bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Osteogenesis Imperfecta Patients Wish Orthopedic Surgeons Had Better Strategies to Help with…”—Results of a Patient and Parent-Oriented Survey
Authors: Flanagan Jill , Tosi Laura , Carter Erika , Hart Tracy , Franzone Jeanne , Wallace Maegen
Published: August 2023

Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a rare genetic disorder in Type I collagen characterized by bone fractures, fragility, and deformity. Current treatments are focused on decreasing fracture rates, improving bone strength, and improving overall global function. Recent research has focused primarily on fracture fixation and outcomes of intramedullary rodding of long bones. While surgical techniques continue to evolve, recent trends in OI research are focusing on patient quality of life and patient-reported outcomes. We created a 12-question survey seeking information regarding aspects of orthopedic care that OI patients and families feel are the most pressing to improve. The survey was electronically administered, and 341 individuals participated. A total of 75% of respondents who answered the age question (254/335) were adults. Regarding surgical intervention for long bones, only 16% of respondents recall being told they could not have surgery because they were too young. Of the 16%, 37.8% were told that <5 years was too young, 13.4% <4 years was too young, and 48.8% <3 years of age was too young for surgical intervention for fractures or deformities. Nearly 22% of respondents were told that their bones were too small for intramedullary fixation. The patient and family responses help elucidate the topics requiring focus for the improvement of OI orthopedic care. Patient concerns and insights should drive the research questions we ask to advance the orthopedic care of OI patients.
Maternal Outcomes Following Active vs. Expectant Management of Previable Preterm Pre-Labor Rupture of Membranes: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sylvester Megan A. , Mintz Gabrielle , Sisti Giovanni
Published: August 2023

The diagnosis of previable preterm pre-labor rupture of membranes (PROM) is known to be associated with poor outcomes for both the mother and the fetus. Following previable preterm PROM, patients are generally offered either active management through the termination of the pregnancy or expectant management to increase the chances of fetal survival. It is difficult to counsel patients because there is a lack of data directly comparing maternal outcomes following active vs. expectant management. Using the data in the current literature, the goal of the present meta-analysis was to determine if there were any differences in terms of maternal risks when active versus elective management was chosen. PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched. We found four studies accounting for a total of 506 patients. The risk ratio (RR) of chorioamnionitis in active vs. expectant management was 0.30 (with a 95% confidence interval, CI, of 0.09–1.02). The heterogeneity of the study results was 81% (I2). A sub–analysis of two included studies revealed an RR of postpartum hemorrhage in active vs. expectant management of 0.75 (95% CI 0.27–2.07) and an RR of maternal sepsis of 0.23 (95% CI 0.04–1.28). The heterogeneity of the study results for this sub-analysis was 68% (I2) for postpartum hemorrhage and 0% (I2) for maternal sepsis. Overall, there was no statistically significant difference in the risk of chorioamnionitis, postpartum hemorrhage, or maternal sepsis when active management was chosen over expectant management in previable preterm PROM at <24 weeks. The scarcity and the high heterogeneity of the available data likely contributed to the lack of statistical significance and calls for further work directly comparing maternal outcomes following active vs. expectant management.
Application of Atmospheric and Room-Temperature Plasma (ARTP) to Microbial Breeding
Authors: Zhang Qin , Miao Renyun , Feng Rencai , Yan Junjie , Wang Tao , Gan Ying , Zhao Jin , Lin Junbin , Gan Bingcheng
Published: August 2023

Atmospheric and room-temperature plasma (ARTP) is an efficient microbial mutagenesis method with broad application prospects. Compared to traditional methods, ARTP technology can more effectively induce DNA damage and generate stable mutant strains. It is characterized by its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and avoidance of hazardous chemicals, presenting a vast potential for application. The ARTP technology is widely used in bacterial, fungal, and microalgal mutagenesis for increasing productivity and improving characteristics. In conclusion, ARTP technology holds significant promise in the field of microbial breeding. Through ARTP technology, we can create mutant strains with specific genetic traits and improved performance, thereby increasing yield, improving quality, and meeting market demands. The field of microbial breeding will witness further innovation and progress with continuous refinement and optimization of ARTP technology.
Multivariate Profiling of Metabolites and Volatile Organic Compounds in Citrus depressa Hayata Fruits from Kagoshima, Okinawa, and Taiwan
Authors: Asikin Yonathan , Tamura Yoshio , Aono Yusuke , Kusano Miyako , Shiba Hiroshi , Yamamoto Masashi , Mitsube Fumimasa , Lin Shu-Yen , Takara Kensaku , Wada Koji
Published: August 2023

Citrus depressa Hayata is a small-fruit citrus species; it is indigenous to Kagoshima, Okinawa, and Taiwan. The metabolites and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect the flavor of its fruits have not been investigated based on geographical origin. In the present study, we investigated the metabolite and VOC profiles of 18 C. depressa cultivation lines from these regions. Multivariate analysis revealed differences in the metabolites of C. depressa based on its cultivation origins; variations in sugar, sugar alcohol, and amino acid contents were also observed. Fruits from Kagoshima and Okinawa had higher galactinol, trehalose, xylose, glucose, and sucrose intensities than fruits from Taiwan (log2-fold change; 2.65–3.44, 1.68–2.13, 1.37–2.01, 1.33–1.57, and 1.07–1.43, respectively), whereas the Taiwanese lines contained higher leucine, isoleucine, serine, and alanine. In contrast to the Taiwanese Nantou line, other cultivation lines had comparable total VOC contents, and the VOCs of all lines were dominated by limonene, γ-terpinene, and p-cymene. Accordingly, the highest VOC intensities were recorded in the Nantou line, which was followed by Shikunin sweet (Kagoshima) and Taoyuan (Taiwan) (log10 normalize concentration; 5.11, 3.08, and 3.01, respectively). Moreover, multivariate analysis plots elucidated the difference in the VOCs of Ishikunibu (Okinawa), Shikunin sweet, and Taoyuan and between those of most Kagoshima and Okinawa cultivation lines. These results suggest that both the cultivation line and origin influence the metabolites and VOCs of C. depressa, thus possibly affecting its flavor quality; the data provide a valuable insight for utilizing C. depressa of different cultivation lines and origins to produce foods and beverages.
Structural and Physical Characteristics of Mixed-Component Oleogels: Natural Wax and Monoglyceride Interactions in Different Edible Oils
Authors: Dimakopoulou-Papazoglou Dafni , Giannakaki Foteini , Katsanidis Eugenios
Published: August 2023

Waxes and monoglycerides (MGs) added in edible oils form oleogels that can be used as an alternative structured fat, providing healthier substitutes to saturated and trans fats in foods. This study aimed to investigate the properties of oleogels formed by the interaction between monoglycerides and different waxes in various edible oils. For this purpose, waxes, namely rice bran (RBW), candelilla (CDW), sunflower (SW), and beeswax (BW), together with MGs in a total concentration level of 15% (w/w) were dissolved in several edible oils (olive, sunflower, sesame, and soybean). The structure and physical properties of oleogels were investigated using texture analysis, polarized light microscopy, melting point measurements, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The hardest structure was produced by SW/MG (5.18 N), followed by CDW (2.87 N), RBW (2.34 N), BW (2.24 N) and plain MG (1.92 N). Furthermore, RBW and SW led to a higher melting point (69.2 and 67.3 °C) than the plain MG oleogels (64.5 °C). Different crystallization structures, i.e., needle-like crystals and spherulites, were observed depending on the type of wax, its concentration, and the oil used. These results can be used to control the properties of oleogels by adjusting the gelator composition for a variety of potential food applications.
Synthesis and Cytotoxicity Studies of Poly(1,4-butanediol citrate) Gels for Cell Culturing
Authors: Bandzerewicz Aleksandra , Niebuda Klara , Gadomska-Gajadhur Agnieszka
Published: August 2023

One of the main branches of regenerative medicine is biomaterials research, which is designed to develop and study materials for regenerative therapies, controlled drug delivery systems, wound dressings, etc. Research is continually being conducted to find biomaterials—especially polymers—with better biocompatibility, broader modification possibilities and better application properties. This study describes a potential biomaterial, poly(1,4-butanediol citrate). The gelation time of poly(1,4-butanediol citrate) was estimated. Based on this, the limiting reaction time and temperature were determined to avoid gelling of the reaction mixture. Experiments with different process conditions were carried out, and the products were characterised through NMR spectra analysis. Using statistical methods, the functions were defined, describing the dependence of the degree of esterification of the acid groups on the following process parameters: temperature and COOH/OH group ratio. Polymer films from the synthesised polyester were prepared and characterised. The main focus was assessing the initial biocompatibility of the materials.
The Influence of the Clinicians’ Experience on the Outcome of Dental Implants: A Clinical Audit
Authors: Aldowah Omir , Alawad Hamad , Alqhtani Mohammad
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this outcome audit is to evaluate the influence of the clinicians’ experience on the outcome of dental implants. In addition, it is to identify the associated risk factors that might influence the success and survival of these implants. Methodology: The records of patients treated with SLA/SLActive Straumann implants were screened. This enabled us to have a minimum of 12 months of follow-up. Eligible patients, according to the inclusion criteria, were contacted and invited to undergo a follow-up assessment. Success was accounted for and defined in a comprehensive manner by considering four different categories: implant perspective, peri-implant soft tissue perspective, prosthetic perspective, and patient satisfaction. The patient investigations included a clinical examination of the implant mobility, suppuration, width of keratinized mucosa, probing depth, plaque accumulation, prosthetic complications, and patient satisfaction. In addition, a periapical radiograph was taken to evaluate bone loss and peri-implant radiolucency. The data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Results: Thirty-eight patients with 84 SLA/SLActive Straumann implants were available for the assessment. The mean age of the patients at implant surgery was 49.05 ± 13.19 years. Over the mean follow-up period of 26 months, no implant fractures were noted. Overall, eight implants were considered failures (9.5%). Two out of six patients with a history of periodontitis (HoP) and two out of five smokers exhibited failed implants. The patients’ satisfaction responses showed that all the responses were statistically higher than the test median value of three. The median value of general satisfaction using a visual analogue scale was 9 out of 10. Conclusions: The implants placed on partially and fully edentulous patients revealed high survival and success rates (100% and 90.5%, respectively) at a mean follow-up time of 26 months. It can be concluded that the implant practise among trainees in the programme is satisfactory. A history of periodontitis and a lack of patient compliance with supportive periodontal therapy in some cases have been shown to be risk factors associated with increased implant failure, mainly peri-implantitis.
Malocclusion Complexity in Patients with Disc Displacement Disorders: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Zúñiga-Herrera Iván Daniel , Aguilar-Pérez Fernando Javier , Escoffié-Ramírez Mauricio , Herrera-Atoche José Rubén
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to determine the possible association between disc displacement (DD) disorders and malocclusion complexity. This cross-sectional study was carried out using a case–control design. The Research Diagnosis Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders were used to identify cases and controls. The Index of Complexity, Outcome, and Need (ICON) was used to quantify malocclusion complexity as easy, mild, moderate, difficult, or very difficult. A total of 310 subjects were included: 130 cases and 180 controls. A binary logistic regression (p < 0.05) was used to identify associations. The odds ratio (OR) was also calculated. DD was associated with sex, age, and malocclusion complexity (p < 0.05). The malocclusion complexity comparison showed that 89.3% of the controls fell within the easy–moderate levels of the ICON, whereas 85.4% of the cases were in the moderate–very difficult levels (p ≤ 0.001). Difficult and very difficult malocclusions had high ORs (9.801 and 9.689, respectively) compared to the easy cases. In conclusion, patients with malocclusion complexity levels classified as difficult or very difficult have greater odds of presenting DD.
The Lived Experiences of Female Immigrant Carers in Madrid, Spain: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Ruiz López Montserrat , Mayoral Gonzalo Noemí , Ruiz Zaldibar Cayetana , Pérez Manchón David , Jiménez Díaz-Benito Victor , Hervás Pérez Juan Pablo
Published: August 2023

Background: Immigration and population ageing represent circumstances with important sociocultural and economic repercussions. Methods: A qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted to understand the daily lives and the work of immigrant women dedicated to caring for older citizens. In-depth interviews and discussion groups were carried out in a group of 40 immigrant carers. Data were analysed via the constant comparative method. Results: Three qualitative themes emerged from the data: ‘difficult lives’, ‘working in the home’, and ‘the vision of the other’. This study highlights the many difficulties encountered by this population. A sense of vulnerability was described while fulfilling their professional duties due to their migrant condition, experiences of gender inequality, and work status. An emotional connection is necessary to provide care, which is impossible in cases of discrimination. Discussion: Administrative regularisation is necessary to improve the quality of immigrant carers’ working conditions.
Fine Mapping and Candidate Gene Analysis of the Gv1 Locus Controlling Green-Peel Color in Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Lv Zijian , Jin Qingmin , Li Zhiliang , Li Tao , Wang Yikui , You Qian , Gong Chao , Heng Zhou , Sun Baojuan
Published: August 2023

Peel color is one of the most important appearance qualities of eggplant. The main pigment in the peel of green-fruited eggplant is chlorophyll, while white-fruited eggplant is a mutant of chlorophyll biosynthesis. A dominant gene Gv controls chlorophyll biosynthesis in eggplant peel, but none of its genes have been mapped. In this study, the white-peel inbred line 19141, the green-peel inbred line 19143, and their F2 progeny with 3:1 segregation ratio of green-peel plants to white-peel plants, were used to map the Gv1 locus by whole genome re-sequencing combined with bulked segregant analysis (BSA). The Gv1 gene was mapped in a region spanning 7.66 Mb on chromosome 8, which was narrowed down to 173.2 kb interval by screening recombinant plants with InDel and SNP markers. Sixteen candidate genes were annotated in the above closely associated region. With the aid of RNA-Seq data, it was speculated that SmAPPR2-like is the candidate gene for Gv1. The results of cloning and sequencing of SmAPPR2-like showed that there might have been three types of mutation (large deletion, frameshift variant and premature stop codon) in white-peel accessions, and of these, the deletion mutation, such as that in inbred line 19141, was the most common. Based on the sequence difference of SmAPPR2-like, molecular markers were developed to distinguish the white and green-peel accessions in natural eggplant populations, and the other types of genetic variations of SmAPPR2-like leading to white-peel accessions were elucidated. The present study not only provided reliable markers for MAS (marker-assisted selection) breeding for eggplant peel color, but also paved the way for understanding the molecular mechanism of SmAPPR2-like on chlorophyll biosynthesis in eggplant fruit.
On Multivariate Picard–Fuchs Systems and Equations
Authors: Aleksandrov Alexander G.
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we studied the Picard–Fuchs systems and equations which appear in the theory of Gauss–Manin systems and connections associated with deformations of isolated singularities. Among other things, we describe some interesting properties of such systems and relationships between them. Then we show how to calculate the fundamental solutions to the Gauss–Manin system for Aμ-singularities and to the corresponding generalized Legendre equations in terms of the multidimensional Horn’s hypergeometric functions. In conclusion, some important questions concerning basic properties of the local and global Picard–Fuchs systems of Pfaffian type, involving integrability conditions and commuting relations, are discussed in some detail.
Relationship between Burnout, Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and Inflammatory Markers: A Protocol for Scoping Review
Authors: Adebayo Oladimeji , Nkhata Misheck J. , Kanmodi Kehinde K. , Alatishe Taiwo , Egbedina Eyinade , Ojo Temitope , Ojedokun Samson , Oladapo John , Adeoye Abiodun Moshood , Nnyanzi Lawrence A.
Published: August 2023

Background: Burnout is increasingly being recognized as a contributory factor to the erosion of a positive psychological state. Studies have examined the relationship between burnout and various inflammatory markers such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-alpha. Burnout is also associated with increased systemic inflammation along a continuum of symptom severity. This protocol is for a scoping review looking at the link between burnout, inflammatory markers, and cardiovascular risks or diseases. Methods: This study will be based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines/checklists and the report of the review will be based on the same guideline. The study seeks to address the following principal questions. (i) What are the relevant inflammatory biomarkers that mediate cardiovascular risk factors in burnout? (ii) How do inflammatory biomarkers mediate cardiovascular risk factors in burnout? The outputs obtained from the literature search will be deduplicated using the Rayyan software. Results: We would create table summaries of findings to inform a narrative synthesis of the evidence from the papers included. Conclusion: The review article would help to concisely synthesize the available evidence on the relationship between burnout, inflammatory markers, and cardiovascular diseases.
Biomechanical Investigation of Bone Screw Head Design for Extracting Stripped Screw Heads: Integration of Mechanical Tests and Finite Element Analyses
Authors: Khalaf Kinda , Azhang Arash , Cheng Chih-Hsiu , Nikkhoo Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Enhancing the design of bone screw head sockets to prevent stripping and improve the torque required for smooth unscrewing is a significant challenge in orthopedic applications. This research aims to establish a quantitative methodology by integrating mechanical testing with finite element (FE) simulations to determine a safe limitation depth for the screwdriver when engaging with the hexagonal socket, thus avoiding stripped screw heads. A FE model was developed to investigate the biomechanical responses of the screw head design. Five custom-made hexagonal sockets were manufactured, and single load torsional tests were conducted to assess the mechanical performance of the screws and drivers. The results from the mechanical tests were compared with the FE simulations, demonstrating a close agreement and confirming the model’s validity. Furthermore, additional FE models were created to study the impact of manufacturing tolerances on the socket width and screwdriver width. The findings revealed that the maximum torque to failure for the four designs was lower than the margins specified in ISO 6475. Additionally, increasing the depth of the screwdriver led to higher maximum torque values. This research suggests that the technique of screw insertion, specifically the depth of the driver tool within the screw socket, holds greater importance in preventing stripped screw heads than the design and manufacturing width of the bone screw’s hexagonal socket and screwdriver. This confirms the importance of screwdriver engagement inside the bone screw socket to prevent stripped screw heads and sheds light on the added value of maximum torque prediction for future design modifications.
Non-Destructive Evaluation of Thermal Aging in EPDM Rubber Using Electromagnetic Techniques
Authors: Sepehri Sobhan , Trey Stacy , Lake Kajsa , Cumming Carl , Johansson Christer
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the use of eddy-current technology and impedance spectroscopy in sensing the change in rubber properties after it is exposed to accelerated thermal aging. The thermal aging process, by application of temperature and pressure over time, of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubbers containing both carbon black (CB) and graphene are investigated. Both eddy-current sensing and electrical impedance measurement techniques were used for electromagnetic analysis. Both methods measure the in- and out-of-phase responses as a function of excitation frequency at room temperature. The measurements were performed before and after the aging process. The electrical percolation threshold was detected in the rubber samples by varying the CB content from 0 to 40 wt%. In the rubber sample containing 30 wt% CB, 0–5 wt% of the CB was replaced with graphene flakes. The substitution of graphene for CB in the EPDM rubber formulation provided an enhanced eddy-current and electrical impedance response. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of employing electromagnetic analysis techniques to investigate the extent of aging.
Machine Learning Alternatives to Response Surface Models
Authors: Ghattas Badih , Manzon Diane
Published: August 2023

In the Design of Experiments, we seek to relate response variables to explanatory factors. Response Surface methodology (RSM) approximates the relation between output variables and a polynomial transform of the explanatory variables using a linear model. Some researchers have tried to adjust other types of models, mainly nonlinear and nonparametric. We present a large panel of Machine Learning approaches that may be good alternatives to the classical RSM approximation. The state of the art of such approaches is given, including classification and regression trees, ensemble methods, support vector machines, neural networks and also direct multi-output approaches. We survey the subject and illustrate the use of ten such approaches using simulations and a real use case. In our simulations, the underlying model is linear in the explanatory factors for one response and nonlinear for the others. We focus on the advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches and show how their hyperparameters may be tuned. Our simulations show that even when the underlying relation between the response and the explanatory variables is linear, the RSM approach is outperformed by the direct neural network multivariate model, for any sample size (<50) and much more for very small samples (15 or 20). When the underlying relation is nonlinear, the RSM approach is outperformed by most of the machine learning approaches for small samples (n ≤ 30).
GPX3 rs8177412 Polymorphism Modifies Risk of Upper Urothelial Tumors in Patients with Balkan Endemic Nephropathy
Authors: Radic Savic Zana , Coric Vesna , Vidovic Stojko , Vidovic Vanja , Becarevic Jelena , Milovac Irina , Reljic Zorica , Mirjanic-Azaric Bosa , Skrbic Ranko , Gajanin Radoslav , Matic Marija , Simic Tatjana
Published: August 2023

Current data suggest that aristolochic acid (AA) exposure is a putative cause of Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN), a chronic kidney disease strongly associated with upper tract urothelial carcinoma. The cellular metabolism of AA is associated with the production of reactive oxygen species, resulting in oxidative distress. Purpose: Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze individual, combined and cumulative effect of antioxidant gene polymorphisms (Nrf2 rs6721961, KEAP1 rs1048290, GSTP1AB rs1695, GSTP1CD rs1138272, GPX3 rs8177412 and MDR1 rs1045642), as well as GSTP1ABCD haplotypes with the risk for BEN development and associated urothelial cell carcinoma in 209 BEN patients and 140 controls from endemic areas. Experimental method: Genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and PCR with confronting two-pair primers (PCR-CTTP) methods. Results: We found that female patients carrying both variant GPX3 rs8177412 and MDR1 rs1045642 genotypes in combination exhibited significant risk towards BEN (OR 1 = 3.34, 95% CI = 1.16–9.60, p = 0.025; OR 2 = 3.79, 95% CI = 1.27–11.24, p = 0.016). Moreover, significant association was determined between GPX3rs8174412 polymorphism and risk for urothelial carcinoma. Carriers of variant GPX3*TC + CC genotype were at eight-fold increased risk of BEN-associated urothelial tumors development. There was no individual or combined impact on BEN development and BEN-associated tumors among all examined polymorphisms. The haplotype consisting of variant alleles for both polymorphisms G and T was associated with 1.6-fold increased risk although statistically insignificant (OR = 1.64; 95% CI = 0.75–3.58; p = 0.21). Conclusions: Regarding GPX3 rs8177412 polymorphism, the gene variant that confers lower expression is associated with significant increase in upper urothelial carcinoma risk. Therefore, BEN patients carrying variant GPX3 genotype should be more frequently monitored for possible upper tract urothelial carcinoma development.
Kinetics of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Antibodies after the Second and Third Dose of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 Vaccine and Association with Epidemiological Characteristics and Breakthrough Infection in a Cohort Study of Healthcare Workers
Authors: Tatsi Elizabeth-Barbara , Filippatos Filippos , Dellis Charilaos , Dourdouna Maria-Myrto , Syriopoulou Vasiliki , Michos Athanasios
Published: August 2023

To prospectively study the kinetics of immune responses after immunization with the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine and their association with epidemiological parameters and breakthrough infection (BI), we measured total (TAbs-WT) and neutralizing antibodies against wild-type (NAbs-WT) and Omicron (NAbs-O) SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins in healthcare workers (HCWs) after the second (4 and 8 months) and third dose (1 and 8 months). Vaccinated HCWs (n = 486), with a median age (IQR) of 49 years (38–56), were included in this prospective cohort study. BI was observed 4 and 8 months after the second dose in 8/486 (1.6%) and 15/486 (3.1%) HCWs, respectively, and 1 and 8 months after the third dose in 17/486 (3.5%) and 152/486 (31.3%) HCWs, respectively. A comparison of immune responses 1 month after the third dose in vaccinated HCWs without a BI or with a BI in the next 7 months did not detect any statistically significant differences in the TAbs-WT (median (IQR): 16,611.0 (13,011.0) U/mL vs. 17,572.5 (14,501.0) U/mL, p = 0.529) and NAbs-WT (median (IQR): 96.5% (1.7) vs. 96.7% (1.9), p = 0.555). After infection, HCWs with a BI had significantly increased TAbs-WT levels at all time points compared to healthy HCWs. The findings of the present study indicate that antibody levels after three doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine are not directly associated with the possibility of a BI.
Comparison of Intestinal Permeability Methods in Broilers over a 6-Week Growth Period
Authors: Wiersema Maddison L. , Kerr Brian J. , Koltes Dawn A.
Published: August 2023

The adoption of methods detecting intestinal permeability in poultry has been slow due to the lack of urine availability in avian species. The objective of this study was to examine intestinal permeability assays in broilers using serum. Fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran (FITC-D) and lactulose/mannitol/sucralose (LMS), indigestible sugars, were used to detect intestinal permeability across two fed states (fed or fasted) and four sugar treatments (Control, FITC-D, LMS, or FITC-D+LMS). Broilers housed in pens were assigned one of eight treatments and sampled on 14, 28, and 42 days of age. Data were analyzed using PROC Glimmix for fed state, sugar treatment, age, and all interactions. Serum lactulose and FITC-D increased in fasted compared to fed birds (p < 0.006), whereas mannitol increased in fed compared to fasted birds (p < 0.001). Serum lactulose and FITC-D decreased on day 28 compared to other timepoints (p < 0.003). Serum FITC-D only had a significant sugar by fed state interaction (p < 0.05) with elevated concentrations in fasted and fed birds that received FITC-D. Serum lactulose was significant for all interactions with elevated concentrations in broilers provided lactulose and fasted (p < 0.001). The ability to detect a three-way interaction with serum lactulose suggests an increased sensitivity; however, additional studies are needed.
Eco-Friendly Degradation of Natural Rubber Powder Waste Using Some Microorganisms with Focus on Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Biodegraded Rubber
Authors: EL-Wafai Nahed A. , Farrag Aya M. I. , Abdel-Basit Howaida M. , Hegazy Mohamed I. , Al-Goul Soha Talal , Ashkan Mada F. , Al-Quwaie Diana A. , Alqahtani Fatimah S. , Amin Shimaa A. , Ismail Mohamed N. , Yehia Abbas A. , El-Tarabily Khaled A.
Published: August 2023

Natural rubber (NR) powder wastes contribute to the pollution of the environment and pose a risk to human health. Therefore, Escherichia coli AY1 and Aspergillus oryzae were used to degrade NR in the present investigation. The biodegradation was further confirmed using E. coli AY1 and A. oryzae’s ability to create biofilm, which grew on the surface of the NR. Additionally, the biodegraded NR was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared (ATR–FTIR) spectroscopy, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The highest weight loss (69%) of NR was detected (p < 0.05) after 210 d of incubation with the mixed microbial culture (E. coli AY1 + A. oryzae). In the SEM, the surface of the control treatment appeared uniform and normal, whereas the surface of the microbial treatment displayed an irregular shape, with apparent particle deformation and surface erosion. After biodegradation by E. coli AY1 and A. oryzae, the particle size range of the untreated NR dropped from (5.367–9.623 µm) to (2.55–6.549 µm). After treating NR with E. coli AY1 and A. oryzae, new bands appeared in the ATR–FTIR technique; others shifted down in the range of 3910–450 cm−1, suggesting the existence of active groups belonging to alcohol, secondary amine, aromatic amine, conjugated anhydride, aldehyde, alkene, and halo compounds. On the other hand, the GC–MS profile reports a significant decline (p < 0.05) in the amount of hydrocarbons while simultaneously reporting a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the proportion of oxygenated, sulfurous, and nitrogenous compounds. These active groups are attributed to the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of biodegraded NR by a mixture of E. coli AY1 and A. oryzae, which rose 9-fold (p < 0.05) compared to untreated NR. Through the use of this research, we will be able to transform NR waste into a valuable product that possesses both antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
Role of Reductive Soil Disinfestation and Chemical Soil Fumigation on the Fusarium Wilt of Dioscorea batatas Decne Suppression
Authors: Shao Qin , Li Xiaopeng , Zhao Tian , Wu Yiyang , Xiang Liqin , Pan Shengfu , Guo Zihan , Liu Liangliang
Published: August 2023

Reductive soil disinfestation (RSD) and chemical soil fumigation (CSF) comprise the most popular pre-planting soil management strategies. Their efficiency in suppressing several plant diseases in agricultural production systems has been compared. However, the disease-control effect of these methods on Fusarium wilt disease in Dioscorea batatas Decne (D. batatas) remains unclear. Importantly, dissimilarities in the impact of their bio-predictors on plant health have not been well characterized. Herein, four treatments, including no treatment (CK), RSD with gran chaff (GC-RSD) and molasses (MO-RSD), and CSF with dazomet (DA-CSF), were performed in a pot experiment using D. batatas-diseased soil. Compared with the CK treatment, the Fusarium oxysporum population significantly decreased by 88.89–97.78% following the DA-CSF, GC-RSD, and MO-RSD treatments. The bacterial community and functional composition of the soil were considerably altered by these treatments. However, the incidence of Fusarium wilt disease in D. batatas was significantly decreased in the two RSD-treated soils, rather than in DA-CSF-treated soils. Bacterial α-diversity and population as well as some key nitrogen-related functional gene expressions as bio-predictors were significantly lower in DA-CSF-treated soil than in RSD-treated soil. In particular, the core (e.g., Azotobacter, Phenylobacterium, Clostridium, Bradyrhizobium, Microvirga, and Caulobacter) and unique (e.g., Pseudomonas, Brevundimonas, Flavobacterium, Ochrobactrum, and Sphingobacterium) functional microbiomes in RSD-treated soil exerted a positive impact on soil functional composition of the soil and plant growth. Taken together, our results indicate that RSD outperformed CSF in promoting plant health by regulating the bacterial community and functional composition.
Constraining the Thickness of the Galactic Halo through Cosmic-Ray Anisotropy Using the Spatial-Dependent-Propagation Model
Authors: Qiao Bing-Qiang , Yao Yu-Hua , Liu Wei , Yuan Qiang , Bi Xiao-Jun , Hu Hong-Bo , Guo Yi-Qing
Published: August 2023

The spatial-dependent-propagation (SDP) model with a nearby source works well to reproduce the coevolving features of both cosmic-ray (CR)-nuclei spectra and anisotropy. However, it is well known that the Sun is actually deviating from the galactic disk. This will lead to a dominating anisotropy in the direction perpendicular to the galactic disk, which is discrepant with current observations. Thus, it is necessary to further investigate the effect of the solar offset on anisotropy. In this work, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the combined studies of the solar offset, nuclei spectra, and anisotropy have been performed based on the SDP model. As a result, to reproduce CR spectra and anisotropy, the thickness of the inner halo (ZIH) needs to increase linearly with the displacement of the Sun. We also know that the PeV anisotropy could be used to estimate the value of the diffusion coefficient, thus breaking the degeneracy between the diffusion coefficient and halo thickness. Therefore, it is a good approach to constrain the halo thickness. Moreover, the anisotropy in the PeV energy region, as a new probe, might also shed new light on constraining the solar offset. It is hoped that the anisotropy of the energies from ∼TeV to PeV can be finely measured with the LHAASO experiment, leading to a better understanding of the thick halo.
How to Create a Distinctly Native Journal
Authors: Chavis Larry W.
Published: August 2023

In this essay, I describe three characteristics that Indigenous Business and Public Administration should aim to develop to be a distinctly Native journal. The journal should not be contained by dominant stereotypes of Native Americans. It should reflect the adaptability and innovation that Native Americans have shown in surviving the continuing colonial endeavor to erase us. Finally, the relationships between members of this community should be prioritized at least as much as the content. I developed these characteristics by reflecting on my experiences in higher education along with the ideas of other Native scholars.
State policy in the field of management of socio-economic processes in modern Russia
Authors: Khamalinskaya Victoria V. , Guz Natalya A.
Published: August 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the prospects for the development of the model of socio-economic policy of Russia in the conditions of the sixth technological order. The analysis of the main indicators of socio-economic development of the Russian Federation for 2021-2022 and the planned period from 2023 to 2025 is carried out. Three directions of development of the model of socio-economic policy of Russia are proposed, affecting the issues of sustainable development of the territories of the state, increasing the number and importance of scientific research, control of pricing for goods and services.
About the development of tools financial management in the public administration sector
Authors: Fadeikina Natalia V. , Fadeikin George A. , Morozova Oksana V.
Published: August 2023

The authors describe the mechanism of reforming the budget process since 2004, the basic setting of which was the shift of the emphasis of the budget process from "management of budget resources (costs)" to "results management" by increasing responsibility and expanding the independence of participants in the budget process and administrators of budget funds within clear medium-term guidelines. Results-based budgeting (RBB) is defined as the basic tool for public finance management in the budget reform. It is noted that the main goal of effective and responsible public finance management, that is, ensuring the quality of financial management in the public administration sector, is to provide public (state and municipal) services of high quality while increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of budget expenditures. At the same time, it is emphasized that the development of financial management tools in the public administration sector is based on the use of a managerial approach to the management of public (municipal) finances. The rationale for the need to implement a mechanism for monitoring the quality of financial management is illustrated and a multistage process of its improvement in the period 2007-2022 is described.
Getting to Know the Economy in Your Community: Automated Social Accounting
Authors: Rodriguez Abelardo , Braak Willem , Watson Philip
Published: August 2023

In response to the demand for economic base assessments in different counties and small regions, an automated social accounting matrix (ASAM) was developed through a fruitful collaboration between graduate students and Extension faculty. ASAM uses direct or customized secondary information from IMPLAN to estimate the economic contributions of different sectors and their economic multipliers. Tabular and graphic results can be rapidly customized for discussions in communities of practice. ASAM is a tool that can foster teachable moments.
Relationships Between 4-H Volunteer Leader Competencies and Skills Youth Learn in 4-H Programs
Authors: Radhakrishna Rama , Ewing John
Published: August 2023

This article examined the relationships between 4-H volunteer leader competencies and skills youth learn in 4-H. Using a descriptive-correlational research, the study reported found significant relationships between leadership competencies and skills youth learn in 4-H. Regression analysis revealed that two variables—skills and belonging—explained 28.1% of the variance in youth life skills, suggesting that when volunteer leaders make kids feel welcome and important to the 4-H program and demonstrate importance of life skills, then youth learn life skills relative to communications, decision making, goal setting, and relationship building.
Land-Grant University Employee Perceptions of eXtension: A Baseline Descriptive Study
Authors: Kelsey Kathleen , Stafne Eric , Greer Lance
Published: August 2023

eXtension was publicly launched in 2008 as an online resource; however, adoption rates have been disappointing. The research reported here measured adoption of eXtension, willingness to participate in a Community of Practice, and adoption barriers among Oklahoma Extension employees. The adoption rate was 49%, and 43% of employees were willing to join a CoP. Lack of time and knowledge of eXtension were key barriers to adoption. Recommendations include training employees how to use eXtension and become a member of a CoP. Adopting scholarship guidelines to reward faculty and educators for contributing to eXtension may facilitate adoption of this innovation.
Seftriakson Etken Maddeli İlacın İnsan Pankreas Hücresi Üzerinde Sitotoksik Etkilerinin MTT Testi İle Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: KURT Asena , ÇÖL Zinet , ERTÜRK Ömer
Published: August 2023

Tıp dünyasında önemli yere sahip olan antibiyotikler bakterilerin sebep olduğu enfeksiyon hastalıkların tedavisinde sıklıkla kullanılan bir grup ilaçtır. Yararlı etkilerin yanı sıra yan etkisiz değillerdir. Her zaman klinikte saptanamayan yan etkilere hücresel düzeyde saptanabilir. Hücresel düzeydeki hasarlar yeni bozukluklara yol açabilir. Seftriakson, üçüncü kuşak sefalosporinler grubuna ait antibiyotiktir. Gram negatif bakterilerin neden olduğu enfeksiyonların tedavisinde tercih edilir. Bu çalışmada, seftriakson antibiyotiğinin insan pankreas hücresinde (hTERT-HPNE) sitotoksisitesi araştırıldı. hTERT-HPNE hücreleri, seftriakson etken maddesi içeren ilaca maruz bırakıldı. Deney grubu konsantrasyonu, 0,097 mM, 0,195 mM, 0,390 mM, 0,781 mM, 1,562 mM, 3,125 mM, 6,25 mM, 12,5 mM aralığında hazırlanarak 24,48 ve 72 saatlik maruziyet süresine bırakılmıştır. MTT testi sonuçlarında doza bağlı hücre canlılığında düşüşler görülmüştür. Hücre canlılığında ilk azalma, 24 saatlik maruziyetten sonra 0,781 mM'lik bir konsantrasyonda ve 48 saatlik maruziyette 0,195 mM'lik konsantrasyonda gözlendi. 72 saatlik maruziyet süresinde ise uygulanan tüm konsantrasyonlarda hücre canlılığı azaldı. Seftriakson etken maddeli antibiyotiğin maruziyeti sonrasında hücrelerin morfolojilerinde değişim ve canlılığını kaybetmiş hücreler gözlemlenmiştir. Sonuç olarak seftriaksonun dozuna bağlı olarak hücre canlılığındaki azalmalar negatif kontrole kıyaslandığında istatistiksel olarak anlamlı bulunmuştur (P
Karakaya Baraj Gölü’nde Yaşayan Arabibarbus grypus (Heckel, 1843) (Şabut) Populasyonunun Bazı Büyüme Özelliklerinin Belirlenmesi
Authors: CENGİZ Burhan , ŞEKER Engin , ÖZCAN Ebru İfakat
Published: August 2023

Bu çalışmada; Karakaya Baraj Gölü’ndeki Arabibarbus grypus’un (Heckel, 1843) eşey dağılımı, boy ve ağırlık ilişkisi, yaş tayini, von Bertalanffy büyüme parametreleri ve kondisyon faktörü gibi bazı büyüme özellikleri araştırılmıştır. İncelenen 74 bireyin %37,84’ünün (28 adet) dişi, %62,16’sının (46 adet) erkek olduğu ve dişi/erkek oranının 1/0,6087 olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Örneklerin total boy ve ağırlıkları dişilerde 32,0-62,2 cm ve 354,0-3046 g; erkeklerde 25,0-63,0 cm ve 200,0-3350 g arasında değişmektedir. İncelenen örneklerin yaş grupları II ile VI arasında değişmektedir. Boy-ağırlık ilişkisi dişilerde W = 0,0067L3,079, erkeklerde W = 0,011L2,962 ve tüm bireylerde W = 0,0096L2,993 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Karakaya Baraj Gölü’ndeki A. grypus’un izometrik bir büyüme gösterdiği saptanmıştır (p>0,05). von Bertalanffy büyüme parametreleri dişiler için Lt = 76,53 [1 – e–0,348 (t + 1,22)], erkekler için Lt = 89,83 [1 – e–0,212 (t + 2,08)] ve tüm bireyler için Lt = 92,40 [1 – e–0,200 (t + 2,21)] olarak tahmin edilmiştir. Büyüme performans endeksi (Ф') değeri dişi, erkek ve tüm bireyler için sırasıyla 3,309; 3,233 ve 3,232 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Kondisyon faktörü dişi bireylerde 0,707-1,120 ve erkek bireylerde ise 0,702-1,356 arasında değişmektedir.
Educación patrimonial, interculturalidad y autonomía educativa para Bolivia, desde la ecorregión chiquitana
Authors: Vaca Claudia
Published: August 2023

Este texto está contextualizado en la ecorregión chiquitana de Bolivia, un lugar del mundo que alberga riqueza cultural y natural de gran valor para la humanidad, cuyo patrimonio cultural y natural necesita ser resguardado desde los sistemas de transferencia educativo-cultural, más allá de las políticas de patrimonialización estatal centralista, requiriendo políticas descentralizadas que operativicen recursos para el resguardo y transferencia sistemática de todo el patrimonio. El diseño de este estudio es mixto, con predominancia cualitativa; se realizaron entrevistas dialógicas a 4 generaciones de ciudadanos que ejercieron el profesorado (1970, 1980, 1990, 2000), y se aplicó un test validado por expertos internacionales, sobre patrimonio cultural a 500 profesores del sistema educativo boliviano actual, para recoger las muestras en relación a las prácticas didácticas y diversas concepciones de la educación en el siglo XXI, considerando las intermediaciones de las tecnologías de información y comunicación y la cultura a escala humana. El resultado de la investigación es un análisis crítico e interpretativo, que permite identificar un mapa de acción en políticas culturales desde la educación patrimonial.
Prinsip Kepemimpinan Moral Spiritual Sekolah Dalam Pembangunan Karakter PAUD di TK Nurul Hidayah Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai
Authors: Harahap Hotni Sari , Armanila Armanila
Published: August 2023

Early childhood education is a fundamental educational process. Children at an early age will find it very easy to imitate or imitate what they see so that with the ability of the principal to display leadership that emphasizes the moral-spiritual aspect, it will be able to help early childhood in shaping their character. This study aims to find out how spiritual-moral-based principal leadership can improve character learning. The research method uses a descriptive qualitative approach. The results of the study show that through a moral-spiritual leadership approach there are three stages in the formation of character, namely moral knowing; moral feeling; and moral action is easier to implement through the learning process. As input material for school principals, they should choose a moral-spiritual leadership approach in forming character, namely moral knowing; moral feeling; and moral action is easier to implement through the learning process. The selection of the right spiritual-moral leadership approach can influence the formation of the character of student achievement.
 
ABSTRAK
Pendidikan anak usia dini merupakan proses pendidikan yang fundamental. Anak di usia dini akan sangat mudah dalam meniru atau mencontoh apa saja yang dilihatnya sehingga dengan kemampuan kepala sekolah menampilkan kepemimpinan yang menonjolkan pada aspek moral spiritual akan mampu membantu anak usia dini dalam membentuk karakternya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui bagaimana kepemimpinan kepala sekolah berbasis moral spiritual mampu meningkatkan pembelajaran karakter. Metode penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif.  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa melalui pendekatan kepemimpinan moral spiritual tiga tahapan dalam pembentukan karaktek yakni moral knowing; moral feeling; dan moral action    lebih mudah diimplementasikan melalui proses pembelajaran. Sebagai bahan masukan bagi kepala sekolah sebaiknya memilih pendekatan kepemimpinan moral spiritual dalam pembentukan karaktek yakni moral knowing; moral feeling; dan moral action    lebih mudah diimplementasikan melalui proses pembelajaran. Pemilihan pendekatan kepemimpinan moral spiritual yang tepat dapat berpengaruh terhadap dalam pembentukan karaktek pencapaian prestasi belajar siswa.