bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of electrical resistivity of conductive materials of random shapes
Authors: Gans Š. , Molnár J. , Kováč D.
Published: October 2023

Introduction. Electrical resistivity is an important material characteristic in the field of electrical engineering and material science. There are several methods that can be used to measure resistance, like the 4-wire method which relates the resistance to a voltage drop at a given current flow, but to define the resistivity from the resistance value requires an analytical expression for the given system which requires a sufficient mathematical apparatus for describing complicated shapes. Therefore we use finite element method computations to compute the resistivity of a metal material. This approach has been already used for different materials like concrete and aluminum in the past. We then compare this method with an analytical expression that due to intuition could approximate the solution sufficiently. After that, the same material is used again to test the electrical isotropy of the sample. Novelty. A method is developed by combining the results of experimental studies and the results of mathematical modelling of the process of determining the electrical conductivity of metals. The goal is to describe and employ a method of measuring the electrical resistivity of metal objects of random shapes. Using this method, it is possible to measure the resistivity of materials without the need to manufacture them into wires or ribbons. Methods. The solution to the problem was carried out by the finite element method via the COMSOL Multiphysics 5.6 simulation program in a cartesian coordinate system and the resistance between two points of the metal sample was measured by the 4-wire method. Results. A similar resistance value was obtained when the measuring terminals were placed in different places. The difference between them was within 1,5 % and the obtained values were close to the values given by the literature for the electrical resistivity of electrical steels. Terminal size influences the measured conductivity and a max error of 5,2 % was estimated. Practical value. A method of estimating the resistivity of materials without the need to manufacture them into specific shapes, like wires or ribbons, for which analytical expressions between resistivity and resistance are easily derived.
EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH OF GEOMETRIC PARAMETERS CHANGE OF THE OF FIRE HOSES WHEN USING THE PROTEK 366 NOZZLE
Authors: Stas Serhiy , Bychenko Artem , Pustovit Mykhailo , Myhalenko Oleksii , Kolesnikov Denys
Published: October 2023

Main hose lines are usually laid to transport water and working solutions of foaming agents to the centre of the fire when extinguishing large fires or fires with hydrants for remote control. Their components are separate pressure fire hoses and they come in different diameters. As a result of their operation during the fire extinguishing substances transportation, fire hoses change their geometric parameters primarily their length. For different types of hoses and their different diameters, it has been established that their elongation occurs under hydrodynamic pressure. In some cases, when using a plug at the end of a fire hose, the relative elongation coefficient of fire hoses was 1,04. 3 types of hoses were used for the research: latex fire hoses with diameters of 51 mm and 77 mm type T and fire hoses with double-sided polymer coating with diameters of 51 mm type T. All hoses were previously used during the real work of fire calculations. The results presented in the paper are an averaging of each of the three hose types. The experiments were carried out under typical conditions in the open air using a Protek 366 fire barrel under constant fluid flow and different pressure values at its inlet. Fire hoses were placed on a horizontal surface. The elongation of fire hoses when they transport water depends on the physical and mechanical properties of the materials from which they are made, the pressure of the liquid at their inlet and consumption. The maximum elongation (62 cm with a hose length of 1960 cm, the relative elongation was 0,032) was recorded when transporting water with a fire hose in diameter of 77 mm at a pressure at its inlet of 1,0 MPa and a flow rate of 1,9 l/s. The questions of the change in head loss along the length were not considered. There were no significant changes in the diameters of fire hoses.
Makroekonomik Performans ve Entegre CRITIC Tabanlı MABAC Karar Verme Yaklaşımı: Türkiye Ekonomisinin 2008-2021 Dönem Verisinden Kanıtlar
Authors: APAN Mehmet , TİYEK Ramazan
Published: October 2023

Bu çalışmada entegre CRITIC tabanlı MABAC yaklaşımı ile Türkiye’nin 2008-2021 dönemi makroekonomik performansının değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Gelişmiş, gelişmekte olan ve az gelişmiş olan ülkelerin makroekonomik performansının değerlendirilmesinde birçok kriter kullanılmaktadır. Burada ekonomik büyüme, yatırım oranı, ihracat oranı, ithalat oranı, cari işlemler dengesi oranı, işsizlik oranı, enflasyon oranı ve faiz oranı gibi kriterler dikkate alınarak Türkiye’nin makroekonomik performansı analiz edilmiştir. Çalışmada ihracat oranı kriterinin en yüksek önem düzeyine sahip kriter olduğu tespit edilmiştir. İhracatın artması ile dengeli döviz kuru politikasının oluşabileceği ve dış ticaret açığının kapanabileceği beklenmektedir. Küresel finans krizinin yaşandığı 2008 yılında Türkiye en düşük makroekonomik performansı elde ederken, 2015 yılında ise en yüksek ekonomik performansı gerçekleştirdiği belirlenmiştir. Kronik enflasyon, kur şokları, döviz rezerv yetersizliği ile borçlanma maliyetlerinin yüksekliği gibi birçok faktörün etkisiyle ilgili dönemde istikrarlı olmayan bir ekonomik performansın ortaya çıktığı anlaşılmaktadır.
Anatomical Evaluation of the Atlas and Analysis of Accuracy for Freehand C1 Screw Placement
Authors: Kim Jin Young , Oh Byeong Ho , Min Kyung Soo , Lee Mou Seop , Lee Jong Beom
Published: October 2023

Objective: Atlanto-axial fusion surgery for instability is a recognized method. However, the complex anatomical structures of the atlas and axis make freehand C1 screw placement technically challenging. This study investigated the accuracy and safety of C1 screw placement without fluoroscopic or other guidance.Methods: A retrospective analysis of radiological data was performed on patients who underwent C1 instrumentation between April 2019 and January 2023, with all procedures performed by a spine surgeon with 4 years of experience. Computed tomography was used to evaluate cortical breaches during C1 screw placement. Breach severity was categorized based on the percentage of screw diameter beyond the cortical edge. Morphometric measurements of 30 healthy individuals and 22 patients who underwent surgery were obtained from preoperative CT scans of the bilateral pedicles at the C1 level. Coronal, axial, and sagittal CT reconstructions were examined to ascertain the distance from the screw entry point to the midpoint of the C1 posterior tubercle, diameter of the central canal of the atlas, screw convergence angle, height of the C1 posterior arch at the screw entry point, and width of the canal. Results: The surgeon placed 43 C1 screws in 22 consecutive patients. Seven (16%) breaches were identified, all of which were medial C1 screws. The breaches were classified as grades I, III, and IV in 4 (57%), 2 (29%), and 1 (14%) cases, respectively. No clinical complications arose owing to the breaches.Conclusion: The freehand technique for C1 screw placement without guidance yielded accurate and safe results. However, a preoperative morphometric assessment and careful familiarization with the unique anatomy are imperative for improving screw placement precision.
¿Cómo se enseña la Geografía en los centros docentes de Educación Primaria en España? Resultados de un estudio a escala estatal
Authors: Binimelis Sebastian Jaume , Usher Joe , Bagoly-Simó Péter
Published: October 2023

El objetivo principal de esta investigación ha sido conocer las características de la enseñanza de la Geografía en los centros docentes de Educación Primaria de nuestro país, haciendo hincapié en el uso del área local como escenario del aprendizaje geográfico de su alumnado, el papel que juega el trabajo de campo y la relación de todo ello con metodologías activas de aprendizaje centradas en el alumno. Para ello, se desarrolló una encuesta dirigida a todos los docentes de Educación Primaria de España. Los resultados muestran que hay una coincidencia entre quienes dan importancia a los métodos vivenciales del aprendizaje geográfico, basados en el trabajo de campo y la exploración del área local y quienes practican métodos activos de enseñanza.
Comprehensive detection and dissection of interlineage recombination events in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
Authors: Li Jia-Ying , Cheng Ye-Xiao , Ji Chengyang , Weng Shenghui , Han Na , Yang Rong , Zhou Hang-Yu , Aiping Wu
Published: October 2023

The global prevalence of the XBB lineage presents a formidable challenge posed by the recombinant SARS-CoV-2 virus. The understanding of SARS-CoV-2's recombination preference assumes utmost significance in predicting future recombinant variants and adequately preparing for subsequent pandemics. Thus, an urgent need arises to establish a comprehensive landscape concerning SARS-CoV-2 recombinants worldwide and elucidate their evolutionary mechanisms. However, the initial step, involving the detection of potential recombinants from a vast pool of over ten million sequences, presents a significant obstacle. In this study, we present CovRecomb, a lightweight methodology specifically designed to effectively identify and dissect interlineage SARS-CoV-2 recombinants. Leveraging CovRecomb, we successfully detected 135,567 putative recombinants across the entirety of 14.5 million accessed SARS-CoV-2 genomes. These putative recombinants could be classified into 1,451 distinct recombination events, of which 206 demonstrated transmission spanning multiple countries, continents, or globally. Hotspot regions were identified in six specific areas, with particular prominence observed in the latter halves of the N-terminal domain and receptor-binding domain within the spike (S) gene. Epidemiological investigations revealed extensive recombination events occurring among different SARS-CoV-2 (sub)lineages, independent of lineage prevalence frequencies.
Use of a Gas-Operated Ventilator as a Noninvasive Bridging Respiratory Therapy in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients in a Middle-Income Country
Authors: Arias-Sanchez Pedro Pablo , Wendel-Garcia Pedro David , Tirapé-Castro Hugo A , Cobos Johanna , Jaramillo-Aguilar Selena , Peñaloza-Tinoco Arianna , Jaramillo-Aguilar Damary , Martinez Alberto , Holguín-Carvajal Juan Pablo , Cabrera Enrique , Roche-Campo Ferran , Aguirre-Bermeo Hernán
Published: October 2023

Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, the undersupply of respiratory support devices was particularly notable and especially evident in low- and middle-income countries. As a result, many hospitals turned to alternative respiratory therapies, including the use of a gas-operated ventilator (GOV). The aim of the study was to describe the use of a GOV as a noninvasive bridging respiratory therapy in critically ill COVID-19 patients and compare clinical outcomes with the conventional respiratory therapies.Method Retrospective cohort analysis of critically ill COVID-19 patients during the first local wave of the pandemic.Results The final analysis included 204 patients, they were classified into four groups according to the type of respiratory therapy received in the first 24 hours: conventional oxygen therapy (COT), n = 28 (14%); GOV, n = 72 (35%); noninvasive ventilation (NIV), n = 49 (24%); invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), n = 55 (27%). GOV served as noninvasive bridging respiratory therapy in 58% of patients. In the remaining 42% of patients, 28% presented favorable clinical improvement and were discharged and 14% died. In the COT group, 68% progressed to intubation vs. 39% in the GOV group (P ≤ 0.001). Clinical outcomes in the GOV and NIV groups were similar (no statistically significant differences).Conclusion GOV was successfully used as a noninvasive bridging respiratory therapy in more than half of the patients. All clinical outcomes in the GOV group were comparable to those observed in the NIV group. These findings support the use of GOV as an emergency, noninvasive bridging respiratory therapy. However, a large randomized clinical trial is needed to confirm these results.
P-doped g-C3N4 with triple calcinations for dramatic photocatalytic performance
Authors: Yang Yuhao , Xing Shushu , Ma Yongning , Zhang Yixia , Yan Jiahao , Ran Jie , Li Xiaolong
Published: October 2023

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is a fresh type of environmentally friendly photocatalytic material with the potential to degrade pollutants in water. In particular, g-C3N4 (CN) has significant characteristics in the treatment of antibiotics, which has attracted extensive attention from researchers. However, due to the less active sites and fast carrier recombination rate resulting from the block morphology, the CN has unsatisfactory photocatalytic performance up to now. Therefore, in this paper, a thinner and smaller CN nanosheets with more active sites and slower carrier recombination rate were successfully prepared by a combination of P element doping and triple calcination modifications. The modified 1.5% P-CN-3 not only has a 2.24-fold increase in the degradation ability of antibiotic Tetracycline (TC) compared to pure CN, but also has a hydrogen production rate of 2268.27 µmol·g− 1·h− 1 for water decomposition. This paper provides an effective approach for the modification of CN.
Clearing the Air: Assessing Air Quality Impact from a Proposed Medical Waste Incinerator using Gaussian Dispersion Modeling
Authors: Joyosemito Ibnu Susanto , Meilani Sophia Shanti , Azmi Muhammad
Published: October 2023

The increase of medical waste is a critical concern in regions grappling with limited infrastructure. Indonesia responds to this challenge by proposing a medical waste incinerator to enhance their waste management practices. However, it is the important to evaluate potential environmental repercussions, in particular air quality degradation. This study employs a Gaussian air dispersion modeling approach to analyze the dispersion patterns and magnitude of air pollutant concentrations emanating from the proposed medical waste incinerator. Our investigation is focused on a nearby existing residential area located 100 meters from the proposed incinerator stack installation to study the immediate impact. The study simulated two atmospheric stability scenarios: 'very unstable' (A) and 'unstable' (B) based on annual meteorological condition at site, highlighting the adherence of five key ambient air quality parameters—Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), Sulfur Dioxide (SO2), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Total Suspended Particulate (TSP), and Lead (Pb)— against Indonesia's National Ambient Air Quality Standard (INAQS) within both atmospheric stability scenarios. Notably, the concentrations of Pb and NO2, while below INAQS limits, is approaching the threshold levels with peaks of 1.459 µg/m³ and 128.840 µg/m³. Although results comply with local regulation, significance of continoues vigilance in air quality management emerges.
Biosorption of Methyl Red, Thymol Blue and Their Dye Mixtures Using Modified Elephant Grass, Pennisetum Purpureum
Authors: Olaoye Ransome Opeyemi , Adelaja Oluwaseun Adekoya
Published: October 2023

The presence of dye effluents in surface water has emerged as a significant environmental and public health concern. Biosorption technology employs natural plant materials and agricultural waste to eliminate color constituents from aqueous solutions. In this context, the potential of Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass) was investigated for its ability to remove methyl red and thymol blue dyes. The adsorbent underwent characterization through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV-Visible spectrophotometry, as well as Langmuir and Freundlich analyses. Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to explore the impact of pH (ranging from 4 to 9), initial dye concentration (ranging from 10 to 50 mg/L), contact time (spanning 30 to 180 minutes), and adsorbent dosage (ranging from 0.05 to 0.3 g) on the removal of cadmium ions. The FT-IR findings of this study revealed that both untreated and potassium persulfate-treated P. purpureum predominantly contained functional groups such as carbonyl, carboxyl, hydroxyl, and amine groups. These groups possess the ability to bind with positively charged cadmium ions. The optimal conditions for effective removal were observed at pH 4, an adsorbent dosage of 0.1 g, a contact time of 30 minutes, an initial concentration of 10 mg/L, and a temperature of 30°C. The results strongly support the notion that both biosorbents hold significant potential for the removal of methyl red and thymol blue dyes.Key Words: Methyl Red, Thymol Blue, Adsorbent, Biosorption, Biosorbent, Elephant Grass
Root secretory purple acid phosphatase is involved in the utilization of phosphorus from organic fertilizer in rice
Authors: Wang Bingshuang , Sun Yan , Dai Ziwei , Tang Yongjian , Wang Yang , Lou Yunsheng , Wang Chuang , Chen Yinglong , Xu Guohua , Ren Lixuan
Published: October 2023

Background and aims
Organic fertilizer (OF) is beneficial for crop yield and quality, however, most phosphorus in OF are in organic forms, and cannot be utilized until they are hydrolyzed to inorganic phosphate (Pi). Although root-secreted acid phosphatases (APases) play an important role in hydrolyzing organic phosphorus (Po), it is unclear whether they improve the utilization efficiency of OF, and whether purple acid phosphatase (PAP) genes function in plants’ utilization of OF.
Methods
We report on a 10-year field study of OF application to rice, and the response of rice root-secreted APase activity to organic fertilization. Wild type (WT), OsPAP10c overexpressing, and OsPAP10c deficient rice were used to evaluate the role of this gene on the regulation of root-secreted APase activity in response OF and its subsequent utilization.
Results
Over 10 years of OF application, the APase activity of rice root secretions increased, over rice that had been fertilized with chemical fertilizer (CF). The APase activity in the rhizosphere soil of OF treated rice increased as well compared to CF treated rice. In PAP10c-OE rice, APase activity in the root secretions was greater than in WT rice, the activity in pap10c rice was less than in WT in OF treatment.
Conclusion
OF application enhances the APase activity of rice root secretions and improves the APase activity in the rhizosphere soil, which facilitates the hydrolysis of Po in OF. This hydrolysis generated sufficient available Pi for rice growth and production. OsPAP10c positively regulates root-secreted APase activity and Po utilization efficiency in rice in OF treated fields.
A new model of variable-length coupled pendulums – from hyperchaos to superintegrability
Authors: Szumiński Wojciech
Published: October 2023

In this paper we study dynamics and integrability of a variable-length coupled pendulums system. The complexity of the model is presented by joining various numerical methods, such as: Poincar\'e cross-sections, phase-parametric diagrams and Lyapunov exponents spectra. We show that the presented model is hyperchaotic, which ensures its nonintegrability. We gave an analytical prove of this fact analyzing properties the of differential Galois group of variational equations along certain particular solutions of the system. To analyze the differential Galois group, we use the Kovacic algorithm and its extension to dimension four. Amazingly enough, in the absence of the gravitational potential and for certain values of the parameters the system can posses chaotic, integrable as well as superintegrable dynamics. According to our best knowledge, it is the first attempt to use the method of Lyapunov exponents in the search for first integrals of the system in the systematic way. We show how to effectively apply the Lyapunov exponents as the indicator of integrable dynamics. The explicit forms of integrable and superintegrable systems are given.
Influence of Microcrystalline Cellulose on The Structure and Properties of PVDF/1-Allyl-3- methylimidazolium Chloride Composite Materials
Authors: Liu Kun , Wang Haijun , Zhao Mengen , Wu Yao , Yuan Chunlei , Yan Chao , Jiang Qinglong
Published: October 2023

In this study, the solution-casting method was utilized to prepare poly(allylidene fluoride)(PVDF)/1-allyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([AMIM]Cl)/microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) composite films at 100°C. Besides, investigations were conducted on the synergistic effect of [AMIM]Cl and MCC on the crystalline phase of PVDF and the dielectric property of the composites. The results show that the presence of [AMIM]Cl induced the formation of β-PVDF due to the ion-dipole interactions and increased the permittivity and dielectric loss. In the PVDF/[AMIM]Cl/MCC ternary composites, [AMIM]Cl significantly reduced the size of MCC and promoted its dispersion, which led to the further marked increase in permittivity and decrease in dielectric loss. With the addition of 7% [AMIM]Cl and 10% MCC, the permittivity rose to 135.15 while the loss decreased to only 0.71. Therefore, this work provides an efficient strategy to prepare PVDF-based composites with high permittivity and low dielectric loss, which holds sound promise for the development of high-performance materials in electronic devices and dielectric applications.
Indirect Organogenesis of Platycladus Orientalis L.
Authors: Lucena-Soriano Luis , Ocaña Ana María Fernández
Published: October 2023

In conifer species vegetative propagation has many limitations, from low germination rates to the difficulty of rooting explants. Plant in vitro culture has long been used for multiplication, genetic improvement and conservation of elite traits. In this work it has been determined the influence of several parameters on the in vitro culture of Platycladus orientalis L.: the culture media, the type of explant, light/dark growth conditions and vernalisation period, specifically, on three different phases of development: germination, callus induction and indirect organogenesis. The best explant for callus induction was the cotyledon and the ideal medium for its culture was Murashige-Skoog under lighting conditions. In the case of indirect organogenesis, the better-differentiated explants grew up with light and LePoivre medium. In germination, the vernalisation of seeds during two months subjected to 4ºC had a positive influence. The best medium, which produced the greatest number of roots and the greatest length, was Murashige-Skoog. Also, it has determined the important role of seed coats in germination.
Demand for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Bleeding Control Skills Training in an Urban Region: A Feasibility Review of a Community Engagement Effort
Authors: Hoops Katherine , Bedner Ashley , Kemper Emily , Aksamit Deborah , O’Brien Caitlin , Johnson Marcie K. , Stewart Rosalyn W. , Maydan Daniella D. , Hailey-Fair Kimberly , Galiatsatos Panagis
Published: October 2023

In maintained, bi-directional medical-community collaborations, partnering social organizations may request teachings for health skills from their respective health system in an immediate moment-in-time due to certain contextual factors that demand it. One such health skill is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a valuable competency that may allow a community member to save the life of their peer, and which is often requested due to personal experiences by members in the respective social network. Similarly, communities, especially those affected by violence, have sought out hemorrhage control skills training which can help to control life-threatening bleeding. In this community engagement feasibility review, we evaluate the infrastructure warranted to implement bystander CPR and bleeding control skills training to diverse social organizations in an urban region over a 9-month period. Further, we review the necessary variables to sustain such an effort, for both the health system as well as the partnering communities.
IMPeTUs parameters correlate with clinical features in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Xu Shuaishuai , Liu Songtao , Guo Huimin , Chen Wenkun , Yao Shuzhan
Published: October 2023

Background
To investigate the correlations between IMPeTUs-based 18F-FDG PET/CT parameters and clinical features in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM). 18F-FDG PET/CT in newly diagnosed MM patients were retrospectively analysed according to the IMPeTUs criteria. We correlated these PET/CT parameters with known clinically relevant features, bone marrow plasma cell infiltration rate (BMPC) and the presence of cytogenetic abnormalities.
Results
A total of 108 patients (64 males, 44 females; mean age, 59.7 ± 9.7 years; range, 34–83 years) with newly diagnosed MM who had undergone 18F-FDG PET/CT at our hospital were included in this study. Bone marrow metabolic state correlated with the most clinical features including FLC ratio (p = 0.036), involved FLC (p = 0.03), β2M (p = 0.001), calcium (p = 0.014), creatinine (p < 0.001), cytogenetic abnormalities (p = 0.033), and showed a positive correlation with ISS III (p = 0.002) and R-ISS III (p = 0.003). Importantly, there was no significant correlation between BM metabolic state and the level of BMPC (p = 0.102). Hypermetabolism in limbs and ribs conformed a positive correlation with the levels of β2M (p = 0.046), calcium (p = 0.044), and R-ISS (p = 0.01). Metabolic activity of the hottest lesion = 5 correlated with higher level of CRP (p = 0.038) and higher incidence of DS III (p = 0.006).
Conclusions
Several IMPeTUs-based PET/CT parameters showed significant correlations with clinical features reflecting disease burden and biology, suggesting that this new criteria can be used in the risk stratification in MM patients.
Tracking the long-term limnological impacts of silver mining near Keno City (Yukon, subarctic Canada)
Authors: Jones Evan A , Michelutti Neal , Would Jamie A , Pisaric Michael FJ , Smol John P
Published: October 2023

Mining in Northern Canada has been known to cause major environmental repercussions; however, monitoring data are scarce or non-existent. Here, we use a multi-proxy (metals, bioindicators, pigments) paleolimnological approach to track the impacts of mining activity near Keno City, on the traditional land of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun, in central Yukon (Canada). Silver was discovered in the early-1900s, primarily on or between two hills (Galena Hill and Keno Hill) and intensive mining has taken place ever since, with brief hiatuses dependent to ore prices and ownership of the claims. Christal Lake, a shallow site located in the valley between both hills, lies nearby many historical and current mines, and was once the site of a processing mill. Geochemical data show elevated background concentrations of many metals and faithfully track known mining activity. Interestingly, background (pre-mining) sediment concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, and zinc were all elevated above the Canadian Sediment Quality Guidelines for the Protection of Aquatic Life, reflecting the high concentrations of these elements in the local catchment. These, and other metal(loid)s, increased and peaked in sedimentary concentration after ca. 1920s, when intensive mining began. Sedimentary chlorophyll-a concentrations plummeted with the rise of metal concentrations, although increased again slightly in more recent sediments, perhaps reflecting the decline in recent metal inputs and reclamation of historic mine sites. Meanwhile, subfossil diatom assemblages were dominated by small benthic Fragilaria sensu lato taxa, whose assemblage composition only changed subtly with mining (similar to other shallow, non-acidified sites in Norilsk, Siberia). There was no biological evidence of acidification, likely due to the neutralizing effect of the carbonate-rich catchment. Cladoceran subfossils were only present in very low numbers throughout the core, reflecting both the shallow nature and high background metal concentrations in the lake. Collectively, these data show the long-term impacts of silver mining in this subarctic environment.
Haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score is a useful predictor of prognosis after hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective, propensity score matching cohort study
Authors: Hashimoto Kazuaki , Kanno Hiroki , Sakai Hisamune , Miyazaki Daiki , Fukutomi Shogo , Arai Shoichiro , Goto Yuichi , Akashi Masanori , Isobe Taro , Mori Naoki , Ishibashi Nobuya , Fujita Fumihiko , Hisaka Toru
Published: October 2023

Background
The haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score is an immune-nutritional assessment score that is a prognostic indicator for several malignant tumours. This study aimed to investigate its prognostic value in patients who underwent hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Methods
The data of 685 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent hepatectomy at Kurume University between 2006 and 2021 were retrospectively analysed. The patients were classified into high and low HALP score groups based on a cut-off HALP score determined using a receiver operating characteristic curve. To minimise bias, 1:1 propensity score matching was performed. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to estimate survival time, and data were evaluated using the log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using Cox hazard or logistic regression models for assessing survival time and postoperative outcomes, respectively.
Results
Low HALP scores were significantly associated with poor overall survival (P = 0.0061). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that HALP score independently predicted overall survival (P = 0.005). However, the HALP score was not significantly related to recurrence-free survival or postoperative outcomes.
Conclusions
The HALP score is a simple, inexpensive tool for predicting prognosis after hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Effect of using Nano-particles of Magnesium Oxide and Titanium Dioxide to Enhance Properties of Hip Joint Bone Cement
Authors: Gamal Safaa , Mikhail Mina , Salem Nancy , EL-Wakaad Mohamed Tarek , Abdelbaset Reda
Published: October 2023

This paper studies the effect of adding Magnesium Oxide (MgO) and Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) nano particles to enhance the properties of hip joint bone cement. Related to previous work of enhanced bone cement properties by using MgO and TiO2, samples of composite bone cement using three different ratios (0.5%, 1% and 1.5%) w/w of MgO and TiO2 were prepared to calculate the best enhancement ratio. Hardness, compression and bending tests were calculated to check the mechanical properties of pure and composite bone cement. The surface structure was studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Setting temperature, porosity and degradation were calculated for each specimen ratio to check values match with standard range of bone cement. Results show remarkable improvement for mechanical and surface structure properties with acceptable changes in FTIR, setting temperature, degradation percentage and bending test relative to pure bone cement.
Endovascular treatment of delayed arterial hemorrhage following surgery for cholangiolithiasis
Authors: Wang Xiangdong , Zhou Jing , Ge Naijian , Yang Yefa
Published: October 2023

Objectives
To retrospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment (EVT) of delayed arterial hemorrhage (DAH) following surgery for cholangiolithiasis.
Methods
All patients who underwent EVT to manage DAH after surgery for cholangiolithiasiswere enrolled in this study. Demographic, laboratory, angiographic, and clinical follow-up data were collected and analyzed.
Results
15 patients were enrolled. The origins of bleeding were the right hepatic artery (RHA，n=6), the RHA branch (n=3), the gastroduodenal artery (GDA, n=2) and the GDA branch (n=4). Embolization and covered stents implantation were performed in 11 patients and 4 patients, respectively. The technical success rate was 100.0% (15/15) and the clinical success rate was 66.7% (10/15). For rebleeding patients, injured artery was identified and successfully occluded by a second angiography in 2. One patient had acute hepatic failure and recovered subsequently. The overall survival rate was 86.7% (13/15) during the follow-up of 90 days after EVT.
Conclusion
EVT of DAH after surgery for cholangiolithiasis is effective and safe. Angiography is also a valuable treatment alternative for rebleeding patients who have technical successfully been ceased the bleeding at the previous EVT.
Harnessing the Potential of Pigeonpea and Maize Feedstock Biochar for Carbon Sequestration, Energy Generation, and Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Kumar Nallagatla Vinod , Sawargaonkar Gajanan , Rani C. Sudha , Pasumarthi Rajesh , Kale Santhosh , Prakash T. Ram , Triveni S. , Singh Ajay , Davala Moses Shyam , Khopade Rohan , Karthik Rayapati , Venkatesh Bathula , chandra Mandapelli Sharath
Published: October 2023

Crop residues in agriculture pose disposal challenges and contribute to air pollution when burned. This study aims to use pigeonpea stalks and maize biomass to produce biochar. Biochar can serve as a soil amendment for carbon sequestration and as an alternative fuel source. Pyrolysis were conducted at different temperatures (i.e., 400, 500, and 600°C) to examine the effects on physicochemical properties, fuel characteristics, and energy consumption. Higher temperatures resulted in decreased biochar yield, volatile matter, and O/C and H/C atomic ratios, while ash content and essential nutrients increased. The composition of the biomass significantly affected the yield, with PPS yielding more biochar than maize biomass at the same pyrolysis temperature. The biochar derived from both PPS and maize biomass met the essential quality criteria for carbon sequestration in soil, as established by the European Biochar Certificate (EBC) and the International Biochar Initiative (IBC). The biochar obtained through pyrolysis at 400°C demonstrated superior characteristics compared to biochar produced at other temperatures. It exhibited a higher biochar yield, with approximately 84.60% for pigeonpea and 64.85% for maize fixed carbon content. Additionally, the energy retention efficiency was higher, reaching 67.33% for pigeonpea and 42.70% for maize-derived biochar at a pyrolysis temperature of 400°C. The fixed carbon recovery efficiency was also notable at around 200.44% for PPS and 142.37% for maize biochar. Furthermore, the higher heating value (HHV) was approximately 30.75 MJ kg-1 for both, indicating their suitability as alternative solid fuels. A significant CO2 reduction potential of 84 CO2 eq kg−1 and 55 CO2 eq kg-1 was observed for pigeonpea and maize biochar, respectively. Hence, biochar is a promising and effective option for carbon sequestration, offering environmental benefits.
Effect of ABCB1C1236T gene polymorphism on analgesic effects of sufentanil and morphine in patients with femoral fracture after surgery
Authors: Qin xiaofeng , huang qiurui , An Jianzhong , wang chen , Xu Fuqi , Qiao Shigang
Published: October 2023

Objective This study was aimed to investigate the impact of the ABCB1C1236T gene polymorphism on the analgesic efficacy of morphine combined with sufentanil in patients undergoing surgery for femoral fracture.
Methods A total of 400 patients with femoral fracture (FF) were assigned to either the morphine group or the non-morphine group by random number table method.. Prior to surgery, 2ml of venous blood was collected from all patients for genetic testing. Intravenous analgesia pumps were used after surgery.. In the morphine group, patients received an epidural injection of morphine hydrochloride (1.5ml) at the end of surgery, while patients in the non-morphine group received 0.9% normal saline (NS) solution (1.5ml). The C1236T gene polymorphism, as well as pain, nausea, and vomiting levels on days 1, 2, 3, and 7 after surgery, were assessed in both groups. Pain duration, the number of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) compressions, and PCA pump fluid volume were also observed. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to identify risk factors influencing pain levels on day 1 after surgery, using numerical rating scale (NRS) as the dependent variable.
Results A total of 369 patients were included, with 185 in the morphine group and 184 in the non-morphine group. In the morphine group, there were 90 cases of C/C genotype, 90 cases of C/T genotype, and 5 cases of T/T genotype. In the non-morphine group, there were 84 cases of C/C genotype, 76 cases of C/T genotype, and 24 cases of T/T genotype. The genotype frequencies in both groups conformed to the Hardy-Weinberg genetic equilibrium law. In the non-morphine group, patients with the CC genotype had lower NRS scores on day 1 compared to those with C/T and T/T genotypes (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found in NRS scores among the three genotypes in the morphine group (P > 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that postoperative 1-day NRS scores were associated with the onset of postoperative pain and the ABCB1C1236T genotype (P < 0.05).
Conclusion The ABCB1C1236T gene polymorphism is a genetic factor influencing early postoperative pain in Han patients with FF. However, epidural administration of morphine can mitigate the impact of gene mutation on early analgesia caused by sufentanil.
Trial registration number：ChiCTR2300070098，the date of registration：2023-04-02
Graphical estimation of genetic characteristics for maize inbred lines and selection of superior hybrids by genotype by yield*trait (GYT) biplot
Authors: Hosseini Seyyed Mohammad Sadegh , Shiri Mohammadreza , Mostafavi Khodadad , Mohammadi Abdollah , Miri Seied Mehdi
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate (i) the genetic characteristics of nine maize inbred lines for the three traits namely grain moisture percent (GMP) at harvest time, days to physiological maturity (DPM), and grain yield (GY), (ii) the selection of superior hybrids based on the simultaneous selection of traits, and (iii) the ability of inbred lines to transfer genetic characteristics to the selected hybrids. Therefore, thirty-six hybrids resulting from their one-way diallel crosses were planted during the two crop years of 2020 and 2021 in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The genetic characteristics estimation and multiple trait selection were made by GGE biplot and GYT biplot procedure, respectively. Based on the results parents a, b, and h showed a negative general combining ability (GCA) and parent a showed the negative GCA. Moreover, parents a, b, and h exhibited a negative GCA positive could improve GMP, DPM, and GY, respectively, (ii) in the GYT biplot, yield-trait combinations indicated the most stable cultivars so that the crosses g×e and c×a were ranked as the best combination of GMP and DPM traits with grain yield, respectively and (iii) among the studied inbred lines, parent a had been able to transfer its desired characteristics such as earliness and high grain yield to its progeny. Applying biplot analyses to the multiple trait data revealed that The GYT biplot combines traits with yield and can facilitate the visual identification of the best genotypes.
Hyperglycemia does not explain the loss of function of apolipoproteinC1 on CETP activity in people with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Rouland Alexia , Gautier Thomas , Denimal Damien , Duvillard Laurence , Simoneau Isabelle , Rageot David , Vergès Bruno , Bouillet Benjamin
Published: October 2023

Background
HDL-associated apolipoproteinC1 (apoC1) has been demonstrated to be the main physiological cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor. CETP promotes cholesterol ester and triglyceride exchanges between HDL and apolipoprotein-B containing lipoproteins, and augmented CETP activity has been shown to be associated with macrovascular complications in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). In a previous study, apoC1 lost its ability to inhibit CETP in patients with T1D and in vitro glycation of apoC1 impaired its ability to inhibit CETP. Thus, we hypothesize that hyperglycemia could be a factor implicated in the loss of the inhibitory effect of apoC1 on CETP in people with T1D.
We performed a prospective study in patients with uncontrolled T1D aiming to determine whether significant improvement of glycemic control could restore the inhibitory effect of apoC1 on CETP.
Methods
We studied 98 patients with uncontrolled T1D (HbA1c>9%) and no treatment that could influence lipoproteins metabolism at baseline, and 3 months after improvement of glycemic control by optimization of T1D therapy, and 92 normoglycemic normolipidemic control subjects. CETP activity was assessed by a radioactive method and plasma apoC1 levels were measured by ELISA in every participant. In addition, the different isoforms of apoC1 were determined by mass spectrometry in 20 patients with T1D and in 20 controls.
Results
After 3 months of treatment intensification, mean HbA1c was significantly reduced in patients with T1D (8.7±1.7 vs. 10.8±2, p<0.0001). CETP activity was not significantly modified after improvement of glycemic control. A significant negative association between plasma apoC1 and CETP activity was observed in controls (r=-0.0006, p= 0.013) but not in uncontrolled patients with T1D, at baseline and at 3 months. We did not find any glycated form of apoC1 using mass spectrometry in people with T1D (at baseline and at 3 months) compared with controls.
Conclusion
Hyperglycemia, in vivo, does not seem to be a major factor implicated in the loss of apoC1 ability to inhibit CETP activity observed in T1D. Other factors, such as qualitative abnormalities of lipoproteins, could be involved. Further studies are needed to better understand apoC1 dysfunction in T1D.
The effect of an active break intervention on nonspecific low back pain and musculoskeletal discomfort during prolonged sitting among young people - Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Plandowska Magdalena , Labecka Marta Kinga , Truszczyńska-Baszak Aleksandra , Płaszewski Maciej , Rajabi Reza , Makaruk Beata , Różańska Dorota
Published: October 2023

The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the active break program in reducing LBP and perceived musculoskeletal discomfort during prolonged sitting in young people with LBP. This will be a randomized controlled study. The participants will be recruited from students of a Bachelor’s course in Physical Education. The participants will be assigned to an experimental group (with an active break) and a control group. The primary outcomes will be average pain intensity (Visual Analogue Scale), functional disability (Oswestry Disability Index), and perceived musculoskeletal discomfort during prolonged sitting (Borg scale), and the Global Perceived Effect. The secondary outcome will be a Post-Intervention Questionnaire (5-item self-completed questionnaire). Our main research outcome – exercise protocols and interventions – will help to develop ergonomic recommendations for young people with LBP. Exercises and recommendations will be the basis for developing a proprietary preventive and therapeutic program, which will be implemented in selected educational institutions.
Yoga's effectiveness in treating prenatal depression and anxiety: a review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Tang Ying-Shu , Li Xia-Nan , Zhao Yan
Published: October 2023

Background
Yoga is one of the most popular physical exercises for pregnant women to relieve symptoms of prenatal depression and anxiety. Our awareness of the essential elements of a successful yoga practice during pregnancy still has inadequacies. This review will investigate the characteristics and efficacy of prenatal yoga therapies in order to give evidence on yoga-assisted therapy of pregnant depression and anxiety symptoms.
Methods
By August 2023, four English-language electronic databases had been scoured for literature of yoga therapies in pregnancy: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Review Manager 5.4 software employed random-effects and fix-effects models for meta-analysis, assessing overall effects, heterogeneity, and publication bias through mean differences with 95% confidence intervals.
Results
In the beginning, 1690 studies were retrieved. After deleting duplicates, 1461 studies were examined, with 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) ultimately meeting the inclusion criteria. This meta-analysis found that yoga therapies during pregnancy had a substantial effect on prenatal depression (SMD = -0.75, 95%CI = -1.24 to -0.27, p = 0.002) and anxiety (SMD = -0.96, 95%CI = -1.63 to -0.29, p = 0.005). According to the findings of subgroup analysis, prenatal non-depressed pregnant women who participated in integrated yoga with a duration of every session of training > 20 minutes, more than 1 session every week, continuous training > 10 weeks, and unsupervised training improved their depression and anxiety during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Yoga during pregnancy helps to relieve symptoms of prenatal depression and anxiety and can be used as an adjunctive treatment option for prenatal depression.
The impact of prior exposure to hypoglycaemia on the inflammatory response to a subsequent hypoglycaemic episode
Authors: Verhulst Clementine E.M. , Heck Julia I. P. , Fabricius Therese W. , Stienstra Rinke , Teerenstra Steven , McCrimmon Rory J. , Tack Cees J. , Pedersen-Bjergaard Ulrik , de Galan Bastiaan
Published: October 2023

Background: Hypoglycaemia has been shown to induce a systemic pro-inflammatory response, which may be driven, in part, by the adrenaline response. Prior exposure to hypoglycaemia attenuates counterregulatory hormone responses to subsequent hypoglycaemia, but whether this effect can be extrapolated to the pro-inflammatory response is unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effect of antecedent hypoglycaemia on inflammatory responses to subsequent hypoglycaemia in humans.
Methods: Healthy participants (n = 32) were recruited and randomised to two 2-hour episodes of either hypoglycaemia or normoglycaemia on day 1, followed by a hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemic (2.8 ± 0.1 mmol/L) glucose clamp on day 2. During normoglycaemia and hypoglycaemia, and after 24 hours, 72 hours and one week, blood was drawn to determine circulating immune cell composition, phenotype and function, and 93 circulating inflammatory proteins including hs-CRP.
Results: In the group undergoing antecedent hypoglycaemia, the adrenaline response to next-day hypoglycaemia was lower compared to the control group (1.45 ± 1.24 vs 2.68 ± 1.41 nmol/l). In both groups, day 2 hypoglycaemia increased absolute numbers of circulating immune cells, of which lymphocytes and monocytes remained elevated for the whole week. Also, the proportion of pro-inflammatory CD16+-monocytes increased during hypoglycaemia. After ex vivo stimulation, monocytes released more TNF-α and IL-1β, and less IL-10 in response to hypoglycaemia, whereas levels of 19 circulating inflammatory proteins, including hs-CRP, increased for up to one week after the hypoglycaemic event. Most of the inflammatory responses were similar in the two groups, except the persistent pro-inflammatory protein changes were partly blunted in the group exposed to antecedent hypoglycaemia. We did not find a correlation between the adrenaline response and the inflammatory responses during hypoglycaemia.
Conclusion: Hypoglycaemia induces an acute and persistent pro-inflammatory response at multiple levels that occurs largely independent of prior exposure to hypoglycaemia and the release of adrenaline.