bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of Initiation, Runout, and Rainfall Thresholds of Extreme-Precipitation-Induced Debris Flows
Authors: Subramanian Srikrishnan Siva , Yunus Ali. P. , Jasin Faheed , Abraham Minu Treesa , Sathyam Neelima , Asch Theo van , Bhatia Udit
Published: November 2021

The frequency of unprecedented extreme precipitation events is increasing, and consequently, catastrophic debris flows occur in regions worldwide. Rapid velocity and long-runout distances of debris flow induce massive loss of life and damage to infrastructure. Despite extensive research, understanding the initiation mechanisms and defining early warning thresholds for extreme-precipitation-induced debris flows remain a challenge. Due to the nonavailability of extreme events in the past, statistical models cannot determine thresholds from historical datasets. Here, we develop a numerical model to analyze the initiation and runout of extreme-precipitation-induced runoff-generated debris flows and derive the Intensity-Duration (ID) rainfall threshold. We choose the catastrophic debris flow on 6 August 2020 in Pettimudi, Kerala, India, for our analysis. Our model satisfactorily predicts the accumulation thickness (7 m to 8 m) and occurrence time of debris flow compared to the benchmark. Results reveal that the debris flow was rapid, traveling with a maximum velocity of 9 m/s for more than 9 minutes. The ID rainfall threshold defined for the event suggests earlier thresholds are not valid for debris flow triggered by extreme precipitation. The methodology we develop in this study is helpful to derive ID rainfall thresholds for debris flows without historical data.
Impacts of Complications After Esophageal Cancer Surgery on Health-Related Quality of Life and Nutritional Status
Authors: Sugawara Kotaro , Yagi Koichi , Yoshimura Shuntaro , Aikou Susumu , Yamashita Hiroharu , Seto Yasuyuki
Published: November 2021

Purpose: The long-term impacts of postoperative complications, especially pulmonary complications and anastomotic leakage, on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), nutritional status and body composition remain to be fully addressed in patients undergoing esophageal cancer surgery.Methods:Patients who underwent esophagectomy between 2015 and 2019 and survived without recurrence were eligible. HRQoL (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 and the QLQ-OES18 questionnaires), nutritional and body composition data were prospectively evaluated before and at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after surgery. Collected Data was compared between patients with postoperative complications and those without.Results: In total, 88 patients were included. Overall complications, anastomotic leakage and pulmonary complications developed in 48 (54.5%), 20 (20.7%) and 18 (20.5%) patients, respectively. Patients with pulmonary complications had more reflux-related symptoms (dry mouth; P = 0.03, coughing; P = 0.047, reflux; P = 0.1), and more problems with eating (nausea/vomiting; P = 0.051, eating difficulties; P = 0.06) at 24 months after surgery, as compared to those without such complications. Anastomotic leakage increased pain, speaking problems and dysphagia up to 6 months after surgery. Patients with pulmonary complications had significantly lower prealbumin levels and lower prognostic nutritional index values over time after surgery than those without these complications. In contrast, anastomotic leakage was not associated with poor nutritional status postoperatively. Body composition was not affected by the occurrence of complications.Conclusion: Postoperative complications, especially pulmonary complications, exert long-lasting negative effects on HRQoL, leading to poor nutritional status after esophagectomy.
Design And Analysis of An Automotive Engine Shaft With Functionally Graded Material To Get An Optimum Performance
Authors: Ahmed Saeed
Published: November 2021

Engine Shafts are a very critical component of Automotive and Aerospace. Their basic purpose is to transmit power by rotation. They suppose various parts like gears and pulleys, and they are supported by bearings, which reside in the rigid machine housing. In their operation the shafts rotate and hence they are subjected to Torsion and Bending moment. Hence, it is critical for us to choose the best material and the surface treatment process to provide optimum performance for the shaft. The primary aspects to keep into consideration while choosing a material pertaining to surface selection are Wear Resistance and Corrosion resistance. It has been shown how the selection of shaft material affects these two factors. The shafts of 3 types of materials have been discussed in the paper, a homogeneous one, a composite material and FGM. The best material considered is FGM for the optimum operation of automotive engine shaft.
Quantitative CT Comparison between COVID-19 and Mycoplasma Pneumonia Suspected as COVID-19: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Liu Junzhong , Wang Yuzhen , Wang Xinhua , Sun Minfeng
Published: November 2021

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare imaging features between COVID-19 and mycoplasma pneumonia (MP).Materials and Methods: The data of patients with mild COVID-19 and MP who underwent chest computed tomography (CT) examination from February 1, 2020 to April 17, 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The Pneumonia-CT-LKM-PP model based on a deep learning algorithm was used to automatically quantify the number, volume, and involved lobes of pulmonary lesions, and longitudinal changes in quantitative parameters were assessed in three CT follow-ups.Results: A total of 10 patients with mild COVID-19 and 13 patients with MP were included in this study. There was no difference in lymphocyte counts at baseline between the two groups (1.43±0.45 vs 1.44±0.50, p=0.279). C-reactive protein levels were significantly higher in MP group than in COVID-19 group (p<0.05). The number, volume, and involved lobes of pulmonary lesions reached a peak in 7-14 days in the COVID-19 group, but there was no peak or declining trend over time in the MP group (p<0.05).Conclusion: Based on the longitudinal changes of quantitative CT, pulmonary lesions peaked at 7-14 days in patients with COVID-19, and this may be useful to distinguish COVID-19 from MP and evaluate curative effects and prognosis.
Upregulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Patients With Mental Illness Not Using Psychotropic Medication
Authors: Soloey-Nilsen Hedda , Nygaard-Odeh Kristin , Kristiansen Magnhild Gangsoey , Brekke Ole Lars , Mollnes Tom Eirik , Reitan Solveig Klaebo , Oiesvold Terje
Published: November 2021

BackgroundThere is evidence that brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) plays a protective role in the brain. Peripheral levels of BDNF correlate with its concentration in the brain. Previous studies have revealed lower serum BDNF levels in patients with mental illnesses. In most studies serum BDNF correlates negatively with psychiatric disorders and disease severity. Most studies in this field are on psychiatric diagnosis and personality traits. The aim of our study is to explore associations between general psychiatric symptoms, independent of diagnostic groups, and serum BDNF as well as the inflammatory biomarker high-sensitive CRP (hs-CRP). Comparison between the group regularly using psychotropic medication and those not using psychotropic medication is conducted. Methods The study is a cross sectional study with 132 participants from a general open inpatient psychiatric ward at the Nordland Hospital Trust, Bodø, Norway. Participants were assessed on serum levels of BDNF and hs-CRP. Psychiatric symptoms were assessed by a self-rating scale (Symptom check list, SCL-90- R). Multiple linear regression model was used for statistical analyses of associations between levels of BDNF, hs-CRP and symptoms. Results We found a positive association (p < 0.05), for most SCL-90 symptom clusters with BDNF in the psychotropic medication-free group. No associations were found in the group of patients using psychotropic medication, except one, the Paranoid Ideation cluster (p 0.022). No associations were found between hs-CRP and symptom clusters. Conclusion: We found no relation between symptom clusters and the inflammatory biomarker hs-CRP. Serum BDNF levels were positively associated with intensity of psychiatric symptoms in the group of patients not using psychotropic medication. In the group on psychotropic medication no associations for BDNF were seen. Our findings are in conflict with several previous studies reporting increased hs-CRP as well as decreased rather than increased BDNF in mental suffering.
Distribution characteristics, source identification, and risk assessment of heavy metals in surface sediments of the salt lakes in the Ordos Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Shengyin , Zhang Shuncun , Chen Yongxin , Chen Bo , Lei Tianzhu
Published: November 2021

Salt lakes have a significant effect on the regional climate, environment, and ecology in semi-arid regions characterized by lower rainfall and high evaporation. However, under the stresses of global change and human disturbance, anthropogenic pollution is the main factor threatening the lake ecological environment. Surface sediment samples collected from four salt lakes in the Ordos Plateau were used to investigate the salinity, concentration, pollution status, potential sources of heavy metals, and influencing factors. The surface sediments of Beida Pond and Gouchi Pond were weakly alkaline (pH < 9) owing to Na2SO4, whereas those of Chaigannaoer and Hongjiannao were strongly alkaline (pH > 9) owing to Na2CO3. The concentration range of Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb in the sediment samples collected from the salt lake in the Ordos followed the order of Cr > Zn > Ni > Pb > Cu > As > Cd. The Cr values were higher in Chagannaoer and Hongjiannao, but the Ni, Cu, and Zn values were higher in Beida Pond and Gouchi Pond. The geoaccumulation index (Igeo) and enrichment factor (EF) consistently indicated that Cr posed the greatest potential ecological risk and that Ni, Cu, and Zn pollution was more severe in Beida Pond and Gouchi Pond than in Chagannaoer or Hongjiannao. However, Er and RI indicated these heavy metals were a low risk to the environment. Risk assessment code (RAC) revealed that Pb and Cr exhibited no mobility and had low potential bioavailability risk, although Zn, Ni, and As were categorized as medium risk. Cu had the highest mobility and high risk. Principal component analysis for Beida Pond and Gouchi Pond revealed that the source of Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb might be associated with water - soluble elements in aqueous migration. For Cr, Pb, and As, it was indicated that the source of these heavy metals might be lithospheric minerals carried by dust storms. Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, and Pb in Chagannaoer and Hongjiannao may be derived from surface runoff, and chemicals from these sources may eventually accumulate in sediments. Pearson’s correlation analysis indicated that pH was the main environmental factor controlling the distribution of heavy metals in Chagannaoer and Hongjiannao.
Vehicle Routing Problems Based on Harris Hawks Optimization
Authors: Alweshah Mohammed , Almiani Muder , Almansour Nedaa , khalaileh Saleh Al , Aldabbas Hamza , Alomoush Waleed Khamees , Alshareef Almahdi Alshareef
Published: November 2021

The vehicle routing problem (VRP) is one of the challenging problems in optimization and can be described as combinatorial optimization and NP-hard problem. Researchers have used many artificial intelligence techniques in order to try to solve this problem. Among these techniques, metaheuristic algorithms that can perform random search are the most promising because they can be used to find the right solution in the shortest possible time. Therefore, in this paper, the Harris hawks optimization (HHO) algorithm was used to attempt to solve the VRP. The algorithm was applied to 10 scenarios and the experimental results revealed that the HHO had a strong ability to check for and find the best route as compared to other metaheuristic algorithms, namely, simulated annealing and artificial bee colony optimization. The comparison was based on three criteria: minimum objective function obtained, minimum number of iterations required and satisfaction of capacity constraints. In all scenarios, the HHO showed clear superiority over the other methods.
The Introduction of Tobacco Excise Taxation in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries: A Step in the Right Direction of Advancing Public Health
Authors: Delipalla Sofia , Koronaiou Konstantina , Al-Lawati Jawad A. , Sayed Mohamed , Alwadey Ali , AlAlawi Ejlal F. , Almutawaa Kholoud , Hussain Amal HJ , Al-Maidoor Wedad , Al-Farsi Yahya M.
Published: November 2021

Background
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries relied, until recently, solely on import duties for tobacco products. The agreement for the introduction of an excise and value added tax (VAT) in 2016 and 2017, respectively, in most GCC countries, was a major breakthrough for public health. There is, however, ample room for improvement.
Methods
The study examines the outcomes of tax reforms, for both public health and public finances, based on the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and best practices worldwide. Tax simulations were performed using the WHO TaXSiM model. The study is based on data from Saudi Arabia, the only GCC country for which sufficient data existed.
Results
We recommend a stepwise tax reform, which involves increasing the current ad valorem excise tax rate, phasing out import duties keeping total tax share constant and introducing a minimum excise, and finally switching to a revenue-neutral specific excise. If implemented, cigarette tax reform simulations show that the recommended reforms would lead to a higher than 50% increase in cigarette prices, 16% reduction in cigarette sales and almost 50% increase in total cigarette tax revenue. A significant number of cigarette-related deaths would be averted.
Conclusions
The recommended tax reforms are expected to lead to significant improvements in both public health and tobacco tax revenues. Our results provide useful insights that are of relevance to the whole GGC region. The effectiveness of the reforms, however, requires a strong tax and customs administration, including the establishment of a good database to monitor and advance public health.
Impacts of the Properties Heterogeneity on 3D Magnetic Dusty Nanofluids Flow Within Cubic Porous Enclosures Contain Isothermal Cylinders
Authors: Rashed Z. Z.
Published: November 2021

This paper examines the controlling of the three dimensional dusty nanofluid flow using the two circular cylinders having different thermal conditions. The cylinders are located in the middle area while the location of the right cylinder is changeable. The 3D cubic flow domain is filled by a non-Darcy porous medium and a magnetic field in Z-direction is taken place. The non-homogeneous two phase model of the nanofluid is applied while the permeability and thermal conductivity of the porous medium are assumed heterogonous. The current situation is represented by two systems of the equations for the nanofluid and dusty phases. The solutions methodology is depending on the 3D SIMPLE scheme together with the finite volume method. The major outcomes indicating to that the flow can be well controlled using the inner isothermal cylinders. Also, the cases of the heterogeneity in \(X-Y\) and \(X-Z\) directions give the lowest values of \({Nu}_{av}\).
Peripheral Blood Eosinophil Count Optimizes Pembrolizumab-Based Immunotherapy in The First-Line Setting of Advanced or Recurrent Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Uematsu Mao , Narita Kosuke , Sato Taro , Hosomi Yukio
Published: November 2021

For cancer immunotherapy, the tumor proportion score for the programmed death-1 ligand is not a robust biomarker. The peripheral blood eosinophil count (PEC) is a potential alternative. However, it is not yet established. To test the efficacy of PEC-guided selection of pembrolizumab monotherapy (MONO) or pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy (COMBO), we retrospectively reviewed data of patients with advanced or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer in the first-line setting (April 2017 to April 2020). Among 137 patients enrolled, Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed no significant difference between the MONO (n = 84) and COMBO (n = 53) therapies. The influence of PEC before the second administration of each regimen (PEC2) was evaluated. The low PEC2 subgroup (<150 × 106/L) receiving MONO had poorer survival rates than those receiving COMBO (median progression-free survival [mPFS]: 5.75 vs. 7.59 months and median overall survival [mOS]: 12.0 months vs. not reached [NR), respectively). In patients receiving MONO, the low PEC2 showed worse prognosis compared with the high PEC2 group (mPFS: 5.75 vs. 16.1 months and mOS: 12.0 months vs. NR, respectively). PEC2 can be a potential predictive/prognostic biomarker for MONO, which encourages the switch from MONO to COMBO to avoid treatment failure.
Factors Associated With Drug-resistant Tuberculosis in the Deprived Population in the State of Paraná – Brazil
Authors: Santos Márcio Souza , Pieri Flávia Meneguetti , Berra Thaís Zamboni , Scholze Alessandro Rolim , Ramos Antônio Carlos Vieira , Crispim Juliane Almeida , Giacomet Clovis Luciano , Alves Yan Mathias , Costa Fernanda Bruzadelli Paulino , Moura Heriederson Savio Dias , Teibo Titilade Kehinde Ayandeyi , Freitas Giselle Lima , Arcêncio Ricardo Alexandre
Published: November 2021

BackgroundTuberculosis remains a serious public health issue worldwide, affecting people in vulnerable situations. The study aimed to analyze factors associated with drug resistant tuberculosis among patients who were in prison in the state of Paraná. MethodAn ecological study was carried out on Drug-Resistant tuberculosis cases registered through the Information System of Paraná, Brazil (from 2008 to 2018). Descriptive statistics of quantitative parameters was applied, being calculated with absolute frequencies. Additionally, binary logistic regression was performed, where the Odds Ratio was calculated with its respective confidence interval. The Akaike Information Criterion and the likelihood ratio tests, Wald test, Anova and Mc Fadden tests were performed to choose and validate the model. The IBM SPSS and Statistics version 25 and RStudio software version 4.0.4 were used for data analysis. Result653 cases were registered as tuberculosis cases in prison, and among these, 98 cases were Drug-Resistant TB. The schooling level among the study population was 8 to 11 years of education (OR: 0.41, 95%CI: 0.16 – 0.93), negative culture (OR: 0, 29; 95%CI: 0.09– 0.74) and smoking (0.02, 95%CI: 0.01 – 0.74) all these were factors associated with drug-Resistant TB. With the study population having the clinical pulmonary form (OR: 9.87, 95%CI: 1.55 – 23.81) and having a positive microscopy in the fourth month of follow-up (OR: 6, 46, 95%CI: 1.04 – 53.79), it was more likely to develop resistance. ConclusionThe study showed that the variables; education, culture exam, smoking, pulmonary clinical form, and follow-up microscopy were associated with drug resistance in the treatment of tuberculosis.
Microplastic Pollution in Urban Lake Phewa, Nepal: The First Report on Abundance and Composition in Surface Water of Lake in Different Seasons
Authors: Malla-Pradhan Rajeshwori , Suwunwong Thitipone , Phoungthong Khamphe , Joshi Tista Prasai , Pradhan Bijay Lal
Published: November 2021

Microplastics are man-made pollutants which have been detected in surface water and groundwater. Research on microplastic concentration in aquatic environment is an emerging field for developing countries. Nepal despite having rich water resources no information regarding microplastic in freshwater system is available. Therefore, this study investigate the presence and abundance of microplastic in lake surface water of Phewa Lake, the second largest lake of the country. A total of 16 sampling locations were selected for surface water sample to cover the area of 5.72 km2. The average concentration of microplastic for surface water was 2.96±1.83 particles/L for winter season and 1.51 ±0.62 particles/L for rainy season. Significance difference in microplastic concentration were observed in two different seasons. Fibers was the commonly found microplastic type in lake water and transparent as the dominant color for the two seasons. Almost all the detected microplastic were found to be <1 mm in size. Polymer identification was not possible due to small size of microplastic and unavailability of advanced technique. Phewa Lake, the heart of Pokhara is an important tourist destination so proper waste disposal plan can only maintain the lake’s beauty from further deterioration.
High-Flow Nasal Oxygen Vs. Standard Oxygen Therapy for Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement With Conscious Sedation: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Scheuermann-Jahn Stefanie , Tan Aileen , Govender Pooveshni , Mckie Mikel , Pack Jamie , Martinez Guillermo , Falter Florian , George Shane , Klein Andrew
Published: November 2021

BackgroundMinimally invasive surgery is becoming more common and transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement is offered to older patients with multiple comorbidities. Sternotomy is not required but patients must lie flat and still for up to 2 – 3 hours. This procedure is increasingly being performed under conscious sedation with supplementary oxygen, but hypoxia and agitation are commonly observed.MethodsIn this randomised controlled trial, we hypothesised that high-flow nasal oxygen would provide superior oxygenation as compared with our standard practice, 2 l.min-1 oxygen by dry nasal specs. The primary endpoint was the change in arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) during the procedure. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of oxygen desaturation and patient movements. Results A total of 72 patients were recruited. There was no difference in change in PaO2 from baseline using high-flow compared with standard oxygen therapy: median [IQR] increase from 12.1 (10.0- 15.3 [7.2- 29.8]) to 13.7 (10.8- 18.7 [8.5- 32.3]) kPa vs. decrease from 15.5 (12.4- 19.4 [9.2- 22.8]) to 14.2 (11.9- 19.3 [9.7- 22.8]) kPa, respectively (p= 0.087). There was a lower incidence of oxygen desaturation in the high-flow group (p= 0.037). Patients in the high-flow group moved less frequently (p= 0.006) and assigned a significantly higher comfort score to their treatment (p= < 0.001). ConclusionThis study has demonstrated that high-flow, compared with standard oxygen therapy, does not improve arterial oxygenation over the course of the procedure. There are suggestions that it may improve the secondary outcomes studied. Trial registrationInternational Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) 13804861. Registered 15/4/2019. https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN13804861
The Use of Oxygen Reserve Index in One-Lung Ventilation and Its Impact On Peripheral Oxygen Saturation, Perfusion Index and Pleth Variability Index
Authors: Sagiroglu Gonul , Baysal Ayse , Karamustafaoglu Yekta Altemur
Published: November 2021

Background: Our goal is to investigate the use of the Oxygen Reserve Index (ORi) and its relation with peripheral oxygen saturation, perfusion index (PI), and pleth variability index (PVI) during one-lung ventilation (OLV).Methods: Fifty patients undergoing general anesthesia and OLV for elective thoracic surgeries were enrolled in an observational cohort study in a tertiary care teaching hospital. During general anesthesia induction, propofol, fentanyl, and rocuronium at appropriate doses were administered intravenously. All patients required OLV after a left-sided double-lumen tube insertion during intubation. Hypoxemia during OLV was defined as peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) value of less than 95% when the inspired oxygen fraction (FiO2) is above 60% on a pulse oximetry device. ORi, pulse oximetry, PI, and PVI were measured continuously. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, likelihood ratios, and accuracy were calculated for ORi equals zero in different anesthesia time points to predict hypoxemia. At Clinicaltrials.gov registry, the Registration ID is NCT05050552.Results: The accuracy for predicting hypoxemia during anesthesia induction at ORi value equals zero at five minutes after intubation in the supine position (DS5) showed a sensitivity of 92.3% (95% CI 84.9-99.6), specificity of 81.1% (95% CI 70.2-91.9), and an accuracy of 84.0% (95% CI 73.8- 94.2). ORi and SpO2 correlation was found at DS5 (p = 0.044), 5 minutes after lateral position with two-lung ventilation (DL5) (p = 0.039), and at 10 minutes after OLV (OLV10)(p = 0.011).Conclusions: ORi equals zero at the time point of five minutes after tracheal intubation in the supine position (DS5) showed high sensitivity and specificity for predicting hypoxemia at a less than 95% value.
Experimental Study on the Fracture Distribution Characteristics of the Overlying Strata in an Abandoned Gob
Authors: Wang Chenlin , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: November 2021

A lot of gas resources remain in the abandoned gob. The overlying strata of the abandoned gob are the main places for gas storage and flow. The fracture distribution characteristics of the overlying strata have a significant impact on the gas migration. The mining similarity simulation test device of a plane stress was used to study the deformation and failure characteristics of overlying strata in an abandoned gob. The caved strata of the abandoned gob formed a trapezoidal distribution, and the caving range decreased gradually with an increase in distance from the coal seam. The strata collapsed in the caved zone, whereas the strata collapsed mainly on the bending subsidence in fractured zone. The subsidence curves of caved strata showed a lower concave shape, and the maximum subsidence existed in the middle of the abandoned gob. The caved strata subsidence decreased with an increase in distance from the coal seam. The horizontal fractures were dominant in the fractured zone. The abscission rate of the end mining position was greater than that of the start mining position. Large numbers of vertical fractures existed in the caved zone. The development degree of vertical fractures near the end mining position were larger than that of the start mining position, and the width of the gas-conducting fracture was more than three times that of the start mining position. The development degree, quantity and connectivity of the fracture in the end mining position were better than those in the start mining position.
Enhancing In Vitro Multiplication of some Olive Cultivars Using Silver, Selenium And Chitosan Nanoparticles
Authors: Darwesh Osama M. , Hassan Sayed A.M. , Abdallatif Abdou M.
Published: November 2021

Olive trees are commercially propagated by cuttings or grafting on clonal or seedling rootstocks; recently, olive micropropagation has emerged as a powerful technique for mass production of true to type and pathogen free plants. The current study was carried out to evaluate the effect of silver, chitosan and selenium nanoparticles as microbial decontamination agents, as well as evaluate its possible effects on in vitro shoot growth and multiplication of three olive cultivars namely Koroneiki, Picual and Manzanillo. Validation and characterization of the biosynthesized nanoparticles was carried out by Transmission Electron Microscopy. The produced nanoparticles were added to the olive culture medium, and the growth parameters were determined. The tested nanoparticles showed varied degree of antimicrobial activity, silver nanoparticles were highly effective to inhibit in vitro microbial contamination. The effect of genotypes on shoot growth and multiplication was significant; Koroneiki and Picual cultivars showed better growth measurements compared with Manzanillo. The addition of nanoparticles to the culture medium had a significant outcome on growth and multiplication rate of in vitro growing olive shoots. Silver nanoparticles produced higher values of number of shoots, shoots length, leaf number and multiplication rate compared with the other treatments. In conclusion; the current results showed that nanoparticles were efficient as in vitro disinfectant agent and the nanoparticles addition to culture medium especially silver NPs had a positive effect on growth and multiplication rate of in vitro growing olive shoots.
Signal-Processing and Adaptive Prototissue Formation in Metabolic DNA Protocells
Authors: Samanta Avik , Hörner Maximilian , Liu Wei , Weber Wilfried , Walther Andreas
Published: November 2021

The fundamental life-defining processes in living cells, such as replication, division, adaptation, and tissue formation, take place via intertwined metabolic reaction networks orchestrating downstream signal processing in a confined, crowded environment with high precision. Hence, it is crucial to understand and reenact some of these functions in wholly synthetic cell-like entities (protocells) to envision designing soft-materials with life-like traits. Herein, we report on a programmable all-DNA protocell (PC) composed of a liquid DNA interior and a hydrogel-like shell, harboring DNAzyme active sites in the interior whose catalytic bond-cleaving activity leads to a downstream phenotype change in the protocells, as well as triggers prototissue formation. In this regard, we coupled several tools of DNA nanoscience, such as RNA cleavage, dynamic strand displacement reactions, and multivalent palindromic interactions, in a synchronize pathway so that the input signal can be processed inside the protocells and generate downstream cues giving rise to metabolic adaptive behavior. For example, the compartmentalized DNAzyme catalyzes the bond-cleavage of a substrate that releases a DNA strand in situ to trigger a strand displacement reaction at the shell of the protocells leading to a change in color resembling a “phenotype-like” change in cells, and finally to establish communication with other protocells via multivalent interactions.
Remoção de corpo estranho em face devido acidente doméstico: relato de caso
Authors: Barros Maylson Alves Nogueira , Teslenco Vitor Bruno , Cavalcanti Herbert de Abreu , Pancini Everton Floriano , Reis Guilherme Nucci dos
Published: November 2021

Introdução: O aumento da idade é um dos fatores que causam inaptidão e institucionalização em pacientes geriátricos, o traumatismo decorrente de acidente doméstico pode levar a óbito. Os ferimentos por corpos estranhos são perigosos quando lesionado estruturas vitais. Objetivo: Descrição de um relato de caso de um paciente submetido cirurgia para remoção de um corpo estranho cravado na face. Relato de caso: Paciente com história de queda própria altura, durante atividade doméstica, foi diagnosticado com um objeto estranho em face, sendo submetido a remoção cirúrgica sob anestesia geral. Conclusão: Os pacientes com traumatismo facial devem ser submetidos avaliação primaria sistemática e lesões perfurativas por objetos estranhos em órgãos vitais necessitam de tratamento imediato, a remoção cirúrgica na maioria das vezes é necessária.
Fire smoke propagation mode and the importance of ventilation efficiency for emergency situations in subway systems
Authors: A. F. Chiojdoiu
Published: November 2021

It is well known that the efficiency of the ventilation is extremely important in subway systems. The ventilation system is one of the main aspects of subway infrastructure when emergency situations involving fire or massive release of smoke and toxic gases occur inside the tunnels. Otherwise, the performance of the ventilation is the key factor of the subway systems when unfortunate events such as fires, chemical or biological attacks take place as in such situations a large number of victims can occur. The use of efficient ventilation systems, the existence of sufficient evacuation pathways as well as the knowledge by the intervention teams of the phenomena occurring inside a subway tunnel in the event of a fire is a great help for protecting and saving people's lives.
Multi-criteria method for evaluation of the pseudorandom number generators using thermodynamic systems behavior
Authors: V. Cornaciu
Published: November 2021

The choice of pseudo random number generators is a major problem in many areas of activity, one of the areas that uses them intensively it is the field of cryptography. Although they are applicable to any programming paradigm, these generators can be used successfully in the statistical analysis of thermodynamic behaviors, so, they must be designed individually to meet the requirements of each type of client. The research for new pseudorandom number generators with higher level of security is a field in great expansion, but the factors that influence us to use a product are not always this high level of security, but features such as ease of implementation or rapidity of generation. The design of a pseudo-random number generator needs to consider various characteristics simultaneously, which can be regarded as a optimization problem. The purpose of the article is to give a overview of the characteristics that a pseudo-random generator must meet in different fields, to define an objective function that encompasses these features, and create a mathematical optimization problem in order to achieve the maximum of properties that a pseudo-random number generator can give.
Gas-dynamic characteristics of the host rocks of Mir pipe mine field deep horizons
Authors: Yannikova S. A. , Yannikov A. M.
Published: November 2021

The purpose of the research is to study the gas-dynamic characteristics of deep horizons of the Mir pipe mine field to ensure industrial safety under construction and production resumption at the field. The study is based on the interval field experiments carried out during drilling and subsequent study of the core. The main gas-dynamic parameters of the deep horizons of the field were studied during the drilling of pilot wells that enabled to perform interval determination of the flow rates of formation gases using packers and complex research equipment, gas sampling for the determination of chemical composition of gases, and gas logging. The conducted works resulted in the formulation of the gas-dynamic characteristic of the Tolbachan formation within the mine field of the Mir pipe. Reservoir intervals were identified and the nature of their fluid saturation was determined. The chemical composition of formation gases was clarified and gas release nature and intensity were studied both under drilling and interval testing. The result of the research carried out was identification of zones with different fluid manifestations, as well as comparison of the field under investigation with the previously studied International pipe. The results of the conducted research works will form the basis for performing design forecast calculations, as well as for making the main design decisions under construction of capital mine workings, especially in terms of advanced degassing of the mountain range. Consideration of the zones identified within the Tolbachan formation, which feature different nature of fluid saturation, will allow to take into account and minimize possible adverse factors.
Chinese Politics in the 2016 Sarawak state elections: Case Studies of Dudong and Bawang Assan Seats
Authors: Ting Helen Mu Hung
Published: November 2021

This article examines local Chinese electoral politics in Sarawak during the 2016 Sarawak state elections based on a case study of two Chinese-majority marginal seats in Sibu district, namely Dudong and Bawang Assan. It examines the discourse and strategies deployed by the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) and the opposition Democratic Action Party (DAP) and other independent candidates in the two constituencies. Candidates of the former in both seats were prominent leaders who had left the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) – a major BN component party – to form a rival splinter party called the United People’s Party (UPP) and had contested as “BN direct candidates.” The article provides insights into how the intricate political dynamics on the ground shaped the electoral outcomes. Analysis of the voting patterns in polling districts provides a more nuanced understanding of the purported “increase” in Chinese support, revealing an urban-rural contrast. Both DAP candidates retained majority support in urban Chinese areas, albeit with reduced vote shares and absolute numbers due to abstention. Rural Chinese voters, on the other hand, manifested a clear surge in their support for BN, both in absolute numbers and vote share, contributing decisively to the victories of the two BN direct candidates. The findings are based on field observation, in-depth interviews with party leaders and informants, as well as analysis of polling district results of the two constituencies.
Mutation breeding for heat and drought tolerance in tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray)
Authors: Muñoz Ligia Carmenza , Debouck Daniel G. , Rivera Mariela , Muñoz Jaime E. , Alpala Deisy , Sarsu Fatma , Rao Idupulapati M.
Published: November 2021

Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray) is more heat and drought tolerant than common bean (P. vulgaris L.). Four hundred mutant lines of two tepary accessions (G40068 and G40159) were generated by ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) treatment. In preliminary studies of the M5 mutant lines under abiotic stress, three mutant lines (CMT 38, CMT 109, CMT 187) were selected from six mutated lines based on morpho-physiological traits and superior yield and advanced to the M6 generation. The M6 mutant lines were uniform and genetically stable. These mutant lines and their original (M0) parents were evaluated for heat and drought tolerance under greenhouse conditions. Their performance was evaluated for morpho-physiological attributes, seed yield and yield components. Under high temperature and drought conditions, the CMT 38 mutant (M6 line) and its original tepary (M0) accession (G40068) showed greater values of pod biomass, pod number and 100-seed biomass than the other lines tested. The CMT 109 and CMT 187 mutant lines and their G40159 original accession (M0) also showed the highest value of seed number under high temperature and drought conditions. This suggests that the previous screening performed during the population advancement of these mutant lines, based on morphological traits like growth habit, was not detrimental to the yield variables evaluated here. Under combined heat and drought conditions, different parameters could be incorporated into tepary breeding programmes, as selection criteria to screen genotypes for tolerance to heat and drought stress. These parameters included: chlorophyll (SPAD) readings, seed biomass, 100-seed biomass and seed number because they explain the observed variance in the principal component analysis. Two additional traits (root biomass and stem diameter) were also identified as useful attributes, based on univariate analysis. The mutant lines evaluated here offer potential for further improvement of tepary bean to high temperature and drought
CROP ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE: High-Temperature Stress in Drought-Prone Areas
Authors: Sarsu Fatma , Forster Brian , Sivasankar Sobhana
Published: November 2021

The papers presented in this special issue are focused on the development of mutant lines and new crop varieties of rice and common bean with improved adaptation to climate change. Also included are the development or adaptation of screening techniques that enable efficient selection of desired phenotypes in plant breeding programmes. The breeding methods used are based on mutation induction and mutation detection, where mutation induction is via physical mutagenesis using gamma and X-ray irradiation. Selection for improved mutant lines is achieved through screening for plant performance in the laboratory, green house and field under hight temperature and/or drought stress. The papers presented are the result of a 5-year coordinated research project (CRP) on Climate Proofing Crops: Genetic Improvement for Adaptation to High Temperatures in Drought Prone Areas and Beyond, funded by the IAEA. The CRP, initiated in 2011, focused on tolerance to increased temperatures in rice and common bean. All participating countries generated new mutant populations in rice and bean and identified heat-tolerant lines with better yields than local standard varieties
Algae Sympoiesis in Performance: Rendering-with Nonhuman Ecologies
Authors: Blissett Sarah
Published: November 2021

This article explores an ecodramaturgical approach to performance-making and research with algae. The first part considers the notion of ‘algae rendering’ as a methodological tool for theorising algae ecological relations which highlights links between representations of algae and their material effects. The second part considers how my embodied encounters with cyanobacteria algae, in the form of lichen, inspire new modes of working with algae in creative practice that explore how algae agencies ‘render’ bodies and environments. I also draw on an artistic case study by The Harrissons (1971) to illustrate principles of what I consider examples of ‘algae rendering’ in artistic practice. The third part considers my approach to making-with algae in a series performance experiments that develop the concept of ‘rendering-with algae’ in practice. This work attempts to depart from anthropocentric binaries that mark different algae species according to their use-value for humans as either ‘healthy’ or ‘harmful’ and investigates embodied ways of working with algae as co-creators, inspired by material ecological relations. The fourth part considers how these performance encounters, experiments and analysis together compose an ecodramaturgical framework that generates new thinking about algae-human relationships in performance and in wider ecologies. Drawing on Donna Haraway’s (2016) concept of ‘sympoiesis’, I develop the term ‘algae sympoiesis’ to describe my embodied ecodramaturgical approach to rendering-with algae in this research. The concept of algae sympoiesis explores how humans and algae shape matter and meaning together in performance and seeks to invite new ways of thinking about how broader algae-human material ecologies are performative of environmental change.
Influenza in the COVID-19 era: principles of modern pharmacotherapy
Authors: Lazareva N. B.
Published: November 2021

Influenza is one of the most common infectious diseases and a significant public health problem. Every year, the influenza virus causes 3–5 million severe cases, millions hospitalizations and approximately 650,000 deaths. According to WHO four new influenza strains are projected to circulate in the 2020–2021 epidemic season. Influenza A and B strains are: A/Guangdong-Maonan/ SWL1536/2019 (H1N1) pdm09, A/Hong Kong/2671/2019 (H3N2), B/Washington/02/2019 (Victoria lineage), B/ Phuket/3073/2013 (Yamagata lineage). In this context, the problem of prescribing rational antiviral therapy is particularly importance. COVID-19, along with influenza, is a group of respiratory viral infections, but important differences exist in terms of viral agents and the spread of infection. Important differences include the rate of transmission. The average incubation period and generation time (the time between infecting one person and infecting another) for influenza are shorter. COVID-19 may be more severe, causing complications and deaths in 3–4% of cases. The estimated generation time for COVID 19 is 5-6 days, while for influenza it is 3 days. According to the latest data, the reproductive number, i.e., the number of people who can be infected by one patient, is in the range of 2 to 2.5 in COVID 19, which is higher than in influenza. Only a laboratory test can accurately identify the type of pathogen and distinguish it from influenza and other respiratory viruses. Neuraminidase inhibitors are currently first-line drugs recommended by WHO for the treatment and prevention of influenza.
Single-photon emission tomography of the lungs in the diagnosis of coagulopathyin patients in the postcovid period
Authors: Zolotnitskaya V. P. , Titova O. N. , Kuzubova N. A. , Litvinov A. P.
Published: November 2021

Introduction. Exposure to SARS-CoV-2 leads to damage and dysfunction of the microvasculature of the lungs. The development of vasculitis, an increase in the permeability of the vessel wall, changes in the vascular-platelet and coagulation hemostasis, lead to the development of thrombosis / thromboembolism and hemorrhages. Single-photon emission tomography of the lungs is optimal for assessing changes in microcirculation in the lungs of patients with COVID-19 infection, since CT angiography can detect these formidable complications only in the large vessels of the lungs.

Оbjective оf the work. To assess changes in the microvasculature of the lungs in patients with the development of postcovid syndrome and to assess the possibilities of single photon emission computed tomography in the diagnosis of thromboembolism, thrombosis and hemorrhages.

Material and methods. The data of radiological studies performed in 138 patients in the postcovid period were analyzed, directed for examination to assess changes in blood circulation in the lungs and identify complications of the disease (thromboembolism, thrombosis, hemorrhages).

Results. In patients who underwent an infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus in a mild form, we identified changes in microcirculation most characteristic of manifestations of vasculitis and small local blood flow defects close to a triangular shape (microthrombosis), which correlated with an increase in fibrinogen (4.32 ± 0.21 g/L) (rs = 0.97; p = 0.001). Signs of microthrombosis, pulmonary embolism were detected in 35.9% of moderately severe patients who did not receive anticoagulant therapy or was prescribed it on day 10–12 of illness, and in 67.2% of severe and extremely severe patients who received anticoagulant therapy during the illness. Signs of postthromboembolic changes were detected in 16 patients (59.2%) in the late postcovid period, which correlated to a high degree (rs = 0.81; p = 0.03) with an increase in the level of fibrinogen (4.5 ± 1.9 mg/l).

Conclusions. The severity of microcirculation disorders in the lungs depends on the severity of the disease and the timing of the postcovid period. Signs of small branch thromboembolism / thrombosis are detected in the early postcovid period. In patients who have undergone COVID-19 with the development of thrombosis, signs of postponed pulmonary embolism are revealed and zones of local pneumosclerosis are formed.