bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Larvicidal effect of Pongamia pinnata plant extracts against Papilio demoleus Linnaeus (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Papilionidae)
Authors: LINGAKARI MAHESH , MADDALA MADHAVI , BANDI SRIKANTH
Published: October 2023

Larvae of the citrus butterfly, Papilio demoleus are serious pests in citrus orchards. Since synthetic pesticides have several ill effects on human health and the ecosystem, biopesticides are feasible alternative to synthetic pesticides. Indian beech tree, Pongamia pinnata plant extracts are well known for their medicinal and pesticidal properties. So, a study was carried out to evaluate P. pinnata plant’s aqueous leaf and seed extracts, and seed oil nanoemulsion at 25, 50, 100, 200, and 400 PPM concentrations against the 4th instar larvae of P. demoleus. All three test compounds showed concentration-dependent larvicidal activity. Comparatively, leaf extracts showed better larvicidal activity than seed extracts and nanoemulsion of the seed oil. The highest mortality was observed with leaf, seed extracts, and seed oil emulsions at 82.61%, 78.26%, and 73.91% respectively, at 400 PPM concentration. LC50 and LC90 values were lowest for leaf extracts (57.97 and 855.93 PPM), while the highest for seed oil nanoemulsion (107.09 and 1947.90 PPM). This is the first report of the efficacy P. pinnata leaf and seed extracts and seed oil nano emulsions against 4th instar larvae of P. demoleus.
Biocontrol potential of endophytic Trichoderma sp. against the pathogenic fungus, Alternaria alternata that causes leaf spot in tomato plants
Authors: MATROOD ABDULNABI A. A. , FOTOUHIFAT KHALIL-BERDI
Published: October 2023

This study was aimed at evaluating the two isolates of the bio-resistant fungi, Trichoderma harzianum and T. koningii in management of the fungus that causes Alternaria alternata leaf spot disease in tomato plants by inducing systemic resistance in the plant. It was demonstrated that two isolates of the pathogenic fungus, A. alternata could infect tomato seeds on water agar media. Isolate No. 1 was the most successful, with an infection rate of 63%, while isolate No. 2 achieved an infection rate of 56%. When employed in concentrations of (10, 20, or 30%) with PDA culture medium, bio-resistant fungus filtrate demonstrated suppression of the pathogenic fungus A. alternata, with the enhanced levels of inhibition with increasing concentration used. Oxacycloheptadec-8-en-2-one, compound 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid, methyl ester, and many more chemical compounds with the ability to inhibit fungi were discovered via the use of the GC-MS equipment to analyze the fungal infiltrates produced by T. harzianum and T. koningii. The bio-resistant fungi significantly lessened the severity of the infection caused by the pathogenic fungus, A. alternata, reaching a reduction of 33.81% during treatment with T. harzianum as opposed to injury of 56.855% in pathogen alone. The tomato leaves that were treated with T. konhngii produced the maximum phenolic content (0.56 mg/g).
Exploitation of epiphytic microorganisms and organic preparations for the management of Choanephora pod rot of cowpea
Authors: GEORGE MILSHA , GIRIJA V. K.
Published: October 2023

Exploration of epiphytic microorganisms from different plant parts and their exploitation for the management of plant pathogens is a relevant approach in view of greater awareness of pollution free environment. The aim of the present study was to analyze the microbial communities with special focus on antagonists isolated from the fructosphere of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) and the use of organic preparations such as panchagavya, jeevamruth, compost tea, vermiwash and fish amino acid for suppression of Choanephora cucurbitarum, the pathogen inciting pod rot in cowpea. A collection of six isolates of bacteria and fungi were isolated through serial dilution technique, and their efficacy in suppressing the pathogen were tested under in vitro conditions. Among the six isolates, the bacteria and fungi with maximum inhibitory activity against the targeted pathogen were selected for further identification and in vivo assay. Based on the cultural, morphological and biochemical characters, the bacterial and fungal antagonists were identified as Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma virens, respectively. In vitro assay of the organic preparations revealed that vermiwash (5% and 10%), jeevamurth (10%) and panchagavya (10%) completely inhibited the growth of pathogen. Application of effective dose of organic preparations and the selected antagonists on the excised cowpea pods revealed that, among organic preparations jeevamurth (10%) exhibited maximum suppression of pod rot by 60.64%, however the selected bacterial antagonist, i.e., P. fluorescens gave complete suppression of the pathogen. Under in vivo conditions, jeevamurth (10%), vermiwash (5%), T. virens (106cfu/ml), and P. fluorescens (106cfu/ml) showed the maximum suppression of the pathogen and the percentage suppression was recorded as 87.33, 75.22, 75.27 and 72.31% respectively. Therefore, the present study revealed that the organic preparations such as jeevamurth (10%), vermiwash (5%), and the indigenous species of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma virens obtained from the fructosphere can be used in integrated disease management strategies against Choanephora pod rot of cowpea.
In vitro assessment of bacterial endophytes for antagonistic activity against Magnaporthe oryzae and Cochliobolus miyabeanus in rice
Authors: KUKRETI ADITYA , CHETHANA B. S. , PRASANNAKUMAR M. K. , MANJUNATHA C. , KARUNAKAR REDDY NAMBURI , PUNEETH M. E. , GULATI PARTH
Published: October 2023

Rice is the global staple food, contributing over half of the world’s agricultural production. Excessive fungicide use in rice farming poses environmental, fungicide resistance, and beneficial microbial disruption concerns, making biocontrol, particularly bacteria, a promising biocontrol agent due to their rapid growth, ease of handling, and robust colonization attributes. Endophytes are endosymbionts residing within host plants, playing a pivotal role in plant health without inciting any pathogenic effects. In this study, we investigated the antagonistic potential of four characterized bacterial endophytic strains, viz., Bacillus velezensis strains A6 and P42, B. pseudomycoides HP3d and Paenibacillus polymyxa PGSS-1 against major foliar rice pathogens viz., Magnaporthe oryzae and Cochliobolus miyabeanus. Against M. oryzae, all the endophytic strains exhibited significant per cent inhibition (50.00-66.67%) and the highest inhibition of 66.67% was achieved by B. pseudomycoides strain HP3d, while the lowest inhibition of 50 and 51.11% was by B. velezensis strain A6, P42, and P. polymyxa PGSS1, respectively. These endophytes outperformed the positive control, P. fluorescens which showed 44.44% inhibition. Similarly, against C. miyabeanus, 31.25-43.75% inhibition was recorded, of which B. velezensis strain A6 exhibited the highest inhibition (43.75%), while B. velezensis strain P42 showed the lowest (31.25%). Furthermore, a double Petri dish assay was conducted to evaluate the volatile compounds produced by these endophytes against the two rice pathogens. It was observed that the volatile compounds produced by B. pseudomycoides strain HP3d and P. polymyxa strain PGSS1 significantly and effectively inhibited the growth of M. oryzae by 88.89% when compared to P. fluorescens (50.00%), whereas B. velezensis strain A6 showed the lowest inhibition (33.33%). Against the brown spot pathogen, C. miyabeanus, the endophytes demonstrated inhibition ranging from 56.25-87.50%, with B. pseudomycoides strain HP3d and P. fluorescens achieving the highest inhibition (87.50%) and B. velezensis strain P42 showing the lowest (56.25%). These results highlight the significant and varied inhibitory effects of volatile compounds released by these endophytes against fungal pathogens of rice. Overall, our findings highlight the promising biocontrol potential of these endophytic strains under in vitro conditions with B. pseudomycoides strain HP3d and P. polymyxa PGSS1 showing exceptional efficacy and they can be deployed in the field for the management of foliar fungal pathogens in rice.
Петроглифы окуневского культурного круга - Томской Писаницы как возможный источник по изучению концепции пратеизма
Authors: Голубев Д.Г.
Published: October 2023

На территории современной России находят большое количество наскальных изображений каменного века, которые, по нашему мнению, указывают на существование представлений о Высшем Существе, однако тема семантики в пользу пратеизма практически не освещается в научной литературе, что формирует проблему исследования. Цель настоящей статьи – это выявить и семантически обосновать некоторые петроглифические изображения Томской Писаницы, указывающие на наш взгляд, о наличии религиозных представлений творения вселенной, человека, всемирного потопа Высшим Существом.
Personnel raining for the road industry
Authors: Zhadenova . S.V
Published: October 2023

The growth of our country and improvement of the welfare of the Russian citizens is impossible without contributing to human resources development. The secondary professional education system of (SPE), as well as the higher education system (HE), play a significant part in the country's economic growth and development of its technological sovereignty. Implementation of tasks set out in the Concept of road education development by 2035 approved by the Ministry of Transport of Russia on February 15, 2023 will allow establishing the conditions for these systems to function effectively and for qualified personnel to be trained for the road industry, possessing sufficient knowledge, competencies and skills required by employers
Assessing Seismic Behavior in RC Buildings with Varied Vertical Aspect Ratios: A Comparative Study
Authors: Dhakal Sulata
Published: October 2023

Limited space in cities due to urbanization and population growth has given rise to tall and distinctively designed buildings. This study focuses on how a building's vertical aspect ratio (height-to-width ratio) affects the seismic performance of residential concrete buildings. In earthquake-prone Nepal, seismic analysis is crucial for buildings in high-risk areas. We investigated the impact of vertical aspect ratio and the presence of masonry infills and soft stories in reinforced concrete frame buildings. Rectangular base models were analysed at 3, 5, and 7 stories. These models were categorized into bare frames, infill frames, and infill frames with soft stories at the ground level. Linear analysis, non-linear analysis, and design of the building have been performed as per the relevant Indian codes of practice. The effect of infills on dynamic characteristics, yield patterns and capacity has been studied with the help of Non-Linear Analysis. The result of the analysis indicates that the structures have lesser capacity and higher drift with the increase in vertical aspect ratio. It also has been observed that infills contribute to a large increase in the stiffness and strength of the structure, so the deformation capacity of the structure gets reduced.
Dendritic Cell as Potential Immunotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Cancer: A Review
Authors: Sulistya Albertus Budi , Haifa Rima , Facicilia Geofanny , Marbun Kristin Talia , Kirana Marsya Nilam , Dewi Yussy Afriani , Sartika Cynthia Retna , Wijaya Andi , Dandan Keri Lestari
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND: Dendritic cell (DC)-based cancer therapy is a promising adjuvant therapy for nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) after chemoradiation. Owing to low immunity after chemoradiation, DC therapy activates immune responses. Moreover, DC-based cancer therapy can decrease tumor progression, prolong lifespan, and increase the quality of life of patients. Various studies regarding the use of DC therapy for NPC have been reported, however there are limited reviews on the implementation and foundation of DC immunotherapy to expand this technology.METHODS: A literature search was performed on EMBASE, ScienceDirect, PubMed (MEDLINE), and Cochrane Library, with the term dendritic cells therapy for nasopharyngeal cancer, dendritic cell immunotherapy in nasopharyngeal cancer patients, and DC therapy in NPC, as the search keywords.RESULTS: A total of 199 literatures were reviewed, and four clinical trials were identified as relevant for this review. DC vaccines can be processed with various maturation and activation processes. Selected literatures reported antigens used when incubating the DC are latent membrane protein (LMP) 1, LMP2, and Epstein–Barr virus nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1). Although DC therapy was produced from different pathways, it has been reported that there are increases of cluster of differentiation (CD)8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and the progression free survival (PFS) rate in DC immunotherapy patients than the radiochemotherapy patients.CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that DC could be used as an adjuvant therapy alongside the standard therapy of NPC, which prolongs NPC patient survival.KEYWORDS: adjuvant cell therapy, nasopharyngeal cancer therapy, dendritic cells
Anxiety during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Prevalence, Effects and Predisposing Factors
Authors: AKAN Şebnem
Published: October 2023

Although infectious diseases have emerged in various periods of history, the outbreaks seen worldwide due to globalization have started to increase in recent years. Epidemics had significant effects on the psychological health of individuals. The most important effect of COVID-19 pandemic on individuals was anxiety. In the days when other pandemic diseases are at the door, the understanding of anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic in individuals is a very important issue. In the COVID-19 outbreak, the general sample, university students, those diagnosed with COVID-19, and healthcare workers were the groups most affected by anxiety. In different countries, moderate anxiety symptoms in different waves of the epidemic ranged from 6.3% to 66.8% in the general sample, between 18.6% and 87.7% in university students, between 13.0-60.3% in people diagnosed with COVID-19, and between 13.0-51.6% in healthcare workers. In the follow-up studies, it was noted that the anxiety symptoms did not regress to the pre-pandemic level for a long time in these samples. According to the findings, anxiety associated with COVID-19 is associated with psychological health. As COVID-19-related anxiety increased, negative emotions, dysfunctional behaviors, sleep problems and depressive symptoms increased.The fact that anxiety is common, persistent and associated with other psychological symptoms during the epidemic made it necessary to understand the underlying factors of anxiety. Findings indicate that anxiety sensitivity, disgust susceptibility/sensitivity, intolerance to uncertainty, and health anxiety play a role in explaining anxiety symptoms associated with COVID-19. These susceptibility factors may contribute to the development of cognitive-behavioral oriented therapeutic and preventive intervention programs both during/after epidemic and future epidemics especially in the general sample, university students, those diagnosed with COVID-19, and healthcare workers.
A educação ambiental crítica e o direito: a democracia participativa no poder judiciário
Authors: Wagner Bruna Kucharski , Hernandez Caporlingua Vanessa
Published: October 2023

This article is an interconnection between Critical Environmental Education and Law, seeking to discuss participatory democracy in the Judiciary, having as justification the need to understand Critical Environmental Education and thinking from the Democratic State, adding possibilities for direct participation of citizens in decisions. Thus, it raises the question: Can Critical Environmental Education and Law develop environmental knowledge for the benefit of participatory democracy in the Judiciary? In this context, the objective is to analyze how Critical Environmental Education and Law can contribute to the formation of environmental knowledge and achieve participatory democracy in the Judiciary. This research consists of a qualitative approach, with theoretical-methodological analysis, through bibliographic and documental means and, to understand and interpret the information, the technique of content analysis and sampling was used. As the main results obtained, the need to break with traditional dogmatics is highlighted, at the same time that the intense and necessary approximation of Law with Critical Environmental Education is perceived. Emphasis is also placed on social participation in spaces for debates about diffuse rights that can be established through democracy. For this, a reconstruction carried out through the critical nature of Environmental Education is essential. It was shown here that it is necessary to understand the spaces for dialogue and the scope of participatory democracy. The fact is that it is necessary to break with traditional demands in the Judiciary and transpose, through Critical Environmental Education, into a new relationship with the judges, in favor of the community in a space of participatory democracy.
200 años de vida independiente: La Constitución, sustento del proyecto de nación y de los derechos
Authors: Estañol Vidal Eduardo , Sosa Olán Henrry , Rodríguez Falcón Margarita , Priego Álvarez Freddy Alberto , Morales Velueta Ángel
Published: October 2023

La Constitución es un pacto político y social de los nacionales de un país, que establece la forma de gobierno, las garantías y las obligaciones de la sociedad, constituyéndola en una institución con personalidad moral y jurídica. Por ello, los cinco autores que aquí participan abordan diferentes visiones sociales y políticas de la Constitución en un contexto contemporáneo, que busca difundir la importancia que sigue teniendo dicho ordenamiento jurídico para el desarrollo de nuestro país. La mayoría de los autores se han inclinado por el sentido eminentemente protector de los derechos de los ciudadanos que tiene nuestra Carta Magna. En ese mismo aspecto de garante, se aborda el derecho de los consumidores en un momento en que la autoridad federal toma su defensa en sus acciones al regular algunos mercados en donde el abuso de los comerciantes de materias primas e insumos es evidente y violador de sus derechos. Además, se exponen los derechos de las personas en estado de necesidad de la Constitución del Estado Libre y Soberano de Tabasco, analizados de manera comparada con la Constitución federal y la legislación internacional en este tema. Se difunden de manera clara y amplia cada uno de los derechos de las personas en estado de necesidad. Por último, pero no menos importante, el libro señala que en el escenario público las mujeres son blancos de todo tipo de señalamientos, y doscientos años atrás más, lo que no impidió que Leona Vicario, la Güera Rodríguez, Hermila Galindo, Elvia Carrillo Puerto y otras más, aportaran su conocimiento, sus recursos económicos y demás talentos, coadyuvando en la lucha por lograr la independencia del país y posteriormente derrocar los 30 años de la dictadura de Porfirio Díaz, y dar paso, en 1917, a la primera Carta Magna del mundo donde se reconocieron y consagraron los derechos sociales y laborales.
Língua e seus complexos usos sociais
Authors: Camargo Eliane
Published: October 2023

No planalto guianês, há traços de uma provável exogamia linguística que pode ser detectada entre os aparais e os wayanas. Cada um desses grupos fala suas línguas assim como outras línguas dos demais grupos indígenas vizinhos, além da língua nacional do país onde vivem. Tal dinâmica linguística deve-se em parte às redes de sociabilidade interétnicas que, por razões diversas, levaram grupos a coabitarem, formando um grupo maior dentro do qual a distinção entre eles parece ter sido geográfica e linguística. Diferentes testemunhos dão a entender que, no passado, essas redes de sociabilidade étnica eram amalgamadas também por uma exogamia linguística, persistindo ainda hoje, porém de maneira flexível, e também abrindo essas relações além da esfera étnica caribe.O presente estudo propõe revisitar algumas dessas relações de sociabilidade étnica, tendo a língua paterna como identidade étnica entre os aparais e wayanas. Algumas situações de resiliência linguística são abordadas.
Addressing the Knowledge Deficit in Hospital Bed Planning, Defining an Optimum Region for the Number of Different Types of Hospital Beds in an Effective Health Care System
Authors: Jones Rodney P.
Published: October 2023

Based upon 30-years of research by the author a new approach to hospital bed planning and international benchmarking is proposed. The number of hospital beds per 1000 population is commonly used to compare international bed numbers. This method is flawed because it does not consider population age structure or the effect of nearness-to-death on hospital utilization. Deaths are also serving as a proxy for wider bed demand arising from undetected outbreaks of 3000 species of human pathogens. To remedy this problem a new approach to bed modelling has been developed which plots beds per 1000 deaths against deaths per 1000 population. Lines of equivalence can be drawn on the plot to delineate countries with higher or lower bed supply. This method is extended to attempt to define the optimum region for bed supply in an effective health care system. England is used as an example of a health system descending into operational chaos due to too few beds and manpower. The former Soviet bloc countries represent a health system overly dependent on hospital beds. Several countries also show evidence for over-utilization of hospital beds. The new method is used to define a potential range for bed supply and manpower where the current most effective health systems currently reside. The method is applied to total curative beds, medical beds, psychiatric beds, critical care, geriatric care, etc., and can also be used to compare different types of healthcare staff, i.e., nurses, physicians, surgeons. Issues surrounding the optimum hospital size and the optimum average occupancy will also be discussed. The role of poor policy in the English NHS is used to show how the NHS has been led into a bed crisis. The method is also extended beyond international benchmarking to illustrate how it can be applied at a local or regional level in the process of long-term bed planning. Issues regarding the volatility in hospital admissions are also addressed to explain the need for surge capacity and why an adequate average bed occupancy margin is required for an optimally functioning hospital.
A Soft Sensor Model based on ISOA-GPR Weighted Ensemble Learning for Marine Lysozyme Fermentation Process
Authors: Lu Na , Wang Bo , Zhu Xiang lin
Published: October 2023

Due to the highly nonlinear, multi-stage, and strongly time-varying marine lysozyme fermentation process, it is difficult to assure the stability and prediction accuracy of the traditional single global soft sensor model on a global scale. This study innovatively proposed a soft sensor model based on an improved seagull optimization algorithm (ISOA) combined with Gaussian process regression (GPR) weighted ensemble learning. First, the sample data set is divided into multiple local sample subsets by the improved density peak clustering algorithm (ADPC). Second, the Gaussian process regression model is optimally altered with an improved seagull optimization algorithm for the purpose of establishing the corresponding sub-prediction model. Finally, the prediction model's fusion strategy is ultimately determined depending on the degree of connection between the test samples and a subset of local pieces. Simulation results show that the proposed soft sensor model, which searches GPR based on ISOA and combines various sub-models, can predict the key biochemical parameters of the marine lysozyme fermentation process better with less prediction error under the condition of fewer training data, and it can be expanded to the soft sensor models of general nonlinear systems, according to simulation results.
Biased Random Process of Randomly Moving Particles with Fixed Mean and Curl
Authors: Bai Baodan , Guo Tao
Published: October 2023

In this study, we investigate the behavior of randomly moving particles with a defined average energy, focusing on their biased motion around a specific point. These particles' velocity magnitudes follow a Maxwell distribution with a specific scale parameter. Our analysis derives the stochastic rotation rules for these particles and introduces the Ito equation conditions for biased stochastic rotation at a given curl value. We also consider the special relativistic-like effects in this context. The findings are validated through a representative example.
Neural Coupling between Interhemispheric and Frontoparietal Functional Connectivity during Semantic Processing
Authors: Soshi Takahiro
Published: October 2023

Interhemispheric and frontoparietal functional connectivity have been reported to increase during explicit information processing. However, it is unclear how and when interhemispheric and frontoparietal functional connectivity interact during explicit semantic processing. Here, we tested the neural coupling hypothesis that explicit semantic processing promotes neural activity in the nondominant right hemispheric areas owing to synchronization with enhanced frontoparietal functional connectivity at later processing stages. We analyzed electroencephalogram data obtained using a semantic priming paradigm, which comprised visual priming and target words successively presented under direct or indirect attention to semantic association. Scalp potential analysis demonstrated that the explicit processing of congruent targets reduced negative event-related potentials, as previously reported. Current source density analysis showed that explicit semantic processing activated the right temporal area during later temporal intervals. Subsequent dynamic functional connectivity and neural coupling analyses revealed that explicit semantic processing increased the correlation between right temporal source activities and frontoparietal functional connectivity in later temporal intervals. These findings indicate that explicit semantic processing increases neural coupling between the interhemispheric and frontoparietal functional connectivity during later processing stages.
Design of Experiment Guided Establishment of a Fermentative Bioprocess for Biomass-Bound Astaxanthin with Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Meyer Florian , Schmitt Ina , Schäffer Thomas , Wendisch Volker F. , Henke Nadja A.
Published: October 2023

Corynebacterium glutamicum is prominent for the industrial production of secreted amino acids. Notably, it naturally accumulates the carotenoid pigment decaprenoxanthin in its membranes. Metabolic engineering enabled production of astaxanthin. Here, a bioprocess for astaxanthin production in lab-scale stirred bioreactors was established by a DoE-guided approach to optimize the basic process parameters pH, rDOS, aeration rate as well as inoculation cell density. The DoE-guided approach from 2 L scale cultivation revealed that the pH showed the strongest effect on the product formation. Subsequently, an optimum at pH 8, an aeration rate of 0.25 vvm, 30 % rDOS and an initial optical density of 1 was established that allowed production of 7.6±0.6mg L-1 astaxanthin in batch mode. These process conditions were successfully transferred to a fed-batch process resulting in a high cell density cultivation with up to 60 g CDW L-1 biomass and 64 mg L-1 astaxanthin and thus demonstrating an about 9-fold improvement compared to optimal batch conditions. Moreover, pH shifts experiments indicate that the cells can quickly adapt to a change from pH 6 to 8 and start producing astaxanthin showing the possibility of a biphasic bioprocesses for astaxanthin production.
The FINDING-Food Intervention: A Feasibility Study Addressing Food Insecurity
Authors: Royer Michael F. , Wharton Christopher
Published: October 2023

Food insecurity is an economic and social condition involving limited or uncertain access to food. The problem of food insecurity in communities is influenced by economic conditions, food deserts, and barriers to accessing healthy food. Individuals experiencing food insecurity often endure concurrent problems of financial instability, hunger, and poor mental and physical health. Public and non-profit services in the U.S., such as the federally supported Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and community food banks, provide food-related assistance to individuals who are at a high risk of experiencing food insecurity. Unfortunately, many individuals who qualify for these services still experience food insecurity due to barriers preventing them from accessing food. Effective approaches for removing barriers that prevent individuals from accessing food are needed to mitigate the increased risk of chronic disease among vulnerable populations. This study tested a novel food insecurity intervention called FINDING-Food, which stands for Frequent Informational Nudges Directing Individuals to Needed Goods. Informational nudges in the intervention promoted food security through the elimination of information barriers to accessing food. The intervention used in this mixed-methods feasibility study consisted of informational nudges in the form of weekly text messages that were sent to food pantry clients experiencing food insecurity. The study aims were to test the efficacy and acceptability of the intervention by examining whether the informational nudges could enhance food pantry utilization, increase SNAP registration, and promote food security. Quantitative study results showed a lower prevalence of food insecurity in the intervention group than the control group at the end of the study. Qualitative findings revealed how the intervention group found the text messages to be helpful and informative. These study findings can enhance future food insecurity interventions aiming to eliminate barriers that prevent individuals who are food insecure from accessing healthy food.
Research on the Coupled Coordination of the Digital Economy and Environmental Quality
Authors: Luan Xiaomei , Chang Jing , Huang Juan
Published: October 2023

Based on the panel data from 31 provinces in China from 2012 to 2020, this paper uses the TOPSIS method to measure the development level of the digital economy and environmental quality. Then, a coupled coordination degree model is used to analyse the relationship between the digital economy and environmental quality. Kernel density estimation and the Dagum Gini coefficient method were used to reveal the dynamic evolution trend of the coupled coordination level between the digital economy and environmental quality and the regional trends of coupled indicators. Finally, the dynamics of the above relations were explored with an econometric model. The results show that the coupled coordination degree of the digital economy and environmental quality displays obvious regional heterogeneity, and the national coordination level exhibits dynamic convergence characteristics. The heterogeneity of the coupled coordination degree of the two systems in the eastern region has decreased year by year, except in the western region, the central region and the northeast region, where an upwards trend is observed. Overall, the Gini coefficient of the coupled coordination degree between the digital economy and environmental quality displays a certain downwards trend. The level of economic development, technological innovation level, industrial structure, degree of opening to the outside world, degree of environmental regulation, marketization index and financial development level have a positive influence on the coupled coordination of the digital economy and environmental quality. Environmental regulation is the core driver of the coupling of the two systems, and the economic development level, technological innovation level, industrial structure and degree of openness are the other major drivers. Therefore, in the processes of digital economy transformation and environmental governance, all regions should focus on balanced development between regions to optimize the overall efficiency of the two systems, consider external influence, enhance internal capabilities, and promote the coordination and co-development of the two systems.
Comparison of Minimally Invasive Versus Open Surgery for Type II Endometrial Cancer: An Analysis of the National Cancer Database.
Authors: Zhang Qi , Silver Michael , Chen Yi-Ju Amy , Wolf Jennifer , Hayek Judy , Alagkiozidis Ioannis
Published: October 2023

Objective: To compare the overall survival (OS) and surgical outcomes between open and minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in a large cohort of women with Type II endometrial cancer.
Methods: Using the National Cancer Database, we identified a cohort of women who underwent hysterectomy for type II endometrial cancer (serous, clear cell, carcinosarcoma) between January 2010 and December 2014. Primary outcome was the comparison of OS between MIS and the open approach. Secondary outcomes included the length of hospital stay, readmission rate, 30- and 90-day mortality. Multivariable logistic regression and inverse propensity weighting analyses were performed.
Results: A total of 12,905 patients with Type II, Stage I-III endometrial cancer who underwent hysterectomy were identified. Among these patients, 7,123 (55.2%) underwent MIS. The utilization of MIS increased from 39% to 64% over the four-year period.
In propensity-score-weighted analysis, MIS was associated with superior OS (101.7 vs. 86.7 months, p=0.0003 by the log-rank test), with a hazard ratio of 0.9 (CI 0.857-0.954, p=0.0002). MIS was also associated with improved perioperative outcomes, including a shorter length of stay (1 vs. 4 days, p<0.001), lower 30-day readmission rate (2.5% vs. 5%), and lower 30- and 90-day postoperative mortality (0.5% vs. 1.3% and 1.5% vs. 3.6%, respectively; p<0.001). The time interval between surgery and initiation of chemotherapy was shorter in the MIS group (38 vs. 41 days, p<0.001).The increase in MIS adoption correlated with a decrease in 90-day postoperative mortality (2.8% to 2.2%, r=-0.89; p=0.003) and 12-month overall mortality (51% to 38%, r=-0.95, p=0.006).
Conclusions: In an epidemiologic study, MIS is associated with improved overall survival and superior perioperative outcomes compared to open surgery in women with Type II endometrial cancer.
Magnetic Stirling Cycle for Qubits with Anisotropy near the Quantum Critical Point
Authors: Araya Cristóbal , Peña Francisco J. , Norambuena Ariel , Castorene Bastián , Vargas Patricio
Published: October 2023

We studied the performance of a quantum magnetic Stirling cycle that uses a working substance composed of two entangled antiferromagnetic qubits (J) under the influence of an external magnetic field (Bz) and an uniaxial anisotropy field (K) along the total spin in the y-direction. The efficiency and work were calculated as a function of Bz and for different values of the anisotropy constant K given hot and cold reservoir temperatures. The anisotropy has been shown to extend the region of the external magnetic field in which the Stirling cycle is more efficient compared to the ideal case.
Two-Axial Measurement of the Angular Microdeflection of a Laser Beam Using One Single-Axis Sensor
Authors: Dobosz Marek , Jankowski Michał , Mruk Jakub
Published: October 2023

The majority of current methods for measuring the angular deflection of a laser beam enable measurement only in one selected plane. However, there are tasks in which measurements of laser beam deflections in 3D are required. In this paper, we present a way of enabling two-axial measurements of the deflection of a beam based on a single-axis sensor. The key idea is to direct a laser beam alternately into one of two arms of a measurement system. In the first arm, the beam is transmitted directly to the angular sensor, while in the second, the beam is directed to the sensor via a special optical element that rotates the plane of the beam deflection; in other words, this element changes the deflection in the horizontal plane into a deflection in the vertical plane, and vice versa. To alternate the path of the beam, a variable phase retarder and a polarising beamsplitter are used. The proposed technique is experimentally verified, and the results confirm its effectiveness.
Research on Enhanced Detuned-Loading Effect in Integrated Two-Section DFB Lasers with High Modulation Bandwidth
Authors: Zhang Yunshan , Gu Hongming , Ma Guolong , Guan Shijian , Fang Tao , Chen Xiangfei
Published: October 2023

A novel high-speed directly modulated two-section distributed feedback (TS-DFB) semiconductor laser based on the detuned-loading effect is proposed and simulated. Grating structure is designed by reconstruction-equivalent-chirp (REC) technique. A π phase-shift is introduced into the reflection grating, which can provide a narrow-band reflection region with a sharp falling slope on both sides of the reflection spectrum, thus enhancing the detuned-loading effect. Owing to its unique dual-falling-edges structure the bandwidth can be improved even when the lasing wavelength shifts beyond the left falling edge due to thermal effect in actual test, in which condition the detuned-loading effect can be used twice, which greatly improves the yield. The modulation bandwidth is increased from 17.5 GHz for a single DFB laser to around 24 GHz when the lasing wavelength is located on the left falling edge of the TS-DFB laser based on detuned-loading effect, and can be increased to 22 GHz for the right side. An eight-channel laser array with precise wavelength spacing is investigated, with side mode suppression ratio (SMSR) > 36dB. Besides, TS-DFB lasers with uniform reflection grating are studied and simulated result shows that modulation characteristic is far inferior to the laser with a phase-shifted grating reflector.
Dual-Period Polarization-Dependent Diffraction Gratings Based on a Polymer-Stabilized Liquid Crystal
Authors: Kajkowska Marta , Chychłowski Miłosz , Ertman Sławomir , Lesiak Piotr
Published: October 2023

In this paper we demonstrate first ever dual-period diffraction gratings that do not require electrical tuning to obtain the effect of period change. Our method allows for multiplication of the base period by proper modification of the subsequent slits of the grating. The proposed elements are fabricated by selective photopolymerization of a composite based on nematic liquid crystal. The gratings are formed by polymer stabilization of liquid crystal in different orientations of the molecules in selected grating slits to allow for period manipulation. The operating principle is based on changing the phase delay introduced by the slits depending on polarization direction of incident light with respect to the director in each type of slit, which allows to change the grating’s period. The proposed technique was successfully utilized to obtain diffraction gratings with either doubling or tripling of the period.
Ignition delay and burning rate analysis of diesel-carbon nanotube blends stabilized by surfactant: a droplet scale study.
Authors: Gallego Anderson , Cacua Karen , Gamboa David , Rentería Peláez Jorge Luis , Herrera Bernardo
Published: October 2023

In this study, ignition delay and burning rate are experimentally investigated in relation to the effect of pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs), sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate (SDBS), and diesel blends. Single droplet combustion tests were conducted in a combustion system for 21 days using CNTs at concentrations of 50 ppm and 100 ppm, that were dispersed in Colombian commercial diesel and stabilized by SDBS. Additionally, recordings of the combustion were collected, and the Shadowgraph optical method was utilized for monitoring the evolution of droplet size during combustion. The measurements were done over a four-week period. The results demonstrated that the temporal stability has a direct impact on the single droplet combustion tests because a concentration of CNTs of 100 ppm showed higher stability than those achieved by 50 ppm. Consequently, improvements were found with a concentration of 100 ppm, for instance, thermal conductivity increased by about 20%, ignition delay time by 16.2%, and burning rate by 30.5%.
Life Cycle Assessment in Flange Part Production Comparing Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing Method (WAAM) and Conventional Manufacturing in Terms of Energy Consumption, Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Solid Waste Generation
Authors: Mattos Brunna Mothé , Filho João da Cruz Payão , Guimarães Claudinei de Souza
Published: October 2023

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has been proving suitable to support or even replace traditional manufacturing in several industries, offering many advantages such as delivery time and reduction in terms of material waste, energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study aimed to carry out a comparative assessment of the life cycle, from gate to gate, in the production of a low alloy carbon steel flange part using ER-90 wire. The methods utilized were Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and conventional manufacturing (CM) by forging, and comparative factors were energy demands, GHG emissions and generated solid waste. The total energy consumption in WAAM was 10,239.40 MJ, total carbon footprint in CO2 equivalent (CO2e) was 714.1 kgCO2e kg-1, and generated solid waste was 68.6 kg, respectively, 90%, 95% and 76% lower than consumption calculated in conventional manufacturing.
The Hidden Injury: Delayed Diagnosis of C2 Fracture Post Athletic Trauma
Authors: Al-Smadi Mohammad Walid , Sharma Vidushi , Kozma István , Viola Árpád
Published: October 2023

Cervical injuries from athletic activities are rare; they can have severe consequences if not diagnosed and managed promptly. The choice of diagnostic imaging modality is pivotal in ensuring timely and accurate diagnosis. We detail the case of a 19-year-old female athlete who sustained a C2 Durel Type II Subclass C fracture during a short-track speed skating championship. Initial evaluation using X-ray imaging at the athletic center medical facility did not detect the injury, allowing her to continue competing. Persistent pain led to further evaluation at our institution, where MRI and CT scans confirmed the fracture. Approximately 45 days post-injury, the patient underwent a successful surgical intervention utilizing O-arm CBCT navigation for C1-C2 dorsal fusion. Post-surgery, she embarked on a comprehensive rehabilitation program and fully recovered within 12 weeks. This case underscores the limitations of relying solely on X-ray imaging for diagnosing cervical fractures post-trauma. Our findings advocate prioritizing CT scans as a primary diagnostic tool in such scenarios, emphasizing the need for a robust diagnostic approach to ensure athlete safety and well.
Two Kadane Algorithms for the Maximum Sum Sub-Array Problem
Authors: Kadane Joseph B.
Published: October 2023

The algorithm now known as Kadane’s algorithm for the maximum subarray problem uses many of the ideas that Kadane proposed, but it is not the algorithm that Kadane intended. This paper compares the two algorithms in question. They are both linear in time, employ just a few words of memory, and use a dynamic programming structure. The upshot is two light-weight algorithms for the maximum subarray problem.
Concordance of Cancer-Associated Cytokines and Mitochondrial DNA Deletion Mutations between Individuals with Hepatocellular Carcinoma and People Living with HIV
Authors: Aboagye James Odame , Ayanful-Torgby Ruth , Zhou Lei , Wormenor Peter , Ganu Vincent , Tachi Kenneth , Attoh Bernard Nii Akrashie , Mensah Miriam , Kuuguu Timothy , Kyei George Boateng , Paintsil Elijah
Published: October 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a non-AIDS-defining cancer closely tied to the chronic HIV infection and associated with the release of inflammatory cytokines, immune system dysfunction, and genetic alterations within mitochondria. However, our understanding of how these factors contribute to HCC risk in PLWH is limited. The objective of the study was to ascertain the differential secretion of cytokines and mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) deletion in PLWH, and individuals diagnosed with HCC without HIV. A cross-sectional study was conducted with PLWH and HCC participants from the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from whole blood. The plasma samples were used to measure cytokines using ELISA and Luminex techniques. We determined mtDNA deletions from PBMCs. We found that the secretion of the cytokines TGF-β, FGF-2, IL-8, TNF-α, VEGF, and RANTES implicated in the pre-cancer, initiation, and early stages of HCC were similar in PLWH compared to HCC participants without HIV. PBMCs of PLWH exhibited high mtDNA deletion (60%) comparable to HCC participants without HIV (64%). These findings underscore the underlying risks associated with HCC development in PLWH. There is a need for HCC surveillance among PLWH and these cytokines could be used as biomarkers.
Brief Electrical Stimulation Ameliorates Poor Recovery after Surgical Repair of Injured Peripheral Nerves
Authors: Gordon Tessa
Published: October 2023

Injured peripheral nerves regenerate their axons in contrast to those in the central nervous system. However, functional recovery after surgical repair is often disappointing. The basis for the poor recovery is the progressive deterioration with time and distance, of the growth capacity of the neurons that lose their contact with targets (chronic axotomy) and the growth support of the chronically denervated Schwann cells (SC) in the distal nerve stumps. This is despite the retained capacity of chronically denervated and atrophic muscle to accept reinnervation. Progressive decline in regeneration associated genes in both axotomized neurons and denervated SCs accounts for the decline in regenerative success in association with silencing of neural activity in sensory neurons due to their disconnection from their sense organs and, in motoneurons due to loss of their synaptic contacts in the spinal cord. Whilst exogenous neurotrophic factors promote nerve regeneration, the profuse axonal outgrowth and difficulties in delivery are avoided by promoting their endogenous expression with brief (1 hour) low frequency (20Hz) electrical stimulation (ES) proximal to the injury site. ES accelerates axon outgrowth and in turn, target reinnervation in both animals and human subjects. Applying ES to intact nerve days prior to nerve injury, conditional ES (CES) increases axonal outgrowth and regeneration rate with the potential for application in nerve transfer surgeries and end-to-side neurorrhaphies. However, the additional surgery for applying CES electrodes may be a hurdle. ES is applicable in all surgeries with excellent outcomes.
Application of Multiscale Hierarchical Porous Structure Design in Bone Tissue Engineering Scaffolds: A Review
Authors: Wang Yun , Meng Yufeng , Wang Yuning , Yuan Shuai , Li Yiyuan , Feng Yanhuizhi , Wang Zuolin
Published: October 2023

In recent decades, porous scaffolds for bone tissue engineering (BTE) have gained significant attention. Considerable research efforts have been dedicated to investigating the impact of scaffold pore size on a diverse array of biological processes, including cell-scaffold interactions, substance transportation, and vascularization. However, the multi-scale hierarchical porosity, a key structural characteristic of natural bone, has rarely been replicated in BTE scaffolds due to the challenges of controlling the scaffold structure across multiple length scales. With the advancement of manufacturing technology, there has been increasing research on biomimetic multi-scale hierarchical materials, which are also gaining favor in the field of BTE. Therefore, there is an urgent need to review multi-scale hierarchical porous BTE scaffolds. This paper aims to review the role and fabrication methods of multi-scale porous BTE scaffolds at different length scales, the design and manufacturing of new BTE scaffolds for bone regeneration.