bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alleviating Effect of Lactobacillus plantarum NXU0011 Fermented Wolfberry on Ulcerative Colitis in Mice
Authors: Nie Mingxia , Ji Quan , Guo Gang , Zhang Haiyan , Zhai Ru , Wang Yanhong , Pan Lin
Published: October 2023

As research into the relationship between the gut microbiome and health continues to evolve, probiotics are garnering increasing interest among consumers. Fermentation is rec-ognized as an efficacious biotechnology for augmenting the nutritional and functional at-tributes of foods. In this study, the ameliorative effects of Lycium barbarum L. lyophilized powder fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum NXU0011 (LP+Ly) on dextran sodium sul-fate (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice were investigated employing immuno-histochemistry, qRT-PCR, macrogenomics, and metabolomics. The results revealed that LP+Ly intervention significantly ameliorated histopathological inflammation in the ulcer-ated colon, diminished the expression of inflammatory markers such as IL-6, P-STAT3, and miR-214, and enhanced the diversity of intestinal flora in the mouse model group. Moreover, there was an increase in abundance of beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus, Prevotella, and Akkermansia. Metabolomic analysis indicated that 15 metabolites, including citrulline, D-xylose, and α-ketoisovaleric acid, exhibited significant variations following LP+Ly inter-vention. The metabolic pathways that displayed substantial differences included tryptophan biosynthesis, arginine biosynthesis, and amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism. By modulating arginine biosynthesis, LP+Ly effectively improved the intestinal inflammatory state, thus mitigating the effects of UC.
Transport Properties of Equiatomic CoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy with a Single-Phase Face-Centered Cubic Structure
Authors: Bykov Victor , Kulikova Tatyana , Sipatov Ivan , Sterkhov Eugene , Kovalenko Darya , Ryltsev Roman
Published: October 2023

Key thermophysical properties necessary for the successful design and use of CoCrFeNi alloy in thermophysical applications have been measured experimentally, and the results have been compared with literature values and results previously obtained for commercial Ni-Cr alloys and equiatomic CoCrFeNi alloy. In particular, the thermal diffusivity, coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), and specific heat capacity were measured for the as-cast and homogenized equiatomic CoCrFeNi alloy over a temperature range allowing the thermal conductivity to be calculated up to 1173 K. The thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity of the equiatomic CoCrFeNi alloy were found to deviate from monotonic behavior in the temperature range from 773 to 1100 K. Such a deviation was previously observed in the behavior of the temperature dependence of CTE and specific heat capacity of the equiatomic CoCrFeNi alloy. The non-linear behavior is primarily the result of order/disorder phenomena for the as-cast and homogenized sample, as well as additionally for the as-cast sample, non-equilibrium solidification under arc melting conditions. The measured data of thermophysical properties are provided for thermally differently treated samples, and it is shown that there is a difference in the behavior of the temperature dependences of CTE, thermal diffusivity, and heat capacity.
Acid Catalyzed Amination of 4-Chloropyrrolopyrimidine: Effect of Solvent, Acid Amount and Substrate Scope for Reactions in Water
Authors: Svergja Hanne , Yasuda Shuhei , Olsen Cecilie Elisabeth , Hoff Bård Helge
Published: October 2023

Acid promoted amination of 4-chloro-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine with anilines have been studied using hydrochloric acid. Four alcoholic solvents and water were evaluated as reaction medium, and the highest rate was observed in water. Although the initial rate increased by using higher concentration of acid, this leads to more solvolysis of the pyrrolopyrimidine, reducing the potential yield. The substrate scope of the amination of 4-chloro-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine in water using 0.1 equivalent of hydrochloric acid was evaluated using 20 aniline derivatives with variance in basicity and steric bulk. Preparative useful reactions were seen for 14 of the 20 derivatives. Unsuited anilines are ortho substituted anilines with a pKa below 1. Aliphatic and benzylic amines react poorly under these conditions, but such aminations can proceed well in water without acid. Pyrrolopyrimidines with a low water solubility, also reacted slowly in water, however they could easily be aminated in 2-propanol.
Heavy Metals in the Follicular Fluid Affect the Ultrastructure of the Human Mature Cumulus-Oocyte Complex
Authors: Miglietta Selenia , Cristiano Loredana , Battaglione Ezio , Macchiarelli Guido , Nottola Stefania Annarita , Marco Maria Paola , Costanzi Flavia , Schimberni Mauro , Colacurci Nicola , Caserta Donatella , Familiari Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

It is known that exposure to heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) has several adverse effects, particularly on the human reproductive system. Pb and Cd have been associated with infertility in both men and women. In pregnant women, they have been associated with spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, and impairment of the development of the fetus.
Since these heavy metals come from both natural and anthropogenic activities and their harmful effects have been observed even at levels of exposure, their exposure remains a public health issue, especially for the reproductive system.
Given this, the present study aimed to investigate the potential reproductive effects of Pb and Cd levels in the follicular fluid (FF) of infertile women and no-smokers exposed to heavy metals for professional reasons or living in rural areas near landfills and waste disposal areas, to correlate the intrafollicular presence of these metals with possible alterations in the ultrastructure of human cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), probably responsible of infertility. Blood and FF metals were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. COCs corresponding to each FF analyzed were subjected to ultrastructural analyses by transmission electron microscopy.
We demonstrated for the first time that intrafollicular levels of Pb (0.66 µg/dL to 0.85 µg/dL) and Cd (0.26 µg/L - 0.41 µg/L) could be associated with morphological alterations of both the oocyte and CCs ultrastructure. Since blood Cd levels (0.54 µg/L - 1.87 µg/L) were above the current reference values established by the guidelines of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), whereas blood Pb levels (1.28 µg/dL - 3.98 µg/dL) were below the ATSDR reference values we believe that these alterations could be due especially to Cd, even if we cannot exclude a possible additional effect of Pb. Our results highlighted that oocytes were affected in maturation and quality, whereas CCs showed scarcely active steroidogenic elements. Regressing CCs, with cytoplasmic alterations, were also numerous. According to Cd's endocrine-disrupting activity, the poor steroidogenic activity of CCs might correlate with delayed oocyte cytoplasmic maturation.
So, we conclude that levels of heavy metals in the blood and the FF might negatively affect fertilization, embryo development, and pregnancy, compromising oocyte competence to fertilization both directly and indirectly, impairing CC steroidogenic activity, and inducing CC apoptosis.
The Role of Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) in the Physiology and Pathophysiology of the Human Placenta
Authors: Wątroba Mateusz , Szewczyk Grzegorz , Szukiewicz Dariusz
Published: October 2023

Sirtuins, especially SIRT1, play a significant role in the regulation of inflammatory response, autophagy, and cell response to oxidative stress. Since their discovery, sirtuins have been regarded as anti-aging and longevity-promoting enzymes. Sirtuin-regulated processes seem to take part in most prevalent placental pathologies, such as preeclampsia. Furthermore, more and more research studies indicate that SIRT1 may prevent pre-eclampsia development, or at least alleviate its manifestations. Having taken this into consideration, we have made a review of recent studies on the role of sirtuins, especially SIRT1, in the regulation of processes determining normal or abnormal development and functioning of the placenta.
Go Green or Green Will Go: Exploring the Nexuses between Covert & Guerrilla Marketing and Ecological Buying Behavior in Food Sector
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad , Mahmood Asif , Al-Dalahmeh Main , Murtaza Shah Ali , Molnár Edina
Published: October 2023

Traditional marketing tactics have been significantly challenged by marketers, especially in the food sector. Companies have been engaging in covert and overt advertisements as an emerging marketing communication strategy to circumvent customer skepticism, build a good image, and create value for the brand. But there is a lack of literature regarding integrating traditional and new marketing tactics in building intention and ecologically conscious consumer behavior. Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to provide empirical evidence concerning the integration of different marketing tactics, i.e., Green Product Features, Green Pricing, Covert Advertisement, Overt Advertisement and Guerrilla Marketing, and their effects on Purchase Intention and Ecologically Conscious Consumer Behavior. The study also employs moderation of Brand Evangelism, Environmental Knowledge and Habitat Attitude between intention and behavior building.
A visual appraisal technique was used by showing a video or picture as a sample of covert or overt marketing tactics before filling out a close-ended questionnaire to get accurate responses. The data from 568 customers of the frozen food industry were analyzed using the co-variance-based structure equation modeling technique with the help of AMOS. The findings of the study elaborate that parallel to the significant impact of conventional marketing mix tactics, covert, overt and guerrilla marketing are strong antecedents for intention building, which eventually develops Ecologically Conscious Consumer Behavior (ECCB). The results also affirm that intention can lead to ECCB significantly through brand evangelism and environmental knowledge. These findings reflect the importance of shifting marketers from conventional marketing tactics to novel hidden marketing techniques.
Propagatıon of Azerbaıjanı Chestnut by Tıssue Culture
Authors: Hafizov Gharib , Balazade Chingiz
Published: October 2023

Castanea sativa Mill., an indigenous species of the mountainous Gabala region of Azerbaijan, where its local variety is now facing the danger of extinction. The preservation of this variety of European chestnut requires the development of effective strategies for reliable in vitro regeneration systems as an alternative to traditional methods, which has become the main objective of this study. In solving this problem, the generally accepted technique of micro-multiplication of axillary shoots was mainly used. First, a phased sterilization of was carried out using liquid soap, Previkur fungicide and mercury (II) chloride. DKW (Driver and Kuniyuki Walnut) nutrient medium was used for germination of explants, into which growth stimulants BAP (Benzilamunapurine), IBA (Indole - 3 butyric acid), IAA (Indole Acetic acid), NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) and GA3 (Gibberelic acid) were introduced in various combinations and quantities. The test of the above-mentioned sterilization model revealed significant shortcomings in terms of the acceptability of the results obtained (16-77%). It was also found that the germination of explants takes 14 days and it is better to conduct it in a DKW environment containing hormones BAP (0.6 mg), IBA (0.1 mg) and GA3 (0.1 mg) / 1 L DKW. A mixture of BAP (0.1mg) + IBA (0.35 mg) is more suitable for the reproduction of grown explants + GA3 (0.2 mg) / 1 l DKW (the result is 3 new micro-plants for each explant), and for good root formation (it takes 30 days) – a mixture of IBA 1.0 mg + NAA 0.5 mg + IAA 0.5 mg / l L DKW. After the shoots have acquired a certain length (at least 1.5 cm), it is required to transfer them for 22 days to a DKW medium containing IBA (1 mg), IAA (0.5 mg) and NAA(0.5 mg) / l L DKW so that the root splitting process begins and ends.
Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody-associated Vasculitis and the Risk of Developing Incidental Tuberculosis: A Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Chan Shan-Ho , Li Ming-Feng , Ou Shih-Hsiang , Lin Mei-Chen , Wang Jen-Hung , Lee Po-Tsang , Chen Hsin-Yu
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives: Treatment for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) must deal with immunosuppression as well as infections associated with compromised immune system, such as tuberculosis (TB). Our aim was to overcome the gap in the literature concerning the risk of incidental TB after diagnosis of AAV.
Materials and Methods: This retrospective population-based cohort study was based on the data from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. We used a novel algorithm to identify patients with newly diagnosed granulomatous polyangiitis (GPA) or microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2012. The primary outcome was risk of incidental TB. Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the association between AAV and incidental TB.
Results: A total of 2,257 patients with AAV and a propensity-score matched cohort of 9,028 patients were studied. Overall, patients with AAV were at a 1.48x higher risk of contracting incidental TB than were patients in the matched cohort (adjusted HR 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-2.15). Note that the highest risk of contracting incidental TB was in the first two years following a diagnosis of AAV, with a nearly 1-fold increase in risk (adjusted HR, 1.91; 95% CI, 1.01-3.60). Female AAV patients were 3.24x more likely than females without AAV to develop TB (adjusted HR 3.24; 95%CI, 1.85-5.67).
Conclusion: Patients with AAV face an elevated risk of contracting incidental TB, particularly within the first two years after AAV diagnosis. The risk of contracting TB is higher among female AAV patients than among females without AAV.
Rethinking Human and Machine Intelligence through Kant, Wittgenstein, Gödel, and Cantor
Authors: Lee Jae Jeong
Published: October 2023

This paper proposes a new metaphysical framework for distinguishing between human and machine intelligence by drawing on Kant’s incongruent counterparts as an analogy. Specifically, the paper posits two deterministic worlds that are superficially identical but ultimately different. Using ideas from Wittgenstein, Gödel, and Cantor, the paper defines “deterministic knowledge” and investigates how this knowledge is processed differently in those two worlds. The paper considers computationalism and causal determinism for the new framework. Then, the paper introduces new concepts to illustrate why human and machine agents display different causal characteristics in processing verbal information. Overall, the paper’s framework provides a theoretical basis for the uniqueness of the human mind.
A Review of Pool Boiling Processes Based on Bubble Dynamics Parameters
Authors: Xiao Longhuang , Zhuang Yuan , Wu Xilei , Yang Jialiang , Lu Yongjie , Liu Ying , Han Xiaohong
Published: October 2023

Pool boiling is extensively utilized in various fields, such as electronics cooling, battery cooling, nuclear power plants, and chemical processing. In the process of temperature control through boiling, the generation and transportation of bubbles play a crucial role in calculating the heat transfer capacity of the system. Therefore, it holds immense significance to gain a profound understanding of the mechanisms underlying bubble formation, growth, and detachment. Currently, numerous mechanistic explanations and empirical correlations have been proposed to elucidate various parameters of bubbles during the boiling process. These findings were considered valuable references in selecting appropriate boiling media and designing efficient heating surfaces. To comprehensively present the progress of bubble formation and heat transfer during the boiling process, the forces exerted on the bubbles was highlighted in this article. And a meticulous review on bubble force analysis and correlation formulas pertaining to various relevant parameters (e.g. nucleation sites density, bubble growth rate, detachment diameter, detachment frequency) were conducted. This review article also were expected to provide a novel foundation for further exploration of enhanced boiling heat transfer.
Biogas Purification by Adsorption Method Using Activated Carbon and Zeolite Adsorbents
Authors: Fourqoniah Fitrah , Kalsum Leila , Yulianti Selastia
Published: October 2023

Abstract. Biogas is an alternative energy that is formed from the fermentation of organic matter in gaseous form. Biogas consists of several gas mixtures with the main components methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) with a small amount of steam. Biogas is an alternative technology that produces environmentally friendly, cheap and renewable fuel because it comes from biomass, organic liquid waste, food scraps, organic waste, leaves and animal manure resulting from the fermentation process. This study aims to purify biogas by adsorption method using activated carbon and zeolite adsorbents to obtain optimal methane gas by varying the biogas flow rate and the amount of adsorbent composition. Variation in the ratio of the amount of adsorbent (activated carbon: zeolite) is 0%:100%, 30%:70%, 50%:50%, 70%:30%, 100%:0% and the flow rate variation used is 0.2 liter/minute, 0.4 liter/minute, and 0.6 liter/minute. From the purification results, an analysis of the gas content contained in the biogas was carried out using a gas analyzer. The results showed that the best flow rate was the smallest flow rate, which was 0.2 liter/minute, and the best variation in the amount of adsorbent was 0%:100% adsorbent (activated carbon: zeolite) with 81.40% methane content.

Keywords:

Biogas, Activated Carbon, Zeolie, Adsorption, Purification,
Predictors of recurrent cardiovascular events in patients with a single-vessel coronary artery disease after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Oleynikov V. E. , Averyanova E. V. , Tonkoglaz A. A. , Lukyanova M. V.
Published: October 2023

Aim. To determine the predictors of recurrent cardiovascular events in patients after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and hemodynamicallysignificant stenosis only in the infarct-related coronary artery.

Material and methods. The present study involved 151 patients with STEMI. The mean age of patients was 51 (95% confidence interval (CI), 41–61 years) years. One of the inclusion criteria of patients was significant stenosis exclusively in the infarct-related artery. All patients underwent a 24-hour Holter electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring with the analysis of heart rate turbulence (HRT), heart rate variability (HRV), ventricular late potentials and chronotropic load; two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography with the analysis of volumetric parameters and left ventricular ejection fraction; determination of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). The follow-up duration was 144 weeks. Repeated cardiovascular events (acute heart failure, revascularization, repeated myocardial infarction, cardiovascular death) were analyzed as endpoints. Two groups of patients were identified depending on the recurrent event endpoints: “RE” group — 26 patients (17.2%) with registered recurrent cardiac events, and “ST” group — 125 patients (82.8%) without cardiovascular events in stable post-infarction period.

Results. Initial BNP values were lower in the “ST” group (p48=0.0035, p96=0.004, p144=0.001). The intergroup differences demonstrate a higher concentration of BNP levels in the “RE” group both initially (p=0,001) and at the 96th week (p=0,04). Left ventricular ejection fraction was higher in the “ST” group (p=0,001) both initially and at the 144th week in contrast to the “RE” group: 48,9% (44,7-53,2) vs 44,2% (38,5-49,9) (p=0,009). Pathological HRT was also significantly higher in the “RE” group both initially (p=0,003) and by the 96th week of the follow-up (p=0,007), while HRV demonstrated low initial values with a slow tendency to restoration. There were following risk factors for recurrent cardiovascular events in patients in the post-infarction period: weight — relative risk (RR), 1.21 (95% CI, 1,01-1,46) (p=0,03); body mass index — RR, 0,56 (95% CI, 0,325-0,96) (p=0,046); chronotropic load — RR, 1,03 (95% CI, 1,02-1,12) (p=0,04); BNP — RR, 1,012 (95% CI, 1,003-1,08) (p=0,01); left ventricular end-systolic dimension (ESD) — RR, 1,04 (95% CI, 1,01-1,13) (p=0,36).

Conclusion. There were following independent predictors of recurrent cardiovascular events in patients after STEMI: weight, body mass index, chronotropic load, BNP and ESD.
Wellens’ syndrome in clinical practice
Authors: Pereverzeva K. G. , Dubova N. V. , Biryukov S. A. , Nozhov G. V. , Yakushi S. S.
Published: October 2023

Despite the declining cardiovascular mortality, the incidence of myocardial infarction (MI) is still high, and therefore the issues of its timely diagnosis remain extremely relevant. In addition to the main diagnostic criteria and typical electrocardiographic (ECG) signs, there are many secondary patterns that suggest MI. Wellens’ syndrome (WS) is one of these ECG patterns, which indicates that the patient is at high risk of left ventricular anterior wall MI, caused by occlusion of the anterior interventricular artery (AIA) or its critical stenosis. Despite the relatively low incidence of WS, it is necessary to increase physicians’ awareness in order to prevent MI and reduce its possible negative consequences.This article presents clinical cases of WS, which show the importance of its diagnosis in the management of patients with anginal pain. The first patient is 43-year-old with a diagnosis of class III exertional angina, a history of anginal pain, and the presence of inverted T waves in V2-V3 leads. AIA stenting was performed on the 7th day of hospitalization. The second patient is 67-year-old with a similar diagnosis and history, biphasic T waves in I, aVL, V1-V3 and V5-V6 leads, deeply inverted T waves in V4. Stenting of the AIA and right coronary artery (RCA) was performed on days 5-6 after the most severe episode of anginal pain and after the anginal pain became recurrent. In both cases, WS was not diagnosed. The third patient, 57-year-old, with T wave inversion in II, III, aVF, leads ST segment elevation of less than 1 mm in lead III, minimal ST segment depression in aVL and V2-V3 leads, followed in less than 2 hours by ST segment elevation in II, III, aVF leads. In this patient, WS was diagnosed in a timely manner, urgent coronary angiography was performed, 99% RCA stenosis was detected, and RCA stenting was performed. The outcome is left ventricular inferior wall non-Q wave MI. The last cited case of WS indicates that this syndrome develops not only with AIA damage, but also with damage to other coronary arteries.
Pulmonary hypertension and heart failure: alternative indexes of right ventricular-pulmonary artery coupling
Authors: Mareyeva V. A. , Klimenko A. A. , Shostak N. A.
Published: October 2023

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious cardiovascular pathology, often complicating the course of heart failure (HF). Excessive pulmonary artery pressure increases right ventricular afterload and progressively leads to dysfunction, which is associated with adverse outcomes regardless of left ventricular ejection fraction. In this regard, more attention should be paid to determining the right ventricular condition. Currently, in order to assess the right heart function in patients with pulmonary hypertension and HF, the right ventricular (RV)-pulmonary arterial (PA) coupling, is increasingly being used. The conventional formula to calculate this parameter is the ratio of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP). This index has proven to be a powerful predictor of adverse outcomes. But this calculation method has a number of limitations and can lead to errors. It is extremely important to exclude or minimize any possible inaccuracies during prognostic assessment, which is why new researches of alternative RV-PA calculation options have been recently published. Such things as problems that can occur during TAPSE and PASP evaluation, ways of modifying the assessment of right heart’s functioning in patients with pulmonary hypertension and heart failure have been addressed. The value of new RV-PA alternative «surrogate» indexes has been discussed.
Analysis of energy efficiency indicators of multy-axle automobiles and multy-link road trains
Authors: Podryhalo Mykhailo , Kaidalov Ruslan , Аloksa Mykola , Omelchenko Vasyl
Published: October 2023

The article shows the need to increase the energy efficiency of multi-axle automobiles and road trains by improving design methods through the use of new indicators and criteria. The relationship between the energy efficiency indicator and the aerodynamic resistance parameters of the automobile was determined; carrying out an assessment of the impact of towing links on the energy efficiency of the road train. The influence of aerodynamic parameters on the automobile's energy efficiency indicator has been proven. It is proven that with the increase in the maximum speed of the car, the energy efficiency index increases when n>1 and decreases when n<1. When n=1, the maximum speed of the automobile does not affect the energy efficiency indicator. The influence of towing links on the energy efficiency of the automobile train is also determined. With an increase in the number of towing links, there is an increase in the weight of the transported cargo and a decrease in the efficiency of the wheel drive of the road train.
Influence of agricultural tank transportation on transmission elements wheeled tractor during acceleration
Authors: Kozhushko Andrii , Trembach Oleksiy
Published: October 2023

Today's technical level of agricultural wheeled tractors has the ability to be aggregated with various agricultural means for efficient performance of traction (plowing, sowing, harrowing, harvesting, etc.) and transport (transportation of solid and liquid loads) works. Among the variety of agricultural works, the greatest test of the tractor's reliability is the performance of field work on plowing the soil. But also one of the priority studies, which affects the reliability of the power plant of a wheeled tractor, is the work on the transportation of partially filled agricultural tanks. Therefore, the material of this article aims to analyze the change in the indicator of the dynamic load of the tractor transmission elements during the transportation of an agricultural semi-trailer tank during acceleration. When solving the set goal, a technique was used, which involved the formation of a general mathematical model of a wheeled tractor and a semi-trailer tank in the vertical and horizontal planes of movement. The outlined model takes into account the movement of sprung and unsprung masses of the vehicle, as well as the sloshing of liquid in the tank. As a result, it was possible to evaluate the dynamic parameters of the transmission elements of a wheeled tractor when performing transport work for the transportation of liquid cargo. The practical significance of the work lies in the possibility of its use in evaluating the dynamic performance of a wheeled tractor, which is equipped with various types of transmissions when transporting agricultural tanks.
Simulation of the interaction of a rigid wheel with the soil for the purpose of detecting zones of compaction
Authors: Zubko Vladyslav , Zhyhylii Dmytro , Sokolik Serhii
Published: October 2023

Identifying and removing plow soles is an important task. Modern non-contact devices for detecting plow soles are not used by many agricultural producers due to their high cost, and the development of a new, cheaper scanner will enable small farms to investigate soil compaction and take the necessary measures to loosen it. The peculiarity of the device we are developing is that its working body (wheel, disk or sphere) penetrates the soil to a small depth. The purpose of this study is to obtain dependencies within the framework of the used model of the interaction between the rigid wheel and the upper viscoelastic and lower compacted layers of the soil, which will allow determining the parameters of such interaction, in particular the depth of the location of the compaction zone. In this paper, the problem of rolling of a completely rigid wheel on a viscoelastic layer of uncompacted soil coupled to a non-deformable half-plane imitating the sole of a plow is solved. When formulating the problem, the compliance of the cylinder and half-plane is not taken into account, and the Kelvin model is used to describe the properties of the soil layer, which has limited viscoelastic creep.
The Influence of Spondylolisthesis Reduction on the Adjacent Lumbar Segment
Authors: Park Tae-Hwan , Choi Yunhee , Kim Tae-Shin , Kim Jun-Hoe , Lee Chang-Hyun , Kim Sum , Kim Young Rak , Ko Yong San , Yuh Woon Tak , Rhee John M. , Kim Kyoung-Tae , Chung Chun Kee , Kim Chi Heon
Published: October 2023

Objective: Mild to moderate stenosis at the adjacent level sometimes co-occurs with lumbar spondylolisthesis, but whether to include the adjacent level during surgery for the index level is a matter of debate. Spondylolisthesis causes anterior slipping of the vertebra and reduces the segmental angle at the index level, and the adjacent level may compensate for this change through hyperextension to maintain spinal balance. This study investigated the radiological changes and clinical outcomes of adjacent segment stenosis in patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis. Methods: Forty consecutive patients (12 men and 28 women, age 66.6±10.4 years) underwent single-level oblique lumbar interbody fusion for L4-5 or L5-S1 spondylolisthesis. Lumbar central stenosis at the cranial adjacent segment was present in 16 patients (stenosis group) and absent in 24 patients (no-stenosis group). Clinical and radiological parameters were longitudinally compared between the stenosis and no-stenosis groups. Results: Both groups showed similar and significant clinical improvement. The segmental angle at the index level significantly improved in both groups (p<0.05), but the segmental angle at the cranial adjacent segment significantly decreased only in the stenosis group (p<0.05). The spinal canal area at the adjacent level significantly improved only in the stenosis group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Realigned spondylolisthesis may reduce hyperextension of the adjacent segment. If mild lumbar spinal stenosis is present at an adjacent level to spondylolisthesis, it may not be essential to include it in surgery.
An Integrated Investigation Of Hydrocarbon Pollution In Ahoada Area, Niger Delta Region, Nigeria
Authors: Umar Hafiz Aminu , AbdulKhanan Mohd Faisal , Shiru Mohammed Sanusi , Ahmad Anuar , AbdulRahman Muhammad Zulkarnain , Md Ami Hassan
Published: October 2023

This study investigates hydrocarbon pollution in Ahoada community of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The study uses geographic information system (GIS) for mapping oil spill hotspots in the region. Resistivity method was used for delineating the extent of hydrocarbon pollution to a depth of 19.7m at Ahoada area of the region. Three categories of soil samples:impacted soil (IMS), remediated soil (RS) and control soil (CS) were collected and analyzed for the presence of BTEX, PAH, TPH, TOC and TOG. The concentrations of the samples from the IMS and RS were compared to that of the CS to determine the extent of pollution. The GIS mapping shows that the most polluted areas in the Niger Delta Region are Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta states. Results of the geophysical images revealed contaminants presence to depths beyond 20m at some locations in the study area. The highest depth of contaminant travel was at Ukperede. Soil samples analysis showed that the range of concentrations of TPH in IMS at Oshie was 17.27 – 58.36 mg/kg; RS was 11.73 – 50.78 mg/kg which were higher than the concentrations of 0.68 mg/kg in the CS. PAH are more prevalent in Ukperede ranging from 54.56 - 77.54 mg/kg. BTEX concentrations ranged from 0.02 – 0.38 mg/kg for IMP, 0.01 – 2.7 mg/kg for RS against CS value of 0.01 mg/kg. Study revealed that there are characteristically high resistivity values in the samples which were corroborated by the findings from the resistivity survey. TOC was found to be higher in the IMS and RS than in the CS demonstrating that significant quantity of the hydrocarbon has undergone appreciable decomposition.
Pattern of macronutrients intake among type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in Malaysia
Authors: Md Zaleha , Ismail Noor Hassim , Tamil Azmi Mohd , Jaafar Mohd Hasni , Ismail Rosnah , Khan Nor-Ashikin Mohamed Noor , Mat-Nasir Nafiza , Razak Nurul Hafiza Ab , Abidin Najihah Zainol , Yusof Khairul Hazdi
Published: October 2023

Background: The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is rising rapidly in Malaysia. Modifying dietary intake is key to both the prevention and treatment of T2DM. This study aims to investigate the pattern of macronutrient intake among T2DM patients in Malaysia. Methods: This study was carried out on adults aged between 35 and 70 years, residing in urban and rural Malaysian communities. A series of standardised questionnaires was used to assess the sociodemographic information, dietary intake and physical activity level of 15,353 respondents who provided informed consent to participate in this study. Blood sampling (finger prick test) and physical examination were performed to obtain blood glucose and anthropometric data, respectively. The Chi-square test was used to assess differences in the trends of macronutrient intake among T2DM groups.Results: The total number of participants diagnosed with T2DM in this study was 2,254. Of these, 453 (20.1%) were newly diagnosed, 1,156 (51.3%) were diagnosed for ≤ 5 years and 645 (28.6%) were diagnosed for > 5 years. The majority of the T2DM patients consumed carbohydrate and protein in the recommended proportions. Compliance with the recommended carbohydrate intake (50–65% of Total Energy Intake (TEI)) was 19.1%, 52.2% and 28.7% among the newly diagnosed, diagnosed for ≤ 5 years and diagnosed for > 5 years groups, respectively. Compliance with the recommended protein intake (10–20% of TEI) among these groups was 20.5%, 51.9% and 27.6%, respectively. Although the differences among groups were not significant, the majority of the T2DM patients consumed fat in amounts higher than the recommended proportion (> 30% of TEI).Conclusions: The pattern of dietary intake among T2DM patients in this study showed moderate consumption of carbohydrate and protein, coupled with high fat intake. Compliance with the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) was satisfactory for both carbohydrate and protein but not for fat. The pattern indicated a preference for fat rather than protein when carbohydrate intake was restricted. Further research regarding the specific types of carbohydrate, protein and fat consumed is necessary to understand the effect of these macronutrients on T2DM in Malaysia. The high proportion of newly diagnosed T2DM patients (20.1%) in this study indicates that there is a lack of awareness among the general population regarding T2DM.
Determinant factors influencing chronic complications of diabetes mellitus in Dessie Referral Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia: A Case-Control study
Authors: Aragaw Yematawork , Tadese Fentaw
Published: October 2023

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a group of common metabolic disorders that share the phenotype of hyperglcemia, and are caused by a complex interaction of genetics and environmental factors. Diabetes mellitus produces change in the blood vessels and therefore affects almost every part of the body.
Objective: The aim of the study was to identify the key factors influencing chronic complications of Diabetes Mellitus among diabetic patients at Dessie Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia, 2021.
Methods: An institution-based case control study conducted from February to June 2021 at Dessie Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital and the sample size of this study was 1:4 ratio of cases and controls with 68 cases and 272 controls and 5% non-response rate added and total sample size was 357. Both Cases and controls were selected from diabetic patients with and without chronic complications by consecutive sampling technique respectively. Data were collected through interviewer administered questionnaire and review of patient records. Binary logistic regression model was used to examine the association and all variables with p-value < 0.25 were included in the multivariable analysis. The magnitude of the association was measured by using an Odds Ratio with its 95%CI and p value<0.05. In the final model statistical significance declared at P- value < 0.05 and with 95% confidence interval of AOR.
Result: From total respondents, 68 were cases and 272 were controls, with an overall response rate of 95%. Of these respondents, 191(56.2%) males and 149 (43.8%) were females. This study found that being unmarried (AOR=4.5(2.1-9.5)), not having job (AOR=0.2(0.06-0.44)) alcohol drinking (AOR=3.8(1.9-7.6)), physical inactivity (AOR=3.1(1.5-6.4)), DM duration of above 10years (AOR=3.1(1.3-7.2)) and body mass index BMI ≥ 25kg/m2 (AOR=2.3(1.2-4.3)) were significantly associated with diabetes mellitus complications.
Conclusion: The study identified that diabetic patients were prone to chronic complications of DM due to specific independent factors like alcohol drinking, physical inactivity diabetes duration more than 10 years and overweight and obese. Our findings emphasize the need to consider these factors in preventing complications and developing targeted interventions.
Contact Stiffness Provides a Unified Frame of Reference for Understanding the Effects of Extracellular Matrix Mechanics on Cell Behaviors
Authors: Du Jing , Zhao Peng , Zhang Zhaoyi , Zheng Yang , Gao Yina , Cao Jialing , Jiang Mingwei , Jiang Yuxuan , Gao Li , Cao Yanping
Published: October 2023

In cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, contact mechanics theory indicates that local ECM deformation depends on both local and non-local forces imposed by cells. Here, we investigated the use of a comprehensive variable, contact stiffness (CS), to interpret cell-ECM interactions. CS defines the relationship between the local ECM deformation and the total force from a cell, integrating the effects of ECM stiffness, ECM thickness, cell adhesion area, etc. We showed that CS scaled well in the form of a power function with both YAP activity and the extent of differentiation in human mesenchymal stem cells. A CS-based motor clutch model was proposed which reveals the intrinsic cross-scale mechanism underlying ECM mechanosensing and suggests that various physical or chemical stimuli affects the reaction force from the ECM by altering the CS. The CS-based motor clutch model interprets the contributions of cell architecture evolution to stem cell differentiation and predicts the influence of a non-adjacent ECM layer on cell behaviours. These results demonstrate that the use of CS provides a quantitative predictive framework that allows researchers to address longstanding questions about the effects of cell-ECM interactions on cell behaviors.
Use of Organic Mulch to Cultivate Climate Resilient Cotton for a Sustainable Future
Authors: Hussain Iqbal , Saleem Shahid , Ullah Hafeez , Nasir Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Umer , Nisar Madiha , Sabir Saba , Sheer Abbas , Fatima Sidra , Khaliq Abdul , Masood Syed Ahtisham , Rauf Hafiz Abdul , Hussain Fida
Published: October 2023

Climate change's threat to global agriculture, especially cotton production, has led to the adoption of mulching as a mitigation strategy. Organic mulches offer environmentally friendly benefits for cotton in challenging environments. A study evaluated various organic mulches' effects on soil properties, cotton yield, and quality in a semi-arid region with limited water and high temperature fluctuations. Results showed that wheat straw, rice, and sugarcane leaves straw maintained moderate soil temperatures (27.3°C to 27.4°C), unlike the control (41.6°C). Soil pH remained stable (7.9 to 8.1), and organic mulches raised soil carbon (0.68% to 0.72% vs. 0.51% control). Nutrient availability increased, with higher nitrogen (0.045% to 0.049%), phosphorus (6.2 mg kg−1 to 6.5 mg kg−1), and potassium (89 mg kg−1 to 92 mg kg−1) compared to control (0.028%, 5.6 mg kg−1, and 71 mg kg−1). Organic matter content rose (0.77% to 0.81%) versus the control (0.51%). Weed density decreased (4 to 5 weeds m² vs. 23 weeds m² control) with mulches. Cotton height, bolls per plant, and open-boll weight increased with mulches, elevating cotton yield (2704 kg ha−1 to 2743 kg ha−1) over control (2117 kg ha−1), with consistent ginning outturn (36.62% to 37.2%). Cotton quality remained similar, while mulches reduced irrigation frequency (7 irrigations) and total amount (533 mm); control needed more (9 irrigations, 685 mm). Crop water use efficiency improved with mulches (0.50 to 0.51 kg m−3 vs. 0.30 kg m−3 control). This study highlights organic mulch's potential to enhance soil properties, nutrient availability, weed suppression, cotton yield, and water use efficiency.
Screening of potato cultivars to Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir-North East of Pakistan
Authors: Haneef Nayla , Arif Muhammad , Ali Asad , Tariq-Khan Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in the North-East of Pakistan is a leading seed potato producing area of the country. Potato cultivars that are grown commercially in AJK were screened against Tobacco rattle virus (TRV) under natural field conditions. The potato cultivars Bataina, Desiree, Fleminco, Kurado, Line A, Line B, Margrata, Pomola, Rodalph and Ronaldo were screened against TRV. Out of 10, four cultivars Bataina, Line B and Pomola and Ronaldo were found sensitive whereas cultivars Kurado, Margrata, Line A and Rodalph were moderately sensitive. Two cultivars Desiree and Fleminco were rated moderately insensitive, and none of the tested germplasm was completely insensitive to TRV-induced tuber necrosis. The effect of TRV on quantity (yield) and quality attributes of 10 potato cultivars were investigated in field experiments at district Poonch and Sudhnoti. Preliminary results revealed that plant height, number of stems per plant, numbers of tubers and weight of tubers were severely affected by soil-borne trichodorids transmitted TRV. It was concluded that both TRV and its vector were prevalent in major potato growing areas of the AJK and the existing potato germplasm has no resistance against the virus or its vector or both posing a serious threat to the potato production in the region. This is the first report of screening of potato germplasm against TRV in the region.
Experimental Evidence of a Diatropic Ring Current Occurring in the Metal Cluster [{(C5Me4H)2La}3Sn2Bi3]2–
Authors: Dehnen Stefanie , Lohse Yannick , Rienmueller Julia , Weinert Bastian , Mathew Neeshma , Günne Jörn Schmedt auf der , Weigend Florian , Franzke Yannick
Published: October 2023

Aromaticity, in its most widely known form, describes the phenomenon of cyclic delocalization of (4n+2)π-electrons in a planar molecule, which leads to energetic stabilization and is accompanied by a ring current flowing within the molecular plane upon exposing the molecule to a magnetic field.1–4 This concept, which has been known for organic molecules for a century, has only recently been discussed for purely metallic compounds. On the basis of quantum chemical calculations, σ-, π-, and also ϕ-aromatic compounds were identified.5–9 However, due to either such compounds’ insolubility or the lack of suitable NMR handles, this phenomenon has not yet been experimentally proven to date. Here we close this gap by providing the first experimental evidence of a ring current. Quantum chemical calculations on the novel Zintl cluster [{(C5Me4H)2La}3Sn2Bi3] 2− reveal a diatropic ring current, indicative of an aromatic behavior, caused by the interaction of the inner (Sn2Bi3)5– unit with the three [(C5Me4H)2La]+ complex fragments. It is flowing in the {Ln3Bi3} plane of this very uncommon cluster species, which is the first ternary Zintl cluster exhibiting f-block metal complex fragments on the cluster surface. Different from all studies so far, the ring current was proved experimentally by means of solid-state MAS NMR spectroscopy. In excellent agreement with the quantum chemical prediction, the 1 H chemical shifts of the protons at the (C5Me4H)− ligands that are closest to the metal cluster core are shifted to the low field. This finding was long sought for and rationalizes numerous hypotheses made for related clusters.
Hydrogeological assessment of coastal aquifers in areas of infiltration basins in southern Brazil
Authors: Berwanger Gabriela Gutterres , Reginato Pedro Antonio Roehe , Vieiro Antônio Pedro
Published: October 2023

The Litoral Norte of Rio Grande do Sul has seen a population increase over the years, specially suffering from the seasonality of the population in summertimes. As a consequence, there is a significant increase in the production of effluents. A technology applied in some municipalities on the Litoral Norte is the rapid infiltration basins. However, the effective implementation of the infiltration basins requires an in-depth understanding of the local hydrogeological conditions. This work aims to carry out the evaluation of the hydrogeological characteristics of free aquifers of the Coastal Aquifer System in two areas where sewage infiltration basins. The two areas were compared in order to verify differences and similarities of the hydrogeological responses between them. The data analyzed come from the database collected in situ from a Research Project developed by IGEO/IPH. Graphic analyses, statistics for geological, hydrogeological and hydrochemical evaluation were generated, finalizing the compilation of data with Conceptual Hydrogeological Models. It was observed the contamination of E. Coli, Nitrate, TDS and Sulfate according to CONAMA Resolution nº 396/2008, with alteration of Class of groundwater for E. Coli, Nitrate and TDS. It is concluded that, despite geographical differences, extension and size of sewage systems, factors such vadose zone thickness lower than 1.5 meters, low hydraulic gradient, low groundwater flow velocity, high soil permeability and small groundwater depth are factors in both areas that trigger and provide scenarios for groundwater contamination.