bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Aspects of the Planning and Operating Corporate Info-Communication and CRM Systems
Authors: Fábián Henriette , Juhász Gábor
Published: August 2023

The establishment of an up-to-date, modern corporate info-communication system means the development of an integrated system in which information is transmitted practically within a single network. The main advantage of this is less information loss and communication noise, and the system is also more cost-effective. If the information communication technologies used by companies are incomplete or outdated, there is a greater chance that so-called communication noise will occur, i.e. communication, the delivery of messages, and understanding between the communicating parties will become more difficult and complicated.By the end of the nineties, a so-called network society has emerged that was active in virtual space. They have the ability to form smaller groups relatively easily and quickly, among which there is a continuous exchange of information. The members of this network society mostly belong to the so-called Generation Z (those born after the mid-1990s). Among other things, it is typical of this generation that they spend most of their time keeping contact online, therefore their communication, relationship-building and cognitive style also develops accordingly.The technique of the written text, which has been used for centuries, has now been mostly replaced by networked communication, which creates a new kind of collectivity. Due to the linear organization of written and spoken language, it only allows for personal contact with a small group, thus resulting in a certain degree of isolation. The network-like structuring of multimedia seems to be a much more natural form of organization for the human brain, it allows people to keep in touch with a larger number of people. However, these relationships are role-based and less personal: these are the "weak" social ties that we like to rely on when looking for work and making deals. It can therefore be expected that technological changes will result in rapid transformations in our relationship management communication patterns, enabling the creation of a wider network of relationships.
Mempertahankan Rumah Tangga Dalam Bingkai Hukum Indonesia
Authors: Sadidah Yasmin Afriatun
Published: August 2023

The household is something related to the family, while the family itself means the smallest social group that has a leader and members with each member having their own rights and obligations, where the leaders and members are related by blood or marriage. Marriage has the goal of a happy and eternal family based on belief in one and only God, in other words, every household wants their family to be happy and avoid divorce. In building a household there are always tests or problems that need to be faced. These problems can be small or big problems, problems that can be solved alone or problems that require the help of other people or judges. One of the efforts to avoid problems in the household is to carry out the obligations of each family member. In the Qur'an there is a discussion of problems that can occur in the household and how to deal with them. In addition, communication is also very important in building a household, without good communication, it is difficult for a household to avoid conflict.

Keywords: divorse, household
Anais 48º COMUABC
Authors: COMUABC
Published: August 2023

Não se aplica
Analisis Kinerja FKTP Pemerintah di Era JKN dengan Metode Balanced Scorecard: Studi Kasus di Puskesmas Bandar Baru Tahun 2022
Authors: Hasnur Hanifah , Aletta Alma , Presilawati Febyolla , Saputra Dedy
Published: August 2023

Upaya kesehatan di fasilitas kesehatan telah memasuki babak baru di era Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional (JKN) saat ini. Puskesmas Bandar Baru, sebagai salah satu Puskesmas terbesar di Kabupaten Pidie Jaya dengan pendapatan terbesarnya bersumber dari JKN, dituntut untuk memiliki mutu pelayanan kesehatan berkualitas sekaligus mampu melakukan efisiensi dalam penggunaan sumber daya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kinerja Fasilitas Kesehatan Tingkat Pertama (FKTP) pemerintah dalam hal ini Puskesmas Bandar Baru di era JKN saat ini dengan menggunakan pendekatan deskriptif kuantitatif guna mengumpulkan data primer dan data sekunder untuk perspektif finansial, pelanggan, bisnis internal dan pengembangan. Hasil studi menunjukkan antara lain bahwa Puskesmas Bandar Baru kurang bertumbuh dari perspektif finansial dikarenakan adanya pemekaran puskesmas pembantu di bawahnya. Di sisi lain, Puskesmas tersebut memiliki nilai tingkat ekonominya yang ekonomis (Tek < 100%) di tahun 2019-2020, namun di tahun 2021 tidak ekonomis (Tek =100%). Sementara, nilai tingkat efektivitas-nya tidak efektif (Tev < 100%; 2019-2021), dan nilai tingkat efisiensinya tidak efisien (Tef =100%;2019-2020), dan efisien pada tahun 2021(Tef < 100%). Dari sisi perspektif pelanggan indeks kepuasan terendah pada sarana dan prasarana Puskesmas. Sedangkan, pada perspektif bisnis internal, turn over pegawai tidak tinggi meskipun pelatihan pegawai masih kurang. Diperlukan upaya peningkatan program kesehatan inovatif yang dapat memperbaiki capaian puskesmas, di mana hal ini dalam waktu bersamaan juga dapat meningkatkan jumlah pasien baru guna mencapai pertumbuhan keuangan maksimal Puskesmas Bandar Baru.
A Theory of Hippocampal Theta Correlations: Extrinsic and Intrinsic Sequences
Authors: Yiu Yuk-Hoi , Leibold Christian
Published: August 2023

Hippocampal place cell sequences have been hypothesized to serve as diverse purposes as the induction of synaptic plasticity, formation and consolidation of long-term memories, or navigation and planning. During spatial behaviors of rodents, sequential firing of place cells at the theta timescale (known as theta sequences) encodes running trajectories, which can be considered as 1-dimensional behavioral sequences of traversed locations. In a 2-dimensional space, however, each single location can be visited along arbitrary 1-dimensional running trajectories. Thus, a place cell will generally take part in multiple different theta sequences, raising questions about how this 2-dimensional topology can be reconciled with the idea of hippocampal sequences underlying memory of (1-dimensional) episodes. Here, we propose a computational model of cornu ammonis 3 (CA3) and dentate gyrus (DG), where sensorimotor input drives the direction-dependent (extrinsic) theta sequences within CA3 reflecting the 2-dimensional spatial topology, whereas the in-trahippocampal CA3-DG projections concurrently produce intrinsic sequences that are independent of the specific running trajectory. Consistent with experimental data, these intrinsic theta sequences are less prominent in the theta state, but we show that they can nevertheless be detected during theta activity, thereby serving as running-direction independent landmark cues. We hypothesize that the intrinsic sequences largely reflect replay and preplay activity during non-theta states.
Retinal input integration in excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the mouse superior colliculus in vivo
Authors: Gehr Carolin , Sibille Jérémie , Kremkow Jens
Published: August 2023

The superior colliculus (SC) is a midbrain structure that contains one of the highest densities of inhibitory neurons in the brain and, together with the thalamocortical visual system, it plays a key role in visually guided behaviors. The SC receives direct inputs from retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) but whether excitatory and inhibitory SC neurons differentially integrate retinal activity
in vivo
is still largely unknown. We recently established an extracellular recording approach using high-density electrodes to measure the activity of RGCs simultaneously with their postsynaptic SC targets
in vivo
, that allows addressing how SC neurons integrate RGC activity. Here, we employ this method to study the functional properties and dynamics that govern retinocollicular signaling in a cell-type specific manner by identifying GABAergic SC neurons using optotagging in anesthetized VGAT- ChR2 mice. We measured 305 monosynaptically connected RGC-SC pairs, out of which approximately one third of retinal afferents connect onto inhibitory SC neurons. We show that both excitatory and inhibitory SC neurons receive comparably strong RGC inputs, with functionally similar RGC-SC pairs showing stronger connections. Our results demonstrate that similar wiring rules apply for RGCs innervation of both excitatory and inhibitory SC neurons, which is unlike the cell-type specific connectivity in the thalamocortical system. Contrasting the similar RGC-SC connection strength, we observed that RGC activity contributed more to the activity of postsynaptic excitatory SC neurons than to the activity of postsynaptic inhibitory SC neurons. This implies that the excitatory SC neurons are more specifically coupled to RGC afferent inputs, while inhibitory SC neurons may integrate additional inputs from other sources. Taken together, our study deepens the understanding of cell-type specific retinocollicular functional connectivity and emphasizes that the two major brain areas for visual processing, the visual cortex and the superior colliculus, differently integrate sensory afferent inputs.
Evolutionary druggability: leveraging low-dimensional fitness landscapes towards new metrics for antimicrobial applications
Authors: Guerrero Rafael F. , Dorji Tandin , Harris Ra’Mal M. , Shoulders Matthew D. , Ogbunugafor C. Brandon
Published: August 2023

The term “druggability” describes the molecular properties of drugs or targets in pharmacological interventions and is commonly used in work involving drug development for clinical applications. There are no current analogues for this notion that quantify the drug-target interaction with respect to a given target variant’s sensitivity across a breadth of drugs in a panel, or a given drug’s range of effectiveness across alleles of a target protein. Using data from low-dimensional empirical fitness landscapes composed of 16
β
-lactamase alleles and seven
β
-lactam drugs, we introduce two metrics that capture (i) the average susceptibility of an allelic variant of a drug target to any available drug in a given panel (“
variant vulnerability
”), and (ii) the average applicability of a drug (or mixture) across allelic variants of a drug target (“
drug applicability
”). Finally, we (iii) disentangle the quality and magnitude of interactions between loci in the drug target and the seven drug environments in terms of their mutation by mutation by environment (G x G x E) interactions, offering mechanistic insight into the variant variability and drug applicability metrics. Summarizing, we propose that our framework can be applied to other datasets and pathogen-drug systems to understand which pathogen variants in a clinical setting are the most concerning (low variant vulnerability), and which drugs in a panel are most likely to be effective in an infection defined by standing genetic variation in the pathogen drug target (high drug applicability).
Spontaneous and inducible CD8 T cell lesions in the brain and spinal cord of HLA-DR15-positive MS PBMC humanized mice
Authors: Papazian Irini , Kourouvani Maria , Dagkonaki Anastasia , Dimitrakopoulou Lila , Gouzouasis Vasileios , Badounas Fotis , Markoglou Nikolaos , Belimezi Maria , Angelakis Emmanouil , Tselios Theodore , Anagnostouli Maria , Probert Lesley
Published: August 2023

Autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system such as multiple sclerosis (MS) are only partially represented in current experimental models and the development of humanized immune mice is crucial for better understanding of immunopathogenesis and testing of novel therapeutics. We describe a humanized mouse model with several key MS features. Severely immunodeficient B2m-NOG mice were transplanted with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from MS and healthy (HI) donors and showed rapid engraftment by human T and B lymphocytes. DR13-positive MS PBMC mice developed low levels of graft versus host disease (GVHD) and no CNS inflammation. Both DR15 MS and DR15 HI mice developed spontaneous and EAE-inducible infiltration of CNS barriers and parenchyma by CD8 + and CD4 + T cells. DR15 MS mice uniquely developed spontaneous T cell lesions in brainstem and spinal cord grey matter, and large EAE-inducible lesions in the brain corpus callosum, with relatively low GVHD levels compared to DR15 HI mice. Main limitations of this model for further development are poor monocyte engraftment, lack of demyelination and of lymph node organization and IgG responses. These results show that PBMC humanized mice represent promising experimental tools for MS immunopathology and for testing experimental immunotherapeutics in a patient-specific approach.
Suggestion of creatine as a new neurotransmitter by approaches ranging from chemical analysis and biochemistry to electrophysiology
Authors: Bian Xiling , Zhu Jiemin , Jia Xiaobo , Liang Wenjun , Yu Sihan , Li Zhiqiang , Zhang Wenxia , Rao Yi
Published: August 2023

The discovery of a new neurotransmitter, especially one in the central nervous system, is both important and difficult. We have been searching for new neurotransmitters for 12 y. We detected creatine (Cr) in synaptic vesicles (SVs) at a level lower than glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid but higher than acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine. SV Cr was reduced in mice lacking either arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (a Cr synthetase) or SLC6A8, a Cr transporter with mutations among the most common causes of intellectual disability in men. Calcium-dependent release of Cr was detected after stimulation in brain slices. Cr release was reduced in Slc6a8 and Agat mutants. Cr inhibited neocortical pyramidal neurons. SLC6A8 was necessary for Cr uptake into synaptosomes. Cr was found by us to be taken up into SVs in an ATP-dependent manner. Our biochemical, chemical, genetic, and electrophysiological results are consistent with the possibility of Cr as a neurotransmitter, though not yet reaching the level of proof for the now classic transmitters. Our novel approach to discover neurotransmitters is to begin with analysis of contents in SVs before defining their function and physiology.
Kit Ligand and Kit receptor tyrosine kinase sustain synaptic inhibition of Purkinje cells
Authors: Zaman Tariq , Vogt Daniel , Prokop Jeremy , Alsabia Qusai Abdulkhaliq , Simms Gabriel , Stafford April , Luikart Bryan W , Williams Michael R
Published: August 2023

The cell-type-specific expression of ligand/receptor and cell-adhesion molecules is a fundamental mechanism through which neurons regulate connectivity. Here, we determine a functional relevance of the long-established mutually exclusive expression of the receptor tyrosine kinase Kit and the trans-membrane protein Kit Ligand by discrete populations of neurons in the mammalian brain. Kit is enriched in molecular layer interneurons (MLIs) of the cerebellar cortex (i.e., stellate and basket cells), while cerebellar Kit Ligand is selectively expressed by a target of their inhibition, Purkinje cells (PCs). By in vivo genetic manipulation spanning embryonic development through adulthood, we demonstrate that PC Kit Ligand and MLI Kit are required for, and capable of driving changes in, the inhibition of PCs. Collectively, these works in mice demonstrate that the Kit Ligand/Kit receptor dyad sustains mammalian central synapse function and suggest a rationale for the affiliation of Kit mutation with neurodevelopmental disorders.
The molecular mechanism and evolutionary divergence of caspase 3/7-regulated gasdermin E activation
Authors: Xu Hang , Yuan Zihao , Qin Kunpeng , Jiang Shuai , Sun Li
Published: August 2023

Caspase (CASP) is a family of proteases involved in cleavage and activation of gasdermin, the executor of pyroptosis. In humans, CASP3 and CASP7 recognize the same consensus motif DxxD, which is present in gasdermin E (GSDME). However, human GSDME is cleaved by CASP3 but not by CASP7. The underlying mechanism of this observation is unclear. In this study, we identified a pyroptotic pufferfish GSDME that was cleaved by both pufferfish CASP3/7 and human CASP3/7. Domain swapping between pufferfish and human CASP and GSDME showed that the GSDME C-terminus and the CASP7 p10 subunit determined the cleavability of GSDME by CASP7. p10 contains a key residue that governs CASP7 substrate discrimination. This key residue is highly conserved in vertebrate CASP3 and in most vertebrate (except mammalian) CASP7. In mammals, the key residue is conserved in non-primates (e.g., mouse) but not in primates. However, mouse CASP7 cleaved human GSDME but not mouse GSDME. These findings revealed the molecular mechanism of CASP7 substrate discrimination and the divergence of CASP3/7-mediated GSDME activation in vertebrate. These results also suggested that mutation-mediated functional alteration of CASP probably enabled the divergence and specialization of different CASP members in the regulation of complex cellular activities in mammals.
Barley yield and malt quality affected by fall and spring planting under rainfed conditions
Authors: Saygili Ibrahim
Published: August 2023

Background

As a result of the changing climate characteristics, it is necessary to reevaluate the planting time for crop plants. The aim of the present study was to determine the quality characteristics of malting barley cultivars in fall and spring plantings.

Methods

Sixteen malting barley cultivars were used. Two fall-planted and two spring-planted trials were conducted in two consecutive years. The field trials were carried out in a randomized complete block design with four replications in Tokat province of Turkey under rainfed conditions.

Results

Grain yields varied between 4.38 and 5.71 t/ha in fall-planted trials and between 3.12 and 4.89 t/ha in spring-planted trials. Malt extracts were between 77.0% and 78.0% kg in fall-planted trials and between 73.9% and 76.9% in spring-planted trials. Alpha amylase activities ranged from 77.9 to 81.4 Ceralpha unit (CU)/g in fall-planted trials and from 80.8 to 100.9 CU/g in spring-planted trials. Diastatic power ranged from 194.5 to 331.1 Windisch-Kolbach unit (°WK) in fall-planted trials and from 129.0 to 259.8 °WK in spring-planted trials. GGE biplot analysis indicated that winter barley cultivar Durusu and facultative barley cultivar Ince-04 were the best with consistent grain yields while Ince-04 was the best with stable malt extract across the trials. In scatter plot graphics, winter barley cultivars Durusu, Aydanhanim, Yildiz and facultative Ince-04 had superior performance in fall-plantings for grain yield and malt extract. In spring planting, facultative Ince-04 had higher performance than those of other cultivars. In spring plantings, facultative or winter barley cultivars that do not have strong vernalization requirement had better yield and malt quality. Appropriate planting time and cultivars can allow a better use of available water in malt barley production under rainfed conditions. Lastly, instead of evaluating the grain yield or malt quality alone, it would be best to evaluate the target product (malt extract percentage) obtained from a particular region, process, or production methodology.
Degradation of zearalenone by microorganisms and enzymes
Authors: Gari Jiregna , Abdella Rahma
Published: August 2023

Mycotoxins are toxic metabolites produced by fungi that may cause serious health problems in humans and animals. Zearalenone is a secondary metabolite produced by fungi of the genus Fusarium, widely exists in animal feed and human food. One concern with the use of microbial strains and their enzyme derivatives for zearalenone degradation is the potential variability in the effectiveness of the degradation process. The efficiency of degradation may depend on various factors such as the type and concentration of zearalenone, the properties of the microbial strains and enzymes, and the environmental conditions. Therefore, it is important to carefully evaluate the efficacy of these methods under different conditions and ensure their reproducibility. Another important consideration is the safety and potential side effects of using microbial strains and enzymes for zearalenone degradation. It is necessary to evaluate the potential risks associated with the use of genetically modified microorganisms or recombinant enzymes, including their potential impact on the environment and non-target organisms. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the degradation products are indeed harmless and do not pose any health risks to humans or animals. Furthermore, while the use of microbial strains and enzymes may offer an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for zearalenone degradation, it is important to explore other methods such as physical or chemical treatments as well. These methods may offer complementary approaches for zearalenone detoxification, and their combination with microbial or enzyme-based methods may improve overall efficacy. Overall, the research on the biodegradation of zearalenone using microorganisms and enzyme derivatives is promising, but there are important considerations that need to be addressed to ensure the safety and effectiveness of these methods. Development of recombinant enzymes improves enzymatic detoxification of zearalenone to a non-toxic product without damaging the nutritional content. This review summarizes biodegradation of zearalenone using microorganisms and enzyme derivatives to nontoxic products. Further research is needed to fully evaluate the potential of these methods for mitigating the impact of mycotoxins in food and feed.
Sex-specific differences in symbiotic microorganisms associated with an invasive mealybug (Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley) based on 16S ribosomal DNA
Authors: Wang Lu , Liu Xia , Ruan Yongming
Published: August 2023

The ability of Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) to utilize a wide range of host plants is closely related to the symbiotic bacteria within its body. This study investigated the diversity of symbiotic microorganisms associated with the sap-sucking hemipteran insect. Using deep sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene and subsequent analysis with the Qiime software package, we constructed a comprehensive library of bacterial operational taxonomic units (OTUs). We compared the microbial communities of female and male adult mealybugs. Our results showed significant differences in bacterial composition between the sexes, with Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes being the dominant phyla in both female and male mealybugs. These results suggest that the diverse assemblage of symbiotic bacteria in P. solenopsis may be critical in enabling this insect to utilize a wide range of host plants by facilitating carbohydrate digestion and energy uptake.
Preseason Promotional and Extension Activities being Conducted by Research Seed Selling Seed Companies for the Hybrid Maize Crop
Authors: Lalage S. S. , Surnar H. R. , Ekhande Y. S. , Patil H. B.
Published: August 2023

One of the most popular commercial seeds, maize generated Rs. 14.91 billion in income in 2016. The rise in ethanol production and increased usage of maize as animal feed are responsible for the increase in the crop. Currently, only around 25% of maize is used as food grain, with the remaining 75% being used for non-food purposes such as biofuels, animal feed, poultry feed, alcohol brewing, starch-based wet milling, and other industrial uses. However, the enhanced investment in maize by global seed companies would flow into India through technology transfer and Public-Private Partnerships in the next fifty years. The Exploratory research design was used for the present study. The study was conducted in Solapur district. Five tehsil were selected to conduct market research in Solapur district. In each tehsil 10 farmers and 5 Dealers were selected. The sample size was 5 leading markets of the district, 5 dealers per big markets and 10 farmers per big market i.e 50 farmers and 25 dealers. The research instrument used in this project was well defined structured questionnaire for Dealer and Farmer. The main objective of this study was to learn the preseason promotional and extension activities being conducted by research seed selling seed companies for the hybrid maize crop. It is revealed from that, the promotional and extension activities taken by the hybrid maize seed companies for the hybrid maize seed for encouragement of farmers as well as dealers for purchase that seed. At that time 23 farmers responded to the demonstration plot, 10 farmers responded to the advertising, 13 farmers’ response were to the campaigning and remaining 4 farmers response were to other activities taken by the companies. To make data analysis simple, simple statistical techniques like shares (percent), pie charts, and graphs were chosen once the data was systematically classified in accordance with the objectives.
Real-time Comparison of Performance Analysis of Various Edge Detection Techniques Based on Imagery Data
Authors: Kumari Rajshree , Chandra Divyanshu
Published: August 2023

Edge Detection is one of the most essential steps for image processing to identify and detect discontinuity in intensity variation. It is an effective and an efficient tool to recognize different properties of an image such as shape, contrast, color, scene analysis, image segmentation etc. The technique is very important to recognize all the edges accurately.  It helps in object recognition, pattern recognition, medical image processing, motion analysis etc. There are many edge detection operators available in image processing.  This paper illustrates the performance analysis of the most commonly used edge detection techniques including Canny, Sobel and Prewitt, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages with respect to different types of datasets. After analyzing various parameters like Accuracy, Mean Square Error (MSE), Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR), Edge Detection Processing Time and Qualitative Human Visual Perception on two diverse type of datasets, varied results are found with respect to the techniques used. Among them, the most accurate and fast computed edge detection technique which gives better results on both type of datasets is concluded. Although the Sobel edge detection technique gives relatively poor result and weak performance of detection of edges, however it can be modified and further improved with respect to future work. The entire analyzing process was done under Scilab software.
Reaction of Maize Genotypes against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) in Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Suman Shivani , Bhadauria N. S. , Tomar S. P. S. , Singh Pradyumn
Published: August 2023

Aims: To identify the less susceptible varieties, allowing for targeted pest management strategies, reduced pesticide use, increased resilience to pest outbreaks, and long-term sustainable pest control solutions.

Study Design: Randomized Block Design.

Place and Duration of Study: Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Gwalior (Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior) during two consecutive years i.e., Kharif, 2021-22 and Kharif 2022-23.

Methodology: In the experiment, twelve different varieties were sown on 17th July 2021 and 17th July 2022 during both the consecutive years respectively. Observations on the number of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda larvae and plant damage per cent were recorded from randomly selected ten plants at weekly intervals. Observations for FAW was also be recorded with visual scoring method. A numerical scale (0-9), also known as the Davis scale, was used to evaluate leaf damage.

Results: The result of both the year indicated that not all varieties were found to be completely resistant to fall armyworm. For the purpose of interpreting the results, all the varieties were categorized for their reaction based on average data of both the years (Kharif 2021 and Kharif 2022) of mean larval population, mean plant damage percent, and leaf damage scoring. Based on statistical categorization, it was determined that the varieties NWMH-2002 and JM 218 exhibited lower susceptibility. On the other hand, the varieties Dkc-9141, Maize 3845, PAC 740, Yashoda gold, PM 303, Maize Ranker, Maize 5402, and Maize 3046 were classified as moderately susceptible. Lastly, Sona 5101 and M-909 were identified as highly susceptible varieties.

Conclusions: It concluded that the varieties NWMH-2002 and JM 218 exhibited lower susceptibility against fall armyworm.
Influence of Selected Parameters on the Product Yields of Broom Weed (Sida acuta) Pyrolysis
Authors: Adewumi A. A. , Olafimihan E. O. , Itabiyi O. E. , Akinrinade N. A.
Published: August 2023

Biomass feedstocks have been utilized for the commercial production of a wide range of fuels and chemicals through the pyrolysis process. Broom weed is abundant but it has not been widely used in Nigeria as a means of useful fuel and chemical thereby constituting an environmental menace. This study aimed to determine the effects of selected process parameters on the product yields during the pyrolysis of broom weed in a fixed bed reactor. Broom weed was obtained at the premises of the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. 0.1kg of a dried sample of broom weed was loaded into a steel retort, and the retort interior was rendered airtight. The retort was then placed into the furnace chamber and was pyrolysed at 300oC between 10 - 30 minutes at 5 minutes intervals. This was repeated for temperatures of 350, 400, 450, and 500 oC, and in each case, the quantities of char, bio-oil, and gas produced were determined. The average minimum values of the product yielded char, bio-oil, and gas for broom weed were 62.43 wt% at 500 ⁰C, 4.34 wt% at 300 ⁰C and 12.62 wt% at 300 ⁰C, respectively, while the maximum values were 83.37 wt% at 300 ⁰C, 8.80 wt% at 450 ⁰C and 30.96 wt% at 500 ⁰C, respectively. This study showed that pyrolysis of broom weed can serve as a renewable source of energy rather than constituting an environmental menace.
Review of Gully Erosion in Anambra State: Geology, Causes, Effects, Control Measures and Challenges Associated with Its Mitigation
Authors: Francisca O. Oshim , Nelson C. Ayajuru , Collins C. Anumaka , Opeyemi S. Olayemi
Published: August 2023

In South-Eastern Nigeria, particularly in Anambra State, gully erosion presents a serious environmental challenge. With over 100 gully sites in the state, only about 30 have received measures of control but are still not fully under control. Observations have shown clearly that the underlying geology exerts major control over the development of gully erosion in the study area. Progressive gullies in certain areas of Anambra State are caused by various factors, including topography, soil and water pH, lithology type, deforestation, hydrogeology, and geotechnical rock properties. This erosion activity has resulted in the loss of productive lands, water pollution, sedimentation of waterways, and the loss of lives and properties almost every year. However, several government agencies have attempted to manage it using concrete structures, stabilization work such as planting bamboo and cashew trees to increase water intake, and pipe structures to channel the water directly to nearby surface waters through the construction of check dams, embankments, and retention ponds to control the flow of water and sediments. Despite these control efforts, several challenges persist in effectively managing gully erosion in Anambra State. Majority of the concrete structures used to control these gullies have collapsed, leading to the incessant spreading of the site. Inadequate funding, failure of engineering structures, flooding, the geologic setting of the area, limited technical expertise, population growth, urbanisation, a lack of public awareness, and a lack of proper coordination among stakeholders hinder the implementation of comprehensive erosion control measures. It is recommended that concrete drainage channels should not only be used in controlling these gullies but also be integrated with other measures to yield a positive result.
The use of the pressure ulcer scale for healing in the evaluation of the healing process of the pressure injury / O uso do pressure ulcer scale for healing na avaliação do processo de cicatrização da lesão por pressão
Authors: Da Silva Rayane Castilho , Pires Ariane da Silva , Pérez Júnior Eugenio Fuentes , Conceição Marina Maria Bernardes da , Gonçalves Francisco Gleidson deAzevedo , Andrade Priscila Cristina da Silva Thiengo
Published: August 2023

Objetivo: descrever o processo de cicatrização das lesões por pressão em enfermarias de clinica médica segundo Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing e discutir as contribuições da enfermagem para o cuidado especializado em feridas com vistas a qualidade da assistência em saúde. Método: pesquisa transversal, cujo cenário foi um hospital público no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Os participantes foram oito pacientes adultos, internados em enfermarias de clínica médica e portadores de lesão por pressão. Os dados foram coletados durante a realização dos curativos. Resultados: a análise do processo de cicatrização das lesões, segundo o instrumento demonstrou que nenhum paciente evoluiu para o score 0 (ferida epitelizada) durante o tempo de acompanhamento de 4 semanas. Conclusão: a utilização de um instrumento validado para acompanhamento da cicatrização é uma ferramenta importante para a gerência do cuidado, pois permite analisar de maneira confiável e sistemática a evolução de cada paciente.
Transfusion complications in hospitalized elderly patients: integrative literature review / Complicações transfusionais em pacientes idosos hospitalizados: revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Leite Renata Clecia Neves , Silva Susanne Pinheiro Costa e , Sousa Wendy Chrystyan Medeiros de , Lima Karinna de Abreu , Lourencio dos Santos Marília , Siqueira Raquel dos Santos Vieira
Published: August 2023

Objetivo: identificar estudos acerca das principais complicações que a transfusão sanguínea pode acarretar à saúde do idoso hospitalizado e analisar as evidências científicas encontradas. Método: revisão integrativa realizada com estudos em inglês provenientes de bases de dados nacionais e internacionais publicados no período de 2017 a 2021. Os principais descritores foram “Blood Transfusion”, “Transfusion Reaction”, “Aged” e “Hospitalization”, combinados por meio dos operadores booleanos “AND” e “OR”. Resultados: foram incluídos 23 estudos que retratavam as principais complicações da transfusão sanguínea para a pessoa idosa hospitalizada. As doze diferentes complicações foram alocadas em duas categorias: relacionadas a cirurgias ou complicações não-cirúrgicas. Maior tempo de permanência hospitalar, mortalidade, reações transfusionais, lesão renal aguda pós-operatória e delirium pós-operatório fizeram parte dos principais achados. Conclusão: os mecanismos pelos quais as complicações se desenvolvem ainda não estão totalmente esclarecidos, evidenciando a importância do estímulo à realização de novas pesquisas que envolvam esta temática.
State Telepharmacy Policies and Pharmacy Deserts
Authors: Urick Benjamin Y. , Adams Jessica K. , Bruce Maimuna R.
Published: August 2023

Importance

Pharmacy deserts have increased, potentially affecting patient access and care. Historically, telepharmacies have been used to reduce pharmacy deserts to restore access, but states frequently restrict their operation.

Objective

To analyze whether telepharmacy policy is associated with pharmacy deserts and access to pharmacy services.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study analyzed pharmacy location and census data from 2016 through 2019 for US states with new telepharmacy policies. Nearby control states were used for comparison in a pretest-posttest nonequivalent group design. Statistical analysis was performed from January 2022 to July 2023.

Exposure

Intervention states were selected if a change in telepharmacy policy was adopted in 2017 or 2018.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Pharmacy deserts were defined as any geographic area located at least 10 miles from the nearest pharmacy. Primary outcomes included the change in number of telepharmacies, pharmacy deserts, and population in pharmacy deserts. Secondary outcomes included the percentage of telepharmacies located in medically underserved areas or populations (MUA/Ps), and the association between a telepharmacy opening nearby and the transition of a pharmacy desert into a nonpharmacy desert.

Results

Twelve US states were included in the study (8 intervention states, 4 control states). Intervention states experienced an increase in the mean number of telepharmacies to 7.25 with a range of 4 (Arizona, Indiana) to 14 (Iowa), but control states remained at a mean of 0.25 telepharmacies with a range of 0 to 1 (Kansas). Compared with controls, intervention states experienced a 4.5% (95% CI, 1.6% to 7.4%) decrease in the percentage of places defined as pharmacy deserts (P = .001) and an 11.1% (95% CI, 2.4% to 22.6%) decrease in the population in a pharmacy desert (P = .03). Telepharmacies were more likely to be located in a MUA/P than traditional pharmacies (preperiod in MUA/P: 63.2% of telepharmacies [12 of 19] vs 33.9% of traditional pharmacies [5984 of 17 511]; P = .01; postperiod in MUA/P: 62.7% of telepharmacies [37 of 59] vs 33.7% of traditional pharmacies [5998 of 17 800]; P < .001). When a telepharmacy was established in pharmacy deserts, 37.5% (30 of 80) no longer met the study’s definition of a pharmacy desert the following year. In contrast, only 1.8% of places (68 of 3892) where a nearby telepharmacy did not open experienced this change (χ21=416.4; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, intervention states experienced a reduced population in pharmacy deserts, suggesting an association with new telepharmacy openings. States aiming to improve pharmacy access might consider less restrictive telepharmacy policies to potentially elicit greater patient outcomes.
Alternate Hemibody Hyperkinetic and Hypokinetic Movement Disorders Due to Strategic Lesions in Cerebral Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Donlon Eoghan , Theze Sarah , Fearon Conor
Published: August 2023

This case report describes a women with a background of HIV presenting with complex involuntary movements with markedly different phenomenology on the right and left side of her body.
High Ionic Flux Sub‐Micro Channels Membrane Model for Salinity Gradient Power Generation
Authors: Jiang Jiaqiao , Lu Bingxin , Xu Yanglei , Zhai Jin , Fan Xia
Published: August 2023

Salinity gradient cells are widely used in power generation from gradient concentration solutions of one electrolyte. High ionic flux sub‐micro channels membrane can offer a high current density for salinity gradient power generation with a significant power output. Herein, based on numerical simulation model with Poisson‐Nernst‐Planck‐Navier‐Stokes (PNP‐NS) equations, a high ionic flux sub‐micro channel model with assumption is introduced that measured current is contributed by Cl− ionic flux across the membrane. An ion channel system is built for experiment, in which a glass membrane with regular symmetric sub‐micro cylindrical channels and high effective channel area is applied, ion conductance and salinity gradient energy conversion property are tested. This PNP‐NS equations model simulation fits experiment well, its mechanism is also studied by the model. In addition, by mixing artificial sea water (0.5 m NaCl) and river water (0.01 mm NaCl), the output power density of this 50‐fold salinity gradient system can achieve 4.16 W m−2, and the highest output power density will be up to 7.91 W m−2 under a 0.5 m/0.001 m 500‐fold salinity gradient. This high ionic flux membrane shows a good performance for practical application in salinity gradient power generation.
Bone‐Targeted Delivery of Cell‐Penetrating‐RUNX2 Fusion Protein in Osteoporosis Model
Authors: Kim Seoyeon , Lee Haein , Hong Jiyeon , Kim Seung Hyun L. , Kwon Euntaek , Park Tai Hyun , Hwang Nathaniel S.
Published: August 2023

The onset of osteoporosis leads to a gradual decrease in bone density due to an imbalance between bone formation and resorption. To achieve optimal drug efficacy with minimal side effects, targeted drug delivery to the bone is necessary. Previous studies have utilized peptides that bind to hydroxyapatite, a mineral component of bone, for bone‐targeted drug delivery. In this study, a hydroxyapatite binding (HAB) tag is fused to 30Kc19α‐Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) for bone‐targeting. This recombinant protein can penetrate the nucleus of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and act as a master transcription factor for osteogenesis. The HAB tag increases the binding affinity of 30Kc19α‐RUNX2 to mineral deposition in mature osteoblasts and bone tissue, without affecting its osteogenic induction capability. In the osteoporosis mouse model, intravenous injection of HAB‐30Kc19α‐RUNX2 results in preferential accumulation in the femur and promotes bone formation while reducing toxicity in the spleen. These findings suggest that HAB‐30Kc19α‐RUNX2 may be a promising candidate for bone‐targeted therapy in osteoporosis.
Mechanochemical Metal‐free N‐Sulfonyl Transfer Reaction: Expedient Synthesis of N‐Sulfonyl Amidines
Authors: Guha Souvik , Maheshwari Sanjana , Ravva Mahesh K. , Jacob Jesni M. , Yadav Shalini , Sen Subhabrata
Published: August 2023

An operationally simple mechanochemical reaction between iminoiodinanes with numerous cyclic 2°‐amines such as morpholine, piperidine, pyrrolidine, thiomorpholine, N‐Boc diazepine and N‐Boc piperazine has been reported to afford N‐sulfonyl amidines in moderate to excellent yield. The N‐sulfonyl transfer reaction happens in a ball mill apparatus (RETSCH 400™) with three 5 mm stainless steel (ss) balls in a 5 mL stainless steel (ss) reaction jar with 2‐methyl tetrahydrofuran as liquid assisted grinding auxiliary (LAG). This metal catalyst‐base free synthesis with minimal solvents (as LAGs) demonstrated an efficient N‐sulfonyl transfer reaction from iminoiodinanes. N‐sulfonyl amidines are ubiquitous building blocks present in natural products and drug intermediates. Control experiments and computational studies based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to gain deeper insight into the mechanism.
DNA from multiple viral species is associated with Alzheimer's disease risk
Authors: Tejeda Marlene , Farrell John , Zhu Congcong , Wetzler Lee , Lunetta Kathryn L. , Bush William S. , Martin Eden R. , Wang Li‐San , Schellenberg Gerard D. , Pericak‐Vance Margaret A. , Haines Jonathan L. , Farrer Lindsay A. , Sherva Richard
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION

Multiple infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, have been linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk by independent lines of evidence. We explored this association by comparing the frequencies of viral species identified in a large sample of AD cases and controls.

METHODS

DNA sequence reads that did not align to the human genome in sequences were mapped to viral reference sequences, quantified, and then were tested for association with AD in whole exome sequences (WES) and whole genome sequences (WGS) datasets.

RESULTS

Several viruses were significant predictors of AD according to the machine learning classifiers. Subsequent regression analyses showed that herpes simplex type 1 (HSV‐1) (odds ratio [OR] = 3.71, p = 8.03 × 10−4) and human papillomavirus 71 (HPV‐71; OR = 3.56, p = 0.02), were significantly associated with AD after Bonferroni correction. The phylogenetic‐related cluster of Herpesviridae was significantly associated with AD in several strata of the data (p < 0.01).

DISCUSSION

Our results support the hypothesis that viral infection, especially HSV‐1, is associated with AD risk.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis on population attributable fraction for physical inactivity to dementia
Authors: Feter Natan , Leite Jayne S. , da Silva Luísa Silveira , Cassuriaga Júlia , de Paula Danilo , Lopes Gabriela Wünsch , Hallal Pedro Rodrigues Curi , Lee I‐Min , Rombaldi Airton José
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION

The number of cases of dementia attributable to physical inactivity remains unclear due to heterogeneity in physical inactivity definitions and statistical approaches used.

METHODS

Studies that used population‐based samples to estimate the population attributable fraction (PAF) of physical inactivity for dementia were included in this review. Weighted PAFs were adjusted for communality among the risk factors (i.e., inactive persons may also share other risk factors) analyzed. Values were reported as percentage (%) of cases of dementia attributable to physical inactivity.

RESULTS

We included 22 studies. The overall impact of physical inactivity, defined by any criteria, on dementia ranged from 6.6% (95% CI: 3.6%, 9.6%; weighted) to 16.6% (95% CI: 14.4%, 18.9%; unweighted). Studies using the WHO criterion for physical inactivity estimated a higher unweighted impact (β = 7.3%; 95% CI: 2.0%, 12.6%) than studies using other criteria.

DISCUSSION

Conservatively, one in 15 cases of dementia may be attributable to physical inactivity, defined by any criteria.
Metal‐free nanostructured‐carbon inks for a sustainable fabrication of zinc/air batteries: From ORR activity to a simple prototype
Authors: Santos Florencio , Lorca Sebastian , Gonzalez‐Martinez Juan F. , Urbina Antonio , Alvarez‐Sanchez Miguel A. , González‐Domínguez José M. , García‐Bordejé Enrique , Ansón‐Casaos Alejandro , Benito Ana M. , Maser Wolfgang K. , Fernández Romero Antonio J.
Published: August 2023

Zinc/air batteries are convenient energy storage devices for both small and massive applications. While future perspectives indicate the need for low‐cost components and sustainable fabrication processes, the battery performance is in part controlled by the kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which typically involves transition metals as catalysts. In this context, we prepare a series of metal‐free water‐based carbon inks, which are tested for their catalytic performance, once deposited on a gas‐diffusion substrate, in the air cathode of a simple battery prototype. The inks contain a variety of well‐defined carbon nanomaterials and additives, exhibiting different physicochemical properties that critically influence the interaction with the gas diffusion hydrophobic substrate. The intrinsic ORR catalytic activity of the ink material is also analyzed on a glassy carbon electrode by the rotating ring‐disc electrode (RRDE) method and specific capacitance measurements. The discharge capacity on our zinc/air battery prototype correlates well with the intrinsic catalytic activity in the RRDE. However, only the activity in the RRDE does not actually assure the performance on the commercial cathode of the prototype, since other chemical compatibility issues play a role. Thus, we highlight the importance of catalyst testing, not only on the RRDE but also under realistic device conditions.