bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meat-analysis revealed the factors affecting the function of ecological floating bed in removing nitrogen and phosphorus from eutrophic water
Authors: Jia Deyi , Wei Shuainan , Wang Shuguang
Published: March 2024

Ecological floating bed (EFB) has been widely used to remove nitrogen and phosphorus from eutrophic water. However, EFB functions largely vary with different studies. Presently it has not been systematically clear what factors affect EFB functions in removing nitrogen and phosphorus from eutrophic water. In this study, we performed a meta-analysis of 169 articles to discuss the effects of EFB characteristics and experimental conditions on EFB function. Results showed that EFB generally decreased nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in eutrophic water regardless of EFB characteristics and experimental conditions. EFB functions in removing TN, NH4+-N and TP were large when it was constructed by monocots, included 2–3 plant species, had the area of 1.1-3.0 m2, had the coverage of 21%-40%, or had plant density of 21–60 plants/m2. However, NO3−-N removal by EFB was complicated due to the effects of nitrification and denitrification. EFB functions in removing nitrogen and phosphorus from eutrophic water were also affected by experimental conditions, and reached the largest at water temperature of 16–25℃,experimental duration of 31–60 days, long hydraulic retention time (HRT), or aeration. This study indicated that EFB could significantly decrease the concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in eutrophic water, and was an effective technology to control water eutrophication.
Experimental and microscopic analysis of N-(n-butyl) thiophos-phoric triamide on microbial amelioration of red clay properties
Authors: Peng Cheng , OuYang Yi , Li Chao , Wang Dongxing
Published: March 2024

This study aims to analyze the impact of varying dosages of N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT) on the physical and mechanical properties of microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) grouting improved red clay. The research includes XRD and SEM experiments to examine the micro-structural characterization of the specimens and understand the mechanism of NBPT's action on MICP improved red clay. A comprehensive evaluation is conducted to assess the properties of red clay after the introduction of NBPT microbial improvement, the results show that The mechanical properties and peak strength of MICP improved red clay samples showed a tendency to increase and then decrease with the increase of NBPT doping, and the stress-strain curve showed a change from softening to hardening and then back to softening; the improvement effect was in the optimal state at the cut-off point when the doping amount of NBPT was 0.1%. The shrinkage deformation, initial water content, and shrinkage coefficient of the MICP improved red clay samples decreased gradually as the doping amount of NBPT increased. In the residual shrinkage deformation stage (δs2), the water content of the specimen needed to reach the ultimate linear shrinkage gradually increased with NBPT doping, causing it to enter the stable shrinkage deformation stage (δs3) earlier. The difference in CaCO3 content between the upper and lower parts of the specimens gradually decreased with the increase of NBPT doping, and finally tends to be stabilized. The urease inhibitor NBPT can affect the crystal morphology and distribution of the product and intervene in the morphological transformation of vaterite to calcite.
Comparative Research of Factors Influencing Education Mismatch and Skill Mismatch in Vocational Education
Authors: Li Bingqiang , Zu Xueru , Chen Min , Wang Shan , Li Jinzhi , Nie Wenjie , Shen Guihua
Published: March 2024

The phenomenon of segmentation of demand and supply of the skilled talent is directly related to mismatch of vocational education, and mismatches of education and skill are important aspects. Based on the four-year data of CFPS from 2014 to 2020, Stata14.0 was adopted to measure the incidence of education mismatch and skill mismatch based on vocational education and the M-logit model was adopted to analyze the differences of influencing factors. The results show that indicators such as the regional difference, the marital status, and the specific age own basically no effect on the impact of education mismatch or skill mismatch, and the gender , the industry type, and the enterprise’s type have obvious effects on the cross-occurrence of education mismatch and skill mismatch, and generally show the variability of individual characteristics and job characteristics. The contribution of this study is to adopt the M-logit model to empirically examine the variability of factors influencing the occurrence of education mismatch and skill mismatch among laborers taking vocational education in China.
Community Led Health Promotion to Counter Stigma and Increase Trust Amongst Priority Populations: Lessons from the 2022-2023 UK MPox Outbreak
Authors: Biesty Colette Pang , Hemingway Charlotte , Woolgar James , Taylor Katrina , Lawton Mark David , Waheed Muhammad Wali , Holford Dawn , Taegtmeyer Miriam
Published: March 2024

Background
Stigma, lack of trust in authorities and poor knowledge can prevent health-seeking behaviour, worsen physical and mental health, and undermine efforts to control transmission during disease outbreaks. These factors are particularly salient with diseases such as MPox, for which 96% of cases in the 2022-2023 UK outbreak were identified among gay, bisexual, queer and men who have sex with men (MSM). This study explored stigma and health-seeking behaviour in Liverpool through the lens of the recent MPox outbreak.
Methods
Primary sources of data were interviews with national and regional key informants involved in the MPox response, and participatory workshops with priority populations. Workshop recruitment targeted Grindr users and sex positive MSM; immigrant, black and ethnic minority MSM; and male sex workers in Liverpool. Data were analysed using a deductive framework approach, building on the Health Stigma and Discrimination Framework.
Results
Eleven key informant interviews and five workshops (involving 15 participants in total) were conducted. There were prevalent reports of anticipated and experienced stigma due to MPox public health messaging alongside high demand and uptake of the MPox vaccine and regular attendance at sexual health clinics. Respondents believed the limited impact of stigma on health-seeking behaviour was due to actions by the LGBTQ+ community, the third sector and local sexual health clinics. Key informants from the LGBTQ+ community and primary healthcare felt their collective action to tackle MPox was undermined by central public health authorities citing under-resourcing; a reliance on goodwill; poor communication; and tokenistic engagement. MPox communication was further challenged by a lack of evidence on disease transmission and risk. This challenge was exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the scientific community, public perceptions of infectious disease, and trust in public health authorities.
Conclusions
The LGBTQ+ community and local sexual health clinics took crucial actions to counter stigma and support health seeking behaviour during the 2022-2023 UK MPox outbreak. Lessons from rights based and inclusive community-led approaches during outbreaks should be heeded in the UK, working towards more meaningful and timely collaboration between affected communities, primary healthcare, and regional and national public health authorities.
A Toxic Sterolysin From a 1950s Culture of Gymnodinium Veneficum Ballantine.
Authors: Place Allen R. , Ramos-Franco Josefina , Waters Amanda L. , Hamann Mark T.
Published: March 2024

In 1957 Abbott and Ballentine described a highly toxic activity from a dinoflagellate isolated from the English Channel. in 1949 by Mary Park. From a culture maintained at Plymouth Laboratory since 1950, we have been able to isolate two toxic molecules (Abbotoxin and 59-E-Chloro-Abbotoxin), determine the planar structures by analysis of HRMS and 1D and 2D NMR spectra and found them to be karlotoxin (KmTx) congeners. Both toxins kill larval zebrafish with symptoms identical to that described by Abbot and Ballantine for gobies (Gobius virescens). Using surface plasma resonance the sterol binding specificity of karlotoxins is shown to require desmethyl sterols. Our results with black lipid membranes indicate that karlotoxin forms large-conductance channels in the lipid membrane, which are characterized by large ionic conductance, poor ionic selectivity, and a complex gating behavior that exhibits strong voltage dependence and multiple gating patterns. In addition, we show that KmTx 2 pore formation is a highly targeted mechanism involving sterol-specificity. This is the first report of the functional properties of the membrane pores formed by karlotoxins and are consistent with the intial observations of Abbott and Ballentine from 1957.
A transcription factor of SHI family AaSHI1 activates artemisinin biosynthesis genes in Artemisia annua
Authors: Yang Yinkai , Li Yongpeng , Li Pengyang , Zhou Qin , Sheng Miaomiao , Ma Xiaojing , Shoji Tsubasa , Hao Xiaolong , Kai Guoyin
Published: March 2024

Background
Transcription factors (TFs) of plant-specific SHORT INTERNODES (SHI) family play a significant role in regulating development and metabolism in plants. In Artemisia annua, various TFs from different families have been discovered to regulate the accumulation of artemisinin. However, specific members of the SHI family in A. annua (AaSHIs) have not been identified to regulate the biosynthesis of artemisinin.
Results
We found five AaSHI genes (AaSHI1 to AaSHI5) in the A. annua genome. The expression levels of AaSHI1, AaSHI2, AaSHI3, and AaSHI4 genes were higher in trichomes and young leaves, and decreased when the plants were subjected to dark treatment. The expression pattern of these four AaSHI genes was consistent with the expression pattern of four artemisinin biosynthetic genes and their specific regulatory factors. Dual-luciferase reporter assays, yeast one-hybrid assays, and transient transformation in A. annua provided the evidence that AaSHI1 could directly bind to the promoters of artemisinin biosynthetic genes AaADS and AaCYP71AV1, and positively regulate their expressions. This study has presented candidate genes, with AaSHI1 in particular, that can be considered for the metabolic engineering of artemisinin biosynthesis in A. annua.
Conclusions
Overall, a genome-wide analysis of the AaSHI TF family of A. annua was conducted. Five AaSHIs were identified in A. annua genome. Among the identified AaSHIs, AaSHI1 was found to be localized to the nucleus and activate the expression of artemisinin biosynthetic genes including AaADS and AaCYP71AV1. These results indicated that AaSHI1 had positive roles in modulating artemisinin biosynthesis, providing candidate genes for obtaining high-quality new A. annua germplasms.
Examining the learning objectives related to sustainable development in high school physics curricula vis-à-vis the sustainable development goals and revised Bloom’s taxonomy
Authors: ERDEMIR Mustafa
Published: March 2024

This study determines and classifies the learning objectives related to sustainable development (SD) in the physics curricula of the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades in line with the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations (UN) and Revised Bloom’s Taxonomy (RBT). The classification of learning objectives in line with RBT revealed that these objectives only focus on the cognitive domain, and no learning objectives considering the affective and psychomotor domains were present in the curriculum. Regarding the levels of cognitive learning, the objectives were mainly related to applying, analyzing, and evaluating. The classification of objectives in line with the SD goals showed that the objectives were mostly concerned with the economic pillar of sustainability, followed by the environmental and social pillars. The study concludes that SD-related learning objectives in the physics curriculum are related to the cognitive domain rather than the affective and psychomotor domains.
A fuzzy structural element-based representation of mine wind speed and pressure
Authors: Jia Jinzhang , Xing Yinghuan
Published: March 2024

Shaft wind flow is mostly turbulent, with random pulsation characteristics, the fluid mass point in time and space for the violent random movement, to accurately describe each instantaneous, each space point on the flow of physical quantities is difficult. Under the influence of turbulent pulsation, the nodal pressure energy will rise and fall randomly, and the random fluctuation of mine ventilation resistance test results is inevitable. In this paper, we design a ventilation channel model without external perturbation, use laser Doppler velocimeter (LDA) and digital micropressure meter to measure the wind flow velocity and relative static pressure in the channel model, obtain the time series of wind speed and pressure, introduce the method of fuzzy number generated by fuzzy structural elements to represent the mine ventilation parameters wind speed and pressure, and compute the mine ventilation resistance based on the proposed method of fuzzy number representation. The experiments show that the wind flow is characterized by turbulent random pulsation, and the time series of wind speed is characterized by random pulsation around a certain average value, obeying the "normal distribution", and the distribution curve of the average wind speed in the roadway cross section is irregularly wavy. The instantaneous flow field of turbulent pulsation is irregular, but has statistical average characteristics. The fuzzy structural element representation can describe the size of the statistical average of wind speed and wind pressure in the roadway, and can also describe the fluctuation change of wind speed and wind pressure, which is more accurate and scientific.
Effect of Targeted Parental Education Intervention to identify Early Childhood Development Disorder – Multisite Interventional Study
Authors: Kanniappan Vadivelan , Muthuperumal Prakash , Venkataraman P , Murugesan Anuradha , Chinnasami Balaji , Muthiah Manikumar , Sethuraman Subramanian , R Abishek J , S ShriSruthi , Nambirajan Murali Krishnan , G Angeline Grace , S Veeragoudhaman T , Deivasigamani Kuberan
Published: March 2024

Background: In India, approximately 3.5 million children face developmental disabilities (DD) due to preterm birth, resulting in neuro-motor immaturity and increased financial burden for families. Maternal unemployment rates are also elevated in such cases. Delayed DD identification, often due to a lack of parental awareness, further compounds these challenges. This study introduces a multiphasic approach to educate antenatal women on monitoring neuro-motor maturity.
Methods: Antenatal women will be assigned to intervention or control groups. The intervention group will undergo specialized training in a multiphasic study, while the control group will receive routine care. A meticulously developed intervention module for early detection of neurodevelopmental disorders will empower mothers to monitor their newborns for potential deficits.
Discussion: This study will assess the effectiveness of training in evaluating developmental disability and neuro-motor maturity. Home interventions by mothers and true/false positive rates of self-referrals will be systematically evaluated. Findings will enable parents to access medical services through the e-Sanjeevini portal promptly for early problem detection.
This study will introduce an innovative, multiphasic approach to address the challenges associated with developmental disabilities in India. By enhancing parental awareness and providing practical tools for early detection, the study aims to reduce the burden on families and improve long-term outcomes for children with DD.
Trial registration: Trail has submitted for registration under Clinical Trails Registry - India (REF/2024/01/078593) and is under review.
Characterizing inducible tertiary lymphoid structures in oral lichen planus: implications for stromal-immune cells interaction and disease severity
Authors: Tang Guoyao , Lai Yirao , Pan Lei , Jiang Xinke , Deng Yiwen , Feng Minghua , Li Jin , Han Xiaozhe , Sun Lei , Wang Yufeng
Published: March 2024

Stromal-immune cells interaction and their contribution in the pathogenesis of oral mucositis, remained not fully understood. This made it hard to clarify the underlying mechanism linking systemic immunity and regional immune microenvironment. The present study aims to elucidate the underpinnings of oral lichen planus (OLP) by focusing on the role of inducible tertiary lymphoid structures (iTLSs) and their impact on disease progression. Employing single-cell RNA sequencing and multiple immunofluorescences, we identified distinct cellular compositions and stromal-immune cells interactions within the iTLSs of OLP. We particularly highlighted the role of CCL19+ fibroblasts and HEV cells. These stromal cells might play a crucial role in facilitating lymphocytes trafficking from peripheral blood to the local inflammation sites within oral mucosa, thereby promoting the formation of iTLSs in OLP. Our findings also revealed a significant correlation between the presence of iTLSs and increased severity of OLP, marked by more atrophic-erosive forms and higher REU scores in patients with iTLSs. The present research offered new insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of OLP, proposing the stromal-immune cell interactions within iTLSs as essential factors in the disease's inflammatory milieu. These findings contributed to uncovering the specific regional pathological features in OLP. Hence, the characterization of iTLSs provided a fundamental foundation for further studies in oral mucosal immunity.
Controlled synthesis of ZnO and Mn-doped ZnO nanoparticles for applications in low-frequency Di-electric Devices
Authors: Sajid Muhammad , Raheem Abdur , Nouman Khan Muhammad , Rahman Atiq , Shujah Sidra , Adil Muhammad
Published: March 2024

Transition metal oxide (TMOs) nanomaterials have gotten remarkable attention due to their vast potential applications in the field of science and technology. In this study, a controlled and facile synthesis route was applied for the preparation of manganese (Mn) doped ZnO nanoparticles (NPs). The percentage of dopant, manganese (Mn) in the host matrix ZnO varied from 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%. The physical properties of all the prepared samples were examined by x-ray diffractometry (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), UV-vis spectroscopy (UV), and LCR meter. XRD analysis confirms a defect-free hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure (JCPDS No. 036-1451) for all the prepared nanostructures. The overall crystalline size shows an increasing trend from ~17nm to ~ 34nm with Mn doping. The surface morphology was investigated by TEM, which indicated all the prepared NPs are spherical/cubic. The absorption and energy band gap of the synthesized nanoparticle was carried out by using UV-visible spectroscopy which shows that the energy band gap increases from 2.91 eV to 3.33 eV with changing the size of the prepared NPs. The dielectric constant increases with increasing the dopant Mn concentrations which is also been conformed from the ac conductivity.
A Hybrid Structure based on Silk Fibroin/PVA Nanofibers and Alginate/Gum Tragacanth Hydrogel Embedded with Cardamom Extract
Authors: Irantash Shadan , Gholipour-Kanani Adeleh , Najmoddin Najmeh , Varsei Mehdi
Published: March 2024

Hybrid structures made of natural-synthetic polymers have been interested due to high biological features combining promising physical-mechanical properties. In this research, a hybrid dressing consisting of a silk fibroin (SF)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers and sodium alginate (SA)/gum tragacanth (GT) hydrogel incorporating cardamom extract as an antibacterial agent was prepared. Accordingly, SF was extracted from cocoons followed by electrospinning in blend form with PVA (SF/PVA ratio: 1:1) under the voltage of 18 kV and the distances of 15 cm. The SEM images confirmed the formation of uniform, bead free fibers with the average diameter of 199±28 nm. FTIR and XRD results revealed the successful extraction of SF and preparation of mixed fibrous mats. Next, cardamom oil extract-loaded SA/GT hydrogel was prepared and the nanofibrous structure was placed on the surface of hydrogel. SEM analysis depicted the uniform morphology of hybrid structure with desirable matching between two layers. TGA analysis showed desired thermal stability. The swelling ratio was found to be 1251% after 24 h for the hybrid structure and the drug was released without any initial burst. MTT assay and cell attachment results showed favorable biocompatibility and cell proliferation on samples containing extract, and antibacterial activity values of 85.35% against S. aureus and 75% against E. coli were obtained as well. The results showed that the engineered hybrid nanofibrous-hydrogel film structure incorporating cardamom oil extract could be a promising candidate for wound healing applications and skin tissue engineering.
HippoMaps: Multiscale Cartography of Human Hippocampal Organization
Authors: DeKraker Jordan , Cabalo Donna , Royer Jessica , Khan Ali , Karat Bradley , Benkarim Oualid , Cruces Raul R. , Frauscher Birgit , Pana Raluca , Hansen Justine , Misic Bratislav , Valk Sofie , Lau Jonathan , Kirschner Matthias , Bernsconi Andrea , Bernasconi Neda , Muenzing Sascha , Axer Markus , Amunts Katrin , Evans Alan , Bernhardt Boris
Published: March 2024

The hippocampus has a unique microarchitecture, is situated at the nexus of multiple macroscale functional networks, contributes to numerous cognitive as well as affective processes, and is highly susceptible to brain pathology across common disorders. These features make the hippocampus a model to understand how brain structure covaries with function, in both health and disease. Here, we introduce HippoMaps, an open access toolbox and online data warehouse for the mapping and contextualization of hippocampal data in the human brain (http://hippomaps.readthedocs.io). HippoMaps capitalizes on a novel hippocampal unfolding approach as well as shape intrinsic registration capabilities to allow for cross-subject and cross-modal data aggregation. We initialize this repository with data spanning 3D post-mortem histology, ex-vivo9.4 Tesla MRI, as well as in-vivo structural MRI and resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI) obtained at 3 and 7 Tesla, together with intracranial encephalography (iEEG) recordings in epilepsy patients. HippoMaps also contains validated tools for spatial map association analysis in the hippocampus that correct for autocorrelation. All code and data are compliant with community standards, and comprehensive online tutorials facilitate broad adoption. Applications of this work span methodologies and modalities, spatial scales, as well as clinical and basic research contexts, and we encourage community feedback and contributions in the spirit of open and iterative scientific resource development.
Ultra-fast genetically encoded sensor for precise real-time monitoring of physiological and pathophysiological peroxide dynamics
Authors: Berndt Andre , Lee Justin , Won Woojin , Kimball Kandace , Neiswanger Carlie , Schattauer Selena , Wang Yihan , Yeboah Fred , Ruiz Micaela , Evitts Kira , Rappleye Michael , Bremner Samantha , Chun Changho , Smith Netta , Mack David , Young Jessica , Lee C. Justin , Chavkin Charles
Published: March 2024

Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) is a central oxidant in redox biology due to its pleiotropic role in physiology and pathology. However, real-time monitoring of H2O2 in living cells and tissues remains a challenge. We address this gap with the development of an optogenetic hydRogen perOxide Sensor (oROS), leveraging the bacterial peroxide binding domain OxyR. Previously engineered OxyR-based fluorescent peroxide sensors lack the necessary sensitivity and response speed for effective real-time monitoring. By structurally redesigning the fusion of Escherichia coli (E. coli) ecOxyR with a circularly permutated green fluorescent protein (cpGFP), we created a novel, green-fluorescent peroxide sensor oROS-G. oROS-G exhibits high sensitivity and fast on-and-off kinetics, ideal for monitoring intracellular H2O2 dynamics. We successfully tracked real-time transient and steady-state H2O2 levels in diverse biological systems, including human stem cell-derived neurons and cardiomyocytes, primary neurons and astrocytes, and mouse brain ex vivo and in vivo. These applications demonstrate oROS's capabilities to monitor H2O2 as a secondary response to pharmacologically induced oxidative stress and when adapting to varying metabolic stress. We showcased the increased oxidative stress in astrocytes via Aβ-putriscine-MAOB axis, highlighting the sensor’s relevance in validating neurodegenerative disease models. Lastly, we demonstrated acute opioid-induced generation of H2O2 signal in vivo which highlights redox-based mechanisms of GPCR regulation. oROS is a versatile tool, offering a window into the dynamic landscape of H2O2 signaling. This advancement paves the way for a deeper understanding of redox physiology, with significant implications for understanding diseases associated with oxidative stress, such as cancer, neurodegenerative, and cardiovascular diseases.
Shear Stress-Induced Pre-Cytokinetic Block: A New Cellular Response Revealed by an Innovative Shear Stress Generator
Authors: Beresova Lucie , Vitecek Jan , Protivánková Iva , Dudka Michal , Chroma Katarina , Skrott Zdenek , Buchtova Tereza , Bartek Jiri , Mistrik Martin
Published: March 2024

During metastasis, cancer cells navigate through harsh conditions, including various mechanical forces in the bloodstream, highlighting the need to understand the impact of mechanical and shear stresses on cancer cells. To overcome the current methodological limitations of such research, here we present a new device that replicates similar conditions by applying shear stress on cultured cells. The device provides a less complex, easily accessible alternative to traditional microfluidics while generating fluid shear stress values comparable to those in human veins and capillaries. The device allows analyses of large cell numbers in standard cell culture flasks and incubators. Using this device to explore the shear stress-induced responses of various human cell lines, we discovered a previously unknown, reversible pre-cytokinetic block occurring in cells that lose anchorage during mitosis and are kept under constant shear stress. Notably, some cancer cell lines appear to bypass this unorthodox cell-cycle block, suggesting its role as a safety checkpoint to restrict the proliferation of cancer cells in the bloodstream and their overall spreading potential. These findings provide new insights into the diverse responses of normal and cancer cells to shear stress and highlight the potential of our technology for research on circulating tumor cells and metastatic spread.
Comparative structural insights and functional analysis for the distinct unbound states of Human AGO proteins
Authors: Kakoulidis Panos , Theotoki Eleni , Pantazopoulou Vasiliki , Vlachos Ioannis , Emiris Ioannis , Stravopodis Dimitrios , Anastasiadou Ema
Published: March 2024

The four human Argonaute (AGO) proteins, essential in RNA interference and gene regulation, exhibit high sequence and structural similarity, yet differ functionally. Our molecular dynamics simulations revealed that while AGO proteins adopt similar open-close states, each one displays distinct local conformations, leading to unique interdomain distances and intramolecular interactions. We found that GW182/ZSWIM8 interaction sites, catalytic/pseudo-catalytic tetrads and long common protein subsequences conserve their molecular movement with minute differences but have varying solvent accessibility per AGO. We observed diverse stability patterns at the post-transcriptional sites of the AGOs, except for AGO4. Combining simulation data with large datasets of experimental structures and AlphaFold’s predictions, we identified proteins with gene sequence and protein structure similarities that operate in the mitosis pathway and share mitosis-related interactors and miRNA targets. Additionally, we suggest a zinc ion binding function in AGO proteins, predicting potential binding sites and detecting structurally similar proteins with the same function.
Critical Yield Components for Achieving High Grain Yield in Ratoon Rice
Authors: He Hui , Song Linqiong , Wang Weiqin , Zheng Huabin , Tang Qiyuan
Published: March 2024

Ratoon rice is considered an eco-friendly and resource-efficient method for rice cultivation, providing innovative strategies to mitigate the global food crisis. To clarify the critical yield components for achieving high grain yield in ratoon rice, data from 136 widely cultivated rice cultivars were collected through a six-year field experiment. The study analyzed the correlations between yield components and yields for both the main season and the ratoon season, indicating that main yields vary between 5.9 and 10.9 t. ha-1, exhibiting a highly significant positive correlation with spikelets per panicle; ratoon yields range from 1.8 to 7.1 t. ha-1, showing a highly significant positive correlation with panicles per m², grain filling rate, and 1000-grain weight. Path analysis reveals that, in terms of contributing to ratoon yields, the grain filling rate is the most influential component, followed by panicles per m², and 1000-grain weight. Therefore, by selecting large-panicle cultivars in the main season and enhancing panicles per m², grain filling rate, and grain weight in the ratoon season, high annual yields in ratoon rice can be realized.
Numerical Analysis of Turbulent Flow around an Irregularly Shaped Airfoil
Authors: Ahmed Tausif , Bangalee Md. Zavid Iqbal , Hossain S. M. Chapal , Hossain Muhammad Sajjad
Published: March 2024

An airfoil is the shape of a wing. Simply put, it is the cross-section of any lift and drag-producing body. For an airplane to take flight, the most important part is played by the wings. The interaction between air and the wings of an aircraft can be tricky as there are several parameters at work. As stated above, an airfoil is a cross-section of a wing and, therefore, two-dimensional. Analyzing a two-dimensional body is both time and resource-efficient. The objective of this thesis is to study the impact and determine the factors that govern the flow around a modified airfoil in turbulence. In extreme situations, such as a tropical storm, the wing of an airfoil might get damaged and result in an accident. This work will further demonstrate the traits of the airfoil in such a situation. The forces acting on an airfoil like lift, drag, and the changes in momentum will all be discussed in the present study.
Risk Estimation of Surface Water Pollution in Vam Co Tay River Based on Remote Sensing Data and Multi-criteria Decision Analysis Methods
Authors: Vo Trung Hung , Nguyen Hien Than , Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang , Le Trong Dieu Hien
Published: March 2024

Satellite remote sensing (SRS) is a technique that can provide effective method on surface water quality assessment at large spatial scales studies. The analysis research involves: (1) analysis of changes in surface water quality in the Vam Co Tay River, Long An province, Vietnam in the period 2015–2020, (2) select a model to estimate water quality assessment index from remote sensing data based on Bayesian Model Averaging - BMA; and (3) quantitative assessment of surface water pollution risks in the study area. The results show that the predictive coefficients of determination (R2) for water quality (BOD5, COD, and TSS) are higher than 0.70 for all three parameters. In particular, the upstream of ​​Vam Co Tay river with "very high risk level" in 2015 tended to decrease to "high risk level" in 2020. Besides, the results also show the increasing of the risk in downstream from "low risk" in 2015 to "moderate risk" in 2020. The study demonstrated the potential of SRS for providing an overall assessment of the spatial distribution of risks associated with surface water pollution and forecasting the concentration change trends in the future, and supporting to overcome data shortages in water monitoring
Research on Preparation Technology of Brittle-resistant Asphalt Mixture Based on Wet-Dry Combined Modification Processes
Authors: Song Zhengfeng , Zheng Chuanfeng , Wei Zhiqiang , Li Hanjun , Zhao Jing
Published: March 2024

This study aims to reduce the brittle point temperature of asphalt binders and improve the low-temperature mechanical properties of mixtures by developing a brittle-resistant asphalt mixture preparation technology for use in cold regions. The SBS wet-modified asphalt was combined with the melted star-shaped SBS modifier through a dry method. During mixing and transportation, the high-temperature effect helped form a secondary cross-linking effect with part of the original SBS-modified asphalt. The rest was evenly dispersed in the form of tough fillers, effectively avoiding the segregation and high viscosity issues caused by the conventional high-dosage wet-modified SBS asphalt. Tests were conducted on the brittle point temperature of asphalt binders, oil–aggregate interface adhesion grade, high- and low-temperature rheological properties of asphalt binders and the high- and low-temperature performances of the mixture to analyse the scientific nature of the developed preparation technology. Results show that compared with the conventional wet-modified SBS asphalt, the brittle-resistant SBS-modified asphalt prepared based on the wet–dry method has a reduced brittle point temperature by nearly 6.6°C, maintains an adhesion grade of 5 at the oil-aggregate interface. Moreover, the m value increases by approximately 1.3 times, the low-temperature bending strain of the mixture increases by approximately 70%, and the low-temperature bending strength is enhanced by approximately 60%. These results demonstrate that the proposed brittle-resistant SBS-modified asphalt preparation technology significantly improves the low-temperature performance of the mixture whilst ensuring mixing quality, which is crucial for enhancing the service performance of asphalt pavements in cold regions.
RETRACTED: A new strategy based on multi-source remote sensing data for improving the accuracy of land use/cover change classification
Authors: Chen Cheng , Yuan XiPing , Gan Shu , Luo WeiDong , Li RaoBo , Bi Rui , Gao Sha
Published: March 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Study on the performance of ATP grafting basalt fiber based on the plant root bionic idea and its adsorption characteristics with asphalt
Authors: YANG Chengcheng , LIU Li , LIU Zhaohui , HUANG You , PAN Houxuan , YANG Da , ZHANG Longke
Published: March 2024

Nano-attapulgite (ATP) is a layered silicate mineral with abundant reserves, large specific surface area, and low cost. The unique structure of ATP has attracted wide attention in the field of adsorption. In this study, a preparation technology of ATP grafting basalt fiber (BF) was proposed by chemical grafting method based on the idea of plant root bionics. The optimal preparation process of ATP grafting BF was determined through the tests of asphalt absorption performance, thermal stability performance, and segregation dispersion performance. The mechanism of ATP grafting BF was analyzed by micro-morphology, functional group changes, and elemental composition. Finally, the adsorption performance of ATP grafting BF was investigated on the basis of adsorption kinetics model and molecular dynamics simulation. The study results indicated that ATP-BFHCl had better compatibility and wettability with asphalt. The quasi-second-order kinetic equation could better fit the adsorption process of ATP-BFHCl on asphaltene, which indicated that ATP-BFHCl adsorbed asphaltene with chemisorption or ion exchange. The diffusion coefficient and diffusion activation energy of the saturate and the aromatic were larger, indicating a smaller molecular weight and faster movement, and lightweight components of asphalt are more easily adsorbed on the surface of ATP. The diffusion activation energy of asphaltene is the smallest and the reaction is the easiest to take place, which indicates that it is the first to react during temperature increase. The research results can provide a theoretical basis and technical support for BF surface treatment technology.
Parametric tuning of dynamical phase transitions
in ultracold reactions
Authors: Sinitsyn Nikolai , Sadhasivam Vijay Ganesh , Suzuki Fumika , Yan Bin
Published: March 2024

Advances in ultracold chemistry have led to the possibility of a coherent transformation between ultracold atoms and molecules including between completely bosonic condensates. Such transformations are enabled by the magneto-association of atoms at a Feshbach resonance which results in a passage through a quantum critical point. In this study, we show that the presence of generic interaction between the formed molecules can fundamentally alter the nature of the critical point, change the yield of the reaction and the order of the consequent phase transition. We find that the correlations introduced by this rather general interaction induce nontrivial many-body physics such as coherent oscillations between atoms and molecules, and a selective formation of squeezed molecular quantum states and quantum cat states. We provide analytical and numerical descriptions of these many-body effects, along with scaling laws for the reaction yield in both the adiabatic and non-adiabatic regimes, and highlight the potential experimental relevance in quantum sensing.
Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Breast: A Case Report
Authors: Hercules Jose
Published: March 2024

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is a rare form of breast cancer accounting for 0.1%-1.0% of all mammary cancer malignancies. Breast cancer is characterized by an indolent clinical course and favorable prognosis, contrary to other breast cancers. Diagnostic mammogram and breast ultrasound play a pivotal role in the early detection and diagnosis of breast adenoid cystic carcinoma. Treatment may consist of lumpectomy and radiation therapy vs mastectomy alone. Although rare, late disease recurrence and metastasis have been reported in the literature; thus, long-term surveillance is of utmost importance for these patients. We will review the literature and discuss the case of a 52-year-old female who presented with a palpable lump of the right breast, which was pathologically proven to be adenoid cystic carcinoma of the breast.
Exosomal AFAP1-AS1 promotes the growth, metastasis, and glycolysis of pituitary adenoma by preventing HuR degradation
Authors: Tang Hengxin , Zhu Delong , Li Wenxiang , Zhang Guozhi , Zhang Heng , Peng Qiujiao
Published: March 2024

Background
Exosomal long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are highly concentrated in tumor-derived exosomes, play a crucial role in modulating cellular behaviors such as cell proliferation, metastasis, and glycolysis by facilitating intercellular communication. Here, we elucidated the role and regulatory mechanism of tumor-derived exosomal lncRNAs in pituitary adenomas (PA).
Methods
We isolated exosomes from PA cells, then performed in vitro and in vivo assays to evaluate proliferation, metastasis, and glycolysis effects. Next, we conducted RNA pull-down, RNA immunoprecipitation, co-immunoprecipitation and ubiquitination assays to investigate exosomal AFAP1-AS1’s potential downstream mechanism.
Results
Exosomes from PA cells augmented the proliferation, mobility, and glucose metabolism of PA cells. Particularly, actin filament associated protein 1 antisense RNA 1 (AFAP1-AS1) was significantly enriched in these exosomes. Furthermore, exosomal AFAP1-AS1 not only stimulated growth, migration, invasion and glucose metabolism abilities of PA cells in vitro, but also promoted tumor metastasis in vivo. Additionally, exosomal AFAP1-AS1 markedly enhanced binding affinity between Hu antigen R (HuR) and SMAD specific E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 (SMURF1), resulting in HuR ubiquitination and degradation to upregulate HK2 and PKM2 expression. Moreover, HuR overexpression impaired exosomal AFAP1-AS1-mediated promotion of growth, metastasis and glycolysis effects.
Conclusions
These findings indicate that cancer-derived exosomal AFAP1-AS1 modulated SMURF1-mediated HuR ubiquitination and degradation to upregulate HK2 and PKM2 expression, thereby potentially contributing to the promotion of PA cell growth, metastasis, and glucose metabolism. Targeting the exosomal AFAP1-AS1 may be a potential strategy for the treatment of PA.
Sheffield Adaptive Patterned Electrical Stimulation (SHAPES) Therapy for Post Stroke Arm Spasticity: study protocol for a 3-arm, a partially blinded, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ali Ali , McCarthy Avril D , Reeves Mark , Healey Jamie , Moody Louise , Adebajo Adewale , Good Tim , Dixon Simon , Baster Kathleen , Tindale Wendy , Nair Krishnan Padmakumari Sivaraman
Published: March 2024

Introduction
Post stroke elbow spasticity (PSES) affects over a third of individuals following stroke and negatively impacts on functional recovery, comfort and quality of life. Drug therapies have limited efficacy and unwanted side effects, botulinum toxin, although effective, is costly, and conventional electrical stimulation therapies are limited long term by habituation. We aim to investigate the efficacy of Sheffield Adaptive Patterned Electrical Stimulation (SHAPES), that delivers temporally and spatially varying pattern of electrical stimulation, against transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS) and standard care at reducing PSES.
Methods and design
Overall, 297 people with PSES will be randomised (1:1:1) to one of 3 arms: Standard care (no electrical stimulation), TENS (conventional patterned electrical stimulation) or SHAPES (adaptive patterned electrical stimulation). Both SHAPES and TENS are delivered using a specially designed electrical stimulation sleeve used for 60 minutes each day for 6-weeks. Outcome measures are completed at baseline, end of treatment (EOT 6 weeks) and then 6-weeks, 12-weeks and 24-weeks after the end of treatment. Efficacy will be determined based on the proportion of participants experiencing meaningful improvement (18%) in the 7-day Numerical Rating Scale (NRS-S) for PSES, compared between both intervention arms and standard care, and between the two intervention groups. Measures of arm motor function (Action Research Arm Test, MRC scale), and quality of life (SQoL-6D, EQ-5D) will also be measured along with a parallel health economic evaluation.
Discussion
The results of the SHAPES trial will inform management of elbow spasticity after stroke. The SHAPES intervention is a low cost, self-administered intervention for the management of spasticity that can be used repeatedly, and if found to be more effective than TENS or control has the potential to be widely implemented in the UK NHS healthcare setting. Furthermore, despite the wide use of TENS in the management of spasticity, this study will provide critically required evidence regarding its efficacy.
Development and validation of a prediction model for postoperative urinary retention after prolapse surgery: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kim Min Ju , Lee Sungyoung , Lee So Yeon , Oh Sumin , Jeon Myung Jae
Published: March 2024

Background
Postoperative urinary retention (POUR), a common condition after prolapse surgery with potential serious sequelae if left untreated, lacks a clearly established optimal timing for catheter removal. This study aimed to develop and validate a predictive model for postoperative urinary retention lasting > 2 and > 4 days after prolapse surgery.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective review of 1,122 patients undergoing prolapse surgery. The dataset was divided into training and testing cohorts. POUR was defined as the need for continuous intermittent catheterization resulting from a failed spontaneous voiding trial, with passing defined as two consecutive voids ≥ 150 mL and a postvoid residual urine volume ≤ 150 mL. We performed logistic regression and the predicted model was validated using both training and testing cohorts.
Results
Among patients, 31% and 12% experienced POUR lasting > 2 and > 4 days, respectively. Multivariable logistic model identified 6 predictors. For predicting POUR, internal validation using cross-validation approach showed good performance, with accuracy lasting > 2 (area under the curve [AUC] 0.73) and > 4 (AUC 0.75). Split validation using pre-separated dataset also showed good performance, with accuracy lasting > 2 (AUC 0.73) and > 4 days (AUC 0.74). Calibration curves demonstrated that the model accurately predicted POUR lasting > 2 and > 4 days (from 0 to 80%).
Conclusions
The proposed prediction model can assist clinicians in personalizing postoperative bladder care for patients undergoing prolapse surgery by providing accurate individual risk estimates.
Iatrogenic Dislocation of the Temporomandibular Joint due to General Anaesthesia
Authors: Alam Munir
Published: March 2024

Background: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a modified hinge joint with the condyle of the mandible resting in a shallow glenoid fossa, predisposing it to be easily dislocated without extreme force. Anterior dislocation of TMJ is the most common type of dislocation. It can occur due to excessive opening of the mouth, trauma, or seizures. Iatrogenic cases of TMJ dislocation have been reported with 5% incidence during anaesthesia induction, intubation, and upper endoscopic procedures and surgical procedure performed on remote areas of the body (1,2). However, it has not been reported while the surgeon working around the head & neck area. In this case report while the surgeon operating on face, the dislocation of TMJ was missed or not identified in the immediate post operative period.
Case Presentation: This is a case report of 23 years old female in which post-intubation complication of TMJ dislocation occurred while the patient had facial surgery.
Conclusion: Early diagnosis of iatrogenic TMJ dislocation is required to prevent delays in treatment, whether the surgery in the head & neck region or remote area.