bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of oligosaccharide product distributions of PL7 alginate lyases by their structural elements
Authors: Zhang Keke , Li Zhijian , Zhu Qiaoyun , Cao Huansheng , He Xinxin , Zhang Xiao-Hua , Liu Weizhi , Lyu Qianqian
Published: August 2022

Alginate lyases can be used to produce well-defined alginate oligosaccharides (AOSs) because of their specificities for AOS products. A large number of alginate lyases have been recorded in the CAZy database; however, the majority are annotated-only alginate lyases that include little information on their products, thus limiting their applications. Here, we establish a simple and experiment-saving approach to predict product distributions for PL7 alginate lyases through extensive structural biology, bioinformatics and biochemical studies. Structural study on several PL7 alginate lyases reveals that two loops around the substrate binding cleft determine product distribution. Furthermore, a database containing the loop information of all annotated-only single-domain PL7 alginate lyases is constructed, enabling systematic exploration of the association between loop and product distribution. Based on these results, a simplified loop/product distribution relationship is proposed, giving us information on product distribution directly from the amino acid sequence.
Gonadal sex patterns p21-induced cellular senescence in mouse and human glioblastoma
Authors: Broestl Lauren , Warrington Nicole M. , Grandison Lucia , Abou-Antoun Tamara , Tung Olivia , Shenoy Saraswati , Tallman Miranda M. , Rhee Gina , Yang Wei , Sponagel Jasmin , Yang Lihua , Kfoury-Beaumont Najla , Hill Cameron M. , Qanni Sulaiman A. , Mao Diane D. , Kim Albert H. , Stewart Sheila A. , Venere Monica , Luo Jingqin , Rubin Joshua B.
Published: August 2022

Males exhibit higher incidence and worse prognosis for the majority of cancers, including glioblastoma (GBM). Disparate survival may be related to sex-biased responses to treatment, including radiation. Using a mouse model of GBM, we show that female cells are more sensitive to radiation, and that senescence represents a major component of the radiation therapeutic response in both sexes. Correlation analyses revealed that the CDK inhibitor p21 and irradiation induced senescence were differentially regulated between male and female cells. Indeed, female cellular senescence was more sensitive to changes in p21 levels, a finding that was observed in wildtype and transformed murine astrocytes, as well as patient-derived GBM cell lines. Using a novel Four Core Genotypes model of GBM, we further show that sex differences in p21-induced senescence are patterned during early development by gonadal sex. These data provide a rationale for the further study of sex differences in radiation response and how senescence might be enhanced for radiation sensitization. The determination that p21 and gonadal sex are required for sex differences in radiation response will serve as a foundation for these future mechanistic studies.
High-precision iron isotopic measurements in low resolution using collision cell (CC)-MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Wang Jing , Tang Dong-Mei , Su Ben-Xun , Yuan Qing-Han , Li Wen-Jun , Gao Bing-Yu , Chen Kai-Yun , Bao Zhi-An , Zhao Ye
Published: July 2022

Fe isotopic measurements in low resolution mode, using Nu Sapphire CC-MC-ICP-MS.
Metabolic responses in the cortex and hippocampus induced by Il-15rα mutation
Authors: He Yi , Ge Lijun , Tong Fang , Zheng Peng , Yang Jian , Zhou Jingjing , Sun Zuoli , Wang Haixia , Yang Shun , Li Yifan , Yu Yuxin
Published: August 2022

Metabolomics showed distinct metabolic phenotypes of the different brain regions related to the IL-15 system, enhancing our understanding of the IL-15 system and its interactions with neuropsychiatric disorders.
Copper-incorporation for polytypism and bandgap engineering of MAPbBr3 perovskite thin films with enhanced near-Infrared photocurrent-response
Authors: Elattar Amr , Kangsabanik Jiban , Nakao Kodai , Tsutsumi Kosei , Suzuki Hiroo , Nishikawa Takeshi , Thygesen Kristian S. , Hayashi Yasuhiko
Published: August 2022

Formation of secondary phase polytypes through incorporation of copper into MAPbBr3 perovskite yields bandgap reduction with generation of near-IR photocarriers.
Production of γ-valerolactone over mesoporous CuO catalysts using formic acid as the hydrogen source
Authors: Ayashi Neda , Najafi Chermahini Alireza , Amiri Ramsheh Nasim , Luque Rafael
Published: August 2022

In the present study, the conversion of levulinic acid (LA), butyl levulinate (BL), and ethyl levulinate (EL) to valuable biomass-derived compound γ-valerolactone (GVL) is studied.
3D printable polyethyleneimine based hydrogel adsorbents for heavy metal ions removal
Authors: Finny Abraham Samuel , Cheng Nadia , Popoola Oluwatosin , Andreescu Silvana
Published: August 2022

A 3D printed hydrogel-based adsorbent provides an easy, eco-friendly, and cost-effective way to remove heavy metal ions from aqueous environments.
Online localization and phase selection of multiple partial discharge sources in cross‐bonded cable networks
Authors: Shahinfar Kian , Shahrtash Seyed Mohammad
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a novel rule‐based method for online localization and phase selection of multiple partial discharge (PD) sources in cross‐bonded cable (CBC) networks by simultaneous measurements of PD pulse trains at all link boxes. The proposed method detects PD defective cable sections (localization task) and their corresponding defective phases (phase selection task) regardless of the number of PD sources inside the CBC network and their severity differences. For the first time, the proposed method is capable of detecting more than one PD source by analysing PD pulse trains. Numerous simulations of different case studies performed in EMTPRV software indicate highly accurate performance of the proposed method even at high noise levels.
A novel deviation density peaks clustering algorithm and its applications of medical image segmentation
Authors: Zhou Wei , Wang Limin , Han Xuming , Li Mingyang
Published: July 2022

The density peaks clustering (DPC) algorithm can identify clusters with various shapes and densities in the underlying dataset. However, the DPC algorithm cannot exactly find the true quantity of clustering centers when computing the local density, and it is difficult to handle non‐convex datasets. Moreover, the DPC algorithm is difficult to identify boundary points and outliers without a reasonable allocation strategy when dealing with low‐density points. To solve these limitations, a novel deviation density peaks clustering (DeDPC) algorithm is proposed. First, the local deviation of the spatial distance of datasets with different structures is utilised to replace the local density to generate a more reasonable clustering center decision graph. Second, a threshold is defined to further divide and process low‐density points. Finally, outliers in low‐density points can be accurately found to accurately cluster the dataset. To evaluate the performance of the DeDPC algorithm, experiments are conducted on synthetic and real‐world datasets and the DeDPC is compared with other clustering methods. The DeDPC is also applied to medical image segmentation to further demonstrate its capability for medical image processing. The simulation results show that the DeDPC method has good validity and utility for both non‐convex datasets and medical image segmentation.
Hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanoparticles on the surface of two kinds of Ti3C2 co‐catalysts with different interlayer spacing towards enhanced photocatalytic activity
Authors: Luo Qiang , Wu Yan , Chen Jibing , Cai Qizhou
Published: August 2022

One of the methods for improving photocatalytic efficiency is using suitable co‐catalysts which can promote the separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. In this study, a typical MXene material, layered Ti3C2, was selected as a co‐catalyst and acquired by selectively etching Al element from Ti3AlC2 using hydrogen fluoride (HF), and then the interlayer spacing of Ti3C2 was reduced through ultrasonic oscillation treatment. By subsequent hydrothermal reactions, the ZnO nanoparticles successfully grew on the surface of two kinds of layered Ti3C2 without and with ultrasonic oscillation treatment (Ti3C2 and Ti3C2‐U), thus yielding two ZnO/Ti3C2 composite photocatalysts (ZTX and ZTUX samples), respectively. Compared with the pure ZnO, ZTX and ZTUX samples have significantly improved photocatalytic activity, which arises from the efficient separation of photogenerated electrons and holes depending on the appropriate Fermi level position of Ti3C2. Besides, the ZTUX photocatalysts on the whole exhibit higher photocatalytic activity compared with the ZTX photocatalysts, depending on narrower layer spacing of Ti3C2‐U which facilitates transport of photogenerated electrons.
Metallicities and ages for star clusters and their surrounding fields in the Large Magellanic Cloud
Authors: Narloch W. , Pietrzyński G. , Gieren W. , Piatti A. E. , Karczmarek P. , Górski M. , Graczyk D. , Smolec R. , Hajdu G. , Suchomska K. , Zgirski B. , Wielgórski P. , Pilecki B. , Taormina M. , Kałuszyński M. , Pych W. , Rojas García G. , Lewis M. O.
Published: July 2022

Aims. We study 147 star clusters in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) in order to determine their mean metallicities and ages, as well as the mean metallicities of 80 surrounding fields. We construct an age–metallicity relation (AMR) for the clusters in the LMC.

Methods. For this purpose, we used Strömgren photometry obtained with the SOI camera on the 4.1 m SOAR telescope. We derived the metallicities of individual stars utilizing a metallicity calibration of the Strömgren (b − y) and m1 colors from the literature. Cluster ages were determined from the isochrone fitting.

Results. We found the mean metallicity and age for 110 star clusters. For the remaining 37, we provide an age estimation only. To the best of our knowledge, for 29 clusters from our sample, we provide both the metallicity and age for the first time, whereas for 66 clusters, we provide a first determination of the metallicity, and for 43 clusters, the first estimation of the age. We also calculated the mean metallicities for stars from 80 fields around the clusters. The results were then analyzed for spatial metallicity and age distributions of clusters in the LMC, as well as their AMR. The old, metal-poor star clusters occur both in and out of the LMC bar region, while intermediate-age clusters are located mostly outside of the bar. The majority of star clusters younger than 1 Gyr are located in the bar region. We find a good agreement between our AMR and theoretical models of the LMC chemical enrichment, as well as with AMRs for clusters from the literature. Next, we took advantage of 26 stellar clusters from our sample which host Cepheid variables and used them as an independent check of the correctness of our age determination procedure. We used period-age relations for Cepheids to calculate the mean age of a given cluster and compared it with the age obtained from isochrone fitting. We find good agreement between these ages, especially for models taking into account additional physical processes (e.g., rotation). We also compared the AMR of the LMC and Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC) derived in a uniform way and we note that they indicate possible former interaction between these two galaxies. The Strömgren photometry obtained for this study has been made publicly available.
Intervelocity of galaxy pairs in ΛCDM
Authors: Pawlowski Marcel S. , Kanehisa Kosuke Jamie , Taibi Salvatore , Li Pengfei
Published: August 2022

Context. Observational studies of pairs of galaxies have uncovered that their differential line-of-sight velocities indicate the presence of a peak in their three-dimensional (3D) intervelocity distribution at 130−150 km s−1. It had been argued that galaxy pairs in the standard model of cosmology, ΛCDM, should not exhibit such an intervelocity peak, while modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) predicts such a preferred intervelocity for paired galaxies. However, no direct comparison with ΛCDM applying the same selection criteria and methodology as the observational studies has been performed at present, placing the comparison on uncertain footing.

Aims. To rectify this situation, we investigate this potential challenge to ΛCDM by determining whether an analog of the observed intervelocity peak is present in galaxy pairs within the IllustrisTNG-300 cosmological simulation.

Methods. We identified galaxy pairs following the observational study’s selection criteria, measured their projected velocity difference, and analyzed both the de-projected and the full velocity difference for this galaxy pair sample in the simulation.

Results. We recovered a deprojected intervelocity peak at ∼130 km s−1 for galaxy pairs selected from the simulation. The full 3D velocity information available for the pairs in the simulation also reveals a clear preference for this intervelocity.

Conclusions. The intervelocity peak among galaxy pairs does not appear to be a feature unique to MOND, as it is also present in ΛCDM. Thus, it cannot be claimed to be a unique success characteristic of either theory over the other. Developing the galaxy pair intervelocity into a test of gravity in the low-acceleration regime will require more detailed studies to identify measurable differences among the models.
GaiaData Release 3
Authors: Carnerero Maria I. , Raiteri Claudia M. , Rimoldini Lorenzo , Busonero Deborah , Licata Enrico , Mowlavi Nami , Lecoeur-Taïbi Isabelle , Audard Marc , Holl Berry , Gavras Panagiotis , Nienartowicz Krzysztof , Jevardat de Fombelle Grégory , Carballo Ruth , Clementini Gisella , Delchambre Ludovic , Klioner Sergei , Lattanzi Mario G. , Eyer Laurent
Published: August 2022

Context.One of the novelties ofGaiadata release 3 (DR3) with respect to the previous data releases is the publication of the multiband light curves for about 1 million active galactic nuclei (AGN) and of the values of some parameters characterising their variability properties.

Aims.The goal of this work is the creation of a catalogue of variable AGN, the selection of which is based onGaiadata only.

Methods.We first present the implementation of the methods used to estimate the variability parameters within the framework of a specific object study module for AGN (SOS-AGN). We then describe the selection procedure that led to the definition of the high-purityGaiavariable AGN sample and analyse the properties of the selected sources. We started from a sample of millions of sources, which were identified as AGN candidates using 11 different classifiers based on variability processing. Because the focus is on the variability properties, we first defined some pre-requisites in terms of number of data points in theGband and mandatory variability parameters. A series of filters was then applied using onlyGaiadata and theGaiaCelestial Reference Frame 3 (Gaia-CRF3) sample as a reference.

Results.The resultingGaiaAGN variable sample, named GLEAN, contains about 872 000 objects, more than 21 000 of which are new identifications. We checked for the presence of contaminants by cross-matching the selected sources with a variety of galaxies and stellar catalogues. The completeness of GLEAN with respect to the variable AGN in the last Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) quasar catalogue is ∼47%, while that based on the variable AGN of theGaia-CRF3 sample is ∼51%. The set of filters applied to the sources selected by SOS-AGN to increase the sample purity reduced the source number by about 37%. From both a comparison with other AGN catalogues and an investigation of possible contaminants, we conclude that purity can be expected to be above 95%. The multi-wavelength properties of these sources are investigated. In particular, we estimate that ∼4% of them are radio-loud. We finally explore the possibility to evaluate the time-lags between the flux variations of the multiple images of strongly lensed quasars, and show one case.
Gaia-supported re-discovery of a remarkable weak line quasar from a variability and proper motion survey
Authors: Meusinger Helmut , Scholz Ralf-Dieter
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate that VPMS J170850.95+433223.7 is a weak line quasar (WLQ) which is remarkable in several respects. It was already classified as a probable quasar two decades ago, but with considerable uncertainty. The non-significant proper motion and parallax from the Gaia Early Data Release 3 have solidified this assumption. Based on previously unpublished spectra, we show that VPMS J170850.95+433223.7 is a WLQ at z = 2.345 with immeasurably faint broad emission lines in the rest-frame ultraviolet. A preliminary estimate suggests that it hosts a supermassive black hole of ∼109 M⊙ accreting close to the Eddington limit, perhaps at the super-Eddington level. We identify two absorber systems with blueward velocity offsets of 0.05c and 0.1c, which could represent high-velocity outflows, which are perhaps related to the high accretion state of the quasar.
The effect of the genotype of servicing bulls on the growth and development of Hereford young stock
Authors: Nemtseva Elena , Lavrentiev Anatoly , Mikhailova Lilia , Voronova Inna , Ignatieva Natalia
Published: August 2022

In the studies, the growth and development indicators of the Hereford young stock were studied, depending on the origin. The average daily growth of calf bulls aged 824±16.4 g, 8 months – 962.5±14.6 g, 9 months – 981.5±18.6 g, 12 months – 986.1±19.2 g. The height at hips of calf bulls aged 205 days was 109±11.7 cm, 8 months – 111±9.4 g, 9 months – 112±6.8 cm, 12 months – 124±7.9 cm. The average daily increase in heifers aged 205 days was 853.6±11.3 g, 8 months – 854.2±17.5 g, 9 months – 870.3±18.2 g, 12 months – 850±10.5 g, 15 months – 831.1±15.6 g, 18 months – 777.8±16.5 g. The height at hips of calves aged 205 days was 106±9.8 cm, 8 months – 109±7.8 g, 9 months – 110±11.1 cm, 12 months – 118±8.9 cm, 15 months – 121±10.9 cm, 18 months – 125±13.2 cm. It was found that the growth rate of calves and calf bulls on fattening is influenced by the father genotype. When comparing the average live weight of young stock at the age of 18 months, the best results were in calf bulls received from the bull Perets 3989 – 375.8±17.5 kg, this is 3.8 kg more than the same indicator for calf bulls received from the bull Timeline 2930348, and 7.8 kg more than the bull Emulation 2909514, and by the live weight of heifers at the age of 18 months the leader is the Timeline 2930348- 352.6±25.2 kg.
Peculiarities of the course of acute radiation injury in mice against the background of iodine and selenium preparations
Authors: Brevnova S.A. , Vasiliev R.О. , Тroshin Е.I. , Yugatova N.Yu. , Кaidalova О.I.
Published: August 2022

In experiments on mice the study of the radioprotective and radiotherapeutic efficacy of the combined use of the selenium-containing feed additive DAFS-25k and the iodine-containing preparation Monclavit-1 was carried out. It has been shown that intragastric administration of DAFS-25k oil solution 3 hours before the total, external, single exposure to γ-radiation, and the subsequent (in 12 hours) intragastric administration of an aqueous solution of Monclavit-1, increases the survival rate of irradiated animals to 67% versus 17% in the control animals. The mechanisms of radioprotective efficacy are assumed to be the antioxidant activity of selenium compounds in DAFS-25k, normalization of thyroid function and relief of gastrointestinal syndrome due to the pronounced antimicrobial activity of Monclavit-1.
Features of the growth of repair heifers depending on the inbreeding degree
Authors: Gorelik O.V. , Gorelik A.S. , Lopaeva N.L. , Zaitseva T.N. , Kanev P.N.
Published: August 2022

The Ural type of the domestic black-and-white breed is distinguished by high productivity indicators, good suitability for use in the conditions of industrial milk technology. To obtain modern dairy cattle, related breeds were used in the herds, a significant number of animals obtained as a result of closely related breeding were revealed. the study of the influence of the degree of inbreeding on the growth and development of repair young is relevant and has practical significance. It was found that the live weight of heifers in all accounting periods practically did not differ, that is, it can be said that the method of obtaining heifers using unrelated or related selection did not affect the dynamics of live weight during their cultivation. The average daily gains in live weight differed slightly by growth periods and by groups. So they were higher in the periods from the first to the first fruitful insemination and from 10 to 12 months, lower gains were noted in the period from the moment of fruitful insemination to 18 months of age. The highest milk yield for lactation was obtained from the first heifers with a remote degree of inbreeding.
Modern models of agro-industrial production organization in Uzbekistan
Authors: Yuldashev N.K. , Nabokov V.I. , Nekrasov K.V. , Djurabaev O.D.
Published: August 2022

The objective need to increase economic efficiency and to intensify the functioning of the agro-industrial complex poses new challenges related to the choice of competitive models that contribute to the maximum use of production capacities and the entire potential of the agricultural sector. The study of the development dynamics of different forms of management has shown a significant impact of various organizational forms and types of integration on economic growth, the sustainability of economic development, the competitiveness of the products of the agro-industrial complex (AIC). The study of the development evolution of integrated structures allowed to pay special attention to the functioning of cluster structures in the agro-industrial complex, to their high socio-economic and other efficiency. The important advantages of agro-industrial clusters in agricultural production include their use of the competitive advantages of the respective regions engaged in the production of certain food products, considering the geographical location of the regions of the republic, their climatic and other conditions. In addition, the use by clusters of existing opportunities characteristic of integrated systems for the development and improvement of the technical and technological base of all branches of the agro-industrial complex of the country.
Experimental determination of the optimum oil palm planting density in Western Africa
Authors: Bonneau Xavier , Impens Reinout
Published: August 2022

This article follows on from two articles published in 2014 and 2018 on the same trial conducted in an oil palm plantation in Nigeria which was aimed at assessing a range of different planting distances between oil palms (7.5 to 9.5 m) in an equilateral triangle design. The climate in the region is very stable, with two seasons and an average 2000 mm of rainfall per year. The soil is of the desaturated ferralitic type, sandy on the surface, deep, and without coarse elements. After continually monitoring the experimental palms for 16 years, there is now enough hindsight to propose an optimum planting density for oil palms in Western Africa. A plateau has been reached at between 143 and 160 palms per hectare for Pobè C1001F material in the aforementioned pedoclimatic context.
L’expérience des internes de médecine générale de l’Université de Versailles-Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines à l’égard de la thèse rédigée en groupe
Authors: Valayden Melvina , François Mathilde , Kowalski Clotilde
Published: August 2022

Contexte et problématique : Il a été montré dans plusieurs études que les internes en médecine générale (IMG) éprouvent des difficultés à réaliser leur thèse. Ils citent le manque de formation méthodologique, la difficulté à trouver un sujet et un directeur de thèse. À l’Université de Versailles, un groupe de 17 IMG a fait sa thèse sur un projet commun : réaliser une synthèse de la littérature sur 15 procédures de soins prescrits en MG, sans efficacité prouvée ou potentiellement dangereux, pour créer une «Top five list » en médecine générale. Objectif : Evaluer les perceptions des IMG ayant participé à ce projet et examiner si un travail en groupe coopératif, collaboratif et supervisé, pouvait faciliter l’élaboration de la thèse d’exercice. Méthodes : Une approche qualitative recourant à des groupes de discussion focalisée a été mise en œuvre. Deux groupes ont pu être constitués, regroupant respectivement quatre et trois internes sur 17. Les verbatim ont été fait l’objet d’une catégorisation thématique dans le cadre d’une approche inductive interprétative. Résultats : Les perceptions des internes ayant participé à ce projet étaient très positives. Les étudiants étaient satisfaits du cadrage méthodologique, de la formation spécifique fournie et soulignent les bénéfices du travail d’équipe. Le groupe a eu un effet propulseur et de soutien psychologique. Conclusion : Au terme de cette étude, il apparaît que l’organisation en groupe des travaux en vue de l’obtention de la thèse d’exercice en MG sont à encourager; ils pourraient apporter des solutions aux difficultés identifiées concernant le format classique de travail individuel.
Passive cooling techniques for ventilation: an updated review
Authors: Al-Shamkhee Dhafer , Al-Aasam Anwer Basim , Al-Waeli Ali H.A. , Abusaibaa Ghaith Yahay , Moria Hazim
Published: August 2022

The consumption of energy for cooling is an important issue, especially in subtropical climates where there are high temperatures and dry weather in the summer; this climate forces homeowners to use mechanical-electric cooling and ventilation. The main advantage of passive cooling is to minimize energy demands which are required to achieve thermal comfort in buildings, especially with climates exhibiting high ambient temperatures. This paper presents a detailed literature review and concept breakdown for passive cooling and ventilation in building by offering the fundamental principles of the techniques of passive cooling and ventilation. Moreover, the status of passive cooling developments along with state-of-the-art research is critically reviewed in this paper. Furthermore, the article focuses on Buoyancy air-driven ventilation. Solar control techniques are explained and classified along with techniques for heat modification and dissipation. This paper offers insight into the design considerations of different passive ventilation systems and presents recommendations for future work to achieve cost-efficient, comfortable living. Moreover, novel systems are reviewed and discussed to better understand the role of Phase Change Material (PCM) in passive cooling systems.
Evaluation of Salivary Thiol/Disulfide Homeostasis and Oxidative Stress in Children with Severe Early Childhood Caries Using a Novel Method
Authors: Soğukpinar Önsüren Asli , Mutluay Merve , Seyithanoğlu Muhammed , Tanriverdi Burak
Published: August 2022

Objective This study aimed to assess the role of thiol/disulfide homeostasis and oxidative stress in the saliva of children with severe early childhood caries (S-ECC).

Methods Eighty children aged 3 to 6 years were involved in this case-control study. The study consisted of two groups: the study group (S-ECC) and the control group with no caries. Thiol/disulfide homeostasis and antioxidant levels were calculated after obtaining unstimulated saliva samples from all participating children.

Results The native/total thiol and total oxidant status (TOS) levels of the study group were higher than those of the control group, though not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The oxidative stress index (OSI) value was significantly higher in the study group compared to the control group (p = 0.024).

Conclusion Our results confirmed that the thiol/disulfide homeostasis was reduced, and disulfide formation, which is rereducible to thiol, was insufficient in children with S-ECC to compensate oxidative stress compared with the control group. Also, thiol levels were inadequate to compensate for oxidative stress, and thiol/disulfide homeostasis was not an independent parameter for S-ECC. Besides, the increases in the TOS level and OSI value show that oxidative stress had significant effects on S-ECC's etiopathogenesis.
Tracking medical microrobots in the body with ultrasound-based imaging
Authors: McConnon Aili
Published: August 2022

The peculiar motions of helical propellers enable rejection of most physiological noise and improve visibility of tiny medical robots in different anatomical environments.
Effect of biochar doses under various levels of salt stress on soil nutrient availability, soil enzyme activities and plant growth in a marigold crop
Authors: Premalatha R. P. , Malarvizhi P. , Parameswari E.
Published: July 2022

Context Biochar application not only remediates soils contaminated by heavy metals but also improves soil fertility and plant growth in salt-affected soils. Aims The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of water source salinity and biochar on soil properties and growth of a marigold (Tagetes erecta) crop. Methods This pot study used a factorial completely randomised design with four levels of salinity of the water source (0.04, 2.01, 3.32 and 5.16 dS m−1) and five biochar doses (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 t ha−1). Salinity treatments contained different proportions of treated tannery effluent, and biochar was derived from water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes). Soil physico-chemical properties, nutrient contents and enzyme activities, and plant biomass, were measured during crop growth and post-harvest. Key results Water salinity level and biochar dose both had significant effects on soil properties. Higher salinity of water and biochar dose increased soil pH, whereas electrical conductivity decreased with biochar application in soils receiving higher salinity water. Soil organic carbon and available nutrients were significantly affected by salinity level and biochar dose. Irrespective of salinity level, biochar application at 10 t ha−1 increased soil organic carbon and available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by 40.5%, 23.1%, 15.2% and 30.5% in post-harvest soils. Enzyme activities and plant growth were significantly reduced at higher salt levels, whereas application of biochar improved these parameters. Conclusions The results indicate that application of biochar at 10 t ha−1 significantly promotes nutrient availability and enzyme activities in soils with various levels of salinity. Biochar application enables plant growth primarily by trapping the soluble salts on the pore space available in its surface. Implications Biochar application may help to mitigate nutrient deficiency and crop failure under salt-stress conditions.
Connecting hapū māmā (pregnant women) early to a lead maternity carer: striving for equity using the Best Start-Pregnancy Tool
Authors: Jardine Marie , Topping Chloe , Jansen Rawiri McKree
Published: August 2022

Introduction In Aotearoa New Zealand, lead maternity carers (LMCs) provide maternity care through pregnancy and birth, until 6 weeks’ postpartum. An early LMC connection in pregnancy is associated with better maternal and perinatal health outcomes. However, hapū māmā (pregnant women) may experience barriers to engaging with LMC, delaying screening, risk assessments, and education. These barriers contribute to inequitable health outcomes for Māori māmā and pēpi (Māori mothers and babies). A pro-equity approach to maternity care is warranted. Aim To investigate the LMC plan at the first point of contact with a primary care provider once pregnancy is confirmed, as well as selected risk factors to maternal and perinatal health for Māori and non-Māori hapū māmā. Methods Data entered by primary care providers into the Best Start-Pregnancy Tool were analysed for 482 pregnant women from November 2020 to December 2021. Results Most hapū māmā planned for midwifery care. About one-third of hapū māmā had engaged with a midwife before their first GP visit after a confirmed pregnancy. Māori hapū māmā were more likely to present with risk factors to maternal and perinatal health than non-Māori hapū māmā. Discussion Primary healthcare providers have an expectation to connect hapū māmā to a LMC by 10 weeks’ gestation. More research is needed to identify how to best support Māori hapū māmā to access a LMC early in pregnancy. The Best Start Kōwae is an accessible online tool (currently in an implementation phase) for primary care providers and LMCs that promotes equitable health outcomes for Māori māmā and pēpi.
Prosocial nudges and visual indicators increase social distancing, but authoritative nudges do not
Authors: Banker Mohin , Miller Moses , Voichek Guy , Goor Dafna , Makov Tamar
Published: August 2022

Social distancing reduces the transmission of COVID-19 and other airborne diseases. To test different ways to increase social distancing, we conducted a field experiment at a major US airport using a system that presented color-coded visual indicators on crowdedness. We complemented those visual indicators with nudges commonly used to increase COVID-19–preventive behaviors. Analyzing data from 57,146 travelers, we find that visual indicators and nudges significantly affected social distancing. Introducing visual indicators increased the share of travelers practicing social distancing, and this positive effect was enhanced by introducing nudges focused on personal benefits (“protect yourself”) and public benefits (“protect others”). Conversely, an authoritative nudge referencing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (“don’t break CDC COVID-19 guidelines”) did not change social distancing behavior. Our results demonstrate that visual indicators and informed nudges can boost social distancing and potentially curb the spread of contagious diseases.
Retrieval of photoionization group delay in chirped-attosecond pulses photoelectron streaking experiments
Authors: Zhao Xi , Liu Jiahao , Luo Guoxiang , Wei Changli
Published: August 2022

Photoionization time delays have been investigated in many streaking experiments in which an extreme ultraviolet (XUV) attosecond pulse is used to ionize the target in the presence of a dressing infrared laser field. The discrepancies between the photoionization time delays thus experiment measured and those from many sophisticated theoretical simulations have generated a great deal of controversy in recent years. The difficulty of achieving an accuracy of the retrieved time delays comes from two facts: a so-called wavepacket approximation is introduced to construct the photoionization electron wavepacket, this approximation is invalid if atto-chirp of XUV is non-zero; the other one is that the lower sensitivity of the streaking spectra to the phase of the photoionization transition dipole. Here we present a time delay retrieval method born from our recently proposed ‘phase retrieval of broadband pulses auto correlation’ (PROBP-AC) technology to overcome above limitations. We carefully exam the validity of our method and make a few compare with some other common used retrieval codes, and the simulations demonstrate that more accurate results can be retrieved using PROBP AC. Based on the present method, the angular dependent photoionization time delays can also be retrieved. Our investigation casts doubts on the measured group time delays in previous streaking experiments. We also mention here that a single photoionization group time delay at the XUV peak energy is not enough to represent a complete photoemission process; instead, a fully characterization of the photoionization group time delay over the whole bandwidth of the wave packet is required.
Exact solutions to the angular Teukolsky equation with s ≠ 0
Authors: Chen Chang-Yuan , Wang Xiao-Hua , You Yuan , Sun Dong-Sheng , Lu Fa-Lin , Dong Shi-Hai
Published: August 2022

We first convert the angular Teukolsky equation under the special condition of τ ≠ 0, s ≠ 0, m = 0 into a confluent Heun differential equation (CHDE) by taking different function transformation and variable substitution. And then according to the characteristics of both CHDE and its analytical solution expressed by a confluent Heun function (CHF), we find two linearly dependent solutions corresponding to the same eigenstate, from which we obtain a precise energy spectrum equation by constructing a Wronskian determinant. After that, we are able to localize the positions of the eigenvalues on the real axis or on the complex plane when τ is a real number, a pure imaginary number, and a complex number, respectively and we notice that the relation between the quantum number l and the spin weight quantum number s satisfies the relation l = ∣s∣+ n, n = 0, 1, 2···. The exact eigenvalues and the corresponding normalized eigenfunctions given by the CHF are obtained with the aid of Maple. The features of the angular probability distribution (APD) and the linearly dependent characteristics of two eigenfunctions corresponding to the same eigenstate are discussed. We find that for a real number τ, the eigenvalue is a real number and the eigenfunction is a real function, and the eigenfunction system is an orthogonal complete system, and the APD is asymmetric in the northern and southern hemispheres. For a pure imaginary number τ, the eigenvalue is still a real number and the eigenfunction is a complex function, but the APD is symmetric in the northern and southern hemispheres. When τ is a complex number, the eigenvalue is a complex number, the eigenfunction is still a complex function, and the APD in the northern and southern hemispheres is also asymmetric. Finally, an approximate expression of complex eigenvalues is obtained when n is greater than ∣s∣.
The SAGEX review on scattering amplitudes Chapter 12: Amplitudes and collider physics
Authors: White Chris D
Published: August 2022

We explore how various topics in modern scattering amplitudes research find application in the description of collider physics processes. After a brief review of experimentally measured quantities and how they are related to amplitudes, we summarise recent developments in perturbative QFT, and how they have impacted our ability to do precision physics with colliders. Next, we explain how the study of (next-to-)soft radiation is directly relevant to increasing theoretical precision for key processes at the LHC and related experiments. Finally, we describe the various techniques that are used to turn theoretical calculations into something more closely approaching the output of a particle accelerator.
The Impact of Inoculation with Azotobacter and Azospirillum Bacteria and Chemical Fertilizer on Barley Growth (Hordeum Vulgare L.)
Authors: Farhan Mohammed Jarullah , Khalefah Khalaf Mahmood , Mahdi Altai Salahaldeen Hammadi , Alsajri Firas Ahmed
Published: August 2022

To investigate the effect of using bio-inoculation and chemical fertilizers on barley Hordeum vulgare L. growth, one experiment was applied using sterile soil with a silty clay loam at the Agriculture College Research Station, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Iraq. Completely Random Design (CRD) with two factors, bio and chemical fertilizers, and four levels for each was used to layout the experiment. The biofertilizers treatments were non as a check (NC), Azotobacter (AZ), Azospirillum (AS), Azotobacter and Azospirillum (ASAZ) while the chemical fertilizers levels were 0, 50, 75, and 100 % of barley fertilizers recommendation, which was 120 kg. h-1 NPK. the biofertilizers with ASAZ increased barley plant height, 33.28 cm, dry weight, 5.73 g. plant-1, root weight, 4.86 g. plant-1, and absorbent N, 2.97%, P, 0.35%, K, 2.61% for barley, which were higher than other treatments. Also, the results showed the interaction ASAZ with 75% of barley’s fertilizers recommendation had a higher average for all traits. In short, using biofertilizers reduced 25% of the chemical fertilizer cost.
Selenium Adsorption as Influenced by Different Anions in some Middle Euphrates Soils
Authors: AbdulKadium Safa Mahdi , Abbood Al-Janabi Hadi Yasir
Published: August 2022

Adsorption Selenium (Se) levels in soils may be changed by a variety of variables. such as compecting anion. Investigated adsorption behavior for two top soil different properties, aiming to describe selenium adsorption in selected centrial Iraq soils. (Awfi) Samples were collected comprising clayed soil, Which Se adsorption tests were performed on the samples. After a 72-hour reaction with increasing concentrations of Se(0-400 µg mL-1) added as Na2SeO4, adsorption was measured. In the presence of Sulphate and Phosphate, which are usually applied in an inorganic form to soils. Soil properties affected adsorption capability of se, i.e. Se adsorped amount were higher for Awfi soils. The adsorption of Se on soils increased as the amount of Se supplied increased, both in the presence and absence of cometic anions. Se adsorption followed Langmuir’s and Freundlich’s equations. There are no competing anions in the absence of any, adsorption maxima of Se 87.719 μg g-1 The data from K and XM adequately reflected the adsorption of Se in the examined soils. This was ascribed to the existence of higher concentrations of competing anions, particularly sulphate and phosphate.
Effect of Bio-Inoculum, Compost, and Humic Acid on NPK Availability in Tomato Soils
Authors: Abd Ali Haitham Mohsen , Kamal Jawad Abdul-Kadhim
Published: August 2022

The study aimed to determine the influence of biological inoculation and organic fertilizer on the availability of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (N.P.K.) in protected tomato soil. During the 2021 agricultural season, the experiment was conducted in greenhouses in the Al-Azzawiya area / Babylon Governorate (longitude 44.5E and latitude 32.7N). Bacterial bio-inoculum was used and compared with the control (S0 and S1), three levels of compost (C0, C1, C2) tons.ha-1, and three levels of organic fertilizer Humus (H0, H1, H2) and the interaction between them in nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium were used. The results of the statistical analysis resulted in higher values of the triple interaction treatment (S1 + H2 + C2) than the control by giving it the highest mean concentration of available nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium in the soil (48.70, 19.71, 255.33) mg.kg-1.soil for each, respectively.
Potassium Forms Status in Some Iraqi Sedimentary Soils and Effect of Cultivation on It
Authors: Hamid Mohammed Malik , Kadhim Aws Jawad
Published: August 2022

A field experiment was carried out in Al-Hussainiya area / Al-Mussaib district within Babil Governorate to study the extraction and estimation of potassium in cultivated soil, and bush soil, and uncultivated soil, to identify the state of the soil in terms of its ability to supply potassium (poor potassium - moderate potassium - rich in potassium). Soil samples were collected from the study area in the period (1-4-2022) for each soil from the surface depth (0-30) cm and sub-surface (30-60) cm. Potassium was extracted from the study soil and the amount of potassium Soluble in water, and the exchangable, reserve-K, primary step-K and total step-K, and total K. The value of reserve-K was 0.40 and 0.46 cmol in the cultivated soil, 0.99 and 1.07 cmol in the uncultivated soil, 0.66 and 0.87 cmol in the bush soil and the surface and subsurface layers, respectively, and the initial step-K values were 0.213 and 0.487 cmol in the cultivated soil and 0.845 and 0.929 cmol in uncultivated soil and 0.48 and 0.511 bush soil, and value of total step-K was 0.982 and 0.944 cmol in the cultivated soil, 3.073 and 3.136 cmol in the uncultivated soil, 2.795 and 2.109 cmol in the bush soil and the surface and subsurface layers, respectively. Based on the results obtained and under the conditions of this study, the concentration of potassium Soluble in water and exchangable within the content of the dry and semi-arid areas, and that the exploitation of the soil by intensive cultivation constantly led to a decrease in the values of step-K and reserve-K, and that the concentration of step-K and reserve-K is lower in the subsurface layers (30- 60) cm in the cultivated soil and the soil in which the bush grows. As for the uncultivated soils, the potassium values are higher and almost close in the subsurface layer compared to the surface. As a result of the conditions of use, the sequence of the step-K and reserve-K in the study soils are as follows: Cultivated soil > bush soil > uncultivated soil. In addition to the need to use potassium fertilizers under conditions of intensive cultivation.
Effect of Pre-Harvest Bagging on Pomegranate cv.Salimi Fruits Characteristics
Authors: Abd Al-Hayany A.M. , Hathal Nisreen M.
Published: August 2022

This study was carried out on 5-yrs old pomegranate trees cv.Salimi grown in a private orchard located at Otomaniyah area, Diyala Governorate, Iraq during 2018 and 2019 growing seasons to study the effect of Pre-harvest fruits bagging on reducing pomegranate fruit disorders and improving fruit quality. The bagging treatments were, Control (without bagging), Fruit bagged with green, white, red and purple colors bags. Treatments started on May30 during both seasons. Non-woven fabric bags (25x25cm) was used in fruit bagging. Bags were removed two weeks before harvesting date. The obtained results showed that, bagging fruits with white bags gave the highest average of fruits weight, Aril percentage, 100 aril weight, total soluble solids(%), total sugars and anthocyanins during both seasons compared to other Bagging treatments, whereas there is no significant differences between the bagging treatments in nutrient content of the fruit peel. on the other hand these treatments reduced cracked fruits and sunburn percentage, and increased the moisture content of the fruit peel compared to the Control (without bagging).
The extent of Application of Environmentally Friendly Designs in Private Educational Buildings Private Kindergarten/Al-Karkh II as A case Study
Authors: Khudhair Ghufran Ahmed
Published: August 2022

A holistic education that deals with teaching methods and the learning environment in which students can be introduced to the concept of sustainability and understand its educational objectives. Thus, the school garden can serve as a tool to introduce students to the features of a sustainable lifestyle, transforming educational buildings into a sustainable job (Papadopoulou 2020) With the growing concern for the environment, it emphasizes the role of the school garden in the educational process, as a tool for environmental education and reconnecting children with nature, Its inclusion in the school curricula made the school garden an integrated educational environment (Sealy, 2001). The research was designed by selecting a sample of private kindergartens in the city of Baghdad for the purposes of the scientific study. The field sites for the study samples, the personal interview, the preparation of distribution maps for private kindergartens, Geographical information systems, and the analysis of architectural plans drawn according to AutoCAD 2019, the data was unloaded using the “Microsoft Office Excel” program. The most important results of the study showed an inverse association between green space and No. of children in The selected private kindergartens and the strength of the association is very weak, not significant, amounting to (-0.6887) while it was found that the alsaaeat althaamina kindergarten possesses a diversity of plants and all kinds of games and conforms to the basic pillars of sustainable designs with a degree of 95%. The square are the two dominant shapes in outer space for all of kindergartens