bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profiling Number of Swallows per Bolus and Residue in Individuals With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Donohue Cara , Robison Raele , Steele Catriona M. , Wymer James P. , Plowman Emily K.
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

Swallowing efficiency impairments are the most prevalent and earliest manifestation of dysphagia in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (pALS). We aimed to profile number of swallows elicited in pALS across thin liquid, moderately thick liquid, extremely thick liquid, and crackers compared to expected healthy reference data and to determine relationships between degree of pharyngeal residue, number of elicited swallows, and swallowing safety.

Method:

pALS underwent standardized videofluoroscopic swallowing studies of 10 bolus trials. Trained raters performed duplicate, independent, and blinded ratings to derive Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) efficiency and safety grades and Analysis of Swallowing Physiology: Events, Kinematics, and Timing (ASPEKT) percent total pharyngeal residue. Number of swallows per bolus was quantified (1 = typical, 2 = atypically high, 3 = extremely high). Kruskal–Wallis, Pearson chi-square, and odds ratio analyses were performed at bolus and participant levels.

Key Results:

At the bolus level (
N
= 2,523), number of swallows per bolus was observed to be, in rank order, as follows: atypically high (49.1%), extremely high (28.5%), and typical (22.4%). Mean number of swallows significantly differed by International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative level (
p
< .0001), with a higher number of swallows elicited in pALS for moderately thick versus thin liquids, extremely thick liquids, and crackers,
p
< .0001. Number of swallows per bolus increased with increasing DIGEST efficiency grades (
p
< .0001). Positive correlations were observed between ASPEKT percent residue and number of swallows for thin (
r
= .24) and moderately thick (
r
= .16) liquids,
p
< .05. DIGEST efficiency and safety grades were not significantly associated (
p
> .05).

Conclusion and Inferences:

pALS demonstrated a higher number of swallows per bolus compared to healthy reference data that may represent a compensation for reductions in swallowing efficiency to clear pharyngeal residue.
Managing organizational change during a merger: The case of companies operating in the energy sector
Authors: Lebghadi Meriem , Zammar Rachid
Published: August 2023

Faced with changes in their environment, companies are obliged to constantly improve their competitiveness. This sometimes involves introducing organizational changes, which can take the form of mergers and acquisitions. However, many corporate mergers have failed, prompting researchers to investigate the causes. Researchers are increasingly focusing on the human factor as a determining factor in the success of these operations, and more specifically. Although, this research remains limited, on the importance of change management, which has a significant influence on the outcome of these operations, which are always in demand by companies. This research paper aims to identify the role of organizational change management in the success of mergers, using companies operating in the energy sector as a case study. We adopted an interpretivist stance based on an inductive qualitative approach, through semi-structured interviews. The content analysis revealed that organizational change is accompanied by resistance and integration difficulties. In this study, several factors promoting the change management are highlighted, which could be further enriched by analyzing change in other contexts.
Change management in hospitals: A way to learn from climate change
Authors: Boudallaa Ikram , Elkachradi Rachid , Kadouri Abdillah
Published: August 2023

Resolutely a complex and multidisciplinary organization, the hospital is undergoing several inevitable changes. Faced with so many changes and the risk of disappearing, it must transform, rethink and redefine its structures and strategies. Given this, change management is a critical factor in the success of organizational transformation strategies. In this respect, several change management practices have been proposed. Although applicable to any organization, these models and approaches require a perfect understanding of the reality of hospitals, as a change in hospitals is laborious and complicated. The change process in hospitals is still strongly marked by several constraints that handicap the management of change and make it challenging to implement changes. Rightly so, change management in a hospital may be hampered by technological, regulatory, organizational, managerial, or human resource constraints. Change management promotes continuous improvement where each actor must be considered a factor in the transformation of the hospital organization. To achieve this, the path to be followed must include more interaction and questioning, which encourage the learning of actors for the benefit of a learning hospital.
The impact of visual environment on the evolution of myopia
Authors: Jelloul Fatiha , Boulezhar Abdelkader , Afifi Mohammed , Abdelmoumen Souad
Published: August 2023

Our study represents the impact of the visual environment on the evolution of myopia. We established a statistical study of different types of myopia in Morocco. We classed with degrees of myopia. The long-term work of near vision increases a vision-postural stress leads to an increase in accommodative visual stress and convergence, and the correction with traditional lenses leads to hyperopic defocusing peripheral, which stimulates the elongation of the optical axis [1, 4]. We found that the number of myopia is changing during the four years of study and that the correction by traditional lenses does not allow us to slow down the evolution of myopia., this type of management and the visual environment leads us to an increase in the degrees and number of myopia during the four years. The increase in the power of myopia can lead to a pathological state that is preoccupant. We find that the visual environment has an impact on the increase of different types of myopia, especially average myopia in young people. So we have to try new alternatives for myopia compensation as special lenses for myopia braking and orthokeratology lens contact as well as behavioral and environmental measures to decrease visuals.
Effect of mixed iodine and bromine on optical properties in methylammonium lead chlorine (MAPbCl3) spin-coated on the zinc oxide film
Authors: Emmanuel Koné Klègayéré , Bouich Amal , Soro Donafologo , Marí Soucase Bernabé
Published: August 2023

The optical influence of mixing methylammonium lead chlorine (MAPbCl3) with iodine and bromine was studied in this work. The spin coating method deposited three layers of perovskites (MAPbCl3, MAPbCl2I, and MAPbCl2Br) on a layer of zinc oxide (ZnO). The zinc oxide solution was prepared by dissolving dehydrated zinc acetate [Zn(CH3COO)2, 2H2O]> 99.5% purity in ethanol to give a 0.5 M solution. The perovskite solutions were prepared using lead chloride (PbCl2), methylammonium chloride (MACl), methylammonium iodide (MAI), and methylammonium bromide (MABr). The precursor containing iodine was dissolved in N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF) and the others in dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO 99.9%). The films produced were characterized by UV-Visible. The analysis showed that the sample mixed with iodine has good properties. This sample absorbs the most and has a small band gap of 2 eV. The degradation study reveals that the unmixed sample (MAPbCl3) is the most stable.
AODV-based Defense Mechanism for Mitigating Blackhole Attacks in MANET
Authors: Moumen Idriss , Rafalia Najat , Abouchabaka Jaafar , Chatoui Youssef
Published: August 2023

Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) are decentralized and self-configuring networks composed of mobile devices that communicate without a fixed infrastructure. However, the open nature of MANETs makes them vulnerable to various security threats, including blackhole attacks, where malicious nodes attract and discard network traffic without forwarding it to its intended destination. Mitigating blackhole attacks is crucial to ensure the reliability and security of communication in MANETs. This paper focuses on the development and evaluation of AODV (Ad hoc On-Demand Distance Vector)-based defence mechanisms for effectively mitigating blackhole attacks in MANETs, while simultaneously addressing energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. AODV is a widely used routing protocol in MANETs due to its on-demand nature and low overhead. However, it lacks built-in security mechanisms, making it susceptible to attacks. We incorporate energyaware route selection, solar-powered routing, collaborative energy sharing, energy-efficient intrusion detection, green routing optimization, and energy harvesting from environmental sources. By considering energy consumption and environmental factors in the route selection process, our defense mechanism not only enhances the security of the network but also contributes to energy conservation and reduced environmental impact. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed defence mechanisms, extensive simulations and performance analyses are conducted using network simulation tools. Through simulation-based evaluations, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in achieving robust blackhole attack mitigation while extending the network’s lifetime and minimizing its carbon footprint. Our research offers valuable insights into the development of energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable solutions for securing MANETs in the face of evolving security threats.
Green logistics approach or green logistics at the moroccan public university: Analysis essay
Authors: Zahra Madhat Fatima , Bourrekadi Salmane
Published: August 2023

Green logistics has become an integral part of economic, political and social debates in all areas of activity. The environment has become a major priority for all organizations, whether public or private, and has prompted them to go beyond the two predominant management concepts (competitiveness and performance), and revolutionize their management methods to become more agile and, above all, more sustainable in the face of various changes, particularly climate change. In fact, it’s all about “doing better with less” impacts to respect the environment. Facing this situation, the Moroccan public university could not stay back as an active part of the business ecosystem. It also had to adopt Green Logistics, which had become an urgent imperative in order to ensure its own performance at national and international level. This paper is an exploratory study that attempts to analyze the current situation of the Moroccan public university by answering the following questions: What are the motivations behind Green Logistics at Moroccan public universities? What are its practices and areas of application? Are there any obstacles, and if so, what are they? And what are the university’s future prospects?
Unveiling the Environmental Implications of Automatic Text Generation and the Role of Detection Systems
Authors: Al Karkouri Adnane , Ghanimi Fadoua , Bourekkadi Salmane
Published: August 2023

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) technologies has led to the proliferation of automated systems capable of generating text. While these advancements have enhanced various fields, such as language translation and content generation, they have also given rise to concerns regarding the potential misuse of generated texts, particularly in the context of environmental preservation. This scientific article investigates the intricate relationship between automatic detection of generated texts and the environment. We examine the impact of generated texts on environmental awareness, misinformation propagation, and the role of automated detection systems in mitigating the risks associated with generated content. Our findings highlight the crucial need for robust detection mechanisms to preserve the integrity of environmental discourse and ensure sustainable decision-making.
The philosophy of energy consumption in North Africa, contribution of artificial intelligence
Authors: Bourekkadi S. , Hmamouchi S. , El Asri L. , El Amrani O. , Moslih A.
Published: August 2023

Some people in North Africa have been accustomed to getting everything, from the consumption of various goods, to luxurious housing, to travel from one country to another, unaware that the necessities of this way of life are very energy intensive. These countries, too, are unaware of the importance and necessity of opening up to each other in order to work together to raise awareness of energy consumption. Through this research, which is based on a scientific approach combining technology, human and social sciences and statistical studies, we have tried to highlight the importance of logical energy consumption while explaining that the consequences will be unexpected in the future in the event of an energy shortage in North Africa.
Importance des zones humides urbanisées dans la reproduction de I’avifaune, ville de Martil (Région de Tétouan) au Maroc
Authors: Mars Naima , Maouni Abdelfattah , Saïdi Rabah
Published: August 2023

Les zones humides de la région de Tanger-Tétouan hébergent une avifaune nicheuse, résidente et migiatrice diversifiée. La plupart de ces environnements sont urbanisés suite an développement socio-économique et démographique de la région. Cette étude s’est fixée conune objectif de mettre en exergue le rôle des environnements humides urbains et périurbains de la plaine de Martil (Tétouan) dans la reproduction des oiseaux. L’étude a été réalisée durant deux ans. selon la technique de comptage sur site fixe et des visites hebdomadaires. Tons les indices de reproduction sont notés (poussins, nids, parade nuptiale, défense du territoire, plumage nuptiale, ramassage du matériel pour la construction du nid). Les résultats ont montré que ces environnements jorient des rôles dans la reproduction de 38 espèces appartenant à 16 families. Cette avifaune compte deux espèces vulnérables inscrites sur la liste rouge de l’UICN, une espèce en déclin, une espèce en danger, une espèce quasi-menacé inscrite sur la liste rouge de l’UICN et qui a un statut défavorable au niveau mondial ainsi que plusieurs espèces patrimoniales pour le Maroc. Ces domiées soulignent l’intérêt de conserver et de restaurer les zones humides urbaines de la plaine de Martil.
L’effet de l’application du processus Lean Six Sigma au sein des PME environnementales marocaines
Authors: El Attaoui Zuhair
Published: August 2023

Lean Six Sigma est une approche de gestion utilisée pour améliorer l’efficacité, la qualité et la performance des processus au sein des entreprises. Appliqué aux entreprises environnementales au Maroc, Lean Six Sigma peut apporter plusieurs avantages significatifs. Le Lean Six Sigma vise à éliminer le gaspillage, les inefficacités et les processus non essentiels. En l’appliquant aux entreprises environnementales marocaines, il est possible d’optimiser les opérations, d’améliorer la productivité et de réduire les coûts. Cela peut contribuer à une utilisation plus efficace des ressources et à une meilleure gestion des projets. Les entreprises environnementales ont pour mission première de minimiser leur impact sur l’environnement. L’application de la méthode Lean Six Sigma peut les aider à identifier les sources de pollution, à réduire les déchets, à améliorer l’efficience énergétique et à promouvoir des pratiques durables. Cela contribue à renforcer leur crédibilité environnementale et à répondre aux attentes des parties prenantes. Lean Six Sigma met l’accent sur la satisfaction du client et la qualité du produit ou du service. En intégrant cette approche, les entreprises environnementales marocaines peuvent améliorer leurs processus de production, éliminer les défauts et les erreurs et fournir des produits et des services de meilleure qualité à leurs clients. Cela peut favoriser la fidélisation des clients et accroître leur compétitivité sur le marché. L’application de Lean Six Sigma au sein des entreprises environnementales au Maroc peut apporter des avantages significatifs, tels que l’amélioration de l’efficacité opérationnelle, la réduction des impacts environnementaux, l’amélioration de la qualité des produits et services, le renforcement de la culture de l’amélioration continue et le développement des compétences des employés. C’est le cas que nous avons traité dans cet article afin de mesurer l’impact de la mise en place de la démarche Lean Six Sigma au sein des PME environnementales marocaines. En adoptant cette approche, les entreprises environnementales marocaines peuvent renforcer leur compétitivité, leur durabilité environnementale et leur capacité à répondre aux attentes des parties prenantes.
Correlational relationship between Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior among Moroccan High School Students
Authors: Hamid El Oirdi , Aziz Eloirdi , Sima Boulebatt , Khadija El Kharrim , Driss Belghity
Published: August 2023

Objective: Non-communicable diseases are the leading causes of death worldwide. These risk factors are closely related to physical activity and sedentary behaviors. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviors and their association among Moroccan high school students aged 15 to 20 years.

Materials: A sample of 180 students (80 boys and 100 girls), enrolled in high schools in 2019 academic year in the Province of Sidi Kacem, were randomly recruited. A validated self-reported questionnaire was used to assess levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviors among participants.

Results: According to the results obtained, 74.2% of boys and 46.9% of girls were physically active. 45.5% of girls and 20% of boys spent more than 2 hours watching television, and 57.3% of girls and 48.5% of boys used sedentary means for more than two hours per day. There were statistically significant negative correlation between levels of physical activity and sedentary behaviors.

Conclusion: A large part of the population has a sedentary lifestyle. This lack of physical activity and high prevalence of sedentary behaviors could have a direct impact on health. Additional physical activity and sports sessions are necessary and strongly recommended.
Mapping cognitive positions on fear of retirement among sport professional handball players
Authors: Fruchart Eric , Cantisano Nicole
Published: August 2023

Not all professional athletes experience retirement from sport in the same way, and the consequences of retirement can vary from one individual to another. The objective of the present study was to map the way in which male professional handball players cognitively integrated four information cues (social support, career achievements, preparation for retirement, and sports practice after retirement as a professional) when judging the degree of fear of retirement from professional sport. A total of 146 participants rated their judgment of fear of retirement from professional sport in 54 scenarios built from all possible combinations of these information cues. By performing cluster analyses and analyses of variance, four clusters were identified: “No Fear When Fully Prepared”; “Less Fear”; “Undetermined”; “Fear Always Present”. When judging retirement from professional sport, professional handball players had different positions. Practitioners should take account of these differences when helping athletes to prepare for or deal with retirement from professional sport.
Das Becken aus osteopathischer Sicht – Was kann
Männern helfen?
Authors: Geilgens Armin
Published: August 2023

Das Becken vereint viele wichtige Funktionen. So ist es für die Bewegung
und die Stabilisierung des Körpers maßgeblich. Die
Ausscheidungs- und Fortpflanzungsorgane liegen überwiegend
geschützt im Becken und es beinhaltet eine hohe Dichte an Nervenbahnen
und Gefäßen. Alle Strukturen im Becken können alleine
oder gemeinsam in Dysfunktion geraten, wobei die Dysfunktion einer einzelnen
Struktur eher selten ist, da sich Störungen regelhaft nicht nur auf
einen Teil beschränken, sondern sich gegenseitig bedingen. Die
osteopathische Medizin bietet verschiedene palpatorisch-diagnostische
Zugänge zum Becken und seinem Inhalt sowie manuelle
Behandlungsmöglichkeiten diverser Funktionsstörungen.
Re-conceptualizing the ideal homes in rural China: an actor-network theory approach
Authors: Wang Peng , Xie Shuyue , Xu Honggang
Published: August 2023

With the shift in relational ontology, the concept of home is interpreted as a dynamic and relational process, in which both human and non-human elements need to be valued. Adopting ANT (actor-network theory) as an approach, this article reveals the interactive relationship and translation process between urban-rural migrants and rural heterogeneous actors (including farmland, landscapes, local people, means of subsistence, and technological facilities) in the connection of ideal home networks. It involves three steps of translation between actors, namely problem presentation of key actors, enrollment and benefit granting by key actors, and negotiation of “obligatory passage points” (OPP) based on actors’ common goals. Based on a two-year qualitative research of 18 interviewees, this article demonstrates how migrants adapt to the countryside through enrollment and benefit granting, and how sustainability and recyclability become common interests and OPP for actors in homemaking. The article argues that ANT provides a descriptive focus on how rural life has transformed from a backward neighborhood or abstract nostalgia to a harmonious new home that blends traditional culture, ecological ideas, and modern technology in the context of China. The study also points out that in the process of translating interests between actors, the human-land relationship still shows complexity and instability. Future research needs to pay more attention to the role of government officials and governance policies in the building of home networks.
The effect of temperature and saturation deficit on mortality in populations of maleGlossina m. morsitans(Diptera: Glossinidae) in Zimbabwe and Tanzania
Authors: Hargrove J.W.
Published: August 2023

The methods of Bailey and of Jolly and Seber were used to provide maximum likelihood estimates of population parameters for Jackson’s classical mark–recapture experiments on males of the tsetse flyGlossina m. morsitansWestwood. These were compared with Jolly-Seber (J-S) estimates for the same fly from more recent work on Antelope Island, Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe. The Bailey estimates of birth and death rates and total population size had markedly lower variances than Jackson’s originals. Both sets of estimates provided moving averages over 6-week periods, whereas the Jolly-Seber analysis provided independent weekly estimates and their variance is consequently higher. Saturation deficit and maximum temperature (Tmax) accounted for 11 and 16% respectively of the variance in independent 4-week means of the weekly J-S survival probabilities. Analysis of covariance, carried out on a joint data set of smoothed J-S estimates of the survival probability in Tanzania and Zimbabwe, showed a significant effect ofTmaxon survival. When this effect was removed, the survival probability in the Tanzania studies was found to be 8% lower than on Antelope Island. The two effects accounted for 50% of the variance in the joint data. When saturation deficit was substituted forTmax, regression only accounted for 35% of the variance. If saturation deficit is important in determining tsetse survival, it must act on stages other than the post-teneral adult. Given the continuous increase in mortality, even at moderate temperatures, it is hard to envisage a direct effect ofTmax. There may be an indirect effect, however, via the number of hunger-related deaths resulting from the increase in the feeding rate with increasing temperature.
Random amplified polymorphic DNA markers for discriminating Cochliomyia hominivorax from C. macellaria (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Skoda S.R. , Pornkulwat S. , Foster J.E.
Published: August 2023

The screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel), is one of the most important pests of livestock in the Western Hemisphere. During early immature stages it is morphologically very similar (first instars are virtually indistinguishable) to the secondary screwworm, C. macellaria (Fabricius). Here, the utility of the random amplified polymorphic DNA–polymerase chain reaction (RAPD–PCR) was explored as a technique for developing molecular genetic markers for these two species. Of the 120 arbitrary primers screened, 21 primers produced markers that were further investigated. Seven of the 21 primers produced clear and reproducible markers that were tested with DNA of five individuals from four populations of each species; five of these primers showed 12 RAPD markers that differentiated the species in all populations. Analyses of data from these seven primers also suggested that intraspecific polymorphisms exist that could be useful in distinguishing populations of screwworms. Some population genetic tools, such as genetic distance, cluster analysis and bootstrapping, were used to statistically explore these polymorphisms. The resulting statistics showed 100% support for the ability of RAPD–PCR to discriminate between the two species. Bootstrapping with data from one of the genetic distance calculations produced a tree with all individual screwworms in the correct populations, indicating that RAPD–PCR has promise for displaying intraspecific genetic variation that could be used in establishing the general geographic origin of screwworm samples.
Adult movements of newly introduced alien Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) from non-host habitats
Authors: Toepfer S. , Levay N. , Kiss J.
Published: August 2023

Mark–release–recapture experiments were undertaken in order to investigate the movement of adult Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte from accidental introduction points towards suitable habitats, such as its host plant, Zea mays L. In Hungary in 2003 and 2004, nine mark–release–recapture experiments were carried out in a grass steppe area and lucerne field, in which two small maize fields (10 × 10 m) had been planted 300 m distant from the central release point. After each release of 5500 to 6000 marked D. v. virgifera, beetle recaptures were recorded three times using non-baited yellow sticky traps placed on 30, 105, 205 and 305 m radii around the release point. In seven out of 15 recapture periods (47%), beetle populations showed no directional movements, and their movements towards any particular habitat cannot be predicted. During five recapture periods (33%), beetle populations showed a uni-directional movement, and in three cases (20%) a bi-directional movement was observed. In 10 out of 15 recapture periods (67%), the released populations moved in a direction that was comparable with the mean wind direction during these periods; thus, beetle movements were slightly correlated with wind direction. On average over sites and years, beetles were not preferentially moving towards the two small maize fields (located 300 m from the release point) compared to other directions. However, beetles moved significantly more frequently in the direction of naturally-occurring maize fields within a radius of 1500 m than towards other habitats. Beetles stayed more frequently within flowering lucerne fields out to a radius of 300 and 600 m than in non-flowering lucerne or other habitats. On average, 2.8% (SD 3.2) of all recaptured beetles arrived in one of the two small maize fields located 300 m from their release point indicating that there is a high risk of a founder population establishing. Habitat management cannot be suggested as a means of preventing the beetle's initial dispersal because movement was usually non-directional, and alternative food plants were used prior to reaching maize.
The role of nectar plants in severe outbreaks of armyworm Mythimna separata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in China
Authors: Wang Gao-Ping , Zhang Qing-Wen , Ye Zhi-Hua , Luo Li-Zhi
Published: August 2023

The period from March to mid April, when oriental armyworm Mythimna separata (Walker) moths migrate from South China to Central China over several nights, is an important window of time in annual armyworm population increase. The presence of nectar sources along the pathway of the migratory population is a prerequisite for moths to reach target habitats and lay eggs. Using flowering periods and geographic distributions, the major spring nectar plants suitable for M. separata moths were identified from among 102 species/varieties of apicultural nectar plants. The nectar plants proposed as important to M. separata include milk vetch Astragalus sinicus L., rape Brassica napa L. and six other species. Spearman's rank correlation analyses were conducted between the annual population size of M. separata and the acreages of milk vetch and rape in the daily stopover areas for migrating populations of M. separata during 1950–1979. The Spearman's coefficient between milk vetch and M. separata was 0.6259 and the correlation was highly significant (P<0.001). Further regression analysis with data from 1950–1979 and from 1980–1992 also revealed a close relationship between annual acreage of damaged crops/wheat and acreage of milk vetch. These results strongly suggest that the unprecedented enlargement in the geographic distribution of milk vetch from Central China into South China was the key factor in the frequent severe oriental armyworm outbreaks that occurred during 1966–1977. This is thought to be the first report in the world that reveals the key role of nectar sources in long distance, regional scale, migration of moths. The argument for the key role of milk vetch is supported by the simultaneous decline in the level of damage inflicted by M. separata and the acreage of milk vetch after 1980.
Analysis of host preference and geographical distribution of Anastrepha suspensa (Diptera: Tephritidae) using phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I DNA sequence data
Authors: Boykin L.M. , Shatters R.G. , Hall D.G. , Burns R.E. , Franqui R.A.
Published: August 2023

Anastrepha suspensa (Loew) is an economically important pest, restricted to the Greater Antilles and southern Florida. It infests a wide variety of hosts and is of quarantine importance in citrus, a multi-million dollar industry in Florida. The observed recent increase in citrus infested with A. suspensa in Florida has raised questions regarding host-specificity of certain populations and genetic diversity of the pest throughout its geographical distribution. Cytochrome oxidase I (COI) DNA sequence data was used to characterize the genetic diversity of A. suspensa from Florida and Caribbean populations reared from different host plants. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic methods were used to analyse COI data. Sequence variation among mitochondrial COI genes from 107 A. suspensa samples collected throughout Florida and the Caribbean ranged between 0 and 10% and placed all A. suspensa as a monophyletic group that united all A. suspensa in a clade sister to a Central American group of the A. fraterculus paraphyletic species complex. The most likely tree of the COI locus indicated that COI sequence variation was too low to provide resolution at the subspecies level, therefore monophyletic groups based on host-plant use, geography (Florida, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Puerto Rico or Dominican Republic) or population sampled are not supported. This result indicates that either no population segregation has occurred based on these biological or geographical distinctions and that this is a generalist, polyphagous invasive genotype. Alternatively, if populations are distinct, the segregation event was more recent than can be distinguished based on COI sequence variation.
Molecular diagnostics of economically important Ceratitis fruit fly species (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Africa using PCR and RFLP analyses
Authors: Barr N.B. , Copeland R.S. , De Meyer M. , Masiga D. , Kibogo H.G. , Billah M.K. , Osir E. , Wharton R.A. , McPheron B.A.
Published: August 2023

The predominantly Afrotropical fruit fly genus Ceratitis contains many species of agricultural importance. Consequently, quarantine of Ceratitis species is a major concern for governmental regulatory agencies. Although diagnostic keys exist for identification of all described Ceratitis species, these tools are based on adult characters. Flies intercepted at ports of entry are usually immatures, and Ceratitis species cannot be diagnosed based on larval morphology. To facilitate identification of Ceratitis pests at ports of entry, this study explores the utility of DNA-based diagnostic tools for a select group of Ceratitis species and related tephritids, some of which infest agriculturally important crops in Africa. The application of the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method to analyse three mitochondrial genes (12S ribosomal RNA, 16S ribosomal RNA, and NADH-dehydrogenase subunit 6) is sufficient to diagnose 25 species and two species clusters. PCR analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region 1 (ITS-1) is able to distinguish three of the five species left unresolved by mitochondrial DNA analysis.
Diversity of lepidopteran stem borers on monocotyledonous plants in eastern Africa and the islands of Madagascar and Zanzibar revisited
Authors: Le Ru B.P. , Ong'amo G.O. , Moyal P. , Ngala L. , Musyoka B. , Abdullah Z. , Cugala D. , Defabachew B. , Haile T.A. , Matama T. Kauma , Lada V.Y. , Negassi B. , Pallangyo K. , Ravolonandrianina J. , Sidumo A. , Omwega C.O. , Schulthess F. , Calatayud P.A. , Silvain J.F.
Published: August 2023

Surveys were completed in Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda and Zanzibar to assess the lepidopteran stem borer species diversity on wild host plants. A total of 24,674 larvae belonging to 135 species were collected from 75 species of wild host plants belonging to the Poaceae, Cyperaceae and Typhaceae. Amongst them were 44 noctuid species belonging to at least nine genera, 33 crambids, 15 pyralids, 16 Pyraloidea species not yet identified, 25 tortricids and three cossids. The noctuid larvae represented 73.6% of the total number of larvae collected, with 66.3, 3.5 and 3.8% found on Poaceae, Cyperaceae and Typhaceae, respectively. The Crambidae, Pyralidae, Tortricidae and Cossidae represented 19.8, 1.9, 2.5 and 0.1% of the total larvae collected, respectively, with 90.4% of the Crambidae and Pyralidae collected from Poaceae, and 99.7% of the Tortricidae collected from Cyperaceae. The lepidopteran stem borer species diversity in the wild host plants was far more diverse than previously reported.
Microsatellite marker analysis of peach–potato aphids (Myzus persicae, Homoptera: Aphididae) from Scottish suction traps
Authors: Malloch G. , Highet F. , Kasprowicz L. , Pickup J. , Neilson R. , Fenton B.
Published: August 2023

The peach–potato aphid Myzus persicae (Sulzer) is an important vector of plant viruses. A network of suction traps collects aerial samples of this aphid in order to monitor and help predict its spatial distribution and likely impact on virus transmission in crops. A suction trap catch is thought to be a good representation of the total aphid pool. Sensitive molecular markers have been developed that determine the genetic composition of the M. persicae population. In Scotland, UK, these were applied to field collections revealing a limited number of clones. Molecular markers are less successful when applied to specimens that have been preserved in an ethanol-based trap fluid designed to preserve morphology. An assessment of different DNA extraction and PCR techniques is presented and the most efficient are used to analyse M. persicae specimens caught in the Dundee suction trap in 2001, a year when exceptionally high numbers were caught. The results reveal that the majority of the M. persicae caught belonged to two highly insecticide resistant clones. In addition, it was possible to compare the relative frequencies of genotypes caught in the trap with those collected at insecticide treated and untreated field sites in the vicinity. These results indicate that, in addition to suction trap data, the ability to sample field sites provides valuable early warning data which have implications for pest control and virus management strategies.
Thin TiN coating on NiTi substrate through PVD method: Improvement of the wear resistance
Authors: Botshekanan Nasim , Majidian Hudsa , Farvizi Mohammad
Published: August 2023

The preparation of a thin hard coating is the main challenge in the coating of NiTi articles. To achieve a thin coating of titanium nitride (TiN) on NiTi substrate, physical vapour deposition (PVD) was proposed in this study. Deposition of TiN coating was carried out at the nitrogen flows of 0.79 and 0.93 Pa. Phase composition, thickness, porosity, adhesion strength, hardness, and tribological properties of the TiN coatings were evaluated. The adhesion of the coating to the substrate was acceptable. Increasing of the gas flow resulted in a higher thickness (1 μm), lower porosity and higher adhesion strength. On contrary, the samples prepared with the lower gas flow showed higher hardness and elastic modulus. The coated samples showed smaller width of wear, lower wear rate and lower friction coefficient in comparison to the substrate. The delamination and adhesive wear mechanisms govern the wear process.
A historical perspective on HLA
Authors: Bodmer Walter
Published: August 2023

The discovery of the history of the HLA system is reviewed from the earliest attempts at cancer transfers between mice, through the discovery of the mouse H-2 system on mouse red blood cells, the discovery of HLA class II and II antigens by use of sera from multiparous women, to the resolution of the HLA and H-2 functions explained by the attachment of intra cellular peptides to the HLA antigen grooves on the cell surface. The study of the associations between HLA types and diseases forms the basis for the subsequent extensive study of the genetics of human complex disease and phenotypes by GWAS (Genome Wide Association Studies).
Assessing Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Authors: Sündermann Oliver , Veale David
Published: August 2023

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is common but is often overlooked in clinical settings. This chapter first outlines how to screen for BDD in routine clinical practice, how to diagnose it accurately, and how to differentiate it from other mental health problems and normal appearance concerns. Next, the text describes how to assess outcome, severity, body image quality of life, and processes that are thought to maintain BDD. Last, the chapter addresses a cognitive-behavioral framework for assessment that elicits the core information used to build the client’s psychological formulation. The cognitive-behavioral assessment is based on an updated CBT model that evolves around the notion that people with BDD experience distressing mental imagery of their disliked features, maintained by self-focused attention and safety-seeking behaviors.
Assessing Trichotillomania and Skin-Picking Disorder
Authors: Biscarri Clark Sydney , Lahoud Ashley , Flessner Christopher A.
Published: August 2023

Pathological hair-pulling (trichotillomania, TTM) and skin-picking disorder (SPD) are body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs) that can cause significant distress and impairment for those affected with the disorders. The literature related to BFRBs is in its infancy compared to literature on other disorders, which can make assessing the conditions particularly difficult for clinicians and clinical researchers. This chapter provides an overview of the available measurement tools for TTM and SPD, along with information related to the psychometric properties of each tool. Many of the measures described require further psychometric testing in larger clinical samples. Furthermore, TTM and SPD should be assessed using multiple modalities, including clinician interview, self-report, and other objective measures. While assessment of TTM and SPD requires further development overall, the development of measures for assessing these disorders in youth is in most need of attention, especially given that the age of onset for the disorders is often during adolescence.
Pharmacological Treatments for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Brennan Brian P. , Dougherty Darin D. , Rauch Scott L. , Jenike Michael A.
Published: August 2023

Progress in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has accelerated in recent years. Effective first-line treatments include behavior therapy and medications, with overwhelming evidence supporting the efficacy of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs). Second-line medication treatments for OCD include augmentation of SRIs with neuroleptics, glutamate modulators, clonazepam, or buspirone, with limited support for other strategies at present. Alternative monotherapies (e.g., buspirone, clonazepam, phenelzine) have more limited supporting data and require further study. Behavior therapy is as effective as medication and may be superior in risks, costs, and enduring benefits. Future rigorous research is needed to determine which patients respond preferentially to which medications, at what dose, and after what duration. Emerging treatments include new compounds acting via serotonergic, dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and opioid systems.
Cognitive Treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Yule Morag A. , Whittal Maureen L. , Robichaud Melisa
Published: August 2023

The cornerstone of cognitive therapy (CT) for OCD is based upon the knowledge that unwanted intrusions are essentially a universal experience. Therefore, it is not the presence of the intrusion that is problematic, but rather the associated meaning or interpretation of the intrusion. Treatment is flexible, depending upon the nature of the appraisals and beliefs, but it can include strategies focused on targeting inflated responsibility and overestimation of threat, importance and control of thoughts, and the need for perfectionism and certainty. The role of concealment and the relationship to personal values are important maintaining and etiological factors. Short- and long-term treatment outcomes are reviewed, along with predictors of treatment response and mechanisms of action, and the discussion concludes with future directions for CT for OCD.
Treatment of Trichotillomania and Skin-Picking Disorder
Authors: Franklin Martin E. , Antinoro Diana , Ricketts Emily J. , Woods Douglas W.
Published: August 2023

Trichotillomania and skin-picking disorder are classified in the DSM-5 under the broader category of OCD and related disorders, and each of these conditions share both topographical and functional similarities to one another. The treatment literatures for both conditions suggest a growing evidence base, grounded in randomized controlled trial methodology, that supports certain behavioral treatments, most notably habit reversal training and derivative treatments such as acceptance-enhanced behavior therapy. The extant pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy literatures for each are discussed, habit reversal is described, examples of a habit reversal training protocol are presented, and current efforts in treatment development and recommendations for future directions in research are provided.
Phenomenology and Epidemiology of Hoarding Disorder
Authors: Frost Randy O. , Woolley Mercedes
Published: August 2023

Although scientific research on it began only in 1993, hoarding became an official mental disorder 20 years later with the publication of the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. In more than 25 years of research, a great deal has been learned about this fascinating disorder. This chapter addresses the phenomenology and epidemiology of hoarding disorder. Diagnostic criteria and specifying features of the disorder are reviewed in detail, with a focus on research related to each, including an overview of the attachments to possessions that define the need to save them. Among the attachments to possessions are opportunity and identity-related, comfort and safety-related, responsibility-related, and aesthetically related attachments. Also covered is the research on prevalence, onset, course, demographics, comorbidities, and associated features, along with an overview of the relatively few cross-cultural studies.
Genetic Understanding of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Related Disorders
Authors: Samuels Jack
Published: August 2023

This chapter reviews current understanding of the genetic basis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), focusing on recent findings from genome-wide association studies and other molecular genetic research. Several genetic variants have been found to be associated with OCD, including genes implicated in glutamate signaling in brain circuits relevant to OCD. However, OCD is probably genetically complex, with interactions between multiple genetic and environmental factors contributing to the risk, course, and severity of the disorder, as well as response to treatment. Large studies to identify common and rare genetic variants are underway, and new methods are being developed to integrate the findings from multiple interaction networks and to elucidate the genetic basis of OCD.
Slums
Authors: Harris Richard
Published: August 2023

This global historical survey considers how governments have dealt with slums. The term “slum” is used broadly, to denote low-income and often stigmatized areas that contain substandard or illegal housing, overcrowding, insecure tenure, and unhealthy living conditions, while lacking basic services. Faced with such conditions, a government has three options: It can ignore them, hoping the problem will go away of its own accord. It can flatten them, hoping they will not reappear elsewhere. Or it can work to make them better. Which option is chosen depends in large part on governmental resources, but also the balance of local power. Over the past century, clearance has been discredited and has declined, but is still employed. Improvement (upgrading) has become relatively more common. The reasons are complex but include the growth of the state, the diffusion of democracy, and the rise in urban homeownership.
Haussmann and the Rebuilding of Paris, 1853–1870
Authors: Paccoud Antoine
Published: August 2023

While it has become common-place to associate the name “Haussmann” with slum clearance, this assessment needs to be rethought in light of the extensive literature on the public works that transformed Paris in the mid-nineteenth century. This chapter shows that while the transformation of Paris did result in the destruction of a number of working-class neighborhoods, “slum clearance” was likely not Napoleon III and Haussmann’s overarching motivation. This more nuanced interpretation of the public works relies on the spatial unevenness of the urban renovations and of their impacts, Haussmann’s particular conception of Paris and its population, and his planning practice, which sought to wrench planning away from property owner influences.
The Archaeology of Immigrant Lives and Livelihoods at New York City’s Five Points
Authors: Yamin Rebecca
Published: August 2023

The results of an archaeological project done in the 1990s in the heart of the old Five Points neighborhood in Lower Manhattan, New York, are used to discuss the lives of Eastern European Jewish garment workers on Orange (later Baxter) Street. The study highlights the meaning America had for newly arrived Jewish immigrants and how it was expressed in the archaeological record. Ethnicity is stressed as the bond that linked Jews from different backgrounds and contributed to their eventual economic success. The role of Jews does not loom large in the stereotypical construction of the Five Points “slum,” but their presence adds new complexity to what is otherwise described as a down-and-out and dangerous neighborhood.