bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re-evaluation of Ceratostomella and Xylomelasma with introduction of two new species (Sordariomycetes)
Authors: Réblová Martina , Nekvindová Jana , Kolařík Miroslav , Jurjević Željko , Kolář Michal , Hubka Vít
Published: November 2024

In this study, we assessed the phylogenetic relationships among members of Ceratostomella and the morphologically similar genus Xylomelasma, currently classified within the Sordariomycetes. Our phylogenetic analyses, utilising three and five gene markers, revealed that species from these two genera are congeneric, supporting the transfer of Xylomelasma to Ceratostomella. Consequently, we propose two new combinations: C. sordidacomb. nov. and C. novae-zelandiaecomb. nov. In addition, we identified two cryptic species within the C. sordida species complex, which are described as C. cryptasp. nov. and C. melanosporasp. nov. Traditional micromorphological characters have proven insufficient for differentiating these new species; however, they are clearly distinguishable by molecular data, particularly using the internal transcribed spacer region ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS) of the nuclear rRNA cistron, and genes encoding the second largest subunit of RNA polymerase II (rpb2), and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α) as primary and secondary barcodes. This study provides new insights into the morphological characteristics of Ceratostomella, identifying the ascogenous system as an important diagnostic trait at the generic level, which distinguishes Ceratostomella from morphologically similar fungi. Ceratostomella is currently recognised with eight species. We also investigated the relationship between Ceratostomella and the closely related Barbatosphaeria. The lack of statistical support in the Maximum likelihood analysis is discussed and the inclusion of Ceratostomella in Barbatosphaeriaceae is not supported. Ceratostomella is accepted as a genus incertae sedis, while Barbatosphaeriaceae remains a monotypic family. The global diversity of Ceratostomella is inferred from metabarcoding data and published field observations. Biogeographic analysis indicates that members of Ceratostomella are widespread, found in soil and decaying wood, as well as in air, dust, roots, shoots, and water across temperate, subtropical and tropical regions in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. We are concurrently publishing whole-genome analyses of three ex-type strains of Ceratostomella, i.e. C. crypta, C. melanospora and C. sordida. This effort aims to establish a new standard for high-quality taxonomic studies, which, in accordance with current trends, should incorporate whole-genome sequencing data for future research and application. Our findings underscore the importance of integrating morphological, biogeographic and molecular data for accurate species delineation and highlight the complexity within the genus Ceratostomella.
Talking about dialogue: using talk cue cards to scaffold all children’s talk in the primary mathematics classroom
Authors: Nimoh Theresa
Published: November 2024

Dialogue and reasoning are central to mathematics. Despite a substantial body of research illustrating the benefit of talk in the classroom, an educational debate remains in schools about how much time and empowerment should be given to children to talk in lessons. For many teachers,
particularly post-pandemic, there is a professional concern about the quality of children’s communication skills. An example of this is that many children appear to have difficulty in engaging in productive mathematical dialogue, and struggle to articulate their reasoning strategies.
This paper explores children’s class-based experiences of using talk cue cards as resources intended to support dialogue and hence mathematical reasoning. A case study approach was used to explore the experiences of key stage 2 children. The study showed that talk cue cards could break
down some barriers to effective communication and so enhance children’s quality of mathematical reasoning, whilst supporting engagement in metatalk about reasoning. Potential implications for educators are explored in terms of both classroom and mathematical practices such as: co-constructing
agreed hallmarks of high-quality talk; teacher and peer modelling; and allotting time for the exploration of the talk cue cards.
Enterprise education: an example of a trapped curriculum
Authors: Lyons Adrian
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the school curriculum could be to prepare pupils for a satisfying and fulfilling life, to prepare pupils for the needs of the economy or to pass on the wisdom of society accumulated over time. In this article I use the example of enterprise education, including financial
capability, to show how the current English schools’ curriculum succeeds in none of these for too many young people. I draw on the wisdom of the 1980s to inform the present and the future.
‘A trouble to my dreams’. A reflection on leadership typologies in education: in search of regaining the ‘sparkling trail of light’
Authors: Anonymous
Published: November 2024

In considering how to bring joy back to education and the curriculum in England, I argue that it is also necessary to bring the joy of teaching back to classroom practitioners. A fundamental contribution to this may be leadership typologies employed by schools’ senior leadership.
As an experienced secondary English teacher, over the last 20 years I taught at schools in which my experiences of being led ‐ just prior to, and then under, the education reforms introduced to promote the ‘knowledge-rich’ approach1 ‐ were very different. This article
reflects on my experiences of contrasting leadership-styles, and of educational leadership on a national scale, through the metaphorical lens of one of the poems I taught for GCSE English literature. My aim is to consider how leadership can be successful, sustainable and inspiring of joy.
Repetition, emotional range and the knowledge nugget: an encounter with the Portuguese school system
Authors: Bradby Lawrence
Published: November 2024

This article offers some reflections on education in the Portuguese state system, based on family experience. It contextualises the recent emergence of that system and describes characteristic elements of its organisation, culture, curriculum and practices.
A social justice curriculum for a world in crisis: finding purpose and joy in a time of dread
Authors: Playfair Eddie
Published: November 2024

This article considers how to approach the task of developing a curriculum for social justice at a time of planetary and systemic crisis, on the basis that both ‘human capital development’ and passing on ‘the best that has been thought and said’ from the past
are inadequate responses. If our aim is to create the conditions for human survival and greater social justice, we need to radically commit to values of care, solidarity, equality and democracy, and the development of a broad set of critical literacies. Rather than simply hoping and waiting
for better policies and systems, can we usefully find purpose and joy and start to prefigure a more socially just world in the here and now?
Ocular and Systemic Anomalies in an Infant With 4q Deletion and 3q Duplication: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Householder Nicholas , Vaclaw Sawyer , Ruppert Misty , Chavali Santosh , Tonk Vijay , Abikoye Temiloluwa
Published: November 2024

This is a case report of a female infant with two rare pathogenic chromosomal abnormalities: partial trisomy of chromosome 3 (3q25.2 to 3q29) and partial monosomy of chromosome 4 (4q34.1 to 4q35.2). A comprehensive evaluation and literature review revealed ocular and systemic malformations not previously described in association with either chromosomal aberration. Comparative genomic hybridization was performed to confirm the chromosomal abnormalities. A thorough literature search was conducted to contextualize the findings within existing knowledge of similar chromosomal aberrations. Genetic analysis revealed an unbalanced translocation between the long arms of chromosomes 3 and 4, resulting in partial trisomy of chromosome 3 (3q25.2 to 3q29) and partial monosomy of chromosome 4 (4q34.1 to 4q35.2). Ocular anomalies included nystagmus, epicanthus, lagophthalmos, entropion, megalocornea, corneal clouding, infantile glaucoma, high myopia, and retinal hyperpigmentation. The patient would undergo bilateral lower eyelid rotation and gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculectomy procedures in the management of her congenital malformations. The distinct ophthalmic abnormalities observed represent novel features within the spectrum of partial trisomy three and partial monosomy four at the specified breakpoints. The literature search unveiled the previously documented features associated with genetic translocation and confirmed various novel features specific to our patient's phenotype. Further research will be essential to elucidate the genetic mechanisms underlying these ocular manifestations and their implications for the clinical management of cases.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2024;61(6):e66–e74.]
The inverse uncertainty distribution of the solutions to a class of higher-order uncertain differential equations
Authors: Wang Zeman , Liu Zhong , Han Zikun , Guo Xiuying , Wang Qiubao
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we study the higher-order uncertain differential equations (UDEs) as defined by Kaixi Zhang [11], mainly focus on the second-order case. We propose a pivotal condition (monotonicity in some sense, see more details in Section 3), introduce the concept of $ \alpha $-paths of UDEs, and demonstrate its properties. Based on this, we derive the inverse uncertainty distribution of the solution. Finally, we present numerical examples to substantiate the rationality of the condition.
La prosodia de las preguntas absolutas y reiterativas del castellano del Páramo leonés: patrones descendentes y alargamiento fonológico
Authors: Bargiela Víctor , Roseano Paolo
Published: November 2024

El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo la descripción y análisis de la prosodia de las preguntas absolutas y reiterativas del Páramo leonés en el contexto de las variedades lingüísticas románicas que presentan un contorno entonativo descendente para este tipo de oraciones. Se ha elaborado y analizado un corpus formado por 74 oraciones interrogativas procedentes de 11 informantes naturales del Páramo Bajo mediante el sistema de anotación prosódica Sp_ToBI. En el análisis se ha tenido una atención especial al comportamiento del movimiento de F0 y de la relación de duraciones entre sílabas de posición final y medial. El estudio concluye que los patrones ascendente-descendentes (¡H* L% y L+H* HL%) son mayoritarios en la región estudiada y no se atestiguan patrones ascendentes prototípicos del español estándar. Además, hay una tendencia al alargamiento de la última sílaba en las oraciones interrogativas, que resulta muy relevante para la configuración nuclear descendente H+L* L%.
Le dîner aristocratique en Val-de-Loire au XIXe siècle : Diner et redéfinition du château
Authors: Thoury Tiphaine de
Published: November 2024

L’abolition de la noblesse et des droits féodaux n’a pas mis fin aux châteaux et au phénomène châtelain, et, bien loin de s’amenuiser, ils perdurent à la fois durant la période révolutionnaire mais aussi durant tout le XIXe siècle, si bien qu’ils connaissent « un second siècle d’or » (Babelon, 1986). Pourtant, privé de sa fonction originelle, le château n’a de cesse de se redéfinir au cours de la période post révolutionnaire, sous l’impulsion d’une noblesse qui se « réinvente » (Brelot, 1992), mais aussi à l’initiative d’une bourgeoisie en quête de notabilité et qui l’investit amplement. Souvent rénové, agrandi, ou entièrement construit, avec son domaine, il n’en perd pas pour autant son prestige et son pouvoir économique, voire son aura politique. Dans ce contexte, les dîners qui s’y donnent, comme mécaniques de socialisation et marqueurs sociaux, constituent une pratique culturelle essentielle pour l’assise de son propriétaire et, plus généralement, pour la transmission de normes. Il s’agit donc d’étudier ici les différentes composantes du diner au château, dont les contours, initiés au XVIIIe siècle, par des élites urbaines, se précisent au cours du XIXe siècle et se diffusent dans la région par le biais de ces mêmes élites qui y possèdent aussi des châteaux et pratiquent la pluri-résidence. Ces composantes sont signifiantes des usages et des nouvelles fonctions du château, au cours de cette période durant laquelle leurs propriétaires sont constituants de groupes sociaux qui, de générations en générations, cherchent à se redéfinir ou à se définir, qu’ils soient de la noblesse ou de la bourgeoisie. Il s’agira aussi de caractériser ces dîners qui varient en fonction des saisons et du rythme, ou de la nature, des sociabilités, pour, enfin, montrer que ceux-ci constituent un large, très codifié, et accessoirisé, rituel de distinction, et qui va bien au-delà de la gastronomie.
L’économie morale du transport routier en Suisse
Authors: Martinelli Aris , Ischer Patrick
Published: November 2024

À partir d’une analyse d’articles de presse parus dans les deux revues éditées par les associations professionnelles du transport routier de marchandises en Suisse, cet article analyse le processus de constitution d’une « communauté de métier » dans ce secteur à l’appui du concept d’économie morale. Ce processus émerge dans un contexte de grandes transformations du marché du transport routier en lien avec sa déréglementation, l’introduction du nouveau régime de taxation et l’instauration des nouvelles normes d’accès à la profession. Dans ce contexte, les transporteur·ses et les chauffeur·ses poids lourd revendiquent des formes de contrôle et de répartition des ressources basées sur des principes (égalité et différenciation) et des normes de justice (droit, besoin, résultat et mérite). Les résultats montrent ainsi la centralité des principes moraux dans les relations industrielles dans ce secteur important pour l’économie.
Le prosélytisme des agitateurs du régime communiste albanais durant les décennies 1950 et 1960
Authors: Dani Doan
Published: November 2024

Cet article porte sur la catégorie de l’« agitateur », apparue en Albanie pendant les deux premières décennies du régime du Parti communiste. Les agitateurs ont principalement contribué à l’amplification du consensus et à la propagation de l’idéologie du Parti parmi les masses à une époque où les autres dispositifs du pouvoir se consolidaient. L’article vise à identifier cette catégorie d’acteurs, à retracer leur mission, leurs fonctions et leur action, mais aussi à comprendre les causes de leur prolifération durant les années 1950, celles de leur déclin dans la seconde moitié des années 1960, ainsi que leur héritage.
« On te traite différemment, mais il n’existe pas de prisonniers politiques » (Blanca S., 2019)
Authors: Gimenez Irène
Published: November 2024

Alors que la prison politique n’est pas reconnue en droit, cet article explore la manière dont elle se construit à travers des pratiques de régulation et de gouvernement. Il porte sur les prisons espagnoles en fin et sortie de dictature franquiste (années 1960-années 1980), lors d’une transition à la démocratie qui est aussi une transition pénitentiaire. Il retrace l’instauration de circuits différenciés, entre détention politique et de droit commun, et leurs effets. Le prisme de la prison politique permet alors d’incarner à cette échelle l’entremêlement des systèmes répressifs.
La gravure à Douai au début du dix-septième siècle
Authors: Hamer Alphons
Published: November 2024

Douai à l’époque des Archiducs Albert et Isabelle (1598-1633) était un centre culturel en plein essor. L’élan intellectuel de la nouvelle université (1562) et le mécénat des riches abbayes de la région engendrèrent une florissante industrie de l’édition. Dans son sillage, et grâce aussi aux besoins d’imagerie de la part des institutions religieuses et caritatives, bon nombre de graveurs – souvent formés dans les ateliers d’orfèvrerie de la ville – y trouvèrent emploi. Si aujourd’hui la gravure douaisienne semble presque synonyme d'illustration du livre, à cette époque les feuilles volantes abondaient. Les graveurs étaient fortement influencés par les frères Wierix, les Collaert et d’autres modèles anversois – au point d'avoir eux-mêmes souvent été considéré, a tort, comme anversois dans les répertoires biographiques. Ils méritent d’être mieux connus, d'autant plus qu'une infime fraction seulement de l'importante production artistique de Douai (peintures, orfèvrerie) a survécu.
Annoncer l’estampe dans le Mercure de France (1724-1744)
Authors: Perrot Chloé
Published: November 2024

L’étude explore les stratégies de description des gravures dans le Mercure de France entre 1724 et 1744 et tente de démontrer comment les périodiques du XVIIIe siècle construisent-ils un langage pour décrire l'estampe, qui soit à la fois technique et adapté au public des amateurs et des connoisseurs. L'analyse révèle deux axes principaux de description : une approche matérielle (dimensions, format, technique) et une approche sensible, où le vocabulaire traduit l'expérience esthétique. Les annonces développent ainsi un discours qui oscille entre objectivité technique et subjectivité artistique, cherchant à dire l'œuvre dans sa materialité comme dans son essence. Ce travail met en lumière l'émergence d'un langage spécifique de description de l'estampe, où les mots tentent en outre de suppléer l'absence d'illustration, rendant visible l'invisible et transformant la description en une véritable médiation artistique.
Navigating Economic Uncertainties: A Deep Dive into China's Impact on Africa's Global Value Chains
Authors: Sanni Jemeel Adedotun
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the nexus between the economic policy uncertainty of China and Africa’s global value chains (GVC). The study was based on a panel analysis of pooled mean group (PMG) estimation which covers 19 years and 10 countries. The results of the estimation revealed a mixed reaction to the impact of China’s economic policy uncertainty on Africa’s global value chains. The economic policy uncertainty (EPU) indicated a short run negative effect on GVC and a positive significant effect in the long run. The result is in line with a section of the previous reports which suggests that uncertainty could have a positive effect on trade flows. This shows that the immediate shock of the EPU is detrimental to Africa’s global value chain integration. However, as we approach the long run, Africa’s global value chains improve alongside the EPU of China. It is therefore recommended that African countries diversify their trade partners through fostering good partnerships with other countries and regions beyond China, so that sudden uncertainty shocks in China’s economy will not have much effect on their economies. Lastly, African decision-makers should invest in domestic industries while promoting a conducive environment for business to thrive. This will boost domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign intermediate products.
Redefining Military Engagement: Shifting From Counter Insurgency to Comprehensive Peacebuilding Mechanism in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka
Authors: Rukshan D. G. R. N.
Published: November 2024

Sri Lanka was considered one of the most stable and secure nations among the South Asian nations. The Sri Lankan administration only came to know in the several years after independence that maintaining national security was perhaps one of the most challenging and exciting issues the country is dealing with at present. On the international level, it was accepted that the role of the military was essential not only for the protection of the nation’s security but also for the population and internal security. Whenever there is an issue of security of a country on any front, the military is seen as having an important role in defending the security of a country. However, it was expected that a very positive and strong feeling of security would be brought back to the country when the military got what it wanted in 2009, and that was to eliminate the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam) in Sri Lanka. According to this, it would be appropriate to assess and consider the security trends, the peace-making activities, and the military participation of the Sri Lankan nation-state. Building on this, the present study has sought to explore in what way and how the military helped in the process of post-conflict peacebuilding. In the study, a qualitative research method was used to conduct the investigation. Secondary data was adopted for this study whereby information was collected from books, journals and government papers. As per this study, the military of Sri Lanka is not a passive bystander in the defence of the country’s security but is using both soft and hard power to ensure the preservation of security as necessary. Drawing from this study, this research brings to focus, the major problem of Sri Lanka that lacks a coordinated national security policy that needs urgent attention and appropriate intervention to protect the safety and security of the nation.
The psycho-sensory pelvic reflex: A new paradigm in the model of male sexual response
Authors: La Pera Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

To the Editor,What are the male anatomical structures that trigger the so-called "desire" to have sex? What are the male anatomical structures that determine the perception of arousal in men? .....
Quitting tobacco through quitline services: impact in India
Authors: Kumar Raj , Kumar Manoj , Raj Sukriti , Rachna Rachna , Mishra Jyoti , Dubey Shyam Mani , Kumar Sourav , Arisham Dileep Kumar , Goutam Gunjan , Mavi Anil Kumar
Published: November 2024

Tobacco quitline services offer telephone-based counseling to assist tobacco users in quitting through behavioral modification. It is a sponsored scheme by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. The present study has two objectives: primarily, to study the correlation between socio-demographic variables and tobacco abuse, and secondly, to study the impact of National Tobacco Quit-Line Services (NTQLS) in India. The data for the study was collected from the registered callers who have completed at least one year of follow-ups at NTQLS, Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, between May 2016 and May 2021. The questionnaire was directly administered to the people who had called NTQLS for the first time to quit tobacco use. Callers were provided one year of continuous follow-up to ensure they remain long-term abstinent from tobacco and permanently quit. All the data were managed through an electronic database. A total of 85,807 individuals’ data was taken for the study. The maximum number of callers were from Uttar Pradesh (28.03%), followed by Rajasthan (24.67%) and Madhya Pradesh (7.59%). The female population represented only 1.43%; the male population was significantly higher (98.57%). Youth (44.83%) and adults (53.78%) were more than seniors (0.9%) and adolescents (0.4%). Smokeless tobacco users (67.32%) were more common than smoking tobacco users (20.11%). Duration of tobacco use among the 71.74% of callers was found to be between 1 and 10 years; the remaining 24.03% had been using tobacco for over 10 years, while 4.23% were novice users. The abstinence rate achieved by NTQLS was 33.42% after one month of quitting and 21.91% after one year of quitting. We found a significant association between tobacco users’ socioeconomic and demographic status. The number of male tobacco users was significantly higher than the number of female tobacco users. Among all the tobacco users, youth was persistently using tobacco the most. Individuals from low socio-economic status were more likely to use tobacco as compared to those from high socioeconomic status. These associations indicate the need for strengthening the enforcement of tobacco control policies and developing and monitoring comprehensive smoke-free legislation.
Knowledge and attitudes towards electroconvulsive therapy in an academic psychiatric department
Authors: Masenya Lerato L. , Nel Yvette M.
Published: November 2024

Background: Negative attitudes towards electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) among health professionals have been attributed to a lack of knowledge, despite advancements in its administration and evidence of its efficacy in certain psychiatric conditions.Aim: This study assesses knowledge and attitudes towards ECT among psychiatry and clinical psychology professionals.Setting: The University of the Witwatersrand, Department of Psychiatry, Johannesburg, South Africa.Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design was used. All psychiatry and clinical psychology professionals associated with the university were invited to participate in an anonymous online survey from 01 September 2022 to 30 June 2023.Results: The response rate was 49.6% (n = 58) among psychiatrits and 22.2% (n = 22) among clinical psychology professionals. Psyhiatrists had greater knowldge and more favourable attitudes than psychologists. Only 45.5% of psychologists had exposure to ECT, compared to 93.1% of psychiatrists. Knowledge and attitude scores were significanly correlated (p = 0.009, OR 6.7). Most psychologists (86.4%) recommended ECT theory be included in their curriculum.Conclusion: Greater knowledge correlates with improved attitudes towards ECT. Increased training could enhance attitudes, particularly among psychology professionals.Contribution: This study offers insights into knowledge and attitudes towarss ECT in a Johannesburg psychiatry department.
Comparing the mechanical properties of the polymer orthodontic bracket materials with the conventional orthodontic bracket materials: A systematic review
Authors: Ramasundaram Srinidhi , Srinivasan Dilip , Ravi K. , Devasahayam Davis
Published: November 2024

Background:

The aim of this study was to compare the mechanical properties of the polymer brackets with metal and ceramic brackets and verify if the polymer brackets could be used clinically.

Materials and Methods:

A thorough search was conducted in four electronic databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane, Ovid, and Lilacs, with article selection based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis standards. A computerized search of the database was done from January 1990 to June 2024. Two independent reviewers were involved in study selection, data extraction, and synthesis. Disagreements were resolved by discussion with a third reviewer. The risk of bias was assessed by the quality assessment tool for in vitro studies (QUIN tool). The outcomes measured included permanent deformation, hardness, and torquing capacity.

Results:

Ten studies were selected after excluding duplicates, screening, and complete text reading to identify the articles that met the eligibility criteria. All ten studies showed medium risk based on the quality assessment tool for in vitro studies (QUIN Tool).

Conclusion:

The following findings were obtained: Polymer brackets have lower mechanical properties in terms of torque loss, fracture resistance, hardness, and torsional creep compared to metal brackets. Among the polymers listed in the studies, it was found that polyamide exhibited low hardness and polyoxymethylene exhibited the highest torque loss. Torque deformation was highest with a ceramic-reinforced polymer bracket, followed by pure polymer. Torque deformation was minimal with metal slot- and ceramic-reinforced polymers, followed by metal slot-reinforced polymers.
Comparative Evaluation of Ozone Water and Glutaraldehyde on Surface Detail Reproduction of Vinyl Polyether Silicone Impression Materials at Different Time Intervals
Authors: Shankar Kriti , Dandekeri Savita , Shetty Rajesh , Fernandes Kevin , Shetty Sanath Kumar , Ragher Mallikarjuna
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:

The study aims to evaluate the impact of chemical disinfection using ozone water and glutaraldehyde on the surface detail reproduction (SDR) of vinyl polyether silicone (VPES) impression material at different time intervals.

Methodology:

VPES impressions were categorized into light-body and heavy-body groups and further divided based on the disinfectant used (ozone water or glutaraldehyde) and the time interval of disinfection (T1: 15 minutes and T2: 24 hours). A total of 80 impressions (40 light-body and 40 heavy-body) were prepared and subjected to the respective disinfection protocols. The SDR was evaluated using a standard scoring system to determine the quality of detail reproduction.

Results:

Ozone water demonstrated superior performance in preserving surface detail compared to glutaraldehyde at both T1 and T2 for both light-body VPES and heavy-body VPES. Light-body VPES showed better SDR scores compared to heavy-body VPES across all conditions. Specifically, for light-body VPES, the mean SDR scores at T1 were significantly better for ozone water compared to glutaraldehyde (mean scores: 1.00 vs. 1.27, P = 0.046). For heavy-body VPES, ozone water also performed better at T1 compared to glutaraldehyde (mean scores: 1.27 vs. 1.67, P = 0.034). Disinfection at T1 resulted in better SDR scores compared to T2 for both light-body VPES and heavy-body VPES.

Conclusion:

Ozone water is a more effective disinfectant than glutaraldehyde for preserving the surface detail of VPES impressions, especially when disinfection is conducted for a shorter duration (15 minutes).
The level of IL-12, IL-10, IL-4, and MMP-13 in cutaneous leishmaniasis patients
Authors: Dhari Abrar Kareem , Abed Ali Mohammed , Abed Suha Maher
Published: November 2024

Background:

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a dermatological condition that arises due to the presence of protozoan parasites. The disease disproportionately impacts those residing in economically disadvantaged regions and is closely linked to factors such as inadequate nutrition, population displacement, substandard living conditions, and compromised immune systems.

Objectives:

Investigating the most important immunological changes associated with infection in patients with CL by measuring the levels of some cellular kinetics interleukins-12 (IL-12), IL-10, IL-4, and human matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13).

Materials and Methods:

This study involved a sample that included 90 individuals, comprising 20 control subjects and 70 patients diagnosed with CL. The age distribution of the participants in the study spanned from 3 months to 65 years, encompassing individuals of both genders. The sample consisted of 50 females and 40 males. The amounts of IL-12, IL-10, IL-4, and MMP-13 were quantified via an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test.

Results:

The current study showed a significant increase in the level of IL-12 in patients with CL (461.5 ± 14.8) compared to the control group (321.6 ± 57.9) at probability 0.05, whereas non-significant differences in levels of IL-10 and MMP-13 in patients with CL (143.5 ± 6.8) (5.7 ± 0.2) compared with the control group (198.0 ± 35.2) (6.9 ± 0.6) at P ≤ 0.05, respectively. As well as a highly significant decrease in the level of IL-4 in patients with CL (15.5 ± 1.5) compared to the control group (46.3 ± 5.7) at P ≤ 0.05.

Conclusion:

There was an increasing serum of IL-12 and decreased IL-4 in patients with CL compared with control, while non-significant decreases in the level of MMP-13 and IL-10 between patients with CL and control.
Measurement of Apelin as a Biomarker and Its Relationship to Cystatin C, Copeptin, and Glomerular Filtration Rate in Serum of Patients with Acute Kidney Injury in Mosul City, Iraq
Authors: Majeed Anwar S. , Mustafa Layla A.
Published: November 2024

Background:

There is a need for early and accurate diagnosis of acute kidney injury, as high levels of cystatin C, copeptin, and low apelin levels in serum can provide an early diagnosis of acute kidney injury in patients.

Objectives:

To measure the level of apelin as a biomarker in the blood serum of both control and acute kidney injury groups, and to find its relationship with each of cystatin C, copeptin, and estimated glomerular filtration rate of both groups.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted on 232 blood samples collected from males and females, 108 from control subjects and 124 from patients with acute kidney injury, aged between 35 and 56 years.

Results:

Serum apelin (pg/mL) levels decreased in the blood serum of the acute kidney injury patients group, increased both cystatin C and copeptin, and decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

The results showed that serum apelin levels decreased in the blood serum of the acute kidney injury group, corresponding to an increase in the level of both cystatin C and copeptin levels and a decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate compared to the control group, which indicates the possibility that apelin is a strong predictive biomarker for acute kidney injury, and it can play a good preventive and therapeutic role in the future.
Detection of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. from Water Samples in Mosul City, Iraq
Authors: Al-Jarjary Senaa Abdullah Ali , Hasan Manal H. , Hussain Basila Ibrahim
Published: November 2024

Background:

Protozoan parasites are significant in waterborne parasitic diseases because they are resistant to common disinfection methods and have stable cystic phases in the environment.

Objectives:

The present study aimed to investigate protozoan parasites in water samples collected from different regions that collect rainwater.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 150 water samples were collected from different regions in Mosul City, Iraq, from November 2019 to the end of March 2020. After sample collection, the water samples were examined to investigate oocysts or cysts of protozoan parasites using direct wet smear, Sheather’s sugar solution, and the Modified Ziehle–Nelseen stain method.

Results:

The results showed that 43.3% of the samples examined were infected with protozoan parasites, and the detected parasites were found in different ratios across the various regions. Were high percentage was 65.5% Al-Kossiat region and the low percentage was 20% in the Ajaamea region.

Conclusion:

This study recorded the high number of (oo)cysts of these protozoan parasites in water samples at a percentage (58.4%).
Serological and Molecular Diagnosis of Human Cytomegalovirus among Hemodialysis Patients in Kirkuk/Iraq
Authors: Ihsan Eman Ammar , Mohammed Lezan Medhat , Ali Waleed Mohammed
Published: November 2024

Background:

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common herpes virus and is usually asymptomatic in healthy individuals. CMV has a worldwide distribution, infecting about 40% to 90% of adults, leading to lifelong latent infection. Hemodialysis patients’ weakened immune systems have long been known to contribute to greater prevalence rates of viral infections like CMV.

Objectives:

The purpose of the current study was to estimate the rate of prevalence of human CMV among patients with hemodialysis and also to detect CMV in its acute phase.

Materials and Methods:

About 50 men and 41 women, all receiving hemodialysis treatment at Kirkuk General Hospital and 50 apparently healthy individuals as the control group, were included in the current study. This study was carried out during the period November 2022 to March 2023. Participants’ sera were examined for the presence of CMV-IgM and CMV-IgG antibodies, as well as DNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results:

While CMV-IgM was only discovered in 5.5% of hemodialysis patients, CMV-IgG was found in 50.5% of them. Only 4% of hemodialysis patients had CMV DNA found. In contrast to females, males had a higher likelihood of having CMV-IgM (60% vs. 40%) and CMV-IgG (55.7% vs. 32.7%, respectively). The highest CMV prevalence was found in older patients, which is related to their weakened immune systems.

Conclusion:

Detection and prevalence of CMV IgG was greater in HD patients than that of CMV IgM. Patients exposed to CMV during dialysis may cause virus reactivation by immunosuppression and inflammation, suggesting that screening patients is necessary to avoid complications like kidney transplant rejection. As a result, PCR can detect extremely small amounts of DNA, it has a high detection rate in the early stages of CMV infection.
Free Banach lattices
Authors: Oikhberg Timur , Taylor Mitchell A. , Tradacete Pedro , Troitsky Vladimir G.
Published: November 2024

We investigate the structure of the free

p

-convex Banach lattice

{\mathrm{FBL}}^{(p)}[E]

over a Banach space

E

. After recalling why such a free lattice exists, and giving a convenient functional representation of it, we focus our study on how properties of an operator

T:E\rightarrow F

between Banach spaces transfer to the associated lattice homomorphism

\bar{T}:{\mathrm{FBL}}^{(p)}[E]\rightarrow{\mathrm{FBL}}^{(p)}[F]

. Particular consideration is devoted to the case when the operator

T

is an isomorphic embedding, which leads us to examine extension properties of operators into

\ell_{p}

, and several classical Banach space properties such as being a G.T. space. A detailed investigation of basic sequences and sublattices of free Banach lattices is provided. Among other things, this allows us to settle an a priori unrelated question, providing the first instance of a subspace of a Banach lattice without bibasic sequences. In addition, we begin to build a dictionary between Banach space properties of

E

and Banach lattice properties of

{\mathrm{FBL}}^{(p)}[E]

. In particular, we characterize the existence of lattice copies of

\ell_{1}

in

{\mathrm{FBL}}^{(p)}[E]

and show that

\mathrm{FBL}[E]

has an upper

p

-estimate if and only if

\textup{id}_{E^*}

is

(q,1)

-summing (

{1}/{p}+{1}/{q}=1

). We also highlight the significant differences between

{\mathrm{FBL}}^{(p)}

-spaces depending on whether

p

is finite or infinite. For example, we show that

\mathrm{FBL}^{(\infty)}[E]

is lattice isometric to

\mathrm{FBL}^{(\infty)}[F]

whenever

E

and

F

have monotone finite-dimensional decompositions, while, on the other hand, when

p<\infty

and

E^{*}

is smooth,

{\mathrm{FBL}}^{(p)}[E]

determines

E

isometrically.
Optimal agnostic control of unknown linear dynamics in a bounded parameter range
Authors: Carruth Jacob , Eggl Maximilian F. , Fefferman Charles , Rowley Clarence W.
Published: November 2024

Here and in a follow-on paper, we consider a simple control problem in which the underlying dynamics depend on a parameter

a

that is unknown and must be learned. In this paper, we assume that

a

is bounded, i.e., that

|a| \le a_{\textrm{MAX}}

, and we study two variants of the control problem. In the first variant, Bayesian control, we are given a prior probability distribution for

a

and we seek a strategy that minimizes the expected value of a given cost function. Assuming that we can solve a certain PDE (the Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation), we produce optimal strategies for Bayesian control. In the second variant, agnostic control, we assume nothing about

a

and we seek a strategy that minimizes a quantity called the regret. We produce a prior probability distribution

d\textup{Prior}(a)

supported on a finite subset of

[-a_{\textrm{MAX}},a_{\textrm{MAX}}]

so that the agnostic control problem reduces to the Bayesian control problem for the prior

d\textup{Prior}(a)

.
ASSESSMENT OF A BAYESIAN MODEL AND TEST VALIDATION
METHOD
Authors: Pai Yogita , Kokkolaras Michael , Hulbert Gregory , Papalambros Panos , Pozolo Michael K. , Fu Yan , Yang Ren-Jye , Barbat Saeed
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Probabilistic Principal Component Analysis (PPCA) is a promising tool for
validating tests and computational models by means of comparing the multivariate
time histories they generate to available field data. Following PPCA by
interval-based Bayesian hypothesis testing enables acceptance or rejection of
the tests and models given the available field data. In this work, we
investigate the robustness of this methodology and present sensitivity studies
of validating hybrid powertrain models of a military vehicle simulated over
different proving ground courses.
Infinite Prognostics & Diagnostics: A System Architecture to
Support P/D Algorithms Before They Even Exist
Authors: Branigan James , Cunningham John , Dempsey Patrick , Hackleman Brett , VanderLei Paul
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

A combination of real world experience and new research initiatives will
open up the universe of prognostic and diagnostic algorithms that can be
created in the future. This presents the challenge of creating a system
architecture that enables effective support of an infinite set of future
algorithms even before they have been conceived, designed, implemented,
tested, and approved for use. The Arbor architecture enables five critical
elements to meet this challenge: (1) clean integration between legacy and
new software, (2) remote, over the air provisioning of algorithms, (3)
flexible data structures capable of evolving, (4) control points for the
algorithm to report findings to in-vehicle occupants, and (4) a data
collection strategy for failure incident reporting. Many algorithms are
impossible to develop until we collect real world performance and failure
information from on the vehicle. The Arbor system collects this information
and feeds it off-board for analysis. Researchers analyze the data and
develop diagnostic or prognostic algorithms that can then be deployed to a
single vehicle experiencing odd behaviors or to an entire fleet,
preemptively. A prognostic algorithm written, or modified, as an Arbor
application can define its own outputs, which are then visible to the
vehicle operator. These same outputs can be broadcast to a service
technician with a diagnostic scan tool or to a remote operational command
site, contingent on available communications links. Effective deployment of
prognostic algorithms enables costly failures to be predicted ahead of time,
thereby improving safety, reducing costs, and minimizing down time for
equipment in order to effect more efficient fleet operations.
Electromagnetic Compatibility of Tactical Vehicle’s
Sub-Systems and Communication Systems
Authors: Busayadilok Tanya , Bohn Frank A.
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

This paper will discuss trends in compatibility issues between radio
systems and Tactical Vehicle on-board systems which have been identified as
potential interference sources and discuss electromagnetic compatibility
(EMC) between co-located radio systems. All Tactical vehicles have
electronic systems which come as part of the base vehicle, such as lights,
air-conditioners, wind shield wipers, etc. all of which have the potential
to disrupt communications. To further complicate the radio frequency
environment today’s tactical vehicles are being outfitted with new
sophisticated technology such as programmable communications systems, sensor
systems and remote weapon stations. The new systems are complex and are
subject to emitting and absorbing electromagnetic radiation which can
severely degrade radio system performance and cause inadvertent
electromagnetic fratricide.
Architecture Driven Generation of Distributed Embedded Software from
Functional Models
Authors: Raghav Gopal , Gopalswamy Swaminathan , Radhakrishnan Karthikeyan , Delange Julien , Hugues Jérôme
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Embedded systems are becoming increasingly complex and more distributed.
Cost and quality requirements necessitate reuse of the functional software
components for multiple deployment architectures. An important step is the
allocation of software components to hardware. During this process the
differences between the hardware and application software architectures must
be reconciled. In this paper we discuss an architecture driven approach
involving model-based techniques to resolve these differences and integrate
hardware and software components. The system architecture serves as the
underpinning based on which distributed real-time components can be
generated. Generation of various embedded system architectures using the
same functional architecture is discussed. The approach leverages the
following technologies – IME (Integrated Modeling Environment), the
SAE AADL (Architecture Analysis and Design Language), and Ocarina. The
approach is illustrated using the electronic throttle control system as a
case study.
SELECTIVE ACQUISITION OF OPERATOR KNOWLEDGE FOR SAFER SEMI-AUTONOMOUS ROBOT OPERATIONS
Authors: Durfee Edmund , Karmol David , Maxim Michael , Singh Satinder
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

We have developed techniques for a robot to compute its expected myopic
gain in performance from asking its operator specific questions, such as
questions about how risky a particular movement action is around
pedestrians. Coupled with a model of the operator’s costs for
responding to inquiries, these techniques form the core of a new algorithm
that iteratively allows the robot to decide what questions are in
expectation most valuable to ask the operator and whether their value
justifies potentially interrupting the operator. We have performed
experiments in simple simulated robotic domains that illustrate the
effectiveness of our approach.
REDUCING SYSTEM COST DURING MDARS PRODUCTION
Authors: Frederick Brian , Virtz Paul , Grinnell Michal
Published: November 2024

Abstract

On the Mobile Detection Assessment Response System (MDARS) production
program, General Dynamics Robotics Systems (GDRS) and International
Logistics Systems (ILS), are working with the US Army’s Product
Manager – Force Protection Systems (PM-FPS) to reduce system costs
throughout the production lifecycle. Under this process, GDRS works through
an Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) process to improve the reliability and
maintainability of subsystem designs with the goal of making the entire
system more producible at a lower cost. In addition, GDRS recommends
substitutions of Government requirements that are cost drivers with those
that reduce cost impact but do not result in reduced capability for the end
user. This paper describes the production lifecycle process for the MDARS
system and recommends future considerations for fielding of complex
autonomous robotic systems.
OPTIMAL TIME AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN LEGGED ROBOTICS
Authors: Muench Paul , Cheok Ka C
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Although bio-inspired legged robots have advantageous mobility, they can
be very inefficient. Their intrinsic walking mobility is sometimes
outweighed by the inefficiency of their drive-train. Some of these
inefficiencies are due to collision losses, but they are also due to
suboptimal powering schemes. This paper addresses the powering schemes and
seeks to clearly delineate an optimal solution to powering the walking
motion of a two-legged or biped walker. We examine a simplified model of
locomotion called the “rocket car” to extract the meaningful
parameters that affect time and energy cost. Using Pontryagin’s
Maximum Principle, we dissect the cost function, the state equation,
co-state equation, and control input constraints to describe the optimal
control. The result of the paper shows a “bang-off” control,
and we describe the “coasting line” between these extremes. It
is not possible to find a complete closed-form solution for the problem, and
numerical methods, such as dynamic programming must be used for future
simulation and visualization of the results.