bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peptidomic differences between natural musk and secretions from forest musk gland cells cultured in vitro
Authors: Huang Zhiying , Zhang Chenglu , Zeng Dejun , Feng Xiaolan , Wang Tao , jie hang
Published: May 2024

Peptides play an indispensable role in various biological functions and
show therapeutic potential. The forest musk deer, an important source of
musk, is a focal species in traditional medicine. While cell culture
techniques offer a sustainable alternative for musk production, the
complexity of peptide components produced by these methods remains
poorly understood. To bridge this knowledge gap, we compared the
peptidomic profiles of secretions from cultured musk gland cells with
those of natural musk cells using the EASY-nLC 1000 UHPLC (Ultra-High
Performance Liquid Chromatography) system. Our analysis revealed
similarities and notable differences between the peptide profiles of
cultured cell secretions and those of natural musk, with significant
implications for the biosynthesis and chemical composition of musk. This
study provides critical insights into the peptidomic differences between
cultured cell secretions and natural musk, highlighting the challenges
and potential of using cell culture techniques for the sustainable
production of musk components. Future research should focus on refining
conditions to more closely emulate the natural biosynthetic pathways of
musk peptides.
A Holistic Indicator of Polarization to Measure Online Sexism
Authors: Ghafouri Vahid , Such Jose , Suarez-Tangil Guillermo
Published: May 2024

The online trend of the manosphere and feminist discourse on social
networks requires a holistic measure of the level of sexism in an online
community. This indicator is important for policymakers and moderators
of online communities (e.g., subreddits) and computational social
scientists, either to revise moderation strategies based on the degree
of sexism or to match and compare the temporal sexism across different
platforms and communities with real-time events and infer social
scientific insights. In this paper, we build a model that can provide a
comparable holistic indicator of toxicity targeted toward male and
female identity and male and female individuals. Despite previous
supervised NLP methods that require annotation of toxic comments at the
target level (e.g. annotating comments that are specifically toxic
toward women) to detect targeted toxic comments, our indicator uses
supervised NLP to detect the presence of toxicity and unsupervised word
embedding association test to detect the target automatically. We apply
our model to gender discourse communities (e.g., r/TheRedPill, r/MGTOW,
r/FemaleDatingStrategy) to detect the level of toxicity toward genders
(i.e., sexism). Our results show that our framework accurately and
consistently (93% correlation) measures the level of sexism in a
community. We finally discuss how our framework can be generalized in
the future to measure qualities other than toxicity (e.g. sentiment,
humor) toward general-purpose targets and turn into an indicator of
different sorts of polarizations.
Quantitative Evaluation of Right Ventricular Myocardial Function Changes in Patients with Atrial Septal Defect Before and After Occlusion by Noninvasive Right Ventricular Pressure-Strain Loop
Authors: JIANG Huanhuan , Ran Hongling , Xu Pan , Hu Jia , XIAHOU Yu , ZHOU Xiling , Liu Ming , yuan xin
Published: May 2024

Objective: The non-invasive right ventricular pressure-strain
loop (PSL) represents a novel method for the quantitative assessment of
right ventricular myocardial function. Given that atrial septal defect
(ASD) is a prevalent congenital heart anomaly associated with right
ventricular volume overload, this study aims to quantitatively assess
the myocardial function of the right ventricle in ASD patients pre- and
post-occlusion by noninvasive right ventricular PSL. Methods:
This study included thirty-six patients diagnosed with secundum atrial
septal defect (ASD group) and thirty healthy adults (control group). We
compared conventional right ventricular echocardiographic parameters,
right ventricular strain, and myocardial work in the ASD group before
occlusion, two days post-occlusion, and three months post-occlusion,
with those in the control group. Results: Prior to and two days
following occlusion, the ASD group exhibited higher right ventricular
global work index (RVGWI), right ventricular global wasted work (RVGWW),
and right ventricular global constructive work (RVGCW) compared to the
control group ( P < 0.05). Within the ASD group,
post-occlusion, RVGWI, RVGCW, and RVGWW values were significantly
reduced compared to pre-occlusion values ( P < 0.001).
Furthermore, RVGWI and RVGCW showed a significant decrease three months
after occlusion compared to two days post-occlusion ( P
< 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis identified ASD
diameter and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) as independent
predictors of RVGWI( β = 0.405, P < 0.001;
β=2.307， P=0.037) and RVGCW（β=0.350, P＜0.001; β=1.967,
P=0.023). Conclusions: The non-invasive right ventricular PSL
effectively demonstrates the alterations in right ventricular myocardial
function in ASD patients, pre- and post-occlusion. The metrics of right
ventricular myocardial work (RVMW) offer a novel indicator for
evaluating right ventricular myocardial function in these patients.
Moreover, ASD diameter and PASP emerge as independent determinants of
RVGWI and RVGCW.
Deep phosphotyrosine characterisation of primary murine T cells using Broad Spectrum Optimisation of Selective Triggering
Authors: Callahan Aurora , Chua Xien , Griffith Ali , Hildebrandt Tobias , Fu Guoping , Hu Mengzhou , Wen Renren , Salomon Arthur
Published: May 2024

Sequencing the tyrosine phosphoproteome using MS-based proteomics is
challenging due to the low abundance of tyrosine phosphorylation in
cells, a challenge compounded in scarce samples like primary cells or
clinical samples. The broad-spectrum optimization of selective
triggering (BOOST) method was recently developed to increase
phosphotyrosine sequencing in low protein input samples by leveraging
tandem mass tags (TMT), phosphotyrosine enrichment, and a
phosphotyrosine-loaded carrier channel. Here, we demonstrate the
viability of BOOST in T cell receptor (TCR)-stimulated primary murine T
cells by benchmarking the accuracy and precision of the BOOST method and
discerning significant alterations in the phosphoproteome associated
with receptor stimulation. Using 1 milligram of protein input (about 20
million cells) and BOOST, we identify and precisely quantify more than
2,000 unique pY sites compared to about 300 unique pY sites in non-BOOST
control samples. We show that although replicate variation increases
when using the BOOST method, BOOST does not jeopardise quantitative
precision or the ability to determine statistical significance for
peptides measured in triplicate. Many pY previously uncharacterised
sites on important T cell signalling proteins are quantified using
BOOST, and we identify new TCR responsive pY sites observable only with
BOOST. Finally, we determine that the phase-spectrum deconvolution
method on Orbitrap instruments can impair pY quantitation in BOOST
experiments.
Identifying the quality markers accelerating wound repair in Lamiophlomis rotata by mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Li Huan , Chen Xinzhu , Liu Jiale , Luo Chen , Chen Huilin , Geng Xiaoyu , Chen Chang , Pan Zheng
Published: May 2024

The total iridoid glycoside extract of Lamiophlomis rotata (IGLR) has
been proven to be the main pharmacological ingredient for wound healing;
however, it is still unclear, which compounds in the extract are
responsible for this effect. We developed and validated a mass
spectrometry imaging (MSI) method to reveal the relationship between
phytochemical components and the pharmacological efficacy in IGLR.
Shanzhiside methyl (SM) ester, 8-O-acetylshanzhiside methyl ester (ASM),
and Phlorigidoside C (PhC) have been identified as quality markers in
IGLR to accelerate wound healing by MSI method. As per MSI data with
UMAP manifold analysis, these compounds overlapped in the same class
with endogenous metabolites (lactate, citrate and succinate). In
addition, UPLC-Q/TOF-MSn coupled with multivariate analyses for skin
tissues in the normal and wound groups further confirmed the results.
Furthermore, MSI data from livers and kidneys revealed that SM, ASM, and
PhC absorption significantly increased, whereas their elimination rates
remarkably decreased in the injured group. Collectively, the overall
data demonstrated that SM, ASM, and PhC selectively increased in the new
granulation tissue and that the bioavailability of these three quality
markers was remarkably improved in the wound group after continuous
gavage for 7 days. This protocol can be applied to reveal the
relationship between phytochemical components and the pharmacological
efficacy of other iridoid glycoside extracts.
A new perspective on tree growing season determination
Authors: Piermattei Alma
Published: May 2024

Understanding trees’ growing season timing is crucial for comprehending
their role in terrestrial ecosystems, including carbon dynamics. Our
current determination of the growing season, based on species- and
method-specific interpretations, and our understanding of the main
drivers triggering the growing season yield varied results. Rethinking
the growing season timing could have far-reaching implications,
potentially reshaping our understanding of climate change’s effect on
tree growth, their carbon sequestration and future geographical
distribution.
Beta-Nestedness and Turnover Reveal Drivers of Community Assembly in a Regenerating sub-Tropical Forest
Authors: Guclu Coskun , Chung Lim Luk , Boyle Michael , Ashton Louise , Abbas Sawaid
Published: May 2024

Secondary forests represent significant proportions of global forest
cover, with over 65% of forests in Asia classified as regenerating.
While succession has been studied extensively in temperate systems,
trajectories of sub-tropical forest succession remain poorly
characterized in highly disturbed, urban-adjacent forests. Investigating
the additive beta diversity subcomponents of Turnover and Nestedness may
reveal community assembly mechanisms driving secondary succession. The
present study investigated plant community assembly along a successional
gradient from 7 to 70 years following the onset of succession in
secondary sub-tropical forests in Hong Kong. Plant survey data for 28
plots were analysed, generating additive Simpsons and Nestedness beta
diversity metrics as subcomponents of Sorenson Beta Diversity.
Dissimilarity matrices were generated and modelled as a function of
transformed environmental matrices of forest plant community age (years
following onset of secondary succession), elevation (metres),
inter-community distance (metres), soil moisture saturation (%) and
soil organic carbon (g kg-1). Generalized dissimilarity models were
generated for plant species Turnover and Nestedness. Nonmetric
Multidimensional Scaling of plant communities was conducted with
Bray-Curtis dissimilarity matrices. Our findings indicate that elevation
was the primary driver of plant species Turnover, while age and
inter-community distance played less prominent roles. Models of
Nestedness found that plot age and soil moisture saturation were the
sole drivers of Nestedness patterns in plant communities. While models
of Turnover were robust, the low explanatory power of Nestedness models
suggest additional unobserved factors driving patterns of plant
community Nestedness during secondary succession. Turnover patterns
suggest a deterministic model of community assembly, with strong
patterns of species replacement between Lowland and Montaine forest
types, as well as between successional age classes.
Robust Fault-tolerant Control with Dynamic Event-triggered Mechanism Based on Observer for Nonlinear Switched Systems
Authors: Wang Xiaohan , Fu Xingjian
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a robust fault-tolerant control with dynamic event-triggered mechanism based on observer is proposed for nonlinear switched system with faults, external disturbances and uncertainties. A first-order filter is utilized to equate sensor faults to actuator faults, and the augmented system is constructed. An adaptive observer with H∞ performance is designed based on the augmented system. The condition that the state error and fault error of the adaptive observer are uniformly bounded is given. In order to save communication resources and reduce the transmission of unnecessary information, an improved dynamic event-triggered mechanism is designed by introducing a fixed threshold and defining a sampling error function based on the observed state and the actual state. This mechanism can further expand the triggering time interval and effectively avoid the Zeno behavior. According to the observed state and real-time fault estimation information at the triggering moment, a faulttolerant controller for switched system based on the dynamic event-triggered mechanism is proposed, and the conditions for asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system are provided. Finally, the validity of the proposed method is verified by application simulation for the variant aircraft switched system.
Innovative design of experimental blade cascad model for in-depth analysis of stall flutte
Authors: Šnábl Pavel , Prasad Chandra Shekhar , Procházka Pavel , Pešek Ludek , Uruba Václav , Skála Vladislav
Published: May 2024

Stall flutter is a serious threat to the operational integrity in turbomachinery, particularly in the final stage rotors of steam turbines and in compressors. Although computer science has developed rapidly and much of the research can be carried out using numerical tools, the simulation of some phenomena, such as stall flutter, is still very challenging and needs to be supported by experimental data. This paper presents an innovative experimental linear blade cascade design with five prismatic blades with pitch degrees of freedom, designed to be operated in a low subsonic wind tunnel. The geometry of the blade cascade was chosen on the basis of the experimental and numerical tests to allow stall flutter initiation. New suspension, measurement and electromagnetic excitation systems were developed and experimentally tested to allow accurate measurement of aerodynamic damping during controlled flutter tests. The novelty of the experimental blade cascade is the possibility of single pulse excitation of the blades. The cascade can be brought to the edge of stability by adjusting the angle of attack and flow velocity, and then the pulse can be used to induce stall flutter. Measurement of both mechanical and flow characteristics, also demonstrated in this paper, will provide data for in-depth analysis of stall flutter initiation and propagation.
Selected aspects of the operation of Dual Active Bridge DC/DC converters
Authors: Bachman Serafin , Turzyński Marek , Jasiński Marek
Published: May 2024

This review paper discusses the concept of a bidirectional Dual Active Bridge (DAB) DC/DC converter. Practical applications and control methods are explored, and various types of DAB converters are introduced and characterized. Aspects of operation are discussed, enriched by the results of theoretical analyses, simulations, and experimental measurements of the original authors works.
A novel temperature-effective modeling and state of charge estimation based on sigma-point Kalman filter for lithium titanate oxide battery
Authors: Muratoğlu Yusuf , ALKAYA Alkan
Published: May 2024

Battery modeling and state of charge (SoC) estimation are critical functions in the effective battery management system (BMS) operation. Temperature directly affects the battery's performance and changes the battery's model accuracy. Most studies have focused on estimating the internal temperature of the battery from the surface temperature of the battery with the help of sensors. However, due to the high number of cells in battery packs, the increase in sensor costs and the number of parameters have been ignored. Therefore, this article presents a new framework for the temperature effect using the electrical circuit model. The terminal voltage of the battery includes the effect under different operating conditions. This effect was associated with internal resistance in the battery model. The developed temperature-effective battery model was tested at different temperatures and operating currents. The model was validated with a maximum average root mean square error of 0.05% from the test results. The SoC of the LTO battery was estimated with the Sigma Point Kalman (SPK) filter incorporating the developed model. The maximum average root mean square error in the estimation results is 0.11%. It is suitable for practical applications due to its low cost, simplicity, and reliability.
Experimental evaluation of low-voltage DC/DC boost converters for renewable energy applications
Authors: Dawidziuk Jakub , Harasimczuk Michał , Kopacz Rafał
Published: May 2024

The demand for energy in the world is growing, and the requirements for the efficiency of energy-saving technologies used in renewable energy sources, especially prominent in terms of power electronics, are also increasing. In many renewable energy applications, high-efficiency, high-power DC/DC converters are necessary as an interface between various low-voltage sources and higher output voltage loads, e.g., in photovoltaics. The article presents a comprehensive study on reducing power losses in electric energy conversion in modified isolated and non-isolated DC/DC boost converters powered by low-voltage energy sources. The main desirable features, such as high energy efficiency, high conversion ratio, and low stress on the switches and diodes, were compared and further experimentally validated. The experimental evaluation indicates that the highest efficiency of 96.7%, with a conversion ratio of more than 10, was achieved in the interleaved boost-flyback DC/DC converter. Other investigated systems, namely non-isolated push-pull-boost converters, isolated half-bridge boost, and partially parallel boost converters, achieved slightly lower efficiency. Simultaneously, using the suggested topology, the passive component count was reduced. Furthermore, better utilization of switches and a higher conversion ratio are provided, as well as a possibility of working at a lower duty cycle compared to other step-up converter topologies. All in all, the proposed and studied converters exhibit certain advantages over other state-of-the-art solutions and thus can be competitively and effectively employed in modern low-voltage DC/DC applications such as photovoltaics.
Effect of Asparagus Chitosan-Rutin Coating on Losses and Waste Reduction During Storage
Authors: Priss Olesia , Hutsol Taras , Glowacki Szymon , Bulhakov Pavlo , Bakhlukova Kseniia , Osokina Nina , Nurek Tomasz , Horetska Iryna , Mykhailova Lyudmyla
Published: May 2024

Storage is a crucial component of a sustainable and efficient food supply system. Reduction of postharvest losses and waste is a vital strategy to improve efficiency, ensure product availability, and reduce environmental impact. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) boasts a high nutritional value and complex of phytonutrients. Yet, the storage period for fresh asparagus is quite short, leading to rapid quality deterioration. An effective method to extend storage periods involves postharvest treatments using the natural biopolymer chitosan. The aim of the research was to assess the effectiveness of applying sustainable postharvest treatments based on chitosan and rutin, with a focus on losses and waste reduction during asparagus storage. The impact of the applied storage technology on the visual appeal and sensory attributes of asparagus, along with its effects on respiratory metabolism, weight loss, soluble solids, soluble carbohydrates, chlorophylls, and carotenoids, was systematically assessed. The findings indicate that the post-harvest treatment using chitosan and rutin effectively preserves the visual characteristics of asparaguswhen the storage period is prolonged to a week. A major advantage of this technology is a substantial reduction in waste, achieving the levels of 1.0-1.5%. The proportion of standard products post-storage ranged from 94.4% to 96.0%. The treatment with chitosan and rutin efficiently reduces weight loss by half and suppresses the respiration rate, leading to decreased losses in soluble solids, carbohydrates, chlorophylls, and carotenoids during storage. These outcomes underscore the effectiveness of the applied coating in impeding metabolic processes, resulting in minimized quantitative and qualitative losses in the product quality during a prolonged storage.
Implementation of the Long-Term Energy Efficiency Program in Households in Latvia
Authors: Antonovs Maksims , Malinovskis Eriks , Plotka Kaspars
Published: May 2024

Considering the trend towards climate neutrality and energy efficiency at the global level as well as the problem of high energy poverty at the national level, the issue of housing renovation was inevitable for Latvia in 2023. The main objective of the study is to analyse the situation in Latvia, its problematic aspects and opportunities for the government, as well as to propose possible methods for solving the problem of low rates of housing renovation in Latvia. The main methods used were PESTLE analysis to identify problems and cluster analysis to compare financial opportunities in each country. The main results of the study are the conclusion that the financial aspect of renovation in Latvia is at a satisfactory level and is not the main reason for the unpopularity of renovation, but the main problem is energy poverty. The main conclusion is that renovation in Latvia requires a new approach that can improve the energy efficiency situation in Latvia, and providing such a method in the form of building renovation based on private-public partnership is the possible approach.
Conulariids of the Monograptus Belophorus Zone (Motol Formation, Sheinwoodian, Wenlock) of the Barrandian Area, Czech Republic
Authors: Mergl Michal
Published: May 2024

The new material of conulariids is described from the mid-Sheinwoodian “Miraspis Limestone” at the famous Špičatý vrch locality near Loděnice in the Barrandian area. Although poorly preserved, three taxa have been determined, referred to the Archaeoconularia cf. fecunda (Barrande, 1855), Conularia proteica Barrande, 1854 and Metaconularia (?) sp.
Accumulations of Fossil Cephalopod Shells and Attached Epizoans from Some Late Ordovician Localities (Barrandian Area, Czech Republic)
Authors: Marek Jaroslav , Šarič Radko , Kácha Petr
Published: May 2024

As yet undescribed accumulations of shells of orthoconic cephalopods, which are in some aspects comparable to cephalopod limestones known from the Silurian and Lower Devonian of the Barrandian area and other regions of the world, occur in the Letná and Zahořany formations (middle Sandbian and lower Katian stages, Upper Ordovician, central Bohemia). These accumulated shells are often colonized by sessile organisms. Only a small proportion of these organisms could be attached to shells of alive cephalopods; the majority of them used empty shells as solid substrates. The most abundant epizoan is the cystosporate bryozoan of the genus Ceramopora that often overgrows the cephalopod shells extensively. Holdfasts of the genus Sphenothallus and problematic fossils assigned to the genus Conchicolites are common. Rarer epibionts include the bryozoan Spatiopora, the cystoid echinoderm Codiacystis and the brachiopod Ptychopeltis. Varying sizes of bryozoan colonies occurring on the same cephalopod shell point to several recurring attachment events, probably reflecting reproduction cycles.
"Establishing a novel graduate medical education wellness program and comprehensive curriculum in the United Arab Emirates"
Authors: Almansoori Sahar , Sayed Falak
Published: May 2024

Introduction:
An often overlooked aspect of medical education is the development of strategies to improve and sustain individual well-being (1, 4). Although data regarding resident physician wellbeing is still scarce in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), recent studies have shown that burnout and depression are high among physician residents (2). This paper proposes a novel wellness framework and curriculum for residency programs which would be the first of its kind in the UAE.

Objectives:
1. Provide tools for programs to assess and monitor burnout and well-being in resident physicians.
2. Provide mentoring, professional development guidance, and career counselling.
3. Provide confidential mental health care and resources for resident physicians.

Description:
The curriculum\'s primary model targets Emergency Medicine residents. All domains from the American College of Emergency Physician's Wellness Wheel were incorporated (3). We proposed a three-tiered approach which includes: Mental Wellbeing, Physical Wellbeing, and Mentorship & Professional Development. This framework includes resources, didactics, workshops pertaining to the residents' needs for wellbeing. Mentoring, counselling and wellness surveys were also incorporated to track trainee progress and professional development.

Results:
The curriculum has been implemented at an emergency residency program in a tertiary hospital in Abu Dhabi since 2020. A post intervention survey was conducted among the emergency medicine residents in 2023. Although a quantitative statistical analysis was not conducted due to the limited sample size, the subjective receivability was positive. We hope to conduct a widespread pre and post intervention survey once multi-program implementation is finalized.

Conclusion:
Burnout and depression rate among physician residents in the UAE is prevalent with increasing need for solutions. Incorporating a robust wellness curriculum into physician residency programs should become a routine practice in medical education.
Antibiotics for Suspected Urinary Tract Infections in the Emergency Department, How Are We Doing?
Authors: Maghraby Nisreen , Alfaraj Dunya , AlSaleh Abdulmonem , Alsheikh Shahad , Qahtani Saleh , Alzahrani Khaled , Alzakari Zainab , Mohamed Farah , Alsheikh Noor
Published: May 2024

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a major public health issue that affects millions of people each year, and a common reason for hospital admission and Emergency Department (ED) visits. ED is a common yet crucial setting for antibiotic prescription. Unfortunately, antibiotic therapies that are unnecessarily prescribed continue to contribute to the global issue of bacterial resistance. Our study aims to determine the prevalence and reasons for inappropriate antibiotic use for UTI in the ED, to highlight the most commonly prescribed antibiotic, and to define the most sensitive antibiotic and most common pathogen based on urine cultures.
   
Methods: A retrospective cohort review conducted at King Fahad University Hospital in Al Khobar, eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Data was collected during the duration of 2017 – 2022 from electrical medical records for all patients who had a urinalysis and urine culture in the ED and were managed as outpatients. Antibiotic prescription was considered Inappropriate if: Asymptomatic patient, Negative urinalysis, Negative or contaminated urine culture or Prescribed antibiotic did not demonstrate sensitivity to the tested bacteria. R-Jamovi software (version 2.3, 2022) was used for analysis.

Results:  The total sample included 2531 patients. 70.4 % (n= 1781) were females. The most common age group was adults (from 15- 63 years old. Dysuria was the most reported symptom, representing 28.3 % (n = 606). Only ~ 21% of the prescribed antibiotics were appropriate (P< 0.001). The most common reason for inappropriateness was that the tested antibiotic was not sensitive to growth. Ciprofloxacin was the most commonly prescribed antibiotic, representing 34.8%. E. coli was the most common pathogen causing UTI, representing 37.5%. Gentamicin was the most sensitive antibiotic among the urine culture results, representing 90% (P
The Possibility of adoption Lean Supply Chain Management (LSCM) activities in the food beverage industry : Exploratory study
Authors: Ali Shaaban Firsat , Ali Oso Khairy , Duni Habel Anna
Published: May 2024

The study aims to determine the extent of the possibility of adopting lean supply chain management activities, represented by the activities (lean purchasing, lean supplier, lean production, lean transportation, lean warehousing, and lean customer) in the Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola companies for the production of food beverages in the Kurdistan Region / Iraq, based on two hypotheses. They stipulate the respondents' awareness and possibility of adopting these activities. The questionnaire form was used as a main tool for collecting data. (90) questionnaires were distributed to the managers of departments and units in the two surveyed companies. The number of questionnaires suitable for analysis reached (80) forms. The results of the statistical analysis supported the study hypotheses and showed the possibility of adopting all activities. The researchers suggested adopting all activities and starting with the lean production activity.
First sight at entomotoxicology using Peckia intermutans (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) in Ecuador and its potential as a marker for methanol determination in biological samples
Authors:   Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Ecuador., RIVERA-PUMA Celia C. , MEDINA-VILLAMIZAR Evencio J. ,   School of Industrial, Computer and Aeronautical Engineering, University of León, Spain., MOGOLLÓN S. Noroska G. ,   Biomolecules Discovery Group, Universidad Regional Amazónica, Ecuador., LIRIA Jonathan ,   Grupo de Población y Ambiente, Universidad Regional Amazónica, Ecuador.
Published: May 2024

Forensic entomotoxicology, which analyzes necrophagous insects to detect toxic substances, is crucial in determining causes of death and estimating the post-mortem interval. This study focused on Peckia intermutans (Walker) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) as a marker for detecting methanol, a potentially lethal alcohol often added as an adulterant in alcoholic beverages due to its low cost and similarity to ethanol. A gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-GC-MS) method was developed to detect methanol, and its effects on the development time, survival, and morphology of flesh flies were investigated. Larvae were reared on liver substrates enriched with methanol (300, 500, and 1000 mg/kg). Results showed: the developed method detected methanol in all instars; methanol affected the developmental time of the flies; survival increased with higher methanol concentration; and morphological changes were evident in weight. This study provides valuable information on entomotoxicological research in Ecuador, emphasizing the need to consider morphological changes in P. intermutans to avoid inaccurate estimations of post-mortem intervals.
A new species and new records of Amerohelea from Peru (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors:   Instituto de Limnología “Dr. Raúl A. Ringuelet” (ILPLA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina., SPINELLI Gustavo R. , DÍAZ Florentina ,   Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores (CEPAVE), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
Published: May 2024

A new species of the genus Amerohelea Grogan & Wirth (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Amerohelea robusta sp. nov., collected at light in the Amazon area of Peru is described and photographed. This new species, known only by males, is compared with Amerohelea xerophila Gaddi, Spinelli & Grogan from arid zones of Argentina. The later species mainly differs by the distinctly shorter distal portion of parameres, the Y-shaped aedeagus with basal arm recurved more than 90°, and the eyes broadly separated. Besides, Amerohelea fasciata Grogan & Wirth and Amerohelea galindoi Grogan & Wirth are firstly recorded from Peru.
Roadside margins as biodiversity reservoirs: the ecosystem role of insects
Authors:   Grupo de Entomología Aplicada, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias (UNL), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina. / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina., GHIGLIONE Carla , ZUMOFFEN Leticia ,   Grupo de Entomología Aplicada, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias (UNL), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina. / Instituto de Investigación de la Cadena Láctea (INTA-CONICET), Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Rafaela, Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina., PACINI Adriana ,   Instituto de Investigación de la Cadena Láctea (INTA-CONICET), Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Rafaela, Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina. / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina., MERKE Julieta ,   Instituto de Investigación de la Cadena Láctea (INTA-CONICET), Estación Experimental Agropecuaria Rafaela, Rafaela, Santa Fe, Argentina., STRASSER Ruth ,   Grupo de Entomología Aplicada, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias (UNL), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina., SALTO Cesar E. ,   Grupo de Entomología Aplicada, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias (UNL), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina., DALMAZZO Milagros ,   Grupo de Entomología Aplicada, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias (UNL), Ciudad Universitaria, Santa Fe, Argentina. / Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Published: May 2024

The roadside margins that contain natural vegetation provides biological stable conditions and promote biodiversity. These areas are important to enhance ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes. The aims of this study were i) to assess the diversity of insects as floral visitors (excluding apiformes), and plant species richness in roadside margins, ii) to determine the Functional Groups of insects recorded as floral visitors of roadside margins, and iii) to analyze the ecological role of insects presents in eight roadside margins located in the central-eastern region of the Santa Fe province. The study was conducted along four provincial roads (No. 6, 10, 62, and 64) and the national road No. 19, on November 2013 to September 2015. A total of 1614 insects were recorded. Oxysarcodexia varia (Walker) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), Allograpta exotica (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Syrphidae) and Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), were the most abundant species. The families Brassicaceae, Apiaceae, and Asteraceae received the highest number of insect visits. A total of 225 plant-insect interactions were recorded. The importance of roadside margin with natural vegetation to provide food and shelters for pollinators, predators, parasitoids, herbivores, and decomposers insects is discussed.
Description of the unknown male of Adesmus murutinga (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae: Hemilophini) and new geographical records of longhorned beetles
Authors:   Grupo Evolución y Sistemática Tropical, Universidad de Sucre, Sincelejo, Colombia., TABOADA-VERONA Carlos , QUIMBAYO-DIAZ Sebastian ,   Universidad del Tolima, Ibagué, Tolima, Colombia., PARDO-LOCARNO Luis Carlos ,   Programa de Agronomía, Universidad del Pacifico, Grupo de Investigaciones Pluviselva. Buenaventura, Colombia.
Published: May 2024

The male of Adesmus murutinga Martins & Galileo, 2004 is described for the first time, an updated key to Colombian species of the genus is presented, and three species of longhorned beetles are reported for the first time for Colombia. The specific localities in Colombia of Miriclytus quadrifasciatus (Chevrolat, 1862) and Oedudes spectabilis (Drury, 1782) are reported.
Habrobracon hebetor (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), new association with beetle pests of walnut and expansion of its distribution in La Rioja, Argentina
Authors:   Instituto de Ambientes de Montaña y Regiones Áridas-UNdeC, Chilecito, La Rioja, Argentina. / CONICET, CABA, Argentina., ESPINOSA Martín S. , CAVALLO Maria J. ,   CREAS (CONICET-UNCA), Catamarca, Argentina., DIEZ Patricia A. ,   CONICET-UNCA), Catamarca, Argentina. / Dpto. Ciencias Básica y Tecnológicas-UNdeC, Chilecito, La Rioja, Argentina
Published: May 2024

New associations are reported between the parasitoid Habrobracon hebetor (Say) and two genera of postharvest pest coleopters on shelled fruits of Juglans regia L, Carpophilus Stephens (Nitidulidae) and Oryzaephilus Ganglbauer (Silvanidae) in the province of La Rioja. Furthermore, this parasitoid was recorded from larvae of Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). The distribution of H. hebetor is expanded to the province of La Rioja. Data on percentages of parasitoidism are provided.
Effect of apremilast on cardiovascular risk in psoriasis patients in comparison with methotrexate
Authors: Varghese Aiswarya , V J Sebastian Criton , George Rupesh
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

To compare the change in cardiovascular risk factors who are taking apremilast and methotrexate.

Materials and Methods:

This hospital-based prospective cohort study included 40 newly diagnosed cases of psoriasis who were divided into two groups – group A (receiving methotrexate) and group B (receiving apremilast) and were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. The outcome was assessed on the basis of psoriasis area and severity index score and the biochemical parameters.

Results:

A total of 50 patients diagnosed with chronic plaque psoriasis were enrolled in the study, out of which 40 completed the study. At the end of 12 weeks, patients treated with apremilast showed a 49.39% reduction in mean PASI score, while those on methotrexate showed a 46.19% reduction. Significant elevation of alanine transaminase was seen only in the methotrexate group with P < 0.05. No significant change was observed in blood glucose levels in both groups. hs-CRP levels in the methotrexate group showed a significant decrease as compared to apremilast (P < 0.05).

Limitations:

Absence of blinding, psoriasis patients not stratified according to severity, and a small sample size were the major limitations.

Conclusion:

On comparing the two drugs, methotrexate is considered to have more cardioprotective action.
Utilisation of intravenous iron and erythropoietin in dialysis patients: A prospective observational study
Authors: Oddepalli Divya Rekha , Palapalli Muni Varun , Jillella Yasaswini , Pallam Divyapriya , V Harsha Vardhan Reddy , Mannevaram Indraneel
Published: May 2024

In this prospective observational study, the utilization of intravenous iron and erythropoietin in dialysis patients was thoroughly investigated. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of these treatments in managing anaemia, a common complication in individuals undergoing dialysis. Anaemia is a significant concern in this population due to impaired erythropoiesis and iron deficiency resulting from renal dysfunction. The study followed a cohort of dialysis patients, tracking their response to intravenous iron supplementation and erythropoietin therapy over a specified period. Through regular monitoring and evaluation, the study sought to determine the impact of these interventions on haemoglobin levels, transfusion requirements, and overall patient outcomes. Additionally, the study likely analysed factors such as dosing regimens, adverse effects, and the need for additional interventions to achieve optimal haemoglobin levels. By conducting a prospective observational study, researchers aimed to provide valuable insights into the real-world effectiveness and safety of intravenous iron and erythropoietin in managing anaemia in dialysis patients, which could inform clinical practice and improve patient care strategies.
Formulation and evaluation of mouth-dissolving films of memantine
Authors: KV Swathi Krishna , Kummari Murali Mohan , Shaik Irfan , Narsipally Sai Teja , Thotlo Karishma , Tellapati Ooha Chowdary , Medisetty Manasa , Udayagiri Dastagiri
Published: May 2024

This present research aims to formulate and evaluate mouth dissolving films using Memantine as model drug to improve bioavailability and facilitate rapid onset of action to relieve vomiting and nausea. The thicknesses of the films were in the range of 0.234 mm to 0.271mm. The weights of the films were found to be in the range of ±10%. The folding endurance of the films was found to be in the range of 38± 1 to 57 ± 2.  The surface pHs of all the films were neutral, as there was no color change in the litmus paper.  All the films were found to be 98 to 102. The disintegration time of the prepared films ranged from 21sec to 32sec. Acceptable mechanical properties were obtained in batch F-9, and the in vitro disintegration time was below 27 sec. It has been determined that formulations F-9 were found to be satisfactory batches and were optimized for the desirable properties.
MEDICAL INSURANCE PREMIUM PREDICTION WITH MACHINE LEARNING
Authors: Prof. M. S. Patil  , Kulkarni Sanika  , Khurpe Sanjana
Published: May 2024

A machine learning method for predicting health insurance rates is presented in this article. With healthcare expenditures becoming more complex, it is critical for insurance companies and policyholders to accurately estimate insurance prices. Utilizing a dataset that included medical history, demographic data, and other pertinent variables, a variety of machine learning techniques, such as ensemble methods and regression, were used to create prediction models. R-Squared and mean absolute error were two measures used to assess these models' performance. According to the developed models' results, insurance premiums can be predicted with accuracy, offering useful information for insurance counteragents. This approach has the potential to optimize pricing strategies, enhance risk assessment, and improve decision-making in the healthcare insurance sector. Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Medical Insurance Premiums Make predictions about health insurance companies based on personal traits. A dataset of policyholder attributes (such as age, gender, BMI, number of children, smoking behaviors, and geography) was gathered and preprocessed .Divide the data into sets for testing and training. Create and train a model for an artificial neural network with TensorFlow and Karas. R-squared metrics and mean R-squared error were used to assess the performance of the model. created a high R-Squared predictive model that was accurate. determined the main determinants of insurance rates. Machine learning has shown promise in estimating healthcare costs. This experiment demonstrates how well machine learning predicts medical insurance rates. Insurance companies may offer more individualized insurance plans, expedite the underwriting process, and help customers make well-informed decisions about their healthcare coverage by creating these predictive models. The created model can help policyholders make educated judgments and insurance companies establish proper prices. In the long run, our research helps the insurance industry enhance data-driven techniques, which benefits insurers as well as insured individuals in general.
Reassessing The Data Exclusivity Regime For The Indian Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors:   , Kumari Khushbu
Published: May 2024

Data exclusivity is primarily created to support drug regulation. Some World Trade Organisation (WTO) members use this form of protection for regulatory data submitted for approval of a new chemical entity. This protection prevents competitors from relying on the data submitted by the originator company to obtain regulatory approval for their generic product for a certain period. Some members, including India, protect undisclosed information using the doctrine of breach of confidence. Under this form of data protection, subsequent applicants may enter the market by simply proving that their drug is similar to the first applicant’s drug through bioequivalent studies. This ensures early market entry of generics soon after patent protection expiry without waiting out any other form of exclusivity period. The thesis reassesses data exclusivity for the Indian pharmaceutical industry for two primary reasons. First, there is external pressure from trading partners to implement data exclusivity. Second, it aims to examine whether data exclusivity can address the evolving challenges faced by the Indian pharmaceutical sector. These challenges include persistent concerns related to substandard drugs and mishaps in clinical trials. Additionally, the nature of the Indian pharmaceutical industry is shifting from generic specific to include a more research and development-based industry. Lastly, the thesis discusses the effect on Indian patent law more broadly if India were to adopt data exclusivity. Such an approach could imbalance India’s effort to tailor its patent regime to promote the national interest whilst promoting innovation by becoming an alternative to patent protection.
أساسيات البحث في علم الجريمة: والعدالة الجنائية
Authors:   Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS), P. Mears Daniel ,   Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (NAUSS), C. Cochran Joshua
Published: May 2024

الأوراق البحثية تشبه المقالات التحليلية، إلا أن الأوراق البحثية تؤكد على استخدام البيانات الإحصائية والدراسات السابقة إلى جانب قوانين صارمه للاستشهادات. كما تتطلب الورقة البحثية الجيدة دمجًًا بين الفن والعلم. ولكن كيف يتحقق كل هذا؟ من خلال هذا الكتاب بعنوان )أساسيات البحث في علم الجريمة والعدالة الجنائية(، أستاذا علم الجريمة دانيال ميرز وجوشوا كوكران يتحدثان بعمق عن العلاقة بين النظريات والبيانات والتحاليل في عملية الأوراق البحثية المتعلقة بالجريمة وعلم الجريمة والعدالة الجنائية، كما يوضحان أن العلم والفن يلعبان دورًًا مهمًًا كذلك، ويثبتان أنه من الممكن تحقيق التوازن بين الاثنين، وبالتالي إنتاج بحث إبداعي. ما يميز هذا الكتاب عن غيره من الكتب

في هذا المجال هو أنه مكتوب بلغة بسيطة وسلسة، الأمر الذي يجعله سهل الفهم والتنفيذ. كما أن الأمثلة الواردة في الكتاب مستمدة من واقع الحياة وبالتالي تجعل عملية القراءة والاستيعاب أكثر تشويقًا أيضًا ميزة جديرة بالذكر في هذا الكتاب هي أن هدفه الأساسي هو أن يكون مفيدًًا للجميع بما في ذلك الباحثين وصانعي سياسات العدالة الجنائية والممارسين في هذا المجال، وأفراد من عامة الناس. لكن سيستفيد الطلاب أكثر من غيرهم، وخاصة طلاب المرحلة الجامعية وطلاب الدراسات العليا حيث إن كيفية التفكير في البحث وإجرائه وتقييمه أمر أساسي لدراسة وفهم علم الجريمة والعدالة الجنائية. بلا شك (أساسيات البحث في علم الجريمة والعدالة الجنائية) سيساعد على تطوير مهارات القاريء البحثية ويشجعه على التفكير الناقد والإبداعي بشكل أكبر حول جميع ما يخص البحث في مجال علم الجريمة والعدالة الجنائية.
Pengaruh Employee Engagement terhadap Kinerja Karyawan Melalui Kepuasan Kerja Sebagai Variabel Mediasi
Authors: Abadi Ahmad Fairuz
Published: May 2024

PT Angkasa Pura I Kantor Cabang Bandar Udara Internasional Juanda Surabaya merupakan perusahaan yang bergerak di bidang pengelolaan kebandarudaraan. Perusahaan ini melakukan bisnis berupa pengelolaan bandar udara, dalam hal ini seperti pembiayaan sewa maskapai, kargo, ritel, hotel, dan pendapatan non aeronautika lainnya.
Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menguji dan menganalisis pengaruh employee engagement terhadap kinerja karyawan dengan kepuasan kerja sebagai variabel mediasi pada karyawan PT Angkasa Pura I Kantor Cabang Bandar Udara Internasional Juanda Surabaya. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kausalitas dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan non-probability sampling dengan jenis purposive sampling dimana sampel telah ditentukan oleh peneliti dengan penimbangan tertentu dengan jumlah responden sebanyak 87 karyawan pada PT Angkasa Pura I Kantor Cabang Bandar Udara Internasional Juanda Surabaya. Analisis statistik yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah partial least square (PLS) dengan bantuan software smartpls 3.2.9.
Hasil dari penelitian ini menjelaskan bahwa employee engagement berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja karyawan, employee engagement berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kepuasan kerja, kepuasan kerja berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja karyawan, kepuasan kerja mampu memediasi hubungan antara employee engagement dan kinerja karyawan.
 
Kata kunci: employee engagement, kepuasan kerja, kinerja karyawan.