bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Blood Tests and Pregnancy Outcomes in Pregnant Women with Thalassemia Trait and Iron Deficiency Anemia
Authors: Yang Xiaochang , Zhang Qin , Li Feifei , Xiao Shuang
Published: September 2022

Aims: This study aims to determine the influencing factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes by comparing the blood tests and pregnancy outcomes of pregnant women with different types of thalassemia minor and iron deficiency anemia.Methods: A retrospective case-control study was conducted on singleton pregnant women in our hospital from January 2019 to November 2021. Included four study groups αTT group(n=106), βTT group(n=162),TT&IDA group(n=108), IDA group(n=81). The normal pregnant women during the same period were the control group(n=546).Results: The cesarean rate of the four study groups was significantly higher than that of the control group, and the rate of fetal lung maturation in the αTT, βTT and TT&IDA groups was lower. The levels of Hb, HCT, MCV, MCH, and MCHC in the four groups were lower, while RDW was significantly higher than that in the control group. The incidence of adverse maternal outcomes in the 4 groups was lower, but the incidence of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy in the αTT and βTT groups was higher than that in the control group.Conclusions: The results suggest that Mediterranean disease characteristics and IDA have an effect on some adverse maternal outcomes, but don’t increase adverse neonatal outcomes. Women with βTT had more severe anemia. Iron supplementation for pregnant women without anemia will increase the risk of gestational diabetes. It is recommended to regard the Hb level in the first 3 months of pregnancy as a high-risk factor for gestational diabetes and not recommend routine iron supplementation for women with high Hb.
Temporal trends of mercury levels in fish (dab, Limanda limanda) and sediment from the German Bight (North Sea) in the period 1995-2020
Authors: Kammann Ulrike , Nogueira Pedro , Siegmund Maike , Schmidt Nicole , Schmolke Stefan , Kirchgeorg Torben , Hasenbein Matthias , Wysujack Klaus
Published: September 2022

As a toxic and harmful global pollutant, mercury (Hg) enters the marine environment through natural sources, and human activities. It bioaccumulates through the food chain and therefore Hg is of great importance for environmental monitoring. This study aims to answer the question if Hg contamination in fish and sediment from the German Bight follow temporal trends. Therefore, 496 individual female dab (Limanda limanda) were analysed. The Hg concentrations in muscle of dab from the German Bight showed significant increase in function of time with an annual percental change of 1.4%, leading to a 41% increase in Hg-contamination level within 25 years of monitoring. At the same time Hg levels in sediment – analysed in 86 samples - significantly decreased in the nearby North Sea environment. This surprising contradiction is shown in the present study and possible causes are discussed. It could be clearly shown that contamination in sediment and biota can follow completely different time courses and therefore different environmental matrices should be considered in future monitoring studies. Age of the fish turned out to be a biological factor of particular importance for temporal trend analysis.
Investigation of Heavy Metals Pollution Based on Environmental Indicators in the Surface Sediments of Hourolazim Wetland- Southwestern Iran
Authors: Sadrinasab Masoud , Zarasvandi Alireza , Mayahi Jasem , Hashemi Seyed Ali
Published: September 2022

This study aims to investigate the pollution by heavy metals in the surface sediments of Hourolazim Wetland (HW) using pollution indices and statistical analysis of 16 samples from 8 stations at a distance of 50m from oil drilling sites. Based on the results, the average concentrations of Pb, Zn, V, and Cr are 40.7, 103.1, 135.5, and 115.8, respectively, which are higher than the average shale values. The results of heavy metal concentrations based on the geo-accumulation Index (Igeo) show that As, Zn, Ni, V, and Cr have low enrichment while Pb has medium enrichment, with the latter showing an alarming condition. Also, based on the contamination factor (CF), Pb with an average value of 2.03 and moderate level of pollution has the highest level of pollution warning compared with other elements. Modified contamination degree (mCd) for St3 and St4 is 1.61 and 1.56, respectively indicating low level of pollution. The enrichment factor (EF) for lead represents the average level of enrichment. Cluster analysis for the metals shows that V and Ni lie in one cluster while the rest of the metals (As, Pb, Zn, and Cr) lie in the other. Further, cluster analysis for the studied stations shows that stations St3, St4, and St7 are located in one cluster whereas, stations St1, St2, St5, St6, and St8 in another cluster that has the high compliance with the average of the combined pollution index. High correlation between some metals and sampling stations with cluster analysis provide insights into the same level of contamination and an approximate contamination source for these metals.
Study on the influence of tooth surface wear on the lubrication performance of double involute gear transmission
Authors: Yin Zhaoming , Xu Jun , Fan Zhimin
Published: September 2022

To improve the lubrication performance of double involute gears(DIGs) and reduce tooth surface wear, this paper establishes a quasi-static tooth surface wear (TSW) analysis model according to the modified Archard wear equation under the mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) condition, and proposes a numerical calculation method for the lubrication characteristics considering the influence of TSW based on the coupling relationship between TSW, meshing characteristics and lubrication characteristics. Based on this, the effect of TSW on lubrication characteristics with the working condition parameters, tooth waist order parameters and roughness is also studied. The research shows that the effect of TSW on the lubrication characteristics of DIGs is closely related to the accumulated tooth surface wear depth. TSW can deteriorate the lubrication state between meshing tooth surfaces, the early TSW under the mixed EHL state has less effect on its lubrication characteristics, and has significant influence on the lubrication characteristics near the meshing in and meshing out positions. Under the conditions of low velocity, high torque and large roughness, TSW has a greater effect on the lubrication characteristics.However, the influence of TSW on the lubrication characteristics is small with the variation of tooth waist order parameters.
Assessment of the effectiveness of open defecation free system on the incidence of faecal contamination on environment through microbial source tracking
Authors: Kumar Jagdish , Chatterjee Deep Shankar , Singh Dushyant , Chaudhary Shifa , Gaurav Gaurav , Das Mukul , Manchikanti Swathi , Mojumdar Sujoy , Osbert Nicolas
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of open defecation free (ODF) system on the incidence of faecal contamination on environment (water, soil and food mediums). The magnitude of contamination of environmental medium of ODF and non-open defecation free (n-ODF) villages by faecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in three states of India, was investigated. The FIB positive samples were further processed to determine the source of faecal contamination using Bacteroidale molecular markers for human (HuBac). The matrix of relative risk (RR) due to FIB and HuBaC contamination was developed to assess the effectiveness of ODF interventions. When compared to ODF villages, the RR of faecal contamination in n-ODF villages was estimated 11.25 times more likely in groundwater, 2.68 times more likely in household storage drinking water, 2.71 times more likely in piped water supplies, 1.13 times more likely in soil and 1.48 times more likely in food. The RR of faecal contamination traceable to humans was estimated 12.66, 2.48, 2.40, 1.10 and 2.16 times more likely in n-ODF villages as compared to ODF villages in cases of groundwater, household storage drinking water, piped water supplies, soil and food respectively. The risk assessment matrix designed in present study can be useful towards evaluation of the performance of ODF missions being implemented in many developing countries to achieve sanitation and hygiene objectives in accordance to the target 6.2 of Sustainable Development Goals 2030.
Association of Wetland Size Versus Ecological Scenarios and Ecosystem Services With in the Agroclimatic Zone (Namakkal District), Tamilnadu
Authors: Krishnaraj Varunprasath , Mathesh Subha
Published: September 2022

Stagnant wetlands have a vast natural ecosystem of different sizes, provide vital ecosystem services to humans, but are not well detailed. The study investigates the association of the Stagnant wetland’s size versus the ecological condition (EC), ecosystem service (ES), and their Shifts in land use / land cover (LULC) in the Agro-climatic a location of Namakkal district. Twenty-one chosen wetlands are hydrologically isolated, few semi-parched in summer, surveyed by the range of methods. The Wetland sizes had categorized into small wetlands (SW), medium wetlands (MW), and large wetlands (LW) which, are less than 10 acres, 11 to 100, and above 100 acres, respectively. Our results showed that ES of entire wetlands degraded by human anthropogenic activities and degradation factors differ in the wetland kinds. Also, ecosystem services such as livestock rearing and agronomy are vital income sources. Overall, the hypothesis results show that wetland size is not associated with ecological status and ecosystem services. However, the LULC changes had analyzed from 2010 to 2019. The data corroborate that the increase in constructing the property and extensive changes in agricultural areas are a deep concern for wetland size reduction. Finally, wetlands conservation activities priorities given to are wetlands size-based seems not the best practice.
Assessment of Total Coliform and Faecal Coliform in the Recreational Beach water and offshore water of Saint Martin Island, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Kashem Mir , Ahmed Md. Kawser , Haider Sayeed Mahmood Belal , Abdur Talokder Md.
Published: September 2022

Saint Martin’s Island, being the only coral formed island in Bangladesh, a huge number of tourists visit the island during August until April (is not correct the months). The island is faced with extreme anthropogenic pressure due to the increasing number of tourists and improper management of the island infrastructure and surrounding ecosystem. The study was carried out to determine the clean and hygienic quality of recreational beach water (RBW) in front of the resorts and island’s offshore water (OW) by collecting water samples from fourteen locations during peak tourist season (February 2021) and non-tourist season (April 2021) in high tide condition. The membrane filtration method from the APHA standard was used to assess total coliform and faecal coliform in the water samples. Total coliform counts (>200 CFU/100 ml) were measured using Bangladeshi Department of Environment (DOE) standards, whereas faecal coliform counts (>100 CFU/100 ml) were measured using Malaysian Department of Environment (DOE) standards. The study found a detrimental amount of E. Coli bacteria in the RBW and OW of the SMI. Total coliform levels in RBW from the island ranged from 15.33 to 657.22 CFU/100 ml, whereas faecal coliform levels varied from 1.37 to 272.31 CFU/100 ml. Total coliform levels varied from 26.34 to 1810.10 CFU/100 ml in the OW, while faecal coliform counts were 32.31 to 280.54 CFU/100 ml. During the tourist season, there was 63% more bacterial pollution than at any other time. The highest levels of total coliforms were present in the OW on the western shore of the island, freshwater wetland, and jetty ghat, while lesser numbers were detected in the RBW of resorts in the tourist season. The most faecal coliforms were found from offshore water on the western & eastern sides of the island, jetty ghat, and beach of Shayari resort in tourist season.
The ‘lawnification’ of Australia’s eastern grassy woodlands: The past, current and likely future spread of a damaging pasture and lawn grass, Bothriochloa pertusa
Authors: Lebbink Gabrielle , Fensham Rod
Published: September 2022

Many of today’s damaging invasive plants were intentionally introduced for pasture development. By examining the introduction history and consequent spread of these species, we can identify factors associated with their successful establishment and dominance. Using collated presence/absence and cover data, alongside a review of the literature and discussions with land managers, we present a comprehensive analysis of the introduction history and spread of the invasive perennial grass species, Bothriochloa pertusa throughout Queensland, Australia. Using this data, we also perform habitat suitability models to predict its potential distribution and local-scale cover across Queensland in relation to key environmental variables. We found that B. pertusa was introduced on multiple occasions and across a large area of Queensland, despite re-occurring doubts and poor evidence for its benefit to livestock production. Livestock grazing, associated disturbances (i.e. land clearing, soil erosion) and climatic extremes were commonly associated with its spread throughout the landscape. In 2020 the main area of B. pertusa invasion as indicated by occurrence records spanned 28,537,600 ha. Results from the habitat suitability models suggest the occurrence and local-scale cover of B. pertusa is largely determined by climate variables and the foliage projective cover of trees. Based on these results B. pertusa still has considerable capacity to spread and increase in dominance across many areas of Queensland, particularly further west and south of its current range. The introduction and spread history of B. pertusa suggests propagule pressure, traits, climate, land management and cultural perceptions are all key factors implicated in the spread of B. pertusa. We recommend more conservative grazing strategies and strategically selected protected areas to slow the spread of this species.
The Mean Squares of Criteria and Alternatives (MESCA) to prioritize MCDM alternatives Case study (East Azerbaijan Province)
Authors: Pourabbas Hamed , Bagheri Rohollah , Parvar Majid Sabzeh
Published: September 2022

The main objective of this study is to present a meta-heuristic technique for prioritizing the cities of East Azerbaijan province to find the construction site of an airport and compare it with the Seca model. Using statistical methods to select the appropriate alternative in different sciences by statistical analysis can be promonent and attractive issue. Comparing the meta-heuristic technique and the seca model revealed the meta-heuristic technique’s strengths and the seca model’s. After conducting the research, both methods led to selecting Mianeh city as the airport location.
Total laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with transvaginal specimen extraction for the treatment of right-sided colon cancer: a local experience
Authors: Deng Jianzhong , Zhang Zilang , Lin Yiban , Guo Xiaoxi , Li Zhaoyang , Yu Si
Published: September 2022

Background
To investigate the safety, feasibility, and oncological outcomes of total laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with transvaginal specimen extraction in the treatment of right-sided colon cancer.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed patients with right-sided colon cancer who received total laparoscopic right hemicolectomy in our hospital between January 2017 and January 2020. The patients who underwent abdominal incision were included in the control group and the patients who underwent vaginal incision group were included in the study group. The perioperative characteristics and outcomes were compared between these two groups.
Results
25 patients were included in the study group and 55 patients were included in the control group. In terms of baseline data, including age, preoperative body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, tumor transverse diameter, tumor location, pathologic differentiation, preoperative clinical staging, there were no significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in terms of operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, length of resected colon, number of detected lymph nodes, postoperative complications, and postoperative pathological stages between the two groups (P > 0.05). There were statistically significant differences in postoperative pain intensity, time to passage of flatus, and length of postoperative hospital stay between the two groups (P < 0.05). The sexual function index survey showed a statistically significant difference at 3 months (P < 0.05), but not 6 months (P > 0.05), after the surgery between the two groups. The one-year tumor-free survival rate was 100% in both groups.
Conclusions
Total laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with transvaginal specimen extraction is a safe and feasible method, with satisfactory oncological outcomes, to treat patients with right-sided colon cancer.
Effect of microalga Desmodesmus subspicatus, polyamines and plant growth regulators on the in vitro propagation of Cattleya warneri
Authors: Navarro Quezia Rocha , Corrêa Diego de Oliveira , Behling Alexandre , Noseda Miguel Daniel , Ribas Luciana Lopes Fortes
Published: September 2022

Cattleya warneri, an orchid with high ornamental potential, suffers indiscriminate harvest and is classified as a vulnerable species, requiring propagation studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of biomass or aqueous extract of Desmodesmus subspicatus microalga, polyamines (PAs) and plant growth regulators (PGRs): 6-benzyladenine (BA) and α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) on the in vitro propagation of C. warneri using the thin cell layer (TCL) technique. Entire protocorms and transversal sections (tTCLs) or longitudinal sections (lTCLs) were grown in MS culture medium, with the concentration of macronutrients reduced by half (MSM/2) containing D. subspicatus biomass or extract Pas, and BA and/or NAA. The results indicated that the apical tTCLs were the best explants and the entire protocorms formed seedlings. The regeneration of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) was more efficient with the addition of 1.5 g L− 1 of microalgae biomass (92% and 4.7 PLBs) or 1.0 g L− 1 of extract (100% and 3.3 PLBs) and 8 µM BA (89% and 5.2 PLBs). The biomass (1.0 g L− 1) or extract (2.0 g L− 1) also enabled PLBs regeneration from entire protocorms (70% and 4.0 PLBs, 50% and 3.2 PLBs, respectively). The plant acclimatization was recommended using coconut fiber and vermiculite (1:1, v/v) as substrate (survival rate 84%% and greater fresh mass 0.895 g). In conclusion, a rapid and efficient protocol for the mass propagation of C. warneri was achieved using the TCL technique. In addition, MSM/2 medium supplementation with biomass and extract of D. subspicatus is an effective alternative to replace conventional PGRs.
Phenotypes and Functions of Dendritic Cells in SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine-derived Humoral Immunity
Authors: Cui An , Li Anni , Hu Wei , Wang Chao , Zhang Dian , Tang Jia , Qin Xiangyu , Qian Junwei , Maimaitimin Abolaihaiti , Ai Jingwen , Zhang Wenhong , Chen Mingquan
Published: September 2022

DCs regulate humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2 by regulating CD4 + T cell activation, but the relations between DC phenotypes and functions and anti-RBD antibodies are unclear. We conducted this observational study in Huashan Hospital using a third 6.5U BBIBP-CorV or 25 µg ZF2001 administered at an interval of 4 to 8 months following the previous two doses in healthy adults. anti-RBD response and neutralizing titers against SARS-CoV-2 and VOCs were examined. DC maturation markers and pattern recognition receptors and cytokines produced by DC were measured, and DC function was tested in mixed lymphocyte reaction(MLR). Mean anti-RBD Ab and IgG rose from 22.08 and 9.17 on D0 to 4704.18 and 798.11 on D14(BAU/ml). Meanwhile, the surrogate virus neutralization test(sVNT) elevated from 17.15 on D0 to 2538.83 on D14. The expression of DC maturation markers on D3 and MLR were negatively correlated to sVNT, anti-RBD antibody, and IgG titers on D14(Spearman r=-0.558~-0.326) and D28(Spearman r=-0.615~-0.397), but positively correlated to IgG/Ab ratio(Spearman r = 0.249 ~ 0.509). DC function in activating T cells was also negatively related to anti-RBD antibody titer on D28(r=-0.532~-0.453, p = 0.015 ~ 0.035), and positively correlated with the proportion of anti-RBD IgG in Ab(r = 0.490 ~ 0.561, p = 0.010 ~ 0.032). DC-SIGN level showed a relation to antibody titer and IgG proportion opposite to DC maturation and function and was negatively related to the level of IL-10 produced by DCs. Our research suggested that DCs controlled CD4 + T cells in differentiating into regular T cells, and DC-SIGN might restrain T regular cells by suppressing IL-10 production of DC in anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
Cost-Effective and Green Additives of Pozzolanic Material Derived from The Waste of Alum Sludge for Successful Replacement of Portland Cement
Authors: Mohamed O. A. , Farghali A. A. , Eessaa Ashraf K , El-Shamy A. M
Published: September 2022

The primary purpose of this investigation was to find out whether it would be feasible to successfully replace Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) with 5, 10, or 15 mass % of activated alum sludge waste (AAS) as a pozzolanic material. This was the overarching question that guided the research that was conducted. A study into the use of low-cost nanocomposites to increase the physical, mechanical, and stability against the fire of OPC–AAS-hardened composites was carried out. The goal of this inquiry was to explore the utilization of low-cost nanocomposite. Producing CuFe2O4 spinel nanoparticles with an average particle size of less than 50 nm was doable. The introduction of CuFe2O4 spinel into a variety of OPC–AAS-hardened composites improve both the physicomechanical characteristics of the composites at nearly typical curing ages as well as the resistance of the composites to the effects of fire. Techniques such as TGA/DTG and XRD were utilized to provide evidence that synthesized CuFe2O4 spinel had favorable properties. These approaches revealed the presence of a range of hydration yields, such as CSHs, CASHs, CFSHs, and CuSHs, which improve the overall physicomechanical parameters as well as the thermal stability of a wide variety of OPC–AAS-hardened composites. The composite material that is composed of (90 % OPC, 10 % AAS waste, and 2 % CuFe2O4 offer several advantages, both financially and ecologically.
Role of natural and man-made structures as nurseries for coral reef fish
Authors: Gairin Emma , Minier Lana , Claverie Thomas , Dromard Charlotte R. , Maueau Tehani , Collin Antoine , Frédérich Bruno , Bertucci Frédéric , Lecchini David
Published: September 2022

Coastal habitats have long been recognised to be nurseries for many marine organisms. The nursery role of different habitats for various fish species was investigated on a range of reef and coastal habitats on a coral reef island. Barrier and fringing reefs, pinnacles, tall vegetation zones, coastal rush and grass zones, mangroves, seawalls, and beaches were surveyed during three months in 2021 on the tropical island of Bora-Bora. Predators were most present on man-made walls, where the juvenile density was lowest. However, while juveniles were abundant on mangroves, the species richness was low. Using these results, the impact of urbanisation on coral reef fish was investigated and the validity and relevance of commonly-used nursery criteria were discussed within the frame of coral reef management. The island-wide approach of this study sets the ground to define targets for the preservation of ecosystems that play a key part in the life cycle of marine reef organisms.
Enhanced hippocampal LTP but typical NMDA receptor and AMPA receptor function in a novel rat model of CDKL5 deficiency disorder
Authors: de Oliveira L Simões , O’Leary HE , Nawaz MS , Loureiro R , Davenport EC , Baxter P , Louros SR Ribeiro dos , Dando OR , Perkins E , Osterweil E , Hardingham GE , Cousin MA , Chattarji S , Booker SA , Benke TA , Wyllie DJA , Kind PC
Published: September 2022

Background: Mutations in the X-linked gene cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) cause a severe neurological disorder characterised by early-onset epileptic seizures, autism and intellectual disability (ID). Impaired hippocampal function has been implicated in other models of monogenic forms of autism spectrum disorders and ID and is often linked to epilepsy and behavioural abnormalities. Many individuals with CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) have null mutations and complete loss of CDKL5 protein, therefore in the current study we used a novel Cdkl5 KO rat model to elucidate the impact of CDKL5 loss on cellular excitability and synaptic function of CA1 pyramidal cells (PCs). We hypothesised abnormal pre and/or post synaptic function underlie the enhanced LTP we observe in the hippocampus of Cdkl5 KO rats.Methods: To allow cross-species comparisons of phenotypes associated with the loss of CDKL5, we generated a loss of function mutation in exon 8 of the rat Cdkl5 gene using Crispr-Cas9 technology. We then tested our hypothesis using a combination of extracellular and whole-cell electrophysiological recordings, biochemistry, and histology. Results: CA1 hippocampal LTP is increased only in juvenile rats. We show that NMDA receptor function and subunit expression are unaltered throughout development, and Ca2+ permeable AMPA receptor mediated currents are unchanged in Cdkl5 KO rats. We observe reduced mEPSC frequency accompanied by increased spine density in basal dendrites of CA1 PCs, however we find no evidence supporting an increase in silent synapses when assessed using a minimal stimulation protocol in slices. Additionally, we found no change in paired-pulse ratio, consistent with normal release probability in Cdkl5 KO rats and supported by typical expression of pre-synaptic proteins in synaptosome preparations. Together these data indicate a role for CDKL5 in hippocampal synaptic function and raise the possibility that altered intracellular signalling rather than synaptic deficits might contribute to the altered plasticity.Limitations: This study has focussed on the electrophysiological and anatomical properties of hippocampal neurons across early postnatal development. Studies involving other brains regions, older animals and behavioural phenotypes associated with the loss of CDKL5 are needed to understand the pathophysiology of CDD.
Experimental Investigation of Emission and Performance Characteristics of CI Engine Fueled with Upgraded Microwave Pyrolysis Karanja Seed Bio-Oil
Authors: Anbu Mathiarasu , Balakichenin Radjaram , Muthaiyan Pugazhvadivu , Sundaramoorthy Surendarnath , Amesho Kassian T.T. , Subramani Venkatesan
Published: September 2022

The main objective of the present research work is to utilize the produced bio-oil from microwave pyrolysis of Karanja, a non-edible seed, as fuel for diesel engines by increasing some up-gradation in it the quality of the fuel. The emulsification process is carried out to improve the stability of the diesel-bio-oil blend using SPAN80 and TWEEN80, which lasted for 28 days without any layer separation termed as EKB20. The addition of 5% DEE and 10% DEE into EKB20 is done to enhance the combustion characteristics of the diesel engine. The produced bio-oil fuels were tested in a Kirloskar make, four-stroke, single-cylinder, direct injection diesel engine of 5.2 kW rated power output. The addition of DEE reduces the peak pressure by 4 bar and increases the heat release rate due to the higher volatility of DEE. At full load conditions, the thermal brake efficiency improved by 9.31% and 14.11%, respectively, compared to EKB20. Adding 5% DEE and 10% DEE at the rated power output reduced the smoke density by 18.42% and 60.25%, respectively, compared to EKB20 and 5% and 4% compared to diesel. The addition of 5% DEE and 10% DEE shows a 39% and 51% increase in NOX concentration and a 90% reduction in CO emission at the maximum brake power output. Hence, it is concluded that the fuels EKB20 + 5% DEE and EKB20 + 10% DEE can be used as alternative fuels for diesel engines.
Predicting Rectal Cancer Response to Total Neoadjuvant Treatment Using Artificial Intelligence Modeling Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Clinical Data
Authors: Ouyang Ganlu , Chen Zhebin , Dou Meng , Luo Xu , Wen Han , Deng Xiangbing , Meng Wenjian , Yu Yongyang , Wu Bing , Jiang Dan , Wang Ziqiang , Luo Feng , Yao Yu , Wang Xin
Published: September 2022

Purpose To develop a model for predicting response of Total Neoadjuvant Treatment (TNT) for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) based on baseline MRI and clinical data using artificial intelligence method.Methods Patients with LARC who received TNT were enrolled retrospectively. We defined two groups of response to TNT as pCR vs non-pCR (Group 1), and high sensitivity vs moderate sensitivity vs low sensitivity (Group 2). We extracted and selected clinical and radiomic features on baseline T2WI. Then we built logistic regression (LR) models and deep learning (DL) models. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves analysis was performed to assess predictive performance of models.Results Eighty-nine patients were assigned to the training cohort, and 29 patients were assigned to the testing cohort randomly. Four predictive models were built. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of LR models, which were predictive of high sensitivity and pCR, were 0.853 and 0.866. While AUC of DL models were 0.829 and 0.838. The accuracy of the models with group 1 are higher than group 2. Conclusion There was no significant difference between LR model and DL model. The prediction model constructed by the grouping method of pCR vs non-pCR has a higher accuracy.
Heavy grazing led to the decrease of competitive intensity relationships among dominant populations of clustered grasses in a desert steppe
Authors: Wang Zihan , Lv Shijie , Liu Hongmei , Men Xinyang , Chen Chen , Li Zhiguo , Wang Zhongwu , Han Guodong
Published: September 2022

AimsDesert steppe is an important ecological barrier in northern China. Stipa breviflora and Cleistogenes songorica are the dominant species in the desert steppe. Both plant populations undergo plant cluster fragmentation to varying degrees when subject to grazing interference. However, when both plant populations are present in the same plant community, changes in their inter-specific relationship under grazing is important for regulation of the plant community and its functions. MethodsThis study investigated S. breviflora and C. songorica in a desert steppe, and used variance analysis, the Jaccard index and simple linear regression model analysis methods to study differences in the density of both species under four grazing intensities (i.e., control (CK) 0 sheep·hm-2·half year-1, light grazing (LG) 0.93 sheep·hm-2·half year-1, moderate grazing (MG) 1.82 sheep·hm-2·half year-1 and heavy grazing (HG) 2.71 sheep·hm-2·half year-1) at six scales (i.e., 5 cm×5 cm, 10 cm×10 cm, 20 cm×20 cm, 25 cm×25 cm, 50 cm×50 cm and 100 cm×100 cm). The study explored the competitive relationships between the plant populations. ResultsResults showed that grazing changes the relationship between dominant species. As grazing intensity increases, the competitive abilities of S. breviflora and C. songorica first increased and then decreased. Under heavy grazing conditions, the dominant populations of clustered grasses in the desert steppe resisted interference from high-intensity grazing by reducing inter-specific competition. ConclusionsAs grazing intensity increased, the densities of S. breviflora and C. songorica increased, and the increase became more obvious as the scale of analysis increased.
The effect of ground cover on the mortality of ground-dwelling immature stages of Ceratitis capitata in Eastern Spain
Authors: Cruz-Miralles Joaquín , Guzzo Michela , Ibáñez-Gual M. Victoria , Óscar Dembilio , Jaques JA
Published: September 2022

Three developmental stages of Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata, can be found in the soil (late third instar larvae, pupae, and teneral adults). These stages are susceptible to predation by generalist ground-dwelling predators. Our objectives have been to investigate the association between ground cover management (bare soil/BS, a seeded cover of Festuca arundinacea/FA and a mulch of straw/M), the emergence success of C. capitata, and the activity density of the most important groups of ground-dwelling predators (spiders, beetles, ants and earwigs). As expected, C. capitata emergence was lower in a seeded cover of Festuca arundinacea (FA) and a mulch of straw (M) (10.2%) relative to bare soil (BS) (13.2%). This was related to higher diversity and activity density of ground-dwelling predators in FA and M compared to BS. The contribution of the ground-dwelling predators considered in this study to this reduction highlights the key role of beetles, earwigs and, to a lesser extent, ants, while the contribution of the most abundant group of ground-dwelling predators, spiders, remains unclear. Ground covers appear as a strong and sustainable conservation biological control method that should be taken into consideration for the management of C. capitata populations in fruit orchards.
Development of a monoclonal antibodies-based interferon-gamma enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for rapid and accurate diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis
Authors: Hashem Zeinab , Soliman Rafik , Aziz Mona Abd El , Badr Yehia , Aboul-Ella Hassan
Published: September 2022

Bovine tuberculosis is an infectious and chronic disease affecting cattle, caused by Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis). The zoonotic nature of the disease has a serious worldwide impact on human health. Also, the significant economic costs caused by such disease in addition to the deficiency of precise estimate of the actual disease prevalence necessitate more efficient detection and control measures, particularly in developing countries. The main target of the present work was to develop a local, less expensive bovine tuberculosis interferon-gamma ELISA (Bo-IFN-γ ELISA) kit for the rapid and accurate diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis. In the current study, three murine hybridomas producing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against bovine interferon-gamma (Bo-IFN-γ) were developed and their monoclonal antibodies were characterized. The produced mAbs were of IgM isotype and its specificity was proved using the western blot technique. The prepared mAbs were used for the development of the bovine IFN- γ ELISA test that was evaluated for laboratory diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis. The sensitivity and specificity of the developed ELISA kit as compared with the standard tuberculin skin test was determined. This method is based on the measurement of IFN-γ released from sensitized bovine lymphocytes upon exposure to the mycobacterial antigens. Using checkerboard titration, the optimal coating concentration of anti- Bo-IFN-γ was 20µg/well. Blood samples from apparently healthy cattle proved negative in the tuberculin test were examined with the developed kit and the cut-off value (COV) was equal to 0.30 optical density (OD). In a preliminary study for evaluation of the sensitivity and specificity of the developed ELISA, 23 cattle were examined with both the Bo-IFN-γ ELISA and the standard tuberculin skin test. The developed Bo-IFN-γ ELISA showed high sensitivity (98%) and specificity (71.4%) in the diagnosis of bovine tuberculosis as compared to the standard tuberculin skin test.
The coexistence of newly diagnosed acromegaly with primary empty sella: more frequent than expected?
Authors: urhan emre , Hacioglu Aysa , Okcesiz Izzet , Karaca Züleyha , Kara Canan Sehit , Unluhizarci Kursad
Published: September 2022

Purpose
We investigated the coexistence of newly diagnosed acromegaly with primary empty sella (ES), which is considered to be a rare association, and the impact of ES on the laboratory, radiological and prognostic status of acromegaly.
Methods
Acromegaly patients diagnosed and followed-up between 2012–2021 were included. Empty sella was defined as the pituitary gland and adenoma filling less than 50% of the sella turcica on preoperative T1 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Results
102 acromegalic patients (45 male, 57 female, 45.5 ± 12.8 (range: 20–70 years) were included and data of a median 3 years (range: 0.5-9 years) were presented. Empty sella was detected in 19 (18.6%) patients and 4 had complete and 15 had partial ES. Although not significant, adenoma size and residual adenoma on MRI on postoperative 3rd month, and disease remission at last control were lower in acromegaly with ES than in acromegaly without ES, while the rate of female gender and remission on postoperative 3rd month were higher. While preoperative serum prolactin and nadir GH responses to OGTT were significantly lower in patients with ES, there was no difference in terms of other pituitary hormones among both groups.
Conclusion
The present study revealed the coexistence of newly diagnosed acromegaly with primary ES at a rate of nearly 20% which is more frequent than expected and this association is not rare. The presence of ES was not associated with any preoperative/postoperative pituitary hormone levels and remission status, except lower preoperative prolactin and nadir GH responses to OGTT.
Spatial interactions between perceived biophilic values and neighborhood typologies in wetlands
Authors: Villagra Paula , Rojas Carolina , Alves Susana , Rojas Octavio
Published: September 2022

Wetlands provide a range of ecosystem services; however, little is known about their value or use for improving urban planning and wetland management. This study explores values towards Los Batros Wetland in Chile, by inhabitants from different neighborhood typologies. A sample of 379 households evaluated the wetland by applying Kellert’s framework of biophilic values using a PPGIS approach. Anova and spatial autocorrelation analysis with hotspot, revealed that the spatial distribution of biophilic values is not randomly distributed across space. It depends on education, income, proximity and accessibility. Inhabitants of the garden city located next to the wetland area, highly educated and with easy and moderate access, agreed with a diverse type of biophilic values, where the ecologistic-scientific value has more spatial representativeness. In the condominium typology, with similar education, easy and moderate physical accessibility but situated far from the wetland, there was less agreement with biophilic values, these were more dispersed, i.e. less representative, and the aesthetic value prevails over others. At the north area of the neighborhood unit, with moderate to difficult physical access, but with horticultural activities beside the wetland, inhabitants agree with various biophilic values, including the symbolic value. Conversely in the favela, with similar physical access, next to the wetland, but with the lowest income and education level, biophilic values were not in agreement nor disagreement. An effective wetland management requires appreciation of the clusters of values assigned to wetland environments. These clusters should be considered when planning to restore, protect, and improve urban wetlands.
Genomic description and prevalence of two new Candidatus Saccharibacteria species from the human gut in different samples and countries
Authors: Naud Sabrina , Caputo Aurélia , Anani Hussein , Ibrahim Ahmad , Levasseur Anthony , Million Matthieu , Bedotto Marielle , Diakite Ami , Dhiver Catherine , Dubourg Grégory , Raoult Didier
Published: September 2022

The candidate phyla radiation (CPR) has been described as an obligatory group of ultrasmall bacteria associated with host bacteria. They phylogenetically represent a subdivision of bacteria distinct from other living organisms. Using polyphasic approaches, we screened human faecal samples for the detection of Saccharibacteria. The new sequences obtained by sequencing were compared to the complete CPR genomes available to date. Then, we attempted a co-culture of CPR-bacteria and non-CPR bacteria from human faecal samples. We finally aimed to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of these Saccharibacteria sequences in human sources in 16S amplicon datasets. We were able to reconstitute two high-quality Saccharibacteria genomes named Minimicrobia massiliensis and Minimicrobia timonensis. We have established, for the first time in human digestive samples, the coculture of Candidatus Saccharibacteria with two different bacterial hosts. Finally, we showed that 12.8% (610/4,756) of samples sequenced in our laboratory were positive for operational taxonomic units (OTUs) assigned to M.massiliensis. and significantly enriched in human respiratory and oral microbiota. Here, we reported the first genomes and coculture of Saccharibacteria from human gut specimens. This study opens a new field, particularly in the study of the involvement of CPR in the human intestinal microbiota.
Impacts of Urbanization on Green Spaces of the Densely Populated City of Karachi, Pakistan - An Analysis of 8 Years of Data for Estimating Land Cover Changes
Authors: Zia Huma , Khan Tahreem , Hasan shehzad , Fatima Hafiza Sundus , Khurram Muhammad , Harris Nick R. , Khalil Ashraf
Published: September 2022

Growing population, uncontrolled migration, and unplanned urbanization are prevalent worldwide and Pakistan is no exception with Karachi ranking as Asia's fifth and the world's eleventh most populous metropolis. Urbanization is occurring at the expense of environmental degradation and a decline in the amount of Urban Green Spaces (UGS). The WHO recommends at least 9 square meters (m2) of green space per person, with a UGS value of 50 m2 per capital as the optimum green space for environmental sustainability. The study region consisted of six districts in Karachi, and their percentage of green space was calculated. Satellite images from the Landsat-8 Surface reflectance Tier-1 satellite program were used in this study. To perform calculations and detect land cover changes, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), a widely used index to calculate the density of green area for a specific part of the land, is used. The results concluded that Karachi's green land cover has changed from 6.30% in January 2014 to 11.28% in January 2021, at NDVI > 0.3. These statistics of NDVI greater than 0.3 indicate sparse or moderate vegetation hence the possibility of including wild grass and bushes in the analysis is eliminated. Only a five percent (5%) rise over an eight-year period suggests the necessity for drastic action to improve the quantity and condition of UGS in Karachi. This study shows how Karachi's green spaces have been steadily being destroyed by uncontrolled urbanization and the yearly changes in vegetation. This research will help urban planners and policymakers to make wise choices for environmental sustainability in urban areas.
Experimental Investigation on Juncture Flow Associated with a Surface-Mounted Circular Cylinder Trailed by a Backward-Facing Step
Authors: Yang Chun-Yao , Chow Yi-Chih
Published: September 2022

Juncture flows associated with surface-mounted obstacles can be characterized by a U-shaped tubular vortical flow known as a horseshoe vortex (HSV). Horseshoe vortices are usually detrimental to engineering applications. Therefore, numerous studies have investigated methods for reducing HSVs’ strength. To design a suitable method for reducing HSVs’ strength, the characteristics of HSVs influenced by external boundary geometries must first be understood. Thus, we experimentally investigated a juncture flow field associated with a fundamental geometry—a circular cylinder mounted perpendicular to a plane surface—with a trailing backward-facing step representing downstream effects on upstream-formed flow structures. This setup is one of the simplest nonplanar geometries that generates flow features such as an unsteady separated shear layer that may considerably affect an HSV. We used the particle image velocimetry (PIV) and PIV-based flow visualization techniques combined with a vortex-fitting algorithm to measure the juncture flow and identify the HSV and its kinematic modes at a low Reynolds number of 1100. We compared the results obtained with and without the backward-facing step and observed that the backward-facing step increased the number and complexity of kinematic modes, i.e. the unsteadiness, of the HSV, and reduced HSV’s stretching, which resulted in an increased vortex diameter and increased circulation; that is, the strength of the HSV was enhanced by the backward-facing step.
Developing Risk Level Prediction Model and Clinical Decision Support System for Cardiovascular Diseases in Ethiopia
Authors: Jimma Worku , Diriba Chala , Merga Hailu
Published: September 2022

Cardiovascular diseases have become one of the severe health problems in both developing and developed countries. This research aimed to develop a risk level prediction model and clinical decision support system for CVD in Ethiopia using data mining techniques. A total of 4004 datasets were used to develop the model. Moreover, primary data was collected from the domain experts via interviews and questionnaires. The domain experts identified thirty-one risk factors, of which only eleven attributes were selected after experimentation to develop the model. Based on the result of experimentation, the model was developed by an unpruned J48 classifier algorithm which produced F-Measure 0.877, which is comparatively the best algorithm. The prototype system was developed by Visual C# studio tool. The developed prototype system helps health care providers to identify risk level CVD diseases. It was developed using a data mining technique, which can efficiently predict cardiovascular disease risk levels. However, developing the model by using more datasets and changing the default setting of WEKA, a data mining tool, will be the future work of this study.
A Nationwide Randomized Controlled Trial on Additional Treatment for Isolated Local Pancreatic Cancer Recurrence using Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (ARCADE)
Authors: Goor Iris W. J. M. van , Daamen L.A. , Besselink M.G. , Bruynzeel A.M.E. , Busch O.R. , Cirkel G.A. , Koerkamp B. Groot , Mohammad N. Haj , Heerkens H.D. , Laarhoven H.W.M. van , Meijer G.J. , Nuyttens J. , Santvoort H.C. van , Tienhoven G. van , Verkooijen H.M. , Wilmink J.W. , Molenaar I.Q. , Intven M.P.W.
Published: September 2022

• Background: Disease recurrence is the main cause of mortality after resection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In 20-30% of resected patients, isolated local PDAC recurrence occurs. Retrospective studies have suggested that stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) might lead to improved local control in these patients, potentially having a beneficial effect on both survival and quality of life. The “nationwide randomized controlled trial on additional treatment for isolated local pancreatic cancer recurrence using stereotactic body radiation therapy” (ARCADE) will investigate the value of SBRT in addition to standard of care in patients with isolated local PDAC recurrence compared to standard of care alone, regarding both survival and quality of life outcomes.• Methods: The ARCADE trial is nested within a prospective cohort (Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Project; PACAP) according to the ‘Trials within Cohorts’ design. All PACAP-participants with isolated local PDAC recurrence after primary resection who provided informed consent for being randomized in future studies are eligible. Patients will be randomized for local therapy (5 fractions of 8 Gy SBRT) in addition to standard of care or standard of care alone. In total, 174 patients will be included. The main study endpoint is survival after recurrence. The most important secondary endpoint is quality of life.• Discussion: It is hypothesized that additional SBRT, compared to standard of care alone, improves survival and quality of life in patients with isolated local recurrence after PDAC resection.Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov registration, NCT04881487. Registered on May 11, 2021, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04881487.