bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy knowledge spaces based on $ \beta $ evaluation criteria
Authors: Sun Wen
Published: September 2023

In KST, it is always assumed that the knowledge state represents items that an individual can solve in ideal conditions. Namely, the answers of individuals to items can be encoded as either correct or incorrect. The correct answer indicates a complete mastery of the item, but the incorrect answer may indicate a partial mastery of the item. It is reasonable to use a fuzzy knowledge state to represent the partial mastery of items instead of complete mastery. The fuzzy knowledge state of an individual is represented by a fuzzy set in $ \mathcal{F}(Q) $ that the individual is capable of solving. For any fuzzy knowledge state, each item has a value that represents the level of individual mastery of the item. Fuzzy knowledge spaces and fuzzy learning spaces are generalizations of knowledge spaces and learning spaces. The generalization based on partial order is helpful to distinguish the equally informative items, which can directly induce a discriminative fuzzy knowledge structure. It is effective to use fuzzy knowledge spaces and fuzzy learning spaces to assess knowledge and guide further learning. A fuzzy knowledge space and a fuzzy learning space can be faithfully summarized by the fuzzy knowledge basis, since they are union-closed. Any fuzzy knowledge state of a fuzzy knowledge space can be generated by forming the union of some fuzzy knowledge states in the basis. A fuzzy knowledge basis is a generalization of the knowledge basis of a knowledge space.
Threshold dynamics of stochastic cholera epidemic model with direct transmission
Authors: Ara Roshan , Ahmad Saeed , Khan Zareen A. , Zahri Mostafa
Published: September 2023

This paper extends the cholera human-to-human direct transmission model from a deterministic to a stochastic framework. This is expressed as mixed system of stochastic and deterministic differential equations. A Lyapunov function is created to investigate the global stability of the stochastic cholera epidemic, which shows the existence of global positivity of the solution using the theory of stopping time. We then find the threshold quantity of the extended stochastic cholera epidemic model. We derive a parametric condition $ \widetilde{R}_0 $, and for additive white noise, we establish sufficient conditions for the extinction and the persistence of the cholera infection. Finally, for a suitable choice of the parameter of the system for $ \widetilde{R}_0 $, we perform numerical simulations for both scenarios of extinction and persistence of the dynamic of the cholera infection.
Teletransportation paradox and quantum consciousness
Authors: Wang Everett X. , Wang Zhong Lin , Zhou Shudong , Hong Zhanyong , Wang C.
Published: September 2023

Recent research suggests that the human brain may possess quantum computing capabilities, but the implications for consciousness remain unclear. This study investigates the role of quantum computing in accounting for the nature of consciousness using teletransportation thought experiments
to transfer a person from one location to another. Two versions of the experiment are proposed using the brain as an apparatus, and the results are analyzed using classical and quantum computing principles. The findings suggest that classical computing principles alone cannot account for consciousness,
and that quantum computing capabilities in the brain are necessary. Furthermore, the no-cloning theorem guarantees a unique copy of quantum states in the brain, resolving a teletransportation paradox proposed by Derek Parfit. These results suggest that quantum computing in the brain is crucial
to understanding the nature of consciousness.
A hypothetical mechanism for the red shift of light in respect to the expansion of the universe
Authors: Curran Michael James
Published: September 2023

Experiments confirmed Einstein’s proposal that gravitational fields bend light. We propose that in order to understand the mechanism of the red shift of light, the intimate connection between gravity and light must first be made apparent. The structure/behavior of the internal
workings of photons, including gravity photons, g ps, which make up space, points to another mechanism that is both simple and intuitive. Our approach is to establish the steps that lead to our proposed connection between gravity and light.
Airy's experiment and the dragging of light by a moving medium
Authors: Filipescu Filip Dambi
Published: September 2023

Airy observed the star γ Draconis with the telescope vertically. During observation, he introduced a tube with water in the telescope and expected to adjust the inclination of the telescope. The result was that the star's image was the same with or without water in the tube. With
water in the tube and no dragging of light by the moving medium, this article indicates that the image captured by the telescope has a shift of 0.053 mm that may not be observable; therefore, there is no need to adjust the inclination of the telescope. Considering the dragging of light
by the water in the tube, the derived formula of the drag coefficient in the framework of Newtonian physics based on Airy's experimental result is identical to that offered by Fresnel based on the ether theory.
Smart Education System Initiatives to Support Data Science and Industry 4.0
Authors: Saranya V. , Uma S.
Published: September 2023

Internet of things, data science, deep learning, augmented reality, edge computing, and digital twins present new opportunities, challenges, and solutions for agriculture, plant sciences, animal sciences, food sciences, and social sciences. These disruptive technologies are at the centre of the fourth industrial revolution. The chapter discusses knowledge engineering to intellectualize higher education. Also, it explains how knowledge engineering (KE) can be utilized to construct intelligent learning and smart tutoring systems (STSs). The intersection of AI, web science, and data science enables a new generation of online-based educational and training tools to determine and examine the benefits of such computational paradigms for smart tutoring systems. Built on this architecture, data science courses should be user-, tool-, and application-based.
Influence of Thiol Compounds on Redox State of Natural Waters in the Republic of Moldova
Authors: Blonschi Vladislav , Gladchi Viorica , Duca Gheorghe , Bunduchi Elena , Lis Angela
Published: September 2023

The chemical composition of water is determined by the environment with which it comes into contact, with the establishment of a dynamic balance, conditioned by energy and substance flows, expressed by redox equivalents. The valuable biological state of natural waters as a living environment is oxidizing, determined by the presence of hydrogen peroxide. For the characterization of the redox state of the waters, it is not enough to monitor hydrogen peroxide, but it is also necessary to monitor reducing equivalents, such as thiols. The purpose of this chapter is to monitor the content of thiol compounds in some lentic and lotic systems on the territory of the Republic of Moldova for a period of five years. The comparative analysis of the results obtained for rivers and lakes allowed the complex elucidation of the redox state of these waters by characterizing the intensity of redox processes with the participation of thiols. The results indicate that redox processes occur with different intensities in rivers and lakes due to their different chemical composition.
Modification of Waste Biomass Digestion in the Presence of Additives of Bioactive Substances
Authors: Duca Gheorghe , Sturza Rodica , Covaliova Olga , Covaci Ecaterina , Romanciuc Lidia , Tasca Corina
Published: September 2023

Waste management in the agro-industrial sector is an important issue as it offers ways to prevent the toxic discharges of harmful pollutants into the environment, and at the same time to obtain a series of value-added products. Liquid organic wastes from the agro-industrial sector are usually in the state of continuing digestion and are capable of rendering toxic effects on plants and living organisms. Conventional technologies require a lot of treatment time and large volumes of reservoirs. The aim of this research was to intensify anaerobic fermentation using the additives of bioactive substances introduced directly into the digested biomass. The results obtained testify that substances of natural origin used as additives demonstrate pronounced effects on the alcoholic fermentation of vinasse under mesophilic conditions. The comparative assessment of different additives' action in the studied processes has demonstrated that dihydrofumaric acid caused the emission of 266 cm3 CO2 during 76 hours, aescinum – 251 cm3 during 55 hours, tomatin – 233 cm3 during 78 hours of fermentation.
Redox Processes in Grapes Processing
Authors: Sturza Rodica , Scutaru Iurie , Duca Gheorghe
Published: September 2023

The redox processes are an unavoidable and very complex part of winemaking. The chapter examines the main redox processes that take place during grape subsequent technological processes, maturation, and aging of wine. Some of them lead to the ennobling of wines and their stabilization, while others cause the alteration, and degradation of wines, and the appearance of numerous defects of wines. The consecutive, parallel, and spontaneous development of multiple redox processes, and their dependence on pedoclimatic, agro-technical, and technological conditions influence the structure, appearance, aroma/bouquet, taste, and stability of wines. The knowledge of the production mechanisms, the influencing factors, of the particularities allows the realization of precision vinification, characterized by the reduction of the additive and subtractive technological interventions, of the quantities of adjuvants, and the production of ecological wines. Monitoring redox processes during alcoholic fermentation through oxygen management is essential for the quality of wines.
Association Between Cyberbullying Victimization and Loneliness Among Adolescents
Authors: Shukla Abhishek , Chouhan Vikram Singh
Published: September 2023

Cyberbullying may create psychological well-being problems and several coping strategies can augment the strength between cyberbullying and psychological well-being issues. The current study endeavors to investigate the association between cyberbullying victimization and feelings of loneliness among adolescents and also the role of coping strategies and emotional intelligence between cyberbullying and loneliness. Various coping strategies can alleviate the strength between cyberbullying victimization and loneliness. Through a survey questionnaire, data were collected from 451 adolescents in India. The findings reveal that coping strategies (seeking support, active coping, and avoidant coping) diminish loneliness and act as a mediator between cyberbullying victimization and loneliness. Seeking support and active coping strategies ease the loneliness resulting from cyberbullying victimization, while avoidant coping strategy is found to be non-significant. Emotional intelligence is found to alleviate the negative effects of cyberbullying on loneliness. The research can augment existing knowledge of cyberbullying and the mental well-being of adolescents concerning loneliness and emotional intelligence. The contributions of the study on the linkages among these variables and the psychological well-being concerns of adolescent victims of cyberbullying are highlighted.
Identification of Trajectory Anomalies on Video Surveillance Systems
Authors: Mondal Suman , Roy Arindam , Mondal Sukumar
Published: September 2023

Recently, CCTV surveillance applications have remarkably developed for public welfare. However, the investigation of different techniques for online implementation is always significantly restricted. Numerous implementations propose for detecting irregularities of moving objects in the videotape. Performance of fuzzy in trajectory's anomaly is one of the most robust detection procedures. In this paper, the authors propose a fuzzy implemented trajectory anomalies detection technique with the help of some parameters such as velocity, path deviation, and size of the moving objects. The critical aspect of the framework is a compact set of highly descriptive features extracted from a novel cell structure that helps us define support regions in a coarse-to-fine fashion. This paper also illustrates a small outline of different detection techniques. The authors also exhibit the outcome of experiments on the Queen Mary University of London junction dataset (QMUL).
An Internet+ Education Platform for Academic Resource and Status Data Management
Authors: Yu Hailuo , Wang Bo , Zhang Zhifeng
Published: September 2023

The quality education goal is a Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) that the United Nations aim to achieve by 2023. While there is still a long way to go to achieve the goal, information and communications technologies (ICT) provide efficient tools to substantially strengthen and accelerate the process. Thus, in this chapter, the authors design an Internet+ education platform to facilitate all participants conducting quality education effectively and efficiently, providing extensive intelligent quality education tools by exploiting various ICT. Functions provided by the platform can be conveniently used by each user over any kind of end devices, which helps to increase the interests of students and younger teachers in learning and education. In addition, taking the academic success as a case, they study factors influencing the quality education effect by machine learning algorithms on the platform. They propose an LR-based algorithm to predict the academic success of undergraduates to find quality education issues. Experiment results verify the superior performance of the LR-based algorithm.
Evaluation on Innovation and Development of University Education Management Informatization Construction Under the Background of Big Data
Authors: Fan Sisi
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this article is to discuss the innovation and development of university education management informationization construction in the context of big data. Through a comprehensive comparison of innovative and traditional university education management information systems, it reveals the advantages of the innovative model in terms of flexibility, efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and personalized learning. The questionnaire survey and comparative analysis reveal the positive impact of big data on education management. However, it also reveals the limitations of the innovative informationized education management model, which requires more technical input and security. Finally, future research suggestions such as integrating data from multiple sources, promoting personalized education, and incorporating artificial intelligence are proposed to promote the innovation and development of information technology construction for education management in universities. This study provides insights and guidance for university administrators and researchers.
Research on Improvement of Hotel Supply Chain Resource Management Decision in the Era of Big Data
Authors: Yuan Qing
Published: September 2023

Hotel supply chain management (SCM) refers to the material service that takes a hotel as the core object. At present, the main method is centralized SCM, which uses integer programming or mixed integer programming to establish and solve the allocation management of various resources among hotels in the supply chain. In this article, based on ant colony algorithm (ACA), the hotel SCM mode is studied and optimized. The research shows that the convergence path is A-S4-M3-L3-D1-R1-T. Therefore, the optimal partner combination meeting the requirements of the supply chain is S4, M3, L3, D1 and R1. The experiment shows that the max-min ACA is effective to solve the problem of partner selection in hotel supply chain. By using enterprise management technology, information technology, network technology and SCM technology under ACA, the effective rules and control of information flow, logistics, capital flow, business flow and value flow in the whole supply chain can be achieved, and the maximum benefit of the whole hotel supply chain can be realized.
Application of Improved Sparrow Search Algorithm in Electric Battery Swapping Station Switching Dispatching
Authors: Shi Qingsheng , Zhao Feifan
Published: September 2023

The demand for power exchange has risen dramatically as the number of electric vehicle (EV) users has increased, and large-scale disorderly charging will increase the operating costs of battery swapping stations and increase the risk to the power grid. Through experimental comparison with other algorithms on 23 test functions, the results demonstrate that the convergence accuracy and speed of this improved algorithm are superior to those of other algorithms. Furthermore, in solving the optimization problem of EV battery swapping station scheduling, by reasonably allocating the battery pack charging time and establishing the forecasting model of switching demand, the average variance and peak-to-average ratio of the grid are reduced by 29.55% and 13.2%, respectively, based on meeting the user's switching demand. Approximately a 12,500 RMB reduction in the cost of charging lowers the operation cost and risk of battery swapping stations and enhances the user experience.
Geographic Disparity in Distance to Trauma Care in Secondary Schools Across the United States
Authors: Yoshihara Ayami , Olson Marcus B. , Filep Erica M. , Kim Donghyeon , Eason Christianne M. , Casa Douglas J. , Huggins Robert A.
Published: September 2023

Context

Geographic disparities exist in trauma care (ie, “trauma center desert”) within the United States. An athletic trainer (AT) on site at secondary schools (SSs) may help enhance collaboration with emergency medical systems and potentially lead to better outcomes after catastrophic injuries. However, access to AT services relative to the location of level I or II (ie, tertiary) trauma centers remains unknown.

Objectives

To visualize and describe the distance between SSs and trauma centers and compare access to AT services across the United States.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Public and private SSs with interscholastic athletics programs in the United States.

Patients or Other Participants

Survey data obtained through the Athletic Training Locations and Services (ATLAS) project database between September 2019 and April 2023.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

The minimum distance from each SS to a tertiary trauma center was calculated on Tableau Desktop by geocoding with longitude and latitude. The status and level of AT employment were obtained from the ATLAS project database. The odds and percentages of access to AT services were examined by distance ranges.

Results

A total of 18 244 SSs were included in the analyses. Of these, 75% (n = 13 613) were located within 50 miles (81 km) of a tertiary trauma center. The odds of access to AT services were 2.74 (95% CI = 2.56, 2.93) times greater in SSs situated within 50 miles of a tertiary trauma center (P < .001). Additionally, SSs located more than 60 miles (97 km) from a tertiary trauma center had decreased access to AT services (R2 = 0.9192).

Conclusion

This study highlighted the geographic disparities in distance to trauma care for SSs in the United States. Those SSs located more than 60 miles from trauma centers had reduced odds of access to AT services. Identification of geographic trends of AT services relative to the location of tertiary trauma centers is a critical first step in preventing fatal consequences of catastrophic injuries.
Erratum: The impact of high intensity versus low intensity behavioral therapy in establishment of functional routines in Egyptian autistic children
Authors: Aboras Yehia A. , Abdou Rania M. , Gaber Heba E.
Published: September 2023

In the article titled “The impact of high intensity versus low intensity behavioral therapy in establishment of functional routines in Egyptian autistic children”, published on pages 115–121, Volume 35, Issue 1, in The Egyptian Journal of Otolaryngology[1], on page number 120, under “References”, reference no. 3 is incorrectly mentioned as “Siegel B. The world of the autistic child. New York, NY: Oxford University Press; 1996.” The correct reference no. 3 should be “Arick J, Young H, Falco R, Loos L, Krug D, Gense M et al. Designing an outcome study to monitor the progress of students with autism spectrum disorders. Focus on Autism and other developmental disabilities 2003,18(2),75–87”.

The citation for the above reference should be mentioned on page number 115, in line no. 41, which would then correctly read as, “The STAR program adopts applied behavior analysis, and it is composed of three strategies: discrete trial training, pivotal response training, and functional routines instruction[3]”
Piecewise contracting maps on the interval: Hausdorff dimension, entropy, and attractors
Authors: Calderón Alfredo E. , Villar-Sepúlveda Edgardo
Published: September 2023

We consider the attractor
$\Lambda $
of a piecewise contracting map f defined on a compact interval. If f is injective, we show that it is possible to estimate the topological entropy of f (according to Bowen’s formula) and the Hausdorff dimension of
$\Lambda $
via the complexity associated with the orbits of the system. Specifically, we prove that both numbers are zero.
Advances and challenges of gastrostomy insertion in children
Authors: Bitar Rana , Azaz Amer , Rawat David , Hobeldin Mohamed , Miqdady Mohamad , Abdelsalam Seifeleslam
Published: September 2023

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a water-soluble fluorescent dye that is minimally toxic and widely used in gastrointestinal surgery. ICG facilitates anatomical identification of structures (e.g., ureters), assessment of lymph nodes, biliary mapping, organ perfusion and anastomosis assessment, and aids in determining the adequacy of oncological margins. In addition, ICG can be conjugated to artificially created antibodies for tumour markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen for colorectal, breast, lung, and gastric cancer, prostate-specific antigen for prostate cancer, and cancer antigen 125 for ovarian cancer. Although ICG has shown promising results, the optimization of patient factors, dye factors, equipment, and the method of assessing fluorescence intensity could further enhance its utility. This review summarizes the clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery and discusses the emergence of novel dyes such as ZW-800 and VM678 that have demonstrated appropriate pharmacokinetic properties and improved target-to-background ratios in animal studies. With the emergence of robotic technology and the increasing reporting of ICG utility, a comprehensive review of clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery is timely and this review serves that aim.
Application of early enteral nutrition nursing based on enhanced recovery after surgery theory in patients with digestive surgery
Authors: Shao Yan-Ru , Ke Xia , Luo Li-Hua , Xu Jin-Dong , Xu Li-Qian
Published: September 2023

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a water-soluble fluorescent dye that is minimally toxic and widely used in gastrointestinal surgery. ICG facilitates anatomical identification of structures (e.g., ureters), assessment of lymph nodes, biliary mapping, organ perfusion and anastomosis assessment, and aids in determining the adequacy of oncological margins. In addition, ICG can be conjugated to artificially created antibodies for tumour markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen for colorectal, breast, lung, and gastric cancer, prostate-specific antigen for prostate cancer, and cancer antigen 125 for ovarian cancer. Although ICG has shown promising results, the optimization of patient factors, dye factors, equipment, and the method of assessing fluorescence intensity could further enhance its utility. This review summarizes the clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery and discusses the emergence of novel dyes such as ZW-800 and VM678 that have demonstrated appropriate pharmacokinetic properties and improved target-to-background ratios in animal studies. With the emergence of robotic technology and the increasing reporting of ICG utility, a comprehensive review of clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery is timely and this review serves that aim.
Clinical significance of serum oxidative stress and serum uric acid levels before surgery for hepatitis B-related liver cancer
Authors: Hou Jin-Xia , Wang Yu-Bin , Wu Jing , Ding Guo-sheng , Wu Yang , Wei Lian-Hua , Wang Fang , Zhang Zhe-Mei
Published: September 2023

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a water-soluble fluorescent dye that is minimally toxic and widely used in gastrointestinal surgery. ICG facilitates anatomical identification of structures (e.g., ureters), assessment of lymph nodes, biliary mapping, organ perfusion and anastomosis assessment, and aids in determining the adequacy of oncological margins. In addition, ICG can be conjugated to artificially created antibodies for tumour markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen for colorectal, breast, lung, and gastric cancer, prostate-specific antigen for prostate cancer, and cancer antigen 125 for ovarian cancer. Although ICG has shown promising results, the optimization of patient factors, dye factors, equipment, and the method of assessing fluorescence intensity could further enhance its utility. This review summarizes the clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery and discusses the emergence of novel dyes such as ZW-800 and VM678 that have demonstrated appropriate pharmacokinetic properties and improved target-to-background ratios in animal studies. With the emergence of robotic technology and the increasing reporting of ICG utility, a comprehensive review of clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery is timely and this review serves that aim.
Dual transformation therapy for giant hepatocellular carcinoma: Two case reports and review of literature
Authors: Gao Qiang , Zhu Guang-Zhi , Han Chuang-Ye , Ye Xin-Ping , Huang Hua-Sheng , Mo Shu-Tian , Peng Tao
Published: September 2023

Indocyanine green (ICG) is a water-soluble fluorescent dye that is minimally toxic and widely used in gastrointestinal surgery. ICG facilitates anatomical identification of structures (e.g., ureters), assessment of lymph nodes, biliary mapping, organ perfusion and anastomosis assessment, and aids in determining the adequacy of oncological margins. In addition, ICG can be conjugated to artificially created antibodies for tumour markers, such as carcinoembryonic antigen for colorectal, breast, lung, and gastric cancer, prostate-specific antigen for prostate cancer, and cancer antigen 125 for ovarian cancer. Although ICG has shown promising results, the optimization of patient factors, dye factors, equipment, and the method of assessing fluorescence intensity could further enhance its utility. This review summarizes the clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery and discusses the emergence of novel dyes such as ZW-800 and VM678 that have demonstrated appropriate pharmacokinetic properties and improved target-to-background ratios in animal studies. With the emergence of robotic technology and the increasing reporting of ICG utility, a comprehensive review of clinical application of ICG in gastrointestinal surgery is timely and this review serves that aim.
Polymorphism of the Kappa Casein gene and milk production in cows resulting from crossbreeding with holstein or montbeliarde in the peri-urban area of Bamako
Authors: Traore Moussa , Konate Drissa , Diarra Aboubacar Lassana , Tounkara Bassekou , Traore Diakaridia , Bathily Ibrahima , Sanogo Yossouf , Konate Adama , Cisse Amadou Boubacar
Published: September 2023

The objective of this contribution is to study the polymorphism of the kappa casein gene in crossbred cows in the peri-urban area of  Bamako. Fifty (50) cows, including 22 Montbeliarde crosses and 28 Holstein crosses, were subjected to descriptive analysis comparing  average milk production and milk fat and protein percentages and genetic analysis of the kappa-casein gene and its interaction with the  crossbred types or breed. The results showed 2 types of crosses for each breed, ½ and ¾ exotic blood. The average daily milk production was 8.2±0.46 kg/d for the Holstein crosses and 7.2±0.73 kg/d for the Montbeliarde crosses with a significant difference. No significant  differences were observed for the fat and protein content between Holstein crosses (3.56 ± 0.14% and 3.68±0.02%) and Montbeliarde  crosses (3.79 ± 0.10% and 3.74±0.02%). Genetic analysis revealed three genotypes of kappa casein (AA, AB and BB). The AA genotype (0.5)  was the most frequent followed by AB (0.41) and BB (0.09). A close link was observed between milk production and the polymorphisms of  the kappa casein gene. Individuals with the AB genotype had the highest daily milk production followed by individuals with the AA  genotype and those with the BB genotype with respective mean values of 8.6±0.64 kg/d; 7.3±0.56 kg/d and 6.6±1.58 kg/d. Individuals of  the BB genotype presented a higher fat content (4.0±0.08%) than that of the other genotypes. The mean milk protein content varied little  among the genotypes. These results will contribute to the strengthening of knowledge on the genetic effects of kappa casein     polymorphisms on milk production performance and milk composition of crossbred cows in Mali.
Incidence des stratégies locales de gestion des agroforêts à base de caféier robusta (Coffea canephora P.) sur les rendements des caféiers au Cameroun
Authors: Ngomeni Arlende Flore , Ndje Mbile Jean Guy , Njouokou Salifou , Nnomo Lucien Emmanuel Bidzanga , Avana Marie Louise , Ngankam Martin Tchamba
Published: September 2023

Une étude en vue de caractériser l’incidence des stratégies locales de gestion des Agroforêts à base de Caféier Robusta (ACR) sur les  rendements en café marchand, a été effectuée dans cinq sites de trois bassins de production de cette culture au Cameroun, contrastés  par leur environnement biophysique et socio-économique. Elle a consisté en des interviews semi-structurées auprès de 400 producteurs,  soit 80 producteurs par site. Deux catégories de producteurs étaient prises en compte à savoir : les autochtones et les migrants.  L’analyse des résultats dégage quatre types de producteurs : (i) le type 1 constitué des autochtones avec des ACR peu diversifiées,  comporte les systèmes les plus compétitifs ; (ii) le type 2 constitué des migrants avec des ACR très diversifiées, comporte des systèmes  peu compétitifs ; (iii) le type 3 constitué de peu de migrants et d’autochtones, avec des ACR très diversifiées, comporte des systèmes  compétitifs ; et (iv) le type 4 constitué de peu d’autochtones avec des ACR diversifiées, comporte des systèmes très peu compétitifs. Ceci  témoigne de l’importance des caractéristiques socio-économique dans la diversification des ACR et leur compétitivité, d’où l’intérêt d’une  gestion intégrée de la diversité pour limiter une forte pression sur les ressources naturelles.

 

English title: Impact of local robusta  coffee (Coffea canephora P.) agroforestry management strategies on coffee yields in Cameroon 

A study to characterize the impact of local strategies for the management of Robusta Coffee (RCA) based Agroforests on market coffee  yields was carried out in five sites in three production basins of this crop in Cameroon, contrasted by their biophysical and socio- economic environment. It consisted of semi-structured interviews with 400 producers, or 80 producers per site. Two categories of  producers were taken into account, namely: natives and migrants. The analysis of the results identifies four types of producers: (i) type 1,  made up of natives people with little diversified RCA, has the most competitive systems; (ii) type 2, made up of migrants with highly  diversified RCA, includes systems that are not very competitive; (iii) type 3, made up of few migrants and natives, with very diversified  RCA, includes competitive systems; and (iv) type 4, made up of few natives people with diversified RCA, has very little competitive  systems. This testifies to the importance of socioeconomic characteristics in the diversification of RCA and their competitiveness, hence  the interest of integrated management of diversity to limit strong pressure on natural resources.
Occurrence of zearalenone in maize and millet grains and their derived porridges marketed in Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire)
Authors: Kpan Kpan Kouakou Gains , Youan Bi Bouet Diane Hyacinthe , Manda Pierre , Osseke Marina , Tiho Seydou , Dembélé Ardjouma
Published: September 2023

Zearalenone is an endocrine-disrupting mycotoxin commonly found in cereals. The objective of this work was to evaluate zearalenone  levels in maize and millet grains, and their porridges to measure the impact of the preparation processes of these porridges on the  occurrence of zearalenone. The sampling was realized according to the regulation (EC) No 401/2006 of the European commission.  Zearalenone concentration in commodities was determined using HPLC/UV. Zearalenone concentrations were compared with the  Maximum Tolerable Limits (MTLs) of zearalenone established by European Union (EC) No1881/2006. The average zearalenone levels in the grains were 82.83 µg/Kg (maize) and 141.88 µg/Kg (millet). These levels were below the MTL in the case of maize, and above the MTL  concerning millet. Average zearalenone levels in porridges were 11.70 µg/Kg < MTLs (maize) and 36.16 µg/Kg > Infant Maximum  Tolerable Limit (IMTL) of millet. Zearalenone concentrations in millet grains were higher than in maize grains. Zearalenone levels in maize  and millet-based porridges were low compared with their respective basic commodities. The processing techniques used for porridges, removed 85.88-93.67% of zearalenone from maize, and 74.51-76.66% of zearalenone from millet. Despite this significant  reduction, the average zearalenone content in millet-based porridge was above the IMTL (20 µg/Kg).
Etude comparative sur la rémanence de l’huile essentielle de Clausena anisata (Rutaceae) et de Hyptis suaveolens (Lamiaceae) pour la protection individuelle contre les moustiques (Diptera : Culicidae)
Authors: Abagli Ayaba Zita , Alavo Thiery B.C. , Moutouama David
Published: September 2023

Afin de proposer une formulation répulsive efficiente pour la lutte anti-vectorielle, la présente étude a évalué la persistance de l’effet  répulsif des concentrations de 1,50%, 3%, 4,5% et 6% des huiles essentielles de Clausena anisata et de Hyptis suaveolens contre Culex  quinquefasciatus, deux heures après application. Au moins douze répétitions étaient effectuées pour chacune des concentrations. Le  pied des volontaires traité 2 heures auparavant a été introduit dans une cage contenant 25 moustiques femelles âgées d’au moins dix  jours. Le nombre de moustiques qui venaient se poser sur le pied traité était compté sur une durée de 15 minutes et le nombre de  moustiques effectivement gorgés de sang était déterminé. Les résultats ont montré que l’effet répulsif des huiles essentielles persistait  deux heures après application et augmentait avec la concentration. A la concentration de 6%, les taux de répulsion enregistrés étaient de  88,99% et 87,58% respectivement pour l’huile de C. anisata et celle de H. suaveolens. Le pourcentage de moustiques gorgés de sang  enregistré pour cette concentration de 6% était de 2,36% et 2,7% respectivement pour C. anisata et de H. suaveolens. Nous pouvons   conclure que deux heures après application, les effets des deux huiles s’équivalaient à la concentration de 6%.

 

English title: Comparative study on the persistence of the essential oil of Clausena anisata (Rutaceae) and Hyptis suaveolens (Lamiaceae)  for individual protection against mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae)

 

In order to propose an efficient repellent formulation for vector control, this study evaluated the persistence of the repellent effect of  concentrations of 1.50%, 3%, 4.5% and 6% of essential oils of Clausena anisata and Hyptis suaveolens against Culex quinquefasciatus, two  hours after application. For each concentration of the essential oils, at least 12 replicates were performed. Informed consent volunteers  were used; one foot (of each) treated 2 hours previously is placed in a cage containing 25 female mosquitoes aged at least 10 days. The  number of mosquitoes landing and biting on the treated volunteer during a 15 minutes was recorded. The results showed that the  repellent effect of essential oils persisted two hours after application and increases with increasing concentration. At a concentration of  6%, the repellency rates recorded were 88,99% and 87,58% respectively for C. anisata and H. Suaveolens oil. The percentage of mosquitoes  taking blood recorded for this 6% concentration was 2,36% and 2,7% respectively for C. anisata and H. Suaveolens oil. We can therefore     conclude that two hours after application, the repellent effects of the two oils were similar at 6% concentration.
Impacts des décharges incontrôlées sur la qualité du sol dans les quartiers péri-urbains de la ville de Goma (Est RD Congo): cas du quartier MUGUNGA
Authors: Kagadju Napoléon Amani , Balingene Pascal Nguo , Kayani Isaac Balume , Yamonekawasso Juste
Published: September 2023

Le dépôt de déchets dans les décharges sauvages est une pratique qui ne laisse pas sain l’environnement. L’objectif de ce travail était  d’évaluer les risques de contamination de l’environnement restreint en Eléments Traces Métalliques (ETM) par les décharges. Pour ce  faire, deux décharges incontrôlées dont MUGUNGA I et MUGUNGA II et un site non colonisé par les déchets municipaux (témoin) ont fait  l’objet des investigations. Des échantillons composites de sols ont été prélevés à la profondeur de 0-30 cm sur les trois sites. De plus, les cultures d’amarantes ont été installées et suivies sur les différents sites. Les analyses des échantillons de sol et de biomasse aérienne  d’amarante ont été effectuées par spectrométrie de masse avec plasma à couplage inductif (ICP/MS). Les résultats ont montré que les  concentrations en ETM (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd et As) dans les sols étaient inférieures aux valeurs limites sur tous les sites. L’index de pollution de  chaque site est inférieur à 1. Dans la biomasse aérienne d’amarante, les concentrations en Cu, Cd et As étaient inférieures à la  Concentration Maximale Réglementaire (CMR) ; l’on note néanmoins des concentrations en Zn et Pb supérieures aux CMR.

 

English title: Impacts of uncontrolled landfills to the soil quality in the peri urban areas for Goma city Mugunga district case

The dumping of waste in wild dumps is a practice that does not leave the environment healthy. The objective of this work was to assess  the risk of contamination of the restricted environment in metallic Trace Elements (TME) by landfills. To do this, two uncontrolled landfills  including MUGUNGA I and MUGUNGA II and a site not colonized by municipal waste (control) were investigated. Composite soils samples  were taken at the depth of 0-30 cm at the three sites. In addition, amaranth cultures have been installed and monitored on the various sites. In addition, amaranth cultures have been installed and monitored on the various sites. Analyzes of soils and aboveground  amaranth biomass samples were performed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS). The result showed that the  concentrations of TME (Cu, Pb, Zn and As) in the soils were below the limit values on all the sites. The pollution index for each site was  less than 1. In the aerial amaranth biomass, the concentrations of Cu, Cd and As were below the Maximum Regulator Concentration  (MRC); however, there were Zn and Pb concentrations above the MRC.
Evaluation des pertes post-récolte dans la filière maïs : Cas du maillon production au Bénin
Authors: Sossou Hervé Comlan , Ayedoun Alfred Akpado Oluwatogni , Dossouhoui Symphorien , Noukpozounkou Daniel Missimahou , Sossou Roméo , Koffi Juvénal Privaël , Dansou Valère , Houssou Paul Ayihadji
Published: September 2023

Les pertes post-récolte dans la filière maïs entravent l’atteinte de la sécurité alimentaire et nutritionnelle, car cette céréale est la plus  consommée au Bénin. La présente étude a été menée dans sept des douze départements que compte le Bénin, afin d’évaluer les pertes  post-récolte que subissent les maïsiculteurs. La méthode subjective basée sur les déclarations des agriculteurs a été utilisée pour  collecter des données à l’aide d’un questionnaire semi-structuré auprès de 286 producteurs. Les résultats indiquaient que les pertes intervenaient principalement lors de la récolte (0,87%), l’égrenage (0,86%), le vannage (0,85%) et le stockage (0,76%). Pour une quantité  initialement produite (d’environ 4555 kg en moyenne), le taux moyen global des pertes au cours des différentes opérations considérées  est de 5,78%. Les principales causes des pertes étaient : le déversement des grains et les facteurs biologiques (pourriture, moisissures et  attaques des insectes). Des stratégies comme la récolte à temps, la protection des sacs de maïs avec des bâches et l’utilisation de sacs hermétiques permettaient de prévenir les pertes. Pour réduire considérablement ces pertes, des mesures et politiques   d’accompagnement améliorant les capacités des acteurs, les facilités d’acquisition d’infrastructures de stockage,  d’équipements/matériels de transport appropriés doivent être promues.

 

English title: Assessment of post-harvest losses in the maize sector: Case of the production link in Benin

 

Maize production has always faced the challenge of post-harvest losses which hamper the achievementof food and nutritional security. Hence, in order to assess these post-harvest losses in the maize sector, a study  was conducted in seven of the twelve departments of  Benin. Data collection was done using a semi-structured questionnaire administered to a calculated minimum sample of 286 producers of  this crop. The subjective method which was based on the declarations/opinions of the farmers was used for the data analysis. The  results indicated that the losses mainly occur at the harvest level (0.87%), ginning (0.86%), winnowing/cleaning (0.85%), and storage  (0.76%). For an initially produced quantity (about 4555 kg), the overall average rate of losses along the various operations considered is  5.78%. The main causes of these losses are grain spillage and biological factors (rot, mould, insect attacks). Strategies such as harvesting  on time, protecting sacks of maize with tarps, and the use of sacks that are not torn and in good condition help prevent losses. To  considerably reduce these losses, accompanying measures and policies improving the capacities of the actors, the facilities for the  acquisition of storage infrastructures, and appropriate transport equipment/materials must be promoted.
Dexmedetomidine pre-conditioning induces inhibition of ROS in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats through AMPK pathway
Authors: Wu Shanhu , Hong Wanping , Su Xue'e , Liang Jinwei
Published: September 2023

Purpose: To elucidate the basis for the cardioprotective effect of dexmedetomidine pre-treatment on ROS-induced myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) in rats.Methods: Sixty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were assigned to sham, model and dexmedetomidine intervention groups, each having 20 rats. Myocardial IRI was induced in the model and dexmedetomidine intervention groups using modified suture method. In sham group, chests of rats were opened, but without ligation, while dexmedetomidine intervention group was pre-treated with dexmedetomidine (5 μg/kg) before establishment of the IRI model. Protein expressions of adenosine 5‘-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) was determined by Western blot assay. Mean fluorescence intensity of ROS was measured using flow cytometry.Results: AMPK protein was significantly down-regulated in model rats, relative to sham rats, but significantly higher in dexmedetomidine intervention rats (p < 0.05). In model rats, mean ROS fluorescence intensity and degree of apoptosis of cardiomyocytes were higher than the corresponding values in sham rats (p < 0.05), but lower in dexmedetomidine intervention group.Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine reduces oxidative stress in myocardial tissue and exerts a protective role by activating AMPK pathway and inhibiting mitochondrial generation of ROS. Therefore, this compound might have a potential clinical role in the management of IRI.
In vivo anti-tumor effect of Egyptian scorpion Leiurus quinquestriatus venom in Ehrlich ascites carcinomabearing mice
Authors: Salama Wesam M , El-Naggar Sabry A , ALRashdi Barakat M
Published: September 2023

Purpose: To investigate the anti-tumor efficacy of scorpion Leiurus quinquestriatus venom (LQV) in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) mouse model.Methods: Mice were divided into 4 groups (n = 8), with Group 1 as negative control. Groups 2 to 4 mice were inoculated with EAC cells (1 x 106/mouse) intraperitoneally (ip). Group 2 mice were untreated while groups 3 and 4 mice were injected with 2 mg/kg of cisplatin (Cis) and 0.025 mg/kg of LQV ip, respectively, for 7 days. Tumor profile, as well as hematological and biochemical analyses were carried out.Results: Tumor volume and tumor cell counts decreased significantly (p < 0.05) following LQV treatment. Also, LQV potentiated necrosis, apoptosis and arrested tumor cells in the G0 and S-phases. Furthermore, it upregulated apoptotic-related gene (Bax and caspase-3) expressions and down-regulated anti-apoptotic gene (bcl-2) expression in EAC cells (p < 0.05).Conclusion: LQV has potential anti-tumor activity against EAC cells in mouse models. Therefore, it should be further investigated in vivo as an anti-tumor agent.
Studies on in vitro binding of parecoxib to p38MAPK using spectroscopic methods
Authors: Li Xuejie , Huang Kun , Zhong Shan
Published: September 2023

Purpose: To investigate the interaction between parecoxib and p38MAPK under simulated physiological conditions.Methods: The interaction between parecoxib and p38MAPK was studied under simulated physiological conditions using spectroscopy-based methods. The effect of parecoxib on the microenvironment and conformation of p38MAPK chromophore was studied by synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy, three-dimensional fluorescence, time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy.Results: Synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy showed that addition of parecoxib changed the structure of p38MAPK and destroyed the original stable structure. Three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy showed that the hydrophilicity of the microenvironment in which the fluorescent chromophore is located was enhanced, and the polarity increased such that the serum protein macromolecules tend to be unfolded, and the alpha-helix content reduced. Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy showed that the presence of parecoxib hardly affected the fluorescence quenching of p38MAPK, and the combination of parecoxib and p38MAPK forms a stable complex (static quenching). Circular dichroism spectroscopy revealed the combined parecoxib change, the secondary structure of p38MAPK and reduced the alpha-helix content. Ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy revealed changes in the microenvironment of the three amino acid residues as well as the tertiary structure of the protein.Conclusion: The results shows that parecoxib has a significant effect on the structure of p38MAPK. In addition to explicitly inhibiting COX-2 and blocking arachidonic acid synthesis of prostaglandins, it inhibits the pathway involved in p38MAPK.