bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROZODİK OKUMA BECERİSİNİN DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİNDE DERECELİ PUANLAMA ANAHTARI KULLANIMINA İLİŞKİN ÖĞRETMEN GÖRÜŞLERİ
Authors: KANIK UYSAL Pınar , BİLGE Huzeyfe
Published: September 2021

Bu araştırmada prozodik okuma becerisinin değerlendirilmesinde öğretmenlerin dereceli puanlama anahtarı (DPA) kullanma durumları ve DPA kullanma deneyimlerine ilişkin görüşlerini ortaya koymak amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma temel nitel araştırma deseniyle yürütülmüş, çalışma grubunun belirlenmesinde amaçlı örnekleme yöntemlerinden ölçüt örnekleme tekniği kullanılmıştır. Araştırmaya dört Türkçe, üç sınıf öğretmeni olmak üzere toplamda yedi öğretmen katılmıştır. Araştırma verileri yarı yapılandırılmış görüşme aracılığıyla toplanmış ve veriler içerik analizi tekniğiyle analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma bulgularında DPA’nın olumlu ve olumsuz yönlerine ilişkin “psikometrik özellikler”, “değerlendirme özellikleri” ve “uygulama” olarak üç tema; “öğrenciyi tanıma, objektiflik, dönüt, değerlendirme kolaylığı ve uygulama zorluğu” olmak üzere de beş kategoriye ulaşılmıştır. Araştırma bulgularından elde edilen sonuçlar her iki branşta da öğretmenlerin objektiflik, öğrenciyi tanıma, öğrenciye ve öğretmene geri bildirim sağlama yönüyle DPA’yı faydalı bulduklarını ancak uygulama zorluğu nedeniyle DPA kullanmayı tercih etmediklerini göstermiştir. Öğretmenler uygulama zorluğuna gerekçe olarak puanlamanın zaman almasını, kalabalık sınıflarda uygulamanın zor olmasını ve onlar için ayrıca iş yükü çıkararak kâğıt israfına neden olmasını göstermişlerdir.
Deteksi Koksidiosis pada Ayam Layer di Sesaot, Kecamatan Narmada, Kabupaten Lombok Barat
Authors: Fitri Dian Yusnia , Agustin Alfiana Laili Dwi , Kholik Kholik , Janah Maratun
Published: September 2021

Koksidiosis merupakan penyakit yang di sebabkan oleh protozoa spesies Eimeria spp. yang dapat menginfeksi ayam. Eimeria sp adalah spesies yang paling patogen dan menyebabkan diare berdarah pada ayam. Satu kendala yang dirasakan oleh peternak di sana adalah adanya penyakit berak darah pada ayam layer di Desa Sesaot kecamatan Narmada Lombok Barat. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui adanya endoparasit koksidiosis pada ayam layer yang dipelihara di Sesaot kecamatan Narmada Lombok Barat sebagai langkah untuk melakukan pengendalian terhadap koksidiosis. Sejumlah 9 sampel diambil dari ayam yang menunjukkan gejala klinis terinfeksi koksidia, yaitu diare berdarah. Sampel feses diambil secara aseptis, kemudian dibawa ke Laboratorium Equine Clinical Skills Centre Universitas Pendidikan Mandalika. Sampel yang sudah ada di laboratoirum diperiksa menggunakan metode Pengapungan. Berdasarkan hasil pemeriksaan, terdapat satu sampel positif terinfeksi Eimeria spp. dari total 9 sampel yang diidentifikasi.
Novel Impedance Sensor based on the Chaotic Van der Pol and Damped Duffing Circuits Coupled
Authors: Pedro Bruna Gabriela , Betemes-Filho Pedro
Published: September 2021

The signature of chaotic systems can be characterized either by the sensitivity of the initial conditions or by the change of its parameters. This feature can be used for manufacturing high sensitivity sensors. Sensors based on chaotic circuits have already been used for measuring water salinity, inductive effects, and both noise and weak signals. This article investigates an impedance sensor based on the Van der Pol and Duffing damped oscillators. The calibration process is a key point and therefore the folding behavior of signal periods was also explored. A sensitivity of 0.15 kΩ/Period was estimated over a range from 89.5 to 91.6 kΩ. This range can be adjusted according to the application by varying the gain of the operational amplifier used in this implementation. The development of this type of sensor might be used in medical and biological engineering for skin impedance measurements, for example. This type of chaotic sensor has the advantage of sensing small disturbances and then detect small impedance changes within biological materials which, in turn, may not be possible with other detectors.
Detecting Branching Condition Changes in Process Models
Authors: Lu Yang , Chen Qifan , Poon Simon K.
Published: September 2021

Business processes are continuously evolving in order to adapt to changes due to various factors. One important process drift perspective yet to be investigated is the detection of branching condition changes in the process model. None of the existing process drift detection methods focus on detecting changes of branching conditions in process models. Existing branching condition detection methods do not take changes within the process into account, hence results are inadequate to represent the changes of decision criteria of the process. In this paper, we present a method which can detect branching condition changes in process models. The method takes both process models and event logs as input, and translates event logs into decision sequences for change points detection. The proposed method is evaluated by simulated event logs.
Spondylodiscitis After Endovascular Aortic Repair Due to Noninvasive Listeriosis
Authors: Mercurio Michele , Sanzo Valentina , Rava Alessandro , Galasso Olimpio , Gasparini Giorgio
Published: September 2021

Case:

An 83-year-old man suffered progressive lower back pain 4 weeks after an endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) procedure. Computed tomography showed L4 vertebral body collapse and abnormal soft tissue-like density swelling with increased uptake on 18F-fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT. Listeria monocytogenes was identified from ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration. Ultrasound-guided drainage of the retroperitoneal abscess and intravenous antibiotic therapy with ampicillin and gentamicin resulted in the rapid relief of symptoms.

Conclusion:

Spondylodiscitis after EVAR requires a timely diagnosis. Uncommon organisms such as L. monocytogenes must be suspected, even in focal infections without signs of listeriosis. Conservative treatment with preservation of the graft should be considered as long as close follow-up evaluations are performed.
Penerapan PSAK 109 Pelaporan Keuangan Akuntansi Zakat dan Infaq/Shadaqah pada LAZISMU
Authors: Hanjani Andreani , Azizah Kholifah Nur , Gunawan Barbara
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study is to know the implementation of PSAK 109 at LAZISMU and to evaluate the suitability of financial report of LAZISMU with PSAK 109. The research method used in this study is descriptive qualitative. This research was conducted at LAZISMU and the information of the research was obtained from interviews and documentation. The results of the study show that LAZISMU mostly implements PSAK 45 about the financial report of non-profit entities where the profits are not obtained through business but are obtained from social and humanity. In reporting the financial report, LAZISMU only implements the program summary that records each zakat and infaq / sadaqah fund and the percentage given to each asnaf. This is contrast with the implementation of PSAK 109 where the record of financial report consists of the reports of financial position, changes in funds, changes in assets under management, cash flow and notes on financial statements. From the results, it is concluded that the record of financial report at LAZISMU is not fully in accordance with PSAK 109.
The method of comprehensive assessment of working conditions in the foundry production
Authors: Lazarenkov A. M. , Kot T. P.
Published: September 2021

The method of a comprehensive assessment of the working conditions of workers in foundries is given. The main production factors of working conditions are determined and a relative complex indicator is introduced that takes into account the considered factors of working conditions. Correction coefficients for each production factor are determined, taking into account their impact on the human body.

The equation for calculating the complex indicator was obtained, which made it possible to establish classes of foundries (sections) according to working conditions. The results of calculations of the complex indicator for noise and total for all production factors in foundries with different production patterns are presented.
Controlling the drawability of carbon steel wire rod
Authors: Fetisov V. P.
Published: September 2021

The author proposed an indicator of the deformation capacity of carbon steel wire rod, which took into account the tendency of the metal to hardening and the general level of plastic properties, and determined technological approaches to the designation of the optimal total reduction before intermediate heat treatment by drawing low carbon wire rod and wire rod for metal cord.
Dependence of the fractality of the silica gel on the method of sol emulsification
Authors: Tkachenko S. S. , Yemelyanov V. O. , Martynov K. V.
Published: September 2021

The article presents experimental data confirming the effect of capillary active substance (surfactants) and sedimentation stability on the final structure of the gel with stabilized silicic acid. Studies of the macrostructure of silica gel depending on the method of emulsifi ation of silicic acid sol and the effect of the resulting fractality on the strength of the mold are presented.

The direction of modifying the binder for lost‑wax casting (LWC) with obtaining the specified properties of the ceramic shell is shown.

The complex effect of organic polymers on the sol – gel system has been established. The conclusion is made about the possibility of using an aqueous dispersion of acrylic to form a given structure of a silica gel.
Time to resuscitate cardiopulmonary resuscitation! The 3R/CPR: Refill-Recoil-Rebound.
Authors: Nour Sayed
Published: September 2021

Introduction Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) remains a major health issue worldwide with gloomy outcomes due to poor perfusion of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), deemed unsuitable for hemostatic conditions, cardiotorsal anatomy, electrophysiology and thoracic biomechanics. Alternatively, we propose a new management, implementing rational mobilization of stagnant blood: manually with a novel technique of cardiac massage and mechanically with a circulatory flow restoration (CFR) device. Methods Simulated chest compressions were performed through the 5th intercostal space in professional Lifeguards volunteers, placed in the left lateral decubitus position with raised legs and abdominal compression. Expected results Compared to CPR, bypassing the sternal barrier, refilling the heart and then compressing the chest with a recoil-rebound maneuver (3R / CPR) can significantly promote ROSC. Results of CFR device were previously demonstrated. Conclusion 3R/CPR adapts human morphology promoting adequate perfusion and ROSC safely, under all circumstances. Preclinical computational models can confirm the effectiveness of 3R/CPR versus CPR.
Big Data-aware News Recommendation System According to Regional Twitter Users’ Interests
Authors: Bagheri Maryam , Jamali Shahram , Fotohi Reza
Published: September 2021

Nowadays with the development of technology and access to the Internet everywhere for everyone, the interest to get the news from newspapers and other traditional media is decreasing. Therefore, the popularity of news websites is ascending as the newspapers are changing into electronic versions. News websites can be accessed from anywhere, i.e., any country, city, region, etc. So, the need to present the news depends on where the reader is from can be a research area, as with facing with variety of news topics on websites readers prefer to choose those which more often show the news, they are interested in on their home pages. Based on this idea we represent the technique to find favorite topics of Twitter users of certain geographical districts to provide news websites a way of increasing popularity. In this work we processed tweets. It seems that tweets are some small data, but we found out that processing this small data needs a lot of time, due to the repetition of the algorithm a lot and many searches to be done. Therefore, we categorized our work as big data. To help this problem we developed our work in the Spark framework. Our technique includes 2 phases; Feature Extraction Phase and Topic Discovery Phase. Our analysis shows that with this technique we can get the accuracy between 68% and 76%, in 3 developments 3-fold, 5-fold, and 10-fold.
Left Atrial Volume Index in Diagnosis of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Pang Xingxue , Liu Ruoyi , Xu Li , Tao Xin , Hao Xuezeng , Zhu Haiyan , Zhao Cuiyun , Zhao Peng
Published: September 2021

Objective To assess the value of left atrium volume index（LAVI）for diagnosing heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) based on the invasive determination of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP).Methods A total of 710 cases of patients with dyspnea (LVEF≥50%) were enrolled in this retrospective study. Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) was measured through selective coronary angiography. According to the value of LVEDP, cases were divided into the HFpEF group ( LVEDP≥15mmHg) and the control group (LVEDP<15mmHg). LAVI was calculated based on cardiac compartment diameter, as measured by echocardiography, and body surface area (BSA). Differences of LAVI between the HFpEF group and the control group, and between subgroups in the HFpEF group were analyzed.Results The difference in LAVI between the control group and the HFpEF group was statistically significant (41.35±2.28vs.46.78±2.63ml/m2, p=0.008). LVEDP was positively correlated with LAVI (Pearson: r=0.787, P＜0.001). When LAVI took the best cutoff value of 43.7 mm/m2, the sensitivity and specificity of diagnosis of HFpEF were 92.0% and 88.9%. When the boundary value of LAVI was from 41.7 to 45.7 mm/m2, the sensitivity of the diagnosis of ejection fraction retention heart failure was from 97.4% to 64.4% and the specificity was from 51.2.0% to 92.2%.Conclusion In patients with dyspnea after exclusion of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), LAVI is positively correlated with LVEDP. LAVI can be used to diagnose HFpEF when HFrEF is excluded.
Finite element analysis of the optimal configuration of bridging combined internal fixation system in the treatment of vancouver B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures.
Authors: Zhang Long , Haque Md Ariful , Xiong Ying , Qin Jing , Liu Luyun , Zhang Yingjie , Xiao Jiayu
Published: September 2021

Background and Objective: The incidence of periprosthetic fracture increases with the increase of total hip arthroplasty. The treatment of periprosthetic fracture is always a difficult point. The bridged combined internal fixation system (Ortho-bridge System, OBS) is well adapted to the characteristics of periprosthetic fractures.In this study, finite element analysis was used to evaluate the optimal configuration of OBS for fixation of Vancouver B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures.Methods: A three-rod combination OBS fixation model was established to evaluate the optimal position of the third rod, the cross Angle of proximal screws, the diameter of the connecting rod, and the number of screws. Femoral displacement and the maximum Von Mises (equivalent) stress of OBS were used as evaluation indexes.Results: The third rod is located at 35mm below the lateral fovea of the femur and the minimum Von Mises peak stress of OBS, which is the best location for placing the third rod. It is feasible for proximal screw intersection Angle to be about 71° and 84°.To fix the strength, the 6mm connecting rod is better. Considering the number of screws scheme comprehensively, scheme D is the best number of screws scheme.Conclusion: The personalized and diversified fixation mode of OBS is well adapted to the characteristics of periprosthetic fracture and provides an effective means for the treatment of periprosthetic femoral fracture.Statement : I confirm that this manuscript has not been published or presented elsewhere in part or entirety and is not under consideration by another journal. However, you may notice that a preprint has been published in research square https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-661745/v1, “Finite element analysis of the optimal configuration of bridging combined internal fixation system in the treatment of Vancouver B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures”. But it's not published or under consideration by any journal.
Geo-Environmental Quality Assessment Study Based On Multivariate Data And Geospatial Approach For A Watershed of Central India
Authors: Doad Atul P. , Das Sandipan , Khadse S.P. , Khare Y.D. , Pande Chaitanya B. , Varade Abhay Mukund
Published: September 2021

The present study accentuates the expediency of remote sensing (RS), Geographical Information System (GIS), and Spatial Multiple Criteria Evaluation Analysis (SMCE) in appraising the geo-environmental scenario of a watershed falling under the semi-arid region of India. In this study, the Bordi river basin, which falls partly under the Amravati and the Akola districts of Maharashtra state, Central India has been investigated in detail for identifying the existing environmental status of the region. This natural resource evaluation technique incorporates a set of 10 parameters which has significance in regional geo-environment sustainability. In the process, using expert knowledge, an integrated geo-environmental potential index (GPI) has been calculated and the same is used further to derive the final geo-environmental potential map (GEPM) illustrating four classes of geo-environmental resources i.e. high, moderate, low, and poor. The geo-environmental quality map overall shows a high level of geo-environmental resources in the maximum area (48.30%). The results are significant in protection, conservation, and planning management strategies of the geo-environment of the study area. Each geo-environmental potential unit is amenable to specific conservation techniques and hence appropriate conservation techniques are recommended to each of them. The work amply proves the applicability of RS, GIS, and SMCE techniques in the natural resource evaluation procedure. This technique is found to be suitable for areas with similar geo-environmental set-up elsewhere.
The continuity of prime numbers can lead to even continuity
Authors: Ling Xie
Published: September 2021

n continuous prime numbers can combine a group of continuous even numbers. If an adjacent prime number is followed, the even number will continue.For example, if we take prime number 3, we can get even number 6. If we follow an adjacent prime number 5, we can get even numbers by using 3 and 5: 6, 8 and 10.If a group of continuous prime numbers 3,5,7,11,... P, we can get a group of continuous even numbers 6,8,10,12,..., 2n. Then if an adjacent prime number q is followed, the original group of even numbers 6,8,10,12,..., 2n will be finitely extended to 2 (n + 1) or more adjacent even numbers. My purpose is to prove that the continuity of prime numbers will lead to even continuity as long as 2 (n + 1) can be extended.If the continuity of even numbers is discontinuous, it violates the Bertrand Chebyshev theorem of prime numbers.Because there are infinitely many prime numbers: 3, 5, 7, 11,...We can get infinitely many continuous even numbers: 6,8,10,12,...
Location, Location, Location: A Discrete Choice Experiment to Inform Vaccination Programme Delivery in the UK
Authors: McPhedran Robert , Gold Natalie , Bemand Charlotte , Weston Dale , Rosen Rachel , Scott Robert , Chadborn Tim , Amlôt Richard , McMaster Toby , Kume-Holland Charlotte , Mawby Max , Toombs Ben
Published: September 2021

BackgroundLarge-scale vaccination is fundamental to combatting COVID-19. In March 2021, the UK’s vaccination programme had delivered vaccines to large proportions of older and more vulnerable population groups; however, there was concern that uptake would be lower among young people. This research was designed to elicit the preferences of 18-29-year-olds with respect to key delivery characteristics.MethodsFrom 25 March - 2 April 2021, an online sample of 2,021 UK adults aged 18-29 years participated in a Discrete Choice Experiment. Participants made six choices, each between two SMS invitations to get vaccinated; each choice also had an opt-out. Each invitation had four attributes (1 x 5 levels, 3 x 3 levels): delivery mode, appointment timing, proximity, and SMS sender. These were systematically varied according to a d-optimal fractional factorial design. Order of presentation was randomised for each participant. Responses were analysed using a mixed logit model.ResultsThe logit model revealed a large alternative-specific constant (β = 1.385, SE = 0.067, p <0.001), indicating a strong preference for ‘opting in’ to appointment invitations. Pharmacies were dispreferred to the local vaccination centre (β = -0.256, SE = 0.072, p <0.001), appointments in locations that were 30-45 minutes travel time from one’s premises were dispreferred to locations that were less than 15 minutes away (β = -0.408, SE = 0.054, p <0.001), and, compared to invitations sent by the NHS, SMSs forwarded by ‘a friend’ were dispreferred (β = -0.615, SE = 0.056, p <0.001) but invitations from the General Practitioner were preferred (β = 0.105, SE = 0.048, p = 0.028).ConclusionsThe results indicated that the existing configuration of the UK’s mass vaccination programme was well-placed to deliver vaccines to 18-29-year-olds; however, some adjustments might enhance acceptance. Local pharmacies were not preferred; long travel times were a disincentive but close proximity (0-15 minutes from one’s premises) was not necessary; and either the ‘NHS’ or ‘Your GP’ would serve as adequate invitation sources. This research informed COVID-19 policy in the UK, and contributes to a wider body of Discrete Choice Experiment evidence on citizens’ preferences, requirements and predicted behaviours regarding COVID-19.
Effect of Treatment With Gonadoreline at the Embryo Transfer on Pregnancy Outcomes in Bovine.
Authors: Defensor Melissa Lobato , Faria Ana Cláudia Fagundes , Marques Flávio Luiz Alves , Cadima Gustavo Pereira , Mafra Mayara Oliveira , Santos Ricarda Maria dos
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to assess whether administration of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist gonadorelin would increase conception rates at 30 (P / ET 30) and 60 (P / ET 60) days of gestation and reduce pregnancy losses (PL) in embryo recipients and what would be the correlation between the animal category and the season of the year in which the embryo transfer would occur. The experiment was conducted on 11 commercial farms in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Recipients were randomly divided into groups: treated (n = 624), cows that received 0.1 mg gonadorelin on the day of FTET, and control (n = 687), untreated cows. All embryos were produced in vitro from oocyte donors of different races. Recipients were classified as heifers, dry cows or lactating cows. Higher conception rate was observed at 30 days (p = 0.03) and 60 days (p = 0.01) in the treated group (45.8%; 43.0%, respectively). Dry and lactating cows had less pregnancy loss (p = 0.001) compared to heifers (2.70% and 2.47% vs 10.42%, respectively). During spring/summer, there was less P/FTET at 30 days (0.024). Embryo transfer carried out in the warmer seasons of the year reduced the pregnancy rate to 60 days and increased pregnancy loss. As an implication, the use of the GnRH analogue can be used as a tool to increase fertility in embryo recipients.
Direct Orange 26 Dye Environmental Degradation: Experimental Studies (UV, Mass and Thermal) in Comparison With Computational Exploration Hydrogen Bonding Analysis of TD-DFT Calculations
Authors: Abo-Ayad Zahraa A. M. , Zayed Mohamed A. , Noamaan Mahmoud A
Published: September 2021

The importance of this study stems from, it concentrates on new approach applying both practical and theoretical aspects to study structure stability of Direct orange dye 26 (DO26) as an important dye widely used for dyeing of cotton or viscose for red orange direct printing. The stable dyes are so difficult to remove, decolorized and/ or degrade, in pure solution or in wastewater samples, without using powerful removal environmental techniques electrochemical oxidations suggest and efficiently used in our Lab. Therefore, it is very important to compare between practical thermal and mass results as efficient techniques in studying dye stability, in comparison with theoretical results using Gaussian program for structural stability identification of DO26 dye, via careful inspection of various phenomena detected in its two symmetrical arms around urea center. Direct orange dye 26 (DO26) structure has been studied applying both practical spectroscopic and theoretical investigations. DFT-B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) calculations and the electronic vibrational properties are performed to investigate its structure stability and consequently its degradation and removal from its environmental media. Correlation is found between experimental and calculated data. An intra-molecular hydrogen bonding interaction had been detected and characterized in dye skeleton. The hydrogen bonding present in the dye structure affecting its vibrational properties had been discussed. Natural population analysis like HOMO and LUMO and high quality molecular electrostatic potential plots along with various electronics had been presented at the same level of theory. Chemical reactivity descriptors from conceptual density functional theory point of view, structure activity relationship descriptor were obtained. The experimental UV/Visible, FT-IR, mass and GC-mass spectral data of the dye DO26 (D1) had been presented. These data had been supported by TD-DFT calculations to simulate the experimental spectra with computing the natural transition orbitals (NTO) and the orbital composition. The variation of charge transfer length (Δr) and variation in its dipole moment with respect to ground state (ΔmCT) had been computed in order to study the charge redistribution due to the excitations. Actually there is a problem that, degradation of this dye in wastewater by different techniques leads to various unknown fragments but on using theoretical possibilities it can be expected what happened in practical work.
Comparison of Progestin-Primed Ovarian Stimulation Regimen and Antagonist Regimen in Diminished Ovarian Reserve Patients Over 35 Years of Age
Authors: Wang Mohan , Wang Ruixue , Xi Qi , Jiang Yuting , Zhang Hongguo , Liu Ruizhi
Published: September 2021

Background

the aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of progestin-primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS) regimen and GnRH antagonist regimen in infertile patients older than 35 years with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR).
Methods

a retrospective cross-sectional study of 196 in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles between January 2016 and January 2020 was performed. The measured outcomes included the number of retrieved oocytes, incidence of premature LH surge, laboratory indicators and frozen embryo transfer (FET) outcome.
Results

the number of oocytes retrieved in the antagonist group was higher than those in the PPOS group (p < 0.05). Incidence of premature LH surge in two groups showed no difference (p > 0.05). E2 and P on HCG administration day of antagonist group were higher than those of PPOS group (p < 0.05). And there was no significant difference between two groups of FET outcome indicators (p > 0.05).
Conclusions

for DOR patients over 35 years of age, antagonist regimen would retrieve more oocytes than PPOS regimen. Therefore, from the perspective of oocyte retrieving, the antagonist regimen might be more suitable for DOR patients over 35 years old.
Morphological Stability of Rural Populations Confirms Their Use As Controls in Urban Ecology Studies
Authors: Regacho Tania , delBarco-Trillo Javier
Published: September 2021

The expansion of urban environments and how animals may be affected by them are being increasingly investigated, leading to a surge in urban ecology studies. Many urban ecology studies involve a direct comparison between rural and urban populations, or the use of urban gradients along a continuum from rural to urban areas. The implicit, although not properly investigated, assumption in these rural vs urban comparisons is that the rural populations offer a control that represents a lack of the anthropogenic stressors affecting the urban populations. Here we used museum skulls from 14 rodent species to conduct two separate studies, measuring fluctuating asymmetry (FA) as a proxy of developmental stress to assess the effect of anthropogenic disturbance. First, we compared urban and rural specimens of house mice (Mus musculus) to validate our methodological approach. Second, we compared rural specimens from 14 rodent species collected during the last two centuries across Austria. We hypothesised that FA in rural populations has not increased over the last two centuries, which would support the use of rural populations as a proper control in rural vs urban comparisons. We found higher morphological asymmetry in urban populations of Mus musculus compared to rural populations, which is consistent with similar studies in other species. However, we did not find any significant increase in FA over time in rural populations for any of the studied species. This supports the common practice of using rural populations as a control in rural vs urban comparisons when assessing the effects of urbanisation.
Differential Responses of Community Nonstructural Carbohydrate to Drought Manipulation Along a Natural Aridity Gradient
Authors: Song Lin , Luo Wentao , Griffin-Nolan Robert J. , Ma Wang , Cai Jiangping , Zuo Xiaoan , Yu Qiang , Hartmann Henrik , Li Mai-He , Smith Melinda D. , Collins Scott L. , Knapp Alan K. , Wang Zhengwen , Han Xingguo
Published: September 2021

Plant nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) can reflect community and ecosystem responses to environmental changes such as water availability. Climate change is predicted to increase aridity and the frequency of extreme drought events in grasslands, but it is unclear how community-scale NSC will respond to drought or how such responses may vary along aridity gradients. We experimentally imposed a 4-year drought in six grasslands along a natural aridity gradient and measured the community-weighted mean of leaf soluble sugar (SSCWM) and total leaf NSC (NSCCWM) concentrations. We observed a bell-shape relationship across this gradient, where SSCWM and total NSCCWM concentrations were lowest at intermediate aridity, with this pattern driven primarily by species turnover. Drought manipulation increased both SSCWM and total NSCCWM concentrations at intermediately arid grassland but decreased total NSCCWM concentrations at one site. These differential responses to experimental drought depended on the relative role of species turnover and intraspecific variation in driving SSCWM and total NSCCWM. Specifically, the synergistic effects of species turnover and intraspecific variation driven the responses of leaf NSC concentrations to drought, while their antagonistic effects diminished the effect of drought on plant SSCWM and total NSCCWM concentrations. Plant resource strategies were more acquisitive, via increasing chlorophyllCWM content, to offset reduced NSCCWM concentrations with increasing aridity at drier sites, but more conservative (i.e., decreased plant heightCWM) to reduce NSC consumption at more mesic sites. The relationship between water availability and NSCCWM concentrations may contribute to community drought resistance and improve plant viability and adaptation strategies to a changing climate.
Therapeutic Effects and Central Mechanism of Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Treating Functional Dyspepsia: Study Protocol for An fMRI-Based Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Pan , Yin Tao , Mao Yang-Ke , He Zhao-Xuan , Yang Sha , Huang Si-Qin , Sun Rui-Rui , Zeng Fang
Published: September 2021

Background: Functional dyspepsia (FD) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders, with a high prevalence and significant influence on the quality of life (QoL). Either acupuncture or moxibustion is effective for dyspepsia, which is confirmed by both ancient documents and modern research. However, the therapeutic advantage and underlying mechanism between acupuncture and moxibustion for FD remain unclear. Methods: This randomized controlled fMRI trial aims to (i) evaluate the therapeutic advantages of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment for FD; (ii) investigate the similarities and differences in cerebral activity elicited by acupuncture and moxibustion; and (iii) analyze the possible correlations between brain responses and clinical variables thus to explore the potential central mechanism of acupuncture and moxibustion for treating FD. Ninety-two FD patients will be randomly assigned to either the acupuncture group or the moxibustion group in a 1:1 ratio. Twenty sessions of acupuncture or moxibustion treatment over 4 weeks will be performed on each patient. The short form Leeds Dyspepsia Questionnaire, the Nepean Dyspepsia Index, etc. are used to evaluate the therapeutic effects. The Heart Rate Variability will be analyzed to investigate the autonomic nerve function. Thirty-six FD patients in each group will be randomly selected for the fMRI scan to detect cerebral activity changes. Discussion: We expect the results will deepen our knowledge on the clinical value and underlying mechanism of acupuncture and moxibustion, and provide a reference for a better selection of interventions for treating FD.Trial Registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (www.chictr.org.cn), ChiCTR2100049496 (registration date: 2nd August, 2021).
A Study on a New Index of Vascular Stiffness: Gender Difference and Risk Factors
Authors: Chen Jianxiong , Wu Xiuqin , Hong Yongqiang , Xie Yuchen , Liang Fuyou , Luo Xianghong , Li Zhaojun
Published: September 2021

Background: Previous studies have found that the gender differences have important influences on cardiovascular events, and arterial stiffness is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events. The arterial pressure volume index (API) is a new indicator for the noninvasive assessment of muscular arterial stiffness. This study was aimed to preliminarily investigate on the gender differences and influencing factors of API from Chinese people, and to discuss the practical application implications of it.Methods: A total of 11118 outpatients were randomly selected and divided into 5 groups according to the age from low to high quintile (Q1: < 37 years old group, Q2: ≥ 37 years old group, Q3: ≥ 51 years old group, Q4: ≥ 61 years old group and Q5: ≥ 69 years old group). The API was obtained by using the cuff oscillation wave for every subject. API≥31 was defined as high API, and body mass index (BMI)≥24 kg/m2 was diagnosed as overweight. The differences of API and high API incidence between male and female subjects in the five groups were compared by Pearson correlation analysis. The risk factors of high API incidence were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. Results: ①The differences in API and systolic blood pressure(SBP) between the 5 groups were statistically significant, and they increased with age (all P<0.001).②In the Q1 groups, the API of female was lower than that of male, while the API of female subjects was greater than that of male in the Q3 to Q5 group (P<0.05). The incidence of high API was higher in male than in female (P<0.05) in the Q1 group, but the incidence of high API was higher in female than in male (P<0.05) in the Q3 to Q4 groups. ③Logistic regression model indicated that the risk of high API for male subjects was 0.712 times that of female subjects (95%CI: 0.584, 0.840) (P<0.05). The risk of high API for overweight subjects was 1.327 times that of normal weight subjects (95%CI: 1.236, 1.418) (P<0.05). Conclusion: Among Chinese people of different ages, API differed between male and female; in the whole subjects, the risk of high API is higher for female subjects and overweight subjects.
Biallelic Mutations in WDR12 is Associated With Male Infertility With Tapered-Head Sperm
Authors: hua juan , Guo Lan , Yao Yao , Wan Yangyang , Hu Wen , Jiang Hui , Zhang Xiansheng , Xu Bo
Published: September 2021

Teratozoospermia is a rare disease associated with male infertility. Unfortunately, approximately 30% of the genetic causes associated with teratozoospermia remain unknown. Several recurrent genetic mutations have been reported to be associated with globozoospermia, macrozoospermia and acephalic spermatozoa, whereas the genetic basis of tapered-head sperm is relatively less well-understood. In this study, whole-exome sequencing (WES) identified a homozygous WD repeat domain 12 (WDR12) (p.Ser162Ala/c.484T>G) variant in an infertile patient with tapered-head sperm from a consanguineous Chinese family. Bioinformatic analysis predicted this mutation to be a pathogenic variant. To further verify the effect of this variant, we analyzed WDR12 protein expression in the patient’s spermatozoa by western blot and found WDR12 to be significantly down-regulated. Also, we found that WDR12 expression is increased in pachytene spermatocytes, and intense staining was visible throughout the round spermatids in mouse testis. Based on our results, we concluded that a rare biallelic pathogenic missense variant (p.Ser162Ala/c.484T>G) in the WDR12 gene causes teratozoospermia. These results will provide novel insights into understanding the molecular mechanisms of male infertility and will help clinicians provide accurate diagnoses.
Effect of Educating Healthy Women About Breast Cancer on Their Fear of Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Worry
Authors: Nejatisafa Aliakbar , Eskandari Yas , Hosseini Ladan , Sani Sepehr Boroumand , Eskandari Amirhossein , Jannat Forouzandeh , Orouji Marzieh , Goodarzi Donya , Alipour Sadaf
Published: September 2021

Background Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among females worldwide and prognosis depends on early diagnosis; however women seldom seek medical attention on time. Two of the important reasons for this delay are BC worry (BCW) and fear (BCF). We aimed to assess whether educating healthy women about BC could affect their BCF and BCW. Methods Participants were women above 18 years who visited the Breast Clinic who had a normal or benign breast assessment and were not suffering from any psychological disorder. They filled a survey including items of the hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), Lerman BCW scale and Champion BCF scale before and after the intervention. In the course of the study, 20 short educational videos about BC were sent to all of them by WhatsApp. Results The mean age of the 104 participants was 38.37 years. HADS scores showed a fairly good general psychological health of the participants before and after the intervention. The mean BCW and BCF score decreased significantly after vs. before the intervention. Conclusions Our study showed that educating healthy women about BC can effectively reduce BCF and BCW. We suggest that similar studies follow the participants in order to assess the effect on their health-seeking behaviour about BC in the long term.
Seed Dispersal by Frugivores and Germination Success of the Invasive Alien Shrub Pyracantha Angustifolia in the Eastern Free State Province, South Africa
Authors: Adams Lehlohonolo Donald , Martin Grant D. , Downs Colleen T. , Clark Vincent Ralph , Thabethe Vuyisile , Raji Islamiat Abidemi , Steenhuisen Sandy-Lynn
Published: September 2021

Invasive alien plants can use animal-plant interactions to increase their invasiveness. This study investigated the role of frugivorous birds in seed dispersal and germination of the alien plant Pyracantha angustifolia (Rosaceae) in South African high elevation grasslands. We monitored which bird species fed on the fruit of the invasive P. angustifolia in some farms in the Eastern Free State Province using camera-traps and direct surveillance. Nine bird species visited P. angustifolia shrubs to perch or feed on fruits, but only one bird (Speckled Mousebird) fed on the fruits during timed observations. To assess the effect of ingestion by avian frugivores on P. angustifolia germination, P. angustifolia fruits were fed to captive Cape White-eyes (Zosterops virens), Dark-capped Bulbuls (Pycnonotus tricolor), Purple-crested Turacos (Gallirex porphyreolophus), Red-winged Starlings (Onychognathus morio) and Speckled Mousebirds (Colius striatus). Seeds collected from bird excreta, whole fruits, and depulped fruits were grown under greenhouse conditions and germination rates recorded. All captive bird species, except for Cape White-eyes, ingested the seeds; Cape White-eyes only fed on fruit pulp that they had manually removed. Bird species with relatively larger body mass had longer seed retention times compared with the smaller bird species. Germination success of both depulped and ingested P. angustifolia seeds was high (> 80%) and that of whole fruits low (7%). Ingestion by the four avian frugivore species did not affect germination rate and success; instead, the birds facilitate the spread and germination of seeds by removing the fruit pulp and spreading the seed away from the parent shrubs.
Role of Selective Bioactive Compounds As An Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor
Authors: Khan Huma , Hussain Tahir , Kataria Monika , SETH AMIT , Malik Md Zubbair , Dash Ashoutosh , Chand Subhash , KHAN MOHD AZHAR
Published: September 2021

Hypertension is one of a major reason of mortality and morbidity and it is associated with heart and renal disease. The aim of this study is to find out the antihypertensive role of bioactive compounds from selected medicinal plants targeting ACE molecule which so far is not known. The plants taken in this study were Moringa oleifera, Azadirachta indica, and Hibiscus sabdariffa. The nitric oxide and superoxide scavenging property vary from 39.50% to 68% and 37.67 % to 75.50 %. respectively. The inhibition of ACE activity was found maximally in methanolic extract of A. indica (74 %), followed by H. sabdariffa (73.4%), and least in M. oleifera (71.8 %). The bioactive chloroform fraction was characterized for the presence of compound using standard techniques such as LCMS and NMR (13C-NMR 1H-NMR). The results revealed the presence of beta-sitosterol in M. oleifera, azadiradionolide in A. indica and hibiscitrin in H. sabdariffa. The compounds have shown significant low binding energy for hibiscitrin (-12.3kcal/mol), beta-sitosterol (-11.2kcal/mol) and azadiradionolide (-11.3kcal/mol) indicating the high efficacy of binding on the enzyme. While, binding energy of drug captopril was -5.6kcal/mol & enalpril -8.1kcal/mol in the same pocket of the ACE molecule. Upon subjecting molecular dynamic simulation results indicated that beta sitosterol complex provided more compactness than the hibiscitrin and azadiradionolide compounds. The current study delivers a new perspective for the drug development against systolic blood pressure regulation and also opens new horizons for considering alternate highly potent drug target for hypertension.
Allometric Models to Estimate Carbon Content in Arecaceae Based on Seven Species of Neotropical Palms
Authors: Cambronero Milena , Avalos Gerardo , Alvarez-Vergnani Carolina
Published: September 2021

We present allometric models to estimate total carbon content and above ground carbon (AGC) for the family Arecaceae, and for 7 abundant neotropical palm species (the canopy species Socratea exorrhiza and Iriartea deltoidea , the sub-canopy palm Euterpe precatoria , and the understory species Asterogyne martiana , Prestoea decurrens , Geonoma interrupta and Chamaedorea tepejilote ). The study was done in the tropical rainforests of the Caribbean slope of Costa Rica. We harvested 87 individuals of a wide range of sizes, and divided them into roots, stems, and leaves, weight their fresh and dry biomass, calculated the carbon content, tissue density, leaf area, and shoot:root ratios (based on biomass and carbon content). The general palm model estimating total carbon content accounted for 92% of the variation and had diameter at breast height, stem height, and dry mass fraction as predictor variables. We generated a similar model to estimate AGC, which included the same variables and explained 91% of the variation. We compared our AGC model with two models used to estimate palm carbon content: Goldman et al. (2013)´s and Chave et al. (2014)´s models and found a range of R 2 values ​​of 0.87 to 0.91. Understory palm allometry was centered around biomass allocation, whereas sub-canopy and canopy species were associated with traits related to palm size (mainly DBH, total height, and leaf area). The efficiency the allometric models depends on species identity, sample size, and size range.
Prognosis of Patients With Cardiogenic Shock Following Acute Myocardial Infarction: The Difference Between ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction And Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Tsai Ming-Lung , Hsieh Ming-Jer , Chen Chun-Chi , Wu Victor Chien-Chia , Lan Wen-Ching , Huang Yu -Tung , Hsieh I-Chang , Chang Shang-Hung
Published: September 2021

Background: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated with cardiogenic shock has high mortality and is a challenging topic even in the revascularization era. We conducted this study to understand patients’ outcomes.Method: We retrospectively analyzed electronic medical records data from 1,175 patients with AMI complicated with cardiogenic shock developed within 3 days of admission to a multicenter medical care system between January 1, 2000, and July 31, 2018. AMI patients were classified into ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) or non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) group. The short-term and 1-year mortality and adverse event after the index admission were analyzed via logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards model. Results: Comparing to NSTEMI, patients with STEMI tended to be younger (65.68 ± 14.05 vs. 70.70 ± 12.99, p < .001), men (73.29 vs. 60.87, p < .001), and have fewer underlying chronic diseases. Short-term mortality at index hospitalization was 14.83% in the STEMI group and 21.30% in the NSTEMI group; long-term mortality was 17.06% for the STEMI group and 24.13% for the NSTEMI group. No difference was observed between the 2 groups for patients who developed a cerebral vascular accident (CVA) during the admission period; however, the major bleeding rate and gastrointestinal bleeding rate were higher in the STEMI group (2.66 vs. 0.22, p = .014; 3.36 vs. 0.22, p = .007, respectively). Conclusion: In patients with AMI with cardiogenic shock, NSTEMI was associated with a significantly higher mortality rate in both the short-and long-term results. Age and respiratory failure were the most significant risk factors for short-term mortality. Revascularization may be beneficial for the short-term outcome but did not reach significance in multivariable analysis.