bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological study on household air pollution exposure and prevalent chronic disease in the elderly
Authors: Dehghani Samaneh , Yousefi Somayeh , Oskoei Vahide , Tazik Moslem , Moradi Mohammad Sanyar , Shaabani Mahmood , Vali Mohebat
Published: July 2023

Older people spend most of their time indoors. Limited evidence demonstrates that exposure to indoor air pollutants might be related to chronic complications. This study aimed to estimate the correlation between household air pollution (HAP)'s long-term exposure and the prevalence of elevated hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), obesity, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. From the Global Burden disease dataset, we extracted HAP, hypertension, DM, body mass index, and LDL cholesterol data from Iran from 1990 to 2019 to males and females in people over 50 years. We present APC and AAPC and their confidence intervals using Joinpoint Software statistical software. R software examined the correlation between HAP and hypertension, DM2, Obesity, and high LDL cholesterol. Our finding showed a significant and positive correlation between HAP exposure and prevalence of high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p ≤ 0.001, r = 0.70), high systolic blood pressure (p ≤ 0.001, r = 0.63), and high body mass index (p ≤ 0.001, r = 0.57), and DM2 (p ≤ 0.001, r = 0.38). The analysis results also illustrated a positive correlation between indoor air pollution and smoking (p ≤ 0.001, r = 0.92). HAP exposure might be a risk factor for elevated blood pressure, DM, obesity, and LDL cholesterol and, consequently, more serious health problems. According to our results, smoking is one of the sources of HAP. However, ecological studies cannot fully support causal relationships, and this article deals only with Iran. Our findings should be corroborated in personal exposure and biomonitoring approach studies.
SiP-heterocycles derived from a bulky phosphanylsilylene
Authors: Wang Chenfeng , Su Ming-Der , Fang Zijie , Zhou Jiahao , Zhang Haoqi , Li Xiaodi , Zuo Darui , Zhang Zheng-Feng , Li Yan
Published: July 2023

A new bis(1-adamantyl)phosphanylsilylene was synthesized and reacted with alkynes and a phosphaalkyne to furnish different Si–P heterocyclic complexes.
Probing molecular interactions of semiquinone radicals at quinone reduction sites of cytochrome bc1 by X-band HYSCORE EPR spectroscopy and quantum mechanical calculations
Authors: Kuleta Patryk , Pietras Rafał , Andrys-Olek Justyna , Wójcik-Augustyn Anna , Osyczka Artur
Published: July 2023

X-band HYSCORE spectra of semiquinone (SQi) in cytochrome bc1 revealed the characteristic parameters of an electron-nitrogen spin–spin system consisting of an arginine residue H-bonded to SQi.
Highly dispersed Co anchored on Ce-doped hydroxyapatite as a dual-functional catalyst for selective hydrogenolysis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Gao Zhuoyou , Wang Mengying , Shang Ningzhao , Gao Wei , Cheng Xiang , Gao Shutao , Gao Yongjun , Wang Chun
Published: July 2023

Highly dispersed Co anchored on Ce-doped hydroxyapatite as a dual-functional catalyst was synthesized. Excellent selective hydrogenolysis performance of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural under mild conditions has been realized with the Co/HAP(Ce) catalyst.
On-chip gas reaction nanolab forin situTEM observation
Authors: Zhao Tiqing , Jiang Youhong , Luo Shiwen , Ying Yifan , Zhang Qian , Tang Shi , Chen Linzhi , Xia Jing , Xue Peng , Zhang Jia-Jun , Sun Shi-Gang , Liao Hong-Gang
Published: July 2023

An ultra-stable heating chip was developed, which has an ultra-low thermal drift during temperature heating. Under ambient conditions within TEM, atomic resolution imaging was achieved during the heating process or at high temperature up to 1300 °C.
Polynitro-functionalized 4-phenyl-1H-pyrazoles as heat-resistant explosives
Authors: Pandey Krishna , Bhatia Prachi , Mohammad Khwaja , Ghule Vikas D. , Kumar Dheeraj
Published: July 2023

This work demonstrates the synthesis, characterization, and energetic properties’ evaluation of polynitro-functionalized 4-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-based heat-resistant explosives.
Predicting the size and morphology of nanoparticle clusters driven by biomolecular recognition
Authors: Palacios-Alonso Pablo , Sanz-de-Diego Elena , Peláez Raúl P. , Cortajarena A. L. , Teran F. J. , Delgado-Buscalioni Rafael
Published: July 2023

Nanoparticle aggregation by biomolecular recognition is a driving principle of innovative materials and biosensing. Using theory, simulation and experiments, this work analizes the morphology of bioconjugated nanoparticles clusters.
Recent Progress on Copper-Catalyzed C–C Bond Formation via C(sp2)–H Insertions Using Diazo and Related Compounds
Authors: Samanta Rajarshi , Bera Satabdi , Jana Subhenira
Published: July 2023

The site-selective insertion of metal carbenes via C(sp2)–H bond functionalization is an interesting topic within the synthetic chemistry community. In recent years, studies on the formation and applications of copper carbene intermediates have increased significantly due to their cost-effectiveness and versatile reactivities. Furthermore, copper-catalyzed transformations involving C(sp2)–H insertions using diazo and related compounds, along with asymmetric versions, have emerged as new tools for C–C bond formation. This short review summarizes selected recent advances in this field.

1 Introduction

2 Insertion of Copper Carbenes into Aryl C(sp2)–H Bonds of Arenes

3 Copper Carbene Insertion into Aryl C(sp2)–H Bonds of Azaheteroarenes

4 Copper Carbene Insertion into C(sp2)–H Bonds of Alkenes

5 Conclusions and Perspectives
Viatorr Stent Migration and Retrieval during Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Revision
Authors: Kim Stephanie H. , Samuel Michael , Makramalla Abouelmagd
Published: July 2023

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an important interventional option for the treatment of complications related to cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Emergent TIPS placement can be a life-saving measure in patients with uncontrolled variceal hemorrhage. After TIPS placement, patients may benefit from additional interventions for clinical optimization including stent dilation, stent extension, and embolization of varices. Here, we describe a case of emergent TIPS placement and revision which resulted in TIPS stent migration requiring stent removal and replacement. We discuss our technique and review previously reported methods for the management of migrated TIPS stents.
Life cycle assessment of an agrivoltaic system with conventional potato production
Authors: Busch Christin , Wydra Kerstin
Published: July 2023

Climate change and land use conflicts represent two of the greatest challenges worldwide. One possible solution are agrivoltaic (APV) systems, in which agricultural production is combined with a photovoltaic (PV) system in the same area. However, there is insufficient information on the environmental impacts of this technology. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate the environmental impacts of an agrivoltaic system with conventional potato production using life cycle assessment (LCA). For this purpose, three scenarios were developed and compared in terms of their environmental impact: An APV system with combined potato and electricity production (scenario 1), a system with spatially separated potato and photovoltaic (PV) electricity production (scenario 2), and a potato scenario in which the electricity purchase was covered by the German electricity mix (scenario 3). The APV system (scenario 1) and the system with ground-mounted PV modules (scenario 2) performed better than scenario 3. In the Land Use category, scenario 1 caused the lowest environmental impact. Comparing the PV scenarios, scenario 2 had lower impacts in 12 of the 17 impact categories due to lower steel consumption. Also, comparing scenario 1 with scenario 3, lower impacts of the APV system were observed in 13 categories. The impacts of APV systems are generally similar to those of ground mounted PV systems, and impacts of both PV systems are lower than the existing, conventional systems of separate energy and crop production. However, due to ongoing advances in system design, materials used for the mounting structures and in the development of solar modules, it can be expected that the impact of APV will be significantly reduced in the future.
Vegetation-derived pyrogenic carbon degradation and stabilisation in UK peatlands†
Authors: Kennedy-Blundell Oscar J. , Shuttleworth Emma L. , Rothwell James J. , Clay Gareth D.
Published: July 2023

Background Strongly varying timescales of pyrogenic carbon (PyC) degradation have been observed across depositional settings. To date, PyC degradation in UK peatlands has had limited investigation. Aims This study aims to evaluate how PyC recalcitrance relates to differing production characteristics, fuels and duration of exposure in UK peatlands. Methods PyC samples produced from key peatland vegetation types were exposed on a peatland surface to assess molecular (by Fourier-transform infrared), leachable carbon (water-extractable organic carbon) and elemental (C, H, N, O) changes occurring over a year. Key results PyC degradation phases were observed: (1) very rapid (≤1 month) loss of leachable carbon; (2) longer-term (1–12 months) changes to PyC characteristics indicative of soil interactions. ‘Severity’ had a significant effect on all measured variables. Conclusions This study indicates that PyC is susceptible to changes within short timescales in UK peatlands, particularly low-temperature PyC, but that stabilisation through soil matrix interactions may occur over longer periods (>1 year). Implications The findings indicate that UK peatland wildfire carbon cycling research should consider early pulses of carbon to the wider environment, as well as longer-term C storage in PyC.
Origins and population genetics of sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) introduced to Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Rollins Lee A. , Lees Daniel , Woolnough Andrew P. , West Andrea J. , Perry Michael , Forsyth David M.
Published: July 2023

Context Some populations of introduced species cause significant undesirable impacts but can also act as reservoirs for genetic diversity. Sambar deer (Cervus unicolor) are ‘Vulnerable’ in their native range and invasive in Australia and New Zealand. Genetic data can be used to determine whether these introduced populations might serve as genetic reservoirs for declining native populations and to identify spatial units for management. Aims We aimed to identify the provenance of sambar deer in Australia and New Zealand, and to characterise their genetic diversity and population structure. Methods We used mitochondrial control region sequences and 18 nuclear microsatellite loci of 24 New Zealand and 63 Australian sambar deer collected across continuous habitat in each location. We estimated genetic diversity and population differentiation by using pairwise FST, AMOVA, and Structure analyses. We compared our data with 27 previously published native and invasive range sequences to identify phylogenetic relationships. Key results Sambar deer in Australia and New Zealand are genetically more similar to those in the west of the native range (South and Central Highlands of India, and Sri Lanka), than to those in the east (eastern India, and throughout Southeast Asia). Nuclear genetic diversity was lower than in the native range; only one mitochondrial haplotype was found in each introduced population. Australian and New Zealand sambar deer were genetically distinct but there was no population structure within either population. Conclusions The genetic differences we identified between these two introduced populations at putatively neutral loci indicate that there also may be underlying diversity at functional loci. The lack of population genetic structure that we found within introduced populations suggests that individuals within these populations do not experience barriers to dispersal across the areas sampled. Implications Although genetic diversity is reduced in the introduced range compared with the native range, sambar deer in Australia and New Zealand harbour unique genetic variants that could be used to strengthen genetic diversity in populations under threat in the native range. The apparent high levels of gene flow across the areas we sampled suggest that localised control is unlikely to be effective in Australia and New Zealand.
On the validity of crowdsourced data
Authors: Kruijt Anne , Cordin Patrizia , Rabanus Stefan
Published: July 2023

This chapter demonstrates the validity of
crowdsourced data by comparing the crowdsourced data from the VinKo
project with traditionally collected data from the AThEME project.
Both datasets target non-standard language varieties of the South
Tyrol, Trentino, and Veneto regions in north-eastern Italy. Three
different morphosyntactic phenomena are discussed, each relating to
a particular language variety, providing evidence that the
crowdsourced data is of comparable quality to the traditionally
gathered data and has the added advantage of yielding a larger
overall dataset covering a denser location network.
Sociogeographical differences in the pronunciation of Anglicisms
in Spanish
Authors: Bäumler Linda , Hartmann Frederik
Published: July 2023

In this paper we propose a possible statistical
analysis of sociogeographical differences in two Spanish varieties
in the context of loanword phonology. For this purpose, we extracted
formant frequencies of Anglicisms from corpus data from Mexico and
Spain, with a particular focus on the realisation of the English
vowel /ʌ/ (e.g., [bɾʌnt͡ʃ]). We used a Multilevel Bayesian
regression model to infer various fixed effects on the phonic
realisation. The analysis shows that geographical proximity to the
U.S. does not impact the realisation in our data. Speakers’ exposure
and affinity towards the English language, on the other hand, favour
imitation of the English vowel. This seems to be especially relevant
in our globalised world, where English media are ubiquitously
available.
Final report of SIM.L-K7.2016
Authors: Zucco M , Gastaldi B
Published: July 2023

Main text

This report describes the results of the bilateral comparison SIM.L-K7.2016 carried out in 2016 - 2017 between the pilot INRIM (Italy) and INTI (Argentina). The scale is made of a glass ceramic Zerodur. The total length of main graduation is 280 mm. The measurand is the deviation from the nominal distance between the center line position of the reference line [position 0] and the center line position of the measured line.

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCL, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Quantifying the underlying event: investigating angular dependence of multiplicity classes and transverse-momentum spectra in high-energy pp collisions at LHC energies
Authors: Mishra Aditya Nath , Barnaföldi Gergely Gábor , Paić Guy
Published: July 2023

We present a study of the transverse momentum spectra of charged hadrons and their evolution as a function of their azimuthal position with respect to the leading particle in proton–proton collisions at

s

= 13 TeV using the PYTHIA8 Monte Carlo event generator with the Monash 2013 tune. The spherocity distribution in the same azimuthal bins is reported. The Multiplicity and midrapidity transverse momentum spectra of charged hadrons have been analysed in the non-extensive statistical framework. The results corresponding to the Underlying Event are reported. This work provides a possible understanding of the interplay between hard scatterings and the Underlying Event in proton–proton collisions.
Remaining useful life distribution prediction framework for lithium-ion battery fused prior knowledge and monitoring data
Authors: Wang Mingxian , Xiang Gang , Cui Langfu , Zhang Qingzhen , Chen Juan
Published: July 2023

Remaining useful life (RUL) prediction is the main approach to guarantee the reliability of lithium-ion batteries. This paper proposes an interpretable hybrid method to predict the RUL distribution with changeable form. The method integrates prior knowledge from the statistical model and regular patterns learned from monitoring data based on the data-driven model. The predicted compound distribution provides more information compared to point estimation and distribution with fixed form. The general hybrid framework contains a component learner, a fusion model with a stacking strategy, and a prognostic distribution algorithm with adaptive sampling weights. The stacking fusion model is implemented by a one-dimensional convolution neural network. The sampling weights are estimated by optimal estimation. The statistical model describes the individual capacity degradation path based on the Wiener process. The data-driven model learns the degradation process from historical data based on convolutional gated recurrent neural network (CNN-GRU) and Monte Carlo dropout simulation. The comparative experiments between the proposed method and existing methods were carried out. The experiment results show that the proposed hybrid method performs well.
Monitoring of the curing process and thermal failure of adhesive-bonded structures based on damping measurement using quantitative electromechanical impedance
Authors: Liu Bofeng , Wang Yifan , Xie Mingyu , Li Faxin
Published: July 2023

Adhesives are essential materials in engineering and their strength directly affects the safety of structures. The curing and environmental deterioration are critical areas of focus in adhesive researches. However, conventional studies on adhesive curing emphasize only on the characteristics of the adhesive itself, while studies on deterioration of adhesive-bonded structure tend to concentrate on detecting disbonds. In this work, we proposed to monitor the curing process and thermal failure of adhesive-bonded-structures based on damping measurement using a quantitative electromechanical impedance (Q-EMI) method. The performances of two adhesives, i.e. epoxy and cyanoacrylate, were studied via bonding a piezoelectric transducer onto one end of an alumina bar and measuring the admittance spectrum of the transducer-adhesive-alumina system. Results show that the damping steadily decreases during the curing process and eventually stabilizes for both adhesive-bonded structures. A significantly higher curing rate is observed at 60 °C compared to that at room temperature. At high temperatures, the damping will increase dramatically, or no peaks can be observed in the admittance spectrum, indicating adhesive failure. The results indicate that the epoxy adhesive can function normally at temperatures up to 120 °C and can endure heating-cooling cycles up to 180 °C, while the cyanoacrylate adhesive can function normally at 140 °C but fails upon cooling. The proposed Q-EMI method is quite powerful in monitoring the performances of bonded structures.
Privacy data protection scheme using memristive hyperchaos and multi-scale block compressive sensing
Authors: Shi Yongge , Jiang Donghua , Tsafack Nestor , Ahmad Musheer , Zhu Liya , Zheng Mingwen
Published: July 2023

Recently, most meaningful image encryption schemes incorporated with various compressive sensing models have been developed to achieve dual protection of private image data and appearance. However, there exist performance constraints in these schemes in terms of anti-chosen-plaintext attack capability and key management. Aiming at the above issues, a new visually secure image encryption scheme is proposed using multi-scale block compressive sensing (MSB-CS) model and asymmetric integer wavelet transform (IWT) embedding. In this scheme, a memristor model with locally active tristable is first introduced into the oscillator to construct a new 5D memristive hyperchaotic system to generate cipher flows. Then, the non-linear MSB-CS model is designed to compress sparsely-represented plaintext coefficients. After a series of encryption operations, secret image without semantic features is asymmetrically embedded into the same-scale non-secret-involved carrier image. Additionally, both communicating parties, Alice and Bob, acquire shared secret key through the key sharing protocol based on matrix factorization problem. Finally, simulation experiments and comprehensive analysis indicate that the 5D memristive system has complicated hyperchaotic behaviours. In the meantime, the designed encryption scheme possesses better the anti-differential attack capability and reconstruction performance than other recently proposed schemes.
Symmetric Brownian motor subjected to Lévy noise
Authors: Jia 贾 Kao 考 , Hu 胡 Lan 兰 , Nie 聂 Linru 林如
Published: July 2023

In the past few years, attention has mainly been focused on the symmetric Brownian motor (BM) with Gaussian noises, whose current and energy conversion efficiency are very low. Here, we investigate the operating performance of the symmetric BM subjected to Lévy noise. Through numerical simulations, it is found that the operating performance of the motor can be greatly improved in asymmetric Lévy noise. Without any load, the Lévy noises with smaller stable indexes can let the motor give rise to a much greater current. With a load, the energy conversion efficiency of the motor can be enhanced by adjusting the stable indexes of the Lévy noises with symmetry breaking. The results of this research are of great significance for opening up BM’s intrinsic physical mechanism and promoting the development of nanotechnology.
Prototype of a digitizer module based on multicycle-encoding FPGA ADC for a small animal PET
Authors: Chen K. , Qin J. , Zhao L. , Zhang L. , An Q.
Published: July 2023

Current research in small animal positron emission
tomography (PET) scanners focus on obtaining better spatial
resolution and higher sensitivity. These enhancements of scanner
performance result in a corresponding increase in the complexity of
the electronics, which usually manifests through an increase in the
number of electronics channels. Analog-to-digital converters (ADCs)
implemented in field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) are an
effective way to simplify electronics complexity. In this paper, a
resource-saving multicycle-encoding structure of an FPGA-based ADC
with automated calibration is proposed, which achieves a sampling
rate of 250 Msps. A digitizer module prototype containing 64 charge
measurement channels based on the FPGA ADC is designed using a
Kintex-7 FPGA. The effective number of bits (ENOB) achieved using
the FPGA ADC is 4.26 bits under a 10.0555 MHz sine wave input. The
charge measurement resolution of each channel is better than
5‰ full width half maximum under a 0.8 V signal
input and 3% under inputs in the range 0.1 V to 1.2 V. The
integral nonlinearity of each channel is within ± 1%.
Development of sub-mirror radius of curvature automatic test system for IACT
Authors: Zhou Changxu , Wang Yudong , Zhang Shoushan , Min Zhen , Geng Lisi , Liu Jiali
Published: July 2023

The Image Air shower Cherenkov Telescope (IACT) is one powerful instrument to study gamma ray astronomy. Generally the reflection system of IACT is assembled by multiple small sub-mirrors. It is time-consuming and costly to measure the sub-mirrors for the traditional manual method. In order to solve the problem, we design and develop an automatic system to measure the radius of curvature (ROC) of spherical sub-mirrors. A foam aluminum sample spherical mirror is tested to verify system performance. The repeated measurement error of the system ROC is 5.68 mm with the step 5 mm, and the minimum spot size repeated measurement error is 0.04 mm. The results indicate that the accuracy and stability of the system are excellent. Two mirrors with different ROC are measured. The ROC of the aluminum foam structure mirror is 16100.30 ± 5.59 mm, and the minimum spot size is 3.37 ± 0.04 mm. The ROC of a glass mirror is 5810.00 ± 1.42 mm with the step 1 mm and a minimum spot size of 1.92 ± 0.02 mm. The results indicate that the system is suitable for measuring mirrors with different ROCs and the measurement results are effective and reliable. It is vital to note that the measurement is fast and unattended, the single measurement time is less than 5 minutes and the total time is less than 15 minutes.
Integrability treatment of AdS/CFT orbifolds
Authors: Skrzypek Torben
Published: July 2023

We elaborate on the treatment of orbifolds of type IIB string theory on

A
d

S
5

×

S
5

and their dual gauge theories with integrability techniques. The implementation of orbifolds via twisted spin-chains, thermodynamic Bethe ansatz equations with chemical potentials and Y- and T-systems with modified asymptotics is confronted with twisted boundary conditions of the string sigma-model. This allows us to consistently twist the quantum spectral curve, which is believed to bridge the two sides of the AdS/CFT duality. We discuss Abelian orbifolds of

P
S
U
(
2
,
2

|

4
)

and treat the special cases of

supersymmetric

Z

2

-orbifolds and type 0B string theory on

A
d

S
5

×

S
5

as primary examples. This opens a pathway to probe the validity of the duality and to study the long-standing question of tachyon stabilisation in non-supersymmetric AdS/CFT. We comment on the current understanding of this issue and point out the next steps in this challenge.
Statistical Analysis of Phenol Removal Using Modified Iraqi Bentonite from Wastewater by Adsorption Process
Authors: Raheem Noora A. , Majeed Najwa S.
Published: July 2023

Bentonite from Iraq was the clay of choice for this study (Calcium base). The “State Company of Geological Survey and Mining” provided this rock, which was altered using Activation by Heat and Acid. Heat activation involved calcination at 400 Celsius, whereas chemical Activation involved H2SO4. Analysis utilizing XRD, BET, and FTIR on bentonite before and after Activation. Adsorption kinetics and isotherm were analyzed to assess whether modified bentonite could act as an adsorbent to eliminate phenol from water. The study found that after being activated, bentonite’s surface area increased from 63.32 to 78.65 m2/g. The extraction of phenol from synthetic wastewater using activated bentonite was tested in a batch experiment. The effects of pH, concentration, and temperature on removal have been studied. According to the findings, pH of 3 is optimal for phenol removal, with an optimal elimination rate of 88% at 50 ppm, 55 0C temperature, and 1 gram of bentonite. The isotherm study indicates the Freundlich model has the most accurate model, with an accuracy of 97%. The experimental RSM was used to develop a statistical model with a remarkable 90% accuracy.
Bivariate Map of Zinc Pollutant (Zn) in Sea Al-Najaf, via Geographic Information System
Authors: Jasim Ali Kareem , Walli Hazim A.
Published: July 2023

A case study of 60 samples of sediment in the Sea Najaf. With the analysis of three different types of pollution indices (pollution factor, geographic accumulation index, and enrichment factor), The results of the analysis showed a significant difference in the presence of zinc in the different study areas. The high level of zinc was (270) μg/g, and the low was (99) μg/g. This indicates that the soil was contaminated, Analysis of contamination indicators in different areas to find out what zinc could be in the sediment and where it came from, The study revealed that metal concentrations were frequently greater along the lake’s edge. The sediments are the source of the zinc pollution; several contamination indicators were over the limit on the beaches but slightly below the maximum in the lake. The hot spot of ArcGIS Pro This application performs data queries to determine which parameters for hot spot analysis provide the greatest performance statistics and then generates a map with event points or weighted features indicating statistically significant hot and cold places. The results show the distribution of zinc on a map. It can be found in high concentrations in nearby farms.
Temporal and Spatial Analysis of Particulate Matter Concentrations in Iraq
Authors: Abbood Zainab M. , Al-Jiboori Monim H. , Al-Taai Osama T.
Published: July 2023

Particulate Matter (PM) is microscopic particles of solid or liquid matter suspended in the air. The term aerosol commonly refers to the particulate/air mixture, as opposed to the particulate matter alone. Sources of particulate matter can be natural or anthropogenic. They have impacts on climate and precipitation that adversely affect human health, in ways additional to direct inhalation. The statistical methods used in this study depend on the daily, monthly, and seasonal means of PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 with data taken from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) for the year 2021 at the times of 00.00 am, and 12.00 pm over Rutba, Mosul, Basrah, and Baghdad Stations. It has been shown that particulate matter 10 μm is more abundant in the atmosphere, especially at Rutba station. It has a large vertical movement over a wide area and thus leads to an increase in temperature and thus the formation of convection currents. This type of storm occurs within a certain layer of the atmosphere, starting from the surface of the earth to about 1.52 km. These storms are severe during the day and decrease in intensity during the night. They are long-lasting and can last for two weeks.
A study of the Composition of Chondrichthyes Fishes in the Shatt Al-Arab Estuary and Iraqi Marine Waters
Authors: Al-Shamary Ahmed Chasib , Younis Kadhim Hassan
Published: July 2023

Thirteen Chondrichthyes fish were caught in the current study, belonging to 12 genera and (6) orders and representing (8) families from January 2018 to December 2018. The Dasyatidae family represented the highest number of species, represented by five species: Dasyatidae, Carcharhinidae, and Hemiscylliidae, forming 74.74% of the total number of individuals. The results of the relative abundance showed that three species,Brevitrygon walga, Brevitrygon imbricata, andPastinachus sephen, constituted 34.34% of the total number of individuals, and one resident speciesCarcharhinus leucas(9-12 month) appeared in the second station. No other resident species appeared in the first and third stations.
Estimating the Water Footprint of the Four Important Cereal Crops in the Euphrates River Basin, Iraq
Authors: Jabaar Mustafa Hamoudi , Abed Salwan Ali
Published: July 2023

The footprint of water (WF) is a clear feature of how much water is used during crops and commodity production and other uses in industry and human use. The current research assessed and discussed the water footprint average of the main 4 crops in the seven Iraqi Euphrates River basin provinces during the 2010–2020 years. The levels of blue and green Water footprint were calculated using the Crop Water Requirement (CWR) option in CROPWAT 8.0 software and the findings were compared to global averages and other studies that looked at the same crops. The average annual usage water footprint (WF) for the provinces of Qadysia, Najaf, Dhi-Qar, Muthanna, Babylon, Anbar, and Karbala over the ten years. The average blue WF was 99.72 % and the green WF of rice was 0.28 % where the total production of WF was 789,281,155 m3/yr. Some provinces like Muthanna produces little and has a higher WF so, rice could be replace it with other crops such as vegetables that are provide most economic benefits and needed less water, and production should be concentrate in lower WF provinces like Qadysia and Najaf, while provinces for Najaf and Babylon has a relatively lower total WF of wheat but Anbar has higher WF and using more water for wheat rather than national averages. So, at these provinces, the wheat could be replace it with crops that are need less than water and provided most economic benefits. provinces for Babylon followed by Anbar have a relatively lower total WF of barley but, Dhi-Qar has a higher WF and uses more water of barley. Provinces of Najaf and Anbar has high WF while the Muthanna has lower WF, the current study is expecte to contribute to national authorities into develop most accurate irrigation water managements policies.
Assessment of Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) on Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio: Anesthesia
Authors: Alshkarchy Samer Saleem , Al-Niaeem Khalidah S. , Attee Raaed Sami
Published: July 2023

The anesthetic efficacy of Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) powders was evaluated on common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) The following concentrations (250, 350, 450) mg/liter were used in three replicates. During the experiment, the period required for partial and total anesthesia and the time required for partial and total recovery was tested, as well as the number of red and white blood cells after and before Anesthesia in addition to blood serum enzymes represented (ALP, GOT, GPT, CK, and LDH in Ul / l). The results showed that the least period of anesthesia occurred in the fourth treatment, the treatment with a concentration of 450 mg / l, as well as the least period required for recovery, while the recovery period was the longest. And anesthesia in the first treatment exposed to a concentration of 250 mg/liter, and it was not noticed that there was a significant difference between each the number of red blood cells, white blood cells in the test fish before the experiment and after treatment with valerian plants, as well as each of (ALP, GOT, GPT, CK, and LDH in Ul / l) There were no significant differences between all treatments before and after exposure to valerian, and it is concluded from the study that valerian is a safe plant for use in anesthetizing fish.
Generating scalar and vector modes of Bessel beams utilizing holographic axicon phase with spatial light modulator
Authors: Baliyan Mansi , Nishchal Naveen K
Published: July 2023

This paper presents an efficient method for the generation of scalar as well as vector modes of Bessel–Gaussian (BG) beams by utilizing a computer generated phase-only mask encoded using the spatial light modulator (SLM). A phase-only hologram corresponding to the transmission function of axicon combined with a spatial phase plate (SPP) is used. The SPP converts a Gaussian field into a phase singular beam of order l associated with an azimuthally varying spiral wavefront structure and the axicon helps achieve non-diffracting BG beams. A compact experimental setup is proposed for the experimental realization of BG fields possessing both homogeneous as well as spatially varying polarization distributions across the transverse plane. Scalar BG beams are generated through the modulation of the combined phase patterns of axicon and SPP with the SLM. Vector BG beams are generated in two special cases: azimuthally and radially polarized inhomogeneous distributions through dual-passes from the SLM. A non-interferometric technique of dual-pass modulation, from the phase patterns displayed on a single SLM, which is divided into two halves, has been utilized. Here, scalar BG beams with orthogonal phase structure are encoded into orthogonal components of incoming light for vector BG beam generation.
Matrix effect suppressing in the element analysis of soils by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy with acoustic correction
Authors: HE 何 Zhiquan 智权 , LIU 刘 Li 莉 , HAO 郝 Zhongqi 中骐 , XU 徐 Zhishuai 智帅 , WANG 王 Qi 奇 , LU 卢 Ying 颖 , ZHAO 赵 Ziyi 梓屹 , SHI 史 Jiulin 久林 , HE 何 Xingdao 兴道
Published: July 2023

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) has been used for soil analysis, but its measurement accuracy is often influenced by matrix effects of different kinds of soils. In this work, a method for matrix effect suppressing was developed using laser-induced plasma acoustic signals to correct the original spectrum, thereby improving the analysis accuracy of the soil elements. A good linear relationship was investigated firstly between the original spectral intensity and the acoustic signals. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) of Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba elements were then calculated for both the original spectrum and the spectrum with the acoustic correction, and the RSDs were significantly reduced with the acoustic correction. Finally, calibration curves of Mg I 285.213 nm, Ca I 422.673 nm, Sr I 460.733 nm and Ba II 455.403 nm were established to assess the analytical performance of the proposed acoustic correction method. The values of the determination coefficient (R
2) of the calibration curves for Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba elements, corrected by the acoustic amplitude, are improved from 0.9845, 0.9588, 0.6165, and 0.6490 to 0.9876, 0.9677, 0.8768, and 0.8209, respectively. The values of R
2 of the calibration curves corrected by the acoustic energy are further improved to 0.9917, 0.9827, 0.8835, and 0.8694, respectively. These results suggest that the matrix effect of LIBS on soils can be clearly improved by using acoustic correction, and acoustic energy correction works more efficiently than acoustic amplitude correction. This work provides a simple and efficient method for correcting matrix effects in the element analysis of soils by acoustic signals.
The collective burden of childhood dementia: a scoping review
Authors: Elvidge Kristina L , Christodoulou John , Farrar Michelle A , Tilden Dominic , Maack Megan , Valeri Madeline , Ellis Magda , Smith Nicholas J C ,   the Childhood Dementia Working Group, Thorburn David R , Hilton Gail , Van Velsen Ellie , Cini Danielle , Davis Briana , Webster Richard , Ellaway Carolyn J , Inwood Anita
Published: July 2023

Childhood dementia is a devastating and under-recognized group of disorders with a high level of unmet need. Typically monogenic in origin, this collective of individual neurodegenerative conditions are defined by a progressive impairment of neurocognitive function, presenting in childhood and adolescence. This scoping review aims to clarify definitions and conceptual boundaries of childhood dementia and quantify the collective disease burden.

A literature review identified conditions that met the case definition. An expert clinical working group reviewed and ratified inclusion. Epidemiological data were extracted from published literature and collective burden modelled.

One hundred and seventy genetic childhood dementia disorders were identified. Of these, 25 were analysed separately as treatable conditions. Collectively, currently untreatable childhood dementia was estimated to have an incidence of 34.5 per 100 000 (1 in 2900 births), median life expectancy of 9 years and prevalence of 5.3 per 100 000 persons. The estimated number of premature deaths per year is similar to childhood cancer (0–14 years) and approximately 70% of those deaths will be prior to adulthood. An additional 49.8 per 100 000 births are attributable to treatable conditions that would cause childhood dementia if not diagnosed early and stringently treated. A relational database of the childhood dementia disorders has been created and will be continually updated as new disorders are identified (https://knowledgebase.childhooddementia.org/).

We present the first comprehensive overview of monogenic childhood dementia conditions and their collective epidemiology. Unifying these conditions, with consistent language and definitions, reinforces motivation to advance therapeutic development and health service supports for this significantly disadvantaged group of children and their families.
A Machine Learning Model for the Routine Detection of “Wrong Blood in Complete Blood Count Tube” Errors
Authors: Farrell Christopher-John , Makuni Charles , Keenan Aaron , Maeder Ellena , Davies Gareth , Giannoutsos John
Published: July 2023

Background

Current laboratory procedures may fail to detect wrong blood in tube (WBIT) errors. Machine learning models have the potential to improve WBIT error detection, as demonstrated by proof-of-concept studies. The models developed so far, however, are not appropriate for routine use because they are unable to handle missing values and have low positive predictive value (PPV). In this study, a machine learning model suitable for routine use was developed.

Methods

A model was trained and a preliminary evaluation performed on a retrospective data set of 135 128 current and previous patient complete blood count (CBC) results. The model was then applied prospectively to routine samples tested in a public hospital laboratory over a period of 22 weeks. Each week, the 5 samples identified by the model as most likely to be WBIT errors underwent further investigation by testing blood group and red cell phenotype. The study assessed the number of WBIT errors that were missed by current procedures but detected by the model, as well as the PPV of the model.

Results

The model was applied prospectively to 38 187 CBC results that had passed routine laboratory checks. One hundred and ten samples were identified for further testing and 12 WBIT errors were detected. The PPV of the model was 10.9%.

Conclusion

A machine learning model suitable for routine use was able to identify WBIT errors missed by the laboratory’s current procedures. Machine learning models are valuable for the identification of WBIT errors, and their validation and deployment in clinical laboratories would improve patient safety.
A comparison of CAD/CAM-based fixed retainers versus conventional fixed retainers in orthodontic patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Bardideh Erfan , Ghorbani Mahsa , Shafaee Hooman , Saeedi Pooya , Younessian Farnaz
Published: July 2023

Objective

Comparing computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) fixed retainers and conventional fixed retainers for their effectiveness in orthodontic patients using systematic review and meta-analysis of literature.

Search methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane’s CENTRAL, Google Scholar, Ovid, and LILACS up to May 2023, with no language or date restrictions.

Selection criteria

Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that complied with PICO questions were included, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 (RoB 2) tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies.

Data collection and analysis

Using custom-piloted forms, relevant data were retrieved from the included studies. Then a random-effects inverse variance meta-analysis was used to pool the results. Primary outcomes were stability of treatment results measured through dental cast measurements and periodontal status, while secondary outcomes were failure rates and patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Seven RCTs with 601 participants were included in the review. In the short term (≤6 months), the meta-analysis showed no significant differences in inter-canine distance or arch length between CAD/CAM and conventional fixed retainers in mandibular retainers. However, for Little’s irregularity index, single-stranded stainless-steel retainers were notably worse than Ni–Ti CAD/CAM retainers at 3 and 6 months, while multi-stranded stainless-steel retainers only diverged from CAD/CAM at the 6-month milestone, despite the overall clinical inconsequence of these changes. CAD/CAM retainers were associated with a lower plaque index than traditional retainers but no significant difference in gingival index. Failure rates did not differ significantly between CAD/CAM and other types of retainers in mandibular retainers. Nonetheless, one study had a high amount of CAD/CAM retainer failures leading to the study being stopped.

Conclusions

In the short term, CAD/CAM fixed retainers show promise as an alternative to traditional retainers. They may enhance periodontal health, as indicated by lower plaque index scores than conventional retainers. However, extensive research is needed to determine the long-term durability and effectiveness of CAD/CAM retainers in orthodontic treatment, particularly regarding their failure rate. Until comprehensive evidence is available, the use of CAD/CAM retainers should be tailored for each case.

Registration

The protocol for this systematic review was registered at PROSPERO with the ID CRD42023412741.
Optimizing electrophysiology studies to prevent sudden cardiac death after myocardial infarction
Authors: Kovoor Joshua G , Deshmukh Tejas , von Huben Amy , Marschner Simone L , Byth Karen , Chow Clara K , Zaman Sarah , Chong James J H , Thiagalingam Aravinda , Kovoor Pramesh
Published: July 2023

Aims

This study assessed associations of minimum final extrastimulus coupling interval utilized within electrophysiology study (EPS) after myocardial infarction (MI) and possible site of origin of induced ventricular tachycardia (VT) with long-term occurrence of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia and long-term survival.

Methods and results

This prospective study recruited consecutive patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% who underwent EPS days 3–5 after MI between 2004 and 2017. Positive EPS was defined as sustained monomorphic VT cycle length ≥200 ms for ≥10 s or shorter duration if haemodynamic compromise occurred. Each of the four extrastimuli was shortened by 10 ms at a time, until it failed to capture the ventricle (ventricular refractoriness) or induced ventricular tachyarrhythmia. Outcomes included spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia occurrence and all-cause mortality. Shorter coupling interval length of final extrastimulus that induced VT was associated with higher risk of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia (P < 0.001). Significantly higher rates of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia (65.2% vs. 23.2%; P < 0.001) were observed for final coupling interval at EPS <200 ms vs. >200 ms. Right bundle branch block (RBBB) morphology of induced VT, with possible site of origin from the left ventricle, was associated with all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 3.2, P = 0.044] and a composite of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia recurrence or mortality (HR 1.8, P = 0.043).

Conclusion

Ventricular tachycardia induced with shorter coupling intervals was associated with higher risk of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythymia on follow-up, indicating that the final extrastimulus coupling interval at EPS early after MI should be determined by ventricular refractoriness. Induced VT with possible origin from left ventricle was associated with increased risk of spontaneous ventricular tachyarrhythmia recurrence or death.
Pharmacy preceptor training: addressing the challenges of clinical supervision in community practice
Authors: Knott Gillian J , Mylrea Martina F , Glass Beverley D
Published: July 2023

Pharmacist preceptors are fundamental to experiential placements and their training is considered essential to provide a quality and consistent student placement experience. To optimise the impact of training, the views of key stakeholders are required to inform the design of a training program. This commentary aims to synthesise the perceptions of the stakeholders, including community pharmacy preceptors, academic staff and students on preceptor training requirements. Their opinions were sought to gain an understanding of preceptor roles and associated skills and attributes, training and support requirements, and barriers and enablers to training. Responses indicated a preference for a flexible online training program, with content including an overview of the university curriculum and expectations, teaching strategies, how to provide feedback and student management. A role was identified for the university to acknowledge the work of preceptors and ensure that they are included in their plans for future experiential placement activities and curriculum development. Several barriers were identified, which challenged precepting, providing the opportunity for this commentary to focus on preceptor training that will address these key challenges, in the context of a clinical teaching environment.