bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partitioning changes in ecosystem productivity by effects of species interactions in biodiversity experiments
Authors: Tao Jing , Nock Charles A. , Searle Eric B. , Huang Shongming , Man Rongzhou , Yang Hua , Freschet Grégoire T. , Violle Cyrille , Zheng Ji
Published: June 2024

Species interactions affect ecosystem productivity. Positive interactions (resource partitioning and facilitation) increase productivity while negative interactions (species interference) decrease productivity relative to the null expectations defined by monoculture yields. Effects of competitive interactions (resource competition) can be either positive or negative. Distinguishing effects of species interactions is therefore difficult, if not impossible, with current biodiversity experiments involving mixtures and full density monocultures.To partition changes in ecosystem productivity by effects of species interactions, we modify null expectations with competitive growth responses, i.e., proportional changes in individual size (biomass or volume) expected in mixture based on species differences in growth and competitive ability. We use partial density (species density in mixture) monocultures and the competitive exclusion principle to determine maximum competitive growth responses and full density monoculture yields to measure species ability to achieve maximum competitive growth responses in mixture. Deviations of observed yields from competitive expectations represent the effects of positive/negative species interactions, while the differences between competitive and null expectations reflect the effects of competitive interactions.We demonstrate the effectiveness of our competitive partitioning model in distinguishing effects of species interactions using both simulated and experimental species mixtures. Our competitive partitioning model enables meaningful assessments of species interactions at both species and community levels and helps disentangle underlying mechanisms of species interactions responsible for changes in ecosystem productivity and identify species mixtures that maximize positive effects.
The transformation of sensory to perceptual braille letter representations in the visually deprived brain
Authors: Haupt Marleen , Graumann Monika , Teng Santani , Kaltenbach Carina , Cichy Radoslaw M.
Published: June 2024

Experience-based plasticity of the human cortex mediates the influence of individual experience on cognition and behavior. The complete loss of a sensory modality is among the most extreme such experiences. Investigating such a selective, yet extreme change in experience allows for the characterization of experience-based plasticity at its boundaries.Here, we investigated information processing in individuals who lost vision at birth or early in life by probing the processing of braille letter information. We characterized the transformation of braille letter information from sensory representations depending on the reading hand to perceptual representations that are independent of the reading hand.Using a multivariate analysis framework in combination with fMRI, EEG and behavioral assessment, we tracked cortical braille representations in space and time, and probed their behavioral relevance.We located sensory representations in tactile processing areas and perceptual representations in sighted reading areas, with the lateral occipital complex as a connecting “hinge” region. This elucidates the plasticity of the visually deprived brain in terms of information processing.Regarding information processing in time, we found that sensory representations emerge before perceptual representations. This indicates that even extreme cases of brain plasticity adhere to a common temporal scheme in the progression from sensory to perceptual transformations.Ascertaining behavioral relevance through perceived similarity ratings, we found that perceptual representations in sighted reading areas, but not sensory representations in tactile processing areas are suitably formatted to guide behavior.Together, our results reveal a nuanced picture of both the potentials and limits of experience-dependent plasticity in the visually deprived brain.
Sub-cone visual resolution by active, adaptive sampling in the human foveola
Authors: Witten Jenny L , Lukyanova Veronika , Harmening Wolf M
Published: June 2024

The foveated architecture of the human retina and the eye’s mobility enables prime spatial vision, yet the interplay between photoreceptor cell topography and the constant motion of the eye during fixation remains unexplored. With in vivo foveal cone-resolved imaging and simultaneous microscopic photo stimulation, we examined visual acuity in both eyes of 16 participants while precisely recording the stimulus path on the retina. We find that resolution thresholds were correlated with the individual retina’s sampling capacity, and exceeded what static sampling limits would predict by 18%, on average. The length and direction of fixational drift motion, previously thought to be primarily random, played a key role in achieving this sub-cone diameter resolution. The oculomotor system finely adjusts drift behavior towards retinal areas with higher cone densities within only a few hundred milliseconds to enhance retinal sampling.
Research on 3D virtual vision matching based on interactive color segmentation
Authors: Wang Yahui , Wang Haiwen , Jin Juan , Kuang Yingfeng
Published: June 2024

Given the prevalent issues surrounding accuracy and efficiency in contemporary stereo-matching algorithms, this research introduces an innovative image segmentation-based approach. The proposed methodology integrates residual and Swim Transformer modules into the established 3D Unet framework, yielding the Res-Swim-UNet image segmentation model. The algorithm estimates the disparateness of segmented outputs by employing regression techniques, culminating in a comprehensive disparity map. Experimental findings underscore the superiority of the proposed algorithm across all evaluated metrics. Specifically, the proposed network demonstrates marked improvements, with IoU and mPA enhancements of 2.9% and 162%, respectively. Notably, the average matching error rate of the algorithm registers at 2.02%, underscoring its efficacy in achieving precise stereoscopic matching. Moreover, the model’s enhanced generalization capability and robustness underscore its potential for widespread applicability.
Internet addiction among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: Associations with sociodemographic and psychological distress
Authors: Md Bukhori AyuZeity Bistari , Ja’afar Mohd Hasni
Published: June 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has had tremendous implications for billions of adolescents worldwide due to school closures, forcing students to embrace internet usage for daily tasks. Uncontrolled use of the internet among adolescents makes them vulnerable to internet addiction (IA). This study aims to determine the prevalence of IA among adolescents and assess its association with sociodemographic factors, smartphone use, and psychological distress during the pandemic.

Method

A cross-sectional self-administered online survey was conducted among students aged 13–17 from May 15th, 2021, until May 30th, 2021, using the Malay version of the Internet Addiction Test (MVIAT), the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Coronavirus Impacts Questionnaires, as well as a sociodemographic information form. The data was analyzed with IBM SPSS Statistics version 23.

Results

A total of 420 adolescents participated in the survey. The majority of them (70.7%) were female, with a mean age of 15.47 years (±1.49 years old). About 45.5% of the respondents were classified as internet addicted users. The Chi-square test analysis showed that age (p = 0.002), smartphone usage (p = 0.010), rate of midnight use (p < 0.001), frequency (p < 0.001), duration (p < 0.001) of device usage, and presence of depression, anxiety, and stress (p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with IA. Multiple logistic regression showed age (aOR = 1.16, 95% CI [1.00–1.35], p = 0.048), smartphone usage (aOR =3.52, 95% CI [1.43–8.67], p = 0.006), mild or moderate depression (aOR = 2.43, 95% CI [1.36–4.34], p = 0.003), severe or extremely severe stress (aOR = 6.41, 95% CI [2.18–18.82], p = 0.001) were significantly related to IA.

Conclusions

Late adolescence, the use of smartphones, and the presence of psychological distress like depression, and stress were potentially associated with IA. Wise use of smartphones and early identification of any psychological distress among adolescents are warranted, especially during the pandemic.
Wing mechanics and acoustic communication of a new genus of sylvan katydid (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Pseudophyllinae) from the Central Cordillera cloud forest of Colombia
Authors: Holmes Lewis B. , Woodrow Charlie , Sarria-S Fabio A. , Celiker Emine , Montealegre-Z Fernando
Published: June 2024

Stridulation is used by male katydids to produce sound via the rubbing together of their specialised forewings, either by sustained or interrupted sweeps of the file producing different tones and call structures. There are many species of Orthoptera that remain undescribed and their acoustic signals are unknown. This study aims to measure and quantify the mechanics of wing vibration, sound production and acoustic properties of the hearing system in a new genus of Pseudophyllinae with taxonomic descriptions of two new species. The calling behaviour and wing mechanics of males were measured using micro-scanning laser Doppler vibrometry, microscopy, and ultrasound sensitive equipment. The resonant properties of the acoustic pinnae of the ears were obtained via μ-CT scanning and 3D printed experimentation, and numerical modelling was used to validate the results. Analysis of sound recordings and wing vibrations revealed that the stridulatory areas of the right tegmen exhibit relatively narrow frequency responses and produce narrowband calls between 12 and 20 kHz. As in most Pseudophyllinae, only the right mirror is activated for sound production. The acoustic pinnae of all species were found to provide a broadband increased acoustic gain from ~40–120 kHz by up to 25 dB, peaking at almost 90 kHz which coincides with the echolocation frequency of sympatric bats. The new genus, named Satizabalus n. gen., is here derived as a new polytypic genus from the existing genus Gnathoclita, based on morphological and acoustic evidence from one described (S. sodalis n. comb.) and two new species (S. jorgevargasi n. sp. and S. hauca n. sp.). Unlike most Tettigoniidae, Satizabalus exhibits a particular form of sexual dimorphism whereby the heads and mandibles of the males are greatly enlarged compared to the females. We suggest that Satizabalus is related to the genus Trichotettix, also found in cloud forests in Colombia, and not to Gnathoclita.
Molecular characterization of Pectobacterium atrosepticum infecting potato and its management through chemicals
Authors: Hameed Akhtar , Zeeshan Muhammad , Binyamin Rana , Alam Muhammad Waqar , Ali Subhan , Zaheer Muhammad Saqlain , Ali Habib , Riaz Muhammad Waheed , Ali Hafiz Haider , Elshikh Mohamed Soliman , Alarjani Khaloud Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Potato farming is a vital component of food security and the economic stability especially in the under developing countries but it faces many challenges in production, blackleg disease caused by Pectobacterium atrosepticum (Pa) is one of the main reason for damaging crop yield of the potato. Effective management strategies are essential to control these losses and to get sustainable potato crop yield. This study was focused on characterizing the Pa and the investigating new chemical options for its management. The research was involved a systematic survey across the three district of Punjab, Pakistan (Khanewal, Okara, and Multan) to collect samples exhibiting the black leg symptoms. These samples were analyzed in the laboratory where gram-negative bacteria were isolated and identified through biochemical and pathogenicity tests for Pa. DNA sequencing further confirmed these isolates of Pa strains. Six different chemicals were tested to control blackleg problem in both vitro and vivo at different concentrations. In vitro experiment, Cordate demonstrated the highest efficacy with a maximum inhibition zones of 17.139 mm, followed by Air One (13.778 mm), Profiler (10.167 mm), Blue Copper (7.7778 mm), Spot Fix (7.6689 mm), and Strider (7.0667 mm). In vivo, Cordate maintained its effectiveness with the lowest disease incidence of 14.76%, followed by Blue Copper (17.49%), Air One (16.98%), Spot Fix (20.67%), Profiler (21.45%), Strider (24.99%), and the control group (43.00%). The results highlight Cordate’s potential as a most effective chemical against Pa, offering promising role for managing blackleg disease in potato and to improve overall productivity.
Effects of weight-bearing dance aerobics on lower limb muscle morphology, strength and functional fitness in older women
Authors: Peng Xiaoying , Zhou Tang , Wu Hua , Li Yiyan , Liu Jiajia , Huang Huan , He Changshuang , Guo Shaoyu , Huan Muyang , Shi Lei , Chen Peijie , Quan Minghui
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the effects of 12-week weight-bearing dance aerobics (WBDA) on muscle morphology, strength and functional fitness in older women.

Methods

This controlled study recruited 37 female participants (66.31y ± 3.83) and divided them into intervention and control groups according to willingness. The intervention group received 90-min WBDA thrice a week for 12 weeks, while the control group maintained normal activities. The groups were then compared by measuring muscle thickness, fiber length and pennation angle by ultrasound, muscle strength using an isokinetic multi-joint module and functional fitness, such as 2-min step test, 30-s chair stand, chair sit-and-reach, TUG and single-legged closed-eyed standing test. The morphology, strength, and functional fitness were compared using ANCOVA or Mann-Whitney U test to study the effects of 12 weeks WBDA.

Results

Among all recruited participants, 33 completed all tests. After 12 weeks, the thickness of the vastus intermedius (F = 17.85, P < 0.01) and quadriceps (F = 15.62, P < 0.01) was significantly increased in the intervention group compared to the control group, along with a significant increase in the torque/weight of the knee flexor muscles (F = 4.47, P = 0.04). Similarly, the intervention group revealed a significant improvement in the single-legged closed-eyed standing test (z = −2.16, P = 0.03) compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The study concluded that compared to the non-exercising control group, 12-week WBDA was shown to thicken vastus intermedius, increase muscle strength, and improve physical function in older women. In addition, this study provides a reference exercise program for older women.
The effect of a spinal thrust manipulation’s audible pop on brain wave activity: a quasi-experimental repeated measure design
Authors: Sillevis Rob , Unum Joshua , Weiss Valerie , Shamus Eric , Selva-Sarzo Francisco
Published: June 2024

Introduction

High velocity thrust manipulation is commonly used when managing joint dysfunctions. Often, these thrust maneuvers will elicit an audible pop. It has been unclear what conclusively causes this audible sound and its clinical meaningfulness. This study sought to identify the effect of the audible pop on brainwave activity directly following a prone T7 thrust manipulation in asymptomatic/healthy subjects.

Methods

This was a quasi-experimental repeated measure study design in which 57 subjects completed the study protocol. Brain wave activity was measured with the Emotiv EPOC+, which collects data with a frequency of 128 HZ and has 14 electrodes. Testing was performed in a controlled environment with minimal electrical interference (as measured with a Gauss meter), temperature variance, lighting variance, sound pollution, and other variable changes that could have influenced or interfered with pure EEG data acquisition. After accommodation each subject underwent a prone T7 posterior-anterior thrust manipulation. Immediately after the thrust manipulation the brainwave activity was measured for 10 seconds.

Results

The non-audible group (N = 20) consisted of 55% males, and the audible group (N = 37) consisted of 43% males. The non-audible group EEG data revealed a significant change in brain wave activity under some of the electrodes in the frontal, parietal, and the occipital lobes. In the audible group, there was a significant change in brain wave activity under all electrodes in the frontal lobes, the parietal lobe, and the occipital lobes but not the temporal lobes.

Conclusion

The audible sounds caused by a thoracic high velocity thrust manipulation did not affect the activity in the audible centers in the temporal brain region. The results support the hypothesis that thrust manipulation with or without audible sound results in a generalized relaxation immediately following the manipulation. The absence of a significant difference in brainwave activity in the frontal lobe in this study might indicate that the audible pop does not produce a “placebo” mechanism.
The effects of meliponicultural use of Tetragonula laeviceps on other bee pollinators and pollination efficacy of lemon
Authors: Nurdiansyah Muhamad Aldi , Abduh Muhammad Yusuf , Aos Aos , Hidayat Asep , Permana Agus Dana
Published: June 2024

The augmentation of pollination success in lemon (Citrus limon Eureka) flowers remains contingent on the involvement of bee pollinators. With wild bee pollinator populations declining in agroecosystems, meliponiculture has emerged as a potential option in Indonesia. This study aimed to investigate the effects of meliponicultural use of Tetragonula laeviceps on diversity, foraging behavior, and monthly population of bee pollinators, as well as lemon pollination efficacy with and without meliponiculture treatment during two periods. Using scan and focal sampling methods in first and second periods, the study found that the diversity of wild bee pollinators was six species (Apis cerana, Lasioglossum albescens, Megachile laticeps, Xylocopa confusa, Xylocopa latipes, and Xylocopa caerulea), and T. laeviceps when using meliponiculture. The relative abundance and daily foraging activity of wild bee pollinators were initially reduced in the first period (March–June) and then maintained in the second period (July–October). T. laeviceps foraged on the flowers, involving specific sequences for 72 s with highest visitation rate of 0.25 flowers/h from 10:00–13:00. Light intensity was observed to be the most influential factor for bee pollinator density. Pollination efficacy results showed that meliponiculture usage has greater benefit compared to meliponiculture absence across various parameters, including fruit sets, fruit weight, yield, and estimated productivity. The effects of meliponicultural use of T. laeviceps can enhance lemon pollination efficacy while preserving the diversity of wild insect pollinators. This suggests that meliponiculture stingless bees could be a beneficial practice in agroecosystems, especially in tropical regions where wild bee populations and diversity are declining.
Factors Influencing Infection Control Self-Confidence in Performance of Paramedic Students
Authors: Oh Si-Yoon
Published: June 2024

This study was conducted to identify the factors affecting infection control self-confidence in performance among paramedic students and provide foundational data to enhance the infection control education environment and clinical training programs. Data were collected through an online and paper questionnaire survey among 119 students from two domestic paramedic departments. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 29.0 Program. Self-confidence in performing infection control was higher among students with higher knowledge of infection control and higher perceived importance. The factor influencing infection control self-confidence in performance was the perception of infection control (β = .568, p < .001), with an explanatory power of 57.2%. Therefore, it is necessary to devise strategies to enhance the perception of infection control during educational sessions, thereby improving infection control self-confidence in performance.
Evaluation of Residual Mechanical Properties of Non-sintered Hwangto Concrete Exposed to High Temperatures Using Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Method
Authors: Kim Taehyung , Kim Wonchang , Choi Hyeonggil , Lee Taegyu
Published: June 2024

In this study, the ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) method was used to evaluate the residual mechanical properties of non-sintered Hwangto concrete exposed to high temperatures. The effect of the replacement ratio of non-sintered Hwangto concrete (0 15, and 30%) on the residual mechanical properties was evaluated, with compressive strength and UPV set as the evaluation parameters. The experimental results showed that the residual mechanical properties of the specimens exhibited similar trends with increasing temperature, regardless of the non-sintered Hwangto concrete replacement percentage. Regression analysis revealed a strong linear relation between the variables. An error test indicated that the influence on the target strength was the highest, and analysis with the existing prediction model suggested the need for a prediction model specifically for non-sintered Hwangto concrete.
Improving Building Permit System via Case Analysis of Temporary Buildings in Industrial Facilities
Authors: Jung Sun-Kyu , Kim Won-Chang , Kim Gyu-Yong , Lee Tae-Gyu
Published: June 2024

In this study, a permit approval-stage review is proposed for the building permit system based on a case analysis of temporary buildings in domestic industrial facilities, with the aim of preventing the construction and use of connected temporary buildings following permit approval. To this end, design characteristics of connected temporary buildings are analyzed, and problems caused by the construction of such architectures are compiled based on actual incidents involving the breakout of fire. Based on our observations, we propose a minimum separation distance of 5 m as fire suppression space on all four sides of approved buildings, a secure connection to the entrance of the building to enable the evacuation of occupants, complete prohibition of the construction of new temporary buildings within the approved premises, and prohibition of the use of temporary buildings constructed with combustible materials in existing buildings constructed using major non-combustible materials.
Comparative Effects of Ripeness on Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) Inhibition and Anti-oxidative Activity of Amelonado and F3 Amazon Cocoa (Theobroma Cacao) Beans In vitro
Authors: S.A. Shodehinde , O. Odubanjo Veronica , S. Adeniyi , O.D. Adesugba , G.D. Egunjobi , S.O. Olubode , P.A. Akinnusi , S.I. Oyeleye , V.O Awojulu , E.E Nwanna , G. Oboh
Published: June 2024

Background: The oxidative deamination of amines and neurotransmitters as typified by the action of monoamine oxidase (MAO) is known to be involved in psychological disorders, oxidative stress, and many other adverse pharmacological reactions. A new series of studies have been geared towards identifying natural inhibitors of monoamine oxidase that also possess strong antioxidant activity. Some psychological disorders have been identified as direct implications of the breakdown of neurotraansmitters by monoamine oxidases. The breakdown, which is biochemically an oxidative deamination, results in the production of reactive species of aldehyde and oxygen. An overexpression or increased activity of monomine oxidase gives rise to an increased production of free radicals. A relatively higher production of free radicals depletes the natural antioxidants in the brain and results in brain disorders. Inhibition of monoamine oxidase has been identified as the major intervention to this pathological process. However, identification of therapeutic interventions that can inibit monoamine oxidase as well as supress the activity of free radicals has been proposed to be a major therapeutic improvement. Cocoa beans elicited significant inhibition against free radical in addition to the substantial antioxidant activity recorded. These findings can be further investigated to identify the major components of cocoa responsible for these molecular interactions.
Mollusca Community Structure and Distribution in Jatigede Reservoir Sumedang, as Natural Feed Materials
Authors: Handiyono  , Herawati Heti , Maulina Ine , Arief Candra Wirawan , Hasan Zahidah , Suwartapradja Opan Suhendi
Published: June 2024

Mollusca live in shallow waters and can be found around the Jatigede Reservoir. Mollusca can serve as indicators of water quality and can be utilized as natural feed materials due to their significant nutritional content. The results showed that the mollusca community structure in Jatigede Reservoir, Sumedang, had Shannon-Whienner diversity index (H') values ​​ranging from 0 - 1.08, categorized as low to moderate diversity. Evenness index (E) values ​​ranged from 0 - 0.76, categorized as low to high evenness. Dominance index values ​​ranged from 0.42 - 1, categorized as moderate to high dominance. Each research station was dominated by the species Filopaludina javanica. Based on the water quality index (FBI), Jatigede Reservoir, Sumedang, is categorized as slightly poor to poor with values ​​ranging from 6 - 6.57. Species found during the study include Filopaludina javanica, Pilsbryoconcha exilis, Anodonta woodiana, Thiara scabra, and Indoplanorbis exustus. Species that can be used as alternative feed materials or supplementary feed materials include Filopaludina javanica
The Use of Green Algae to Capture Carbon Dioxide in Wastewater
Authors: Thabit Hadeel Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Our current research includes treating the toxicity of wastewater using green algae, and this is done through a set of steps that involve withdrawing nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater for algae to benefit from them in their growth, leading to a clear reduction in their concentrations. Since the algae depend on self-feeding for their living so that they carry out the process of photosynthesis, they thus consume carbon dioxide that is produced from the process of decomposing organic carbon in wastewater by the action of bacteria that work on consuming the oxygen liberated from the algae during the process of photosynthesis, and this leads to reducing carbon dioxide emissions on the one hand and reduces the requirements for ventilation necessary for the work of bacteria on the other hand. Quantitative analysis illustrates that 1.83 grams of carbon dioxide are consumed for every gram of algal biomass. This study highlights the effectiveness of algae as a sustainable and green method for treating wastewater.
Early-onset Parkinson’s Disease in a Chronic Alcoholic: A Case Study Highlighting the Need for Multidisciplinary Care
Authors: Geetha Karra , Kumar Anil , Begum Shaik Razia , Hussain Nur , Rao T. Rama
Published: June 2024

A Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological condition that worsens over time and is mostly defined by motor symptoms such stiffness, bradykinesia, tremors, and unstable posture. The pathology of PD is predominantly associated with the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the presence of Lewy bodies, which are intracellular inclusions containing alpha-synuclein protein. The quality of life is greatly impacted by non-motor symptoms, which frequently appear before motor manifestations. These symptoms are autonomic dysfunction, depression, sleep difficulties, and cognitive impairment. The current treatments are symptomatic, with the goal of employing drugs such levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors to mimic or replenish dopamine. Research on alpha-synuclein aggregation, neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction is underway in an effort to identify disease-modifying therapies. We present a case of a 50-year-old male with a history of chronic alcoholism and smoking, who presented with shivering of hands and legs, along with general weakness and sleep disturbances. Understanding the underlying mechanisms, looking into novel therapy targets, and enhancing early detection techniques are the main goals of emerging research. An overview of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is given in this abstract, with a focus on the need for ongoing research to better comprehend and treat this complex neurological disorder. This case report offers interesting details about the difficulties in identifying and treating Parkinson’s disease in individuals with a history of long-term alcohol abuse. It also emphasizes how crucial a multidisciplinary strategy is to providing patients with the best care possible. For PD to be fully managed, a multidisciplinary strategy is needed to address both motor and non-motor symptoms. This case report aiming to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Role of Fermented Organic Manure and Mycorrhiza on Physio Chemical Properties of Soil of Prayagraj, India
Authors: Mahapatra Subham , David Arun Alfred , Swaroop Narendra , Thomas Tarence , Bharose Ram , Toppo Neha
Published: June 2024

The integrated use of fermented organic manure and mycorrhiza has been employed to enhance crop productivity and maintain soil health and fertility. The research titled “Role of fermented organic manure and mycorrhiza on physio-chemical properties of soil” was conducted during the Zaid season of 2023 at the Central Research Farm, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The plot was designed in 3X3 RBD having 3 levels of fermented organic manure @ 0, 50, 100 %, Mycorrhiza @ 0, 50, 100 % and N, P, K at RDF respectively. The Variety selected was PDM- 139 released by SVRC, Uttar Pradesh in the year 1974. The average yield recorded was 6-9 q ha-1. Results indicated non-significant with the highest values observed in the control treatment in case of bulk density (Mg m-3) and particle density (Mg m-3) of soil was recorded maximum in T1 (Absolute control) and minimum was recorded at T9 (NPK@RDF + M2@ 10Kg ha-1 50% + F2@ 50 l ha-1 100%). The maximum Pore space (%) and Water holding capacity (%) of soil was recorded at T9 (NPK@RDF + M2@ 10Kg ha- 1 50% + F2@ 50 l ha-1 100%) and the minimum was found in T1 (control). The slight decrease of pH and EC was observed on application of the treatments, the maximum pH of soil was recorded at T9 (NPK@RDF + M2@ 10Kg ha-1 50% + F2@ 50 l ha-1 100%) and the minimum in T1 (Absolute control. The maximum organic carbon (%) and increase of N, P, K of soil was recorded at T9 (NPK@RDF + M2@ 10Kg ha-1 50% + F2@ 50 l ha-1 100%) and the minimum was found in T1 (Absolute control).
Decanter Brand Selection Using Multi-Criteria Decision Making
Authors: Nasution Fadlin Qisthi , Nasution Muhammad Ansori , Rivani Meta
Published: June 2024

Decanters play a crucial role in Palm Oil Mills by separating the oil phase from the sludge underflow in continuous settling tanks during the clarification process. Given the significance of decanters and the multitude of manufacturers, this study focuses on a comprehensive evaluation of three-phase decanter brands selection. Utilizing the analytic hierarchy process, the research explores the nuanced criteria of economics, technical aspects, and service quality for brand selection. Sub-criteria include operational cost, price, overhaul cost, emulsion content, oil losses, capacity, distance to buffer tank, electricity consumption, service scheme, guarantee, spare part availability, and workshop location. The alternatives considered are common decanter brands in Indonesia: Alfa Laval, IHI, Flottweg, and Westfalia. Using Expert Choice®, the analysis identifies Flottweg as the optimal decanter brand based on performance, particularly excelling in service criteria with a priority weight of 0.336. Sensitivity analysis indicates that for IHI to be considered the first option, technical and economic criteria must be prioritized above 56.5% and 50.0%, respectively. This study also concluded that technical and service aspects are equally important in decision-making for the decanter brand in POM A, surpassing economic ones, with service aspects as the critical factor in decanter brand decision-making.
Leveraging Social Network Analysis for Enhancing Safety Reporting in the Workplace
Authors: Widya Paramitha Puspa , Ambarwati Rita , Dedy Dedy , Alimova Mashhura Toirхonovna
Published: June 2024

Unsafe Condition Reporting is an important source of information for companies to determine whether the reporting can be identified effectively as the key to reducing work accidents. This research aims to ascertain the Social Network Analysis visualization network in the context of reporting unsafe conditions in the IZAT application and categorizing data processing outcomes. The findings revealed that the data collection process yielded 26,658 data items. The Unsafe Condition content comprised 79,667 words, with 2,388 unique words identified. The average number of occurrences per word was 33.36139. Certain network property calculations can be inferred from these results. Then, the word mapping with five related topics was carried out. The results of the categorization of the unsafe condition word mapping can be used as evaluation material for companies to prevent work accidents. In particular, the network visualization results can identify the most discussed topics and social network relationships of reporting in the IZAT application.
Mental Health of Protective Services Workers: Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions
Authors: Kaufmann Christopher N. , Rutkow Lainie , Spira Adam P. , Mojtabai Ramin
Published: November 2012

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of mental disorders in a nationally representative sample of protective services workers (PSWs), compare it to that of adults in other occupations, and determine if an association exists between trauma exposure and 3-year incident psychiatric disorders in PSWs.

Methods

Data from the longitudinal US National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions waves 1 (fielded 2001-2002) and 2 (fielded 2004-2005) were used to compare the prevalence of mental disorders at baseline in a representative sample of PSWs to that of adults in other occupations. Among PSWs, we also explored the association between recent exposure to potentially traumatic events and the development of mood, anxiety, and alcohol-use disorders over a 3-year follow-up period.

Results

At baseline, PSWs had a lifetime prevalence of mental and alcohol-use disorders similar to that of adults in other occupations. However, PSWs experienced a greater variety of potentially traumatic events between baseline and follow-up. Exposure to a greater number of different trauma types was associated with increased odds of incident mood (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.09-3.22, P = .024), and alcohol-use disorders (AOR = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.16-2.91, P = .011). These associations were particularly strong among early career PSWs who joined the profession between waves 1 and 2 (AOR = 2.30, 95% CI = 1.26-4.19, P = .008, for mood disorders; AOR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.30-4.58, P = .007, for alcohol-use disorders).

Conclusions

While PSWs do not appear to have a higher prevalence of mental health problems than workers in other occupations, they are more likely to experience multiple types of potentially traumatic events. PSWs who are exposed to multiple types of potentially traumatic events are at increased risk of developing new mental disorders, particularly in the early stages of their careers. Developing curricula in coping skills and providing timely interventions for early career PSWs may help reduce future psychiatric morbidity in these workers. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2013;7:36-45)
Timing and Frequency of Mental Effort Measurement: Evidence in Favour of Repeated Measures
Authors: van Gog Tamara , Kirschner Femke , Kester Liesbeth , Paas Fred
Published: November 2012

Subjective mental effort rating scales are widely used in research on learning, instruction and training. However, the timing and frequency of application of those rating scales differ between studies. Some apply a rating scale repeatedly after every task in a learning or test phase, whereas others do so only once at the end of a phase. Four experiments are presented that investigated how timing and frequency of mental effort measurements affect the results obtained. The findings from Experiment 1 (between‐subjects) and 2 (within‐subjects), using different arrangements of simple and complex tasks, showed that a single rating after a series of tasks resulted in a higher mental effort score than the average of ratings provided immediately after every task. A similar result was obtained in Experiment 3 with series of complex tasks, but not with simple tasks. Experiment 4 showed that knowing beforehand that mental effort rating will be required after completing all tasks results in lower scores, but average retrospective ratings per task still differed from a single retrospective rating. Taken together, these experiments suggest that timing and frequency of effort ratings do affect the results obtained and that repeatedly measuring mental effort after each task in the series seems to be preferable. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Learning from Narrated Animations with Different Support Procedures: Working Memory Capacity Matters
Authors: Skuballa Irene T. , Schwonke Rolf , Renkl Alexander
Published: November 2012

The present experiment tested the effects of cueing (spotlights) and of verbal instructions in narrated animations on learning outcomes as well as potential moderator effects of working memory capacity (WMC). We found that the spotlight group dwelled longer on parts that were in the focus of the narration than a no‐support group (control group). Despite higher levels of experienced difficulties, the no‐support group had higher learning outcomes. More importantly, we found an aptitude–treatment interaction: Students with low WMC were impeded by verbal instruction, whereas students with high WMC were impeded by spotlights. Mediation analyses showed that spotlights increased attention to the focus of the narration that fostered learning outcomes but did not lead to better learning outcomes. Our findings suggest that further research on support procedures for animations should (i) take WMC into account, (ii) consider possible negative side effects, and (iii) address processes that mediate the effects. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Individual prediction of white matter injury following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Hellyer Peter J. , Leech Robert , Ham Timothy E. , Bonnelle Valerie , Sharp David J.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) often results in traumatic axonal injury (TAI). This can be difficult to identify using conventional imaging. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) offers a method of assessing axonal damage in vivo, but has previously mainly been used to investigate groups of patients. Machine learning techniques are increasingly used to improve diagnosis based on complex imaging measures. We investigated whether machine learning applied to DTI data can be used to diagnose white matter damage after TBI and to predict neuropsychological outcome in individual patients.

Methods

We trained pattern classifiers to predict the presence of white matter damage in 25 TBI patients with microbleed evidence of TAI compared to neurologically healthy age‐matched controls. We then applied these classifiers to 35 additional patients with no conventional imaging evidence of TAI. Finally, we used regression analyses to predict indices of neuropsychological outcome for information processing speed, executive function, and associative memory in a group of 70 heterogeneous patients.

Results

The classifiers discriminated between patients with microbleeds and age‐matched controls with a high degree of accuracy, and outperformed other methods. When the trained classifiers were applied to patients without microbleeds, patients having likely TAI showed evidence of greater cognitive impairment in information processing speed and executive function. The classifiers were also able to predict the extent of impairments in information processing speed and executive function.

Interpretation

The work provides a proof of principle that multivariate techniques can be used with DTI to provide diagnostic information about clinically significant TAI. ANN NEUROL 2013;73:489–499
Asymmetric Ion‐Pairing Catalysis
Authors: Brak Katrien , Jacobsen Eric N.
Published: November 2012

Charged intermediates and reagents are ubiquitous in organic transformations. The interaction of these ionic species with chiral neutral, anionic, or cationic small molecules has emerged as a powerful strategy for catalytic, enantioselective synthesis. This review describes developments in the burgeoning field of asymmetric ion‐pairing catalysis with an emphasis on the insights that have been gleaned into the structural and mechanistic features that contribute to high asymmetric induction.
Muscular Reconstruction and Functional Morphology of the Forelimb of Early Miocene Sloths (Xenarthra, Folivora) of Patagonia
Authors: Toledo Néstor , Bargo M. Susana , Vizcaíno Sergio F.
Published: November 2012

Early Miocene sloths are represented by a diversity of forms ranging from 38 to 95 kg, being registered mainly from Santacrucian Age deposits in southern‐most shores of Patagonia, Argentina. Their postcranial skeleton differs markedly in shape from those of their closest living relatives (arboreal forms of less than 10 kg),BradypusandCholoepus. In order to gain insight on functional properties of the Santacrucian sloths forelimb, musculature was reconstructed and a comparative, qualitative morphofunctional analysis was performed, allowing proposing hypotheses about biological role of the limb in substrate preferences, and locomotor strategies. The anatomy of the forelimb of Santacrucian sloths resembles more closely extant anteaters such asTamanduaandMyrmecophaga, due to the robustness of the elements, development of features related to attachment of ligaments and muscles, and conservative, pentadactylous, and strong‐clawed manus. The reconstructed forelimb musculature was very well developed and resembles that of extant Pilosa (especially anteaters), although retaining the basic muscular configuration of generalized mammals. This musculature allowed application of powerful forces, especially in adduction of the forelimb, flexion and extension of the antebrachium, and manual prehension. These functional properties are congruent with both climbing and digging activities, and provide support for proposed Santacrucian sloths as good climbing mammals, possibly arboreal or semiarboreal, being also capable diggers. Their climbing strategies were limited, thus these forms relied mainly on great muscular strength and curved claws of the manus to move cautiously on branches. Anat Rec, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neurophysiological characteristics of human leg muscle action potentials evoked by transcutaneous magnetic stimulation of the spine
Authors: Knikou Maria
Published: November 2012

The objectives of this study were to establish the neurophysiological properties of the compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) evoked by transcutaneous magnetic stimulation of the spine (tsMSS) and the effects of tsMSS on the soleus H‐reflex. In semi‐prone seated subjects with trunk semi‐flexed, the epicenter of a figure‐of‐eight magnetic coil was placed at Thoracic 10 with the handle on the midline of the vertebral column. The magnetic stimulator was triggered by monophasic single pulses of 1 ms, and the intensity ranged from 90% to 100% of the stimulator output across subjects. CMAPs were recorded bilaterally from ankle and knee muscles at the interstimulus intervals of 1, 3, 5, 8, and 10 s. The CMAPs evoked were also conditioned by posterior tibial and common peroneal nerve stimulation at a conditioning‐test (C‐T) interval of 50 ms. The soleus H‐reflex was conditioned by tsMSS at the C‐T intervals of 50, 20, −20, and −50 ms. The amplitude of the CMAPs was not decreased when evoked at low stimulation frequencies, excitation of group I afferents from mixed peripheral nerves in the leg affected the CMAPs in a non‐somatotopical neural organization pattern, and tsMSS depressed soleus H‐reflex excitability. These CMAPs are likely due to orthodromic excitation of nerve motor fibers and antidromic depolarization of different types of afferents. The latency of these CMAPs may be utilized to establish the spine‐to‐muscle conduction time in central and peripheral nervous system disorders in humans. tsMSS may constitute a non‐invasive modality to decrease spinal reflex hyperexcitability and treat hypertonia in neurological disorders. Bioelectromagnetics 34:200–210, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Self‐assembled DNA‐based giant thrombin nanoparticles for controlled release
Authors: Sung Jong Hwan , Han Daehoon , Lee Jong Bum
Published: November 2012

Protein‐aptamer interactions have been used in a wide range of fields, including medical diagnosis and protein delivery. Herein, we report a method for thrombin delivery with thrombin‐binding aptamer (TBA), which is one of the well‐known aptamers for thrombin, by generating giant thrombin nanoparticles (GTNPs). GTNPs can be synthesized by crosslinking thrombin with DNA nanostructures that possess several TBA molecules. To generate GTNPs, two different DNA nanostructures were used. Y‐shaped DNA with TBA and X‐shaped DNA with TBA were used for 250 and 650 nm GTNPs, respectively. Controlled release of thrombin from GTNPs was performed by adding complementary DNA (cDNA) to TBA. To investigate thrombin release from GTNPs, the sizes of the GTNPs were measured using dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We confirmed a decrease in the size of GTNPs with various concentrations of cDNA, suggesting the release of thrombin. Based on these results, we expect that our method can be used to control the amount of thrombin released effectively. Our method is also widely applicable for effective protein delivery.
A new method of fabricating robust freeform 3D ceramic scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Seol Young‐Joon , Park Dong Yong , Park Ju Young , Kim Sung Won , Park Seong Jin , Cho Dong‐Woo
Published: November 2012

Fabrication of three‐dimensional (3D) scaffolds with appropriate mechanical properties and desired architecture for promoting cell growth and new tissue formation is one of the most important efforts in tissue engineering field. Scaffolds fabricated from bioactive ceramic materials such as hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphate show promise because of their biological ability to support bone tissue regeneration. However, the use of ceramics as scaffold materials is limited because of their inherent brittleness and difficult processability. The aim of this study was to create robust ceramic scaffolds, which have a desired architecture. Such scaffolds were successfully fabricated by projection‐based microstereolithography, and dilatometric analysis was conducted to study the sintering behavior of the ceramic materials. The mechanical properties of the scaffolds were improved by infiltrating them with a polycaprolactone solution. The toughness and compressive strength of these ceramic/polymer scaffolds were about twice those of ceramic scaffolds. Furthermore, the osteogenic gene expression on ceramic/polymer scaffolds was better than that on ceramic scaffolds. Through this study, we overcame the limitations of previous research on fabricating ceramic scaffolds and these new robust ceramic scaffolds may provide a much improved 3D substrate for bone tissue regeneration. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013; 110: 1444–1455. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.