bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic growing quantity: Broiler chicken in Morocco
Authors: OUHMID AZEDINE , Belhabib Fatima , Elkari Bader , El Moutaouakil Karim , Ourabah Loubna , Benslimane Mohamed , El Mekkaoui Jaouad
Published: May 2024

In this work, we introduce an innovative mathematical model for growing items, with a particular emphasis on broiler chicken production within the context of Moroccan agriculture. The main goal of this study is to determine the optimal order quantity of items that the inventory should purchase to satisfy customer demand and the corresponding cycle duration. For the first time, a staircase function is used to depict the gradual reduction in item quantities over time due to the mortality during the rearing period. Furthermore, and for the first time, our model incorporates three distinct feeding types—Starter Feed, Grower Feed, and Finisher Feed-bringing it in line with real-world agricultural practices. A numerical example is provided, based on data extended from a Moroccan farm project, along with an analytic solution.
Celestial Object Detection in Astronomical Images Using MSE and Jacobi Moments
Authors: Naouadir Ismail , El Ogri Omar , El Mekkaoui Jaouad , Benslimane Mohamed , Hjouji Amal
Published: May 2024

Astronomical images share a common characteristic, which is low variability. This term refers to images with minimal changes or variations in pixel values or features. In this article, we leverage the low variability characteristic of astronomical images to detect celestial objects. We compute the mean squared error for the reconstructed astronomical image, derived from its Jacobi moments. These moments are calculated multiple times, focusing on different regions within the image. The mean squared error metric serves as the score function for the simulated annealing algorithm, aiding in the identification of regions with the highest information loss. The parameters used to compute Jacobi moments to focus on that region are then interpreted as the coordinates of celestial objects. This method proves effective for preprocessing images since it provides optimal parameters for Jacobi polynomials, which will enhance their feature extraction capability. Additionally, it serves as an object detection method, as we can interpret the Jacobi moments' parameters as coordinates for the objects within the images.
Finite Element modeling and convergence analysis of a new Biomimetic Branching Structure.
Authors: RIHANI Nadir , Akhrif Iatimad , El Jai Mostapha , Lamghari Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Branching structures are gaining popularity in the field of advanced structures and building design; they offer high performance in terms of strength and lightweight design, along with the flexibility and precision enabled by modern processing technologies like Additive Manufacturing. This paper provides a concise overview of a geometric design procedure for a novel ribbed class of structures which was previously developed by the authors as a biomimetic optimal Micro-architected dome. Hereinafter, linear lattice models are suggested to carry out structural calculations using the finite element method (FEM). The objective is to examine discretization thresholding and strain energy convergence criteria. Results show that convergence is reached for numbers of elements per leg, ranging from 2 to 6, depending on the geometrical configuration of the dome being studied. The strain energy balance also exposes the influence of each internal force on the total mechanical response of the structure, pinpointing bending moment and axial force as the main decisive factors. As a perspective, the study will focus on limit state design calculations and Analysis of how the local geometry influences the overall stability and strength of this new design.
Preface for the Special Issue of International Congress on Engineering and Complex Systems ICECS’23
Authors: Mohamed BENSLIMANE  , CHALH Zakaria , CHAIBI Yassine , BANOUAR Oumayma
Published: May 2024

The main contributions of [Stat. Optim. Inf. Comput. Vol. , No. (2023)], consisting of seventeen papers selected and revised from the International Congress on Engineering and Complex Systems ICECS’2023, are highlighted.
Penggunaan E-Commerce Di Kalangan Para Pedagang Di Pasar Baru Permai (Sudimampir) Banjarmasin
Authors: Yashella Yeni , Azkia Laila
Published: May 2024

Based on DataIndonesia.id (28/02/2023) in 2022 in Indonesia there will be more and more online business actors.  This research aims to (1) Find out the motives of traders at Baru Permai Market, Banjarmasin who use e-commerce.  (2) Knowing the motives of traders at Baru Permai Market, Banjarmasin who do not use e-commerce.  This research uses qualitative research methods.  The data sources selected used purposive sampling and the informants in this study were 6 people.  Data collection was carried out using observation, interviews and documentation techniques.  The data analysis technique in this research uses data reduction techniques, data presentation, and drawing conclusions.  The results of the research show that (1) The motives of traders who use e-commerce are because of cheaper prices, to fulfill stock of goods, and a more diverse choice of goods.  The objective motive is for promotional activities, and is more flexible.  (2) The motives of traders who do not use e-commerce are because they don't know how, it's difficult to access, and it's difficult.  The goal motive is not having to buy a quota, and not creating content first.  Based on the research results, it is recommended that future researchers use different theories and methods to those used by researchers, taking a different market from Pasar Baru Permai because Sudimampir Market itself is a combination of several markets and sells different goods.
Nilai Kearifan Lokal Tradisi Nandong Di Simeulue Dan Fungsinya Pada Pewarisan Budaya Bagi Masyarakat Setempat
Authors: Rahman Aulia , Prasetyo Okhaifi , Rahmatin Yulisa , Sutrisno Imam Hadi , Anis Madhan
Published: May 2024

The Nandong tradition is an abstract expression representing Simeulue's unique cultural heritage. This research aims to describe the local wisdom values of the Nandong tradition in Simeulue and their function in cultural inheritance for the local community. This research was conducted using a qualitative ethnographic approach. This research shows that the Simeulue people have various oral traditions, including the nanga-nanga and Dandong traditions. These traditions have meaningful values passed down by their ancestors from generation to generation and are instilled in the daily life of the Simeulue people. , these values are the delivery of moral messages, advice, attitudes of respect, responsibility, and resilience; these values cannot be separated from religious teachings. The cultural inheritance of the local wisdom values of the Nandong tradition is to perform Nandong arts at Simeulue birthday events and cultural festivals, welcoming guests as well as at weddings and circumcisions of the apostles and inviting the public to watch every Nandong performance so that people understand Nandong. Nandong art is also inherited through Nandong poetry, which contains important meaning, namely the advice in it, which is then conveyed to the public regarding knowledge of the signs of natural phenomena. However, the preservation of Nandong culture has begun to fade due to the development of modern musical instruments, so local culture is increasingly rarely displayed.
Use of Placuna placenta Shells as Green Adsorbent for Pb(II) Ions Sequestration from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Kuncoro Eko Prasetyo , Matondang Claudia Deborah Pretty , Hidayat Muchlis Fajar , Darmokoesoemo Handoko
Published: May 2024

Heavy metal treatment is crucial to mitigate these elements' adverse environmental impacts. Among various remediation methods, adsorption stands out due to its simplicity and high efficiency. In this context, Placuna placenta shell, a biowaste, has been explored for its potential in treating wastewater contaminated with Pb(II) ions. This research was designed to assess the Placuna placenta shell's proficiency in removing Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The study involved two main components: an adsorption test to evaluate the heavy metal removal capability of the Placuna placenta shel and a comprehensive characterization of the shell-based adsorbent. The adsorption experiments were conducted using a batch system, where variables such as pH levels and contact time were meticulously altered to determine their effect on the adsorption efficiency. Concurrently, the adsorbent underwent thorough characterization through Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis. The experimental findings indicated that the optimal conditions for maximum Pb(II) ion removal were achieved at a pH of 7 and a contact time of 120 minutes. The FTIR analysis of the adsorbent revealed the presence of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a finding further substantiated by the XRD analysis results. Additionally, SEM imaging provided visual evidence of metal ion deposition on the aggregates of the adsorbent. The study demonstrated that the Placuna placenta shell exhibits promising qualities as an adsorbent for removing heavy metals from contaminated water sources. This finding highlights the potential of utilizing biowaste in environmental remediation and offers a sustainable approach to addressing heavy metal pollution.
Flood Prediction System Using IOT & Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Wajid Muhammad , Abid Muhammad Kamran , Asif Raza Asif , Haroon Muhammad , Mudasar Abdul Qadeer
Published: May 2024

Floods pose significant challenges as one of nature's most devastating disasters, making the development of accurate forecast model’s complex. This issue has led to severe consequences such as crop loss, population displacement, damage to infrastructure, and disruption of essential services. Advanced research on flood prediction models has played a crucial role in providing policy recommendations, mitigating risks, reducing human casualties, and minimizing property damage caused by floods. In this context, we propose an Internet of Things (IoT)-based flood prediction and forecasting model that prioritizes energy efficiency. Given the limited battery and memory capacity of IoT sensor nodes, we employ an energy-saving strategy within the fog layer, leveraging data diversity to minimize energy consumption. Additionally, cloud technology offers an effective storage solution. To accurately calibrate flood phases, we investigate climatic factors such as humidity, temperature, rainfall, as well as water body parameters including water flow and elevation. Neural networks are commonly used in constructing forecast systems, as they can replicate the complex calculations involved in flood physical processes, resulting in improved performance and cost-effectiveness. In our approach, the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) technique is employed for flood forecasting, and the effectiveness of different algorithms, such as Logistic Regression and Decision Tree, is assessed by comparing them to ANN. Accuracy values are computed using a classification report assessment, and graph parameters are carefully evaluated. Ultimately, our proposed system utilizes the ANN technique to train a predictive model by examining the dataset. This model generates real-time flood risk forecasts through a user-friendly graphical interface.
Insights into Job Satisfaction in the Sugar Industry
Authors: Oktafian Rio , KOMALA SARI DEWI
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the impact of organizational commitment, job characteristics, and career development on employee job satisfaction in PT. PG Candi Baru, a sugar company in Sidoarjo, Indonesia. Using quantitative research with 130 permanent employees, data was collected via Likert scale questionnaires and analyzed using path analysis techniques with SmartPLS software. The results confirm that organizational commitment, job characteristics, and career development positively influence employee job satisfaction. These findings underscore the importance of fostering organizational commitment, improving job characteristics, and providing career development opportunities to enhance overall employee satisfaction and organizational performance in the sugar industry. Highlight: Quantitative Analysis: Path analysis with SmartPLS software for robust statistical insights. Positive Relationships: Organizational commitment, job characteristics, career development enhance satisfaction. Industry Relevance: Vital implications for enhancing satisfaction in the sugar industry. Keywoard: Organizational Commitment, Job Characteristics, Career Development, Employee Job Satisfaction, Sugar Industry
Boosting Global Customer Loyalty through E-CRM and Digital Marketing Strategies
Authors: Nurcayani Amaliasari , SRIYONO
Published: May 2024

This study delves into the impact of electronic customer relationship management (e-CRM) and digital marketing on customer e-loyalty, addressing a gap in previous research. Using qualitative research and literature review, it analyzes the relationship between these variables. Findings reveal a significant positive effect of e-CRM and digital marketing on e-loyalty, emphasizing the importance of e-satisfaction. Suggestions for future research include incorporating additional factors like customer satisfaction and employing quantitative methods to strengthen findings. Expanding the scope to different industries beyond the ones studied could enhance understanding.
Highlight:

In-depth Analysis: Qualitative research explores e-CRM and digital marketing impact.

Key Findings: Positive correlation found with customer e-loyalty, emphasizing e-satisfaction.

Future Research: Suggested inclusion of more factors and quantitative methodologies.

Keywoard: E-CRM, Digital Marketing, Customer E-loyalty, Qualitative Research, Literature Review
Eighth-grade creativity reveals insights into understanding global warming, prompting interventions for enhancement
Authors: Al-Amin Mokhammad Bashorudin , Wulandari Fitria Eka
Published: May 2024

This quantitative study examines the creative abilities of eighth-grade students at SMP Muhammadiyah 10 Sidoarjo in addressing global warming issues. Conducted on June 21, 2023, with 43 participants, the research utilized a validated creative thinking skills test alongside literature reviews. Findings indicate varying levels of creativity among students, with the majority demonstrating high creativity overall but lower proficiency specifically concerning global warming topics, scoring at 35.47%. These results emphasize the importance of tailored interventions to enhance students' creative thinking skills, particularly in understanding complex scientific concepts like environmental sustainability, informing curriculum development and instructional strategies to foster creativity and environmental literacy.
 
Highlight:

Eighth-grade creativity varies, especially in global warming understanding.
Interventions enhance student creativity in complex scientific concepts.
Findings guide curriculum for fostering creativity and environmental literacy.

Keyword: Creativity, Eighth-grade students, Global warming, Education, Curriculum development
The Power of Peers Unleashed in Motivating Elementary Learning Around the World
Authors: Fitri Nadiya , Astuti Ruli
Published: May 2024

This study examines the role of peers and their impact on the learning motivation of fifth-grade students at Sidokare 1 Public Elementary School. Utilizing a descriptive qualitative approach, data was collected through interviews and documentation from both students and teachers. Findings indicate that peers significantly contribute to motivating learning by providing encouragement, studying together, and acting as problem-solving companions. The positive impact of peers on learning motivation underscores their importance as benchmarks and motivators for academic achievement. Understanding peer dynamics in elementary education is crucial for fostering supportive learning environments and enhancing student engagement. Further research focusing on peer influence among adolescents can provide additional insights into developmental aspects of peer interactions and their effects on learning motivation.Highlight:

eer Encouragement: Crucial for motivating learning and academic achievement.

Enhancing Student Engagement: Understanding peer dynamics fosters supportive learning environments.

Research Method Importance: Descriptive qualitative approach explores peer interactions' impact effectively.

Keyword: Peer influence, Learning motivation, Elementary education, Descriptive qualitative research, Academic achievement.
Random and time-persistent depositional processes in turbidite successions: an example from the marine deep-water Aoshima Formation (Neogene, Kyushu Island, southwest Japan)
Authors: Ishihara Yoshiro , Kimata Keisuke , Onishi Yuri
Published: May 2024

The deposits of flood- and earthquake-derived subaqueous sediment gravity flows represent a significant fraction of lacustrine and deep-sea sedimentary successions, thus providing a valuable record of such natural disasters. The magnitude of these events and the thickness of the associated deposits are considered to follow a lognormal or power-law frequency distribution, whilst that of time intervals between subsequent events appear to be best approximated by a Poisson model, indicative of a random, time-independent phenomenon. However, the debate on whether the sedimentary record of these natural disasters is governed by randomness alone or whether there is some underlying stratigraphic ordering is still unsettled and requires detailed time-series analysis. This study consists of a time-series analysis of mudstone- and sandstone-dominated turbidite successions offshore a fan-delta system in the Neogene Aoshima Formation that belongs to the sedimentary fill of the forearc basin of southwest Japan. The formation consists of a monotonous alternation of very fine- to medium-grained sandstones capped by hemipelagic mudstones and, more rarely, by turbidite mudstones. The results show that the autocorrelation function of the time series suggests quasi-periodic variability in the upper sandstone-dominated part, whereas the lower mudstone-dominated part shows a white-noise-like pattern. Rescaled range analysis shows that the number of events per unit time in the lower part is characterized by a random time series, such as Brownian noise with a Hurst exponent of 0.5. In contrast, the thickness of event beds of the lower part and the thickness and the number of events of the upper part are persistent time series with a Hurst exponent > 0.5. These results suggest that the number of turbidite depositional events in the mudstone-dominated part indicates random timing, whereas its thickness time series and the sandstone-dominant part are not governed by simple stochastic processes but are affected by sea-level changes, sediment transport dynamics, and other factors such as, for example, seafloor topography.
PENGARUH PENDAMPINGAN PEMBERIAN TABLET TAMBAH DARAH TERHADAP PENINGKATAN KADAR HEMOGLOBIN DI SMA NEGERI 19 PALEMBANG
Authors: Nurfiana Intri , Podojoyo Podojoyo , Hartati Yuli
Published: May 2024

Latar belakang: Salah satu masalah kesehatan yang dialami oleh remaja di Indonesia adalah kekurangan mikronutrien, khususnya anemia defisiensi besi. Pada tahun 2018, persentase anemia pada kelompok umur 15-24 tahun meningkat menjadi 32%. Anemia dapat dicegah dengan memberikan TTD. Edukasi dan pendampingan pemberian tablet TTD dapat meningkatkan kadar Hb. Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh edukasi dan pendampingan pemberian TTD terhadap peningkatan kadar hemoglobin remaja putri di SMA Negeri 19 Palembang. Metode: Jenis penelitian quasy eksperimental, desain one grup pretest and posttes. Intervensi berupa edukasi dan pemberian tablet TTD selama 4 minggu. Jumlah sampel sebesar 37 responden, dihitung menggunakan rumus Lameshow, Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Data kadar hemoglobin di ukur dengan cara mengambil darah kapiler menggunakan alat hemoglobinmeter (easy touch GCHB). Data asupan zat gizi yakni energi, protein, lemak, karbohidrat, Fe dan vitamin C diperoleh dengan menggunakan food recall 24 jam. Analisis data menggunakan uji dependent t-test untuk melihat pengaruh perlakuan pendampingan pemberian TTD terhadap peningkatan kadar hemoglobin. Hasil: Penelitian menunjukkan bahwa rata-rata kadar hemoglobin sebelum intervensi sebesar 11,378 g/dl dan rata-rata kadar hemoglobin setelah intervensi sebesar 11,932 g/dl, terdapat perbedaan kadar hemoglobin sebelum dan sesudah intervensi, kenaikan rata-rata kadar hemoglobin responden sebesar 0,55 g/dl dengan (p=0,000). Terdapat pengaruh intervensi pendampingan pemberian TTD dan edukasi terhadap asupan Fe, Vitamin C, energi, karbohidrat, lemak, protein (p value = 0,000).  Simpulan: Pendampingan pemberian tablet tambah darah berpengaruh terhadap peningkatan kadar hemoglobin dan asupan remaja putri di SMA Negeri 19 Palembang.
«Las noticias ahora las damos nosotros»: movilización ciudadana y culturas políticas emergentes
Authors: Castro Raúl
Published: May 2024

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Bleeding Risk and Thrombotic Events in Cardiac Amyloidosis: A Critical Assessment
Authors: Zhang Mei , Xu Baofeng , Tian Yu , Zhang Qiujuan , Liu Rui
Published: May 2024

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is a condition in which amyloid fibres are deposited in the cardiac muscle tissue, causing tachyarrhythmias, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death. We report a case of immunoglobulin light chain cardiac amyloidosis in which the patient experienced neurological symptoms multiple times during the course of the disease, with magnetic resonance imaging showed cerebral infarction and cerebral haemorrhage. Ischemic and haemorrhagic stroke are complications in CA patients, among which ischemic stroke may be closely associated with poor prognosis and increased all-cause mortality, in diagnosed patient systematic assessment and monitoring of bleeding risk and thrombotic events should be strengthened. When CA is combined with atrial fibrillation (AF), atrial or ventricular wall thrombosis, and cardiogenic cerebral embolism, antithrombotic therapy under comprehensive bleeding risk assessment is necessary. If AF and atrial or ventricular wall thrombosis are not detected, and ischemic and haemorrhagicstroke coexist, it is important to consider how to choose anticoagulant treatment.
The Impact of Postoperative Radiographic Alignment and Component Position on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Medial Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Agca Selahattin , Erduran Mehmet , Ozcan Mustafa , Kupeli Hilal , Aydemir Selahaddin , Acar Emre , Mukat Alaa
Published: May 2024

Objective
This study focuses specifically on patients undergoing medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and aims to investigate the relationship between radiographic alignment and component position and their effects on midterm outcomes and functional capacity.
Materials and Methods
This study examined patients who underwent medial UKA due to medial osteoarthritis in our hospital between 2016 and 2021. 61 knees of 45 patients were examined. The mechanical tibiofemoral angle (MTFA), varus-valgus angle, and flexion-extension angle of the femoral and tibial implants were measured postoperatively in coronal and sagittal planes for each patient. The arrival times, patient age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) were recorded for the follow-up examinations. Scores for the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test were obtained and compared with individual radiographic measurements.
Results
The follow-up time ranged from 2 to 6 years (mean 3.8 years). It was found that MTFA and component position had no significant impact on HSS knee score and VAS score. The patients whose sagittal plane tibial component inclination was closer to the neutral values (mean 7.1°) had significantly higher functional capacity and range of motion.
Conclusion
This study found that postoperative radiographic alignment differences had no significant impact on clinical outcomes and functional capacity in patients who underwent medial UKA. However, functional capacity significantly increased when the tibial component is placed near the neutral tilt in the sagittal plane.
Optimisation of animal handing and timing of 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose PET tumour imaging in mice
Authors: Hesketh Richard Lindsay , Lewis David Yestin , Brindle Kevin
Published: May 2024

Purpose
In humans, 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) tumour-to-background contrast continues to increase long after a typical uptake period of 45–60 min. Similar studies have not been performed in mice and the static imaging time point for most studies is arbitrarily set at 30–60 min post-injection of [18F]FDG. Ideally, static PET imaging should be performed after the initial period of rapid uptake but this period has not been defined in mice, with previous dynamic studies in mice being limited to 60 min. This study aimed to define the kinetics of [18F]FDG biodistribution over periods of 3–4 h in different murine tumour models, both subcutaneous and autochthonous, and to further refine fasting and warming protocols used prior to imaging.
Procedures
Dynamic [18F]FDG PET-CT scans lasting 3 or 4 h were performed with C57BL/6J and Balb/c nude mice bearing subcutaneous EL4 murine T-cell lymphoma and Colo205 human colorectal tumours, respectively, and with transgenic Eµ-Myc lymphoma mice. Prior to [18F]FDG injection, four combinations of different animal handling conditions were used: warming for 1 h at 31°C; maintenance at room temperature (20–24°C), fasting for 6–10 h and a fed state.
Results
Tumour mean standardised uptake value (SUVmean) peaked at 147 ± 48 min post injection in subcutaneous tumours and 74 ± 31 min in autochthonous Eµ-Myc lymphomas. The tumour-to-blood ratio (TBR) peaked at 171 ± 57 and 83 ± 33 min in subcutaneous and autochthonous Eµ-Myc tumours, respectively. Fasting increased tumour [18F]FDG uptake and suppressed myocardial uptake in EL4 tumour-bearing mice. There was a good correlation between tumour SUVmean and Ki calculated using an input function (IDIF) derived from the inferior vena cava.
Conclusions
Delayed static [18F]FDG-PET imaging (> 60 min) in both autochthonous and subcutaneous tumours in improved tumour-to-background contrast and increased reproducibility.
A method for construction of baculovirus bacmids
Authors: Su Wujie , Gu Haoyi , Zhang Xiaoxia , Wang Wenbing , Li Fanchi , Li Bing
Published: May 2024

Baculovirus bacmids have been widely used in over-expression and gene deletion. Traditionally, baculovirus bacmids are developed by inserting an 8.6 kbp bacterial DNA cassette into baculovirus genomes either through homologous recombination in cultured cells or via in vitro cloning. In this study, by introducing Bsu36i-attached egfp to the 8.6 kbp bacterial DNA cassette, we develop a novel method for generating baculovirus bacmids. An 11.6 kbp bacterial DNA cassette containing the introduced egfp was used to generate an intermediate bacmid. With the EGFP reporter, purification was performed in cultured cells, increasing the proportions of recombinants. The intermediate bacmid containing the 11.6 kbp bacterial DNA cassette was obtained by transforming DH10B competent cells with viral DNA after 3 rounds of purification. The intermediate bacmid DNA was linearized by digestion with Bsu36i and then was co-transfected with the PCR-amplified 8.6 kbp bacterial cassette into BmN cells, where homologous recombination occurred between them. The final BmNPV bacmid was obtained by transforming DH10B competent cells with viral DNA. Capable of increasing the proportions of recombinants via purification and linearization, this method has great potential to be used for bacmid generation for baculoviruses, especially those that are not capable of producing high titers of viruses.
Effects of Kaiyin Xuanfei Manipulation Treatment on Patients with Dysarthria after Stroke: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Song Xiaolei , Zhang Yuhan , Zhao Wei , Su Kaiqi , Liu Hao , Feng Hongxia
Published: May 2024

Background
Dysarthria is one of the most common stroke complications. It seriously affects the patient’s ability to communicate with one another and their overall recovery. The priority therapeutic methods in treating dysarthria after stroke (DAS) are speech training, physical therapy, and traditional Chinese rehabilitation, but the overall outcomes are not optimal. This study combines proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) and traditional chinese medicine (TCM) theory to design a kaiyin xuanfei manipulation (KYXF), which may improve the physiological function of vocal organs and improve speech intelligibility. However, there is still a lack of high-quality, large-sample clinical studies. The objective of this study is to conduct a randomized controlled trial to evaluate KYXF's efficacy in the treatment of DAS.
Methods
Patients (N = 60) who meet the trial's inclusion criteria will be randomly divided into 2 groups in this prospective, single-blind, randomized controlled trial: speech training and speech training plus KYXF, with each group consisting of 30 patients. Both groups will undergo routine medical therapy, rehabilitation, and speech training. For 8 weeks, all treatments will be delivered 5 times per week. The Frenchay functional score will be used to evaluate all outcomes at baseline, week 4, week 8, and follow-up.
Discussion
This study will be the first prospective randomized controlled trial to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of KYXF in patients with DAS. Furthermore, this trial is also expected to standardize and expand the clinical treatment of DAS using a combination of traditional chinese and western medicine.
Trial Registration
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, identifier: ChiCTR2100050343. Registered on 26 August 2021.
Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to ipsilateral primary motor cortex intercortical interactions during inhibitory control enhance response inhibition in open-skill athletes
Authors: Wang Yanqiu , Lin Yitong , Ran Qiuyan , Cao Na , Xia Xue , Wu Yin , Zhang Jian , Liu Ke , Liu Hui
Published: May 2024

Numerous studies have reported that long-term sports training can affect inhibitory control and induce brain functional alterations. However, the influence of environmental dynamics in sports training on inter-cortical connectivity has not been well studied. In the current study, we used twin-coil transcranial magnetic stimulation to investigate the functional connectivity between dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and ipsilateral primary motor cortex (M1) during proactive and reactive inhibition in participants with sports skills in dynamic environment (open-skill experts, n=20), stable environment (closed-skill experts, n=20), and no sports skills (controls, n=20). Using a modified stop signal task, proactive inhibition was measured by the response delay effect (RDE) and reactive inhibition was measured by the stop-signal reaction time (SSRT). During the task, inter-hemispheric DLPFC-M1 interactions and single pulse motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) were measured. Open-skill experts had larger RDE and shorter SSRT than non-athlete controls (p=0.024 and 0.028, respectively). Closed-skill and open-skill experts were faster than controls in choice reaction time (p=0.024 and <0.001). In early proactive inhibition, no significant neurophysiological results were found. In late proactive inhibition, open-skill experts had larger DLPFC-M1 facilitation compared with early reactive phase (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002) but not with baseline. In early reactive inhibition, open-skill experts had increased corticospinal excitability than baseline (ps<0.001). They also had more pronounced DLPFC-M1 inhibition than baseline (p=0.002). The correlational analysis showed the open-skill experts’ SSRTs were positively related to DLPFC-M1 inhibition in early reactive control (r=0.496, p=0.026). Our study suggests that DLPFC to ipsilateral M1 intercortical interactions during inhibitory control can enhance response inhibition in open-skill athletes. Such enhancement may be due to the combination of environmental complexity and physical fitness in long term training.
Investigating Potassium silicate efficacy for improving the strawberry agronomic traits and gray mold fungal resistance
Authors: Vennapusa Amaranatha R. , Battle Rosalyn D. , Limmada Venkata H. , Moore Michael , Elavarthi Sathya , Melmaiee Kalpalatha
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Strawberries are a high-value crop in the United States due to their increasing demand and nutritional benefits. However, strawberry plants are delicate and sensitive to abiotic and biotic factors and prone to gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea during harvest and post-harvest operations, leading to significant economic losses. Fungicides are effective but raise concerns about residues and the evolution of fungal resistance, limiting their use. Hence, developing alternative approaches is critical for improving the strawberry plant's resilience and solutions to combat gray mold fungus.
Methods: To assess the potassium silicate efficacy on agronomic traits, two strawberry cultivars (Flavorfest and Rutgers ScarletTM) growing under high tunnel conditions were foliar sprayed with different doses (0, 2, 3, and 4mL per gallon of water) in five applications in the fall of 2018 as well as in the spring of 2019. Silica accumulation in the plant samples was determined using Scanning Electron Microscope images coupled with an Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (SEM-EDS) analysis and spectrophotometer method. An in-vitro experiment was used to determine antifungal activity against B. cinerea.
Results: Strawberry leaf samples treated with 2 mL per gallon had higher silica concentrations and phytolith production, which strengthened the aerial parts, reduced translocation to roots, and significantly boosted plant width and marketable yield compared to other treatments. Furthermore, treatment with 2 mL potassium silicate significantly reduced the growth of the B. cinerea.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that potassium silicate provides potential options to improve the agronomic traits in strawberries and preventative measures against B. cinerea.
Prescription patterns of antibiotics and associated factors among outpatients diagnosed with respiratory tract infections in Jinja City, Uganda, June 2022–May 2023
Authors: Igirikwayo Zablon K , Migisha Richard , Mukaga Humphreys , Kabakyenga Jerome
Published: May 2024

Background
Most respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are viral and do not require antibiotics, yet their inappropriate prescription is common in low-income settings due to factors like inadequate diagnostic facilities. This misuse contributes to antibiotic resistance. We determined antibiotic prescription patterns and associated factors among outpatients with RTIs in Jinja City, Uganda.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study at 11 public health facilities in Jinja City, Eastern Uganda, from June 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023. We abstracted all patient records with a diagnosis of RTIs from the outpatient registers for the period of June 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023. An interviewer-administered questionnaire capturing data on prescribing practices and factors influencing antibiotic prescription was administered to drug prescribers in the health facilities. We used modified Poisson regression analysis to identify factors associated with antibiotic prescription.
Results
Out of 1,669 patient records reviewed, the overall antibiotic prescription rate for respiratory tract infections (RTIs) was 79.8%. For specific RTIs, rates were 71.4% for acute bronchitis, 93.3% for acute otitis media, and 74.4% for acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs). Factors significantly associated with antibiotic prescription included access to Uganda Clinical Guidelines [Adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.01–0.91] and Integrated Management of Childhood Illness guidelines [aPR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.12–0.87, P = 0.002], which reduced the likelihood of prescription. Prescribers without antibiotic training were more likely to prescribe antibiotics [aPR = 3.55, 95% CI = 1.92–3.98]. Patients with common cold [aPR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.04–0.20] and cough [aPR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.09–0.91] were less likely to receive antibiotics compared to those with pneumonia.
Conclusion
The study reveals a high rate of inappropriate antibiotic prescription for RTIs, highlighting significant challenges in adherence to treatment guidelines. This practice not only wastes national resources but also could contribute to the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. Targeted interventions, such as enforcing adherence to prescription guidelines, could improve prescription practices and reduce antibiotic misuse in this low-income setting.
Path planning and trajectory optimization based on an improved RRT algorithm
Authors: Teng Chaofan , Wang Luping
Published: May 2024

This study presents an enhanced motion planning and trajectory optimization algorithm for Rapidly-exploring Random Trees (RRT), addressing the issues of excessive randomness, unnecessary path segments, and discontinuities in the trajectory that are evident in conventional RRT path planning algorithms. Initially, a dynamic sampling strategy was developed to minimize the search's randomness by managing the generation location of random points. Subsequently, the artificial potential field method was incorporated into the RRT algorithm to enable nodes to account for the influence of obstacles and target points during expansion; thus, mitigating the search's aimlessness. Redundant sections were then eliminated, and the path distance was reduced, all the while maintaining a safe distance from obstacles. Finally, by employing the minimum snap method in conjunction with flight corridors and time reallocation, the trajectory was rendered smooth and continuous, ensuring that physical quantities remained within acceptable limits without encountering obstacles. The comparative simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm markedly decreases the number of nodes extended during the path search and reduces the search path length in comparison to the traditional RRT.
"One-stop" interventional therapy for quadricuspid aortic valve combined with severe coronary artery disease：a case report
Authors: Luo Cheng , Zheng Baoshi
Published: May 2024

Congenital Quadricuspid Aortic Valve (QAV) malformation is a relatively rare cardiac valve malformation, especially with abnormal coronary opening and severe stenosis of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). The patient underwent "one-stop" interventional treatment with transcatheter aortic valve replacement and percutaneous coronary stent implantation. Follow up for 12-month with good outcomes.
Diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli in childhood diarrhoea in Osun state, Nigeria
Authors: Olayinka Ademola A. , Oginni-Falajiki Ibukunoluwa O. , Okeke Iruka N. , Aboderin Aaron O.
Published: May 2024

Introduction:
Diarrhoea is a major public health concern in developing countries, usually exacerbated by poor water, sanitation and hygiene but it’s aetiology is under-studied, particularly away from capital cities. We identified diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) from stools collected in Ile-Ife and Ilesa, Osun state, Nigeria and determined their antibiotic resistance profiles.
Methods:
Stool samples from 167 children with diarrhoea and 334 controls under the age of 5 years were cultured for E. coli and Salmonella. Bacterial isolates were identified biochemically and DEC were identified by PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was by modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method in accordance with the CLSI guidelines. Data were analyzed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests.
Result:
Risk factors associated with diarrhoea included age under 12 months (p = 0.002), caregivers without at least primary school education (p = 0.006), breastfeeding for under 6 months (p˂0.001), and care-givers who were siblings (p = 0.004). DEC was detected in 69(41.3%) cases but only 86(25.7%) controls (p < 0.001) and more commonly recovered during wet season (p < 0.001). Enterotoxigenic E. coli (p = 0.031), enteropathogenic E. coli (p = 0.031) and Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (p = 0.044) were recovered more commonly from cases than controls. DEC from patients with diarrhoea were commonly resistant to sulphonamides (91.3%), trimethoprim (82.6%), and ampicillin (78.3%) but were largely susceptible to quinolones (%) and carbapenems (%).
Conclusion:
Enteropathogenic, enterotoxigenic and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli are associated with diarrhoea in our setting, and show considerable resistance to first line antimicrobials. Risk factors for DEC diarrhoea include infancy, inadequate breast feeding and caregivers with education below primary school.
Comparative Review Between Massive, Sub-massive, and Non-Massive Pediatric Pulmonary Embolism: A Systematic Review
Authors: Essam Dina , Ayyad Mohammed , Abdelgalil Mahmoud Shaban , Alsabri Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Objective:To evaluate the current evidence on the diagnosis, management, and outcomes of pediatric pulmonary embolism (PE) across varying severity classifications, including massive, submassive, and non-massive presentations.
Methods:A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, searching PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases up to February 17, 2024. Eligible studies included pediatric and adolescent patients (≤ 21 years) with confirmed PE diagnosis, comparing different severities of the disease.
Results:Six studies involving 258 pediatric patients with massive, submassive, or non-massive PE were included. The majority of patients were adolescents, with varied presentations and risk factors such as obesity, oral contraception use, and thrombophilia. Diagnostic modalities included computed tomography pulmonary angiography, with differing rates of lobar, segmental, and subsegmental involvement. Management strategies ranged from anticoagulation therapy to aggressive interventions such as catheter-directed thrombolysis and surgical thrombectomy. Outcome measures included mortality, recurrence rate, complications, and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.
Conclusion:Tailored risk stratification and management approaches for pediatric PE is crucial for prompt diagnosis and good prognosis. While most patients respond favorably to therapy, those with diagnostic delays or more severe disease have higher likelihood of morbidity and mortality. Future studies are needed to explore novel diagnostic modalities and to conduct comparative assessments of therapeutic interventions to optimize outcomes for pediatric PE patients (ID: CRD42024517245).
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome: an altered central pain processing? A contact heat evoked potential study
Authors: Pessoa Bruno Lima , Davidovich Eduardo , Nascimento Osvaldo , Hauwanga Wilhelmina N , McBenedict Billy
Published: May 2024

Patients with Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS) may suffer neuropathic pain (NP) and central sensitization. Contact heat evoked potential (CHEP) is a reliable tool for evaluating pain pathways. CHEPs alteration in FBSS patients could identify pain pathway impairment and, therefore, contribute to a better understanding of the FBSS pathophysiology. Healthyparticipants and FBSS ones underwent CHEPs, being applied to the lumbar (L1) region, and recorded in Cz and Pz. We employed the neurological exam and DN4 (douleur neuropathique 4 questions) questionnaire to diagnose NP. FBSS patients demonstrated reduced amplitude and increased latencies in CHEPs at L1. CHEPs parameters were used to compare the lumbar region (L1) between both groups. Normal values and ROC curves were obtained. 36 normal individuals and 16 patients were enrolled in this study. Distinctive results were uncovered between both groups concerning N2-P2 amplitudes (p=0.025), N2 latencies (p= 0.008) and P2 latencies (0.005) at L1. The multivariate analyses showed a difference between the groups regarding the CHEPs parameters (p=0.003). Considering the normative values from the CHEPs data and values obtained as a cutoff in the ROC curves, such a method was able to diagnose spinothalamic impairment in 64 and 73% of the patients, respectively. Since the stimulus was applied at L1 and the patients suffered from pain at L4, L5, and, S1, these findings suggest that central sensitization occurs in FBSS. Therefore, CHEPs may be regarded as a valuable method to assess pain pathway impairment in patients with FBSS.
Multiple Mechanisms Contribute to Acquired TRAIL Resistance in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Ticona-Pérez Fany V. , Chen Xi , Pandiella Atanasio , Díaz-Rodríguez Elena
Published: May 2024

Multiple Myeloma (MM) prognosis has recently improved thanks to the incorporation of new therapies to the clinic. Nonetheless, it is still a non-curable malignancy. Targeting cancer cells with agents inducing cell death has been an appealing alternative investigated over the years, as is the case of TRAIL, an agonist of DR4 and DR5 death receptors. This pathway, involved in apoptosis triggering, has demonstrated efficacy on MM cells. In this research, we have investigated the sensitivity of a panel of MM cells to this agent and generated TRAIL-resistant models by continuous culture of sensitive cells with this peptide. Using genomic and biochemical approaches, the mechanisms underlying resistance were investigated. In TRAIL-resistant cells, a strong reduction in cell-surface receptor levels was detected and impaired the apoptotic machinery to respond to the treatment, enabling cells to efficiently form the Death Inducing Signalling Complex. In addition, an upregulation of the inhibitory protein c-FLIP was detected. Even though the manipulation of these proteins was able to modify cellular responses to TRAIL, it was not complete, pointing to other mechanisms involved in TRAIL resistance.