bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seminal Oxidation–Reduction Potential Correlates with Not Only Seminal Oxidative But Also Nitrosative Stresses
Authors: Takeshima Teppei , Saito Tomoki , Yoshida Kaoru , Akiba Yoko , Takimoto Yosuke , Ishiguro Yukari , Yumura Yasushi
Published: July 2023

Reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species in semen are both essential for fertilization process; however, they become harmful at excessive levels, causing oxidative stress and nitrosative stress, respectively. Recently, oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) has been used as a marker for measuring oxidative stress, and this study investigated the possibility of comprehensively evaluating nitrosative stress. The correlation between standardized ORP (sORP) and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and NOx per unit sperm was tested. Based on the previously reported cutoff value, samples were classified into oxidative stress-positive and negative groups. Thereafter, a receiver operating characteristic curve was drawn on 8-OHdG and NOx, and each optimal cutoff value was determined. Both standardized 8-OHdG and NOx significantly correlated with sORP. Although both correlated significantly with sORP in the oxidative stress group, no correlation was found in the nonoxidative stress group. The optimal standardized 8-OHdG level to determine oxidative stress status was 0.52 ng/106 spermatozoa, and the standardized NOx was 0.17 µM/106 spermatozoa/mL. The ORP is a simpler and quicker assay that can comprehensively assess oxidative and nitrosative stresses. Optimal cutoff values for both stresses were established in this study.
New Analytical Expresions of Concentrations in Packed Bed Immobilized-Cell Electrochemical Photobioreactor
Authors: Jeyabarathi Ponraj , Abukhaled Marwan , Kannan Murugesan , Rajendran Lakshmanan , Lyons Michael Edward Gerard
Published: July 2023

In this paper, Akbari-Ganji's and Taylor series methods are applied to find analytical solutions to nonlinear differential equations that arise in an immobilized-cell photobioreactor. Approximate analytical expressions for substrate and product concentrations and both liquid and gas phases for various parameter values are derived using both methods. Efficiency, accuracy, and convergence of the two methods relative to highly accurate numerical methods are investigated to establish reliable profiles of these two methods for solving general nonlinear equations that model various physical phenomena. Numerical simulations are presented to validate the theoretical investigations.
An Intelligent Physiological Control Method Using Sliding Mode Neural Network for Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Bakouri Mohsen
Published: July 2023

The technology of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) requires developing and implementing an intelligent control systems to optimize pump speed to achieve a physiological metabolic demands for heart failure (HF) patients. This work aimed to present an advanced control algorithm to drive an LVAD under different physiological conditions. Pole placement method in conjunction with of sliding mode control approach (PP-SMC) was utilized to design and construct the proposed control method. In this design, the method was adopted to use neural networks to eliminate system uncertainties of disturbances. An elastance function was also developed and used as an input signal to mimic the physiological perfusion of HF patients. Two scenarios ranging from rest to exercise were introduced to evaluate the proposed technique. In this technique, a lumped parameter model of cardiovascular system (CVS) was used for this evaluation. The results demonstrated that the designed controller was robustly tracking the input signal in the presence of the system parameter variations of CVS. In both scenarios, the proposed method shows that the controller automatically drive the LVAD with a minimum flow of 1.7 L/min to prevent suction and 5.7 L/min to prevent over-perfusion.
Majorana Excitons in a Kitaev Chain of Semiconductor Quantum Dots in a Nanowire
Authors: Mohseni Mahan , Allami Hassan , Miravet Daniel , Gayowsky David J. , Korkusinski Marek , Hawrylak Pawel
Published: July 2023

We present here a theory of Majorana excitons, photo-excited conduction electron-valence band hole pairs, interacting with Majorana Fermions in a Kitaev chain of semiconductor quantum dots embedded in a nanowire. Using analytical tools and exact diagonalisation methods we identify the presence of Majorana Zero Modes in the nanowire absorption spectra.
Production and Properties of FeCuSnNi Sinter as a Matrix of a Metal-Diamond Composite
Authors: Borowiecka-Jamrozek Joanna , Lachowski Jan
Published: July 2023

The main purpose of the work was to determine the powder composition and properties of iron-based sinters used as a matrix in metallic diamond tools. The FeCuSnNi sinters obtained from a mixture of commercial powders were used for research. The material was subjected to milling in a ball mill and sinter have been performed with the hot-pressing technique in a graphite mold. The physical and mechanical properties of the sinters were tested. The investigations of obtained sinters concerned density, porosity, hardness, oxygen content, static tensile test and analysis of microstructure. The static tensile test was carried out with the use of a universal testing machine UTS-100. The study of the microstructure of sinters was performed using the JSM-7100F scanning electron microscope. The sinters are characterized by a high coefficient of thermal expansion and good mechanical properties. The FeCuSnNi sinter revealed a complex phase structure. Spot chemical analysis revealed the presence of Fe solution, Cu solution and the presence of iron oxides oxides. Nickel atoms were present throughout the sinter volume. The obtained results indicate that the presented material can be used as a matrix of a diamond-metal composite in diamond tools for the processing of natural stones and building materials.
Part I. Power Converters. Design based on SiC-MOSFETs Power Semiconductor Devices
Authors: Gregor Raúl , Toledo Sergio , Maqueda Edgar , Pacher Julio
Published: July 2023

Power converter technologies have become increasingly vital in various applications due to their efficient management of electrical energy. With the growing prominence of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, the high penetration of power electronic converters has been justified. However, ensuring power quality has emerged as a significant challenge for grid-connected power converters. The divergence from the ideal sinusoidal waveform in terms of magnitude and frequency impacts both grid-side currents and voltages. Several studies have proposed solutions to address power quality issues at the load side. The advancement of power converters has been fueled by the development of high-performance microprocessors and the emergence of high-speed switching devices, such as SiC-MOSFETs. This paper focuses on the design of voltage source converters, particularly those based on SiC-MOSFET semiconductor devices. The article presents the design of H-Bridge cells, discusses two-level voltage source converters based on cascade H-Bridge cells in parallel configuration with experimental fault analysis, addresses the seven-level voltage source converters topology, and explores the design and experimental results of the matrix converter. The findings underscore the importance of considering the entire converter design for improved performance at high switching frequencies. The article concludes by summarizing the main outcomes and implications of this research.
Anomalous Ferromagnetic Phase in the Gd1-xErxB4 Series: Crystal Growth, Thermal and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Masunaga Sueli H. , Barbeta V. B. , Abud F. , Torikachvilli M. S. , Jardim R. F.
Published: July 2023

Rare-earth tetraborides RB4 are of great interest due to the occurrence of geometric magnetic frustration and corresponding unusual magnetic properties. While the Gd3+ spins in GdB4 align along the ab plane, Er3+ spins in the isomorphic ErB4 are confined to the c–axis. The magnetization in the latter exhibits a plateau at the midpoint of the saturation magnetization. Therefore, solid solutions of (Gd, Er)B4 provide an excellent playground for exploring the intricate magnetic behavior in these compounds. Single crystals of Gd(1-x)Erx B4 (x = 0, 0.2, and 0.4) were grown in aluminum flux. X-ray diffraction scans revealed single phase materials, and a drop in the unit cell volume with increasing Er content, suggesting the partial substitution of Er at the Gd sites. Heat capacity measurements indicated a systematic decrease of the Néel temperature (TN) with increasing Er content. The effective magnetic moment determined from the magnetization measurement agreed with the calculated free-ion values for Gd3+ and Er3+, providing further evidence for the successful substitution of Er for Gd. The partial substitution resulted in an anomalous ferromagnetic phase below TN, exhibiting significant anisotropy, predominantly along the c-axis. This intriguing behavior merits further studies of the magnetism in the Gd(1-x)ErxB4 borides.
Analysis of Orchestration Load and Teacher Agency in Smart Synchronous Hybrid Learning Environments
Authors: Carruana Martín Adrián , Alario-Hoyos Carlos , Martínez-Monés Alejandra , Delgado Kloos Carlos
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the growth of hybrid and online learning environments and the trend to introduce more technology into the classroom. One such change would be the use of smart synchronous hybrid learning environments (SSHLE), which are settings with both in-person and online students concurrently, and in which technology plays a key role in sensing, analyzing, and reacting throughout the teaching and learning process. These changing environments and the incorporation of new technologies can place a greater orchestration load on participants and a reduction in teacher agency. In this context, the aim of this paper is to analyse the orchestration load and teacher agency in different SSHLEs. The NASA-TLX model was used to measure the orchestration load in several scenarios. Questionnaires and interviews were used to measure teacher agency. The results obtained indicate that the orchestration load of the teacher tends to be high (between 60 and 70 points out of 100 of the NASA-TLX workload), especially when they lack experience in synchronous hybrid learning environments, and the orchestration load of the students tends to have average values (between 50 and 60) in the SSHLEs analysed. Meanwhile, the teacher agency does not appear to be altered but shows potential for improvement.
Communication between Plants and Rhizosphere Microbiome: Exploring the Root Microbiome for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Enagbonma Ben Jesuorsemwen , Ayomide Fadiji Emmanuel , Ayangbenro Ayansina Segun , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: July 2023

Plant roots host various microorganisms around and inside their roots, known as the root microbiome. To become healthy and productive, plants should keep under surveillance niches around the roots to recognize disease-causing microbes and similarly exploit the services of beneficial microorganisms in nutrient acquisition, stress mitigation and growth promotion. Here we presented the communication strategies between plant roots and root-associated microbes in improving plant growth and yield. Understanding how plant root and root-associated microbes communicate is vital in designing ecofriendly strategies for targeted disease suppression and improved plant growth that will help in sustainable agriculture.
A Novel, Functional Refined Olive Oil, Enhanced with Orange Peel Extract Modulates Postprandial LDL-Cholesterol Responses at Cardiometabolic Risk Individuals: A Pilot Randomized, Controlled, Cross-Over Nutritional Intervention
Authors: Papagianni Olga , Kaloteraki Chrysoula , Kandyliari Aikaterini , Potsaki Panagiota , Bousdouni Panorea , Almpounioti Kalliopi , Ouzaid Camille , Mavrou Anna-Kyriaki , Panteli Vasiliki , Loukas Thomas , Magkoutis Athanasios , Skalkos Dimitrios , Karantonis Haralabos C. , Koutelidakis Antonios E.
Published: July 2023

Olive oil, as the main source of polyphenols in the Mediterranean diet pattern, is mentioned to show remarkable postprandial bioactivity, contributing to the reduction of cardiometabolic risk factors. In recent years, the consumption of refined olive oil, instead of other olive oil classes, led to a reduced intake of polyphenols from the usual diet. This controlled, human nutritional intervention inves-tigated whether the enhancement of refined olive oil with orange peel extract may modulate postprandial lipemia, glycemia and oxidative stress, in individuals at cardiometabolic risk. In a cross-over framework, 21 participants aged 30-65 years, who met the eligibility criteria, received a fat and carbohydrated meal of mashed potatoes, homogenized with refined olive oil (50 mL) or the functional olive oil, enhanced with 10% orange peel extract, intervening a washout week. Blood draws were performed in fasting, 30min, 1.5h and 3h after the meal intake. Plasma lipids, glucose, uric acid and total plasma antioxidant capacity according to FRAP method, were measured at each timepoint. A significant reduction of LDL-cholesterol was observed, 1.5 h and 3 h after the func-tional meal intake, compared to non-significant changes after the control meal (p <0.05). No other statistically significant interactions were detected to the remaining biomarkers (p> 0.05). Further investigation is needed for safer conclusions about the postprandial modulation of cardiometabolic risk factors, by the functional olive oil, enhanced with orange peel extract.
Embracing Sustainability: Assessing the Influence of Near-Field Communication Mobile Payment Systems on Restaurant Operating Performance
Authors: Yu Wen Way , Fang Chin-Yi
Published: July 2023

The mobile payment has been emerging as an alternative to cash and credit cards and is rapidly evolving around the world. This study integrated the general model of innovation diffusion theory (IDT) with the technology acceptance model (TAM) to examine the impact of near-field-communication (NFC) mobile payment environment on the restaurant operating performance (ROP). This paper used convenience sampling to distribute questionnaires to restaurant owners and managers in order to investigate the impact of NFC mobile payment environment on ROP. A total of 279 valid questionnaires were collected. The empirical results show that sales growth, cost saving, flexibility, accessibility and trust & safety had significantly positive impacts on ROP. After considering the restaurant size as a moderator for analysis, there are only two constructs- accessibility and trust & safety had significant impacts on ROP. This empirical finding could provide restaurateurs with a reference to improve ROP by increasing the mobile payment environment.
Physicochemical Response of External Plant Growth Regulator in the Cutting Process of Mulberry
Authors: Sun Jiajia , Dou Hao , Chen Hanlei , Wang Yilin , Wang Tiantian , Quan Jin'e , Bi Huitao
Published: July 2023

Adventitious roots play a crucial role inr the nourishment and propagation of arboreal vegetation. In order to shed light on the physiological and biochemical characteristics of the challenging-to-propagate mulberry tree species, an investigation was conducted. This study aimed to compare the responses of various root morphological indicators, endogenous hormones, and oxidase activities in the "Yueshenda 10" fruit mulberry, at different stages of treatment. The ultimate objective was to identify the factors influencing the process of root development. The findings revealed a distinct '/\' pattern in the levels of IAA and JA within the cuttings. Conversely, the changes in ABA, ZR and GA3 exhibited a '/\/' pattern. The fluctuation of IAA/ABA values followed a '\/\' mode, whereas the IAA / ZR values initially increased, followed by a subsequent decrease. The correlation between the initial concentrations of these five endogenous hormones and the rooting rate displayed variations. Notably, IAA demonstrated the strongest association with the rooting rate, exhibiting a positive correlation with both IAA and ZR. Regarding the activity of three antioxidant enzymes (IAAO, POD and PPO), a '/\' trend was observed, wherein the enzyme activity increased under ABT1 treatment. However, the peak activity levels of the enzymes appeared during different periods: germination, induction, and expression, respectively. Overall, the most effective treatment for promoting root development and significantly enhancing the root growth parameters of mulberry was found to be 800mg/L ABT1. Exogenous hormone treatment expedited the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes, thereby shortening the rooting time and facilitating root formation.
A New Perspective on The Cavernous Sinus as Seen Through Multiple Surgical Corridors. Anatomical Study Comparing the Transorbital, Endonasal and Transcranial Routes and The Relative Coterminous Spatial Regions.
Authors: Corvino Sergio , Villanueva-Solórzano Pedro Leonardo , Offi Martina , Armocida Daniele , Nonaka Motonobu , Iaconetta Giorgio , Esposito Felice , Cavallo Luigi Maria , De Notaris Matteo
Published: July 2023

Background: The cavernous sinus (CS) is a highly vulnerable anatomical space, mainly for the neurovascular structures which it contains, therefore a detailed knowledge of its anatomy is mandatory for the surgical unlocking. To compare the anatomy of this region from different endoscopic and microsurgical operative corridors, also focusing on the corresponding anatomic landmarks met along these routes. Furthermore, we tried to define the safe entry zones to this venous space from these three different operative corridors and provide indications regarding the optimal approach according to the lesion location.
Methods: Five embalmed and injected adult cadaveric specimens (10 sides) separately underwent dissection and exposure of the CS via superior eyelid endoscopic transorbital (SETOA), extended endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal-transethmoidal (EEEA) and microsurgical transcranial fronto-temporo-orbito-zygomatic (FTOZ) approaches. The anatomical landmarks and the content of this venous space have been described and compared from these surgical perspectives.
Results: The SETOA allowed the exposure of the entire lateral wall of the CS without entering its neurovascular structures and part of the posterior wall; furthermore, thanks to its anteroposterior trajectory, it allowed to disclose in a minimally invasive fashion, also the posterior ascending segment of the cavernous ICA with the related sympathetic plexus through the Mullan’s triangle. Through the anterolateral triangle, the transorbital corridor allowed to expose the lateral 180 degrees of vidian nerve and artery in the homonymous canal, the anterolateral aspect of the lacerum segment of the ICA, at its the transition zone from the petrous horizontal to the ascending posterior cavernous segment, surrounded by the carotid sympathetic plexus, and the medial Meckel’s cave.
Conclusion: Different regions of the cavernous sinus are better exposed by different surgical corridors.
The relationship of tumor and cranial nerves in the lateral wall guides the selection of the approach to cavernous sinus lesions. The transorbital endoscopic approach can be considered a safe and minimally invasive complementary surgical corridor to the well-established transcranial and endoscopic endonasal routes in the exposure of the cavernous sinus. Nevertheless, peer knowledge of the anatomy and a surgical learning curve are required.
Mathematical Programming for the Dynamics of Opinion Diffusion
Authors: Ellero Andrea , Fasano Giovanni , Favaretto Daniela
Published: July 2023

The focus of this paper is on analyzing the role and the choice of parameters in sociophysics diffusion models, by leveraging the potentialities of sociophysics from a mathematical programming perspective. We first present a generalised version of Galam’s opinion diffusion model (see, e.g. , ). For a given selection of the coefficients in our model, this proposal yields the original Galam’s model. The generalised model suggests guidelines for possible alternative selection of its parameters that allow to foster diffusion. Examples of the parameters selection process as steered by numerical optimisation, taking into account various objectives, are provided.
Efficient Decellularization of Full-Thickness Rat Derived Abdominal Wall to Produce Acellular Biologic Scaffolds for Tissue Reconstruction: Promising Evidence Acquired From in vitro Results
Authors: Skepastianos George , Mallis Panagiotis , Kostopoulos Epameinondas , Michalopoulos Efstathios , Skepastianos Vasileios , Palazi Chrysoula , Pannuto Lucia , Tsourouflis Gerasimos
Published: July 2023

Background: Functional restoration of abdominal wall defects represent one of the fundamental challenges of reconstructive surgery. Synthetic grafts or crosslinked animal-derived biological grafts are characterized by significant adverse reactions, which are mostly observed after their implantation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the decellularization protocol to produce a completely acellular full-thickness abdominal wall scaffold.
Methods: Full-thickness abdominal wall samples were harvested from Wistar rats and submitted to a 3 cylce decellularization process. Histological, biochemical and DNA quantification analyses were applied to evaluate the effect of the decellularization protocol. Mechanical testing and immunogenicity assessment were also performed.
Results: Histological, biochemical and DNA analysis results showed the efficient decellularization abdominal wall samples after the 3rd cycle. Decellularized abdominal wall scaffolds were characterized by good biochemical and mechanical properties
Conclusion: The data presented herein confirm the effective production of rat-derived full-thickness abdominal wall scaffold. Expanding this approach will allow the exploitation of the capacity of the proposed decellularization protocol in producing acellular abdominal wall scaffolds from larger animal models or human cadaveric donors. In this way, the utility of biological scaffolds with preserved in vivo remodelling properties may be one step closer to its application in clinical studies.
Interpreting Seasonal Patterns and Long Term Changes of Zooplankton in a Deep Subalpine Lake Using Stable Isotope Analysis
Authors: Caroni Rossana , Piscia Roberta , Free Gary , Manca Marina
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to elucidate patterns and mechanisms driving seasonal and inter-annual variations of carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in the zooplankton crustacean commu-nity of Lake Maggiore (Italy), during the period 2009-2020. Different zooplankton taxa and groups revealed different ranges of d13C signatures, giving an insight into food sources and niche partition. In particular, cyclopoids had a restricted range with most negative d13C‰ values and increase in d13C fractionation with the establishment of water thermal vertical stratification, high-lighting the importance of vertical distribution as key factor for taxa coexistence in a vertically heterogenous environment. d13C of the zooplankton community and of Daphnia were positively related to water temperature (R2=0.58 p <0.0001 and R2=0.68 p <0.0001, respectively) and d13C Daphnia signature to chlorophyll-a (R2=0.32, p < 0.0001). Decomposition of time series data for zooplankton carbon and nitrogen signatures and environmental parameters identified increasing trends in water temperature, chlorophyll-a and water conductivity and decrease in nitrate, that matched changes in carbon isotopic signature trend in some zooplankton taxa (Bosmina, Daphnia and diaptomids). Overall, the observed patterns in zooplankton isotopic signatures were interpreted as integrations of climate warming effects in Lake Maggiore, affecting both food sources availability and environmental conditions.
Arterial and Venous Pressure Monitoring during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Out-of-Hospital Arrests: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Onishi Hirokazu , Matsuyama Tasuku , Yasutake Yuki , Inaba Daichi , Katsue Tatsuji , Nagama Masaki , Iwasaki Yuto , Kano Hitoshi
Published: July 2023

Background: In recent years, the assessment and guidance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) quality using noninvasive and invasive monitoring techniques have been increasingly recommended. In this study, we introduce a new physiological monitoring system that simultaneously measures arterial pressure (AP), venous pressure (VP), and cerebral tissue oxygen saturation (SctO2) during CPR. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a single center (Kagoshima City Hospital). Adult out-of-hospital patients aged ≥18 years with an intravenous femoral arterial line, venous line, and SctO2 monitor were included. We measured femoral arterial pressure (FAP) and femoral venous pressure (FVP) invasively if catheters were immediately inserted into the femoral artery and vein for potential candidates who require interventions such as extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation but did not receive such interventions as a result. Results: We observed several representative cases that provided the following insights: We presented several cases, including two patients with significant increases in FVP and low SctO2 values, and in both cases, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was not achieved. In contrast, we also presented two cases in which CPR resulted in higher FAP compared to FVP and an upward trend in SctO2 values was observed, and both instances achieved ROSC. Conclusion: We presented a simultaneous physiological monitoring system that can monitor AP, VP, and SctO2 during CPR. Further case accumulations will be necessary to assess the variations in hemodynamic status during CPR and the association between each hemodynamic status and outcomes after cardiac arrest.
A Component of the Landscape of Medieval Catalonia: the Coombs
Authors: Bolòs Jordi
Published: July 2023

The coombs (in Catalan comes) form an integral part of the landscape. These are small valleys, with the deepest and flattest part cultivated for agriculture. They are predominantly found in the most arid regions of Catalonia, particularly around the cities of Tarragona and Lleida. They are generally dry land areas. We propose that these coombs gained significance in the early centuries of the Middle Ages, a period marked by intense erosion. It is important to identify their locations and establish connections with medieval written documents, the settlements that thrived throughout the Middle Ages, archaeological sites such as necropolises, and the valuable data derived from to-ponymy studies. We think that understanding these coombs can greatly contribute to under-standing how the territory was organized in the Middle Ages, the extent of cultivated lands that were established, and the distribution of many settlements. Ultimately, this knowledge can aid in acquiring better understanding of the current landscape.
Uneven Distribution of Urban Green Spaces in Relation to Marginalization in Mexico City
Authors: Ayala-Azcarraga Cristina , Diaz Daniel , Fernandez Tania , Cordova-Tapia Fernando , Zambrano Luis
Published: July 2023

The differential distribution, size, and quality of urban green spaces (UGS) among localities generate a differential distribution of benefits provided to users. We analyzed the spatial distribution of five size categories of UGS among 15 municipalities of Mexico City, compared their total surface per capita and associated them with the social marginality index. We found 1,353 UGSs accessible for public use with a total area of 2,643 ha. Seventy-four percent of them had <1 ha of surface area, and 51% were located in only three municipalities that were mostly middle- and high-income. These municipalities concentrated a higher area of green spaces per capita. We found a negative correlation between the marginality index and the area of UGS per municipality; the lower the marginality index, the higher the area of green spaces. We consider this a situation of environmental injustice since urban environmental services are distributed unequally with respect to marginalized populations.
Implementation of Low-Cost Laboratory in Education: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Fajrin Suryadi , Hakim Dadang Lukman
Published: July 2023

The availability of educational facilities is still a problem in many countries. Inadequate laboratory equipment will affect student learning outcomes and the quality of graduates. Therefore, many studies have developed low-cost laboratories as an alternative solution. This article aims to study the development of low-cost laboratories and their implementation in learning. This study used the systematic literature review (SLR) method. The articles used in this study were published from 2017–2021 and obtained from the IEEE Xplore database. After the papers were accepted, we were selected using inclusion and exclusion criteria. Thirty-two articles were used. The results show that a low-cost laboratory can be an alternative solution to the high price of commercial equipment and a learning tool to improve learning outcomes. The methods used in implementing low-cost laboratories are design, research and development, and experimentation. Using low-cost laboratories in learning activities improves the quality of learning outcomes.
Faster Rate of Correction with Distal Femoral Transphyseal Screws Versus Plates in Hemiepiphysiodesis for Coronal-Plane Knee Deformity
Authors: McGinley James , Worrall Hannah , Althoff Claire , Clark Claire , Jo Chan-Hee , Birch John G. , Wilson Philip L. , Ellis Henry B.
Published: July 2023

Background:

Hemiepiphysiodesis (guided-growth) procedures have become the primary method of treatment for coronal-plane knee deformities in skeletally immature patients. Two leading techniques involve the use of a transphyseal screw or a growth modulation plate. However, clinical references for the estimation of correction are lacking, and no consensus has been reached regarding the superiority of one technique over the other. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the rates of correction for distal femoral transphyseal screws and growth modulation plates in age- and sex-matched cohorts with coronal deformities.

Methods:

Thirty-one knees were included in each cohort on the basis of propensity scoring by chronological age and sex, and radiographic images were retrospectively reviewed preoperatively and postoperatively. Each case was measured for limb length, mechanical axis deviation (MAD), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (LDFA), and bone age.

Results:

Both the MAD and LDFA rate of correction significantly differed between the screw and plate cohorts. The MAD rate of correction was observed to be 0.42 ± 0.37 mm/week (1.69 mm/month) in the plate cohort and 0.66 ± 0.51 mm/week (2.64 mm/month) in the screw cohort. The LDFA rate of correction was observed to be 0.12° ± 0.13°/week (0.50°/month) in the plate cohort and 0.19° ± 0.19°/week (0.77°/month) in the screw cohort.

Conclusions:

The current study provides simple clinical references for the rate of correction of MAD and the LDFA for 2 methods of hemiepiphysiodesis. The results suggest that transphyseal screws may correct coronal knee deformities during the initial treatment stage more quickly than growth modulation plates in distal femoral guided growth.

Level of Evidence:

TherapeuticLevel III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Numerical Simulation of the Effect of NACA 0012 Nozzle Geometry on Ducted Propeller Performance
Authors: Suryolaksono Muhammad Ramadhani , Bramantya Muhammad Agung
Published: July 2023

Ducted propeller is a method on the propeller modification which added duct/nozzle on the propeller. Ducted propeller application is aimed to increase propeller thrust, increase propeller efficiency, and decrease propeller noise and vibration. In this research, a numerical simulation was conducted using ANSYS Fluent 2020 R2 with k-epsilon solver model. The aim of this research is to analyze the effect of the duct geometry using Ld/D (duct length/duct diameter) ratio. The simulation was done on two Ld/D variations at three different propeller angular velocity (1.000, 3.000, 5.000 rpm). The result of this research shows that duct with 0,6 Ld/D ratio has higher thrust force than duct with 0,5 Ld/D ratio. Meanwhile, the increase of propeller angular velocity increase propeller thrust force and fluid velocity.
Biocontrol of strawberry Botrytis gray mold and prolong the fruit shelf-life by fumigant Trichoderma spp.
Authors: Fan Qingshuo , Lin Huajie , Hu Yanjing , Jin Jing , Zhang Ruqin , Yan Honghai
Published: July 2023

Objectives
To screen high active VOCs-producing Trichoderma isolates against strawberry gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea, and to explore their antagonistic mode of action against the pathogen.
Results
VOCs produced by nine Trichoderma isolates (Trichoderma atroviride T1 and T3, Trichoderma harzianum T2, T4 and T5, T6, T7, T8 and T9 identified as Trichoderma asperellum by ITS sequencing in this work) significantly inhibited the mycelial growth (13.9 − 63.0% reduction) and conidial germination (17.6 − 96.3% reduction) of B. cinerea, the highest inhibition percentage belonged to VOCs of T7; in a closed space, VOCs of T7 shared 76.9% and 100% biocontrol efficacy against gray mold on strawberry fruits and detached leaves, respectively, prolonged the fruit shelf-life by 3 days in presence of B. cinerea, completely protected the leaves from the pathogen infection; volatile metabolites of T7 damaged the cell membrane permeability and integrity of B. cinerea both on water agar or on strawberry leaf surface, thereby inhibiting the mycelia growth, conidia germination and the formation of infection pads.
Conclusions
T. asperellum T7 showed high biofumigant activity against mycelial growth especially conidial germination of B. cinerea and thus protected strawberry fruits and leaves from gray mold, which acted by damaging the pathogen’s plasma membrane and resulting in cytoplasm leakage, was a potential biofumigant for controlling pre- and post-harvest strawberry gray mold.
Extensive transcriptome sex-reversal later in life, after developmental low-dose bisphenol A exposure
Authors: Dunder Linda , Lejonklou Margareta , Lind Monica , Melhus Håkan , Lind Lars , Lind Thomas
Published: July 2023

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor and exposure to low doses in utero has been associated with the development of metabolic diseases. Previous work indicated that bone marrow (BM) might be extra sensitive to BPA exposure1. Here we investigate how developmental exposure to low levels of BPA affect the BM transcriptome and the blood metabolic profile, together with how it compares to human metabolic syndrome (MetS) using a population-based cohort. The results show an unexpectedly extensive sex-reversal effect on the BM transcriptome from a BPA dose approximately eight times lower than the temporary European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) human tolerable daily intake (TDI) dose, similarly as a 100-times higher dose, considered safe in 2015(2). BPA appeared to induce, in males, while repress in females, gene expression in general and in T cells in particular, resulting in a hypometabolic cancer-like state in females and a hypermetabolic autoimmunity-like state in males, with a blood metabolic profile that significantly overlaps with human MetS. We conclude that developmental low-dose BPA exposure can cause extensive sex-reversal of transcription together with a sex-specific metabolic syndrome later in life, possibly through effects on T cell activity. Our study provide biologically plausible and convincing evidence for significant effects from low-dose BPA exposure3 and support the proposed substantial lowering of the human BPA TDI by EFSA4.
Pharmaceutical Services Management Capacity and the Municipal Socioeconomic Scenario: Persistent Inequalities
Authors: Faraco Emilia Baierle , Rover Marina Raijche Mattozo , Cunha Luana Niederauer Oliveira Leal da , Leite Silvana Nair
Published: July 2023

Background Although access to essential medicines means resolution for most health conditions in primary health care, ensuring it is still a complex challenge for all health systems. Recent studies show that fair access to medicines must be determined by health care needs, considering the variables in the socioeconomic environment. In this context, despite advances, weaknesses in the development of pharmaceutical services persist, strongly related to management capacity. The study investigates the relationship between the management capacity of Pharmaceutical Services and socioeconomic indices in Brazilian municipalities, analysing which contextual factors are involved in its development.Methods Data from a cross-sectional exploratory study at national scale and indicators developed by Faraco et al. were used to define the capacity of Pharmaceutical Services management. Pearson’s chi-square test and multivariate analysis were performed to associate Pharmaceutical Services management capacity with socioeconomic indices of each municipality. These socioeconomic indices were collected from public database platforms.Results The results prove significant relationships between management and socioeconomic indicators, suggesting that Pharmaceutical Services management capacity is influenced by the environment in which it operates. This study shows municipalities with better management capacity results were those with better socioeconomic indices, better health system conditions and structure, reflecting a greater number of professionals, greater participation of popular social control and use public resources. It is also highlighted that municipalities with a smaller population size and lower socio-economic indices have less ability to manage pharmaceutical services, revealing worsening inequalities for its citizens.Conclusions The existence of an adequate minimum structure, a qualified workforce, service organization, and opportunities for political articulation are essential, as well as conditions for these municipalities to develop and improve their management capacity and for financing based on socioeconomic indicators to become an effective access and adequate use of medicines for the population.
Analysis of Supply-Demand Relations for Ecosystem Services
Authors: Park Yoonsun , Song Youngkeun
Published: July 2023

Ecosystem services play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development by contributing to human well-being. Achieving sustainable development necessitates a balance between the supply and demand for ecosystem services. We performed a factor analysis using ecosystem service measurement results to assess ecosystem service supply and national statistical data representing socioeconomic factors for ecosystem service demand. The analysis results for Gyeonggi-do are as follows: ecosystem service supply was categorized into mixed service provision (factor 1), food supply (factor 2), and phosphorus retention service (factor 3). Ecosystem service demand, based on socioeconomic factors, was divided into shrinking cities (factor 1), densely populated areas (factor 2), and economically active areas (factor 3). Balanced local governments were identified in Goyang, Osan, Paju, Pyeongtaek, Pocheon, Yeoju, Siheung, and Guri, while unbalanced local governments were found in Suwon, Hwaseong, Yongin, Gwangju, Yeoncheon, Yangpyeong, and Namyangju. Furthermore, we propose a management plan to maintain balance between the demand and supply of ecosystem services. Our analysis method and results are applicable to various local governments, providing an invaluable resource for maintaining the balance between ecosystem service supply and demand.
The LOG-after French Childhood Cancer Cohort : acute to long-term follow-up. Methodology of the LOG-after cohort, a database to help in the medium- and long-term care of patients. A GOCE study (Grand Ouest Cancers de l’Enfant, Childhood Cancer, West France) plus other French hospitals
Authors: Chauvet Sophie , Bertrand Amandine , Carausu Liana , Delehaye Fanny , Lejeune Julien , Rouger Jérémie , Schneider Pascale , Thomas Caroline , Millot Frédéric , Claude Line , Leseur Julie , Missohou Fernand , Supiot Stéphane , Bihannic Nathalie , Debroise Isabelle , Jeanneaud Carole , Lebreton Esther , Roumy Marianne , Vincent Melissa , Gandemer Virginie , Pellier Isabelle , Demoor-Goldschmidt Charlotte , Aguerris Les Aguerris association Les , Veillon Pascal , Esvan Maxime , Leonard Mathilde
Published: July 2023

Background
Treatment summary and a personalized survivorship care plan based on internationally approved, organ-specific follow-up care recommendations are essential to preserve health and quality of life. Cohorts have made significant contributions to the understanding of early mortality, somatic late complications, and psychosocial outcomes among childhood cancer survivors. New treatment protocols have the goal to increase the cure and reduce the potential risk and severity of late effects.
Therefore, pursue such databases with modern treatments are necessary.
Construction and content
In the GOCE network, in a participative approach, we developed the LOG-after medical tool, on which health data are registered and can be extracted for analysis. This tool is hosted on a web server, which is health data host certified and several interfaces have been developed depending on the user’s profile. Here we present the construction of the software, the results of the feasibility/satisfaction study with a descriptive analysis.
Utility and discussion
The database contains data of 2558 patients of which for 1702, a tumor bank exists (66.54%). The average treatment start period was April 2015 (ranging from December 1967 to November 2022; 118 patients were treated before 2012 and registered retrospectively when seen in long-term foloow-up consultations or for another cancer since November 2021). When questioned about their satisfaction of the tool, all health care professionals were satisfied. Access to the patient interface is currently open to 124 former patients. This was initially offered to 30 former patients, older than 15 years, affected by the disease within the last 5 years, who agreed to test it. All patients were satisfied with the tool, with an interest to test it in the long-term. Some of them testified to a decrease in mental load, as this verbatim : "I feel lighter. I allow myself to forget, I know I will get a notification when the time comes." Conclusions
Freely available to all users, LOG-after enables (1) help with suggesting a personalized survivorship care plan for middle or long-term follow-up, (2) link with general practitioner, (3) empowerment of the patient, (5) an export of health data for analysis.
Database URL for presentation: https://youtu.be/2Ga64iausJE
Inheritance of RAPD and ISSR markers in hybrid derivatives of inter-specific coffee hybrid (Coffea congensis Froehner x Coffea canephora Pierre): Implications on genetic improvement and plant variety protection
Authors: Kumar Deepanshu , Nanthini Bharatha , Rao Surya Prakash , Krishnan Youvashree , Sethuraman Thilaga , Doss Ganesh
Published: July 2023

An inter-specific hybrid involving Coffea congensis x Coffea canephora is popularly known as C x R coffee hybrid in India. This hybrid was developed with the primary objective of reducing the plant size for high density cultivation and also to improve the coffee beverage quality. Though this hybrid is popularly cultivated in India, segregation of this hybrid due to cross pollination either within the hybrid or with other diploid species of Coffea is one of the major problems to achieve seed purity and higher yield. To utilize DNA marker assisted selection (MAS), two dominant DNA markers (RAPD and ISSR) were analyzed for their utility. About 24 RAPD and 15 ISSR primers were tested for screening the effective primers and only three RAPD and five ISSR primers were found suitable for discriminating the parent. These selective RAPD and ISSR primers produced nine and 23 polymorphic bands respectively with size range of 400 bp – 1200 bp in RAPD and 100 bp – 2000 bp in ISSR. Species specific RAPD and ISSR markers were found in female (Coffea congensis) and male (Coffea canephora) parent of the hybrid and certain of these RAPD and ISSR markers and they are found to inherit into F1 and backcross progenies. The primers for suitability for marker assisted selection were evaluated with parameters such as Polymorphic information content (PIC), effective multiplex ratio (EMR), marker index (MI) and resolving power (RP). Importance of these markers in genetic improvement of this hybrid is discussed.
Theoretical Study on Dynamic Stability of High Bridge Piers Under Near-Fault Earthquake
Authors: An Wenjun , Zhou Ping , Kang Meilan , Liu Yihong , Zhou Lin
Published: July 2023

Select a double span box girder bridge as the analysis model, the vibration control differential equation of ultra-high pier is established, solved by the Runge-Kutta method with variable step length, combined with B-R motion criterion, the dynamic response of ultra-high pier induced by vertical seismic excitation is calculated, and the instability mechanism is studied. Theoretical analysis shows that for high piers, ignoring the bidirectional coupling effect will underestimate the dynamic response of piers. The vertical seismic excitation results in the increase of the axial pressure of bridge pier, which will increase the horizontal deformation of pier. The separation of the main beam and bridge pier will change the extreme deformation value of the bridge pier and increase the risk of pier instability. It has important guiding significance for the theoretical analysis and engineering practice of dynamic instability of ultra-high pier.