bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological control of postharvest tomato fruit rots using Bacillus spp. and Pseudomonas spp.
Authors: Taha Naglaa A. , Elsharkawy Mohsen Mohamed , Shoughy Aya A. , El-Kazzaz Mohamed K. , Khedr Amr A.
Published: October 2023

Background

Postharvest diseases cause a wide loss to tomato fruits during handling and storing from harvest to consumers. Fungicides are mainly used to control postharvest diseases. Biological control is the eco-friendly substitute strategy used for postharvest diseases management as which becoming promise worldwide. Six bacterial bioagent (i.e., Bacillus subtilis, B. amyloliquefaciens, Pseudomonas resinovorans, P. alcaligenes, P. putida and P. stutzeri) were tested to suppress both Geotrichum candidum and Alternaria alternata causal agents of tomato fruit rots during storage.

Results

In vitro, most of bioagents significantly reduced mycelial growth rate of G. candidum. Both of B. subtilis and P. stutzeri were the most superior bacterial bioagents with values 67.03 and 72.2%, respectively. In addition, B. subtilis and B. amyloliquefaciens resulted in the most superior over all antagonists against A. alternata. The lowest percent of disease incidence and severity of G. candidum were obtained by B. subtilis and P. stutzeri. The maximum reduction percent of it on tomato fruits was recorded by applying B. subtilis and P. stutzeri with values (90 and 87%) and (91, 89%) in both seasons, respectively. Also, the highest reduction of A. alternata was obtained by using B. subtilis, which resulted in 85 and 84% in both seasons, respectively. The application of bioagents against both pathogens was significantly improved fruit quality aspects (weight loss, vitamin C, TSS and acidity %) during storage period compared to infected control fruits.

Conclusion

The findings revealed that both of B. subtilis and P. stutzeri could be potential biological control agents against most postharvest pathogens of tomato fruits. This might be an alternative control strategy instead of fungicides which service the sustainable and organic farming.
Bardet-Biedl Syndrome: a case report of delayed diagnosis with variable presentation and role of genetic testing in definitive diagnosis
Authors: Rekhawar Gargi Ramesh , Bhavana M. P. , Sawant Vishal Dnyaneshwar , Save Sushma , Kondekar Alpana
Published: October 2023

Background

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare multisystemic autosomal recessive (AR) disorder, which falls under the spectrum of ciliopathic disorders. As BBS is a very rare entity in India, its diagnosis is most often missed during early child visits. The lack of a syndromic approach for diagnosing genetic disorders by health care physicians is being considered a major blackguard. The following case report exemplifies how a patient presenting with multisystemic involvement should be evaluated to rule out syndromic association.

Case presentation

The authors here report a case of a male child aged 13 years presenting to Pediatrics Outpatient with complaints of learning disability and behavioral disturbances. During his initial assessment, features such as polydactyly, overweight, and vision disturbances were picked up by the pediatrician as an indication towards syndromic association. Soon a complete laboratory workup and various scans were done which revealed hepatic fibrosis and gonadal dysgenesis. Simultaneously, IQ testing was recommended which was suggestive of mild mental retardation. Bringing along all these clinical presentations a diagnosis of BBS was made. Post-diagnosis parents were counseled on recurrence risk and explained the importance of regular follow-ups and screening to improve quality of life.

Conclusion

This case report emphasizes the role of holistic multidisciplinary approach for diagnosing at early stage and better prognosis of BBS. Prenatal genetic counseling along with next-generation sequencing are a few potential measures to drop the incidence of this condition. Obesity and visual disturbances are a few concerns which if not handled early can result in unfortunate outcomes. Renal involvement in BBS is considered a deadly parameter which surely was not seen in this case. For all learning/intellectual disabilities, the triad of screening, clinical examination, and interdisciplinary approach can clinch in early diagnosis of a genetic syndrome.
On NFPs with high social impact that avoid concentrating on a few activities
Authors: Mizutani Fuminobu
Published: October 2023

Background: An influential piece of literature on effective altruism insists that not-for-profit organizations (NFPs) should concentrate their investments on a few activities to maximize their social return on investment (SROI) ratio. However, this creates greater risk for an NFP than building a portfolio of investments in activities. This study investigates whether it is desirable for executives and contributors of NFPs to build a portfolio rather than maximize the expected SROI ratio, and if so, how to build one. Solving these questions will help the chief financial officers (CFOs) of NFPs, who serve as their agents, fulfill their obligations to contributors, who are their principals, and will help advisors provide better services for their contributors, their clients. Methods: Data were collected from a ranking of NFPs, then non-parametric tests were performed on this ranking and the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI). Results: The HHI are between 2013 and 2688. The results of non-parametric tests do not deny that rank and HHI are independent of each other. Most of the NFPs’ investments in activities were in accord with their core competencies. Conclusions: It was found that successful executives build portfolios. The findings of this study should be sufficiently practical in helping NFP executives and contributors decide whether to build portfolios, and if so, how.
Streptococcus pyogenes carriage acquisition, persistence and transmission dynamics within households in The Gambia (SpyCATS): protocol for a longitudinal household cohort study
Authors: Armitage Edwin P. , Keeley Alex J. , de Crombrugghe Gabrielle , Senghore Elina , Camara Fatoumatta E. , Jammeh Musukoi , Bittaye Amat , Ceesay Haddy , Ceesay Isatou , Samateh Bunja , Manneh Muhammed , Sesay Abdul Karim , Kampmann Beate , Kucharski Adam , de Silva Thushan I. , Marks Michael ,   MRCG StrepA Study Group
Published: October 2023

Background Streptococcus pyogenes (StrepA) causes a significant burden of disease globally from superficial infections to invasive disease. It is responsible for over 500,000 deaths each year, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Superficial StrepA infections of the skin and pharynx can lead to rheumatic heart disease, the largest cause of StrepA-related deaths in LMIC. StrepA can also asymptomatically colonise normal skin and the pharynx (carriage), potentially increasing infection risk. Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) carriage is also common in LMIC and may interact with StrepA. This study aims to investigate StrepA and SDSE carriage and infection epidemiology, transmission dynamics and naturally acquired immunity within households in The Gambia. Methods A longitudinal household observational cohort study will be conducted over one year. 45 households will be recruited from the urban area of Sukuta, The Gambia, resulting in approximately 450 participants. Households will be visited monthly, and available participants will undergo oropharyngeal and normal skin swabbing. Incident cases of pharyngitis and pyoderma will be captured via active case reporting, with swabs taken from disease sites. Swabs will be cultured for the presence of group A, C and G beta-haemolytic streptococci. Isolates will undergo whole genome sequencing. At each visit, clinical, socio-demographic and social mixing data will be collected. Blood serum will be collected at baseline and final visit. Oral fluid and dried blood spot samples will be collected at each visit. Mucosal and serum anti-StrepA antibody responses will be measured. Outcome This study will report StrepA and SDSE clinical epidemiology, risk factors, transmission dynamics, and serological responses to carriage and infection. Detailed social mixing behaviour will be combined with phylogenetic relatedness to model the extent of transmission occurring withing and between households. The study will provide data to help meet global strategic StrepA research goals.
The genome sequence of the common earthworm, Lumbricus terrestris (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Blaxter Mark L. , Spurgeon David , Kille Peter ,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual Lumbricus terrestris (the common earthworm; Annelida; Clitellata; Haplotaxida; Lumbricidae). The genome sequence is 1,056.5 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 18 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.93 kilobases in length.
Optimizing Instagram Engagement Strategies for Sustainable Tourism: A Case Study of Ciburial Village
Authors: Yudaninggar Kartika Sari , Damastuti Riski
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to explore the Instagram content management within Ciburial Village, a thriving tourist destination in Bandung Regency, West Java. In the evolving landscape of sustainable tourism, the role of social media platforms, especially Instagram, is pivotal in shaping the narratives of tourist destinations. This study utilizes quantitative content analysis by scrutinizing 134 Instagram uploads from 2021 to unravel the patterns of photo and video uploads, caption messaging, geotagging, and hashtag usage. The findings reveal a preference for photo uploads, predominantly showcasing the vibrant activities of Ciburial Village. Informative captions, while prevalent, lack persuasive elements that can enhance user engagement. The analysis highlights a limited utilization of interactive features, leading to a low engagement rate, a crucial metric for evaluating online presence. Notably, the study identifies the sparse interaction with other accounts and the predominant use of branded hashtags contributing to the account's engagement challenges. The study underscores the importance of fostering a user-centric approach in Instagram content management. Encouraging active participation from followers in content creation and caption ideation can stimulate increased interaction and bolster community bonds. The research contributes significantly to enhance engagement, nurture a vibrant online community, and contribute significantly to sustainable tourism practices by adopting a more inclusive and participatory strategy.
Coping with investigations and statement-writing
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: October 2023

Investigations are held for a number of reasons, for example, if a complaint has been made, following allegations made, or when an incident at work has occurred. The healthcare assistant and assistant practitioner (HCA and AP) may be required to assist their organisation if such issues have arisen: they may be required to provide a statement. Writing a statement can be daunting; always seek advice prior to writing a statement. Usually, investigation reports that are related to health and care provision follow a particular format. This article discusses types of investigations and incident report writing.

Discussion is provided regarding the compilation of a statement.
Recruitment 1: how to apply for jobs
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: October 2023

This first article in a series on recruitment looks at the preliminary steps to take on the way to a new career, or a new stage in an existing career.

If you are considering a healthcare assistant (HCA) role, there is a huge range of areas in which you could work, including dietetic, maternity, occupational therapy, and speech and language, to name only a few (see Table 1 for more detail).

There are three main sectors that you can work in: the NHS; independent (private); and voluntary (charitable).

There is a good variety of resources that help you in every aspect of your career search.
Working with ADHD
Authors: Burrow Hannah
Published: October 2023

Hannah Burrow highlights how to address the challenges of working with this common and varied condition.
Growing your career
Authors: Greyling Janine
Published: October 2023

Janine Greyling gives an overview of the current UK dental recruitment marketplace.
Change is in the air…
Authors: Wassif Hoda
Published: October 2023

Hoda Wassif discusses navigating change in dental practice, from leadership to implementation.
An educational journey
Authors: Blake-Allen Taneshia
Published: October 2023

Taneshia Blake-Allen describes her transition from dental nurse to a dental hygienist.
Becoming an oral health educator
Authors: Lane Laura
Published: October 2023

Laura Lane outlines the benefits of taking that next big step in your career.
Bloom Performances during Rainy Season of Off-season Longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour. ‘Phuang Thong’) Grown at Samut Sakhon Province, Thailand
Authors:   Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Thailand, . Phyu Phyu Aung ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Thailand, Traisuwan Nareenart ,   Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Thailand,   Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Thailand, Chintakovid Watcharra ,   Division of Agricultural Science, Mahidol University Kanchanaburi Campus, Sai Yok District, Kanchanaburi 71150 Thailand., Tulyananda Tatpong ,   School of Bioinnovation and Bio-based Product Intelligence, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Thailand, Pichakum Aussanee ,   Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Phayathai, Bangkok 10400 Thailand
Published: October 2023

Rainy season is an obstruction for efficient off-season longan production in Thailand. In this experiment, the bloom performances of off-season 'Phuang Thong' longan as affected by microclimate in a private longan orchard at Ban Phaeo district, Samut Sakhon province was evaluated during the rainy season of 2020. This study focused on the reproductive development at four different times (plots) of potassium chlorate application: May, June, July, and August. Air temperature, relative humidity and light intensity at the canopy level were recorded. Rainfall data was obtained from the Meteorological Department of Thailand. The results showed that inflorescence length, female flower number, and sex ratio of female to male of the May plot were the highest compared to other plots, and it was associated with early rainfall occurrence during flower development and blooming time. The August plot had a low growing degree day and a short flowering period, which coincided with frequent rainfall during the flower development period. However, the pollen viability and female flower characters were unaffected by environment. In conclusion, flower induction in the early rainy season, especially in May, was an effective time for the production of off-season ‘Phuang Thong’ longan in Ban Phaeo district, Samut Sakhon province, Thailand. Keywords: Floral biology, Flower, Pollen, Microclimate, Heat unit
A Power Aware Long Short-Term Memory with Deep Brief Network Based Microgrid Framework to Maintain Sustainable Energy Management and Load Balancing
Authors: Gowtham N. , Prema V. , Elmorshedy Mahmoud F. , Bhaskar M. S. , Almakhles Dhafer J.
Published: October 2023

Microgrids are seen as the future of reliable, sustainable and green energy source for myriad applications. The increasing dependence on microgrid also adds challenges on reliable management of power supply to vividly variant consumers, the major chunk being households coupled with an unprecedented rise in the demand for EV charging. This study aims at presenting a deep Long Short-Term Memory with Deep Brief Network model to reliably predict the grouped energy load and solar energy outcome in a community microgrid. A cutting-edge hybrid metaheuristic algorithm will be taken into consideration for optimizing the load dispatch of community microgrids that are connected to the grid. Three different scheduling scenarios are evaluated to establish an ideal dispatching design for a grid-linked community microgrid with solar elements and energy storage systems feeding electricity loads and charging electric vehicles. The prediction outcomes are integrated into the model to accommodate the uncertainties associated with solar energy outcome and residential energy load and EV charging to achieve a supply-demand equilibrium. The objective of the proposed model is to obtain an energy-efficient system capable of balancing the load and power of microgrid system which remains unperturbed by the aforesaid oscillations.
A Different View of Collegiate Swimming. Under the Umbrella of Title IX: Voices of Black Womxn Collegiate Swimmers at HBCUs
Authors: Quash Tiffany Monique , Beale-Tawfeeq Angela K.
Published: October 2023

Abstract: Research completed by Norwood (2010), Quash (2018), and Waller and Nor-wood (2009) examined the experiences of Black Womxn swimmers. These authors identified swimming participation’s constraints and its impact on Black Womxn in collegiate and/or recreational settings. Minimal research encompasses a summation of the generational and institutional experiences of Black Womxn Collegiate Swimmers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) which no longer exist. Despite the success and experiences of Black Collegiate Swimmers and Olympians Lia Neal and Simone Manuel (both from Stanford University), and Natalie Hinds (from the University of Florida) who earned the top three places in the monumental 2015 Division I Swimming and Diving Championships (“ Three college swimmers make history at ncaa championship ,” 2015) from predominantly white institutions, little is known about one’s introduction to the sport, familial support, and the team culture as experienced by a Black Womxn swimmer and more so from an HBCU swimmer. This study was an opportunity to recognize the experiences of self-identified Black Womxn Collegiate Swimmers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the closure of these competitive swim programs. Noting the importance of race, gender, and class in a sport that is dominated by white cisgender men and womxn, this narrative inquiry study aims to provide a voice for Black Womxn who swam for athletic programs that Title IX, as a federal law, were unable to protect.
Internal Inconsistency and Secondary Ideas: Hume’s Problem in the Appendix with His Account of Personal Identity
Authors: Wolf Julia
Published: October 2023

Abstract: In the Appendix to the Treatise , Hume argues that there is a significant problem with his earlier account of personal identity. There has been considerable debate about what this problem actually is. I develop a new version of an internal inconsistency reading, where I argue that Hume realised that his original account of the connexion between perceptions in terms of an association of the ideas of the perceptions was not a viable means of explaining the connexion between perceptions as it leads to an infinite regress of ideas of perceptions. This is only stopped by accepting that the mind perceives a connexion between perceptions. This, however, is something Hume cannot accept. As a result, Hume is left without a positive account of the self, as he has no account of the connexion between perceptions.
Repeating Englands: The Transatlantic Archipelago and Early Modern Britain
Authors: Pirri Caro
Published: October 2023

abstract: In the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, English conquest narratives set in the Americas and popular entertainments increasingly represented a unified Britain through the figure of a “repeating England”: an insular refuge in an inchoate ocean of dangers that linked the work of English homemakers to colonial settlers. This article charts that development in two parts. It begins in the late sixteenth century, when conquest writers like George Peckham and John Hutchinson were exchanging the geographic insularity of earlier English self-representation for a model that viewed Englishness not as genealogical or place-based, but as archipelagic and mobile, maintained in and across English homes on both sides of the Atlantic. Englishness here is not a geographic context but a blueprint for producing and possessing an English place through the labors of English “planters.” Jacobean entertainments by Thomas Dekker and John Middleton then drew on this earlier conquest writing to stage Britishness through perspectival techniques that unified subjects in radically different viewing positions and made Britishness a matter of perspective. By following these repeating Englands from page to stage and from Ireland to the Americas, this analysis shows how English writers created a unified Britain from colonial materials and represented Britishness as an extension of settler identity.
Afterword
Authors: Fuchs Barbara
Published: October 2023

Abstract: What happens when you “tear up, or at least forcefully wrinkle, the Eurocentric map of the early modern World-Ocean,” and instead “mark the interrelation between ecological and cultural geographies in ways that are attentive to the interdependence of local and networked perspectives,” as editors Jane Degenhardt and Benjamin VanWagoner provocatively advise in their introduction (3)? To judge from this remarkably cogent collection, the paradoxical result is to show how careful attention to the local can simultaneously inform and disrupt larger narratives. I catch myself even as I write this, reluctant to measure the import of these interventions by what they tell us about imperialism in general, or beyond their specific cases. The generalizing or theorizing impulse may unwittingly reinscribe the centrality of a European experience writ large, which is precisely what the issue sets out to disrupt, by “bringing to light absent, suppressed, or unconventional narratives, histories of cultural forms and oceanic relations” (Degenhardt and Ben VanWagoner 3). Yet these contributions manage both to illuminate the contested agencies that operate at sites of cultural and imperial encounter, and how everything from material culture to marriage choices refracts those contestations, while simultaneously offering powerful models for understanding dynamics elsewhere.
Compact plasmon modulator based on the spatial control of carrier density in indium tin oxide
Authors: Hu Xuefang , Yang Sisi , Zhou Guangyu , Liu Bangquan , Sun Dechao , Lu Mengjia , Lu Changgui
Published: October 2023

To keep pace with the demands of semiconductor integration technology, a semiconductor device should offer a small footprint. Here, we demonstrate a compact electro-optic modulator by controlling the spatial distribution of carrier density in indium tin oxide (ITO). The proposed structure is mainly composed of a symmetrical metal electrode layer, calcium fluoride dielectric layer, and an ITO propagating layer. The carrier density on the surface of the ITO exhibits a periodical distribution when the voltage is applied on the electrode, which greatly enhances the interaction between the surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) and the ITO. This structure can not only effectively improve the modulation depth of the modulator, but also can further reduce the device size. The numerical results indicate that when the length, width, and height of the device are 14 µm, 5 µm, and 8 µm, respectively, the modulation depth can reach 37.1 dB at a wavelength of 3.66 µm. The structure can realize a broadband modulation in theory only if we select a different period of the electrode corresponding to the propagating wavelength of SPPs because the modulator is based on the scattering effect principle. This structure could potentially have high applicability for optoelectronic integration, optical communications, and optical sensors in the future.
Fault-tolerant four-dimensional constellation for coherent optical transmission systems
Authors: Liu Jingtian , Awwad Élie , Jaouën Yves
Published: October 2023

We propose a 4-dimensional 2-ary amplitude ring-switched modulation format with 64 symbols, which is denoted as 4D-2A-RS64 encoded over two polarization tributaries to improve the transmission performance over long-haul optical fibers in the presence of the non-linear Kerr effect. At a spectral efficiency of 6 bits per 4D, simulation results show that this format outperforms the polarization division multiplexed (PDM) 8QAM-star modulation as well as the 4D-2A-8PSK over links without inline dispersion management. We evaluate the performance for a WDM transmission of 11 × 90~Gbaud channels over a multi-span SSMF link. For an achievable information rate of 4.8bit/s/Hz, the maximum transmission distance is improved by 10.6% (400 km) and 4% (160 km) compared to PDM-8QAM-star and 4D-2A-8PSK respectively. The achieved gains are composed of a linear part and a non-linear part, respectively from the improved Euclidean-distance distribution and the constant power property of the 4D modulation. The geometric shaping of the proposed scheme is easy to implement and is robust to Mach-Zehnder modulator (MZM) imbalances and quantization errors stemming from the finite digital-to-analog converter (DAC) resolution. This robustness is compared to the one of other geometric-shaped non-linearity tolerant 4D schemes such as the 4D-2A-8PSK and the 4D-64PRS that can be both outperformed by our scheme in severe conditions.
Reconfigurable phase change chalcogenide grating couplers with ultrahigh modulation contrast
Authors: Mandal Avik , Ellis Rachel , Gholipour Behrad
Published: October 2023

In photonic integrated circuits, efficient coupling of light between fibers and waveguides is challenging due to mode area mismatch. In-plane grating couplers (GC) have become popular for their low cost, easy alignment, and design flexibility. While most GC designs have fixed coupling efficiencies, with a view to emerging adaptive neuromorphic and quantum integrated circuits and interposers that need ultra-compact memory/modulation components, we introduce a CMOS-compatible GC based on phase-change chalcogenide alloy germanium antimony telluride. The GC design optimized utilizing inverse design techniques achieves over 50% coupling efficiency at 1550 nm when amorphous, and near-zero efficiency when switched to a crystalline state. This design is non-volatile, reversible, and provides ultra-high transmission modulation contrasts of up to 60 dB. While the operational range can be adjusted across the telecommunication band by modifying the GC's etch depth or thickness. We show that such devices do not need global switching of their entire phase change volume and can achieve maximum modulation contrasts through switching precisely positioned phase change inclusions hinting at low-power and ultrafast modulation potential.
Polaritonics: introduction to feature issue
Authors: Grosso Gabriele , Pietka Barbara , Antón-Solanas Carlos , Ballarini Dario , Fainstein Alejandro
Published: October 2023

In the evolving landscape of modern science and technology, the field of polaritonics has emerged as a beacon of innovation and discovery. With its roots grounded in the coherent interplay of light and matter, polaritonics has pushed the boundaries of our understanding of many-body and quantum phenomena, and harnessed their potential for revolutionary applications. We are delighted to introduce this special issue, dedicated to exploring the cutting-edge of polaritonics research and its profound implications for various domains of science.
Comparison of DNA extraction methods for COVID-19 host genetics studies
Authors: Silva Ronaldo Celerino da , de Lima Suelen Cristina , dos Santos Reis Wendell Palôma Maria , de Magalhães Jurandy Júnior Ferraz , Magalhães Ronaldo Nascimento de Oliveira , Rathi Brijesh , Kohl Alain , Bezerra Marcos André Cavalcanti , Pena Lindomar
Published: October 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in global shortages in supplies for diagnostic tests, especially in the developing world. Risk factors for COVID-19 severity include pre-existing comorbidities, older age and male sex, but other variables are likely play a role in disease outcome. There is indeed increasing evidence that supports the role of host genetics in the predisposition to COVID-19 outcomes. The identification of genetic factors associated with the course of SARS-CoV-2 infections relies on DNA extraction methods. This study compared three DNA extraction methods (Chelex®100 resin, phenol-chloroform and the QIAamp DNA extraction kit) for COVID-19 host genetic studies using nasopharyngeal samples from patients. The methods were compared regarding number of required steps for execution, sample handling time, quality and quantity of the extracted material and application in genetic studies. The Chelex®100 method was found to be cheapest (33 and 13 times cheaper than the commercial kit and phenol-chloroform, respectively), give the highest DNA yield (306 and 69 times higher than the commercial kit and phenol-chloroform, respectively), with the least handling steps while providing adequate DNA quality for downstream applications. Together, our results show that the Chelex®100 resin is an inexpensive, safe, simple, fast, and suitable method for DNA extraction of nasopharyngeal samples from COVID-19 patients for genetics studies. This is particularly relevant in developing countries where cost and handling are critical steps in material processing.
The budget impact of procalcitonin-guided antibiotic stewardship compared to standard of care for patients with suspected sepsis admitted to the intensive care unit in Belgium
Authors: Garnfeldt Victoria Madeleine , Vincent Jean-Louis , Gruson Damien , Garay Osvaldo Ulises , Vansieleghem Stefaan , Iniguez Leonardo , Lefevre Alexander
Published: October 2023

In Belgium, antibiotic resistance leads to approximately 530 deaths with a €24 million financial burden annually. This study estimated the impact of procalcitonin-guided antibiotic stewardship programs to reduce antibiotic consumption versus standard of care in patients with suspected sepsis. A decision analytic tree modelled health and budget outcomes of procalcitonin-guided antibiotic stewardship programs for patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). A literature search, a survey with local clinical experts, and national database searches were conducted to obtain model input parameters. The main outcomes were total budget impact per patient, reduction in number of antibiotic resistance cases, and cost per antibiotic day avoided. To evaluate the impact of parameter uncertainty on the source data, a deterministic sensitivity analysis was performed. A scenario analysis was conducted to investigate budget impact when including parameters for reduction in length of ICU stay and mechanical ventilation duration, in addition to base-case parameters. Based on model predictions, procalcitonin-guided antibiotic stewardship programs could reduce the number of antibiotic days by 66,868, resulting in €1.98 million savings towards antibiotic treatment in current clinical practice. Antibiotic resistance cases could decrease by 7.7% (6.1% vs 9.2%) in the procalcitonin-guided setting compared with standard of care. The base-case budget impact suggests an investment of €1.90 per patient. The sensitivity analysis showed uncertainty, as the main drivers can alter potential cost savings. The scenario analysis indicated a saving of €1,405 per patient, with a reduction of 1.5 days in the ICU (14.8 days vs 12.8 days), and a reduction of 22.7% (18.1–27.2%) in mechanical ventilation duration. The associated sensitivity analysis was shown to be robust in all parameters. Procalcitonin-guided antibiotic stewardship programs are associated with clinical benefits that positively influence antimicrobial resistance in Belgium. A small investment per patient to implement procalcitonin testing may lead to considerable cost savings.
Perceptions of oral nicotine pouches & their marketing among Ohio Appalachia smokers and smokeless tobacco users
Authors: Long Lauren , Alalwan Mahmood A. , Keller-Hamilton Brittney , Patterson Joanne G. , Roberts Megan E. , Wagener Theodore L. , Atkinson Leanne , Suraapaneni Sriya , Mays Darren
Published: October 2023

Background

Oral nicotine pouches (ONPs) are novel products, gaining popularity and marketed as “tobacco-free” alternatives to cigarettes and smokeless tobacco (SLT), but their public health impact is unknown. This study qualitatively examined ONP appeal and perceptions among cigarette smokers and SLT users from Ohio Appalachia.

Methods

In 2022, we conducted 10 virtual focus groups with smokers (n = 19) and smokeless tobacco users (n = 18) from Appalachia Ohio aged ≥21 to examine perceptions of risks and benefits, substitutability for cigarettes and SLT, and ONP marketing. We transcribed focus groups verbatim, thematically coded transcripts, and analyzed coded data for prominent themes.

Results

Participants perceived ONPs to have similar or less risk than cigarettes/SLT but prominently discussed gastrointestinal and cardiovascular risks. Addiction risk was thought to be comparable to cigarettes/SLT, citing “nicotine is nicotine.” Participants viewed ONPs to be situational rather than complete substitutes for cigarettes/SLT, viewing them as “cleaner,” more socially acceptable, and discrete. Despite appealing features of ONP marketing, participants surmised ads would appeal to youth, new users, tobacco users seeking to cut down/quit, or to “high class,” “white-collar” demographics.

Conclusions

Participants’ perceptions of ONPs and their marketing suggest ONPs are more likely to be used as situational versus complete substitutes for cigarettes and SLT. While situational substitution could exacerbate disparities in Appalachia by facilitating more frequent tobacco/nicotine use, complete substitution could reduce disparities. Research is needed to understand how perceptions, the appeal of ONP marketing, and novel product features translate to patterns of use to understand ONPs’ potential impact.
Resource-aware DBSCAN-based re-clustering in hybrid C-V2X/DSRC vehicular networks
Authors: Alrubaye Jaafar Sadiq , Shahgholi Ghahfarokhi Behrouz
Published: October 2023

5G wireless networks are paying increasing attention to Vehicle to Everything (V2X) communications as the number of autonomous vehicles rises. In V2X applications, a number of demanding criteria such as latency, stability, and resource availability have emerged. Due to limited licensed radio resources in 5G cellular networks, Cellular V2X (C-V2X) faces challenges in serving a large number of cars and managing their network access. A reason is the unbalanced load of serving Base Stations (BSs) that makes it difficult to manage the resources of the BSs optimally regarding the frequency reuse in cells and its subsequent co-channel interference. It is while the routing protocols could help redirect the load of loaded BSs to neighboring ones. In this article, we propose a resource-aware routing protocol to mitigate this challenge. In this regard, a hybrid C-V2X/ Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) vehicular network is considered. We employ cluster-based routing that enables many cars to interface with the network via some Cluster Heads (CH) using DSRC resources while the CHs send their traffic across C-V2X links to the BSs. Traditional cluster-based routings do not attend the resource availability in BSs that are supporting the clusters. Thus, our study describes an enhanced clustering method based on Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) that re-clusters the vehicles based on the resource availability of BSs. Simulation results show that the proposed re-clustering method improves the spectrum efficiency by at least 79%, packet delivery ratio by at least 5%, and load balance of BSs by at least 90% compared to the baseline.
The Story of the Historical Marker Honoring the McAllister Family Ophthalmic Legacy
Authors: Ferrucci Ron
Published: October 2023

On August 21, 2022, more than 100 individuals from at least nine different states gathered at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. Each of the three major eye care professions in the United States was amply represented. The occasion was to celebrate the contributions of John McAllister, Sr. and his descendants, whose early efforts led to the advancement of scientific knowledge, and to the evolution of eye care in the United States. John McAllister is widely regarded as the father (or grandfather) of optometry, since his work and the work of his progeny led to the beginning of optometry as an independent profession. The highlight of the event was the dedication of a historical marker honoring the ophthalmic legacy of the McAllister Family. The marker is situated in Old Town Philadelphia, very near where John’s original optical shoppe was located. The three eye care professions—opticianry, ophthalmology, and optometry—worked hand in hand to make this remarkable achievement possible. This paper tells the story of how and why it all came about.
Influence of Student’s Characteristics on the Preferences and Availability of Student Housing in Tembalang Higher Education Area (HEA)
Authors: Prastiwi Sekar Kharisma Ardhia , Dewi Santy Paulla
Published: October 2023

Tembalang Higher Education Area (HEA) has rapidly developed since the existencing of Diponegoro University in 2010. The constantly increasing number of students occured demands this area to fulfill the housing needs of its students. Availability of housing that doesn’t match their demand can lead to vacant housing which losses for various parties. As the housing consumers, students with various characteristics play an important role on this process. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find out the influence of students characteristics towards their preferences for housing needs and its availability in HEA of Tembalang. These influences are analyzed using quantitative research methods with multiple linear regression and quantitative descriptive. The results of the study indicate that student’s hometown and study year have a significant effect on the preference of student's housing type by 31%, while the study year, transportation and student’s activities have a significant effect on the preference of student's housing location by 10.2%. Refer to the influences explained, this study predicted that student housings with HMO and private housing types on Bulusan and Kramas Village will develop significantly, where through this development, housing vacancies phenomenon can be avoided
Synthesis of low-VOC unsaturated polyester coatings for electrical insulation
Authors: Gümüş Selinay , Aksoy Kaan , Aytaç Ayşe
Published: October 2023

The objective of this research is to develop an unsaturated polyester (UPE) varnish with low-volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Instead of using a solvent, the solvent-free varnish incorporates a reactive diluent to reduce viscosity and a catalyst to accelerate curing. To achieve this, vinyl toluene and 1,4-butanediol dimethacrylate were employed as curing agents. Sebacic acid (SA) and fumaric acid were utilized to create UPE coatings for electrical insulation. Various tests and measurements were made to evaluate the physical, thermal, and chemical structure determination, and electrical properties of the synthesized resins. Given the increasing demand for eco-friendly and low-VOC products, gas chromatography was employed to determine VOC levels. The study demonstrated that the electrical volume resistance of cross-linked coatings containing FA was 1.58 × 1015 Ω·cm, whereas coatings containing SA exhibited a measurement of 6.96 × 1011 Ω·cm. VOC levels in the UPE coatings were found to be in the range of 2.10–3.60%.
Intracranial germ cell tumors: a view of the endocrinologist
Authors: Tong Tao , Zhong Li-Yong
Published: October 2023

Intracranial germ cell tumors (iGCTs) are rare malignant neoplasms that mainly affect children and adolescents. The incidence, clinical presentation, and prognosis of iGCTs exhibit high heterogeneity. Previous studies have primarily focused on eliminating tumors, reducing tumor recurrence, and improving survival rates, while neglecting the impact of the tumors and their treatment on neuroendocrine function. Throughout the entire course of the disease, neuroendocrine dysfunction may occur and is frequently overlooked by oncologists, neurosurgeons, and radiologists. Endocrinologists, however, are more interested in this issue and have varying priorities at different stages of the disease. From onset to the diagnostic phase, most patients with iGCTs may present with symptoms related to impaired neuroendocrine function, or even experience these symptoms as their first indication of the condition. Particularly, a minority of patients with sellar/suprasellar lesions may exhibit typical imaging features and elevated tumor markers long after the onset of initial symptoms. This can further complicate the diagnosis process. During the peritumor treatment phase, the neuroendocrine function shows dynamic changes and needs to be evaluated dynamically. Once diabetes insipidus and dysfunction of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axes occur, hormone replacement therapy should be administered promptly to ensure successful tumor treatment for the patient. Subsequently, during the long-term management phase after the completion of tumor treatment, the evaluation of growth and development as well as corresponding hormone replacement therapy are the most concerning and complex issues. Thus, this paper reviews the interest of endocrinologists in iGCTs at different stages.
Low intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy for chronic pelvic pain syndrome: Long-term follow-up
Authors: Skaudickas Darijus , Lenčiauskas Povilas , Skaudickas Augustas , Undžytė Greta
Published: October 2023

Chronic prostatitis (CP) is one of the diseases that reduce the quality of life (QoL) of young men. To date, there is no consensus on the management of these patients. It is essential to continue research into the treatment of CP, despite the use of various therapies, including low-energy extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT). The main objective of this study is to observe and record the clinical symptomatology of patients during a 48-week follow-up period after ESWT treatment. Between 2019 and 2021, 28 patients with type IIIB CP/chronic pelvic pain syndrome were enrolled. Patients underwent ESWT once weekly for 4 weeks (3,000 individual sessions, maximum total energy flux density 0.25 mJ/mm2, frequency 3 Hz). Participants were assessed at 0, 4, 12, 24, 36 and 48 weeks post-treatment using the visual analogue scale (VAS), National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI), and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5. The mean age of patients was 47.1 ± 13.7 years (range 28–4 years). The positive effect of LI-ESWT was reflected in improvements in VAS, NIH-CPSI, and IIEF-5 scores. Regression of patients’ symptoms was observed as early as 4 weeks after treatment. The greatest progress was achieved at week 24. In addition, a slight worsening was observed at week 36 and 48, with stable progress. The treatment significantly improved the QoL of the patients, with the most significant improvement in the VAS score. In conclusion, this treatment approach is safe, most effective in the first 6 months. Thereafter, the efficacy of the treatment diminishes, but is sustained over a longer period.
Tetraspanner‐based nanodomains modulate BAR domain‐induced membrane curvature
Authors: Haase Daniel , Rasch Christiane , Keller Ulrike , Tsytsyura Yaroslav , Glyvuk Nataliya , Elting Annegret , Wittmar Julia , Janning Annette , Kahms Martin , Wedlich Noah , Schuberth Christian , Heuer Andreas , Klingauf Jürgen , Wedlich‐Söldner Roland
Published: October 2023

The topography of biological membranes is critical for formation of protein and lipid microdomains. One prominent example in the yeast plasma membrane (PM) are BAR domain‐induced PM furrows. Here we report a novel function for the Sur7 family of tetraspanner proteins in the regulation of local PM topography. Combining TIRF imaging, STED nanoscopy, freeze–fracture EM and membrane simulations we find that Sur7 tetraspanners form multimeric strands at the edges of PM furrows, where they modulate forces exerted by BAR domain proteins at the furrow base. Loss of Sur7 tetraspanners or Sur7 displacement due to altered PIP2 homeostasis leads to increased PM invagination and a distinct form of membrane tubulation. Physiological defects associated with PM tubulation are rescued by synthetic anchoring of Sur7 to furrows. Our findings suggest a key role for tetraspanner proteins in sculpting local membrane domains. The maintenance of stable PM furrows depends on a balance between negative curvature at the base which is generated by BAR domains and positive curvature at the furrows' edges which is stabilized by strands of Sur7 tetraspanners.
Principios de buena fe y lealtad procesal a la luz de las nuevas tendencias del poder especial
Authors: Petro González Ingrid Regina , Gual Acosta José Manuel
Published: October 2023

El tema del otorgamiento de los poderes especiales bajo las directrices del artículo 5.º de la Ley 2213 del 2022 que estableció como legislación permanente el Decreto Legislativo 806/2020, el cual había sido de gran controversia desde su expedición en el decreto, ya que su contenido contrasta de gran manera con la legislación del artículo 74 del Código General del Proceso. Se tiene entonces una Ley en la que imperan principios como la buena fe y la lealtad procesal, demostrándose esto por la falta de requisitos para su autenticación y haciendo solo necesario la antefirma; dejando claro que, así como se ponderan estos principios también hace falta el desarrollo de estos, debido a que su desenvolvimiento en el mismo articulado se extrae después de realizar una labor interpretativa del mismo.

Se hace la salvedad de que esto no es algo nuevo, el propender por una justicia digitalizada que permita la conectividad y el acceso a la justicia suprimiendo todos los obstáculos que puedan presentarse, ha sido un objetivo que ha traído la legislación colombiana hace ya varios años atrás. Sin embargo, la propagación del COVID-19, hizo que este propósito tuviera que llevarse a cabo de manera abrupta, propendiendo por la implementación de medidas con las que se salvaguarde la salud y a su vez se siga brindando el servicio de administrar justicia.  

No obstante, es importante preguntarse: ¿Cómo se garantiza el principio de moralidad procesal en virtud de la ausencia de requisitos formales en la delegación de poderes especiales en el marco de las actuaciones judiciales mediadas por el uso de las Tecnologías de la Información y Comunicaciones? 

Por último, se da respuesta al problema planteado, identificando que la Ley 2213 de 2022, inicialmente garantiza el principio de moralidad procesal frente a la presentación y otorgamiento de los poderes especiales; no obstante, se debió hacer uso de otras herramientas existentes como la firma electrónica y se recomienda realizar una adecuación de las normas, en relación con integrar las disposiciones de la Superintendencia de Notariado y Registro, sobre la implementación de herramientas digitales como la biometría y las notaría digitales.