bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environment influences the genetic structure and genetic differentiation of Sassafras tzumu (Lauraceae)
Authors: Guan Bicai , Liu Qian , Liu Xiang , Gong Xi
Published: June 2024

Background

Sassafras tzumu, an elegant deciduous arboreal species, belongs to the esteemed genus Sassafras within the distinguished family Lauraceae. With its immense commercial value, escalating market demands and unforeseen human activities within its natural habitat have emerged as new threats to S. tzumu in recent decades, so it is necessary to study its genetic diversity and influencing factors, to propose correlative conservation strategies.

Results

By utilizing genotyping-by-sequence (GBS) technology, we acquired a comprehensive database of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from a cohort of 106 individuals sourced from 13 diverse Sassafras tzumu natural populations, scattered across various Chinese mountainous regions. Through our meticulous analysis, we aimed to unravel the intricate genetic diversity and structure within these S. tzumu populations, while simultaneously investigating the various factors that potentially shape genetic distance. Our preliminary findings unveiled a moderate level of genetic differentiation (FST = 0.103, p < 0.01), accompanied by a reasonably high genetic diversity among the S. tzumu populations. Encouragingly, our principal component analysis painted a vivid picture of two distinct genetic and geographical regions across China, where gene flow appeared to be somewhat restricted. Furthermore, employing the sophisticated multiple matrix regression with randomization (MMRR) analysis method, we successfully ascertained that environmental distance exerted a more pronounced impact on genetic distance when compared to geographical distance (βE = 0.46, p < 0.01; βD = 0.16, p < 0.01). This intriguing discovery underscores the potential significance of environmental factors in shaping the genetic landscape of S. tzumu populations.

Conclusions

The genetic variance among populations of S. tzumu in our investigation exhibited a moderate degree of differentiation, alongside a heightened level of genetic diversity. The environmental distance of S. tzumu had a greater impact on its genetic diversity than geographical distance. It is of utmost significance to formulate and implement meticulous management and conservation strategies to safeguard the invaluable genetic resources of S. tzumu.
Implications of accounting for marker-based population structure in the quantitative genetic evaluation of genetic parameters related to growth and wood properties in Norway spruce
Authors: Hayatgheibi Haleh , Hallingbäck Henrik R. , Lundqvist Sven-Olof , Grahn Thomas , Scheepers Gerhard , Nordström Peter , Chen Zhi-Qiang , Kärkkäinen Katri , Wu Harry X. , García-Gil M. Rosario
Published: June 2024

Background

Forest geneticists typically use provenances to account for population differences in their improvement schemes; however, the historical records of the imported materials might not be very precise or well-aligned with the genetic clusters derived from advanced molecular techniques. The main objective of this study was to assess the impact of marker-based population structure on genetic parameter estimates related to growth and wood properties and their trade-offs in Norway spruce, by either incorporating it as a fixed effect (model-B) or excluding it entirely from the analysis (model-A).

Results

Our results indicate that models incorporating population structure significantly reduce estimates of additive genetic variance, resulting in substantial reduction of narrow-sense heritability. However, these models considerably improve prediction accuracies. This was particularly significant for growth and solid-wood properties, which showed to have the highest population genetic differentiation (QST) among the studied traits. Additionally, although the pattern of correlations remained similar across the models, their magnitude was slightly lower for models that included population structure as a fixed effect. This suggests that selection, consistently performed within populations, might be less affected by unfavourable genetic correlations compared to mass selection conducted without pedigree restrictions.

Conclusion

We conclude that the results of models properly accounting for population structure are more accurate and less biased compared to those neglecting this effect. This might have practical implications for breeders and forest managers where, decisions based on imprecise selections can pose a high risk to economic efficiency.
Optimizing wheat productivity through integrated management of irrigation, nutrition, and organic amendments
Authors: Farouk A. S. , Abdelghany Ahmed M. , Shehab A. A. , Alwakel Sh. E. , Makled Khaled M. , Naif Eman , Ren Honglei , Lamlom Sobhi F.
Published: June 2024

Enhancing wheat productivity by implementing a comprehensive approach that combines irrigation, nutrition, and organic amendments shows potential for collectively enhancing crop performance. This study examined the individual and combined effects of using irrigation systems (IS), foliar potassium bicarbonate (PBR) application, and compost application methods (CM) on nine traits related to the growth, physiology, and yield of the Giza-171 wheat cultivar. Analysis of variance revealed significant (P ≤ 0.05) main effects of IS, PBR, and CM on wheat growth, physiology, and yield traits over the two growing seasons of the study. Drip irrigation resulted in a 16% increase in plant height, leaf area index, crop growth rate, yield components, and grain yield compared to spray irrigation. Additionally, the application of foliar PBR at a concentration of 0.08 g/L boosted these parameters by up to 22% compared to the control. Furthermore, the application of compost using the role method resulted in enhanced wheat performance compared to the treatment including mix application. Importantly, the combined analysis revealed that the three-way interaction between the three factors had a significant effect (P ≤ 0.05) on all the studied traits, with drip irrigation at 0.08 g PBR rate and role compost application method (referred as Drip_0.08g_Role) resulting in the best performance across all traits, while sprinkle irrigation without PBR and conventional mixed compost method (referred as sprinkle_CK_Mix) produced the poorest results. This highlights the potential to synergistically improve wheat performance through optimized agronomic inputs.
Rare micropupil secondary to congenital cataract surgery favoring the development of the affected eye: a case report
Authors: Ma Zicheng , Zhu Siquan
Published: June 2024

Background

Congenital microcoria has been extensively reported and usually leads to visual dysfunction or blindness. However, micropupil development secondary to cataract surgery has never been reported. Here, we describe a rare case of micropupil development in infancy that occurred secondary to combined cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation for treatment of congenital cataract. When the patient reached adulthood, the affected eye not only gained good vision but also showed better ocular development and refractive status than the fellow eye.

Case presentation

A 17-year-old boy presented to our outpatient clinic with decreased vision in his left eye related to congenital cataract surgery at 6 months of age. The affected eye had exhibited a pinhole pupil since the third month postoperatively. The condition had been managed with observation and regular monocular occlusion treatment. Upon presentation to our clinic, the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in his fellow eye was 0.0 logMAR(20/20) with a refraction of − 5.75 diopters cylinder/−2.25 diopters sphere, and the BCVA in his affected eye was 0.5 logMAR(20/40) with a refraction of 0.00 diopters. Ophthalmic examination of the affected eye revealed a pinhole pupil (approximately 0.5 mm) with high light reflex sensitivity but no response to pupil-dilating drugs. The patient underwent pupilloplasty of the affected eye under corneal surface anesthesia. Postoperative examination revealed better ocular development in the affected eye than in the fellow eye (axial length: 24.21 vs. 27.02 mm, respectively) as well as better refractive status in the affected eye (BCVA of 0.0 logMAR(20/20) with a refraction of − 2.23 diopters cylinder/−3.00 diopters sphere vs. 0logMAR(20/20) with a refraction of -5.75 diopters cylinder/-2.25 diopters sphere).

Conclusions

We have reported a rare case of micropupil development secondary to congenital cataract surgery, which is an uncommon complication, especially in children. However, unlike congenital microcoria, the secondary pinhole pupil may have reduced imaging haze and halos, possibly favoring the development of the affected eye. This case provides further insight into the treatment of congenital cataract.
The impact of social cohesion and risk communication on excess mortality due to COVID-19 in 213 countries: a retrospective analysis
Authors: da Silva Ricardo Eccard , Novaes Maria Rita Carvalho Garbi , de Oliveira Cesar , Guilhem Dirce Bellezi
Published: June 2024

Background

Tools for assessing a country’s capacity in the face of public health emergencies must be reviewed, as they were not predictive of the COVID-19 pandemic. Social cohesion and risk communication, which are related to trust in government and trust in others, may have influenced adherence to government measures and mortality rates due to COVID-19.

Objective

To analyse the association between indicators of social cohesion and risk communication and COVID-19 outcomes in 213 countries.

Results

Social cohesion and risk communication, in their dimensions (public trust in politicians, trust in others, social safety nets, and equal distribution of resources index), were associated with lower excess mortality due to COVID-19. The number of COVID-19-related disorder events and government transparency were associated with higher excess mortality due to COVID-19. The lower the percentage of unemployed people, the higher the excess mortality due to COVID-19. Most of the social cohesion and risk communication variables were associated with better vaccination indicators, except for social capital and engaged society, which had no statistically significant association. The greater the gender equality, the better the vaccination indicators, such as the number of people who received all doses.

Conclusion

Public trust in politicians, trust in others, equal distribution of resources and government that cares about the most vulnerable, starting with the implementation of programs, such as cash transfers and combating food insecurity, were factors that reduced the excess mortality due to COVID-19. Countries, especially those with limited resources and marked by social, economic, and health inequalities, must invest in strengthening social cohesion and risk communication, which are robust strategies to better cope with future pandemics.
Use of indwelling urinary catheters in nursing home residents: results from a cross-sectional study in 21 German nursing homes
Authors: Czwikla Jonas , Schmiemann Guido , Hoffmann Falk
Published: June 2024

Background

Indwelling urinary catheters often lead to complications such as symptomatic urinary tract infections. In nursing home residents, catheter prevalence is high, but prevalence differences by sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, and health services use have rarely been investigated. The purpose of this work was to describe the use of indwelling urinary catheters in nursing home residents and to examine whether catheter use is associated with individual characteristics.

Methods

Cross-sectional data of the “Inappropriate Medication in patients with REnal insufficiency in Nursing homes” (IMREN) study conducted in 21 German nursing homes between October 2014 and April 2015 were analyzed. For all residents of the involved care units, nurses of the participating institutions completed an anonymous questionnaire including the Modified Rankin Scale to assess physical impairments. The proportion of nursing home residents with indwelling urinary catheter was determined. Associations between catheter use and individual characteristics were investigated via cluster-adjusted multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of 852 residents (76.5% female; mean age 83.5 years), 13.4% had an indwelling urinary catheter. The adjusted odds ratios for catheter use for men vs. women was 2.86 (95% confidence interval 1.82–4.50). For residents with “moderate” disability vs. those with “no to slight” disability it was 3.27 (1.36–7.85), for individuals with “moderately severe” disability vs. the reference group it was 9.03 (3.40–23.97), and for those with “severe” disability vs. the reference group it was 26.73 (8.60–83.14). For residents who had been hospitalized within the last 12 months vs. those without a hospitalization it was 1.97 (1.01–3.87). For age, dementia, overweight/obesity, other indwelling devices, and long-term medications no significant associations were found.

Conclusions

Male nursing home residents, residents with a higher degree of physical impairment, and those who had been hospitalized within the last 12 months were more likely to use an indwelling urinary catheter than their counterparts. Data on circumstances of and indications for catheters, catheter types, and duration of catheterization are needed to evaluate the appropriateness of catheter use in nursing home residents and the need for interventions.
Association between multiple dimensions of access to care and cervical cancer screening among Kenyan women: a cross-sectional analysis of the Demographic Health Survey
Authors: Li Xiaowan , Chen Sanmei , Hirose Naoki , Shimpuku Yoko
Published: June 2024

Background

Cervical cancer remains the second most common cause of death in women and poses a growing public health challenge. It is urgent to increase cervical cancer screening rates in Kenya as per the 2018 Kenya National Cancer Screening Guidelines. Addressing access to care may serve as a target to achieve this goal; however, how individual dimensions of access to care are associated with the utilization of cervical cancer screening services in low- and middle-income countries, including Kenya, remains unclear. This study aimed to examine how different aspects of access to care (affordability, availability, geographical access, and social influence) were associated with cervical cancer screening among Kenyan women of reproductive age.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data from the 2014 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey and the 2010 Kenya Service Provision Assessment. The final sample included 5,563 women aged 25–49 years. Logistic regression models were used to examine the association between different aspects of access to care and the uptake of cervical cancer screening.

Results

Factors such as being in the poorest wealth quintile, lacking health insurance, having difficulty obtaining funds for treatment (affordability), limited availability of screening services at nearby facilities (availability), living in rural areas (geographical access), and having healthcare decisions made solely by husbands/partners or others (social influence) were associated with a decreased likelihood of the uptake of cervical cancer screening.

Conclusions

Increasing health insurance coverage, enhancing the availability of screening services at health facilities, expanding mobile screening health facilities in rural areas, and empowering women to make their own healthcare decisions are crucial steps for increasing cervical cancer screening uptake in Kenya.
Word-of-mouth among blood service employees who also donate blood: a qualitative investigation of advantages and challenges for dual-role donors
Authors: Chell Kathleen , Polonsky Michael , Masser Barbara , Hyde Melissa K.
Published: June 2024

Background

Despite word-of-mouth (WOM) and electronic WOM (eWOM) influencing people’s willingness to donate blood, no research has explored this behavior among blood service employees who are also donors. This underexplored segment is highly important, as they are generally committed to both the organization and the cause and are likely more informed on the topic of blood donation than the average donor.

Methods

This study comprised six online focus groups with 26 Australian Red Cross Lifeblood employees who are also donors. Questions covered a range of blood donation and WOM topics, including when they became blood donors, if they had engaged in WOM about blood donation, what they had talked about and with whom, and what were audience reactions. Thematic analysis was then used to explore how responses related to the employees’ motivations, opportunities, and abilities to engage in WOM and eWOM about blood donation.

Results

While most employee-donors saw alignment in their employee and donor roles, advocating for blood donation was not considered a necessary part of either role. Educating others about blood donation was a common goal of employee-donor WOM and eWOM, and almost all employees engaged in reactive WOM, triggered by events (e.g., recent donations) or questions about their work. Employee-donors in donor-facing roles (e.g., communications and collections staff) felt more aware of the importance of encouraging others to donate blood and were also more likely to be proactive in their WOM activity. Along with these perceived advantages of having a dual role, employee-donors also identified some disadvantages, such as unrealistic expertise expectations and negative audience responses that can be difficult to navigate.

Conclusions

Being an employee-donor is a double-edged sword. For example, increased opportunities to talk about blood donation and access to more information can be offset by having to respond to more challenging questions/comments and expectations, while appropriately representing their employer. More research is needed among those in employee-donor roles within the healthcare and/or non-profit sectors, to determine whether these are issues faced more broadly, and how those in dual roles can be most effectively supported to engage in positive WOM and eWOM.
Patient-driven research priorities for patient-centered measurement
Authors: Howard A. Fuchsia , Warner Linda , Cuthbertson Lena , Sawatzky Richard
Published: June 2024

Background

Patient-centred measurement (PCM) emphasizes a holistic approach wherein the voices of patients are reflected in the standardized use of patient-reported outcome and experience measures and are represented throughout the continuum of measurement activities. Given the challenges of routinely integrating patient self-reports into clinical care decisions, the perspectives of all healthcare system stakeholders, especially patients, is necessary to advance the science of PCM. The purpose of the analysis we report on here was to identify patient-driven research priorities for advancing the science of PCM.

Methods

We analyzed data from seven focus groups that were conducted across British Columbia, Canada and that included a total of 73 patients, using qualitative inductive analysis and constant comparative methods.

Results

We found that the patients conveyed a desire for PCM to contribute to healthcare decisions, specifically that their individual healthcare needs and related priorities as they see them are always front and centre, guiding all healthcare interactions. The patients’ commentaries highlighted intersecting priorities for research on advancing the science of PCM that would help transform care by (1) enhancing the patient-provider relationship, (2) giving voice to patients’ stories, (3) addressing inclusivity, (4) ensuring psychological safety, (5) improving healthcare services and systems to better meet patient needs, and (6) bolstering healthcare system accountability.

Conclusions

These priorities provide direction for future research efforts that would be positioned to make progress towards better health, better care, and better use of resources for individuals and for society.
Spatial accessibility and inequality analysis of rabies-exposed patients to rabies post-exposure prophylaxis clinics in Guangzhou City, China
Authors: Zhao Jianguo , Luo Min , Tan Xiaohua , Zhu Zhihua , Zhang Meng , Liu Jun , Lin Wenqing , Yang Yuwei , Li Xing , Zeng Weilin , Gong Dexin , Rong Zuhua , Huang Zitong , Zheng Wenyuan , Guo Huijie , Zeng Siqing , Sun Limei , Xiao Jianpeng
Published: June 2024

Background

The incidence of rabies exposure is high and increasing in China, leading to an urgent demand of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) clinics for the injured. However, the spatial accessibility and inequality of rabies-exposed patients to rabies PEP clinics is less known in China.

Methods

Based on rabies exposure data, PEP clinic data, and resident travel origin-destination (OD) matrix data in Guangzhou City, China, we first described the incidence of rabies exposure in Guangzhou from 2020 to 2022. Then, the Gaussian two-step floating catchment area method (2SFCA) was used to analyze the spatial accessibility of rabies-exposed patients to rabies PEP clinics in Guangzhou, and the Gini coefficient and Moran’s I statistics were utilized to evaluate the inequality and clustering of accessibility scores.

Results

From 2020 to 2022, a total of 524,160 cases of rabies exposure were reported in Guangzhou, and the incidence showed a significant increasing trend, with an average annual incidence of 932.0/100,000. Spatial accessibility analysis revealed that the overall spatial accessibility scores for three scenarios (threshold of driving duration [d0] = 30 min, 45 min, and 60 min) were 0.30 (95% CI: 0.07, 0.87), 0.28 (95% CI: 0.11, 0.53) and 0.28 (95% CI: 0.14, 0.44), respectively. Conghua, Huangpu, Zengcheng and Nansha districts had the higher accessibility scores, while Haizhu, Liwan, and Yuexiu districts exhibited lower spatial accessibility scores. The Gini coefficient and Moran’s I statistics showed that there were certain inequality and clustering in the accessibility to rabies PEP clinics in Guangzhou.

Conclusions

This study clarifies the heterogeneity of spatial accessibility to rabies PEP clinics, and provide valuable insights for resource allocation to achieve the WHO target of zero human dog-mediated rabies deaths by 2030.
Determination of levofloxacin, norfloxacin, and moxifloxacin in pharmaceutical dosage form or individually using derivative UV spectrophotometry
Authors: Elgendy K h. , Zaky M. , altorky Alaa Eldin mohamed Mahmoud , Fadel S.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

In this study, first, second, third, and fourth-order derivative spectrophotometric methods utilizing the peak—zero (P—O) and peak-peak (P—P) techniques of measurement were developed for the determination of levofloxacin, norfloxacin, and moxifloxacin. These methods were applied to their combined pharmaceutical dosage form or individually for levofloxacin, norfloxacin, and moxifloxacin.

Methods

Linearity was established in the concentration range of 2–20 µg/mL. The procedures are simple, quick, and precise. The developed methods are sensitive, accurate, and cost-effective, demonstrating excellent correlation coefficients (R2 = 0.9998) and mean recovery values ranging from 99.20% to 100.08%, indicating a high level of precision.

Results

The developed approach was effectively employed to determine the levofloxacin, norfloxacin, and moxifloxacin content in commercially available pharmaceutical dosages.

Conclusions

Statistical analysis and recovery tests confirmed the method's linearity and accuracy. The results suggest that this method can be utilized for routine analysis in both bulk and commercial formulations. The simplicity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of the developed methods make them valuable for pharmaceutical analysis.
Modeling the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake tsunami: implications for tsunami sources in the eastern margin of the Japan Sea
Authors: Masuda Hidetoshi , Sugawara Daisuke , Cheng An-Chi , Suppasri Anawat , Shigihara Yoshinori , Kure Shuichi , Imamura Fumihiko
Published: June 2024

A moment magnitude (Mw) 7.5 earthquake occurred on January 1, 2024, at the northern tip of the Noto Peninsula, Central Japan, triggering a large tsunami. Seismological and geodetic observations revealed the rupture of mapped submarine active faults. While proximal segment ruptures have been well resolved by previous research, far offshore segments have posed challenges for onshore-based inversions. This emphasizes the necessity for a comprehensive study on the fault through tsunami modeling. Here, we aimed to examine tsunami propagation and inundation using four different fault models to identify the general characteristics of the tsunami source and evaluate the complexities of earthquake- and submarine landslide-induced tsunamis. We identified the simultaneous rupture of two active fault systems as the most suitable model for explaining observed tsunami height and inundation; however, some inconsistencies with observations remained. The propagation process did not follow a concentric pattern but aligned with bathymetric heterogeneity. The findings also suggested potential amplification effects responsible for the devastation of the coast of Iida Bay and indicated a possible submarine landslide in southern Toyama Bay. The findings of the present work could benefit the exploration of a more realistic tsunami source model, considering the differences between observations and simulations. Such efforts, in collaboration with paleotsunami research, can contribute to the improved assessment of hazards from submarine active faults.
A successful complete resection for multidrug-resistant giant gastrointestinal stromal tumor invading the transverse colon with multiple liver metastases in a young female: a case report
Authors: Aso Kenta , Takemura Nobuyuki , Yoshizaki Yuhi , Mihara Fuminori , Inagaki Fuyuki , Yamada Kazuhiko , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: June 2024

Background

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare in young people and are often detected after becoming symptomatic or at an advanced stage. Herein, we report a case of complete reduction surgery for a substantially large malignant gastric GIST with multiple liver metastases in a young woman who successfully resulted in R0 surgery.

Case presentation

An 18-year-old woman presented to our hospital with anorexia and vomiting, and was diagnosed with a 17 cm gastric GIST with transverse colon invasion and multiple liver metastases. Due to being considered unresectable, tyrosine and multi-kinase inhibitor therapy were administered up to the fourth line yielding no response. After careful discussion at a multidisciplinary team conference, pancreatoduodenectomy or distal gastrectomy, transverse colectomy, and resection of the liver metastases were planned. Consequently, distal gastrectomy, transverse colectomy, resection of the liver metastases, and incidental peritoneal metastases were performed. Although the primary goal of the surgery was to reduce the volume of the tumor as much as possible, the results revealed that the complete removal of all detectable tumors was achieved. No recurrence was observed after surgery for 27 months with long-term adjuvant imatinib therapy.

Conclusions

Even for highly advanced GISTs, aggressive surgery followed by adjuvant drug therapy may prolong survival in young patients.
Improving maternal and child nutrition services in community based health planning and services zones in the jirapa municipality of northern ghana-challenges and strategies: the perspective of community health officers
Authors: Tengepare Francis Xavier , Chirawurah Dennis , Apanga Stephen
Published: June 2024

Background

The Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) initiative plays a key role in delivering maternal and child health nutrition services in Ghana. This study explored bottle necks hindering the delivery of maternal and child nutrition services at CHPS zones and searched for strategies to address them from the perspective of community health officers in rural Northern Ghana.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative cross-sectional study design using key informant interviews involving the municipal nutrition officer and Community Health Officers (CHOs) from eleven CHPS zones was carried out in April 2019. Manual data analysis was done using the framework analysis approach in qualitative data analysis for applied policy research.

Results

This study identified challenges of maternal and child nutrition services in the Jirapa municipality to be municipal health directorate and CHPS zone based in nature. Municipal health directorate based challenges were inadequate logistics/medicines; lack of staff training; lack of supervision/monitoring; and inadequate financial support/motivation/incentives. CHPS zone based challenges were lack of planning activities by staff; inadequate home visits; lack of commitment by staff; and lack of community meetings/engagements. Proposed strategies to address municipal health directorate based challenges included adequate provision of logistics/medicines; frequent training of staff in maternal and child nutrition related issues; frequent supervision/monitoring activities from the municipal health directorate; and providing financial support/motivation/incentives at the CHPS zones. Proposed strategies to address CHPS zone based challenges were planning of activities; improved home visits; increased commitment towards delivering maternal and child nutrition services; and frequent community meetings/engagements.

Conclusion

In order to improve maternal and child nutrition services at CHPS zones, there is the need to address certain systemic challenges at both the municipal or district health directorate and CHPS zones levels of the primary health care system. It is recommended that, the Municipal Health Directorate; the Municipal Health Management Team; the Municipal Assembly and all relevant stakeholders involved in improving maternal and child nutrition services at the community level, actively engage CHOs to help address the systemic challenges.
Boring life: early colony formation and growth in the endolithic bryozoan genus Penetrantia Silén, 1946
Authors: Decker Sebastian H. , Lemer Sarah , Decker Simone , Hirose Masato , Johnson Mildred J. , Schwaha Thomas
Published: June 2024

As in most colonial and sessile marine invertebrates, bryozoan life history is characterized by asexual propagation of zooids for colonial growth and by sexual production of larvae for dispersal. However, comprehensive life histories, particularly in cryptic species such as endolithic (boring) bryozoans, remain poorly understood. The ctenostome family Penetrantiidae is widespread from temperate to tropical waters and often found in molluscan shells, offering an opportunity to study the boring lifestyle and its potential impact on bioerosion through growth and settlement experiments. Our research focused on Penetrantia clionoides from Guam in the Pacific Ocean, Penetrantia japonica from Japan, and a Penetrantia species from France in the Atlantic Ocean. We found distinct life histories and reproductive patterns potentially influenced by environmental factors such as temperature and food availability. The tropical P. clionoides displayed higher rates of larval production and growth compared to its temperate counterpart. For instance, the mean stolon extension was 335.2 μm/week in P. clionoides versus 232.1 μm/week in Penetrantia sp. Autozooid development took 13 days in P. clionoides and 31 days in Penetrantia sp. Anatomical features like apertural rims aided in species identification and in understanding larval settlement preferences, suggesting a tendency for philopatric settlement behavior. The bioerosional impact of penetrantiids remains little understood, but we generated first projections of bioerosion rates and a protocol for keeping Penetrantia under laboratory conditions, laying a foundation for further research in this field.
INTERP: Interpreter requirements needed for tissue plasminogen activator evaluations and resulting performance: a retrospective review
Authors: Bu Julia Ting , Meyer Dawn M. , Shifflett Benjamin , Meyer Brett C.
Published: June 2024

Aim

To examine the influence of interpreter service needs (IS) on rt-PA administration time metrics.

Methods

Retrospectively reviewed prospectively collected data from Comprehensive Stroke Center database (January 2011- April 1, 2021) and EMR. Inclusion: Subjects for whom a “stroke code” was activated. Excluded in-house strokes. Baseline characteristics, frequency of rt-PA, rt-PA exclusions and time metrics, NIHSS were compared between patients who did or did not require IS. Analyses utilized ANOVA, t-Test, Brown-Mood Median Test, or Pearson’s Chi-squared test as appropriate.

Results

Of 2,191 patients with stroke code activations, 81 had a documented need for IS. Rt-PA was administered in 9 IS and 358 non-IS patients. Median baseline NIHSS was higher in rt-PA group (9±8 vs 3±9, p<0.005). In IS patients, there were no differences in baseline characteristics between those who received rt-PA and those who did not, including median score for NIHSS aphasia (0±1 vs 0±1, p = 0.46). There were no rt-PA rate differences between those that did not and did require IS (17% vs 11%, p = 0.22). In patients with final diagnosis acute ischemic stroke, patients excluded from rt-PA solely due to being out of the window were more likely to have required IS (59% vs 35%, p = 0.003). Time metrics of rt-PA administration were not different in IS patients.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in frequency or time metrics of rt-PA administration in patients requiring interpreter services during an acute stroke code. AIS patients requiring an interpreter were more likely to be excluded from rt-PA on the basis of time.
Balloon cells in malformations of cortical development: friends or foes?
Authors: Liu Zili , Shen Xuefeng , Lin Kaomin , Wang Fengpeng , Gao Jin , Yao Yi , Sun Jianyuan
Published: June 2024

Balloon cells (BCs) are specific pathological marker of cortical malformations during brain development, often associated with epilepsy and development delay. Although a large number of studies have investigated the role of BCs in these diseases, the specific function of BCs as either epileptogenic or antiepileptic remains controversial. Therefore, we reviewed literatures on BCs, delved into the molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways, and updated their profile in several aspects. Firstly, BCs are heterogeneous and some of them show progenitor/stem cell characteristics. Secondly, BCs are relatively silent in electrophysiology but not completely isolated from their surroundings. Notably, abnormal mTOR signaling and aberrant immunogenic process have been observed within BCs-containing malformations of cortical development (MCDs). The question whether BCs function as the evildoer or the defender in BCs-containing MCDs is further discussed. Importantly, this review provides perspectives on future investigations of the potential role of BCs in epilepsy.
Exploring the uncharted: adenoid cystic carcinoma nestled in temporal bone
Authors: Nibhanupudi Kamala Manogna , Gangapatnam Monika , Padmanaban Elamparidhi , Amirthalingam Umamageswari , Raj Joe Vimal , Bharathi M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Adenoid cystic carcinoma is an uncommon malignancy primarily arising from salivary glands. An extremely rare site for adenoid cystic carcinoma is the skull base. We report a case of adenoid cystic carcinoma of skull base who presented with common complaints of pain and right ear discharge. The discussion is made with emphasis on imaging evaluation simulating infective etiology with adjacent skull base osteomyelitis. Careful observation of the imaging findings and further evaluation of the patient revealed the neoplastic nature of the lesion with the final diagnosis being adenoid cystic carcinoma.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old female presented to our department with complaints of pain and right ear discharge since 6 months with progressive, extensive facial swelling and facial nerve palsy. The patient had undergone modified radical mastoidectomy thrice, but the details were not available. On imaging, there was a heterogenous extensive lesion extending from scalp till upper cervical region with extensive destruction of skull base and intra-cranial extension. The possibilities of temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma and extensive skull base osteomyelitis were considered. Further the biopsy of the lesion revealed adenoid cystic carcinoma.

Conclusions

Extensive lesions of the skull base can be of infective, neoplastic and inflammatory etiology. Distinguishing between these conditions is crucial, as they have similar imaging characteristics but require different management approaches. The presence of a lesion that displaces or destroys fascial planes, accompanied by solid mass-like enhancement, indicates a higher probability of a neoplastic origin rather than an infectious etiology. With squamous cell carcinoma being the most common neoplasm, adenoid cystic carcinoma of the skull base also needs to be understood due to its propensity for perineural spread and a high likelihood of recurrence.
Characterization and utilization capabilities of industrial wastes for green bricks production
Authors: El-Mahllawy Medhat Sobhy , Mohsen Sarah Akram
Published: June 2024

Background

The goal of this study is to develop a feasible and sustainable solution to manage the use of industrial wastes of ground granulated blast-furnace steel slag (GGBS) activated by cement kiln dust (CKD) and quicklime (QL). Using activated GGBS in the manufacture of stabilized green bricks is still uncommon in Egypt in such applications. Five clay-based mixtures, each with varying replacement ratios (5–10, wt.%) of CKD and QL, were studied. Laboratory tests were conducted on cylindrical specimens made from these mixtures, which were left to cure for periods of up to 60 days. The raw materials and lab-made specimens were analyzed using particle size analysis, differential thermal analysis, X-ray fluorescence, and X-ray diffraction techniques. The physical and mechanical properties of the cured specimens were also determined and evaluated according to standard specifications. Furthermore, the durability of the cured specimens was evaluated against collapsibility in water.

ResuIts

It has been observed that adding QL and CKD to the stabilized green specimens of different mixes can enhance their engineering properties with curing age increasing. This is due to the pozzolanic reaction, which fills the pore structure with calcium silicate hydrates and calcium aluminate hydrates gel. The ratio of QL and CKD used significantly affected the engineering properties of the specimens. The study found that using 20% GGBS and 5% QL led to an increase in compressive strength (266 kg/cm2) at the density of (2.15 g/cm3), while also water absorption was reduced (8%) to give superior results. When GGBS and CKD were combined, a higher content of CKD (10 wt.%) gave better results compared to (5 wt.%) CKD. Furthermore, the physical and mechanical properties of the tested specimens (MD 1, MD II, MD III and MD IV) met the acceptable limits of dry compressive strength (30–70 kg/cm2), water absorption (8–15%), and density (1.7–2 gm/cm3), as specified by the Egyptian standard specifications for buildings used compressed earth blocks.

Conclusion

The CKD and QL act as alkali activators for GGBS and can be utilized in masonry construction.
Forecasting methods in Greek coastal shipping: The case of Southwest Crete
Authors: Sitzimis Ioannis
Published: June 2024

The aim of this paper is to exact the most effective model at capturing the seasonal and short-term components of passenger traffic in Southwest Crete coastal shipping. There has been no similar effort in the past. The passenger traffic forecast is crucial for the public and private sector, as it is necessary for decision making. In our analysis we considered the six largest ports of Southwest Crete. The seasonal repeated fluctuations and the quarterly observations made Winter’s triple exponential smoothing, time series decomposition, simple seasonal model, seasonal ARIMA model and Lis’ simplistic forecast suitable for our case. The results showed that in four of the six ports the Winters’ method is best adapted. The port of Gavdos adapts better to the decomposition method and the port of Sougia to Li’s method. No port led, through the seasonal ARIMA models or simple seasonal model, to better results. In most cases, traffic trend did not change over time, the seasonal component significantly affected the time series, and the time series smoothing was strong.
Novel approaches to assess lethal and sublethal effects when evaluating risks of biopesticides toward beneficial arthropod
Authors: Laterza Ilaria , Vitale Maria Luisa , Agostinacchio Maria Francesca , Bennani Zineb , de Lillo Enrico , Tamburini Giovanni , Verrastro Vincenzo , Cavallo Giuseppe , Desneux Nicolas , Biondi Antonio , Santovito Elisa , Cornara Daniele
Published: June 2024

Background

Biopesticides are defined as substances derived from naturally occurring materials (i.e., plants, microorganisms and minerals) characterized by low environmental effects, rapid degradation, and low toxicity for humans and beneficial insects. However, the assumption of safety for beneficials is generally solely based on the evaluation of acute mortality upon exposure, overlooking possible underhanded sublethal effects.

Methods

We selected the parasitoid
Leptomastix
dactylopii
Howard (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) attacking the mealybug pest
Planococcus
citri
Risso (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) as case study to investigate whether the exposure to four biopesticides authorized in organic citrus orchards in the EU, in addition to a
Clitoria
ternatea
(Fabales: Fabaceae) extract, causes significant alterations in the parasitoid physiology and behavior. Classical ecotoxicological tests aimed at evaluating survival rate, parasitization rate, emergence rate and sex-ratio, have been combined with olfactometry to assess deviation in the dynamics of the orientation toward the host, and with a novel optical oxygen respirometry technique to observe possible alterations in oxygen consumption.

Results

All the tested compounds except spinosad were found to not harm
L.
dactylopii
, causing neither lethal nor significant sublethal effects in the exposed parasitoids compared to the control.

Conclusions

In conclusion, all the tested biopesticides showed compatibility within biological control strategies in a field scenario (i.e., organic orange orchards). Moreover, the screening protocols described in the present manuscript, integrating classical ecotoxicological tests and novel approaches targeting specific behavioral and physiological toxicant-induced alterations, allowed to shed light on the multifaceted impact of biopesticides on natural enemies.
A comparative study on engine vibration reduction in ATV quad bikes through dampers with diverse materials and shapes
Authors: Beldar Pankaj , Patil Nivrutti
Published: June 2024

This study addresses the vital role of engine dampers in reducing vibrations and enhancing ride comfort in quad bikes. Utilizing ANSYS modal analysis and CATIA V5 design, the research aims to optimize damper design by assessing natural frequencies and potential resonance in the cage structure and engine. Through extensive analysis, the study evaluates vibrations transmitted from the engine to the chassis, crucial for understanding and improving overall vehicle performance. Neoprene rubber emerges as the optimal material for vibration dampers, offering superior density, elasticity, stiffness, and damping coefficient. Comparative analysis reveals that Design 3 of the dampers significantly outperforms Design 2 and Design 1, showcasing a remarkable 62% reduction in vibration. However, the study underscores the influence of various factors, such as application specificity and vibration characteristics, on damper effectiveness. Thus, while Design 3 may excel under certain conditions, careful consideration of diverse a variable is essential for optimal damper selection and performance across different engine types and operational contexts.
Enhanced antibacterial properties of enteric glial cells attenuate intestinal inflammation through the GABABR-mediated autophagy pathway
Authors: Deng Ziteng , Lan Jing , Wang Jiaqi , Wang Lu , Hao Zhihui , Ma Yunfei
Published: June 2024

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) infection is a severe threat to global public health because of its high morbidity and mortality among children and infants. Enteric glial cells (EGCs) are involved in host–bacteria communication. However, the mechanisms through which EGCs interact with ETEC remain unclear. We attempted to assess whether γ-aminobutyric acid type B receptor (GABABR) activation participated in EGC autophagy during Escherichia coli K88 (ETECK88) infection. Alterations in autophagy and EGC activity were observed in the intestines of the ETECK88-infected mice, and similar results were obtained from experiments in which the EGCs were directly infected with ETECK88. EGC pretreatment with specific autophagy agonists significantly decreased the inflammatory response and bacterial burden, whereas pretreatment with inhibitors had the opposite effect. Interestingly, in EGCs, GABABR activation notably increased Beclin 1 and LC3 levels and autophagosome and autolysosome numbers, thus promoting autophagy activation and enhancing antimicrobial responses against ETECK88 infection. Furthermore, GABABR defense was mediated via myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) signaling in EGCs, which was proven to be based on the inhibition or overexpression of MyD88. Notably, comparable results of GABABR activation in vivo were observed in response to ETECK88, implicating this as a defense mechanism that reinforced antibacterial activity to alleviate intestinal inflammation in mice. Our study revealed previously unappreciated roles for GABABR in linking EGC antibacterial autophagy to strengthen host defense against ETECK88 infection, thus identifying GABABR as an important target for the treatment of infective enteritis.
2.5D transient electromagnetic inversion based on the unstructured quadrilateral finite-element method and a geologic statistics-driven Bayesian framework
Authors: Dai Qianwei , Wu Yun , Yue Jianhua
Published: June 2024

The uncertainty of subsurface resistivity can be determined using Bayesian inversion during electromagnetic exploration. However, the extensive sampling necessary for Bayesian inversion may result in high computational costs and prevent its application in complex large-scale 2D and 3D electromagnetic inversions. For the first attempt, we implement a 2.5D (i.e., 3D source with 2D geologic model) Bayesian inversion to analyze ground transient electromagnetics (TEM) and make some adaptations and improvements. To be specific, we use geostatistical-based random modeling as a prior constraint strategy and incorporate additional prior information through model mapping to improve its performance in adapting to complex terrains. To perform preinversion of prior parameters, we use a spatially constrained transdimensional Bayesian inversion approach, extracting priors for the formal inversion from the posterior of the preinversion. This not only reduces computation time but also lessens the formal Bayesian inversion’s reliance on prior selection. Furthermore, to obtain more realistic uncertainty assessments, we design a likelihood suited to the noise characteristics of TEM. The extensive statistical analysis of posterior results provides richer insights than previous methods, showing Bayesian inversion’s superiority in uncertainty reliability and resistivity recovery effectiveness over deterministic inversion and continuous 1D Bayesian inversion. Comparative studies with multiple simulated models and applications to complex terrain goaf areas validate the effectiveness and superiority of our algorithm.