bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inoculating moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) with mycorrhizal fungi and bacteria may mitigate the adverse effects of water stress
Authors: Amini Rouhollah , Zafarani-Moattar Parisa , Shakiba Mohammad Reza , Hasanfard Alireza
Published: September 2023

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPBs) play a crucial role in mitigating the oxidative damage caused by water stress in different plant species. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of PGPBs and mycorrhiza-like fungi (Piriformospora indica) on improving drought tolerance in moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.), a medicinal and aromatic plant. For this purpose, a greenhouse study was conducted in a factorial experiment based on a randomized complete design with three replications. Results indicate that water stress reduces the membrane stability index (MSI), total chlorophyll content (Chlt), carotenoids, and maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (Fv′/Fm′) in moldavian balm plants, while increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content compared to the control (no water stress). Inoculation with PGPBs and Piriformospora indica helped alleviate the negative effects of water stress. The highest MSI (48%) and Fv′/Fm′ value (0.82) were observed when inoculated with Enterobacter and Piriformospora, respectively, under non-water-stressed conditions. Inoculation with Agrobacterium, Piriformospora, and Enterobacter improved the Chlt and leaf proline contents, as well as the SOD activity under high water stress, compared to the non-inoculated control values. Furthermore, inoculation with Pseudomonas under high water deficit stress levels increased the MDA content (0.51 mmol g−1 FW) and H2O2 levels (0.40 mmol g−1 FW). The highest yield of flowering branches (2.414 g pot−1) in moldavian balm was obtained with Enterobacter. Based on the enhanced physiological and biochemical responses, as well as increased antioxidant enzyme activity that improve water tolerance in this plant, it is recommended to use PGPBs and Piriformospora indica fertilization.
What drives our aesthetic attraction to birds?
Authors: Santangeli Andrea , Haukka Anna , Morris William , Arkkila Sarella , Delhey Kaspar , Kempenaers Bart , Valcu Mihai , Dale James , Lehikoinen Aleksi , Mammola Stefano
Published: September 2023

In the Anthropocene, the era when the imprint of humans on nature is pervasive across the planet, it is of utmost importance to understand human relationships with other species. The aesthetics of nature, and of species, is one of the values that plays a role in shaping human-nature relationships. Birds are ubiquitous across the world. The beauty of birds exerts a powerful tug on human emotions, and bird-rich areas attract scores of eco-tourists. People naturally find some birds more beautiful or interesting than others, but we currently lack a global understanding of the specifics of what makes a species aesthetically attractive. Here, we used a global citizen-science database on bird attractiveness covering nearly all extant bird species, to show that there are specific visual features that drive our aesthetic appeal for some bird species over others. First, our aesthetic attraction is highest for smaller birds with specific, vivid colors (e.g., blue and red, and departing from brown-grey) and extreme ornaments (a long crest or tail). Second, our aesthetic attraction is highest for species with broad ranges, possibly because such species may be more familiar to us. The features that make us attracted to a particular bird strongly align with broad human visual aesthetic preferences in modern society. Unveiling the visual features underpinning our aesthetic attraction to birds is a critical step towards optimizing conservation (e.g., via conservation marketing) and education campaigns, and leverage the cultural ecosystem service potential of birds.
Design and development of a lanthanide-labeled immunochromatographic strip for simultaneous detection of morphine, methamphetamine and ketamine in hair
Authors: Wu Bo , Liu Wenjuan , Cui Mingwei , Yang Qiao , Tian Bingbing , Xia Jingxue , Zhao Lin , Guo Yanyan , Su Mengxiang , Di Bin
Published: September 2023

A time-resolved fluorescence immunochromatographic method for quantitative analysis of hair drugs using lanthanide chelates as reporter genes was established, using fluorescent microspheres as signal carriers for fluorescence readings.
Accuracy improvement of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy coal analysis by hybrid transfer learning
Authors: Chen Ji , Yan Wenhao , Kang Lizhu , Lu Bing , Liu Ke , Li Xiangyou
Published: September 2023

The accuracy of LIBS was limited when lacking training data. The hybrid transfer learning LIBS (HTr-LIBS) method was proposed to improve the accuracy of coal analysis with small training sets by combining fine-tuning and sample reweighting.
Multifunctional solid additive enables all-polymer solar cells with improved efficiency, photostability and mechanical durability
Authors: Song Jiali , Ye Linglong , Liu Chunhui , Cai Yunhao , Zhang Chen , Yue GuiChu , Li Yun , Jee Min Hun , Zhao Yong , Wei Donghui , Woo Han Young , Sun Yanming
Published: September 2023

A series of novel non-volatile DTC solid additives with a long flexible alkyl chain were designed and synthesized to improve the efficiency, photostability and mechanical durability of all-polymer solar cells (all-PSCs).
Self-templated flower-like NiCoZn-carbonate hydroxide hollow nanospheres for asymmetric supercapacitors with high performance
Authors: Liu Rongrong , Gao Xin , Xie Yanqiu , Liu Qinhan , Zhang Kai , Sun Yijia , Bai He , Yao Fei , Yue Hongyan
Published: September 2023

Flower-like NiCoZn-carbonate hydroxide hollow nanospheres were prepared and used as the positive electrode in a supercapacitor having superior cycling stability of 99.9% after 15 000 cycles at 10 A g−l.
A robust watermarking approach against high‐density salt and pepper noise (RWSPN) to enhance medical image security
Authors: Ebrahimnejad Javad , Naghsh Alireza , Pourghasem Hossein
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes a robust watermarking method against high‐density salt and pepper noise attacks. Automatic region of interest (ROI) detection, embedding encoded data, removing different densities of noise, data extraction by omitting, and labeling the noisy pixels of Region of Non‐Interest (RONI), and decoding the extracted data using ROI pixel information as a key, are various steps of the presented scheme. The automatic ROI detection method separates the RONI from ROI with four vertices of the smallest rectangle, for the embedding process. The encoded watermark data is embedded into the least significant bits of RONI in four neighbour pixels. Adaptive Removal of high‐density Salt and pepper Noise method can enhance image quality and reduce the effect of salt and pepper noise attacks. The embedded information is preserved from destruction if the host image is impaired through the power of robustness. The best results are obtained through the action of extracting the watermark from RONI pixels, utilizing the same ROI detection method. Omitting and labeling the noisy pixels of the RONI will ensure healthy extracted watermark data, leading to decreased Bit Error Rate (BER) values. Finally, these data are interpreted using the key of ROI pixels, and the watermark data is decoded and retrieved. Due to salt and pepper noise obliterating pixel bits and their corresponding transform coefficients in the transform domain, the spatial domain is employed to enhance robustness against such attacks. The results show the high performance of the presented scheme. The average BER value for five MRI databases in a 97% salt and pepper noise attack is 38.6.
A novel global FPPT strategy for PV system under partial shading condition
Authors: Xing Xueliang , Jia Limin , Yang Xiangzhen
Published: September 2023

Flexible power point tracking (FPPT) is a common and significate photovoltaic control problem under partial shading conditions. Based on CPP and MPP distribution analysis, both constant power point tracking and maximum power point tracking could be mathematically described by a single objective optimization. As one of the recent meta‐heuristic algorithms, which avoid the limitations of conventional scanning methods, the carnivorous plant algorithm (CPA) solves non‐convex optimization problems with fast speed, high accuracy, and simple calculation. However, it exhibits several drawbacks such as inappropriate parameters, over‐searching, and feasible solution ignored issues. Therefore, a global FPPT strategy based on modified CPA (mCPA) is proposed, which includes a search objective integration, efficient non‐convex search space skipping strategy, and adaptive tuning parameters according to sensitivity analysis. By statistical experiments compared with eight popular meta‐heuristic algorithms, the mCPA can correctly converge to the global MPP under various scenarios with the highest accuracy of 99.0%. Meanwhile, the observations of dynamic experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy in terms of fast time response (0.5–3 s) for global FPPT under various uniform and non‐uniform insolation conditions.
Implementation of a coherent real‐time noise radar system
Authors: Ankel Martin , Tholén Mats , Bryllert Tomas , Ulander Lars M. H. , Delsing Per
Published: September 2023

The utilisation of continuous random waveforms for radar, that is, noise radar, has been extensively studied as a candidate for low probability of intercept operation. However, compared with the more traditional pulse‐Doppler radar, noise radar systems are significantly more complicated to implement, which is likely why few systems exist. If noise radar systems are to see the light of day, system design, implementation, limitations etc., must be investigated. Therefore, the authors examine and detail the implementation of a real‐time noise radar system on a field programmable gate array. The system is capable of operating with 100% duty cycle, 200 MHz bandwidth, and 268 ms integration time while processing a range of about 8.5 km. Additionally, the system can perform real‐time moving target compensation to reduce cell migration. System performance is primarily limited by the memory bandwidth of the off‐chip dynamic random access memory.
Saturated boundary feedback control of quasi-linear hyperbolic balance laws with application to LWR traffic flow stabilization
Authors: Zhao Hanxu , Zhan Jingyuan , Zhang Liguo
Published: September 2023

The saturated boundary stabilization problem for quasi-linear hyperbolic systems of balance laws is considered under H2-norm in this paper, where the boundary conditions of the system are subject to actuator saturations. The resulting closed-loop system is proven to be locally exponentially stable with respect to the steady states in the presence of saturations. To this end, the sector nonlinearity model is introduced to deal with the saturation term, and then sufficient conditions for ensuring the locally exponential stability are established in terms of a set of matrix inequalities by employing the Lyapunov function method along with a sector condition. Furthermore, these results are applied to the stabilization of the two-lane traffic flow dynamic represented by Lighthill–Whitham–Richards (LWR) model. By utilizing variable speed limit (VSL) devices, a saturated boundary feedback controller is designed to stabilize the two-lane traffic flow, and the exponential convergence of the quasi-linear traffic flow system in H2 sense is validated by numerical simulations.
Shylock ou la Loi paranoïaque : Le Marchand de Venise de Shakespeare
Authors: Brémaud Nicolas
Published: September 2023

Shylock, l’usurier juif du Marchand de Venise de Shakespeare, a établi un contrat avec Antonio, riche marchand, stipulant que si ce dernier ne lui rembourse pas les trois mille ducats qu’il lui a empruntés, Shylock lui prélèvera une livre de chair à l’endroit qu’il choisira sur son corps. Le fait est qu’Antonio ne pourra honorer son contrat. Shylock, qui fut humilié, injurié mille fois par Antonio, trouve enfin l’occasion de se venger. Inflexible, il compte bien appliquer la Loi à la lettre. Bien plus que son rapport à l’argent, c’est ce rapport à la Loi qui nous interrogera ici. Nous verrons que Shylock, rigoureux défenseur de la loi, s’identifie à la loi elle-même : il se prend pour la loi, il l’est réellement, et rien ne peut lui faire changer d’avis. Nous verrons en outre que dans sa détermination radicale, dans sa rage, dans sa haine à l’endroit d’Antonio, il y a quelque chose de l’ordre d’une revendication paranoïaque.
Réflexion éthique autour d’un cas clinique : élève et transgenre dans l’armée française, quel cadre mettre en place ?
Authors: Dubois-Harvard Lauren , Daurat Maëlle
Published: September 2023

En 2021, pour la première fois, l’École militaire d’un corps d’arme français a accueilli officiellement un élève transgenre. De l’examen clinique pour l’aptitude à l’entrée, le choix de dortoir, l’uniforme, les barèmes d’évaluation sportive, l’encadrement de cette école a fait face à beaucoup de questionnements afin d’accueillir avec le plus de bienveillance possible l’élève militaire, tout en appliquant le Code de Défense. Les outils de communication, d’accompagnement psychologique et médical, et de valeurs militaires de cohésion, ont pu permettre le déroulement de l’incorporation et de la formation de l’élève au sein de l’École. Une analyse psychologique et éthique des mouvements collectifs et individuels est également proposée dans ce cas clinique, afin de croiser les regards et ouvrir de nouvelles pistes de réflexion pour la recherche.
Was wissen Sie über … invasive Maßnahmen?
Authors: Schmid Eva C
Published: September 2023

Liebe Leser, testen Sie Ihr Wissen und frischen Sie Ihre Kenntnisse auf. Bitte kreuzen Sie jeweils eine Antwort an. Viel Spaß beim Beantworten wünscht Ihnen HP Eva C. Schmid!
Research Progress of Intestinal Flora and Related Diseases
Authors: Sun Yaping , Zhang Xindi , Zhang Yanli , Si Yanpo , Cao Bing , Shan Zengfu
Published: September 2023

The intestinal tract is an important digestive organ and detoxification organ of the human body, and its circling structure is vividly called the “second brain” of the human body. There are hundreds of millions of bacterium in the intestinal tract. These bacteria live in mutual benefit with the body, provide energy and nutrients for the host and themselves through fermented food, participate in the metabolism of the body, and form a metabolic mode of cometabolism between the host and the symbiotic flora. In addition, intestinal flora can also help the body resist the invasion of pathogens, promote human health, and resist diseases. More and more studies have shown that when the body is subjected to exogenous or endogenous stimuli, the microbial flora in the intestinal will change, and the disturbance of intestinal flora is closely related to the occurrence and development of inflammatory bowel diseases, metabolic diseases, immune system diseases, mental system diseases, and tumors. This article reviews the research progress of the intestinal flora affecting the pathogenesis of various diseases, aiming to provide new references and ideas for the clinical treatment of diseases.
Clinical Study of Symptomatic Nonacute Intracranial Large Arterial Occlusion with Endovascular Recanalization
Authors: Dan Bitang , Zhu Bifeng , Zeng Wei , Peng Tao , Liu Jing , Li Xin , Zhang Junjian
Published: September 2023

Objectives This study reported a single-center clinical trial of endovascular treatment for symptomatic nonacute occlusion of the intracranial large artery (NA-ILAO). The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and clinical effect of simple balloon dilatation and stent implantation.

Methods The patients diagnosed with symptomatic NA-ILAO were enrolled. A total of 40 cases were included in this study. While recanalization failed in 4 patients, it was successful in 36 patients, who were then divided into two groups for further analysis: balloon dilatation group (n = 24) and stent implantation group (n = 12). The perioperative complications, clinical outcome, and follow-up results were analyzed.

Results Perioperative complications in the stent implantation group were significantly higher than those in the simple balloon dilatation group (p < 0.05). There were 21 and 10 cases of 90-day good clinical outcome (modified Rankin scale [mRS] ≤ 2) in the balloon and stent groups, respectively (p = 0.518). All patients with successful recanalization underwent digital subtraction angiography (DSA) or CT angiography (CTA) during an average follow-up of 14 months. There were two cases of restenosis in the balloon dilatation group and one in the stent implantation group (p = 1.000). There were two cases of re-occlusion in the stent group and none in the balloon dilatation group (p < 0.001). Stroke recurred in two cases in the stent group and in one case in the simple balloon dilatation group (p = 0.013).

Conclusion Endovascular recanalization is safe and feasible for patients with symptomatic NA-ILAO. Compared with stent implantation, simple balloon dilation may be a better recanalization method, but larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm it.
Retrospective Evaluation of Cases Undergoing Stereotaxic Brain Biopsy
Authors: Yolcu Abdullah , Akar Ezgi , Aker Fügen Vardar , Emon Selin Tural
Published: September 2023

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the demographic, radiological and histopathological findings, tumoral biomarkers, and survival rates of patients who underwent a stereotactic brain biopsy and those diagnosed with glioblastoma, metastasis, and lymphoma, and the changes in the diagnosis distribution over the years.

Materials and Methods: The patients who underwent stereotactic biopsy in our clinic between 2012 and 2020 were evaluated retrospectively. Metastasis, glioblastoma, and lymphoma cases were evaluated as three main groups and the others were excluded. P53 gene expression, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation, and Ki-67 values in glioblastoma cases and Bcl-2, Bcl-6 proteins, and Ki-67 values in lymphomas and their relationship with survival were evaluated.

Results: High p53 expression was observed in 27.5% cases diagnosed with glioblastoma. IDH mutation was negative in all glioblastoma cases. Presence of Bcl-2 and Bcl-6 proteins was not associated with survival in lymphomas. Survival rate was significantly higher in cases diagnosed with lymphoma (26.9%) compared to those diagnosed with glioblastoma. A statistically significant increase was determined in patients diagnosed with lymphoma considering the distribution of diseases and incidence and in the distribution of other diagnoses over the years (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: As per the distribution of the disease in recent times, it has been observed that there is an increase in lymphoma cases. Histopathology and biomarkers have great importance in the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral lesions. We think that our findings will be supported by studies in which larger patient population and detailed biomarkers will be studied.
Cholera: An Overview with Reference to the Syrian Outbreak
Authors: Hraib Munawar , Alaidi Sara , Jouni Sarah , Saad Sana , Muna Mohammad , Alaidi Nour , Alshehabi Zuheir
Published: September 2023

Cholera is an acute type of diarrheal disease caused by intestinal infection with the toxin-producing bacteria Vibrio cholerae. The disease is still endemic in almost 69 countries, accounting for around 2.86 million cases and 95,000 deaths annually. Cholera is associated with poor infrastructure, and lack of access to sanitation and clean drinking water. The current cholera outbreak in Syria is associated with more than 10 years of conflict, which has devastated infrastructures and health services. There were 132,782 suspected cases reported between August 25, 2022 and May 20, 2023 in all 14 governorates, including 104 associated deaths. The recent earthquake in the region has complicated the situation, with an increase in cholera cases, and hindrance to a response to the disease. Climate change has driven a number of large cholera outbreaks around the world this year. The World Health Organization prequalifies three oral cholera vaccines. Cholera treatment mainly depends on rehydration, with the use of antibiotics in more severe infections. This review gives an overview of cholera bacteriology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, management, and prevention in light of global climate change and the ongoing outbreak in Syria, which poses a significant public health threat that requires urgent attention.
Photonic crystal fabric reflects heat to keep wearers warm
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: September 2023

Textiles woven into a thin photonic crystal block heat from escaping the body as radiation.
A facile fluid pressure system reveals differential cellular response to interstitial pressure gradients and flow
Authors: Wang Hao , Lu Jingming , Rathod Mitesh , Aw Wen Yih , Huang Stephanie A. , Polacheck William J.
Published: September 2023

Interstitial fluid pressure gradients and interstitial flow have been shown to drive morphogenic processes that shape tissues and influence progression of diseases including cancer. The advent of porous media microfluidic approaches has enabled investigation of the cellular response to interstitial flow, but questions remain as to the critical biophysical and biochemical signals imparted by interstitial fluid pressure gradients and resulting flow on resident cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). Here, we introduce a low-cost method to maintain physiological interstitial fluid pressures that is built from commonly accessible laboratory equipment, including a laser pointer, camera, Arduino board, and a commercially available linear actuator. We demonstrate that when the system is connected to a microfluidic device containing a 3D porous hydrogel, physiologic pressure is maintained with sub-Pascal resolution and when basic feedback control is directed using an Arduino, constant pressure and pressure gradient can be maintained even as cells remodel and degrade the ECM hydrogel over time. Using this model, we characterized breast cancer cell growth and ECM changes to ECM fibril structure and porosity in response to constant interstitial fluid pressure or constant interstitial flow. We observe increased collagen fibril bundling and the formation of porous structures in the vicinity of cancer cells in response to constant interstitial fluid pressure as compared to constant interstitial flow. Collectively, these results further define interstitial fluid pressure as a driver of key pathogenic responses in cells, and the systems and methods developed here will allow for future mechanistic work investigating mechanotransduction of interstitial fluid pressures and flows.
DBD-streamer mode transition of atmospheric-pressure plasma jet applied on water with varying distance and AC power
Authors: Chiu Po-Hsien , Cheng Yun-Chien , Lua Kim Boon , Wu Jong-Shinn
Published: September 2023

The discharge of atmospheric-pressure plasma jet (APPJ) applied on the water was studied by varying an air gap between a powered electrode and the water, and the alternating current power. It was found that the streamers were converged by the air flow to form a streamer bridge to allow current flow across the air gap to transition from a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) mode to a streamer mode. Because the AC power alternates periodically, this study proposed an analysis without the parameter of time by the voltage amplitude to power characteristic. It was found that the longer distance required higher voltage amplitude and power to transition. Prior research of plasma rarely mentioned the real power and the reactive power, which are essential for electric devices. Because different discharge mode produces different species, this study proposed a simple method to analyze and predict discharge modes based on the power factor, which presents the relationship of the real power and the reactive power. It was found that the streamer mode had a higher power factor than the DBD mode, and thus the power factor decides the discharge mode. Therefore, a power factor analysis can be a systematic basis to produce the required discharge by changing the equivalent capacitance and resistance to change the reactive power and real power. This study proposed a simple method to analyze periodic discharge by the intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD). A period of the AC was divided into twelve timings. For each timing, each shot was configured to have the minimum exposure time to avoid the afterimage. Thousands of shots were overlapped into one snapshot to increase the fluorescence and make such snapshot more representative for the timing. Snapshots show that the streamer bridge was only formed in specific timings periodically.
Switching of several self-mode-locking states in an optically pumped semiconductor disk laser
Authors: Zhuang Bihui , Hua Lingling , Tian Jinrong , Mao Lin , Song Yanrong
Published: September 2023

Self-mode-locking (SML) of fundamental TEM00 mode and high-order transverse mode were demonstrated in an optically pumped semiconductor disk laser and these states can be switched by simply adjusting the elements of the laser. The repetition rate of the pulse train was 1 GHz, using a straight cavity. Furthermore, we measured the pulse durations and found that the pulse duration of SML pulse with higher-order transverse mode is shorter than that of fundamental mode at the same pump power. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first experiment to obtain two SML states in a single laser. By using the method of changing the cavity length and adjusting the angle of the output coupler, the repetition rate can be continuously tuned from 3 GHz to 3.2 GHz.
Superconducting radio frequency linear collider HELEN
Authors: Belomestnykh S. , Bhat P.C. , Grassellino A. , Checchin M. , Denisov D. , Geng R.L. , Jindariani S. , Liepe M. , Martinello M. , Merkel P. , Nagaitsev S. , Padamsee H. , Posen S. , Rimmer R.A. , Romanenko A. , Shiltsev V. , Valishev A. , Yakovlev V.
Published: September 2023

This article discusses a proposed Higgs-Energy LEptoN
(HELEN) e
+
e
- linear collider based on advanced traveling wave
superconducting radio frequency technology. The proposed collider
offers cost and AC power savings, smaller footprint (relative to the
ILC), and could be built at Fermilab. After the initial physics run
at 250 GeV, the collider could be upgraded either to higher
luminosity or to higher, up to 500 GeV, energies.
AULA Outperforms RULA in Evaluating MSD Risks of Oyster Mushroom Farmers: Implications for Safer Farming Practices
Authors: Pawitra T A , Fathimahhayati L D , Fariza M A
Published: September 2023

This study aims to compare the suitability of two ergonomic evaluation tools, AULA and RULA, in assessing musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) potential risks in oyster mushroom farmers. The evaluation was based on 26 activities involved in the oyster mushroom cultivation process, observed in four farms in Lempake Samarinda, and assessed by 12 experienced experts in ergonomics, safety and health, and agriculture. The hit rate and quadratic weighted κ were used to compare the two methods. The results showed that AULA has a higher hit rate and Kappa value than RULA, indicating a moderate level of agreement and greater suitability for evaluating WMSDs of oyster mushroom farmers in Samarinda. This finding has implications for improving the safety and health of farmers in the agriculture sector.
Enhancing Red Ginger Plant Growth through Eco-Friendly Pest Management: Synergistic Effects of Metarhizium anisopliae and Imidacloprid
Authors: Solichah C , Poerwanto M E , Suryawati A
Published: September 2023

This study explores the potential of a more environmentally friendly pest management approach for enhancing the vegetative growth of red ginger plants (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) by mitigating the damage caused by Lepidiota stigma (white grub) larvae. The study was conducted at the Experimental Garden of the Faculty of Agriculture, UPN “Veteran” Yogyakarta from April to August 2022, utilizing a factorial Completely Randomized Design. The application of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae at varying doses (0 g, 10 g, 20 g, and 30 g per 3 kg of planting media) and the systemic insecticide Imidacloprid (either absent or at a dose of 0.02 g per 3 kg of planting media) were the primary factors studied. Each treatment combination, executed on ten plants each infested with one larvae, was repeated thrice. The findings demonstrate that a combined application of M. anisopliae and Imidacloprid could significantly reduce the intensity of white grub damage to red ginger plants and improve their vegetative growth. Notably, a dose of M. anisopliae of 20 g per 3 kg of planting media maximized the plant height, leaf number, and tiller count. The findings highlight the potential of integrating biological and chemical controls for sustainable pest management and crop yield improvement, with broad implications for other similar agricultural contexts.
Enhancing Nutritional Value and Safety in Horse Meat Cutlets with Pumpkin Additives
Authors: Abilmazhinov Y , Rebezov M , Fedoseeva N , Nikolaeva N , Sepiashvili E
Published: September 2023

This study introduces an innovative approach to meat cutlet production, integrating horse meat with a 20% pumpkin additive. To evaluate the nutritional impact of the pumpkin addition, two variants of cutlets were analyzed - a control variant devoid of pumpkin and an experimental variant supplemented with pumpkin. It was observed that the pumpkin additive enriched the cutlets with a significantly higher level of carbohydrates, minerals like calcium, and vitamins A and C (p<0.001). Simultaneously, critical control points (CCPs) in the production process were identified to mitigate potential hazards (biological, chemical, physical) at various stages, including raw meat receiving, storage, and preparation, grinding, mixing, packing, and freezing of the final product. The results underscore the potential of integrating vegetable additives like pumpkin into meat products not only for nutritional enhancement but also for effective hazard control and traceability throughout the production process, offering important implications for meat product innovation and safety protocols.
Improved Organoleptic Properties in Cooked Sausages through a Mutton-Poultry Blend: An Analytical Study
Authors: Kalibekkyzy Z , Neverova O , Rebezov M , Fedoseeva N , Vasilievich N
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the implications of utilizing a combination of mutton and poultry meat for cooked sausage production, with an emphasis on understanding changes in chemical composition and textural properties. Utilizing a systematic approach, four experimental variants were developed, progressively incorporating up to 30% poultry meat as a replacement for mutton. A comprehensive chemical analysis revealed an increase in the water-binding capacity, a notable decrease in fat content, and a slight increase in ash content (P<0.05 for both changes). In contrast, textural assessment showed no significant variations across the samples. The blending of mutton and poultry meat demonstrated an enhancement of organoleptic properties, inclusive of flavor, aroma, juiciness, and tenderness of the final product, without compromising the textural characteristics. The results of this study underline the potential benefits of integrating mutton and poultry in cooked sausage production, suggesting a novel pathway to create a nutritious, tasty, and high-quality product. The findings possess implications for the meat industry, providing scientific backing for the inclusion of diverse meats for an optimized product formulation.
Economic Feasibility of Modified Cassava Flour Milling in Gunungkidul Region, Indonesia: A Value-Added Agribusiness Venture
Authors: Herlianto D , Tahalea S P , Wibowo A W A , Rahatmawati I
Published: September 2023

This study embarked on the evaluation of the feasibility of constructing a Modified Cassava Flour (MOCAF) mill in the Gunungkidul Region of Indonesia, a significant cassava producer yet underutilizing its potential due to traditional, low-yield production techniques. The goal was to enhance MOCAF production and leverage its benefits, such as a low glycemic index, to meet contemporary dietary trends. Employing cost-benefit analysis, supported by key financial metrics including Net Present Value (NPV) and Payback Period (PP), we sought to establish the financial viability of this proposed agribusiness venture. Our analysis covered various factory feasibility aspects including market, marketing, technical, technological, human resources, management, environmental, legality, and risk factors. Results indicated the feasibility of the MOCAF mill construction in KWT Ngudi Rejeki, Ngestirejo, Tanjungsari, Gunungkidul DIY, both in operational and financial terms. The mill’s projected payback period was significantly shorter than the maximum threshold (6 years versus 10 years), and the NPV was positive at IDR 49,587,106 over ten years. This study implies that developing MOCAF mills could be a strategic move towards agro-industrial development and food security, advancing the value addition of cassava and providing an attractive investment opportunity for stakeholders in the agribusiness sector.
Assessing the Potential for an Agro-GeoHydroPark in Gedangrejo: An Integrated Geological and Agricultural Study
Authors: Kusumayudha S B , Setyaningrum T , Rahatmawati I , Probowati D , Budiman L , Nurwantari N A
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Gedangrejo, located in the Karangmojo district, Gunung Kidul regency, Yogyakarta Special Region, Indonesia, for agro-geohydropark development. Employing a comprehensive geological analysis, which included assessing geomorphological, lithological, and geological structures alongside hydrogeological conditions, the study also focused on the evaluation of water sources and agricultural potential. Gedangrejo, which falls within the Baturagung subzone of the Southern Mountains zone, presents a unique amalgamation of undulating plains, hills, karst hills, and alluvium deposits with formations belonging to Semilir, Oyo, and Wonosari. Geological structures constituted by joints and faults, including three horizontal faults with a Northeast-Southwest orientation, were noted. The hydrogeology uncovered two aquifer systems, with the Semilir fissured inter-grain aquifer controlling the Baturagung Embung. In terms of agricultural viability, the area exhibits fertile land capable of supporting ornamental and fruit plants, presenting potential for fruit-picking tourism. Therefore, findings suggest that the Gedangrejo region holds substantial potential for development as an agro-geohydropark, implying a sustainable economic upliftment of the local community through the prudent utilization of natural resources and local wisdom.
Hidden Treasures of Kediri’s Medicinal Plants: A Collaborative Effort to Map and Validate Authentic Information Using Innovative QR Code Security and Cryptography
Authors: Sucipto  , Firliana R , Wardani A S , Muzzaki M N , Santoso A M , Forijati RR , Primandiri P R
Published: September 2023

This research aims to map the distribution of rare and medicinal plants in Kediri Regency, Indonesia, and develop an interactive database system to provide accurate information on these plants. The study was conducted in collaboration between Balitbangda Kediri and Nusantara University PGRI Kediri. The data collection utilized innovation in creating a web-based information system with QR code security and cryptography validation to ensure the authenticity of the plant data. The results of this research provide a comprehensive database of rare and medicinal plants in Kediri Regency that can support drug information, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. The interactive system facilitates the dissemination of accurate information and raises public awareness about the potential of medicinal and rare plants in the region. This research has significant implications for the conservation of rare and medicinal plants and their potential contribution to public health.
Hessenberg varieties and Poisson slices
Authors: Crooks Peter , Röser Markus
Published: September 2023

This expository article considers a circle of Lie-theoretic ideas involving Hessenberg varieties, Poisson geometry, and wonderful compactifications. In more detail, one may associate a symplectic Hamiltonian

G
G

-variety

μ
:
G
×

S

⟶

g

\mu :G\times \mathcal {S}\longrightarrow \mathfrak {g}

to each complex semisimple Lie algebra

g

\mathfrak {g}

with adjoint group

G
G

and fixed Kostant section

S

⊆

g

\mathcal {S}\subseteq \mathfrak {g}

. This variety is one of Bielawski’s hyperkähler slices, and it is central to Moore and Tachikawa’s work on topological quantum field theories. It also bears a close relation to two log symplectic Hamiltonian

G
G

-varieties

μ
¯

S

:

G
×

S

¯

⟶

g

\overline {\mu }_{\mathcal {S}}:\overline {G\times \mathcal {S}}\longrightarrow \mathfrak {g}

and

ν
:

H
e
s
s

⟶

g

\nu :\mathrm {Hess}\longrightarrow \mathfrak {g}

. The former is a Poisson transversal in the log cotangent bundle of the wonderful compactification

G
¯

\overline {G}

, while the latter is the standard family of Hessenberg varieties. Each of

μ
¯

\overline {\mu }

and

ν
\nu

is known to be a fibrewise compactification of

μ
\mu

.

We exploit the theory of Poisson slices to relate the fibrewise compactifications mentioned above. Our work is shown to be compatible with a Poisson isomorphism obtained by Bălibanu.
Minimal Legendrian surfaces in the tangent sphere bundle of 𝕊³
Authors: Li Mingyan , Wang Yanan
Published: September 2023

In this paper we study minimal Legendrian surfacesΣ\Sigmaimmersed in tangent sphere bundleT1S3T_1{\mathbb {S}}^3. We classify (1) totally geodesic Legendrian surfaces, (2) closed minimal Legendrian surfaces of genus smaller than or equal to one and complete minimal Legendrian surfaces with non-negative Gauss curvature.
Efficient evaluation of natural stochastic policies in off-line reinforcement learning
Authors: Kallus Nathan , Uehara Masatoshi
Published: September 2023

We study the efficient off-policy evaluation of natural stochastic policies, which are defined in terms of deviations from the unknown behaviour policy. This is a departure from the literature on off-policy evaluation that largely considers the evaluation of explicitly specified policies. Crucially, off-line reinforcement learning with natural stochastic policies can help alleviate issues of weak overlap, lead to policies that build upon current practice and improve policies’ implementability in practice. Compared with the classic case of a prespecified evaluation policy, when evaluating natural stochastic policies, the efficiency bound, which measures the best-achievable estimation error, is inflated since the evaluation policy itself is unknown. In this paper we derive the efficiency bounds of two major types of natural stochastic policies: tilting policies and modified treatment policies. We then propose efficient nonparametric estimators that attain the efficiency bounds under lax conditions and enjoy a partial double robustness property.
A-002 The Prevalence of the High Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin I Outlier and False Positivity Rates on Beckman Coulter Access DxI
Authors: Li X , Bryksin J
Published: September 2023

Background

The false positive elevation in high sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hsTnI) can be triggered by many factors, for example, fibrin clots, heterophile antibodies, or other sources of troponin interferences. These interferences lead to inaccurate hsTnI results. These inaccurate results described in the literature as the “outliers”. Published studies use statistical tools to identify the outliers based on the discrepancies between the two repeat values. Depending on the instrument platform and the study design, the outlier rate for the conventional troponin I assay was reported from 0.44% to 1.01% (1, 2). In our laboratory, the false positivity rate for the conventional troponin assay on Beckman Coulter DxI platform was determined as 1% (unpublished data). This study aim was to determine both the statistically and clinically significant outliers for hsTnI assay on the Beckman Coulter Access DxI instrument in the academic medical center clinical laboratory setting.

Methods

A unique test repeat protocol was created. Two parallel hsTnI measurements are conducted in lithium heparin tubes (BD Vacutainer) on Beckman Coulter DXI 800 systems. When the difference between the two results is greater than 30%, a third repeat is automatically ordered and run after additional centrifugation at a higher relative centrifugal force. The outlier determination is based on assessing the difference between the first two values using previously described statistical analysis tools (1). The clinically significant outlier was determined by counting positive results in the first two runs which are not unconfirmed by the third run, i.e., false positive results. Gender specific cutoffs, 14 ng/L for female and 19 ng/L for male, were applied to identify the positive results. Overall, 2935 patients’ results were evaluated during the study.

Results

Based on the analysis of the first two repeat runs, out of 2935 samples 16 samples, or 0.54%, were identified as the statistical outliers. 2 out of these 16 outliers, or 12.5%, were negative results. Taking into consideration the third repeat data, 13 out of 2935 samples, or 0.44%, were identified as false positive results. Only 9 out of 13 false positive results, or 69.2%, were identified using the statistical approach above.

Conclusion

The false positivity rate of hsTnI testing has dropped significantly from 1% to 0.44% in a setting of our laboratory. Our refined repeat protocol approach significantly increases the clinician’s confidences in the hsTnI results by capturing potential false positive results. This approach addresses the outliers at an additional expense like reagents, instrument wear and tear, and labor. Therefore, a more robust methodology is still desired by the industry.
A-054 Comparison of a Reformulated Vitamin D Immunoassay, Its Predecessor, and Two Contemporary Formulations
Authors: Geno K A , Alvarez Y F , Cervinski M A , Hubbard J A , Nerenz R D , Singh R J
Published: September 2023

Background

We took advantage of our verification of a new biotin-resistant 25-hydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D) immunoassay formulation to compare analytical performance of the outgoing formulation and assays from Roche, Diasorin and Beckman. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS) was an independent arbiter of vitamin D concentration and provided quantification of vitamin D2 and vitamin D3.

Methods

Twenty-five specimens from patients on high-dose vitamin D2 supplementation (50 000 IU/week) and fifty additional specimens spanning our measurable range were identified by the Dartmouth Hitchcock Analytics Institute. Aliquots were tested by the Roche cobas Vitamin D Total II and Vitamin D Total III assays, deidentified, split, and shipped to other study sites for measurement by LCMS, the Diasorin Liaison 25 OH Vitamin D Total assay, and the Beckman Coulter Access 25(OH) Vitamin D Total assay. Estimated vitamin D2 was calculated by subtracting the LCMS-measured vitamin D3 result from the immunoassay total vitamin D result. Bias calculations assume LCMS measurements as the true concentration. Statistical analyses were performed in R. This study was approved by the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center Institutional Review Board.

Results

No significant differences were observed between platforms in absolute or relative bias in total vitamin D or estimated vitamin D2. Clinical classification was unanimous in 62/75 specimens. For thirteen specimens in which at least one disagreement was observed, immunoassay results for discrepant classification were no more than 10.2 ng/mL from the classification cutoff (median 2 ng/mL). Two specimens with 68 and 70 ng/mL vitamin D were classified as toxic (>100 ng/mL) by one immunoassay each.

Conclusion

Current vitamin D immunoassays continue to improve over their predecessors and offer good agreement across platforms. Vitamin D2 recovery no longer represents a clinically-concerning obstacle. These immunoassays display positive bias for total vitamin D relative to LCMS but generally result in correct clinical classification.
A-155 Unlocking the Complete Blood Count: Derivation of a Single-Panel Laboratory Test That Includes Monocyte Distribution Width to Create a Universal Sepsis Screening Tool
Authors: Hinson J S , Sarani N , Smith A , Debraine A , Badaki-Makun O S , Malinovska A , Levin S
Published: September 2023

Background

Sepsis is the leading cause of in-hospital death. Outcome improvement requires rapid detection and early antimicrobial therapy. The complete blood count (CBC) is ordered for more than two-thirds of all patients in the emergency department (ED). Individual CBC components have limited utility for sepsis screening due to low specificity and sensitivity. We sought to create a reliable sepsis screening tool by combining components of the CBC differential.

Methods

In this single-center retrospective cohort study, all adult patients who had a CBC with differential performed within 6 h of ED arrival during a 20-month period were eligible for inclusion. Repeat ED visits by the same patient were excluded. Our primary outcome was manifestation of sepsis within 72 h of ED arrival, detected from timestamped electronic health records using a previously validated electronic phenotype based on Sepsis-3 consensus criteria. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify individual components of the CBC differential that were independently associated with our outcome and to identify optimal cutoffs for discretization. Odds ratios were used to assign weights to each component and to derive a 10-point system for scoring likelihood of sepsis.

Results

34 864 patients were included; 1306 (3.7%) met sepsis outcome criteria within 72 h of ED arrival and 181 (0.5%) had septic shock. White blood cell (WBC) count, monocyte distribution width (MDW), and the neutrophil to lymphocyte count ratio were found to predict sepsis. As shown in the figure, there was a linear relationship between our CBC infection severity index and likelihood of developing sepsis and septic shock. Patients with a high risk score (8 or above) had a greater than one in four chance of developing sepsis within 72 h.

Conclusion

A simple ten-point index derived from the most commonly used laboratory panel in medicine reliably estimated likelihood of developing sepsis.