bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring the concentrations of some gaseous air pollutants and dust particles in the western city of Hamzah in Iraq
Authors: Radhi Kadhim Haydder
Published: April 2024

This research concentrates on studying and analyzing the spatial and temporal variation of the concentrations of air pollutants in the Hamzah-western city during the four seasons of the year 2022 by studying the concentrations of gaseous pollutants in the air, such as NO2, SO2, CO, CO2, and O3, as well as measuring the concentrations of dust particles suspended in the air, such as PM2.5 and PM10. The number of sampling sites reached six, distributed into five different sectors (industrial, residential, transport, agricultural, and a mixed sector combining industry and transportation) in order to show the discrepancies in the concentrations of pollutants and explain their causes. The results of in situ measurements and laboratory analyses showed that there is a spatial and temporal variation in the concentrations of air pollutants. The highest concentrations of carbon monoxide CO, carbon dioxide CO2, and sulfur dioxide SO2 were recorded in sector 1 and during the summer season at concentrations of 38.5, 337, and 2.9 ppm, respectively. While the highest concentrations of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were recorded in sector (2) with a concentration of 0.65 ppm, and all those concentrations were outside the permissible limits, the lowest concentrations were recorded for gases in sector (6), which covered all the study semesters. As for the concentrations of suspended dust particles in their sizes (PM2.5 and PM10), the highest concentrations were recorded in Sector (2), during all seasons of the study, and at 383.81 and 389.38 ppm concentrations, respectively. While the lowest concentrations of suspended particles of both sizes were recorded in Sector 6, a value of 119.65 ppm was recorded for PM2.5 minutes and 115.65 ppm for PM10 minutes. Thus, all their values during the study period were greater than the permissible limits.
Determination of long-lived gamma emitters in some vegetarian products in Al-Najaf governorate using NaI(Tl)
Authors: Saeed jassim Ali , Hassoon Oraibi Adnan , Abid Abojassim Ali , Algazali Sajad A. , Abdulhussein Hameed Ali , Hamza Hussian Hayder
Published: April 2024

In this study, gamma emitters including potassium-40, thorium-232, and uranium-238 were found in samples of 10 types of vegetarian products that were taken from various locations of Al-Najaf governorate. The experimental study is done by NaI(Tl) detectors that are produced by the ORTIC Analysis System. Also, some radiological risks due to these emitters as radium equivalent activity and internal hazard index were calculated using different theoretical equations. Given that all samples from Iraqi vegetarian products in the current study that tested for long-lived gamma emitters and risk factors for hazard were found to be below the global limit suggested by numerous organizations and commissions, one may conclude that there is no risk to human health from radiological hazard caused by gamma emitters.
Effect of potassium nitrate, licorice extract and planting date on field emergence and growth of maize (Zea mays L.) in spring season
Authors: Mohsen Khudhair Maryam , Hameed Hamza Jalal
Published: April 2024

Low temperature and high relative humidity in the spring season led to decrease of field emergence ratio and growth in maize. Planting dates and seeds stimulation can be appropriate fix. Field experiment was conducted in the two spring seasons of 2022 and 2023. Randomize complete block design with split-plot arrangement and four replications was used. Planting date treatments (February 15th, March 1st and 15th and April 1st, 15th) were placed in main plots. Seeds stimulation treatments (potassium nitrate 6 mg L−1 + licorice extract 6 g L−1 as well as treatment of soaking with distilled water only) were placed in subplots. Seeds stimulation (potassium nitrate+licorice extract) or planting date of February 15th were superior at traits of field emergence ratio, days to 75% tassel and silk, days to physiological and full maturity, leaf area index, plant dry weight and crop growth rate in both seasons. Interaction treatment of stimulation (potassium nitrate+licorice extract) and planting date of February 15th excelled at traits above (86.2 and 86.9%), (87.0 and 86.0 day), (91.2 and 91.0 day), (113.5 and 110.0 day), and (113.5 and 110.0 day), respectively. It can be concluded that seed stimulation contributes to enhancing plant growth in adverse conditions in the spring season by increasing the field emergence ratio and plant growth rate over a wide range of environmental conditions. Determining the appropriate planting date contributes to utilizing the prevailing environmental conditions and raising the efficiency of metabolic processes in increasing plant dry weight. Also, using natural materials to stimulate seeds to withstand adverse conditions, which boosts the concept of sustainable agriculture. It can be recommended soaking the seeds with potassium nitrate+licorice extract when planting in the spring season.
Sustainable approach for seed stimulating and sowing date to enhance field emergence and growth of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench)
Authors: Hadi Msheewah Hamd Azhar , Hameed Hamza Jalal
Published: April 2024

Sorghum cultivation is often accompanied by low field emergence rates and weak seedlings, which may be due to genetic or environmental stress. A factorial experiment was conducted in the spring and fall seasons of 2022 using a randomized complete block design with split-plot arrangement and four replications. Planting dates (spring season: Feb. 15th, Mar. 1st, 15th, and Apr. 1st, 15th; fall season: Jun. 15th, Jul. 1st, 15th, and Aug. 1st, 15th) were allocated to the main plots. Seeds stimulation treatments (35% banana peel extract + 100 mg L−1 citric acid and distilled water soaking treatment only) were allocated to the subplots. The interaction treatment (banana peel extract + citric acid) with the planting date of April 15 showed the highest field emergence (74.2%), 75% flowering (86.0 day), plant height (163.9 cm), and days to physiological and complete maturity (111.0 and 131.0 day), respectively. The banana peel extract + citric acid soaking treatment with the planting date of July 1st showed the highest field emergence (91.3%), plant height (185.1 cm), leaf area index (7.6), and dry weight per plant (398.8 g). It can be concluded that the seeds primed with banana peel extract + citric acid before planting improved growth characteristics and could be a solution to environmental challenges, which also promote the concept of sustainable agriculture. It can be recommended seeds soaking with a combination of banana peel extract and citric acid to enhance emergence and growth when planting in April 15th for the spring season and July 1st for the fall season.
Sustainable practices impact and planting date on yield of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench)
Authors: Hadi Msheewah Hamd Azhar , Hameed Hamza Jalal
Published: April 2024

Environmental stress affects the yield of sorghum. This impact can be reduced by seed stimulation technique and determining the appropriate planting date. An experiment was conducted in the spring and fall seasons of 2022. Randomized complete block design with split-plot arrangement in four replications was used. Planting dates (spring season: February 15th, March 1st, 15th, April 1st, 15th; fall season: June 15th, July 1st, 15th, August 1st, 15th) were assigned to the main plots. Seed stimulation treatments (banana peel extract 35% + citric acid 100 mg L−1 and soaking in distilled water only) were applied to the subplots. The interaction treatment of soaking with banana peel extract + citric acid and the planting date of April 15th showed superiority in traits of head grain number (1743) and total grain yield (6.135 tons ha−1) during the spring season. Seed stimulation treatment with banana peel extract + citric acid on July 1st planting date outperformed in traits of plant dry weight (398.8 g), head grain number (4582), total grain yield (10.82 tons ha−1), and biological yield (67.8 tons ha−1) during the fall season. It can be concluded that seed stimulation with banana peel extract + citric acid improved yield characteristics. Early planting date in the spring season (February 15th, March 1st, or March 15th) or the delay in the fall season (August 1st or August 15th) resulted in less efficient plant performance. This is closely related to the nature of the climatic conditions accompanying crop growth from planting to harvesting. Also, using of agricultural applications related to the use of natural materials could helping hand sustainable agriculture. It can be recommended to soak seeds with banana peel extract + citric acid and adopt the planting date of April 15th for the spring season and July 1st for the fall season to enhance grain yield.
Effect of Alcoholic Extract of the Plant Conyza bonariensis on the Parasite Hymenolepis nana in Albino Mice Infected with it Experimentally
Authors: Shahatha S S , Mousa M O , Ayyed I M , Outhman N Y , Dhulkefl A J , Othman O M , Mukhlif F H
Published: April 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of an alcoholic extract of the Mountain grass plant Conyza bonariensis on adults of the dwarf tapeworm Hymenolepis nana in albino mice infected with it experimentally, where Albino mice of the strain Balb/C were infected with these worms experimentally, it was divided into 5 groups, each group consisting of 6 rats, where the first group (control) was given distilled water only. As for the other groups, they were dosed with different concentrations of the alcoholic extract of the plant 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, The last group was given 15 mg/kg of Niclosamide in one dose per day for 13 days. The results showed the effective effect of the concentrations of the alcoholic extract and the drug Niclosamide in the treatment of albino mice, and it produced a high therapeutic efficiency of 100%, with a variation in the period required for complete treatment and complete elimination of helminths, where the highest concentration of 200 mg/kg and the use of the drug led to a complete recovery of the infected Albino mice during the ninth day of treatment, and it was noted that the worm eggs disappeared from the swabs of the treated mice, while the infection continued in the control group until the thirteenth day, then died after that.
The role of FASL gene polymorphism (rs: 763110), its serum level and IL21 level with incidence of psoriasis in Iraqi patients
Authors: Mohammed joodi Zena , Qasim Hasan Al-Saadi Basima
Published: April 2024

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated skin disease with systemic pro-inflammatory can defined by keratinocyte hyper proliferation. FASL gene cell surface death receptor which is important in apoptosis mediated by cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells. The goals of current study is design to investigate genotyping of the FASL gene (Fas ligand gene) -844 T>C (rs:763110), evaluate its serum level and to estimate level of IL-21correlated with incidence of psoriasis in Iraqi patients. 100 blood samples collected from December 2022 to February 2023, blood samples split into two groups first 50 psoriasis patients (30 males and 20 females) with age range (17-66years) and second group 50 Apparently healthy as control group (24 males 26 females) with age range (20-60 years) visit the Al-Yarmouk Teaching Hospital’s Department of Dermatology in Iraq/Baghdad. (HRM–PCR) Technique was use for the investigation of gene polymorphism of the FASL gene (rs763110). While EIISA technique used to estimate serum level of each FASL gene and IL-21 in serum. The result of FASL gene polymorphism revealed that there are three genotype (TT),(TC),(CC). There was no significant difference, between (TC) and (CC) genotype In the FASLG -844 and between the psoriasis and control groups. Moreover there was correlation between genotyping and serum level for FASL (rs763110) gene in that (TC) genotype serum level show significant different from (CC) genotype serum level with p-value (P≤0.05) as well as the FASL serum level in patient which represent high significantly different between psoriasis patients when compared to the healthy controls with p-value (P≤0.01). While result of IL21 serum level in psoriasis patients revealed high significant different with p-value (P≤0.01) vs healthy control with high significant different in sever psoriatic patient vs mild and healthy control with p value (P≤0.01).
Total Organic Carbon Percentage and Texture of Sediments in Tigris River
Authors: Al-Hasani AL-Hassaneen , Al-Hejuje Makia M. , Al-saad Hamid T.
Published: April 2024

Total organic carbon has a significant impact on both chemical and biological processes occurring in sediments, while sediments texture refers to the size of the particles that make up the soil. Sediments samples were collected from four stations along the southern part of the Tigris River seasonally (two months per season) during the period August, 2022 to July, 2023) to measure the TOC% and determine the sediments texture. Results show that the highest percentage of total organic carbon (1.21%) was recorded in the first station in the Al-Majar station during the summer season. Also, the lowest total organic carbon value was recorded in the first station in the Al-Majar (0.18%) during the autumn season.

The study showed the presence of small amounts of clay and starting from the Al-Majar and rising down to Qurna, while the silt increases in the same direction, and it has been observed that there is a significant rise in the amount of sand from the first station and gradually decreases as we head towards the Qurna in Basra, which may be due to human activity or because of mud deposits that increase towards the south.
Comparative analysis of sliding wear behaviour of A356 nanocomposites using response surface methodology and artificial neural network approaches
Authors: N Kiran Kumar , Chethan D , Sarada B N , Yeshvantha H S , Gouda Hanamantray
Published: April 2024

The present study is aimed at analysing the predictive capacity of response surface methodology and artificial neural network of wear behaviour of A356/Al2O3 nanocomposites. In order to develop nanocomposites with different Al2O3 content the mechanical milling and powder metallurgy routes were adopted. The wear testing experiments were conducted using pin on disc tribometer to study the influence of parameters such as Al2O3 content, load, sliding speed and distance on wear loss. The testing was conducted based on the experimental design generated through Taguchi’s L27 technique. The response surface methodology and artificial neural network were used to predict the wear loss of A356 nanocomposites and comparative analysis was performed to analyse the predictive capability of these two techniques. Analysis of variance results showed significant influence of sliding speed on the wear loss while impact of sliding distance was minimal. The average relative error between the artificial neural network predicted and experimental value was 4.861% while for response surface methodology it was 9.307%. This comparative analysis indicated better predicting capacity for artificial neural network model. Worn surface analysis showed dominant abrasion and mild delamination as wear mechanisms for both unreinforced and nanocomposite samples.
Experimental and finite element investigation on bolted connection in monolithic 3-dimensional cuff with pultruded box section
Authors: Kajendran Perumal , Narayanan Pannirselvam
Published: April 2024

This article presents a concise and practical research study on the application of pultruded GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer) hollow sections in structural engineering. Experimental and computational investigations are conducted on the utilization of GFRP cuff components for joining tubular pultruded fiber-reinforced polymer (PFRP) beams and columns. Both adhesive bonding and bolted connections are explored for connecting PFRP box sections of beam-column interfaces. The study investigates twelve series of beam-to-column connections under monotonic loading conditions, varying cuff geometry. A finite element model is developed to represent the pultruded fiber-reinforced polymer box sections, columns, and cuff sections. The model’s accuracy in depicting frame stiffness and cuff damage patterns, considering different thicknesses and lengths of GFRP cuff connections, is validated against experimental test frame behavior. This research fills a gap in scientific inquiry regarding GFRP hollow profiles, providing valuable insights for structural engineering applications.
Enhancing surface integrity and performance of EDM with sustainable dielectrics and electrode modifications
Authors: Rakshaskar Rajnitu , C Kannan
Published: April 2024

A common non-traditional method for precise machining of hard materials is electro-discharge machining (EDM). The efficiency and surface quality in the EDM process are decided by the design and type of the electrodes. Because of its lightweight, cost-effectiveness and easy machinability, aluminium is employed in a wide range of applications. In this work, AlSi10Mg electrodes are manufactured by different processing routes such as 3D printing, casting, and extrusion. Different characterization techniques are carried out to determine the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of all differently processed aluminium alloy electrodes. The processing route influence during the EDM of Ti-6Al-4V is evaluated with different levels of operating parameters using conventional EDM oil and lemon peel biodiesel as dielectrics. The experiments are performed with 3 different levels of current (Ip) and pulse on time (Ton) with a constant voltage. The output responses viz. material removal rate (MRR), Tool wear rate (TWR), average surface roughness (Ra) and white layer thickness (WLT) are considered to compare the EDM performance exhibited by differently processed aluminium alloy electrodes. The 3D printed aluminium alloy electrode produces about 23% less TWR and 18% improved surface quality than the conventional (extruded) electrode. The performance exhibited by the cast aluminium alloy electrode is sub-optimal when compared to electrodes processed by the other two routes. The microscopic examination revealed that WLT could be reduced to the extent of about 29% and 39% with 3D printed AlSi10Mg electrodes when compared with extruded and cast electrodes. The present study concluded that a 3D printed electrode with lemon peel dielectric is the most preferable combination for high surface finish operation.
Fragility crossover mediated by covalent-like electronic interactions in metallic liquids
Authors: Zhang Hui-Ru , Gao Liang , Ye Yu-Hao , Zhang Jia-Xin , Zhang Tao , Bu Qing-Zhou , Yang Qun , Zhu Zeng-Wei , Wei Shuai , Yu Hai-Bin
Published: April 2024

Fragility is one of the central concepts in glass and liquid sciences, as it characterizes the extent of deviation of viscosity from Arrhenius behavior and is linked to a range of glass properties. However, the intervention of crystallization often prevents the assessment of fragility in poor glass-formers, such as supercooled metallic liquids. Hence experimental data on their compositional dependence are scarce, let alone fundamentally understood. In this work, we use fast scanning calorimetry to overcome this obstacle and systematically study the fragility in a ternary La–Ni–Al system, over previously inaccessible composition space. We observe fragility dropped in a small range with the Al alloying, indicating an alloying-induced fragility crossover. We use x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, resistance measurements, electronic structure calculations, and DFT-based deep-learning atomic simulations to investigate the cause of this fragility drop. These results show that the fragility crossover can be fundamentally ascribed to the electronic covalency associated with the unique Al–Al interactions. Our findings provide insight into the origin of fragility in metallic liquids from an electronic structure perspective and pave a new way for the design of metallic glasses.
Reform and Its Perils in Contemporary Islam
Authors: Oweidat Nadia
Published: April 2024

This book is an intellectual history and thematic survey of the prominent Muslim scholar Nasr Hamid Abu Zayd, one of the twentieth century’s foremost Islamic modernists. Reform and Its Perils in Contemporary Islam presents a critical analysis of Abu Zayd’s thought as representative of a modernist intellectual trend that aims to reinterpret central aspects of the Islamic tradition to render it more conducive to modern conceptions of religion, society, and politics. This study contextualizes Abu Zayd’s thought by situating him both within his modernist intellectual milieu and in opposition to his numerous critics. In addition, it elucidates and provides summary translations of Arabic texts which remain largely unknown to Western audiences. The position of advocates for humanist values in the Middle East continues to be perilous, a reality that deprives wider audiences around the world of their unique perspectives. The case of the Egyptian scholar Nasr Hamid Abu Zayd (1943–2010) illustrates the hostility faced by modernist intellectuals who attempt to subject the Islamic tradition to academic scrutiny. A professor of Islamic thought in the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at Cairo University, as well as a practicing Muslim, Abu Zayd became well known in Egypt and beyond when the Egyptian Court of Appeals declared him an apostate in 1995, a judgment that, in mainstream interpretations of Islamic law, can carry the death penalty. To protect his life and that of his wife, Abu Zayd fled to the Netherlands. With Abu Zayd as a case study, this book analyzes the intellectual trend that argues that there can be a positive relationship between modernity and Islam. It also examines the obstacles to reforming Islamic thought, whether from oppressive regimes, intolerant religion, or intellectual argumentation.
DEGAP: Dynamic elongation of a genome assembly path
Authors: Huang Yicheng , Wang Ziyuan , Schmidt Monica A , Su Handong , Xiong Lizhong , Zhang Jianwei
Published: April 2024

Genome assembly remains to be a major task in genomic research. Despite the development over the past decades of different assembly software programs and algorithms, it is still a great challenge to assemble a complete genome without any gaps. With the latest DNA circular consensus sequencing (CCS) technology, several assembly programs can now build a genome from raw sequencing data to contigs; however, some complex sequence regions remain as unresolved gaps. Here, we present a novel gap-filling software, DEGAP (Dynamic Elongation of a Genome Assembly Path), that resolves gap regions by utilizing the dual advantages of accuracy and length of high-fidelity (HiFi) reads. DEGAP identifies differences between reads and provides ‘GapFiller’ or ‘CtgLinker’ modes to eliminate or shorten gaps in genomes. DEGAP adopts an iterative elongation strategy that automatically and dynamically adjusts parameters according to three complexity factors affecting the genome to determine the optimal extension path. DEGAP has already been successfully applied to decipher complex genomic regions in several projects and may be widely employed to generate more gap-free genomes.
Rapid Diagnostic Tests and Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs for the Management of Bloodstream Infection: What Is Their Relative Contribution to Improving Clinical Outcomes? A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Peri Anna Maria , Chatfield Mark D , Ling Weiping , Furuya-Kanamori Luis , Harris Patrick N A , Paterson David L
Published: April 2024

Background

Evidence about the clinical impact of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for the diagnosis of bloodstream infections is limited, and whether RDT are superior to conventional blood cultures (BCs) embedded within antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) is unknown.

Methods

We performed network meta-analyses using results from studies of patients with bloodstream infection with the aim of comparing the clinical impact of RDT (applied on positive BC broth or whole blood) to conventional BC, both assessed with and without ASP with respect to mortality, length of stay (LOS), and time to optimal therapy.

Results

Eighty-eight papers were selected, including 25 682 patient encounters. There was an appreciable amount of statistical heterogeneity within each meta-analysis. The network meta-analyses showed a significant reduction in mortality associated with the use of RDT + ASP versus BC alone (odds ratio [OR], 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], .59–.87) and with the use of RDT + ASP versus BC + ASP (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, .63–.96). No benefit in survival was found associated with the use of RDT alone nor with BC + ASP compared to BC alone. A reduction in LOS was associated with RDT + ASP versus BC alone (OR, 0.91; 95% CI, .84–.98) whereas no difference in LOS was shown between any other groups. A reduced time to optimal therapy was shown when RDT + ASP was compared to BC alone (−29 hours; 95% CI, −35 to −23), BC + ASP (−18 hours; 95% CI, −27 to −10), and to RDT alone (−12 hours; 95% CI, −20 to −3).

Conclusions

The use of RDT + ASP may lead to a survival benefit even when introduced in settings already adopting effective ASP in association with conventional BC.
Effect of absolute blood volume measurement–guided fluid management on the incidence of intradialytic hypotension-associated events: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Jongejan Micha , Gelinck Armin , van Geloven Nan , Dekker Friedo W , Vleming Louis Jean
Published: April 2024

Background

Ultrafiltration to target weight during haemodialysis is complicated by intradialytic hypotension-associated adverse events (IHAAEs) in 10–30% of dialysis treatments. IHAAEs are caused by critical reductions in absolute blood volume (ABV), due to the interaction of ultrafiltration, refill and compensatory mechanisms. Non-randomised studies have suggested that ABV-guided treatment, using an indicator dilution technique employing the blood volume monitor on the dialysis machine, could reduce the incidence of IHAAEs.

Methods

We performed an open-label randomised controlled trial. Patients were randomly assigned to adjustment of target weight guided by ABV measurements or standard care. The primary outcome was the change in the incidence of IHAAEs from baseline, defined as the percentage of treatment episodes in a 4-week period where the patient had a systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg or symptoms of impending hypotension. ABV measurements were compared with anthropomorphometric estimation and the gold standard using isotope dilution.

Results

A total of 56 patients were randomised, of whom 29 were allocated to ABV-guided treatment and 27 to standard care. Overall baseline incidence of IHAAEs was 26.0%. ABV-guided treatment significantly reduced the incidence of IHAAEs compared with standard care, with a mean change from baseline of −9.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) −17.3 to −1.8) versus 2.4% (95% CI −2.3–7.2). The adjusted difference between the groups was 10.5% (95% CI 1.3–19.8; P = .026). ABV measurement had moderate agreement with other methods to estimate blood volume. The sensitivity for the previously suggested threshold of a post-dialysis normalised blood volume of 65 ml/kg was observed to be 74% in this study.

Conclusions

ABV-guided volume management significantly reduced IHAAEs compared with standard care. The clinical relevance of the previously suggested threshold of 65 ml/kg cannot be firmly concluded on the basis of our results. If confirmed in a larger trial, this intervention could potentially change dialysis practice and impact patient care in a clinically meaningful way.
Case report: acute myocarditis in two patients with coronary artery disease presenting with chest pain—thinking outside the box
Authors: Amelotti Nicola , Brusamolino Matteo , Mapelli Massimo , Contini Mauro , Baggiano Andrea , Fazzari Fabio , Pontone Gianluca , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: April 2024

Background

In a subset of patients, acute myocarditis (AM) may mimic acute myocardial infarction, with a similar clinical presentation characterized by chest pain, electrocardiogram (ECG) changes consistent with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), and serum markers increment.

Case summary

We present two cases of infarct-like myocarditis in patients with known coronary artery disease (CAD), in which the discrepancy between transthoracic echocardiogram findings, ECG, and angiography prompted us to look beyond the simplest diagnosis. In these cases, making a prompt and correct diagnosis is pivotal to address adequate therapy and establish a correct prognosis.

Discussion

The right diagnosis can avoid unnecessary coronary revascularizations and subsequent antiplatelet therapy that may be associated with an increased haemorrhagic risk. Moreover, it allows setting up guideline-directed therapy for myocarditis, proper follow-up, as well as recommending abstention from physical activity.
Spontaneous thrombosis of a giant aneurysm complicated with the coronary-to-pulmonary artery fistula: a case report
Authors: Takahashi Tomonori , Wakatsuki Tetsuzo , Ise Takayuki , Sata Masataka
Published: April 2024

Background

A coronary-to-pulmonary artery fistula (CPAF) with a giant aneurysm is a rare clinical occurrence. The rupture of an aneurysm leads to a fatal outcome, thus prompting the incorporation of prophylactic measures, which have encompassed surgical resections or endovascular embolization procedures. The indications for these treatment strategies are controversial, and little has been elucidated regarding the salient characteristics underpinning the selection of a therapeutic strategy. We report a case of a giant aneurysm associated with CPAFs that was thrombosed before interventional treatment.

Case summary

A 43-year-old woman, who had previously undergone a right adrenalectomy for primary aldosteronism, was referred for an abnormal heart silhouette on a chest X-ray, which had not been seen three years earlier. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography and coronary angiography (CAG) revealed a giant aneurysm on the anterior aspect of the heart associated with two CPAFs. Because of the risk of rupture of the aneurysm, surgical resection was recommended; however, the patient requested endovascular therapy. On the day of intervention, CAG showed spontaneous occlusion of the feeding vessel to the aneurysm, and the aneurysm showed minimal contrast agent, suggesting spontaneous thrombosis. Because of possible recanalization of the aneurysm, coil embolization was performed, without complications. The patient remained asymptomatic, and the aneurysm was completely embolized at the one-year follow-up.

Discussion

The case shows that minimally invasive endovascular treatment is feasible instead of surgical resection for giant aneurysms associated with CPAFs, depending on their morphological characteristics. This perspective may offer novel insights into treatment strategies for CPAF.
Efficacy of clear aligner wear protocols in orthodontic tooth movement—a systematic review
Authors: Monisha J , Peter Elbe
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives

Different expedited aligner wear protocols are currently in practice. This review was undertaken to systematically appraise the available evidence on the comparative efficacy of orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) across the different wear protocols.

Search methods

Two assessors conducted comprehensive searches of electronic databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Directory of Open Access Journals, Cochrane Library, OpenGrey, and Clinical Trial Registry, till 18 February 2024. Titles and abstracts were independently screened.

Selection criteria

Prospective or retrospective studies comparing expedited wear protocols with the conventional 14-day protocol were included.

Data collection and analysis

A pre-piloted data extraction form was used. Risk of bias (RoB) assessment employed the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool for randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) and the Newcastle–Ottawa scale for non-RCTs. The quality of evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation Pro tool.

Results

Six studies, including 3 RCTs and 3 non-RCTs, were selected from 9076 records. Four studies (two RCTs and two retrospective cohort) found no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) in the OTM efficacy between expedited and conventional protocols. Two studies (one RCT and one prospective cohort) found greater efficacy (P < 0.05) with the 14-day protocol, with the RCT reporting greater efficacy for certain movements, such as maxillary posterior intrusion, maxillary posterior distal tipping and buccal torquing, and mandibular posterior intrusion and extrusion. One RCT reported statistically insignificant difference (P > 0.05) in pain perception between the 10-day and 14-day protocols. Two studies demonstrated low RoB, two moderate, and two high RoB. The evidence level was very-low for OTM efficacy and high for pain perception. Meta-analysis was precluded due to significant heterogeneity among the studies.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the study, the 7-day, 10-day, and 14-day protocols did not show any significant difference in OTM efficacy, except for certain movements that exhibited superior outcomes with the 14-day wear. Hence, a ‘hybrid aligner-wear protocol’, based on clinical judgement, might serve a better alternative in complex situations.

Registration

PROSPERO CRD42021288179
Myocardial reperfusion injury exacerbation due to ALDH2 deficiency is mediated by neutrophil extracellular traps and prevented by leukotriene C4 inhibition
Authors: Yang Kun , Gao Rifeng , Chen Hanchuan , Hu Jingjing , Zhang Peng , Wei Xiang , Shi Jiaran , Chen Yinyin , Zhang Liwei , Chen Juntao , Lyu Yang , Dong Zhen , Wei Wei , Hu Kai , Guo Yansong , Ge Junbo , Sun Aijun
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

The Glu504Lys polymorphism in the aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) gene is closely associated with myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury (I/RI). The effects of ALDH2 on neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation (i.e. NETosis) during I/RI remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of ALDH2 in NETosis in the pathogenesis of myocardial I/RI.

Methods

The mouse model of myocardial I/RI was constructed on wild-type, ALDH2 knockout, peptidylarginine deiminase 4 (Pad4) knockout, and ALDH2/PAD4 double knockout mice. Overall, 308 ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients after primary percutaneous coronary intervention were enrolled in the study.

Results

Enhanced NETosis was observed in human neutrophils carrying the ALDH2 genetic mutation and ischaemic myocardium of ALDH2 knockout mice compared with controls. PAD4 knockout or treatment with NETosis-targeting drugs (GSK484, DNase1) substantially attenuated the extent of myocardial damage, particularly in ALDH2 knockout. Mechanistically, ALDH2 deficiency increased damage-associated molecular pattern release and susceptibility to NET-induced damage during myocardial I/RI. ALDH2 deficiency induced NOX2-dependent NETosis via upregulating the endoplasmic reticulum stress/microsomal glutathione S-transferase 2/leukotriene C4 (LTC4) pathway. The Food and Drug Administration-approved LTC4 receptor antagonist pranlukast ameliorated I/RI by inhibiting NETosis in both wild-type and ALDH2 knockout mice. Serum myeloperoxidase–DNA complex and LTC4 levels exhibited the predictive effect on adverse left ventricular remodelling at 6 months after primary percutaneous coronary intervention in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients.

Conclusions

ALDH2 deficiency exacerbates myocardial I/RI by promoting NETosis via the endoplasmic reticulum stress/microsomal glutathione S-transferase 2/LTC4/NOX2 pathway. This study hints at the role of NETosis in the pathogenesis of myocardial I/RI, and pranlukast might be a potential therapeutic option for attenuating I/RI, particularly in individuals with the ALDH2 mutation.
Truncated pseudo-differential operator √−▽2 and its applications in viscoacoustic reverse-time migration
Authors: Yang Jidong , Qin Shanyuan , Huang Jianping , Zhu Hejun , Lumley David , McMechan George , Sun Jiaxing , Zhang Houzhu
Published: April 2024

The pseudo-differential operator with symbol |k|α has been widely used in seismic modelling and imaging when involving attenuation, anisotropy and one-way wave equation, which is usually calculated using the pseudo-spectral method. For large-scale problems, applying high-dimensional Fourier transforms to solve the wave equation that includes pseudo-differential operators is much more expensive than finite-difference approaches, and it is not suitable for parallel computing with domain decomposition. To mitigate this difficulty, we present a truncated space-domain convolution method to efficiently compute the pseudo-differential operator $\sqrt{-\nabla ^2}$, and then apply it to viscoacoustic reverse-time migration. Although $\sqrt{-\nabla ^2}$ is theoretically non-local in the space domain, we take the limited frequency band of seismic data into account, and constrain the approximated convolution stencil to a finite length. The convolution coefficients are computed by solving a least-squares inverse problem in the wavenumber domain. In addition, we exploit the symmetry of the resulting convolution stencil and develop a fast spatial convolution algorithm. The applications of the proposed method in Q-compensated reverse-time migration demonstrate that it is a good alternative to the pseudo-spectral method for computing the pseudo-differential operator $\sqrt{-\nabla ^2}$, with almost the same accuracy but much higher efficiency.
Levels of Airborne Sound And Substrate-borne Vibration Calling Are Negatively Related Across Neotropical False-leaf Katydids
Authors: Kernan Ciara E , Robillard Tony , Martinson Sharon J , Dong Jiajia , Hamel Jennifer A , Symes Laurel B , ter Hofstede Hannah M
Published: April 2024

Synopsis

Animals often signal in multiple sensory modalities to attract mates, but the level of signaling investment in each modality can differ dramatically between individuals and across species. When functionally overlapping signals are produced in different modalities, their relative use can be influenced by many factors, including differences in signal active space, energetic costs, and predation risk. Characterizing differences in total signal investment across time can shed light on these factors, but requires long focal recordings of signal production. Neotropical pseudophylline katydids produce mate advertisement signals as airborne sound and substrate-borne vibration. Airborne calls, produced via stridulation, are extremely short, high-frequency, and longer-range signals. Conversely, substrate-borne calls produced via abdominal tremulation are longer, low-frequency, relatively more energetically costly, and shorter-range signals. To examine patterns of stridulation and tremulation across species and test hypotheses about the drivers of signal use in each modality, we recorded multimodal signaling activity over 24 hours for males from 10 pseudophylline species from a single Panamanian community. We also collected data on demographic and morphological species characteristics, and acoustic features of airborne calls, such as bandwidth, peak frequency, and duration. Finally, we generated a molecular phylogeny for these species and used phylogenetic generalized least squares models to test for relationships between variables while controlling for evolutionary relationships. We found a negative relationship between sound and vibration calling, indicating that substrate-borne vibrational signaling may compensate for reduced airborne signaling in these species. Sound call bandwidth and the proportion of males collected at lights, a proxy for the amount of male movement, also explained a significant amount of variation in sound calling across species, indicating that the overall relationship between the two types of calling signals may be mediated by the specific characteristics of the signals as well as other species traits.
Counting and Equidistribution of Reciprocal Geodesics and Dihedral Groups
Authors: Erlandsson Viveka , Souto Juan
Published: April 2024

We study the growth of the number of conjugacy classes of infinite dihedral subgroups of lattices in $\operatorname{PSL}_{2}{\mathbb{R}}$, generalizing the earlier work of Sarnak [ 9] and Bourgain–Kontorovich [ 4] on the growth of the number of reciprocal geodesics on the modular surface. We also prove that reciprocal geodesics are equidistributed in the unit tangent bundle.
Vitamin and mineral supplementation to beef heifers during gestation: impacts on morphometric measurements of the neonatal calf, vitamin and trace mineral status, blood metabolite and endocrine profiles, and calf organ characteristics at 30 h after birth
Authors: Hurlbert Jennifer L , Menezes Ana Clara B , Baumgaertner Friederike , Bochantin-Winders Kerri A , Jurgens Isabella M , Kirsch James D , Amat Samat , Sedivec Kevin K , Swanson Kendall C , Dahlen Carl R
Published: April 2024

To examine the effects of feeding a vitamin and mineral supplement to beef heifers throughout gestation on mineral status and hormone/endocrine profiles in the dam and calf, and morphometric characteristics and organ mass of the calf at 30 h after birth, Angus-based heifers (n = 72, 14 to 15 mo of age, initial body weight [BW] = 380.4 ± 50.56 kg) were estrus synchronized and artificially inseminated (AI) with female-sexed semen. Heifers were blocked by BW and randomly assigned to receive either a basal diet (CON; n = 36) or a basal diet plus a vitamin and mineral supplement (VTM; n = 36) via an individual feeding system beginning at breeding, with both diets targeting BW gains of 0.45 kg heifer−1·d−1. Heifers not pregnant after the first AI (CON, n = 19; VTM, n = 18) were rebred via AI 60 d after treatment initiation, and heifers gestating female fetuses (CON, n = 7; VTM, n = 7) received treatments throughout gestation and were experimental units for this study. Calves were separated from their dams and fed colostrum replacer within 2 h of birth and euthanized 30 h after the first feeding. Calf morphometrics were recorded, and tissues were weighed and sampled. Serum from the dam at calving and serum, liver, and muscle from the calf at 30 h were analyzed for concentrations of minerals. Serum from the dam and calf were analyzed for concentrations of leptin, vitamins A, D, and E, cortisol, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor 1. All response variables were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Calf body morphometrics and BW of the dam at calving (P ≥ 0.32), calf organ weights (P ≥ 0.21), and calf ovarian follicle counts (P ≥ 0.13) were not affected by maternal treatment. Concentrations of Se and Co in calf serum and Se in calf liver were increased (P ≤ 0.02) in VTM. Serum concentrations of Co and vitamin A in the dam were greater (P ≤ 0.01) in supplemented compared with nonsupplemented dams, and serum concentrations of vitamin D were greater (P ≤ 0.0003) in supplemented dams and calves compared with the nonsupplemented cohort. Maternal supplementation supported vitamin and mineral status in the neonate, yet had no discernable impact on BW, organ mass, or circulating hormones/metabolites in the calf. Evaluating offspring at later postnatal time points is warranted to determine if prenatal vitamin and mineral supplementation affects performance, health, metabolism, and efficiency of energy utilization in key metabolic tissues in the calf.
Hot water mound drench treatment can be used for physical control of red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Li Qunchen , Wang Yuhua , Qi Guojun , Fan Min , Ye Tongen , Wang Gang , Shi Daxia , He Yurong , Wang Desen
Published: April 2024

Hot water mound drench treatment has broad application prospects in the control of the red imported fire ant (RIFA), Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). However, much work still needs to be carried out to provide a theoretical basis and technical support for the use of this method against RIFAs under field conditions. In this study, we monitored the temperature changes at different depths within RIFA nests during laboratory-simulated hot water mound drench experiments and evaluated the lethal effect of hot water treatment on RIFAs. Furthermore, the targeted removal effect of hot water mound drench treatment on RIFA nests under field conditions was evaluated. Results indicated that the temperature at depths of 5, 15, and 25 cm inside the simulated ant nests was higher than 51.1 °C within 30 min after treatment, resulting in a 100% mortality rate for RIFAs at all tested depths. Under field conditions, when nests were disturbed, the percentage of RIFAs crawling out of their nests gradually increased with time after disturbance, reached its maximum value at 25 or 30 s after the disturbance, and then gradually decreased. Single hot water mound drench treatment (each ant nest was treated with 17.8–21.6 liter of hot water at a temperature of 97–100 °C) can significantly reduce the RIFA population in ant nests and lead to a 72.7% reduction in the number of surviving ant nests. However, the safety, operability, and timelines of hot water mound drench treatment for RIFA field control still need further investigation.
Phenology and sampling crawlers of rhodesgrass mealybug (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) in Georgia golf course putting greens
Authors: Wolverton Robert M , Joseph Shimat V
Published: April 2024

Rhodesgrass mealybug, Antonina graminis Maskell (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is an emerging pest of turfgrass in Georgia golf course putting greens. Because the feeding damage of A. graminis severely affects the aesthetics of the putting surface, it is necessary to understand the phenology of A. graminis on putting greens. To develop management strategies, the temporal emergence of crawlers is determined; however, a sampling tool for A. graminis crawlers on putting greens has not been developed. Thus, the objectives were to determine (i) the phenology of A. graminis and turfgrass quality and (ii) the best trap types for sampling crawlers on the putting greens in Georgia. From 2019 to 2022, 10–20 turfgrass plugs were sampled from the putting greens at biweekly intervals from the spring to fall. The numbers of crawlers, sessile nymphs, and adults of A. graminis were quantified from these plug samples. To determine the best trap types for sampling crawlers, 6 trap types were evaluated on the putting greens in 2021 and 2022. In the spring, the A. graminis densities remained low until June or July, then all stages of A. graminis increased. In the late fall and winter, A. graminis densities declined and remained low. The turfgrass quality improved temporally from April to June but progressively declined from the mid-to-late summer to fall. Significantly greater numbers of crawlers were sampled in the paper-folded sticky card method than in the turfgrass plug method. Thus, sticky traps could be used to sample crawlers for pest management decision.
Evaluation of drug-related problems and cost-saving of pharmacist-led intervention among hospitalized elderly patients
Authors: Rajakumar Sutha , Rajah Retha , Yuan Tea Yuan , Ven Yee Chong , Yen Lee Tsu
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to assess drug-related problems (DRPs) and the cost implication of pharmacist intervention (PI) among hospitalized elderly patients.

Methods

Ward pharmacists reviewed the patients’ pharmacotherapy charts, identified the DRP, and discussed the PI with the prescriber. Descriptive analysis was performed on the data collected.

Key findings

More than half (58.0%) of DRPs were reported in elderly patients, which consist mostly of inappropriate drug doses or frequency (47.3%). The total estimated drug cost-saving of PI was RM 5206.76 (USD 1195.76).

Conclusions

PI has substantially reduced inappropriate drug therapy and contributed to saving drug-related costs.