bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Economic Feasibility of use Laser Leveling and Different Methods of Weed Control in the Corn (Zea Mays. L) Crop
Authors: Aqeel Hassan Abdulkareem , Muhaimid Nofel Issa , Al-Wagaa Adnan Hussein
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was carried out in one of the agricultural fields of Diyala Governorate / Hebhab district during the autumn season of 2019-2020. The aim of study was to demonstrate economic feasibility of weed control by different methods and its effect on the total net profit achieved by using repeated plowing (once, twice) with two settlement systems (traditional, laser), The indicators of production and economic efficiency showed that superiority of plowing twice with the application of the accurate adjustment with the treatment of (chemical control + mechanical cultivating) in achieving the highest net profit amounted to 3489 dollars. Other costs were increased at a rate of $1250.ha-1, which was positively reflected in the increase in total revenues of $5,267.ha-1.
Determination the Wheat Weight and Volume: Mathematical Approach
Authors: Alamery Mohammed Salman , Salman Al-Badri Samir B.
Published: August 2023

Grain size and shape are important yield indicators. A hint for reexamining the visual markers of grain weight can be found in the wheat grain width. A digital vernier caliper is used to measure length, width, and thickness. The data consisted of 1296 wheat grains, with measurements for each grain. In this data set, the average weight (We) of the twenty-four grains was measured and recorded. To determine measure of the length (L), width (W), thickness (T), weight (We), and volume(V). These features were manipulated to develop two mathematical models that were passed on to the multiple regression models. The results of the weight model demonstrated that the length and width of the grains were significantly different p < 0.0001. The coefficient of grain width was higher than that of grain length, indicating that grain width was more important than grain length. Furthermore, the overall model for volume was significantly different, (F
(2,1295); =446832, p < 0.0001), regression(R2)-Square= 0.9986, Adj R-Sq=0.9986; and the RMSE of the experimental was RMSE=0.0002. The results of the weight model showed that the length, width, and thickness of the grains were significantly different p < 0.0001. The coefficient of grain the thickness was greater than the coefficient of grain length, indicating that the grain thickness was more significant than the grain length, and the coefficient of the grain width was more significant than the grain length. Moreover, the overall model for volume was significantly different (F
(3,1295); =71809.6, p < 0.0001), regression (R2) and Adj-R-Sq = 0.9940 were equal, and RMES=0.3399. The introduced model may allow farmers to predict the weight and volume of wheat production during the wheat grain season, depending on the grain length, width, and thickness.
Taxonomic Value of Leaf Epidermal Characters of the Genera Rosa L. and Rubus L. (Rosaceae) in Iraq
Authors: Al-Doskey Zeravan Abdul Khaliq Sadeeq
Published: August 2023

In this study, the leaf epidermal characters of thirteen taxa of the genera Rosa L. and Rubus L. belonging to the family Rosaceae, which grows naturally in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, was investigated via light microscopy. All taxa have the type of anomocytic stomata on the abaxial surface, and no stomata are present on the adaxial surface. Within the genus Rubus, among eighteen anatomical characters examined, only three characters are valuable at the species level, such as the anticlinal wall patterns on the adaxial and abaxial surfaces and the shape of the epidermal cells on the abaxial side. In Rosa, the shape of the epidermal cells on the abaxial surface varies from polygonal and polygonal-slightly irregular to irregular, and the variety R. canina var. deseglsei is recognized by the abaxial surface’s anticlinal wall pattern and the epidermal cells shape from other vanities of R. canina. Stomatal density as a range and stomata index could be valuable two diagnostic features for separating R. hemispharica from the remaining taxa of the genus Rosa. The taxa of Section: Pimpinellifoliae can be separate by the patterns of anticlinal walls of the abaxial surface from the remaining taxa of Sections: Caninae and Gallicanae within Subgenus: Rosa under study. According to our findings, some leaf epidermal characteristics and stomata are advantageous for distinguishing the various taxonomic ranks of the genera Rosa and Rubus family Rosaceae.
Determine Canopy Gaps for Atrush Forest using Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Al-Allaf Muhammad Youns , Al-Bek Muzahim Saeed , Abdel-Qader Muhannad
Published: August 2023

It is known that the gaps in the forests have a significant impact on the natural regeneration of the forest, so these gaps were studied by relying on remote sensitivity data (Quick Bird) with a precision of discrimination (2.44 m) spectral and (0.61 m) panoramic The statement was classified non-directed by the computer program (Erdas 9.2) for its suitability for the study area of a mountain nature, the study area was classified into (empty spaces (gaps), roads, forest lands), the study area reached (126.182) hectares, the area of the gaps inside the forest (68%), while the roads were (0.5%) and coronary canopy (31.5%(. The areas and shapes of the gaps were defined and their areas calculated by creating a network (20 x 20) m. The gaps were divided into categories (less than 200) m2, between (200 and 400) m2 and between (400 and 600) m2 and (more than 600) m2, As for its shapes, it was calculated using the relationship A=π(L w / 4) including the amount of oval, square, regular, irregular. Data were analyzed from the traditional and spatial statistics, and most of the gaps were similar to the oval or square shape, and most of the gaps were medium size (400 and 600) m2 to small (less than 200) m2, and this indicates the possibility of natural regeneration of the species spread in the study area.
Aerosols Optical Properties Over Different Regions Over Iraq
Authors: Zeki Khawla N. , Al-Salihi Ali M. , Al-Lami Alaa M.
Published: August 2023

investigating the spatial and temporal distribution of aerosols is crucial to the knowledge of their impact on air quality. In present work, the spatiotemporal variation of aerosol over different sites in Iraq was examined using aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) and Angstrom Exponent (AE) from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) during 2003–2021, and Aerosols Index (AI) retrieved from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument 2005-2021. Satellite retrieval data is divided into three periods include, (2003–2007), (2008–2013) and (2014–2021). The results of the linear regression analysis of aerosol optical properties demonstrate that the second period (monthly mean AOD and AE) has distinct trends in all considered cities when compared with the first and third periods. Between 2008 and 2014, there was a tendency toward increased monthly mean AOD levels whereas monthly mean AE values shows decreasing. The annual mean of AOD is greater than 0.5. This indicates a high aerosol loading with a moderate intensity when equivalent to 0.4. Haditha and Basra experienced the highest annual mean of AOD (lowest AE) during the summer and spring months, while Duhook and Sulaymaniyah had significantly lower values. The results revealed considerable variability of the AOD, AE, and AI monthly mean on both spatial and temporal scales, having the highest AOD, AI, and AE decrease levels in the northwest and southern regions. While there was the lowest AOD, AI, and maximum AE over the northern parts of Iraq. Throughout the study period, the monthly temporal mean of AOD and AI peaked from May to July. These months have the highest aerosol activity, affecting the northwestern, southwest, and southern parts of Iraq. Minimum values of AOD, AI with maximum AE observed in the winter season, having the lowest aerosol activity effect over Iraq.
Developing A Survey Instrument to Identify the People’s Capabilities of Green Procurement
Authors: Bohari A M , Mohd Mustafa S N A , Bidin Z A , Samsul Bahari A I , Khalil N , Sarpin N
Published: August 2023

The construction industry is one of the major contributors to overall economic growth. The construction industry involves a diversified and complex supply chain with different phases and lengthy processes involving different stakeholders. Moreover, the construction industry also contributes to environmental problems through its activities. In the current global state, the construction industry must align its strategy with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote sustainable development throughout the construction lifecycle. Green procurement is one of the strategies introduced as a way forward to a greener approach in construction. However, the driver in implementing green procurement depends on the key players of the construction industry. Therefore, this study is to identify the key capabilities of the construction players in green procurement implementation. This study adopted a quantitative and multi-phase data collection method, first via an online questionnaire and face-to-face data collection. A pilot survey was developed based on previous studies from the literature and focus group discussions on identifying people’s capabilities for green procurement implementation. From the experts’ pilot stage, the outcome finally retains all the twenty-seven (27) people’s capabilities for green procurement for the construction industry. The outcome of this study will determine the significant impacts of people’s capabilities in green procurement implementation. It is recommended that people involved in the construction industry, especially the stakeholders, know and understand the importance of sustainability principles. Continuous learning and improvement are essential to align with the advancements in green procurement practices.
A Systematic Review of Existing Standard Form of Contract for Building Information Modeling (BIM) Public Projects in Malaysia
Authors: Raja Berema RK , Ismail Z , Brahim J , Nordin NA
Published: August 2023

Building Information Modeling (BIM) has been highlighted as one of the emerging technologies following the Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0) within the Malaysian construction scene. Its potential includes the ability to enhance a project’s collaborative aspect within a project. The application, however, remains slow in comparison to the push by the Malaysian government to be at par with developed nations. In particular, the contractual aspect does not accommodate Building Information Modeling (BIM)’s process. As a result, gaps and doubts rise for industry players as the construction industry maintains its old ways of doing things. This paper, therefore, is aimed to uncover existing standard forms of contract for BIM public projects in Malaysia. Results have found Malaysian public projects to often adopt the Public Works Department (PWD) Standard Form of Contract as a reliable form of contract adopting the design and build procurement method. Following the research outcome, a contractual framework for the adoption of BIM within the construction industry is to be devised.
Reinvention of Library Space Programs Towards Future-Proof Public Library For Digital Natives Community Empowerment
Authors: Ariff A A A , Tajuddin A T A , Said S A A S , Samsudin I L , Zahari M Y R
Published: August 2023

The public library has played an essential part in societal development with its resources’ authenticity and depth. Compared to other educational institutions such as schools and colleges, it has also become a platform where society is involve in a scholarly manner without the influence of the economy burden. The stereotypical impression of dull public libraries as book depositories has driven away the digital natives, who seek a more robust environment to meet their dynamic requirements in tandem with the world’s technological transformation. This has resulted in a significant decrease in visitors that require the public library to reconsider its function and purpose to meet future generations’ needs. Thus, this study explores theapproach to revisit the quintessential of the function for public library than merely a place for accumulation of books and typical reading spaces for the future generations. The intention of this study is to assert thata public library must be build on the duality of its identity–featuring a nexus of knowledge-sharing venues and community-engagement-building programmes. A desktop study was employed to identify the types of space for the public library then comprehensively discussed into their respectives category.. The findings concluded with a recommendation for implementing future-proof programmes in existing and new public libraries.
Assessing Comfort in High Altitude Mountaineering Spaces: The Case of Annapurna Conservation Area
Authors: Ishak N M , Abdullah J , Hanib A A , Said S A A S
Published: August 2023

Mountaineering, which has recently gained a lot of popularity, is an outdoor leisure activity that involves risk, challenges, and hardship. As mountains can be fairly dangerous owing to avalanches, rock falls, or extremely low temperatures, it can be a challenging activity. This study aims to develop a statistical modeling for examining thermal comfort to mountaineering activities that represents the mountaineers’ comfort of the place by integrating all of the relevant factors. Data were collected by questionnaire and in-situ microclimatic measurement and is statically analysed. The findings show that mountaineers’ comfort is dependent on environmental perception and environmental attitude while doing high altitude climbing activities at the Annapurna Base Camp. The education level of the mountaineers has significant impact toward comfort assessment and Female has significant impact on comfort assessment compared to male. These findings make important contribution to the leisure, outdoor leisure activities, and mountaineering literature.
Knowledge, Attitude, And Challenges of High-Rise Building Community Towards Waste Segregation and Recycling Practice in Metropolitan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Saari Riduan , Yatim Siti Rohana Mohd , ishak Ahmad Razali , Shafie Farah Ayuni , Rasdi Nadiah Wan , Abdullah Samsuri , Zaki Muhammad Afiq , Saifuddin Siti Norasyikin Mohamad
Published: August 2023

The increasing population of modern cities contributes to the development of more residential high-rise buildings as well as waste management challenges. Recycling and waste separation can be a challenge in high rise apartment buildings due to the high volume of residents and limited space for waste management. Therefore, the objectives of this study is to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and challenges of high-rise building communities towards waste segregation and recycling. Using cross-sectional analysis, online questionnaires were distributed to target respondents in Sentul Kuala Lumpur. Data were collected from 375 residents of high-rise buildings. The results show that the high-rise community has modest knowledge (57%) and challenges (61%) to practice waste sorting and recycling, however, showed a good attitude (81%) towards it. Waste separation and recycling were influenced by sociodemographic factors of education (p = 0.05), ownership (p = 0.02), marital status (p = 0.01), and floor of living (p = 0.02). There is positive correlation between knowledge an attitude (r = 0.57, p = 0.26), but negative correlation between knowledge and challenges (r = - 0.25, p = 0.0001). The result also indicates that this community lack information and knowledge to practice waste sorting and recycling. Intervention is required to convey the information to these dwellers.
Rail-Based Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) From the Public’s Perspectives in the Klang Valley, Malaysia
Authors: Abdullah Y A , Khalid N S , Nawawi F N , Marzukhi M A , Ahmad Zaki Z , Leh O L H
Published: August 2023

Malaysia faces the challenges of increased private vehicle ownership, which may draw negative impacts in the long run. Public transportation systems and land use must be integrated and strategised to reduce private transport dependency. The government has emphasised promoting a shift to public transport. Rail-based Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is part of the government’s efforts. To encourage the use of public transport, the system must support mobility and continuous accessibility of services. This study, therefore, aims at investigating the factors that may influence the use of rail-based public transport and to reflect the experience of rail-based users in TOD design. A multiple-case studies method was employed, and a questionnaire survey was performed through simple random sampling at five rail stations in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. Results demonstrated that TOD for rail-based public transportation requires the provisions of certain facilities, which may increase the public’s preference in choosing rail-based as their commuting medium.
Low Carbon City (LCC) Governance through Administrative and Operational Approaches by Malaysian Local Government
Authors: Jamaluddin N B , Abdullah Y A , Yakob H , Nasrudin N , Hassan M A , Zainudin K
Published: August 2023

In Malaysia, the current practice of delivering low-carbon city approaches usually is administered and managed by the planning department in each local authority. However, this current practice may also lead to the problem of unorganized institutional administration and management. Simultaneously, the Malaysian government, through Low-carbon City Master Plan, has mentioned the need for governance restructuring for low-carbon city delivery. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the practice of Low Carbon City (LCC) in terms of administrative and operational practices. Three (3) objectives were established for this study; (i) assessing the governance for low-carbon city approaches and; (ii) examining the operational practices of LCC initiatives at the local level, and (iii) determining the application of policies and strategies for low-carbon development by the local authority. The study applies the purposive sampling approach, using the technique of an in-depth interview with two (2) core local authorities endeavoring on low-carbon development in the state of Selangor; Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) and Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ). The result of this study shows that the governance of low-carbon cities can be categorized into three (3) main dimensions: administrative, operational, and policy application. From the administration feature, the findings indicated that the current administration practice needs to be restructured to enable a more effective delivery system. Moreover, the current way of delivering a low-carbon city was ineffective due to long-standing systems, coordination among the agencies, and the feasibility of the strategies planned to achieve the low-carbon status. Since this study converges on the governance aspect from the perspective of the local authority, future research may look deeper into the whole framework involving the delivery support system, contributing to the effectiveness of low-carbon delivery practices.
Study on mechanism of refining and modifying in Al–Si–Mg casting alloys with adding rare earth cerium
Authors: Cui Xiaoming , Wang Zhenwang , Cui Hao , Meng Chuang , Bai Pucun , Du Zhaoxin , Zhao Xueping , Li Jie
Published: August 2023

In this paper, Al-7%Si-0.6%Mg-X%Ce (X = 0, 0.1 and 0.2) casting alloys were prepared by vacuum induction furnace. Using optical microscopy (OM), x-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy spectrometry (EDS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the microstructures of the experimental alloys were studied, and the mechanism of refinement and modification of the alloy were discussed. Results show that for Al-Si alloy, AlCeSi2 is formed by adding cerium element into aluminum alloy. Furthermore, with the increase of cerium addition, α - Al dendrite arms decrease, the AlCeSi2 was formed, and the growth of iron-rich phase was hindered, respectively. Also, the areas of eutectic of α-Al + Si were decreased, due to the supercooling increasing of the alloys. In addition, the α-Al grains were refined, because existing of heterogeneous nucleation core supplied by AlCeSi2, and component supercooling caused by cerium adding. Moreover, the formation of AlCeSi2 consumed to some silicon elements, which leaded to size and amount reduction of eutectic silicon. The formation of high-density stacking fault can induce silicon modified, and the formed high-density stacking fault was produced by cerium as impurity element into silicon.
Structure and magnetic properties of melt-spun Mn-Ga-Cu-Al ribbons
Authors: Thi Thanh Pham , Ngoc Nguyen Huy , Lam Nguyen Mau , Hau Kieu Xuan , Yen Nguyen Hai , Anh Truong Viet , Huy Dan Nguyen
Published: August 2023

In this work, we investigated structure and magnetic properties of Mn65Ga20Al15−xCux (x = 0, 5, 10 and 15) alloy ribbons prepared by melt-spinning method combined with annealing. The annealing temperature was varied from 250 °C to 350 °C, and the annealing time was changed from 5 h to 20 h. Concentration of Cu and annealing process significantly influence on the formation of the desired phases in the alloy ribbons. The D022-type Mn3Ga crystalline phase with the hexagonal structure, which characterizes hard magnetic property of Mn-Ga based alloys, is enhanced after an appropriate annealing process. The change of grain size after annealing also contributes to the increased coercivity of the alloy ribbons. The highest coercivity of 12.9 kOe and saturation magnetization of 18.7 emu g−1 are achieved on the alloy ribbons with Cu concentration of 10%. The simultaneous enhancement of these magnetic parameters has an important significance for application possibility of the Mn-Ga based alloys.
Surfactant-free synthesis of Ag@TiO2 and CuO@TiO2 photocatalyst: a comparative study of their photocatalytic activity for reduction of nitroaromatics in water
Authors: Hazarika Shikharani , Dutta Pankaj , Borah Geetika
Published: August 2023

The reduction of harmful nitroaromatics to useful amino-aromatics have significant opportunities in synthetic chemistry. Here a visible-light-driven eco-friendly method for the selective reduction of aromatic nitro compounds to their corresponding amines in aqueous solution by using Ag@TiO2 and CuO@TiO2 is described. It was observed that both Ag@TiO2 and CuO@TiO2 are photo-catalytically more efficient compared to bare TiO2 and CuO@TiO2 has higher activity over Ag@TiO2 for the said conversion. The structural and morphological characterization of the as-synthesized catalysts has been done with SEM-EDX, TEM, powder XRD, ICP-AES, XPS, Photoluminescence, and UV-vis spectroscopic techniques. The nanocomposites Ag@TiO2 and CuO@TiO2 exhibit pure anatase phase with average crystallite size of 5.89 nm and 5.87 nm respectively as calculated from the Debye-Scherrer equation depending on the (101) plane. UV-visible results inferred enhanced optical properties of both the synthesized catalysts and revealed a reduced band gap (3.07 eV for Ag@ TiO2 and 2.5 eV for CuO@ TiO2) as compared to neat TiO2 (3.36 eV). Various nitro compounds were tolerated under 150 W LED as a light source (13.9 lumens for an area of 0.2 ft2) in an aqueous medium at room temperature (30 °C) using NaBH4 as a reducing agent to access corresponding amines in satisfying yields (78%–99%). The catalyst can be separated from the reaction mixture by simple centrifugal precipitation and reused for up to six consecutive cycles without apparent loss of its catalytic activity. The products were characterized by 1H-NMR spectroscopic techniques and compared with authentic samples.
Enhanced performance of GaN-based long-wavelength blue light-emitting diodes with graphene-ITO composite film as transparent conductive electrode
Authors: Sun Jinfang , Zhang Kan , Han Yulong , Ni Chengpeng
Published: August 2023

We present enhanced performance of GaN-based long-wavelength blue light emitting diodes (LEDs) with hybrid transparent conductive electrodes (TCE) made of graphene and indium tin oxide (ITO) composite. The nearly 100% transmittance TCE were gained when graphene grown by chemical-vapor-deposition was annealed with ITO on the top of it. Compared to conventional LEDs, the work voltage was reduced to 3.5 V at 5 mA forward current. The light emission power was improved about 190%. The good peformance can be attributed to the improved lateral current spreading over the composite graphene-ITO TCE before p-GaN layer injected by carriers.
Facile preparation of hydroxyl−functionalized mica nanosheets assisted by plasma treatment
Authors: Ye Zequan , Zhang Yumin , Xiao Xinzhe , Liu Sheng , Gu Lin
Published: August 2023

The efficient exfoliation of mica, a naturally layered material, into two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets has received much attention due to its low price, good chemical stability, and better shielding function against UV light. However, fast and simple exfoliation of mica in a large-scale face a great challenge. In this work, we developed a simple and effective method for obtaining OH−functionalized mica nanosheets (MNs). The process involved calcination, plasma treatment, and ultrasonic exfoliation, resulting in a yield of 7.535%. Furthermore, the effects of sonication time, solvent type and particle sizes of mica were investigated. The conditions for the preparation of MNs were determined: mica calcination, plasma treatment, and sonication in ethanol for 5 h. XPS and FT−IR demonstrated that more hydroxyl groups were introduced to mica after the plasma treatment, which facilitated the exfoliation of mica.
Signed and sign-changing solutions to the nonlinear Choquard problem with upper critical exponent
Authors: Luo Xiaorong , Mao Anmin
Published: August 2023

We consider a class of Choquard problem set in

Ω
\Omega

which is a symmetric bounded smooth domain of

R

N

\mathbb {R}^{N}

(

N
≥
3

N\geq 3

) with the upper critical exponent in the sense of the Hardy-Littlewood-Sobolev inequality. Assume that

Ω
\Omega

is invariant under the action of a group

G
G

of orthogonal transformations, up to some range which depends on the symmetries, we prove the existence of infinitely many nontrivial

G
G

-invariant solutions to this problem, one of them is positive and the rest are sign-changing. Moreover we show the gradient estimate of solutions is closely related to the best Hardy-Littlewood-Sobolev constant. The main results extend and complement the earlier works in the literature.
New horizons in the role of digital data in the healthcare of older people
Authors: Masoli Jane A H , Todd Oliver , Burton Jennifer K , Wolff Christopher , Walesby Katherine E , Hewitt Jonathan , Conroy Simon , van Oppen James , Wilkinson Chris , Evans Ruth , Anand Atul , Hollinghurst Joe , Bhanu Cini , Keevil Victoria L , Vardy Emma R L C ,   The Geridata Group, Anand Atul , Burton Jennifer Kirsty , Bhanu Cini , Butler Matthew , Clegg Andrew , Collins Jemima Tunung , Conroy Simon , Dodds Richard , Evans Ruth , Harrison Stephanie , Hewitt Jonathan , Hollinghurst Joe , Jones Daniel , Keevil Victoria L , Masoli Jane , Mitchell Lara , van Oppen James , Osterdahl Marc , Quinn Terry , Todd Oliver , Vardy Emma , Walesby Katherine , Wilkinson Chris
Published: August 2023

There are national and global moves to improve effective digital data design and application in healthcare. This New Horizons commentary describes the role of digital data in healthcare of the ageing population. We outline how health and social care professionals can engage in the proactive design of digital systems that appropriately serve people as they age, carers and the workforce that supports them.

Key Points

Healthcare improvements have resulted in increased population longevity and hence multimorbidity. Shared care records to improve communication and information continuity across care settings hold potential for older people. Data structure and coding are key considerations. A workforce with expertise in caring for older people with relevant knowledge and skills in digital healthcare is important.
An Overview of Surgical Approaches for Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty
Authors: Nahai Farzad , Niazi Feizollah , Nahai Foad , Niazi Sana , Foster Jill A , Doroodgar Farideh , Baradaran-Rafii Alireza , Rashidi Vania
Published: August 2023

Age-related changes in the lower eyelid are noticed by patients as bags or circles under the eye, a tired look, and a flattened face. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty, in which the excess skin and/or orbital fat is excised and repositioned, is mainly performed for aesthetic reasons rather than the correction of functional abnormalities. Favorable outcomes for the combination of these approaches have been reported, but the most suitable surgical technique is still debated. This systematic narrative review deals with the indications, preoperative considerations, operative techniques, and complications of several different surgical approaches to lower eyelid blepharoplasty.

Level of Evidence: 3
Permethrin-unresponsive scabies in London, UK: a wake-up call
Authors: Abdolrasouli Alireza , Cousins Christopher D , Basu Tanya N , Trotman Daniel , Hay Roderick J
Published: August 2023

Failure to respond to permethrin, the most widely prescribed first-line therapy for scabies, has been increasingly reported in recent years in a number of countries. However, its true scale and relation to verifiable permethrin resistance is currently unknown. We present a case of scabies associated with scabetic nodules in which a lack of response to topical permethrin treatment was evident.
Sophocles’ Antigone and Chinese Opera (xiqu): a discussion of hybridized and indigenized adaptations
Authors: Rongnyu Chen , Huiqin Li
Published: August 2023

Sophocles’ Antigone has been the subject of numerous adaptations. Among these are two xiqu (Chinese opera) adaptations of Antigone, Hebei bangzi (Hebei clapper opera) Thebes City (2002) and jingju (Peking opera) Mingyue and Zihan (2015). This article compares these two works and the different ways that they adapt the text. The first strategy for adaptation is ‘hybridization’ in which the work is adapted and transformed according to local generic conventions and expectations, but a number of foreign elements remain. A second strategy is ‘indigenization’ in which the work is thoroughly assimilated into the local cultural form, and there are effectively no foreign elements. Both these strategies can be observed in looking at these Chinese adaptations of Antigone. After comparative discussion of the two xiqus, the article focuses on Thebes City, looking at the way that it combines the history and culture of ancient China with ancient Greece as well as the way in which it engages with Chinese culture through its depiction of ghosts. This element is singled out because it provides a mature example of hybridization at work. From discussions of these productions of Antigone, three key points emerge. The first is that adaptions of Greek drama in xiqu privilege creativity and performability over fidelity to an original text. The second is that when operatic conventions of xiqu are observed, the work is more likely to succeed. This seems to be the case with the tremendous local success of Thebes City. Thirdly, it is worth observing that the hybridized mode which is adopted in Thebes City is the most difficult to succeed with as it requires balancing diverse elements. Thebes City’s admirable success lies in its ability to achieve ‘harmony in diversity’.
Assessing acceptability of wild and cultivated hosts of Lycorma delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) under semifield conditions
Authors: Nixon Laura J , Barnes Caitlin , Leskey Tracy C
Published: August 2023

Lycorma delicatula White (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) is an invasive phloem feeder with a broad host range that includes both hardwood trees and cultivated temperate fruit crops. Here, we evaluated acceptability of wild hosts, A. altissima and Juglans nigra L. (Fagales: Juglandaceae) and cultivated hosts Vitis vinifera, Malus domestica (Rosales: Rosaceae), and Prunus persica L. Batsch (Rosales: Rosaceae) to L. delicatula under field conditions. Fluorescent-marked early instar nymphs, late instar nymphs, or adult L. delicatula were released at the base of single potted host plants and the number of individuals retained was recorded over 24 h. Paired choice trials with A. altissima and another host plant were conducted. Individuals retained on or moving between plants were recorded over 24 h. Sentinel A. altissima, J. nigra, V. vinifera, M. domestica, and P. persica potted plants were deployed at 5 sites and the number of L. delicatula present on each plant was recorded weekly. In single and paired host trials, early instars and adults were generally retained in higher numbers on A. altissima and V. vinifera, and late instars were retained on A. altissima and J. nigra. Significantly more L. delicatula were present on sentinel A. altissima compared with other host plants, except J. nigra during the period when late instars were the most prevalent lifestage in the field. These results indicate that wild hosts such as A. altissima and J. nigra are likely supporting establishment of L. delicatula populations, and that presence of cultivated V. vinifera may contribute to population establishment and growth.
How robust are recommended waiting times to pacing after cardiac surgery that are derived from observational data?
Authors: Tindale Alexander , Cretu Ioana , Haynes Ross , Gomez Naomi , Bhudia Sunil , Lane Rebecca , Mason Mark J , Francis Darrel P
Published: August 2023

Aims

For bradycardic patients after cardiac surgery, it is unknown how long to wait before implanting a permanent pacemaker (PPM). Current recommendations vary and are based on observational studies. This study aims to examine why this variation may exist.

Methods and results

We conducted first a study of patients in our institution and second a systematic review of studies examining conduction disturbance and pacing after cardiac surgery. Of 5849 operations over a 6-year period, 103 (1.8%) patients required PPM implantation. Only pacing dependence at implant and time from surgery to implant were associated with 30-day pacing dependence. The only predictor of regression of pacing dependence was time from surgery to implant. We then applied the conventional procedure of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, seeking an optimal time point for decision-making. This suggested the optimal waiting time was 12.5 days for predicting pacing dependence at 30 days for all patients (area under the ROC curve (AUC) 0.620, P = 0.031) and for predicting regression of pacing dependence in patients who were pacing-dependent at implant (AUC 0.769, P < 0.001). However, our systematic review showed that recommended optimal decision-making time points were strongly correlated with the average implant time point of those individual studies (R = 0.96, P < 0.001). We further conducted modelling which revealed that in any such study, the ROC method is strongly biased to indicate a value near to the median time to implant as optimal.

Conclusion

When commonly used automated statistical methods are applied to observational data with the aim of defining the optimal time to pacing after cardiac surgery, the suggested answer is likely to be similar to the average time to pacing in that cohort.
Hemizygous variants in protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 3F (PPP1R3F) are associated with a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by developmental delay, intellectual disability and autistic features
Authors: Liu Zhigang , Xin Baozhong , Smith Iris N , Sency Valerie , Szekely Julia , Alkelai Anna , Shuldiner Alan , Efthymiou Stephanie , Rajabi Farrah , Coury Stephanie , Brownstein Catherine A , Rudnik-Schöneborn Sabine , Bruel Ange-Line , Thevenon Julien , Zeidler Shimriet , Jayakar Parul , Schmidt Axel , Cremer Kirsten , Engels Hartmut , Peters Sophia O , Zaki Maha S , Duan Ruizhi , Zhu Changlian , Xu Yiran , Gao Chao , Sepulveda-Morales Tania , Maroofian Reza , Alkhawaja Issam A , Khawaja Mariam , Alhalasah Hunaida , Houlden Henry , Madden Jill A , Turchetti Valentina , Marafi Dana , Agrawal Pankaj B , Schatz Ulrich , Rotenberg Ari , Rotenberg Joshua , Mancini Grazia M S , Bakhtiari Somayeh , Kruer Michael , Thiffault Isabelle , Hirsch Steffen , Hempel Maja , Stühn Lara G , Haack Tobias B , Posey Jennifer E , Lupski James R , Lee Hyunpil , Sarn Nicholas B , Eng Charis , Gonzaga-Jauregui Claudia , Zhang Bin , Wang Heng
Published: August 2023

Protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 3F (PPP1R3F) is a member of the glycogen targeting subunits (GTSs), which belong to the large group of regulatory subunits of protein phosphatase 1 (PP1), a major eukaryotic serine/threonine protein phosphatase that regulates diverse cellular processes. Here, we describe the identification of hemizygous variants in PPP1R3F associated with a novel X-linked recessive neurodevelopmental disorder in 13 unrelated individuals. This disorder is characterized by developmental delay, mild intellectual disability, neurobehavioral issues such as autism spectrum disorder, seizures and other neurological findings including tone, gait and cerebellar abnormalities. PPP1R3F variants segregated with disease in affected hemizygous males that inherited the variants from their heterozygous carrier mothers. We show that PPP1R3F is predominantly expressed in brain astrocytes and localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum in cells. Glycogen content in PPP1R3F knockout astrocytoma cells appears to be more sensitive to fluxes in extracellular glucose levels than in wild-type cells, suggesting that PPP1R3F functions in maintaining steady brain glycogen levels under changing glucose conditions. We performed functional studies on nine of the identified variants and observed defects in PP1 binding, protein stability, subcellular localization and regulation of glycogen metabolism in most of them. Collectively, the genetic and molecular data indicate that deleterious variants in PPP1R3F are associated with a new X-linked disorder of glycogen metabolism, highlighting the critical role of GTSs in neurological development. This research expands our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and the role of PP1 in brain development and proper function.
Telomere-to-telomere haplotype-resolved reference genome reveals subgenome divergence and disease resistance in triploid Cavendish banana
Authors: Huang Hui-Run , Liu Xin , Arshad Rida , Wang Xu , Li Wei-Ming , Zhou Yongfeng , Ge Xue-Jun
Published: August 2023

Banana is one of the most important crops of the world. Cavendish-type bananas, which have a monospecific Musa acuminata origin (AAA), account for around half of the global banana production, thereby are of great significance for human societies. However, until now, the high-quality haplotype-resolved reference genome was still undecoded for banana cultivars. Here, we reported the telomere-to-telomere (T2T) and haplotype-resolved reference genome of ‘Baxijiao’ (Cavendish) consisting of three haploid assemblies. The sizes of the three haploid assemblies were estimated to be 477.16 Mb, 477.18 Mb, and 469.57 Mb, respectively. Although with monospecific origins, the three haploid assemblies showed great differences with low levels of sequence collinearity. Several large reciprocal translocations were identified among chromosomes 1, 4, and 7. An expansion of gene families that might affect fruit quality and aroma was detected, such as those belonging to sucrose/disaccharide/oligosaccharide catabolic processes, sucrose metabolic process, starch metabolic process, and aromatic compound biosynthetic process. Besides, an expansion of gene families related to anther and pollen development was observed, which could be associated with parthenocarpy and sterility of the Cavendish cultivar. Finally, much fewer resistance genes were identified in ‘Baxijiao’ than in M. acuminata, particularly in the gene clusters in chromosomes 3 and 10, providing potential targets to explore for molecular analysis of disease resistance in banana. This T2T haplotype-resolved reference genome will thus be a valuable genetic resource for biological studies, molecular breeding, and genetic improvement of banana.
Identification and profile of phenolamides with anthracnose resistance potential in tea (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Wang Wenzhao , Xie Xingcui , Lv Yuanyuan , Guan Haonan , Liu Lu , Huang Qian , Bao Yumeng , Zhou Jie , Bao Lu , Gong Chunmei , Yu Youben
Published: August 2023

Tea anthracnose is a prevalent disease in China that can lead to reduced tea production and lower quality, yet there is currently a lack of effective means for controlling this disease. In this study, we identified 46 phenolamides (including 27 isomers) in different tissues and organs of tea plants based on a developed workflow, and the secondary mass spectra of all these compounds have been documented. It was revealed that tea plants predominantly accumulate protonated aliphatic phenolamides, rather than aromatic phenolamides. The profile of phenolamides indicate that their buildup in tea plants is specific to certain tissues and acyl-acceptors, and this distribution is associated with the extent of phenolamide acyl-modification. Additionally, it was observed that N-Feruloylputrescine (Fer-Put, a type of phenolamides) was responsive to the stimulated accumulation of the tea anthracnose pathogen. The findings of anti-anthracnose experiments in vitro and on tea leaf demonstrated that Fer-Put was capable of significantly inhibiting the growth of anthracnose pathogen colony, effectively prevented tea leaf disease. Furthermore, it was observed that Fer-Put treatment can enhance the antioxidant enzyme activity of tea leaves. TEA002780.1 and TEA013165.1 gene may be responsible for the biosynthesis of Fer-Put in the disease resistance process in tea plants. Through these studies, the types and distribution of phenolamides in tea plants have been elucidated, and Fer-Put's ability to resist anthracnose has been established, providing new insights into the resistance of tea anthracnose.
Developing a highly efficient CGBE base editor in watermelon
Authors: Wang Dong , Chen Yani , Zhu Tao , Wang Jie , Liu Man , Tian Shujuan , Wang Jiafa , Yuan Li
Published: August 2023

Cytosine and adenosine base editors (CBEs and ABEs) are novel genome-editing tools that have been widely utilized in molecular breeding to precisely modify single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) critical for plant agronomic traits and species evolution. However, conventional BE editors are limited to achieve C-to-T and A-to-G substitutions, respectively. To enhance the applicability of base editing technology in watermelon, we developed an efficient CGBE editor (SCGBE2.0) by removing the uracil glycosylase inhibitor (UGI) unit from the commonly used hA3A-CBE and incorporating the uracil-DNA glycosylase (UNG) component. Seven specific guide RNAs (sgRNAs) targeting five watermelon genes were designed to assess the editing efficiency of SCGBE. The results obtained from stably transformed watermelon plants demonstrated that SCGBE2.0 could efficiently induce C-to-G mutations at positions C5–C9 in 43.2% transgenic plants (with a maximum base conversion efficiency of 46.1%) and C-to-A mutation at position C4 in 23.5% transgenic plants (with a maximum base conversion efficiency of 45.9%). These findings highlight the capability of our integrated SCGBE2.0 editor to achieve C-to-G/A mutations in a site-preferred manner, thus providing an efficient base editing tool for precise base modification and site-directed saturated mutagenesis in watermelon.
Healthy live birth following embryo transfer of a blastocyst of tetrapronuclear (4PN) origin: a case report
Authors: Bredbacka Peter , Capalbo Antonio , Kananen Kirsi , Picchetta Ludovica , Tomás Candido
Published: August 2023

During IVF treatments, normal fertilization is generally evidenced by the appearance of two pronuclei, one arising from the oocyte and the other from the male gamete. Embryos derived from zygotes with a pronuclei number other than two are assumed to possess a ploidy abnormality and their transfer is usually avoided owing to increased risk of implantation failure, miscarriage, and molar pregnancies. Nonetheless, the inclusion of genotyping data in preimplantation genetic testing has revealed that a normal diploid configuration is possible in embryos deriving from zygotes with an abnormal pronuclei number such as tripronuclear and one pronucleus. Here, we present a one-of-a-kind transfer of a tetrapronuclear-derived embryo that was discovered to be diploid and negative for other whole chromosome or segmental aneuploidies during preimplantation genetic testing using a targeted next-generation sequencing approach. The transfer resulted in the live birth of a healthy infant who is now 4 years old and has no apparent health or developmental impairments.
Single fathers’ experiences of using egg donation and surrogacy to start a family
Authors: Jones C , Jadva V , Zadeh S , Golombok S
Published: August 2023

STUDY QUESTION

What are the experiences of single men using egg donation and surrogacy as a route to parenthood?

SUMMARY ANSWER

The fathers mainly had a positive relationship with the surrogate and simultaneously exercised agency, and experienced challenges, during the process of surrogacy.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Little is known about single men’s experiences of egg donation and surrogacy arrangements. Studies have focused on single men’s decision-making processes about the use of surrogacy and family functioning once these families are formed. Questions remain about how fathers experience and navigate the process of surrogacy as a single man.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

The study is an international, in-depth qualitative study of fathers who chose to begin a family and parent alone. Data were collected between 2018 and 2021 as part of a larger study of solo fathers with different routes to parenthood. The present study reports on 21 fathers who used surrogacy and egg donation to begin their family. The average age of the fathers was 44 years, the fathers had young children aged 6 years or younger, and lived in countries across Australia, Europe, and North America.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted. Interview topics included fathers’ experiences of the process of using egg donation and surrogacy, and navigating the relationship with the surrogate. The audio-recorded interviews lasted around 2 hours and were subsequently transcribed verbatim.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and qualitative content analysis. Most of the fathers chose an identifiable egg donor. Regarding the relationship with the surrogate, many fathers had remained in contact with her, but to differing degrees, and they generally reported positive relationships. Thematic analysis led to the identification of three themes relating to the fathers’ experiences of choosing surrogacy as a single man: the ability to make choices; challenges and constraints; and special relationship.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Due to the variation between different countries regarding laws on surrogacy, contextual factors may have impacted on the experiences of single fathers, and the sample size was small. However, the research provides new insights into an area with little academic literature.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Given the growing trend of single men having children through surrogacy, the findings suggest that this new path to parenthood can be both rewarding and challenging. Single men may benefit from tailored support and counselling to help them navigate the surrogacy journey.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This study was funded by the Wellcome Trust (grant number 208013/Z/17/Z). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

n/a