bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of prokaryotic mercury methylators and demethylators in Canadian Arctic thermokarst lakes
Authors: Gambardella Nicola , Costa Joana , Martins Beatriz Malcata , Folhas Diogo , Hintelmann Holger , Magalhães Catarina , Canário João
Published: October 2024

Permafrost soils are critical reservoirs for mercury (Hg), with the thawing process leading to the release of this element into the environment, posing significant environmental risks. Of particular concern is the methylated form of mercury, monomethylmercury (MMHg), known for its adverse effects on Human health. Microbial communities play a pivotal role in the formation of MMHg by facilitating Hg methylation, yet the specific types of microbes involved still need to be understood. Microorganisms play also a role in the demethylation of MMHg, slowing the crossing of toxic threshold concentration in the environment. This study aimed to identify the microbial drivers behind changes in Hg speciation (MMHg and Hg) in permafrost thaw lakes and assess the significance of the biotic component in Hg biogeochemistry. Sediment samples were collected from two thermokarst lakes in the Canadian sub-arctic throughout the Winter and Summer of 2022. Gene-centric metagenomic applied on whole genome sequencing (WGS) was conducted to identify the genes involved in Hg methylation (hgcA and hgcB) and demethylation (merA and merB), and hgcA and hgcB confirmed by qPCR. The microbial communities showed to be involved in the Hg cycle shifted coherently with the MMHg and total Hg measurements. Particularly, the diversity of this group of prokaryotes decreased from winter to summer. HgcA, merA, and merB coverage were low in summer, while they drastically increased during winter, similarly in all soil depth layers investigated, consistently with the MMHg levels measured. Notably, MMHg values in winter were two to five times higher than measured in summer. Our study provides new insights in the microbial contribution to the Hg cycle in the Arctic degrading permafrost.
Measuring Credit Gap
Authors: Kishor N. Kundan , Nguyen Nam
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes a new approach to calculating the credit gap-the deviation of the credit-to-GDP ratio from its long-run trend-that weighs credit gap measures from different decomposition methods based on their out-of-sample forecasting performance. The results show that this weighted approach to estimating the credit gap outperforms other popular trend-cycle decomposition methods in predicting changes in the credit-to-GDP ratio. Furthermore, we demonstrate that an ensemble machine learning approach, such as a random forest model, can be used to create a credit gap suitable for assessing financial crisis risk in the U.S. and the U.K.
JEL Codes: C52, E44, G01.
Neurophysiological Evidence of Human Hippocampal Longitudinal Differentiation in Associative Memory
Authors: To Tung V. , Wang David X. , Wolfe Cody B. , Lega Bradley C.
Published: October 2024

In humans, the hippocampus exhibits evident structural and connectivity differences along the longitudinal axis. Experiments in rodents and more recently in human subjects have stimulated several theories of functional longitudinal specialization. This question pertains directly to the management of neurosurgical patients, as nascent technologies permit more precise treatments that can selectively spare longitudinal regions. Given the critical importance of the hippocampus to episodic memory formation, the limited amount of direct electrophysiological evidence interrogating models of functional differentiation is striking. With this in mind, we investigated hippocampal longitudinal specialization in human intracranial EEG subjects as they performed an associative recognition episodic memory task. Utilizing the behavioral contrasts available in this task, we characterize the neurophysiological features that distinguish the anterior versus posterior hippocampal activity during recollection and familiarity–based memory retrieval, as well as novelty processing. We use subspace representations to characterize longitudinal differences in the temporal dynamics of key computational processes ascribed to the hippocampus, namely pattern separation and pattern completion. We place our findings in the context of existing models, adding to sparse literature using direct brain recordings to explicate the functional differentiation along the hippocampal longitudinal axis in humans.
The application of PBL combined with MDT and flipped classroom teaching method in the education of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Lin Yuhui , He Xiaoqing , Dai Wenjun , Tang Wenpeng , Xu Yunhong
Published: October 2024

Background: The development of medical education is rapidly evolving, with innovative teaching methods such as problem-based learning (PBL) and multidisciplinary treatment (MDT) combined with flipped classroom approaches gaining increasing attention in clinical medical education. However, the actual effectiveness of PBL combined with MDT and flipped classroom methods in the teaching of cardiovascular diseases has not been well studied. Considering that these two teaching methods can complement each other, this study explores the application and effectiveness of PBL combined with MDT and flipped classroom teaching method in the case-based teaching of acute coronary syndrome. Methods: A total of 100 undergraduate clinical medicine students aged 20--21 years from Guangzhou Medical University were selected as research subjects. They were randomly divided into two groups via a random number table: the experimental group (PBL combined with MDT and flipped classroom teaching), which included 50 students, and the control group (traditional teaching methods), which included 50 students. After the clinical training, the theoretical examination scores and skill assessment results of the two groups were compared, and a questionnaire survey was conducted to evaluate teaching effectiveness.
Results: The theoretical examination scores and skill assessment results of the experimental group were significantly better than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The questionnaire survey revealed that the students in the experimental group outperformed those in the traditional teaching group in terms of learning motivation, theoretical learning outcomes, clinical thinking ability, literature retrieval skills, self-directed learning ability, practical ability, and classroom satisfaction, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: PBL combined with MDT and the flipped classroom teaching method is effective in the clinical training of acute coronary syndrome patients, offers better teaching outcomes than traditional methods do and is worthy of further promotion and application.
Degradable film mulching recruited beneficial microbiota and increased rhizosphere bacterial diversity in sunflower
Authors: Meng Tiantian , Bu Hengtong , Zhang Xiangqian , Chen Xuanyi , Wang Weini , Zhao Min , Liu Junmei , Zhang Jianwei , Zhang Dejian , Lu Zhanyuan , Zhao Xiaoyu
Published: October 2024

The degradable film can solve the problem that the traditional plastic film is difficult to recycle and heavy pollution for a long time. The effects of degraded film mulching on microbial diversity are significant. However, the responses of relevant microbial communities to degraded film mulching in different ecological niches (e.g., bulk soil, rhizosphere and endosphere) of sunflower roots are poorly understood. This study analyzed the effects of plastics film mulching on bacterial and fungal diversities, community assembly process, key dominant species of sunflower different ecological niches in roots. The results showed that degradable film mulching significantly increased the diversity of bulk soil and rhizosphere soil bacteria and decreased the diversity of fungi, and the mulching treatment promoted the gradual shift of the rhizosphere microbial community assembly process to a deterministic process. Degradation film mulching increased the connectivity and complexity of bacterial networks and decreased the complexity of fungal networks. Plastic film mulching improves soil nutrients, temperature and moisture, enhances the positive correlation among microorganisms. At the same time, core species such as Amycolatopsis, Rhizobiaceae, and Sphingomonas that recruit beneficial microorganisms and accelerate the degradation of plastic film are significantly enriched. Degradable film covering promoted soil nutrient cycling, increased urease, alkaline phosphatase, sucrase, and thus increased sunflower yield. A comprehensive analysis of random forest and structural equations showed that the main driving microbial factors of yield were bulk soil bacterial diversity and endosphere fungal diversity. This study provides new ideas for the analysis of soil microbial mutual feedback mechanisms between degraded film mulch and rhizosphere ecosystems.
The combined Cp2-EPS and rhizobium inoculation enhance the growth of alfalfa under salt stress
Authors: huang rong , Jin Zhenhai , xie jinjing , liu xiaoni , zhang zhenfen
Published: October 2024

The interaction of plant and soil microbial communities can promote plant growth and increase stress tolerance. Exopolysaccharide (EPS) is a secondary metabolite produced by certain bacteria and important signal molecules between plants and microorganisms, which has the potential to alleviate salt stress in plant. The study explored the effects of combined Erwinia persicina Cp2-EPS and rhizobium strain (Gz5) inoculation on seed germination and seedling growth of alfalfa under salt stress. The results showed that under 100 mmol·L-1 NaCl stress, each treatment had a very significant positive effect on seed germination and seedling growth compared with the control. The germination index aboveground and underground fresh and dry weight, aboveground and underground length, root index, chlorophyll content, SOD and CAT activities and SS content of combined Cp2-EPS and Gz5 inoculation both achieved maximum value, MDA and H2O2 content reached a minimum value. And relative conductivity and preserved amino acid content were significantly improved compared with the control. Therefore, combined inoculation had positive effects on seed germination and seedling growth of alfalfa under salt stress, and had a more remarkable effects than single inoculation (R/EPS). Our findings provided valuable insights for enhancing the salt tolerance of alfalfa and saline-alkali land improvement.
Boosting Proteasome Activity: A Novel Mechanism of NMDAR Blockers Against Neurodegeneration
Authors: Sahin Fikret , Gunel Aslihan , Atasoy Buse Turegun , Guler Ulku , Salih Bekir , Kuzu Isunsu , Taspinar Mehmet , Cinar Ozgur , Kahveci Selda
Published: October 2024

NMDAR antagonists, such as memantine and ketamine, have shown efficacy in treating neurodegenerative diseases and major depression. The mechanism by which these drugs correct the aforementioned diseases is still unknown. Our study reveals that these antagonists significantly enhance 20S proteasome activity, crucial for degrading intrinsically disordered, oxidatively damaged, or misfolded proteins, factors pivotal in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In our mouse model experiment, ketamine administration notably altered brain synaptic protein profiles within two hours, significantly downregulating proteins strongly associated with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Furthermore, the altered proteins exhibited enrichment in terms related to plasticity and potentiation, including retrograde endocannabinoid signaling—a pivotal pathway in both short- and long-term plasticity that may elucidate the long-lasting effects of ketamine in major depression. Via the ubiquitin-independent 20S proteasome pathway (UIPS), these drugs maintain cellular protein homeostasis, which is crucial as proteasome activity declines with age, leading to protein aggregation and disease symptoms. Therefore, these findings hold promise for new treatment options not only for brain diseases but also for other systemic conditions associated with unfolded or misfolded proteins.
Optimization of Bacillus Bacteria Mediated Biosynthesis of Nickel Nanoparticles Using a Precise Gradient Generated Through Microfluidic Network.
Authors: Yusuf Hayat Abdulla , Redha zainab Mohammad , Thawadi Salwa , Maki Husain , Abbas Husain , Mohsin Jasim
Published: October 2024

The biosynthesis of nickel nanoparticles has gained significant interest due to their distinctive properties and eco-friendly preparation methods. Nevertheless, optimizing the nanoparticles' biosynthesis can be time-consuming and challenging. Therefore, this study presents a microtechnology-based optimized process for producing nickel nanoparticles using bacterial growth (Bacillus species). Nickel is the precursor that is optimized by using Bacillus species growth. Growth duration, pH, and nickel precursor concentration were optimized. A gradient of various pH ranges was obtained via a hierarchical 2-inlet and 6-outlet microfluidic network. The network is distinguished by its capacity for automated, precise generation and sustained maintenance of concentration gradients for precursors and pH throughout the experimental duration. An optimum bacterial growth was observed at pH 6.5 and a nickel precursor concentration of 7.1×10− 3 mol/L. The time factor was also investigated at the optimum conditions of the factors above. Complete precursor consumption was optimally achieved after 13 days of incubation within the 20-day experimental period. UV-Vis spectrophotometry, X-ray diffraction, electron dispersive spectrometry, and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the biosynthesized nickel nanoparticles. Powder X-ray diffraction measured the crystal size of the nanoparticles as 27.8 nm for the cubic phase and 29.9 nm for the triangular shape.
Contrasting dynamic behaviour of six lake-terminating glaciers draining the Vatnajökull Ice Cap and links to bedrock topography
Authors: Baurley Nathaniel R. , Andrews Amelia , Robson Benjamin , Attia Sherif , Martinez Kirk , Hart Jane K.
Published: October 2024

Over recent years, the rapid growth and development of proglacial lakes at the margin of many of Iceland’s outlet glaciers has resulted in heightened rates of mass loss and terminus retreat, yet the key processes forcing their dynamic behaviour remain uncertain, particularly at those glaciers which are underlain by overdeepeend bedrock troughs. As such, we utilised satellite remote sensing to investigate the recent dynamic changes at five lake-terminating glaciers draining the Vatnajökull ice cap. Specifically, we quantified variations in surface velocity between ~ 2008–2020, alongside datasets of frontal retreat, proglacial lake growth, bedrock topography and ice surface elevation change to better understand their recent dynamics and how this may evolve in future. We observed contrasting dynamic behaviour between the five study glaciers, with three displaying a heightened dynamic response (Breiðamerkurjökull, Fjallsjökull, Skaftafellsjökull), which was likely driven by retreat down a reverse-sloping bed into deeper water and the onset of dynamic thinning. Conversely, one glacier re-advanced (Kvíárjökull), whilst the other remained relatively stable (Svínafellsjökull), despite the presence of overdeepened bedrock troughs under both these glaciers, highlighting the complex nature of those processes that are driving the dynamic behaviour of lake-terminating glaciers in this region. These findings may be important in helping understand the processes driving the dynamics of other lake-terminating glaciers in Iceland so that their future patterns of retreat and mass loss can be more accurately quantified.
An 11-Year (2012-2022) Review of Journal of Athletic Training Publication Study Designs and Sample Sizes
Authors: Winkelmann Zachary K. , Scarneo-Miller Samantha E. , Smith Emily C. , Argetsinger Ryan M. , Eberman Lindsey E.
Published: October 2024

Background: Research findings must be representative by creating a sample of individuals, ensuring the results can be generalized and applicable to a larger population. However, the varied research design methods require a unique approach to sampling and a formula for recruitment and size. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze historical data from published manuscripts in the Journal of Athletic Training (JAT) relative to study design and sample sizes. A secondary purpose was to further explore metrics for survey-based research.
Methods: This descriptive analysis explored publications in each issue of the JATfrom January 2012 (Volume 47) to December 2022 (Volume 57; n=1267 articles). We extracted publications from the JAT website. Every article was entered into a spreadsheet (year of publication, publication title) and data specific to the study design and sample size were used for analysis. For studies that were coded as survey-based research, access, response, and completion rates were completed, and topic area and use of a power analysis were extracted. Data were analyzed using measures of central tendency (mean, median, range).
Results: Of the 1267 published studies, the most frequent design was cross-sectional (394, 31.1%). In total, 1080 publications (85.2%) were not survey-based, with a median sample size of 34 participants, while 187 publications (14.8%) were survey-based, with a median sample size of 429. Among those surveys, most were cross-sectional (n=151/187, 80.8%), with 80.7% (n=151/187) reporting the number initially recruited and 50.8% (n=95/187) reporting the number of surveys started. The survey publications reported recruiting an average of 4453 potential participants (median=2500; min=101, max=48752), with 985 participants starting the study (median=816, min=57, max=7067), and a final sample size of 819 (median=429; min=17, max=13002). The grand mean access rate was 22.1%, the grand mean response rate was 18.4%, and the grand mean completion rate was 83.1%.
Conclusion: Researchers and reviewers can use these trends to guide authorship and review processes for athletic training research. However, sampling strategies should be consistent with the research question, which may lead to deviations from these reported trends.
Comparative physiology of xylem nickel loading in the hyperaccumulator Odontarrhena inflata and a non-accumulator Aurinia saxatilis
Authors: Soleymanifar Soraya , Ehsanpour Ali Akbar , Ghasemi Rasoul , Heinrich Sascha , Bandow Julia Elisabeth , Schat Henk , Krämer Ute
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims
This study aimed to gain insight into the biochemical mechanisms of Ni movement in Odontarrhena inflata and Aurinia saxatilis.
Methods
We examined the effects of Ni exposure on the concentrations of histidine and nicotianamine in roots, shoots, and in xylem sap of Odontarrhena inflata (as Ni hyperaccumulator) and Aurinia saxatilis as a non-accumulator. Furthermore, we analysed the effects of Fe and Zn deficiency, and of an apoplastic pathway blocker, on the mobility of Ni.
Results
In plants unexposed to Ni, root His and shoot NA concentrations were higher in O. inflata than in A. saxatilis. Ni exposure caused an increase in His in the xylem sap of O. inflata. Ni exposure caused concentration-dependent increases in shoot His and in root NA concentrations, which were similar in both species for His and distinct between the two species for NA. Fe deficiency, followed by a short-term Fe luxury and Ni exposure, led to enhanced Ni uptake and Ni flux from the root to the shoot of O. inflata. By contrast, we observed decreased Ni loading into the xylem in O. inflata subjected to Zn deficiency. An apoplastic pathway blocker resulted in a decrease in root Ni levels by almost 20%, and in decreased shoot Ni concentrations only under high Ni exposure.
Conclusion
The processes enhanced in response to Fe deficiency can contribute to root uptake and xylem loading of Ni in the hyperaccumulator species. The contribution of apoplastic pathway to root-to-shoot Ni flux is negligible under natural ecological conditions.
Assessment of Two Methods for Detecting Carious Dentin: An In Vitro Study
Authors: White Joel M. , Yansane Alfa , Kukreti Puja , Nahar Pragati , Orobia Paolo , Jensen Rachel , Plack Leslie , Vaderhobli Ram , Mangum Jonathan , Jenson Larry
Published: October 2024

Background: The objective of this study was to compare two dentinal caries lesion detector methods, Caries Finder and BlueCheck, to determine if they were substantially equivalent in their ability to aid visualization of demineralized dentin and to also to compare their performance compared to the traditional visual/tactile method of dentinal caries lesion detection
Methods: Sixty-five extracted human teeth containing lesions rated as ICDAS 4,5 or 6 were chosen and then randomly assigned to two groups. Specimens were then evaluated in standard operatory conditions by three evaluators using the traditional visual and tactile method, the Caries Finder method, and the BlueCheck method of detection. The study employed a parallel, randomized controlled study design. To test the equivalence claim, a “two-one sided test” (TOST) approach was utilized.
Results: As compared to the traditional method, the Caries Finder method had a 0.9742 accuracy, 95% confidence interval [0.9578, 0.9855], 94.80 % sensitivity, 98.53% specificity, 96.47 % positive predictive value, 97.82% negative predictive value, 0.938 Kappa value, p <2.2e-16). The BlueCheck method had a 0.9821 accuracy, 95% confidence interval [0.9682, 0.9910], 96.02% sensitivity, 99.09% specificity, 97.69% positive predictive value, 98.42% negative predictive value, 0.956 Kappa value, p<2.2e-16). Inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability ratings were good to excellent.
Conclusions: The results of this study support the conclusion that the Caries Finder and BlueCheck methods compare favorably with the traditional method of carious dentin detection. Caries Finder and BlueCheck detection methods were found to be substantially equivalent in their ability to differentiate carious dentin from healthy tooth structure. Both show good to excellent inter-rater and intra-rater reliability.
Accuracy of determining gait independence using adductor pollicis muscle thickness and skeletal muscle mass index in community-dwelling older adults undergoing outpatient rehabilitation
Authors: Ishimoto Taisei , Fujimoto Takehiro , Hisamatsu Ken , Matsudaira Nozomi , Hayashi Hikaru , Hashimoto Risako , Toyota Yoshio , Akazawa Naoki
Published: October 2024

Objective
The accuracy of determining gait independence using adductor pollicis muscle thickness (APMT) and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) in community-dwelling older adults undergoing outpatient rehabilitation remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of determining gait independence using APMT and SMI in community-dwelling older adults undergoing outpatient rehabilitation.
Methods
This study included 98 older adults (mean age: 85.2 years). Subjects were received outpatient rehabilitation one to three times a week. The main outcomes were gait independence (functional independence measure gait score: 6 or 7), skeletal muscle mass index (SMI), and APMT. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of APMT and SMI for gait independence were created, and a cut-off value were calculated using the Youden index. Additionally, the area under the curve (AUC) s of the APMT model and the SMI model were compared using the Delong test.
Results
Among the 98 subjects, 53 (54.1%) were in the gait independent group. The cut-off value of APMT calculated from the ROC curve was 13mm; the sensitivity and specificity were 67.9% and 86.7%, respectively; and the AUC was 0.800. The cut-off value of SMI calculated from the ROC curve was 4.6kg/m2; the sensitivity and specificity were 90.6% and 26.7%, respectively; and the AUC was 0.582. The AUC for the APMT model was significantly higher than the SMI model (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
The results of this study show that the cut-off value of APMT for determining the gait independence was 13 mm. In addition, APMT had a higher accuracy of determining gait independence than SMI. This indicates that measuring APMT is more useful for predicting gait independence than SMI in community-dwelling older adults undergoing outpatient rehabilitation.
Harmonizing Patient-Centric Requirements for Secure Digital Health Services in Hetero-geneous Settings
Authors: Assom Luigi , Karunaratne Thashmee , Larsson Aron
Published: October 2024

The primary challenge this research addresses is the lack of harmonization of healthcare technologies in emergent regions. Despite the high demand for digital transformation in the healthcare domain, a significant disparity remains in the capacity to implement digitized health services that leverage electronic identification for patient-centricity and adapt to the know-how processes that depend on the specificity of local contexts. This paper aims to bridge this gap by establishing a template of modular requirements supporting the design of viable Electronic Health Recored (EHR) transmitting and sharing of patient data through primary, secondary and specialized care, also being adaptable to diverse healthcare environments and scalable across varying socio-economic landscapes. The research is anchored in design science and conforms to an action research strategy having northern Brazil as an empirical case. The exaptation process extracted suggested requirements from standards set forth by the European Union, the Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) and the Swedish ePrescription journal system, subject to be adapted to the Brazilian healthcare context using a participatory approach characterised by divergent developmental landscapes across municipalities. Harmonization requirements were refined from Brazilian healthcare policies for the digitization of healthcare. Patient-centricity requirements were extracted through fieldwork iterations from a target audience of Healthcare Professionals and Patient Associations representatives. Strategies from Brazilian healthcare policies addressing chronic kidney disease, selected as a significant challenge for specialized healthcare in emergent areas, were integrated to generalize the design of EHR modules for the prevention and monitoring of the population at risk.
An improved data-driven approach for NMC battery remaining useful life prediction
Authors: HEMDANI Jamila , DEGAA Laid , RIZOUG Nassim , SOLTANI Moez , telmoudi achraf , chaari abdelkader
Published: October 2024

The transition to sustainable electric mobility requires significant advances in the accurate prediction of NMC battery capacity, a critical aspect in ensuring the reliability and durability of electric vehicles. In this study, a hybrid version of Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Temporal Convolutional Network (TCN) and Deep Neural Network (DNN), to accurately predict the battery’s capacity, named CNN-TCN-DNN, is designed. There are two layers in the proposed learning framework: CNN and TCN-DNN. The CNN layer is employed to extract features from the original battery datasets, and TCN-DNN is used to generate the final estimated capacity by leveraging the characteristics extracted by CNN. The proposed technique uses battery’s voltage, charge/discharge currents under ambient temperature to estimate capacity. An experimental validation was carried out, based on the NMC battery data sets, using two topologies: serial and parallel. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed methods are proven by a comparative study with other advanced techniques. The results show that our approaches outperforms other state-of-the-art techniques in terms of prediction accuracy.
Synthesis of PLA/ MgAl2O4 Composite Using Slurry Casting Method: A Study on Biomaterial Properties
Authors: Ghodrati Mehran , Rafiaei Seyed Mahdi , Tayebi Lobat
Published: October 2024

In this study, magnesium aluminate spinel (MgAl2O4) particles were synthesized at 500°C using the combustion method followed by calcination at 800°C. Subsequently, PLA/MgAl2O4 samples were fabricated employing the slurry casting approach. In this research, 4 and 8 Wt% of magnesium aluminate spinel were used for composite production. To analyze the crystal structure, surface chemistry, microstructure, and biodegradability of the produced composites, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), field scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and pH meter were employed. The Rietveld refined XRD data revealed that MgAl2O4 particles have been properly dispersed in the slurry casted specimens. FTIR characterization confirmed bonding formation between the MgAl2O4 reinforcement and the PLA matrix. FESEM/EDX results indicated that MgAl2O4 spinel, with the sub-micron-sized particles, significantly accelerated the degradation rate. Also, the produced composite samples were placed in the body simulating solution for 4 weeks and the solution was ICP analyzed every two weeks. ICP analysis validated the bioactivity of the composites by observing a decrease in the calcium and phosphorus elements of simulated body fluid (SBF), while an increase in pH after four weeks indicated the degradation of composites. Meanwhile, the values of pH vary between 7.6 and 7.8, which is close to the pH of the human body.
Three steps for assessing adult lungworm burden in small ruminants
Authors: Gliga Diana , Serrano Emmanuel , Lizana Víctor , López-Ramon Jordi , Estruch Josep , Carrasco-Pleite Carlos Martínez , Cardells Jesús
Published: October 2024

Lungworm infections, also known as verminous pneumonia, are caused by various nematodes affecting wild and domestic ruminants worldwide. Lung nematodes also decrease reproductive fitness, body weight, and general animal performance. Since lung disease severity is linked to lungworm burden, adult worm collection after lung dissection is the reference method for assessing the intensity of lung nematode infection. The method comprises three steps: pumping the lungs with tape water to collect the parasites in the flushing water, bronchial tree dissection to collect nematodes in the flushing water and dicing the lung to collect adults attached to the parenchyma in water. Each of these three steps recovers an unknown proportion of the nematode burden, but no work has evaluated the contribution of each step to the nematode burden assessment. In this work, we aimed to evaluate this after assessing lung nematode burden in 57 Southern chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica pyrenaica), hunter-harvested in northeast Spain and infected by Protostrongylus sp, Mullerious capillaris, and Cystocaulus sp. The Baermann-Wetzel method was applied to collect larvae from lung dice. Water pumping retrieved the most adult lungworms (89%), predominantly Protostrongylus sp., while the final squeeze had limited effectiveness in nematode recovery. Muellerius sp and Cystocaulus ocreatus were mainly collected by the Baermann-Wetzel method. The lung burden assessed in the lungs does not match the larvae burden in faeces nematode; thus, works investigating lungworm infection pathology should include a lung necropsy. Research describing lung nematode richness, however, should apply both methods. This lung nematode burden assessment method can be used for other small ruminant species and mammals of different size ranges.
An efficient method for fingerprint matching based on the 2D-FRFT domain
Authors: ALAOUI El Mehdi ISMAILI
Published: October 2024

Fingerprint matching is essential to ensure the robustness of fingerprint identification with respect to the image quality. Usually, fingerprint images are enhanced by one stage in either the spatial domain or the frequency domain. Moreover, fingerprint enhancement needs to be conducted in order to enhance the fingerprint image completely. In recent years, two-dimensional fractional Fourier transform (2D-FRFT) which contains both spatial and frequency information, has been playing a unique and increasingly important role in image processing, the studies on using it for fingerprint image are very rewarding and promising. In this paper, we propose a novel approach which combines the properties of 2D-FRFT and phase correlation technique in order to provide a simple means for estimating the translation and rotation parameters between two fingerprint images in 2D-FRFT domain. Our method relies on 2D-FRFT-based correlation twice: once in the spatial domain based on the average squared difference function (ASDF) to recover the translation and once in the polar domain to estimate the rotation. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evaluated on the public FVC2004 set a database. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is capable of estimating the translation and rotation in fingerprint images, and its accuracy is comparable to the 2D-FFT-based method.
Corrosion inhibition threshold effect of 1,2,4-triazole in alkaline chemical mechanical polishing of copper: Investigations using synchrotron radiation microinfrared
Authors: Dai Lei , Yan Zixuan , Zhang Daquan , Li Chunping , Shi Cheng , Gao LiXin , Xin Zhiling
Published: October 2024

The threshold effect of 1,2,4-triazole (TAZ) on copper corrosion inhibition under alkaline chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process is investigated using the synchrotron radiation micro-infrared spectroscopy. The study shows that 15 mM TAZ provides the best corrosion inhibition for copper in CMP slurry. The integrity of the surface film decreases significantly at concentrations above the threshold level. This is mainly due to the agglomeration of Cu-TAZ complexes on copper surface. In addition, the corrosion inhibition mechanism of TAZ for copper in alkaline CMP slurry is discussed in depth.
Can the old-age care service of empty nesters be replaced with land in rural China? A Qualitative study
Authors: Zhang Xuewen , Pan Yueying , Chong Xiaoqin , Wang Min , Yue Yuanlei , Zhang Junxin , Liu Jing , Wang Chunying , Yin Weiran
Published: October 2024

Background
With the rapid development of urbanization, the number of empty nesters in rural China is increasing rapidly. Empty-nesters could not receive enough old-age care from their children, which covers economic support, daily care and spiritual comfort. The problem of old-age care for rural empty-nesters is more difficult than that of the urban elderly.
Objective
The purpose of this study is to understand the old-age care problems of empty nesters and the implementation of “land replacement for old-age care” policy in rural China.
Methods
In-depth interview was used to collect data, and then inductive content analysis was used to collect and analyze the data. Thirteen participating empty-nesters were interviewed using semi-structured interview guidelines that were thoroughly discussed and agreed upon by all researchers.
Results
The huge challenge of old-age care is faced by empty nest elderly in rural areas. There are some obstacles in the implementation of “land replacement for old-age care", such as the lack of government guidance and organization, the lack of unified and scientific land management, and the elderly are more dependent on family supporting, and there is a certain resistance to nursing homes. With no adult children to accompany them, empty-nesters are more negative about their old-care problems, and there is a suicide tendency when they cannot take care of themselves.
Conclusions
Rural empty-nest elderly have great difficulty in seeking old-age care services in China. More efforts should be made to accelerate the implementation and guarantee of “land replacement old-age care “for rural empty-nesters.
Depth use of wild Atlantic salmon post-smolts migrating through fjords
Authors: Bjerck Helge B. , Urke Henning A. , Haugen Thrond O. , Alfredsen Jo Arve , Kristensen Torstein
Published: October 2024

Juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), known as post-smolt as they enter the sea, undergo an arduous migration from their natal rivers to their feeding grounds in the North Atlantic Ocean. Here, we present data on the depth use of migrating wild Atlantic salmon post-smolts. Using acoustic telemetry, tagged fish from four rivers in two fjords in western Norway were monitored as they migrated towards the open sea during two consecutive years. We found that post-smolts predominantly migrated in the top three meters of the water column throughout the length of both fjord systems. Among 61 successful migrants, 95% of detections were in the top three meters of the water column. This corresponds well with past findings showing similar depth use in hatchery-reared smolt and in adult Atlantic salmon kelts returning to their feeding grounds after spawning. We found little evidence of a consistent diel pattern in depth use. Our results support assumptions of representative sampling when trawling the upper portion of the water column for post-smolts in order to estimate sea lice infection rates and may improve the precision of efforts to model sea-lice infection risk. The results may also be valuable in evaluating other threats to wild salmon.
Callus Culture System from Lonicera japonica Thunb Anthers : Light Quality Effects on Callus Quality Evaluation
Authors: Cheng Jiali , Guo Fengxia , Zhou Chunyan , Chen Yong , Li Zhigang , Liang Wei , Wang Hongyan , Chen Yuan , Dong Pengbin
Published: October 2024

Lonicera japonica Thunb has significant edible and medicinal value, offering properties like heat clearing, detoxification, antibacterial, and blood pressure reduction. However, its quality is limited by climate, environment, flowering period, and germplasm degradation. This study established the first embryogenic callus culture system for L. japonica anthers. Using abiotic inducers (light quality), the effects on callus morphology, metabolite accumulation, and antioxidant activity were examined. Results showed that adding 1.0 mg·L− 1 6-BA, 1.5 mg·L− 1 NAA, 1.5 mg·L− 1 2,4-D, and 0.2 mg·L− 1 KT to MS medium induced 81% embryogenic callus. Subculturing with 2.0 mg·L− 1 6-BA, 0.5 mg·L− 1 NAA, and 0.2 mg·L− 1 KT yielded uniform callus lines. SEM and paraffin sectioning distinguished callus types. After 15 days of blue light induction, active metabolites and antioxidant activities peaked. This system supports germplasm innovation and suggests abiotic inducers as a method for higher metabolic product yields.
Case report severe postoperative negative pressure pulmonary edema
Authors: Omuro Philipp Kazuo , Sander David , Hart Dominique
Published: October 2024

Background: Postoperative negative pressure pulmonary edema (NPPE) can occur in any patient undergoing general anesthesia. There are several risk factors for it, especially postoperative laryngospasm. The disease is usually benign and quickly reversible. In our case the severity and need for advanced critical care therapy was unusual.
Case: We report of severe case of postoperative negative pressure pulmonary edema in a 62-year-old male patient undergoing elective right sided retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy. The patient developed a severe case of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) after postoperative laryngospasm, possibly in conjunction with a suspected anaphylactic reaction. The patient was consequently treated with a combination of invasive airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) and a prone positioning regimen. After drastic improvement of respiratory function, the patient was discharged from intensive care unit after 10 days and from hospital after 14 days.
Conclusion: NPPE is a rare, but relevant complication of anesthesia and laryngospasm. The disease can basically occur in any patient undergoing general anesthesia and therefore should be considered.
Quartzitic Caves with guano at the Serra do Ibitipoca State Park (MG) - Brazil: key nutrient hotspots in the soils and adjacent forests
Authors: Schaefer Carlos Ernesto Gonçalves Reynaud , Matos Matheus Gonçalves , Sena Luisa Somerlate , Lima Mariana Cassini da Cunha , Ibraimo Anifo Soares Mamudo , Candido Hugo Galvão
Published: October 2024

Little is known about the role of guano from quartzite caves in forming biodiverse plant communities in the surrounding areas due to direct or indirect nutrient and energy inputs. This study investigates four caves in the Quartzite Endokarst of Ibitipoca State Park (PEI), Brazil, by analyzing surface soils from the cave interior to surrounding forests. We evaluated the following hypotheses: (i) guano deposits modify the cave floor and influence external plant communities; (ii) there is a nutrient gradient from the cave interior to its surroundings, linked to guano deposition and redistribution; (iii) forest communities near the caves rely on nutrient cycling from guano to achieve greater biomass and structural complexity. Results confirmed a significant incremental effect of macro and micronutrients in the studied caves, with notable variability between interior and exterior environments and between forested areas and more distant soils. This nutrient input profoundly alters soil morphology and physico-chemical properties through long-term cumulative processes. Many trees and shrubs in these forested areas are larger than their counterparts in the adjacent Rupestrian Quartzite Complex. Although both birds and bats are abundant in these caves, the insectivorous diet of these animals complicates the differentiation of their roles in guano deposition. Further studies using precise biogeochemical markers are needed to clarify the distinct contributions of birds and bats and the temporal dynamics of this phenomenon. Ultimately, this biogenic input creates nutrient-rich oases in an otherwise oligotrophic environment.
Evaluating Growth, Biochemical, Physiological and Yield Responses in Maize with Activated Biochar under different moisture conditions: A Field Study
Authors: Naeem Muhammad Bilal , Jahan Summera , Rashid Audil , Shah Anis Ali , Raja Vaseem , El-Sheikh Mohamed A.
Published: October 2024

Amidst depleting water resources, rising crop water needs, changing climates, and soil fertility decline from inorganic modifications of soil, the need for sustainable agricultural solutions has been more pressing. The experimental work aimed to inspect the potential of organically activated biochar in improving soil physicochemical and nutrient status as well as improving biochemical and physiological processes, and optimizing yield-related attributes under optimal and deficit irrigation conditions. The field experiment with maize crop was conducted in Hardaas Pur (32°38.37'N, 74°9.00'E), Gujrat, Pakistan, from March to June in consecutive years, 2023 and 2024. The experiment involved the use of DK-9108, DK-6321, and Sarhaab maize hybrid seeds, with five moisture levels of evapotranspiration (100% ETC, 80% ETC, 70% ETC, 60% ETC, and 50% ETC) maintained throughout the crop seasons. Furthermore, activated biochar was applied at three levels: 0 tons/ha (no biochar), 5 tons per hectare, and 10 tons per hectare. The study's findings revealed significant improvements in soil organic matter, bulk density, nutrient profile and total porosity with biochar supplementation in soil. Maize plants grown under lower levels of ETC in biochar supplemented soil had enhanced membrane stability index (1.6 times higher) increased protein content (1.4 times higher), reduced malondialdehyde levels (0.7 times lower), improved antioxidant enzyme activity (1.3 times more SOD and POD activity, and 1.2 times more CAT activity), improved relative growth (1.05 times more) and enhanced yield parameters (grain yield 26% more) than control. Additionally, among the two biochar application levels tested, the 5 tons/ha dose demonstrated superior efficiency compared to the 10 tons/ha biochar dose.
Pollution Evaluation in Soils and Health Risk in Vegetables of Heavy Metals in Surrounding Lanzhou City in Gansu Province, China
Authors: Ren Han-ru , Ren Jun , Tao Ling , Ren Xue-chang
Published: October 2024

Heavy metal (HMs) contamination in soil causes secondary pollution of vegetables and poses a great threat to health. Soil and vegetable samples were collected from eight different districts in the vegetable base of Lanzhou city in Gansu province. The heavy metal (Zn, Cd, Cr, Cu, and Pb) contents were determined using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. The results suggest that the Cr and Zn contents of soils in the eight plantation bases were much higher than those of the other three metal contents. The metal concentrations showed significant differences among plantation bases and vegetable species, and the mean HM concentrations of vegetable bases exceeded background levels by 1.1~3.0 times. The accumulation of Cu in vegetables was significantly higher than that of other metals. Remarkable differences were found among the vegetables in the uptake abilities of Zn, Cd, Cr, and Cu. From the linear model regression analysis, significant positive relationships were found between the accumulation of HMs in vegetables and soil content. The information found in this work may be used to provide referential strategies and methods to minimize the impact of HMs on human health through the consumption and cultivation of vegetables.
Nicotinamide mononucleotide suppresses cellular senescence and increases aquaporin 5 expression in the submandibular gland of aged mice to ameliorate aging-related dry mouth
Authors: Wakabayashi Jun , Hamaguchi Takahiro , Morifuji Masashi , Nagata Masashi
Published: October 2024

Dry mouth results from decreased saliva secretion due to aging or drug side effects. Decreased saliva secretion causes dryness in the oral cavity that makes swallowing difficult and increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia. There are few fundamental treatments for dry mouth. Here we investigated whether treatment of old mice with nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) improved factors associated with dry mouth. Young (16-week-old) and old (113-week-old) mice were treated subcutaneously with saline or NMN (300 mg/kg) once every two days for four weeks and saliva secretion was measured. The amount of NAD + in salivary gland tissues was measured by LC-MS/MS. Gene expression in the intestinal tract and salivary glands was measured by real-time PCR. The population of cells with acetylation in the submandibular gland was quantified by immunohistological staining. SA-β-gal activity in the submandibular gland was measured to assess cell senescence. The submandibular glands from old mice treated with NMN exhibited increased saliva secretion and NAD + levels, which both decrease with aging. In addition, the submandibular glands from NMN-treated old mice had decreased acetylation, numbers of senescent cells, and levels of SASP factors, which all increase with aging, as well as increased AQP5 mRNA expression. NMN administration may improve dry mouth by regulating cellular senescence in the submandibular gland and increasing expression of AQP5, a water channel involved in saliva secretion, to inhibit age-related decreases in saliva secretion.