bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Report on Cecal Volvulus: Approach to Management
Authors: Chang Alyssa Katrin , Roxas Manuel Francisco
Published: November 2023

Cecal volvulus is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction caused by axial twisting of the cecum that occurs in 1–1.5 % of all intestinal obstruction, with an incidence of 2.8–7.1 cases per million annually. Cecal volvulus is potentially life-threatening without prompt surgical intervention. A 57-year-old woman presented with severe abdominal pain and distention. Laboratory examinations revealed normal white blood cell count with neutrophilic predominance. Diagnosis of acute cecal volvulus was made from a “whirl sign” on abdominal computed tomography. An exploratory laparotomy confirmed the diagnosis of cecal volvulus and a segmental ileocolic resection with primary anastomosis was carried out. The patient was discharged improved and returned to her normal activities of daily living. Conclusion: The management of volvulus involves a series of stepwise decisions that must be performed rapidly. Due to the fact that this condition is relatively uncommon makes it more critical for surgeons to maintain a solidified algorithm tailored to the disease process in order to amplify chances of successful outcome. In this case, the diagnosis of acute cecal volvulus was made from a “whirl sign” on abdominal computed tomography. An exploratory laparotomy confirmed the diagnosis of cecal volvulus and a segmental ileocolic resection with primary anastomosis was carried out. The patient was discharged, improved. Key words: Cecal volvulus, ileo-colectomy, whirl sign
The financial problems and academic performance among public university students in Malaysia
Authors: Norazlan Nurhidayah , Yusuf Sarina , Mohamed Hamoud Al-Majdhoub Fatimah
Published: November 2023

Financial play an important role in students’ academic performance. Financial problems are a serious issue that needs to be addressed as it leads to multiple stages of problems such as health issues and academic performance. Dang and Bulus (2015) education is a high-cost social service therefore insufficient financial support will be a problem for students to enhance themselves in academics thus leading to poor academic performance. This paper aims to identify the relationship between financial problems and academic performance faced by public university students in Malaysia. Self-administered surveys were used to gather data from a total of 120 respondents among public university students. Data collected were analysed using SPSS in order to obtain descriptive statistics. From the results, it is ascertained that there is a significant relationship between financial problems and academic performance of p = 0.014 < a 0.05 indicating that the students with financial problems affect their academic performance.
Environmental Management System (EMS) in Hotel Industry: Government Incentives & Customer Demand.
Authors: Awalludin Noor Rohin , Aripin Norhani
Published: November 2023

The tourism industry in Malaysia has been a significant contributor to pollution, necessitating the implementation of environmental management systems (EMS) to address the negative impact of environmental degradation. The aim of this study was to explore the influence of government incentives and customer demand on the adoption of EMS in Malaysian hotels. The research was based on questionnaires collected from 4- and 5-star hotels in the Central Region of Malaysia, and the data were analyzed using Least Square Partial Structural Equation Modeling. Contrary to expectations, the study found that neither government incentives nor customer demand had an impact on EMS adoption. However, the size of the hotel was found to be a significant factor affecting the adoption of EMS. This study contributes to the literature on motivational factors and EMS adoption in emerging markets like Malaysia and highlights the importance of considering the size of the hotel when designing policies to promote EMS adoption.
FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG BERHUBUNGAN DENGAN KENAIKAN BERAT BADAN PADA PENGGUNAAN KB SUNTIK 1 BULAN DAN 3 BULAN
Authors: Muayah Muayah
Published: November 2023

Background: Injectable contraceptives for one month or three months can cause side effects, one of which is weight gain. Weight gain is a problem for women. The purpose of the study was to determine the factors associated with weight gain on the use of 1-month and 3-month injectable contraception in the working area of the Puskesmas Kelurahan Pulau Panggang, Seribu Islands in 2021. Methods: Analytical research with case control design. The sample of this study was acceptors who used 1-month and 3-month injectable KB for 1 years starting from Mei 2020 totaling 106 consisting of 53 acceptors of 1-month injectable KB and 53 acceptors of 3-month injectable KB using purposive sampling technique. The research instrument used a questionnaire. Data is primary data analyzed using Spearman test. Result: Research on physical activity (p=0.000), stress (p=0.000) and nutritional intake (p=0.002), with an odd ratio value of physical activity of 7.901, the value of the Odds Ratio of stress was 5.638, the odd ratio value of nutritional intake was 3.789. The conclusion of this research is the weight gain of 3month injection family planning acceptors was more than that of 1 month family planning acceptors. Physical activity, stress and nutritional intake are among the factors associated with weight gain. Suggestions for injection family planning acceptors, it is expected that they will exercise regularly and be able to regulate their diet with a balanced nutritional menu so that the mother's weight is reduced and ideal so as to avoid the incidence of obesity.
PENGARUH PEER EDUCATION TERHADAP PENGETAHUAN DAN SIKAP MENGENAI PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROM PADA SISWI SMP
Authors: Supliyani Elin , Yanti Risna Dewi
Published: November 2023

Salah satu gangguan yang berhubungan dengan haid adalah Pre Menstrual Syndrome. Berbagai sumber informasi mengenai Premenstrual Syndrom dapat diperoleh,  baik dari keluarga maupun dari lingkungan luar, dan akan lebih  baik jika didapatkan dari teman atau kelompok sebaya dimana mereka akan lebih terbuka dan lebih mendalam dalam melakukan sharing terutama tentang hal-hal yang positif. Oleh sebab itu diperlukan usaha untuk memberikan pendampingan kepada remaja  untuk memberikan pengetahuan dan membentuk sikap yang positif tentang  premenstrual syndrom. Upaya yang dapat dilakukan adalah membentuk kelompok sebaya (peer grup).  Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui pengaruh Peer Education  terhadap pengetahuan dan sikap mengenai Premenstrual Syndrom   pada siswi SMP di Kota Bogor dengan desain pre-experimental, yaitu one group pre-test post-test, Pengambilan sampling menggunakan teknik Cluster Sampling di SMP 6 kelas VII sejumlah 42 orang. Analisis bivariat dilakukan uji Wilkoxon untuk mengetahui pengaruh Peer Education terhadap peningkatan pengetahuan mengenai Premenstrual Syndrom, sedangkan t-dependent untuk mengetahui pengaruh Peer Education terhadap sikap mengenai Premenstrual Syndrom. Hasil diperoleh adanya peningkatan pengetahuan yang signifikan  dengan nilai p 0.000 (p<0.005). Begitu pula terdapat peningkatan sikap yang signifikan dengan  rerata 51.69 menjadi 56.04, nilai p 0.000 (p<0.005). Peer Education  berpengaruh terhadap pengetahuan dan sikap mengenai Premenstrual Syndrom   pada siswi SMP, oleh sebab itu d isarankan agardibentuk peer group education di sekolah-sekolah dan senantiasa melakukan pendidikan kesehatan tentang kesehatan reproduksi remaja khususnya tentang Premenstrual Syndrom

 

Kata kunci : Peer Education, pengetahuan, sikap
EFEKTIVITAS PEMBERIAN SNACK BAR TAPE KETAN HITAM TERHADAP POLA DEFEKASI IBU NIFAS
Authors: Yanti Risna Dewi
Published: November 2023

Sistem pencernaan  pada masa nifas mengalami perubahan fisiologis yang berdampak pada kesulitan defekasi. Hal ini disebabkan  tonus otot usus menurun selama  proses  persalinan  dan awal masa pascapartum, diare sebelum persalinan, kurang makan,  dehidrasi,  hemoroid  ataupun  laserasi jalan lahir . Pemberian makanan yang mengandung serat tinggi untuk memperlancar defekasi sehingga mencegah konstipasi pada ibu nifas dianggap cukup efektif.  Serat makanan memiliki kemampuan mengikat air di dalam kolon membuat volume feses menjadi lebih besar dan akan merangsang saraf pada rektum sehingga menimbulkan keinginan untuk defekasi. Dengan demikian feses lebih mudah dieliminir. Pengaruh nyata yang telah dibuktikan yaitu bertambahnya volume feses, melunakkan konsistensi feses dan memperpendek waktu transit di usus. Salah satu pangan sumber serat, yaitu tape ketan hitam 5,9 gram/100 gram. Tujuan penelitian untuk mengetahui Efektifitas Pemberian Snack Bar Tape Ketan Hitam Terhadap Pola  Defekasi  Ibu Nifas. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain penelitian quasi eksperimen(two grouppost design) untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian snack bar tape ketan hitam terhadap poladefekasi ibu nifas. Tempat penelitian ini di wilayah kota bogor, dilaksanakan  mulai bulan Februari-oktober 2019 dengan sampel ibu nifas sejumlah 30 orang untuk tiap kelompok dengan total sampel 60 orang. Analisis bivariat dilakukan uji Mann Whitney. Hasil analisis data terdapat perbedaan  yang signifikan pemberian snack Bar Tape Ketan Hitam terhadap pola defekasi pada ibu nifas dengan nilai P=0,00. Kesimpulan dari hasil penelitian ini adalah bahwa pemberian snack bar tape ketan hitam efektif terhadap pola defekasi.
Factors that contribute to the conscious behavior of women of childbearing age in the Independent Practice of Midwife Endang Sundari Bekasi in 2022
Authors: Sundari Endang , Utami Sri , Ariestanti Yenni
Published: November 2023

The prevalence of cancer in West Java is still relatively high. In the city of Bekasi there was an increase in the presentation of breast cancer for women aged 30-50 years from 2017 by 77 people (1.85%) to 91 people (4.18%) in 2018. This is due to a lack of knowledge and awareness of doing BSE to prevent breast cancer. breast cancer. The purpose of the study was to analyze the factors that play a role in BSE behavior in WUS at the Endang Sundari Midwife's Independent Practice Center in Bekasi in 2022. This study used a cross sectional design, the number of samples was 123 respondents. The sample used using inclusion criteria, namely not pregnant or breastfeeding, can read and write and the exclusion criteria are having breast cancer experience. The questionnaire used has been tested for validity and reliability. Analysis using univariate, bivariate and multivariate using multiple logistic regression. The results showed that respondents with good BSE behavior were 62.6%. Bivariate analysis showed that education variables (p value = 0.000), knowledge (p value = 0.000), BSE attitudes (p value = 0.000), family support (p value = 0.008,) and BSE information exposure (p value = 0.000) were significantly related. with BSE behavior in women of childbearing age. While the variables of age and education are not significantly related. Multivariate analysis showed that the dominant variable was knowledge of OR of 17.7, meaning that WUS who had good knowledge of BSE will have a good chance of BSE behavior 17.7 times higher than those who have poor knowledge of BSE after being controlled by the education variable, support family and exposure to BSE information. Thus, knowledge accompanied by higher education and exposure to information is important to change BSE behavior.
Analysis of Physical Workload of Midwife with The Application of Patient Safety During The Covid-19 Pandemic at Regency Hospitals Bekasi, 2021
Authors: Mariyani Mariyani
Published: November 2023

Background: Working in challenging conditions such as during the Covid-19 pandemic can have an impact on the ability of health workers to provide safe and effective care.Research Objectives: To determine the relationship between the physical workload of midwife and the application of patient safety during the Covid-19 pandemic at the Bekasi District Hospital in 2021.Research Methods: This study uses a quantitative approach with a cross sectional research design. The total population in this study were 94 respondents and the sampling technique was simple random sampling with a sample of 55 respondents. The instrument in this study is a questionnaire. The analysis used is univariate and bivariate analysis.Research results: From 55 respondents, it was found that the total physical workload of midwife was 33 people and midwife who implemented good patient safety were 11 people (33.3%), while the physical workload of midwife who were moderate was 19 people and midwife who implemented patient safety. there are 11 people (57.9%), and the physical workload of midwife who are light in total there are 3 people who apply good patient safety there are 3 people (100%). The results of the bivariate analysis obtained p value = 0.034 (<0.050), thus it can be said that there is a significant (significant) relationship between the physical workload of midwife and the application of patient safety.Conclusions and Suggestions: There is a significant (significant) relationship between the physical workload of midwife and the application of patient safety at the RSUD Kabupaten Bekasi. It is hoped that the results of this study will serve as objective information regarding the relationship between the physical workload of midwife and the application of patient safety. Midwife are expected to further improve the application of patient safety in accordance with the procedures applicable in the hospital.
The first 100 years at the Department of Dermatology, University of Debrecen
Authors:   Department of Dermatology, University of Debrecen, Szegedi Andrea
Published: November 2023

The Department of Dermatology at the University of Debrecen celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2021. However, the year 2021 did not allow us to celebrate this important anniversary properly due to the COVID pandemic. For this reason, the festive meeting in honor of the Centenary was organized at the University of Debrecen and a summary article was completed and published in the Gerundium Journal of the University in the spring of 2023. In the present manuscript, which is a shorter form of the summary article, I report briefly on the past 100 years of the Department of Dermatology, the main developmental steps in patient care, education, and research at our institute, as well as I remember the legacy of our former colleagues and directors.
Autophagy in the pathomechanism of skin diseases
Authors:   Department of Dermatology, University of Debrecen, Tósaki Ágnes , Szabó Erzsébet , Szabó Imre Lőrinc , Remenyik Éva
Published: November 2023

Autophagy is a physiological cellular degradation process responsible for the breakdown of damaged, dysfunctional cell organelles and protein aggregates, which is essential for physiological cellular function, growth and development. The aim of this publication is to explain the role of autophagy and its processes in the pathomechanism of certain skin diseases, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, hyperpigmentation, systemic lupus erythematosus, skin tumors, melanoma, and infectious skin diseases- and drawing attention to new diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities.
Modern wound management
Authors:   Department of Dermatology, University of Debrecen, Eiben Péter , Ari Patrícia , Erdei Irén , Péter Zoltán , Szabó Éva
Published: November 2023

Wound healing is a complex biochemical process involving many cell types. Normal wound healing takes 5–14 days. If the process is disturbed, prolonged wound healing occurs for a number of reasons. Correct diagnosis is important before treatment and complex treatment should be carried out accordingly, which in most cases involves a combination of appropriate systemic and top ical therapy. There are differet methods of topical treatment, which should be chosen according to the characteristics of the wound. This article summarises the treatment options available in the different stages of wound healing.
Harmless varicella? Complicated skin and soft tissue infections in childhood, a case report
Authors:   Heim Pál National Institute of Pediatrics Department of Dermatology, Nemesánszky Zsuzsanna , Jagodich Mira , Solti Anna , Gedei Alexandra , Veres Klára , Szalai Zsuzsanna Zsófia
Published: November 2023

Complicated bacterial skin and soft tissue infections are rare in childhood, but their knowledge is of great importance because of their potentially life-threatening nature. Rapid diagnosis, immediate antimicrobial therapy and in some cases, urgent surgical intervention is needed. An 8-year-old otherwise healthy, obese girl is reported, who developed a life-threatening disease from seemingly harmless varicella symptoms. In addition to the case’s study, the differential diagnosis and the management of bacterial skin and soft tissue infections are described.
Which Treatment Method Is Better in the Treatment of Chronic Plantar Fasciitis: Corticosteroid Injection, Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy, or Radiofrequency Thermal Lesioning?
Authors: Yapici Furkan , Gur Volkan , Sari Ilker Fatih , Karakose Resit , Tardus Ismail , Ucpunar Hanifi
Published: November 2023

Background: Chronic plantar fasciitis (CPF) is a common disease that has various treatment options. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of three of these options: corticosteroid injection (CSI), extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), and radiofrequency thermal lesioning (RTL).

Methods: The records of 229 patients treated with CSI (n = 81), ESWT (n = 76), or RTL (n = 72) were retrospectively analyzed. Visual analog scale scores, patient satisfaction–related success rates, repeated treatment rates, and initial treatment change rates were compared.

Results: Mean ± SD follow-up was 19.0 ± 4.5 months. Baseline clinical characteristics, mean visual analog scale scores (before treatment and at months 3, 6, and 12), patient satisfaction and success rates (at months 6 and 12), and repeated treatment and initial treatment change rates were similar between treatment groups. No complications were observed after the treatments.

Conclusions: All three options—CSI, ESWT, and RTL—were found to be safe and effective in treating CPF, with similar outcomes up to 1 year. Use of CSIs is advantageous because it is more accessible than the other treatments. Similarly, the noninvasive nature of ESWT is glaring among other minimally invasive options. Therefore, the first-line treatment modality of CPF can be CSI or ESWT, depending on the patient's and physician's joint preference; RTL treatment should be tried in patients who do not respond to these treatments.
Use of a Skin-Covering Pocket as a Local Flap and Negative Pressure Wound Therapy with Instillation and Dwell Time/Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer with Calcaneal Osteomyelitis: A Case Report
Authors: Ueda Misato , Makoto Omori , Sakai Ayumi
Published: November 2023

For diabetic foot ulcers with “pockets” (wound edge undermining), a surgical incision to the undermining space and debridement are required primarily. Osteomyelitis should be treated if present. Furthermore, it is necessary for the foot to be able to withstand load after controlling the infection and necrosis. We report a case of a patient treated with a skin-covering pocket as a local flap and negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and dwell time and negative pressure wound therapy to relieve osteomyelitis and promote wound contraction. There was no involvement of other body parts, and only the pocket consisting of skin at the sole of the foot was used, and load could be withstood.
Modeling corticotroph deficiency with pituitary organoids supports the functional role of NFKB2 in human pituitary differentiation
Authors: Mac Thi Thom , Fauquier Teddy , Jullien Nicolas , Romanet Pauline , Etchevers Heather C. , Barlier Anne , Castinetti Frederic , Brue Thierry
Published: November 2023

Deficient Anterior pituitary with common Variable Immune Deficiency (DAVID) syndrome is a rare condition characterized by the association of adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency (ACTHD) and primary hypogammaglobulinemia, caused by
NFKB2
heterozygous mutations. Nuclear factor kappa B (NFKB) signaling is a key regulator of the immune system; however, the underlying mechanism of its association with endocrine symptoms remains unknown. Two main hypotheses explain the effects of mutant NFKB2 on the pituitary gland: an autoimmune hypophysitis, preferentially affecting corticotroph function, or a primary developmental defect. The role of NFKB2 in the development of the human pituitary was called into question by
Nfkb2
-deficient
Lym1
mice, which have normal pituitary functions.The aim of this study was to create a human disease model to define the role of
NFKB2
in human pituitary development.We established pituitary organoids in three dimensions (3D) culture after directed differentiation from CRISPR/Cas9-edited human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC). First, we conducted a proof-of-concept study, introducing a homozygous

TBX19
K

146

R/K

146

R

missense pathogenic variant in hiPSC, an allele found in patients with congenital isolated ACTHD. Then, we used the same method to produce

NFKB2
D

865

G/D

865

G

mutant organoids, harboring the pathogenic missense variant previously identified in DAVID patients. This mutation causes a failure of NFKB2 p100 phosphorylation that blocks processing to form active NFKB2 p52. We then characterized pituitary organoid development by transcriptomics using bulk RNA sequencing and quantitative RT-PCR, and by immunofluorescence in section and whole-mount.Analysis of wild-type (WT) organoids demonstrated that this
in vitro
model recapitulates corticotroph cell differentiation.

TBX19
K

146

R/K

146

R

organoids conserved early expression of
HESX1
, but had significantly decreased
PITX1
,
TBX19
,
LHX3,
and
POMC
transcription

. NFKB2
D

865

G/D

865

G

organoids also had dramatically reduced corticotrophs. Furthermore,

NFKB2
D

865

G/D

865

G

perturbs the normal expression of 66 genes known to contribute to pituitary development, among which 21 transcription factors.We used a combination of CRISPR/Cas9 editing and refinement of a 3D organoid culture protocol to model human ACTHD due to
TBX19
or
NFKB2
mutations. The
NFKB2
variant studied induced a significant decrease in corticotroph differentiation, demonstrating for the first time a direct functional role of NFKB2 in human pituitary development. Signaling through NFKB2 is thus a valid new candidate pathway in the pathogenesis of isolated or syndromic ACTHD.
Sucrose taste receptors differ in larval and adult stages of a moth
Authors: Zhang Shuai-Shuai , Wang Pei-Chao , Ning Chao , Yang Ke , Li Guo-Cheng , Cao Lin-Lin , Huang Ling-Qiao , Wang Chen-Zhu
Published: November 2023

Almost all herbivorous insects feed on plants and use sucrose as a feeding stimulant, but the molecular basis of their sucrose reception remains unclear. The cotton bollworm
Helicoverpa armigera
as a notorious crop pest worldwide mainly feeds on reproductive organs of many plant species in the larval stage, and its adult draws nectar. Its gustatory sensory neurons sensitive to sucrose are distributed in the taste sensilla of larval maxillary galeas and adult antennae, tarsi and proboscis. In this study, using the ectopic expression system, we discovered that
Gr10
highly expressed in the larval sensilla was specifically tuned to sucrose, while
Gr6
highly expressed in the adult sensilla responded to fucose, sucrose and fructose. Moreover, using the CRISPR/Cas9 technique, we revealed that
Gr10
was mainly used by larvae to detect lower sucrose, while
Gr6
was primarily used by adults to detect higher sucrose and other saccharides, which results in the differences in selectivity and sensitivity between larval and adult sugar sensory neurons. Our results demonstrate the sugar receptors in this moth are evolved to adapt towards the larval and adult foods with different types and amounts of sugar, and fill in a gap in sweet taste of animals.
Evaluation of mental disorder with prioritization of its type by utilizing the bipolar complex fuzzy decision-making approach based on Schweizer-Sklar prioritized aggregation operators
Authors: Mahmood Tahir , ur Rehman Ubaid , Peng Xindong , Ali Zeeshan
Published: November 2023

A clinically important loss in a person’s understanding, emotive power, or conduct is a symptom of a mental disorder. It generally occurs for genetic, psychological, and/or cognitive reasons and is accompanied by discomfort or limitationin significant functional areas. It can be handled using techniques similar to those used to treat chronic conditions (i.e., precautions, examination, medication, and recovery). Mental diseases take a variety of forms. Mental disorder is also identified as mental illness. The latter is a more usual phrase that incorporates psychological problems, psychosocial disorders, and (other) states of mind linked to considerable discomfort, operational limitations, or danger of loss of sanity. To rank the most prevalent types of mental disorders is a multi-attribute decision-making issue and thus this article aims to analyze the artificial intelligence-based evaluation of mental disorders and rank the most prevalent types of mental disorders. For this purpose, here we invent certain aggregation operators under the environment of the bipolar complex fuzzy set such as bipolar complex fuzzy Schweizer-Sklar prioritized weighted averaging, bipolar complex fuzzy Schweizer-Sklar prioritized ordered weighted averaging, bipolar complex fuzzy Schweizer-Sklar prioritized weighted geometric, bipolar complex fuzzy Schweizer-Sklar prioritized ordered weighted geometric operators. After that, we devise a procedure of decision-making for bipolar complex fuzzy information by employing the introduced operators and then take artificial data in the model of bipolar complex fuzzy set to rank the most prevalent types of mental disorders. Additionally, this article contains a comparative study of the introduced work with a few current works for exhibiting the priority and superiority of the introduced work.
A new pseudoscorpion genus (Garypinoidea: Garypinidae) from the Eocene supports extinction and range contraction in the European paleobiota
Authors: Stanczak Nova , Harvey Mark S. , Harms Danilo , Hammel Jörg U. , Kotthoff Ulrich , Loria Stephanie F.
Published: November 2023

During the Paleogene, the Holarctic experienced drastic climatic oscillations, including periods of extensive glaciation. These changes had a severe impact on both the flora and fauna causing widespread extinction and range shifts with some taxa retreating to refugia in the Mediterranean Basin. Here we provide evidence for this hypothesis using fossils from the pseudoscorpion family Garypinidae Daday, 1889 (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpiones). This family comprises 21 extant genera from all continents except Antarctica but is restricted to low mid-latitudes (<44°N) in the Northern Hemisphere. We provide the second record of garypinids from the European succinite ambers of the Eocene by describing the first extinct genus in Garypinidae, Baltamblyolpium gen. nov., which includes two species: Baltamblyolpium gizmotum sp. nov. from Baltic amber and Baltamblyolpium grabenhorsti sp. nov. from Bitterfeld amber. The new genus exhibits a morphology that closely resembles Neoamblyolpium Hoff, 1956 from western North America and the genus Amblyolpium Simon, 1898, which is widespread but includes taxa restricted to Mediterranean refugia in Europe. The discovery of a new fossil genus of Garypinidae from Europe confirms that the family was found at more northerly latitudes during the Eocene, however, extinction and range contraction resulted in their present-day relictual distribution in southern Europe like many other lineages that once thrived in the European “Baltic amber forest” of the Eocene.
Participatory ethnobotany: comparison between two quilombos in the Atlantic Forest, Ubatuba, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Sauini Thamara , Henrique Gonçalves Santos Paulo , Paulino Albuquerque Ulysses , Yazbek Priscila , da Cruz Cremilda , Hortal Pereira Barretto Eduardo , Alice dos Santos Maria , Silva Gomes Maria Angélica , dos Santos Ginacil , Braga Silvestre , José Francischetti Garcia Ricardo , Honda Sumiko , Matta Priscila , Aragaki Sonia , Ueno Anderson , Rodrigues Eliana
Published: November 2023

Ethnobotanical studies that use the participatory research approach seek to involve the residents of a community in different stages of the study, promoting the registration, dissemination and strengthening of local knowledge, as well as the empowerment of decisions related to the sustainable use and management of resources. Using the participatory methodology, this study recorded and made a comparative analysis on the use of plants in two quilombola communities (Quilombo do Cambury-QC and Quilombo da Fazenda-QF) in the State of São Paulo. After a training on anthropological and botanical methods, local researchers selected and interviewed the local experts, recording their knowledge on plant uses and collecting the indicated plants, to be identified and deposited in herbariums. In addition, participant observation and field diaries were used by the academic researchers, helping to analyze the data. To test the differences in the composition of species known to local community, a Jaccard dissimilarity matrix was created, and a Permanova test was employed. During the 178 days of fieldwork, three local researchers from the QC and two from the QF, selected nine and eight experts on the uses of the plants in each quilombo, respectively, corresponding to 214 plant species, indicated for eight ethnobotanical categories. Our hypothesis has been confirmed, since the traditional knowledge found in both quilombos, regarding plant uses and the number of plant species by category, are distinct, since each community occupies particular plant areas and different phytophysiognomies. Most of the indicated species are native to the Atlantic forest, and no significant differences were observed in the proportion of native species vs. introduced among quilombos for any of the categories of use studied. Furthermore, the innovative methodology used, participatory ethnobotany, contributed to the empowerment of community members with regard to the use of their available resources in the environment in which they live, while retaining the intellectual property rights over their own knowledge.
RBM25 binds to and regulates alternative splicing levels of Slc38a9, Csf1, and Coro6 to affect immune and inflammatory processes in H9c2 cells
Authors: Tian Xin , Zhou Guangli , Li Hao , Zhang Xueting , Zhao Lingmin , Zhang Keyi , Wang Luqiao , Liu Mingwei , Liu Chen , Yang Ping
Published: November 2023

Background

Alternative splicing (AS) is a biological process that allows genes to be translated into diverse proteins. However, aberrant AS can predispose cells to aberrations in biological mechanisms. RNA binding proteins (RBPs), closely affiliated with AS, have gained increased attention in recent years. Among these RBPs, RBM25 has been reported to participate in the cardiac pathological mechanism through regulating AS; however, the involvement of RBM25 as a splicing factor in heart failure remains unclarified.

Methods

RBM25 was overexpressed in H9c2 cells to explore the target genes bound and regulated by RBM25 during heart failure. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to scrutinize the comprehensive transcriptional level before identifying AS events influenced by RBM25. Further, improved RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (iRIP-seq) was employed to pinpoint RBM25-binding sites, and RT-qPCR was used to validate specific genes modulated by RBM25.

Results

RBM25 was found to upregulate the expression of genes pertinent to the inflammatory response and viral processes, as well as to mediate the AS of genes associated with cellular apoptosis and inflammation. Overlap analysis between RNA-seq and iRIP-seq suggested that RBM25 bound to and manipulated the AS of genes associated with inflammation in H9c2 cells. Moreover, qRT-PCR confirmed Slc38a9, Csf1, and Coro6 as the binding and AS regulatory targets of RBM25.

Conclusion

Our research implies that RBM25 plays a contributory role in cardiac inflammatory responses via its ability to bind to and regulate the AS of related genes. This study offers preliminary evidence of the influence of RBM25 on inflammation in H9c2 cells.
Application of Lean-Total Productive Maintenance Tools to Reduce Setup Times and Machine Stoppages on the Molding Line of an SME in the Food Industry
Authors: Peralta-Pereda Renzo , Zamora Frank , Quiroz-Flores Juan , Collao-Diaz Martín , Flores-Perez Alberto
Published: November 2023

The demand for the food industry has maintained sustained growth in recent years. In Peru, as a consequence of the high competitiveness in the food sector, it has reflected a considerable contribution to the manufacturing GDP with 20% and 2.6% to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, the high demands of the market are not satisfied due to problems such as the availability of machinery, mainly due to high programming times, high frequency of machine stoppages, among others. These problems generate large monetary losses and a bad image in front of large potential customers. Thus, this research work, taking as a case study an SME (Small and Medium-Sized companies) of the food sector, seeks to provide the application of the tools of the Lean Manufacturing (LM) and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) philosophies, to reduce the high setup times and the high frequency of machine stoppages that currently harm the company and generate an impact of 3.95% in operational costs. The model was validated using the Arena simulator, where a 30.83% reduction in machine programming time and a reduction in machine stop frequencies were obtained, which led to an improvement in Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) indicators with a 21.60% reduction and a 4.66% increase in Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF). This new integration of engineering tools makes it possible to solve the main problems faced by large companies in the sector to meet market demands and adapt to new needs.
Carbon Sequestration Potential of Trees in Urban Vegetation Islands: A Case Study
Authors: Dadhich Pragya , Malav Anita , Jaiswal Poonam
Published: November 2023

Aim: Increasing levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and other “greenhouse” gases contribute to an increase in atmospheric temperature. Trees act as a sink for CO2 by fixing carbon during photosynthesis and storing excess carbon as biomass. The current study focuses on the contribution of vegetation within Janki Devi Bajaj Government Girls College, Kota towards carbon sequestration potential and climate regulation.

Study Design: Non-destructive method of biomass estimation was used to measure the GBH of individual trees on the campus.

Place and Duration: The study was conducted in Janki Devi Bajaj Government Girls College, Kota in Rajasthan, India from July 2022 to June 2023.

Methodology: Above-ground biomass (AGB) and below-ground biomass (BGB) were calculated with the help of field measures of diameter at breast height (DBH) of the trees using allometric equations and Carbon equivalent was calculated with scientifically verified formula.

Results: The present study enumerated a total of 849 trees belonging to 43 tree species on the campus. The most dominant species was Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels with a total of 163 trees followed by Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb (121 trees) and Eucalyptus obliqua L'Her (97 trees). The above-ground biomass (AGB) and below-ground biomass (BGB) of all the trees on the campus are equivalent to 373937 kg and 56090.54 kg, respectively. The total biomass accumulated is 430027.5 kg and the total carbon content of the campus trees is equal to 215013.75 kg. The total carbon sequestered by all the trees in a year is 788.38 tons. In other words, on average carbon sequestered by an individual tree on the campus is 928.60 kg/year or 0.93 tons/year.

Conclusion: Urban green islands are likely to have a wider impact on biomass accumulation in turn carbon storage and sequestration in comparison to other structural parameters like species richness or density. Thus, in urban areas, the amount of potential carbon storage is positively influenced by increasing biomass.
Assessment of Diagnostic Value of 4D Ultrasound in Evaluation of Congenital Fetal Abdominal and Genitourinary Anomalies
Authors: Samadony Amira El Agamy El , Arabawy Reda Abd El Samie El , Younes Rasha Lotfy , Mokhtar Hwaida M.
Published: November 2023

Background: The utilization of three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound technology offers supplementary capabilities, such as multiplanar mode, tomographic mode, and surface rendering mode. These additional functionalities contribute to the precise identification and diagnosis of fetal congenital abnormalities. The aim of this was to determine the accuracy of 4D sonography in assessing the congenital fetal abdominal and genito-urinary anomalies of second and third trimesters in high-risk females, compared to the two-dimensional (2D) sonography.

Methods: The study was carried out on 50 high-risk pregnant women from 20 to 36 weeks with suspected congenital abdominal and genito-urinary anomalies by 2D US and then by 4D US. Data collected from both modalities were evaluated separately using a four-point “Likert scale”. The diagnosis was confirmed by postnatal follow-up.

Results: 4D US reported a statistically significant difference in the accuracy/diagnostic confidence in the detection of abdominal & genito-urinary anomalies and in detection of associated fetal congenital anomalies in other body systems as compared to 2D US.

Conclusions: 4D US is a valuable adjunct to 2D US owing to its ability to improve the diagnostic capability of fetal congenital anomalies by offering additional anatomical information through its different display modes.
Assessment of Camel Owners’ Knowledge and Practical Behaviors and its Implication on Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Hussien Ismail Ahmed Ismail , Elrasheed Mutasim Mekki , Al-Ekna Marzook , Seliaman Mohammed Elhassan
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to assess camel owners’ knowledge and practical behavior (KPB) in Saudi Arabia (KSA) and their implications on environmental sustainability. The study depended mainly on primary data. An online questionnaire survey was used to collect data from 267 respondents, in 2022. Descriptive and analytical techniques were used to achieve the stated objectives. Results revealed that, the majority of camels’ owners (91.7%) have low cumulative KPB, which was evident in their traditional practice and non-commercial methods in herd management. Moreover, large numbers of breeders do not sell their milk production due to their traditions, thus, about 23% of them gained no profits. Results also showed that, about 85% of owners were located in the lower level of using cost items (modern technology and labor training), accordingly, 96.6% fall within the low level of profit category. Likewise, about 75% of camels’ owners’ grazing behavior were located in the lower and medium level groups. Furthermore, the cumulative (KPB) effect of age, educational level, main job, training levels, cost of production and grazing behavior were found to be statistically significant in explaining CKPB variations of camels’ owners in KSA. The R-2 indicated that 59% of the variations in the dependent variable was explained by the variations of the independent variables. The also revealed the presence of high degree of positive association between camels’ owners’ CKPB and environmental sustainability. This study stresses on the importance of execution of sound agricultural extension programs and veterinary campaigns to improve camels’ owners’ CKPB.

Key words: Camel Raising, Environmental Sustainability, Grazing Behavior, Knowledge and Practical Behavior, KSA.
Wheat plant response to zinc enrichment: results from a big plot assay
Authors: Rodrigo Sara , J. Lidon Fernando , H. Reboredo Fernando , Silva M. Manuela , Simões María M. , Costa A. Rita
Published: November 2023

One third of the global population suffers Zn deficiency, which directly affects their health and the health-bill of all world countries. In this study, the application of Zn sulphate at the latest developing stages (anthesis and milk-dough stages) of bread wheat in Mediterranean conditions were tested for grain and leaves enrichment capacity and antioxidant activities prompting. Variety effects were found to be significant to success in enriching leaves and grains with Zn. While Almansor and Roxo varieties increased more than 50% and close to 40% respectively their amount in grain Zn, no significant differences were found for Paiva variety with or without Zn treatment. Regarding the leaves, Zn amount increases of 110, 230 and 300 ppm of Zn were figured out in Almansor, Roxo and Paiva varieties respectively. Antioxidant compounds in leaves showed to be higher when zinc treatment was applied in Almansor variety. Quality traits of the grain wheat were barely affected by the increase of the Zn amount; Roxo variety grains increased the protein and the dry gluten concentration, while Almansor grains were heavier and Almansor flour showed higher tenacity. It can be concluded that Zn enrichment in wheat plants caused variation in both grain and leaves mineral profile, and antioxidants in leaves.

Keywords: Antioxidants, Rainfed conditions, RXF, Winter cereals, Zinc
False or Misleading Claims in Online Direct-to-Consumer Ketamine Advertising in Maryland
Authors: Crane Matthew A. , DiStefano Michael J. , Moore Thomas J.
Published: November 2023

This cross-sectional study evaluates the prevalence of false or misleading information in online direct-to-consumer advertising for off-label and unapproved ketamine in Maryland.
Structure–activity analysis suggests an olfactory function for the unique antennal delta glutathione transferase of Apis mellifera
Authors: Schwartz Mathieu , Boichot Valentin , Muradova Mariam , Fournier Pablo , Senet Patrick , Nicolai Adrien , Canon Francis , Lirussi Frederic , Ladeira Ruben , Maibeche Martine , Chertemps Thomas , Aubert Emmanuel , Didierjean Claude , Neiers Fabrice
Published: November 2023

Glutathione transferases (GST) are detoxification enzymes that conjugate glutathione to a wide array of molecules. In the honey bee Apis mellifera, AmGSTD1 is the sole member of the delta class of GSTs, with expression in antennae. Here, we structurally and biochemically characterized AmGSTD1 to elucidate its function. We showed that AmGSTD1 can efficiently catalyse the glutathione conjugation of classical GST substrates. Additionally, AmGSTD1 exhibits binding properties with a range of odorant compounds. AmGSTD1 has a peculiar interface with a structural motif we propose to call ‘sulfur sandwich’. This motif consists of a cysteine disulfide bridge sandwiched between the sulfur atoms of two methionine residues and is stabilized by CH…S hydrogen bonds and S…S sigma‐hole interactions. Thermal stability studies confirmed that this motif is important for AmGSTD1 stability and, thus, could facilitate its functions in olfaction.
Limited Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Routine Radiographs in Newly Presenting Arthritis Suspected of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ulijn Evy , den Broeder Nathan , Ten Cate David , van Overdijk Kim , Demirel Hatice , Landewé Robert , van Herwaarden Noortje , den Broeder Alfons
Published: November 2023

Objective

Current recommendations suggest that patients with newly presenting arthritis suspected of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) should undergo routine radiographs of hands and feet (X‐HF) as the presence of RA‐associated erosions might be of diagnostic and prognostic value. Our objective was to investigate the prevalence, diagnostic, and prognostic value of RA‐associated erosions seen on routine X‐HF in a large, recent cohort of patients with newly presenting arthritis.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed between 2016 and 2019 in patients with newly presenting arthritis suspected of RA. Patients were included if arthritis was present at diagnosis, rheumatoid factor and anticitrullinated protein antibodies were measured, RA was noted in the differential diagnosis, and routine X‐HF were conducted. Outcomes were the prevalence of one or more RA‐associated erosion(s), and whether diagnostic or prognostic classification were changed by erosivity. Seronegative patients, patients without acute phase reactants, and patients with longer symptom duration were analyzed as subgroups.

Results

RA‐associated erosions were found in 32 of 724 patients (4.4%, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 3.1–6.2). Erosions led to a change of diagnostic classification in two patients (0.3%, 95% CI 0.01–1.1) and changed prognostic classification in three patients (0.4%, 95% CI 0.1–1.3). Seronegative patients and patients without elevated acute phase reactants had significantly lower prevalence of erosions (χ2 9.4, P = 0.002, χ2 6.5, P = 0.01). Longer symptom duration was not associated with a different prevalence of erosions (χ2 0.4, P = 0.81).

Conclusion

The recommendation of conducting routine X‐HF in patients with newly presenting arthritis suspected of RA might be reconsidered due to low prevalence of early erosive disease and lack of diagnostic and prognostic value.

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Reinforcement learning‐based adaptive predefined‐time optimal tracking control for strict‐feedback nonlinear systems
Authors: Chen Yilin , Pan Yingnan , Lu Qing
Published: November 2023

In this paper, an adaptive predefined‐time optimal tracking control method is presented for a class of strict‐feedback nonlinear systems. Different from the existing optimal control results, these reinforcement learning methods only ensure the system is semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded or finite‐time stable, which cannot achieve the precise control of the convergence time and accuracy. The designed predefined‐time optimal control strategy can guarantee that the convergence time and error accuracy can be predefined by users, while optimizing the performance index function by constructing the identifier‐actor‐critic neural networks. Meanwhile, an improved piecewise continuous function is devised to solve the problem of containing the sign function in the controller under the predefined‐time stability framework, which can both decrease the chattering phenomenon and avoid the possible singularity problem. Moreover, it can be demonstrated that all signals within the closed‐loop systems are predefined‐time stable. Finally, some simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Local Injection of Rapamycin‐Loaded Pcl‐Peg Nanoparticles for Enhanced Tendon Healing in Rotator Cuff Tears via Simultaneously Reducing Fatty Infiltration and Drug Toxicity
Authors: Ye Jichao , Wang Yongbo , Zeng Weike , Li Yuxiang , Yao Bin , Wang Siheng , Wu Jun , Hou Jingyi
Published: November 2023

As a common cause of shoulder pain, rotator cuff tears (RCTs) are difficult to treat clinically because of their unsatisfactory prognosis due to the fatty infiltration caused by muscle‐derived stem cells (MDSCs). Previous studies have found that rapamycin (RAPA) can inhibit fatty infiltration. However, systemic administration of RAPA may cause complications such as infection and nausea, while local administration of RAPA may lead to the cytotoxicity of tendon cells, affecting the healing of rotator cuffs. In this study, biocompatible and clinically approved polycaprolactone‐polyethylene glycol (PCL‐PEG) is formulated into an injectable nanoparticle for the sustained release of RAPA. The results indicate that the RAPA/PCL‐PEG nanoparticles (NPs) can efficiently prolong the release of RAPA and significantly reduce the cytotoxicity of tendon cells caused by RAPA. The study of the fatty infiltration model in rats with delayed rotator cuff repair shows that weekly intraarticular injection of RAPA/PCL‐PEG NPs can more effectively reduce the fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy of rat rotator cuffs and leads to better mechanical properties and gait improvements than a daily intraarticular injection of RAPA. These findings imply that local injection of RAPA/PCL‐PEG NPs in the shoulder joints can be a potential clinical option for RCTs patients with fatty infiltration.