Significant Differences In Height Research Articles

Effect of Water and Rice Husk Ratio in Water-Based Planting Medium on Growth of Three Rice Varieties (Oryza sativa L.)

The agricultural sector faces two serious threats: declining production due to agricultural land conversion and water shortages due to global warming. Therefore, an agricultural system that accommodates the use of vacant land and water saving, in this case, urban farming with the use of soil-less media can be applied. In recent studies, both innovations have shown positive results in various commodities but have not been explored much specifically for rice crops. This study observed the effect of soilless media application (mixed water and rice husks media) on the growth of rice. This experiment was conducted in Sumber Jeruk, Jember (altitude 281 m asl, temperature 21-31°C, RH 65-75%), January-June 2022. The experiment used a completely randomized design with two factors and three replications. The first factor was the ratio of water to rice husk (1:0; 4:1; and 8:1). The second factor was rice varieties (Inpari 46, IR 64, and Mapan 05). The combination of Mapan 05 and media ratio 4:1 showed the highest result on shoot fresh weight (351.95 g) and root fresh weight (346.35 g). Meanwhile, the highest number of root length (45.20 cm) was found in the combination of Mapan 05 and media ratio 8:1. Moreover, Mapan 05 (93.94 cm) and Inpari 46 (93.88 cm) showed no significant difference in plant height. It can be concluded that soil-less media 8;1 promotes the highest result on rice plant growth observed.

Assessing the Impact of Coated and Prilled Urea Fertilizers on Nitrogen Dynamics and Fodder Maize Yield in Alfisols

The study investigates the impact of different urea fertilizers on nitrogen mineralization, leaching losses, and growth, yield of fodder maize in Alfisols. Nitrogen is vital for plant growth but deficient in soils. Urea, a widespread nitrogen fertilizer, suffers from significant losses, prompting the development of controlled-release urea (CRU) fertilizers. This study assesses various urea formulations with coated urea and prilled urea. Laboratory incubation studies show that coated urea exhibits slower NH4+-N release, reducing losses and improving efficiency compared to uncoated urea. Nitrate content increases steadily periodically with coated urea, potentially enhancing nitrogen availability to plants. Greenhouse experiments reveal significant differences in plant height, leaf number, and leaf area among treatments. Coated urea formulations, chiefly CSPC @3%, demonstrate superior growth parameters (plant height-169.56cm, number of leaves-10.33 and leaf area-1850.59), yield (green fodder-328.25 gplant-1, dry fodder-198.61 gplant-1 and dry matter percentage-54.52) and quality parameters (crude protein-4.03, total ash content-3.82%) compared to prilled urea growth parameters (plant height-113.38cm, number of leaves-8.07 and leaf area-1670.98), yield (green fodder-246.26 gplant-1, dry fodder-116.35 gplant-1 and dry matter percentage-44.32) and quality parameters (crude protein-2.88, total ash content-2.75%), likely due to sustained nitrogen release. Higher nitrogen availability from coated urea leads to increased forage yield and quality. The findings suggest that coated urea fertilizers, specially CSPC @3% advocate improved nitrogen management, enhancing fodder maize productivity and sustainability.

Analysis of Wave Characteristics near Wangdeungdo through Southwest Sea Wave Hindcasting

Wave conditions are crucial for offshore wind farm design, particularly in determining structural loads and layout. However, there is limited wave hindcasting research for the Wangdeungdo Island area, a potential offshore wind site. This study used the MIKE21 model for a year-long wave hindcast around Wangdeungdo in 2021. Validation showed high reproducibility for significant wave heights with RMSE values of 0.177 and 0.225 and Pearson correlations of 0.971 and 0.970 at Sangwangdeungdo and Buan buoys. Subsequent analysis of the wave characteristics near Wangdeungdo indicated significant seasonal variations and differences in maximum significant wave heights across locations, which are expected to significantly impact the design loads for offshore wind structures.

[Efficacy analysis of OLIF combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with or without redundant nerve roots].

To investigate the clinical efficacy of oblique lumbar interbody fusion(OLIF) combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis with or without redundant nerve roots(RNRs). A retrospective analysis of 92 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis treated by oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation from June 2019 to June 2022 was performed. There were 32 males and 60 females, aged from 44 to 82 years old with an average of (63.67±9.93) years old. All patients were divided into RNRs positive group and RNRs negative group according to redundancy or not before operation. There were 38 patients in RNRs positive group, including 15 males and 23 females. The age ranged from 45 to 82 years old with an average of (65.45±10.37) years old. The disease duration was 24.00(12.00, 72.00) months. There were 54 patients in RNRs negative group, including 17 males and 37 females. The age ranged from 44 to 77 years old with an average of (62.42±9.51) years old. The disease duration was 13.50(9.00, 36.00) months. The general data of patients were recorded, including operation time, intraoperative blood loss and complications. The imaging parameters before and after operation were observed, including the number of stenosis segments, intervertebral space height, lumbar lordosis angle and dural sac area. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the back and lower extremity pain, and the Oswestry disability index (ODI) was used to evaluate the activities of daily living. All patients were followed up for 8 to 18 months with an average of (11.04±3.61) months, and no complications were found during the follow-up period.The number of stenosis segments in RNRs positive group (1.71±0.46) was more than that in RNRs negative group(1.17±0.38). In RNRs positive group, intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, lower extremity pain VAS, ODI score were (1.11±0.19) cm, (0.46±0.17) cm2, (5.39±1.00) scores, (5.05±1.01) points, (55.74±4.05) points, respectively. RNRs negative groups respectively (0.97±0.23) cm, (0.69±0.26) cm2, (4.50±0.77) scores, (4.00±0.58) scores, (47.33±3.43) %. In RNRs positive group, intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, leg pain VAS, ODI score were (1.60±0.19) cm, (0.74±0.36) cm2, (3.39±0.72) scores, (3.05±1.01) scores, (46.74±4.82) scores, respectively. RNRs negative groups respectively (1.48±0.25) cm, (1.12±0.35) cm2, (3.00±0.82) scores, (3.00±0.82) scores, (37.67±3.58) %. The postoperative intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS score, lower extremity pain VAS and ODI score of the patients in the RNRs positive group and the negative group were significantly improved compared with those before operation, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in the number of stenosed segments, preoperative intervertebral space height, dural sac area, low back pain VAS, lower extremity pain VAS, and ODI between the two groups(P<0.05). There were significant differences in postoperative intervertebral space height and postoperative ODI between the two groups(P<0.05), but there was no significant difference in intervertebral space height before and after operation and ODI score before and after operation(P>0.05). There were significant differences in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative dural sac area, difference of dural sac area before and after operation, postoperative low back pain VAS, difference of low back pain VAS score before and after operation, difference of lower extremity pain VAS before and after operation between the two groups(P<0.05). OLIF combined with posterior percutaneous internal fixation has a good effect on patients with or without RNRs. Multi-segmental lumbar spinal stenosis and decreased dural sac area may lead to the occurrence of RNRs, and LSS patients with RNRs have more severe symptoms. LSS patients with RNRs have worse surgical outcomes than those without RNRs.

Impact of bilateral facet joint violation on radiographic degeneration of superior adjacent segments and clinical outcomes.

Facet joint violation (FJV) is associated with postoperative low-back pain and is a confirmed risk factor for adjacent-segment degeneration, a long-term complication of lumbar fusion surgery. The authors' knowledge of its mechanisms comes from in vitro biomechanical research only; there is a lack of radiographic evidence of the effects of violation on the superior adjacent-segment facet joint, intervertebral disc, and other local radiographic parameters. Furthermore, any differences between unilateral and bilateral violation remain relatively unclear. The authors therefore aimed to explore the effects of nonviolation and unilateral and bilateral violation on radiographic degeneration of the facet joint and intervertebral disc at the fusion and superior adjacent segment. Patient-reported clinical outcomes were compared at the 2-year follow-up. The authors retrospectively analyzed data from 148 patients with lumbar degenerative diseases who underwent single-segment minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion between 2016 and 2020. FJV and facet joint degeneration were evaluated and graded using Shah's method and Pathria's standard, respectively. Radiographic parameters, including disc height and intervertebral Cobb angle at the fusion and superior adjacent segment, were measured. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using visual analog scale (VAS) and Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores. Preoperative data were comparable among the 3 groups (nonviolation, unilateral violation, and bilateral violation) (p > 0.05). Patient-reported clinical outcomes were followed up for at least 2 years (average duration 28.17 ± 6.17 months). At the last follow-up, facet joint degeneration grades were sequentially increased in the nonviolation, unilateral violation, and bilateral violation groups (p = 0.006). The unilateral (2.45 ± 2.17 mm) and bilateral (2.70 ± 1.94 mm) violation groups had more severe losses of disc height in the superior adjacent segment than did the nonviolation group (1.31 ± 2.01 mm). The VAS low-back pain and Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores in the bilateral (2.57 ± 1.44 and 19.83 ± 2.84, respectively) and unilateral (2.26 ± 0.79 and 20.43 ± 3.85, respectively) violation groups were significantly worse than in the nonviolation group (1.69 ± 1.12 and 21.80 ± 3.36, respectively) (p < 0.05). By contrast, there were no significant between-group differences in disc height, intervertebral Cobb angle in the fusion segment, or VAS leg pain scores (p > 0.05). FJV was associated with postoperative low-back pain and worse functional outcomes. It also aggravated facet joint and intervertebral disc changes in the superior adjacent segment, especially when bilateral violation occurred; this may be part of the mechanisms of adjacent-segment degeneration.

Growth and Production Stimulation of Young Pink Oyster Mushrooms (Pleurotus flabellatus) through CaCO3 Supplementation from Shellfish Shells and Coconut Water

Pink oyster mushroom (Pleurotus flabellatus) is one of the oyster mushroom varieties that has a distinctive aroma similar to lingzhi mushroom, pink color, numerous clusters, and a slightly firm texture. The aim of this research was to determine the growth and production stimulation of pink oyster mushrooms (P. flabellatus) through supplementation of CaCO3 from shellfish shells and coconut water. This study utilized a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) arranged in factorial with two factors, consisting of four levels with three replications. The first factor was CaCO3 supplementation from shellfish shells with four levels: K0: 0 gr/baglog, K1: 5 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog, K2: 10 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog, K3: 15 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog. The second factor was coconut water supplementation with four levels: A0: 0 ml/baglog, A1: 20 ml coconut water/baglog, A2: 40 ml coconut water/baglog, A3: 60 ml coconut water/baglog. The results showed significant differences in mycelium growth rate and highly significant differences in pileus number, pileus width, pileus thickness, stalk height, and mushroom fresh weight. Supplementation of 10 gr CaCO3 from shellfish shells/baglog and 40 ml coconut water/baglog showed the best interaction for all parameters.

Physical attributes and performance differences: Server vs. spiker players in men’s doubles sepak takraw

Background Problems: Scientific research exploring the comparative analysis of the physical, physiological, and anthropometric characteristics associated with the server and spiker positions in double-category sepak takraw remains relatively scarce. Research Objectives: This study aims to compare the physical, physiological, and anthropometric characteristics between players in the server and spiker positions in the double category of sepak takraw. Methods: The research method used is an observational study with a quantitative approach. This study consisted of 18 male sepak takraw athletes, with 9 athletes each playing as servers and 9 athletes playing as spikers. The statistical analyses were conducted utilizing the SPSS Version 22 application. Findings and Results: The results of this study showed that there were statistically significant differences in body height, aerobic capacity, and leg strength between server and speaker positions (p &lt; 0.05). Meanwhile, there were no significant differences in the variables age, weight, BMI, fat percentage, speed, agility, and flexibility. Dynamic, attractive game requirements and manoeuvres in the air for players in the spiker position have the potential to contribute to superior VO2max values and increased leg muscle strength compared to players in the server position. Conclusion: The conclusion of this study is that athletes in the spiker position show superior anthropometric and physiological attributes compared to those in the server position. Different understandings of the different characteristics associated with each position in the sport of sepak takraw provide new insights and views for coaches and athletes themselves. In addition, it is hoped that this research will have implications for optimizing training programs that adapt to the demands of each position. Furthermore, these findings serve as a reference for talent search events that assist in the identification and development of athletes with optimal physiological profiles for their respective roles in double-category sepak takraw.

Disproportion of Corpus Callosum in Fetuses With Malformations of Cortical Development.

To evaluate corpus callosum (CC) size in fetuses with malformations of cortical development (MCD) and to explore the diagnostic value of three CC length (CCL) ratios in identifying cortical abnormalities. This is a single-center retrospective study in singleton fetuses at 20-37 weeks of gestation between April 2017 and August 2022. The midsagittal plane of the fetal brain was obtained and evaluated for the following variables: length, height, area of the corpus callosum, and relevant markers, including the ratios of corpus callosum length to internal cranial occipitofrontal dimension (CCL/ICOFD), corpus callosum length to femur length (CCL/FL), and corpus callosum length to cerebellar vermian diameter (CCL/VD). Intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate measurement consistency. The accuracy of biometric measurements in prediction of MCD was assessed using the area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curves (AUC). Fetuses with MCD had a significantly decreased CCL, height (genu and splenium), and area as compared with those of normal fetuses (P < .05), but there was no significant difference in body height (P = .326). The CCL/ICOFD, CCL/FL, and CCL/VD ratios were significantly decreased in fetuses with MCD when compared with controls (P < .05). The CCL/ICOFD ratio offered the highest predictive accuracy for MCD, yielding an AUC of 0.856 (95% CI: 0.774-0.938, P < .001), followed by CCL/FL ratio (AUC, 0.780 (95% CI: 0.657-0.904), P < .001), CCL/VD ratio (AUC, 0.677 (95% CI: 0.559-0.795), P < .01). The corpus callosum biometric parameters in fetuses with MCD are reduced. The CCL/ICOFD ratio derived from sonographic measurements is considered a promising tool for the prenatal detection of cortical malformations. External validation of these findings and prospective studies are warranted.

Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate in Intercepting Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus.

Vertical transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), especially in Asia, is a key target in the global elimination of HBV. This study assessed the effects of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in pregnant women for mother-to-infant transmission of HBV. A total of 122 pregnant women at our hospital met the inclusion criteria for high HBV DNA viral loads. They were randomly divided into TDF-treatment (n=70) and placebo (n=52) groups. Maternal liver function and serum HBV DNA load were tested before and after treatment. Clinical and laboratory data of infants were assayed at delivery and 7-months post-partum visit and compared between the two groups. There was no difference in clinical characteristics of participants between the two groups. There were no significant differences in liver function markers, including alanine aminotransferase, total bilirubin, blood creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen levels before and after TDF treatment. The serum HBV DNA viral load of the TDF-treated group became significantly lower than those of the control group and their own pre-medication levels. Infants showed no significant difference in body growth, including weight, height, head size, and five-min Apgar score. At 7 months after birth, 94.29% of infants in the TDF group and 86.54% of control-group infants had protective HBsAb levels ≥ 10 mIU/ml (p>0.05). The HBV infection rate of infants in the TDF-treated group was lower than that in the non-treated group. In high-HBV-DNA-load pregnant women, TDF administered from 28 weeks gestational age to delivery was associated with a lower risk of mother-to-infant transmission of HBV.

Distribution, Accumulation and Translocation of the Heavy Metal Cd in Various Varieties of Edible Rapeseed under Cd Stress

To examine the safety of producing edible rapeseed in heavy-metal-contaminated farmland, field experiments were performed with 25 varieties of edible rapeseed on farmland lightly polluted with Cd in the central southern part of Hunan Province. Growing characteristics and Cd contents in rapeseed tissues were measured, and Cd uptake, translocation and removal potential were calculated. The results showed that the growth of 25 rapeseed varieties was not inhibited without withering or inconsistent changes in the shoot. The shoot and root Cd contents of rapeseed varieties ranged from 0.05 to 0.26 mg·kg−1 and 0.04 to 0.26 mg·kg−1, respectively. The bioaccumulation factor (BCF) showed that the shoot had a greater capacity for Cd transport than roots. The total Cd removed by rapeseed varieties ranged from 1.606 to 16.159 μg·plant−1. There were significant differences in plant height, BCF of soil available Cd in the shoot, translocation factor (TCF) of Cd from root to shoot and Cd intake by rapeseed among the edible rapeseed varieties. Cluster analysis of Cd accumulation in the 25 rapeseed varieties indicated that Lvjin 1, Guanyou Qingjing and Guanyou brassica not only reduced soil pollution but also allowed for the production of safe leafy rapeseed, although Cd contents in the shoot of 25 rapeseed varieties did not exceed the national safety standards of China.

Алгоритм выделения точек земной поверхности из данных воздушного лазерного сканирования

The authors propose a new algorithm for classifying point clouds. It enables them to be separated according to the surface to which they belong. We present a brief analysis of existing methods for solving the problem considered, classifying them and indicating their advantages and disadvantages. The offered algorithm is based on iterative searching for points with a significant difference in height from the digital elevation model that approximates their cloud. In the course of processing, the formulated technique achieves a consistent adjustment of the approximating surface to the actual relief, which helps natural object detection on the ground. The results are demonstrated compared with the classification of point clouds by the CSF algorithm implemented in the widely used corresponding software. The juxtaposition of the obtained results shows that the proposed algorithm allows achieving a better classification quality in areas with irregular terrain, preserving also a greater number of points under the forested areas of the surface

Evaluation of computed tomography in the diagnosis of ultrasound-proven diaphragm dysfunction.

Computed tomography (CT) is routinely employed on the evaluation of dyspnea, yet limited data exist on its assessment of diaphragmatic muscle. This study aimed to determine the capability of CT in identifying structural changes in the diaphragm among patients with ultrasound-confirmed diaphragmatic dysfunction. Diaphragmatic ultrasounds conducted between 2018 and 2021 at our center in Marseille, France, were retrospectively collected. Diaphragmatic pillars were measured on CT scans at the L1 level and the celiac artery. Additionally, the difference in height between the two diaphragmatic domes in both diaphragmatic dysfunction cases and controls was measured and compared. A total of 65 patients were included, comprising 24 with diaphragmatic paralysis, 13 with diaphragmatic weakness, and 28 controls. In the case group (paralysis and weakness) with left dysfunctions (n = 24), the CT thickness of the pillars at the level of L1 and the celiac artery was significantly thinner compared with controls (2.0mm vs. 7.4mm and 1.8mm vs. 3.1mm, p < 0.001 respectively). Significantly different values were observed for paralysis (but not weakness) in the right dysfunction subgroup (n = 15) (2.6mm vs. 7.4mm and 2.2mm vs. 3.8mm, p < 0.001 respectively, for paralysis vs. controls). Regardless of the side of dysfunction, a significant difference in diaphragmatic height was observed between cases and controls (7.70cm vs. 1.16cm and 5.51cm vs. 1.16cm, p < 0.001 for right and left dysfunctions, respectively). Threshold values determined through ROC curve analyses for height differences between the two diaphragmatic domes, indicative of paralysis or weakness in the right dysfunctions, were 4.44cm and 3.51cm, respectively. Similarly for left dysfunctions, the thresholds were 2.70cm and 2.48cm, respectively, demonstrating good performance (aera under the curve of 1.00, 1.00, 0.98, and 0.79, respectively). In cases of left diaphragmatic dysfunction, as well as in paralysis associated with right diaphragmatic dysfunction, CT revealed thinner pillars. Additionally, a notable increase in the difference in diaphragmatic height demonstrated a strong potential to identify diaphragmatic dysfunction, with specific threshold values.

Influence of Organic Manures and Foliar Application of Arka Citrus Special on the Growth of Buddlings of Sweet Orange

In India, citrus fruits rank third in area and production after Mango and Banana. A study was conducted at the Horticultural Research Station (HRS) Konda Mallepally, Nalgonda district during Rabi, November 2022 - April 2023. The study aimed to test the effects of organic manures and foliar application of Arka Citrus Special on the growth of sweet orange cv. Sathgudi buddlings. The experiment included fourteen treatments with three replications in RBD. It comprised three types of organic manures (FYM, Vermicompost, Neem cake) and Arka Citrus Special (micronutrient formulation). The application of organic manures and micronutrients showed significant differences in plant height (cm), number of leaves, and leaf area (cm2). During 30, 60, 90 and 120 days of observations, the maximum plant height (26.99 cm), stem diameter (1.23 mm), number of leaves (26.00), girth of the plant (19.5 mm), leaf area (11.70 cm2), internodal length (0.260 cm), absolute growth rate (0.42 cm /day) and relative growth rate (0.10 cm /cm /day).

[Comparative study of percutaneous transfacet screw and pedicle screw in oblique lumbar interbody fusion for the treatment of single-level lumbar spinal stenosis].

Objective: To conduct a comparative study of radiological and clinical outcomes between percutaneous transfacet screw (TFS) and pedicle screw (BPS) in oblique lateral lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) for single-level lumbar spinal stenosis. Methods: A retrospective cohort study. Patients who underwent OLIF with TFS or BPS for the treatment of single-level lumbar spinal stenosis at Beijing Jishuitan Hospital from January 2019 to June 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Radiological parameters and clinical indicators were compared between the two groups. Radiological parameters included preoperative, immediate postoperative (within 5 days), and 1-year postoperative measurements of disc height and segmental lordosis angle, as well as interbody fusion status at 1 year postoperatively. Clinical indicators included operative time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, complications, and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for back pain, and leg pain before and 1 year after surgery. Results: Four male and 10 female patients with an average age of (61.0±11.2) years underwent OLIF with TFS, while 9 male and 12 female patients underwent OLIF with BPS, with a mean age of (60.9±6.7) years. There was no statistically significant difference in preoperative disc height between the TFS and BPS groups (P>0.05). The immediate postoperative disc height was (12.9±2.1) mm and it was (10.4±1.7) mm at 1-year follow-up in the TFS group; in the BPS group, it was (12.9±2.1) mm immediately postoperatively and (11.9±2.1) mm at 1-year follow-up; there was statistically significant difference between the two groups at 1-year follow-up (P=0.037). The segmental lordosis angle showed no significant differences within each group or between the two groups at preoperative, immediate postoperative, or 1-year postoperative follow-up (all P>0.05). At 1-year postoperative follow-up, the fusion rates was 92.9%(13/14) in the TFS group and 95.2%(20/21) in the BPS group, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). The TFS group had a significantly shorter operative time and less blood loss compared to the BPS group [(164.3±33.9) minutes vs (191.7±31.8) minutes and (74.3±46.9) ml vs (124.8±54.0) ml, respectively] (both P<0.05). Both groups showed significant improvement in ODI and VAS scores at 1 year postoperatively compared to those preoperatively, but with no statistically significant difference was found between the groups (both P>0.05). Conclusions: OLIF with TFS fixation can effectively restore disc height and alleviate back and leg pain in patients with single-level lumbar spinal stenosis. Compared to the OLIF with BPS procedure, OLIF with TFS has shorter operative time and less blood loss.

[Comparison of effectiveness between unilateral biportal endoscopic and uniportal interlaminar endoscopic decompression in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis].

To compare the effectiveness between unilateral laminotomy and bilateral decompression (ULBD) with unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) and uniportal interlaminar endoscopy (UIE) in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. A clinical data of 52 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis, who met the selection criteria and treated with ULBD between March 2021 and November 2022, was retrospectively analyzed. The patients were allocated into UBE group (23 cases) and UIE group (29 cases) according to the surgical methods. There was no significant difference ( P>0.05) in age, gender, body mass index, surgical segment, type of lumbar stenosis, and preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score of low back pain, VAS score of leg pain, Oswestry disability index (ODI), disc height, and dural sac area between the two groups. Perioperative indexes (incision length, operation time, hospital stay, and surgical complications), clinical indicators (VAS score of low back pain, VAS score of leg pain, and ODI before operation and at 3 days, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months after operation), and imaging indicators (disc height and dural sac area before operation and at 1, 12 months after operation, and dural sac expansion area) were recorded and compared between the two group. All operations in both groups were successfully completed. Compared with the UIE group, the UBE group had shorter operation time and longer incision length, with significant differences ( P<0.05). But there was no significant difference in hospital stay and incidence of complications between the two groups ( P>0.05). All patients were followed up 12-20 months (mean, 14 months). The VAS scores of low back pain and leg pain and ODI after operation significantly improved when compared with preoperative values ( P<0.05), and there was no significant difference in the above indicators between different time points after operation ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference between the two groups at different time points ( P>0.05). Imaging examination showed that there was no significant difference in disc height between the two groups at different time points after operation ( P>0.05). However, the dural sac area and dural sac expansion area were significantly larger in the UBE group than in the UIE group ( P<0.05). ULBD with UBE and UIE can achieve satisfactory effectiveness in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis. But the former has more thorough decompression and better dural sac expansion than the latter.

Multiple vegetation layers interactively enhance habitat values of endangered Kashmir Musk Deer

The Kashmir musk deer (Moschus cupreus) is a globally endangered species hunted for its musk pod. Despite its endangered status, it remains one of the least studied species of musk deer. In 2019, the genetic discovery of Kashmir musk deer in Mustang district of Nepal – outside of its historically known range in Kashmir, India – opened up new avenues for research on this elusive species. Communication among individuals of musk deer is primarily based on latrine sites, which serve various purposes such as territorial marking and reproductive signaling. Hence, this study aims to investigate the association between microhabitat and latrine sites of Kashmir musk deer in the Mustang, Nepal. A systematic survey was conducted to identify latrine presence and absence sites at an elevational gradient. Data on biophysical parameters, including altitude, slope, aspect, tree height, shrub height, and regeneration height were recorded for both latrine presence and absence plots. Significant differences in tree height and regeneration height, crown cover, and trail width were observed between the presence and absence plots. Latrine presence and absence data fitted with the generalized linear model using logistic function, revealed that the interaction between tree height and regeneration height plays a pivotal role in determining the suitability of a particular site within the habitat for establishing a latrine site. This significant positive interaction indicated that the probability of discovering latrines significantly increases when the areas have taller trees and taller regeneration. This finding affects microclimate factors, such as sunlight exposure, wind speed, soil moisture, and temperature, influencing their role in sustaining scent retention in the latrine sites. Incorporating knowledge about the association between microhabitats and latrine sites can aid in preserving suitable habitats that are critical for establishing communication among individual musk deer. This information can inform various conservation efforts, including captive breeding programs, anti-poaching operations, and reintroduction initiatives.

Respiratory function after 30+ years following sulfur mustard exposure in survivors in Sweden.

Sulfur mustard (SM) exposure causes acute and chronic respiratory diseases. The extent of small airway dysfunction (SAD) in individuals exposed to SM is unclear. This study evaluated and compared SAD in SM-exposed and SM-unexposed participants using noninvasive lung function tests assessing small airway function. This retrospective cohort study involved SM-exposed (n = 15, mean age: 53 ± 8 years) and SM-unexposed (n = 15, mean age: 53 ± 7 years) Kurdish-Swedish individuals in Sweden. Small airway resistance and reactance were assessed using impulse oscillometry (IOS). Nitrogen (N2) multiple breath washout (MBW) was employed to assess lung ventilation heterogeneity. The gas-exchanging capacity of the lungs was assessed using the diffusing capacity of the lungs for the carbon monoxide (DLCO) test. Lung function outcomes were reported as absolute values and z-scores. Group comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test. No statistically significant differences in age, height, or body mass index were observed between the two groups. IOS showed significantly increased small airway resistance, while N2MBW exhibited significantly increased global and acinar ventilation heterogeneity in SM-exposed individuals compared to that in unexposed individuals. SAD was identified in 14 of 15 SM-exposed individuals, defined as at least one abnormal IOS difference between resistance at 5 and 20 Hz (R5-R20) and/or area of reactance (AX) or N2MBW lung's acinar zone (Sacin), and DLCO adjusted to the alveolar volume (DLCO/VA) outcome. Of these 14 individuals, only 5 demonstrated concordant findings across the IOS and N2MBW tests. Exposure to SM was positively associated with long-term impairment of respiratory tract function in the small airways in the majority of the previously SM-exposed individuals in the present study. Furthermore, both IOS and N2MBW should be employed to detect SAD in SM-exposed survivors as they provide complementary information. Identifying and characterizing the remaining pathology of the small airways in survivors of SM exposure is a first step toward improved treatment and follow-up.

Characterizing vegetation and return periods in avalanche paths using lidar and aerial imagery

ABSTRACT Snow avalanches are a hazard and ecological disturbance across mountain landscapes worldwide. Understanding how avalanche frequency affects forests and vegetation improves infrastructure planning, risk management, and avalanche forecasting. We implemented a novel approach using lidar, aerial imagery, and a random forest model to classify imagery-observed vegetation within avalanche paths in southern Glacier National Park, Montana, USA. We calculated spatially explicit avalanche return periods using a physically based spatial interpolation method and characterized the vegetation within those return period zones. The automated vegetation classification model differed slightly between avalanche paths, but the combination of lidar and spectral signature metrics provided the best accuracy (88–92 percent) for predicting vegetation classes within complex avalanche terrain rather than lidar or spectral signature metrics alone. The highest frequency avalanche return periods were broadly characterized by grassland and shrubland, but the influence of topography greatly influences the vegetation classes as well as the return periods. Furthermore, statistically significant differences in lidar-derived vegetation canopy height exist between categorical return periods. The ability to characterize vegetation within various avalanche return periods using remote sensing data provides land use planners and avalanche forecasters a tool for assessing the spatial extent of large-magnitude avalanches in individual avalanche paths.

Bone formation in large/moderate gap after immediate implantation in response to different treatments: a pre-clinical study in the canine posterior mandible.

This study aims to investigate different treatments on new bone formation around immediate implants in the canine posterior mandible with varying sized mesial-distal gap. The 4th premolar and the 1st molar of six Labrador dogs were extracted from the mandible, and 4 dental implants were placed 1mm below the level of the buccal bone crest. Moderate/large mesial-distal gaps between the implants and the sockets were treated with one of four methods and divided into the following groups: (1) the blank group, (2) the collagen membrane (CM) group, (3) the deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) group, and (4) the DBBM + CM group. Sequential fluorescent labeling was performed at 4, 8, and 10 weeks after the operation. After 12 weeks, the dogs were euthanized, and specimens were collected for micro-CT scanning and histological analysis. The survival rate of immediate implant was 100%. Micro-CT showed significant differences in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone volume fraction (BVF) among groups (P = 0.040, P = 0.009); other indicators were not significantly different among groups. Histological analysis showed the proportion of new bone formation and bone-to-implant contact were not significantly different among groups. No significant difference in bone reduction height around dental implant among four groups and varied mesial-distal gap size. Owing to the restricted sample size, this pilot study lacks conclusive findings. Within the limitation, this study demonstrated that although DBBM significantly increase BMD and BVF, the use of DBBM/CM didn't significantly improve bone formation and healing in extraction sockets around the implants in both moderate and large mesial-distal gap. The use of deproteinized bovine bone in conjunction with collagen is a common practice in immediate implantation procedures in the posterior mandible. However, there is a lack of conclusive evidence regarding the timing and circumstances under which they should be employed.

The difference in leaves production, protein and calcium of Moringa oleifera under modification planting media, application of PGR and nitrogen

Moringa has many ingredients of nutrients that are beneficial for food sources and nutrients that have not been widely cultivated. The nutritional content, benefits and high demand for Moringa abroad will open large opportunities for exporting Moringa flour. Foods full of nutrition will support the maintenance of good public health. For this reason, it is necessary to study and research cultivation techniques that produce high Moringa leaves and can be available sustainably. Production of Moringa leaves as a source of secondary metabolites can be increased by modifying the planting media and applying Plant Growth Regulator (PGR) and Nitrogen. The study used Split Split Plot Design with the main plot immersion by PGR, consisting of 3 types, namely: G1 (Fresh water), G2 (Coconut water), and G3 (GA3). The subplot was the treatment of planting media with two types: M₁ (soil: sand: manure = 1:1:2); M₂ (soil: sand: manure = 1:2:1). The sub subplots were N (urea) fertilizer, with four levels: N0 (0 g/plant); N1 (5 g/plant); N₂ (10 g/plant); and N₃ (15 g/plant). Each treatment combination goes over three times. The agronomic parameters observed were plant height, the number of leaves, fresh crop weight, and root volume, and the biochemical parameters observed were chlorophyll, protein, and calcium levels. The composition of the planting media caused significant differences in plant height at 4, 6, and 10 weeks after planting (WAP), the number of leaves at 4 WAP, and root length at 10 WAP. Growth Regulators significantly affected plant height at 4, 6, and 10 WAP, the number of leaves at 4 WAP, and root length at harvest. Nitrogen fertilization caused significant differences in plant height at 4, 6, and 10 WAP, volume, and root length at harvest (10 WAP). The combination of Planting media, PGR, and Nitrogen treatments caused significant differences in plant height at 4, 6, and 10 WAP and the number of leaves at 6 WAP. Laboratory analysis in this study showed high calcium and protein in Moringa leaves.