bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards Sustainability in Dry land Oases: Water Challenges and Quality
Authors: Khettouch Athmane , Hssaisoune Mohammed , Brahim Yassine Ait , Ez-zaouy Yassine , Hermans Thomas , Bouchaou Lhoussaine 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Drâa river basin (DRB) is a large arid area encompassing most important oases in the south of Morocco. Climate change, population growth and recently intensive agriculture activity have led to the overexploitation of limited groundwater resources aggravating the problem of water salinization. Therefore, this study aims to assess groundwater quality in the DRB using hydrochemical characteristics from various sources. The complex set of water quality information is simplified into two indicators namely the Water Quality Index (WQI) and Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI). Additionally, the suitability of groundwater for irrigation purposes are assessed using sodium absorption ratio (SAR), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) and the permeability index (PI). The results show that the degradation of water quality is related to the high content of sodium and chloride which emerge as the predominant ions along the flow path. Fresher water (Ca-Mg-HCO3 water type, low WQI and SAR scores), able to sustain local drinking and irrigation needs, are observed in the Upper DRB, while reducing ions excess and adopting agriculture tolerable to salinity become more imperative in downstream oases. The prevalence of hard, igneous and calcareous rocks imparts a general hardness character at a large scale and bicarbonates exceed the permissible limit in 82.30% of samples. However, sodium hazard was not associated with CaCO3 and MgCO3 precipitation (low PI and RSC). In some areas, nitrate contents imply anthropogenic contamination from local source of pollution, whereas the concentrations of heavy metals are more associated with the geological setting than anthropogenic activities.
Translocation coefficients of heavy metals in the soil-rice system and their environmental implication
Authors: Wang Cheng , Shi Minqi , Wang Jianhua , Zhong Cong , Zhao Yanping 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background, Aims and Methods
Investigating and quantifying the transfer of heavy metals from soil to rice plants under different environmental conditions is crucial. This study explores the characteristics of heavy metals transfer within soil-rice system and the environmental implications of translocation coefficients (TCs) through analysis of data from major rice-growing regions in Asia.
Results
The translocation patterns of different heavy metals demonstrate variability, varying across geographical areas. For instance, As and Cd show high transfer propensity from soil to roots (average TCs: 3.71 for As and 3.63 for Cd), but their subsequent retranslocation to straw is substantially constrained, with average TCstraw/root and TCgrain/straw values dramatically decreasing (0.18 for As and ≤ 0.45 for Cd). Rice plants effectively regulate the transport Cu and Zn from roots to aerial tissues: TC of Cu decreases from 0.87 (TCroot/soil) to 0.27 (TCstraw/root), then increased to 0.78 (TCgrain/straw); for Zn, TCroot/soil, TCstraw/root and TCgrain/straw are 0.74, 0.65 and 0.63, respectively. Cluster analysis reveals distinct translocation patterns, with elements like Pb in the Yangtze River Delta showing a “parabola” transfer pattern, characterized by anomalously high TCstraw/root, along with Cr, Ni and Hg.
Conclusion
The sketched pattern generated by TCs exhibits available implication for environment condition. The abnormal translocation patterns observed for Pb, Cr, Ni and Hg suggest that these elements in rice aerial tissues may originate from atmospheric sources, influenced possibly by historical Pb-containing petrol use or non-ferrous mining activities.
Polymethylmethacrylate-augmented Cannulated Pedicle Screw Fixation for thoracolumbar burst fractures with Osteoporosis
Authors: Xiao Jun , Yu Dandan , Yang Lin , Zhang Jingjing , Ma Qiong , Liu Yaoyao 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Thoracolumbar burst fracture (TLBF) with osteoporosis has higher requirement for the stability of pedicle screw internal fixation system. However, few studies have involved the clinical outcome of cannulated pedicle screw to augment fixation with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) under this condition, especially when spine-pelvic parameters are included. This study aims to investigate the mid-term efficacy of bone cement-injectable cannulated pedicle screw (CICPS) in TLBF with osteoporosis.
Methods
Fifty-eight patients with TLBF (T < -2.5) were underwent spinal fixation by CICPS from 2017 to 2012. The operation time, blood loss, and hospitalization time were recorded. Pain and functional recovery were evaluated by Visual Analog Scale VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively. X-ray films were taken to evaluate the loss of vertebral height, kyphosis angle, the distance between the screw tip and the superior endplate (D-s) and the anterior edge (D-a) of the vertebral body, pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), lumbar lordosis (LL) and Sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Surgical related complications were also recorded.
Results
The average follow-up time was 22.1 ± 8.7 months (range, 12–38 months). VAS and ODI scores indicated significant improvements in postoperative pain and activity function (P < 0.05). The height of the fractured vertebrae decreased 3 months after surgery, especially in the anterior central part of the vertebrae (P < 0.05), and the kyphotic angle increased compared to the postoperative level (P < 0.05). Compared with 3 months after surgery, the above phenomenon still existed at the last follow-up, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Despite the loss of reduction of the kyphotic angle, sagittal balance of the spine (SVA) was significantly improved at the last follow-up compared to pre-operation (P < 0.05). There were no obvious signs of CICPS loosening.
Conclusions
Although there was a significant loss of reduction at 3 months after operation, from the medium and long-term clinical efficacy, CICPS is still a feasible surgical method for TLBF patients with osteoporosis.
A case-control study on the association of serum essential elements and malignant tendency of thyroid nodules
Authors: Tian Meng , Liang Guangxi , Zhang Honglong , Jiang Wangyan , Yan Jun , Chen Fei , Mou Shuli , Zhang Yuetian , Zuo Haoyuan , ni banggao 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Thyroid nodules are a common disease in the world, but the association with serum essential elements is not clear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum essential elements and thyroid nodules and their malignant tendency, and to provide effective reference for the prevention and treatment of thyroid diseases. A total of 509 patients with malignant thyroid nodules (MTNs) and 454 patients with benign thyroid nodules (BTNs) were included in our study. Basic information was collected through questionnaires and physical examination, serum essential elements was detected by automatic biochemical analyzer, and thyroid function indexes were detected by automatic particle chemiluminescence analyzer. The results showed that the levels of chlorine (CL), magnesium (Mg) and sodium (Na) in the MTNs were lower than those in the BTNs, but the level of phosphorus (P) is reversed. Logistic regression analysis showed that low serum CL, Mg and Na concentrations emerged as consistent risk factors for thyroid nodules malignant tendency in the general population, whereas low P concentrations emerged as consistent protective factor. Our study suggests that the imbalance of certain essential elements (CL, Mg, Na, P) may be related to the malignant tendency of thyroid nodules. Further, partial correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis showed that the level of Na was positively correlated with free triiodothyronine (FT3) in female. Therefore, gender is an important factor in studying the association between serum essential elements and the malignant tendency of thyroid nodules, female Na may disturb the balance of thyroid function to some extent.
Evaluation of Water Supply Risks and Emergency Water Volume in Coastal Cities Based on Dynamic Simulation
Authors: Wei Shuai , Lin Kairong , Li Tongfang 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Water supply security is the basis for high-quality urban development. Amid escalating extreme climate events, the upstream intrusion of saltwater in the Pearl River Estuary poses significant challenges to the water supply security of cities. This study establishes a city water supply system model based on the system dynamics method, then evaluates the urban water supply risks in Zhongshan City from 2016 to 2023 using the supply-demand gap and water stress index as risk assessment indicators. Additionally, it simulates the dynamic water supply risks under five development scenarios (conventional, economic, population, conservation, and comprehensive) and 17 saltwater intrusion scenarios from 2024 to 2035. Based on the simulation results, the study then proposes the emergency water reserve requirements for 2030 and 2035 under emergency response levels of 10, 20, 30, 45, and 60 days. The results indicate that Zhongshan's water demand has increased from 2016 to 2023, with water supply capacity meeting demand but significantly impacted by saltwater intrusion. The highest water supply risk and water stress index (peaking at 0.45 in 2021) occur when the saltwater front reaches the Quanlu, Renyi, and Dafeng intake points simultaneously or individually. Among the five development scenarios, water demand peaks in 2035, with the highest demand under the economic development scenario and the lowest under the water-saving scenario. The comprehensive development scenario, which balances economic growth and resource conservation, achieves a 2035 water demand of 266.90×104 m³/d, a 5.19% reduction compared to the conventional scenario, thus making it more acceptable to policymakers. Under the 17 saltwater intrusion scenarios, the water-saving scenario exhibits the lowest water stress index (0-6.74) and thus the lowest water supply risk, followed by the comprehensive scenario (0-7.11) and the economic scenario with the highest water stress index (0-7.84) and risk. The current water reserves can usually meet demand under scenarios where the saltwater front only reaches below Quanlu or Dafeng, but additional emergency reserves will be necessary for higher intrusion levels to meet various emergency duration requirements. When the saltwater front reaches Yinggezui and a 60-day emergency level is considered, the water-saving scenario has the smallest water deficit, while the economic scenario has the largest, with deficits of 7,938×104 m³ and 8,928×104 m³ in 2030 and 10,164×104 m³ and 12,354×104 m³ in 2035, respectively. These findings offer valuable insights for coastal city policymakers in selecting urban development paths and enhancing emergency water reserve capabilities.
Effect of Danhong Injection on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Rivaroxaban in Rats
Authors: Yin Weihong , Li Jiao , Han Zhaoyang , Wang Siwen , Wu Fan , Yu Chao , Yan Xueying , Cui Mingyu 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background and Objectives Rivaroxaban is often used in combination with DHI to treat thromboembolic disease. Whether the combination causing HDIs is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate effects of DHI on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of rivaroxaban in rats and effects on CYP3A2. Methods Plasma concentration of rivaroxaban with or without DHI was determined by HPLC. Pharmacokinetics parameters were calculated. Effect of DHI on pharmacodynamics of rivaroxaban was investigated by APTT, PT, TT, FIB, INR, length of tail thrombosis, vWF, t-PA, PAI-1, IL-1β, TNF-α and histopathological sections. Effect of DHI on CYP3A2 in rats was investigated by probe drug method. Results Cmax and AUC of rivaroxaban increased significantly in combination group (P < 0.05). APTT, PT, INR and TT increased (P < 0.05), length of tail thrombosis, FIB, vWF, PAI-1, IL-1β and TNF-α of combination group decreased significantly (P < 0.05) compared with rivaroxaban or DHI alone. Histopathologic section of tail thrombus had significant improvement. Cmax and AUC of dapsone increased (P < 0.05) in DHI group. Conclusion In summary, rivaroxaban combined with DHI could enhance rivaroxaban’s efficacy. Meanwhile, DHI could affect pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban by inhibiting CYP3A2. The dosage of rivaroxaban should be adjusted in clinical.
Assessment of Satellite Availability Window for Internet of Things Applications Using Doppler Detection in Routing Algorithms
Authors: Elbehiry Eman Adel , Fares Ahmed , Elhalawany Basem M. , Tag.ElDien Heba A. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This research proposes a novel framework that uses Doppler measurements from communication signals to forecast the satellite visibility window for two ground stations. Using Dijkstra's algorithm for shortest-path routing, the ground stations may determine the best communication path among the visible satellites by utilizing these observations. The suggested technology significantly increases orbit estimation, which uses Ant Colony Optimization to estimate orbital parameters through Doppler data. The system improves communication dependability through redundancy by creating connections between ground stations and all observable satellites, guaranteeing continuing communications even if individual satellite connections are lost. Furthermore, the visibility windows and computed Doppler measurements have useful applications in real-time settings like Internet of Things (IoT) networks. Consequently, we derive the Doppler measurement probability function and simplify it to a root mean square error (RMSE) minimization problem. The outcomes demonstrate an increase in orbital parameter estimate accuracy when compared to cutting-edge optimization strategies. Furthermore, a reliable routing system is established connecting the two ground stations.
First record of the terrestrial isopod Porcellionides pruinosus as an ant guest along foraging trails and inside Messor ebeninus nests in the Negev Desert
Authors: Oxman Karmi , Ku Kamila M.D. , O’Donnell Sean 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We report field observations of the cosmopolitan terrestrial isopod species Porcellionides pruinosus both inside multiple nests and following foraging trails of the seed harvester ant Messor ebeninus in the spring of 2022 and 2023. To our knowledge, this is the first observation of P. pruinosus in association with any ant species. Isopods inside the nest either travelled to deeper tunnels or joined foraging trails. The density of isopods along foraging trails was as high as sixty individuals along one 22meter foraging trail. Results from twelve preliminary homing assays revealed that the distance isopods were displaced did not affect whether they returned to the trail, but the farther away they were displaced the longer it took them to return to the trail. Two of the four isopods introduced into a foraging trail of a new nest continued walking with the foreign trail. Isopods were met with minimal aggression from the ants along the trail, and there were no instances of nest guarding observed. The presence of P. pruinosus inside M. ebeninus. nests could be driven by a need for thermal refuge and access to subterranean granaries. The known ability of isopods to cue into ant pheromones is a plausible mechanism for allowing isopods to follow foraging trails. The benefit of trail following behavior needs further investigation. We hypothesize a benefit to walking on a path clear of obstacles, and efficient detection of patchy desert food sources.
Comparison of spinal cord regeneration capacity in zebrafish and medaka
Authors: Aoki Shun , Hori Masato , Zhang Hanjie , Tsujioka Hiroshi , Yamashita Toshihide 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In mammals, spinal cord injury often results in permanent impairment of motor function owing to ineffective tissue regeneration. Unlike mammals, zebrafish have the remarkable ability to regenerate many tissues, including the spinal cord. Cross-species comparison is an attractive approach for revealing regeneration-specific mechanisms, but the large evolutionary distance between species sometimes hinders direct comparison. Recent studies have revealed that another model fish species, medaka, has a low regenerative ability in some tissues, making comparisons with them advantageous to revealing regeneration-specific mechanisms. However, their spinal cord regenerative ability has not been compared to other models. In this study, we functionally and histologically compared the spinal cord regeneration abilities of zebrafish and medaka. Swimming speed recovery was significantly lower in medaka than in zebrafish. Bridging of glia and neural tissue were thinner in medaka than in zebrafish. Axonal extension across the injured site was observed in zebrafish but not in medaka. Comparison of their gene expression profiles revealed genes involved in “Regeneration” were upregulated in zebrafish, whereas genes related to “Synaptic signaling” were downregulated in medaka. These results suggest that the ability to regenerate the spinal cord is lower in medaka than in zebrafish, making medaka an attractive model for revealing the mechanisms of spinal cord regeneration.
Chemi-resistive sensor for ammonia using inkjet printing of G/PEDOT:PSS composite at room temperature
Authors: Chhapia Pratik , Patel Harshad 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study reveals the fabrication of a gas sensor with a PEDOT:PSS/Graphene ink composite as an active layer on glossy paper. The glossy paper was chosen as the substrate material due to its low cost and easy availability. PEDOT:PSS/Graphene ink was synthesized by simple mixing of PEDOT:PSS and Graphene solution in the presences of distilled water, ethanol, glycerol, and diethylene glycol and was then sonicated and stirred at room temperatures, and characterized by FTIR, UV, XRD, AFM, and SEM. The sensitivities of the gas sensors concerning acetonitrile, propanol, butanol, benzene, methanol, and ammonia analytes were investigated by measuring the change in resistance using conventional multi-meter at room temperature. The results exhibited that the composite’s response to ammonia change is stable and can well measure concentration. The results showed that the sensors show promising responses with ± 1% reading error with a high response percentage.
Hybrid convolutional hyperspectral image classification based on spatial and spectral channel reconstruction
Authors: zheng chao , zhao xiaofeng , ma junyi , zhang wenwen , zhang hui 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Hyperspectral images contain rich spatial and spectral information, which makes more and more researchers join the team of analyzing and studying them. Convolutional neural networks have been widely used in hyperspectral image classification, however, due to the high dimensionality and band correlation of the hyperspectral image data, the hyperspectral data contains a lot of redundant information, which not only adds to the arithmetic burden, but also affects the extraction of the global and local spectral and spatial features in the process of hyperspectral image classification. We design a hybrid convolutional model based on spatial and spectral channel reconstruction, which utilizes hybrid convolution to extract spatial and spectral features in hyperspectral images, and separates and reconstructs the spatial and spectral channels to suppress redundant features and reduce the computational load of the model, and introduces a global attention mechanism to enhance the global receptive field and learn the global spectral and spatial features. We conduct experiments on three widely used public datasets, IndianPines, PaviaU, and Houston 2013, and the overall accuracies reach 98.66%, 99.49%, and 99.07%, respectively, which validate the effectiveness of the model.
Results from the VIOLIN Study: Verbal violence against migrants in German public institutions, discrimination and their association with mental health – an online cross-sectional study
Authors: Jäschke Meret , Borho Andrea , Morawa Eva , Hauck Felicitas , Gibu Lucia Romero , Atal Mojib , Rohleder Nicolas , Jansen Silke , Bendel Petra , Erim Yesim 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Theoretical background: Discrimination is a psychological stressor for migrants and increases the likelihood of mental illnesses. This cross-sectional online survey examined the frequency of experiences of verbal violence in institutions (VVI) and discrimination among voluntary migrants and refugees (N = 525) in Germany, as well as their association with mental health.
Methods: The measurement instruments included the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS), the Patient Health Questionnaire 2 (PHQ-2), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale 2 (GAD-2), and the self-developed 24-item VVI questionnaire. Voluntary migrants were compared to refugees.
Results: The data of 137 refugees and 388 migrants in Germany were evaluated. Since living in Germany, migrants experienced VVI most frequently in public transport (53%), immigration offices (53%), doctors' offices (48%), hospitals (41%), and city council/district offices (38%). A comparison of the sum score of the questionnaire on VVI among voluntary migrants shows that females experienced VVI significantly more often than males (p = 0.018). There were no significant differences between refugees and voluntary migrants (p = 0.50), nor gender differences among refugees (p = 0.69) in their experiences of VVI. Experiences of discrimination were reported on a frequency of less than a yearly basis. Refugees showed significantly more depressive symptoms than voluntary migrants (p < 0.001), but the generalized anxiety symptoms were comparable in both groups (p = 0.08). In multiple regression analyses, being a refugee, low life satisfaction, frequent experiences of VVI and discrimination were significantly associated with increased symptoms of depression. Significant predictors for elevated symptoms of generalized anxiety were low life satisfaction, experiences of VVI and discrimination, as well as a low sense of belonging to the country of origin.
Conclusion: The results show the need for additional action to reduce VVI against migrants, especially in the identified public institutions.
Global Warming Will Drive Spatial Expansion of Prunus mira Koehn in Alpine Areas，Southeast Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Tang Guoyong , GU Jinkai , HE Qiang , LI Qiangwan , XIANG Shengjian , LI Wanchi , JIN Aohang , LI Qinglin , WANG Shunbin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Global climate change exerts great effort for plants distributions. However the response of Prunus mira Koehn, one of the most important species for ecological protection in the southeast of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, to climate change remains unclear. To explore the ecological factors on the distribution of Prunus mira Koehn in context of global climate change, the MaxENT model is used to predict the suitable habitats for Prunus mira Koehn. Our study indicated that the distribution of Prunus mira Koehn is primarily influenced by temperature rather than precipitation, warming can facilitate the growth of Prunus mira Koehn. When the temperature seasonality (bio4) ranges from 134 to 576 and the mean temperature of coldest quarter (bio11) ranges from − 2.6°C to 2.7°C, it is most conducive to the growth of Prunus mira Koehn. Among the four climate scenarios, the optimal habitat for Prunus mira Koehn is predominantly concentrated in river valley areas and is expected to expand into higher altitude regions, particularly in the north and southeast. SSP245 and SSP370 climate pathways are conducive to the growth and spatial expansion of Prunus mira Koehn. Our findings highlight the significant impact of temperature not precipitation on the distribution of Prunus mira Koehn, and this insight is crucial for the stability and conservation of this ecologically significant plant species.