bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PREVENTION OF AGGRESIVE BEHAVIOUR OF PUPILS AS THE BASIS FOR CREATING A SAFE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: EMMEROVÁ INGRID
Published: May 2023

The study presents current situation regarding the occurrence of aggressive behaviour among primary, lower secondary and upper secondary school pupils. Besides aggressive behaviour of various intensity and significance among pupils, quite common is also aggressive behaviour of pupils towards teachers. One of the significant problems nowadays is also aggressive behaviour of pupils in the online environment, especially cyberbullying. The author points out the necessity of implementation of prevention in the school environment. Effective prevention of aggressive behaviour of pupils significantly contributes to the creation of safe school environment.
A Study on Surgical Site Infections and Associated Risk Factors in General Surgeries at a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Trrisha V. , Shilpa A. , Rupakala B.M. , Lakshminarayana S.A.
Published: May 2023

Background: Surgical site infections (SSI) remain a major cause of hospital-acquired infections, causing morbidity and mortality worldwide. In developing countries, 5.6% of surgical procedures will develop SSIs. These are further complicated by an increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant organisms. Associated risk factors also play a role in contribution of SSIs. However, the identification of factors that cause or predict these SSIs remains an important area of research.

Objective: To investigate the risk factors for SSI together with the identification of the aetiological bacterial agents and their antimicrobial susceptibility.

Methods and Patients: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 143 patients who underwent surgery in a single tertiary care centre. Only the surgeries falling under clean and clean-contaminated categories were included in the study. SSI was determined by positive bacterial culture, and resistant pattern was determined by Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method.

Results: Out of 25 different surgical procedures in 143 cases, four cases developed SSI due to Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Diabetes, obesity, and smoking were the associated risk factors in these cases.

Conclusion: Prevention of SSI is complex and requires the integration of a range of preventive measures before, during, and after surgery.
The Role of Principal Leadership in Improving Ethical Techers Works of Islamic Education
Authors: Hernawan Hernawan , Subandi Subandi , Tukiran Tukiran
Published: May 2023

This study aims to describe the principal's leadership role in increasing teacher morale, describe the principal's efforts to improve teacher work discipline, and describe the strategies employed by the principal to improve a good work ethic at IT Al Asror Middle School, Sekampung Case District in East Lampung District, Province Lampung. This study uses a type of qualitative research. The approach used is phenomenology. Data sources were taken from 4 people as informants. Data collection procedures include interview techniques, observation, and documentation studies. The results of research findings at IT Al Asror Middle School are: (1) The leadership role of the principal is to improve the teacher's work ethic in building student character, more importantly the principal provides motivation with a high spirit of intention to carry out his duties and responsibilities as a leader (2) Efforts carried out by the principal to improve the work ethic are compiling school programs, vision, mission and goals as well as evaluating the performance of teachers and employees, timely attendance, preparing lessons according to the lesson plan and the methods used in PAIKEM learning (3) the principal's strategy in improving the teacher's work ethic is to provide appropriate salaries, provide comfortable, clean and disciplined facilities in the school environment. The conclusion of this study is the leadership role of the school principal in improving the teacher's work ethic in building student character as a motivator, educator and motivator in providing good morale. tall and as a leader must create discipline, comfort, and high security in order to maintain the implementation of quality work in the school environment

Keywords: Principal Leadership, Ethical Techers Works, Role of Principal Leadership
The Effect of Per Capita Income, Human Development Index and Open Unemployment Rate on Poverty in Tebo District
Authors: Prihatiningsih Astuti , Aldino Wahyu
Published: May 2023

This study aims to analyze the effect of per capita income, the human development index and the open unemployment rate on the poverty rate in Tebo District. The research method used is secondary data analysis method.The analytical tool used is multiple regression analysis. Based on the results of testing the regression equation model using Microsoft Excel Data Analyze, it is obtainedthe calculation results obtained are F-Count = 0.2767 while F-Table = 9.28 (α = 0.05; 3.2), so F-Count < F-Table. Comparison between F-Count and F-Table which shows that F-Count < F-Table, indicating that the independent variables together have no significant effect on the dependent variable, so that per capita income, HDI and open unemployment rate during the 2017-2021 period together -sama did not have a significant effect on the incidence of poverty in Tebo District.
The Role of Islamic Religious Education Teachers in Developing Student Personality
Authors: Abbas Megawati , Sudika Aryandi
Published: May 2023

This study aims to develop the personality of students in accordance with the goals of Islamic religious education, namely creating human beings with Muslim personalities. This type of research is descriptive-qualitative using an interdisciplinary approach, namely pedagogical, psychological and religious and philosophical. The research location is focused onAl-Islam Middle Schoo Fort Tellue Kec. Bone District Amali. This research found several important points including; 1). Educators and education staff at Al-Islam Middle School Benteng Tellue, Kec. Amali Bone Regency accumulatively totals 11 people consisting of permanent teachers and non-permanent teachers, as well as staff or employees and the majority have a Bachelor's education qualification (S1) and there is 1 person who has a master's qualification (S2) from various fields of science; 2). The efforts of Islamic religious education teachers in developing the personality of students through education, guidance and direction in accordance with Islamic values. Providing exemplary as an effort to accustom students to good behavior; 3). Supporting factors, in addition to the qualifications of PAI teachers meeting the standards and the subjects taught in accordance with their scientific disciplines and infrastructure are supporting factors in developing the personality of students; inhibiting factors such as, lack of study hours for religious lessons, student awareness of the importance of Islamic religious education, environmental/social influences and lack of attention and cooperation from parents of students.

Keywords: The Role of Islamic Religious Education Teachers, Student Personality Development
Cyber Risk Insurance – An Effective Risk Management Tool for SMES in the UK?
Authors: Soyer B , Nicholas A , Leloudas G
Published: May 2023

This article aims to analyse to what extent small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) in the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) utilise cyber risk insurance as a risk mitigation tool in their cyber security management systems. To this end, the authors, by adopting a systematic qualitative analysis, elaborate the nature and scope of cyber risk insurance products on offer for SMEs (the supply side of the cyber insurance market). They then by utilising the data obtained from SMEs randomly but purposively, attempt to gain an understanding of the attitude of SMEs to cyber security generally and to cyber risk insurance. The main conclusion of the article is that the insurance market should consider developing a new cyber risk insurance product that aligns cyber security closely with the principle of indemnity. It is discussed in the article how such a product will enhance SMEs’ cyber security resilience (hence providing a social benefit for the society) and at the same time afford new opportunities for insurance providers to expand the size of their business and variety of their products.
Description of Cephalenchus regia n. sp. associated with Walnut (Juglans regia) from Lawat Kundiyan, District Neelum, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan
Authors: Bashir Junaid , Khanum Tabassum Ara
Published: May 2023

Lawat Valley is one of the greenest valleys in Neelum District, situated near the bank of the Neelum River in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. Surveys were conducted from seven different localities in the Lawat area of Neelum district during 2018-2020. A total of 250 samples of soil and roots were collected from areas where various fruits and vegetables were grown at a depth of 10-20 cm. The main objective of the survey was to study pathogenic nematodes and observe the incidence of diseases caused by parasitic nematodes. From Lawat Kundian, six nematode species were identified in apricot trees, and seven were identified in walnut trees, including a newly identified species, Cephalenchus regia. C. regia n.sp. was found in the soil around the dry fruit of walnut (Juglans regia) in Lawat Kundian. It differs from other species in having a longer stylet, pharynx, and tail (22-24; 115-130; 150-200 µm, respectively), as well as an anteriorly situated vulva (57.4 - 62.5%)
What Makes Research on Aflatoxin Crucial for Human Health and Development?
Authors: Afzal Amir , Ashraf Sharmin , Syed Sairah , Mustafa Ruqeah , Khan Madeeha , Iqbal Javed , Javed Uzma , Shakil Qamar
Published: May 2023

Food security involves not only ensuring access to adequate food, but also ensuring that the food is nutritious and free from contaminants that can harm human health. Aflatoxins, produced by the fungi Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, are one example of a contaminant that can pose a threat to food security. To address this issue, it is important to implement effective management practices throughout the food chain, from the field to the table, to minimize the risk of aflatoxin contamination. Additionally, promoting awareness about the dangers of aflatoxins at the social level and using a combination of genetic and management practices can help provide a stable and sustainable solution to this problem. This article extensively discusses the harmful effects of Aflatoxins (AFs) and outlines strategies for managing contamination before and after harvest, including the potential for breeding crops with higher resistance. The article also examines the relationship between moisture content and AF contamination in peanuts before harvest. It highlights the impact of AFs on the production of meat, milk, and eggs from animals and underscores the need for a comprehensive policy to prevent AF contamination from entering the food chain at every stage. Improved agronomic practices and cattle feeding, as well as public awareness efforts, can help reduce the risk of AFs in the food supply. With a combination of current genetic improvements and effective pre- and post-harvest management practices, it may be possible to mitigate the issue of AF contamination
First Report of Leaf Blight of Jasminum sambac Caused by Bipolaris australiensis in Pakistan
Authors: Nawaz Maryam , Yousaf Nousheen
Published: May 2023

During disease surveys of plants in 2021, leaf blight was observed on Jasminum sambac plants in City Housing Society, Gujranwala, Punjab, Pakistan. Infection spots occurred on the margins of leaves in the form of large patches on both abaxial and adaxial surfaces of J. sambac. These spots began as small necrotic spots and developed into irregular pale brown patches with black powder covering the surfaces. The causative organism was consistently isolated from infected leaves on potato dextrose agar. Based on morphological analysis, the species isolated from Jasminum sambac during this research belongs to the genus Bipolaris and has been identified as Bipolaris australiensis. This fungal species has not previously been reported on this host plant worldwide, and this fungal taxon has been characterized for the first time in detail from Pakistan. To the best of our knowledge, J. sambac is a new host record for this fungal species in Pakistan and worldwide. A key to the identification of Pakistani species of the genus Bipolaris is presented in this paper
Studies on the Efficacy of Heterogeneously Produced Pasteuria Penetrans (PP3) Isolate over Individual Pasteuria Isolates in the Spore Attachment, and Pathogenic Potential on Three Meloidogyne Species
Authors: Shahid Muhammad , Gowen Simon R. , Burhan Muhammad , Niaz Zeeshan , Haq Anwar ul
Published: May 2023

The aim of the present test was to develop a Pasteuria penetrans isolate (Pp3) on a Meloidogyne blend and compare the attachment and pathogenic potential of this heterogeneously produced isolate with other Pp3 isolates produced on individual Meloidogyne species (Meloidogyne javanica, M. incognita and M. arenaria). Number of spores attached varied among Meloidogyne spp. Pp3 isolate originally multiplied on M. javanica showed greater attachment level with second stage juveniles (J2s) of M. javanica (13.8) than other Meloidogyne spp. tested and lesser attachment was observed on J2s of a M. arenaria. The Pp3 isolate showed variable influence on the Meloidogyne spp. in suppressing root-knot disease. There was a significant difference in numbers of eggmasses produced by females of Meloidogyne spp. Higher numbers of eggmasses were recorded with females of M. arenaria (370) while fewer numbers of eggmasses were observed in treatment where M. javanica (245) was present. Root galling differed significantly among treatments (P0.01) and higher gall infestation was recorded in M. arenaria treatment (6.2) while lesser galling was observed in M. javanica treatment (4.4). Final female population also varied among treatments (P0.05) showing higher numbers of females in M. arenaria treatment (456) and fewer with M. javanica (398). Parasitism of females of Meloidogyne spp. by Pp3 differed significantly among treatments. Higher numbers of females infected with Pp3 spores were recorded among females of M. javanica (14.4) while lesser numbers of parasitized females were observed in M. arenaria treatment (9.8). There were significant variations in numbers of endospores/female produced by females of Meloidogyne spp. however egg set data did not differ in the treatments. The results showed that the Pp3 isolate was more pathogenic on M. javanica compared with other Meloidogyne spp. (M. incognita, M. arenaria and M blend). The Pp3 isolate was found compatible with different Meloidogyne spp. while M. arenaria proved the least good host to bacterial parasite
UNDERSTANDING DEFINITION OF BUSINESS RESILIENCE: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Diandra Didip , Hidayah Zainur
Published: May 2023

Business resilience in digital technology era is not comprehensively overviewed. Thus, it is important to construct the body of the research and contributes to the current state of knowledge to understand the definition of business resilience in disruptive era. This study employs a systematic LITERATURE REVIEW of 76 papers that are categorized into two stream propositions: resilience and adaptive capability in digital technology era, and non-adaptive resilient one. The result reveals that when the business process adapt to digital technology, become more resilient and competitively sustained, while other do not. Future research may focus on speed adaptation capability in connectivity era.
Fisheries and aquaculture by-products modulate growth, body composition, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid content in black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae
Authors: Arena Rosaria , Manuguerra Simona , Curcuraci Eleonora , Cusimano Maria , Lo Monaco Daniela , Di Bella Calogero , Santulli Andrea , Messina Concetta Maria
Published: May 2023

The black soldier fly (BSF) (Hermetia illucens L.) is one of the most promising species for the production of ingredients, mainly protein, useful for animal feed formulation, owing to its ability to convert organic waste into biomass with a high nutritional value. However, the low percentage of n-3 series polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in its fatty acid profile is a limiting factor for the utilization of BSF in fish feed. Recent studies have highlighted that wastes derived from different agro-food value chains could affect the nutritional composition of BSF larvae, depending on the composition of the wastes used as larvae-growing substrate. Due to the significant amount of n-3 PUFA in marine products, both in edible produce and in by-products, in this study, different sources of fish by-products were included in experimental diets for BSF to evaluate the effect of its addition on the final nutritional profile of BSF pre-pupae. One control diet and five experimental diets were prepared to feed the BSF larvae: wheat bran as the control diet (diet B), bycatch from Mediterranean trawl fisheries (diet F), Parapenaeus longirostris processing by-products (diet S), aquaculture processing by-products (diet R), Thunnus albacares processing by-products (diet T), and Engraulis encrasicolus processing by-products (diet A). In this study, the effects of the different diets were analyzed on the growth, body composition, and fatty acid profile of BSF larvae and pre-pupae. The obtained results showed that the different experimental diets affected total lipids content and fatty acids composition, when compared with the control. A significant increase in eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in BSF larvae and pre-pupae fed with all fish by-products was observed when compared with those fed with diet B, in particular in larvae and pre-pupae fed with diet A, demonstrating that the utilization of fish processing by-products is a suitable solution for improving the nutritional value of insects as ingredients in aqua feeds. The reuse of marine by-products can contribute to the industry’s “zero waste” goal, increasing the sustainability of the fishery value chain and the formulation of new valuable products.
Joint denoising method of seismic velocity signal and acceleration signals based on independent component analysis
Authors: Zhang Guangde , Zhang Huaibang , You Li , Yang Yuyong , Zhou Huailai , Zhang Bohan , Chen Wujin , Liu Liyuan
Published: May 2023

The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of seismic data is the key to seismic data processing, and it also directly affects interpretation of seismic data results. The conventional denoising method, independent variable analysis, uses adjacent traces for processing. However, this method has problems, such as the destruction of effective signals. The widespread use of velocity and acceleration geophones in seismic exploration makes it possible to obtain different types of signals from the same geological target, which is fundamental to the joint denoising of these two types of signals. In this study, we propose a joint denoising method using seismic velocity and acceleration signals. This method selects the same trace of velocity and acceleration signal for Independent Component Analysis (ICA) to obtain the independent initial effective signal and separation noise. Subsequently, the obtained effective signal and noise are used as the prior information for a Kalman filter, and the final joint denoising results are obtained. This method combines the advantages of low-frequency seismic velocity signals and high-frequency and high-resolution acceleration signals. Simultaneously, this method overcomes the problem of inconsistent stratigraphic reflection caused by the large spacing between adjacent traces, and improves the SNR of the seismic data. In a model data test and in field data from a work area in the Shengli Oilfield, the method increases the dominate frequency of the signal from 20 to 40 Hz. The time resolution was increased from 8.5 to 6.8 ms. The test results showed that the joint denoising method based on seismic velocity and acceleration signals can better improve the dominate frequency and time resolution of actual seismic data.
In-situ growth of nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes on MXene nanosheets for efficient sodium/potassium-ion storage
Authors: Wang Tao , Zeng Jinjue , Gu Xianrui , Meng Yuhang , Yang Han , Zhu Hongda , Deng Dingfei , Sun Zhipeng , Ding Rui , Li Yongle , Rong Junfeng , Wang Xuebin
Published: May 2023

For game changing for future of large-scale energy storage technologies, sodium-ion and potassium-ion batteries provide a substitute to lithium-ion batteries. As an excellent candidate anode, MXene still suffers from the blockage of active sites caused by restacking of sheets. Herein, an in-situ decoration of MXene nanosheets with nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is introduced, to yield MXene@CNTs. The modification of nitrogen-doped CNTs not only prevents the restacking of MXene and increases ion accessibility but also improves the electrode’s overall conductivity, thereby enhancing electron conduction and ion diffusion kinetics significantly. Therefore, MXene@CNTs exhibits superior sodium/potassium-ion storage performance than pure MXene nanosheets. At 0.05 A g-1, it can deliver reversible capacities of 286 mAh g-1 for SIBs and 250 mAh g-1 for PIBs. This research illustrates the significance of the electrode architecture for electrochemical performances, and the in-situ growth strategy could provide some insight on searching for high-performance MXene-based anodes for SIBs and PIBs.
FindMyApps eHealth intervention improves quality, not quantity, of home tablet use by people with dementia
Authors: Neal David P. , Kuiper Leanne , Pistone Daniela , Osinga Channah , Nijland Sanne , Ettema Teake , Dijkstra Karin , Muller Majon , Dröes Rose-Marie
Published: May 2023

Introduction

FindMyApps is a tablet-based eHealth intervention, designed to improve social health in people with mild dementia or mild cognitive impairment.

Methods

FindMyApps has been subject to a randomized controlled trial (RCT), Netherlands Trial Register NL8157. Following UK Medical Research Council guidance, a mixed methods process evaluation was conducted. The goal was to investigate the quantity and quality of tablet use during the RCT, and which context, implementation, and mechanisms of impact (usability, learnability and adoption) factors might have influenced this. For the RCT, 150 community dwelling people with dementia and their caregivers were recruited in the Netherlands. For the process evaluation, tablet-use data were collected by proxy-report instrument from all participants' caregivers, FindMyApps app-use data were registered using analytics software among all experimental arm participants, and semi-structured interviews (SSIs) were conducted with a purposively selected sample of participant-caregiver dyads. Quantitative data were summarized and between group differences were analyzed, and qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

Results

There was a trend for experimental arm participants to download more apps, but there were no statistically significant differences between experimental and control arm participants regarding quantity of tablet use. Qualitative data revealed that experimental arm participants experienced the intervention as easier to use and learn, and more useful and fun than control arm participants. Adoption of tablet app use was lower than anticipated in both arms.

Conclusions

A number of context, implementation and mechanism of impact factors were identified, which might explain these results and may inform interpretation of the pending RCT main effect results. FindMyApps seems to have had more impact on the quality than quantity of home tablet use.
Cortical Frontoparietal Network Dysfunction in CHMP2B-Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Musaeus Christian Sandøe , Pedersen Jette Stokholm , Kjær Troels Wesenberg , Johannsen Peter , Waldemar Gunhild , Haverberg Maria Joy Normann , Bacher Theis , Nielsen Jørgen Erik , Roos Peter ,   The FReJA Consortium
Published: May 2023

A rare cause of inherited frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a mutation in the CHMP2B gene on chromosome 3 leading to the autosomal dominantly inherited FTD (CHMP2B-FTD). Since CHMP2B-FTD is clinically well-characterized, and patients show a distinct pattern of executive dysfunction, the condition offers possible insight in the early electroencephalographic (EEG) changes in the cortical networks. Specifically, EEG microstate analysis parses the EEG signals into topographies believed to represent discrete network activations. We investigated the EEG dynamics in patients with symptomatic CHMP2B-FTD (n = 5) as well as pre-symptomatic mutation carriers (n = 5) compared to non-carrier family members (n = 6). The data was parsed into four archetypal microstates and global power was calculated. A trend was found for lower occurrence in microstate D in CHMP2B-FTD (p-value = 0.177, F-value = 2.036). Patients with recent symptom onset (<1 year) showed an increased duration of microstate D, whereas patients who had been symptomatic for longer periods (>2 years) showed decreased duration. Patients with CHMP2B-FTD present with executive dysfunction, and microstate D has previously been shown to be associated with the fronto-parietal network. The biphasic pattern may represent the pathophysiological changes in brain dynamics during neurodegeneration, which may apply to other neurodegenerative diseases.
Suspected cutaneous adverse drug reactions reported with traditional medicines: analysis of data for United Nations Asia region from WHO VigiBase
Authors: Barvaliya Manish J. , Chetan A. C. , Chandan N. , Ray Suman Kumar , Hegde Harsha V. , Unger Banappa S. , Patel Tejas K. , Roy Subarna
Published: May 2023

Background: Data on traditional medicine-induced cutaneous adverse drug reactions (ADRs) is very scarce. The current secondary analysis based on the WHO database (VigiBase) of individual case safety reports (ICSRs) focuses on the suspected cutaneous ADRs linked to traditional medicines (TMs).

Methods: All the ICSRs reported between 1st January 2016 and 30th June 2021 from the UN Asia region in VigiBase where at least one TM was suspected to cause cutaneous ADRs were included in the study. Data regarding demographic details, suspected drug, adverse reaction as per MedDRA term, the seriousness of the reaction, de-challenge, re-challenge, and clinical outcome for suspected cutaneous ADRs associated with TM were obtained from VigiBase and analyzed for frequency of reported events and suspected medicines.

Findings: Total 3,523 ICSRs with 5,761 ADRs related to “skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders” were included in the analysis. Amongst these, 6.8% of ICSRs were reported as serious. Pruritus (29.6%), rash (20.3%), urticaria (18.9%), and hyperhidrosis (3.3%) were commonly reported ADRs. Artemisia argyi H.Lév. and Vaniot. (14.9%), Ginkgo biloba L. (5.1%), Vitis vinifera L. (4%), Vitex agnus-castus L. (3.8%), Silybum marianum (L.), Gaertn (3.5%), and Viscus album L. (2.7%) were some commonly suspected TMs for cutaneous ADRs. There were 46 cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis reported with TMs during the study period. Death was reported in 5 ICSRs.

Interpretation: TMs are linked with various cutaneous ADRS ranging from pruritus to toxic epidermal necrolysis which may have serious consequences. TMs listed as suspected offending agents in this analysis, should be kept in mind while dealing with suspected cutaneous ADRs. Clinicians should be more vigilant in detecting and reporting events associated with TMs.
Effects of short-term extreme temperature treatment on the development and reproductive capacity of Encarsia formosa
Authors: Li Ming-Jiang , Zhang Bo , Chen Guo-Hua , Zhou Shun-Wen , Liu Ji-Huan , Lu Mei , Zhang Jin-Long , Yang Shao-Wu , Zhang Xiao-Ming
Published: May 2023

Encarsia formosa is a natural enemy of the invasive pest Bemisia tabaci and is known to be a dominant parasitic. The frequency and magnitude of climate extremes, particularly temperature extremes, have increased, which has put insect populations at risk. However, the effects of temperature extremes on E. formosa are not well understood. To examine the impact of short-term extreme temperature exposure on the development and reproduction of E. formosa, eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults were exposed to high/low temperature treatments (HLT25, HLT50, LLT25, and LLT50). Our findings indicate that the pupal stage of E. formosa exhibited the strongest tolerance to both heat and cold, while adults exhibited a weaker tolerance. The shortest egg-to-adult development period of 12.65 days was observed in E. formosa exposed to HLT50 treatment during the egg-larval stage. The parasitism peak of the adult stage was delayed by 1–6 days after exposure to extreme temperatures during the egg-larval stage. Conversely, the parasitism peak was advanced by 1–3 days after exposure to extreme temperatures during the pupal and adult stages. The eclosion rate, total parasitism, eclosion rate of the F1 generation, and adult longevity of the F1 generation were lower in the treatment groups than in the control groups. The F1 generation’s development period was prolonged to 15.49 and 15.19 days after exposure to HLT25 and HLT50 treatments, respectively, during the egg-larval stage. The F1 generation’s development period was shortened to 13.33 days after exposure to LLT50 treatment during the pupal stage. Male individuals appeared in the F1 generation after exposure to HLT50 treatment during the pupal stage, with females accounting for only 56.38%. Our results demonstrate that short-term exposure to extreme temperatures has detrimental effects on the growth and reproduction of E. formosa. In field biocontrol against E. formosa, the release of E. formosa should be avoided as much as possible when the ambient temperature is higher than 35°C or lower than 0°C. During extreme temperature conditions, timely supplementation and release of E. formosa population, along with ventilation and cooling in greenhouse facilities during summer, are necessary for better pest control efficacy.
Virulent and attenuated strains of Trichoderma citrinoviride mediated resistance and biological control mechanism in tomato
Authors: Zhao Di , Shen Dan , Fan Haiyan , Zhu Xiaofeng , Wang Yuanyuan , Duan Yuxi , Chen Lijie
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Root-knot nematode disease is one of the world's most serious vegetable crop diseases. In recent years, Trichoderma spp. has been widely used in root-knot nematode disease control as a biological control agent.

Methods

Virulent and attenuated strains of Trichoderma citrinoviride mediated resistance and biological control mechanism in tomato were determined.

Results

Preliminary experiments found differences in nematicidal virulence among Trichoderma citrinoviride. The 24-hour corrected mortality rate of the virulent strainT1910 was as high as 92.37%, with an LC50 of 0.5585 against the second juveniles (J2s) of Meloidogyne incognita. And the attenuated strain TC9 was 23.01%, the LC50 was 2.0615, so the virulent strain T1910 had a more substantial effect on the J2s than the attenuated strain. We found that the strong virulent strain T1910 have a good control effect on M. incognita by the pot experiment of tomato than that of the attenuated virulent strain TC9,especially the J2 and J4 numbers were inhibited inside the root knots of tomato. Theinhibition rates of virulent strains reached 85.22% and 76.91%, followed by attenuatedstrain TC9, which were 63.16% and 59.17%, respectively. To reveal the differences intomato defense pathways induced by different virulent strains, qRT-PCR was further usedto detect changes in the expression of inducement-related genes. The results showed thatthe TC9 was significantly upregulated at 5dpi, LOX1, PR1, and PDF1.2. The PR5 gene ofthe virulent strain T1910 was highly upregulated, and the JA pathway was activated laterbut weaker than the attenuated strain. The results of this study revealed that thebiocontrol mechanism of T. citrinoviride as poison killing through the virulent strain T1910 and induced resistance to M. incognita through attenuated strain, although virulence degradation also has an induced resistance effect. Moreover, the attenuated strain TC9 stimulated tomato immune response earlier than the virulent strain by nematode-associated molecular pattern-triggered (NAMP).

Discussion

Therefore, the research elucidated the mechanism of multiple control of Trichoderma spp. against M. incognita.
Four years after the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship program in Jordan: evaluation of program’s core elements
Authors: Hassan Samar Khaled , Dahmash Eman Zmaily , Madi Thaira , Tarawneh Omar , Jomhawi Tuqa , Alkhob Worood , Ghanem Rola , Halasa Zina
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To combat antimicrobial resistance, the World Health Organization (WHO) urged healthcare organizations in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) to implement the core elements of the antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs. In response, Jordan took action and developed a national antimicrobial resistance action plan (NAP) in 2017 and commenced the AMS program in all healthcare facilities. It is paramount to evaluate the efforts to implement the AMS programs and understand the challenges of implementing a sustainable and effective program, in Low-Middle Income Country (LMIC) contexts. Therefore, the aim of this study was to appraise the compliance of public hospitals in Jordan to the WHO core elements of effective AMS programs after 4 years of commencement.

Methods

A cross-sectional study in public hospitals in Jordan, using the WHO AMS program core elements for LMICs was carried out. The questionnaire comprised 30 questions that covered the program’s six core elements: leadership commitment, accountability and responsibility, AMS actions, education and training, monitoring, and evaluation, and reporting and feedback. A five-point Likert scale was employed for each question.

Results

A total of 27 public hospitals participated, with a response rate of 84.4%. Adherence to core elements ranged from (53%) in the leadership commitment domain to (72%) for AMS procedure application (actions). Based on the mean score, there was no significant difference between hospitals according to location, size, and specialty. The most neglected core elements that emerged as top priority areas were the provision of financial support, collaboration, access, as well as monitoring and evaluation.

Conclusion

The current results revealed significant shortcomings in the AMS program in public hospitals despite 4 years of implementation and policy support. Most of the core elements of the AMS program were below average, which requires hospital leadership commitment, and multifaceted collaborative actions from the concerned stakeholders in Jordan.
Directed Organ Donation After Euthanasia
Authors: van Dijk Nathalie , Shaw David , Shemie Sam , Wiebe Kim , van Mook Walther , Bollen Jan
Published: May 2023

Organ donation after euthanasia is performed in Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada and Spain. Directed deceased organ donation is currently possible under strict conditions in a limited number of countries, while it is currently not possible to opt for directed donation following euthanasia. While organ donation after euthanasia is a deceased donation procedure, directed organ donation after euthanasia could be seen as a deceased donation procedure with a living donation consent process. Therefore, directed organ donation after euthanasia is feasible on medical and ethical grounds. Strict safeguards should be in place, including the requirement of a pre-existing familial or personal relationship with the proposed recipient, without any evidence of coercion or financial gain.
Complex Profiling of Roasted Coffee Based on Origin and Production Scale
Authors: Simedru Dorina , Becze Anca
Published: May 2023

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world due to its flavor, aroma, energy content, and complex nutritional profile. Many factors affect coffee’s characteristics, including its origin, storage, and roasting conditions. In this context, this study analyzes 100% Arabica medium-roasted coffee from six countries (El Salvador, Guatemala, Brazil, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, and Colombia) to assess its total polyphenols, individual polyphenols, total antioxidant capacity, hydro- and liposoluble vitamins, and PAHs using analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), FT-NIR spectrometry, UV-VIS spectrophotometry, and photochemiluminescence. A total of 67 samples were collected from Romanian general and specialty stores. According to the study, coffee composition varies by origin, pedo-climatic characteristics, and store (general or specialty). The highest values for total polyphenols, polyphenols, and antioxidant capacity were obtained for Ethiopian coffee. The highest values of lipids and proteins were obtained in El Salvador and Guatemala, B1 and B2 in Brazil, B3 and B6 in Ethiopia, α- and β-tocopherol in Brazil, D. R. Congo, and Ethiopia. Specialty coffee had significantly higher levels than general store coffee for all investigated parameters. All coffee samples analyzed were within the maximum allowed levels for PAHs as set by regulations concerning food contaminants.
Impact of Conservation Tillage Technology Application on Farmers’ Technical Efficiency: Evidence from China
Authors: Teng Chenguang , Lyu Kaiyu , Zhu Mengshuai , Zhang Chongshang
Published: May 2023

Conservation tillage plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, improving soil quality, and encouraging sustainable agriculture. This study analyzes the effects of conservation tillage on farmers’ technical efficiency and its underlying mechanisms, using a sample of 853 households and 1706 land plots from China’s Jilin, Sichuan, Jiangsu, and Henan provinces. The results indicate that conservation tillage can enhance technical efficiency, resulting in an average increase of 0.022 units, The study further demonstrates that conservation tillage technology primarily enhances technical efficiency by increasing output and reducing production costs. This study proposes policy recommendations for promoting the use of conservation tillage technology to enhance farmers’ technical efficiency.
Development of a Predictive Model of the Flight Dynamics of the European Corn Borer, Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner, 1796 (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), in the Vojvodina Region, Serbia—Implications for Integrated Pest Management
Authors: Ivezić Aleksandar , Mimić Gordan , Trudić Branislav , Blagojević Dragana , Kuzmanović Boris , Kaitović Željko , Petrović Kristina
Published: May 2023

Although corn production is affected by several harmful insects, its most important pest in the southeastern region of Europe is the European corn borer (ECB), Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner, 1796 (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Chemical control of O. nubilalis remains the main strategy in conventional corn production. The key to successfully achieving a high efficiency of insecticides is determining the appropriate moment of application, including the exact time in the insect’s life cycle when it is most vulnerable. In this study, monitoring data on the flight dynamics of ECB adults from a seven-year period (2014–2020) were exploited for the development of a predictive model of adult numbers within the growing season. ECB monitoring was performed by using light traps at 15 different locations in the Vojvodina region (Serbia) during the specified time period. First, the calendar for Vojvodina was created based on the analytics of the collected monitoring data. Additionally, the calendar was converted to the probability of ECB occurrence during the growing season, specifying the time interval between the appearance of each generation of the pest. Second, using machine learning techniques, a phenological model was designed that included daily values of relevant meteorological features, such as cumulative degree-days, relative humidity, and precipitation. The calendar had a lower prediction error when compared to the phenological model, and it was tested as a supporting management tool for the ECB in 2021, with a root-mean-square error of the number of adults of 46.67. Such an approach could significantly reduce both the consumption of insecticides and the number of chemical treatments, respectively. Above all, this approach has broad potential in IPM and organic farming, and it is fully compatible with biological control methods.
Diniconazole Promotes the Yield of Female Hemp (Cannabis sativa) Inflorescence and Cannabinoids in a Vertical Farming System
Authors: Hahm Seungyong , Lee Beomseon , Bok Gwonjeong , Kim Sungjin , Park Jongseok
Published: May 2023

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) has gained global attention since being legalized in the USA in 2018. The legalization of hemp is also underway in Korea; however, it requires facility cultivation and an agricultural technological system that can produce high-quality plants. This study investigated the changes in the growth and secondary metabolite content of female hemp following treatment with the plant growth retardant diniconazole (DIN). Treatment with DIN decreased the plant growth rate with increasing concentrations; however, at a concentration of 25 mg∙L−1, it increased inflorescence biomass and apical inflorescence size. The high-performance liquid chromatograph analysis of major cannabinoids showed no statistically significant differences in total cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) contents among the treatment groups (25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg∙L−1). However, the calculated production of CBD and THC per plant was significantly highest at DIN 25 mg∙L−1. Overall, at a concentration of 25 mg∙L−1, DIN treatment not only decreased the height of female hemp but also enhanced the production of female hemp inflorescences as well as major cannabinoids (CBD and Δ9-THC). Our results indicate that at a concentration of 25 mg∙L−1, DIN is suitable for use in a vertical farming system. However, the Δ9-THC content needs to meet the 0.3% standard for industrial use. These findings can be applied in various fields that use hemp.
Maternal Investment Fosters Male but Not Female Social Interactions with Other Group Members in Immature Wild Spider Monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi)
Authors: Soben Carolina , Llorente Miquel , Villariezo Paula , Liebal Katja , Amici Federica
Published: May 2023

In several species, individuals form long-lasting social relationships with other group members, which provide them with important fitness benefits. In primates, patterns of social relationships are known to differ between sexes, but little is known about how these differences emerge through development or the role that mothers might have in this process. Here, we investigated how sex differences in social behaviour emerge during the first six years of primate life and how sex-biased maternal investment can foster immatures’ social development and social interaction with other group members. For this purpose, we observed 20 males and females aged between zero and six years in a wild group of spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) that was male-philopatric and, therefore, expected to show sex-biased maternal investment. Our results showed no sex difference in the social development of offspring with regards to body contact and grooming, but the probability of play was rather constant throughout age for females, whereas, for males, it became higher than females around two years of age, peaking between three and four years of age. Moreover, we found differences between female and male immatures in the importance of maternal investment (which included the time mothers spent nursing, carrying, grooming, touching and playing with their offspring) for their social integration in the natal group. In particular, maternal investment increased the probability of playing with other group members for sons, but not for daughters. Our findings suggest that mothers, through sex-biased maternal investment, might have a crucial function in the social development of spider monkeys, fostering the abilities that young offspring need to thrive as adults. By shedding light on maternal investment and social development in a still understudied primate species, these findings contribute to understanding the evolutionary roots of human maternal care and social development.
Optimization of Conditions for Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Polyphenols from Olive Pomace of Žutica Variety: Waste Valorization Approach
Authors: Marđokić Ana , Maldonado Angela Estefanía , Klosz Katalin , Molnár Máté András , Vatai Gyula , Bánvölgyi Szilvia
Published: May 2023

Olive pomace is a by-product of olive oil production that is toxic to the environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the methods of olive pomace valorization through the implementation of novel technology, the so-called microwave-assisted extraction process. To determine the total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AA), polyphenol extraction using MAE was performed. Response surface methodology was used to determine the best extraction conditions, whereby the effects of three factors, solid ratio (g/50 mL), time (s), and power (W), were measured. The ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method was used to assess AA, whereas the spectrophotometric Folin–Ciocalteu (FC) method was used to determine TPC. The highest TPC of 15.30 mg of gallic acid equivalents per gram of dried weight (mg GAE/gdw) was generated after 105 s at 450 W, with a solid concentration of 1 g/50 mL, while the maximum AA was 10 mg of ascorbic acid equivalents per gram of dried weight (mg AAE/gdw). Numerical optimization revealed that 800 W, 180 s, and 1 g/50 mL were the best conditions for obtaining maximum TPC and AA.
Disruption of Bacterial Thiol-Dependent Redox Homeostasis by Magnolol and Honokiol as an Antibacterial Strategy
Authors: Ouyang Yanfang , Tang Xuewen , Zhao Ying , Zuo Xin , Ren Xiaoyuan , Wang Jun , Zou Lili , Lu Jun
Published: May 2023

Some traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) possess various redox-regulation properties, but whether the redox regulation contributes to antibacterial mechanisms is not known. Here, ginger juice processed Magnoliae officinalis cortex (GMOC) was found to show strong antibacterial activities against some Gram-positive bacteria, but not Gram-negative bacteria including E. coli, while the redox-related transcription factor oxyR deficient E. coli mutant was sensitive to GMOC. In addition, GMOC and its main ingredients, magnolol and honokiol, exhibited inhibitory effects on the bacterial thioredoxin (Trx) system, a major thiol-dependent disulfide reductase system in bacteria. The effects of magnolol and honokiol on cellular redox homeostasis were further verified by elevation of the intracellular ROS levels. The therapeutic efficacies of GMOC, magnolol and honokiol were further verified in S. aureus-caused mild and acute peritonitis mouse models. Treatments with GMOC, magnolol and honokiol significantly reduced the bacterial load, and effectively protected the mice from S. aureus-caused peritonitis infections. Meanwhile, magnolol and honokiol produced synergistic effects when used in combination with several classic antibiotics. These results strongly suggest that some TCMs may exert their therapeutic effects via targeting the bacterial thiol-dependent redox system.