bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Research on the deterioration mechanism and "reinforcement of the same material" of wool cultural relics unearthed in the Astana tomb group in Xinjiang
Authors: Xue Tao , Guo Wei , Zhang Luping , Jiang Peidong , Meng Jiaguang , Kan Pei 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Taking the textile cultural relics unearthed from the Astana tomb group in Xinjiang as the research object, the combination of NaClO and Ca(ClO)2 is used to simulate the aging environment of cultural relics, the deterioration process and mechanism of wool cultural relics are discussed, and the replacement samples of cultural relics are produced; the keratin extracted from waste blended fabric is used as the reinforcement of the cultural relics. Material, simulated wool aging samples use the "same material reinforcement method" to carry out the reinforcement experiment of glutaraldehyde and ethylene glycol glyceryl ether (EGDE) to compare the reinforcement effect of keratin/glutaraldehyde and keratin/EGDE. The results show that the dissolution rate and keratin extraction rate of wool in the process of optimizing the recovery of keratin in the mixed acid system are about 90% and 50%; the aging conditions of NaClO and Ca(ClO)2 mixed solution are 3%, and the aging cycle is 28 days. Under this condition, the degree of damage to wool is relatively close to Cultural samples; Compared with the reinforcement effects of keratin/glutaraldehyde and keratin/EGDE, the fabric fracture stress and strain has increased by 2.66 times, 3.81 times, 2.40 times and 3.10 times respectively. The effect of the keratin/glutaraldehyde reinforcement system is better than that of the keratin/EGDE reinforcement system.
Nitrogen regulates pollen tube elongation under low-light stress during anthesis to prevent spikelet abortion in rice
Authors: Zhong Yichang , Li Hubo , Li Feifei , Fu Guanfu , Deng Qiao , Zeng Dali , Huang Linzhou 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Low-light has emerged as a primary environmental stressor limiting rice production, yet there is currently limited research on relevant regulatory measures. In this study, a low-light-intolerant RGA1 gene mutant (d1), and its wild type (Zhonghua 11, WT), along with an overexpressed line (OE-1), were used to investigate the effects of nitrogen levels on rice yield formation under low-light during anthesis, using field shading treatment. Our results indicated that low-light significantly decreased spikelet fertility, with hindered pollen tube elongation identified as a key factor leading to spikelet abortion. Under low-light conditions, the medium nitrogen treatment (160 kg N·ha− 1, MN) notably increased the ratio of pollen tube entry into the ovule and spikelet fertility compared to the low nitrogen treatment (60 kg N·ha− 1, LN), while the high nitrogen treatment (260 kg N·ha− 1, HN) decreased spikelet fertility and yield in WT and OE-1 plants. For the d1 mutant, except for the LN treatment, other nitrogen treatments had minimal effect on spikelet fertility and yield. Furthermore, compared to the LN treatment, the activities of invertase and sucrose synthase, as well as the content of ATP, and ATPase in the spikelets of WT and OE-1 significantly increased when treated with MN under low-light conditions. In conclusion, moderately increasing nitrogen levels can enhance sucrose metabolism, maintain energy balance, and prevent low-light stress from impeding pollen tube elongation and spikelet fertility.
Description of the Mitochondrial Genomes of Sichuan Tetrastes sewerzowi and Phylogenetic Relationship (Galliformes: Tetraonidae)
Authors: Luo Xuequn , Zhou Hang , Li Ao , Du Shizhang , Hua Donglai , Zhang Wenping , Huang Zhaoxia 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The Tetrastes sewerzowi is a member of the Tetraonidae and is native to China. Research has mainly focused on the Gansu Province, with limited studies in other regions. To evaluate genetic differences between the Tetrastes sewerzowi in the Gansu and Sichuan, the mitochondrial genomes of the Tetrastes sewerzowi from the Wanglang Reserve in the Sichuan Province were sequenced. The total length of the newly sequenced mitochondrial genome is 16,665 base pairs (bp), which contains 37 genes and a control region with a conserved bird similarity box. Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) methods were used for phylogenetic analyses using complete mitochondrial genome data from 13 bird species in the Tetraonidae, resulting in strong topologies. This study demonstrated genetic conservation between the Tetrastes sewerzowi in Gansu and Sichuan, with the Tetrastes bonasia identified as the sister group of the Tetrastes sewerzowi, consistent with previous research and indicating a close relationship between the two bird species.
Experimental study on micro-strain characteristics and damage mechanism of fractured red sandstone subjected to freeze-thaw
Authors: Ren Qingyang , Li Haonan , Li Zhongyao , Chen Yue , Xiao Songqiang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Crack size affects the freeze-thaw(F-T) degradation process of rocks. This paper investigates the effects of through-crack size and F-T cycles on the deformation and failure characteristics of red sandstone. The F-T micro-strain evolution law, nonlinear pore compaction characteristics, and the strength deterioration law of red sandstone with different cracks under the influence of F-T are discussed. The results show that during the early stages of freezing and thawing, all sandstones develop significant frost heave strain. As the number of F-T cycles increases, the residual frost heave strain of intact red sandstones and samples with small-sized cracks(Type I) gradually decreases, the compaction strain decreases, and the proportion of the compaction stage increases. In contrast, the red sandstone with large cracks (Type II) has the opposite damage characteristics. The compaction stress and uniaxial compressive strength of all samples gradually decrease. As the crack length increases from 10mm to 15mm, the influence of prefabricated cracks on the mechanical properties of red sandstone exceeds the influence of F-T damage. After 20 F-T cycles, radial cracks appear on the long side of the Type II crack under axial loading, and the strength of the fractured section is severely reduced.
Microplastics in Plastic-Mulched Sandy Soil: Abundance, Characterization, Heavy Metal Accumulation and Risks in Agricultural Fields
Authors: Kumari Akanksha , Chakraborty Sukalyan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) significantly impact soil quality and crop health, especially in agricultural systems using plastic mulch and sewage sludge. Detailed studies on their diversity, composition and association with co-contaminants are essential. Therefore, the present study attempted to investigate MP abundance across ten agricultural field soils compared to a control site. Initially, soil physicochemical parameters were analyzed using standard protocols. Subsequently, soil samples underwent H2O2 digestion and density separation for MP enumeration and morphological characterization, complemented by ATR-FTIR polymer analysis. Results indicated higher MP concentrations in mulched fields (1412 ± 529 particles) compared to the control (72 ± 41 particles). MPs predominantly comprised fibers, films, fragments, and pellets. Pearson’s correlation revealed positive associations with soil clay, moisture, and organic matter. ANOVA showed significant variations in MP counts among sites and particle types. FTIR analysis identified eight polymer types, with the microplastic Pollution Load Index ranging from 1.97 to 4.43, suggesting increasing contamination. Moreover, MP counts correlated positively with years of mulching (r2 = 0.46 to 0.94). Heavy metal analysis indicated significant accumulation (Fe > Mg > Ni > Cr > Mn > Zn > Cu > Co > Pb > As > Cd) within MP particles. These findings highlight the dual threat of plastic mulching and sewage sludge on agricultural soil is leading to accumulation of diverse MPs in agricultural soil and their interaction with trace elements can pose considerable risks to soil quality, plant productivity, and environmental health.
Damping of timber constructions in earthquake situation:
materials, connections, and structures
Authors: Maître Kylian Jean-Maurice , Lestuzzi Pierino , Geiser Martin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Vibration damping is a complex physical phenomenon involving the dissipation of energy and is an essential dynamic property for ensuring the serviceability in wind conditions and resistance of structures to earthquakes. This study presents an evaluation of the damping of timber structures in earthquake situation. It is based on 798 free vibration tests of material, connection, and structure tests. The evaluation of damped free oscillations by fitting a theoretical viscous damping curve identifies the key variables that define damping. The results suggest that timber structures offer greater damping during an earthquake than reinforced concrete or steel. This is due to the connections, which have increased interfacial friction, thanks to a high coefficient of friction and a large pressing force of the connector. In addition, this study also highlights the affinity between the deformation part of the structural elements and their influence on global damping. Based on current knowledge and the results obtained, it offers higher damping values than those in current standards, depending on the type of structure. Finally, this work highlights the importance of further expanding the database of experimental damping measurements to develop a robust calculation model that also considers the contribution of non-structural elements and finishes.
Mass transfer features of the rotation disc column with the asymmetric configuration in relation to lanthanum metal removal from dilute solutions in the extraction and stripping stages
Authors: Asadollahzadeh Mehdi , Torkaman Rezvan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

One of the significant characteristics in the process of extracting rare earth metals is the selection of the appropriate equipment so that it can reach the maximum extraction efficiency in a short time with the fewer number of stages. In the framework of achieving knowledge of rare-earth metals, removal of lanthanum ions in two stages of extraction and stripping was investigated with a rotation disc column with asymmetric configuration. The target parameter in this study was the coefficient of mass transfer in the aqueous phase. The optimization of its values and the identification of effective parameters on it was performed by using the central composite design approach. The results of the studies described that the mass transfer of La(III) ions depends on the process stage. The amount of metal transfer in the stripping stage with the complex breakage is more accessible than in the extraction stage. The impacts and interaction of operational parameters appear to increase or decrease mass transfer, but agitation speed is a significant parameter that exerts more control and can improve the performance of the column to an optimal level. The results indicated the applicability of the column with high desirability in the removal of rare earth elements.
Impact of Pepsin on Transcriptional Alteration of Helicobacter pylori Virulence Genes
Authors: Alebouyeh Masoud , Ebrahimi Amir , Bakhtiari Ronak , Mirbagheri Seyedeh Zohre , Ghanbarian Marziyeh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The Helicobacter pylori pathogenicity depends on the virulence factors and their interplay with the host. Gastric juice contains proteolytic enzymes; however, there is a lack of data to indicate their possible interaction with H. pylori virulence genes. To investigate the effect of pepsin on the pathogenicity of H. pylori, clinical isolates of H. pylori were provided and strains with ureB+/flaA+/cagA+ genotype were selected for the in vitro transcriptional analysis. Relative change in transcription of ureB, flaA and cagA genes was measured after treatment with pepsin at 0.5 and 1 mg/mL concentration for 30 and 90 min using real-time PCR. A diversity in the H. pylori isolates was detected for the carriage of ureB (100%), flaA (94.1%), and cagA (82.3%) genes. The transcriptional analysis showed down-regulation of ureB and flaA (0.2 to 0.008-fold) and up-regulation of cagA (3 to 9-fold) after the treatment. No significant diversity in transcriptional levels was detected in response to different concentrations of pepsin. In conclusion, our study confirmed the effect of pepsin at its normal concentration in gastric juice on the transcription of H. pylori virulence genes. Further studies are needed to show possible outcomes of this interplay on the pathogenesis.
Morphometric Analysis using ALOS-PALSAR radar dataset DEM and Geospatial Techniques of upper Kiul River Basin, Bihar India
Authors: Kumar Tarun , Singh Sunita 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Morphometric analysis is like a tool that helps us understand any area's geological and hydrological characteristics. With its assistance, we can make proper use of the natural resources of that drainage basin. The upper Kiul River basin lies between latitudes 24033’40’’N & 24052’55’’N & longitudes 85056’49’’E & 86013’55’’E. This is an important river from the southern side of the Ganga River. The study endeavours to explore the drainage basin (i.e. the Upper Kiul River basin) through different morphometric parameters. To achieve this objective, we utilized the “Advanced Land Observing Satellite-Phased Array Type L-Band Synthetic Aperture Radar (ALOS-PALSAR)” “Digital elevation model”(DEM) with a spatial resolution of 12.5 meters in ArcGIS 10.3. The basin's “linear, areal, and relief” characteristics are considered. The basin's linear parameter was studied, indicating that the Kiul River basin is of the 6th order, with 78% of its stream being constituted by 1st and 2nd-order segments of the river. The mean bifurcation ratio falls within the range of 2-5.6, suggesting that the area is comprised mainly of highly terrain vulnerable to flooding. The “areal aspect” of the basin, such as the “circulatory ratio, elongation ratio and form factor,” indicates that the basin is oval, suggesting a moderate level of flash flooding risk and providing data for several potential opportunities in agriculture and dam construction. From the relief aspect parameters, it is evident that the infiltration rate and groundwater status are low in the upper part, but they increase as we move downward. The decision-makers can use the study's findings for adequate soil & water resource management.
Investigating Assumptions in Motivational Interviewing among General Practitioners: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Aujoulat Paul , Manac’h Amélie , Reste Catherine , Goff Delphine Le , Reste Jean Yves Le , Barais Marie 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Unhealthy behaviors contributing to cardiovascular issues, diabetes, strokes, and cancer, pose significant health risks. General practitioners (GPs) are pivotal in guiding behavior change, with Motivational Interviewing (MI) showing promise. MI, developed by William Miller and Stephen Rollnick, aims to enhance motivation for change. Despite its efficacy in areas like smoking cessation and weight loss, its uptake among French GPs remains uncertain.
Methods
This qualitative study was to explore GPs' understanding of MI, its perceived benefits and the obstacles to its implementation in western Brittany (Finistère). Semi-structured interviews, conducted by two female trainees, explored MI knowledge, benefits, and barriers with an analysis inspired by grounded theory.
Results
Between November 2020 and May 2021, 11 semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs. They acknowledged MI's potential to enhance patient adherence and engagement, emphasizing intrinsic motivation and change orientation Common motivational strategies included open-ended questions and positive reinforcement. While they recognized MI's benefits in improving patient engagement, especially for the elderly and hesitant participants, they cited barriers such as time constraints, limited training availability, and habitual resistance.
Conclusion
GPs in Finistère exhibit varied understanding of MI but recognize its potential benefits, especially in preventive medicine. Challenges such as time constraints and training availability hinder its adoption. However, GPs appreciate MI's role in patient-centered care and behavior change facilitation. Addressing these barriers through improved training accessibility and integration strategies could enhance MI utilization, fostering more effective patient support and health outcomes in primary care settings.
Trial registration:
not applicable.
Fertility awareness, perceived factors and approaches to improve contraceptive uptake among sexually active adolescent girls in Phalombe, Malawi: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Hajison Precious , Mpachika-Mfipa Felistas , Pitso Lerato , Tshotetsi Lumbani , Chimatiro Chancy Skenard 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Unintended pregnancies are associated with a range of adverse health outcomes, particularly for adolescents. This study investigated adolescent girls’ level of awareness regarding their fertility. We also investigated the perceived factors and approaches to improving contraceptive uptake among adolescent girls in the Phalombe district of Malawi.
Methods
This mixed-methods study investigated factors and approaches to improve contraceptive uptake. The quantitative component used structured questionnaires to collect data from school-going adolescent girls in three traditional authorities in the Phalombe district, Malawi. The information was triangulated with qualitative data collected through focus group discussions with adolescent girls in the same setting.
Results
Structural barriers such as the desire for contraceptive service delivery by peers significantly increased the odds of contraceptive uptake (AOR: 4.80, 95% CI: 1.31–17.32, P value: 0.008) over those who did not want peers to deliver contraceptives. Additionally, Catholic (AOR: 14.01, 95% CI: 2.50–78.47, P = 0.003) and other Christian faiths (AOR: 5.85, 95% CI: 1.20–28.25, P = 0.029) were more likely to use contraceptives than Muslim girls. Focus group discussions revealed that contraceptives should be available in schools in the same way that iron tablets are provided. Additionally, participants indicated that community midwives and health surveillance assistants should provide contraceptives within the communities to reduce distance. Most adolescent girls had little knowledge about their fertility period and did not know that their fertile period was halfway through their menstrual cycle.
Conclusion
Adolescent girls in the Phalombe district seemingly have low awareness and knowledge of their fertility, which may lead to unintended pregnancies. Structural barriers included non-youth-friendly contraceptive services. Adolescent girls are unable to access modern contraceptives, and there is a need for youth-friendly structures when delivering contraceptive services.
Psychotropic medications: a descriptive study of prescription trends in Tabriz, Iran, 2021-2022
Authors: Farahbakhsh Mostafa , Fakhari Ali , Azimian Ali , Khameneh Amin , Matinkia Mahsa , Aghajani Ehsan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression, significantly impacted global populations in 2019 and 2020, with COVID-19 causing a surge in prevalence. They affect 13.4% of the people worldwide, and 21% of Iranians have experienced them. Prescription analysis is critical for evaluating and improving medical care in a cost-effective manner. This study examined prescription patterns for psychotropic drugs in outpatient settings to improve the understanding of medication utilization in a variety of patients. It aimed to assist healthcare professionals in making well-informed decisions about drug prescriptions, a topic not much addressed in Iran.
Method
A descriptive study was conducted using data extracted from the Social Security Organization in Iran. We analyzed prescriptions in Tabriz from March 2022 to March 2023. Prescription data were categorized by medication category, physician specialty, age group, and sex. Then statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 2022.
Results
We analyzed the number of psychotropic medication prescriptions issued by 7246 doctors to a group of 413466 individuals over a year representing 44.9% of our target population. The average age of individuals receiving psychotropic drugs was 45.57 years. Gabapentin had the highest prescription rate, followed by sertraline. Antidepressants accounted for 38.1% of all prescriptions, with anxiolytics accounting for 18.6%. Other psychotropic drugs included alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, and valproate. Adults in all age groups had the highest frequency of prescriptions for psychotropic medications. The majority of patients were female (63.5%). General practitioners had the highest number of instances of prescribing psychotropic drugs, with psychiatrists contributing 54.7% of the total prescriptions.
Conclusion
Approximately 45% of the target population received psychotropic medication, which highlights the significant prevalence of mental health issues in Iran. Antidepressants were the most commonly administered class, highlighting the need for training programs that specifically address their possible negative effects and the correct dosage. The goal is to provide healthcare practitioners with a comprehensive understanding of prescription trends, enabling them to administer the most appropriate treatments.
Reliability of in vitro data for the mechanistic prediction of brain extracellular fluid pharmacokinetics of P-glycoprotein substrates in vivo; are we scaling correctly?
Authors: Valkengoed Daan Willem van , Hirasawa Makoto , Rottschäfer Vivi , de Lange Elizabeth Cunera Maria 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Plasma pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles often do not resemble the PK within the central nervous system (CNS) because of blood-brain-border (BBB) processes, like active efflux by P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Methods to predict CNS-PK are therefore desired. Here we investigate whether in vitro apparent permeability (Papp) and corrected efflux ratio (ERc) extracted from literature can be repurposed as input for the LeiCNS-PK3.4 physiologically-based PK model to confidently predict rat brain extracellular fluid (ECF) PK of P-gp substrates. Literature values of in vitro Caco-2, LLC-PK1-mdr1a/MDR1, and MDCKII-MDR1 cell line transport data were used to calculate P-gp efflux clearance (CLPgp). Subsequently, CLPgp was scaled from in vitro to in vivo through a relative expression factor (REF) based on P-gp expression differences. BrainECF PK was predicted well (within 2-fold error of the observed data) for 2 out of 4 P-gp substrates after short infusions and 3 out of 4 P-gp substrates after continuous infusions. Prediction accuracy was influenced by variability in reported ERc and in vitro P-gp expression. Notably, use of Papp and in vitro P-gp expression obtained from a single study did not guarantee an accurate prediction; it often resulted in worse predictions than when using in vitro expression values reported by other labs. Using Papp and P-gp expression as input, LeiCNS-PK3.4 shows promise in predicting brainECF PK but this study highlights that the in vitro to in vivo translation is not yet robust. We conclude that more information is needed about context and drug dependency of in vitro data for robust brainECF PK predictions.