bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential metabolic rearrangements improve biomass and enhance the tolerance of two dwarf cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) genotypes to salt stress
Authors: Farias Francisco dos Santos , Neto Vicente Paulo da Costa , Souza Cleriston Correia da Silva , Chaves Daniela Vieira , Bonifácio Aurenivia
Published: May 2024

Salinity is one of the abiotic stresses that affect crop productivity and plant development the most. We aimed to analyze the physiological and biochemical responses of dwarf cashew (A. occidentale L.) genotypes subjected to salt stress. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse with a completely randomized design in a 5 × 2 factorial scheme, with five salinity levels (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mM NaCl) and 2 dwarf cashew genotypes (Embrapa51 and CCP76). There was no significant effect of salinity on plant height, leaf number, and stem diameter; however, the dry biomass was significantly reduced. Chlorophylls, starch, and total free amino acids decreased with salt stress, mainly with 75 and 100 mM NaCl. The CCP76 genotype salt-stressed increased carotenoids, anthocyanins, total soluble carbohydrates, reducing sugars, sodium, and potassium ions compared to Embrapa51. Free proline was increased in response to salt stress in dwarf cashew genotypes. Interestingly, sucrose declined in Embrapa51 and increased in CCP76 in response to salinity. When submitted to 75 and 100 mM NaCl, i.e., under severe stress, CCP76 presented more sucrose than Embrapa51. Our results indicated that sucrose accumulation plays an important role in the acclimation of CCP76 to salinity. This disaccharide induces metabolic rearrangements, mostly in the levels of soluble carbohydrates and amino acids, which contribute to rebalancing the osmotic potential and help to maintain favorable plant metabolism under salt stress. Overall, the dwarf cashew CCP76 was more tolerant to salinity than Embrapa51.
A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN 3D PRINTING FOR CONSTRUCTION: CURRENT STATE, BENEFITS, LIMITATIONS, AND FUTURE OUTLOOK
Authors: Top Semahat Merve , Cudzik Jan , İlerisoy Zeynep Yeşim
Published: May 2024

The agenda of Industry 4.0 strongly affects design and construction at all its phases, and three-Dimensional Printing (3DP) is an essential part of it. The emerging technology has the potential to become a more valid and accepted form of construction. This research is based on a literature review regarding the relationships between the concepts of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and energy efficiency for 3DP in construction research to understand the developments. Systematic bibliometric and scientometric analyses are used as data analysis techniques to make a detailed comparison. The comparison allowed for assessing and determining the current state, benefits, limitations, and future outlook. Current research is based on insights examining materials first (80%), followed by walls (15%), buildings (11%), and 3DP technology (6%). The findings highlight that 3DP technology offers significant advantages in terms of time efficiency, reliability, ecological impact, and sustainability within the construction industry. However, several challenges, such as the complexity of material mixture content design, the lack of standardized 3DP materials and codes, and the limited availability of experts in the field, prevent its widespread adoption. Further advancement of 3DP requires the development of standards, policies, training and materials for its full implementation in the construction industry.
SM-BIM: A NEW CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK FOR MULTI-CRITERIA DECISION-MAKING PROCESS BASED ON SMART MATERIALS AND BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING
Authors: Mohamed Menna-Allah T. , Megahed Naglaa A. , Eltarabily Sara , Shahda Merhan M.
Published: May 2024

Because the construction sector exerts a considerable environmental effect, especially on building materials, a growing interest in environmental design and construction has emerged. The United Nations has set sustainable development goals (SDGs) for 2030 to protect the environment, including energy conservation and doubling the global rate of improving energy efficiency, because building materials significantly affect energy consumption. Thus, building-material selection at the initial design phase is critical, and random selection of building materials often involves subjectivity, uncertainty, and ambiguity. This process costs time and resources while resulting in the inefficient environmental performance of buildings. Therefore, this study proposes the use of building-information modeling (BIM) as a tool because of its importance in attaining sustainability to aid in the selection process of smart materials (SMs) based on specified criteria and make the selection process faster and more accurate. This method is accomplished through a theoretical study of SMs and using a conceptual framework through four phases for multicriteria decision-making to improve energy efficiency and reduce the energy consumption of buildings. To pursue SDG 7, a theoretical and deductive approach is used.
PRODUCTION OF MYCELIUM-BASED COMPOSITE MATERIALS AND EVALUATION OF THERMAL INSULATION PERFORMANCE
Authors: Sağlam Sebahat Sevde , Özgünler Seden Acun
Published: May 2024

Increasing awareness of the adverse effects of materials used in the construction industry on the environment and health increases the tendency towards bio-based products based on principles such as circular economy and sustainability. Meanwhile, there is a tendency to solve the post-use waste problem and reduce carbon emissions by extending the service life of building materials or making recyclable materials widespread. Mycelium-based composites (MBC) constitute an innovative natural building material interface with the potential to be used as building insulation material. In producing MBC, a substrate is used because of the significant growth provided by lignocellulosic biomass. In this study, MBCs were produced by growing Pleurotus ostreatus on 16 substrates during a 28-day incubation period. Consequently, two composites with the best performance were selected from the preliminary research on the produced samples. It was aimed to determine the thermal, mechanical, physical properties, microstructure characterization and longterm performance of the selected composites. For this reason, thermal conductivity coefficient measurement, water absorption values, water vapor permeability, ultrasound velocity determination, mechanical strength tests and durability tests were carried out. The findings showed that composites containing beech sawdust and pulp paper had better properties than other substrates. Advanced research results showed that MBCs are promising as thermal insulation materials.
HOW TO REDUCE TRANSMISSION OF RESPIRATORY INFECTIOUS DISEASE IN INTERIOR SPACES: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY WITH INTERIOR DESIGN PROFESSIONALS
Authors: Kim Suk-Kyung , Han Juyeon
Published: May 2024

This study was motivated by the need for empirical evidence to inform design guidelines for interior workspaces during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research had two goals: to identify the features of interior spaces and behaviors in Korea where many confirmed cases of COVID-19 were found; and to examine design professionals’ opinions on workplace management and operation to reduce transmission of respiratory infectious disease.

A content analysis of newspaper articles on confirmed cases was conducted and a survey was administered to design professionals. The analysis identified common features of the interior spaces with confirmed cases of COVID-19. Based on the analysis of the article contents, a questionnaire was constructed. The questionnaire asked design professionals to suggest interior design considerations that could prevent the spread of the virus in interior spaces.

They emphasized the separation of individual spaces from shared spaces; installing partitions in rooms that could not be divided; ending two-way traffic in narrow hallways; reducing room density and avoiding crowding; adopting touchless technologies and no-touch access to interior spaces; automating interior equipment and facilities; and encouraging office users to work from home if possible. These findings should be factored into interior space planning and management to reduce the risk of exposing future users of these spaces to infectious respiratory diseases.
LIFECYCLE MAINTENANCE PRACTICES OF VERTICAL GREENERY SYSTEMS IN TROPICAL CLIMATES: A CASE STUDY OF KUALA LUMPUR
Authors: Shuhaimi Nur Dinie Afiqah Mohammad , Zaid Suzaini Mohamed , Mat Nik Elyna Myeda Nik , Zainon Nurshuhada , Zyed Zafirah Al Sadat , Harumain Yong Adilah Shamsul , Kamaruzzaman Syahrul Nizam , Manickam Sugumaran , Hassan Norsiah , Halim Jamilah Halina Abdul , Aziz Azlina , Wajid Norhayati Mat
Published: May 2024

A vertical green system (VGS) proposes numerous benefits, expanding from the principles of sustainable social, environmental and economic development, such as aesthetics, health and ecology. While extensive research exists on VGS in terms of benefits, application, plant selection and design, limited attention has been given to the operational and long-term lifecycle maintenance of VGS, particularly in tropical climates such as Malaysia. Therefore, this paper aims to explore current VGS maintenance practices and issues in the tropical climate of Malaysia. Qualitative analysis was employed to study maintenance practices in commercial and institutional buildings in Malaysia. The qualitative data was then compared with international green wall guidelines to benchmark with current maintenance practices in Malaysia. The study revealed that the absence of a green wall guideline in Malaysia has resulted in a reliance on a limited number of competent experts on green walls, potentially contributing to higher installation and maintenance costs. These findings provide valuable insights into the impact of national guidelines on green wall maintenance practices in Malaysia, assisting building managers and policymakers in formulating appropriate maintenance practices and guidelines.
Illegible Multiculturalisms: Making, Digesting, and Translating Empanadas and Doenjang-jjigae Within Digital Monolingualism
Authors: Bascuñan-Wiley Nicholas , Jungsuk Howard Matthew
Published: May 2024

In this essay, we draw parallels between the processes of cooking and writing, emphasizing our personal investment as authors and cooks. Reflecting on our experiences cooking empanadas and doenjang-jjigae, we delve into the challenges of translating multicultural food experiences into publishable forms. We develop the concept of "illegible multiculturalisms,” and center the power of remaining unidentifiable within digital monolingualism, reimagining multiculturalism pluralistically. We advocate for alternative narrative forms and more inclusive futures for publishing while recognizing the embodied nature of food practices and critiquing reliance on imperialized infrastructures in scholarly work.
Sustainable Growth of Multilingual Open Publishing Projects: The Case of Programming Historian
Authors: Quiroga Riva , Hawes Anisa , Sichani Anna-Maria , Chevrie Charlotte
Published: May 2024

This article will discuss the sustainability challenges faced by multilingual publishing projects. Taking as its example the case of Programming Historian–a Diamond Open Access, peer-reviewed journal of methods for digital humanists–we first discuss why being a truly multilingual project involves more than just publishing in different languages. It requires an awareness of English-language dominance, digital monolingualism, and the need to not only translate but also localize the content. We then explain how this approach to open multilingual publishing has informed our editorial, technical and social guidelines, and helped to shape our workflows. Finally, we discuss the evolving challenges of managing such a project. In particular, we focus on how to reconcile the project’s growth with the sustainability of our infrastructure.
L’éducation au développement durable au Burkina Faso : orientations et contraintes
Authors: Yogo Evariste Magloire
Published: May 2024

La nécessité de construire un monde plus responsable mobilise de plus en plus la communauté internationale et le Burkina Faso n’est pas en reste. Ce pays sahélo-saharien s’évertue à intégrer les principes, les valeurs et les pratiques du développement durable dans son système d’éducation et de formation. La prise en compte des préconisations de la communauté internationale et celle des orientations propres à la situation géo-climatique que connaît le Burkina Faso se côtoient et sont portées par des acteurs divers. La dynamique enclenchée ces dernières années permet d’entrevoir la co-construction d’un curriculum plus formel d’éducation au développement durable, en dépit du contexte de crise sécuritaire et humanitaire qui affecte l’éducation.
Le programme École verte au centre de l’éducation au développement durable en Slovaquie
Authors: Gallayová Zuzana , Trochanová Klaudia
Published: May 2024

Dans la pratique pédagogique slovaque, le terme d’éducation à l’environnement est préféré à celui d’éducation au développement durable (EDD) et fait partie du curriculum en tant que thème transversal. Cette approche offre la possibilité d’étudier la complexité des problèmes environnementaux et de trouver des solutions sous différentes perspectives. Cela est bénéfique pour les élèves, mais exigeant pour les enseignants, en matière de connaissances, de compétences et de pratiques méthodologiques. Les objectifs de l’École verte sont définis ainsi : « nous faisons ce que nous enseignons », « nous enseignons différemment » et « nous faisons le changement ensemble ». L’article décrit les principes du programme de l’École verte en Slovaquie et fournit des exemples de bonnes pratiques pédagogiques.
Territorialisation de la plateforme Airbnb
Authors: Grondeau Alexandre , Dourthe Gwenaëlle
Published: May 2024

Au cours de la dernière décennie, les plateformes numériques ont eu un impact significatif sur la manière dont nous percevons et pratiquons les villes. Airbnb est l'une de ces plateformes. Dans cet article, nous verrons comment l’expansion de la plateforme Airbnb impacte-t-elle d’un point de vue socio-économique les villes où elle s’implante, et comment les institutions et les populations locales s’organisent-elles pour encadrer ce développement ? Pour ce faire, nous proposons de nous concentrer sur la territorialisation des logements disponibles sur la plateforme Airbnb ainsi que sur les enjeux socio-économiques et politiques induits dans deux villes méditerranéennes touristiques emblématiques : Barcelone et Lisbonne. Nous analyserons la distribution spatiale des logements proposés sur Airbnb, leurs caractéristiques et nous les croiserons avec les diverses données sociodémographiques de ces villes afin de mesurer l’impact de l’émergence et du développement international de la plateforme créée dans la Silicon Valley. Puis, nous nous intéresserons aux conséquences de ce processus d’appropriation territorial par divers groupes sociaux et par les acteurs politiques en responsabilité, en tenant compte d’un contexte touristique massif de nos terrains d'étude. Nous examinerons ensuite le positionnement des habitants en tant qu’utilisateurs ou fournisseurs de la plateforme Airbnb, et les oppositions que celle-ci peut rencontrer. Pour finir, nous étudierons l’encadrement progressif et les règlementations municipales mises en place pour limiter les impacts négatifs du développement de la multinationale américaine.
Which country recorded the highest digital penetration in 2022-2023?
Authors: Kellerman Aharon
Published: May 2024

This paper explores country penetration levels of major Internet applications replacing physical activities. This exploration first aims to learn whether high penetration levels typify large or small countries. Second, it seeks to see whether wealthier countries, among the largest ones by population, lead penetration levels for major Internet applications. Previous data for 2010 showed that smaller countries led globally in their penetration levels, and it was not for wealthier countries to lead among the most prominent countries worldwide. The 2023 data for Internet penetration, for the adoption of smartphones, as well as for the penetration levels for the leading networking platforms (Facebook, Twitter (X), WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok) all reveal similar trends: high penetration levels typified both developing and developed countries and small, and usually wealthy, countries achieved the highest penetration scores worldwide. Thus, the trends studied in 2010 were not temporary. Thus, Digital networking is globally and freely available, possibly encouraging interaction and literacy. As far as e-mails are concerned, they are also automatically used by private, institutional, business, and IOT entities. Therefore, the list of leading countries for e-mail use for 2023 consists of developed countries. Online shopping levels depend on the economic status of individuals, so it was for developed countries to lead the 2023 list of online shopping levels.
Covoiturage au Grand-Nokoué et plateformes numériques de mobilité partagée en Afrique de l'Ouest
Authors: Ballo Raynald
Published: May 2024

Les mobilités partagées, notamment le covoiturage, nourrissent un paradoxe en Afrique. Alors que les taxis-brousse connaissent un succès historique depuis 50 ans du fait de pratiques traditionnelles de partage transposées dans le transport collectif, la modernisation via les plateformes numériques peine à s'implanter durablement. Ce constat mis en évidence grâce à des cartes souligne les échecs récurrents des initiatives prises en Afrique de l'Ouest. En effet, ces 15 dernières années, plus de la moitié des entreprises créées dans ce secteur ont été abandonnées. Dans le Grand-Nokoué au Bénin, une enquête qualitative et quantitative auprès de 230 usagers combinée au niveau de l’Afrique de l’Ouest à une analyse documentaire, permet de comprendre leurs difficultés. Des données tirées d’une immersion sur le terrain, trois facteurs majeurs se dégagent : un rapport au temps plus flexible sans culture de la planification rigoureuse décalé de la logique rationnelle des plateformes ; une conception communautaire ancrée des déplacements basés sur la proximité sociale à rebours du partage avec des inconnus ; un sentiment d'insécurité vis-à-vis des étrangers et une primauté au confort individuel contraires à l'esprit du covoiturage. Les classes populaires rompues aux pratiques ancestrales d'entraide dans les transports pourraient jouer un rôle clé dans l'ancrage territorial durable des nouveaux services. Or, les initiatives innovantes dans le domaine des plates-formes nécessitent un fort portage politique ici non acquis et, concomitamment, une familiarisation ici encore très « progressive ».
Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Machining
Authors: Hanafi Issam , Mata Cabrera Francisco , Campos Rubio Juan Carlos , Leite Wanderson de Oliveira
Published: May 2024

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) matrices have gained widespread traction across diverse industries for their exceptional attributes and lightweight nature, outperforming traditional materials and alternative composites. Consequently, the study of machining these composite matrices has gained significant attention. This review aims to establish robust physical and statistical models, opening avenues for optimizing the machining of polymer matrix composites. Encompassing various machining aspects, including crucial variables and criteria, the synthesis notably focuses on refining surface finish and cutting force dynamics. Curated from acclaimed scientific literature, this review provides an exhaustive overview of the prevailing landscape and intricate nuances inherent to FRP machining. The gleaned insights are poised to steer future empirical endeavors and refine precision cutting models.
Sustainable Practices for Green Computing and Digital E-Waste Management
Authors: Kalphana K. R. , Mathi K. Madu , Ranjithkumar A. , Banerji Sanchita , Anandakumar S.
Published: May 2024

The chapter explores the integration of circular economy principles into digital operations, focusing on green computing and email waste management. Green computing uses eco-friendly technologies to reduce digital infrastructure's environmental footprint. It involves energy-efficient hardware, virtualization techniques, and cloud computing to reduce energy consumption, carbon emissions, and electronic waste. Email waste management is crucial to address digital waste, which contributes to carbon emissions, energy consumption, and resource depletion. Implementing email optimization, efficient storage practices, and behavioural interventions can help organizations mitigate environmental impacts while improving productivity and information management efficiency.
Leveraging High-Performance Computing and Artificial Intelligence in Climate Modeling and Prediction
Authors: Sabahath Asfia , Begum Arshiya , Naim Arshi
Published: May 2024

Climate change is a pressing global challenge that demands improved understanding, accurate ‎predictions, and effective mitigation strategies. High-performance computing (HPC) combined ‎with artificial intelligence (AI) presents a transformative opportunity for climate modeling and ‎prediction. HPC and AI for environmental sustainability have the potential to revolutionize our efforts in ‎addressing pressing environmental challenges. By combining the computational power of HPC ‎with the analytical capabilities of AI, we can accelerate research and develop innovative ‎solutions to promote sustainability.‎
Lighthouse in the Mist
Authors: Mao Hanjin , Antony Meril , Jung Yujin J.
Published: May 2024

Previous research has explored the interactions between public leaders and citizens through social media channels. However, there is a gap in our understanding regarding the communication of limited information to the public during times of crisis. This study focuses on the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic as a crisis scenario and investigates how state governors utilized Twitter to communicate with the public, as well as the subsequent impact on citizens' responses. Employing computational social science techniques, this research analyzes a dataset comprising 47,831 tweets posted by U.S. state governors during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic, spanning from March to August 2020. The results affirm the crucial role of social media in crisis communication and offer insights into effective social media strategies for public communication.
Oil from crambe seeds treated with different resistance inducers: Oil yield and chemical characterization
Authors: Silva Janaina Marques da , Stevanato Natália , Raspe Djéssica Tatiane , Silva Tiago Roque Benetoli da , Silva Camila da
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to carry out the extraction and chemical characterization of oil from crambe treated with resistance inducers during its cultivation to promote greater efficiency in the defense system of plants. For this purpose, Agromos® and Ecolife® inducers were applied at rates of 0.5 and 1.0 L hectare−1 during crambe cultivation. Crambe seed oil was obtained in a Soxhlet extractor using n-hexane as a solvent and the oils were characterized in terms of fatty acid composition and minority compound contents (phytosterol and tocopherol). The oil obtained from seeds without the application of inducers (control) was also characterized. We determine the oxidative stability of oils with inducer application that presented higher minority compound contents. Crambe seeds that received the treatment with the Agromos® resistance inducer had higher oil content. However, in general, the fatty acid profile of the obtained oils was similar and showed a predominance of erucic and oleic acids (which represent ~82% of the composition). The application of the Agromos® inducer allowed obtaining seeds that provided oil with higher contents of phytosterols and tocopherols and higher oxidative stability.
Data variability in the imputation quality of missing data
Authors: Stochero Elisandra Lúcia Moro , Dal'Col Lúcio Alessandro , Jacobi Luciane Flores
Published: May 2024

Imputation methods were developed to define estimates for missing data and hence solve possible problems generated by the loss of this information. This study aims to assess whether data variability influences the results obtained after applying an imputation method. Incomplete databases were generated from complete real databases of experiments of tomato plants conducted using the randomized block design with three replications and 12 treatments by removing different amounts of data. The evaluated variables consisted of fruit weight per plant, number of fruits per plant, and average fruit length and width, forming eight balanced databases. Subsequently, the distribution-free multiple imputation method was applied, generating complete databases from imputation. The number of missing information influenced the accuracy measures for the data in this study. Data imputation was inadequate when there was high variability but more precise and accurate in cases of low variability. It confirmed the importance of assessing data variability before choosing to apply the imputation method.
Aerial spraying for downy mildew control in grapevines using a remotely piloted aircraft
Authors: Oliveira Laise de Souza de , Grigolo Chaiane Renata , Pertille Rafael Henrique , Modolo Alcir José , Campos José Ricardo da Rocha , Elias Adão Robson , Citadin Idemir
Published: May 2024

Downy mildew is a major problem for grape growers, as this disease is difficult to control. Synthetic fungicides are used to treat downy mildew with handheld backpack and tractor sprayer applications, with high chemical exposure by operators. As important tools for maximising yield, application technologies must be studied to optimise control efficiency. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of fungicide spray application using Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) for the control of downy mildew in grapevine, with different spray volumes. The study was divided into two experiments using 4 vine lines, 10 blocks and 5 treatments with different mixture volumes: Experiment 1 with RPA application of 5 mixture volumes - 0, 22, 44, 66, and 88 L ha−1; Experiment 2 with RPA application of 3 mixture volumes - 44, 66, and 88 L ha−1 and a backpack application of one mixture volume - 800 L ha−1. Coverage percentage, droplet density and volume median diameter (VMD) were evaluated. Downy mildew severity on grapevine leaves was assessed using visual analysis and a diagrammatic scale. The application of 44 L ha−1 provided the greatest coverage and droplet density in the upper and middle strata; however, the backpack application had a better droplet distribution than the RPA application. Treatments of 44 L ha−1 with RPA and backpack application (800 L ha−1) provided the best disease control. In the trellis system, RPA application must be improved because of the low coverage in the lower parts of the plant, and further studies with different spray nozzles and application heights are needed.
Tomato families possessing resistance to late blight also display high-quality fruit
Authors: Copati Mariane Gonçalves Ferreira , Pessoa Herika Paula , Dariva Françoise Dalprá , Castro Filho Manoel Nelson de , Nick Carlos
Published: May 2024

In recent years, several efforts have been made to develop tomato cultivars displaying both late blight resistance and good organoleptic fruit quality. Selection indexes are considered the best option to perform genotype selection when many different traits are being considered to select genotypes as close to the desired ideotype as possible. Therefore, this study aimed at selecting late blight-resistant tomato families based on their fruit quality attributes using factor analysis and ideotype-design / best linear unbiased predictor (FAI-BLUP) index. For this purpose, we assessed the fruit quality parameters of 81 F3:5 tomato families previously selected as late blight resistant. The tomato cultivars Thaise, Argos, and Liberty were included in the trial as checks. The experimental arrangement consisted of complete randomized blocks with three replicates. Each plot was formed by five plants, three of which were used in the fruit quality assessment. The quality parameters assessed were fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit color (L, a*, C, and H), fruit firmness, titratable acidity, soluble solids content, hydrogen potential, and SS:TA ratio. Fruit quality data were analyzed using the mixed model methodology via REML/BLUP (restricted residual maximum likelihood / best linear unbiased prediction) to obtain BLUPs that were further subjected to the FAI-BLUP selection index. The FAI-BLUP was efficient in selecting late blight-resistant tomato genotypes based on their fruit quality attributes. Fourteen tomato families were classified as closest to the desirable ideotype for fruit quality. These genotypes should move on to the following stages of the tomato breeding program.
A Rare Case Report of Bardet–Biedl Syndrome: A Syndrome of Pentad Symptoms
Authors: Mahmood Syed Azmal , Azad Md. Kamrul , Das Sarojit , Selim Shahjada
Published: May 2024

Bardet–Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder that manifests as a result of primary cilia impairment, characterized by retinitis pigmentosa, obesity, mental retardation, hypogonadism, and polydactyly. The five findings together are called “the pentad” and are found in most of the cases. This is the case of a 14-year-old boy, 2nd issue of consanguineous marriage of his parents, having a positive family history, who presented with progressive dimness of vision, learning disability, increased hunger, and weight since childhood. Initially, there were impaired night vision and peripheral vision problems, and later loss of color vision. He had no hearing problem, anosmia, cold intolerance, or steroid-taking history. His intranatal and postnatal history was uneventful except slightly delayed developmental milestone. His body mass index was 32.7 kg/m2, waist–hip ratio was 1.08, height was in the 50th centile on the growth chart. He had polydactyly, high-arched palate, acanthosis nigricans, and buried penis; testicular volume was prepubertal. Laboratory findings revealed high triglyceride, impaired glucose tolerance, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, and grade-III fatty liver. He had bony spicule-like pigmentation in the periphery of both eyes suggestive of retinitis pigmentosa. Based on these data, BBS was diagnosed. In conclusion, BBS is a rare clinical syndrome that may go unnoticed by many clinicians. Renal failure is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with BBS. Therefore, early detection of BBS is vital to halt the progression of renal impairment.
Apolipoprotein E Gene Polymorphism, Serum Lipids, and Risk of Superficial Fungal Infections in Egyptian Patients – A Preliminary Case-Controlled Study
Authors: Mustafa Amany I. , Shams Ghada M. , Fawzy Eman M. , Alhusseini Naglaa F. , Khashaba Rana A. , EL-Shimi Ola S.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene isoforms have been found to affect the risk of superficial fungal infections (SFIs). However, the data only cover a few ethnicities.

Aims:

The present work intended to investigate the association of APOE gene polymorphism and serum lipids with the susceptibility of SFIs among a group of Egyptian patients.

Materials and Methods:

Standard laboratory methods were used to estimate the serum lipid profile, and polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism was used to detect APOE gene polymorphism in deoxyribonucleic acid extracted from 150 SFI patients and an equal number of apparently healthy matched controls.

Results:

Serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were significantly higher in the studied patients than in controls. The APOE gene ε2, ε4 alleles, and ε3/4 and ε3/2 genotypes were significantly distributed in the patients than in the controls. APOE ε3/3 genotype was predominant in dermatophytosis and tinea versicolour patients, and ε3/4 genotype was predominant in candidiasis.

Conclusions:

ApoE alleles ε2 and ε4, and genotypes ε2/3 and ε3/4 are linked to SFI and may be risk factors, whereas allele ε3 and genotype ε3/3 may be protective for SFI in the Egyptian population studied. The lipid profile results suggest that hyperlipidemia may provide evidence for SFI pathogenesis. However; further large-scale studies are still needed to validate our results.
Morphological Diagnosis of Blastomycosis Clinically Presenting as Mycetoma in a Young Immunocompetent Indian Patient; A Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Gupta Rakesh K. , Agrawal Mousmi , Keche Archana , Ganguly Satyaki
Published: May 2024

Primary cutaneous blastomycosis is very rare in non-endemic regions like India. Only few cases have been reported from India. Herein, we are reporting a rare case of chronic cutaneous blastomycosis in a young immunocompetent male presenting as mycetoma with multiple discharging sinuses in the anterior abdominal wall with no significant travel history.
Expression of Oestrogen Receptor Alpha (ERα) in Oral Lichen Planus – A Precancerous Inflammatory Disease in Middle-Aged Females
Authors: Jana Abhishek , Thomas Jincy , Ghosh Pratiti
Published: May 2024

Background:

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an autoimmune disease primarily affecting the middle-aged females. The present study aims to determine the relation of the oestrogen receptor alpha (ERα) with OLP pathogenesis, correlating it with the possible cause of its higher prevalence among females.

Materials and Methods:

Clinically and histologically identified fifteen of each pre-menopausal and peri-menopausal OLP female patients were chosen for this study. The expression of ERα was analysed from the collected lesion tissue samples by using two-step semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (SqRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results:

mRNA and protein expression of ERα were significantly higher in both groups of OLP female patients when compared with the control. The perimenopausal OLP patients showed significantly elevated expression of ERα compared to premenopausal patients.

Conclusion:

Higher expression of ERα in pre- and peri-menopausal females may be a causative factor for the higher prevalence of OLP among females.
Antifungal Activity of N-Arylbenzoquinaldinium Derivatives against a Clinical Strain of M. Canis
Authors: Shchepina Nadezhda E. , Alexandrova Galina A. , Balandina Svetlana Y. , Boiko Igor I. , Chaudhary Sandeep , Shchepin Roman V.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Microsporum canis (Bodin, 1902) is a dermatophyte, which is widely represented in the developing and the developed world alike. Commonly transmitted from domestic animals it is particularly dangerous for immunosuppressed patients due to AIDS, cancer or transplant surgery. Search for new perspective antimycotic derivatives becomes an urgent task in the disease containment. Previously, several quinolinium analogs were screened for their antibacterial activity (E. coli, St. aurous) by our research team. Furthermore, some N-phenylbenzoquinaldinium derivatives have shown antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Candida krusei.

Aims:

In this study, we sought to investigate fungicidal properties of N-arylbenzoquinaldinium derivatives against a clinical strain of Microsporum canis for future medicinal applications.

Materials and Methods:

N-phenyl-[f]-benzoquinaldinium salts were prepared by a variation of the previously described technique and tested against a clinical strain of the fungus of Microsporum canis 114 harvested from pathogenic material of a patient (Perm, Russia, 2014).

Results:

N-phenyl-[f]-benzoquinaldinium tetrafluoroborate has shown antifungal activity par to (or exceeding) that of commercially available medication. Moreover, this benzoquinaldinium analog can be potentially labelled with tritium by our nuclear-chemical method, making it amenable for the sensitive pharmacokinetic studies.

Conclusions:

N-phenyl-[f]-benzoquinaldinium tetrafluoroborate has been shown as a promising compound for the further development of potent antifungal agents as well as radiotracers for further elucidation of biological pathways of antifungal activity.
A Case of Leishmania Infantum Mimicking Lymphoma
Authors: Çulha Gülnaz , Doğramacı A. Çiğdem , Kaya Tuğba , Seçinti İlke Evrim
Published: May 2024

Leishmaniasis is a parasitic infection caused by an obligate intracellular protozoon transmitted by infected sand flies. Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a skin disease known in our country as oriental sore, which heals, leaving a scar in place, mainly on the skin and sometimes in the mucous membrane. Demonstration of the parasite in chronic CL is difficult. Moreover, differential diagnosis from other granulomatous dermatitides such as lupus vulgaris, sarcoidosis and deep mycosis is growing difficult. A case of CL was presented in an 84-year-old female patient who had a pre-diagnosis of lymphoma and a nodule lesion on her forehead for 2.5 months. In the smear of the sample taken from the lesion, amastigote forms of the parasite were diagnosed and typed as L. infantum by the Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) method.
Localized Pemphigus Foliaceus
Authors: Kunadia Anuj , Moschella Samuel , McLemore Jessica , Sami Naveed
Published: May 2024

The clinical presentation of localized pemphigus foliaceus (PF) often involves photo exposed areas. We describe five cases of localized PF, two of which were rare locations for the disease in non-photo exposed areas, namely the genitalia and back. Patients were treated with topical corticosteroids and calcineurin inhibitors as well as systemic treatment with corticosteroids and dapsone. Each patient responded to treatment, with two achieving remission. No relapses occurred in any of these cases over a mean follow-up time of 3.7 years. A review of the English literature using MEDLINE® yielded 18 reported cases of localized PF. Most occurred in photo exposed areas such as the nose, cheeks, scalp, and other areas of the face. Two patients progressed to generalized involvement without treatment. Treatment regimens had much variation and included both topical and systemic agents. Localized PF is rare, and our findings suggest it may be controlled with topical therapy and systemic dapsone.
Oral Gauze for Bleeding Control in Perioral and Perinasal Dermatologic Surgery
Authors: Seervai Riyad N H , Cervantes Jose A , Shimizu Ikue , Orengo Ida F
Published: May 2024

The use of oral gauze is a quick, cheap, and effective method of preventing bleeding into the patient's mouth during dermatologic surgery. We recommend this technique combined with appropriate positioning for lesions in the perioral and perinasal regions. Similar approaches may be applied for the prevention of bleeding into the ear canal during facial/periauricular surgery.
Filaggrin Gene Mutation in Pediatric Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Rajeshwari K A , Thomas Merin M. , Nagaraj Geetha
Published: May 2024

Background:

Mutations in the filaggrin (FLG) gene has been reported to be an indicator of poor prognosis of atopic dermatitis (AD). It has been reported that there is a considerable variation in the mutations detected in the FLG gene in different ethnicities.

Aim:

To detect the presence of mutations in the FLG gene in pediatric subjects with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to compare the detected mutations with those already reported from different ethnicities.

Materials and Methods:

Genomic DNA extracted using standard procedure from peripheral venous blood of 30 patient and 15 control samples. Sequence analysis of the FLG gene carried out and detected changes was then cross referenced with those mutations already reported to check for novelty of detected changes.

Results:

Amino acid changes were detected in 28 of the patient samples and in none of the control samples indicating that changes in the FLG gene were more common in the patient group than the control group (Fishers exact test, P < 0.0001). The most commonly reported mutations R501X and 2282del4 were not detected. Only 5 of the detected 22 amino acid changes H2507Q, L2481S, K2444E, E2398Q, and S2366T have been previously reported and are not clinically significant; however, in one patient a stop codon was detected (S2366STOP). P2238N, R2239W, and V2243L detected in 70% of the samples and S2231E detected in 67% of the patient samples have not been reported so far and their clinical significance is yet to be analyzed.

Conclusion:

Analyses of mutations already reported showed that the changes detected from this study are novel to Indian traits. While this adds on to the minimal data available from the Indian subcontinent further analyses has to be carried out to analyze the pathogenicity of these detected changes on larger samples sizes.

Aim:

To detect the presence of mutations in the FLG gene in pediatric subjects with atopic dermatitis (AD) and to compare the detected mutations with those already reported from different ethnicities.
Comparative Efficacy of Topical Minoxidil Alone Against Combination of Topical Minoxidil and Platelet Rich Plasma in Women with Female Pattern Hair Loss—A Pilot, Open Randomised Trial
Authors: Agarwal Akanksha , Mendiratta Vibhu
Published: May 2024

Background:

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) affects a significant proportion of population and poses a major therapeutic challenge.

Aims and Objectives:

To compare the efficacy and safety profile of combination of topical minoxidil 2% plus platelet rich plasma (PRP) (group 1) and topical minoxidil 2% solution alone (group 2) in women having FPHL.

Materials and Methods:

26 females with FPHL were randomised into two treatment groups. They were evaluated for increase in hair density, reduction in hair pull test (HPT), patient satisfaction score (PSS) and side effects.

Results:

Mean change of 34.92 ± 8.39 hairs/cm2 in group 1 (P < 0.001) and 31.21 ± 8.30 hair/cm2 in group 2 (P < 0.001) was seen. 16.7% and 28.6% patients in Group 1 and 2, respectively, had PSS of highly satisfied. The reduction in HPT was significant with P = 0.0123 (group 1) and P = 0.0128 (group 2). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. No major side effects were reported.

Conclusion:

Minoxidil—PRP combination therapy is an effective modality for FPHL but is not superior to topical 2% minoxidil therapy alone. PRP is a promising option in patients with minoxidil related compliance issues.
Hyperacute Graft-Versus-Host Disease of the Skin following Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Mahabal Gauri D. , George Leni , Peter Dincy , Thomas Meera , George Biju , Mathews Vikram , Abraham Aby , Srivastava Alok , Pulimood Susanne
Published: May 2024

Hyperacute GVHD (HaGVHD) is a rare complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) occurring before engraftment, a syndrome commonly involving skin and/or gut and/or liver, with increased morbidity and mortality. Myeloablative conditioning (MAC) regimes and mismatched donor transplants have an increased risk for HaGVHD. There is a higher chance of steroid-refractoriness and chronic GVHD in those who develop HaGVHD. There is limited literature about HaGVHD, especially in the paediatric age group. This retrospective single-centre case series included five paediatric patients who underwent HSCT between 1st April 2013 and 31st July 2015 at a tertiary care centre in South India, who fulfilled the criteria for HaGVHD as per criteria by Kim et al. and whose follow up data was available. We noted their risk factors, clinical course and prognosis. There were five paediatric HaGVHD patients. The risk factors noted among them were MAC regimen in three and mismatched unrelated donor sources in three. Two had steroid-refractory disease, four went on to develop chronic GVHD and three died of GVHD or treatment-related complications. A high index of suspicion is necessary to recognize HaGVHD, especially in patients with known risk factors developing a fever with rash post-HSCT.
Focal Dermal Hypoplasia
Authors: Mansouri Maria , Bouzid Fatima Zohra , Amal Said. , Hocar Oufae , Aboussair Nissrine
Published: May 2024

Background:

Focal dermal hypoplasia (Goltz syndrome) is a genetic multisystem disorder characterized primarily by involvement of the skin associated to face, skeletal, and eyes anomalies. The objective of the present series is to shed light on this rare syndrome and these atypical manifestations.

Methodology:

Our study reports the case of five Moroccan patients who present typical clinical picture of the Goltz syndrome with some rare manifestations.

Results:

A total of 5 patients with Goltz syndrome were evaluated. All of them are female with one familial case. The age ranged from 8 months to 35 years. A characteristic Blaschkoid hypo- and hyper-pigmented skin lesions, congenital nodular fat herniation, and skin atrophy were present in all patients. Ocular manifestations were present in 80% of patients. Cranio-facial deformity was seen in 80% of patients. Short stature and intellectual delay were documented in 80% and 40% of patients, respectively. Limb abnormality was found in all patients. Two patients had a cleft lip, one of which unusual lateral facial cleft.

Limitations:

Genetic testing could not be performed in the present series.

Conclusions:

Through this work we will discuss the different clinical signs and genetic aspects of Goltz syndrome and the interest of a good clinical expertise.
Sexual Dysfunction and Associated Factors in Women with Psoriasis
Authors: Nguyen Hao Trong , Ngo Van Thi Ngoc , Pham Nguyen Nhat , Dinh Nghi Huu , Tran Tu Nguyen Anh
Published: May 2024

Context:

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, may negatively affect sexual function; however, data on the sexual health of female patients with psoriasis in Vietnam are lacking.

Aims:

To assess the risk of sexual dysfunction (SD) and its associated factors in female patients with psoriasis who visited the Ho Chi Minh City Hospital of Dermato-Venereology from April 2020 to October 2020.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods and Material:

A total of 302 female patients with psoriasis aged 18 to 49 years were recruited. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess the risk of SD (cut-off value at 26).

Results:

The risk of SD accounted for 79.1% of the study population and was not associated with age, comorbidities, weight, or trigger factors. Urban dwellers had greater odds of SD risk than non-urban dwellers (OR = 2.63). Similar trends were observed in terms of higher education than grade 12, less than once a week of physical activities, and psychological stress as a trigger factor (OR = 1.89, 2.65, and 3.41, respectively). Female psoriasis patients with SD risk had a lower age of onset and higher weight, BMI, waist circumference, and PASI than patients who did not (P < 0.05). Psychological stress and high PASI were independent risk factors of SD risk in female patients with psoriasis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Factors with negative impacts on psoriasis may also increase the risk of SD in female patients; among these factors, psychological stress and high PASI were the strongest predictors of SD in female patients with psoriasis.