bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kualitas Pelayanan Akta Kelahiran Bayi Menggunakan Klampid New Generation (Kng) Di Kelurahan Bulak Kota Surabaya
Authors: Am'una Karina Dora Margaretha , Hertati Diana
Published: July 2023

Kualitas pelayanan publik ditunjukkan oleh perbandingan antara harapan masyarakat sebagai konsumen dengan kualitas kinerja para penyedia jasa pelayanan. Salah satu wujud dari pelayanan publik yaitu pelayanan administrasi kependudukan dalam pengurusan akta kelahiran bayi.  Adapun tujuan yang hendak dicapai dalam penelitian ini adalah untuk mendeskripsikan dan menganalisis kualitas pelayanan akta kelahiran bayi menggunakan Klampid New Generation (KNG) di Kelurahan Bulak Kota Surabaya. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan yaitu metode deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif, dan menggunakan teori Zeithaml yang menyatakan adanya lima indikator untuk menilai kualitas pelayanan publik. Hasil dari penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kualitas pelayanan akta kelahiran bayi di Kelurahan Bulak Kota Surabaya termasuk dalam penilaian baik, dimana dari lima indikator hanya ditemukan kekurangan pada satu indikator, yaitu indikator tangible. Sedangkan pada indikator reliability, responsivess, assurance  dan emphaty sudah termasuk dalam penilaian sangat baik.
Sustained heterologous gene expression in pancreatic islet organoids using adeno-associated virus serotype 8
Authors: Voznesenskaya Anna , Berggren Per-Olof , Ilegems Erwin
Published: July 2023

Genetic modification of pancreatic islet organoids, assembled in vitro prior to transplantation is an emerging alternative to direct in vivo genetic manipulations for a number of clinical and research applications. We have previously shown that dispersion of islet cells followed by re-aggregation into islet organoids, or pseudoislets, allows for efficient transduction with viral vectors, while maintaining physiological functions of native islets. Among viruses currently used for genetic manipulations, adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) have the most attractive safety profile making them suitable for gene therapy applications. Studies reporting on pseudoislet transduction with AAVs are, however, lacking. Here, we have characterized in detail the performance of AAV serotype 8 in transduction of islet cells during pseudoislet formation in comparison with human adenovirus type 5 (AdV5). We have assessed such parameters as transduction efficiency, expression kinetics, and endocrine cell tropism of AAV8 alone or in combination with AdV5. Data provided within our study may serve as a reference point for future functional studies using AAVs for gene transfer to islet cell organoids and will facilitate further development of engineered pseudoislets of superior quality suitable for clinical transplantation.
Effect of pretreatment with a P2Y12 inhibitor in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Li Yachao , Lei Mengjie , Zhao Zhigang , Yang Yanli , An Lei , Wang Jingyao , Sun Xue , Li Cairong , Xue Zengming
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of different types and doses of pretreatment with P2Y12 inhibitors in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

Electronic databases were searched for studies comparing pretreatment with different types and doses of P2Y12 inhibitors or comparison between P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment and nonpretreatment. Electronic databases included the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science. Literature was obtained from the establishment of each database until June 2022. The patients included in the study had pretreatment with P2Y12 inhibitors with long-term oral or loading doses, or conventional aspirin treatment (non-pretreatment). The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) during follow-up within 30 days after PCI, which included determining the composite endpoints of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, ischemia-driven revascularization, and stroke. The safety endpoint was a major bleeding event.

Results

A total of 119,014 patients from 21 studies were enrolled, including 13 RCTs and eight observational studies. A total of six types of interventions were included—nonpretreatment (placebo), clopidogrel pretreatment, ticagrelor pretreatment, prasugrel pretreatment, double loading pretreatment (double loading dose of clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel) and P2Y12 inhibitors pretreatment (the included studies did not distinguish the types of P2Y12 inhibitors, including clopidogrel, ticagrelor, and prasugrel). The network meta-analysis results showed that compared to patients without pretreatment, patients receiving clopidogrel pretreatment (RR = 0.78, 95% CI:0.66, 0.91, P < 0.05) and double-loading pretreatment (RR = 0.62, 95% CI:0.41, 0.95, P < 0.05) had a lower incidence of MACCEs. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of major bleeding events among the six pretreatments (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

In patients with NSTE-ACS, pretreatment with P2Y12 inhibitors before percutaneous intervention reduced the incidence of recurrent ischemic events without increasing the risk of major bleeding after PCI compared with nonpretreatment. Clopidogrel or double loading dose P2Y12 inhibitors can be considered for the selection of pretreatment drugs.
Lack of detectable chemosynthesis at a sponge dominated subarctic methane seep
Authors: Sinner Melina , Hong Wei Li , Michel Loïc N. , Vadakkepuliyambatta Sunil , Knies Jochen , Sen Arunima
Published: July 2023

We used high-resolution imagery within a Geographic Information System (GIS), free gas and porewater analyses and animal bulk stable isotope measurements to characterize the biotic and abiotic aspects of the newly discovered Vestbrona Carbonate Field (VCF) seep site on the Norwegian shelf (63°28′N, 6° 31′E, ∿270 m water depth). Free gas was mainly composed of microbial methane. Sediment porewater sulfide concentrations were in the millimolar range and thus high enough to sustain seep chemosymbiotrophic animals. Nonetheless, the VCF lacked chemosymbiotrophic animals despite an abundance of methane-derived carbonate crusts which are formed by the same anaerobic processes that sustain chemosymbiotrophic animals at seeps. Furthermore, none of the sampled taxa, across various trophic guilds exhibited a detectable contribution of chemosynthetically fixed carbon to their diets based on bulk stable isotope values, suggesting a predominantly photosynthetic source of carbon to the VCF seep food web. We link the absence of chemosymbiotrophic animals to highly localized methane flow pathways, which may act as a “shunt-bypass” of the anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) and by extension sulfide generation, thus leading to sediment sulfide concentrations that are highly heterogeneous over very short lateral distances, inhibiting the successful colonization of chemosymbiotrophic animals at the VCF seep. Instead, the seep hosted diverse biological communities, consisting of heterotrophic benthic fauna, including long lived taxa, such as soft corals (e.g., Paragorgia arborea) and stony corals (i.e., Desmophyllum pertusum, formerly known as Lophelia pertusa). Compared to the surrounding non-seep seafloor, we measured heightened megafaunal density at the seep, which we attribute to increased habitat heterogeneity and the presence of a variety of hard substrates (i.e., methane-derived authigenic carbonates, dropstones and coral rubble), particularly since the most abundant taxa all belonged to the phylum Porifera. Compared to the surrounding non-seep seafloor, marine litter was denser within the VCF seep, which we link to the more variable local topography due to authigenic carbonates, which can rip off parts of bottom trawling nets thereby making the seep act as catchment area for marine litter.
Improved forecasting of extreme hurricane events by integrating spatio-temporal CNN-RF learning of tropical cyclone characteristics
Authors: Martinez-Amaya Javier , Longépé Nicolas , Nieves Veronica , Muñoz-Marí Jordi
Published: July 2023

Assessing hurricane predictions in a changing climate is one of the most challenging weather forecast problems today. Furthermore, effectively integrating information-rich features that are specific to the growth of hurricanes proves to be a difficult task due to the anticipated nonlinear interactions during the spatio-temporal evolution of the tropical cyclone system. Consequently, the need arises for complex and nonlinear models to address this formidable scenario. In light of this, we introduce a novel framework that combines a Convolutional Neural Network with a Random Forest classification configuration. This innovative approach aims to identify the critical spatial and temporal characteristics associated with the formation of major hurricanes within the hurricane and surrounding regions of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Here, we demonstrate that the inclusion of these unprecedented spatio-temporal features extracted from brightness temperature data, along with the temperature and anatomical cloud properties of the system, results in an average improvement of 12% in the prediction of severe hurricanes, using the previous model version as a benchmark. This enhancement in the prediction accuracy extends up to 3 days in advance, considering both regions collectively. Although these innovative attributes may be relatively more costly to generate, it allows us to gain a more refined understanding of the intricate relationships between different spatial locations and temporal dynamics, leading to more efficient and effective solutions. This hybrid machine learning approach also offers adaptability, enabling the exploration of other suitable hurricane or environmental-related conditions, making it suitable for potential future applications.
“Because I live it.”: LGB teacher identities, as professional, personal, and political
Authors: Llewellyn Anna
Published: July 2023

Whilst protected by equality laws, lesbian gay and bisexual (LGB) teachers have varying experiences within United Kingdom schools. Schools are predominantly heteronormative, moreover LGB has been positioned as in conflict with discourses of childhood innocence. However, recently there is more expectation of inclusion of diverse gender and sexualities. Although how this is enacted is inconsistent within and between schools. By drawing on interview data conducted in 2020, this research analyses the experiences of LGB teachers. Moreover, it brings together two bodies of literature that do not often speak to each other—research that explores teacher identity and research that centers LGB teacher identity. Findings suggest there are commonalities between these bodies of research, for instance around the importance of ‘being yourself’ and of teachers’ past experiences. However, there is special significance for LGB teachers whose identities have historically been denied in schools, because of their sexual identity. In addition, there is the expectation under neoliberalism of individuals actioning inclusion. As such, the LGB teacher may become a pedagogical resource. None of this is equally available, although marketized notions of diversity place responsibility onto the individual. In their actions, the LGB teacher identity is always professional, personal and political.
Predicting postnatal depressive symptoms in a prospective cohort study in Rwanda: the impact of poor maternal social support
Authors: Umuziga Providence M. , Gishoma Darius , Hynie Michaela , Nyirazinyoye Laetitia , Nsereko Etienne
Published: July 2023

Background

Postnatal depression is a significant public health issue that demands attention, and recent evidence indicates that rates are relatively high in low-income countries such as Rwanda. However, lack of social support is recognized as a potential risk factor for postnatal depressive symptoms. This study sought to explore the influence of poor maternal social support on postnatal depressive symptoms in a sample of women in Rwanda.

Method

A prospective cohort research design was conducted with women recruited from four different health centers in Rwanda's Southern Province. A sample of 396 pregnant women accessing antenatal care services was recruited at the baseline from their late second term or later, then followed up after giving birth. The dropout rate was 21.46%; thus, the data of 311 women were analyzed. The outcome variable was the presence of depressive symptoms (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) (≥12 cut-off score), while predictor variables included maternal social support measured using a modified Maternal Social Support Scale (MSSS), perceived health status, socio-demographic information (marital status, wealth class, age, education, occupation), negative life events, gestational and obstetric information (parity, pregnancy intention, age at birth, children given birth, and mode of delivery). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results

From a sample of 311 participants, over a quarter (20.9%) had elevated postnatal depressive symptoms (EPDS ≥ 12 scores). Elevated scores were predicted by poor perceived health status; respondents reporting neither poor nor good (AOR = 0.28, CI = 0.11; 0.72, p = 0.007) or good health (AOR = 0.14, CI = 0.05; 0.37, p = 0.001) were less likely to be affected. Poor maternal social support was also linked with postnatal depressive symptoms; poor partner support (AOR = 4.22; CI = 1.44; 12.34; p = 0.009) was associated with high risk, while good friend support (AOR = 0.47, CI = 0.23; 0.98, p = 0.04) was a significant protector. Additionally, violence or negative life events were also independent predictors of postnatal depressive symptoms (AOR: 2.94, CI: 1.37–6.29, p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Postnatal depressive symptoms were found to affect one in five Rwandan women. However, good maternal social support can be a strong protector. Early interventions targeting mothers in the postnatal period and strengthened social support networks for women at risk should be developed.
An automatic identification algorithm of internal solitary wave for mooring data based on geometric characteristics of the flow field
Authors: Rong Lintai , Xiong Xuejun , Chen Liang
Published: July 2023

Internal solitary wave (ISW) is one of the most important sub-mesoscale phenomenas in the ocean, and detection of which is of utmost significance for marine exploitation, ecological environment protection and military affairs. Therefore, in this study, an automatic algorithm for the identification of ISWs was proposed based on the geometric characteristics of the flow field. The algorithm was applied to calculate the characteristic parameters of the ISWs and its reliability was further verified, indicating that the algorithm can effectively detect the ISWs and provide a reference for preventing and avoiding ISWs in ocean engineering.
Cuproptosis-related gene expression is associated with immune infiltration and CD47/CD24 expression in glioblastoma, and a risk score based on these genes can predict the survival and prognosis of patients
Authors: Li Erliang , Qiao Huanhuan , Sun Jin , Ma Qiong , Lin Li , He Yixiang , Li Shuang , Mao Xinggang , Zhang Xiaoping , Liao Bo
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most invasive type of glioma, is insensitive to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and has high proliferation and invasive ability, with a 5-year survival rate of <5%. Cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) have been successfully used to predict the prognosis of many types of tumors. However, the relationship between cuproptosis and GBM remains unclear.

Methods

Here, we sought to identify CRGs in GBM and elucidate their role in the tumor immune microenvironment and prognosis. To that aim, changes in CRGs in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) transcriptional and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets (GEO4290 and GEO15824) were characterized, and the expression patterns of these genes were analyzed.

Results

A risk score based on CRG expression characteristics could predict the survival and prognosis of patients with GBM and was significantly associated with immune infiltration levels and the expression of CD47 and CD24, which are immune checkpoints of the “don't eat me “signal. Furthermore, we found that the CDKN2A gene may predict GBM sensitivity and resistance to drugs.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that CRGs play a crucial role in GBM outcomes and provide new insights into CRG-related target drugs/molecules for cancer prevention and treatment.
Case Report: Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab for combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Satake Tomoyuki , Shibuki Taro , Watanabe Kazuo , Sasaki Mitsuhito , Imaoka Hiroshi , Mitsunaga Shuichi , Kojima Motohiro , Ikeda Masafumi
Published: July 2023

Combined hepatocellular cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA) is a rare subtype of primary liver cancers. Therapeutic strategies for patients with cHCC-CCA are limited, and no standard systemic treatment has been established for unresectable cHCC-CCA. Here, we present six cases of cHCC-CCA treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab. We observed three partial responses and one stable disease as the best responses; two of these patients were still being treated with atezolizumab plus bevacizumab at the time of reporting (at least five months of treatment), whereas the remaining two patients were unable to continue treatment owing to adverse events. Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab may be an effective treatment for unresectable cHCC-CCA.
Integrity over fidelity: transformational lessons from youth participatory action research to nurture SEL with adolescents
Authors: Meland Emily Anne , Brion-Meisels Gretchen
Published: July 2023

Much has been written about social and emotional learning (SEL) and its positive impact on young people’s academic and life outcomes, yet most of this research is based in early childhood and elementary settings. SEL programming for adolescents has shown mixed results, with many programs proving to be largely ineffective or even showing slightly negative impacts for some youth. Adherence to scripted SEL curricula, or “fidelity” to the program components, is often seen by young people to be “lame”, inauthentic, and condescending, failing to connect to the topics and issues that feel most critical to them in this stage of their development. For all students, and especially for those whose identities have been systematically marginalized or oppressed by the dominant culture, SEL programming that fails to explicitly address these experiences of injustice often feels inauthentic and out of touch for youth. Therefore, effective implementation of SEL for adolescents is likely to require skillful adaptation and responsiveness to the identities, interests, and motivations of students by educators. In this case, effective SEL may look less like fidelity to a specific set of scripts, sessions, or activities, but rather a commitment to the wholeness of a set of core principles, relationships, and opportunities for adolescent exploration and leadership/empowerment, or what we will call integrity of implementation. In this paper, we present one promising approach to adolescent social and emotional development – youth participatory action research (YPAR) – and the ways in which studying the YPAR process (in addition to the research topics selected by youth) can provide key insights into the social and emotional learning and development of youth.
Training medical students in motivational interviewing using a blended learning approach: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Erschens Rebecca , Fahse Bettina , Festl-Wietek Teresa , Herrmann-Werner Anne , Keifenheim Katharina E. , Zipfel Stephan , Fallgatter Andreas J. , Velten-Schurian Kerstin
Published: July 2023

Background

Difficulties in implementing behavior change in patients with chronic diseases are common in clinical practice. Motivational interviewing (MI) helps clinicians to support patients in overcoming ambivalence while maintaining self-determination. The inclusion of MI in German medical training curricula is still rare. Furthermore, the effects of systematic teaching of MI, especially via blended learning, have hardly been investigated.

Methods

Medical students participated in three curricular events related to MI, consisting of instructional videos and theoretical and practical components in a blended learning format. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of teaching MI in students’ medical education. A controlled, non-randomized study was conducted with an intervention group and a control group. Both groups completed questionnaires on their experience and knowledge related to MI, completed a knowledge test and rated their satisfaction with the course. MI was taught in the 6th semester of medical coursework as part of a psychosomatic course, in the 8th semester during a psychiatry course and in the 9th semester during a weekly psychiatry clerkship.

Results

Data from the intervention group (n = 35) and control group (n = 14) were analyzed, with 65.7% of students participating in all three parts of the curriculum. Overall interest in learning MI was high, with M = 2.92 (SD = 1.00). The results indicate a greater increase in knowledge over time in the intervention group. The majority (62.86%) stated that the curriculum was relevant to their future career. Free-form text responses indicated a high level of satisfaction with practical relevance.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the usefulness of an MI curriculum for medical students. The integration of MI into medical curricula is a promising curricular addition to improve doctor-patient communication. Future research should address patient perceptions of MI competencies and the persistence of acquired competencies.
Everybody hurts sometimes: perceptions of benefits and barriers in telemedical consultations
Authors: Rohowsky Anna , Offermann Julia , Ziefle Martina
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Shifts in the age structure, rising needs of care and support, and a lack of (in)formal caregivers require innovative solutions to relieve the whole healthcare system. Applying digital approaches, such as telemedicine, has the potential to support people in need of care, to relieve caregivers in families and professional environments, and to assist medical professionals in their working everyday life: e.g., using telemedicine for acute consultations could contribute to avoid hospitalizations of older people, whereas consultations with the general practitioner could reduce efforts and relive medical personnel. Beyond technical opportunities and potential, the acceptance of future users represents a prerequisite for a sustainable adoption of such innovative approaches, especially in sensitive contexts such as life in older age in nursing homes.

Methods

This study aimed at collecting users' perceptions and evaluations of telemedicine in nursing homes. Two scenarios of telemedical consultations were applied which were either carried out by an emergency physician in acute situations or by the attending general practitioner. In a first approach, advantages and disadvantages of telemedicine were collected with the help of a qualitative interview study (N = 12) with laypersons and medical staff. The identified acceptance-relevant factors were then quantified in a second study using an online questionnaire (N = 204).

Results

Outcomes revealed that both types of telemedicial consultations would be gladly used. However, for telemedical consultations in acute situations, the perceived disadvantages outweighed the advantages; for telemedical consultations with the general practitioner, the advantages outweighed the disadvantages. A prominent barrier in both scenarios was perceived impersonality, which limited the willingness to use. Nevertheless, participants indicated that telemedical consultations can be a support for nursing staff.

Discussion

Outcomes may help to derive specific implications and recommendations to develop and realize digital technologies tailored to the requirements, needs, and wishes of diverse stakeholders (i.e., patients, medical professionals) as potential future users.
Effect of intraoperative active exploration of parathyroid glands to reduce the incidence of postoperative hypoparathyroidism, and risk factors of hypoparathyroidism after total thyroidectomy: a single-center study
Authors: Zhou Bin , Cheng Feng , Zhu Xi , Zhu Lei , Li ZhouTing
Published: July 2023

Background

The risk factors for hypoparathyroidism after thyroid surgery have not been fully identified. This study analyzes the risk factors of hypoparathyroidism before and after total thyroidectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively collected the clinical data of 289 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy at the Thyroid Surgery Center of Lishui Central Hospital from June 2018 to June 2020. For the anatomy and protection of parathyroid glands during the operation, one group of patients used the parathyroid avoidance method, and the other group used the active exploration method. Various risk factors affecting parathyroid dysfunction were studied using logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 289 patients were included in this study. The average age of patients was 47.21 ± 11.78 years, including 57 males (19.7%) and 232 females (80.3%). There were 149 (51.6%) patients with transient hypoparathyroidism and 21 (7.3%) with permanent hypoparathyroidism. The main risk factors of hypoparathyroidism were parathyroid avoidance method (P = 0.005), parathyroid autotransplantation (P = 0.011), bilateral central neck lymph node dissection (CND) (P = 0.001), lymphatic metastasis (P = 0.039), and parathyroid in the specimen (P = 0.029). The main risk factors associated with permanent hypoparathyroidism were bilateral CND (P = 0.038), lymphatic metastasis (P = 0.047), parathyroid hormone (PTH) < 1.2 pg/ml within three days after surgery (P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Hypoparathyroidism is common but mostly transient after bilateral total thyroidectomy. Compared with parathyroid avoidance method, the active exploration method during operation may reduce the incidence of postoperative hypoparathyroidism. PTH <1.2 pg/ml within three days after surgery was predictive in patients with permanent hypoparathyroidism.
Effect of dry cow therapy on antimicrobial resistance of mastitis pathogens post-calving
Authors: Okello Emmanuel , ElAshmawy Wagdy R. , Williams Deniece R. , Lehenbauer Terry W. , Aly Sharif S.
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dry cow therapy (DCT) on the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profile of mastitis pathogens post-calving. A repository of isolates based on a DCT trial was utilized for the current study. A stratified random survey sample of cows from the trial were identified within the strata of season, herd, and trial treatment resulting in 382 cows. All isolates from the 382 cows were selected for the current study, which identified 566 isolates from milk samples collected at dry off (S1), post-calving (S2), and at the first clinical mastitis event up to 150 days in milk (S3). The AMR profiles were determined using broth microdilution method. Less than 10% of the coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species (CNS) isolates (n = 421) were resistant to tetracycline, ceftiofur, penicillin/novobiocin or erythromycin, while higher proportions of resistance to sulfadimethoxine (72%) and penicillin (28%) were observed. All Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolates (n = 4) were susceptible to all tested AMD except sulfadimethoxine, to which all isolates were resistant. Similarly, all Streptococcus spp. (n = 37) were susceptible to penicillin, penicillin/novobiocin, and ampicillin while resistant to tetracycline (17%). All coliforms (n = 21) were susceptible to ceftiofur, but resistance was recorded for sulfadimethoxine (70%), cephalothin (56%), and tetracycline (43%). The increased resistance percent from S1 to S2 was observed in CNS isolates from AMD-treated cows, with the highest increase recorded for penicillin (12.2%). Parametric survival interval regression models were used to explore the association between antimicrobial drug (AMD) therapy at dry off and the AMR phenotype post-calving. The accelerated failure-time metric was adopted to minimum inhibitory concentration measurements to permit interpretation of model exponentiated coefficients. Models for cows with CNS isolated at both S1 and S2 showed increased resistance against cephalothin, oxacillin, and ceftiofur in cows that received DCT from the same drug class, or a class with a shared resistance mechanism. In contrast, resistance of CNS isolates to tetracycline were associated with any AMD therapy at dry off. Resistance of CNS isolates to Penicillin decreased in CNS isolates in cows that received any AMD therapy at dry off compared to those that didn't. The study provided evidence that dry-cow IMM AMD was associated with AMR post-calving.
Stem Cells from the Apical Papilla (SCAPs): Past, Present, Prospects, and Challenges
Authors: Liu Qi , Gao Yuan , He Jinzhi
Published: July 2023

Dental diseases occurring on young permanent teeth usually lead to the premature arrest of tooth root development. Sustained tooth root elongation is necessary to achieve the goal of long-term preservation of affected teeth. To this end, stem cell-based regenerative endodontic treatment has been regarded as one of the most promising strategies for treating young permanent teeth with pulp and periapical infections. Endogenous stem cells residing in the apical papilla, named stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAPs), have been intensively investigated due to their critical roles in pulp regeneration and root redevelopment. The present review summarizes advances in the field of SCAPs studies and discusses the challenges that need to be further addressed.
A Systematic Review of the Latest Research Trends on the Use of Satellite Imagery in Solid Waste Disposal Applications from 2012 to 2021
Authors: Karimi Nima , Ng Kelvin Tsun Wai , Mahmud Tanvir Shahrier , Adusei Kenneth K. , Kerr Samantha
Published: July 2023

There is currently no review article on the role of remote sensing (RS) tools on waste disposal site (WDS) applications. Permanent waste disposal is the world’s most commonly used solid waste management method, and a specific review is warranted. To investigate research trends and to identify knowledge gaps on the use of satellite-based RS in WDS applications, 170 studies published over the last decade, from 2012 to 2021, were examined and classified using a bibliometric approach. Results are discussed with respect to relevancy, satellite types, study origins, RS analytical methods, and applications. Out of 72 short-listed studies, 44.4% were carried out in Asia, followed by Europe with 18.0%. Asia is also a leading region in the use of multiple satellite products. Only two satellite products were utilized in African studies. The absence of local satellites could potentially be the reason behind the sole use of global satellite imagery. Globally, Landsat contributed 70.8% of the total studies. Sentinel products represented only 8.3%. About 44% of the studies used various RS indices when addressing WDS-related issues. The majority of studies (56%) applied image classification methods to study changes in land use and land cover. The temporal trend reveals a general increase in the total number of studies, particularly for suitable site detection and disposal-site-induced anomaly detection. This review directly addresses the knowledge management aspect of data-driven solid waste management.
Exploring the Use of Indigenous Wild Vegetables by the Basotho People of Southern Africa: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature and Nutritional Analysis of Selected Species
Authors: Tshikororo Rudzani Ralph , Ajao Abdulwakeel Ayokun-nun , Moteetee Annah Ntsamaeeng
Published: July 2023

Wild indigenous vegetables have recently been receiving attention due to their accessibility and potential to fight malnutrition. The current study investigated the nutritional profile of 10 selected wild indigenous vegetables, namely Asclepias multicaulis, Lepidium africanum, Erucastrum austroafricanum, Solanum nigrum, Sonchus dregeanus, Sonchus integrifolius, Sonchus nanus, Rorippa fluviatilis, Tribulus terrestris, and Urtica lobulata, consumed by the Basotho people of southern Africa. This was done by first compiling a comprehensive literature review to identify the knowledge gaps and further analysing the selected vegetables for mineral contents and proximate compositions using standard analytical procedures of AOAC. The literature survey revealed that 90 wild plants are used as vegetables by the Basotho people, and there are knowledge gaps on the nutritional value of many species. Mineral analyses of the wild vegetables showed that Asclepias multicaulis and Sonchus dregeanus are rich in minerals such as Al, Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, and S and can compete favourably with commercialised vegetables such as lettuce and spinach in terms of mineral components. Also, all the wild vegetables studied have more than 12% recommended caloric protein value except Tribulus terrestris (10.07%) and Lepidium africanum (11.32%). The crude fat content in Asclepias multicaulis, Lepidium africanum, Rorippa fluviatilis, Erucastrum austroafricanum, and Urtica lobulata fall within the range required for healthy living. The concentrations of cadmium, copper, and lead in all the vegetables studied are below the detection level, thus making them non-toxic and safe for consumption.
Is Corporate Social Responsibility Considered a Marketing Tool? Case Study from Customers’ Point of View in the Slovak Food Market
Authors: Igarová Kristína , Kádeková Zdenka , Košičiarová Ingrida , Džupina Milan , Dvořák Marek , Smutka Luboš
Published: July 2023

The paper aims at the question of using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities as a marketing tool from the customers’ perspective in the Slovak food market. Five research questions and hypotheses were set to reach the given aim. The research was based on a questionnaire survey with 1254 respondents. The frequency and contingency tables were used to evaluate the obtained data, one sample proportion Z test, Pearson Chi-square test, and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. Based on the results, although the customers are familiar with CSR, many respondents need to learn more about these activities. CSR activities must be more actively applied and communicated by the food companies. In most cases, Slovak customers perceive the sustainability of food companies and their CSR activities as a marketing communication tool that can build a positive image of the company. At the threshold of the 3rd millennium, CSR is also connected with rationality and irrationality in creating preferences in consumer shopping behavior. While the way that food is produced can be changed through regulation, the communication of CSR and sustainability activities are major drivers for the development of food companies. Trustworthiness is one of the key factors, and customers play a key role in this direction. The solved issue has a huge impact on the success of the food companies in the market, and, therefore, it would be suitable to pay attention to this issue and conduct similar research in other E.U. countries and on their food companies.
Deep Learning and Vision Transformer for Medical Image Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yudong , Wang Jiaji , Gorriz Juan Manuel , Wang Shuihua
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the field of computer science theory and technology [...]
Seasonal Pattern of Taxonomic Diversity and Functional Groups of Macro-Benthos from a Sub-Tropical Mangrove Estuary
Authors: Khatun Bithy , Jewel Md. Abu Sayed , Haque Md. Ayenuddin , Akter Sumaiya , Hossain Mohammad Belal , Albeshr Mohammed Fahad , Arai Takaomi
Published: July 2023

Macro-benthos is commonly considered an indicator for evaluating the health of an aquatic ecosystem. Earlier research from sub-tropical mangrove estuaries, however, has primarily relied on conventional taxonomic methods to determine the pattern of macro-benthos diversity. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the pattern of both taxonomic and functional groups of macro-benthos with respect to ecological variables in three separate seasons (pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon) from a mangrove-dominated Pasur River estuary, Bangladesh. The findings revealed significant seasonal variations in the water and sediment parameters (p < 0.05). During the study period, 47 species belonging to 35 families of macro-benthos were identified. The pollution indicator species, Capitella capitata complex was found to be dominant. The highest density of macro-benthos was recorded in post-monsoon (545 ± 13.76 ind./m2) followed by pre-monsoon (214 ± 5.57 ind./m2) and monsoon (63 ± 2.27 ind./m2). Diversity indices, Shannon, and evenness also displayed a similar seasonal trend. This pattern may be explained by the more stable bottom and higher food availability during post-monsoon, and on the other side, by erosion and higher turbidity during monsoon. Analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) detected a significant difference in community assemblage among the seasons (R = 0.7222, p = 0.0005), whereas similarity percentage analysis (SIMPER) identified Dendronereis aestuarina as the most contributory species for the overall average dissimilarity. Six functional feeding groups (FFGs) were identified where gathering collectors (GC) had the highest total density (221.83 ind./m2) and relative abundance (26.97%). The community was shown to be shaped by the amount of sedimentary silt and dissolved oxygen in the water main, according to a canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) study, they were positively correlated with the abundance of Pristinella acuminata, Lumbrineris sp., Cossura coasta, C. capitata complex, Neritina violacea, Laccotrephes griseus, Hydrometra butleri, Gomphus sp. and Libellula sp. CCA analysis also revealed a significant positive influence of pH, NO3-N, PO4-P, and organic matter, whereas, sand particles of sediments were found to have a negative effect on FFGs. Overall, the study suggests that the estuary is moderately diverse with macro-benthos and their functional feeding groups and influenced by monsoon strongly. The present study on FFGs of macro-benthos in an estuarine river of Bangladesh will provide baseline information for further investigation of other estuaries.
Preparation of High Water-Soluble Trichoderma Co-Culture Metabolite Powder and Its Effects on Seedling Emergence Rate and Growth of Crops
Authors: Chen Lusheng , Hao Dazhi , Dou Kai , Lang Bo , Wang Xinhua , Li Yaqian , Chen Jie
Published: July 2023

Trichoderma spp. are widely used beneficial microbes in agricultural production; however, the improper carrier choice for Trichoderma agent preparation can alter the effectiveness of Trichoderma fungicides. In this study, the co-culture of four Trichoderma strains produced a large amount of free amino acids, with a content of 392.8414 ug/mL, and significantly improved the production level of γ-aminobutyric acid. A greenhouse experiment further showed that the co-culture of Trichoderma synergistically improved the female flower development and bacterial angular leaf spot resistance. The effects of ten kinds of carriers were compared in terms of water absorption and heat generation, as well as their effects on the seedling emergence rate and the plant growth promotion of maize, cucumber, and pakchoi cabbage. Each carrier was screened to mix with four strains of co-culture metabolites to prepare highly soluble and quality powders. The results showed that there were different effects of the carriers themselves and Trichoderma strain co-culture metabolite powder prepared with the carriers on seedling emergence rate and seedling growth. Β-cyclodextrin performed best in high solubility and low heat generation upon absorbing water and in easy drying in processing operations. Trichoderma strains co-culture metabolite powder with β-cyclodextrin as a carrier provided the most obvious promotion effects on seedling emergence rate and seedling growth. Therefore, β-cyclodextrin was determined to be an ideal carrier to prepare a highly water-soluble Trichoderma agent. Taken together, the study successfully developed a new type of highly soluble powder containing Trichoderma co-culture metabolites that is expected to benefit farming drip irrigation and spraying systems for the promotion of crop growth and disease control.
Quantifying Isoprenoids in the Ergosterol Biosynthesis by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Liebl Maximilian , Huber Ludwig , Elsaman Hesham , Merschak Petra , Wagener Johannes , Gsaller Fabio , Müller Christoph
Published: July 2023

The ergosterol pathway is a promising target for the development of new antifungals since its enzymes are essential for fungal cell growth. Appropriate screening assays are therefore needed that allow the identification of potential inhibitors. We developed a whole-cell screening method, which can be used to identify compounds interacting with the enzymes of isoprenoid biosynthesis, an important part of the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. The method was validated according to the EMEA guideline on bioanalytical method validation. Aspergillus fumigatus hyphae and Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells were lysed mechanically in an aqueous buffer optimized for the enzymatic deconjugation of isoprenoid pyrophosphates. The residual alcohols were extracted, silylated and analyzed by GC-MS. The obtained isoprenoid pattern provides an indication of the inhibited enzyme, due to the accumulation of specific substrates. By analyzing terbinafine-treated A. fumigatus and mutant strains containing tunable gene copies of erg9 or erg1, respectively, the method was verified. Downregulation of erg9 resulted in a high accumulation of intracellular farnesol as well as elevated levels of geranylgeraniol and isoprenol. The decreased expression of erg1 as well as terbinafine treatment led to an increased squalene content. Additional analysis of growth medium revealed high farnesyl pyrophosphate levels extruded during erg9 downregulation.
Does Competition Affect Financial Distress of Non-Financial Firms in India: A Comparison Using the Lerner Index and Boone Indicator
Authors: Kanoujiya Jagjeevan , Rastogi Shailesh , Abraham Rebecca , Bhimavarapu Venkata Mrudula
Published: July 2023

Firms’ financial distress (FD) is a major issue for smooth business activities. Timely recognition of FD should be a prime concern; otherwise, it may cause a nasty bankruptcy situation. The FD issue is paramount to researchers, policymakers, and investors. Several factors, whether they are financial or non-financial, may be responsible for financial distress. Such aspects specific to the firms have been explored. Exogenous factors such as competition can also be responsible for a firm’s FD situation. In view of this, this study proposes to determine competition’s impact on financial distress in the Indian context. BSE 100 (“Bombay Stock Exchange”)-listed non-financial firms (NFFs) in India, over a timeframe of 2016–2020, are incorporated in this study. Panel data econometrics is performed for hypothesis testing. This study is novel in its approach, employing multi-technique analysis for measuring financial distress. FD is measured using Altman Z-scores, BOS, and AC distress scores variants. The Boone index (BI) and Lerner index (LI) are undertaken for the competition assessment of NFFs in India. The findings have contrasting views based on BI and LI; BI is positively connected to Z-scores; however, LI negatively connects to Z-scores. The findings suggest that competition (reverse of BI) positively affects financial distress (reverse of Z-score), while competition (reverse of LI) has an adverse effect on FD. It is also found that competition as BI affects FD non-linearly (inverted U shape connection). This means that competition (or market power) initially increases financial distress (or financial stability), and after a specific limit, it reduces financial distress. It can also be said that market power improves financial soundness to a specific limit, and after that, it starts decreasing financial stability. The study’s findings provide fresh and exciting evidence for the connectivity of competition and financial distress. This situation has noticeable implications for all stakeholders and policymakers concerned with the survival of Indian listed firms. The significant connection of competition with financial distress implies that all stakeholders should consider competition an essential element for a firm’s financial distress.
Effectiveness in Rural Governance: Influencing Factors and Driving Pathways—Based on 20 Typical Cases of Rural Governance in China
Authors: Peng Yu , Peng Xiaobing , Li Xu , Lu Mingyue , Yin Mingze
Published: July 2023

Effective rural governance is the foundation for achieving rural revitalization and promoting the modernization of China’s system and governance capacity in the new era. The elucidation of the influencing factors and driving pathways underlying effective rural governance has significant importance in facilitating the advancement of rural revitalization. Drawing upon the Actor-Network Theory (ANT), this study introduces an analytical framework of “human actor dimension—non-human actor dimension”. The study employs the fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparison Analysis (fsQCA) to explore the effective governance pathways within 20 typical cases of rural governance. The study reveals that a cooperative-based collective economy is a necessary condition for effective governance, while possessing a resource advantage is a core condition. Villager autonomy, local culture, and new technology are marginal conditions for effective governance, while the absence of elite participation fails to promote effective governance. The combination of human variables and resource compacts gives rise to “human actor-resource compacts” and “non-human actor-resource compacts”. The study further elaborates on the efficacious model of rural governance through three multifactor driving pathways: “human actor-non-human actor resource sparse linkage”. The research emphasizes the importance of fortifying rural governance and revitalization through the cultivation of relationships, enhancing government management systems, embracing technological innovation, supporting community economies, and advocating mechanisms that empower rural elites and talent.
Mechano-Chemical Properties and Tribological Performance of Thin Perfluoropolyether (PFPE) Lubricant Film under Environmental Contaminants
Authors: Jung Yeonjin , Yeo Changdong
Published: July 2023

Through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations with ReaxFF potential, the effects of chemical contaminants on the mechano-chemical properties and tribological performance of perfluoropolyether (PFPE) lubricants were investigated. For the two types of contaminants, i.e., silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles and water (H2O), their molecular interactions with the two different PFPE lubricants, i.e., Ztetraol and ZTMD, were evaluated at the two different temperatures, i.e., 300 K and 700 K. Contaminants were adsorbed onto the PFPE lubricants at a controlled temperature. Then, air shear simulations were conducted to examine the mechano-chemical behaviors of the contaminated lubricants. Sliding contact simulations were performed to further investigate the tribological performance of the contaminated lubricants, from which the resulting friction and surface contamination were quantified. Lastly, chemical reactions between PFPE lubricants and contaminants were studied to investigate the degradation of PFPE lubricants. It was observed that SiO2 nanoparticles stiffened the PFPE lubricant, which decreased its shear displacement and increased friction. In the case of the H2O contaminant, it weakened and decreased the PFPE lubricant’s viscosity, increasing its shear displacement and lowering friction. However, the decreased viscosity by H2O contaminants can weaken the lubricity of the PFPE lubricant, leading to a higher chance of direct solid-to-solid contact under high contact force conditions.