bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
WITHDRAWN: An Experimental Study on the Size Effect of Maximum Coarse Aggregate on the Inherent Anisotropy of Concrete's Compressive Strength
Authors: Jabbar Noor Fadhil , Akhaveissy Amir 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors while they make corrections to the work. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Assessment of feather degrading activity of thermophilic bacilli isolated from Armenian geothermal springs
Authors: Tadevosyan Mane , Margaryan Armine , Panosyan Hovik 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

The aim of this study was to isolate and characterize keratinolytic thermophilic aerobic bacilli from Armenian geothermal springs. In total 20 thermophilic aerobic bacilli strains have been isolated using chicken feather enrichment cultures. Among these, four strains affiliated as Bacillus licheniformis (95–97% similarity) and Bacillus borbori (> 99% similarity) demonstrated the capability to completely degrade chicken feathers at 55°C. The highest rate of feather hydrolyses in mono-species cultures was observed with 40 g L− 1 substrate. Notably, enhanced keratin weight loss (≥ 80%) was observed in dual co-cultures involving B. borbori M14, highlighting superior degradative potential of this strain. Keratinolytic enzyme production was dedected during the late exponential growth phase, reached its maximum activity (0.013 U mL− 1) during the stationary phase, suggesting growth-associated enzyme synthesis. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of the hydrolysis end products revealed that aspartic acid and isoleucine were the predominant amino acids, followed by leucine, phenylalanine, alanine, tyrosine and glutamic acid. These findings confirm that the newly isolated strains are promising sources of keratinolytic proteases, with potential applications in circular bioeconomy based processes.
High-frequency and high-amplitude sounds enhance bird deterrence: A case study of the Black- necked Crane
Authors: Dong Zi-Juan , Tan Kun , Ma Hong-Bin , Liu Chang-Jin , Li Na , Xiao Wen 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Under the global vision of sustainable development, the harmonious coexistence of humans and wildlife has become a crucial topic. Birds are closely related to human life, and bird deterrence technology is not only a necessary measure to maintain human health and economic security but also an important means to protect birds. Although sound-based bird deterrence has been widely used, the effects of different frequencies and combinations have not been systematically explored. The Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis), a nationally protected wildlife species, shares some of its habitats with human agricultural activities. This study designed sounds of various frequencies and combinations and conducted deterrence experiments on Black-necked Cranes at their wintering sites in northeastern Yunnan Province, exploring how sound frequency and combinations affect the behavioral responses, evasion distances, and escape speeds of the cranes. The results indicate that: (1) in terms of behavioral response intensity, evasion distance, and escape speed, sounds with high frequency and high variability significantly outperformed other sounds (n=479, p < 0.001); (2) there were no significant differences in the response of Black-necked Cranes of different flock types and age combinations to sounds. The study recommends using high-frequency, highly variable sounds for short-term control of Black-necked Cranes. Additionally, this research demonstrates that using either high frequency or high variability combinations can achieve efficient bird deterrence in the short term, and provides a scientific basis for developing and refining bird deterrence strategies for other bird species.
Experimental Study on Seepage Characteristics and Acoustic Emission Parameters of Coal Considering Hydro–Mechanical Coupling
Authors: Xu Wensong , Wang Fei , Zhao Guangming , Chen Yian , Meng Xiangrui , Liu Chongyan , Gu Qingheng , Wu Xinwen 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

To explore the peak strength, failure characteristics, seepage characteristics, and acoustic emission (AE) parameters of coal under various confining pressures, a ZST-1500 micro-computer controlled electro-hydraulic servo coal adaptive coupling experimental system was used to conduct hydro-mechanical coupling experimental of coal under various confining pressures. The results show that the stress-strain curve of coal under external load is divided into four stages: pore fracture compaction stage, linear elastic deformation stage, yield stage, and failure stage. The permeability presents three stages: slow decrease, rapid decrease, and rapid increase, and it presents a "V"-shaped trend. The peak strength of coal is positively correlated with adequate confining pressure. Confining pressure influences the macroscopic failure characteristics of coal, and the failure form gradually changes from multi-tensile crack shear failure to single-inclined plane shear failure. Confining pressure has little effect on permeability in pore and fracture compaction and linear elastic deformation stages of coal but significantly affects yield and failure. Different confining pressures would affect the relative value of permeability at each stage but would not affect the overall development trend of permeability curves. Increased confining pressure leads to decreased coal-based permeability strain-based loss rate (PSL) and weakened internal macroscopic deformation. The AE ringing count in the whole process of coal failure is strongly correlated with the stress-strain and permeability curves. According to the rise time/amplitude (RA)-average frequency (AF) distribution value, the fracture characteristics are mainly shear cracks under various confining pressures. Meanwhile, the proportion of shear cracks in coal gradually increases with the increase in confining pressure.
Utilisation of Maternal Health Services; A Mixed Methods Study of Women Attending Antenatal Care At Primary Health Centres In Abuja, FCT, Nigeria
Authors: Ezeike Azuka Chinweokwu , Dolapo Duro Clement , Ndie Elkenah Chubike 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Due to restricted access to health care, maternal mortality rates in developing nations are unacceptably high. Adequate health-care utilisation has been regarded as crucial in the drive to enhance maternal health indices.
Objective
This study aimed to determine the level of utilization of maternal health services among women attending Antenatal care at Primary Health Care Centres in Abuja FCT.
Methods
This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that employed a mixed methods approach. The quantitative approach used a semi-structured questionnaire to collect data, while the qualitative approach involved Focus Group Discussion. Participants were drawn from women receiving antenatal care at 12 different Primary Health Care Centres in Abuja. Quantitative data analysis was done using SPSS version 25. A p-value of less than 0.05 at the 95% confidence level was considered statistically significant.
Results
Of the 370 respondents, 365 had complete entries and were included in the final analysis. The majority of respondents (71.5%) were between the ages of 25 and 34, were in their third trimester of pregnancy (82.5%), had at least a secondary school education (58.4%), and were employed (66.7%) In the current pregnancy, up to 82.7% of women booked antenatal care in the second trimester. Antenatal care, facility-based delivery, and postnatal care coverage were 95.6%, 80%, and 28.2%, respectively, in their most recent pregnancy, and maternal educational level and employment status were found to be significantly associated with maternal health service utilization(p<0.05)
Conclusion
This study revealed optimal antenatal care attendance and facility-based delivery but a low rate of postnatal care utilisation, Maternal educational and employment status were significantly associated with maternal health care utilisation.
Uncovering a Universal Scaling for the Field Emission Characteristics from Metallic Nanotips in Nanogap
Authors: Meng Guodong , Li Yimeng , Xia Linghan , Li Nan , Tang Shilong , Ge Yunsong , Wang Jianyu , Xiao Bing , Cheng Yonghong , Ang Lay Kee Ricky 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Electron field emission is a key mechanism in nanoelectronics with nanogaps, offering advantages such as high electron velocity, fast switching speeds, operation at extreme temperatures, and exceptional radiation resilience. However, traditional field emission theory inadequately describes the electron emission and charge transport behaviors at the nanoscale, as it lacks consideration of geometric asymmetry effects, quantum effects and nanosize effects. Here, we carried out an in situ investigation on the intrinsic field emission characteristics of pure tungsten nanotips across vacuum nanogaps. For the first time, we revealed a universal scaling behaviour between field emission characteristics and the ratio R/d, and demonstrated that the nonlinear geometrical effect, rather than quantum effects, is predominant. We further proposed a modified Fowler-Nordheim (FN) equation considering geometric effects, where the electric field (F) in the FN equation is substituted by F=Vexp/(k×R) with k=f(R⁄d)=1.680× (R/d+0.468)(-1.066), which is valid for R/d = 0.04 to 48. The proposed FN equation for nanoscale field emission regime is validated by well matching with the reported experimental results. These findings, grounded in theoretical insights, are essential for refining the design and performance of nanoelectronics, driving advancements in next-generation technologies.
“Gorilla lip”: a sign on X-ray for diagnosis of talocalcaneal coalition in children, a clinical retrospective study
Authors: Mo Yueqiang , Li Haodong , Huang Peng , Jing Yanhui , Ning Bo , Xu Ping , Wang Dahui 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aims to introduces a novel morphological characteristic,"Gorilla lip" sign, and evaluates its diagnostic efficacy.
Methods
A retrospective review was conducted on anteroposterior ankle X-rays from patients diagnosed with talocalcaneal coalition at our institution from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2023, with confirmatory diagnoses obtained via CT or surgical intervention. X-rays with TCC were selected as the positive group, while the negative group comprised X-rays of children aged 9–18 years with no prior ankle surgery and CT scans ruling out TC. The“Gorilla lip” sign was characterized by any of the following findings on the sustentaculum tali : (1) osseous protuberance over half of the medial malleolus; (2) narrowed joint space and rough articular surface; (3) absent joint space. X-rays were randomly assorted and independently assessed on two occasions, two months apart, by a pediatric orthopedic resident and two pediatric orthopedic physicians with varying experience levels. Metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, and inter- and intraobserver reliability for"Gorilla lip" sign were determined.
Results
Initial sensitivity rates for"Gorilla lip" sign were 90.0%, 75.0%, and 80.0%, with second evaluations yielding 80.0%, 85.0%, and 95.0%. Specificity rates were 92.0%, 100%, and 92.0% initially, and 84.0%, 92.0%, and 92.0% subsequently. Positive likelihood ratios for the first evaluation were 11.25, infinite, and 10.00, and 5.00, 10.63, and 11.88 for the second. Negative likelihood ratios were 0.11, 0.25, 0.22 initially, and 0.24, 0.16, 0.05 subsequently. Interobserver reliability was good. Intraobserver reliability were good to excellent.
Conclusion
"Gorilla lip" sign exhibits high sensitivity and specificity, along with good to excellent inter- and intraobserver reliability, suggesting its potential as a significant radiographic marker for TCC diagnosis.
Effect of early use of innovative-generation Silicone-Hydrogel bandage contact lenses after SMILE on the ocular surface
Authors: Chen Xiaodan , Hu Shisi , Ding Hui , Meng Xuyun , Zhong Tan , Yang Zhenduo , Zhong Xingwu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective
Determine efficacy and safety of a silicone-hydrogel bandage contact lens (CL) after full femtosecond laser-assisted small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE). This paired-eye study involved 24 patients (48 eyes). One eye per patient used the CL after surgery; the other served as control. The CL was removed on postoperative day 1. Objective assessments were recorded before surgery and on day 1, week 1, and month 1. Day-1 comfort score was also recorded.
Results
Corneal fluorescein staining (CFS) on day 1 in the test and control groups was significantly higher than baseline (F = 32.74, P < 0.001 and F = 154.8, P < 0.001, respectively). CFS for the test group was significantly lower than control (t = 7.302, P < 0.001). Both tear film breakup time (TBUT) and Schirmer I test were shorter compared with baseline with statistically significant between-group differences (TBUT, t = 5.271, P < 0.001; Schirmer I test, t = 3.033, P < 0.001). Tear meniscus height was significantly lower than baseline in both groups (control, F = 22.21, P < 0.001; test, F = 26.27, P < 0.001); between-group differences were not statistically significant (t = 0.202, P > 0.05). The test group was statistically superior for comfort measures (t = 4.099, P < 0.001). Early use of a novel bandage CL after SMILE improved subjective discomfort symptoms, relieved early ocular surface injury and promoted stability of the tear film.
Dongxiang wild rice rhizomicrobiomes inhibit photosynthetic methanogenic microbes: a potential solution for reducing methane emissions in northeastern China
Authors: Pang Yingnan , Chang Jingjing , Yao Zongmu , Wang Changji , Ye Libo , Zhang Jiejing , Zhang Jianfeng , Tian Chunjie 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture is a crucial aspect of global environmental governance. In particular, reducing methane (CH4) emissions from rice fields is a top priority for ensuring the sustainable development of agricultural ecosystems. Methane emissions from rice paddies reflect the balance between methane production and degradation, and wild rice may be an advantageous resource for modulating both processes.
Results
In this study, we used shotgun metagenomic sequencing, 16S rRNA analysis, and gas chromatographic determination of methane to demonstrate that methane emissions from rice paddies are significantly influenced by soil type and domestication processes. The abundances of genes related to methane metabolism were significantly lower in the wild rice rhizosphere than in the cultivated rice rhizosphere under both controlled and field conditions. Notably, we found that photoautotrophic microorganisms contributed significantly to methane production in in rice paddies. Wild rice rhizosphere suspension validation tests confirmed that the rich and diverse microbial resources in the wild rice rhizosphere effectively inhibited photoautotrophic methanogens to reduce methane emissions from cultivated rice.
Conclusions
On the basis of our results, we propose that harnessing the rhizosphere microbial strain resources of wild rice is a novel and feasible strategy for reducing global GHG emissions in black soil rice agriculture. This approach could make a significant contribution towards achieving the "carbon peak and carbon neutrality" goals.
Trans-spinal focused ultrasound reduces mechanical sensitivity and suppresses activation of spinal microglia in rats with chronic constriction injury
Authors: Song Weiguo , Giannotti Alice , Bekiaridou Alexandra , Bloom Ona , Zanos Stavros 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Trans-spinal focused ultrasound (tsFUS) is a relatively new noninvasive neuromodulation approach that modulates spinal reflexes in healthy rats. Here, we tested the analgesic efficacy of tsFUS in rats with chronic constriction injury (CCI). Male rats were subjected to CCI of the left sciatic nerve, and a day later were treated with either sham stimulation or tsFUS (2KHz pulse repetition frequency, targeting spinal level L5, 3 minutes per day) for 3 days. We found that CCI increases sensitivity to mechanical stimuli, indicated by a reduced von Frey Threshold (vFT). Compared to sham stimulation, tsFUS resulted increased vFT at 4 to 23 days after CCI, compared to sham stimulation, indicating reduced sensitivity to mechanical stimuli in a sustained manner. In animals that received tsFUS, we found reduced counts of spinal microglia and reduced counts of microglia expressing CD86, a marker for pro-inflammatory microglial activation, at the side ipsilateral to injury. Our study provides evidence that tsFUS may be effective in mitigating early development of pain after neural injury, in part by suppressing the activation of pro-inflammatory phenotypes of spinal microglia.
Bilateral Single-System Ectopic Ureters: A Case Report
Authors: Gebreziher Yirgalem Teklebirhan , Zeru Enderta Abrha , Negash Hadush Tesfay , Gebre Berihu Tadishu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
While 20% of ectopic ureters are bilateral, bilateral single-system ectopic ureters constitute a rare occurrence. It presents as continuous incontinence in females due to the ectopic ureteral openings being located outside the bladder.
Case presentation:
A 14-year-old female adolescent presented with lifelong urinary incontinence and recurrent urinary tract infections. Physical examination was unremarkable, with no signs of neurologic disorder. Abdominal ultrasound imaging showed bilateral moderate hydroureteronephrosis. The voiding cystourethrogram showed a bladder capacity of 150 ml and a grade 4 vesicoureteral reflux in the left ureter. CT urography revealed a low-capacity bladder with bilateral ectopic ureteral openings and bilateral moderate hydroureteronephrosis. Cystoscopic examination revealed a wide urethra, with both ureteric orifices located within the urethra and an indistinct trigone. Bilateral Politano-Leadbetter ureteric reimplantation was then performed, which resulted in satisfactory continence during follow-up.
Conclusion
In cases of bilateral single-system ectopic ureters, modern imaging modalities can clearly delineate the anatomy and guide appropriate surgical planning. Ureteral reimplantation can avoid the need for major reconstructive surgery, enabling patients to achieve normal bladder function and satisfactory continence.
Surgical Management and Outcomes of Corrosive Esophageal Injury at Late Presentations at a Tertiary Center in Sana’a City, Yemen
Authors: Al-Shehari Mohammed Mohammed , Obadiel Yasser Abdurabo , Al-Helali Ahmed Hamaood , Jowah Haitham Mohammed 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Corrosive esophageal injuries present a significant clinical challenge with various etiologies and outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the epidemiological factors, causative agents, and management outcomes of patients presenting with corrosive esophageal injuries at Al-Thawra General Hospital in Sana’a City, Yemen.
Patients and methods:
A prospective review was conducted on twenty-two cases of corrosive esophageal injury. The study included analyses of patient demographics, causative agents, types of injuries, management strategies, and outcomes. The data were compared with literature to contextualize the findings.
Results
The mean age of the patients was 24 years, with a predominant incidence among those under 20 years. Accidental ingestion accounted for 91% of the cases, whereas 9% were due to suicide attempts. Acidic agents caused two-thirds of the injuries, with alkaline agents responsible for the remaining one-third. Diagnostic endoscopy revealed that 56% of patients had Grade 2B injuries. Stricture formation occurred in 35% of the cases and was associated primarily with acidic substances. Postoperative complications were observed in 47% of the patients, with restenosis, arrhythmia, and anastomotic stenosis being the most common. The mortality rate was 13%, which was significantly higher among patients with suicidal intent. The average hospital stay was 6.30 days, with longer durations noted in patients exposed to alkaline agents and those requiring colonic conduit surgeries.
Conclusion
Corrosive esophageal injuries, predominantly accidental ingestion, lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Acidic agents are more frequently involved and are associated with higher rates of complications such as strictures. Early endoscopic evaluation and tailored surgical management are crucial for reducing complications and improving outcomes. Further efforts are needed to prevent these injuries, particularly in children and those with suicidal tendencies.
Germination response and seedling growth performance of Adansonia digitata L. tree seeds under innocuous pre-treatment techniques
Authors: Mengistu Mitku Alemu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Adansonia digitata is a multipurpose and highly valued tree species, which produces wild edible fruits. Its seeds are characterized by hard seed coat that impedes water and oxygen penetration into the seed, and thus inhibits seed germination. This investigation was aimed to evaluate the effects of various seed pre-treatment methods on seed germination response and seedling development of the species. The experiment was conducted in greenhouse and used a completely randomized design. Seven treatments (Trt1: Scarification, Trt2: Soaking in cold water for 24 hours, Trt3: Soaking in cold water for 24 hours and scarification, Trt4: Soaking in hot water for 1 hour, Trt5: Soaking in hot water for 1 hour and soaking in cold water for 24 hours, Trt6: scarification and soaking in hot water for 1 hour, Trt7: Soaking in cold water, scarification then soaking in hot water) and control (without any pre-treatment). Data on seed germination and seedling growth parameters were recorded. Germination percentage, germination velocity, and mean germination rate of seeds were calculated. The study showed that seed germination and seedling growth parameters significantly varied among the treatments. The highest seed germination (complete germination within a week) and highest seed germination velocity (3 days) were recorded in Trt7 (Soaking in cold water, scarification then soaking in hot water) followed by Trt6 (96.67% germination in three weeks), Trt5 (93.33%), and Trt4 (86.67%). The lowest germination percentage (70% in 11 weeks) and lowest germination value (40 days) were recorded in seeds without any treatment. It was observed that seedlings with rapid seed germination resulted in robust and vigorous seedlings that attained approximately 15 cm in height after 11 weeks. We recommend soaking in cold water, scarification then soaking in hot water to break seed dormancy, promote seed germination, and produce vigorous seedlings of A. digitata.