bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequential changes in Rotterdam Scoring System in patients submitted to acute subdural hematoma evacuation
Authors: Oliveira Louise , Goncalves Daniel , Cabral Lucas , Cabral Pedro , Santos Maria dos , Reis Franklin , Paiva Wellingson , Amorim Robson
Published: January 2023

Background: Rotterdam Scoring System (RSS) is a head computed tomography (CT) -based system for evaluating Traumatic brain injury (TBI). This system provides a better estimation of disease prognosis. Our objective was to study the sequential changes in RSS following the evacuation of acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) and evaluate if these changes were associated with 14-day mortality and in-hospital mortality.
Methods: This is a retrospective study from a prospective database registry of TBI patients.
Results: Pre-and Post-op RSS represented a higher association with 14-day mortality (p=0.01 and p=0.004, respectively)) and in-hospital mortality (p=0.01 and p=0.001, respectively). Pupils and post-op RSS were the independent predictors for in-hospital mortality (OR=1.99, 95%CI 1.14-3.48, p=0.015).
Conclusion: The postoperative RSS is a promising tool for evaluating prognosis in patients submitted to the evacuation of ASDH.
FullStop: Punctuation and Segmentation Prediction for Dutch with Transformers
Authors: Vandeghinste Vincent , Guhr Oliver
Published: January 2023

When applying automated speech recognition (ASR) for Belgian Dutch (Van Dyck et al. 2021), the output consists of an unsegmented stream of words, without any punctuation. A next step is to perform segmentation and insert punctuation, making the ASR output more readable and easy to manually correct. As far as we know there is no publicly available punctuation insertion system for Dutch that functions at a usable level. The model we present here is an extension of the models of Guhr et al. (2021) for Dutch and is made publicly available. We trained a sequence classification model, based on the Dutch language model RobBERT (Delobelle et al. 2020). For every word in the input sequence, the models predicts a punctuation marker that follows the word. We have also extended a multilingual model, for cases where the language is unknown or where code switching applies. When performing the task of segmentation, the application of the best models onto out of domain test data, a sliding window of 200 words of the ASR output stream is sent to the classifier, and segmentation is applied when the system predicts a segmenting punctuation sign with a ratio above threshold. Results show to be much better than a machine translation baseline approach.
Tolerant macaque species are less impulsive and reactive
Authors: Loyant Louise , Waller Bridget M. , Micheletta Jérôme , Meunier Hélène , Ballesta Sébastien , Joly Marine
Published: January 2023

Inhibitory control, the inhibition of impulsive behaviours, is believed to be key in navigating a complex social environment. Species characterised by higher social tolerance, living in more complex groups, with more diverse relationships, face higher uncertainty regarding the outcome of social interactions, and therefore, would benefit from employing more inhibitory strategies. To date, little is known about the selective forces that favour the evolution of inhibitory control. In this study, we compared inhibitory control skills in three closely related macaque species which differ in their social tolerance style. We tested 66 macaques from two institutions (Macaca mulatta, low tolerance; M. fascicularis, medium tolerance; and M. tonkeana, high tolerance) using a battery of validated inhibitory control touchscreen tasks. Higher social tolerance was associated with enhanced inhibitory control performances. More tolerant species were less impulsive and less distracted by pictures of unknown conspecifics. Interestingly, we did not find evidence that social tolerance degree was associated with performance in reversal learning. Overall, our results support the hypothesis that evolution has promoted the development of socio-cognitive skills to cope with the demands related to the complexity of the social environment.
A low-cost method for developing a β-sheet packed silk fibroin powder for medical application in LMICs
Authors: Tusiimire Yvonne , Lubwama Michael , Kirabira John Baptist , Olupot Peter Wilberforce , Ibingira Charles , Ssekitoleko Robert Tamale
Published: January 2023

Background: FDA clinically approved silk for biomedical products in 2013 leading to its increased use. The silk comprises regenerated silk fibroin (SF) rich in β-sheet and with no traces of silk sericin. Removal of silk sericin(degumming) helps to convert silk I into silk II (﻿β-sheet-rich SF). β-sheets provide silk with biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical properties. Degummed SF is stored in different formats; SF-fibre, SF-solvent, SF-aqueous, and SF powder. Although SF-aqueous is commonly used, it poses challenges in LMICs because of its short shelf life posing the need for new batches. Furthermore, LMICs face limited access to silk solvent alternatives.
Aim: To develop a low-cost method for producing a β-sheet packed silk fibroin powder for medical application in LMICs
Results: Successful SF dissolution occurred using cheaper solvent alternatives and optimising done for appropriate process. 1 wt% SF dissolution in formic acid: LiCl (FL) occurred at 60oC after 45min while with formic acid: CaCl2 (FC) at 60oC after 55min. UV-Vis analysis showed an increase in SF nanoparticles from e = 1.426 to 2.652 after dialysis indicating that solvent removal purified the solution. FTIR showed the presence of b-sheets in the SF powder at amide I, amide II, and twin amide III bands indicating the presence of silk II.
Exploration of the potentially common pathogenic mechanisms in COVID-19 and silicosis using bioinformatics and system biology
Authors: Tian Yunze , Yu Beibei , Zhang Yongfeng , Zhang Sanpeng , lv Boqiang , Gong Shouping , Li Jianzhong
Published: January 2023

Silicosis is an occupational lung disease that is common worldwide. In recent years, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has presented daunting challenges to public healthcare systems globally. However, inter-relational mechanisms between COVID-19 and silicosis remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the shared molecular mechanisms and drug targets of COVID-19 and silicosis. Gene expression profiling identified four modules that were most closely associated with both diseases. Furthermore, we performed functional analysis and constructed a protein-protein interaction network. Seven hub genes (BUB1, PRC1, KIFC1, RPM2, CDKN3, CCNB2, and MCM6) were involved in the interaction between COVID-19 and silicosis. Thereafter, we investigated how these seven genes are regulated by diverse microRNAs and transcription factors. Subsequently, the correlation between the hub genes and infiltrating immune cells was explored. Further in-depth analyses were performed based on single-cell transcriptomic data of COVID-19, and the expression of hub-shared genes was characterized and located in multiple cell clusters. Finally, the results of the molecular docking analysis suggested that resveratrol might be a promising drug for treating both COVID-19 and silicosis. Taken together, the current study reveals the common pathogenesis of COVID-19 and silicosis, which may provide a novel reference for further research.
Deriving Controllable Local optimal Solutions through an Environment Parameter Fixed Algorithm (EPFA-CLS)
Authors: Jang Ohtae , Jo Sangho , Kim Sungho
Published: January 2023

In many engineering problems, an optimal solution must be derived by considering reality situations that reflect actual measured data. In the optimization problem, the objective function is modeled through a formula. Such modeling is difficult in reality situations that are affected by multiple environments, such as temperature and humidity. Therefore, this paper models the objective function as a data-driven approach under deep-learning-based nonlinear regression analysis, and we then propose the constraint optimization problem in a specific environment (trained DNN objective optimization). We define the solution to this problem as a controllable local-optimal solution (CLS) and propose an environment parameter fixed algorithm (EPFA) to derive the CLS. This changes constraint optimization into an unconstrained optimization problem by pinning down environment parameters to reflect constraints in a particular environment. After that, the proposed approach is combined with conventional Gradient Descent and algorithms such as Adagrad to derive the CLS. The situation is explained through an example of an optimal course model created for use in this study. In addition, we verify that the CLS can be derived through experiment by using an optimal course dataset and a Boston house price dataset.
A Novel Fatty Acid Metabolism Signature Predicts Prognoses, Tumor Immune Microenvironment, and Immunotherapy Response In Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Fu Denggang , Zhang Biyu , Fan Wenyan , Wang Xin
Published: January 2023

Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common and aggressive subtype of non-small cell lung cancer. Aberrant fatty acid metabolism (FAM) has been demonstrated to play an essential role in the tumorigenesis of human cancers, yet limited studies in LUAD.
Methods: The RNA-sequencing dataset of LUAD patients with clinical features from the TCGA database was used as the training set. Six independent LUAD cohorts totaling 1,368 encompassing diverse platforms from the GEO database were employed as validation sets. The prognostic signature was constructed by multivariate Cox regression analysis with the Akaike information criterion. The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) was analyzed by ESTIMATE and infiltrated immune cell subsets were calculated using multiple deconvolution algorithms. Tumor characteristics such as T cell receptors richness and diversity, and tumor mutation burden (TMB) were assessed. The implication of the signature in predicting immunotherapy response was also investigated.
Results: Overall survival (OS) related FAMGs were identified. A robust prognostic signature for OS prediction was developed. Patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups and decreased OS was observed in low-risk patients. Furthermore, the signature could be an independent prognostic indicator after adjusting for clinicopathological features. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated the validity of the signature. The predictive power was validated using six LUAD validation cohorts. The signature also has strong risk stratification utility for patients’ disease relapse. TIME analysis showed increased immune activity in low-risk patients, which was convinced by higher infiltrated CD8+ T, natural killer, and B cells, as well as lower tumor purity, stemness index, TMB, and cell proliferation. Additionally, elevated activated and less senescence of immune cells were observed in low-risk patients. Differentially expressed pathways that related to resistance to immune checkpoint blockades such as DNA repair, hypoxia, cell cycle, epithelial-mesenchymal-transition, and oxidative phosphorylation were enriched in high-risk patients. T cell receptor richness and diversity were higher in low-risk patients. Responders had lower risk scores in contrast to non-responders for LUAD patients receiving anti-PD-1 treatment.
Conclusions: The study was the first time to establish a novel FAMGs-based signature in recognition of the prognosis for LUAD patients and evaluation of the possibility of immunotherapy response in personalized treatment.
13C pulse-labeling suggests separate fast and slow dynamics for two amino acid pools in ectomycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Hobbie Erik A.
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Ectomycorrhizal fungi depend on recent photosynthate from their host plants but can also assimilate soil-derived amino acids into fungal protein. The dynamics of different pools of amino acids may differ because their energy cost for acquisition may differ.

Methods

To study carbon dynamics between Pinus sylvestris and ectomycorrhizal fungi, 13CO2 was traced for 97 days into amino acids and structural carbohydrates of Cortinarius semisanguineus and Lactarius rufus sporocarps.

Results

Prior to 13C labeling, amino acid δ13C was higher in Cortinarius than Lactarius, which suggests uptake of older soil-derived amino acids by Cortinarius. 13C labeling in amino acids was 58 ± 3% of that in structural carbohydrates. In stepwise regression, 58% of amino acid carbon tracked the δ13C of the structural carbon which peaked on day 16. The other 42% of amino acid carbon peaked later, on day 30, at 19% of the 13C enrichment of structural carbon, indicating two pools of amino acids. Both structural carbohydrates and the ‘fast’ pool of amino acids derived from recent plant sugars.

Conclusion

It is hypothesized that fast cycling amino acids had simple synthesis pathways such as alanine, aspartic acid and glutamic acid, whereas slow cycling amino acids had multiple enzymatic steps to synthesis, such as lysine, leucine, and isoleucine. This slow pool is more likely than the fast pool to reflect soil-derived amino acids. Studies of amino acid use by ectomycorrhizal fungi should account for the large differences in dynamics and energetic costs between slow and fast cycling amino acids.
Effectiveness some Egyptian isolates of entomopathogenic fungi against bulb mite (Rhizoglyphus robini - Acaridae)
Authors: Mohamed A. S. M. , Hezazy Momamed Gamal , Wang Liande
Published: January 2023

Five fungal isolates have been evaluated from the Egyptian environment for activity against Rhizoglyphus robini; these isolates were Aspergillus terreus1, Aspergillus terreus2, Aspergillus flavus, Myrothecium advena, and Penicillin crustostum. These isolates were evaluated by different concentrations. The concentrations 3.2x106 conidia/ml for A.terreus1was effective against tested mite than M. advena, A. terreus 2, A. flavus, and P. crustostum. The mortality percentages were (78.62, 69.66, 55.86, 17.93, and 1.38%); The LC50 values exhibited by A. terrus1, M. advena, A. terreus2 were (1.06x106, 1.75x106, 3.45x106, and 7.4x109) conidia /ml, respectively.
Discrete Galerkin and iterated discrete Galerkin methods for derivative dependent Fredholm-Hammerstein integral equations with Green's kernel
Authors: Kant Kapil , Kumar Rakesh , Chakraborty Samiran
Published: January 2023

In this article, we look at a class of two point nonlinear boundary value problems and transforms this into derivative dependent Fredholm-Hammerstein integral equations i.e., the integral equation, where the kernel is of Green's type and nonlinear function inside the integral is dependent on the derivative. We obtain the error analysis by replacing all the integrals in Galerkin method by numerical integrations. We propose the discrete Galerkin and iterated discrete Galerkin methods by piecewise polynomials to obtain the convergence analysis of these type of derivative dependent Fredholm-Hammerstein integral equations. By choosing the numerical quadrature rule appropriately, the convergence rates in Galerkin and iterated Galerkin methods are preserved. We show that the iterated discrete Galerkin method improves on the discrete Galerkin method in terms of order of convergence. To demonstrate the theoretical results, several numerical examples are provided.
Modeling Secured User’s Recent-Past History Tracking System Using Location Information for Controlling the Spread of COVID-19
Authors: Balcha Bereket Simon , Tamirat Amanuel
Published: January 2023

Currently, the world is one under an umbrella of novel and pandemic disease called Covid-19 which is a deadly pandemic disease caused by a novel corona virus. As it is reported in worldometer up to the day of this report, the total deaths are around more than 6.5 million in the world and more than 7.5 thousand deaths in Ethiopia so that it has been observed as the world big challenge which knocks everybody’s door directly or indirectly. Therefore, all concerned bodies are struggling to stop or reduce it through many preventive techniques. One of the most effective techniques is utilizing digital technology to create awareness for community and tracking suspected users on behalf of infected persons. The main aim of this paper is to design user’s recent-past history tracking system using location information with the help of Global Positioning System (GPS). The designed model has two main components. The security and intelligent searching algorithms. In implementing the security system, the user authentication part has been implemented by using hashing technique called Security Hash Algorithm (SHA). The input for this authentication key is user’s current latitude, longitude, hour and minute having appended correctly with consideration of integral part of the parameters. Then, message encryption has been implemented by using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). The encryption key used for AES is considering the half of left-hand side of result of authentication key whose key bit size is 256. So, the bit size for encryption key is 128 since the type of AES used here is AES-128. These both user authentication and message encryption have been implemented at the side of assumed client-side entity. Another component of our designed model is implementation of intelligent searching algorithm called Tabu Searching (TS) Algorithm. The algorithm is efficiently implemented by listing some further components like searching for Tabu List (TL), risky areas list, and solution area lists. Along with this implementation, TS uses two types of memory called recency memory (short term) memory used to store TL temporarily and long-term memory used to store problem instance, risky area list and solution list as well. The thing made our searching design called intelligent is since the searching mechanism is adaptive to problem instance size, the necessity or conditionality of searching for all problem instances depends on the result of risky area list and solution list. The document is organized into five parts as part one states about introduction, part two describes the related works and gaps in the existing works. The part three clearly describes about methodology which makes our dreams true in showing the right way for implementing the security and searching parts. Part four implements the methodology conceptually designed in chapter three by simulating it with Python programming language and the last part states about conclusion and future recommendation.
Termites Infestation on Different Eucalyptus Wood Species and Control Using Natural Oil from Plants
Authors: ALAMU Olaniyi Thomas , EWETE Francis Kolawole
Published: January 2023

Termites are one of the major pests of wood and the use of synthetic insecticides in the control constitutes a major challenge to environmental health. This study assessed the level of damage on the wood of four Eucalyptus species on exposure to subterranean termites using preference and non preference tests in the field; and the efficacy of different plant oils to protect wood damage. Physical properties responsible for wood resistance were determined using standard procedures. Pearson correlation, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (p < 0.05) were used for data analysis. The results showed that the highest and lowest wood damages were recorded in Eucalyptus tereticornis and Eucalyptus cloeziana, respectively throughout the period of observation in Samaru-Zaria and Afaka, Kaduna. The results also showed that wood of E. cloeziana was harder than that of E. tereticornis; and correlated significantly with the percentage wood loss. Solignum, a synthetic wood protectant, reduced wood loss to termite infestation more than the plant oils. Oil extracts from neem seed, Jatropha seed and palm kernel significantly reduced wood loss than in the control treatment. However, the potency of these plant oils reduced with time. The wood of E. cloeziana demonstrated high level of resistance against termite infestation; and neem oil, Jatropha oil and palm kernel oils can be used as wood protectants as alternatives to synthetic wood preservatives.
Context-Based and Image-Based Subsea Pipeline Degradation Monitoring
Authors: Spahic Rialda , Lundteigen Mary Ann , Hepsø Vidar
Published: January 2023

This research examines the factors contributing to the exterior material degradation of subsea oil and gas pipelines monitored with autonomous underwater systems (AUS). The AUS have a role of gathering image data that is further analyzed with artificial intelligence data analysis methods. Corrosion and potential ruptures on pipeline surfaces are complex processes involving several competing elements, such as the geographical properties, composition of soil, atmosphere, and marine life, whose effects can result in substantial environmental damage and financial loss. Despite extensive research, corrosion monitoring and prediction remain a persistent challenge in the industry. There is a lack of knowledge map that can enable image analysis using an AUS to recognize ongoing degradation processes and potentially prevent substantial damage. The main contribution of this research is the knowledge map for increased context and risk awareness to improve the reliability of image-based monitoring and inspection by autonomous underwater systems in detecting hazards and early signs of material degradation on subsea pipeline surfaces.
Predictors of Serious Adverse Events and High-Level Cardiorespiratory Support in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Pulmonary Vein Interventions
Authors: Barreto Jessica A , Gauvreau Kimberlee , Porras Diego , Esch Jesse J , Maschietto Nicola , Quinn Brian , Stein Mary , Bergersen Lisa , Callahan Ryan
Published: January 2023

Background
Patients with pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) often require frequent transcatheter pulmonary vein (PV) interventions for management of restenosis. Predictors of serious adverse events (AEs) and need for high-level cardiorespiratory support (mechanical ventilation, vasoactive support, and/or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) 48 hours after transcatheter PV interventions have not been reported.
Methods
Single-center retrospective cohort analysis of patients with PVS who underwent transcatheter PV interventions from 3/1/2014 to 12/31/2021. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed using generalized estimating equations to account for within-patient correlation.
Results
240 patients underwent 841 catheterizations involving PV interventions (median 2 catheterizations per patient [1, 3]). At least one serious AE was reported in 100 (12%) cases, the most common of which were pulmonary hemorrhage (n = 20) and arrhythmia (n = 17). There were 14 severe/catastrophic AEs (1.7% of cases) including 3 strokes and 1 patient death. On multivariable analysis, age less than 6 months, low systemic arterial saturation (< 95% in patients with biventricular [BiV] physiology, < 78% in single ventricle [SV] physiology), and severely elevated mean PA pressure (≥ 45 mmHg in BiV, ≥ 17 mmHg in SV) were associated with SAEs. Age less than 1 year, hospitalization prior to catheterization, and moderate-severe RV dysfunction were associated with high-level support after catheterization.
Conclusion
Serious AEs during transcatheter PV interventions in patients with PVS are common, although major events such as stroke or death are uncommon. Younger patients and those with abnormal hemodynamics are more likely to experience serious AEs and require high-level cardiorespiratory support after catheterization.
Reducing honeycomb-generated turbulence with a passive grid
Authors: Schipper N.R.M. , Kuerten J.G.M. , Zeegers J.C.H.
Published: January 2023

Honeycombs are widely used to laminarize fluid streams by inhibiting the lateral components of the fluctuating velocity. However, they also produce additional turbulence by themselves due to the formation of large-scale instabilities and the break-up of the individual velocity profiles stemming from the honeycomb cells. In the present research, we use 2D-planar particle image velocimetry (PIV) to study how honeycomb-generated turbulence is affected by a downstream grid. It is found that placing a grid near the honeycomb discharge drastically enhances flow uniformity by separating the strong jets stemming from the individual honeycomb cells into many smaller jets that are much more rapidly dissipated. Furthermore, the grid can reduce the magnitude of peak turbulence intensity by as much as 95%, as long as it is positioned upstream of the onset of the large-scale honeycomb-induced instabilities. A downstream grid is highly beneficial for both a laminar and turbulent honeycomb discharge and is most effective when there is a slight offset between the grid and honeycomb. Even though longer honeycombs generally produce more turbulence than short ones due to the larger length-scale of the shear layers, these effects are almost entirely decoupled when using a honeycomb-grid combination. Finally, a honeycomb-grid combination effectively inhibits both axial and lateral turbulence.
Fission yeast Cdc14-like phosphatase Flp1/Clp1 modulates the transcriptional response to oxidative stress
Authors: Canete Juan A. , Andrés Sonia , Díaz-Cuervo Helena , Bueno Avelino , Sacristán María P.
Published: January 2023

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are an important source of cellular damage. When ROS intracellular levels increase, oxidative stress takes place affecting DNA stability and metabolic functions. To prevent these effects, stress-activated protein kinases (SAPKs) delay cell cycle progression and induce a transcriptional response that activates antioxidant mechanisms ensuring cell adaptation and survival. Fission yeast Cdc14-like phosphatase Flp1 (also known as Clp1) has a well-established role in cell cycle regulation. Moreover, Flp1 contributes to checkpoint activation during replication stress. Here, we show that Flp1 has a role in fine-tuning the cellular oxidative stress response. Rad24-dependent nucleolar release of Flp1 in response to oxidative stress conditions plays a role in the cellular transcriptional response. Thus, Flp1 ablation increases the transcriptional response to oxidative stress, in both intensity and duration, upregulating Atf1/Pcr1 transcription factors and, consequently, genes such as ctt1 + , hsp9 + , gpd1 + and pyp2 +. Remarkably, we found that Flp1 interacts with the Atf1/Pcr1 complex with Pcr1 acting as a direct substrate. Our results provide evidence that Flp1 modulates the oxidative stress response by limiting the Atf1/Pcr1-mediated transcription.
Sociocultural aspect of care is definitely part of the “problem”: Developing preclinical students’ cross-cultural care competence through problem-based learning
Authors: Lu Peih-ying , Hsu Anna Shan Chun
Published: January 2023

Increasing diversity issues have posed challenges on pedagogical strategies of medical education, particularly in the post-pandemic era. Medical students are not only expected to have essential medical skills, but also be equipped with the abilities to stay attuned to the sociocultural needs of diverse patient groups. Providing students safe environments to hone these abilities is essential in helping them prepare for future patient encounters in the clinical setting. This study adopted mixed methods to explore the effectiveness of integrating issues on cross-cultural care competence (CCC) into problem-based learning (PBL) to enhance medical students’ CCC preparedness. With bases in constructivism and social cognitive learning theories, and drawing from Bloom’s taxonomy and the Conscious-Competence model in the development of adaptive expertise, this article included discussions of students’ and tutors’ perceptions of the effectiveness of integrating CCC issues into problem-based learning (PBL) in a Taiwanese medical school. We incorporated into PBL scenarios diversity issues students identified as being less prepared for in a previous study. For quantitative analysis, undergraduate medical students completed pre- and post-PBL questionnaires (pre =124, post = 239) and 24 tutors completed a tutor version of pre-PBL questionnaire. For qualitative analysis, we conducted two student focus groups (n = 8) and 12 individual tutor interviews. Scripts were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Quantitative results revealed students generally considered CCC-integrated PBL to be effective in providing them with learning experiences to better understand diversity issues and preparing them for clinical learning. From interviews and focus groups, we further identified four themes: awareness raising- CCC topics in medical training; students’ engagement in CCC-issues- reasons affecting participation; tutors’ concerns- competence in facilitation of CCC learning; and competition in a crowded curriculum. These themes showed that participation in CCC-integrated PBL sessions can raise students’ awareness of sociocultural aspects, biases, stereotypes, diverse cultural groups’ healthcare needs and CCC issues. However, there are still gaps to fill including insufficient student engagement, tutors’ own competence (or capabilities) in addressing CCC, and inadequate time. In conclusion, strategically integrating CCC into PBL provide opportunities that allow students to raise awareness of the impact patients’ diverse backgrounds have on health care. Nevertheless, it is pivotal to address gaps in tutors’ perceptions and students’ learning experiences to design curricular content that can broaden students’ adaptive expertise and sensitivity to diverse patient needs.
A neonicotinoid pesticide alters Drosophila olfactory processing
Authors: Tatarko Anna R. , Leonard Anne S. , Mathew Dennis
Published: January 2023

Neonicotinoid pesticides are well-known for their sublethal effects on insect behavior and physiology. Recent work suggests neonicotinoids can impair insect olfactory processing, with potential downstream effects on behavior and possibly survival. However, it is unclear whether impairment occurs during peripheral olfactory detection, during information processing in central brain regions, or in both contexts. We used Drosophila melanogaster to explore the potential for neonicotinoids to disrupt olfaction by conducting electrophysiological analyses of single neurons and whole antennae of flies exposed to the neonicotinoid imidacloprid (IMD). Our results demonstrated that IMD exposure significantly reduced the activity of a single focal olfactory neuron and delayed the return to baseline activity of the whole antenna. To determine if IMD also impacts olfactory-guided behavior, we compared flies’ relative preference for odor sources varying in ethanol content. Flies exposed to IMD had a greater relative preference for ethanol-laced pineapple juice than control flies, demonstrating that neuronal shifts induced by IMD are associated with changes in relative preference. Given the interest in the sensory impacts of agrochemical exposure on wild insect behavior and physiology, we highlight the potential of Drosophila as a tractable model for investigating the effects of pesticides at scales ranging from single-neuron physiology to olfactory-guided behavior.
New native Bacillus thuringiensis strains induce high insecticidal action against mosquito larvae and adults
Authors: Ma Xinmin , Hu Jianjian , Ding Chengsong , Portieles Roxana , Xu Hongli , Gao Jingyao , Du Lihua , Gao Xiangyou , Yue Qiulin , Zhao Lin , Borrás-Hidalgo Orlando
Published: January 2023

Mosquitoes of many species are key vectors in disease transmission, causing millions of fatalities worldwide each year. Insecticidal formulations based on Bacillus thuringiensis have been considered one of the most effective, ecologically safe, and long-lasting methods of managing insect pests. We established the isolation, identification, genetic characterization, and biological function of novel B. thuringiensis strains with strong control efficacy on mosquitoes. A collection of eight B. thuringiensis strains was isolated and identified as containing genes encoding typical endotoxins. Under light and scanning electron microscope, typical crystal forms of various shapes were observed in the B. thuringiensis strains. A total of fourteen cry and cyt genes were identified in the strains analyzed. While the B. thuringiensis A4 strain had twelve cry and cyt genes in the genome, not all the genes were expressed, and only a few protein profiles were detected. The eight B. thuringiensis strains showed larvicidal activity (LC50 range: 1.4–28.5 µg/ml and LC95 range: 15.3-130.3 µg/ml). Interestingly, the B. thuringiensis A4 strain showed a high level of toxicity to mosquito larvae and adults, as detected by bioassays under controlled conditions. These new findings show that the novel B. thuringiensis A4 strain could be used as a favorable candidate source to control larvae and adult mosquitoes in a sustainable manner that is friendly to the environment.
Healthy behaviors among Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic people affected by cancer during the post- treatment survivorship
Authors: SEVEN Memnun , Moraitis Ann Marie , Hammer Marilyn J. , Pearlman Jessica , Reid Allecia E. , Sturgeon Susan , Wenzel Jennifer
Published: January 2023

Purpose. This study aimed to understand the experiences of non-Hispanic black and Hispanic people affected by cancer in developing and maintaining positive health behaviors beyond a cancer diagnosis.
Methods. The data was collected in a mixed-method study through semi-structured interviews. A total of 29 Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and Hispanic people affected by cancer were included between June- October 2022. Conventional content analysis was used to explore the variables of interest.
Results. The lived experiences of cancer survivors were narrated in three themes; the Impact of a cancer diagnosis on oneself, Facilitators and Barriers to health and health behaviors, and Utilization of available sources for health. Facilitators and barriers to health and health behaviors were further explored as biological (e.g., symptoms, comorbidities), behavioral (e.g., help-seeking behavior, sleep pattern), physical/built (e.g., available sources, healthcare, and community facilities, unsafe neighborhood), and sociocultural environment (e.g., income, transportation, knowledge, culture, upbringing, household and community composition, available social and family network), and healthcare system-related factors (e.g., insurance coverage, personal preferences, perceived discrimination and being dismissed, relationship with providers).
Conclusion. NHB and Hispanic people, specifically those living in disadvantaged neighborhoods with limited sources or where they feel discriminated and stereotyped, those with low socioeconomic status limiting income and transportation, and those with physical, social, or mental health problems, appeared to have challenges in prioritizing health behaviors and maintaining a healthy way of living.
Implications for Cancer Survivors. Biological, behavioral, and psychosocial determinants of health behaviors should be addressed through multilevel collaborations among different levels of partners.
Superior and ultrafast energy storage performance of relaxor-antiferroelectric HfO2-based supercapacitors
Authors: Shuai Wentao , Dai Jiyan , Xu Zihao , Tian Guo , Luo Chunlai , Li Ming , Tao Ruiqiang , Fan Zhen , Chen Deyang , Zhou Guofu , Lu Xubing , Liu Jun-Ming
Published: January 2023

Compared to electrochemical energy storage, dielectric thin film-based capacitors possess the advantages of higher voltage stability and higher break-down voltage as well as lower leakage current etc. Since HfO2 films are compatible to microelectronic process and its ferroelectricity is strategically important in memory device, the realization of their excellent energy storage comparable or better than those perovskite oxides will broaden their applications in microelectronic devices. In this work, to combine the merits of relaxor-ferroelectric and antiferroelectric, we experimentally demonstrate that a superparaelectric-like relaxor antiferroelectric behavior can be realized in the HfO2-based thin films and corresponding recoverable energy density over 100 J cm-3 can be achieved at efficiency higher than 80% as well as extremely high dielectric strength > 6 MV cm-1, compared to perovskite oxide materials. This is a record high energy density in all reported HfO2-based energy storage thin films, and beyond that, we also demonstrate their superfast charging/discharging as a capacitor. Targeting at high-speed supercapacitor applications in integrated circuit, HfO2-based dielectric may win the competition with perovskite oxides in terms of dielectric breakdown strength and charging/discharging speed etc. Our fundamental understanding of the physics behind also enriches the knowledge of materials science and dielectric physics.
REA: resource exergy analysis - Guidelines for evaluating and comparing energy systems
Authors: Jentsch Andrej
Published: January 2023

Using resource exergy analysis (REA) is key to ensure that climate targets can be reached in time.

The reason for this effect is wastefulness. Wastefulness, even in otherwise carbon neutral energy systems, increases the amount of energy required to cover the total energy demand.

If using carbon neutral energy systems, wastefulness leads to reduced availability of carbon neutral energy for the rest of the energy system. Since the energy demand is largely independent of energy production, wastefulness in an energy system in transition to carbon neutrality therefore increases overall fossil fuel use.

REA allows assessing wastefulness comprehensively and thus to obtain a scientific key indicator that is relevant to stopping climate change in addition to greenhouse gas emissions, namely resource exergy consumption.

This publication provides guidelines to the application of resource exergy analysis (REA) with a focus on energy systems evaluation.

REA is a well-tested application of exergy analysis to the field of technology comparison that can replace the less comprehensive primary energy analysis and reduce the risk of suboptimal decisions.
Variation in Seed Germination and Amylase Activity of Diverse Carrot [Daucus carota (L.)] Germplasm under Simulated Drought Stress
Authors: Nijabat Aneela , Manzoor Saba , Faiz Samia , Naveed Naima Huma , Bolton Adam , Khan Bilal Ahmad , Ali Aamir , Simon Philipp
Published: January 2023

Drought is one of the major environmental challenges constraining the production of agricultural crops, including carrot. Seed germination is the initial and most critical stage of crop establishment, and it is very sensitive to drought stress because water scarcity affects the enzymatic solubilization of stored metabolites in seeds that provide energy for the growth of germinating embryo. Few studies evaluating the effect of drought stress on carrot seed germination of more than a few cultivars grown under stress have been published. Therefore, the present study was designed to define the appropriate osmotic potential for evaluating drought tolerance of carrot, evaluate the response of diverse carrot germplasm to drought stress during seed germination to identify drought-tolerant accessions that may be used by plant breeders, and evaluate the relation between amylase activity and germination rate of drought-tolerant and drought-sensitive accessions. To identify an appropriate screening osmotic potential, two commercial cultivars and two United States Department of Agriculture inbreeds were evaluated at six osmotic potentials (00, −0.30, −0.51, −0.58, −0.80, and −1.05 MPa); −0.58 MPa was identified as the optimal osmotic potential for screening the drought tolerance of carrot seed. Cultivated and wild carrot plant introductions (PIs) (n = 200 and n = 50, respectively) from the National Plant Germplasm System were evaluated for drought tolerance under nonstress and simulated drought stress conditions (00 MPa and −0.58 MPa, respectively) by calculating the absolute decrease (AD) in percent germination, inhibition index (II), relative drought tolerance (RDT), and drought tolerance index (DTI). All measurements of drought tolerance identified significant differences among accessions; the AD in seed germination ranged from 0.0% to 69.3%, II ranged from 0.0% to 80.2%, RDT ranged from 0.2 to 1.0, and DTI ranged from 0.13 to 1.47. All wild carrot accessions displayed low levels of drought tolerance, but PI 652387 and PI 177381 (both from Turkey) and PI 274297 (Pakistan) were most drought-sensitive, whereas cultivated accessions PI 643114 (United States), PI 652208 (China), and PI 502347 (Uzbekistan) were most drought-tolerant. Tolerant accessions displayed much higher α-amylase activity under nonstress conditions than sensitive accessions, and α-amylase activity of tolerant accessions was also reduced less with seed germination under increasing osmotic potential (range, 0.0 to −1.05 MPa) than sensitive accessions over 24, 48, and 72 hours of seed germination. This is the first evaluation of drought stress tolerance during seed germination and the enzymatic response of diverse carrot germplasms under simulated drought stress.
LED Lighting: A Grower’s Guide to Light Spectra
Authors: Stamford John D. , Stevens Jim , Mullineaux Philip M. , Lawson Tracy
Published: January 2023

For many growers, established and newcomers, the determination of the optimal light spectrum for growing crops can be challenging and highly dependent on crop species and variety. With the increased popularity of LED lighting, the capability to fine-tune a light spectrum has never been greater. Here, we break down the fundamental roles of the major spectral regions (ultraviolet, blue, green, red, and far-red) and explain the effect on plant growth, yield, and crop quality (i.e., greenness, coloration, flavor) when applied in isolation or combination. The first part of this review examines plant responses to light stimuli and the potential benefits for growers. We also discuss how LED lighting can be used to manipulate plant growth and development to improve crop productivity and/or value. We suggest some basic LED light “recipes” that could be used by growers to deliver specific growth effects and provide an easy-to-use visual reference guide. The second part of this review explores the impact of light treatments on crop productivity. Increased productivity is weighed against the ongoing costs associated with various light treatments, modeled in the context of UK electricity pricing.
ADVANCED RADIOLOGY METHOD FOR MONITORING PROGRESSIVITY OF PAEDIATRIC MENINGOENCEPHALITIS: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Rianto Novia Bella
Published: January 2023

Introduction Meningitis is a disease characterized by infection and inflammation of the meninges, caused by microorganisms. Encephalitis is inflammation of brain. Meningoencephalitis is inflammation of the meninges and brain. The microorganisms that most often cause meningoencephalitis are viruses and bacteria. Bacterial meningitis has more severe clinical manifestations and is fatal if not treated effectively. The Global Burden of Disease study showed that meningitis caused 318,000 deaths each year worldwide. Aim The aim of this case study is to report a case of meningoenchepalitis in a 7 year old girl. Case Description A 7 year old girl presented with recurrent seizures within 24 hours and seizures for 3 hours. The patient has a history of fever, runny nose and sore throat. The results of physical examination showed nuchal rigidity, right side hemiparesis. The patient was conducted to a head MSCT examination without contrast on September 24 and 28, 2020 and cerebrospinal fluid examination to determine the microorganism. The patient was given treatment and then an MRI examination of the head was carried out on October 5, 2020. Conclusion Meningoenchepalitis is a disease characterized by infection and inflammation of the meninges and brain. Symptoms associated with meningitis include fever, headache, stiff neck. One of the supporting tests that can be done is head MSCT. Neuroimaging meningitis examination in children can identify predisposing factors and complications that occur. Keywords: meningitis, children, computed tomography, magnetic resonance image
Vitamin D Status In Epileptic Adults With Valproic Acid Therapy At The Neurology Clinic, Diponegoro National Hospital, Semarang
Authors: Jaeri Santoso , Maharani Adelia Putri , Ngestiningsih Dwi , Wati Arinta Puspita , Syariva Hasna
Published: January 2023

Background Epilepsy is a brain disease characterized by repeated unprovoked seizures at least two times with an interval of more than 24 hours between the first seizure and subsequent seizures. Valproic acid is an anti-seizure drug. Long-term use of valproic acid may be associated with metabolic disorders such as weight gain, and lipid profile changes, including vitamin D levels.Objectives To determine the correlation between the duration of valproic acid therapy and serum vitamin D levels in adults using valproic acid.Methods An observational analytic study with a cross-sectional design. The demographic and duration of valproic acid use were determined using questioner, and the serum vitamin D levels were measured using the ELISA method. The normality test was carried out using the Shapiro-Wilk test and then continued with the Pearson test to determine the correlation between the duration of valproic acid therapy and serum vitamin D levels. The results showed significance if the p-value <0.05.Results The mean serum vitamin D level among subjects was low (16.44+4,24 ng/mL), furthermore, there is no significant correlation between the duration of valproic acid therapy and serum vitamin D levels (p=0.956, r=-0,011).Conclusion There is vitamin D deficiency among adults with epilepsy but, the duration of valproic acid therapy does not correlate with serum vitamin D levels.
Factors Associated with Retained Placenta: A Case-Control at Bethesda Hospital Yogyakarta
Authors: Gitasari Ruth P. , Kusumosih Theresia A.R. , Nugroho Daniel C.A. , Rahardjo H.
Published: January 2023

Background The retained placenta is a common cause of postpartum bleeding. Many conditions commonly can be found in pregnant women cause retained placenta.Objective This study aims to identify factors associated with retained placenta.Method This study was performed as an observational analytic study with a case-control method. The data used is secondary data, using normal postpartum mothers (n=74) and postpartum women diagnosed with the retained placenta (n=37) medical records, at Bethesda Hospital from 2013 until 2018. Variables were analyzed using simple logistic regression to measure crude odds ratio and using multiple logistic regression to calculate adjusted odds ratio.Results The factor associated with retained placenta was preterm labor (OR 37.16; CI 95% 6.98-197.84). Age (OR 1.32; CI 95% 0.34-5.19), anemia in pregnancy (OR 2.43; CI 95% 0.83-7.14), history of previous cesarean section (OR 9.63; CI 95% 0.79-117.36), history of curettage (OR 3.65; CI 95% 0.93-14.37) and parity (OR 2.07; CI 95% 0.72-5.98) increasing risk to develop retained placenta, but not statistically significant.Conclusion A history of previous cesarean section and preterm labor statistically increases the risk of retained placenta in Bethesda Hospital Yogyakarta. Age, anemia in pregnancy, and history of curettage were clinically associated with retained placenta, but not statistically significant.