bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unexpected levels of cryptic diversity in European bees of the genus Andrena subgenus Taeniandrena (Hymenoptera, Andrenidae): implications for conservation
Authors: Praz Christophe , Genoud David , Vaucher Killian , Bénon Dimitri , Monks Joseph , Wood Thomas J.
Published: June 2022

Using a combination of DNA barcodes and morphology, we examine species boundaries in bees of the genus Andrena subgenus Taeniandrena in Europe. First, we solve the long controversy surrounding the status ofAndrena ovatula(Kirby, 1802) andA. albofasciataThomson, 1870, proposed to represent distinct species nearly 100 years ago, but mostly treated as conspecific in recent studies. Our results unambiguously support the presence of two taxa that are often found in sympatry: the first taxon, referred to asA. ovatula, is present in Northern Europe but also in Southern Europe along the Mediterranean coast; the second taxon is referred to asA. afzeliella(Kirby, 1802),stat. rev., withA. albofasciataconsidered to be a junior synonym (syn. nov.), and is widely distributed in Europe. Second, we show that another widely distributed species has hitherto been overlooked in Europe:A. ovataSchenck, 1853,stat. rev.Third, we demonstrate that two taxa currently treated as subspecies should be given specific rank due to significant morphological and genetic differences:A. croceiventrisMorawitz, 1871,stat. rev., so far treated as a subspecies ofA. similisSmith, 1849, andA. vociferaWarncke, 1975,stat. nov., so far treated as a subspecies ofA. gelriaevan der Vecht, 1927. BothA. croceiventrisandA. vociferahave particularly restricted ranges in Europe, being known only from central to southern Italy and Sicily, and continental France, respectively. Fourth, we describe a new species from Sardinia and Corsica,A. antonellaesp. nov.Lastly, the following new synonymies are proposed:A. similis,A. ocreata cyprisinaWarncke, 1975 andA. similis caraimicaOsytshnjuk, 1994 are placed in synonymy withA. russulaLepeletier, 1841 (syn. nov.);A. fuscata(Kirby, 1802),A. canescensSchenck, 1853 andA. pseudovatulaAlfken, 1926 are placed in synonymy withA. afzeliella(syn. nov.). Lectotypes are designated forA. afzeliella,A. fuscata(Kirby, 1802),A. ovataandA. wilkella(Kirby, 1802). Our results suggest a particularly fast diversification in this group of bees, leading to the presence of numerous species exhibiting particularly restricted geographic ranges. We discuss the implications for conservation of this astonishing cryptic diversity in European bees.
Open access in a taxonomic sense: a morphological and molecular guide to Western Palaearctic Dusona (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae)
Authors: Meier Noah , Urfer Karin , Haraldseide Håkon , Vårdal Hege , Klopfstein Seraina
Published: June 2022

In the present time of biodiversity crisis, assessing species diversity by accurate and accessible taxonomic revisions is more crucial than ever. Parasitoid wasps are considered as both one of the most diverse and under-studied groups in the tree of life. Dusona Cameron, 1901 (Ichneumonidae, Campopleginae) is with 442 species one of the most species - rich genera of Darwin wasps, but despite the existence of recent keys, species identification has proven difficult to impossible to non-specialists. In this study, we examined about 1,500 Dusona specimens from recent and historical collections in Sweden and Switzerland. We provide a photographic guide to diagnostic characters and detailed plates for 57 out of 125 Western Palaearctic Dusona species, facilitating species identification based on existing keys. We add 11 and 3 species to the faunistic records of Sweden and Switzerland, respectively. Furthermore, we reconstruct the phylogeny of European Dusona based on four standard markers (COI, CAD, ITS2, 28S) for 45 species, complemented with a reliable reference barcode library for 46 species. Even though we can identify several morphologically distinct clades, we do not propose any new subgenera due to prevalent homoplasy of characters. While most species are well separated by barcodes, several morphologically distinct species have barely discriminatory barcode sequences (p-distances < 2%) or are even paraphyletic in this marker, indicating limitations in the applicability of barcodes for Darwin wasps. This study reveals severe gaps in the inventories of neglected taxa even for well-studied countries such as Sweden and Switzerland. As this study makes species determination for Western Palaearctic Dusona more accessible, we encourage more people, including non-specialists, to work with this genus.
Asicimbex Yan, Deng & Wei, a new genus with eight new species and four new combinations (Hymenoptera, Cimbicidae)
Authors: Yan Yu-Chen , Yan Wen-Long , Deng Tie-Jun , Wei Mei-Cai
Published: June 2022

A new genus and eight new species of Cimbicinae from the East Asia are described: Asicimbex Yan, Deng & Wei gen. nov., A. concavicaputus Yan & Wei sp. nov., A. dengi Yan & Wei sp. nov., A. koreanus Yan & Wei sp. nov., A. lii Yan & Wei sp. nov., A. latistriatus Yan, Deng & Wei sp. nov., A. maculotegularis Yan & Wei sp. nov., A. nanjingensis Yan & Wei sp. nov. and A. shengi Yan & Wei sp. nov. Four new combinations are proposed: A. eous (Semenov, 1935) comb. nov., A. elminus (Li & Wu, 2003) comb. nov., A. ulmusvorus (Yang, 1996) comb. nov. and A. malaisei (Gussakovskij, 1947) comb. nov., all from Agenocimbex. The 12 known species of Asicimbex are separated into two species groups. Asicimbex stands between Agenocimbex Rohwer 1910 and Cimbex Olivier 1791. The differences between Asicimbex and Cimbex, Asicimbex and Palaeocimbex are discussed in detail. Descriptions, remarks, illustrations, a key to the known species of Asicimbex and a key to genera of Cimbicinae are provided. A. malaisei is confirmed as a valid species and recorded from China for the first time, with the female described for the first time. The distribution of the genus is also briefly discussed.
First records of the alien Eucalyptus psyllids Blastopsylla occidentalis (Hemiptera, Aphalaridae) from Cyprus and Platyobria biemani (Hemiptera, Aphalaridae) from Cyprus and continental Greece
Authors: Demetriou Jakovos , Koutsoukos Evangelos , Davranoglou Leonidas‑Romanos , Roy Helen E. , Spodek Malkie , Martinou Angeliki F.
Published: June 2022

The psyllids Platyobria biemani Burckhardt, Queiroz & Malenovský, 2014 and Blastopsylla occidentalis Taylor, 1985 (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Aphalaridae) originally native to Australia, have now spread to the Eastern Mediterranean as pests of Eucalyptus spp. In the present study, we provide the first records of these species from Cyprus and we expand the range of P. biemani within continental Greece. The specimens were collected from ornamental Eucalyptus trees in Paphos and Limassol districts. In addition, material surveys in Greece revealed the presence of P. biemani in Attica (Salamis Island and Nea Peramos). Given the number of sampled sites, both species should be classified as established pests responsible for small-scale, local infestations of Eucalyptus spp. The Australian Glycaspis brimblecombei Moore, 1964, already known from Cyprus, is widespread on the island and its effects undermine the aesthetics of natural and urban landscapes. The socioeconomic impacts of alien Eucalyptus psyllids in Cyprus are discussed.
Growth pattern of the middle ear in the gray short-tailed opossum, Monodelphis domestica
Authors: Nummela Sirpa , Aguirre-Fernández Gabriel , Smith Kathleen K. , Sánchez-Villagra Marcelo R.
Published: June 2022

We studied the mass growth trajectories of middle ear ossicles and tympanic membrane and oval window area in 19 specimens of postnatal ages 30–180 days of the gray short-tailed opossum Monodelphis domestica. We weighed the skull mass and the mass of the three middle ear ossicles with appropriate balances. Using a binocular microscope provided with a grid, we measured the length of malleus and incus, as well as the longest axis and the one perpendicular to it on both the tympanic membrane and the stapes footplate. The size variation was studied with least squares regression analyses between various measurements. The incus and stapes change little in mass after 40 days of postnatal life, while the malleus does, reaching maximum mass at around 100 PND (postnatal days). This modularity in growth trajectory is in contrast with the shared evolutionary origin of malleus and incus from branchial arch 1. The maturation of the middle – and as indicated by previous work, that of the inner ear – is coupled with the improvement of hearing sensitivity at low and high frequencies after the initial onset of hearing at 29 PND.
A new systematic arrangement for the blister beetle genus Eurymeloe (Meloini, Meloidae, Coleoptera) with the description of a new species from Spain
Authors: Sánchez-Vialas Alberto , Ruiz José L. , Recuero Ernesto , Gutiérrez-Pérez Felipe , García-París Mario
Published: June 2022

The taxonomic status and subgeneric arrangement of the genus Eurymeloe have been debated for decades. In this work, the internal taxonomy of Eurymeloe is redefined by recognising three subgenera: Eurymeloe for the former Eurymeloe brevicollis species group, Coelomeloe for Eurymeloe tuccia, and Bolognaia Ruiz, García-París, Sánchez-Vialas & Recuero, subgen. nov., to accommodate the species of the formerly recognised Eurymeloe rugosus species group. Additionally, a new species of the newly described subgenus Bolognaia is described from the Iberian Peninsula based on molecular and morphological traits. The new species, Eurymeloe (Bolognaia) orobatessp. nov., can be distinguished from all other species of Eurymeloe by the following combination of morphological traits: dispersed brownish setae over the body that are arranged in small tufts on the abdominal terga; a small, very transverse pronotum that presents a unique macrosculpture; a deeply and densely punctured integument of the head and pronotum; and the very rugose elytra. The characters displayed by E. orobates suggest that the species groups that were previously defined and recognised for Eurymeloe, and that are now integrated within the newly erected subgenus Bolognaia, are non-monophyletic.
Nonpharmacological Interventions for Management of Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia in Long-Term Care Facilities by Direct Caregivers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lyons Theresa Lynn , Champion Jane Dimmitt
Published: June 2022

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) are a worldwide problem. Estimates indicate approximately 96% of persons with dementia (PWD) exhibit BPSD that are directly associated with long-term care (LTC) placement and approximately one half of these persons experience symptoms classified as severe. BPSD are associated with lost days of work, high turnover, and poor job satisfaction for direct caregivers. Nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) are effective for management of BPSD when used properly. NPIs are more likely to be used by direct caregivers who are knowledgeable about and have confidence in BPSD effectiveness. Various training techniques promote development of this self-efficacy. The current systematic review synthesizes evidence concerning the use of NPIs for management of BPSD by direct caregivers in LTC settings. Gaps in the literature include evaluation of positive impact of NPIs on PWD and behavior precedent factors. This review emphasizes the need for development and provision of quality NPI education for direct caregivers in LTC settings. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 48
(7), 18–23.]
Lucent Patellar Lesions: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Lu Ziang , Chow Kira , Levine Benjamin , Motamedi Kambiz , Leeman Joshua
Published: June 2022

A radiographically lucent patellar lesion may represent a variety of etiologies, ranging from more commonly seen degenerative, metabolic, infectious, developmental, posttraumatic, postoperative causes to rarer benign and malignant neoplasms. Clinical symptoms, surgical history, laboratory values, and radiographic features may help narrow the differential. In addition, radiographic features such as circumscribed borders and sharply delineated margins favor benign lesions while ill-defined margins suggest malignant etiologies. This case series illustrates the imaging findings and explores relevant clinical findings in a variety of interesting lucent patellar lesions.
Une sociohistoire de la médiation animale en prison : de l’émergence à l’institutionnalisation en France
Authors: Leite Julie Rodrigues
Published: June 2022

Les dispositifs de médiation animale se développent dans les prisons françaises depuis la fin des années 2000. À partir d’une approche socio-historique, cet article se focalise sur les origines de cette médiation et l’imbrication de différentes logiques de soin, de réinsertion, de responsabilisation traversant le système carcéral. L’article analyse deux processus : d’une part, l’émergence des dispositifs de médiation animale dans les prisons américaines et françaises pour comprendre des phénomènes de circulation transnationale et interinstitutionnelle et, d’autre part, l’institutionnalisation de ces pratiques dans les prisons françaises.
Contrôler la gestion déléguée des prisons
Authors: Rivet Nathan
Published: June 2022

Depuis 1990, l’administration pénitentiaire délègue à des entreprises privées de nombreuses missions dites non régaliennes, mais indispensables au fonctionnement quotidien des prisons, comme la maintenance, la restauration, la cantine ou le travail pénal. Au-delà de l’inscription de la prison dans le courant de la nouvelle gestion publique par la mise en œuvre et circulation de réformes gestionnaires, cette sous-traitance institutionnalisée a très rapidement posé la question de son contrôle par l’administration elle-même. L’étude du développement de services pénitentiaires spécialisés dans le suivi et le contrôle de cette gestion déléguée montre alors comment la prison s’est transformée, impliquant de nouveaux professionnels spécialisés dans les questions d’externalisation. On observe alors, par trois mouvements sur les trente dernières années, comment la gestion déléguée s’est diffusée, comment un rapport de force s’est progressivement institué dans la relation public-privé mais également comment le recours au secteur privé – se voyant de plus en plus admis et accepté par les membres de l’administration – a participé à recomposer des groupes professionnels pénitentiaires.
Libanios et la Monodie sur le temple de Daphné (Or. LX)
Authors: Pellizzari Andrea
Published: June 2022

La Monodie sur le temple de Daphné de Libanios (Or. LX) est la plainte que le maître d’Antioche a composée suite à la destruction en octobre 362 du temple d'Apollon du célèbre faubourg de Daphné. Ce bref discours est imprégné du sentiment de perte irréparable que la destruction du temple aurait signifié pour la ville et pour le destin même du paganisme.
Le palais impérial de Daphné (Antioche de Syrie) : une hypothèse de localisation ?
Authors: Poccardi Grégoire , Leblanc Jacques
Published: June 2022

L’étude de photographies aériennes prises au niveau de l’ancien faubourg de Daphné lors d’un vol militaire entre Antioche et Lattaquié en 1932 a permis de repérer plusieurs structures monumentales attribuées à la période romaine. L’une d’entre elles, située au nord-est du plateau, pourrait, par son plan et ses grandes dimensions, être identifiée à un ensemble palatial attesté à la fin de l’Antiquité et dont les traces n’avaient jamais été retrouvées, voire même recherchées jusqu’à présent. L’hypothèse proposée pour l’identification de ce complexe repose à la fois sur l’importance de cet ensemble et sur les quelques textes évoquant l’existence du palais à Daphné.
An Overview to Green Nanotechnology for Environmental Issues
Authors: Chourasia Naveen Kumar
Published: June 2022

Environmental pollution is a serious issue that has a negative impact on human health. The situation is exacerbated by the gradual development of industrialization and urbanization. The removal of toxins from the environment is characterized as environmental remediation. Environmental remediation refers to all of the approaches used to lessen the risks of pollution in the environment. Nanotechnology has the potential to significantly reduce existing environmental issues. Green nanotechnology is the science and technology for developing nanoparticles using environmentally benign approaches. Green nanotechnology makes use of nature's biological qualities (through a variety of activities). Another area where nanotechnology can play a critical role is in environmental remediation because the properties of nanoparticles can be designed by designing their size and shape. Due to their huge surface area and, as a result, strong reactivity, nanoparticles perform significantly better than bulk materials for environmental remediation.
Crop Improvement Technology With Lawsonia inermis
Authors: Saxena Shweta , Prakash Sweta , Panday Sadhna
Published: June 2022

Lawsonia inermis L. (family Lythraceae), often known as henna, is a dye-producing plant cultivated in various parts of the world for cosmetic purposes. Since time immemorial, leaf powder made from this little tree has been used to beautify skin, hair, fingernails, leather, silk, and wool. The plant's leaf, which contains an active dye (red orange pigment), lawsone, is widely employed in cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries (2-hydroxy-1,4 naphthoquinone). Lawsone, an essential secondary metabolite, accumulates in the plant's aerial parts, with the highest concentration of 1.0–1.4% in the young leaf petiole. Analgesic, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, immune stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-dermatophytic, protein glycation inhibition, anti-sickling, antioxidant, anti-fertility, tuberculostatic, wound healing, anticomplimentary, and anticancer properties have all been reported for the plant. Henna is currently recognised as a valuable source of unique natural ingredients for the creation of medications and commercial products for a variety of ailments.
Effect of Elevated Temperature on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Crushed Clay Bricks Aggregate Concrete
Authors: Almusawi Aqil Mousa , Shabbar Rana , Jabal Qusay A.
Published: June 2022

In this study concrete block was produced with waste crushed clay bricks (CCB). CCB is used as a conventional coarse aggregate replacement with the range of 0, 25, 50 and 75%. Physical and mechanical properties of concrete blocks were examined at room temperature (25°C) and elevated temperatures of 400, 600 and 800°C. The results indicated that concrete specimens with 50% CCB exhibited the greatest flexural strength characteristics compared to that containing natural aggregates, whereas a slight decline indicated at the density and compressive strength. However, the specimens with 75% CCB have the highest residual strength at an elevated temperature of 800°C. Accordingly, it is suitable for load-bearing wall application when exposed to elevated temperature in confirmation to ASTM-C55. Keywords: Concrete Masonry Units; Crushed Clay Bricks; Elevated Temperature; Coarse Aggregate Replacement.
Micro Forming and its Applications: An Overview
Authors: Sharma Sachin Kumar , Kodli Basanth Kumar , Saxena Kuldeep Kumar
Published: June 2022

A Micro forming was primarily developed in order to view the usage and significance of micro metal forming technology. It is implemented for the manufacturing and production of micro metallic devices like micro pump, micro gears (Polyoxymethylene polymer), Biodegradable implants (Polylactic acid) etc. The die assembly is provided with a DLC (Diamond like coating) coating during work study to resolved small size dimensional accuracy issue and enhanced tribological properties. Various High Energy Metal Forming processes (HERF) is discussed like ultrasonic vibration, explosive forming, magnetic forming, electro hydraulic forming, ultrasonic vibration and heating process for enhancement in formability and accuracy to the product of micro scale dimension. The detailed review of Micro forming and its applications in various fields that utilized the various high energy processes is discussed in this paper. Keywords: Biodegradable, Tribological Properties, HERF (High Energy Rate forming), Formability.
Analytical Analysis to Predict the Generated Stresses and Strains of Laminated Composite Tube due to Internal Pressure
Authors: Al-Edhari Mohammed F. , Raheem Kamal M.H. , Al-Maliky Firas Thair
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study is to build a MATLAB code to predict the interlaminar radial strains, and stresses developed in a laminated composite tube. This code is only valid for symmetrical laminated composite tubes. The code can solve for tube that is subjected to uniform internal pressure. The written MATLAB code can save time and money compared to experiments and finite element simulations. Then, this code is validated with other published mentioned articles in this study. Good agreement is achieved which it means the built code can be used for the cases that agree with a symmetrical condition. The code is run to solve for radial, hoop, and shear strains. Also, it is used to solve for axial, radial, hoop, and shear stresses.
Gold Nanoparticles Ablated in Ethanol: Topographical and Morphological Properties for Refractive Index Sensors
Authors: Khalid Farah G. , Abdul Kareem Alghurabi Milad Nazar , Al Wazny Marwa S. , Wahid M.H.A. , Hekmat Wasan A.
Published: June 2022

The impact of wavelength of the laser on several Topographical and Morphological characteristics of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) was ablated utilizing pulsed laser ablation in liquid in this work. We employed a gold target with an extra purity to ablate the Nano-particles and a removal of tattoo Nd:YAG Q switching pulsed laser with a 10 Ns duration of pulses, the energy are 1000 mJ, the number of pulses are 600 pulses, and a frequency of 3 Hz to explore the gold NPs' characteristics using TEM and AFM. According to the greatest intensity of shorter wavelengths.
Design and Fabrication of Injection Molds to Manufacture Double Channel Laryngoscope for Effective Airway Management: Taguchi Method for Surface Roughness Optimization
Authors: Shetty Balachander , Reddy J. Sudheer , Lakshmikanthan Avinash , Manjunath Patel G.C. , Malik Vinayak
Published: June 2022

The present work focuses on the mold design and production of the multifunctional device laryngoscope with surface quality through the injection molding process. A laryngoscope is a device used by anesthesiologists to lift the tongue that facilitates to fix the air pipe in the larynx. Demand still exists in the laryngoscope part to assist anesthesiologists to take care of the airway without causing chest compression and ensure visualization of vocal cords. Therefore, the present work aims at developing a laryngoscope with a double channeled device, wherein one for aligning the camera and another for the air pipe. The paper outlines the design parameters required for manufacturing a single cavity mold to produce a laryngoscope viz. injection molding machine. The mold has multiple plates with complex fluid channels which ensures effective thermal management in-mold system. The mold is manufactured using high-strength tool steel materials and the product laryngoscope (ABS: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is fabricated from the designed mold. Taguchi L9 experimental array was used to determine the optimal conditions (injection pressure, injection velocity, mold and melt temperature) for desired surface finish in the laryngoscope parts. The designed mold and optimized injection molding conditions resulted in a lower surface roughness value equal to 0.214 µm. Thereby, injection-molded laryngoscope parts can be used for large-scale productions for the benefit of medical applications.
Utilization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (Hematite) as Adsorbent for Removal of Organic Pollutants in Refinery Wastewater
Authors: Mousa Al-Zobai Khalid M. , Hassan Ali A.
Published: June 2022

The increasing of global energy demand leads to the huge amount of wastewaterassociated with refinery processes. Refinery wastewater (RWW) contains significant levels ofcontaminants and are characterized by enormous amounts of refinery effluent. Since the wastes ofrefinery processing is a reason to ecological contaminations, treatment is a vital step for eliminationof these pollutants. This study was designed to determine effect of pH, process time and nano hematitedose in order to eliminate the organics pollutants from the refinery wastewater using adsorptionprocess and MINITAB software. The nano hematite was characterized by Fourier transform infraredspectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect of adsorption time, nano adsorbentdose, and pH on the elimination of organic pollutants in the RWW was also investigated. The removalefficiency of organic content was 85.1% at pH 6.5, within time of 150 min, and adsorbent dose was0.9 g. The isotherms data of the adsorption process were determined by the Langmuir, Freundlich,and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) models. The latter demonstrated the highest adsorption kinetics,which ended up with a constant rate and higher adsorption capacity. These results indicated thatthe use of nano hematite was highly efficient in the removal of RWW organic pollutants withhigh adsorption capacity as determined by BET model
Using Strain Energy Method to Estimate Buckling in Steel Column AISI 1312 during Effects of Fire Hazard
Authors: Fahem Ali Hussein , Hawas Malik N.
Published: June 2022

A Group of three specimens from 1312 steel were subjected to a range of elevated temperatures (700, 800, 900) Celsius to demonstrate the hazard of fire on steel columns mechanical proprieties. The results show a dangerous increase in creep strain buckling after 60 minutes from the beginning of the test and after 67 minutes failed to occur. Mechanical tests for normal and elevated temperatures were made to compare the fire hazards, the results depict reduction by 29%, 46%, 55% for young modulus of elasticity for elevated steel specimens (700, 800, 900) °C. for yield strength the value decreased by (128.4, 169.6, 189) Mpa for specimens (700, 800, 900) °C respectively. The ultimate stress reduction by (64, 78, 83) % from the normal value. whenever higher temperatures go up the lower the ultimate strain falls dawn by (50, 60, 66) % to the original ultimate strain value 0.5. the 0.2 strain % is decreased from 0.0029 to 0.0027 for 700 °C and increased to 0.011, 0.015 for (800, 900) °C respectively.
Effect of Static Magnetic Field on Anchusa-Italica-Doped Pentacene
Authors: Alaridhee Tahseen A. , Malk Fatima H. , Hussein Abdullah A.
Published: June 2022

This work is devoted to the influence of magnetized water on dye extracted from Anchusa Italica plant and doped pentacene thin films. The findings resulted in optoelectronic behavior, showing that using magnetized water in the extraction process gives rise to distinct and superior characteristics as compared to using regular water. The Fourier-transform infrared method was used to analyze the structural properties of an Anchusa Italica-doped pentacene thin film. A comparative study on two samples was carried out: the first sample was affected by a static magnetic field and the other one was not. Optical properties including the absorption spectra absorption coefficient, optical energy gap, conventional and refractive factors were investigated by applying ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy ranging from 300 to 900 nm. The estimated band gap edge of the dye/doped pentacene affected with magnetization was reduced from 2.61 to 1.76 eV and converted into the recommended direct band gap to contribute to optical systems. The absorption spectra of the sample with magnetization effect appears to be more efficient than the one extracted using regular water. The power transmission coefficients (indirect to direct) were also affected because of the magnetic extraction procedure. The complex refractive index was used to study the magnetization effect on the resonance mode and transparent indicator. The absorption index was enhanced to 570 nm in the spectrum, whereas there was also a low attenuation coefficient. This is the first time that magnetized sol has been used in dye extraction processes.
Structural Characterization and Mechanical Properties of Ductile Iron - Enhanced Alloyed Ductile Iron
Authors: Mnati Ali A. , Resan Kadhim K. , Omaraa Ehsan
Published: June 2022

In this study, an attempt has been made to produce ductile iron or spheroidal graphite iron and to study its important properties with a view to reduce the import of machinery parts made of ductile iron. Locally available compressor scrap (i.e. the compressor cylinder) which is made from grey cast iron was used to produce ductile iron using a crucible furnace that is fired by oil. Also, recycling of the grey cast iron to ductile iron was investigated and its effect on the microstructure, chemical composition, mechanical properties and chip shape. The mechanical and structural characteristics of the ductile irons that alloyed by the supplement of Ni, Mo, Mg, and Cr were studied In this study, four kilograms of the scrap were charged into an oil-fired crucible furnace. The scrap was heated to 1400°C with using a temperature controller to monitor the temperature with an inserted thermocouple. For desulphurization, the mixture of 3 wt.% burnt lime with 1 wt.% fluorspar of scrap weight was added to the molten at 1400°C by direct tapping into the molten. Then, 2.75 wt.% nickel element, 0.75 wt.% ferromolybdenum and 0.5wt.% ferromanganese of the scrap weight were added. Also, 1.25 wt.% spheroidizing alloy (FeSiMg9) and 1wt.% inoculant alloy of scrap weight were used to treat the iron melt at 1450°C. The analysis of scrap sample and product sample was done to determine their chemical composition, tensile strength, impact strength, hardness, and microstructure. The scrap and the as-cast product analysis determine its chemical composition, tensile, impact, hardness and microstructure. The microstructures revealed that the scrap contains flake graphite and the as-cast product contains spheroid graphite. An increase of the ultimate tensile stress (537.17 MPa), elongation (10%), hardness value (480.4 HB) and impact value (11.21 J) was observed for the alloyed ductile iron as compared with the mechanical properties of grey cast iron scrap, including (247.75 MPa), (6%), (400.3 HB) and (5.66 J), respectively. One of the important conclusions is the plunge container manufactured, and that was used according to the plunging technique followed in this investigation proved successful
Enhancing the Oxidation Behavior of Zr-Modified Aluminide Coatings on Inconel 600 at Different Temperatures
Authors: Dawood Nawal Mohammed , Salim Asia Mishaal
Published: June 2022

In the recent search nickel superalloy Inconel 600 was coated with Zr-modified aluminide diffusion coating using pack cementation technique. Diffusion coating was done in a single step utilizing a conversion reaction of 10% Al, 2% ZrO2, 4% NaCl, and 84 percent Al2O3 (wt. percent ) and a simultaneous aluminizing-zirconizing process. The diffusion coating operations were performed in an argon environment at 1050 °C for 10 hours. The test of the isothermal oxidation in dry air was performed on the Inconel Alloy 600 (IA600) without and with Zr-modified aluminide coating for 800-1000 °C. The oxidation kinetic of IA600 and its coated system was found to follow the parabolic law. The activation energy is 243 kJ/mol. for the coated system and 457 kJ/mol. for the uncoated system. XRD analysis show that oxide phases are formed on an uncoated IA600 surface during most of the oxidation exposure conditions are NiO, Cr2O3, Fe2O3, NiCr2O4 and NiFe2O4, , whereas alumina scale is the major oxide that is obtained on the surface of coated samples.
Blockchain Adoption in Accounting and Auditing: A Qualitative Inquiry in Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera P. A. S. N. , Abeygunasekera A. W. J. C.
Published: June 2022

Regardless of the benefits blockchain provides to the accounting information systems, its adoption and application is limited. This study: (1) investigated the underlying reasons for this limited adoption of blockchain in a developing country context; (2) explored the potential benefits and challenges of adopting blockchain; and (3) proposed how accounting and auditing should be facilitated to adopt blockchain technology. The study utilized a qualitative general inquiry approach by conducting 13 in-depth interviews with professionals and practitioners involved in the adoption process in organizations that had adopted blockchain technology, or are researching this technology and have plans to adopt this technology in the future. Findings revealed five reasons for the lack of blockchain adoption, contributing to Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework and Institutional theory. In addition, the study identified the benefits and challenges of introducing blockchain into accounting and auditing while proposing a framework to facilitate blockchain adoption in these disciplines.
Determinants of E-waste Recycling Intention in India: The Influence of Environmental Concern, Attitude and Economic Incentives
Authors: Sajid Muhammed , Zakkariya K. A. . , Joy Harry
Published: June 2022

The primary objective of this empirical study is to identify the antecedents of e-waste recycling and the role played by economic incentives in encouraging this behaviour among Indians. The theory of planned behaviour was employed to achieve the motive, and a web-based survey was used to collect data. A total of 338 responses from Indian urban households were taken for the PLS-SEM analysis. The statistical analysis revealed that environmental concern and attitude contribute to e-waste recycling intention. The study also documented the insignificant moderating role of green economic incentives in the relationship between the antecedents and e-waste recycling intention. This paper offers practical implications for fuelling e-waste recycling, especially regarding the implementation of economic incentives to promote e-waste recycling.
Body mass index, blood pressure, and cognitive impairment among type 2 diabetic patients in a primary care setting, North-Central Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Adebayo Ramat , Odeigha Louis  O , Alabi Anthonia Nkechiyem , Mohammed Abdulkadir , Obalowu Ismail Aberi , Ademola Christy Olanike
Published: June 2022

The long-term effects of certain clinical factors on cognition cannot be overemphasized. The morbidity of Cognitive Impairment (CI) in patients with type 2 diabetes has been found to increase when associated with some clinical factors. The main objective of this study was to determine the relationship between CI and Body Mass Index (BMI) as well as CI and Blood Pressure (BP), among type 2 diabetic patients attending the primary care unit of a tertiary hospital. It was a descriptive hospital-based crosssectional study. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethical Review Committee of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) before the commencement of the study. Data was collected from 274 adult type 2 diabetic patients attending the Family Medicine clinics of the hospital, from March through May 2017. Interviewer-administered structured and semi-structured questionnaires were used to obtain information from the respondents. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to assess CI among respondents. The BMI and BP of participants were obtained following standard procedure. Data was collated and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21 (SPSS- 21). The elderly constituted a higher proportion of participants 55.4%. Respondents were mainly females (70.8%), married (78.8%), and educated (78.1%). The clinical factor that had a statistically significant association with CI was the BMI of participants with a chi-square value (χ2) of 11.139 and a p-value of 0.048. Blood pressure had no statistically significant association with CI (χ2 of 5.181 and p-value of 0.159). CI is common in our clinics with a prevalence of 27% seen in this study. BMI had a statistically significant association with CI while BP was not. Hence, maintaining a normal weight may help in controlling CI. Physicians in primary care should routinely screen type 2 diabetic patients for CI as well as control risk factors for it.
Extraperitoneal cystectomy with ureterocutaneostomy derivation in fragile patients - should it be performed more often?
Authors: Malinaric Rafaela , Mantica Guglielmo , Balzarini Federica , Terrone Carlo , Maffezzini Massimo
Published: June 2022

Introduction and objectives: Radical cystectomy (RC) continues to be standard of care for muscle-invasive bladder cancer and recurrent or refractory nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer. Unfortunately, it has high rates of perioperative morbidity and mortality. One of the most important predictors of postoperative outcomes is frailty, while the majority of complications are diversion related. The aim of our study was to evaluate safety of extraperitoneal cystectomy with ureterocutaneostomy in patients considered as frail. Materials and methods: We retrospectively collected data of frail patients who underwent extraperitoneal cystectomy with ureterocutaneostomy from October 2018 to August 2020 in a single center. We evaluated frailty by assessing patients' age, body mass index (BMI), nutritional status by Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool, overall health by RAI (Risk Analysis Index) and ASA (American Society of Anaesthesiologists) score, and laboratory analyses. We observed intraoperative outcomes and rates of perioperative (within 30 days) and early postoperative (within 90 days) complications (Clavien-Dindo classification). We defined extraperitoneal cystectomy with ureterocutaneostomy as safe if patients did not develop Clavien Dindo IIIb, or worse, complication. Results: A total of 34 patients, 3 female and 31 male, were analyzed. The median age was 77, BMI 26, RAI 28, ASA 3 and the majority had preexisting renal insufficiency. Blood analyses revealed presence of severe preoperative hypoalbuminemia and anemia in half of our cohort. Intraoperative median blood loss was 250 cc, whilst operative time 245 min. During perioperative period 60% of our cohort developed Clavien Dindo II complication and during early postoperative period 32% of patients required readmission. One death occurred during early postoperative period (2.9%). After 12 months of follow-up, we observed stability of the renal function for most patients. Conclusions: We believe that extraperitoneal cystectomy with ureterocutaneostomy could be considered as a treatment option for elderly and/or frail patients.
Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) for upper urinary tract stones in children below 12 years of age: A single centre experience
Authors: Thangavelu Mohanarangam , Sawant Ajit , Sayed Ali Abbas , Pawar Prakash , Hamid Mohamed , Patil Sunil , Bhise Vikas , Mathews Jeni , Shewale Raunak , Gadodia Mohan
Published: June 2022

Objective: Retrograde Intra Renal Surgery (RIRS) is a minimally invasive surgical modality for the treatment of renal stones. We evaluated the efficacy of RIRS in children below aged 12 years of age in the form of stone-free rate (SFR), complications and the feasibility of the procedure. Materials & methods: This retrospective study included all children ≤ 12 years of age, with upper urinary tract stones single or multiple ≤ 15 mm in size who underwent RIRS between February 2019 to November 2021. RIRS was performed with 7.5 Fr flexible ureterorenoscope over the guidewire, the stones were dusted with Laser and the ureteral stent was left after RIRS. All patients had the post-procedure stent removed within 3 weeks after checking for residual stones with X-ray and ultrasonography of Kidney-Ureter-Bladder (USG-KUB). Follow-up USG KUB was done at 4 months. Results: 15 patients included in our study met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 8.7 ± 2.8 years, the mean stone size was 11.26 ± 2.14 mm and 26.6 % had multiple stones. Retrograde access failure was noted in 36.3 % in non stented patients. The mean operative time was 72.6 ± 20 minutes, fluoroscopy time was 4.4 ± 0.9 minutes and the mean LASER time was 26 ± 3.9 minutes. The mean hospital stay was 2.8 ± 0.9 days. Ureteral access sheath (UAS) was used in one patient. Conversion to mini PCNL was done in one pre stented patient due to access failure and one patient had a second look RIRS for residual stone. No major complications were noted except onr patient who had sepsis. The stone-free rates were 93.3% after primary RIRS and 100% after second look RIRS. Conclusions: RIRS is a feasible, safe procedure for pediatric upper urinary stones with excellent stone-free rates and a low rate of complications.
Erectile dysfunction and mobile phone applications: Quality, content and adherence to European Association guidelines on male sexual dysfunction
Authors: Napolitano Luigi , Fusco Giovanni Maria , Cirillo Luigi , Abate Marco , Mirone Claudia , Barone Biagio , Celentano Giuseppe , La Rocca Roberto , Mirone Vincenzo , Creta Massimiliano , Capece Marco
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Nowadays numerous mobile health applications (MHA) have been developed to assist and simplify the life of patients affected by erectile dysfunction (ED), however the scientific quality and the adherence to guidelines are not yet addressed and solved. Materials and methods: On 17 January 2022, we conducted a search in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.We reviewed all mobile apps from iTunes App Store and Google Play Store for ED and evaluated different aspects as well as their usage in screening, prevention, management, and their adherence to EAU guidelines. Results: A total of 18 apps were reviewed. All apps are geared towards the patient and provide information about diagnoses and treatment of ED. Conclusions: MHA represent an integral part of patients’ lives, and apps providing services for male sexual dysfunction are constantly increasing. Despite this the overall quality is still low. Although many of these devices are useful in ED, the problems of scientific validation, content, and quality are not yet solved. Further work is needed to improve the quality of apps and developing new accessible, user designed, and high-quality apps.
Platelet volume parameters as a tool in the evaluation of acute ischemic priapism in patients with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Adawi Essa A. , Ghanem Mazen A.
Published: June 2022

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of platelet volume indices (PVIs), such as mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), and plateletcrit (PCT), as prognostic parameters of detumescence in acute ischemic priapism (IP) patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA) in steady-state who received intracavernosal injections of phenylephrine with aspiration and saline irrigation. Methods: Fifty-six SCA patients with acute IP and 54 healthy male control subjects were included in the research. Priapism was diagnosed by penile Doppler ultrasound and corporal blood gas tests before intervention. Measurements of PVIs (MPV, PDW, and PCT) and TLC were ordered for all participants. Additionally, the duration of priapism was recorded. The area under the curves was calculated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) regression analysis. Results: The detumescence rate was 71.4% after the intervention. Compared to the control group, priapic SCA patients showed significantly higher PLT (p = 0.011), MPV (p = 0.002), PDW (p = 0.032), PCT values (p = 0.022), and TLC (p = 0.027). Higher MPV, PDW, and PCT values were observed in unsuccessful detumescence patients compared to the resolution group (p < 0.05). Statistically significant cutoff values for persistent priapism were measured by ROC as PLT: ⩾ 254x103/μL; MPV: ⩾ 13.2 fL; PDW: ⩾ 15.6 fL; PCT: ⩾ 24%; and TLC ≥ 8.5x103/L. Priapism duration of ≤ 17.9 hours was significantly related to detumescence rate (p = 0.000). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that priapism duration and higher MPV are prognostic parameters for detumescence in SCA. Conclusions: The higher MPV and duration of priapism can be used as parameters for evaluating detumescence outcomes in steady-state SCA with acute IP.
An update on the management algorithms of priapism during the last decade
Authors: Moussa Mohamad , Abou Chakra Mohamad , Papatsoris Athanasios , Dellis Athanasios , Peyromaure Michael , Barry Delongchamps Nicolas , Bailly Hugo , Roux Sabine , Yassine Ahmad Abou , Duquesne Igor
Published: June 2022

Priapism is a persistent penile erection lasting longer than 4 hours, that needs emergency management. This disorder can induce irreversible erectile dysfunction. There are three subtypes of priapism: ischemic, non-ischemic, and stuttering priapism. If the patient has ischemic priapism (IP) of less than 24-hours (h) duration, the initial management should be a corporal blood aspiration followed by instillation of phenylephrine into the corpus cavernosum. If sympathomimetic fails or the patient has IP from 24 to 48h, surgical shunts should be performed. It is recommended that distal shunts should be attempted first. If distal shunt failed, proximal, venous shunt, or T-shunt with tunneling could be performed. If the patient had IP for 48 to 72h, proximal and venous shunt or T-shunt with tunneling is indicated, if those therapies failed, a penile prosthesis should be inserted. Non-ischemic priapism (NIP) is not a medical emergency and many patients will recover spontaneously. If the NIP does not resolve spontaneously within six months or the patient requests therapy, selective arterial embolization is indicated. The goal of the management of a patient with stuttering priapism (SP) is the prevention of future episodes. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor therapy is considered an effective tool to prevent stuttering episodes but it is not validated yet. The management of priapism should follow the guidelines as the future erectile function is dependent on its quick resolution. This review briefly discusses the types, pathophysiology, and diagnosis of priapism. It will discuss an updated approach to treat each type of priapism.
Effect of alpha-adrenoceptor antagonists on sexual function. A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bapir Rawa , Bhatti Kamran Hassan , Eliwa Ahmed , García-Perdomo Herney Andrés , Gherabi Nazim , Hennessey Derek , Magri Vittorio , Mourmouris Panagiotis , Ouattara Adama , Perletti Gianpaolo , Philipraj Joseph , Trinchieri Alberto , Buchholz Noor
Published: June 2022

Background: Alpha-adrenoreceptor antagonists or alpha-blockers are used in the treatment of hypertension, in the therapy of benign prostatic hyperplasia and in medical expulsive treatment of ureteral stones. These agents may affect the sexual function, with differences between drugs within the same class, depending on their selectivity for receptor subtypes. The aim of this review was to analyze the effects of alpha-blockers on sexual function. Materials and methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching PubMed, EMBASE and other databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting sexual adverse effects in patients treated with alpha-blockers. Odds ratios for sexual dysfunction were calculated using random effects Mantel-Haenszel statistics. Results: Out of 608 records retrieved, 75 eligible RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with placebo, alphablockers were associated with increased odds of ejaculatory disorders both in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (OR: 7.53, 95% CI: 3.77-15.02, Z = 5.73, p < 0.00001, I2 = 55%) and in patients with ureteral stones (OR: 2.88, 95% CI: 1.50-5.44, Z = 3.19, p < 0.001, I2 = 31%). Uroselective alpha-blockers showed higher odds of ejaculatory disorders. Conversely, nonselective alpha-blockers were not associated with higher odds of ejaculatory dysfunction. Silodosin was associated with increased odds of ejaculatory dysfunction compared with tamsulosin (OR: 3.52, 95% CI: 2.18-5.68, 15 series, 1512 participants, Z = 5.15, p < 0.00001, I2 = 0%). Naftopidil and alfuzosin showed lower odds of ejaculatory dysfunction compared to uroselective alpha-blockers.No statistically significant differences in the odds of erectile dysfunction were observed when alpha-blockers were compared to placebo.