bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supersonically Deposited Antiviral Copper Coatings
Authors: Sousa Bryer C. , Cote Danielle L.
Published: July 2023

Enhanced antiviral performance is associated with antipathogenic copper material consolidations obtained using cold spray processing.
Cold Spray: Advanced Characterization Methods—Raman Spectroscopy, Oxygen Analysis, and Surface Roughness Measurement
Authors: Srinivasan Dheepa
Published: July 2023

This article series explores the indispensable role of characterization in the development of cold spray coatings and illustrates some of the common processes used during coating development.
THE EFFECTvOF THE USE OF VIDEO TUTORIALS ON LEARNING INTERESTS AND SCIENCE LEARNINGvOUTCOMES OF GRADEvVIII A STUDENTSvOF SMP MUHAMMADIYAH 10 MUNCAR
Authors: Mohammad Imron Rosadi
Published: July 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a major impact on various sectors, one of which is education. The world of education is also feeling the impact. In the past, before the Covid system and learning models were carried out face-to-face between teachers and students, the problem in this study was whether video tutorial-based learning media could affect science learning outcomes. The respondents of this research were class VIII students of SMP Muhammadiyah 10 Muncar with a total of 30 students. This research was a quantitative study with a causal design. Valid and reliable degree with validity and reliability tests. Instrument analysis test using: 1) Descriptive test, 2) Normality test 3) Homogeneity test. Test the hypothesis using: 1) Regression analysis, 2) F test, 3) T test The results show that: 1) sig. from the learning video tutorial variable, there is a motivation of 0.000, so the conclusion is sig > 0.05, meaning that there is an influence of video-tutorial-based learning media on students' interest in learning science. 2) the sig value of the influence variable of video tutorial-based learning media on learning outcomes is 0.000. The conclusion obtained is sig > 0.05, it means that there is an influence of video tutorial-based learning media on students' natural science learning outcomes. 3) the output results of the regression analysis obtained F count 29.124 with  sig 0.000, because > 0.05, there is an influence of video tutorial-based learning media on learning interest and science learning outcomes in students, especially junior high school students.
Tempered radicalism
Authors: Vaul-Grimwood Marita le , Naik Vani , Graham Cameron , Moir Zack , Smart Fiona
Published: July 2023

This article explores Meyerson and Scully's concept of ‘tempered radicalism’ (1995) in the context of contemporary academic practice and identity. We report on a collaborative autoethnographic study which addressed the question: ‘What does the concept of tempered radicalism mean to us as academics in contemporary higher education?’. We explore how the concept of tempered radicalism allows us to consider our own actions and abilities to drive change within an increasingly challenging higher education environment moulded by the policies, values and practices of neoliberal economics. In this context, we share differing perspectives on what it means to bring a values-based criticality to our work. It is the breadth of Meyerson and Scully's concept which allows us to approach this exploration in a way which emphasises commonality rather than difference and facilitates collaboration. This article therefore showcases the utility of tempered radicalism to academics with a range of perspectives.
Kinetic of Disinfection reaction by Sodium Hypochlorite Solution
Authors: Abdul-Wahab Majid I. , Namoos Bashaer M.
Published: July 2023

The present studier aims to study the kinetic of reaction at different experimental conditions depending on coliform bacteria concentration and hypochlorite ion. The effects that had been investigated were different of sodium hypochlorite doses, contact time, pH and temperature (20, 29, 37) o C. The water samples were taken from Al-Wathba water treatment plant in Risafa side of Tigris River in Baghdad. The biological tests included the most probable number (M.P.N) for indicating the concentration of coliform bacteria with different contact times and the total plate count (T.P.C) for indicating the amount of colonies for general bacteria. The iodimetry method (chemical test) was used for indicating the concentration of hypochlorite ion with different contact times. Different models were examined to fit the experimental data including the kinetics power law (first and second order) and Selleck model. It was found that the Selleck model fitted well the experimental data in which degree of Selleck model was equal to two and the rate constants was 1.3791 x 10-5 L / (mole min) at 20o C, 3.0806 x 10-5 L / (mole min) at 29oC, and 5.738 x 10-5 L / (mole min) at 37o C.
The Role of The Head of the Office in Implementing the Bureaucratic Reform Integrity Zone (ZI-RB) in the Office Kementerian Agama Kabupaten Tanah Datar
Authors: Yona Afri , Husnani Husnani , Febrian Vicky Rizki , Jamilus Jamilus
Published: July 2023

The main problem in this thesis is about the role of the Head of Office in Implementing the Bureaucratic Reform Integrity Zone (ZI-RB) at the Office of the Ministry of Religion of Tanah Datar Regency. The purpose of this study was to find out how the role of the head of the office in implementing the integrity zone of bureaucratic reform and how the division of duties of employees at the Office of the Ministry of Religion of Tanah Datar Regency.The type of research that the author uses is a type of field research or field research, to obtain data from the problems studied. The data collection technique of this research was obtained from the results of observations, interviews and documentation. The data analysis technique that the writer uses is data reduction, data presentation, conclusion drawing and verification. The technique of guaranteeing the validity of the data that the author uses is persistence of observation, triangulation and using reference materials, then describes and classifies certain aspects of the problem and describes it through effective sentences.Based on research conducted in the field on the role of the head of the office in implementing the Bureaucratic Reform Integrity Zone at the Office of the Ministry of Religion of Tanah Datar Regency, the head of the office has shown his role well and has done according to his ability in carrying out activities to make the office an integrity zone of bureaucratic reform. In addition, the head of the office has demonstrated his interpersonal, informational, decision-making and supervisory roles well.Keywords : The Role Of The Head Of The Office In Implementing The Bureaucratic Reform Integrity Zone (Zi-Rb) In The Office Kementerian Agama Kabupaten Tanah Datar
Weight Change and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia: Associations with Cognitive Decline
Authors: Morrow Christopher B. , Leoutsakos Jeannie , Yan Haijuan , Onyike Chiadi , Kamath Vidyulata
Published: July 2023

Weight changes, neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS), and cognitive decline often coincide in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD); however, the direction of their relationship remains unclear. This study aims to clarify the connection between weight changes, NPS, and cognition in AD and FTD. We found that cognitive decline was associated with decreased body mass index (BMI) in AD, while BMI gain was associated with increased conversion to FTD. Elevated NPS were associated with decreased BMI in AD and increased BMI in FTD. Identifying early changes in NPS and BMI may facilitate the detection of cognitive decline, providing an opportunity for early intervention.
A Simple Single Item Rated by an Interviewer Predicts Incident Dementia Over 15 Years
Authors: Sutin Angelina R. , Aschwanden Damaris , Luchetti Martina , Stephan Yannick , Terracciano Antonio
Published: July 2023

Subjective memory is useful to detect cognitive deficits not apparent on objective tests. This research evaluates whether memory rated by an interviewer predicts incident dementia. Health and Retirement Study participants without cognitive impairment at baseline whose memory was rated by the interviewer were analyzed ( N = 12,749). Worse interviewer-rated memory was associated with higher risk of incident dementia over 15 years (HR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.27–1.54). The association was evident even among participants in the top quartile of objective memory performance (HR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.26–2.32). Interviewer-rated memory may be a low-cost supplement to neuropsychological evaluation to predict dementia risk beyond self-reports and objective cognitive testing.
DETERMINANTS OF NON-MUSLIM CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS' INTERESTS APPLYING FINANCING AT SHARIA BANK
Authors: Soelistyo Aris
Published: July 2023

Islamic banks operated based on Islamic principles and were more affected by the Covid-19 pandemic than conventional banks because of their higher fee structure. However, to restore the economy, more and more non-Muslim entrepreneurs are applying for business financing at Islamic banks. This study aimed to determine the factors that strongly influence the interest of non-Muslim creative entrepreneurs in Malang to apply for financing at Islamic banks. Using a sample of 112 creative entrepreneurs selected by accidental purposive sampling, the quantitative data obtained from distributing the questionnaires was finally analyzed using PLS-SEM high-level analysis. The study's results divulged four strong factors that influence the interest of non-Muslim creative entrepreneurs in applying for financing at Islamic banks: social influence, reputation, promotion, and services. In contrast, the other four factors did not have a strong effect. Future research is expected to consider the type of financing selected as a control variable.
DEVELOPING ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOR THROUGH JOB SATISFACTION BY IMPROVING MOTIVATION AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Nilasari Ratna Putri , Santoso Risa , Karnawati Tin Agustina
Published: July 2023

This  study  aims  to  determine  the influence of motivation and work environment on Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) with job satisfaction as an intervening variable for non-lecturer employees at ITB Asia Malang. The population of this study includes all non-lecturer employees at the ITB Asia Malang. and the sample used is 70 respondents using the saturated sample method. The result of this study (1) motivation does not significantly affect job satisfaction, (2) work environment effect the job satisfaction positively and significantly, (3) job satisfaction and motivation effect OCB positively and significantly, (4) work environment does not significantly affect OCB, (5) job satisfaction is able to mediate work environment to OCB, (6) job satisfaction is not able to mediate motivation to OCB. ITB Asia Malang needs upgrading facilities, create KPI standards for each division, systems and environments that can shape work patterns for education personnel, and maximizing roles from the division coordinator for monitoring.
ANALISA LOYALITAS GENERASI Z TERHADAP PILIHAN SKINCARE
Authors: Zetty Aqmi Alifia Lisda , Christiarini Renny
Published: July 2023

Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan tujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh brand satisfaction dan customer engagement terhadap brand loyalty melalui brand attitude, brand attachment dan customer trust. Metode yang digunakan selama pengumpulan sampel menggunakan metode quota sampling melalui pendekatan kuantitatif terhadap generasi Z di kota Batam khususnya yang berusia 15-25 tahun. Dalam penilitian ini menggunakan 412 data dengan pengujian hipotesis menggunakan SEM PLS. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa brand satisfaction tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap brand loyalty, customer engagement berpengaruh signifikan positif terhadap brand loyalty, brand attachment berpengaruh signifikan positif terhadap brand loyalty, brand attitude berpengaruh signifikan positif terhadap brand loyalty, dan customer trust tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap brand loyalty.
 
Kata Kunci: Brand loyalty, Brand satisfaction, Customer engagement, Customer trust, Brand attachment
PENGARUH CSR, KINERJA LINGKUNGAN, DAN BIAYA LINGKUNGAN TERHADAP PROFITABILITAS
Authors: Azizah Nur , Cahyaningtyas Fadilla
Published: July 2023

This study aims to examine and analyze the effect of CSR, environmental performance, environmental costs on profitability. The research population is basic industrial sector entities and chemicals for the period 2016 – 2021. The non-probability sampling technique uses a purposive sampling method. The research sample is 7 companies. The results of hypothesis testing show that CSR, environmental performance, and environmental costs have no effect on profitability. This study has theoretical implications in the field of financial accounting, namely obtaining evidence that CSR disclosure, environmental performance, and environmental costs do not affect the size of the profitability of the company. This research also has practical implications, namely that it can be taken into consideration by companies in making decisions, especially to increase profitability, companies must balance the company's focus on increasing sales or on company expenses for CSR disclosure costs, environmental performance, and environmental costs.
PENGARUH RISIKO LITIGASI, INTENSITAS MODAL DAN FINANCIAL DISTRESS TERHADAP KONSERVATISME AKUNTANSI
Authors: Maharani Dyah Puspita , Dura Justita
Published: July 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk meneliti hubungan antara risiko litigasi, intensitas modal, dan financial distress. Populasi penelitian terdiri dari perusahaan properti dan real estate yang terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia tahun 2019–2020 dengan menggunakan teknik seleksi tertarget. Data kuantitatif dari 62 kasus bisnis digunakan dalam penelitian ini. Analisis statistik deskriptif adalah pendekatan yang digunakan untuk menganalisis data, dan pengujian hipotesis standar dibagi menjadi uji autokorelasi, uji heteroskedastisitas, uji linearitas berganda, dan uji normalitas. Kemudian, untuk menilai hipotesis, digunakan uji-t, koefisien determinasi, dan analisis regresi linier berganda. Telah ditunjukkan bahwa temuan penelitian ini pada variabel intensitas modal, kesulitan keuangan, dan risiko proses tidak berpengaruh terhadap konservatisme akuntansi.
The effects of dissolved solids on the vapor-liquid equilibrium of DMS in black liquor
Authors: JENSEN ALLAN , BRANION RICHARD , DUFF SHELDON , POSARAC DUSKO
Published: July 2023

Researchers determined activity coefficients for use in vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE) calculations using a headspace gas chromatographic method for dimethyl sulfide (DMS) in water, kraft pulp mill black liquor, and sodium salts and alkali lignin mixtures up to 6 wt%, for temperatures of 20°C to 90°C. Experimental data were regressed to determine DMS-water binary parameters for the nonrandom two-liquid (NRTL) equation. The effects of electrolytes were studied, and a strong correlation was observed between the activity coefficient and the sodium cation content of the solution. This suggested that the shift in vapor-liquid equilibrium in black liquor could be modeled based solely on the sodium concentration. Sodium salts solutions data were regressed to determine binary parameters for the eNRTL equation, an extended form of the NRTL equation used to describe electrolyte effects. We found that the eNRTL equation could be used to accurately predict activity coefficients of DMS in black liquor.
Statistical prediction model for water vapor barrier of extrusion-coated paper
Authors: LAHTINEN KIMMO , KUUSIPALO JURKKA
Published: July 2023

Regression analysis was used to develop a prediction model for moisture barrier properties of extrusion-coated papers. Practically, water vapor transmission rates (WVTR ) of extrusion-coated papers are affected by three factors: coating weight (or squared mass) of a studied polymer, temperature, and moisture concentration of surroundings. The created model finds mathematical connections between WVTR and these variables covering the detected region of variables with a continuous WVTR estimation. By using mixing ratio as a variable of humidity, the model accurately estimates across the field of experiments and represents a fast and easy-to-use tool for the prediction of WVTR for extrusion-coated papers.
The effect of acupressure on pain level and hemodynamic parameters after coronary angiography: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Düzel Barış , Çam Yanik Tuğba , Kanat Canan , Altun Uğraş Gülay
Published: July 2023

Background

Subsequent to coronary angiography, procedures performed to prevent bleeding may cause pain in the patient. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of acupressure on pain level and hemodynamic parameters in patients undergoing coronary angiography.

Method

In this prospective, a two-arm (1:1), randomized controlled trial was conducted, with 124 patients undergoing coronary angiography included. The randomly assigned study group (n = 62) received acupressure on the LI4 (on the dorsum of the hand, between the 1st and 2nd metacarpal bones), PC6 (three fingers above the wrist), and LI11 (at the lateral end of the transverse cubital crease) points for 15 min 2 h after angiography, while the control group (n = 62) received no acupressure. Data were collected using the visual pain scale (VAS) and hemodynamic parameters [systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2)], monitoring form before, immediately after, and at 10, 20, and 30 min after acupressure.

Results

In the study, it was found that patients had moderate pain after coronary angiography (study group: 5.02 ± 2.27; control group: 3.98 ± 1.82). When the groups were compared, it was found that the VAS score of the study group before angiography was significantly higher than that of the control group, but lower than the control group immediately after acupressure, and at 10, 20, and 30 min after acupressure. In addition, it was determined that acupressure was significantly higher in DBP and RR in the study group compared to the control group at 20 and 30 min; it was not effective in terms of SBP, HR, and SpO2 values.

Conclusion

The results of the study indicated that patients reported moderate pain after coronary angiography, and that acupressure was effective in reducing the pain level, but affected only the DBP and RR hemodynamic parameters. Since the study was single-centered and followed for a short time, it is recommended to conduct new studies with a longer duration.
The association between serum uric acid and hypertriglyceridemia: evidence from the national health and nutrition examination survey (2007–2018)
Authors: Tan Mo-Yao , Mo Chao-Yue , Li Fang , Zhao Qian
Published: July 2023

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests that elevated serum uric acid (SUA) may be a risk factor for hypertriglyceridemia (HTG). However, the epidemiological evidence for the association between SUA and HTG is limited. This article aimed to use the data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2007–2018) database to bridge the research gap.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data from 10027 adults involved in NHANES from 2007-2018. We designed the exposure variable as SUA and the outcome variable as HTG. The covariates included demographics, questionnaires, laboratory, and examination information. Weighted logistic regression and subgroup analysis were used to explore the independent association between SUA and HTG. Furthermore, interaction tests were also carried out to evaluate the strata differences. Generalized additive models (GAM), smooth curve fittings, and threshold effect analysis were applied to examine the non-linear relationship.

Results

A total of 10027 participants were included, of which 3864 were HTG participants and 6163 were non-HTG participants. After fully adjusting for confounders, weighted multiple logistic regression models revealed a 77% increase in the risk of HTG when each unit of log2-SUA increased. There was also a positive association between elevated log2-SUA and developed risk of HTG in the quartile (Q) groups (Q1 OR: 1.00; Q2 OR: 1.17 [95%CI: 0.95,1.45]; Q3 OR: 1.43 [95%CI: 1.16,1.78]; Q4 OR: 1.68 [95%CI: 1.36,2.08]. The subgroup analysis results remained consistent across strata, with a strong positive correlation between SUA and HTG. Interaction tests showed no dependence on physical activity (PA), gender, BMI, smoking status, alcohol intake, hypertension, and diabetes for this positive association between log2-SUA and HTG (all p for interaction >0.05). The participants’ age may impact the strength of the association between SUA and HTG (p for interaction <0.05).

Conclusion

There is a positive association between SUA and HTG in US adults. Considering that SUA may be a risk factor for HTG, individuals diagnosed with HTG should prioritize the daily management of SUA as part of their comprehensive care.
Effect of forest fire on tree diversity and regeneration in the forests of Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya, India
Authors: Bargali Himanshu , Bhatt Dinesh , Sundriyal Rakesh Chandra , Uniyal Virendra Pratap , Pandey Aseesh , Ranjan Ram
Published: July 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of forest fires on tree diversity and their regeneration in three fire-prone forests of Uttarakhand, India. We used Landsat 5, 7, and 8 satellite imagery to prepare fire frequency maps and the study area was divided into four fire frequency classes. Ten plots were marked in each fire frequency class to assess diversity and regeneration pattern of tree species. A total of 14 tree species belonging to 14 genera and 13 families were sampled during the study period. We found that tree species diversity was higher in areas with low fire frequencies in comparison to the areas with no fire frequency class. We also observed that regeneration of tree species varied significantly across all fire frequency classes and forest types, with increasing dominance of certain fire-tolerant species in areas with frequent fires. Of the 33,678 individuals (tree, sapling, and seedling) recorded in all the fire frequency classes, 12,630 were in Sal Forest, 8,033 were in Chir-pine Forest, and 13,015 were in Mixed Forest. The study suggests that if forest fire incidences continue at current levels, the forests could experience a decline in tree diversity. Although forest fire is a natural occurrence in many ecosystems, the increasing frequency and intensity of fires due to human activities such as land-use change and climate change have disrupted the natural fire regime.
Association among inflammaging, body composition, physical activity, and physical function tests in physically active women
Authors: Santos Carlos Andre Freitas , Amirato Gislene Rocha , Paixão Vitoria , Almeida Ewin Barbosa , Do Amaral Jônatas Bussador , Monteiro Fernanda Rodrigues , Roseira Tamaris , Juliano Yara , Novo Neil Ferreira , Rossi Marcelo , Alvares-Saraiva Anuska Marcelino , Vieira Rodolfo de Paula , Bachi Andre Luis Lacerda , Jacinto Alessandro Ferrari
Published: July 2023

Background

Inflammaging is a phenomenon that has been associated with the development and progression of sarcopenia and frailty syndrome. According to the literature, on the one side, the increase in body fat is associated with a systemic pro-inflammatory status, which consequently favors inflammaging, and on the other side, the regular practice of physical exercise can mitigate the development of this scenario. Therefore, here, we aimed to evaluate the association between inflammaging and physical factors, both body and functional, in a group of physically active older women.

Methods

Seventy older women (mean age 72.66 ± 6.17 years) participated in this observational cross-sectional and were separated into the eutrophic, overweight, and obese groups. It was assessed: by bioimpedance—body fat percentage (Fat%) and total (Fat kg), skeletal muscle mass (muscle), and free fat mass both in percentage (FFM%) and total (FFMkg); by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)—the time of moderate-intensity physical activity per week; by physical tests—handgrip (HG), sit-up-stand-on-the-chair in 5 repetitions (Sit-up) and vertical squat jump test (SJ); in addition to the determination of serum cytokine concentration (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-8), and also body mass index (BMI) and calf circumference (Calf).

Results

Higher FFM% and lower body fat (both kg and %) were found in the eutrophic group than in the other groups. The eutrophic group also performed more weekly physical activity, jumped higher, and presented not only higher serum IL-6 concentration but also an increased ratio of IL-10/IL-6, IL-10/TNF-α, IL-10/IL-8 as compared to the values found in the overweight group. The obese group presented higher body fat (kg and %) and lower FFM% than the other groups and also higher serum IL-6 concentration than the overweight group. Interestingly, several significant negative and positive correlations between body composition, physical tests, and serum cytokine concentrations were found in the eutrophic and obese groups.

Conclusion

While the eutrophic older women group showed a remarkable regulation of the systemic inflammatory status with positive associations in the physical parameters assessed, the overweight and obese groups presented impairment regulations of the inflammaging, which could be related to less weekly physical activity and higher body fat.
Microplastics in feed cause sublethal changes in the intestinal microbiota and a non-specific immune response indicator of the freshwater crayfish Procambarus clarkii (Decapoda: Cambaridae)
Authors: Guillén-Watson Rossy , Arias-Andres Maria , Rojas-Jimenez Keilor , Wehrtmann Ingo S.
Published: July 2023

Microplastics (MP) are a hazardous pollutant of global concern that threatens aquatic ecosystems and public health. We used the invasive, cosmopolitan, and environmentally versatile red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii as a model to study the effects of MP on the intestinal microbiome. Crayfish collected from the environment were compared with specimens exposed to recycled Polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) MP in feed (30%) for 96 h in the laboratory and a control group. We analyzed the 16S rRNA of the intestinal bacteria by PCR-DGGE and high-throughput sequencing. MP exposure caused dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota, with an increase in Alphaproteobacteria and Actinobacteria. We detected higher abundance of opportunistic genera such as Klebsiella, Acinetobacter, Hydromonas, Pseudomonas, Gemmobacter, and Enterobacter on MP fed organisms. Moreover, MP exposure reduced the abundance of Clostridia and Bateroidetes, which are important for immune system development and pathogen prevention. Furthermore, MP exposure decreased the phenoloxidase (PO) immune response in crayfish. There was a significant difference in the richness of intestinal bacterial communities after consumption of food contaminated with MP, likely increasing the abundance of opportunistic bacteria in the intestinal microbiota. Our results suggest that MP alter the gut microbial composition and impair the health of P. clarkii.
The current status, challenges, and future perspectives for managing diseases of brassicas
Authors: Greer Shannon F. , Surendran Arthy , Grant Murray , Lillywhite Robert
Published: July 2023

The Brassica genus comprises the greatest diversity of agriculturally important crops. Several species from this genus are grown as vegetable and oil crops for food, animal feed and industrial purposes. In particular, B. oleracea has been extensively bred to give rise to several familiar vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale and Brussels Sprouts, etc.) that are grouped under seven major cultivars. In 2020, 96.4 million tonnes of vegetable brassicas were produced globally with a 10.6% increase over the past decade. Yet, like other crops, the production of brassicas is challenged by diseases among which, black rot, clubroot, downy mildew and turnip yellows virus have been identified by growers as the most damaging to UK production. In some cases, yield losses can reach 90% depending upon the geographic location of cultivation. This review aims to provide an overview of the key diseases of brassicas and their management practices, with respect to the biology and lifecycle of the causal pathogens. In addition, the existing controls on the market as well as those that are currently in the research and development phases were critically reviewed. There is not one specific control method that is effective against all the diseases. Generally, cultural practices prevent disease rather than reduce or eliminate disease. Chemical controls are limited, have broad-spectrum activity, are damaging to the environment and are rapidly becoming ineffective due to the evolution of resistance mechanisms by the pathogens. It is therefore important to develop integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that are tailored to geographic locations. Several knowledge gaps have been identified and listed in this review along with the future recommendations to control these four major diseases of brassicas. As such, this review paper will act as a guide to sustainably tackle pre-harvest diseases in Brassica crops to reduce food loss.
Differential effects of social isolation on oligodendrocyte development in different brain regions: insights from a canine model
Authors: Hong Huilin , Guo Chao , Liu Xueru , Yang Liguang , Ren Wei , Zhao Hui , Li Yuan , Zhou Zhongyin , Lam Sin Man , Mi Jidong , Zuo Zhentao , Liu Cirong , Wang Guo-Dong , Zhuo Yan , Zhang Ya-Ping , Li Yixue , Shui Guanghou , Zhang Yong Q. , Xiong Ying
Published: July 2023

Social isolation (SI) exerts diverse adverse effects on brain structure and function in humans. To gain an insight into the mechanisms underlying these effects, we conducted a systematic analysis of multiple brain regions from socially isolated and group-housed dogs, whose brain and behavior are similar to humans. Our transcriptomic analysis revealed reduced expression of myelin-related genes specifically in the white matter of prefrontal cortex (PFC) after SI during the juvenile stage. Despite these gene expression changes, myelin fiber organization in PFC remained unchanged. Surprisingly, we observed more mature oligodendrocytes and thicker myelin bundles in the somatosensory parietal cortex in socially isolated dogs, which may be linked to an increased expression of ADORA2A, a gene known to promote oligodendrocyte maturation. Additionally, we found a reduced expression of blood-brain barrier (BBB) structural components Aquaporin-4, Occludin, and Claudin1 in both PFC and parietal cortices, indicating BBB disruption after SI. In agreement with BBB disruption, myelin-related sphingolipids were increased in cerebrospinal fluid in the socially isolated group. These unexpected findings show that SI induces distinct alterations in oligodendrocyte development and shared disruption in BBB integrity in different cortices, demonstrating the value of dogs as a complementary animal model to uncover molecular mechanisms underlying SI-induced brain dysfunction.
Involvement of 5-HT1A receptors of the thalamic descending pathway in the analgesic effect of intramuscular heating-needle stimulation in a rat model of lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Ma Yuhong , Zhan Yijun , Pei Jian , Ye Gang , Chen Yaoxin , Zhu Wenyan , Shen Haiyue
Published: July 2023

Background

Intramuscular (IM) heating-needle therapy, a non-painful thermal therapy, has been found to exert an analgesic effectviathe thalamic ventromedial (VM) nucleus, solely by reducing the triggering threshold for descending inhibition; this could be modulated by intracephalic 5-hydroxytryptamine-1A (5-HT1A) receptors, rather than via the regular analgesia pathway. In this study, the effect and the potential serotonergic mechanism of IM heating-needle stimulation at 43°C were explored in the case of the pathological state of lumbar disc herniation (LDH).

Methods

A modified classic rat model of LDH, induced via autologous nucleus pulposus implantation, was utilized. IM inner heating-needles were applied at the attachment point of skeletal muscle on both sides of the L4 and L5 spinous processes. WAY-100635 and 8-OH-DAPT, 5-HT1Areceptor antagonist and agonist, were separately injected into the bilateral thalamic mediodorsal (MD) and VM nucleus via an intrathalamic catheter. Nociception was assessed by bilateral paw withdrawal reflexes elicited by noxious mechanical and heat stimulation.

Results

IM heating-needle stimulation at a temperature of 43°C for 30 or 45 min significantly relieved both mechanical and heat hyperalgesia in the rat model of LDH (P< 0.05). Heat hyperalgesia was found to be significantly enhanced by administration of WAY-100635 into the thalamic VM nucleus, blocking the effect of heating-needle stimulation in a dose-dependent manner (P< 0.05), while no effects were detected after injection into the thalamic MD nucleus (P> 0.05). Injection of 8-OH-DAPT into the thalamic MD nucleus exerted no modulating effects on either mechanical or heat hyperalgesia (P> 0.05).

Conclusion

IM heating-needle stimulation at 43°C for 30 min may activate 5-HT1Amechanisms, via the thalamic VM nucleus, to attenuate hyperalgesia in a rat model of LDH. This innocuous form of thermal stimulation is speculated to selectively activate the descending inhibition mediated by the thalamic VM nucleus, exerting an analgesic effect, without the involvement of descending facilitation of the thalamic MD nucleus.
CCDC85A is regulated by miR-224-3p and augments cancer cell resistance to endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Takahashi So , Takagane Kurara , Itoh Go , Kuriyama Sei , Umakoshi Michinobu , Goto Akiteru , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Yashiro Masakazu , Iijima Katsunori , Tanaka Masamitsu
Published: July 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play pivotal roles in the tumor microenvironment. Here, we analyzed miRNAs in tumor stromal fibroblasts. Expression of miR-224-3p in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) from scirrhous gastric cancer patients was lower than in normal fibroblasts (NF). Introduction of a miR-224-3p mimic attenuated migration and invasion of CAF. Coiled-coil domain containing 85A (CCDC85A), whose function in tumors is not understood, was the target gene of miR-224-3p. Immunohistological analysis revealed that CCDC85A is expressed to varying degrees by cancer cells and CAFs in gastric and pancreatic carcinomas. Downregulation of CCDC85A in cancer cells revealed that these cells are vulnerable to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induced by thapsigargin or tunicamycin, which were ameliorated after addback of CCDC85A. Injection of NF-derived exosomes containing miR-224-3p into the xenograft tumor increased tumor shrinkage by cisplatin treatment. Mechanistically, CCDC85A associated with the molecular chaperone GRP78 and GRP94, thereby inhibiting association of these negative regulators of the unfolded protein response (UPR), leading to sustained activation of PERK and downstream eIF2〈 and ATF4 upon ER stress. These data suggest a novel miR-224-3p-mediated function for CCDC85A: protection from ER stress and cisplatin resistance.
A study of the impact of project-based learning on student learning effects: a meta-analysis study
Authors: Zhang Lu , Ma Yan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

With the educational reform for skills in the 21st century, a large number of scholars have explored project-based learning. However, whether project-based learning can effectively improve the learning effect of students has not yet reached a unified conclusion.

Method

This study uses a meta-analysis method to transform 66 experimental or quasi-experimental research papers based on project-based learning over the past 20 years into 190 effect values from the sample size, mean, and standard deviation of experimental data during their experiments, and to conduct in-depth quantitative analysis.

Results

The results of the study showed that compared with the traditional teaching model, project-based learning significantly improved students’ learning outcomes and positively contributed to academic achievement, affective attitudes, and thinking skills, especially academic achievement.

Discussion

The results of the moderating effects test indicated that the effectiveness of project-based learning and teaching was influenced by different moderating variables, including country region, subject area, type of course, academic period, group size, class size, and experimental period : (1) from the perspective of country geography, the effects of project-based learning in Asia, especially in Southeast Asia, were significantly better than those in Western Europe and North America; (2) in terms of curriculum, project-based learning promotes student learning effects more significantly in engineering and technology subjects, and is better applied in laboratory classes than in theory classes; (3) from a pedagogical point of view, project-based learning is more suitable for small group teaching, in which the group size is 4-5 people teaching the best results; (4) in view of the experimental period, 9-18 weeks is more appropriate and has more obvious advantages for application at the high school level.
Morphological and Phylogenetic Study of Protococcidians Sheds Light on the Evolution of Epicellular Parasitism in Sporozoa (Apicomplexa), with the Description of Eleutheroschizon planoratum sp. nov
Authors: Paskerova Gita G. , Miroliubova Tatiana S. , Valigurová Andrea , Aleoshin Vladimir V. , Simdyanov Timur G.
Published: July 2023

The order Protococcidiida is one of the most poorly studied basal groups of Sporozoa (Apicomplexa sensu stricto). To date, the phylogenetic unity of protococcidians and their relationship with other sporozoans are understudied. Only the protococcidian Eleutheroschizon duboscqi has molecular evidence of a sister position to “true” coccidians (Eimeria, Sarcocystis, Toxoplasma). E. duboscqi is characterized by epicellular development in the so-called parasitophorous sac of the host cell origin. The unusual localization of Eleutheroschizon is comparable to that of Cryptosporidium. We describe a new species of the genus, E. planoratum ex Naineris quadricuspida polychaete from the White Sea, using light and electron microscopy. The morphology of attachment apparatus, phylogenetic analyses of concatenated DNA sequences of the nuclear ribosomal operon (SSU rDNA, ITS1, 5.8S rDNA, ITS2, and LSU rDNA), and compensatory base changes in ITS2 secondary structures of both protococcidians confirm the new species. The resulting phylogenies also confirm that Eleutheroschizon is sister to eimeriid coccidians, while Cryptosporidium tends to be grouped with gregarines. We discuss a new type of endoparasitism among sporozoans—the closed epicellular parasitism that evolved convergently in Eleutheroschizon and Cryptosporidium. The diagnosis of the new species and the emended diagnoses of the species E. duboscqi and the genus Eleutheroschizon are presented.
Information-Theoretic Analysis of Cardio-Respiratory Interactions in Heart Failure Patients: Effects of Arrhythmias and Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Platiša Mirjana M. , Radovanović Nikola N. , Pernice Riccardo , Barà Chiara , Pavlović Siniša U. , Faes Luca
Published: July 2023

The properties of cardio-respiratory coupling (CRC) are affected by various pathological conditions related to the cardiovascular and/or respiratory systems. In heart failure, one of the most common cardiac pathological conditions, the degree of CRC changes primarily depend on the type of heart-rhythm alterations. In this work, we investigated CRC in heart-failure patients, applying measures from information theory, i.e., Granger Causality (GC), Transfer Entropy (TE) and Cross Entropy (CE), to quantify the directed coupling and causality between cardiac (RR interval) and respiratory (Resp) time series. Patients were divided into three groups depending on their heart rhythm (sinus rhythm and presence of low/high number of ventricular extrasystoles) and were studied also after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), distinguishing responders and non-responders to the therapy. The information-theoretic analysis of bidirectional cardio-respiratory interactions in HF patients revealed the strong effect of nonlinear components in the RR (high number of ventricular extrasystoles) and in the Resp time series (respiratory sinus arrhythmia) as well as in their causal interactions. We showed that GC as a linear model measure is not sensitive to both nonlinear components and only model free measures as TE and CE may quantify them. CRT responders mainly exhibit unchanged asymmetry in the TE values, with statistically significant dominance of the information flow from Resp to RR over the opposite flow from RR to Resp, before and after CRT. In non-responders this asymmetry was statistically significant only after CRT. Our results indicate that the success of CRT is related to corresponding information transfer between the cardiac and respiratory signal quantified at baseline measurements, which could contribute to a better selection of patients for this type of therapy.
Stochastic Thermodynamics of Multiple Co-Evolving Systems—Beyond Multipartite Processes
Authors: Tasnim Farita , Wolpert David H.
Published: July 2023

Many dynamical systems consist of multiple, co-evolving subsystems (i.e., they have multiple degrees of freedom). Often, the dynamics of one or more of these subsystems will not directly depend on the state of some other subsystems, resulting in a network of dependencies governing the dynamics. How does this dependency network affect the full system’s thermodynamics? Prior studies on the stochastic thermodynamics of multipartite processes have addressed this question by assuming that, in addition to the constraints of the dependency network, only one subsystem is allowed to change state at a time. However, in many real systems, such as chemical reaction networks or electronic circuits, multiple subsystems can—or must—change state together. Here, we investigate the thermodynamics of such composite processes, in which multiple subsystems are allowed to change state simultaneously. We first present new, strictly positive lower bounds on entropy production in composite processes. We then present thermodynamic uncertainty relations for information flows in composite processes. We end with strengthened speed limits for composite processes.
Chicken Manure Pretreatment for Enhancing Biogas and Methane Production
Authors: Konkol Izabela , Świerczek Lesław , Cenian Adam
Published: July 2023

The objective of this work was to determine the potential of chicken manure as a substrate for biogas production after pretreatment. The effects of removing excess nitrogen from chicken manure by water extraction in a temperature range from 20 °C to 60 °C to increase methane production were investigated. The dynamics of the process and efficiency of biogas production were also analyzed. As a result of manure fermentation after pretreatment, 16 to 45% more biogas and 18 to 39% more methane were obtained compared to manure without pretreatment. The effect of extraction was to increase the ratio of carbon to nitrogen by 2–2.7 times, which contributed to increasing biogas efficiency. The proposed method seems to be a promising enhancing of biogas and methane production in comparison with raw chicken manure. Biomass in the form of chicken manure is a promising substrate for biogas production, due to the constantly growing poultry meat production as well as environmental aspects such as reducing gas emissions from manure into the atmosphere.
Development of a Polygenic Risk Score for BMI to Assess the Genetic Susceptibility to Obesity and Related Diseases in the Korean Population
Authors: Yoon Nara , Cho Yoon Shin
Published: July 2023

Hundreds of genetic variants for body mass index (BMI) have been identified from numerous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in different ethnicities. In this study, we aimed to develop a polygenic risk score (PRS) for BMI for predicting susceptibility to obesity and related traits in the Korean population. For this purpose, we obtained base data resulting from a GWAS on BMI using 57,110 HEXA study subjects from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES). Subsequently, we calculated PRSs in 13,504 target subjects from the KARE and CAVAS studies of KoGES using the PRSice-2 software. The best-fit PRS for BMI (PRSBMI) comprising 53,341 SNPs was selected at a p-value threshold of 0.064, at which the model fit had the greatest R2 score. The PRSBMI was tested for its association with obesity-related quantitative traits and diseases in the target dataset. Linear regression analyses demonstrated significant associations of PRSBMI with BMI, blood pressure, and lipid traits. Logistic regression analyses revealed significant associations of PRSBMI with obesity, hypertension, and hypo-HDL cholesterolemia. We observed about 2-fold, 1.1-fold, and 1.2-fold risk for obesity, hypertension, and hypo-HDL cholesterolemia, respectively, in the highest-risk group in comparison to the lowest-risk group of PRSBMI in the test population. We further detected approximately 26.0%, 2.8%, and 3.9% differences in prevalence between the highest and lowest risk groups for obesity, hypertension, and hypo-HDL cholesterolemia, respectively. To predict the incidence of obesity and related diseases, we applied PRSBMI to the 16-year follow-up data of the KARE study. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that the higher the PRSBMI, the higher the incidence of dyslipidemia and hypo-HDL cholesterolemia. Taken together, this study demonstrated that a PRS developed for BMI may be a valuable indicator to assess the risk of obesity and related diseases in the Korean population.
Analyzing the Antinociceptive Effect of Interleukin-31 in Mice
Authors: Arai Iwao , Tsuji Minoru , Takahashi Kohei , Saito Saburo , Takeda Hiroshi
Published: July 2023

The theory that an itch inhibits pain has been refuted; however, previous research did not investigate this theory for an interleukin-31 (IL-31)-induced itch. Previously, we have found that morphine-induced antinociception was partially reduced in IL-31 receptor A (IL-31RA)-deficient (IL-31RAKI) mice, indicating that IL-31RA may play an important role in morphine-induced peripheral antinociception. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of IL-31-induced analgesia on a 2,4,6-trinitrochlorobenzene (TNCB)-sensitized mice using a hot-plate test. This test evaluated the antinociceptive activity of morphine and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Repeated pretreatment with IL-31 showed significant antinociceptive action. Furthermore, its combination with morphine, but not with NSAIDs, increased the analgesic action. In contrast, treatment with TNCB and capsaicin decreased antinociception. Moreover, TNCB increased IL-31RA expression in the dorsal root ganglia at 24 h, whereas capsaicin inhibited it. The comparative action of several analgesics on TNCB or capsaicin was evaluated using a hot-plate test, which revealed that the antinociceptive activity was decreased or disappeared in response to capsaicin-induced pain in IL-31RAKI mice. These results indicate that the analgesic action of IL-31 involves the peripheral nervous system, which affects sensory nerves. These results provide a basis for developing novel analgesics using this mechanism.