bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Frontal QRS-T Angle and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events among Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Panchal Jatin Praveen , Badiger Sharan
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Acute myocardial infarction has reached epidemic proportions in the Indian population. The premature onset of acute myocardial infarction has shifted the focus of research. An abnormal frontal QRS-T angle can be used as a marker of acute myocardial infarction and can also predict Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) such as heart failure, complex ventricular arrhythmias (sustained ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation), early post-infarction angina, mechanical complications, and cardiac death resulting from acute myocardial infarction. Predicting the likelihood of serious adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in patients who have experienced an acute myocardial infarction aids in developing immediate and short-term treatment plans. Aim: To assess the association between the Frontal QRS-T angle and MACE among patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction (MI). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on adult patients admitted with a diagnosis of acute MI at the Department of Medicine, BLDE (Deemed to be University) Shri B.M. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India from January 2021 to June 2022. A total of 95 patients were enrolled in the study and classified into two groups: Group A (n=68) with a frontal QRS-T angle of <100 degrees, and Group B (n=27) with a frontal QRS-T angle of >100 degrees. The patients were monitored for the emergence of serious MACE such as heart failure, pulmonary oedema, cardiogenic shock, arrhythmias, and death while they were in the hospital. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chisquare test, Independent t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test as applicable. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The most common age group in Group A was 60-70 years, while in Group B it was 50-60 years. A total of 95 patients with acute MI were enrolled and divided into two groups. Out of 95 patients, 68 patients with a frontal QRS-T angle <100 degrees were in Group A, and 27 patients with a frontal QRS-T angle >100 degrees were in Group B. There was a significant difference between the two groups with respect to MACE, including heart failure (Group A=8.8%, Group B=77.8%, p=0.00), pulmonary oedema (Group A=10.3%, Group B=77.8%, p=0.00), and cardiogenic shock (Group A=7.4%, Group B=40.7%, p=0.00). Conclusion: A frontal QRS-T angle of >100 degrees was a reliable factor for assessing in-hospital major adverse cardiac outcomes such as heart failure, pulmonary oedema, and cardiogenic shock. Hence, a frontal QRS-T angle of >100 degrees on a 12-lead ECG is a cost-effective, reliable, and noninvasive parameter of MACE in patients with acute MI.
Classification of Ventriculomegaly and its Associated Findings using Antenatal Ultrasound Scan at a Tertiary Care Hospital: Andhra Pradesh, India: A Retrospective Descriptive Study
Authors: Balaji Surekha , Krishna Kirtan
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Foetal Ventriculomegaly (VM) is defined as the enlargement of the lateral ventricles in the developing foetal brain. The measurement of foetal cerebral lateral ventricles’ size is routinely recommended as part of the second-trimester foetal scan to screen for anomalies. VM can occur due to obstruction of the Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) tract, absorption disorders, inadequate brain development, or excessive CSF production. Aim: To classify VM based on severity to differentiate between isolated and non isolated VM. Materials and Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted in the Department of Radiology at PESIMSR, Andhra Pradesh, India., a tertiary medical hospital, from April 2018 to April 2021. Cases were selected from computer records showing a diagnosis of hydrocephalus or foetal VM in patients who underwent the Ultrasound (US) anomaly scan. VM was defined as a lateral ventricle width of ≥10 mm. Foetal VM was classified, and associated CNS and extracranial abnormalities and their details were collected. Descriptive statistics were used, and results were expressed in terms of frequency and percentage. Results: The VM was observed in 91 foetuses, with mild VM in 59 foetuses (64%), moderate VM in 14 foetuses (15.2%), and severe VM in 18 foetuses (19.5%). The median age at diagnosis was 26.5 weeks. Isolated mild VM was seen in 26 cases (44%), and it was associated with other abnormalities in 33 cases (56%). Isolated moderate VM was observed in four cases (28.5%), while 10 cases (71.4%) were associated with other abnormalities. Isolated severe VM was seen in (33.3%) 6, and it was associated with abnormalities in 12 cases (66.6%). The most common associated abnormalities were foetal growth restriction (15 cases), absent cavum septum pellucidum (eight cases), and open spina bifida, Arnold-Chiari malformation (eight cases). Conclusion: Ultrasound is a sensitive tool for detecting VM. Once VM is diagnosed, a detailed examination of the fetus should be conducted to evaluate other CNS and non CNS anomalies, thereby differentiating isolated from non-isolated VM, as the prognosis may vary. This information will be valuable for counseling patients.
Чешуйчатые гады Западной Сибири, "Природа"
Authors: Равкин Ю.С.
Published: December 2023

В равнинных и горных ландшафтах Западной Сибири благополучно проживает около восьми миллиардов змей и ящериц двенадцати видов. Среди них больше всего ящериц — живородящей и прыткой. Численность пресмыкающихся за 50 лет с 1967 г. почти не изменилась.
Путешествие почвенного монолита, "Природа"
Authors: Плеханова Л.Н.
Published: December 2023

В 2023 г. из оренбургской степи в Москву привезен почвенный монолит, изготовленный по особой авторской методике и удобный для демонстрации в любом музее. Он торжественно вручен в подарок на 50-летие кафедры почвоведения Московского государственного университета имени М. В. Ломоносова от Института физико-химических и биологических проблем почвоведения РАН в Пущино. В статье рассказывается о технологии и истории создания этого монолита.
СОЗДАТЬ ДИНАСТИЮ. «РОД СВЕРРИРА» И СРЕДНЕВЕКОВОЕ НОРВЕЖСКОЕ НАСЛЕДСТВЕННОЕ ПРАВО. К ПОСТАНОВКЕ ПРОБЛЕМЫ, "Средние века"
Authors: Агишев С.Ю.
Published: December 2023

В статье выдвигается гипотеза о существовании в Норвегии «эпохи гражданских войн» (1130–1240) и «эпохи величия» (1240–1319) перспективного и ретроспективного династического планирования как части государственной политики ее правителей. Оно осуществлялось по заказу самозванца Сверрира, ставшего королем Норвегии, и его преемников («род Сверрира») составителями саг и законов, находившимися у них на службе. Основными методами этого планирования являлись манипуляция исторической памятью, отраженной в памятниках историописания, и имянаречением, посредством чего внутри династии норвежских конунгов, начиная с ее легендарного основателя Харальда Прекрасноволосого, и «рода Сверрира», рассматриваемого как ее часть, в качестве ментальных схем моделировались специфические линьяжи. В них отражались не столько реальные агнатические структуры, сколько представления о родственных отношениях, каковые должны были связывать между собой реальных и мнимых предков и потомков. Это делалось для того, чтобы легитимировать происхождение и права на власть как самого Сверрира, так и тех представителей королевской династии, от которых он вел свое происхождение, а также его собственных отпрысков. Линьяжи составлялись как из тех членов королевского рода, которые носили одинаковые имена, чем потомки уподоблялись предкам, так и на основе сходных конфигураций родства, появлявшихся в результате браков между представителями королевской династии и норвежской знати. Необходимость династического планирования была тесно связана с изменениями в норвежском наследственном и семейном праве. В статье показывается, как ситуация внутри «рода Сверрира» влияла на складывание законов о престолонаследии 1273 и 1302 гг., а утверждение принципа «Норвегия – одаль короля» привела к контаминации их норм с положениями общего наследственного законодательства.
КОРИЧНЕВО-МРАМОРНЫЙ КЛОП HALYOMORPHA HALYS (ST?L, 1855) (HEMIPTERA: PENTATOMIDAE) НА ЮГЕ РОССИИ: ЭКСПАНСИЯ ПРОДОЛЖАЕТСЯ, "Наука юга России"
Authors: Мартынов В.В. , Никулина Т.В. , Губин А.И.
Published: December 2023

В сентябре 2023 г. в ходе фитопатологических обследований на территориях городов Мариуполь, Донецк и Бердянск были впервые выявлены очаги карантинного вредителя – коричнево-мраморного клопа Halyomorpha halys (St l, 1855) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). Несмотря на многолетние мониторинговые исследования, начатые нами в 2017 г. и охватывающие как природные, так и антропогенно трансформированные экосистемы региона, вредитель отмечен исключительно в городских насаждениях, что указывает на ведущую роль непреднамеренного завоза в его распространении. Высокая плотность популяций позволяет предположить проникновение вида в регион 2–3 года назад. Обнаружение натурализовавшихся популяций вредителя в Донецкой Народной Республике и в Запорожской области свидетельствует о завершении процесса экспансии H. halys в Азово-Черноморском регионе и продолжающемся расширении ареала в северном направлении. Находки личинок старшего возраста и молодых неокрасившихся имаго во второй декаде сентября подтверждают развитие в Северном Приазовье не менее двух генераций клопа в течение вегетационного сезона. Наиболее крупные скопления личинок и имаго были отмечены в городских насаждениях Мариуполя на катальпе бигнониевидной Catalpa bignonioides Walter. Появление и натурализация в регионе нового полифитофага, способного развиваться на более чем 300 видах растений из 75 семейств, требует организации мониторинга состояния его популяции и детального изучения биологии с целью разработки эффективных методов контроля численности. Важным направлением работы на настоящем этапе инвазии вредителя является проведение информационной кампании среди производителей сельскохозяйственной продукции.
Achenbach Syndrome in a Male Infant with Brown Discoloration of Skin: A Case Report
Authors: Samajpaty Soham
Published: December 2023

Achenbach syndrome or paroxysmal hand hematoma is a rare and scantily found medical condition. It is a condition with benign, spontaneous, self-limiting focal hemorrhage under the skin, mostly located in the extremities of upper limb or lower limb, mostly displaying bluish discoloration of skin. Here, a brief communication in the form of case report of 1 year old child from Russian Federation is being presented, which was compatibly diagnosed to be Achenbach syndrome by analyzing the history and other medical reports. The typical nature of the case being presented is that the patient had brown discoloration of skin rather than blue and experienced no pain as reported by guardians of the patient.
Comprehensive Review of Phytochemical Content and Applications from Cestrum nocturnum: A Comparative Analysis of Physicochemical Aspects
Authors: Islam Md. Rockibul , Ahmed Shanawaz , Sadia Sumaiya Islam , Sarkar Amit Kumar , Alam Md. Ashraful
Published: December 2023

Introduction: The term phytochemicals are plant-produced chemicals that are generated by primary or secondary metabolism. These are chemicals of plant origin. They have biological activity. The plant Cestrum nocturnum has great medicinal value. The phytochemicals such as proteins, amino acids, glycoside, phenolic compounds, and tannins can have been determined from this plant.

Aims: Our goal is to describe phytochemical contents from Cestrum nocturnum and its application and significance in various purposes.

Methodology: This investigation is done by using conventional extraction as well as microwave-assisted extraction.

Results: The results show that the Cestrum nocturnum has different reactivity according to the pH of different materials present. The total ash content showed the presence of inorganic compounds. The ash content can be found to be 13.4%. The qualitative analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, and flavonoids in the species. It also contains many volatile compounds such as linalool (3.1%), benzaldehyde (2.5%), benzyl alcohol (2.4%) and many others. It also contains many antioxidant properties.

Conclusions: The plant is cultivated as a medicinal plant. The extracts can be screened for biological activity and aqueous extract against E. coli, B. subtilis, S. typhi, S. aureus, tuberculosis, and malaria.
Effect of Dates of Sowing and Plant Geometry on Yield and Economics of Ricebean (Vigna umbellata L.)
Authors: Shilpa  , Siddaram  , Ramesha Y. M.  , Kulkarni Shyamarao , Bellakki M. A.
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2022 at College of Agriculture, Kalaburagi to evaluate the effect of dates of sowing and plant geometry on yield and economics of ricebean. The experiment was laid out in Split plot design with three replications. The experiment was comprised of two factors viz., dates of sowing in main plot with four dates i.e. second fortnight of July, first fortnight of August, second fortnight of August and first fortnight of September and spacing in sub plot with three plant geometry i.e. 30 cm x 10 cm, 45 cm x 10 cm and 60 cm x 10 cm. The results of the experiment indicated that ricebean sown during first fortnight of August recorded significantly higher seed yield and stover yield (1016 kg ha-1 and 2574 kg ha-1, respectively) besides higher gross returns (₹. 63547 ha-1), net returns (₹. 39300 ha-1) and Benefit Cost ratio (2.62). Among different plant geometry, 30 cm x 10 cm recorded significantly higher seed and stover yield (1009 kg ha-1 and 2302 kg ha-1, respectively) besides higher gross returns   (₹.  62852 ha-1), net returns (₹ 38205 ha-1) and BC ratio (2.55). Further, it was onpar with  45 cm x 10 cm  plant geometry (989 kg ha-1, 2253 kg ha-1, ₹. 61583 ha-1, ₹. 37355 ha-1  & 2.54, seed yield, stover yield, gross returns, net returns & BC ratio, respectively). The interaction between dates of sowing and plant geometry on yield attributes, yield and economics was found non significant.
In-field assessment of soil pH and mineralization of phosphorus and potassium following the application of composted winery solid waste in sandy loam Ferric Luvisol
Authors: Masowa Manare Maxson , Dlamini Phesheya , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti , Mulidzi Azwimbavhi Reckson , Kutu Funso Raphael
Published: December 2023

Special attention on the plant nutrients mineralization rates is often required when organic fertilizers are used on croplands. This study described the patterns of phosphorus (P) and exchangeable potassium (K) released from winery solid waste (WSW) compost in sandy loam soil. Treatments consisted of equivalent rates of 0, 5, 10, 20 and 40 t ha-1 of compost-soil mixture in Ziplock bags buried on the field at 30 cm soil depth. Destructive sampling of treatments was conducted at 0, 7, 21, 42, 63, 84, 105 and 126 days after incubation (DAI) for laboratory analysis. The 40 t ha-1rate resulted in up to a 9.5% increase in soil pH while the contents of net mineralized P and K measured were significantly affected by compost rate and incubation period interaction. Over the 126 days of the incubation period that runs across summer and winter seasons, mineralized P ranged from -62 to 86 mg kg-1 whereas mineralized K varied between 41 and  2047 mg kg-1. Cumulative mineralized P and K contents ranged from 62 to 207 mg kg-1 and 1272 to 9206 mg kg-1, respectively with the highest amount obtained at the 40 t ha-1 compost rate. The high net P and K mineralized contents suggest that WSW compost may act as a P and K source. However, cautious use of WSW compost as a soil amendment is recommended to mitigate the potential risks of soil pH increases and other unintended consequences such as toxicity, nutrient imbalance, and possible P and K antagonistic effects.
Keywords: Compost; Nutrient mineralization; Phyto-toxicity; Soil amendments
Trends in broiler chicken meat production and food security in the sulaymaniyah governorate
Authors: Neima Hemin Abubakir , Hassan Khasraw Muheddin , Sirwan Kawan , Hameed Khansa
Published: December 2023

This study aims to report the trends in chicken meat production, importing, and per capita consumption in the Sulaymaniyah governorate, as well as, identify the challenges and opportunities of poultry sector development to become a substantial contributor to food security and poverty alleviation in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). This study reviews ten years of data on the production of broiler chicken and per capita consumption patterns from 2011 to 2020, in the Sulaymaniyah governorate in KRI. The data from this study explain that more than half of the broiler chicken production projects are located in the Sulaymaniyah governorate. Thus, the growing number of poultry projects has significantly contributed to increasing local broiler chicken meat production by 6 folds and achieving 85.44% of self-sufficiency in broiler chicken meat production, even though their productivity is lower than their production capacity due to the high rate of broiler chicken mortality and uncertain supply chain management. Furthermore, frequent fluctuations and instability in the production rates are observed during the last decade, as broiler chicken meat production increased from 1,669.77 tonnes in 2011 to 20,034.06 tonne in 2015, then dropped to 11,802.36 tonnes in 2016 then rose again to 23,816.13 tonnes in 2019 and then declined again to 11,352.23 tonnes in 2020. These fluctuations and instabilities in local production may harm agri-food production sustainability and food security in the KRI in general, and, the Sulaymaniyah governorate in particular.

Keywords: Poultry; Broiler chicken meat; Meat consumption; Food security; Sulaymaniyah; Kurdistan Region
Pre-plant application and different weed removal applications and their combinations caused positive effects on yield-related parameters
Authors: İdikut Leyla , Uskutoğlu Duygu , Çiftçi Sakin Songül , Zulkadir Gülay
Published: December 2023

In this study, the effect of corn on grain quality was investigated by applying different weed removal processes in corn plant.  These, which was repeated for two years, four weed removal treatments [Hand hoe (H), hand and tractor hoe (HT), tractor hoe (T), and no-operation-control (C)] were tested on corn in a pre-treated [radish (R)] and an untreated [no front crop (NR)] field. According to the means of the applications for the years; thousand grain weight (TGW) and weight of ear grain (WEG) values were high in R, H and HT applications, while the lowest values were obtained in control applications. In protein content (PC), it has been noted that R application reduces the PC value while hoe applications gave parallel results with TGW and WEG. Rod ratio on the cob (RRC) and starch content (SC) values were positively affected by R and C applications. Finally, in the oil content (OC) value, it has been seen that the differences in the combination of the applications where the NR and C applications have insignificant but positive effects are more prominent. As a result, while R, H and HT applications and their combinations caused positive effects on yield-related parameters (TGW and WEG), some inconsistencies were observed in quality parameters (OC, SC and PC). It is thought that these discrepancies are caused by changes in the nutrient content of the soil and its acceptability by the plant, influenced by changes in the amount of precipitation.

Keywords: agroecology; allelopathy; bio-herbicide; Raphanus sativus; Zea mays L.
Delineation of Rice Yield and Production in Combination of Crop Model and Remote Sensing
Authors: Vo Quang Minh, , Tran Thi Hien,
Published: December 2023

The study was to simulate rice yield in various places and outline a rice yield map for the study area using GIS, remote sensing, and a rice model. As a case study, the data were collected on the climate, soil characteristics, and rice cropping status in the AnGiang province (Southern of the Mekong River Delta in Viet Nam). The AquaCrop model was used to predict rice yield. The MODIS image delineated the rice cropping status based on spatial and temporal NDVI values. The results of the yield simulation are then put together with information about where the rice was planted, the weather, and the properties of the soil to make a map of the yield distribution. Finally, the outcomes are verified and contrasted with the statistical findings in the last step. The rice yield was predicted and compared with actual 1 and 6 percent rice yields. The anticipated rice yield map was established for the Winter-Spring cropping season 2012-2013 and the Summer-Autumn and Autumn–Winter cropping seasons 2013. Rice production and yield distribution can be divided into two major areas. The alluvial soil area produces significantly more rice than the LongXuyen quadrangle area because of the difference in soil and weather conditions. Rice yield simulation and delineation combining remote sensing and crop models is a good approach for yield prediction and better agricultural management strategy development in a country or region. The accuracy of the results depends on the quality of the input data, such as soil weather and remote sensing.

Keywords: GIS, MODIS, cropping season, rice yield
Investigating greenhouse gas dispersions and energy consumptive in tea cultivation
Authors: Yıldız Taner
Published: December 2023

Abstract: The study aimed to uncloak use efficiency of energy and greenhouse gas dispersions in tea cultivation. The study was performed in Rize Province of Türkiye in 2021. In the study, the energy input-output, specific energy, net energy, energy productivity, energy efficiency, types of energy input; greenhouse gas emission, and greenhouse gas emission rates were calculated.  A proportional sample survey was used to assess the number of enterprises to be studied for survey and data studies, and face-to-face interviews were held in 2021 with 103 enterprises that could be reached. In the study, energy input was 25686.59 MJha-1, output of energy as 10633.04 MJha-1, efficiency of energy as 0.41, specific energy as 1.93 MJkg-1, productivity of energy as 0.52 kgMJ-1, net energy as -15053.55 MJha-1. 48.72% of all the inputs used in production consisted of human labor energy by 12513.35 MJha-1, 34.40% consisted of the energy of chemical fertilizers by 8835.67 MJha-1, 10.02% consisted of diesel fuel by 2573.37 MJha-1, 4.41% consisted of electricity by 1134 MJha-1, 2.22% consisted of machinery by 570.40 MJha-1 and 0.23% consisted of transportation by 59.81 MJha-1. 63.15% (16220 MJha-1) of the inputs consisted of direct 36.85% (9465.88 MJha-1) and consisted of indirect energy, 48.72% (12513.35 MJha-1) consisted of renewable energy and 51.28% (13173.24 MJha-1) consisted of non-renewable energy. Total greenhouse gas dispersion and greenhouse gas dispersion ratio have been respectively calculated as 551.82 kgCO2-eqha-1 and 0.04 kgCO2-eqkg-1.

Keywords: Energy consumption; GHG dispersion; GHG ratio; Tea; Türkiye
Prevalence of intestinal parasites in leafy green vegetables consumed by inhabitants of Jeddah city, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Altwaim Sarah A. , Alharbi Azzah , Abdalal Shaymaa , Alsaady Isra , Alghanmi Maimonah
Published: December 2023

Vegetables are a crucial component of every diet and a good source of vitamins and minerals. Many raw vegetables, such as salads, are consumed, and consuming raw vegetables contaminated with human and animal feces can lead to a variety of intestinal parasite diseases. The goal of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the incidence of contamination of green leafy vegetables with human intestinal parasites, as well as identify the most common parasite species and any seasonal variation in parasite abundance in green leafy vegetables found and sold for human consumption in various markets and stores in Jeddah. To the best of our knowledge, no research has been conducted on the prevalence of parasite-contaminated vegetables in Jeddah. From September 2020 to July 2021, 250 leafy vegetables (coriander, watercress, lettuce, parsley, leek, and green onion) were collected from various markets and stores in Jeddah. The vegetables were sorted, labelled, and evaluated in the laboratory after being completely washed with distilled water, examined for sediment, staining, and microscopically examined. Chromatographic immunoassay tests were also used to confirm parasite identification. Intestinal parasites were discovered in 35.2% of the vegetables (88/250). Coriander was the most contaminated (64.2%), while green onion was the least contaminated (21.9%). Blastocystis spp. was the most often discovered parasite (55.7%), followed by Strongyloides spp. larva (22.7%) and Entamoeba coli cysts (6.8%). Summer has the greatest percentage of parasites, followed by autumn, while winter has the fewest. There was no statistically significant relationship between the kind of vegetable, seasonal parasite prevalence in green vegetables, and parasite type.These findings highlight the importance of inspecting vegetables grown or imported from endemic countries for parasite contamination. In Jeddah, several fresh green vegetables were tainted with intestinal parasites. This demonstrates that those who consume raw vegetables regularly may be susceptible to parasitic illnesses. These findings highlight the need of monitoring vegetables grown or imported from parasitic-endemic areas. As a result, it is critical to establish strategies and control measures to limit the likelihood of parasites in food-borne diseases.

Keywords: contamination; intestinal parasites; Jeddah; leafy vegetables
Assessing Technical Efficiency in Malaysian Pineapple Farms: A Stochastic Frontier Analysis Approach
Authors: Muhamad Muhamad Zahid , Kamarulzaman Nitty Hirawaty , Nawi Nolila Mohd , Shamsudin Mad Nasir , Laham Jamaliah
Published: December 2023

Pineapple cultivation proves to be a significant component of Malaysia's agricultural sector. This research was aimed at quantifying technical efficiency of Johor small-scale pineapple agriculturists. Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA), a statistical method used to estimate production or cost frontiers, was the preferred method for this purpose. This approach was also used to identify key elements, such as socio-economic characteristics, that influence technical implementation in pineapple farms. A total of 290 pineapple growers participated in the study, and data was collected between 2019 and 2021 during the growing season. The mean observed score of 0.681 is an indication of agriculturists non- maximum efficiency operation activity. However, the inefficiency model showed that aspects such as agricultural experience, extension visits, and participation in workshops significantly reduced inefficiency. The main problem in production points to suboptimal farming applications: agriculturists abstain from using all available agricultural inputs to achieve maximum production. The findings of the study emphasise the need for agriculturists’ proficiency refinement and upskilling in pineapple cultivation agrarian andragogy.

Keywords: stochastic frontier analysis, technical efficiency
Physicochemical and sensory characteristics of bioplastics from phosphate butyrylated arenga starches
Authors: Kadir Syahraeni , Rahim Abdul , Rahmatu Rostiati , Nuralam  , Hutomo Gatot Siswo , Bahrudin  , Salingkat Chitra Anggriani , Andriani Iyan , Marwiah Siti
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to obtain the optimum concentration of phosphate butyrylated arenga starches (PBAS) of bioplastic based on the physicochemical and sensory properties. The PBAS was obtained by dual modification of native arenga starch through butyrylation using 5% butyric anhydride and crosslinking using 6% a mixture of sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP) and sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) at 99:1 (w/w). The concentration of the PBAS tested varied at 4.7; 5.0; 5.3; 5.7; 6.0; 6.3; 6.7; 7.0; and 7.3% (w/v) with three replications so that there were 27 experimental units used. The thickness, water holding capacity (WHC), oil holding capacity (OHC), swelling power, solubility, water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), water content, pH, biodegradation and properties of sensory were investigated. Results showed that the thickness, solubility, WVTR and water content of bioplastics increased with the increase in the concentrations of PBAS. On the other hand, WHC and OHC, swelling power, pH, and biodegradation decreased along with the increase in PBAS concentrations. Sensory color of bioplastics increased, while texture, aroma and overall acceptability decreased with the increase in PBAS concentrations. The concentration of PBAS at 7.0% was optimum for the physicochemical and sensory properties of bioplastics as indicated by low WVTR and water content as well as panelist preference on bioplastic texture.

Keywords: Phosphate butyrylated arenga starches; Physicochemical of bioplastic; Sensory of bioplastic.
What Is Myasthenia Gravis?
Authors: Marcus Revital
Published: December 2023

This JAMA Patient Page describes the autoimmune disorder myasthenia gravis and its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.
Children and Adolescents With Suicidal Ideation and the Emergency Department
Authors: Cafferty Rachel , Grupp-Phelan Jacqueline , Anthony Bruno
Published: December 2023

This Viewpoint discusses the need for formal training in suicide prevention for frontline emergency clinicians and staff, including standardized screening practices, assessment and targeted interventions, and increased connection to outpatient mental health services after discharge from the emergency department.
Love and Medicine
Authors: Kanne Timothy
Published: December 2023

In this narrative medicine essay, a medical student diagnosed with cancer recalls the love and anguish his family members expressed and understands that their vulnerability gave him serenity during his tempest.
Optimism Bias in Firearm-Related Risk Perceptions
Authors: Aubel Amanda J. , Wintemute Garen J. , Kravitz-Wirtz Nicole
Published: December 2023

This survey study assesses the perceptions of California adults about the safety and risk of personal firearm use or access vs firearm use or access by others.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Prophylaxis of Chronic Graft-vs-Host Disease After Haploidentical Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Huang Ruihao , Chen Ting , Wang Sanbin , Wang Jishi , Su Yi , Liu Jing , Zhang Yanqi , Ma Xiangyu , Wen Qin , Kong Peiyan , Zhang Cheng , Gao Lei , Zhong Jiang F. , Gao Li , Zhang Xi
Published: December 2023

Importance

Chronic graft-vs-host disease (GVHD) limits the long-term benefit of haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). This clinical trial evaluated repeated infusions of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) during the early stage (45 days and 100 days) after haplo-HSCT to prevent chronic GVHD.

Objective

To determine whether repeated infusions of MSCs during the early stage after haplo-HSCT decreases the incidence of severe chronic GVHD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This open-label, multicenter, parallel randomized clinical trial was conducted from April 2016 to January 2022. Eligibility criteria included a diagnosis of acute leukemia and having a haploidentical, suitable related donor for HSCT. The median (range) follow-up time was 39.0 (1.5-67.0) months.

Interventions

The enrolled patients with a haploidentical relative for HSCT received the modified busulfan/cyclophosphamide + antithymocyte globulin modified regimen and standard GVHD prophylaxis. Patients were randomly chosen to receive MSCs (the MSC group) (1 × 106 cells/kg, every 2 weeks, starting from 45 days after transplant, 4 times total) or regular prophylaxis (control group).

Main Outcome and Measure

The cumulative incidence of severe chronic GVHD.

Results

Of 158 patients, 58 (36.7%) were female individuals; the median (range) age for the MSC and control groups was 28 (18-60) years and 28 (18-56) years, respectively. A total of 158 patients were screened, and 148 patients were randomly assigned to the MSC group (n = 74) or control group (n = 74) 1 day before MSCs infusion. The estimated 2-year cumulative incidence of severe chronic GVHD was 5.4% (95% CI, 1.8%-14.0%) in the MSC group and 17.4% (95% CI, 10.1%-28.5%) in the control group (hazard ratio [HR], 0.29; 95% CI, 0.10-0.88; P = .03). There was no difference between the MSC and control groups in the cumulative incidence of leukemia relapse (HR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.55-2.47; P = .68). The cumulative incidence of stage II to IV acute GVHD in the MSC group was significantly lower than that in the control group (HR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.09-0.67; P = .01). The MSC group had better GVHD-free and relapse-free survival rates than the control group (HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.39-0.98; P = .04).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this randomized clinical trial show that early repeated infusions of MSCs decreased the incidence and severity of chronic GVHD, and the incidence and severity of acute GVHD manifested as a better GVHD-free and relapse-free survival rate for patients after haplo-HSCT.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR-IIR-16007806
Incidental Genetic Finding in a Fetus
Authors: Arazi Mattan , Friedman Eitan , Fabian Ido Didi
Published: December 2023

A 37-year-old woman presented with suspected polycystic kidney detected on routine fetal ultrasonography, and an incidental finding of a heterozygous c.501-2 A<G sequence variant in the RB1 gene was noted. What would you do next?
The Rituals of Pragmatics
Authors: Chen Rong
Published: December 2023

The study of rituals is a strand of research in sociology. Students of pragmatics—the study of language use in context—have discovered that ordinary social interaction, too, can be highly ritualized, leading to the investigation of language use from a ritual‐study perspective. In this entry, I discuss the connection between anthropology and pragmatics with regard to ritual offer, the current state of affairs in this emerging research program in pragmatics, and some observations about the significance, the challenges, and future research directions for those interested in looking at the ritualized use—or simply the rituals—of language in various contexts.
Literacy in Community Settings
Authors: Prinsloo Mastin
Published: December 2023

A rich direction of research in literacy studies since the 1980s has been around literacy in community settings. The impetus for such work has been the challenges coming from literacy researchers to the notion of literacy as the same thing across all kinds of settings and under all kinds of conditions. A focus on literacy in community settings shows that reading and writing are taken up in different ways for particular purposes by different individuals and groups of people. Literacy, from this perspective, is seen as situated by distinct social practices, and not simply as a skill learned through formal schooling and detached from other social practices. This focus suggests that it is not helpful to think in terms of a single literacy when there is a remarkable diversity in the ways that people read and write for the performance of widely varying personal, social, and economic functions. This entry traces how the focus on community has shifted in recent decades in literacy studies, from a focus on local communities and their particular literacy practices to communities‐of‐interest, where social groupings are not place‐bound, to virtual communities where such communities are formed and maintained through online, media resources, and to “more‐than‐human” communities, where agency is distributed across people and things in literacy activity.
Persistence in Language Learning
Authors: Henry Alastair
Published: December 2023

Developing proficiency in another language is a long‐term undertaking. It demands persistence. However, persistence in second language (L2) learning is only beginning to be investigated. This entry offers an account of persistence in L2 learning. It presents a multicomponent framework of L2 persistence and discusses the roles that the different components play in supporting motivation over time. Further, the entry examines the constructs of grit and academic buoyancy and their applications in the investigation of perseverance and resilience in language learning. The entry suggests that knowledge about what keeps students motivated, and, when motivation begins to wane, how commitment can be reinstilled, is of significant importance to the teaching profession.
CLIL as a Pedagogical Approach
Authors: Dalton‐Puffer Christiane
Published: December 2023

The term content‐and‐language integrated learning (CLIL) was coined in Europe in the 1990s to label a pedagogical approach where mainstream, school‐level learners study curricular subjects, such as history, sports, or chemistry, through a second language while continuing to attend traditional foreign language classes in that same language. Although foreign language teaching and learning had long had a firm place in European school curricula, it was hoped that CLIL would significantly enhance its effectiveness in terms of motivating a broader range of learners to become effective and confident communicators. Despite significant variation in its implementation, the defining characteristics of CLIL, the dual teaching/learning goals from content and language, remain constant across contexts. Since the “content” originates in a broad range of curricular subjects, all with their own pedagogical traditions, it is impossible to stipulate one unified CLIL pedagogy. A number of firm principles for CLIL pedagogy, however, have been formulated: content and language integration in planning and classroom practice, bi/multilingualism and translanguaging, scaffolding, and keyness of subject literacy. Questions regarding the language learning outcomes of CLIL programs have been answered positively by a first generation of studies, but recent results have been more mixed. Important mediating factors seem to be type of program, learner age, and general proficiency levels in the CLIL language. Interestingly, contexts where outcomes of traditional foreign language classes are widely considered unsatisfactory show clearer positive effects of CLIL. In a similar vein, the jury is still out on content learning outcomes.
Realizing Ultrahigh‐Q Resonances Through Harnessing Symmetry‐Protected Bound States in the Continuum
Authors: Huang Lujun , Li Shuangli , Zhou Chaobiao , Zhong Haozong , You Shaojun , Li Lin , Cheng Ya , Miroshnichenko Andrey E
Published: December 2023

Harnessing the power of symmetry‐protected bound states in the continuum (SP BICs) has become a focal point in scientific exploration, promising many interesting applications in nanophotonics. However, the practical realization of ultrahigh quality (Q) factor quasi‐BICs (QBICs) is hindered by the fabrication imperfections. In this work, an easy approach is proposed to achieve ultrahigh‐Q resonances by strategically breaking symmetry. By introducing precise perturbations within the zero eigenfield region, QBICs with consistently ultrahigh‐Q factors, beyond conventional limitations are achieved. Intriguingly, intentionally disrupting symmetry in the maximum eigenfield region leads to a rapid decline in QBIC's Q‐factors as the asymmetry parameter increases. Leveraging this design strategy, ultrahigh‐Q modes with a high Q‐factor of 36,694 in a silicon photonic crystal slab are experimentally realized . The findings establish a robust and straightforward pathway toward unlocking the full potential of SP BICs, enhancing light‐matter interactions across diverse applications.
From Rotten to Magical: Transition Metal Migration in Layered Sodium‐Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Chu Shiyong , Guo Shaohua
Published: December 2023

Layered oxides, the most commercially promising cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), are extensively investigated due to their low cost, abundant raw materials, flexible structure, and high capacity. However, although the “rotten” transition metal (TM) migration phenomenon in layered oxide cathode materials leads to unfavorable structure reconstruction, sluggish Na+ diffusion and subsequent performance degradation, TM migration has not been systematically summarized and intensively discussed. Herein, a comprehensive insight into the recent advances of TM migration in layered SIB cathodes is provided, aiming to realize the “magical” utilization of TM migration. First, the negative effects of TM migration on crystal structure and electrochemical properties are discussed. Then, the origin of TM migration is intensively analyzed, and three main mechanisms of the migration are presented, including Cr4+–Cr4+–Cr4+ triplets, Jahn–Teller Fe4+ and Na‐free layers. Additionally, the latest research findings on exploring the origin are fully discussed. Finally, the suppression and utilization of TM migration are discussed, and the further exploration of TM migration and the future directions of suppressing/utilizing TM migration are outlooked. It is believed that this perspective will provide guidelines for the design of high‐performance layered oxide cathodes involving TM migration by turning the “rotten” into the “magical.”
Nanointegrative Glycoengineering‐Activated Necroptosis of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Stem Cells Enables Self‐Amplifiable Immunotherapy for Systemic Tumor Rejection
Authors: Zhao Youbo , Li Yanan , He Jing , Li Menghuan , Yao Xuemei , Yang Huocheng , Luo Zhong , Luo Peng , Su Min
Published: December 2023

Triple‐negative breast cancer stem cells (TCSCs) are considered as the origin of recurrence and relapse. It is difficult to kill not only for its resistance, but also the lacking of targetable molecules on membrane. Here, it is confirmed that ST6 β‐galactoside alpha‐2,6‐sialyltransferase 1 (ST6Gal‐1) is highly expressed in TCSCs that may be the key enzyme involved in glycoengineering via sialic acid (SA) metabolism. SA co‐localizes with a microdomain on cell membrane termed as lipid rafts that enrich CSCs marker and necroptosis proteins mixed lineage kinase domain‐like protein (MLKL), suggesting that TCSCs may be sensitive to necroptosis. Thus, the triacetylated N‐azidoacetyl‐d‐mannosamine (Ac3ManNAz) is synthesized as the glycoengineering substrate and applied to introduce artificial azido receptors, dibenzocyclooctyne (DBCO)‐modified liposome is used to deliver Compound 6i (C6), a receptor‐interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 1(RIPL1)‐RIP3K‐mixed lineage kinase domain‐like protein(MLKL) activator, to induce necroptosis. The pro‐necroptosis effect is aggravated by nitric oxide (NO), which is released from NO‐depot of cholesterol‐NO integrated in DBCO‐PEG‐liposome@NO/C6 (DLip@NO/C6). Together with the immunogenicity of necroptosis that releases high mobility group box 1(HMGB1) of damage‐associated molecular patterns, TCSCs are significantly killed in vitro and in vivo. The results suggest a promising strategy to improve the therapeutic effect on the non‐targetable TCSCs with high expression of ST6Gal‐1 via combination of glycoengineering and necroptosis induction.
Self‐Powered Optoelectronic Synaptic Devices Based on In2Se3/MoS2 Ferroelectric Heterojunction with Boosted Performance
Authors: Feng Pu , He Sixian , Zeng Zhi , Dang Congcong , Li Ming , Zhao Liancheng , Wang Dongbo , Gao Liming
Published: December 2023

Neuromorphic computing systems are based on new architecture inspired by biological learning behavior and biological structure to overcome the shortcomings of the von Neumann system, such as high energy consumption and generation of excessive redundant data. However, common synaptic‐device designs are still need to carry an external power source, which is detrimental to both the miniaturization of smart devices and the further reduction of energy consumption. Therefore, self‐powered optoelectronic synapses hold great promise for achieving energy‐efficient artificial intelligence applications. Given the advantages of heterogeneous integration and ferroelectric performance, the 2D ferroelectric In2Se3 has become a typical candidate material for biological synaptic devices and neuromorphic computing. Although, various structures of ferroelectric synaptic devices are developed, most of which are controlled by optical or electrical pulses, hardly any reports discuss the operation in self‐powered mode. In this work, an In2Se3/MoS2 ferroelectric lateral heterojunction‐type optoelectronic synaptic device is fabricated to mimic biological synaptic functions in voltage mode or self‐driven mode. In addition, two simplified image pre‐processing methods based on device arrays are shown to improve the recognition accuracy of a back‐end neural network. The proposed approach suggests a new route for designing and applying high‐performance synaptic devices.
Polyisobutylene Encapsulated PEDOT: Pss Electrode Honeycomb Skeleton Electrolyte for Moisture Resistant Electro‐Ionic Soft Artificial Muscles
Authors: Raza Umar , Niemiec Martin , Kim Kyungjin
Published: December 2023

Advances in electro‐ionic soft actuators hold significant potential as next‐generation bioelectronic interfaces due to mechanical compliance and operation in agreement with soft biological tissues and low voltages. However, current devices call for encapsulation strategies to accommodate high mechanical demands and long‐term stability in environmental changes. In this study, a durability of polyvinylidene‐fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐co‐HFP) honeycomb skeleton electrolyte encapsulated with a biocompatible polyisobutylene (PIB) thin film is being investigated. A low water vapor transmission rate (0.61 g m−2 day−1) and elastic modulus (10 kPa) are measured from a 7.5 µm‐thick thin‐modified PIB‐encapsulation layer. The PIB‐encapsulated soft actuator maintains 68% of its mechanical durability after 40 000 cycles of zero‐to‐tension fatigue loading at room temperature. A cantilever actuation test of the PIB‐encapsulated 3mm‐wide 30mm‐long actuator film shows a large tip displacement (15.90 mm) at a low voltage (±1.5 V) under 0.1 Hz, 37 °C, 50% relative humidity (RH). Most importantly, while the unencapsulated actuator immediately degrades in a few cycles at 37 °C, 50%RH, and 0.1% applied strain, PIB‐encapsulated soft actuator performs up to 6500 dynamic actuation cycles without any functionality degradation. Exceptional durability against mechanical fatigue and stability at elevated temperature and humidity meet the prerequisite for future soft biomedical robots that enable long‐lasting safe operations.
Small Stokes Shift and Two‐Site Occupation in the ANb2O6:Cr3+ (A = Zn/Mg) Phosphors Toward Highly Efficient Ultra‐Broadband Near‐Infrared Emission for Multifunctional Applications
Authors: Wang Yining , Shang Mengmeng , Sun Yixin , Zhu Yiying , Xing Xiaole , Dang Peipei , Lin Jun
Published: December 2023

The development of the new generation of smart near infrared (NIR) light sources is a problem demanding prompt solution with the increasing role of NIR spectroscopy in security, food, medical treatment, agriculture, and other fields. In this work, Cr3+ doped ANb2O6 (A = Zn/Mg) phosphors are successfully developed, which generate a NIR emission with a peak at 930 nm covering 750–1300 nm under excitation of 515 nm light. Thanks to the small Stokes shift, the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) values of the optimal samples of ZnNb2O6:Cr3+ and MgNb2O6:Cr3+ reach up to 70% and 62%, respectively. This ultra‐broadband NIR emission originates from the simultaneous occupation of [AO6] and [NbO6] octahedrons by Cr3+, which is confirmed by the excitation wavelength‐dependent emission spectra, low‐temperature photoluminescence spectra (77 K), time‐resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) spectra, and density functional theory (DFT) calculation. The thermal quenching mechanism of ANb2O6:Cr3+ (A = Zn/Mg) is revealed from the aspects of thermal cross and thermal ionization. Benefiting from the excellent performance of ANb2O6:Cr3+ (A = Zn/Mg) NIR phosphors, the combination of 520 nm LED chips, and as‐prepared phosphors demonstrate the dramatic potential applications in night vision, non‐destructive testing, biological tissue imaging, and spectral analysis.