bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution spatiale et structure démographique de Khaya spp. sur la chaîne de l’Atakora au Togo
Authors: Issa Issifou , Wala Kpérkouma , Atakpama Wouyo , Kanda Madjouma , Batawila Komlan , Akpagana Koffi
Published: June 2024

Les espèces du genre Khaya font l’objet de la surexploitation pour le bois d’œuvre et les usages médicinaux entraînant la menace de leur disparition. Cette étude sur la distribution spatiale et la structure démographique des espèces du genre Khaya a été réalisée sur la chaîne de l’Atakora au Togo. Elle a pour objectif général de contribuer à la gestion durable des Khaya spp. au Togo. Elle vise spécifiquement à déterminer la distribution spatiale des espèces du genre Khaya sur la chaîne de l’Atakora au Togo et analyser l’impact de la pression anthropique sur leur structure démographique. La méthodologie utilisée est basée sur un inventaire forestier par échantillonnage orienté par la présence de Khaya spp. à l’intérieur de 154 placettes de 2500 m² dans les champs et les jachères, de 900 m² dans les savanes arborées, de 400 m² dans les forêts claires et dans les agroforêts et de 500 m² dans les forêts galeries. Les paramètres dendrométriques relevés sont : la hauteur totale et le diamètre de toutes les espèces ligneuses à partir de la mesure de leurs circonférences. Les espèces de Khaya spp. identifiées dans la zone d’étude sont : Khaya senegalensis, Khaya grandifoliola et Khaya anthotheca. La densité de Khaya spp. est variable sur l’ensemble de la chaîne de l’Atakora. Elle est plus élevée dans la partie sud de la zone écologique II et dans la partie sud-ouest de la zone écologique IV où cette densité est supérieure à 50 pieds/ha. Cette densité est plus élevée dans les forêts claires et dans les agroforêts. La structure démographique des Khaya spp. est en cloche avec une prédominance des individus de faible diamètre. Les individus âgés de gros diamètre sont principalement prélevés pour le bois d’œuvre. La régénération de K. senegalensis est plus élevée que celle de K. grandifoliola et de K. anthotheca. Les pieds de K. senegalensis sont plus coupés dans la zone d’étude et aussi la plupart des pieds de cette espèce ont atteint la maturité libérant les semences pour la régénération. Les espèces du genre Khaya sont très exploitées au Togo d’où la nécessité d’adopter des méthodes de gestion durable telles que les reboisements intensifs et l’application des bonnes méthodes de prélèvement des organes pour la survie de ces espèces.
Macroscopic entanglement
Authors: Shaffer Joseph
Published: June 2024

Entanglement is a force that travels at infinite speed. When two particles are entangled, one feels a force, and the other will instantaneously feel the same force. Entanglement then is a force multiplier. If a source particle can entangle with N target particles and the source feels
a force F, then suddenly we have NF forces in the system. I propose that stars can entangle just as photons can, and the sum of all forces generated by entanglement provides the missing force necessary to hold a galaxy together.
Nuclear reactions in gaseous stars: Perspectives from kinetic theory and thermodynamics
Authors: Crothers Stephen J.
Published: June 2024

In the Standard Model of gaseous stars, temperature is primary both in the initiation of thermonuclear reactions to form heavier elements and the emission of radiation. These processes have been described using thermodynamic expressions. However, within any given thermodynamic relation,
not only must units balance on each side, but so must thermodynamic character. Temperature, whether or not equilibrium conditions are established, must always be intensive in macroscopic thermodynamics, and mass must be extensive. This ensures that the laws of thermodynamics are respected.
The theory of temperatures and nuclear reactions within gaseous stars is constructed from the kinetic theory of an ideal gas, by which temperature is introduced, in combination with gravitational and Coulomb forces. The resulting thermodynamic relations impart a nonintensive character to temperature
and a nonextensive character to mass. Consequently, the theory of nuclear reactions in gaseous stars is invalid. Deprived of the only theoretical means by which the Standard Model justifies stellar nuclear reactions, the theory of gaseous stars is not viable. The most reasonable alternative
rests in lattice confinement fusion and the recognition that the stars are comprised of condensed matter, namely metallic hydrogen.
Performance Evaluation of Sustainable High-Strength Lightweight Concrete Incorporating Wastes as Aggregates at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Tahwia Ahmed M. , Amin Mohamed , Abdelaziz Nirmen , Heniegal Ashraf Mohamed
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this paper was to assess the effect of upcycling crushed lightweight bricks and plastic waste on the hardened properties of structural lightweight high-strength concrete before and after exposure to elevated temperatures. The lightweight concrete under study was prepared with sand, lightweight crushed bricks as fine aggregate, dolomite, coarse plastic waste, crushed lightweight bricks as coarse aggregate, Portland cement, silica fume (SF), and high-range water-reducing admixtures (HRWR). Besides the slump test, dry density, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity were investigated on the produced lightweight concrete. At the age of 28 days, the prepared samples were exposed to high temperatures of 100-800 °C in a preheated test furnace to evaluate the residual mechanical properties of the concrete. The experimental results showed that by increasing the aggregate replacement ratio, the workability slightly increased, and the mechanical properties of lightweight concrete decreased. It is also indicated that crushed lightweight bricks can be recycled as a replacement for natural aggregates to obtain high-strength lightweight concrete with appropriate properties. It has also been proven that crushed lightweight bricks and plastic waste can be used as fine and coarse aggregates to conserve natural resources without significantly deteriorating the properties of concrete. The incorporation of crushed lightweight bricks and coarse plastic waste into high-strength lightweight concrete showed better strength under elevated temperatures.
Perceptions of the Lecturers on the Use of Translanguaging in Teaching English for the University Students
Authors: Kumarage Kosala
Published: June 2024

The ideology that the First Language (L1) of an individual improves the competence in a foreign or a Second Language (L2) gave rise to various bilingual pedagogies. Translanguaging (TRL) is the latest concept that was coined to the field as a result. The concept, TRL involves of switching between languages and it always revolves around a systematic use of two or more languages in language teaching pedagogy. Perceptions of lecturers engaged in teaching English language to the first year students of the Buddhist and Pali University were examined with reference to the purpose of application of TRL in English Language teaching. The investigation aimed to figure out the purpose behind the use of TRL. The participants of the study were seven lecturers who work in the capacity of permanent and visiting lecturers attached to the Department of English Language Teaching in Buddhist and Pali University in Sri Lanka. The results showed that the lecturers’ perceptions of the use of TRL were positive in most of the occasions where they use L1 as a TRL technique but they seem to be reluctant to allow the students to use L1 in the form of TRL technique.
Peer-assessment: Sri Lankan English as a Second Language Teachers’ Perception
Authors: Pushpakumara P.B.S.L.
Published: June 2024

Peer-assessment offers various benefits. There is empirical evidence that peer-assessment enhances learner performance, develops cognitive and meta-cognitive skills, professional skills, personal and intellectual skills and social competencies. Also, previous studies on affective factors of peer-assessment suggest that peer-assessment reduces learner anxiety and stress and enhances confidence and motivation. In spite of these benefits, peer-assessment is not common in educational settings. Teachers, the key stakeholders of education, also tend to hold reservation regarding peer-assessment. Therefore, the present study was conducted using six English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers teaching in a compulsory English course in a state university in Sri Lanka to explore their perception regarding peer-assessment in ESL writing class. Qualitative data obtained through one-on-one interviews and focus group interviews were analyzed using content analysis method. Surprisingly, the results of the present study revealed that the participants believed that peer-assessment helps learners develop their cognitive and metacognitive skills, personal and intellectual skills, and some professional skills and saves teachers’ time. Also, they believed that peer-assessment motivates learners. However, they identified limited English language proficiency and friendship as some key challenges to effectively implement peer-assessment in the language classroom. Group based peer-assessment and active teacher participation as a facilitator in the peer-assessment process were proposed as solutions to overcome these challenges and to ensure a successful implementation of peer-assessment in the ESL classroom. Taken together, the findings of the present study provide strong empirical support for the use of learner-centred peer-assessment in the ESL writing class and other similar contexts.
An analysis of privacy policies in Sri Lanka
Authors: Nanayakkara Tavini
Published: June 2024

This article focuses on privacy policies of websites and attempts to understand how they have been designed. A study looking at the privacy policies of US firms was conducted for the first time in 2016 by Professor Marotta-Wurgler. While the study provides a look into how the global north considers privacy, there is nascent scholarship in this regard for the global south. I look to the global south – Sri Lanka, in particular – to understand to what extent privacy and the well-being of consumers feature in designing privacy policies of various industries in the country. I look at 20 privacy policies across four industries, cloud computing, banking, supermarkets, and transport services. I conclude that while firms abide by some international standards even without legal obligation, there is room for improvement. There is little standardization within and across industries with international firms laying down higher privacy protections on average. The article finds most policies to be long and incomprehensible. I conclude that while incorporation of international privacy standards to varying degrees absent legal compulsion is admirable, there is more to be done to benefit the consumers for whose welfare privacy policies are drafted in the first place.
Impact of herbal treatments for Vitiligo disease
Authors: Rathnayake R. M. D. S. , Dahanayake Damayanthi
Published: June 2024

Vitiligo is a common skin disorder resulting from the breakdown of functional epidermal melanocytes. The global prevalence of vitiligo ranges from 0.5% to 2%, with higher rates reported in certain populations. Melanocytes, responsible for skin color, are destroyed in vitiligo condition leading to the appearance of smooth, white patches on the skin. The progression of vitiligo is influenced by various factors, including genetics, autoimmunity, psychosis, melanocyte self-destruction, trace element deficiency, oxidative stress, and other biochemical and environmental variables. Recent research has identified herbal plant extractions as potential agents for re-pigmentation and regeneration of normal skin color. Specific components of these herbal plants, such as furocoumarin, thymoquinone, flavonoids, curcuminoids, and glycyrrhizin, play crucial roles in promoting re-pigmentation. Combination therapies involving these herbal compounds have shown promise in increasing tyrosinase activity and reducing oxidative stress, which are two important aspects of vitiligo treatment. The review aims to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy of herbal plant therapies for melanocyte re-pigmentation in vitiligo patients. By analyzing the effectiveness of various herbal extracts and their active components, this study seeks to advance the understanding and potential application of herbal treatments for vitiligo. The findings from this review may contribute to the current knowledge on therapeutic options available for vitiligo patients.
Intravenous methylprednisolone in patients with episodic cluster headache non-responders to oral steroids: results from an observational, interventional, single-center study
Authors: Rubino Elisa , Roveta Fausto , Marcinnò Andrea , Ferrandes Fabio , Piella Elisa Maria , Rainero Innocenzo
Published: June 2024

Background: Verapamil is the drug of choice in the prophylaxis of episodic cluster headache (ECH), and oral corticosteroids are frequently prescribed as concurrent bridging therapy. Approximately 25% of the patients do not respond to oral treatment. The aim of this study was to assess safety and efficacy of high dose intravenous methylprednisolone (MPD) in ECH patients who had not responded to combined oral therapy with prednisone and verapamil. Methods: Forty-four ECH patients – non responders to oral therapy – were treated with intravenous MPD (500 mg/day for 5 days) and verapamil during cluster headache active periods. No serious adverse event was reported. Results: After 5 days of intravenous therapy, the 24-hour frequency of cluster headache attacks significantly decreased. Sixty-eight percent of patients became headache-free, and 25% experienced a reduction of more than 50% in daily attacks. No clinical benefit was reported in the remaining three patients. Conclusions: Our study shows that intravenous MPD is a safe, effective, and reproducible treatment for ECH patients not responding to oral therapy.
Aromatase inhibitors evoke periorbital allodynia in mice via calcitonin gene-related peptide and its receptors in Schwann cells
Authors: Marini Matilde , Souza Monteiro de Araujo Daniel , Chieca Martina , Bellantoni Elisa , De Siena Gaetano , Mastricci Alessandra , Scuffi Irene , Tesi Martina , Pensieri Pasquale , Nassini Romina , De Logu Francesco , Landini Lorenzo
Published: June 2024

Background: Treatment with the currently recommended aromatase inhibitors (AIs) for adjuvant endocrine treatment of estrogen receptorpositive breast cancer is associated with debilitating musculoskeletal pain symptoms (AIMS) and headache. Recent evidence suggests that the proalgesic channel transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) is implicated in AIMS. Here, we investigated the cellular and molecular mechanisms, including TRPA1, implicated in periorbital mechanical allodynia (PMA), a surrogate of headache-like pain, evoked by AIs in mice. Methods: C57BL6/J mice were treated with intragastric letrozole (0.05-0.5 mg/kg), exemestane (1-5 mg/kg) or anastrozole (0.02-0.2 mg/kg) and were evaluated by applying von Frey filaments to the periorbital region over the rostral portion of the eye. Some mice were pretreated (subcutaneous in the periorbital area) with receptor, channel, or enzyme inhibitors. PMA was also investigated in mice with selective silencing of Trpa1 and receptor activity modifying protein 1 [Ramp1, the component of calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) receptor required for its functioning] in Schwann cells (Plp-Cre+-Trpa1fl/fl and Plp-Cre+-Ramp1fl/fl mice, respectively) or trigeminal neurons (Adv-Cre+- Trpa1fl/fl and Adv- Cre+- Ramp1fl/fl mice, respectively). Results: Letrozole dose-dependently produced PMA that was attenuated by a TRPA1 antagonist (A967079) or a CGRP receptor antagonist (olcegepant), whereas indomethacin was ineffective. Selective silencing of Trpa1 in both Schwann cells and trigeminal neurons reduced letrozole- evoked PMA. Silencing of Ramp1 in Schwann cells, but not in trigeminal neurons, attenuated PMA. Inhibition of the intracellular pathway known to promote PMA by CGRP action in Schwann cells, including adenylyl cyclase (SQ-22536), nitric oxide synthase (L-NG-Nitro arginine methyl ester), and oxidative stress (N-tert-butyl-a-phenylnitrone) inhibitors reduced letrozole-evoked PMA. PMA evoked by exemestane (1, 5, 10 mg/kg i.g.) or anastrozole (0.02, 0.1, 0.2 mg/kg i.g.) Was also markedly reduced in mice with selective silencing of TRPA1 in Schwann cells and nociceptors. Conclusions: Data indicate that letrozole, targeting TRPA1 in peptidergic nerve terminals, releases CGRP that engages its receptor in adjacent Schwann cells to trigger a complex intracellular pathway that results in TRPA1 activation and the ensuing ROS release to sustain PMA. Should these mechanisms be present in patients, their inhibition may ameliorate cephalic mechanical allodynia associated with aromatase inhibitors-induced headaches.
Cognitive reserve and well-being in migraine patients: a multidimensional approach to migraine assessment in an Italian tertiary headache center
Authors: Paparella Giulia , Abbatantuono Chiara , Clemente Livio , Scannicchio Stefania , De Tommaso Marina
Published: June 2024

Background: Migraine is a painful neurological condition affecting emotional, cognitive, and daily life functioning. Cognitive reserve (CR) is a protective factor against neurological damage and deterioration, but its proxies have been under-investigated in migraine. The present crosssectional study aims to investigate the relationship between CR and several self-reported health measures in migraine; and how these health measures differ between CR grades. Methods: Data were collected from an Italian tertiary center between 2022 and 2023. One hundred and eighty eligible outpatients aged from 18 to 75 years were administered a protocol consisting of: the Migraine Disability Assessment; Brief Pain Inventory (BPI); Numeric Rating Scale; Short Form-36; Self-Rating Anxiety Scale; Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS). In addition, years of illness, frequency and intensity of migraine attacks, and Cognitive Reserve Index as a gradable measure of CR, were also collected. Spearman correlation and ANOVAs were performed, setting p significance at <0.05. Results: A negative correlation between perceived pain intensity, attacks, and socio-behavioral proxies of CR emerged. Higher CR was also associated with fewer headache attacks (rs=-0.176; p=0.019). Lower intensity was found to be specifically related to leisure time (rs=-0.084; p=0.049). ANOVAs highlighted differences across graded CR levels in headache-related indices, including psychological and functional status (BPI-interference: F=4.302; p=0.026; SDS: F=3.887; p=0.033; enjoyment of life: F=3.672; p=0.043), also post-hoc confirmed. Conclusions: Overall, our results suggest a link between CR levels and headache-related measures, emphasizing the importance of life-long coping strategies and healthy habits to decrease pain perception. In particular, individuals with low CR reporting higher levels of pain may benefit from integrated assessment and tailored treatment options to experience. Further studies may delve into the CR threshold hypothesis in the context of headache to identify high-risk categories of patients and foster their symptom management.
Mortality and Morbidity in Acute Heart Failure with Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke/Transient Ischemic Attack) Stratified by Ejection Fraction
Authors: Al Sharekh Nayef , Al Jarallah Mohammed , Dashti Raja , Bulbanat Bassam , Ridha Mustafa , Sulaiman Kadhim , Al-Zakwani Ibrahim , Alsheikh-Ali Alawi A. , Panduranga Prashanth , Alhabib Khalid F. , Suwaidi Jassim Al , Al-Mahmeed Wael , AlFaleh Hussam , Elasfar Abdelfatah , Al-Motarreb Ahmed , Bazargani Nooshin , Asaad Nidal , Amin Haitham , Setiya Parul , Al-Saber Ahmad , Rajan Rajesh , Tabatabaei Ghazaal Alavi
Published: June 2024

Background:

Heart failure (HF) is a prevalent condition in our society, frequently accompanied by various interacting comorbidities. Among these, brain-related comorbidities such as stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) play a crucial role in exacerbating the severity of HF. The relationship between cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) and HF across different left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) levels is not well understood.

Objectives:

This study aims to assess the impact of CVA including stroke and TIA on mortality and morbidity in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) stratified by LVEF.

Methods:

We conducted an analysis of consecutive patients admitted to 47 hospitals in seven Middle Eastern countries (Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain) with AHF from February to November 2012 with AHF who were enrolled in a multinational registry of patients with HF. The study population consisted of patients with CVA and AHF, categorized into three groups based on EF: HF patients with preserved EF (HFpEF) (250%), HF patients with reduced EF (HFrEF) (<40%), and HF patients with mid-range EF (HFmrEF) (40%–49%). Univariate and multivariate statistical techniques were employed for the analysis.

Results:

Our study involved 370 patients, averaging 66.4 ± 13.2 years. In-hospital mortality for CVA and AHF patients was 8.4% (n = 31). Patients in different ranges of LVEF experienced comparable rates of hospitalization and mortality at both the 3-month and 12-month intervals. Left atrial enlargement (odd ratio [OR]: 3.27, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33–9.32, P = 0.015) and noninvasive ventilation (OR: 6.17, 95% CI: 2.71–14.07, P < 0.001) were associated with a higher mortality rate while discharging on digoxin (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.02–0.52, P = 0.011) was linked to lower mortality. The sole distinction among HF groups was observed in 12-month survival, with HFpEF patients having a superior survival rate of 91.7% compared to HFIEF patients at 77.5% and HFmrEF at 77.8% during this period.

Conclusions:

This study found significant differences in all-cause mortality at 12 months. Further research is warranted to better understand the mechanisms underlying these associations.
Evaluation of the Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 Gene (rs1024611) Polymorphism in Burn Wound Patients
Authors: Kudhair Hasan Fadhil , Al-Hasnawi Abeer Thaher Naji , Alyassery Ali Jalil Ali
Published: June 2024

Background:

Burns are described as heat- or acute trauma-induced skin injuries or other body tissue. One cytokine that promotes inflammation is monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), which is essential to the inflammatory process. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the genetic variation ofMCP-1-2518A/G and the severity of bacterial infection in burn wounds.

Methods:

A case–control study included 35 burn wound patients and 35 healthy people as a control group. Whole blood was used for DNA extraction. DNA extraction was used to detect theMCP1gene (rs1024611) polymorphism using conventional polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Regarding the genotypes of theMCP1gene (rs1024611) polymorphism, there were statistical differences (P= 0.008) between the groups under study. In patients, compared to controls, the AA genotype was higher, whereas it was discovered that controls had a higher frequency of the AG and GG genotypes than did patients. In addition, patients’ “A” allele levels were higher than those of controls. On the contrary, the patients’ “G” allele was lower than that of the control group, with a significant difference (P= 0.001).

Conclusion:

The result of this study has shown that in patients, the AA genotype was higher than in controls. Therefore, theMCP1gene (rs1024611) polymorphism may have a protective role in burn wound bacterial infection.
A Comparative Investigation on Cytokine Expression in Pulmonary Tuberculosis and Comorbidity with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Singh Khusbu , Hussain Tahziba , Gupta Bhawna , Pati Sanghamitra
Published: June 2024

Background:

Mycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) is the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), with a high global prevalence and mortality rate. To control the gruesome pathogen, a deep understanding of pathophysiology and host–pathogen interaction is essential for early diagnosis and novel drug development. Cytokines play a crucial role in infection and susceptibility, and their expressions could serve as potential biomarkers to enhance our understanding of Mtb pathophysiology for improved therapeutic approaches. This cross-sectional study investigates the levels of four important T-cell immune-mediated cytokines: interleukins (IL-6 and IL-10), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in 80 cohort samples, with 20 people in each group.

Methods:

Following proper ethics and patient consent, we collected blood samples and isolated serum from all four groups: TB, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), type 2 diabetes–TB comorbidity (T2DM + TB), and a healthy individual as a control group (C). Furthermore, cytokine expression was measured in individual serum samples through the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method using commercial kits (Diaclone, French). Statistical significance was observed by analyzing triplicate data usingt-tests and the one-way ANOVA method with GraphPad Prism 10.

Results:

The results showed that all four cytokine levels were higher (P≤ 0.0001) than the control, especially IL-6, IL-10, and IFN-γ, which were found to be upregulated in T2DM + TB samples (P≤ 0.0001) than individual TB or T2DM samples.

Conclusion:

The high levels of cytokines in comorbidity cases raise the risk of insulin resistance and the severity of TB infection. These levels of expression could be used to keep track of the Mtb infection status or severity, aid in early diagnosis as a possible biomarker, and suggest possible treatment plans.
Infantile Disseminated Bacille Calmette–Guérin Disease with Hemophagocytosis and Mimicking Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia: A Case Report with Concise Literature Review
Authors: Godkhindi Vishwapriya Mahadev , Gupta Nitin , Bhat K. Vasudeva , Venkatagiri Archana Mevalegire
Published: June 2024

Bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) is a live-attenuated vaccine routinely administered to newborns to prevent severe forms of tuberculosis (TB) in TB-endemic countries. Disseminated BCG vaccine disease is a classic feature of children with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or primary immunodeficiency disorders (PIDs) and is associated with high mortality. We report a case of a 6-month-old infant with disseminated BCG disease and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis mimicking juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia with no demonstrable features of HIV or PID even after extensive laboratory work-up and succumbed to progressive disease. Disseminated BCG disease is a rare and potentially fatal complication of BCG vaccine, and prompt immunological evaluation complemented by initiation of 4-drug antitubercular therapy and definitive treatment with antiretroviral therapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplant is warranted.
Evaluation of Colorimetric Nitrate Reductase Assay in Liquid Medium for Detection of Resistance to First-line Antitubercular Drugs
Authors: Aman Munaza , Mir Anjum Ara , Bashir Gulnaz , Wani Sayim , Khursheed Syed , Ahangar Irfan Nisar
Published: June 2024

Background:

On a global scale, India holds the distinction of having the greatest number of tuberculosis (TB) cases caused byMycobacterium tuberculosis(MTB) complex. The study aimed at evaluating the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, cost, rapidity, and feasibility of the performance of the colorimetric nitrate reductase-based antibiotic susceptibility (CONRAS) test against the indirect proportion method (IPM) on Lowenstein–Jensen media as the gold standard.

Methods:

A comparative cross-sectional study was performed on 51 MTB isolates. Fresh subcultures were used for drug susceptibility testing by IPM on the Lowenstein–Jensen medium and the CONRAS method in liquid medium. Quality control for drug susceptibility testing was done using a known sensitive strain of MTB (H37Rv) and strains resistant to both isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF) – multidrug-resistant (MDR), mono-resistant to RIF, streptomycin (STM), and ethambutol (EMB). Statistical analysis was performed using MedCalc software (Version 20.027).

Results:

CONRAS, carried out in microfuge tubes, was cost-efficient and easy to perform/interpret with most results being available in 10 days compared to 42 days in the case of IPM. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of RIF and INH were 100%, 97.37%, and 98.04 and 93.33%, 97.59%, and 96.08%, respectively, which translates into an almost perfect agreement between the two methods as indicated by κ value of 0.905 and 0.949, respectively, for the two drugs. The performance of CONRAS was less satisfactory for STM and EMB when compared to IPM.

Conclusions:

CONRAS may serve as a useful test for the detection of MDR-TB because of its accuracy, low cost, ease of performance/interpretation, and rapidity when compared to IPM on LJ medium. It does not involve the use of expensive reagents and equipment, as is the case with molecular methods like GeneXpert and line probe assay, making it a suitable option for the detection of MDR-TB in resource-poor settings.
Lipid droplets in the nervous system: involvement in cell metabolic homeostasis
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Chen Yiqing , Zhuang Cheng , Qi Jingxuan , Zhao Robert Chunhua , Wang Jiao
Published: June 2024

Lipid droplets serve as primary storage organelles for neutral lipids in neurons, glial cells, and other cells in the nervous system. Lipid droplet formation begins with the synthesis of neutral lipids in the endoplasmic reticulum. Previously, lipid droplets were recognized for their role in maintaining lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis; however, recent research has shown that lipid droplets are highly adaptive organelles with diverse functions in the nervous system. In addition to their role in regulating cell metabolism, lipid droplets play a protective role in various cellular stress responses. Furthermore, lipid droplets exhibit specific functions in neurons and glial cells. Dysregulation of lipid droplet formation leads to cellular dysfunction, metabolic abnormalities, and nervous system diseases. This review aims to provide an overview of the role of lipid droplets in the nervous system, covering topics such as biogenesis, cellular specificity, and functions. Additionally, it will explore the association between lipid droplets and neurodegenerative disorders. Understanding the involvement of lipid droplets in cell metabolic homeostasis related to the nervous system is crucial to determine the underlying causes and in exploring potential therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
Meningeal lymphatic vessel crosstalk with central nervous system immune cells in aging and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Gao Minghuang , Wang Xinyue , Su Shijie , Feng Weicheng , Lai Yaona , Huang Kongli , Cao Dandan , Wang Qi
Published: June 2024

Meningeal lymphatic vessels form a relationship between the nervous system and periphery, which is relevant in both health and disease. Meningeal lymphatic vessels not only play a key role in the drainage of brain metabolites but also contribute to antigen delivery and immune cell activation. The advent of novel genomic technologies has enabled rapid progress in the characterization of myeloid and lymphoid cells and their interactions with meningeal lymphatic vessels within the central nervous system. In this review, we provide an overview of the multifaceted roles of meningeal lymphatic vessels within the context of the central nervous system immune network, highlighting recent discoveries on the immunological niche provided by meningeal lymphatic vessels. Furthermore, we delve into the mechanisms of crosstalk between meningeal lymphatic vessels and immune cells in the central nervous system under both homeostatic conditions and neurodegenerative diseases, discussing how these interactions shape the pathological outcomes. Regulation of meningeal lymphatic vessel function and structure can influence lymphatic drainage, cerebrospinal fluid-borne immune modulators, and immune cell populations in aging and neurodegenerative disorders, thereby playing a key role in shaping meningeal and brain parenchyma immunity.
Almost commuting matrices and stability for product groups
Authors: Ioana Adrian
Published: June 2024

We prove that any product of two non-abelian free groups,

\Gamma=\mathbb{F}_{m}\times\mathbb{F}_{k}

, for

m,k\geq 2

, is not Hilbert–Schmidt stable. This means that there exist asymptotic representations

\pi_{n}\colon \Gamma\rightarrow \mathrm{U}({d_n})

with respect to the normalized Hilbert–Schmidt norm which are not close to actual representations. As a consequence, we prove the existence of contraction matrices

A

,

B

such that

A

almost commutes with

B

and

B^{*}

, with respect to the normalized Hilbert–Schmidt norm, but

A

,

B

are not close to any matrices

A'

,

B'

such that

A'

commutes with

B'

and

B'^{*}

. This settles in the negative a natural version of a question concerning almost commuting matrices posed by Rosenthal in 1969.
Symmetrized non-commutative tori revisited
Authors: Chakraborty Sayan
Published: June 2024

For the flip action of

\mathbb{Z}_{2}

on an

n

-dimensional noncommutative torus

A_{\theta}

, using an exact sequence by Natsume, we compute the K-theory groups of

A_{\theta}\rtimes\mathbb{Z}_{2}

. The novelty of our method is that it also provides an explicit basis of

\operatorname{K}_{0}(A_{\theta}\rtimes\mathbb{Z}_{2})

, for any

\theta

. As an application, for a simple

n

-dimensional torus

A_{\theta}

, using classification techniques, we determine the isomorphism class of

A_{\theta}\rtimes\mathbb{Z}_{2}

in terms of the isomorphism class of

A_{\theta}

.
Living Conditions and Malaria: A Longitudinal Study in a Rural Malaria-Endemic Area of Sri Lanka
Authors: Mahendran Rahini , Pathirana Sisira , Weerasinghe Manuj Chrishantha
Published: June 2024

This study was conducted in a rural malaria-endemic community in Sri Lanka in 2014–2015 because malaria was no longer endemic in the area as of November 2012. Data on sociodemographic factors, living conditions, malaria infections, and use of mosquito protection methods during the period from 1990 to 2015 were collected through a household survey in a systematically selected sample of 724 households, covering >10% of the population in the area. Malaria incidence data were obtained from Anti-Malaria Campaign, and Malaria Research Unit of the University of Colombo. A total of 24,549 malaria cases were reported and a considerable improvement in living conditions was noted during the period covered. The association of malaria case incidence with living conditions of the community was evaluated using Spearman Rank Correlation at P <0.05. Sixty-six percent of households reported a history of malaria. The percentage of poorest type of houses (type 1) declined from 38.8% in the 1990–1994 period to 1.6% by 2015, whereas the best houses (type 5) doubled from 49.1% to 92.1% during the same period. Malaria case incidence was reported to be lowest in the best type houses (r = −0.933, P = 0.007), when pipe-borne water was available within the premises (for drinking: r = −0.846, P = 0.034; for personal hygiene: r = −0.859, P = 0.029), when water-sealed sanitary facilities were available (r = −0.956, P = 0.003), and when mosquito nets were used (r = −0.98, P = 0.001). This observed negative association may have been due to reduced human–mosquito contact.
Conditions and Adaptations in Automotive Technology and Industries-Keynote Address
Authors: Kim Hi Chul
Published: June 2024

We introduce the progress and status of Korean automotive industry and some of observations and views on technology transfer from industrialized countries to developing countries are discussed.
Ignition Characteristics of the Repetitive Electric Sparks
Authors: Cho Kyung-Kook , Jeung In-Seuck
Published: June 2024

The ignition characteristics of single spark and repetitive sparks into a quiescent propane-air premixed combustible gas was investigated by using a capacitor discharge ignitor and a high voltage pulse generator, with the visualization of single shot schlieren photography.

The results clearly demonstrate that the ignition limit of repetitive sparks is much wider than that of single spark and the ignition ability of repetitive sparks is superior to that of single spark. It is also shown that there exists a certain optimum spark delay time interval in the case of repetitive sparks.
Combustion Processes and the State of Gases in a Divided Chamber
Authors: Shimizu Shoshi , Wakai Kazunori , Sakai Shinji
Published: June 2024

The mechanism of combustion in a chamber with an auxiliary one is very complex and the mechanism has a great influence on the performances of an engine. Combustion processes in the chamber have been investigated by taking pressure, temperature, ion current and schlieren photographs of the flame. It is found that the duration of combustion, histories of pressure and temperature distribution are greatly influenced by the configuration of the two chambers. But the effect of stoichiometry of the mixture is not so great because the mechanism of combustion is strongly affected by the speed and intensity of the jet.
A Study of the Torsional Vibration of Automotive Power Trains
Authors: Hui-Le Wu , Cheng Shao , Zhen-Dong Feng
Published: June 2024

This paper presents an experimental and theoretical research on the torsional vibration of automotive power trains. A dynamic model for the power trains was developed, and all parameters of the model were evaluated with experimental data. Free and forced torsional vibration calculations were performed. Spectrum analyses were used in data processing. The effects of damper on diminishing the vibration were investigated experimentally.
Role of Retained Austenite on the Deformation of an Fe-0.07C-1.8Mn-1.4Si Dual-Phase Steel
Authors: Yi Joon Jeong
Published: June 2024

The influence of retained austenite on work hardening behavior of dual-phase steel has been investigated in an intercritically annealed dual-phase steel. The retained austenite was classified morphologically into either isolated or capsulated type. The capsulated type was found to be much stable mechanically than the isolated type since the former could be effectively protected from strain by hard martensite shell. The isolated type was easily deformed by the first several percent plastic strain. The increase in work hardening rate, caused by the strain induced transformation of retained austenite to martensite, was ascribed to the contribution of the isolated type, the major volume fraction of retained austenite.
Aluminum in Automobiles
Authors: Kasper A. S.
Published: June 2024

Automotive materials conversion to aluminum is increasing from 35 kgs in the 70's to more than 60 kgs average in the 1983 U.S. vehicles. To control mass, aluminum intensive vehicles with 180 kgs of aluminum are already in production for greater luxury, roominess, performance, and fuel efficiency.

Optimization of aluminum designs and processing is achieved through the total design concept of “Putting It All Together”. A total of 225 kgs improves performance and maximizes the benefits for upsized vehicles by using current production components, drive trains, power plants, and press plant equipment.
Fuel Economy Technologies for Commercial Vehicles
Authors: Ikeda Teruo , Okita Kin-ya
Published: June 2024

Since the oil crises, improvement of fuel economy of commercial vehicles has become a vital problem common to fleet owners and vehicle manufacturers.

Improvement of fuel economy can he accomplished by combining a fuel-efficient engine and a low running resistance vehicle through engine and transmission matching so that the engine can operate in the most favourable area of its fuel consumption map.

To have gearratios suitable for various operating conditions leads to a multi-speed gearbox in theory. And the results of our experiments show that multi-speed gearbox can offer better fuel economy than 6-speed gearbox widely used today, but the frequent gearshifting it accompanys would prevent it from being widely accepted in Japan.
Performance of a Spark Ignition Engine Fueled with Methanol or Methanol-Gasoline Blends
Authors: Yoo Byung Chui
Published: June 2024

Engine torque and specific energy consumption of an automotive engine were studied under steady state condition using gasoline, methanol gasoline blends and straight methanol as fuel. At first the engine was run without any modification. Next the diameters of metering orifices in carburetor were modified to give the same excess air factor regardless of fuel type under each fixed engine operating condition. Finally the engine was run with 15% mixture methanol in gasoline by volume using the carburetor modified to have approximately 10% larger fuel flow area than the production carburetor. From the results of this study the effects of using methanol on engine torque and specific energy consumption can be explained on the basis of change in stoichiometry caused by the use of methanol.
Vehicle Operating Experience with Methanol as a Substitute for Petrol and Diesel
Authors: Joyce Richard J. , Natusch David F.S. , Richardson David W.
Published: June 2024

Blends of 15% methanol with petrol containing 1% isobutanol have been utilised by 45 vehicles operated for a period of two years. An additional 907 vehicles have been operated for approximately one year to obtain information about the distribution of M15 blends, about necessary co-solvent concentrations, and about general vehicle driveability. Initial studies have also been conducted using 15-20% emulsions of methanol with diesel in diesel-cycle engines. High methanol fuels ranging from M85 to M100 have been tested in six purpose-built vehicles and 45 retrofitted vehicles involving four different types of retrofit systems. In addition, high methanol fuels have also been tested in diesel-cycle engines involving two different types of purpose-built engines, together with unmodified engines.
Automotive Electronics-Status and Challenges for the USA
Authors: Rivard J. G.
Published: June 2024

Automotive electronics has firmly established itself as a major force in the competitive marketing area. This paper provides a brief status of product application in the U.S. It then outlines the author's perception of what technological progress must be achieved over the next decade to assure that optimal system application, including function, cost, and reliability are achieved. This includes defining what the automotive and electronic industries must mutually accomplish. Finally, a product evolution forecast for the next decade is given.
An Own Damage Insurers Experience with Fuel Efficient Vehicles In a Mixed Traffic Environment
Authors: Bentley John F.
Published: June 2024

Vehicle Categorisation guidelines used by the State Insurance Office for setting motor vehicle insurance premiums are given, our experience in the repair of road traffic crash damage to down sized vehicles, has shown the need for a greater involvement of the Vehicle Manufacturer in this area of the Repair Industry.
Licensing: A Two-Way Street
Authors: Cutler F.
Published: June 2024

Licensing technology has long been established a viable means for helping both parties of such an agreement improve their technology bases. The licensor/licensee relationship must be close and interactive to optimize these improvements. The importance of the selection process of potential licensees as well as the structuring of how the technology is transferred are key items for the success of license agreements. Future licensing activities may require tighter controls on technology transfers to protect against the creation of new competitors.
A Study on Octane Requirement for Motor Vehicles in Indonesia
Authors: Kaslan W. , Batti F.
Published: June 2024

The knowledge of the exact level of octane number required for the car population in a country is quite important both for the petroleum refiners and the consumers. If the actual gasoline octane number is too high, the use of a superfuous anti-knock represents a loss for the refiners; on the contrary, if the octane level is too low, knock will result and risks of engine damage may occur. Various factors affecting the octane requirement of the car such as engine design, atmospheric conditions, service life of the car are reviewed.

The octane level needed could only be assessed by actual measurements on cars representing the various types of cars in the country.

Two consecutive studies for the requirement of the car population in Indonesia were carried out in 1978 and 1982 respectively, are described, and the results of the measurements of both studies are expressed in octane requirement curves.
Future Trends in Automotive Fuels and Engine Oils
Authors: McCabe Leo J. , Fitch Fredric B. , Lowther H. Vaughn
Published: June 2024

Spark-ignited gasoline engines are being designed with higher compression ratios using high-swirl, fast-burn combustion chambers and extensive use of electronic controls. These factors, together with the trend to lower lead levels and increasing use of unleaded gasoline, will affect antiknock requirements. Gasoline volatility will be optimized to provide satisfactory performance with available refinery components. The effects of these factors on future gasoline quality requirements are reviewed. The potential for oxygenates as transportation fuels is also assessed.

Continued emphasis on fuel economy will result in increased dieselization. This, together with the trend toward heavier crude oils and more catalytic cracking, will result in diesel fuels with lower cetane number, higher final boiling point, and increased density and viscosity. Test data indicate that the effects of these changes on engine performance should be minimal.

Expected changes in worldwide industry engine oil specifications are described, along with a description of specific engine builder tests designed to evaluate a particular performance feature. The effect of types of base stocks which are applicable to future oils are reviewed. These include solvent-refined, hydroprocessed and synthetic stocks. The role played by various types of chemical-addition agents are also included in this discussion. The expected changes in future engines and their effect on future engine oils are covered. Finally, the most important engine oil performance parameters required for the future are reviewed.
Long Range Program Plan for Safety and Policy towards International Harmonization of Safety Standards
Authors: Miyazaki Takuro , Tozawa Hidemi , Koba Nobuyuki
Published: June 2024

Japanese safety standards are specified by the Safety Regulations and relevant Circular Notices. MOT had revised the standards according to the first program plan for safety of 1972. Future revisions will be made according to the second program plan issued in 1980. The main emphasis will be laid down on measures for high speed driving, measures to prevent fire and safety measures for trucks. MOT will also seek the way to harmonize its standards with the UN ECE Regulations through positive participation to HP 29 of ECE. Efforts for world-wide harmonization will be made by MOT.