bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INTERSEMIOTICS IN CONTEMPORARY ADVERTISING. FROM SIGN TRANSLATION TO MEANING COHERENCEi
Authors:   University of Bucharest, Hodorogea Vasile
Published: May 2023

The very informed contemporary advertising-reluctant consumer asks for coherence and transparency from the creators of the advertising discourses, who, on the other hand, try to be relevant using local and contextual features even if the brand is international (Pepsi uses a Romanian song within Shazam and the international brand Danone is “Made in Romania”). This paper explores a series of theoretical concepts, from intersemiotic complementarity and cohesion to a contextual model of social semiotics, from translation and adaptation theories to multimodality and intermediality, in order to find some simple instruments for the construction and adaptation of the advertising messages to the consumers’ social, technological and cultural context, able to better target an audience and to maintain coherence all along a discourse that uses from conventional print media and TV to very innovative mobile apps and other digital endeavors.
Analysing the Source Text: A First Step for a Successful Translation
Authors:   Politehnica University Timişoara, Stoian Claudia E.
Published: May 2023

The translation of pragmatic texts requires many skills, among which that of analysing the source text to be translated. The present paper proposes the functional analysis as a helpful approach for training translation and interpreting students into such skills. It focuses on register analysis, paying attention to field, mode and tenor, and puts forward several activities meant to develop and improve student’s abilities in understanding their texts as a first step in obtaining successful translations.
"FACEBOOK VERSUS WEBSITE. INFORMIEREN ÜBER SOZIALE NETZWERKE UND ÜBER „KLASSISCHE“ WEBSITES"
Authors:   West University of Timișoara, Ciortea-Neamțiu Ștefana-Oana
Published: May 2023

Wo und wie suchen wir heute nach Informationen und wie sind diese organisiert? Wo und wie finden wir am schnellsten die Informationen, die wir brauchen? Was erschwert, was erleichtert die Recherche? Das Organisieren von Informationen wie auch die Suche danach ist heute anders gestaltet als noch vor zehn Jahren. Twitter, Facebook und Co. haben die Art, in der sich vorwiegend die jungen Leute heute informieren, geändert. Ziel der wissenschaftlichen Arbeit ist es, die Facebook-Seite mit der Website einiger Kulturinstitutionen aus Temeswar zu vergleichen, um die Vor- und Nachteile des Informierens über die eine oder andere Plattform herauszufinden.
Managing Hybrid Learning with Large Groups during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors:   International Balkan University, Stevkovska Marija
Published: May 2023

This article aims to examine the effectiveness of hybrid learning with large groups. A cross-sectional study was conducted to answer the three research questions: 1) Is there a significant difference between the achievement of online and face-to-face students? 2) What are the main advantages and disadvantages of hybrid classes? and 3) What can be done to increase the effectiveness of hybrid classes? The research hypothesis is that there is a significant difference between the exam results. The mid-term and final exam results of both groups of students were compared through the independent and dependent t-test, which indicated there was no significant difference between the two groups.
UNTERRICHTSPRAXIS DES GERICHTSDOLMETSCHENS ONLINE
Authors:   Constantine the Philosopher University of Nitra, Štefčík Jozef
Published: May 2023

In dem Beitrag wollen wir unsere Erfahrungen im Dolmetschunterricht online präsentieren. In den aufeinanderfolgenden Beispielen werden verschiedene Unterrichtsmodelle gezeigt, die an der Konstantin-Universität Nitra im Dolmetschtraining für künftige Dolmetscher eingesetzt werden und die als semi-authentische didaktische Modelle in dem Training der (Gerichts)Dolmetscher benutzt werden. Der Beitrag setzt sich hierbei mit dem Qualitätskonzept auseinander, das die Verbesserung des Gerichtsdolmetschens den neuen technologischen Entwicklungen anzupassen versucht.
Ergonomics and Human Factors in the Cyber Age. The Case of Ergonomics and Human Factors Regional Educational CEEPUS Network
Authors:   Politehnica University Timişoara, Drăghici Anca , Szabo Gyula ,   Óbuda University Donát, Gajšek Brigita ,   University of Maribor, Mrugalska Beata ,   Poznan University of Technology, Dovramadjiev Tihomir ,   Technical University of Varna, Zunjic Aleksandar ,   University of Belgrade
Published: May 2023

The Ergonomics and Human Factors Regional Educational CEEPUS Network (CIII-HU-1506-01-2021) was established and approved for funding in 2020 and still planned to be extended and developed. The network is the result of collaboration between nine universities with a key role in ergonomic education and research, promoting the profession of ergonomist (especially in industrial and logistics systems fields). Partners have agreed on providing support for master and doctoral programs, for joint scientific and didactic publications, at the level of European requirements and standards, but with a focus especially in the Danube region. The paper aims to present the achievements of the Ergonomics and Human Factors Regional Educational CEEPUS Network during the last two academic years (2020 – 2022) and the planned activities for the next period (2022 – 2023). The Network establishment and development is considered mature and could be a good practice example in the field of ergonomics collaborations by providing evidence of common activities and achievements that have conducted to the extension of the network and other project collaboration types of development.
Operative Interfaces of English for Medical Purposes. Linguistic and Translational Perspectives
Authors:   University of Craiova, Rusu Mihai Robert
Published: May 2023

It is common sense knowledge that medical research and medical practice need a specialized language, or, in other words, a language for specific purposes (LSP) with an international coverage – English is the leading candidate as the lingua franca. Admittedly, it fulfils different communication functions within professional environments alongside the interpersonal level; it shows real-life purpose, being used at a higher and more intense level because of globalization and technology advancement, medical technology included.
Communication sur le patrimoine architectural et attractivité territoriale : cas des remparts de la ville de Taroudant
Authors: Oufara Fatima Zahra
Published: May 2023

L’article porte sur le patrimoine architectural, la communication et l’attractivité territoriale dans la province de Taroudant (Sud-Ouest du Maroc). L’objectif principal est d’étudier ce patrimoine, ses formes de communications et ses enjeux pour le développement territorial. La corrélation entre patrimoine architectural, communication et attractivité territoriale a été envisagée à partir d’une étude de cas d’un patrimoine architectural militaire : les remparts de la ville de Taroudant. L’objectif est de comprendre dans quelle mesure ses remparts pourraient être un facteur d’attractivité territoriale et d’analyser les types d’effets induits par la communication autour de ce patrimoine sur cette attractivité territoriale.
La communication publique numérique entre exigences éthiques et considérations professionnelles cas des juridictions marocaines
Authors: Benabdelkader Mohammed , El Mendili Soumaya , Bouchama Rachid
Published: May 2023

La justice marocaine est engagée dans un processus de réforme global inspirée des lois fondamentales et des orientations royales, visant la consolidation de l’indépendance du pouvoir judiciaire et l’adoption d’une nouvelle politique. Celle-ci vise le rapprochement avec le citoyen et l’amélioration de la qualité des services rendus aux justiciables, afin d’instaurer un climat de confiance et de crédibilité. La communication publique, dans sa forme numérique, joue un rôle important dans cette dynamique de changement où l’intégration du digital devient incontournable pour l’administration judiciaire, surtout avec le changement des modes de diffusion et de consommation de l’information caractérisés par davantage d’échanges et d’interactions. Toutefois, ce chantier soulève des questions liées à l’éthique et qui s’imposent tout au long de ce mouvement de transformation vers le terrain du digital. Adopter une communication responsable, transparente et éthiquement correcte suppose la conciliation entre la nécessité de communiquer pour mettre en valeur l’image de l’institution et les exigences éthiques, de plus en plus pesante dans l’exercice de la fonction de communication. L’objectif de cet article est ainsi de faire le rapprochement entre deux disciplines distinctes qui sont la communication publique et l’éthique représentée comme étant une science de la connaissance du bien et du mal.
Les pratiques quotidiennes des RSN en contexte universitaire : De l’invisibilité à la lumière Cas des élèves-ingénieurs de l’ENSAM
Authors: Touhami Souad
Published: May 2023

Les réseaux sociaux numériques, sont devenus de nos jours, des outils d’information et de communication incontournables. Cette ascension fulgurante de ces dispositifs sociotechniques suscite l’intérêt de plus en plus d’étudiants/apprenants et bien évidemment d’autres acteurs provenant des différentes sphères (publique, privée, politique,…). De l’invisibilité à la lumière, les RSN, de par leur facilité d’utilisation et de mise en œuvre, se sont imposés dans le quotidien des étudiants. Ces derniers les trouvent à leur goût : favoriser les échanges, le partage de fichiers (documents, photos, vidéos, liens), l’interaction et la diffusion d’informations de tout genre. Notre objectif, dans ce travail de recherche, est de nous focaliser sur les usages quotidiens des RSN chez nos élèves-ingénieurs de l’ENSAM de Meknès. Comment et pourquoi les utilisent-ils ? A travers une étude de terrain, nous tenterons de comprendre les modes d’appropriation de ces outils et l’impact qu’ils suscitent chez nos étudiants en situation d’enseignement/apprentissage. D’ailleurs, l’analyse des données recueillies dans une démarche empirique/descriptive et une approche transdisciplinaire, permet de comprendre d’une part les effets des RSN, leur usage et réception, les pratiques et les comportements des acteurs ; et d’autre part, l’attribution de nouveaux rôles qui entourent ces RSN qui peuvent devenir de « réel dispositifs de formation ».
Rôle de la communication et engagement des acteurs à travers les projets de l’économie sociale et solidaire : cas des coopératives féminines d’argane
Authors: AIT OMAR Brahim
Published: May 2023

Le développement a été souvent perçu sous l’angle économique, à travers notamment l’accroissement de la production et de la consommation. L’évolution démographique impose continuellement un surplus de productivité. Cette dynamique a engendré un pur réflexe d’exploitation abusive des ressources naturelles. Toute action de développement est fatalement entrainée dans cet engrenage. Point de progrès sans développement, nul développement sans l’émiettement de la Nature, mère nourricière. On assiste cependant, depuis quelques années, à l’émergence d’une nouvelle conscience universelle obsédée par l’apocalypse verte. La gourmandise de l’homme ne saurait plus être assouvie au détriment de la Nature, le progrès étant à l’origine conçu dans la perspective d’un pillage systématique des ressources de la Terre. C’est un processus écophage par nécessité.
The Lunar Lighthouse: a Beacon of Safety and Psychological Comfort through Cellulose Application in Habitat Construction
Authors:   Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment, School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, Newcastle University, Lipinska Monika
Published: May 2023

The harmful cosmic and solar radiation is the major challenge in constructing surface habitats on the Moon. Common solutions for protecting astronauts are to cover the base with a thick layer of regolith or place the habitat underground, in lava tubes. However, these approaches sacrifice the psychological well-being of astronauts by completely cutting off their connection to the outside environment. Therefore, the study was motivated by the need to develop a system of protection against radiation for a surface lunar base that would allow for the introduction of sunlight into the habitat. The objective was to discover a technical solution that would allow greater flexibility in designing the base shell structure, provide a translucent membrane, and guarantee the safety of astronauts. This paper discusses an approach to constructing lunar habitable structures based on soil reinforcement principles and biotechnology. The nano-cellulose membranes, grown in situ, are proposed as passive radiation shielding. Nano-cellulose is a light solid substance with exceptional strength and radiation protection characteristics. After certain processes, it becomes translucent, which is a big asset when considering the introduction of natural light to the habitat. Combined with lunar regolith, cellulose membranes form a composite system enabling the construction of stable vertical surface structures while minimizing material use and habitat footprint. Keywords: Space Architecture, Lunar Base, Radiation Protection, Biotechnology, Nano-cellulose
Nueva guía Reanimación Cardiopulmonar y Cuidados de Emergencia 2022
Authors:   Universidad de Antioquia, Saldarriaga Pérez Juliana Vanesa , Ocampo Salazar Yuliana ,   Universidad de Antioquia, Arteaga Castaño María Alejandra ,   Universidad de Antioquia
Published: May 2023

Reconocer los aspectos nuevos de la nueva del Consenso Internacional sobre Reanimación Cardiopulmonar y Cuidados de Emergencia del 2022. Además, reconocer la nueva evidencia de reanimación publicada más recientemente y revisada por expertos científicos del Comité de enlace Internacional sobre reanimación.
Protection sociale des travailleurs du secteur informel au Cameroun : une analyse de la demande
Authors: Mpabe Bodjongo Mathieu Juliot
Published: May 2023

L’objectif de cet article est d’examiner la souscription des entrepreneurs du secteur informel au système public de protection sociale au Cameroun. L’analyse porte sur un échantillon de 4598 promoteurs d’unités de production informelle (UPI), issu de la 2nde phase de la deuxième enquête sur l’emploi et le secteur informel au Cameroun (INS, 2010). En s’inspirant de la revue de la littérature économique, les résultats économétriques obtenus à l'aide de l’estimation d’un modèle probit avec biais de sélection révèlent que les entrepreneurs du secteur informel seront moins enclins à adhérer à un système public de protection sociale offrant les prestations sociales ci-après: l’assurance vieillesse, l’assurance invalidité, l’allocation familiale et l’allocation maladie professionnelle.
A new enantiornithine specimen from the Lower Cretaceous of Las Hoyas: avifaunal diversity and life-history of a wetland Mesozoic bird
Authors: Nebreda Sergio M. , Chiappe Luis M. , Navalon Guillermo , Chinsamy Anusuya , Sanz José L. , Buscalioni Angela D. , Marugán-Lobón Jesús
Published: May 2023

The Lower Cretaceous fossil site of Las Hoyas (Cuenca, Spain) has yielded the richest Cretaceous avifauna of the European continent. We describe a new fossil (MUPA-LH-33333) of an enantiornithine bird from this locality. This specimen consists of a partially articulated skeleton preserving portions of the vertebral column, both girdles and limbs, ribs and sternum; it also preserves patches of soft tissues including remigial feathers and integumentary structures belonging to the postpatagium. MUPA-LH-33333 shares dimensions and some anatomical features with the holotype of Concornis lacustris, a species previously described from Las Hoyas. However, the new specimen shows differences especially in the coracoid and the sternum, suggesting the presence of a different morphotype closely related to C. lacustris. Nevertheless, the poor preservation prevents asserting that it represents a new species. Histological evidence from its long bones indicates that is subadult or adult and that early fast rates followed by slower and protracted cyclical phases took place during its growth, a previously unnoticed pattern in Lower Cretaceous enantiornithines. This new finding supports the hypothesis that enantiornithines regularly inhabited the Las Hoyas wetland, making this site a hotspot for enhancing our understanding of the evolution and life history of these Cretaceous birds.
An Analytical Design Method of PI and PID Controllers for Industrial Series Cascade Processes With Time Delay Under Robustness Constraints
Authors: Bošković Marko Č. , Prelić Ivan G. , Šekara Tomislav B.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, an analytical method is proposed to design Proportional-Integral (PI) and Proporional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controllers for two-stage industrial series cascade processes with transport delay under robustness constraints. The main rationale behind using series cascade control structure is that the disturbances in the inner loop are suppressed by the secondary controller before being transmitted to the outer loop. The presented design procedure consists of two steps: In the first step, the controller Cb(s) in the inner loop is designed, while in the second step the controller Ca(s) in the outer loop is obtained. The obtained controller is of PI or PID-type structure depending on the number of selected terms used in Maclaurin’s approximation of the transfer function of the high-order controller. By specifying the robustness constraints within design procedure one define values of adjustable parameters to achieve compromise between robustness and performance indicators. The result is efficient suppression of load disturbances, evaluated by the integral of the absolute error (IAE). The step reference response can be additionally reshaped by using Two Degree of Freedom – 2DoF control structure via suitable selection of set-point weighting factor b, 0≤b≤1, which acts on the control signal through displaced proportional action of the controller. The proposed design method is analyzed with simulations on wide class of typical representatives of industrial processes including stable, integral and unstable processes with time delay. A comparison with recent studies shows the effectiveness of the proposed tuning method for industrial cascade processes.
A reductionist paradigm for high-throughput behavioural fingerprinting in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Jones Hannah , Willis Jenny A , Firth Lucy C , Giachello Carlo N G , Gilestro Giorgio F
Published: May 2023

Understanding how the brain encodes behaviour is the ultimate goal of neuroscience and the ability to objectively and reproducibly describe and quantify behaviour is a necessary milestone on this path. Recent progresses in machine learning and computational power have pushed the development and adoption of powerful systems leveraging on high-resolution videorecording to track pose and describe behaviour in all four dimensions, however the temporal and spatial resolution of these systems come as a compromise with their throughput and accessibility. Here we describe
coccinella
, an open source reductionist framework that allows for high-throughput analysis of behaviour using real-time tracking on a distributed mesh of microcomputers followed by resource-lean statistical learning. We show that a reductionist system outperforms state-of-the-art alternatives when exploring the pharmacobehaviour in
Drosophila melanogaster
.
Two-way Dispatched function in Sonic hedgehog shedding and transfer to high-density lipoproteins
Authors: Ehring K. , Ehlers S.F. , Froese J. , Gude F. , Puschmann J. , Grobe K.
Published: May 2023

The Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway controls embryonic development and tissue homeostasis after birth. This requires regulated solubilization of dual-lipidated, firmly plasma membrane-associated Shh precursors from producing cells. Although it is firmly established that the resistance-nodulation-division transporter Dispatched (Disp) drives this process, it is less clear how lipidated Shh solubilization from the plasma membrane is achieved. We previously showed that Disp enhances proteolytic Shh solubilization from its lipidated terminal peptide anchors. This process, called shedding, converts tightly membrane-associated hydrophobic Shh precursors into delipidated soluble proteins. We show here that Disp-mediated Shh shedding is modulated by a serum factor that we identify as high-density lipoprotein (HDL). In addition to serving as soluble sinks for free membrane cholesterol, HDLs also accept the cholesterol-modified Shh peptide from Disp. The cholesteroylated Shh peptide is required and sufficient for Disp-mediated transfer because mCherry linked to cholesteroylated peptides associates with HDL in a Disp-dependent manner, but an N-palmitoylated Shh variant that lacks C-cholesterol does not. Disp-mediated Shh transfer to HDL is finalized by proteolytic processing of the palmitoylated N-terminal membrane anchor. The resulting mono-lipidated Shh variant may help meet the demands for Hh activity regulation in different cell types and developing tissues.
Structural and mechanistic insights into the MCM8/9 helicase complex
Authors: Weng Zhuangfeng , Zheng Jiefu , Zhou Yiyi , Lu Zuer , Wu Yixi , Xu Dongyi , Li Huanhuan , Liang Huanhuan , Liu Yingfang
Published: May 2023

MCM8 and MCM9 form a functional helicase complex (MCM8/9) that plays an essential role in DNA homologous recombination repair for DNA double-strand break. However, the structural characterization of MCM8/9 for DNA binding/unwinding remains unclear. Here, we report structures of the MCM8/9 complex using cryo-electron microscopy single particle analysis. The structures reveal that MCM8/9 is arranged through a three-fold symmetry axis to form a heterohexamer with a central channel to accommodate DNA. Multiple characteristic hairpins from the N-terminal oligosaccharide/oligonucleotide (OB) domains of MCM8/9 protrude into the central channel and serve to unwind the duplex DNA. When activated by HROB, the structure of MCM8/9’s N-tier ring converts its symmetry from
C3
to
C1
with a conformational change that expands the MCM8/9’s trimer interface. Moreover, structural dynamic analyses revealed that the flexible C-tier ring exhibited rotary motions relative to the N-tier ring, which is required for the unwinding ability of MCM8/9. In summary, our structural and biochemistry study provide a basis for the DNA unwinding mechanism of MCM8/9 helicase in homologous recombination.
Dendritic growth and synaptic organization from activity-independent cues and local activity-dependent plasticity
Authors: Kirchner Jan H. , Euler Lucas , Gjorgjieva Julijana
Published: May 2023

Dendritic branching and synaptic organization shape single neuron and network computations. How they emerge simultaneously during brain development as neurons become integrated into functional networks is still not mechanistically understood. Here, we propose a mechanistic model in which dendrite growth and the organization of synapses arise from the interaction of activity-independent cues from potential synaptic partners and local activity-dependent synaptic plasticity. Consistent with experiments, three phases of dendritic growth – overshoot, pruning, and stabilization – emerge naturally in the model. The model generates stellate-like dendritic morphologies capturing several morphological features of biological neurons under normal and perturbed learning rules, reflecting biological variability. Model-generated dendrites have approximately optimal wiring length consistent with experimental measurements. Besides setting up dendritic morphologies, activity-dependent plasticity rules organize synapses into spatial clusters according to the correlated activity they experience. We demonstrate that a trade-off between activity-dependent and -independent factors influences dendritic growth and synaptic location throughout development, suggesting that early developmental variability can affect mature morphology and synaptic function. Therefore, a single mechanistic model can capture dendritic growth and account for the synaptic organization of correlated inputs during development. Our work suggests concrete mechanistic components underlying the emergence of dendritic morphologies and synaptic formation and removal in function and dysfunction, and provides experimentally testable predictions for the role of individual components.
The role of solar radiation and tidal emersion on oxidative stress and glutathione synthesis in mussels exposed to air
Authors: Moreira Daniel C. , Aurélio da Costa Tavares Sabino Marcus , Minari Marina , Torres Brasil Kuzniewski Felipe , Angelini Ronaldo , Hermes-Lima Marcelo
Published: May 2023

Preparation for oxidative stress (POS) is a widespread adaptive response to harsh environmental conditions, whose hallmark is the upregulation of antioxidants. In contrast to controlled laboratory settings, animals are exposed to multiple abiotic stressors under natural field conditions. Still, the interplay between different environmental factors in modulating redox metabolism in natural settings remains largely unexplored. Here, we aim to shed light on this topic by assessing changes in redox metabolism in the mussel Brachidontes solisianus naturally exposed to a tidal cycle. We compared the redox biochemical response of mussels under six different natural conditions in the field along two consecutive days. These conditions differ in terms of chronology, immersion/emersion, and solar radiation, but not in terms of temperature. Animals were collected after being exposed to air early morning (7:30), immersed during late morning and afternoon (8:45–15:30), and then exposed to air again late afternoon towards evening (17:45–21:25), in two days. Whole body homogenates were used to measure the activity of antioxidant (catalase, glutathione transferase and glutathione reductase) and metabolic (glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, isocitrate dehydrogenase and pyruvate kinase) enzymes, reduced (GSH) and disulfide (GSSG) glutathione levels, and oxidative stress markers (protein carbonyl and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances). Air and water temperature remained stable between 22.5 °C and 26 °C during both days. Global solar radiation (GSR) greatly differed between days, with a cumulative GSR of 15,381 kJ/m2 for day 1 and 5,489 kJ/m2 for day 2, whose peaks were 2,240 kJ/m2/h at 14:00 on day 1 and 952 kJ/m2/h at 12:00 on day 2. Compared with animals underwater, emersion during early morning did not elicit any alteration in redox biomarkers in both days. Air exposure for 4 h in the late afternoon towards evening caused oxidative damage to proteins and lipids and elicited GSH synthesis in animals that had been previously exposed to high GSR during the day. In the following day, when GSR was much lower, exposure to air under the same conditions (duration, time, and temperature) had no effect on any redox biomarker. These findings suggest that air exposure under low-intensity solar radiation is not sufficient to trigger POS in B. solisianus in its natural habitat. Thus, natural UV radiation is possibly a key environmental factor that combined to air exposure induces the POS-response to the stressful event of tidal variation in this coastal species.
Estimating the impact of environmental management on strawberry yield using publicly available agricultural data in South Korea
Authors: Kim Steven , Jo Jung Su , Luk Vicky , Kim Sung Kyeom , Kim Dong Sub
Published: May 2023

Advanced information and communication technologies (ICTs) have made data collection more efficient for agricultural studies. Using publicly available database in South Korea, we estimated the relationship between the management of air temperature and relative humidity and the strawberry yield during two harvest seasons. Longitudinal data of multiple greenhouses were merged and processed, and mixed-effects models were applied to account both observed and unobserved factors across the greenhouses. The averages of air temperature and relative humidity inside each greenhouse do not take volatility of the time-varying variables into consideration, so we assessed the management of each greenhouse by the percent of time that air temperature between 15 °C and 20 °C (denoted as T%) and the percent of time that relative humidity between 0% and 50% (denoted by H%). The statistical models estimated that the strawberry yield decreases with respect to the number of days since harvest began and the rate of decrease is slower when T% and H% are higher. This study used large-scale multilocation data to provide the practical suggestion that air temperature and relative humidity should be maintained within the optimal ranges to mitigate the loss of strawberry yield especially at the later phase of a harvest season.
Necked strawberries are especially susceptible to cracking
Authors: Hurtado Grecia , Knoche Moritz
Published: May 2023

Fruit cracking is a commercially important disorder that reduces both quantity and quality of strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.). The objective was to identify the physiological mechanism of cracking and the factors affecting cracking. Cracking is more common in necked than in normal-shaped fruit. Most macroscopic cracks (‘macrocracks’) occur in the seedless neck. Large fruit is more cracking susceptible than medium size or small fruit. Macrocrack orientation is predominantly latitudinal in the proximal region of the neck and longitudinal in the mid and distal regions of the neck. The neck region of necked fruit has a thicker cuticle than the body of necked or normal-shaped fruit. The vascular bundles in the neck (seedless) are orientated longitudinally, while those in the body (with seeds) are both longitudinal and radial. Epidermal cells in the neck region are elongated longitudinally, with those in the proximal region of the neck being more elongated than those in the mid or distal regions of the neck. Cuticular microcracking was more severe in necked fruit than in normal-shaped fruit. The orientations of the microcracks matched those of the macrocracks, i.e., latitudinal in the proximal neck and longitudinal in the mid and distal neck regions. Following artificial incisions (blade), gaping was significantly more pronounced in necked than in normal-shaped fruit. Incubation of fruit in deionized water induced macrocracks in about 75% of fruit. Necked fruit cracked more than normal-shaped fruit. Most macrocracks were oriented latitudinally in the proximal neck and longitudinally in the distal neck regions. The results indicate cracking results from excessive growth strains which are further increased by surface water uptake.
Eficácia em ouvidorias públicas: IEOuv – uma proposta de indicador
Authors: Leal Leonardo Carréra Campos , De Moraes Ionete Cavalcanti , Correia Neto Jorge da Silva
Published: May 2023

A necessária evolução da administração pública no Brasil trouxe consigo novas práticas de gestão para viabilizar a consecução dos anseios da sociedade. A participação social tornou-se imperativo, sendo assim, cabe ao governo permitir a efetivação do controle social. Neste cenário, as ouvidorias surgem como ferramenta para oportunizar à participação da sociedade na res publica. O objetivo desta pesquisa, baseado em uma revisão sistemática da literatura e análise documental, é identificar na literatura quais os elementos que devem compor um indicador de eficácia para uma ouvidoria pública à luz da administração pública gerencial. A análise dos resultados revelou elementos que poderiam compor um indicador de eficácia para ouvidorias públicas, considerando sua razão de ser. Destacam-se, dessa forma: mensurar a resolutividade das manifestações cadastradas, mensurar o índice de satisfação dos usuários que registram as manifestações e mensurar a celeridade da atuação da ouvidoria. A contribuição pretendida por esse estudo é de servir como guia de recomendação para criação de indicadores de eficácia em uma ouvidoria pública, assim como sumarizar o conceito de eficácia e indicador de eficácia em âmbito público à luz da administração pública gerencial. Novas oportunidades de pesquisa são sugeridas, ampliando a base para revisão de literatura, bem como aplicando um indicador de eficácia em uma ouvidoria pública para avaliar se o indicador estabelecido contribuiu para a missão da organização, identificando o impacto dessa implementação.
Safety and Efficacy of Oral Itraconazole versus Combination with Oral Isotretinoin in Superficial Dermatophytosis: A Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Priyadarshi Divya , Agarwal Deepika , Talwar Ankur
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Dermatophytes are the most common skin infections mainly treated with itraconazole. However, the persistent nature of the disease has emerged as the major concern over the last few years. Oral isotretinoin, a keratolytic drug is also used along with itraconazole in the management of dermatophytosis. Aim: To evaluate safety and efficacy of oral itraconazole versus combination with oral isotretinoin in the treatment and recurrence prevention of superficial dermatophytosis. Materials and Methods: The randomised clinical trial was conducted in the Dermatology Outpatient Department (OPD) of Hind Institute of Medical Sciences, Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh over 12 months period. A total of 180 adult patients clinically diagnosed with superficial dermatophytosis were recruited and randomised into group A and B. Patients in group A were treated with oral itraconazole 200 mg daily and patients allotted in group B received oral itraconazole 200 mg plus oral isotretinoin 20 mg daily. Both groups were evaluated after every 15 days for two months and followed-up for next two months to assess relapse rate. Treatment efficacy was assessed by potassium hydroxide (KOH) test done on skin scrapings, erythema score, scaling score and 5D pruritus scale and safety by evaluating for adverse reactions noticed at each sequential visit during study period of two months. The data were analysed by using Chi-square tests and unpaired t-tests and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 26.0. A p-value <0.05 was taken as significant. Results: Out of 180 patients enrolled, 162 patients (83 in group A and 79 in group B) completed the trial. The patients in group B had early and complete mycological cure, seen in 77/79 (97.5%) patients as compared with 74/83 (89.2%) group A patients (p=0.06) with significantly low recurrence rate (p=0.01). At each follow-up, both groups were assessed on the clinical signs of erythema and scaling rated on 4 points scale (0, 1, 2, 3) and clinical symptom of itching on 5D pruritus scale ranging from 5-25. There was statistically significant difference in the treatment response between studied groups (p<0.05). Hepatic derangements were the most common adverse effects observed in both groups. Conclusion: Oral isotretinoin can be an effective add on therapy in superficial dermatophytosis management as it induces early remission with significantly less recurrence rate.
The Financial Impact of Maize Export to China for Farmers in Xiengkhuang, Laos
Authors: Patthavong Sitthiphone , Gu Lily
Published: May 2023

Aims: Corn has become an important cash crop in Laos, mainly grown in the northern mountainous areas and used for various industrial products as well as food. The corn value chain plays a key role in employment and poverty alleviation in the country's rural areas.

Study Design: This study is based on both quantitative research method, with one study enabling in-depth interviews with key informants and conducted in Xiegkhouang province. Targeted spot checks were used to select districts based on maize cultivation. Random sampling was conducted to obtain household surveys that have benefited from exporting corn to China, and each group received 12 respondents from two districts, for a total of 120.

Methodology: This study uses both primary and secondary data. Primary data are obtained from the field in a number of ways, namely (i) by direct observation; (ii) in-depth interviews with key informants; and (iii) focus group discussion with local stakeholders.Descriptive statistical package and gross margin analyzes were used to determine the profitability levels of corn farmers and corn traders in the study area.

Results: The assessment results showed that corn exports to China had a positive and significant effect on farmers' incomes in Xiegkhouang Province. The average increase in the net income of the farmers surveyed was significant. The study also found that corn exports to China had a positive impact on provincial employment opportunities and additional job opportunities.

Conclusion: The study found that while exports to China increased farmers' income, they also increased input and labor costs, and therefore the macroeconomic impact was not as positive as initially expected to help farmers increase their income and benefit from corn exports.
Production of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer derived cloned calves in the United Arab Emirates.
Authors: Shamim Hossein Mohammad , Son Young-Bum , Jeon Yeon Ik
Published: May 2023

Despite the tremendous advancement in somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in camels, the generation of cloned calf using SCNT in cows is yet to be reported in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The present study intended to produce cloned calves in the local environment of the UAE. We surgically collected ear tissue from two high-performance Holstein cows (average production of 71 liter/ day) and established the fibroblast cell line to perform SCNT. Fifty- seven (18.48%) blastocysts were derived from 330 fused oocytes for cell donor A, and 51 (19.14%) blastocysts were generated from 289 fused oocytes for cell donor B. We used 102 recipients for embryo transfer; among those, 53 and 49 recipients received embryos reconstructed with cell donor A and B, respectively. A single blastocyst in transfer media was transferred deep into the horn of the uterus of natural cycling recipient cows by trans cervical method on Day 7; where estrus was considered as Day 0. Non-return to estrus (up to 42 days), early pregnancy, and the live birth rate did not differ significantly for the two donor cells. Four (26.67%) and 1 (7.69%) live calves were produced for cell donor A and B, respectively. Microsatellite analysis of 18 bovine-specific loci confirmed the perfect match of cell donors and cloned calves. This is the first reported case of cloned calves using SCNT in the UAE. Our results could benefit the UAE dairy industry by supporting the locally produced high- performance replacement heifers.
Keywords: Bovine; Cloning; In vitro maturation; Oocytes; UAE
Weed management with Triafamone herbicide in transplanted rice ecosystem
Authors: Arthanari P. Murali
Published: May 2023

Field experiments were conducted during Rabi 2018-19 (September to January) and Kharif 2019 (May to September). Medium duration rice cv. CO(R) 51 was used as a test variety at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India to study the effect of Triafamone on broad spectrum weed control in transplanted rice. Triafamone was applied at two times. First set of treatments (30, 40,50 and 100 g/ha) applied two to three leaf stage of weeds and second set treatments imposed (30, 40,50 and 100 g/ha) at three days after transplanting of the rice crop. These treatments were compared with Pyrazosulfuron ethy 10% WP @ 15 g/ha, Pretilachlor 5% EC @ 750 g/ha, hand weeding @ 20 and 40 days after transplanting and unweeded control. The major grasses were Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) and E. colonum (L.) while the sedge weed included Cyperus nutans (L.). Among the broad leaved weeds Eclipta alba (L.) and Bergia ammanioides were the dominant species. In both the seasons of the study, lesser population of grass was recorded with the pre and early post emergence application of triafamone herbicide 40 g a.i. ha-1 (1.41 and 1.41 per m-2 at 28 and 42 DAA for both the seasons respectively) and it was closely followed by application of triafamone herbicide 50 g a.i. ha-1 and application of PE Pretilachlor at 0.75 kg a.i. ha-1 and EPOE Pyrazosulfuron ethyl at 15 g a.i. ha-1. The same trend was observed for broad leaved weeds and their weed dry weights. Application of triafamone herbicide at 40 g a.i. ha-1 as pre emergence and early post emergence application recorded highest weed control efficiency of 100, 97.7 and 99.6 % and 97.8% at 42 DAA during both years of experimentation and also resulted in higher grain yield (8052 and 8182 kg ha-1 during rabi 2018-19 and 9018, 9175 kg ha-1 during Kharif 2019). Further, it is noticed that, there was no residual toxicity of herbicide to the succeeding crops. Hence, application of Triafamone 40 g a.i. ha-1 either pre or early post emergence herbicide has higher productivity and no residues in transplanted rice ecosystem.

Key words: Triafamone, efficacy, weeds and transplanted rice ecosystem
A New Isoflavone from Lomariopsis guineensis (Underw.) Alston
Authors: C. J. Clements  , A. I. Gray  , J. O. Igoli  , Al-Tannak Naser F. , Al Ali Abdullah , Santali Eman
Published: May 2023

Aim/background: Lomariopsis guineensis (Underw.) Alston is an epiphytic climbing fern. It is widely distributed in Africa where it is also used in traditional medicine and as food. There are no previous reports of any constituents of the plant, hence this study to isolate any phytoconstituents. Method: The ethyl acetate extract of the leaves was subjected to column chromatography and isolated constituents were characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. Results: Three compounds were isolated and identified as cycloartenol, pheophytin A and a new isoflavone (5, 7-dihydroxy-4′ methoxy-6,8-dimethylisoflavone). Conclusion: Three phytochemicals including a new isoflavone are reported from the plant for the first time.
Keywords: Isoflavone; Lomariopsis guineensis; pheophytin A; cycloartenol; antitrypanosomal assay
Temporal Trends in Childhood Household Income Among Applicants and Matriculants to Medical School and the Likelihood of Acceptance by Income, 2014-2019
Authors: Nguyen Mytien , Desai Mayur M. , Fancher Tonya L. , Chaudhry Sarwat I. , Mason Hyacinth R. C. , Boatright Dowin
Published: May 2023

This study examines trends in childhood household income among applicants and matriculants to medical school and the likelihood of acceptance by income.
Current trends inRNAvirus detection through metatranscriptome sequencing data
Authors: Nakagawa So , Sakaguchi Shoichi , Ogura Atsushi , Mineta Katsuhiko , Endo Toshinori , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Gojobori Takashi
Published: May 2023

With advances in sequencing technology, metatranscriptome sequencing from a variety of environmental and biological sources has revealed the existence of various previously unknown RNA viruses. This review presents recent major RNA virome studies sampled from invertebrate and vertebrate species as well as aquatic environments. In particular, we focus on severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and related RNA virus identification through metatranscriptome sequencing analyses. Recently developed bioinformatics software and databases for RNA virus identification are introduced. A relationship between newly identified RNA viruses and endogenous viral elements in host genomes is also discussed.
Efficacy and Safety of Sublingual Cyclobenzaprine for the Treatment of Fibromyalgia: Results From a Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Lederman Seth , Arnold Lesley M. , Vaughn Ben , Kelley Mary , Sullivan Gregory M.
Published: May 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of TNX‐102 SL, a once‐nightly sublingual formulation of cyclobenzaprine, in reducing pain in patients with fibromyalgia (FM).

Methods

RELIEF was a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial. Overall, 503 patients received TNX‐102 SL 2.8 mg for 2 weeks, followed by 5.6 mg for 12 weeks (248 patients), or matching placebo (255 patients). The primary end point was change from baseline at week 14 in the weekly average of daily pain scores. Secondary end points included Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) scores, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire Revised (FIQR) scores, Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Sleep Disturbance and Fatigue scores, and daily sleep quality. Safety was assessed by adverse event (AE) reporting.

Results

Reduction in daily pain from baseline at week 14 was significantly greater with TNX‐102 SL (least squares [LS] mean change –1.9 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −2.1, −1.7]) versus placebo (LS mean change −1.5 [95% CI −1.7, −1.3]; P = 0.01). TNX‐102 SL was not associated with significant improvement in PGIC at week 14 but was associated with improvements in FIQR scores, PROMIS scores, and daily sleep quality. Overall, 59.7% of patients receiving TNX‐102 SL and 46.3% receiving placebo reported treatment‐emergent AEs; the most common were oral hypoesthesia (17.3% with TNX‐102 SL versus 0.4% with placebo), oral paresthesia (5.6% versus 0.4%, respectively), and product taste abnormal (4.4% versus 0.4%, respectively).

Conclusion

In this phase III, randomized, controlled trial of patients with FM, treatment with TNX‐102 SL was associated with significant reductions in daily pain and was safe and well tolerated.
Asymmetric “Janus” Biogel for Human‐Machine Interfaces
Authors: Wei Yuan , He Yingying , Wang Chunyu , Chen Gang , Zhao Boxin
Published: May 2023

Human‐machine interfaces (HMIs) are essential for effective communication between machines and tissues. However, mechanical and biological mismatches, along with weak adhesion between rigid electronic devices and soft tissue, often cause unreliable responses and affect the signal recording of HMIs. In this study, an asymmetrical “Janus” biogel patch with one side firmly adhering to tissues, and the other surface having little adhesion and minimal interactions with surrounding environments has been developed. A series of analytical, mechanical, and electrical tests are performed to investigate the “Janus” biogel patch as a functional and biocompatible HMI. It is found that the gallic acid‐modified gelatin adhesive surface on one side exhibits body temperature‐dependent tissue adhesion, enabling low modulus and seamless skin contact. The other side is a tough gelatin/glycerol gel layer, which is thermally welded into the adhesive layer and functions as an encapsulant to prevent external interference due to adhesion. The encapsulation layer also exhibits a low friction coefficient when wet and proves to be a reliable alternative barrier to conventional encapsulation materials. The scientific insights and engineering principles revealed in this type of “Janus” biogel will be applicable to a broad range of biomedical applications, such as epidermal adhesive electrodes or skin‐adhesive wearable devices.
Quasi‐Liquid Gel Electrolyte for Enhanced Flexible Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Shang Nuo , Wang Keliang , Wei Manhui , Zuo Yayu , Zhang Pengfei , Wang Hengwei , Chen Zhuo , Zhong Daiyuan , Pei Pucheng
Published: May 2023

Flexible Zn–air batteries (FZABs) have attracted more attention due to their high specific energy, excellent stability, and unique rechargeability. However, these batteries are limited by the low conductivity of the gel electrolytes used. Here a quasi‐liquid gel with ionic conductivity comparable to liquid electrolytes is presented. The gel pore structure is guided and modified in situ with large‐size silica to achieve clear and unbroken pores. The reduced skeleton structure leads to a significant increase in ionic conductivity to 562.6 mS cm−1, enabling a peak power density of 154 mW cm−2 and a cycle life of over 40 h with a low charge–discharge gap. The FZABs also exhibit a high lifetime and potential advantages in 10 mA cm−2 charge/discharge testing, and demonstrate excellent performance in practical applications. This study offers new possibilities for developing high‐performance quasi‐liquid gels and innovative concepts for FZABs.