bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of the Pan-African evolution of the Arabian Shield
Authors: Nehlig Pierre , Genna Antonin , Asfirane Fawzia ,   BRGM, France, Guerrot C. , Eberlé J.M. , Kluyver H.M. , Lasserre J.L. , Le Goff E. , Nicol N. ,   BRGM, France, Salpeteur N. , Shanti M. , Thiéblemont D. , Truffert C. ,   BRGM, France
Published: October 2021

Recent fieldwork and the synthesis and reappraisal of aeromagnetic, geologic, structural, geochemical, and geochronologic data have provided a new perspective on the structural evolution and geologic history of the Arabian Shield. Although Paleoproterozoic rocks are present in the eastern part of the Shield, its geologic evolution was mainly concentrated in the period from 900 to 550 Ma during which the formation, amalgamation, and final Pan-African cratonization of several tectonostratigraphic terranes took place. The terranes are separated by major NW-trending faults and by N-, NW- and NE-oriented suture zones lined by serpentinized ultramafic rocks (ophiolites). Terrane analysis using the lithostratigraphy and geochronology of suture zones, fault zones, overlapping basins, and stitching plutons, has helped to constrain the geologic history of the Arabian Shield. Ophiolites and volcanic-arcs have been dated at between 900 and 680 Ma, with the southern terrane of Asir being older than the Midyan terrane in the north and the Ar Rayn terrane in the east.

Final cratonization of the terranes between 680 and 610 Ma induced a network of anastomosing, strike-slip faults consisting of the N-trending Nabitah belt, the major NW-striking left-lateral transpressive faults (early Najd faults), lined by gneiss domes and associated with sedimentary basins, and N- to NE-trending right-lateral transpressive faults. Following the Pan-African cratonization, widespread alkaline granitization was contemporaneous with the deposition of the Jibalah volcanic and sedimentary rocks in transtensional pull-apart basins. Crustal thinning was governed by the Najd fault system of left-lateral transform faults that controlled the formation of the Jibalah basins and was synchronous with the emplacement of major E- to NW-trending dike swarms throughout the Arabian Shield. The extensional episode ended with a marine transgression in which carbonates were deposited in the Jibalah basins. Continuation of the thinning process may explain the subsequent deposition of the marine formations of the lower Paleozoic cover.

Our interpretation of the distribution and chronology of orogenic zones does not correspond entirely to those proposed in earlier studies. In particular, the N-trending Nabitah and NW-trending Najd fault zones are shown to be part of the same history of oblique transpressional accretion rather than being two distinct events related to accretion and dispersion of the terranes.
Petroleum reserves and undiscovered resources in the total petroleum systems of Iraq: reserve growth and production implications
Authors: Verma Mahendra K. , Ahlbrandt Thomas S. , Al-Gailani Mohammad
Published: October 2021

Iraq is one of the world’s most petroleum-rich countries and, in the future, it could become one of the main producers. Iraq’s petroleum resources are estimated to be 184 billion barrels, which include oil and natural gas reserves, and undiscovered resources. With its proved (or remaining) reserves of 113 billion barrels of oil (BBO) as of January 2003, Iraq ranks second to Saudi Arabia with 259 BBO in the Middle East. Iraq’s proved reserves of 110 trillion cubic feet of gas (TCFG) rank tenth in the world. In addition to known reserves, the combined undiscovered hydrocarbon potential for the three Total Petroleum Systems (Paleozoic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous/Tertiary) in Iraq is estimated to range from 14 to 84 BBO (45 BBO at the mean), and 37 to 227 TCFG (120 TCFG at the mean). Additionally, of the 526 known prospective structures, some 370 remain undrilled. Petroleum migration models and associated geological and geochemical studies were used to constrain the undiscovered resource estimates of Iraq.

Based on a criterion of recoverable reserves of between 1 and 5 BBO for a giant field, and more than 5 BBO for a super-giant, Iraq has 6 super-giant and 11 giant fields, accounting for 88% of its recoverable reserves, which include proved reserves and cumulative production. Of the 28 producing fields, 22 have recovery factors that range from 15 to 42% with an overall average of less than 30%. The recovery factor can be increased with water injection, improved and enhanced oil recovery methods (IOR and EOR) in various reservoirs, thus potentially increasing Iraq’s reserves by an additional 50 to 70 BBO.

Reserve growth is a significant factor that has been observed, to some extent, in nearly all Iraqi oil fields. Historically, producing fields have shown an average growth of 1.6 fold (or 60%) in their recoverable reserves over a 20-year period (1981-2001). With periodic assessments of reservoirs, application of available technology, and an upgrading of facilities, increases in reserves are expected in the future.
Managing clastic reservoir heterogeneity II: Geological modelling and reservoir characterisation of the Minjur Sandstone at the Khashm al Khalta type locality (Central Saudi Arabia)
Authors: Issautier Benoît , Le Nindre Yves-Michel , Viseur Sophie , Memesh Abdullah , Dini Saleh
Published: October 2021

The increasing demand on geological reservoirs, whether for developing geothermal energy or for CO2 geological storage, raises questions on how reservoir heterogeneity might increase or decrease reservoir performance. To address this issue we selected the Minjur Sandstone Formation, a groundwater-bearing formation of Triassic age in Central Saudi Arabia, for complex reservoir modelling, simulation and prediction of the spatial distribution of sand bodies in a fluvio-deltaic system. This paper builds on a previous study that focused on the facies, stratigraphy, and reservoir characterisation of the Minjur Sandstone at the Khashm al Khalta type locality. Its purpose is to construct a deterministic 3-D model for (1) studying the connectivity of the Minjur Sandstone, and (2) illustrating a typical fluvio-deltaic reservoir and its associated heterogeneity. A first model simulates the spatial distribution of the depositional environments, which were further coded into relative proportions of sand, shale, evaporites and carbonates. This leads to a second model that contributes to reservoir applications through estimating the reservoir’s volume and storage capacities. Sequences 1 to 4 of the succession (Upper Jilh Formation–Lower Minjur Member), with a net-to-gross sand/shale ratio (NG) of ca. 8%, consist of poorly connected sandstone reservoir bodies. In contrast, sequences 5 to 9 (Upper Minjur Member), with an average NG of ca. 42%, consist of well-interconnected sandstone reservoir bodies. The NG depends on the tectonic influence and on relative sea-level variations. The best Minjur Sandstone reservoir bodies are at the base of each sequence, where limited available space favours a stack of deposits: interconnected fluvial channels which form wide spreads of coarse sandstone showing little diagenesis. The greatest potential is in the Upper Minjur Member. The effective reservoir volume was isolated using a sand content of > 85%. Rock volume and pore volume for an average porosity of 17% were subsequently calculated from the outcrop model. A representative block of 600 m x 600 m x 144 m was selected in order to simulate a fraction of the reservoir with the same properties as the whole. The block’s CO2 storage capacity was 57,000 tonne (in the International System, ‘SI’) for an arbitrary CO2 density of 0.7 (supercritical). This result was then transposed to the aquifer in the Riyadh area where similar conditions are assumed to exist. To obtain a ‘reservoir scale’ estimation, the block dimensions were upscaled to 20 km x 20 km x 80 m (the last figure being the effective thickness given by hydrogeological studies). The inferred storage capacity here was 30.5 Mt (million tonnes, International unit System, ‘SI’), which is an excellent figure when one considers the large-scale projects of Europe (Sleipner: 20 Mt) and Canada (Weyburn: 14 Mt).
Shallow burial dolomitization of an Eocene carbonate platform, southeast Zagros Basin, Iran
Authors: Zohdi Afshin , Moallemi Seyed Ali , Moussavi-Harami Reza , Mahboubi Asadollah , Richter Detlev K. , Geske Anna , Nickandish Abbas A. , Immenhauser Adrian
Published: October 2021

Here, a case example of a dolomitized Eocene ramp setting from the southeastern Zagros Basin is documented and discussed in the context of published work. This is of significance as well-documented case examples of Eocene dolomitized inner platforms are comparably rare. The same is true for detailed diagenetic studies from the Zagros Basin in general. Three measured field sections were combined with detailed petrographic and geochemical analyses and four main dolomite types were defined. The most significant dolomite type is present in the form of a volumetrically significant occurrence of meter-thick beds of strata-bound dolostones. These dolomites are characterized by near-stoichiometric composition, fabric-retentive and fabric-destructive textures, subhedral to anhedral in shape and most being in the tens-of-microns range.

Dolomite δ18O (averaging -2.6‰) values are depleted relative to that expected for precipitation from Eocene seawater (averaging 0‰), while δ13C (averaging -0.1‰) values are within the range of Eocene seawater values (averaging 0.5‰). Dolomite Type II and III 87Sr/86S values from 0.7079 to 0.7086 are somewhat elevated with respect to Eocene seawater (0.7077 and 0.7078). Based on these data, it is suggested that moderately evaporated seawater, via shallow seepage reflux, acted as agent for the initial dolomitization process. Subsequently, early diagenetic dolomites were recrystallized during shallow burial to variable degrees. The absence of volumetrically significant evaporitic deposits indicates that the salinity of porewater during dolomitization was beneath the threshold limit for gypsum precipitation. In addition, ascending saline fluids from deep-seated salt diapirs might have affected dolomitizing fluids.
Gasdermin Family as an Underlying Key Factor in Glioma
Authors: Tuo Zhan , Zi Huaduan , He Qianyuan , Meng Jingshu , Hu Yan , Li Yan , Yang Kunyu
Published: November 2021

Pyroptosis is a programmed cell death process mediated by gasdermins (GSDMs). The prognostic value of pyroptosis-related genes in different tumor types has been gradually demonstrated recently. However, the prognostic impact of GSDMs expression in glioma remains unclear. Here, we present a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of gasdermin family member gene expression, producing a prognostic model for glioma and creating a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. We identify a significant association between expression of GSDMD and GSDME and glioma stage, and demonstrate that high expression of both GSDMD and GSDME is associated with shorter survival. Conversely, low expression of GSDMC was associated with shorter survival. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) cox regression analysis was used to construct a prognostic gene model based on the four prognostic gasdermin family genes (GSDMC, GSDMD, GSDME and PJVK). This model was able to predict overall survival of glioma patients with high accuracy. We show that gasdermin family genes are expressed primary by immune cells, endothelial cells and neuronal cells in the tumor microenvironment, rather than by malignant tumor cells. T cells were significantly activated in high-risk patients; however, the activation induced cell death (AICD) pathway was also significantly activated, suggesting widespread expiration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), facilitating tumor progression. We also identify the lncRNA/miR-296-5p/GSDMD regulatory axis as an important player in glioma progression. In conclusion, we have conducted a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis identifying the importance of gasdermin family members in glioma; a prognostic algorithm containing 4 genes (GSDMC, GSDMD, GSDME, and PJVK) was constructed.
Identification of Key Claudin Genes Associated With Survival Prognosis and Diagnosis in the Colon Cancer Through Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis‏.
Authors: Alghamdi Rana , Al-Zahrani Maryam
Published: November 2021

Background: Claudin’s gene are associated with various aberrant physiological and cellular signaling. However, the association of claudins with survival prognosis, signaling pathways, and diagnostic efficacy in colon cancer remain lacking. Methods: We used various bioinformatics methods, including differential expression analysis, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), protein-protein interaction (PPI), survival analysis, single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), mutation analysis, and identifying receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of claudins in the TCGA colon adenocarcinoma (COAD). Results: We found that: CLDN2, CLDN1, CLDN14, CLDN16, CLDN18, CLDN9, CLDN12, and CLDN6 are elevated in COAD. In contrast, the CLDN8, CLDN23, CLDN5, CLDN11, CLDN7, and CLDN15 are downregulated in COAD. Various claudin’s genes are mutated and associated with diagnostic efficacy in the COAD. Conclusions: Claudin’s genes are associated with prognosis, immune regulation, signaling pathway regulations, and diagnosis. These findings may provide new molecular insight into the treatment of colon cancer.
Under Attack: Fungal Landscape of Spring Barley From Seedling Emergence to Harvest During a Severe Puccinia Hordei Epidemic
Authors: Sapkota Rumakanta , Jørgensen Lise Nistrup , Boeglin Laure , Nicolaisen Mogens
Published: October 2021

All plant tissues from leaves, stems and roots are hosting a wide diversity of fungal species. Our understanding of the assembly of this diversity of fungi during the plant growth cycle is limited. Here, we characterized the mycobiome of three spring barley cultivars at weekly intervals from seedling emergence to senescence and seed maturity. A notable proportion of members of the fungal communities were shared among different plant organs, but community dynamics were tissue specific. A severe attack of Puccinia hordei occurring during the vegetative stage had profound effects on the mycobiome, and P. hordei biomass displaced that of other taxa. Plant tissue type was the most important factor determining the mycobiome, but also plant age was contributing significantly. Using a random forest model, we found that specific members of the mycobiome were responding differently to plant age. A co-occurrence network analysis revealed complex interactions among fungal OTUs, and network connectivity was changing as per plant growth stage and plant tissue type. This study contributes to the understanding of assembly of fungal communities in cereals by providing a detailed atlas of fungal communities associated with barley. This knowledge will be vital for microbiome assisted plant health management and our study will serve as an important baseline for future efforts to harness microbiota in cereal health.
Low-frequency Electrical Stimulation Alleviates Immobilization-evoked Disuse Muscle Atrophy via Repressing Autophagy in Skeletal Muscle of Rabbits
Authors: Liu A-Ying , Zhang Quan-Bing , Zhu Hua-Long , Xiong Yong-Wei , Wang Feng , Huang Peng-Peng , Xu Qi-Yu , Zhong Hua-Zhang , Wang Hua , Zhou Yun
Published: November 2021

Objective: The present study was to investigate the effect of low-frequency electrical stimulation on disuse muscle atrophy and its mechanism in a rabbit model of extending knee joint contracture.Methods: This study designed two experiments. In the time-point experiment, 24 rabbits were randomly divided into Control 1(Ctrl1), immobilization for 2 weeks (I-2), I-4, and I-6 groups. In the intervention experiment, 24 rabbits were also randomly divided into Control 2 (Ctrl2), electrical stimulation (ES), natural recovery (NR) and electrical stimulation treatment (EST) groups. All intervention effects were assessed by evaluating the knee joint range of motion (ROM), cross-sectional area (CSA) of muscle and the expression of autophagy-related proteins.Results: Time-point experiment showed that immobilization reduced knee ROM, muscle CSA, and activated autophagy in skeletal muscle. Levels of four autophagic proteins including p-mTOR, Atg7, p62 and LC3B-II, were significantly elevated in the skeletal muscle of I-4 group. The intervention experiment further presented that LFES significantly improved the immobilization-induced ROM and CSA reduction. Additionally, LFES significantly reversed autophagy activation of skeletal muscle caused by immobilization.Conclusions: Low-frequency electrical stimulation alleviates immobilization-evoked disuse muscle atrophy maybe via inhibiting autophagy in skeletal muscle of rabbits.
Predicting diagnostic gene Biomarkers associated with N6-methyladenosine and ferroptosis in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Tong Xiao , Zhao Xin Yi , Zhou Li Jin , Li Miao , Han Jian Bin , Zhao Jin Jin , Dang Xuan , Wang Yue Qing , Huang Mei Jiao , Kou Yan , Junjie Kou
Published: November 2021

Background

This study aimed to provide an early potential diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and determine its correlation with ferroptosis, immune checkpoints, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A).
Methods

We downloaded microarray data from NCBI (GSE61144, GSE60993, and GSE42148) and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in samples from healthy subjects and patients with AMI. We also performed systematic gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses and used STRING to predict the interactions between proteins. Then we proceeded with the identification of the first ten DEGs by plotting the receiver operating characteristic curve using the multi-scale curvature classification algorithm, and verification of their diagnostic significance. Next, we investigated the relationship between these target genes and immune checkpoints, ferroptosis, and m6A.
Results

Through screening, we identified 253 DEGs, including 181 downregulated and 72 upregulated genes. According to GO, KEGG, and key gene screening results, GZMB, GZMA, PRF1, KLRB1, CD2, KLRD1, IL2RB, NKG7, GZMK, and CCL5 could be used for early prediction of AMI. Moreover, we found that AMI was associated with ferroptosis, immune checkpoints, and m6A.
Conclusion

GZMB, GZMA, PRF1, KLRB1, CD2, KLRD1, IL2RB, NKG7, GZMK, and CCL5 are effective markers for the diagnosis of AMI, which can provide new prospects for future studies on the pathogenesis of AMI.
Summertime Surface Mass Balance and Energy Balance of Urumqi Glacier No. 1, Chinese Tien Shan, Modeled by Linking COSIMA and in-Situ Measured Meteorological Records
Authors: Li Hongliang , Wang Puyu , Li Zhongqin , Jin Shuang , He Jie
Published: November 2021

To get a better overview of atmosphere-driven mass changes at Urumqi Glacier No.1, Chinese Tien Shan, the surface energy balance and mass balance is modeled by linking the COupled Snowpack and Ice surface energy and MAss balance model (COSIMA) with in-situ measured meteorological record for the ablation period 2018. After a manual model optimization, the model produces realistic results compared to in-situ measured surface temperature, snow height and seasonal mass balance. Our results reveal that Urumqi Glacier No.1 experienced a significant mass loss, with an average value of -0.77 m w.e. over the ablation period 2018. The main components in energy balance were radiation components (SWnet and LWnet) and turbulent fluxes. Surface melt and solid precipitation were dominated components of mass balance. The COSIMA can reproduce the glaciological mass balance compared with other models. Sensitivity analysis showed that the mass balance was more sensitive to the temperature than precipitation, and mass loss caused by temperature increase of 1 K needed to be compensated by at least 40% precipitation increase. Air temperature during the ablation period was more important than annual precipitation in controlling mass balance changes on Urumqi Glacier No.1. These findings will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying mass balance processes of ablation period and their contribution to the acceleration of glacier retreat in Tien Shan.
Long-term Prognostic Value of Homocysteine in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Complicated with Hypertension: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Chen Qiang , Ding Xunshi , Cui Caiyan , Ye Tao , Cai Lin
Published: November 2021

Background and aims: This study investigates the long-term prognostic value of homocysteine in patients with acute coronary syndrome complicated with hypertension. Methods:The current work is a multicenter, retrospective, observational cohort study. We consecutively enrolled 1288 ACS patients hospitalized in 11 general hospitals in Chengdu, China, from June 2015 to December 2019. The patients were divided into hypertension and non-hypertension groups, and each was further classified into hyperhomocysteinemia (H-Hcy) and normal homocysteinemia (N-Hcy) groups according to the cut-off value of homocysteine predicting long-term mortality during follow-up. In both groups, we used Kaplan-Meier and multivariate Cox regression analysis to assess the relationship between homocysteine and long-term prognosis. Results: The median follow-up time was 18 months (range: 13.83-22.37). During this period, 78 (6.05%) death cases were recorded. The hypertension was further divided into H-Hcy (n=245) and N-Hcy (n=543), with an optimal cut-off value of 16.81 µmol/L. Similarly, non-hypertension was further divided into H-Hcy (n=200) and N-Hcy (n=300), with an optimal cut-off value of 14 µmol/L. Kaplan-Meier survival curves revealed that H-Hcy had a significantly lower survival probability than N-Hcy, both in hypertension and non-hypertension (P-value<0.01). After adjusting for confounding factors, multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that H-Hcy (HR=2.1923, 95% CI: 1.213-3.9625, P＜0.01) was an independent predictor of long-term all-cause death in ACS with hypertension, but not in non-hypertension.Conclusion: Elevated homocysteine level predicts risk of all-cause mortality in ACS with hypertension, but not in those without hypertension. it should be considered when determining risk stratification for ACS, particularly those complicating hypertension.
Dietary Patterns of Persons with Chronic Conditions in a Multi-Ethnic Asian Population
Authors: Brian Tan Yeow Wee , Hua Lau Jue , AshaRani PV , Roystonn Kumarasan , Devi Fiona , Ying Lee Ying , Whitton Clare , Wang Peizhi , Shafie Saleha , Chang Sherilyn , Jeyagurunathan Anitha , Yiang Chua Boon , Abdin Edimansyah , Sum Chee Fang , Lee Eng Sing , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: November 2021

Background: Chronic conditions are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide and respective data on dietary patterns remain scant. The present study aimed to investigate dietary patterns and identify sociodemographic factors associated with Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) scores within a multi-ethnic population with various chronic conditions. Method: The present study utilised data from the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on diabetes study in Singapore – a nationwide survey conducted to track the knowledge, attitudes, and practices pertaining to diabetes. The study analysed data collected from a sample of 2,895 Singapore residents, with information from the sociodemographic section, DASH diet screener, and the modified version of the World Mental Health Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) version 3.0 checklist of chronic medical conditions. Results: Respondents with no chronic condition had a mean DASH score of 18.5 (±4.6), those with one chronic condition had a mean DASH score of 19.2 (±4.8), and those with two or more chronic conditions had a mean DASH score of 19.8 (±5.2). Overall, the older age groups [35– 49 years (B = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.23 – 2.33, p <0.001), 50–64 years (B = 2.86, 95% CI: 22.24 – 3.47, p <0.001) and 65 years and above (B = 3.45, 95% CI: 2.73 – 4.17, p <0.001)], Indians (B = 2.54, 95% CI: 2.09 – 2.98, p <0.001) reported better diet quality, while males (B = -1.50, 95% CI: -1.87 – -1.14, p <0.001) reported poorer diet quality versus females. Conclusion: Overall, respondents with two or more chronic conditions reported better quality of diet while the sociodemographic factors of age, gender and ethnicity demonstrated a consistent pattern in correlating with diet quality, consistent with the extant literature. Results provide further insights for policymakers to refine ongoing efforts in relation to healthy dietary practices for Singapore.
The Relationship between Stress and Health-related Quality of Life is Mediated by Shoulder Pain, Shoulder Disorder, and Depression
Authors: Lee Myung Kyung , Oh Jihyun
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study is to analyze the mediating effect of shoulder pain, shoulder disorder, and depression in the relationship between stress and health-related quality of life in middle-aged women using a serial mediation model. For this study, data was collected from middle-aged women aged between 35 and 64 living in Seoul, South Korea, from May 13, 2021 to May 23, 2021. Data regarding stress, health-related quality of life, shoulder pain, shoulder disorder, and depression were collected using a self-reported, structured survey. SPSS macro process (Model 6) was used, and the relationship between stress and health-related quality of life of participants were analyzed using serial mediation analysis using shoulder pain, shoulder disorder, and depression as variables. From the results of the study, it was observed that stress has a statistically direct impact on health-related quality of life. On performing serial mediation analysis, shoulder pain, shoulder disorder, and depression were found to be statistically significant, which predicts the relationship between stress and health-related quality of life; the variables showed an explanatory power of 33% for influencing the quality of life. Therefore, the relationship between stress and health-related quality of life was found to be partially mediated by shoulder pain, shoulder disorder, and depression. This study suggests the need for healthcare workers to develop a method, such as exercise intervention programs based on various degrees and types of physical activity, for improving the health-related quality of life and reducing stress caused by shoulder pain, shoulder disorder, and depression in middle-aged women.
Evaluating the Effects of Antimicrobial Drug Use On the Ecology of Antimicrobial Resistance and Microbial Community Structure in Beef Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Doster Enrique , Pinnell Lee J. , Noyes Noelle R. , Parker Jennifer K. , Anderson Cameron A. , Booker Calvin W. , Hannon Sherry J. , McAllister Tim A. , Gow Sheryl P. , Belk Keith E. , Morley Paul S.
Published: November 2021

BackgroundAntimicrobial drugs (AMDs) are used in beef production to treat clinical disease and to prevent or control infections in groups of cattle. Use of AMDs in food producing animals has received increasing scrutiny because of concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) that might affect consumers. Previously, investigations regarding AMR have focused largely on phenotypes of selected pathogens and indicator bacteria, but genes that confer AMR are known to be distributed and shared throughout microbial communities. Use of high-throughput metagenomic sequencing provides a holistic perspective on AMR ecology by examining determinants within the entire microbiome. The primary objective of this study was to employ metagenomic sequencing to investigate the effects of AMD use on the microbiome and resistome in beef feedlot cattle. ResultsThis study leveraged the use of archived samples that were collected during a previous longitudinal study of cattle at beef feedlots in Canada. This included fecal samples collected from randomly selected individual cattle, as well as composite-fecal samples from randomly selected pens of cattle. All AMD use was recorded and characterized across different drug classes using animal defined daily dose (ADD) metrics. Samples were analyzed using AMR target-enriched shotgun sequencing to characterize the fecal resistome and 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize the microbiome. Overall, the fecal resistome composition was dominated by alignments to gene accessions conferring resistance to tetracycline and macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin (MLS) drug classes. The diversity of bacterial phyla was greater early in the feeding period and decreased over time as the microbiome shifted toward a similar composition dominated by Proteobacteria and Firmicutes. Antimicrobial drug exposures in individuals and groups were associated with explaining a statistically significant proportion of the variance in the resistome, but their contribution to the variance was small compared to other factors measured in this study.ConclusionsTime in the feedlot was associated with greater changes in the microbiome and resistome for both individual animals and pen-floor samples, although the proportion of the variance associated with this factor was small. Results of this study are consistent with other investigations showing that AMD exposures did not have strong effects on the microbial ecology of beef cattle.
Nonstructural Versus Structural Bone Grafting for Interbody Fusion in the Treatment of Lumbar Tuberculosis by a Single Posterior Approach
Authors: Zhao Zenghui , Li Jianxiao , Luo Wei , Zhu Yong , Du Xing , Ou Yunsheng
Published: November 2021

Background Many types of bone grafting have been reported for successful use in the treatment of lumbar spinal tuberculosis. However, none-structural bone grafting has rarely been studied. This study was aimed to identify the clinical efficacy of nonstructural with structural bone graft for interbody fusion in the surgical treatment of single segment lumbar tuberculosis after one stage posterior debridement.Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients with nonstructural (n=27) and structural (n=22) bone grafting after single-stage posterior debridement and instrumentation for lumbar tuberculosis with at least 24 months of follow-up. Plain radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography scans, and health-related outcomes (e.g., Visual Analog Scale for back pain, the Oswestry Disability Index) were collected and analyzed before and after surgery. Results Both nonstructural and structural bone grafting were associated with significant improvements in the life quality parameters, the laboratory tests, and the Cobb angle of local kyphosis. A slight loss of Cobb angle correction was observed in two groups. Nonstructural bone grafting exhibited the advantages of less operation duration, blood loss and lower bone fusion rate compared with structural bone grafting. There were three complications in the nonstructural bone grafting and four complications in the structural bone grafting group, with no significant difference between two groups.Conclusions In conclusion, nonstructural bone grafting can achieve comparable interbody fusion to structural bone grafting but has less surgical trauma and simpler surgical procedure than structural bone grafting in the treatment of single segment lumbar tuberculosis after one stage posterior debridement and pedicle screws fixation.
Determining Mobile Learning Potentialities in Emerging Computing Paradigms: an Exploratory Approach for Performance Optimization
Authors: Mohiuddin Khalid , Islam Mohammad Aminul , Khaleel Mohammad Abdul , Miladi Mohamed Nadhmi , Nasr Osman A. , Khan Sajid Ali , Khan Mohiuddin Ali , Fatima Huda
Published: November 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
More alike than different: Novel methods for measuring and modeling executive function development
Authors: Younger Jessica , O'Laughlin Kristine , Anguera Joaquin , Bunge Silvia , Ferrer Emilio , Hoeft Fumiko , McCandliss Bruce , Mishra Jyoti , Rosenberg-Lee Miriam , Gazzaley Adam , Uncapher Melina
Published: November 2021

Executive functions (EFs) are linked to positive outcomes across the lifespan. Yet, methodological challenges have prevented rigorous understanding of the precise ways EFs are organized in childhood and how they develop over time. We introduce novel methods to address these challenges for both measuring and modeling EFs using a large, accelerated longitudinal dataset from a diverse sample of students in middle childhood (approximately ages 8 to 14; N = 1,286). Adaptive assessments allowed us to equate EF challenge across ages and a data-driven, network analytic approach revealed the evolving diversity of EFs while accounting for their unity. Our results suggest EF organization stabilizes around age 10, but continues refining through at least age 14. This approach brings new precision to EFs’ development by removing interpretative ambiguities associated with previous methodologies. By improving EF measurement, the field can move towards improving EF training, to provide a strong foundation for students’ success.
What are the contributions of native plants to the urban ecosystem?
Authors: Altay Elvan Ender , Zencirkıran Murat
Published: November 2021

For the coming years, it is a potential danger that the ecosystems existing in urban areas will be heavily affected, especially under the pressure of climate change. In the face of this danger, it is of great importance to ensure the sustainability of life chains in urban areas. In this context, a good understanding of the natural landscape and the adoption of local species make important contributions to urban areas for sustainable ecosystems. Natural plants interact with all physical and biotic factors in their areas and contribute to the life of natural living communities by easily adapting to environmental conditions. This research was carried out in Bursa (Turkey), which has a rich flora in terms of natural plant taxa. The contributions of 72 woody taxa in Bursa flora to the ecosystem were examined. The relationships that emerged in terms of the criteria examined revealed important results. The existence of a positive relationship between features, which are considered among ecological criteria in terms of contribution to the ecosystem, such as shelter for animals, being a food source, being a food source for humans, attracting butterflies, attracting bees, and preventing erosion, shows that the use of native plants is extremely important for the preservation of ecosystem integrity in urban areas.
Drivers of Past and Predicted Changes of Rainfall in and Around Mainland Southeast Asia
Authors: Skliris Nikolaos , Marsh Robert , Haigh Ivan D. , Wood Melissa , Hirschi Joel , Darby Stephen , Quynh Nguyen Phu , Hung Nguyen Nghia
Published: November 2021

Observational rain gauge/satellite and reanalysis datasets since the 1950s are evaluated for trends in mean and extreme rainfall over Mainland Southeast Asia (MSEA). Rain gauge data indicate strong increases exceeding 50% in both annual mean precipitation and various extreme precipitation indices over Vietnam and the northwestern part of the peninsula since 1979. Increasing precipitation in MSEA is associated with increased monsoon intensity in southeast Asia and a northward shift of the monsoon activity centre towards MSEA over 1979-2018. Re-analysis data reveal warming-driven increases in evaporation over the seas adjacent to MSEA, including the main oceanic source regions feeding precipitation over the peninsula - the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the South China Sea. Furthermore, moisture budget analysis based on the ERA5 re-analysis also showed increasing oceanic moisture transport along the typical winter and summer moisture pathways towards the MSEA. However, the majority of the increased moisture from these oceanic sources ends up as summer precipitation over the oceanic regions adjacent to the MSEA. In contrast, the ERA5 data do reveal pronounced increases in winter precipitation over the MSEA, in accordance with rain-gauge data, that are associated with increased transport of moisture that originated from the western tropical Pacific and the South China Sea. Long-term amplification of the regional hydrological cycle is further investigated, through analysis of CMIP5 coupled climate models in historical and RCP4.5/8.5 21st century scenario simulations. The CMIP5 ensemble mean shows robust wide-spread trends in wet season precipitation with increasing frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation events over the MSEA, following strong increases in evaporation in the oceanic moisture sources.
Severe Vancomycin-Induced IgA Bullous Dermatosis Case Report
Authors: Bawadkji Mohamad Malek , Potluri Sai Deepika , Dangol Raj , Siu Michael Man Kit , Shrestha Rabin K , Wolff Marcos A , Haas Christopher J.
Published: November 2021

Linear IgA Bullous Dermatosis is a rare autoimmune blistering disease with an incidence of about 0.5 to 2.3 cases per million individuals per year. Although multiple reports have documented drug exposure as a precipitating factor, formal studies validating the existence of drug-induced LABD are lacking. A 49-year-old man with history of intravenous drug use presented with left hip pain of three weeks duration after sustaining a fall. On presentation he was hemodynamically stable and physical examination was notable for poor dentition, gingivitis, stigmata of IV drug use with associated cellulitis on right antecubital fossa and proximal left thigh tenderness with stiffness and limited range of movement. Laboratory diagnostics were remarkable for elevated inflammatory markers, with no evidence of leukocytosis. CT scan without contrast of the left lower extremity that demonstrated severe left hip osteoarthritis without fracture or dislocation. Blood Cultures were collected and empirically started on Vancomycin and Piperacillin/Tazobactam for right elbow cellulitis. The patient continued to experience severe pain, prompting incision and drainage of the left hip along with acetabuloplasty, removal of the femoral head, and Stage I hip replacement with placement of prophylactic prosthetic cement spacer with Vancomycin and Tobramycin. Within twenty-four hours of surgery, he developed multiple distinct maculopapular/bullous lesions of his torso and medial thigh that rapidly progressed, involving the oral mucosa, scrotum, glans, hands, and feet with associated periorbital edema. Punch biopsy was performed and due to involvement of ~20% body surface area and transferred to a tertiary center. H&E and immunostaining of the histological sample demonstrated IgA bullous disease. The patient’s bullous lesions improved two weeks after discontinuation of Vancomycin and initiation of therapy. This case demonstrates the importance of early recognition of the rare adverse effects of commonly used medications. Vancomycin is currently used more frequently given the recent rise in the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection. Further studies are needed to understand the pathophysiology, genetic predisposition, and disease penetrance.
Gravitational cells and gravitational strings as a necessary part of the gravitational field. Obtaining new physical formulas and indicators (the formula for the gravitational constant, the formula for the mass of the hydrogen atom, etc.)
Authors: Chernov Andrey
Published: November 2021

In this work, for the first time, it was possible to build into the gravitational field such concepts as gravitational cells and gravitational strings. This made it possible to obtain such scientific results as the formula for the gravitational constant, the formula for the proportion between the mass-energy of the electron and the proton, the formula for the hydrogen atom, the formula for the gravitational quantum, etc. These formulas were fully confirmed by experimental data. In this study, Planck's formula was successfully embedded in the gravitational field, resulting in significant scientific results. In this work, the concept of a gravitational quantum is introduced and its value is determined. Also, a new physical constant was obtained - the mass of the gravitational cell of a black hole.
Evaluation of the Efficiency of Supinator Tendon Transfer to Wrist Extensor in Brachial Plexus Injuries at C7-T1, A Case Study Based on OpenSIM Modelling Approach
Authors: Karimi mohammad , Namazi Hamid
Published: November 2021

BackgroundThe incidence of brachial plexus injuries (BPI) is increasing due to improvement in transportation technology. Those with BPI have upper limb performance limitation depends on the type of injury. Various surgical treatments have been used in this group of the subjects to restore their performance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of supinator transferred to wrist extensors in those with lesion level at C7-T1 based on OpenSim modelling approach.MethodThe motions of the upper limb during vertical reaching, transverse reaching and wrist motion of a normal subject were achieved by use of motion analysis system. The ranges of motion of the upper limb joints were evaluated by inverse kinematic. OpenSim software was used to determine the muscles forces during aforementioned tasks. Tendon of supinator was transferred to extensors in modified models of OpenSim. Forward dynamic approach was used to determine the range of motion in tendon transferred condition. ResultsThe range of wrist motion in normal condition (extensors intake) were 85, 103 and 140 degrees for the first task (transverse reaching), the second task (vertical reaching) and the third task (only flexion/extension of wrist), respectively. Although the force of supinator was significantly less than that of wrist extensors, the pattern of its force is the same as wrist extensors.
Characterization of GFDM Signal with Timing Offset, CFO, Non-Linearity, and PN
Authors: Yazdani Fereshteh , Mohammadi Abbas , Abdipour Abdolali , Kazemi Mohammad
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we study the joint effects of timing offset (TO), carrier frequency offset (CFO), nonlinear power amplifier distortion, and phase noise (PN) on generalized frequency division multiplexing (GFDM) system. Closed form expressions for signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) at GFDM receiver with synchronization errors and PN using a nonlinear power amplifier is derived. Then, we have been conducted simulation studies to compare the performance of GFDM systems with orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems using matched filter (MF) and zero forcing (ZF), in presence of these impairments. The results show that GFDM systems are more robust against TO and PN while they are more sensitive to CFO and nonlinear distortion compared to OFDM systems.
Novel QTL For Lodging Resistance, PRL4, Improves Physical Properties With High Non-Structural Carbohydrate Accumulation of Basal Culms in Rice (Oryza Sativa L.)
Authors: Kashiwagi Takayuki
Published: November 2021

Resistance to lodging, an important problem in rice production, has three types: low plant height, strong culm, and high strength of the lower part of the plant. The determinants of strength of the lower part remains unclear, compared with plant height and culm strength. This study identified a new genetic factor involved in the strength of the lower part, as assessed by pushing resistance, using chromosomal segment substitution lines (CSSLs) to clarify the determinants of strength of the lower part by functional analysis of the CSSL and the near isogenic line (NIL) harboring the identified quantitative trait locus (QTL). QTL analysis identified the QTL for increasing pushing resistance on chromosome 4, PRL4, which was not related to days to heading. The CSSL with PRL4 showed increased pushing resistance and physical strength of the basal culm, but decreased filled grain ratio and grain weight. The NIL with PRL4, developed by backcrossing this CSSL, improved pushing resistance and the strain of culm until breaking under compression, and did not decrease yield traits. These lines with PRL4 increased the accumulation of non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) in the basal culm at the fully ripe stage. Thus, the genetic control of NSC accumulation in culms by PRL4 may improve the strength of the lower part by enhancing culm toughness with strength and ductility.
Forecasting CO2 Emissions Using a Novel Conformable Fractional Order Discrete Grey Model
Authors: Zhu Peng , Xie Wanli , Shi Yunshen , Pang Mingyong , Shi Yuhui
Published: November 2021

Accurate and scientific forecasting of carbon dioxide emissions will help make better industrial carbon emission planning so as to promote low-carbon industrial development and achieve sustainable economic growth. For depressing the disturbance of various elements, grey system-based models play an important role in forecasting science. In this paper, we extend the cumulative order from integer order to fractional order based on the discrete gray model, which we call CFDGM (1,1). After introducing the free quantity of the model order, the accuracy of the prevenient grey-based models can be further enhanced. We selected the data for carbon dioxide production by Germany, Japan, and Thailand for modeling. To obtain the optimal order of our grey model, we selected four optimizers to search for the order. The results show that although the search history of the four types of optimizers is different, the search results are the same, which proves that the four types of optimizers are stable and reliable, and the order for which we searched is reliable. By substituting the optimal order into CFDGM (1,1), we obtained the fitting and prediction error of the proposed model. The final results show that a satisfactory fitting effect and forecasting effect is obtained by our proposed model.
Remediation and Biological Activity of Nano Zero-valent Iron Supported by Biomass Carbon on Soil Contaminated With Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers
Authors: Xu Zhen , Song Chao , Zhu Yue , Zhang Chi , Huang Xiaoyue
Published: November 2021

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are toxic to humans and can easily accumulate in the environment. Nanoscale zero-valent iron (NZVI) and modified NZVI have been developed to remediate PBDE contamination. However, their degradation in soil systems and their microbial toxicity have not been widely explored. In this study, NZVI supported on biomass carbon was applied to remove decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) from contaminated soil. A removal efficiency of 100% was achieved within 384 h as BDE-209 reacted with 0.10 g/g soil biomass carbon NZVI particles (BC–NZVI) at pH 7.00. The reaction followed pseudo-first-order kinetics, and the BDE-209 removal efficiency increased with increasing BC–NZVI dosage and decreasing initial BDE-209 concentration, pH, and moisture content. Biological activity assays (dehydrogenase activity and soil basal respiration) were conducted to provide a preliminary risk assessment of the BC–NZVI application in BDE-209 contaminated soil. The results demonstrate that BC–NZVI has a strong potential for in situ remediation of organic-contaminated soil.