bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Fijian Honeyeaters Abundance and Foraging Behaviour at USP Laucala Campus and Colo-I-Suva Forest Reserve
Authors: Siro Galana , Donald Lavinia , Serah Botleng Jacinta , Allanson Tima
Published: August 2022

Forests are increasingly becoming fragmented and declining due to natural causes and human-induced activities. The latter creates an imbalance which put the survival of vulnerable species such as those of avifauna at risk. Honeyeaters are group of birds common in Fiji, with certain species strictly confined to specific habitats. This study is an attempt to compare the abundance and foraging behaviours of three sympatric honeyeaters namely Kikau wattled honeyeater, Orange-breasted myzomela and Giant honeyeater at two contradicted sites (USP campus and Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve). The survey was carried out using point count method along three different transect routes of approximately 2 Km on each study sites . A higher species diversity and abundance was observed in Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve than in USP campus. Kikau wattled honeyeater are more populated at USP campus due to adequate nectar-producing plants. Whereas both Orange-breasted myzomela (highly adaptable bird species) and Giant honeyeater (forest specifics) are frequent in Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve. All exhibited a wider range of foraging techniques across forest vertical strata and plant species, except for Giant honeyeater (not observed). The statistical analysis showed that there is a significant difference (p < 0.05) in abundance as well as between the number of honeyeater species in both sites across the forest vertical strata. However, there is no significant difference in the foraging behaviour and the number of honeyeaters found foraging on diverse plant species (p > 0.05).
Phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase Knockout Modulates Metabolic Changes in Aging Mice
Authors: Zhou Qishun , Zhang Fangrong , Kerbl-Knapp Jakob , Korbelius Melanie , Kuentzel Katharina B. , Vujic Nemanja , Akhmetshina Alena , Hörl Gerd , Paar Margret , Steyrer Ernst , Kratky Dagmar , Madl Tobias
Published: August 2022

Phospholipid metabolism, including phosphatidylcholine (PC) biosynthesis, is crucial for various biological functions and is associated to longevity. Phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT) is a protein that catalyzes the biosynthesis of PC, the levels of which change in various organs such as brain and kidney during aging. However, the role of PEMT for systemic PC supply is not fully understood. To address how PEMT affects aging-associated energy metabolism in tissues responsible for nutrient absorption, lipid storage and energy consumption, we employed NMR-based metabolomics to study liver, plasma, intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum), brown/white adipose tissues (BAT, WAT), and skeletal muscle of young (9–10 weeks) and old (96–104 weeks) wild-type (WT) and PEMT knockout (KO) mice. We found that the effect of PEMT-knockout was tissue-specific and age-dependent. Deficiency of PEMT affected the metabolome of all tissues examined, among which the metabolome of BAT from both young and aged KO mice was dramatically changed in comparison to WT mice, whereas the metabolome of jejunum was only slightly affected. As for aging, the absence of PEMT increased the divergence of metabolome during aging of liver, WAT, duodenum and ileum and decreased the impact on skeletal muscle. Overall, our results suggest that PEMT plays a previously unexplored critical role in both aging and energy metabolism.
Was Cosmic Inflation Driven by Quantum Field or Its Product ?
Authors: Gong Biping
Published: August 2022

Inflationary model provides a conceptual explanation of the horizon problem, the flatness problem and may also suppress the over abundant magnetic monopoles predicted by Grand Unified Theories. Although various inflationary models have been proposed since 1981, difficulties like fine tuning is not only unsolved but also becomes severer in confrontation with data of Planck Satellite. This paper proposes an alternative model of inflation: the spontaneous symmetry breaking phase transition at early universe is only responsible for the production of magnetic monopoles expected by Grand Unified Theories; it is the subsequent energy release of monopole annihilation that drives the inflation. As a result, the early universe underwent a free expansion with a heat source originating in the annihilation, which expects a smooth, plateau-like potential consistent with the observational data. Beside interpreting a number of long standing inflationary problems, the new scenario predicts a significant increase of entropy during the inflation, and tends to produce large scale structures exceed scale of 300 million light-years correlated with a CMB smoothen and flatten by a simple dynamical mechanism.
Impact of Socio-economic Deprivation on the Local Spread of COVID-19 Cases Mediated by the Effect of Seasons and Restrictive Public Health Measures: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Bartolomeo Nicola , Giotta Massimo , Tafuri Silvio , Trerotoli Paolo
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the spatio-temporal association between socio-economic deprivation and the incidence of COVID-19 and how this association changes through the seasons and due to the existence of restrictive public health measures. A retrospective observational study was conducted among COVID-19 cases that occurred in the Apulia region from 29 February 2020 to 31 December 2021, dividing the period into four phases with different levels of restrictions. A generalized estimating equations model was applied to test the independent effect of deprivation on the incidence rate of COVID-19, taking into account age, sex, and regional incidence rate as possible confounding effects and covariates such as season and levels of restrictions as possible modifying effects. The highest incidence rate was in areas with a Very High deprivation Index (DI) in winter (107.2 for 100,000 ab. ± 7.5), while in autumn, the highest Rate Ratio (RR) was estimated between Very High vs. Low DI (3.83, p<.001). During total lockdown, no RR between areas with different levels of DI was significant, while during soft lockdown, areas with Very High DI were more at risk than all other areas. The effects of social inequalities on incidence rate of COVID-19 change in as-sociation with the seasons and restrictions on public health. Disadvantaged areas showed a higher incidence rate of COVID-19 in the cold seasons and in the phases of soft lockdown.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Canadian Worker’s Mental Health During the Third Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Bodner Aidan , Ruhl Leo , Barr Emily , Shridhar Arti , Skakoon-Sparling Shayna , Card Kiffer George
Published: August 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a considerable expansion in the way work settings are structured with a continuum emerging between working fully in-person and from home. The pandemic has also exacerbated many risk factors for poor mental health in the workplace, especially in public-facing jobs. Therefore, we sought to test the potential relationship between work setting and self-rated mental health.
Methods: We modeled the association of work setting (only working from home, only in-person, hybrid) on self-rated mental health (Excellent/Very Good/Good vs. Fair/Poor) in an online survey of Canadian workers during the 3rd wave of COVID-19. Mediating effects of vaccination, masking, and distancing were explored due to the potential effect of COVID-19 related worries on mental health among those working in-person.
Results: Among 1,576 workers, most reported hybrid work (77.2%). Most also reported good self-rated mental health (80.7%). Exclusive work from home (aOR: 2.79, 95%CI:1.90,4.07) and exclusive in-person work (aOR: 2.79, 95%CI: 1.83,4.26) were associated with poorer self-rated mental health than hybrid work. Vaccine status mediated only a small proportion of this relationship (7%), while masking and physical distancing were not mediators.
Conclusion: Hybrid work arrangements were associated with positive self-rated mental health. Compliance to vaccination, masking, and distancing did not meaningfully mediate this relationship.
Apolipoproteins and Suicide: a Potential Psychiatry Biomarker
Authors: Serna-Rodríguez María Fernanda , Zambrano-Lucio Miguel , Trejo-Luevanos Jorge Luis , Marino-Martínez Ivan Alberto , Rivas-Estilla Ana María , Ontiveros-Sánchez de la Barquera José Alfonso , Perez-Maya Antonio Alí
Published: August 2022

Every year around 800 000 people commit suicide, this represents one death every 40 seconds. In the search for possible biological biomarkers associated with suicide and/or psychiatric disorders, serum cholesterol levels have been extensively explored. Several studies have indicated that cholesterol and associated proteins, especially apolipoproteins (Apos), may play an important role in the diagnosis, prognosis, and susceptibility of suicide. Here, we describe the current knowledge and findings in the relationship between apolipoproteins and suicide.
Ethnobotany Survey of Plants used as Biopesticides by Indigenous People of Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Ali Ahmed , Ior Lydia Doosuur , Dogo Goni Abraham , Joshua John Israila , Gushit John Stephen
Published: August 2022

The quest for sustainable health, environmental protection and conservation of beneficial organisms makes the use of biopesticides a desirable option. This research aimed to identify botanicals used in the management of farm and household pest in Plateau State, Nigeria. A cross sectional study was carried out using semi-structured questionnaires and on the spot face-to-face interviews. The main issues captured include the pest, plants used to managed the pest, parts used, cultivation status, availability, effect on pest, formulation methods and modes of application. The quantitative data were analyzed using the Frequency of Citation (FC), Relative Frequency of Citation RFC (%) and Use Value (UV). A total of 45 plant species belonging to 42 genera, 20 orders and 30 families were found to be useful in the management of 15 different pests. The FC, RFC(%) and UV values identified the most popularly used plants as: Hyptis suaveolens, Vernonia amygdalina, Azadirachta indica, Canarium schweinfurthii and Euphorbia unispina and Erythrophloem africanum. Plants that showed broad activity include Azadirachta indica (7 uses), Erythrophloem africanum, Khaya senegalensis and Vernonia amygdalina. The perception of the respondents indicated that most of the biopesticides are available, affordable, effective, eco-friendly and safe. This survey provides a pathway for formulation of biopesticides.
Pembuatan Plastik Biodegradable Pati Jagung Terplastisasi Sorbitol dengan Pengisi Selulosa dari Ampas Tebu
Authors: Huwaidi Ardimas Fauzan , Supriyo Edy
Published: August 2022

ABSTRAK. Plastik menimbulkan kerusakan lingkungan karena sifatnya yang sulit terurai secara alami. Banyaknya ampas tebu di Indonesia dan tingginya kandungan selulosa dapat digunakan sebagai pengisi pada pembuatan bioplastik. Selulosa memberikan sifat kedap air, menghambat biodegradasai, dan meningkatkan kuat tarik bioplastik. Oleh karena itu dilakukan penelitian pembuatan bioplastik menggunakan ampas tebu sebagai pengisi. Pembuatan bioplastik menggunakan metode solution casting. Hasil terbaik pengujian daya serap air pada rasio pati:ampas tebu 7,5:2,5; massa sorbitol 2,3 gr; dan suhu 75oC dengan nilai 46,638%. Hasil terbaik pengujian biodegradasi pada rasio pati:ampas tebu 8,5:1,5; masssa sorbitol 2,7 gr; dan suhu 65oC dengan nilai 88,253%. Hasil terbaik pengujian kuat tarik dan perpanjangan putus dengan nilai 2.9574 N/mm2 dan 0.8896%. Hasil kedua pengujian masih belum memenuhi standar SNI 7828:2014.

Kata kunci:

Ampas Tebu, Bioplastik, dan Selulosa

 

ABSTRACT. Plastic causes environmental pollution because it is difficult to decompose in nature. The large amount of bagasse in Indonesia and the high cellulose content can be used as filler for making bioplastics. Cellulose as a bioplastic filler provides water resistance, inhibits biodegradation, and increases tensile strength. Therefore, research was conducted using bagasse as a bioplastic filler. Bioplastics are made by the solution casting method. The best results of water absorption at the ratio of starch: bagasse 7.5:2.5; mass of sorbitol 2,3 g; and temperature of 75oC with a value of 46.638%. The best results of biodegradability at the ratio of starch: bagasse 8.5:1.5; mass of sorbitol 2,7 g; and temperature of 65oC with a value of 88.253%. The best results of tensile strength and elongation at break are 2.9574 N/mm2 and 0.8896%. The results of the both tests still do not meet the requirements of SNI 7818:2014 standard.

Keywords:

Bagasse, Bioplastic, and Cellulose
Assessment of the Level and Distribution of Health System Responsiveness in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Adelabu Adeyemi , Akinyemi Oluwaseun , Adebayo Ayodeji , Oladokun Blessing
Published: August 2022

Background: Health systems need to be evaluated to ascertain if they are meeting their objectives. There is an increased interest in health system responsiveness (HSR) as a means to appraise health systems. This becomes vital as we put people at the centre of integrated health systems and put a premium on their rights and perspectives. Thus, this study assessed the levels, distribution and factors associated with HSR in Oyo State.Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study with 717 adults who had used an out-patient health facility in the preceding 12 months interviewed using a semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. HSR was measured on a multi-domain and multi-item (7 domains and 20 items) 5-point Likert scale that was developed by the WHO to measure HSR globally. Summary scores were computed for level, distribution and the most important domains of HSR. Determinants of poor HSR were determined using binomial logistic regression. The level of statistical significance was set at 5%.Results: The overall level of HSR was 47%. The highest-rated domains were confidentiality (72%), dignity (64%) and choice (60%), while the least rated were prompt attention (43%) and communication (52%). The overall distribution of HSR was 0.228 (range of 0 to 1) with the domains of prompt attention (0.595) and choice (0.506) being the most unequally distributed. The most important domains were communication, prompt attention and dignity. The least important domains were choice and confidentiality. The factors associated with poor HSR (overall) were no formal education, (OR=2.81; 95% CI: 1.35-5.86), primary as the highest level of education (OR=2.19; 95% CI: 1.28-3.75), poor socioeconomic class (OR=1.86; 95% CI: 1.23-2.80), using a government-owned facility (OR=1.56; 95% CI: 1.11-2.19) and not using the usual health facility (OR=1.69; 95% CI: 1.13-2.53).Conclusion: The overall level of HSR in Oyo State was low with the domains of prompt attention, communication and autonomy being the least rated domains. Therefore, concerted efforts should be targeted at improving HSR as this will improve wellbeing, health system utilization, and the overall health system.
Pulmonary Neutrophil Recruitment in Response to Inhaled LPS is Impaired in CD4 Deficient Mice
Authors: Hamza Fatheia N. , Alekhmimi Nuha Alekhmimi , Matar Dana S. Bou , Barakzai Abrar , Al-Kattan Khaled , Heialy Saba Al , Kvietys Peter R.
Published: August 2022

Objectiv
e While the role of CD4+ regulatory T cells in the resolution of lung inflammation is well documented, their potential contribution to the onset of the inflammatory response has been largely neglected. Herein, we assessed the impact of germline CD4 deficiency on the alveolar macrophage (AMΦ)-neutrophil (PMN) axis in initiating the LPS-induced lung inflammation.
Methods In vivo,
The levels of AMΦ and PMN in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and tissue histopathology were compared in wild type (WT) and CD4-deficient (CD4−/−) mice at 4 hours after local LPS challenge (2–3 µg/g: intranasally). CD4 expression (flow cytometry) and representative functions of AMΦ (phagocytosis, cytokine secretion) and PMN (migration) of WT and CD4−/− mice were compared ex vivo.
Results
LPS increased PMN infiltration of alveoli in WT mice; a response severely blunted in CD4−/− mice. AMΦ isolated from WT mice captured more microbeads, but secreted less tumor necrosis factor-α, than AMΦ from CD4−/− mice. Notably, as compared to PMN of WT mice, PMN of CD4−/− mice had a diminished motility response to a relevant chemotactic stimulus (cell-free BALF). PMN expressed CD4 while AMΦ did not.
Conclusions
The motility defect of PMN derived from CD4−/− mice is most likely due to an intrinsic loss of CD4, whereas the quantitative and qualitative shift of the AMΦ pool of CD4−/− mice cannot.
Carbon emission policy with privatization in an oligopoly model
Authors: Chen Junlong , Sun Chaoqun , Wang Yajie , Liu Jiali , Zhou Pin
Published: August 2022

This paper constructs a mixed oligopoly model composed of a public enterprise and two private enterprises, and explores the equilibrium results under different carbon emission policies. In addition, this paper also analyzes the optimal carbon emission trading price and the optimal privatization level decision. The results show that the proportion of state-owned shares and the equity efficiency gap have impacts on the equilibrium results under different carbon emission policies. Privatization increases the profits of public firm but does not necessarily promote social welfare. Different carbon emission policy decisions have different impacts on the equilibrium results, and the emission reduction target is not completely consistent with the maximum social welfare target. The government can intervene by setting carbon emissions trading prices and making privatization decisions. Both full and partial privatization may be the optimal decision.
Sorption-photocatalysis of structurally distinct pesticides using polythiophene/TiO2 composites: Kinetics, equilibrium, reusability and operational economics
Authors: Moradeeya Pareshkumar , Madhava Anil Kumar , Sharma Archana , Basha Shaik
Published: August 2022

An integrated process involving adsorption and photocatalysis are utilized for the breakdown of three different pesticides such as 2,4-D, 4-CPA and TCP. Photo-catalysts were fabricated using polythiophene supported TiO2 composites and utilized for the pesticides degradation under UV light irradiation. The synthesized materials were characterized for elemental, microscopic, spectroscopic and spectrophotometric properties. The outcome shows that polythiophene supported titanium dioxide systems can successfully facilitate the breakdown of pesticides under UV irradiation. The photocatalytic effectiveness of the TiO2 catalyst was significantly improved by the addition of polythiophene. Maximum amount of adsorption capacity for 2,4-D, 4-CPA and TCP were 8.18, 6.333, and 9.681 mg/g by pTh-1. The modified version of the Langmuir-Hinshelwood (L-H) model explained the inter-relationship between the adsorption and photodegradation. Results explained that the pTh-1 catalyzed photodegradation of 4-CPA, TCP and 2,4-D exists the surface reaction which was rate-limiting. Langmuir- Hinshelwood and electrical energy per order (EEO) model provided good fit with batch-mode experiments. Furthermore, these models were successful in elucidating the mechanisms of photocatalytic degradation when pTh-1 was available in the reaction mixture.
Changes in intestinal microbiota, liver and intestine histopathology of Cyprinus carpio in response to Mentha piperita extract‐supplemented diets
Authors: Baghalian Ali , Shahsavani Davar , Roshanak Sahar , Alidadi Soodeh , motlagh Hamidreza Ahmadniaye
Published: August 2022

This study was aimed to evaluate the effects of Mentha piperita methanolic extract (MPE) on Cyprinus carpio intestinal microbiota, including total microorganisms gram-negative bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and fungi count. Liver and intestinal histopathology, and the activity of liver enzymes, were also used to evaluate the possible side effects of MPE. A total of 96 healthy C. carpio fries (76.76 ± 20.26 g) were allocated to four treatment groups with three replications in a completely randomized design. The fries were fed with diets containing 0, 0.5, 1, and 2% extract for 40 days at the rate of 2% of body weight during the experiment. Results showed a significant decrease in total microorganisms, enteric gram-negative bacteria, and total fungi counts (p < 0.05). The total lactic acid bacteria count in 0.5% treatment was significantly lower than in the control and 2% treated fish (p < 0.05). MPE did not affect AST, while it led to a significant increase in ALT level. Simultaneously, ALP represented significantly higher activity in the control group (p > 0.05). Microscopic findings revealed marked lesions including congestion and cell degeneration in the livers of the three group of fish fed with the extract. The intestinal folds were shortened and blunted in the treatment groups. Furthermore, the intestinal mucosa was necrotic, and the lamina propria was significantly thickened with mononuclear inflammatoryc cells (p < 0.05). Although MPE significantly affected intestinal microbiota, its consumption at 2% is not recommended for C. carpio due to the lesions made in the liver and intestine.
Knowledge and practices of home caregivers on neonatal danger signs pre-admission to Tamale Teaching Hospital, Ghana: an explorative descriptive study
Authors: Kanton Joyce Fatima , Gyepi-Garbrah Alberta P , Mensah Olivia Nyarko , Richardson Doris , Kpikpitse Dzigbordi , Acquah Hannah , Ajinkpang Stephanie , Azalekor Deborah , Amponsah Mary Ani , Abdul-Mumin Alhassan
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Neonatal illnesses can prove to be fatal if not identified early and treated. This suggests that death occasioned as result of neonatal illness could be prevented. However, it has been observed that most mothers report to the hospital late with their newborns in critical state, making it difficult for professionals to salvage the problem often than not. This study sought to explore the knowledge and practices of home caregivers on neonatal danger signs pre-admission to Tamale Teaching Hospital.Methods: An explorative descriptive qualitative design was used in this study. Purposive sampling technique was used to select fifteen caregivers of neonates on admission at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Tamale Teaching Hospital. Data was collected using semi-structured interview guide. Audio recording was used as a backup and to authenticate data collected during the interviews. All data collected were transcribed verbatim and subsequently analyzed manually using thematic content analysis. Results: Generally, the study found that caregivers had appreciable knowledge, describing neonatal illness with danger signs such as lethargy, convulsion, fever, fast breathing, poor feeding, vomiting and diarrhea. The study further found that the predominant practice to care seeking by caregivers was home/traditional herbal remedies. Conclusion: The study concludes that inexperience in childbirth, severity of illness and availability of finances were factors that informed caregivers choice of treatment. There is a pressing need for health workers to strengthen the education of caregivers/mothers on neonatal danger signs and the need for prompt care seeking from skilled health care providers prior to discharge from the hospital.
Internet gaming disorder among adolescent during COVID-19 pandemic: A case report of Kerala students India
Authors: Pawar Shivanand , John Esther Skariya
Published: August 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Focal and diffuse clinical subtypes in early-stage Parkinson’s disease: a one-year longitudinal study
Authors: Johansson Martin , Lier Nina van , Kessels Roy , Bloem Bastiaan , Helmich Rick
Published: August 2022

Heterogeneity in Parkinson’s disease (PD) presents a barrier to understanding disease mechanisms and developing new treatments. This challenge may be partially overcome by stratifying patients into clinically meaningful subtypes. A recent subtyping scheme classifies de novo PD patients into three subtypes: mild-motor predominant, intermediate, or diffuse-malignant, based on motor impairment, cognitive performance, REM-sleep behavior disorder, and autonomic function. We aimed to validate this approach in a large longitudinal cohort of early-stage PD (n=517). Furthermore, we assessed the influence of subtype on clinical motor phenotype and on one-year clinical disease progression. Diffuse-malignant patients (14%) differed from mild-motor predominant patients (48%) in three ways: involvement of more clinical domains, more diffuse hypokinetic-rigid symptoms (less lateralization, less hand/foot focality), and faster one-year progression. These findings extend the classification of diffuse-malignant and mild-motor predominant subtypes to early-stage PD and suggest that different pathophysiological mechanisms (focal versus diffuse cerebral propagation) may play a role.
Inpatient pneumatic retinopexy involving the use of air injection and laser photocoagulation for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Zhu Tie Pei , Xiang Zhen Yang , Huang Qin Zhu , Li Gao Chun , Guo Shen Chao , Li En Hui
Published: August 2022

Background: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of inpatient pneumatic retinopexy (PR) using pure air intravitreal injection and laser photocoagulation for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).Methods: Thirty-nine consecutive patients with uncomplicated RRD (39 eyes) were included in this prospective case series study. All patient underwent two-step PR surgery containing pure air intravitreal injection and laser photocoagulation retinopexy during hospitalization. The main outcomes were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and primary anatomic success rates after PR treatment.Results: The mean follow-up was 18.3 ± 9.7 months, ranging from 6 to 37 months. The primary anatomic success rate was 89.7% (35/39) after PR treatment. The final reattachment of the retina was achieved in 100% of cases. Macular epiretinal membrane was developed in two patients (5.7%) among PR successful cases during the follow-up. The mean logMAR BCVA values was significantly improved from 0.94 ± 0.69 before surgery to 0.39 ± 0.41 after surgery. The average central retinal thickness significantly thinner in the RRD eyes of macular-off patients (206.8 ± 56.13 μm) when compared with the fellow eyes (234.6 ± 48.4 μm) at the last follow-up (P = 0.005).Conclusion: Inpatient PR procedure with pure air injection and laser photocoagulation is a safe and effective approach to treat patients with uncomplicated RRD, who may achieve a high single-operation success rate and good visual acuity recovery.
Optimal Cropping Pattern and Water Allocation Using Ga Under Deficit Irrigation Conditions
Authors: Pande Gauri , Umamahesh N. V.
Published: August 2022

Irrigation water availability is the main driver to determine cropping patterns, whereas the different water storages will potentially reduce because of changes in climate. Therefore, cropping patterns should be adjusted to meet this challenge. In this study with three objective functions 1) Maximization of net benefit 2) maximization of yield and 3) minimization of sum of squared deficit of demand and supply, the optimal cropping pattern and water depth for six crops for ayacut of Distributory Majors 30 and 31 of Kakatiya canal is suggested. Deficit irrigation is considered as major concern here. Each objective is considered separately to obtain cropping pattern. Single objective Genetic Algorithm optimization is used to find the optimal cropping pattern and water depth. The result of this study shows that as the water supply increases net benefit and yield increases but not with a large difference. So to reduce the water usage deficit irrigation can be adopted and the saved water can be used for another more productive purpose.
High cationic dispersity boosted oxygen reduction reactivity in multi-element doped perovskites
Authors: Li Wenhuai , Li Mengran , Guo Yanan , Hu Zhiwei , Zhou Chuan , Brand Helen E A , Peterson Vanessa , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping
Published: August 2022

Oxygen-ion conducting perovskite oxides are important functional materials for solid oxide fuel cells and oxygen permeable membranes operating at high temperatures (> 500 ºC). Co-doped perovskites have recently shown their potential to boost oxygen-related kinetics, but challenges remain to understand the underlying mechanisms. This work unveils the local cation arrangement as a new key factor controlling oxygen kinetics in perovskite oxides. By single- and co-doping Nb5+ and Ta5+ into SrCoO3-δ, we control dominant factors affecting oxygen kinetics such as lattice geometry, cobalt states, and oxygen vacancies, which are confirmed by neutron and synchrotron X-ray diffraction as well as high-temperature X-ray absorption spectroscopy. Our combined experimental and theoretical study unveils that co-doping likely leads to higher cation dispersion at the B-site compared to single-doping. Consequently, a high-entropy configuration enhances oxygen ion migration in the lattice, translating to improved oxygen reduction activity.
Full-Bayes GNSS-A solutions for precise seafloor positioning with single uniform sound speed gradient layer assumption
Authors: Watanabe Shun-ichi , Ishikawa Tadashi , Nakamura Yuto , Yokota Yusuke
Published: August 2022

A systematic analysis methodology for the precise seafloor positioning using the GNSS-A has been constructed and implemented into an open source software GARPOS. It introduced a linearized perturbation field model for the extraction of the 4-dimensional sound speed variation, and solves the perturbation parameters simultaneously with the seafloor position based on the empirical Bayes approach. Although it can provide the solutions stably and almost analytically, it has less expandability when imposing additional constraint parameters non-linear to the observation equation. Even though such parameters can be optimized applying information criteria, it eliminates the information on the details of joint posterior probability, resulting in the estimation of conditional posterior. To overcome above limitations, we implemented the full-Bayes estimation using the Markov-Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm. It can help not only evaluating the dependency of the existing hyperparameters on the seafloor position, but also discussing the effects of the additionally imposed constraints. We imposed the constraint assuming the situation where a temporally-variable gradient layer steadily lies on a certain depth in the observation scale (typically < 10 km x 10 km, < 1 day). This models the cases with large-scale structure such as the Kuroshio current or with the internal waves with long-wavelength. The constraint narrows the posterior of horizontal position and provided better solution in many datasets, especially in the Nankai Trough region. For the other datasets, the constraint emphasized the bias errors, which can also provide the information on the possibility of instrumental and modelling errors.
Assessment of Physical Literacy in 6-11 years old Children: Findings from the Play Lifestyle & Activity in Youth (PLAY) Study
Authors: Sugimoto Dai , Stracciolini Andrea , Berbert Laura , Nohelty Eric , Kobelski Greggory , Parmeter Becky , Weller Edie , Faigenbaum Avery , Myer Gregory
Published: August 2022

Background: Physical illiteracy is often referred as a lack of movement competence and is a serious concern, especially among children. Physical tests to evaluate physical literacy are understudied, especially potential sex effects. To evaluate selected tests of physical literacy in children and to compare the outcomes by sex.Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to evaluate children 6 -11 years who completed five physical tests: hand grip, vertical jump, sit and reach, Y-balance, and obstacle course (time and score). The obstacle course consisted of hopping, kicking a ball, catching a ball, throwing a ball, and sliding tasks. Outcome measures including test results were descriptively examined and compared by sex using the Wilcoxon rank sum test, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The study cohort was comprised of 133 children (62 males and 71 females, with a median age of 7.8 years). The median values for the physical tests were 34.0 kg in hand grip, 22.3 cm in vertical jump, -4.2 cm in sit and reach, 165.3 composite score in Y-balance, 36.3 seconds in obstacle course time, and 29.0 points in obstacle course points. Girls showed superior sit and reach performance (p=0.002) compared to boys. Boys demonstrated better Y-balance scores (p=0.007) and faster obstacle time (p=0.042) than girls. Sex comparison within three age groups (6 - <8 years, 8 - <10 years, and 10 - <12 years) showed that girls performed better on the sit and reach compared to boys in the in 6 - <8 years (p=0.009). Boys demonstrated higher Y-balance scores (p=0.017) and faster obstacle time (p=0.007) compared to girls in the 8 - <10-year age group. Conclusions: Children 6-11 years showed notable sex differences in selected tests of physical literacy. Girls demonstrated better flexibility than boys in early childhood (6 - <8 years) while boys demonstrated superior balance and faster obstacle course time compared to girls, especially in 8 - <10 years. These data will serve to guide future efforts to evaluate normative measures physical literacy and guide targeted training interventions to promote sustained physical activity in children with deficits relative to their age and sex norms.
COVID-19: Azelastine nasal spray Reduces Virus-load In Nasal swabs (CARVIN) Early intervention with azelastine nasal spray may reduce viral load in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients – results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase II clinical trial.
Authors: Klussmann Jens , Grosheva Maria , Meiser Peter , Lehmann Clara , Nagy Eszter , Szijártó Valéria , Nagy Gábor , Konrat Robert , Flegel Michael , Holzer Frank , Groß Dorothea , Steinmetz Charlotte , Scherer Barbara , Gruell Henning , Schlotz Maike , Klein Florian , de Aragão Paula Aguiar , Morr Henning , Saleh Helal Al , Bilstein Andreas , Russo Belisa , Müller-Scholtz Susanne , Acikel Cengizhan , Sahin Hacer , Werkhäuser Nina , Allekotte Silke , Mösges Ralph
Published: August 2022

COVID-19 strongly influences our daily lives, and there is urgent need for a therapy treating early infections to prevent progression.CARVIN was a randomized, parallel, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Ninety SARS-CoV-2 positive patients were randomized into 3 groups receiving placebo, 0·02% or 0·1% azelastine nasal spray for 11 days, during which viral loads were assessed by quantitative PCR. Investigators assessed patients’ status throughout the trial including safety follow-ups (days 16 and 60). Symptoms were documented in patient diaries.Initial viral loads were log10 6·85 ± 1·31 (mean ± SD) copies/mL (ORF 1a/b gene). After treatment, virus load was reduced in all groups (p<0·0001), but was greater in the 0·1% group compared to placebo (p=0·007). In a subset of patients (initial Ct<25) viral load was strongly reduced on day 4 in the 0·1% group compared to placebo (p=0·005). Negative PCR results appeared earlier and more frequently in the azelastine treated groups: being 18·52% and 21·43% in the 0·1% and 0·02% groups, respectively, compared to 0% for placebo on day 8. Comparable numbers of adverse events occurred in all treatment groups with no safety concerns.The shown effects of azelastine nasal spray may thus be suggestive of azelastine’s potential as an antiviral treatment.Trial Registration:The study was registered in the German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS-ID: DRKS00024520; Date of Registration in DRKS: 12/02/2021).EudraCT number: 2020-005544-34
Analytical and Finite Element Characterisation of a Randomly Reinforced Recyclable Composite for Construction Products
Authors: Helaili Sofiene , Zaouali Yosra , Chafra Moez
Published: August 2022

In general, the use of fibers requires sorting and, in some cases, chemical treatments, which increases the manufacturing cost and environmental impact. The use of short, unorganized fibers, i.e., randomly distributed, is a solution to this problem. However, to use randomly distributed short natural fibers, the mechanical properties of the randomly reinforced composite must be estimated. This paper developed two analytical models and one finite element model to characterize composites reinforced with short fibers. Calcium Carbonate precipitates CCP/PVC PolyVinyl Chloride composites are studied as an application in the construction industry. The CCP improves recyclability and reduces petrochemical and energy usage during the manufacturing process, minimizing the carbon footprint. The Mori-Tanaka model, the Halpin-Tsai model, and a finite element method model were used to investigate distribution effects on the mechanical properties of the composite. The first is the effect of fiber volume fraction on the elastic mechanical properties of the composite. All three models show an increase in elastic modulus with the growth of fiber content in the composite. The second is the effect of fiber orientation for a given volume fraction. The results show a maximum variation of 15.56% on the elastic properties by varying the fiber orientation compared to an equally distributed composite. This result means that the random distribution of the fibers does not significantly influence the mechanical properties. The third effect is the fiber length effect. For different concentrations, the fiber length varies the stiffness by about 6.64%. This variation of the stiffness is observed up to the ratio of fiber length/diameter equal to 100; after that, the increase is insignificant.
Monolithic and catalyst-free selective epitaxy of InP nanowires on Silicon
Authors: Kamath Anagha , Skibitzki Oliver , Spirito Davide , Dadgostar Shabnam , Martinez Irene Mediavilla , Serrano Jorge , Jimenez Juan , Richter Carsten , Schmidbauer Martin , Kwasniewski Albert , Golz Christian , Schubert Markus Andreas , Niu Gang , Hatami Fariba
Published: August 2022

The integration of both optical and electronic components on a single chip, despite the challenge, holds the promise of compatibility with CMOS technology and high scalability. Among all candidate materials, III-V semiconductor nanostructures are key ingredients for opto-electronics and quantum optics devices, such as light emitters and harvesters. The control over geometry, and dimensionality of the nanostructures, enables one to modify the band structures, and hence provide a powerful tool for tailoring the opto-electronic properties of III-V compounds. One of the most creditable approaches towards such growth control is the combination of using patterned wafer and the self-assembled epitaxy. This work presents monolithically integrated catalyst-free InP nanowires grown selectively on nanotip-patterned (001)Si substrates using gas-source molecular-beam epitaxy. The substrates are fabricated using CMOS nanotechnology. The dimensionality of the InP structures can be switched between two-dimensional nanowires and three-dimensional bulk-like InP islands by thermally modifying the shape of Silicon nanotips, surrounded by the SiO2 layer during the oxide-off process. The structural and optical characterization of nanowires indicate the coexistence of both zincblende and wurtzite InP crystal phases in nanowires. The two different crystal structures were aligned with a type-II heterointerface.
Polyoxometalate-based heterojunction with NIR light-facilitated photocatalytic W6+/W5+ redox cycling for enhanced bacteria-infected wound healing
Authors: Lv Mingzhu , Xu Zhou , Yong Yuan , Wang Huan , Liu Chenghui , Xu Qiqi , Du Guobo , Xie Jiani , You Yong , Xiao Jiangwei , Jiang Guohui
Published: August 2022

Background: Metal-based nanomaterials with shifting or mixed redox states have been widely applied for combating against bacteria-infected diseases by virtue of their peroxidase (POD)-like catalytic activity, which can decompose endogenous overexpressed hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into highly oxidized hydroxyl radical (·OH) via the Fenton or Fenton-like reaction. However, the compromised POD-like catalytic activity in biofilm microenvironment (BME) restrains their therapeutic efficiency. Results: Herein, a polyoxometalate-based heterojunction (GdP5W30@WS2) with shifting or mixed redox states (W6+/W5+) is devised to achieve boosted reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by near-infrared (NIR) laser-facilitated W6+/W5+ redox cycling for effective biofilm eradication and accelerated bacteria-infected wound healing. On the one hand, under the exposure to NIR laser, WS2 as electron donor could be stimulated to transfer electrons to GdP5W30, which promotes the reduction from W6+ to W5+ active sites on the surface of the GdP5W30. Consequently, the regenerated W5+ active sites could catalyze endogenous overexpressed H2O2 to persistently generate ROS, which displays enhanced POD-like catalytic activity for chemodynamic therapy (CDT) by NIR-driven photocatalytic W6+/W5+ redox cycling. Moreover, GdP5W30@WS2 also displays favorable glutathione (GSH)-activated photothermal performance by W6+-triggered GSH exhaustion for sufficient ROS generation, thereby facilitating the synergistic therapeutic efficiency of photothermal therapy (PTT) and CDT. Conclusions: We expect that the present work will promote the development of the heterojunction with shifting or mixed redox states for biofilm elimination based on NIR-facilitated enzyme-like catalytic activity, which may act as a candidate for the BME-activated synergistic therapy.
Neurocutaneous melanosis in an adult patient with anepia: case report and review of the literature
Authors: 陈 辉 , Mingming Zhao , Tong Li , Shengchao Ding , Feng He , Wenjun Huo , Xin Yan , Feng Yin
Published: August 2022

We explore the clinical characteristics of neurocutaneous melanosis (NCM) in adult patients to further understanding of the disease. Methods We present a rare case of an adult patient suffering from neurocutaneous melanosis with anepia and review the Chinese and English literature to analyze the clinical features of adult neurocutaneous melanosis patients in China. Results: From Jan 1995 to April 2022, there were thirty-four adult NCM patients, aged 19 to 59 years, average 26.9 years old, twenty-three males (67.6%), eleven females (32.4%), two cases of diffuse melanocytosis (5.8%), thirty-one cases of malignant melanoma (91.1%)) and one case of mixed nevus (3.1%). Twenty-nine cases showed satellite nevi (73.5%), and five cases were unknown (26.5%). Thirty-three cases had obvious intracranial lesions(97.0%), and one case had no intracranial lesions (3.0%). Nine cases of intracranial hypertension (26.4%), ten cases of epilepsy(29.4%), one case of hydrocephalus (2.9%), one case of cerebral hemorrhage (2.9%), one case combine Dandy-Walker deformity (2.9%). Conclusion: Neurocutaneous melanosis (NCM) is a very rare disease, especially in adults. Neurosurgical intervention can help improve diagnosis of this disease. Further evidence is needed to establish the negative associations of NCM incidence with oestrogen levels.
Influence of carbon electrode thickness and spacing on capacitive deionization performance
Authors: Thungsuai Kunchaya , Pimpha Nuttaporn , Chaleawlert-umpon Saowaluk
Published: August 2022

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is a promising desalination technology capable of desalinating various water sources. It has attracted wide attention in the past few decades. In this study, effects of carbon electrode and spacer thicknesses on textural, electrochemical, and electrosorption characteristics of CDI were systematically evaluated. Specifically, CDI performance in terms of salt removal efficiency (R), salt adsorption capacity (SAC), and salt adsorption rate (ASAR) was discussed. The results showed that thick carbon layer electrode significantly improved the salt removal efficiency due to the high active sites for adsorption. In terms of ion removal per mass of the electrode, a reduction in salt adsorption capacity was investigated. In contrast, the thin electrode offered a fast electrosorption rate. A narrow spacing distance between a pair of electrodes exhibited a good electrosorption performance owing to relatively short ion diffusion distance and strong electric field strength. The present study demonstrates that a proper selection of the carbon electrode thicknesses and spacing for CDI cell assembly is critical to achieve a great electrosorption performance.
Correlation Between Genetic Resistance Factors and the Antibiotic Resistance Phenotypes in MRSA Isolates of Animals and Humans
Authors: Abdulkadir Aliyu , Kabir Junaidu , Mohammed Bello , Olayinka Busayo
Published: August 2022

Background: Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) as an infectious organism of public health significance has evolved to a genetically distinct community-acquired MRSA with extended resistance to other than β-lactams. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 149 participants handling 446 animals (240 horses & 206 companion animals). The isolates were characterized as S. aureus and MRSA with based on PCR detection of nuc, mecA or mecC, with further DNA sequencing of mepR, mepA, mepB, and sapep genes for correlation between these genes and the MRSA antimicrobial resistance phenotypes. Results: Transcriptional profiling revealed that both animal and human MRSA isolates exhibited a gene cluster mepRAB (multidrug export protein gene), encoding a MarR-like transcriptional regulator (mepR), a M20/M25/M40 metallo-hydrolase protein gene (sapep) encoding resistance to biocides and carbapenems, and a hypothetical protein gene of unknown function (mepB). Conclusion: Extensive multidrug resistance for MRSA has been demonstrated in this study with similarity between the isolates in the pattern of resistance and multiple antibiotic resistance indices. This thus demonstrates possible resistance genes transfer and conferment of non-mec resistance mechanisms to MRSA in addition to the mec gene mechanism that allow the isolates repress beta-lactamases and use the efflux pumps against other antibiotics.
Small-for-gestational-age and determinants of HOMA indices, leptin and adiponectin in infancy
Authors: Huang Rong , He Hua , Nuyt Anne , Julien Pierre , Marc Isabelle , Levy Emile , Fraser William , LUO Zhong-Cheng
Published: August 2022

Background/Objective: Poor fetal growth “programs” an elevated risk of obesity and related metabolic dysfunctional disorders in adulthood. How this vulnerability was developed in early life remains unclear. We sought to assess whether small-for-gestational-age (SGA) - an indicator of poor fetal growth, is associated with altered metabolic health biomarkers in infancy and explore the determinants.Methods: This was a nested matched (1:2) study of 65 SGA (birth weight <10th percentile) and 130 optimal-for-gestational-age (OGA, 25th-75th) infants in the 3D birth cohort. The outcomes included homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and beta-cell function (HOMA-β), circulating leptin and adiponectin concentrations at age 2 years.Results: HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, leptin and adiponectin concentrations were similar in SGA vs. OGA infants at age 2 years. Female sex and accelerated growth in length during mid-infancy (3-12 months) were associated with higher HOMA-IR. Caucasian ethnicity and decelerated growth in weight during late infancy (12-24 months) were associated with lower HOMA-IR. Decelerated growth in weight during mid-infancy was associated with lower HOMA-β. Circulating leptin was positively correlated with female sex and current BMI. Current BMI was positively correlated with circulating adiponectin in SGA infants only; each SD increase in BMI was associated with a 13.4% (4.0%-23.7%) increase in circulating adiponectin in SGA subjects.Conclusions: Insulin resistance and secretion, circulating leptin and adiponectin levels are normal in SGA subjects in infancy at age 2 years. The study is the first to report an SGA-specific positive correlation between current BMI and circulating adiponectin, suggesting dysfunctional adiposity-adiponectin negative feedback loop development during infancy in SGA subjects. This could be a mechanism in adverse metabolic programming in poor fetal growth.