bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wetland Ecosystem: Plant Species Diversity, Services, Degradation Drivers, and Community Perception in Sinana District, Oromia Region, Southeast Ethiopia
Authors: Abdulmalik Kemalo , Ingale Lalit , Mulatu Kassahun
Published: September 2022

Wetlands are a vital source of biodiversity and ecosystem services. The study investigated the plant species diversity and assesses the perception of the area people on ecosystem services, and drivers of wetland degradation in Sinana district, Southeast Ethiopia. Vegetation inventory, household survey, focused group discussion, and key informant interviews were employed to gather information. A complete of 45 sample plots laid along transacts were inventoried. A plot size of 5m x 5m (25 m2) and 1m x 1m (1m2) nested within the major plot was used for shrubs and herbaceous respectively. A total of 137 households were surveyed to collect socioeconomic data. The study identified 20 plant species belonging to 14 families. Family Cyperaceae was dominant within the studied wetland. The Shannon diversity (H = 1.15) indicates the wetland has low vegetation diversity with uneven distribution (E = 0.385) of vegetation. A total of 20 ecosystem services thought to be under-provisioning, regulating, and cultural services were identified. According to plaintiffs, major provision services are grazing of livestock (77.4%), irrigation (76.6%), and harvesting of grass for fodder (68.6%). Important drivers of wetland degradation are shortage of cropland (70.8%), lack of awareness (69.3%), upland land degradation (65.7%), and increasing population (62%). The main driver, shortage of cropland was the key driver followed by a lack of awareness and upland land degradation. Therefore, the result heightened that the studied wetland is under serious degradation due to high human pressure associated with population growth and climate change. Thus, an appropriate wetland management strategy has to be designed.
Convective Heat and Mass Transfer Rate on 3D Williamson Nanofluid Flow via Linear Stretching Sheet with Thermal Radiation and Heat Absorption
Authors: Jagadeesh Shiva , Reddy M. Chenna Krishna
Published: September 2022

A mathematical analysis is communicated to the thermal radiative and heat absorption effects on 3D MHD Williamson nanoliquid motion via stretching sheet. The convective heat and mass boundary conditions are taken in sheet when liquid is motion. The suitable similarity transformations, non-dimensionless has been utilized for reduce basic governing PDE’s into coupled system of ODE’s, also compute numerical solutions with the help of 4th order R-K-F procedure with shooting technique in MATLAB programming. The various physical parameters analysed numerically on \(f'(\eta )\)(“Velocity profile”),\(\operatorname{Re} _{x}^{{ - 1/2}}N{u_x}\) (“Heat Transfer Rate”) and \(\operatorname{Re} _{x}^{{ - 1/2}}Sh\) (“Mass Transfer Rate”). We noticed that, the \({\operatorname{Re} _x}^{{1/2}}{C_{fx}}\)(“Skin friction coefficient along \({x^*}\)-axis”), \({\operatorname{Re} _x}^{{1/2}}{C_{fy}}\)(“Skin friction coefficient along \({y^*}\)-axis”) and also compared with precious results and present results for various conditions. Finally, in the present result is good invention of the previous results.
Carrier Phase Bias Correction for GNSS Space-Time Array Processing Using Time-Delay Data
Authors: Yuchen Xie , Chen Feiqiang , Huang Long , Liu Zhe , Wang Feixue
Published: September 2022

Due to low transmitting power, GNSS signals are so vulnerable that can be easily jammed by accidental or malicious interference. The space-time array processing (STAP) technology is the most effective way for anti-jamming, but the undesired bias would be introduced by STAP leading to distortion of signals. To solve this problem, traditional methods usually calibrate antennas together with applying distortionless algorithms. However, the calibrating is burdensome and cannot be batched, while most of distortionless algorithms require the information of signal direction, so these methods are not applicable in general array receivers. This paper proposes the time-delay carrier phase bias estimation (TD-CPBE) algorithm for STAP bias correction, which does not need antenna calibration or signal direction information. TD-CPBE locates changing moments of jamming, estimates the STAP introduced carrier phase bias by open-loop tracking of time-delay data, and corrects it by phase shift in tracking procedure. The simulation results show that TD-CPBE can effectively correct STAP carrier phase bias with residual error less than 3°, which is close to that of traditional distortionless algorithm, and the open-sky experiment further verifies the proposed algorithm. Since TD-CPBE requires much less prior information, it is a very effective and applicable method for STAP carrier phase bias correction.
Relationships Between Training Load, Maturity offset, Muscle Soreness and Fatigue Status in Elite-level Young Soccer Players: A Competition Season Study
Authors: Nobari Hadi , Eken Özgür , Kamiş Okan , Oliveira Rafael , Aquino Rodrigo
Published: September 2022

Background: This study aimed to compare training load parameters, delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and fatigue status between season periods (1st and 2ndhalves) in U14 soccer players and to analyze the relationships between training load parameters based on season periods (1st and 2nd half) with maturity offset, DOMS, and fatigue status in under-14 (U14) young elite soccer players. Additionally, it was intended to analyze if fatigue and DOMS could explain training load parameters across the season.
Methods: Twenty U14 players that competed in the national league participated in this study. The players were monitored during the whole season (26 weeks), and evaluations were carried out once the season containing the competitive matches had concluded. Anthropometric and body composition parameters, as well as the maturity status of each player, were utilized to compute each player's age at peak height velocity (PHV). Players reported their levels of DOMS and fatigue status using Hooper index questionnaires. Internal load was monitored using the rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Acute weekly internal load (AW), chronic weekly internal load (CW), acute: chronic workload ratio (ACWR), training monotony (TM), and training strain (TS) were also obtained.
Results: The main results showed that TM was higher in the 2ndhalf while CW, AW and DOMS were higher in the 1st half of the season. Moreover, there were a negative correlation between PHV and maturity; a positive correlation between PHV and TS (2nd half of the season); a positive correlation between maturity and ACWLR (1st half of the season); a negative correlation between maturity and TS (2ns half of the season); a negative correlation between TM-total and maturity.
Conclusion: In conclusion, variations in well-being status cannot be explained for variations in internal training loads in elite U14 soccer players. In addition, internal training load indices during the first half of the competitive season can promote a fundamental base to progression loads during the second period of the competitive season.
Scalable Image Compression Algorithms with Small and Fixed- Size Memory
Authors: Al-Janabi Ali Kadhim , Harbi Yahya J. , Hassan Mohammed Falih
Published: September 2022

The SPIHT algorithm is characterized by low computational complexity, good performance, and the production of an embedded bitstream that can be decoded at several bit-rates with image quality enhancement as more bits are received. However, it suffers from the enormous computer memory consumption due to utilizing linked lists of size of about 2–3 times the image size to save the coordinates of the image pixels and the generated sets. In additions, it does not exploit the multi-resolution feature of the wavelet transform to produce a resolution scalable bitstream by which the image can be decoded at numerous resolutions (sizes). The Single List SPIHT (SLS) algorithm resolved the high memory problem of SPIHT by using only one list of fixed size equals to just 1/4 the image size, and an average of 2.25 bits/pixel. This paper introduces two new algorithms that are based on SLS. The first algorithm modifies SLS to reduce its complexity and improve its performance. The second algorithm, which is the major contribution of the work, upgrades the modified SLS to produce a bitstream that is both quality and resolution scalable (highly scalable). As such, the algorithm is very suitable for the modern heterogeneous nature of the Internet users to satisfy their different capabilities and desires in terms of image quality and resolution.
Non-linear dynamics of system with combined rolling-sliding contact and clearance
Authors: Suryawanshi Sarabh , Sundar Sriram
Published: September 2022

Rolling-sliding contacts are found in a variety of systems, such as gears, drum brakes, and tire-pavements. Such systems inherently have multiple non-linearities such as kinematic, contact, and friction non-linearities. Further, most of these systems have clearance between components which causes excessive vibration and noise. The combination of clearance with other non-linearities makes the system dynamically interesting. It is important to understand the dynamic behaviour of such systems under various operating conditions. Hence, this article focuses on theoretically investigating the transient & steady-state responses of a
cam-follower system with rolling-sliding contact and clearance as an exemplary case. A contact mechanics-based model for the same has been developed for this purpose. The transient behaviour of the system is examined based on energy and time-varying frequency contents. The domain of attractors, frequency response plots, and phase portraits are deployed to analyze the effect of initial conditions and excitation speed on the steady-state behaviour, quantitatively and qualitatively. The steady-state solutions were classified into various branches based on periodicity and phase portraits. In addition, parametric analyses of the effects of loading, damping, and friction on the response have been conducted. Finally, the system is examined for start-up and shut-down characteristics with a constant rate of change in excitation frequency.
Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii in goats and sheep in the Khomas region of Namibia
Authors: Samkange Alaster , Chitanga Simbarashe , Tjipura-Zaire Georgina , Mutjavikua Vimanuka Gibs , Smith Jan Wilhelm , Neves Luis , Matjila Tshepo
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence levels of T. gondii in small ruminants (goats and sheep) and the associated risk factors in the Khomas region of Namibia. A total of 299 and 345 sheep and goat sera, respectively, were collected from 22 farming establishments. An IDEXX Toxotest Ab®, a commercial ELISA kit, was used to test for IgG antibodies to T.gondii. Overall, 3.68% (11/299) of the sheep sera were positive, and 61.54% (8/13) of the sheep flocks tested had at least one positive animal. Only 0.29% (1/345) of the goat sera were positive, and only one of the 19 goat flocks had at least one positive animal giving a herd-level prevalence of 5.26%. Sheep flocks had significantly greater animal-level and flock-level prevalences than goats (p < 0.05) and were 13.14 times more likely to be seropositive (OR = 13.14; CI 95%: 1.686-102.382) than goat flocks. A questionnaire was also administered to identify any putative risk factors associated with seropositive cases. Eight risk factors were evaluated, including the total number of goats, total number of sheep, farm size, average rainfall, level of Feliformia, history of abortions and the presence of domesticated cats and strays. Seropositivity to T. gondii was positively associated with the total number of sheep at the farming establishment, history of abortions and farm size (p < 0.05), but not goats. The study concluded that sheep were probably more susceptible to toxoplasmosis than goats and that the T. gondii seroprevalence level in the Khomas region was very low compared to other countries.
Sex-specific impacts of CACNB4 overexpression on dendritic spine density: relevance to schizophrenia
Authors: Sweet Robert , Parker Emily , Kindja Nathan , DeGiosio Rebecca , Salisbury Ryan , Krivinko Josh , Cheetham Claire , MacDonald Matthew
Published: September 2022

The voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC) subunit complex is comprised of the α1 subunit, the ion permeable channel, and three auxiliary subunits: β, α2δ and γ. β is the most extensively studied auxiliary subunit and is necessary for forward trafficking of the α1 subunit to the plasma membrane. VGCCs mediate voltage-dependent movement of calcium ions into neuronal cytoplasm, including at dendrites, where intracellular calcium spikes initiate signaling cascades that shape the structural plasticity of dendritic spines. Genetic studies strongly implicate calcium signaling dysfunction in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders including schizophrenia. Dendritic spine density is significantly decreased in schizophrenia in primary auditory cortex where it is driven by loss of small spines, and small spine loss associated with increased peptide levels of ALFDFLK found in the VGCC β subunit β4. Overexpessing CACNB4 selectively reduced small spine density in cortical neuron cultures. We set out to validate this observation in an intact mammalian system within the relevant neurodevelopmental context. We overexpressed CACNB4 in early development and assessed spine density and morphology in adult male and female mouse cortex. We characterized β1–4 protein levels and β4 protein-protein interactions. Overexpression selectively reduced small spine density in female mice. This effect was not dependent on estrous stage. Instead it corresponded to sex differences in the murine β4 interactome. The VGCC subunit β1b was significantly enriched in the β4 interactome of male relative to female mice, and thus may have served to mitigate VGCC overexpression-mediated spine loss in male mice.
Angle-Independent Colored Fabrics Coated with Washable Antifouling Amorphous Photonic Crystals
Authors: Fu Yin , Deng Lingbing , Li Xue , Tan Haiying , Shi Jiuxiao sun , Shi Qingwen , Zheng Guang , Wu Yuxin , Zhu Liangbo , Hossain Zaki
Published: September 2022

Photonic crystals (PCs) prepared from monodispersed nanoparticles into regular lattices has attract great attention in the past decades. PCs have showed great advantages in textiles comparing with the traditional dyes due to their bright color, not fade and environment friendly. However, textiles colored by PCs generally do not have antifouling properties and poor stability on the fabrics makes them not resistant to wash. In this work, monodispersed SiO2 and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with low glass transition temperature is chosen to make up the PCs coatings. To increase the stability of the PCs on the fabrics SiO2 nanoparticles was also modified by PDMS. Then the washability and antifouling properties of the PCs coated fabric was systematically studied. To further verify the availability of this method, fabrics with different chemical compositions, weaving modes, surface densities, and original color were used as the substrate to construct PCs-coatings. The influence of the fabrics structure on the structural color, reflectance spectrum, and stability of the coatings were further studied. This work will play as a guide for constructing washable and antifouling PCs on different fabric surfaces.
Comparison of hydromorphone and sufentanil in postoperative patient-controlled intravenous analgesia: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Ying , Liu Minjun , Chen Gang
Published: September 2022

Background
To compare the analgesic effect, PCA use and adverse events between sufentanil and hydromorphone used in patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA).
Methods
From June 2020 to May 2021, 1594 eligible postoperative patients who received PCIA were collected in this study. According to the type of opioid, patients were divided into two groups: sufentanil group and hydromorphone group. We used the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), the Functional Activity Scale (FAS) and the Level of Sedation (LOS) to evaluate the analgesic effects of the two groups of patients. We also collected the main data of PCA use, effective number of compressions and adverse reactions.
Results
At 24 hours (h) after sugery, the FAS score in the sufentanil group was higher than that in the hydromorphone group (P < 0.05). Compared with the sufentanil group, the PCA use, total number of compressions and effective number of consumptions were significantly decreased in the hydromorphone group during a 48h period (P < 0.05). There were no statistical differences in NRS score, LOS score and adverse events between two groups at 24h and 48h after surgery.
Conclusion
Compared with sufentanil, under the similar analgesic effect, hydromorphone provided lower PCA use and effective number of compressions in PCIA. Our findings may provide useful evidence for more future studies related to postoperative analgesia.
Occurrence and source analysis of heavy metals and dissolved organic matter in Nanyi Lake
Authors: Guolian Li , Xiao Li , Xiaoyan Jiang , Yu Zhang , Haibin Li , Jiamei Zhang , Gege Cai , Kun Luo , Fazhi Xie
Published: September 2022

Nanyi Lake is a tributary in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River and the largest freshwater lake in southern Anhui. Anthropogenic activities have significantly affected the lake with the rapid development of the surrounding economy in recent years. This study collected a total of 39×2 water samples of surface water and overlying water, detected the heavy metal content (As, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Zn, Fe, Cd), and analyzed the spectral characteristics of the dissolved organic matter (DOM). The results demonstrated that the content of heavy metals As, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Cd in the surface water and overlying water of Nanyi Lake was lower than the class III limits of the environmental quality standard for surface water (GB3838–2002). However, the heavy metals Fe, Mn, and Sb in the overlying and surface water have sites that exceed the limit of class III. The contour map of spatial distribution demonstrated different degrees of heavy metals (except Zn) enrichment near the Langchuan River in the East Lake District. Parallel factor analysis showed that the main components of DOM in Nanyi Lake were tryptophan-like, fulvic acid-like, and tyrosine-like, and the dissolved organic matter was primarily derived from autogenous endogenous sources. The principal component and correlation analysis showed that the heavy metals in Nanyi Lake were primarily derived from the production wastewater discharged by the surrounding industrial and mining enterprises through the rivers input, followed by the non-point source runoff input of the surrounding agricultural production and lake aquaculture.
Assembly of four indigenous chicken genomes reveal loss-of-function mutations as a critical driving force in chicken domestication and evolution
Authors: Su Zhengchang
Published: September 2022

Although multiple chicken (Gallus gallus) genomes have been assembled, no high-quality indigenous chicken genome is so far available, hampering the understanding of chicken evolution and domestication. Here, we assembled genomes of four indigenous chickens with distinct traits. With an N50 of 90.5~90.9 Mb, we achieved thus far the highest quality of chicken genome assembly. We identified a total of 1,420 new protein-coding genes in the four genomes, which are missing in the earlier annotations. Most of these new genes also are encoded and a few of them are pseudogenized in the earlier assembled chicken genomes. We recover 51 and 36 of the 274 and 174 previously presumed “missing” genes in birds and chickens, respectively. In contrary to the earlier conclusion, our results indicate that chickens have a similar number of protein-coding genes as other tetrapods do. Moreover, we identified a large number (385~684) of non-processed pseudogenes in each of the four indigenous chickens as well as in the earlier assemblies. These pseudogenes affect the chickens’ environment sensation, immunity and cell growth, while their occurring patterns reflect the phylogenetic relationships of the chickens. Therefore, in contrary to the earlier conclusion, loss-of-function mutations play important roles in chicken domestication and evolution.
Potential Antibacterial Co-culture Streptomyces flavalbus from Indonesian mangroves induces the production of pyocyanin by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Azhar Nuril , Yudiati Ervia
Published: September 2022

The potential Actinobacteria from the sediment and root Soneratia alba with co-culture as an antibacterial agent. 28 strains of Actinobacteria were found, composed of 17 strains from the sediment and 11 strains from the endophyte root of Sonneratia alba. Out of 580 fermentation, 540 fermenter co-cultures and 34 single fermenter cultures were assessed. Twenty-one pairs of co-culture were resulted positively against Staphylococcus aureus, and 16 pairs were positive against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The highest clearance zone against S. aureus was obtained from 10 (Actino)-Aspergillus fumigatus (dead body) extract (21.57 ± 0.90 mm) while against P. aeruginosa was resulted from co-culture strains 3/37 extract (19.18 ± 0.80 mm). Strain 41 was determined to be Streptomyces flavalbus (98.07%) with the accession number MZ540332 when co-cultured with Pseudomonas aeruginosa to produce pyocyanin. Other Actinobacteria (6, 10, and 37) strains were identified as Streptomyces albogriseolus (99.79%), Streptomyces labedae (99%), and Streptomyces rochei (93.52%). It is concluded that co-culture is a valuable strategy to develop the new Actinobacteria product as a powerful antibacterial agent.
Electrospun mats based on poly(vinyl fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) and hybrid carbon nanofillers as high performance ultrafiltration membranes
Authors: Scaffaro Roberto , Gammino Michele , Maio Andrea
Published: September 2022

Graphene oxide (GO) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were integrated at different mutual ratios into poly(vinyl fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-co-HFP) and electrospun to construct mats that were assessed for treating water contaminated by methylene blue (MB) via vacuum-assisted ultrafiltration. The materials were fully characterized from a morphological, physicochemical and mechanical point of view. The results revealed that such materials are suitable for being used as membranes for continuous processes, such as ultrafiltration. In particular, adding 2 wt.% of GO and CNTs gave the best performance, showing extremely high flux (800 L*m− 2*h− 1), excellent rejection (99%) and flux recovery ratios (93.3%), along with antifouling properties (irreversible and reversible fouling below 6% and 25%, respectively), and reusability. These outstanding outcomes were ascribed to the peculiar microstructure achieved, which endowed polymeric membranes with high roughness, wettability, and mechanical robustness.
The Effect of Empower program on Cognition and Quality of life of Vulnerable Elderly in the community, Nigeria
Authors: Farombi Temitope H. , Akinyemi Olajoke , Adelaja Damilola , Elugbadebo Olufisayo , Khan Hafiz
Published: September 2022

Background
The process of ageing involves a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. The rising proportion of older adults and increase in life expectancy have increased interest in maintaining and promoting cognitive health in later life. Participation in cognitively stimulating activities has been considered to maintain or strengthen cognitive skills, thereby reducing age-related cognitive decline. An important aspect of healthy ageing is the promotion of good mental health and well-being in later life.
Objective
The aim of the study was to examine the effect older adults’ empowerment on their cognition, mental and physical well-being in the community.
Methodology
: A sample of 20 purposively selected older adults in the community were empowered in their different vocation of choice. Data was collected via in-depth interview and observations. An interpretive-descriptive analysis was used to facilitate data analysis.
Results
The associated benefits of empowerment of older adults to improve their cognition emerged into five themes: quality of life; increased physical function; social interaction; socio-economic effect; and mental stability.
Conclusion
Empowerment-based programs should be provided for older people in the society for them to take advantage of the opportunities to feel safe, supported and optimistic about life and its possibilities.
Proton Beam Dosimetry Using Cerenkov Radiation- a Characterization of the Relationship Between Light Emission and Dose
Authors: Thompson Steven
Published: September 2022

Purpose To study the relationship between Cerenkov photon emission and absorbed dose in water, soft tissue, and cortical bone for a primary proton beam. A proportionality constant between the number of Cerenkov photons and the absorbed dose is produced, which will aid in future in vivo dosimetry work.
Materials and Methods An ab initio description of the relation between Cerenkov emission and absorbed dose is derived from the Frank-Tamm formula, the Bethe-Bloch equation, and the relation between energy fluence, mass collision stopping power, and dose. A proportionality constant is introduced to quantify the amount of Cerenkov radiation emission per Gray of absorbed dose. MCNP 6.2 is then used to obtain said proportionality constant for a spread-out Bragg peak used in proton therapy at the University of Florida Proton Therapy Institute. A correlation between proton energy and Cerenkov emission is also obtained for a water, soft tissue, and cortical bone phantom for proton energies of 10 – 150 MeV in 10 MeV increments. The central axis depth dose curve for a solid water phantom was also produced and compared to the central axis Cerenkov emission profile to ascertain the feasibility of using Cerenkov output as an estimator of the Bragg peak location.
Results The cortical bone was found to emit the most Cerenkov photons, followed by water and then soft tissue. The cortical bone produced the most Cerenkov photons due to its having the largest Sellmeier coefficients, and therefore largest refractive index. The differences between the water and soft tissue Cerenkov output is likely due to the larger electron density for water. The proportionality constant between Cerenkov photon emission and absorbed dose was found to be 6.99 x 10 8 photons/Gray, which comports well with other studies performed for photons. The Cerenkov output was also found to be a poor predictor of the Bragg peak location for a proton beam.
Conclusions: The proportionality constant, which relates the quantity of Cerenkov photon emission to absorbed dose, was found and determined to be of the same order of magnitude as that for a primary photon beam. The Cerenkov light output was found to be an inadequate predictor of the Bragg peak location, and therefore cannot be used for Bragg peak dosimetry, which is of preeminent importance in proton therapy.
Multi-centre discriminating concentration determination of broflanilide and potential for cross- resistance to other public health insecticides in Anopheles vector populations
Authors: Portwood Natalie M. , Mbewe Njelembo J. , Tungu Patrick K. , Shayo Magreth F. , Mlay George , Small Graham , Snetselaar Janneke , Kristan Mojca , Levy Prisca , Walker Thomas , Kirby Matthew J. , Kisinza William , Mosha Franklin W. , Rowland Mark , Messenger Louisa A.
Published: September 2022

Novel insecticides are urgently needed to control insecticide resistant populations of Anopheles malaria vectors. Broflanilide acts as a non-competitive antagonist of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor and has shown prolonged effectiveness as an indoor residual spraying (IRS) product (VECTRON™ T500) in experimental hut trials against pyrethroid-resistant vector populations. This multi-centre study expanded upon initial discriminating concentration testing of broflanilide, using six Anopheles insectary colonies (An. gambiae Kisumu KCMUCo, An. gambiae Kisumu NIMR, An. arabiensis KGB, An. arabiensis SENN, An. coluzzii N’Gousso and An. stephensi SK), representing major malaria vector species, to facilitate prospective susceptibility monitoring of this new insecticide; and investigated the potential for cross-resistance to broflanilide via the A296S mutation associated with dieldrin resistance (rdl). Across all vector species tested, the discriminating concentration for broflanilide ranged between LC99x2=1.126 - 54.00 μg/ml or LC95x3=0.7437 - 17.82 μg/ml. Lower concentrations of broflanilide were required to induce complete mortality of An. arabiensis SENN (dieldrin-resistant), compared to its susceptible comparator, An. arabiensis KGB, and there was no association between the presence of the rdlmechanism of resistance and survival in broflanilide bioassays, demonstrating a lack of cross-resistance to broflanilide. Study findings provide a benchmark for broflanilide susceptibility monitoring as part of ongoing VECTRON™ T500 community trials in Tanzania and Benin.
Toll-like receptor 4 signaling in neurons mediates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Liu Liang , Xu Tian-Ce , Zhao Zi-Ai , Zhang Nan-Nan , Li Jing , Chen Huisheng
Published: September 2022

In microglia, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is well known to contribute to neuroinflammatory responses following brain ischemia. Meanwhile, TLR4 is also expressed in neurons and can mediate the conduction of calcium (Ca2+) influx, but the mechanistic link between neuronal TLR4 signaling and brain ischemic injury is still poorly understood. Here, primary neuronal cell culture from TLR4 knockout mice and conditional knockout mice of TLR4 in glutamatergic neurons (TLR4cKO) were used to establish ischemic models in vitro and in vivo, respectively. We found that deleting TLR4 reduced the neuronal death and intracellular Ca2+increase induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD) or lipopolysaccharide treatment. Infarct volume and functional deficits also were alleviated in TLR4cKOmice following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Furthermore, TLR4 and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor subunit 2B (NMDAR2B) were colocalized in neurons. Deleting TLR4 in neurons rescued phosphorylates NMDAR2B up-regulation induced by ischemia via Src kinase in vitro and in vivo. Downstream signaling of NMDAR2B, the interaction of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) with postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95) also was disrupted in TLR4cKOmice following cerebral I/R. Taken together, we described a novel molecular neuronal pathway that TLR4 signal in neurons play a crucial role in the neuronal death, and provided a new target for neuroprotection after ischemic stroke.
Biochemical and structural basis for a flavin-monooxygenase catalyzing oxepinone formation and the complete biosynthesis of vibralactone
Authors: Feng Ke-Na , Zhang Yue , Yang Yanlong , Zhang Mingfang , Liu Jikai , Pan Lifeng , Zeng Ying
Published: September 2022

Oxepinone rings represent one of structurally unusual motifs of natural products and the biosynthesis of oxepinones is not fully understood. 1,5-seco-vibralactone (3) features an oxepinone motif and is a stable metabolite isolated from mycelial cultures of the mushroom Boreostereum vibrans. Prior studies confirmed the cyclization of 3 to form vibralactone (1) whose β-lactone-fused bicyclic core originates from 4-hydroxybenzoate (2), yet it is still unknown how 4-hydroxybenzoate is converted to 3 especially for the oxepinone ring construction in the biosynthesis of 1. In this study, using activity-guided fractionation together with proteomic analyses, we identify a NADPH/FAD-dependent monooxygenase VibO as the key enzyme performing a crucial ring-expansive oxygenation on the phenol ring to generate the oxepin-2-one structure. The crystal structure of VibO reveals that it forms a dimeric phenol hydroxylase-like architecture featured with a unique substrate-binding pocket adjacent to the bound FAD. Importantly, relevant biochemical and structural analyses support a Baeyer-Villiger oxidation mechanism adopted by VibO for catalyzing the oxepinone formation. Finally, the complete five-enzyme vibralactone pathway has been functionally reconstructed both in vitro and in Escherichia coli.
Prediction of Seasonal Snow Accumulation and Depletion by SARIMA Model using MODIS data
Authors: Kumar Mohit , Tiwari Reet Kamal , Kumar Kamal , Rautela Kuldeep Singh
Published: September 2022

Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and seasonal ARIMA (SARIMA) models are statistical techniques generally used in analyzing and forecasting seasonal, periodic cyclic, and non-stationary time series data. This paper presents the use of the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) method for developing a forecasting model that computes seasonal snow accumulation and depletion in the snow dominant area of the Beas river catchment. A time-series data of 8- days average snow covers acquired by Terra and Aqua sensors of MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer) optical satellite has been utilized (2003 – 2018). The Box – Jenkins methodology has been performed separately by splitting yearly data into two main seasons snow accumulation (Oct. – Feb.) and snow depletion (March – Sept.). Two SARIMA models, one for snow accumulation as (1,1,1) (0,1,3)19 and the second for snow depletion as (1,1,1) (1,1,2)27 were identified by visual inspection of ACF and PACF plots using data (2003 – 2015) and then accuracy assessment has been done using performance criterion like Akaike’s Information Criterion (AIC), MSE and RSS, etc. The performance of the resulting models was then validated using data (2016 - 2018) and the comparison of both the models showed a good agreement between the simulated and observed data with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.829 in snow accumulation and 0.893 in snow depletion. Finally, the study advised, that the identified models could be adequate to forecast the weekly snow accumulation and depletion at least for the next 3- years to predict hydraulic events such as flood forecasting, runoff estimation, and hydropower assessment.
Subclinical Choroidal Changes in Non-ocular Sarcoidosis
Authors: Han Ye Eun , Jo Jaehyuck , Kim Ho Cheol , Lee Junyeop
Published: September 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Incorporating autism symptoms into a transdiagnostic model of anxiety and depression symptoms results in an improved model and distinct factor structure for autistic youth
Authors: Rosen Tamara E. , Rodriguez-Seijas Craig , Gadow Kenneth D. , Lerner Matthew D.
Published: September 2022

The present study examined the extent to which autism symptoms relate to anxiety, depression, and AD + in autistic youth. Anxiety and depression symptoms were measured using a DSM rating scale. A CFA of the DSM model of anxiety and depression symptoms showed inadequate fit. An EFA of anxiety, depression symptoms supported a model with three factors: Anxiety and Depression, Social Anxiety, and Autism. A subset of autism symptoms loaded onto the anxiety and depression symptom factors. Both the DSM and the EFA model had inadequate fit indices, though the EFA showed better fit over the DSM model. In addition, previous research converges with the obtained EFA factors. Taken together, while further research is needed to determine how to best model these symptoms, the present findings can be used to inform future factor analytic studies and subsequent conceptualizations of anxiety, depression, and ASD symptoms.
Segmentation characteristics of deep, low-frequency tremors in Shikoku, Japan using machine learning approaches
Authors: Chen Kate , Chiu Hao-Yu , Obara Kazushige
Published: September 2022

Shikoku island, Japan lies in the western Nankai Trough and showcases along-strike segmentation of slow earthquake behavior. Whether the spatial variation of tremor behavior reflects the regional differences in structure and source properties and how much such differences can be recognized by the seismic signals themselves are two questions addressed in this paper. Taking advantage of advanced methods in recognizing and classifying signals using machine learning approaches, we attempt to answer them by conducting signal classification experiments in Shikoku. Based on the tremor catalog from 1 June 2014 to 31 March 2015, the tremors recorded in four different areas were treated as different classes and segmented into 60-s-long signals. The number of tremors in four different areas (A to D, from east to west) reached 15000, 31000, 10000, and 16000, respectively. To efficiently distinguish between tremors from different areas, we applied a k-nearest neighbor (k-NN) classifier with Fisher’s class separability criteria to select the optimal feature subset. The resulting classification performance reached more than 90% at all 12 stations. We further designed a triangle test to select the features that can better represent the differences in source properties between areas. We found that the most efficient features were associated with (1) the number of peaks in the temporal evolution of discrete Fourier transforms and (2) the energy distribution in the autocorrelation function (ACF). In order to match the difference in behavior revealed by the ACF, the size of the tremor zone, which mainly controls how long the seismic energy lasts in a tremor episode, was determined to be largest in Area B and smallest in Area C. The heterogeneity of the asperities in a tremor zone, which may control how spiky the tremor signals become over time, was determined to be strong in Areas B and C. Together with previously documented variations in slow earthquake behavior in the same area, we finally propose a conceptual model that provides a better understanding of the regional differences in the tremor sources of Shikoku.
An efficient UV-C device for decontaminating personal protective equipment (PPE) soiled with human Corona and Influenza virus: Solution for small-scale reuse
Authors: Varma Aparna , Bhowmick Sucharita , Khan Afruja , Yadav Sandeep , Gupta Gourav , Mallick Amirul Islam
Published: September 2022

In recent times, the world has witnessed a substantial surge in the use of non-recyclable items such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This has increased the environmental pollution levels and caused a huge toll on the global waste management system. Hence, an effective strategy to resolve the logistic difficulties in the demand-supply disparity and sustainable management of used PPE is the need of the hour. Through this work, we aim to develop a cost-effective, convenient, and effective strategy to safely reuse PPE, by engineering an in-house make UV-C-based Sanitization Device (UVSD) and systematically evaluating its potential to disinfect virus-contaminated PPE. To this end, we engineered a UV-C-based Sanitization Device (UVSD) and tested its capacity to disinfect PPE, experimentally soiled with human Influenza (A/PR/8/1934/H1N1) and human Coronavirus (HCoV-OC43) through in vitro cell culture assays. Briefly, percentage cell protection was determined by MTT assay, quantification of viral gene transcript numbers was calculated by RT-qPCR and viral titer was determined by viral plaque formation assay. Further, Indirect immunofluorescence and viral hemagglutination assays were also performed to visualize and quantify the residual viral titers after UV-C irradiation. Our results demonstrate that a 15 min exposure of the virus-contaminated PPE within the UVSD cabinet could effectively inactivate both the H1N1 and HCoV-OC43 virus, suggesting its use at organizational levels, including in healthcare and other occupational settings.
Exosomes Derived from Human Adipose Mesenchymal Stem Cells Ameliorate Hepatic Fibrosis by Regulating Choline Metabolism and PI3K/Akt/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Zhang Zilong , Shang Jin , Yang Qinyan , Dai Zonglin , Liang Yuxin , Lai Chunyou , Feng Tianhang , Zhong Deyuan , Zou Haibo , Ji Guibao , Sun Lelin , Su Yuhao , Yan Su , Chen Jie , Yao Yutong , Shi Ying , Huang Xiaolun
Published: September 2022

Liver fibrosis is a chronic liver disease with presence of the progressive wound healing response caused by liver injury. Currently, there are no approved therapies for liver fibrosis. Exosomes derived from human adipose mesenchymal stem cells (hADMSCs-Exo) have displayed a prominent therapeutic effect on liver diseases. However, few studies have evaluated therapeutic effect of hADMSCs-Exo in liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, and its precise mechanisms of action remain unclear. Herein, we investigated anti-fibrotic efficacy of hADMSCs-Exo in vitro and in vivo, and identified important metabolic changes and the detailed mechanism through transcriptomic and metabolomic profiling. We found hADMSCs-Exo could inhibit the proliferation of activated hepatic stellate cells through aggravating apoptosis and arresting G1 phase, effectively inhibiting the expression of profibrogenic proteins and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro. Moreover, it could significantly block collagen deposition and EMT process, improve liver function and reduce liver inflammation in liver cirrhosis mice model. The omics analysis revealed that the key mechanism of hADMSCs-Exo anti-hepatic fibrosis was the inhibition of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and affecting the changes of metabolites in lipid metabolism, and mainly regulating choline metabolism. CHPT1 activated by hADMSCs-Exo facilitated formation and maintenance of vesicular membranes. Thus, our study indicates that hADMSCs-Exo can attenuate hepatic stellate cell activation and suppress the progression of liver fibrosis, which holds the significant potential of hADMSCs-Exo for use as extracellular nanovesicles-based therapeutics in the treatment of liver fibrosis and possibly other intractable chronic liver diseases.
Dark-Current-Shunting Method to Realize Nearly-Zero Dark Current and Ultrahigh Signal-to-Noise Ratio Perovskite X-ray Detector and Image Array
Authors: Jin Peng , Tang Yingjie , Li Dingwei , Wang Yan , Ran Peng , Yuan Ye , Zhu Wenjuan , Kuang Cuifang , Liu Xu , Zhu Bowen , Yang Yang
Published: September 2022

Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) have revealed promising properties for X-ray detection. However, their dark currents are usually tens to hundreds of times larger than the typical technical requirements, becoming one of the biggest inhibitors for practical applications. Here, we designed a detector architecture with a unique dark-current-shunting (DCS) electrode to split the flow of dark and photocurrent. Theoretically, the dark current can be completely suppressed to 0 A, with a strong and more stable photocurrent. We experimentally fabricated the DCS X-ray detector, which exhibits a dark current of 51.1 fA at 5 V mm-1, reaching the lowest measurable current for a semiconductor analyzer. In spite of unoptimized perovskite thickness, our prototype DCS X-ray detector delivers a detection limit as low as 7.84 nGyair s-1 and a sensitivity of 1.3 × 104 μC Gyair-1 cm-2. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is even outperforming many previously reported state-of-the-art single-crystal-based X-ray detectors by two orders of magnitude. Finally, a DCS detector array (64 x 64 pixels, pixel pitch of ~300 μm) is realized, and the proof-of-concept X-ray imaging is successfully demonstrated. This work provides a brand-new device strategy to fundamentally reduce the dark current and massively enhance the SNR of X-ray detectors and photodetectors in general.
Controllability and positivity constraints in population dynamics with age, size structuring and diffusion
Authors: SIMPORE Yacouba , Biccari Umberto
Published: September 2022

In this article, we consider the infinite dimensional linear control system describing the population model structured by age, size, and spatial position. The control is localized in the space variable as well as with respect to the age and size. For each control support, we give an estimate of the time needed to control the system to zero. We prove the null controllability of the model, using a technique avoids the explicit use of parabolic carleman estimates. Indeed, the method combines final-state observability estimates with the use of characteristics and L∞ estimates of the associated semigroup.
Solution Casting of Cellulose Acetate films. Influence of Surface Substrate and Humidity on Wettability, Morphology and Optical Properties
Authors: Kramar Ana , Ortega Irene Rodríguez , González-Gaitano Gustavo , González-Benito Javier
Published: September 2022

Variations on the processing conditions of conventional methods for polymeric film preparation may allow tuning certain properties. In this work, different casting surfaces and humidity are presented as variables to consider for cellulose acetate (CA) film preparation using conventional solution casting method. Specifically, borosilicate glass (BS), soda-lime glass (SL) and Teflon (PTFE) dishes have been used for casting and their influence on various properties on CA films assessed. The surfaces of glass dishes are smooth, while PTFE surface has a pattern constituted by concentric channels of micro dimensions (as seen by optical microscope), which is adopted by cast films upon drying. The resulting patterned films are translucent while smooth surface films are transparent. Apart from different surface of the substrate for casting, humidity influence on CA films is evaluated in terms of conditions during the evaporation of solvent from solution (35 %, 55 % and 75 % humidity). The increase of the humidity produces smoother surfaces and higher film crystallinity as shown by XRD and DSC; however, wettability of films does not seem to be influenced by this variable. Due to the specific morphology of the patterned films, change in opacity upon wetting is detected, from translucent to transparent, while removal of water from the surface restores the translucency. This approach can be used for micropatterning of films that can serve as humidity sensor.
Dynamics of Pth Levels in the Development of Postoperative Hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Vilar José Alberto , Gómez Joaquín , Brabyn Philip , Barranquero Alberto González , Puerta Ana , Porrero Belén , Luengo Patricia , Cebrián José María
Published: September 2022

PURPOSE: Postoperative hypoparathyroidism is the most frequent complication after total thyroidectomy. The identification of preoperative predictors could be helpful to identify patients at risk. This study aimed to evaluate the potential influence of preoperative PTH levels and their perioperative dynamics as a predictor of transient, protracted and permanent postoperative hypoparathyroidism.
METHOD: A prospective, observational study that includes 100 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy.
RESULTS: Transient hypoparathyroidism was present in 42% of patients, 11% developed protracted hypoparathyroidism and 5% permanent hypoparathyroidism.
Patients who presented protracted and permanent hypoparathyroidism had higher preoperative PTH levels. The protracted and permanent hypoparathyroidism rate was higher in groups with greater preoperative PTH (0% group 1 vs. 5.7% group 2 vs. 21.6% group 3; p = 0,03) and (0 % vs. 8.3% vs. 20%; p = 0,442), respectively.
The rate of protracted and permanent hypoparathyroidism was higher in patients with PTH at 24 hours lower than 6.6 pg/mL and whose percentage of PTH decline was higher than 90%.
The rate of transient hypoparathyroidism was higher in patients who showed a PTH decline rate of more than 60%. The percentage of PTH variance one week after surgery in patients with permanent hypoparathyroidism was significantly lower.
CONCLUSIONS: Patients in groups with higher preoperative PTH levels showed higher rates of protracted and permanent hypoparathyroidism. PTH levels 24h after surgery lower than 6.6 pg/mL and a decline of more than 90% predict protracted and permanent hypoparathyroidism. The percentage of PTH increase a week after surgery could predict permanent hypoparathyroidism.