bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Identification of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and Bacterial Leaf Blight Resistance Genes Xa5, and Xa21 in Cultivated Rice Accessions Benin
Authors: Nanoukon Chimène Nadège Mahoussi , Montcho Koffi David Hambada , Missihoun Antoine Abel , Déguénon Kéllya Laurinzo , Loumédjinon Bignon Meyrix Paméla Franzel , ZINSOU Emilienne , Zinsou Emilienne , Hougbélagnon Réel Gael Fael , Havivi Amed , Baba-Moussa Lamine , Djédatin Lambert Gustave
Published: September 2023

In Benin, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) causing bacterial blight (BLB) was first described in 2013 on wild rice Oryza longistaminata. No studies have been conducted on Beninese Xoo strains and resistant rice varieties. The aim of this study is to check whether Xoo has already spread to cultivated varieties and to screen some rice accessions for the main resistance genes detection. To achieve this aim, rice leaves showing typical BLB symptoms were collected from various rice fields in Benin and analyzed by PCR to identify Xoo-specific sequences. In addition, seventy-five rice accessions were examined to identify Xoo resistance genes. The results showed that Xanthomonas oryzae (Xo) had been identified in Banikouara and Malanville. In addition, Sphingomonas sp was detected in several rice fields. A Xo-Sphingomonas Sp co-infection was also noted. 47 of 75 rice accessions examined (62.66%) carried Xoo resistance genes with 3 (4%) and 40 (53.33%) of xa5 and Xa21 respectively. None of the accessions had neither Xa7 nor Xa13 resistance genes. Three accessions had both xa5 and Xa21 genes. In addition, the rice isogenic lines IRBB60 and IRBB21used as positive controls, were found to be susceptible. These results indicate that Xo has evolved from a wild rice to cultivated varieties in northern Benin. Consequently, a varietal improvement program must be implemented with varieties having resistance genes to prevent a BLB pandemic in Benin.
Long-Term Effects of Plastic Mulch in a Sandy-Loam Soil Cultivated with Blueberry at Southern Portugal
Authors: Pedra Fiilipe , Inácio Maria de Lurdes , Fareleira Paula , Oliveira Pedro , Pereira Pablo , Carranca Corina
Published: September 2023

Agriculture uses plastic products for containers, packaging, tunnels, drip irrigation tubing, mulches. Large amounts of plastics are used as mulches on the soil surface for vegetable production (tomato, cucumber, watermelon, strawberry, vine) to reduce the weed competition, increase water and fertilizer use efficiency and enhance crop yield. Portugal uses around 4,500 t/year of plastic to cover approximately 23,000 ha of agricultural land and only a scarce amount is recovered for recycling or secondary uses because of contamination with soil, vegetation, pesticide and fertilizers. Most plastic mulch is composed of polyethylene that degrades slowly and produces a large quantity of residues in soil with negative impact in the environment. In the present study, the effects of long-term cultivation of blueberry with green plastic mulch, at south Portugal, were evaluated for soil chemical and biological changes. High density green plastic mulch did not contaminate the topsoil with di(2-Ethylhexyl) phtalate and heavy metals. In the planting row with mulch a reduction of total nitrogen and organic carbon concentration, cation exchange capacity and microbial activity in topsoil compared with bare soil. Apparently, the presence of film did not affect negatively the presence of nematodes but the Rhabditida (bacterial feeders) increased in the planting row.
Models for Estimating Coefficients for the Prediction of Maximum and Minimum Index Void Ratios for Mixtures of Sand and Non-Plastic Silt
Authors: Polito Carmine P
Published: September 2023

In estimating the maximum and minimum index void ratios for mixtures of sand and silt, the values of several empirical constants must be determined based on the type of sand and silt involved. These empirical constants are the filling coefficient, a, and embedment coefficient, b, both of which can be determined either through lab testing or correlations. These constants are then used in equations to predict the maximum and minimum index void ratios of the sand-silt mixtures. The study reported here developed simple correlations for estimating the filling and embedment coefficients using readily obtained laboratory data. These models were found to be excellent in developing filling and embedment coefficients that accurately (R2 values typically of 0.94 or greater.) predicted values of the index void ratios for sand and silt mixtures.
Finite Element Analysis of Cold-Formed Steel Stud Wall Subjected to Blast Loading and Validation Using Artificial Neural Network and Response Surface Methodology
Authors: S.A. Vengadesh Subramanian , Nambiappan Umamaheswari
Published: September 2023

This paper focused on the finite element analysis of structural system in extreme loading condition. Two different stud shape and thicknesses were analyzed under blast. The stud thickness such as 1.19 mm and 1.5 mm were modelled and analyzed using ABAQUS 6.14. FEM is a tool which predicts the engineering physics of the real structure. To validate the finite element modelling performed by authors, a reference work published by earlier researchers on cold-formed steel stud wall is considered and examined in the present study. The novelty of this study was web corrugation and influence of flange width on stud. The models mimic like an air bag in a car to delay the pressure timing inside the stud wall. The mass of explosive used as 1.56 kg at a standard scaled distance. Time versus displacement was captured out at four locations in the stud wall. One of the objectives is to develop mathematical model to validate the deformation of stud under blast loading. Two mathematical models were validated using Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The results captured in ANN model was error histogram, regression plot, best performance fit and training data. The models were capable of resisting the moderate blast load. The response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to evaluate model performance Regression equations are useful for predicting future trends and outcomes, which is crucial for planning and decision-making. The primary goal of this work is to evaluate cold-formed steel stud walls with varying stud sizes under blast loading using finite element analysis and validated by ANN and RSM.
Polymer-Embedding Germanium Nanostrip Waveguide of High Polarization Extinction
Authors: Liu Jinyuan , Zhang Ziyang
Published: September 2023

Germanium (Ge) nanostrip is embedded in polymer and studied as a waveguide. Measurement reveals that this new type of semiconductor/polymer heterogeneous waveguide exhibits strong absorption for the TE mode from 1500 nm to 2004 nm, while the propagation loss for the TM mode declines from 20.56 dB/cm at 1500 nm to 4.89 dB/cm at 2004 nm. The transmission characteristics serves as an essential tool to verify the optical parameters (n-κ) of the thin strips, addressing to the ambiguity raised by spectroscopic ellipsometry regarding highly absorbing materials. Furthermore, the observed strong absorption for the TE mode at 2004 nm is well beyond the cut-off wavelength of the crystalline bulk Ge (~1850 nm at room temperature). This redshift is modeled to manifest the narrowing of the Tauc-fitted bandgap due to the grain order effect in the amorphous Ge layer. The accurate measurement of the nanometer-scale light-absorbing strips in a waveguide form is a crucial step toward the accurate design of integrated photonic devices that utilize such components.
Thermal Profiles in Water InjectionWells: Reduction of the Systematic Error in the Flow Measurement during the Transient Regime
Authors: Echaiz Espinoza German Alberto , Oliveira Gabriel Pereira de , Lima Verivan Santos , Fonseca Diego Antonio de Moura , Silva Werbet Luiz Almeida da , Maitelli Carla Wilza Souza de Paula , Villarreal Elmer Rolando Llanos , Salazar Andrés Ortiz
Published: September 2023

Every simplification has the potential to add a systematic error to the measured value. Sometimes, the addition does not render the measurement useless. In the case of oil well flow measurements based on the thermal properties of the fluid in the well, the addition of a systematic error of up to 20% can occur if the variation in the internal energy of the fluid and, most importantly, the transient nature of heat transfer in the completion are not taken into account. This error is a mathematical consequence of the simplifications chosen. To work within the first hours of good operation, given the need for immediate application in a prototype water injection well developed and installed at the UFRN, this article presents an analytical solution for calculating the flow rate by solving the differential equations obtained by applying the principles of mass and heat transfer. As a result, at the cost of greater complexity, the systematic error drops to values of less than 1% in the first two hours of operation of the well, as seen throughout this document.
Physical Assets Life Cycle Evaluation Models – A Comparative Analysis Aiming the Sustainability
Authors: Farinha José Manuel Torres , Raposo Hugo Nogueira , Pais Edmundo Almeida , Mendes Mateus
Published: September 2023

Having as objective to reach a circular economy, it is important to maximize the Physical Asset’s Life Cycle. The evaluation of Physical Assets Life Cycle may have several approaches which may provide different results. These differences may not be very significant, but must be taken into consideration, because they have consequences in the manager decision. This permits to have a wider time interval to decide when to withdrawal the Physical Asset or to renewal it, and or if this ought to continue functioning because the profits are higher than the expenses, what allows to diminish waste and increase sustainability. These are some aspects that are discussed in this paper, which presents several models to evaluate the Physical Assets Life Cycle, considering the market value, devaluations methods and a more generalized way of Fisher’s Equation, which can include the Risk tax, among others. The results are discussed supported in data for simulation, which are used for each Econometric Model aiming to evaluate the differences among them. In all Models they are considered not only the expenses, namely of Investment and Functioning, but also the Profits, which permit to evaluate the Physical Asset Life Cycle in a holistic way. The models are very versatile, allowing to evaluate quantitatively the changing in the maintenance policies, the energy prices variations, the risk evaluation, the variation of profits according to the real market, and so on. The results demonstrated the robustness of the approach described and that maximize the Physical Assets Life Cycle allowing to minimize the consumption of world resources and, by consequence, it contributes for a more sustainable world.
DoubleAANet: Enhancing Polyp Segmentation with Auxiliary Attention and Area Adaptive
Authors: Du Feixiang , Yu Xinran , Zhou Songlin , Lin Yu , Wang Wei , Xu Ling , Wang Zhongliang , Hu Chao , Qian Nianxia , Wang Zhenxing
Published: September 2023

One of the most leading causes of death worldwide is Colorectal cancer(CRC). Polyp segmentation is the most important detected measure for preventing CRC. However, there is still a missing rate for diminutive polyps and multiple ones. In order to solve the phenomenon, we propose to introduce auxiliary attention module(AAM) that can enhance the learning of features related to multiple and diminutive polyps by focusing more on the located and detailed information. Meanwhile, we design to decrease missed rate of multiple and diminutive polyps by implementing an area adaptive loss(AAL) which adapts the weight according to the area and the number of polyps. Our proposed novel AAM and AAL concentrates on training with hard examples and localized information. To evaluate the effectiveness and generalization ability of our proposed model, We utilize three different datasets of variable sizes and a cross dataset. Our proposed method achieves the best results on the Kvasir-SEG dataset, the CVC-ClinicDB dataset and the cross dataset, particularly for the Kvasir-Sessile dataset consisting of small,flat and diminutive polyps. Extensive experimental results show that our proposed DoubleAANet surpass the performance of all existing state-of-the-art segmentation methods.
Multiparametric Ultrasound for Diagnosing Testicular Lesions: Everything You Need to Know in Daily Clinical Practice
Authors: Pozza Carlotta , Tenuta Marta , Sesti Franz , Bertolotto Michele , Huang Dean Y , Sidhu Paul S , Maggi Mario , Isidori Andrea M , Lotti Francesco
Published: September 2023

Background: Ultrasonography (US) represents the gold standard imaging method for the assessment of testicular lesions (TL). The gray-scale (GSUS) and color-Doppler (CDUS) ultrasound examination allow sonographers to investigate size, margins, echotexture and vascular features of TL, with the effort to differentiate benign from malignant lesions. Recently, the use of contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) and sonoelastography (SE) led to further improvements in the differential diagnosis of TL. Although GSUS and CDUS are often sufficient to suggest the benign or malignant nature of TL, CEUS can be decisive in the differential diagnosis of unclear findings, while SE can help to strengthen the diagnosis. The contemporary combination of GSUS, CDUS, CEUS and SE led to a new diagnostic paradigm named multiparametric US (mp-US), able to provide a more detailed characterization of TL than the single techniques alone. This narrative and pictorial review is aimed to describe the mp-US appearance of several TL. Methods: An extensive Medline search was performed identifying studies in the English language focusing on mp-US evaluation of TL. Results: a practical mp-US “identity card” and iconographic characterization of several benign and malignant TL is provided herein. Conclusions: the mp-US characterization of TL reported herein can be useful in daily clinical practice.
Constraint Qualifications for Vector Optimization Problemsin Real Topological Spaces
Authors: Zeng Renying
Published: September 2023

. In this paper, we introduce a series of definitions of generalized affine functions for vector-valued functions. We prove that our generalized affine functions have some similar properties with generalized convex functions. We present examples to show that our generalized affinenesses are different from one another, and also provide an example to show that our definition of presubaffinelikeness is non-trivial; presubaffinelikeness is the weakest generalized affineness introduced in this article. We work with optimization problems that are defined and taking values in linear topological spaces. We devote to the study of constraint qualifications, and derive some optimality conditions as well as a strong duality theorem. Our optimization problems have inequality constraints, equality constrains and abstract constraints; our inequality constraints are generalized convex functions and equality constraints are generalized affine functions.
Zoon’s Balanitis as a Separate Type of Balanitis with the Characteristic Pattern of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines Expression
Authors: Czajkowski Mateusz , Czajkowska Katarzyna , Wierzbicki Piotr M. , Kotulak-Chrząszcz Anna , Sokołowska-Wojdyło Małgorzata , Kogut-Wierzbicka Marzena , Kmieć Zbigniew , Matuszewski Marcin
Published: September 2023

Zoon balanitis (ZB) is a mild and chronic inflammatory dermatosis that mostly affects uncircumcised men of middle and old age. The etiology of this disease remains unknown. Moreover, some authors have questioned the presence of this type of balanitis.
Our study aimed to assess the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in ZB and demonstrate the presence of a characteristic expression pattern, different from that reported in the literature for penile lichen sclerosus(LS) and penile cancer.
Skin biopsies from four foreskins affected by Zoon’s balanitis with surrounding morphologically unchanged skin and 13 from nonlesional foreskins (healthy control adult males undergoing circumcision) were obtained. RNA was extracted from each biopsy, followed by quantitative assessment of the gene expression of interleukin 1-A(IL-1A), interleukin 1-B(IL-1B),interleukin 1 receptor antagonist(IL-1RN),interleukin 6(IL-6), transforming growth factor β1(TGF-β1), and interferon-gamma(INF-γ).
The decreased level of IL-1A mRNA was observed in Zoon’s balanitis in both inflamed and healthy skin compared to control samples. There were no statistically significant differences in other investigated cytokines gene expression between Zoon’s balanitis and the control group. In conclusion, the expression of proinflammatory cytokines was not related to the course of zoon balanitis. Moreover, in the case of IL-1A, we observed the suppression of the immune response.
Validation of a Gene-Expression Approach for the Cytological Diagnosis of Epithelioid and Biphasic Pleural Mesothelioma on a Consecutive Series
Authors: Bruno Rossella , Poma Anello Marcello , Alì Greta , Proietti Agnese , Ribechini Alessandro , Chella Antonio , Fontanini Gabriella
Published: September 2023

Cytological diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma (PM) is controversial even using ancillary markers (BAP1, MTAP and CDKN2A). Here, we aimed to prospectively validate a previously developed 117-gene expression panel for the differential cytological diagnosis of epithelioid, biphasic PM and mesothelial hyperplasia.
Seventy-seven pleural effusions were classified using the 117-gene expression levels (NanoString system). Sixty-eight cases were also screened for ancillary markers. The performance of both gene panel and ancillary markers was evaluated using ROC metrics. A score using the top consistently deregulated genes between epithelioid and biphasic PM was built to subtype malignant effusions. The panel alone reached a diagnostic accuracy (0.89) comparable to the best marker combination (BAP1 plus MTAP: 0.88). Ancillary tests missed 8 PMs, seven of which were correctly classified by the panel. The score built by averaging the expression levels of MSLN, CLDN15 and CFB showed an accuracy of 0.80 in subtyping epithelioid and biphasic effusions.
The 117-gene panel is effective for PM cytological diagnosis of epithelioid and biphasic PM. This tool can be complementary to ancillary markers, reducing invasive procedures and allowing an earlier diagnosis. Finally, the possibility to subtype PM on effusions strengthens the panel role in PM diagnosis and management.
Preceding Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo as a Trigger for Persistent Postural–Perceptual Dizziness: Which Clinical Predictors?
Authors: Casani Augusto Pietro , Ducci Nicola , Lazzerini Francesco , Vernassa Nicola , Bruschini Luca
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) is a syndrome described as secondary when it is the consequence of an organic disorder (s-PPPD) or primary when no somatic triggers cannot be identified. We evaluated a group of patients diagnosed as s-PPPD with Benign Positional Paroxysmal Vertigo (BPPV) as the main somatic trigger with the aim to identify predictive clinical elements of evolution towards PPPD.; (2) Methods: We compared the clinical characteristics of the 51 patients with s-PPPD having as trigger a BPPV (group 1) with 107 subjects diagnosed as BPPV but with no evolution in PPPD (control group). Results: A significant statistical difference in the mean age was found between s-PPPD and the non-s-PPPD group. The latency between the onset of BPPV and the final diagnosis was 25.2 days in the group 1 and 12.8 days in the control group; (4) Conclusions: The parameters mostly involved as potential precipitants of PPPD after BPPV are represented by the age of the patients and a long latency between the onset of BPPV and the final diagnosis: the mean age of the subjects who developed a PPPD following BPPV is significantly higher. These findings lead us to emphasize the importance of an early identification and treatment of BPPV, especially in older patients.
Comparison of Bone Bruise Patterns Epidemiology between ACL Rupture and Patellar Dislocation Patients-Implications of Injury Mechanism
Authors: Dai Ruilan , Wu Yue , Jiang Yanfang , Huang Hongshi , Yan Wenqiang , Shi Huijuan , Meng Qingyang , Ren Shuang , Ao Yingfang
Published: September 2023

Different bone bruise patterns observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after non-contact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture and lateral patellar dislocation may indicate different injury mechanism of knee. In order to investigate the typical bone bruising patterns after ACL rupture and patellar dislocation. In this study, 77 ACL rupture and 77 patellar dislocation patients’ knee MR images with bone bruises between August 2020 and March 2022at our institution were selected and analyzed, respectively. Sagittal and transverse planes images were used to determine the bone bruise location in the lateral-medial and superior-inferior directions of the MR images. The presence, location, and intensity of the bone bruises within specific compartments of the femur and tibial after ACL rupture and patellar dislocation were recorded. Relative bone bruise patterns of the ACL rupture and patellar dislocation were classified and analyzed. Results showed that there were 4 kinds of bone bruise (1-,2-,3-,4- bone bruises) patterns after ACL rupture. The most common two patterns after ACL rupture were 3- bone bruises (including lateral side of femur and both lateral and medial side of tibia, LF+BT; both lateral and medial side of femur and lateral side of tibia, BF+LT, medial side of femur and both lateral and medial side of tibia, MF+BT) followed by 4- bone bruises (both lateral and medial side of femur and tibia, BF+BT), 2- bone bruises (LF+LT, lateral side of femur and tibia; MF+LT, medial side of femur and lateral side of tibia; LF+MT, lateral side of femur and medial side of tibia; MF+MT, medial side of femur and tibia; 0+BT, both lateral and medial side of tibia;), and 1- bone bruise (0+LT, only lateral side of tibia). There was only 1 pattern bone bruise (latera femur and medial patella bone bruise) of patellar dislocation, the most common pattern of patellar dislocation was in the inferior medial patella and lateral anterior inferior femur. The results suggest that the pattern of bone bruise after ACL rupture and patellar dislocation is completely different. There were 4 kinds of bone bruise patterns after non-contact ACL rupture while there was only 1 kind of bone bruise pattern after patellar dislocation bone bruise patients which was in the inferior medial patella and lateral anterior inferior femur.
Alteration of Immunoregulatory Patterns and Survival Advantage of Key Cell Types in Food Allergic Children
Authors: Ivory Kamal , Angotti Rossella , Messina Mario , Bonente Denise , Paternostro Ferdinando , Gulisano Massimo , Nicoletti Claudio
Published: September 2023

All allergic responses to food indicate failure of immunological tolerance but it is unclear why cow’s milk and egg (CME) allergies resolve more readily than reactivity to peanuts (PN). We sought to identify differences between PN and CME allergies through constitutive immune status and responses to cognate and non-cognate food antigens. Children with confirmed allergy to CME (n=6), PN (n=18) non-allergic (NA) (n=8) controls were studied. Constitutive secretion of cytokines was tested in plasma and unstimulated mononuclear cell (PBMNC) cultures. Blood dendritic cell (DC) subsets were analyzed alongside changes in phenotypes and soluble molecules in allergen stimulated MNC cultures with or without cytokine neutralization. We observed that in allergic children constitutively high plasma levels IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-10 but less IL-12p70 than in non-allergic children was accompanied by spontaneous secretion of sCD23, IL-1β, IL-2 IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-12p70, IFN- and TNF- in MNC cultures. Furthermore, blood DC subset counts differed in food allergy. Antigen-presenting cell phenotypic abnormalities were accompanied by higher B and T cell percentages with more Bcl-2 within CD69+ subsets. Cells were generally refractory to antigenic stimulation in vitro but IL-4 neutralization led to CD152 downregulation by CD4+ T cells from PN allergic children responding to PN allergens. Canonical discriminant analyses segregated non-allergic and allergic children by their cytokine secretion patterns, revealing differences and areas of overlap between PN and CME allergies. Despite an absence of recent allergen exposure, indication of in vivo activation, in vitro responses independent of challenging antigen and the presence of unusual costimulatory molecules suggest dysregulated immunity in food allergy. Most important, higher Bcl-2 content within key effector cells implies survival advantage with potential to mount abnormal responses that may give rise to the manifestations of allergy. Here, we put forward the hypothesis that the lack of apoptosis of key immune cell types might be central to the development of food allergic reactions.
Development of a Site-Specific Management Strategy for Managing Root-Knot Nematodes Affecting Tomatoes in Kenya
Authors: Wendot philip , Kariuki Francis , Ngundo George , Birgen Jonah , Kariuki George
Published: September 2023

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a high value horticultural crop in Kenya. Nutritionally, the crop is rich in niacin, carotene, thiamine, and vitamin C. Mwea in Kirinyaga County is one of the major tomato growing areas in Kenya. Tomato production in Kenya is hindered by losses due to diseases caused by pathogens that include plant parasitic nematodes (PPN). Among the plant parasitic nematodes, the root-knot nematode (RKN) is the most predominant in Mwea. This study investigated the soil parameters that influence the distribution of the RKN for the purpose of mapping their distribution. This is important since it ensures that nematicide application is only to specific sites where these nematodes are found thereby saving on input costs as well as protecting the environment. The study consisted of surveys conducted in geo-referenced tomato production fields in seven (7) tomato production sites in Tebere and Mwea. Sampling was done in a stratified random manner in both rainfed and irrigated tomato production fields in both dry and rainy seasons for determination of the spatial and temporal distribution of nematodes, respectively. Nematode extraction was done using the centrifugal floatation technique and identification done to genera level using morphological features. Soil characteristics determining PPN distribution patterns in tomato production fields of Mwea were measured using standard methods. Soil parameters measured included soil pH, electrical conductivity, elevation and soil texture. The PPN incidence and diversity was determined using the Shannon-Weiner species diversity index. Detrended canonical correspondence analysis (DCCA) was performed to interpret and summarize major patterns of variation within the soil variable data and to estimate the ability of each soil variable to reflect variance in the entire PPN data set. Fourteen (14) genera of nematodes were identified with the diversity between 0.6 and 1.2. RKN distribution differed significantly (p<0.05) among the sites. Among the soil samples analyzed, 81% were positive for RKN infestation. There was an insignificant difference (p>0.05) between nematode densities in the dry and rainy seasons. Rainfed fields exhibited a significantly higher (p<0.05) RKN population densities compared to irrigated fields. The study established a great variability in the soil parameters in the area. The RKN distribution pattern, density and abundance were inversely correlated (p<0.05) with the soil pH and positively correlated (p<0.05) with soil EC. Based on the inverse relationship between soil pH and RKN distribution in the Mwea ecosystem, maps of nematode distribution and soil pH were developed. This enables the possibility of a site specific system for management of RKN
Early ENT Manifestations in Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Poliangioitis: Results from Our Cohort Group and Literature Review
Authors: D’Onofrio Mario , La Prova Daniele , Galdiero Maria Rosaria , Cantone Elena , Tremante Eugenio , Barbieri Vittoria , Di Nola Claudio , Spadaro Giuseppe , De Paulis Amato , Detoraki Aikaterini
Published: September 2023

Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare systemic necrotizing vasculitis, affecting small-to-medium sized vessels. EGPA’s clinical manifestations are heterogeneous affecting different organs and systems and the upper respiratory tract can be affected with Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) involvement. The aim of our study was to assess type manifestations at time of diagnosis in a cohort of EGPA patients and correlate findings with baseline variables (sex, age, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies –ANCA- status) and literature reports. Main ENT manifestations in our patients at time of diagnosis were: nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) (52%), turbinate hypertrophy (48%), nasal swelling (40%), rhinorrhoea (40%), chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP) (32%), nasal bone deformities (32%), nasal crusts (20%), nasal mucosal ulcers (12%), corditis (12%), hoarseness/dysphonia (12%), hearing loss (12%), mucoceles(4%) eosinophilic rhinitis (4%). No correlations were found between sex, age, ANCA status and ENT clinical manifestations. A polymorphic ENT involvement is often observed at early stages of EGPA. The presence of nasal, sinus, ear and/or laryngeal manifestations in patients with asthma and hypereosinophilia, independently of sex, age or ANCA status, should raise allert for further investigation and differential diagnosis for EGPA. ENT specialists should be aware of their leading position in this diagnostic race.
Secondary Rotator Cuff Insufficiency After Anatomic Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Ardebol Javier , Pak Theresa , Kiliç Ali Īhsan , Hwang Simon , Menendez Mariano E. , Denard Patrick J.
Published: September 2023

» Secondary rotator cuff insufficiency is a challenging complication after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty.

» Acute tears may be amenable to open or arthroscopic repair in some instances.

» Chronic attritional tears are best managed with revision to reverse shoulder arthroplasty, especially in the elderly.

» Increased glenoid inclination, larger critical shoulder angle, oversized humeral components, thicker glenoid components, and rotator cuff muscle fatty infiltration have all shown to contribute to tear risk.
Evaluation of MBKM Program Implementation in Elementary Schools
Authors: Febrianto Priyono Tri , Maureen Irena Yolanita , Bachri Bachtiar Sjaiful
Published: September 2023

The two most important things in education in Indonesia today are 'Freedom to Learn' and driving teachers. This study aims to provide an overview of the implementation of the 'Freedom to Learn' program at the elementary school level, as well as to explain the various innovations, obstacles encountered, and solutions made by the school and teachers as teaching boards. This study uses descriptive quantitative research methods, with 166 respondents from 21 districts/cities in East Java. The results of this study show that; (1) the successful implementation of the 'Freedom to Learn' program can be seen from the ability of schools and teachers to develop teaching creativity during the learning process. (2) Most of the obstacles encountered during program implementation stem from the inability of the teacher to provide learning methods that are right on target, skills that are not sufficient and the limited ability of students to accept the 'transfers of knowledge' provided by the teacher. This study concludes that schools and teachers can optimize learning innovations by using various methods adapted to the student's environment, such as; applying student center learning learning methods, exposition discovery learning methods, individual group learning methods, brainstorming methods, blended learning, and other methods that can improve students' skills and creativity, by implementing fun teaching and learning programs.
How E-Service Quality, Customer Rating, and Customer Engagement Affect Buying Decisions for Local Brand Flickabags
Authors: Rachmawati Selvia , Ambarwati Rita , Kumala Sari Herlinda Maya
Published: September 2023

The current researcher discusses that the influence of e-service quality, customer ratings, and customer engagement in purchasing decisions affects the local retail production of Flickabags. And the researcher's question is whether e-service quality, customer ratings, and engagement influence e-commerce purchasing decisions. This researcher aims to identify marketing strategies to help deal with similar product competition from this local retail business, which focuses on service quality and information spread through its e-service quality as well as feedback from seller and buyer relationships. This research method uses a quantitative research model. The population obtained in this study is retail business e-commerce customers in the Sidoarjo district. The sampling technique in this study used a random sampling technique. The data collection technique in this study was a Google form questionnaire to the community in the Sidoarjo Regency area. The number of samples is determined based on calculations using the Cochran formula. Based on the output of SPSS, it is known that the significance value is 0.000 0.05, which simultaneously affects Y. And the F value calculated using table F is 130.108 F table 2.70 so that the results obtained are accepted, which means that each variable simultaneously affects Y. It is known that the R Square value is 0.799, so it can be concluded that the influence of each variable on the purchase decision is 79.9%. E-service quality, customer rating, and engagement impact in decision-making is 79.9%. This study shows a relationship between each variable and the purchasing decisions made by customers.
The Influence of Information Quality and Perceived Value on Purchase Intention of Game shop E-commerce in Generation Z Based on Framing Theory
Authors: Farhan Gusti Muhammad , Marsasi Endy Gunanto
Published: September 2023

Indonesia's gaming sector is expanding quickly in this day and age, which has an effect on the country's digital market economy. One aspect of Indonesia's expanding gaming sector is online game shops. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of information quality, social psychological distance, perceived value, and trust on Generation Z customers' purchase intentions in game shop e-commerce. This study uses a quantitative approach by distributing questionnaires. With 260 samples overall, non-probability sampling is the approach used. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) utilizing AMOS 26 Graphics software is the analytical technique used. The overall conclusions of the study are that social psychological distance has a positive, significant impact on trust and also acts as a mediator between the effects of information quality and trust. Information quality has a significant positive impact on social psychological distance. Information quality influences perceived trust and value in a significant positive way. Identified purchase intention is positively and significantly influenced by trust and perceived value. Trust and perceived value also act as mediators between information quality and purchase intention. The benefits of this research is reported managers of game shop e-commerce companies must increase the development of companies that distribute information with a high level of information quality. In addition, trust in customers and purchase intention impacted readily by the social psychological distance between business people and consumers and how much value consumers feel for the goods and services played by business people.
Emotion Detection and Student Engagement in Distance Learning During Containment Due to the COVID-19
Authors: Abdellaoui Benyoussef , Remaida Ahmed , Sabri Zineb , EL BOUZEKRI EL IDRISSI Younes , Moumen Aniss
Published: September 2023

يعد التعلم عن بعد أحد أساليب التدريس والتعلم التي تم تبنيها بعد جائحة كوفيد 19. مهمة جذب ومعرفة اهتمام المتعلمين إلى الفصل صعبة على الأساتذة. في هذا البحث، قمنا بإنشاء آلية لتقدير مستويات مشاركة الطلاب ومعرفة احاسيسهم حيث نستخدم البيانات المرئية من مقاطع الفيديو المرسلة من طرف الطلاب المشاركين في دورات التعلم نظرًا لوجود العديد من الطرق لقياس مستويات مشاركة الطلاب. نقوم بمعالجة هذه الفيديوهات لتحديد مقدار مشاركة الطلاب واكتشاف عواطفهم. لقد قمنا بإنشاء نظامنا وتجريبه، الذي مكننا من تقييم انتباه الطلاب وتحديد عواطفهم. توضح النتائج أنه من الممكن قياس المشاركة ومعرفة المشاعر استغلالها في اتخاذ قرارات في صالح نتائج الطلاب وتحسين طرق التعليم والتعلم. يمكن تطبيق هذه التقنية في سيناريوهات أخرى، مثل القيادة الذاتية والأمان مع تعديل بسيط.
Biodiversity and Microorganisms Variation of Endemic Duku (Lancium domesticum Corr.) Rhizosphere in the Wet and Dry Main Growing Site in Jambi, Indonesia
Authors: Hayati Islah , Marwan Husda , Wilia Weni
Published: September 2023

دوكو  Duku نباتات متوطنة في مقاطعة جامبي بإندونيسيا. كانت تنتشر وتنمو جيدًا في الطمي على طول ضفاف الأنهار ، لكنها عانت مؤخرًا من تفشي مرض الموت المفاجئ على مدار العقود الماضية. كان هذا الوضع سائدًا منذ الفيضانات المتكررة بسبب استنفاد مناطق الغابات في أعلى المنبع. بما أن السبب هو العفن المائي Phytophthora palmivora ، فقد كان من المفترض أن يحدث مرض الموت المفاجئ في المناطق الرطبة فقط ، ولكن في الواقع ، ينتشر المرض في المناطق الجافة أيضًا. هذه الحقيقة قادتنا للبحث عن عوامل بيولوجية أخرى في التربة بالمحيط الجذري للنباتات في الموائل الرطبة والجافة. أخذت العينات من المحيط الجذري لنباتات دوكو المريضة والصحية في العديد من المناطق الرسوبية لنهر باتانغ هاري التي تمثل الموائل الرطبة والجافة. أشارت الى أن المجتمع الميكروبي في التربة في الموائل الجافة والرطبة هي مجتمعات مايكورايزا (mycorrhiza) والبكتيريا والفطريات. أظهرت الوفرة النسبية للميكروبات في الموائل الجافة والرطبة في النباتات الصحية والمريضة أنواع متنوعة. ففي النباتات الرطبة للصحة ، كانت الوفرة النسبية كالآتي: 33.33 ٪ ٍSclerocytis، و Gigaspora 33.34 ٪ ، و Glomus 33.33 ٪. في النباتات المصابة بالموائل الرطبة ، كانت الوفرة النسبية للمايكورايزا: 66.67 ٪ ٍSclerocytis ، Glomus 33.33 ٪ ، وغياب Gigaspora. تم العثور على مجموعة البكتيريا لتكون الأكبر عند 70،49 ٪ في الموائل الجافة و 72.13 ٪ في الموائل الرطبة. أماالمجموعة الفطرية فكانت 14،08 ٪ في الموائل الجافة و 16.39 ٪ في الموائل الرطبة. أظهرت المايكورايزا أصغر نسبة في جذور نباتات Duku. أظهرت النتائج وجود ارتباط سلبي لل VAM مع النيتروجين ، و والفسفور في المحيط الجذري. أما وجود Glomus sp كان ارتباطه ايجابيا مع بوتاسيوم التربة.
Cristobalite Clinker and Paralavas of Ferroan and Melilite–Nepheline Types in the Khamaryn-Khural–Khiid Combustion Methamorphic Complex, East Mongolia: Formation Conditions and Processes
Authors: Savina E.A. , Peretyazhko I.S.
Published: September 2023

—Rock samples from the Khamaryn-Khural–Khiid combustion metamorphic (CM) complex, including cristobalite clinker, ferroan tridymite–sekaninaite and cristobalite–fayalite paralavas, which are rock types new to the complex, as well as clinker xenoliths in melilite–nepheline paralava, have been studied in terms of chemistry and mineralogy. The obtained data on rock-forming, minor, accessory, and rare phases (silica polymorphs, cordierite-group minerals, fayalite, Fe and Ti oxides, ferrosilite, etc.) have implications for the formation conditions and processes of the CM rocks. The Raman spectra of sekaninaite, indialite, ferroindialite, mullite, and anhydrous Fe–Ca–Mn phosphate, presumably from the graftonite group, have several specific features. The diversity of mineral assemblages in the CM rocks is due to heterogeneous lithology of the sedimentary protolith and to local effects in the multistage history of the Khamaryn-Khural–Khiid complex. According to geochemical data, all CM rocks of the complex are derived from the Early Cretaceous Dzunbain Formation, their protolith molten to different degrees. The cristobalite clinker and tridymite–sekaninaite and cristobalite–fayalite paralavas were produced by partial melting of pelitic rocks containing different amounts of iron in a wide temperature range. The formation of mullite developed from dehydration–dehydroxylation and incongruent partial melting of amorphous pelitic matter. Large-scale crystallization of mullite in clinker, occurred from the high-silica potassic aluminosilicate melt at >850 °C. Combustion of subsurface coal seams heated the overburden to >1050 °C or locally to >1300–1400 °C (melting point of detrital quartz) or even, possibly, to >1470 °C corresponding to the stability field of β-cristobalite. Melilite–nepheline paralava was formed by incongruent melting of silicate (pelitic) and carbonate (calcite) components of marly limestone under elevated CO2 partial pressure. Oxygen fugacity (fO2) during combustion metamorphism changed from strongly reducing conditions favorable for crystallization of Fe phosphides (barringerite, schreibersite) and metallic iron from silica-undersaturated melts parental to melilite–nepheline paralava to high fO2 values that can maintain the formation of hematite in Fe-rich CM rocks.
Percepción social del impacto psicológico derivado de la pandemia de la COVID-19
Authors:   Facultad de Psicología. Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Nieto Rodríguez María , Miguel-Alvaro Alejandro ,   Facultad de Psicología. Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: conocer cuál es la percepción, en la población general española, del impacto psicológico derivado de la pandemia de la COVID-19, y si esta se ajusta a la evidencia empírica reciente. Método: se elaboró una encuesta online en la que se recogieron las estimaciones de los participantes (n=1117) de la probabilidad de desarrollar problemas psicológicos o Trastorno de Estrés Postraumático (TEPT) según el tipo de acontecimiento vivido en el contexto pandémico. Resultados: las diferentes comparaciones con datos normativos muestran una sobreestimación de las secuelas psicológicas derivadas de la crisis sanitaria en la muestra estudiada, tanto para la población general como para los profesionales sanitarios en activo. Además, se encuentra que algunos grupos, concretamente las mujeres, los jóvenes (18-25 años) y los participantes sin estudios en Ciencias de la Salud y que no trabajan en este ámbito profe-sional, pronostican de forma significativa (p < ,05) más problemas de salud mental frente a los demás grupos. Discusión: se hace necesario trasladar a la población general, así como a instituciones y medios de comunicación, la importancia de difundir datos ajustados a la evidencia disponible y con ello promo-ver la creación de redes de apoyo y distribución adecuada de recursos.
Acute minocycline treatment inhibits microglia activation, reduces infarct volume, and has domain-specific effects on post-ischemic stroke cognition in rats
Authors: Myers Sarah J. , Agapova Victoria , Patel Salonee V. , Hayes Sarah H. , Sposato Luciano A. , Allman Brian L. , Whitehead Shawn N.
Published: September 2023

Ischemic stroke affects millions of individuals worldwide and a high prevalence of survivors experience cognitive deficits. At present, the underlying mechanisms that drive post-stroke cognitive decline are not well understood. Microglia play a critical role in the post-stroke inflammatory response, but experimental studies show that an accumulation of chronically activated microglia can be harmful and associates with cognitive impairment. This study assessed the effect of acute post-stroke minocycline treatment on chronic microglia and astrocyte expression within the infarct and remote white matter regions, as well as its effect on various domains of cognitive function post-stroke. Nine-month-old male rats received an injection of endothelin-1 into the right dorsal striatum to induce transient focal ischemia, and then were treated with minocycline or saline for 4 days post-stroke. Rats were tested using a series of lever-pressing tasks and the Morris water maze to assess striatal-based learning, cognitive flexibility, and spatial learning and reference memory. We found that minocycline-treated rats had smaller stroke-induced infarcts and less microglia activation in the infarct area and remote white matter regions compared to saline-treated rats at 28 days post-stroke. The behavioural testing results differed according to the cognitive domain; whereas minocycline-treated rats trended towards improved striatal-based learning in a lever-pressing task, but cognitive flexibility was unaffected during the subsequent set-shifting task. Furthermore, minocycline treatment unexpectedly impaired spatial learning, yet it did not alter reference memory. Collectively, we show that post-stroke minocycline treatment can reduce chronic microglia activation even in remote brain regions, with domain-specific effects on cognitive function.
Mechanism of Galectin-3 in arteriogenic erectile dysfunction via TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway
Authors: Fu Qinag , wang Guanbo , Li Ruiyu , Feng Chen , Li Kefan , Liu Shuai
Published: September 2023

Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a multifunctional protein, has been linked to fibrosis and inflammation in the cardiovascular system. This study endeavors to examine the impact of Gal-3 on inflammation and fibrosis in arteriogenic erectile dysfunction (A-ED) and the underlying mechanisms. To induce arterial injury, we utilized cuffs on the periaqueductal common iliac arteries of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats and administered a high-fat diet to co-induce local atherosclerosis. Our results show that we have successfully developed a novel A-ED model that was validated based on histological evidence. In vivo, the vascular lumen of rats subjected to a high-fat diet and cuff placement exhibited significant narrowing, accompanied by upregulation of Gal-3, TLR4, and MyD88 expression in the penile cavernosal. This led to the activation of NF-κB-p65, resulting in reduced intracavernosal pressure, endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression, and smooth muscle content, promoting inflammation and fibrosis. However, treatment with Gal-3 inhibitor-modified citrus pectin (MCP) significantly improved these phenomena. In Vitro, knocking down Gal-3 led to a significant reduction in TLR4, MyD88, and NF-κB-p65 expression in CCSMCs, decreasing inflammation levels. In conclusion, inhibiting Gal-3 may improve A-ED by reducing inflammation, endothelial injury, and fibrosis in the penile corpus cavernosum through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. The findings highlight the potential therapeutic target of Gal-3 in A-ED.