Brien (1) will be used. Using a combination of keywords and descriptors, a body of literature will be identified through 15 databases and through grey literature searches, manual searches, consultation of key collaborators, and the list of relevant literature. Publications since 2009 will be selected if they relate directly to awareness-raising about death and dying in schools. Writings will be selected and extracted by two independent people, and conflicts resolved by consensus. The extracted data will be synthesized using a thematic analysis method. Experts from a variety of disciplines (health sciences, humanities, social sciences, and education) will be consulted to enhance the interpretation of the preliminary results. Results will be presented in narrative form and will include tables and diagrams.
Conclusion.
The results of this scoping review will contribute to the development of educational practices adapted to young people and to the identification of future avenues of research on awareness of death and dying.
Unraveling secondary school girls’ dropout in Rural Malawi through self-determination
Authors: Banda Lazarus obed Livingstone , Banda Jane Thokozani , Banda Chigonjetso Victoria
Published: March 2024

Contextualized within global efforts to advance sustainable development, research into the dropout rates of rural secondary school girls in low-income nations gains profound relevance. Through Self-determination theory, and motivated by Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 5, the study examines the psychological needs impacting female students' motivation to drop out of school. Through semi-structured interviews, observations, and document analysis, it delineates the adverse effects of compromised autonomy, competence, and relatedness attributed to systemic challenges within educational institutions, pedagogical practices, and familial settings. The findings underscore the criticality of enhancing the educational engagement and retention of girls, pinpointing educator absenteeism, peer ridicule, parental indifference, stringent parenting, economic hardships, and alternative career aspirations as pivotal to understanding dropout dynamics. The recommendations for bolstering girls' perceptions are imperative for fostering conducive learning environments for sustained educational participation. Our emphasis on targeted interventions and the call for comprehensive future research resonate with the SDGs' overarching framework, advocating for evidence-based policies and practices that can drive sustainable development across multiple domains. This study contributes to the academic discourse on educational retention and provides actionable insights for stakeholders towards the realization of the SDGs, highlighting the interconnectedness of educational attainment, gender equality, and sustainable development.
RETRACTED: Study of Aerodynamic Performance Using Co Flow Jet Method
Authors: Anish J. , Herbert G. M. Joselin , Balaji K.
Published: March 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Laser beam welding of copper under vacuum to extend the process limits
Authors: Schleser Markus , Liebe Philipp , Gerhards Benjamin , Gerhards Benedikt
Published: March 2024

This study explores challenges and innovations in laser beam welding of copper, focusing on infrared lasers, beam shaping and laser welding under vacuum (LaVa). Using a Trumpf TruFiber 2000 P and a Trumpf TruDisc 6000 with BrightLine technology, the research examines copper welding under reduced ambient pressure to improve process stability and seam quality. High-speed camera observations reveal unique behaviours such as a smaller molten pool and capillary expansion under vacuum conditions. Single-mode fiber laser welding shows improved stability and a reduced number of melt ejections. Similarly, BrightLine technology shows a smaller molten pool, increased stability and greater penetration depth at lower welding velocities under vacuum. Comparisons between atmospheric and vacuum welding highlight the benefits of the latter, emphasising uniformity and minimal melt ejection. Process stability correlates with weld quality, demonstrating the benefits of vacuum conditions. The combination of vacuum and established welding techniques extends the boundaries of the process, achieving higher stability and seam quality with both types of lasers. The results show that the combination of vacuum conditions with proven welding approaches extends the process limits in copper laser welding. The potential for greater stability and improved weld quality, particularly in single-mode fiber laser welding, enables lower welding velocities and therefore greater penetration depths under vacuum conditions.
Multi-Task Deep Learning for Multi-Parameter Elastic Inversion
Authors: Li Duo , Jiang Peng , Yang Senlin , Zhang Fengkai
Published: March 2024

Elastic waveform inversion plays a vital role in estimating the Earth's subsurface property. The inversion of multiple elastic parameters from observation data has been regarded as a cutting-edge and challenging issue due to its severe non-linearity and ill-posed nature. Deep learning approaches have recently demonstrated incredible potential in simulating non-linear mapping and made remarkable achievements in geophysical inversion. In this work, we consider multi-parameter elastic inversion as a multi-task learning problem and propose to accomplish the three tasks sequentially by a deep neural network with sequential decoders, which we name ElasInvNet. Specifically, we reconstruct the three elastic parameters, P-velocity, S-velocity, and density, one after the other, and use the features from the former task as the prior information to assist the later tasks' reconstruction. We verified the effectiveness of the proposed ElasInvNet through comprehensive comparisons and ablation studies.
Characteristics and analysis of PM2.5 particles in a light polluted atmosphere in winter
Authors: HU Feng , WANG Xinglei , LI Qi
Published: March 2024

In order to study the micro-morphological characteristics of PM2.5 and its effect on ambient air quality, in this paper, 7500F scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to study the micromorphology, elemental composition of PM2.5 and its effect on ambient air quality during heavy polluted weather in Yining City during the winter of 2018–2019. The results show that there are a lot of big solid shape, small strip shape and a little irregular shape. In addition, the amount of PM2.5 particles adsorbed on the quartz fiber filter membrane was higher, which indicated that the urban area was greatly affected by PM2.5 particles. Based on the analysis of particulate matter and the heating time and environmental conditions of samples in winter heating season, the conclusion is drawn that the sample PM2.5 is rich in N, S, P, C, Na, Ge, Rb, Zn, Fe, Mg, Al, Mo, Pt, Pb, the results show that the urban area is mainly affected by industrial dust, road dust, construction cement dust, vehicle exhaust dust and coal combustion in winter heating Through the analysis and evaluation of the sample data, it shows that PM2.5 has obvious effect on the sensitive population.
Nacre-like surface nanolaminates induce superior fatigue resistance in gradient pure titanium
Authors: Zhang Xiancheng , Zhang Yong , He Chenyun , Yu Qin , Li Xiao , Wang Xiaogang , Wang Ji , Jiang Chao , Jia Yunfei , Sun Binhan , Ritchie Robert , Tu Shan-Tung
Published: March 2024

Fatigue failure is invariably the most crucial failure mode for metallic structural components. Most microstructural strategies for enhancing fatigue resistance are effective in suppressing either crack initiation or early-stage crack propagation, but often do not work for both synergistically. Here, we demonstrate that this challenge can be overcome by architecting a gradient structure consisting of a surface layer of nacre-like nanolaminates followed by multi-variant twinned structure in pure titanium. The surface nanolaminates are featured by regulated horizontal (lamellar parallel) high-angle grain boundaries and vertical (lamellar perpendicular) low-angle grain boundaries. The polarized accommodation of different types of grain boundaries to cyclic loading enhances the structural stability of surface nanolaminates against grain thickening and microstructure softening, thereby delaying surface roughening and thus crack nucleation. The decohesion of the nanolaminated grains along horizonal high-angle grain boundaries gives rise to an extraordinarily high frequency (~ 1.7×103 times per mm) of fatigue crack deflection, which effectively reduces the fatigue crack propagation rate (by 2 orders of magnitude lower than the homogeneous coarse-grained counterpart). These intriguing features of the surface nanolaminates, along with the various toughening mechanisms activated in the subsurface twinned structure, result in a fatigue resistance that is far superior to the homogeneous and gradient structures with equiaxed grains. Our work on architecting the surface nanolaminates in gradient structure provides a scalable and sustainable strategy in designing fatigue-resistant alloys by structuring gradients/heterogeneity.
Preparation of medium-low strength hemihydrate gypsum from phosphogypsum and grey correlation evaluation of autoclaving energy consumption
Authors: Liu Dongmei , Yan Mengyu , Nan Cong , Xu Gang , Zhou Wanqing , Peng Yanzhou , Wang Bin
Published: March 2024

This study explored the production of a medium-low strength α-hemihydrate gypsum (α-HH) from phosphogypsum (PG) using an autoclaved method. The influence of slurry concentration, spreading thickness, crystallizing agents, slurry pH, autoclaving temperature, and autoclaving time on the properties of α-HH was investigated. The energy consumption of various autoclaving processes was assessed using grey correlation theory. The research findings revealed that a 50% slurry concentration, 40 mm slurry spreading thickness, and 0.15% succinic acid as the crystallizing agent, with a slurry pH of 6, can yield α-HH crystals with an average aspect ratio of 1.42 and a high hemihydrate gypsum content of 80.06%. Increasing the autoclaving temperature and extending the autoclaving time resulted in a higher strength of α-HH. Autoclaving the slurry at 105°C for 2.5 hours yielded α-HH with a compressive strength of only 12.1 MPa. In contrast, autoclaving at 120°C for 4 hours produced α-HH with a higher compressive strength of 37.1 MPa. Grey correlation analysis revealed that the strength and energy consumption indices of the α-HH preparation had the highest correlation with the ideal sequence when autoclaved at 105°C for 4 hours, resulting in a compressive strength of 20.5 MPa.
Effect of priming on germination of sixth wheat varieties (Triticum durum Desf.)
Authors: Fourati Hammami , Ahmed Ben Ahmed Ben
Published: March 2024

The present work compares the effect of priming on sixth Tunisian wheat varieties under normal and salt conditions at germination stage. It revealed that salinity have significantly reduced the growth attributes like germination percentage, germination index, coefficient of velocity, vigor index, seedling length, dry weight and water content with subsequent treatments. Salinity stress was induced by using NaCl in 100 mM. Seeds of the sixth cultivars primed with water (0 mM), Sodium Nitroprusside (0.06 mM), Calcium Silicate (8 mM), Potassium Nitrate (10 mM) have not only improved germination percentage but also considerably reduced germination time and increased germination index (GI), coefficient of velocity (CV) and vigor index indicating the potential for tolerating saline conditions. Seedling growth (seedling length, dry weight) and water content of seeds primed with H2O, SNP, Si, KNO3 was significantly higher than other non-primed seeds under the saline conditions. Priming with different agent was effective, nevertheless, the best results were obtained with SNP, Si and KNO3. On the other hand, seed priming with various priming agent has proved to be effective in inducing salt tolerance in terms of germination parameters, seedling characteristics, and water content in the sixth local commercial wheat cultivars.
On-chip all-optical nonreciprocal device for short-pulse isolator based on free carrier dispersion effect
Authors: Hong Qilin , Xu Wei , Xia Gongyu , Chen Wen , Zheng Qilin , Liu Jiacheng , Zhu Pingyu , Zhang Jianfa , Xu Ping , Zhu Zhihong
Published: March 2024

Chip-scale nonreciprocal devices, including isolators and circulators, are indispensable in the application of optical communications, all-optical signal processing and LiDAR, holding the advantages of small-size, mass-production and portability. Approaches that involve the integration of magnetooptical materials and spatiotemporal modulation have been demonstrated, yet with a high insertionloss or requiring additional bias. Here, we proposed a novel all-optical, passive, bias-free nonreciprocal silicon chip based on free carrier dispersion effect for short pulse application scenarios. An asymmetric and scalable silicon resonator is fabricated using a standard CMOS technique with the footprint of only 100 μm2, showing a nonreciprocal transmission ratio of 25 dB, with an insertion loss as low as 1.65 dB under CW laser conditions. A clear blue shift with 0.03 nm is observed under 1 ns pulse with the incident operated peak power ranging from 13 mW to 105 mW. Furthermore, we apply it for chip-based isolator with a high isolation ratio and LiDAR with a spatial resolution down to 15 cm. Such short-pulse suitable nonreciprocal devices can greatly enhance the spatial resolution of LiDAR or increase the on-chip integration density since the reflecting-safe distance is greatly shortened. Therefore, this work provides a building block for high-performance chip-scale LiDAR and high integration density optical processing and communication devices.
Climate change impacts on livestock in Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Nicole , Andrade Rafaella Resende , Ferreira Leonardo Nascimento
Published: March 2024

Brazilian livestock provides a significant fraction of the food consumed globally, making the country one of the largest producers and exporters of meat, milk and eggs. However, current advances in the production of protein from Brazilian animal origin may be directly impacted by climate change and the resulting biophysical effects. Therefore, it is strategically consistent to develop measures to deal with the resulting environmental heat stress on domesticated animal species, especially the need in developing countries. This work aims to (1) evaluate the impacts of climate change on livestock in different regions of Brazil and (2) discuss possible response strategies, associated with animal comfort and welfare. From our results, we can draw better strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on livestock production. The results presented show an increase of high heat stress in South and Southeast and an increase of extreme heat stress in North and Central-West areas of Brazil. The rise in extreme heat stress tends to occur mostly during spring and summer and tends to vary considering the different evaluated species. Within the evaluated species, the ones that seem to be more affected by climate changes are Poultry, pigs, cattle-beef and general (temperature-humidity index value). The differences between the results for the five geographic regions in Brazil suggests that different mitigation measures need to be considered to cope with future heat stress in livestock. To ensure the long-term success of Brazil's influence on the global market for proteins of animal origin, it must achieve sustainable production systems more intensively.
Impact of environmental factors on Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii infection in breeding ewes from western Mexico
Authors: Alcalá-Gómez Jaime , Medina-Esparza Leticia , Quezada-Tristán Teódulo , Alcalá-Gómez Gabriela
Published: March 2024

Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii are among the foremost causes of reproductive issues in sheep. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the influence of environmental factors associated with N. caninum and T. gondii infections in breeding ewes from western Mexico. A total of 184 blood samples were collected from breeding ewes to determine the seroprevalence of N. caninum and T. gondii using ELISA testing. With the seroprevalence data and information on the climatic and geographic conditions of the regions, environmental factors associated with N. caninum and T. gondii infections were identified through logistic regression analysis. A 15.21% of animals were found to have N. caninum antibodies (27/184), while a 61.9% prevalence (114/184) was observed in the case of T. gondii. The primary risk factors associated with N. caninum were Köppen climate area Ca(w1) with an odds ratio (OR) of 6.55 and Rainfall (700–800 mm) with an OR of 3.23. In the diagnosis of T. gondii, 113 positive sheep out of 184 included in the study were identified. In the risk analysis for T. gondii, the main risk factors observed were Köppen climate area Cb(w1) with an OR of 10.5 and Rainfall (900–1000 mm) with an OR of 4.6.
Optimization of growth conditions of Streptomyces sp in Rock phosphate beneficiation process
Authors: Mohamed Gamal A. , Abdelkader Rofaida S. , Weesa Susan E.
Published: March 2024

The current study is part of a project aimed at optimizing the growth conditions of the most bioactive Streptomces sp. strain isolated from rock phosphate waste (RW). Growth conditions include inoculum size, incubation time, temperature, initial pH, carbon source, and exposure period to UV ray on solid medium. This strain was found to grow efficiently when 1 ml of 1–2 X 10− 8 CFU inoculum excited with UV ray for up to 3 hours with inoculated in 1.0 kgl-1 RW for 7 days with an optimal temperature of 35˚C, pH 7 ± 0.2 on D-glucose. The processed RW is separated into 6 layers according to particle size. The P2O5% content increased from 16.28% to 18.80 P2O5% at room temperature and 22.30 P2O5% at 35˚C. Hence, this study focused on evaluating the role of Streptomyces in RW beneficiation. The results of Streptomyces growth on RW under ideal conditions showed beneficiation occurs in the rock composition according to the size of the particles, which leads to a redistribution of the P2O5% concentration in the layers. The importance of this research focusing on the role of Streptomyces RW biomining maximizes the benefits by controlling the conditions Streptomyces growth.
Tandospirone Prevents Anesthetic-Induced Respiratory Depression through 5-HT1A Receptor Activation in Rats
Authors: Song Mengran , Huang Mingzhi , Tao Weijie , Yong Zheng , Su Ruibin
Published: March 2024

Background: Respiratory depression is a side effect of anesthetics such as fentanyl, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam. Clinical treatment with specific antagonists or respiratory stimulants interferes with the sedative effects of anesthetics; therefore, drugs that ameliorate respiratory depression without affecting the sedative effects of anesthetics are needed. Previous studies have suggested that tandospirone may be one such candidate. Therefore, we performed pharmacological studies in rats to evaluate this issue.
Methods: The pharmacodynamic ability of tandospirone to ameliorate respiratory depression and its effects on arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) were evaluated in a rat model under anesthesia. The protein kinase A redistribution method was used to determine whether tandospirone activated α2a/2c and μ receptors. The effects of tandospirone on current modulation of α1β2γ2 and α4β2δ gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) receptors were explored using the two-electrode voltage clamp technique.
Results: Prophylactic administration of tandospirone reduced respiratory depression caused by fentanyl, dexmedetomidine, and midazolam in rats. Tandospirone increased SaO2 in rats treated with fentanyl or midazolam. The ability of tandospirone to prevent respiratory depression was completely inhibited by the 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)1A receptor antagonist WAY100635. Co-administration of tandospirone with dexmedetomidine or fentanyl did not affect the activation of α2a/2c or μ receptors by dexmedetomidine or fentanyl. Tandospirone did not affect the modulation of α1β2γ2 and α4β2δ GABA receptors by midazolam.
Conclusion: Tandospirone ameliorates respiratory depression caused by anesthetics in rats through 5-HT1A receptor activation. Future studies should validate these findings and evaluate whether tandospirone has clinical application value for ameliorating respiratory depression in patients receiving anesthetics.
Characterization of Two Novel Isolates of Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus: Molecular Identification, Growth Rate, Virulence, and Antibacterial Susceptibility
Authors: Azar Zahra Sharifi , Kary Naser Eivazian , Mohammadi Davoud
Published: March 2024

This study provides an analysis of two isolates of entomopathogenic nematodes and their symbiotic bacteria recovered from soil samples of north-west of Iran. Molecular techniques, including phylogenetic analysis of ITS-rDNA, 28s-rDNA, 16s-rDNA and gyrB sequences identified nematodes as Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and Steinernema carpocapsae, along with their symbiotic bacteria Photorhabdus thracensis and Xenorhabdus nematophila, respectively. The growth dynamics of these bacteria were also explored, revealing similar growth curves and distinctive patterns. Xenorhabdus nematophila displayed a rapid transition into the log and stationary phases, differing from P. thracensis. Within 32 hours post-inoculation, both bacteria experienced growth reduction, but P. thracensis demonstrated a steeper decrease. Moreover, the study assessed the virulence of the bacteria against Galleria mellonella larvae, highlighting higher virulence of X. nematophila (LC50 = 294.36 × 106). Additionally, we explored the inhibitory effect of antibiotics, with Ampicillin and Chloramphenicol identified as the most effective against P. thracensis and X. nematophila, respectively. The inhibitory effect of antimicrobial agents on the growth of P. thracensis and X. nematophila was concentration-dependent, highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate concentrations for effective control of bacterial infections while minimizing disruption to beneficial symbiotic bacteria during mass production process of bacteria or entomopathogenic nematodes. Among the antibiotics with the lowest inhibitory effects on bacteria, Erfamicin caused lowest mortality on infective juveniles of both nematodes.
Pilot protection of new energy field station transmission line based on Kendall correlation coefficient
Authors: Deng Lichuan , Wu Hao , Xiaopeng Li
Published: March 2024

In order to solve the problems of mis-actuation and rejection based on the protection method of industrial frequency quantity, a new pilot protection method applicable to the new energy field station sending out line is proposed to ensure the reliable operation of the new energy grid-connected system and the sending out line. The fault transient current characteristics of synchronous generator and inverter power supply are analyzed, and it is concluded that the fault transient current waveforms of the new energy side and the system side have obvious differences when the in- and out-of-area faults occur in the transmission line, and the new longitudinal protection method based on the Kendall correlation coefficient is proposed by using the improved soft-threshold wavelet packet network method for preprocessing of the sampled data. The simulation results show that the proposed new protection method can reliably and sensitively recognize various types of faults inside and outside the new energy field station sending line area, and has strong noise immunity and tolerance to transition resistance.
Clinical characteristics and analysis of risk factors for disease progression in patients on maintenance hemodialysis infected with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant
Authors: Zhang Huanhuan , Liao Cong , Wu Ting , Hu Chun , Liao Meiyan , Shui Hua
Published: March 2024

Objective:To summarize the clinical characteristics of patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) with the novel coronavirus omicron variant and explore the risk factors for severe cases.
Methods:We retrospectively analyzed the data of 158 patients on MHD from Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University between December 7, 2022 and January 31, 2023. We collected clinical data, described clinical characteristics, and analyzed the relationships between these factors and critical illness using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.
Results: The median age of the 158 patients was 63 (interquartile range: 52–71) years, and 128 (63.7%) were men. Fever (62.7%) and cough (60.1%) were the two most common symptoms. Hypertension (80.4%) was the most common comorbidity, followed by diabetes (31.0%), cardiovascular disease (22.8%), and cerebrovascular disease (15.2%). Unvaccinated patients constituted the majority of the enrolled patients (88.6%, 140/158), whereas only a small proportion (11.4%, 18/158) had been vaccinated (including fully vaccinated and partially vaccinated patients). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that an elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) level (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.014–1.046], p<0.001) and a decreased platelet count (OR: 0.986, 95% CI, 0.986 (0.976–0.997), p=0.013) during hospitalization were risk factors for the severe group.
Conclusions:This study demonstrated a high mortality rate among patients on MHD infected with omicron variant. Furthermore, advanced age, increased CRP levels, and decreased platelet count were predictors of critical illness.
Molecular characterization of potential zinc solubilizing bacterial isolates from onion rhizosphere and validation of solubilization ability of PantoeaeucrinaZSC9 using FE-SEM and EDS
Authors: Choudhary Shivi , Saharan Baljeet Singh , Gera Rajesh , Kumar Shubham , Gupta Anshika
Published: March 2024

Zinc (Zn) is essential for optimal growth and nutrition of plant and zinc solubilizing bacteria (ZSB) enhance its accessibility for plants by converting insoluble forms into usable ones. The primary objective of current research was to isolate and identify Zn solubilizing strains from onion rhizosphere and evaluate their ability to solubilize different insoluble Zn compounds, including ZnO, ZnCO3 and Zn3(PO4)2. Out of the nineteen bacterial isolates retrieved, fifteen were found to be proficient in solubilizing inorganic Zn minerals based on plate assay techniques. The Zn solubilizing bacterial strains chosen through qualitative assessment were subjected to quantitative testingin the broth culture using AAS and FE-SEM-EDS. Seven most potential bacterial isolates with the ability to solubilize Zn were identified using 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequence analysis. The isolates were found to be affiliated with Pantoeaeucrina, Pantoeadispersa, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus velezensis and Pseudomonas fluorescens. To the best of our knowledge, this appears to be the first finding demonstrating Pantoeaeucrina as a potential ZSB. The maximum Zn solubilization index (8.85) and the highest soluble Zn content (624 mg/l) among the three insoluble Zn salts was exhibited by the strain Pantoea eucrina ZSC9 on the 10th day of incubation in ZnO enriched basal medium. Among the three insoluble Zn compounds, all of the bacterial isolates were more effective at solubilizing ZnO compared to ZnCO3 and Zn3(PO4)2. The solubilization of Zn led to a significant drop in pH of the broth and Pantoeaeucrina ZSC9 exhibited the maximum reduction in pH (3.82) in ZnO supplemented medium. A negative correlation was observed between the pH of broth and Zn solubilization by all the isolates. Based on our results, it is suggested that the identification of promising ZSB isolates and their application as biofertilizers has the potential to enhance plant growth and development.