bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corrosion of stainless steels and corrosion protection strategies in the semiconductor manufacturing industry: a review
Authors: Ma Chaoran , Du Zhuoyang , Wang Xiaohan , Zhou Peng , Zhao Yang , Hua Yong , Su Cheng , Zhang Tao , Wang Fuhui
Published: January 2024

Stainless steels are used extensively in semiconductor manufacturing as chamber, structure component and gas delivery systems. The corrosion in the aggressive gas in the semiconductor manufacturing industry leads to particle release, contaminating wafers and limiting their application. Moisture content can accelerate the corrosion rate of stainless steel. In a high-temperature environment, the corrosion is determined by the synergistic effect of the vapour of the corrosion product and thermal ageing. To eliminate corrosion, lots of efforts have been performed and categorized into three aspects: (1) Material purification using innovating metallurgy techniques, especially vacuum induction melting (VIM) and vacuum arc remelting (VAR). The ultra-pure stainless steel minimizes the inclusion in stainless steel, suppressing the breakdown of the passive film. (2) Smoothing the surface by polishing; the polishing surface shows hydrophobic behaviour and decreases moisture absorption. (3) Applying surface and coating techniques against corrosion, including passivation treatment and electroplating/electroless Ni-based coating. Herein, the techniques mentioned above are reviewed, and the prospect and development of stainless steel in the semiconductor manufacturing industry are forecasted.
Multilinear Fourier integral operators on modulation spaces
Authors: Dasgupta Aparajita , Mohan Lalit , Mondal Shyam Swarup
Published: January 2024

In this article, we study properties of multilinear Fourier integral operators on weighted modulation spaces. In particular, using the theory of Gabor frames, we study boundedness of multilinear Fourier integral operators on products of weighted modulation spaces. Further, we investigate the periodic multilinear Fourier integral operator. Finally, we study continuity of bilinear pseudo-differential operators on modulation spaces for certain symbol classes, namely

𝐒𝐆

{\mathbf{SG}}

-class.
Characterization of silver sulfide nanoparticles from actinobacterial strain (M10A62) and its toxicity against lepidopteran and dipterans insect species
Authors: Saleh Fayez M. , Gattan Hattan , Al-Ahmadi Bassam M. , Shater Abdullah F. , Mohammedsaleh Zuhair M. , Omran Awatif M. E. , Jame Rasha , Omer Noha , Al-Awthan Yahya S. , Alhathli Elham M. , Al-Shehri Hamza S. , Mustafa Syed Khalid , Althaqafy Adel D. , Al-Aoh Hatem A. , Panneerselvam Chellasamy
Published: January 2024

In this research, cell-free extracts from magnesite mine-isolated actinobacterial strain (M10A62) were used to produce silver sulfide nanoparticles (Ag2SNPs).Streptomyces minutiscleroticusJX905302, actinobacteria capable of producing Ag2SNPs, was used to synthesize Ag2NPs. The UV–vis range was used to confirm the biosynthesized Ag2NPs; Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), and dynamic light scattering analysis were employed to characterize them further. Surface resonance plasma (SRP) for Ag2SNPs was obtained at 355 nm using UV–visible spectroscopy; FT-IR detected bimolecular and eventually microbial-reduced Ag2SNPs fromS. minutiscleroticusculture extract. Furthermore, AFM and TEM analysis confirms that the synthesized Ag2SNPs were spherical in shape. Dynamic light scattering revealed a negatively charged Ag2NPs surface with a diameter of 10 nm. The XRD spectrum showed the crystalline nature of the obtained particles. EDAX revealed a pure crystalline nature, and a significant silver particle signal confirms the presence of metallic silver and sulfide nanoparticles together with the signals of Cu and C atoms. After 40 and 48 h of treatment at 150–200 µg·ml−1, Ag2SNPs produced the highest mortality inSpodoptera litura,H. armigera, Aedes aegypti, andCulex quinquefasciatuslarvae. Hence, the biosynthesized Ag2SNPs may be useful for potential pest control in integrated pest management and vector control program as a safer, cost-effective, selective, and environmentally friendly approaches.
Growth stress and wood properties of 10-year-old fast-growing teak grown in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta
Authors: Pujasmara Rafif , Listyanto Tomy , Marsoem Sri Nugroho
Published: January 2024

The establishment of fast-growing teak plantations in Indonesia provides opportunities for shorter harvesting periods. However, it also poses challenges on wood utilization due to juvenility and growth stress-related defects. This study investigated growth stress levels and some wood properties of 10-year-old fast-growing teak grown in Gunungkidul Regency, Yogyakarta. The strain gauge method was used to measure longitudinal surface released-strains (LRS), tangential surface released-strains (TRS), and longitudinal internal residual strains (IRS). Wood specimens were also collected near each strain measurement point for the analysis of wood properties. The results showed LRS values ranging from −1243 to 320 με, TRS values ranging from −779 to 382 με, and IRS values ranging from −589 to 786 με. Meanwhile, radial variations in fiber length, modulus of elasticity, and lignin content were observed. Significant correlations were found between IRS values and microfibril angle, fiber length, modulus of elasticity, lignin content, and hemicellulose content, while no significant correlations were observed between LRS and TRS values and wood properties. These findings suggest a moderate level of growth stress. Additionally, the results also indicate that this 10-year-old fast-growing teak is still in the juvenile stage. Therefore, its utilization should be performed with caution.
Expansion of osteopathic medicine practitioner education on substance use disorders
Authors: Petrides Joanna , Jha Stuti , Kowalski Alexander , Hosein Suzanna , Collins Philip B. , Coren Joshua
Published: January 2024

Context

Medical school graduates are generally not well prepared to treat patients with substance use disorders (SUDs), even though opioid overdose deaths in the United States have increased in recent years. When it comes to training in SUDs, osteopathic medicine lags far behind allopathic medicine. It was only in 2019 that the American Osteopathic Association approved Board Certification in Addiction Medicine to help combat the opioid epidemic. Few articles have been published in the literature pertaining to substance use education for osteopathic students and trainees.

Objectives

The goal of this study was to expand the education of osteopathic medical students and primary care residents in SUDs and measure the effect that education had on the attitudes and knowledge of student and residents about SUDs.

Methods

This study collected anonymous data in the form of a voluntary online survey from third- and fourth-year students at an osteopathic medical school and family medicine residents. The survey was completed by 115 students and 29 family medicine residents. Participants completed a pretest survey and then participated in the Physician Undergraduate and Resident Substance Use Education (PURSUE) curriculum developed by the researchers. This consisted of three online modules covering Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), substance use assessments, and treatment of SUDs. Upon conclusion of the training modules, medical student participants then completed a posttest survey to assess for any changes in knowledge and attitude. Participants also answered questions related to clinical case scenarios involving patients at varying risk levels who were assessed utilizing SBIRT.

Results

Students and residents who participated in the training demonstrated an increase in their average scores between the pretest and posttest, indicating effectiveness in learning from the modules. The overall increase in average scores on the pretest and posttest was 6.5 %, which was determined to be statistically significant (p<0.01). Interestingly, participants who reported growing up in underprivileged circumstances performed worse than those participants who reported not growing up in underprivileged circumstances.

Conclusions

The results of our project support the need and benefit of incorporating educational modules on this topic area within medical school curriculums and residency training. Expanding the number of healthcare workers proficient in providing this type of care in these types of settings will improve the quality of and access to medical care in some of our highest-need populations.
Research on the stability changes in expert consensus of the ACTH detection preprocessing scheme
Authors: Dong Lizhen , Hao Tianqi , Chen Jiawei , Chai Yamin , Jia Zichao , Tuo Wenbin , Yuan Chunhui , Luo Wei
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) is extremely unstable and can easily degrade at room temperature. The experts agreed that the samples should be transported in an ice bath. If it cannot be detected immediately, the plasma should be separated and frozen, which is difficult to carry out in routine practice. This study was performed to explore the preanalytical factors that influence the stability of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) measurements.

Methods

ACTH levels in 21 EDTA whole-blood samples were measured immediately after 0 h and then divided into three equal groups according to the corresponding values (low, L; median, M; and high, H). Next, three sample processing methods (including seven subtypes) were used: whole blood was uncentrifuged (named the A method), stored at 4 °C or 22 °C, centrifuged but not subjected to plasma removal (the B method), stored at 4 °C or 22 °C, and centrifuged with the plasma removed and stored (the C method) at 4 °C, 22 °C, and −20 °C. Each subtype contained three samples, namely, L, M, and H; these samples were retested using a Siemens XP2000 at different times. The change bias was calculated at 0 h.

Results

Compared to that at 0 h, there was no significant change in ACTH up to 24 h when the sample was stored at 4 °C or 22 °C with the B method (p>0.05), while it significantly changed (up or down >10 %) at 4 °C/24 h (bias is expressed as the mean±SEM; 13.37±21 %, p<0.05) and 22 °C/12 h (9.13±7.68 %, p<0.05) with the A method; and 4 °C/24 h (8.93±5.54 %, p<0.05), 22 °C/12 h (9.5±4.47 %, p<0.05) and −20 °C/3 h (12.03±4.8 %, p<0.05) with the C method.

Conclusions

After ACTH samples were centrifuged, the presence of plasma without removal did not affect the detection value, and the sample was stored at 4 °C for up to 24 h. There was a significant difference in the detection of ATCH when the sample was stored at −20 °C and thawed again (p<0.05).
Enhancement of the internal quantum efficiency in strongly coupled P3HT-C60 organic photovoltaic cells using Fabry–Perot cavities with varied cavity confinement
Authors: de Jong Lianne M. A. , Berghuis Anton Matthijs , Abdelkhalik Mohamed S. , van der Pol Tom P. A. , Wienk Martijn M. , Janssen Rene A. J. , Gómez Rivas Jaime
Published: January 2024

The short exciton diffusion length in organic semiconductors results in a strong dependence of the conversion efficiency of organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells on the morphology of the donor-acceptor bulk-heterojunction blend. Strong light–matter coupling provides a way to circumvent this dependence by combining the favorable properties of light and matter via the formation of hybrid exciton–polaritons. By strongly coupling excitons in P3HT-C60 OPV cells to Fabry–Perot optical cavity modes, exciton-polaritons are formed with increased propagation lengths. We exploit these exciton–polaritons to enhance the internal quantum efficiency of the cells, determined from the external quantum efficiency and the absorptance. Additionally, we find a consistent decrease in the Urbach energy for the strongly coupled cells, which indicates the reduction of energetic disorder due to the delocalization of exciton–polaritons in the optical cavity.
Language-controllable programmable metasurface empowered by large language models
Authors: Hu Shengguo , Xu Jiawen , Li Mingyi , Cui Tie Jun , Li Lianlin
Published: January 2024

Programmable metasurface has become a prominent tool in various areas including control, communication, computing, and so on, due to its unique capability in the electromagnetic (EM) manipulation. However, it is lack of the intelligence in the sense that it usually requires the manual intervention, and thus makes it hard to behavior as the human process. To endow the programmable metasurface with the intelligence, we here proposed the concept of the language-controllable programmable metasurface for autonomous EM manipulations by exploring the notable capability of large language models (LLMs) in attaining the human-like intelligence. We have established a proof-of-principle system of language-controllable programmable metasurface, where, for illustration, the programmable metasurface is designed to have 32 × 24 binary electronically controllable meta-atoms and work at around 5.5 GHz. In addition, we have constructed a visual-semantic map to facilitate the language-controllable EM manipulation in three-dimensional (3D) physical environments. We have experimentally demonstrated that our language-controllable programmable metasurface is capable of decomposing autonomously an ambiguous task of EM manipulation into a sequence of executable ones and implementing them individually in real-world indoor settings. We expect that the presented strategy could hold promising potential in pushing programmable metasurfaces towards human-level autonomous agents, which are capable of accomplishing the smart EM-involved multi-modality manipulations through self-directed planning and actions.
Edge roughness analysis in nanoscale for single-molecule localization microscopy images
Authors: Jeong Uidon , Go Ga-eun , Jeong Dokyung , Lee Dongmin , Kim Min Jeong , Kang Minjae , Kim Namyoon , Jung Jaehwang , Kim Wookrae , Lee Myungjun , Kim Doory
Published: January 2024

The recent advances in super-resolution fluorescence microscopy, including single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM), has enabled the study of previously inaccessible details, such as the organization of proteins within cellular compartments and even nanostructures in nonbiological nanomaterials, such as the polymers and semiconductors. With such developments, the need for the development of various computational nanostructure analysis methods for SMLM images is also increasing; however, this has been limited to protein cluster analysis. In this study, we developed an edge structure analysis method for pointillistic SMLM images based on the line edge roughness and power spectral density analyses. By investigating the effect of point properties in SMLM images, such as the size, density, and localization precision on the roughness measurement, we successfully demonstrated this analysis method for experimental SMLM images of actual samples, including the semiconductor line patterns, cytoskeletal elements, and cell membranes. This systematic investigation of the effect of each localization rendering parameter on edge roughness measurement provides a range for the optimal rendering parameters that preserve the relevant nanoscale structure of interest. These new methods are expected to expand our understanding of the targets by providing valuable insights into edge nanoscale structures that have not been previously obtained quantitatively.
The crystal structure of 5-(2-chloro-3-(3,6-di-tert-butyl-9H-carbazol-9-yl)phenyl)-10,11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[b,f]azepine, C40H39ClN2
Authors: Sun Bangjin , Tu Zhenlong
Published: January 2024

C40H39ClN2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 14.6448(2) Å, b = 11.1193(2) Å, c = 19.9769(4) Å, β = 98.741(2)°, V = 3215.25(10) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0559, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1614, T = 200 K.
Crystal structure of (E)-1-(4-(benzyloxy)-2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-(dimethylamino)prop-2-en-1-one, C18H19NO3
Authors: Wang Hua-Bin , Xu Lian-Hua , Shi Ju-Mei , Li Wei-Zhong
Published: January 2024

C18H19NO3, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.9529(3) Å, b = 13.5984(4) Å, c = 12.8403(5) Å, β = 101.572(4)°, R

gt
(F) = 0.0458, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1395, V = 1532.54(9) Å3, Z = 4, T = 150 K.
Prediction of the acoustic comfort of a dwelling based on automatic sound event detection
Authors: Bonet-Solà Daniel , Vidaña-Vila Ester , Alsina-Pagès Rosa Ma
Published: January 2024

There is an increasing concern about noise pollution around the world. As a first step to tackling the problem of deteriorated urban soundscapes, this article aims to develop a tool that automatically evaluates the soundscape quality of dwellings based on the acoustic events obtained from short videos recorded on-site. A sound event classifier based on a convolutional neural network has been used to detect the sounds present in those videos. Once the events are detected, our distinctive approach proceeds in two steps. First, the detected acoustic events are employed as inputs in a binary assessment system, utilizing logistic regression to predict whether the user’s perception of the soundscape (and, therefore, the soundscape quality estimator) is categorized as “comfortable” or “uncomfortable”. Additionally, an Acoustic Comfort Index (ACI) on a scale of 1–5 is estimated, facilitated by a linear regression model. The system achieves an accuracy value over 80% in predicting the subjective opinion of citizens based only on the automatic sound event detected on their balconies. The ultimate goal is to be able to predict an ACI on new locations using solely a 30-s video as an input. The potential of the tool might offer data-driven insights to map the annoyance or the pleasantness of the acoustic environment for people, and gives the possibility to support the administration to mitigate noise pollution and enhance urban living conditions, contributing to improved well-being and community engagement.
COVID-19 Emergency Remote Teaching: Lessons Learned from Five EU Library and Information Science Departments
Authors: Boté-Vericad Juan-José , Urbano Cristóbal , Argudo Sílvia , Dreisiebner Stefan , Feldvari Kristina , Kucina Softic Sandra , Santos-Hermosa Gema , Todorova Tania
Published: January 2024

Analysis of the context and response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown of five European Library and Information Science Departments: University of Barcelona (Spain), University of Hildesheim (Germany), University of Osijek, University of Zagreb (Croatia), and University of Library Studies and Information Technologies in Sofia (Bulgaria). Data about this situation in relation to higher education were collected 1 year after the lockdown when countries had returned to normality. The methodology consisted of holding focus groups with students and individual interviews with teachers. The data were analysed by unifying the information collected from each country into a centralized dataset and complemented with texts from the transcripts highlighted by each partner. The results indicate that each partner experienced a unique situation; as COVID-19 lockdowns were different in every European country, each university or even each teacher responded to the crisis differently. Nevertheless, there are points that are common to all five universities analysed in the study, such as work overload in students and teachers or the replication of face-to-face teaching models in a remote format. Moving in the future to online or hybrid learning activities will require training teachers in a more systematic way and the appropriate infrastructure.
Investigation of different structures of screw extruders on the flow in direct ink writing SiC slurry based on LBM
Authors: Deng Xu , Wu Weiwei , Ding Shuang , Zhang Yanjun , Shi Binquan
Published: January 2024

Direct ink writing provides a new method for ceramic material forming. The single-screw extruder is used here to extrude viscous SiC slurry. Because the flow mechanism of ceramic slurry in the slurry direct writing extrusion device is unclear, lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is used to analyze the flow process of ceramic slurry in the extrusion device. In this study, three different types of special-shaped, single-screw extruders (constant depth variable pitch screw, variable depth constant pitch screw, and variable depth variable pitch screw) are investigated to explore the effects of the shapes on the flow process. Compared with the traditional single-screw extruder, more attention should be paid to the difference in the flow channel. The non-Newtonian rheological model of SiC slurry is built, then the LBM for the non-Newtonian slurry is introduced and used to conduct the simulations based on the aforementioned three different cases. The results show that the effect of constant depth and variable pitch screw on the flow of ceramic slurry is the least and the flow of ceramic slurry in variable depth and variable pitch screw is the most complex.
Preparation, characterization, and application of fluorinated acrylate copolymer for the conservation of stone building heritages in Putuo Zongcheng Temple, China
Authors: Wu Zhiyong , Ma Chuang , Niu Qinghe , Wu Caiwu , Wang Ye
Published: January 2024

To prevent the weathering deterioration of stone building heritages in Putuo Zongcheng Temple, the fluorinated acrylate copolymer was prepared with methyl methacrylate, n-butyl acrylate, and 2,2,3,4,4,4-hexafluorobutyl methacrylate as monomers. The structure and surface morphology of the copolymer were described by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The antiaging of the copolymer was studied by the ultraviolet aging test; the contact angle and imbibition spontaneous tests were performed to estimate the wettability alteration of the copolymer emulsion. Results show that the fluorinated copolymer with 32.54 % HFMA content possesses optimal aging resistance and superb hydrophobicity. The contact angles of coated samples range from 96.90° to 125.80°. Considering the influence of water on rock weathering, the fluorinated copolymer coating is a potential method to avoid the degrading of stone heritages.
Analysis of the Morphology and Lithology of the Kisangani–Yangambi Section of the Congo River in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Mawa Mukulia Prométhée , Katembo Kasekete Désiré , Makabu Kayembe Gabriel , Muhindo Sahani Walere , Kahindo Muhongya Jean-Marie
Published: January 2024

Vol. 19, Issue 1, 2024: 59–80 DOI: 10.15170/MG.2024.19.01.0459 Mawa Mukulia, Prométhée1 – Katembo Kasekete, Désiré2 – Makabu Kayembe, Gabriel3 – Muhindo Sahani, Walere 4 – Kahindo Muhongya, Jean-Marie5 Analysis of the Morphology and Lithology of the Kisangani–Yangambi Section of the Congo River in the Democratic Republic of Congo 6 ABSTRACT The Congo River, which is between 900 and 300 metres wide between the city of Kisangani and the town of Yangambi, is characterised by important socio-economic and conservation activities but also by a lack of knowledge on morphological and lithological matters. To fill the gaps, the lithology and the morphological dynamics of the riverbed were studied through a description of islands (between 1984 and 2017) and banks thanks to remote sensing and field work, respectively. With regard to the number of islands, the study revealed a loss of 5.13% and a recovery of 28.21% between 1984 and 2017. The direct factors of this dynamism are the erosion and landslides observed both on the banks and on the islands. The geological survey method allowed the collection of 4 samples of sound indurated rocks and 50 samples of loose rocks on the soil profiles of the islands and banks. The macroscopic description and sieving of the samples with 63 mm and 2 mm mesh size allowed the lithology map to be drawn up. The fine soil particles were analysed in the soil laboratory using the Robinson–Köhn pipette method to determine their texture. The USDA textural classification was used. The results of the analysis showed that sand is the predominant rock element in the area. Such a lithology would increase the sensitivity of the banks to mass movements observed here and there along the Kisangani–Yangambi river section.
MONITORAMENTO CLÍNICO, HEMATOLÓGICO E BIOQUÍMICO DE EQUINOS UTILIZADOS PARA A PRODUÇÃO DE SORO HIPERIMUNE ANTI-SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Neto Marcos Eduardo , Wilborn Roberta , Castro da Silva Gabriela , Sequeira Gonçalves Vitória , Müller Vitória , Conrad Neida Lucia , Pereira Leivas Leite Fabio , Wayne Nogueira Carlos Eduardo
Published: January 2024

Descoberta no final de 2019 e denominada COVID-19, a infecção pelo coronavírus SARS-CoV-2 é uma doença que impactou o mundo de diversas formas, atingindo o status de pandemia. Dentre as opções de tratamento, o soro hiperimune representou ser eficaz e de baixo custo, obtido através do fracionamento do soro a partir do sangue total contendo grande quantidade de anticorpos. Para a produção pode ser utilizada a espécie equina, que demonstra vantagens, como o volume de sangue que pode ser obtido e a facilidade de manejo. Diversos fatores individuais como a idade, o escore corporal, aspectos clínicos e hematológicos influenciam a resposta imunológica a um antígeno vacinal. O objetivo deste trabalho foi definir através de parâmetros clínicos e hematológicos os equinos com maior potencial para a produção de soro hiperimune contra o SARS-CoV-2. Para isso foram utilizados 26 cavalos hígidos, sendo realizadas coletas de sangue e obtenção de soro, para avaliação de parâmetros bioquímicos, hematológicos e monitoramento da produção de anticorpos (ELISA indireto), respectivamente. Correlacionando os dados clínicos e hematológicos com os níveis de anticorpos produzidos após 20 e 30 dias da última inoculação, observou-se que maiores níveis de anticorpos anti-SARS-CoV-2 foram produzidos por equinos machos castrados, com alta concentração de plaquetas. Concluímos que o processo de produção de soro hiperimune contra o SARS-CoV-2 causou reações inflamatórias locais e sistêmicas transitórias, porém as reações se reverteram sem causar danos relevantes aos animais. Os equinos machos castrados, quando comparados com fêmeas, produziram níveis mais elevados de anticorpos contra a SARS-CoV-2.
Lawsonia intracellularis: INFECÇÃO E PROFILAXIA
Authors: Conrad Neida Lucia , Mazzoleni Ilana , Costa Ana Vitória , Pereira Leivas Leite Fábio
Published: January 2024

Lawsonia intracellularis é uma bactéria Gram-negativa intracelular obrigatória que causa a Enteropatia Proliferativa Suína (EPS), uma doença economicamente importante para a suinocultura. A infecção é caracterizada pela hiperplasia da mucosa intestinal, desencadeando sinais clínicos como diarreia, perda de peso e, em alguns casos, morte súbita. A prevalência das infecções em escala mundial é difícil de ser estimada devido a presença de animais assintomáticos e difícil diagnóstico diferencial, tornando incalculáveis as perdas econômicas decorrentes da infecção. A compreensão da patogênese de L. intracellularis, especialmente como o hospedeiro responde à infecção e os fatores que influenciam para os diferentes desfechos clínicos é essencial para que intervenções apropriadas sejam realizadas. A vacinação é a melhor medida profilática contra EPS, contudo as vacinas disponíveis apresentam limitações, motivando pesquisadores à busca de novos antígenos, estratégias e sistemas de entrega vacinais que proporcionem a resposta imune protetora à L. intracellularis. Neste estudo revisamos os principais fatores relacionados à patogenicidade de L. intracellularis e os principais aspectos da resposta vacinal. Além disso, a revisão aborda o cenário de vacinas disponíveis e em desenvolvimento contra L. intracelullaris, incluindo os principais epítopos e estratégias que vem sendo estudadas.
Molecular Diagnosis of Scrub Typhus: Sample and Timing Matter
Authors: Surya Nagarajan L , Paul Sania , Perumalla Susmitha K , Gunasekaran Karthik , KPP Abhilash , JAJ Prakash
Published: January 2024

Objective:

Scrub typhus (ST) is an acute febrile illness caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi. Laboratory tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis when the characteristic eschar is absent. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of 47 kDa qPCR using clotted and EDTA-treated blood among patients with suspected ST

Methods:

Clotted blood samples from 284 inpatients (IPs) and EDTA-treated blood samples from 194 outpatients (OPs) with suspected scrub typhus were collected from patients who were blood culture- and malaria-negative. ST IgM ELISA and 47 kDa qPCR were performed for detection of ST infections.

Results:

Among the IPs (n=284) and OPs (n=194), 41% and 63% were confirmed to have ST based on the case definition, respectively; the mortality rate was 1%. The 47 kDa qPCR sensitivity of the buffy coat (65.6%) was greater compared to clotted blood (37.1%). PCR was more likely to be positive in the 1st week of the illness; IgM ELISA positivity increased after the 5th day of the illness.

Conclusion:

The type of sample and the time of sample collection have a role in the diagnosis of ST. These preliminary results need to be confirmed by prospective multicentric studies.
Four Decades of HIV: Global Trends, Testing Assays, Treatment, and Challenges
Authors: Haris Muhammad , Abbas Rizwan
Published: January 2024

More than 77 million individuals have been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and approximately 37.6 million people are living with HIV infection. HIV infection may increase susceptibility to cancer, cardiovascular disease, bone disease, and other co-morbid conditions. Antiretroviral (ARV) drugs are extremely potent HIV replication inhibitors. Combination ARV therapy suppresses the viral load and prolongs the lifespan of individuals who can acquire and adhere to ARV drug regimens. Indeed, viral suppression can nearly eliminate the risk of developing acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). ARV drugs reduce the risk of HIV transmission in uninfected individuals. In addition to a vital role in prevention strategies, viral transmission is still common in unprotected populations, especially in injection drug users, female sex workers, men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender individuals. The history and timeline provide key milestones in HIV research leading to improved and advanced approaches to resolve the issue of HIV transmission. Nevertheless, it is essential to pursue breakthroughs, innovative treatments, improved prevention methods, and the development of vaccines. This article summarizes the 40-year timeline of HIV, testing assays, global burden, prevalence, treatment, and challenges related to HIV/AIDS.
The Impact of Seaport Activities on Growth: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Ahmad Tauhid , Abdulah Rusli , Pujarama Riza Annisa , Juniftha Dhenny Yuartha
Published: January 2024

The research aims to analyse the impact of seaport activity on economic development in Indonesia. The time series of data has ranged between 2008 – 2018. This cross-section of data covers 33 provinces in Indonesia. The research uses secondary sources, such as the Central Statistics Agency, CEIC, and Ministries, and employs panel data analysis, which chooses the fixed effect as the best model. The results show that : (i) capital expenditure to gross investment in the economy (PMTB) positively affects boosting economic growth, (ii) the university workforce has a positive impact on per capita income growth (iii) the depreciation appears to erode gross regional domestic product per capita, and (iv) the variables associated with port activity in the model have no significance at a p-value of 1 % or 10 %. Furthermore, the variable with a lag of one year significantly affected growth. It meant that the investment activities impacted the economy in the following year. The policy implications include: (i) Increased government capital expenditure is needed, (ii) Providing the broadest possible access to higher education is one of the policies that can be taken to improve the quality of workers; (iii) improve access to and from the seaport to facilitate the flow of goods both for unloading and loading and unloading at the seaport.
Banking Credit Risk and Efficiency: Some Countries in ASEAN
Authors: Ekananda Mahjus
Published: January 2024

Banking efficiency is an important strategy to increase competitiveness. The ultimate goal of improving bank performance is the ability of business groups, banks, or countries to excel in competition. Banking can increase competitiveness in various ways, including increasing efficiency.   This study presents an empirical analysis of the effect of credit risk on the value of banking cost efficiency in ASEAN. Cost efficiency is measured using panel data of banks in 10 ASEAN countries, employing stochastic frontier analysis and assuming a fixed effect. The efficiency is obtained using the Panel Stochastic Frontier Analysis method. The relationship between loan risk and efficiency is assessed using a linear regression model, specifically, Feasible Generalized Least Squares. In general, banking efficiency in ASEAN exceeds 80%. Another finding from this study is a negative relationship between credit risk and banking efficiency. In this case, the risk that most significantly reduces efficiency is the risk obtained from the loan-to-asset ratio indicator. The greater the risk the bank takes, the lower the cost-efficiency value of the bank. The implications of this research include that bank managers must reduce credit risk to increase the efficiency of bank operational costs.
Indonesian's Position in the World Vegetable Oil Trade
Authors: Husin Saleh , Wijaya Chandra , Ghafur Hanief Saha , Mardanugraha Eugenia , Machmud T. M. Zakir
Published: January 2024

Indonesia's position as the largest vegetable oil producer is very strong in the world trade. Nonetheless, the Netherlands and Malaysia trade the Indonesian palm oil, which leads to a significant generation of profits. This research demonstrates the role of Indonesia in the global trade of vegetable oil. It illustrates the rivalry among vegetable oil producers and exporters and the dependence of vegetable oil importers on Indonesia. The annual volume data of vegetable oil production, export, and import sourced from FAO STAT in 2010-2020 were used. The data were processed and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Palm oil is the most widely acquired vegetable oil. The production of this oil is plentiful, and its price is the most economical compared to other vegetable oils. Soybean oil was the main competitor of palm oil, with the primary producers being China and the United States. The negative campaign against Indonesian palm oil could not weaken Indonesia's competitiveness in the global vegetable oil trade. Indonesia should limit palm oil exports to Europe and Malaysia while increasing exports to countries that only use it for domestic consumption. Coconut oil had the most potential to increase vegetable oil production in Indonesia. Indonesia's prominence in the global trade of edible oil is supreme. However, this preeminent status may be deteriorated by nations engaged in the commerce of Indonesian palm oil. Therefore, Indonesia should continuously update the world vegetable oil trade map to emphasize the point and level of export elevation or reduction. Indonesia should also develop and increase the production of other vegetable oil products to strengthen its position in the world's oil trade.
Sexual dimorphism in medullary thyroid cancer aggressiveness
Authors: Machens Andreas , Lorenz Kerstin , Weber Frank , Dralle Henning
Published: January 2024

Thyroid cancer is the only nonreproductive cancer with striking female predominance, although men with thyroid cancer develop more aggressive disease. This study aimed to quantify sex-specific differences in medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) spread after controlling for primary thyroid tumor size. Included in this retrospective analysis were all patients with unilateral solitary MTC who underwent initial neck surgery at a tertiary referral center. A total of 565 patients, 255 men and 310 women, were identified, of whom 467 had sporadic and 98 hereditary MTC. When stratified by sex, and after correction for multiple testing, men had higher preoperative basal calcitonin levels (medians of 655 vs 181 pg/mL; P < 0.001), more frequent extrathyroid extension (25 vs 9%; P < 0.001) and node metastasis (53 vs 27%; P < 0.001) with more involved nodes (medians of 2 vs 0 nodes; P < 0.001) than women but achieved less often biochemical cure (53 vs 74%; P < 0.001). Although absent in patients with very small (≤5 mm) thyroid tumors, sex disparities were immediately apparent in patients with 5.1–40 mm (node metastasis and biochemical cure) and 10.1–40 mm (extrathyroid extension) large thyroid tumors but were lost in patients with thyroid tumors >40 mm as women caught up. Sex disparities were strongest for node metastasis with a 27–41% (overall 24.0%) point difference, followed by biochemical cure with a −15–35% (overall −20.3%) point difference and extrathyroid extension with a 17–24% (14.2% overall) point difference. These findings indicate that the male predominance in MTC aggressiveness is largely biologically driven, warranting further research.
Knygos „A European Health Union“ (Europos sveikatos sąjunga) recenzija
Authors: Lazutka Romas
Published: January 2024

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Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis Cost-Effectiveness in National Health Insurance Era of Indonesia
Authors: Tjahjodjati Tjahjodjati , Kuddah Yasser , Wijayanti Zola
Published: January 2024

Essential treatments for patients with end-stage renal disease include Renal Replacement Therapy (RRT) consisting of hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation. In 2014, dialysis coverage in Indonesia was more than 1.5 trillion, making it the second highest expense in the National Health Insurance (BPJS) expenses. This study compared the cost-effectiveness between Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) and Hemodialysis (HD) in  patients treated in Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital. Data were collected from the Urology Department from 2014 to 2017. This was a retrospective observational study on 3 groups of patients: patients with effective CAPD each year as the first group; patients who had experienced repair of CAPD and continued to use it as the second group; and patients who discontinued CAPD due to complications and returned to hemodialysis as the third group. Each group expense was calculated with standard cost insurance for one year in  the hospital. The expense was then be compared to the expense of hemodialysis for one year. A total of 89 patients in the CAPD program from 2014–2017 were treated at the department. When compared to HD, the first, second, and third group of CAPD patients experienced a cost reduction of IDR 23.227.857/person, IDR 18.127.857/person, and IDR 1.661.972.000, respectively. Total savings from the CAPD program in the hospital was IDR 1.661.972.000 from 2014. It is then concluded that CAPD could reduce the burden of government insurance in a cost-effective manner and is considered a treatment of choice in the National Health Insurance Era.
Accuracy of Kampala Trauma Score as a Predictor in Assessing the Prognostic Value of Multiple Trauma
Authors: Usman Nurhayat , Ruchimat Tommy , Rahmawan Andhika
Published: January 2024

Determining a trauma scoring system appropriate for certain conditions will help in predicting mortality and morbidity, and can determine the need for treatment in patients. Kampala Trauma Score (KTS) is a trauma scoring system that uses a decent number of assessment variables and can be used in all general groups. This study was a retrospective prognostic test conducted in Dr. Hasan Sadikin Hospital Bandung, Indonesia, from December 2021 to July 2022. Data obtained was processed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS spreadsheets. The respondents were 66 people with multiple trauma. Results showed that this study was dominated by patients with blunt trauma  (n=63, 95.45%). The mean KTS score in this study was 13.08±1.03. In 49 (74.24%) patients who survived, the mean KTS score was 13.41±0.89 and in 17 (25.76%) patients who died, the mean KTS score was 12.12±0.79. The greatest mortality accuracy was at the cutoff point of the KTS score >12 (81.82% accuracy; 70.59% sensitivity; 85.71% specificity). The accuracy value of the KTS score is in line with the ROC where the optimal KTS score is >12 (85.77%). In conclusion, the Kampala trauma score can be used as a predictor in assessing the prognostic value of multiple trauma patients with the obtained cut-point value as it has high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity values.
Use of sEMG for Swallowing Muscles Activity Quantification in Acute Phase of Stroke
Authors: Biben Vitriana , Tanuwijaya Andre , Wardhani Ildzamar Haifa , Amalia Lisda
Published: January 2024

Early diagnosis of dysphagia and aspiration risk is very important in minimizing the risk of various medical consequences. This study aimed to establish a scientific database for future sEMG-based dysphagia screening investigations by examining the electrical activity of swallowing muscles in acute stroke cases. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted on 61 stroke inpatients admitted to Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia, from July to November 2019. The objective of this study was to quantify electrical activities of the suprahyoid (SH) and infrahyoid (IH) muscles during swallowing. Patients participated in both dry swallowing and a 3 mL water swallowing task, with the sEMG used to measure electrical activity parameters (duration, swallowing initiation, time-to-peak, and amplitude) on both paretic and normal sides. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the electrical activity parameters between the patients paretic and normal sides. Only amplitude showed a significant difference between the paretic and normal side (p=0.023) when performing the 3 mL water swallowing test. Other parameters did not exhibit significant differences in activity between muscle groups during both swallowing tests (p>0.05),  although varying water volumes led to distinct activities in both muscles. Despite the absence of a clear pattern in SH and IH contractions during swallowing, the result showed that the sEMG quantification method might become a promising method for screening dysphagia, complementary to FEES and VFSS. The non-invasive and cost-effective sEMG method can serve as an early screening tool for dysphagia in stroke patients. This study underscores the importance of further investigation on sEMG use, incorporating a larger sample size and diverse cohort results with various swallowing exercises (varying in volume and viscosity) to validate the use of sEMG in dysphagia screening.
Etiology and Antifungal Sensitivity Test in Otomycosis Caused by Candida Sp
Authors: Darmawan Anton Budhi , Krisniawati Nia , Widhi Anriani Puspita Karunia Ning , Hestiyani Rani Afifah Nur , Kurniawan Dhadhang Wahyu , Darmayan Bella Jovita
Published: January 2024

Otomycosis is a common fungal infection of the external auditory meatus frequently diagnosed in otolaryngology outpatient clinics. Resistance to antifungals is currently a significant concern, with intrinsic and acquired resistance increasing among isolates that cause fungal infections. The purpose of this research was to identify Candida species causing otomycosis and determine the pattern of antifungal susceptibility among these Candida species. A prospective study was conducted in the Margono Soekarjo General Hospital and Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Jenderal Soedirman Purwokerto, Indonesia, from April – September 2022. Forty-seven (47) clinical samples of otomycosis were collected from 41 patients and then isolated bedside on fungal culture media and was prepared on an object glass for direct microscopic examination of the specimens. Fungal identification was performed using 10% potassium hydroxide (KOH) to observe fungal elements. Samples were cultured on Saboraud dextrose agar (SDA) media with chloramphenicol and Czapek dox agar. The Germ Tube Test was used to identify Candida while yeast-specific identification and antifungal susceptibility assay using a rapid commercial kit was applied for specific identification of the fungus. Antifungal susceptibility patterns were obtained using the Integral System Yeast Plus (ISYP) media pack. Candida parapsilosis was the most prevalent Candida species discovered in this study, accounting for approximately 41.66%, which was followed by Candida tropicalis (25%) and Candida krusei (12.5%), whereas Candida albicans only accounted for 4.1% of the specimens. All Candida species were sensitive to flucitosine and ketoconazole, whereas the voriconazole sensitivity rate reached 96%.  This study concludes that Candida parapsilosis is the most prevalent species of Candida in otomycosis, and that all Candida species are sensitive to Flucitosine, ketoconazole, and voriconazole.
Efficacy of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) in Hepatitis B and C associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): a narrative review
Authors: Yaro Abubakar , Martinov Svetoslav , Johnson Catherine
Published: January 2024

Introduction: HCC is the 3rd leading cancers in the world. Majority of HCC are due to chronic viral hepatitis including HBV, HCV, and HDV. Progression to cirrhosis and HCC in HBV and HCV infection is linked to level of replication and high serum viral DNA load. The use of antiviral agents is an effective strategy of treating HBV- and HCV- associated HCC. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of combined antiretroviral therapy on HBV and HCV-associated HCC Method: A narrative review of literature involving RCT and observational studies was performed. Blinding scores was used to evaluate the quality of the studies. This review was informed by one of the author’s experience with hepatitis virus in Africa. Discussion: The five studies were found to be useful in reducing viral load and improving the pathology of HBV- and HCV- associated cirrhosis, HCC, and decompensated liver disease. The combinations are sofosbuvir plus ledipasvir, declatasvir plus asunaprevir, grazoprevir plus elbasvir with or without ribavirin, ombitasvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir plus ribavirin, sofosbuvir plus ribavirin. However, resistance to either drug or both is a problem that needs to be addressed.
Evaluation of the martial status of the mother-child pairs in the delivery room at the Libreville mother-child university hospital in 2023
Authors: Kamgaing E Kuissi , E Lendoye , Rogombe S Minto’o , Ngaba Limini GM Ludovic , Maniaga R Koumba , Mi Nkama E Mintsa , Abessolo F Ovono , Siawaya J Djoba , S Ategbo
Published: January 2024

Introduction: iron deficiency is responsible for serious neurodevelopmental disorders in newborns. Our objective was to study the martial status of the mother-child couple in the birth room of the CHUME-FJE. Patients and methods: prospective cross-sectional and analytical study, carried out from November 2022 to January 2023 at the CHUME-FJE including 150 pregnant women carrying a full-term, single pregnancy, without any sign of infection and their newborns who were to be born by vaginal route with good adaptation to extrauterine life. The iron metabolism was assessed by measuring serum iron, ferritin, transferrin and his biological consequence was appreciated by haemoglobin level. Results: 14.6% (n=22) of parturients had an insufficient iron reserve and 36.0% (n=54) had anemia, the mild stage of which represented 63.0% of cases. Among these anemic parturients, 18.5% had an insufficient iron reserve. In newborns, an iron reserve was insufficient in 8.0% (n=12) of cases and 30.7% (n=46) had anemia. Regular iron intake significantly improved maternal reserve (p=0.03). This positive influence of iron on the maternal martial reserve had not been observed on the martial reserve of their newborns (p=0.56). The increase in hemoglobin and serum iron levels of newborns were associated with the increase in hemoglobin (r= 0.05, p=0.0001) and serum iron levels of their mothers (r= 0.452, p=0.0001). Conclusion: the rate of iron deficiency in the mother-child couple is considerable and challenges. This suggests a real intervention in the population of pregnant women.