bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Conceptual Entropy: Metaphors We Die From
Authors: Hvidtfeldt Rolf , Pedersen David Budtz
Published: September 2024

This paper explores the implications of conceptual entropy in interdisciplinary collaboration, examining perspectives from philosophy and contemporary social science. Conceptual entropy, the degree of disorder in a conceptual system, is analyzed from the viewpoints of those advocating for reducing ambiguity to achieve scientific precision, as well as those advocating for embracing ambiguity to reflect real-world complexity. We aim to demonstrate the need for conceptual clarity and thereby criticize deliberate conceptual vagueness. Semantic vagueness may arise due to fuzzy ontological mechanisms guarding the relevant object domain. However, vagueness may also result from the unwarranted use of metaphors. We address the risk of precision loss in interdisciplinary teams by proposing a framework for studying conceptual entropy. On this basis, we argue that ‘conceptual entropy’ is useful for reflecting on how unclear, messy, and ambivalent concepts and conceptual systems may lead to an accelerating state of semantic disorder and vagueness.
The original description of Agama gutturosa Merrem, 1819 and its nomenclatural implication on the genus Bronchocela Kaup, 1827 (Squamata: Agamidae)
Authors: DENZER WOLFGANG , TILLACK FRANK
Published: September 2024

We discovered a historical specimen in the collection of the ZMB that fits an overlooked description of Agama gutturosa by Merrem (1819) and possibly represents a specimen on which Seba (1734) based one of his illustrations. Morphologically, the specimen held in the ZMB collection and that described by Merrem (1819) agrees with Bronchocela jubata Duméril & Bibron, 1837 and would constitute a senior synonym of that taxon. An earlier lectotype designation for the taxa Agama cristatella Kuhl, 1820 and Agama gutturosa Merrem, 1820 by Figueroa (2021) is discussed and corrected accordingly. In order to stabilize nomenclatural usage, we consider Agama gutturosa Merrem, 1819 as a nomen oblitum, so that the long standing nomina Bronchocela cristatella (Kuhl, 1820) and Bronchocela jubata Duméril & Bibron, 1837 can prevail.
Automatic Identification of Three-Body Scatter Spike Based on Jensen–Shannon Divergence and Support Vector Machine
Authors: Meng Lei , Sang Youwei , Tang Jia
Published: September 2024

The three-body scatter spike (TBSS), an echo artifact in radar imagery, manifests as a weak, linear echo extending radially from a core of high reflectivity. Adequately, though not indispensably, indicating the presence of large hail in convective storms, the automatic identification of the TBSS proves advantageous in significantly improving the effectiveness of hailstorm detection. This study introduces an algorithm that synergizes Jensen–Shannon divergence (JSD) and support vector machine (SVM) for rapid TBSS detection in two decades’ worth of single-polarization radar data across China. The algorithm, tested on data from 50 S-band China Next Generation Weather Radar (CINRAD) in central and eastern China, utilized reflectivity factor images for sample extraction. An application in Chenzhou, China, demonstrates the algorithm’s efficacy in improving hailstorm detection resolution.

Significance Statement

In recent years, China’s hail recordkeeping, primarily based on manual observations at national surface meteorological stations, has suffered from limited spatial and temporal detail. However, the advent of the China Next Generation Weather Radar (CINRAD) network offers a new avenue for hailstorm detection. TBSS, a secondary but significant indicator for large hail in S-band radar, presents an opportunity for enhanced hail warning capabilities. By automating TBSS detection in radar archives spanning two decades, this research significantly enhances the resolution of hailstorm climatology, contributing to more effective hail disaster mitigation and management.
Advancing the Seasonal Outlook of the Wet Seasons of Florida
Authors: Misra Vasubandhu , Jayasankar C. B.
Published: September 2024

In this study, we introduce an ensemble approach to provide a probabilistic seasonal outlook of the length and seasonal rainfall anomaly of the wet season over Florida using the observed variations of the onset date of the season at the granularity of ∼10-km grid resolution (which is the spatial resolution of the observed rainfall data used for this work). The time series of daily precipitation at the grid resolution of NASA’s Global Precipitation Mission is randomly perturbed 1000 times to account for the uncertainty of synoptic to mesoscale variations on the diagnosis of the onset and demise date of the wet season. The strong covariability of the onset date with the seasonal length and seasonal rainfall anomaly of the wet season is then leveraged to provide the seasonal outlooks by monitoring the onset date of the wet season. This simple seasonal outlook is effective in predicting extreme tercile and even extreme pentile anomalies across Florida. We suggest that the proposed approach to the seasonal outlook of the wet season of Florida provides a viable alternative in the absence of strong external forcing like ENSO or tropical Atlantic variability that potentially limits the predictability of numerical climate models used for seasonal prediction.

Significance Statement

Earlier studies have shown that the seasonal prediction from the numerical climate models even at zero lead time has very limited prediction skills over the summer in Florida, which also coincides with the wettest part of the year. Florida’s wet season exhibits significant interannual variations, which exert its influence on water management decisions for subsequent drier seasons of the year. Therefore, strategies to improve this skill are highly relevant. We propose in this study that by monitoring the onset of the wet season variations, we can usefully provide a probabilistic seasonal outlook of the season over Florida. This is done by leveraging the observed linear relationships between the onset date variations with the length and the seasonal rainfall anomaly of the season. Furthermore, the outlook is provided at the spatial resolution of the observed dataset, which in this case is at 10-km grid resolution.
Negotiating Identity Tensions: Challenges of an Online Volunteer English Language Teacher in Rural China
Authors: Wang Chaoran , Yazan Bedrettin
Published: September 2024

We examine the identity tensions of an online volunteer English teacher at a rural village school in southwestern China to uncover the structural inequalities embedded in her everyday teaching and identity work. Adopting narrative ethnographic methods, we conducted thematic analysis of data from interviews and classroom observations. Findings show that Jing's identity tensions derived from the challenges of transitioning to a new school context and a different mode of instruction, as well as navigating the conflicts between personal values, institutional demands, and structural constraints. The study suggests that online volunteer teachers attempting to address the needs of rural underserved students may experience multifaceted dimensions of identity tensions due to the lack of understanding of local pedagogies, and student backgrounds, as well as the social and policy constraints beyond classrooms.
Development of novel nano-B4C and CNF reinforced aluminium matrix hybrid nanocomposite
Authors: Barik Sougata , Bhandari Rahul , Paul Tirtharaj , Samanta Sudip Kumar , Mondal Manas Kumar
Published: September 2024

A novel hybrid aluminium-based nano-B4C and carbon nanofibers (CNF) reinforced nanocomposite has been developed using powder metallurgy. The microstructure and mechanical properties have been evaluated using field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, hardness, and compression testing. The microstructural analysis reveals that the nano-B4C and CNF are dispersed in the aluminium matrix, resulting fine-grained structure. The 2 vol% hybrid nanocomposite shows a 182.9% increase in compressive strength, while the 4 vol% nano-B4C composite achieves the highest hardness, 62.18% greater than pure aluminium. Tribological tests using a dry sliding pin-on-disc indicate a 53.2% reduction in wear rate for the 2 vol% hybrid nanocomposites. These findings highlight the potential application of this material in the automotive and aerospace industries, where enhanced strength and wear resistance are crucial.
Depressive Symptoms, Perceived Stress, and Associated Socio-Demographic and Diabetes-Related Factors in People With Type 2 Diabetes in Nepal
Authors: Karki Ashmita , Vandelanotte Corneel , Rawal Lal B.
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of depressive symptoms and perceived stress among people with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Nepal. Using a cross-sectional design, we collected data from 481 participants with T2DM in Kavrepalanchok and Nuwakot districts of Nepal. Depressive symptoms and perceived stress were assessed using Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Perceived Stress Scale, respectively. Associated independent variables were examined using binary logistic regression analyses. Of 481 participants, 123 (25.8%) had depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 score ≥5) and 156 (32.4%) experienced perceived stress. Low monthly income (<USD 215.52) and low diabetes medication adherence were significantly associated with both depressive symptoms and perceived stress. Mandatory screening and timely treatment for mental health conditions and assessment of medication adherence should be incorporated in the routine primary care of T2DM patients. A person-centred approach to T2DM management, considering the socio-economic determinants of the disease, should be prioritized by the healthcare system. Future studies should identify integrated care for the prevention and management of mental health comorbidities.
Translanguaging space through pointing gestures: Multilingual family literacy at a science museum
Authors: Choi Min-Seok
Published: September 2024

Translanguaging theory highlights the dynamic use of multiple languages and communication modes by multilingual people in their daily experiences. Museums are informal family learning spaces where multilingual families use languages and other semiotic resources to create learning opportunities for their children. Using a microethnographic approach to discourse analysis and multimodal interaction analysis, I examined how a multilingual family uses translanguaging practices to organize their family learning in museums and the role of pointing gestures as part of their translanguaging repertoires in multilingual family learning. The analysis of two literacy events highlights that a child and his mother translanguaged with various semiotic resources to organize museum performances, joint attention, and telling, and that pointing gestures played a role in constructing a translanguaging space as they organized the two performances. Pointing involved the family in reading signage texts and allowed the mother to translate them for the child. Viewing translation as part of the translanguaging repertoire, this study recognizes the importance of the role of pointing gestures in constructing family learning at museums, enriching children’s schooling and literacy learning in classrooms. I argue that recognizing pointing as a critical component of translanguaging allows educators to develop strategies that leverage families’ unique repertoires to support multilingual students’ language and literacy learning.
How AstroWorld Astronomically Messed Up
Authors: Rice Meredith , Montgomery Maci , Rahman Imran , Cain Lisa
Published: September 2024

This case study examines the crisis that transpired during the AstroWorld Festival in Houston Texas in November of 2021. Leveraging the tenets of concert management, crisis management and herd mentality, this case highlights the myriad planning and prevention mistakes that resulted in the deaths of 10 people and injuries to countless more due to crowd crush. A thoughtful analysis of the issues identifies sparse and improperly trained security, crowds exceeding the planned for capacity, a lack of crowdsourcing protocol, and improperly prepared performing artists as the perfect storm that resulted in a deadly event. The case culminates with asking students to contemplate better preventative and reactive practices and create protocols that could help prevent issues like the one at the AstroWorld Festival from occurring in the future.
Correlation between anogenital distance and severity of hypospadias in male children
Authors: Omebe S. E. , Ademuyiwa A. O. , Elebute O. A. , Obasi A. A. , Ulebe A. O. , Afogu E. N. , Ekenze S. O.
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies have shown an association between anogenital distance (AGD) and types of hypospadias. This study aims to determine whether AGD can be used to predict the severity of hypospadias in male children.

Methods

We used a cross-sectional study design to evaluate (43) children with hypospadias. The severity of hypospadias based on the meatal position before surgery was classified using the meatal score of the glans-urethral meatal-shaft (GMS) classification into four groups of M1–M4. Three AGD parameters viz: ano-scrotal distance (ASD), the ano-penal distance 1 (APD1) and the ano-penal distance 2 (APD2) were measured using a digital calliper. The glanulomeatal distance 1 (GMD1) before and the glanulomeatal distance 2 (GMD2) after chordee correction were calculated for any change in the position of the meatus. Data were collected over 18 months and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM SPSS) version 25 software. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

The mean ano-scrotal distance (ASD), ano-penile distance 1 (APD1) and ano-penile distance 2 (APD2) were 35.0 ± 7.11 mm, 66.0 ± 13.0 mm and 82.05 ± 14.0 mm, respectively. The parameters of AGD and AGD index progressively decreased with increasing meatal score but these decreases were not statistically significant across the four categories of meatal score. Statistically significant, moderately negative correlations were observed between GMD2 and mean ASD (R = − 0.394, P ≤ 0.009), APD1 (R = − 0.308, P ≤ 0.045) and APD2 (R = − 0.391, P ≤ 0.010). There were also statistically significant predictive relationships between GMD2 (intra-operative meatal position) with ASD (R2 = 0.155, P ≤ 0.009), APD1 (R2 = 0.095, P ≤ 0.045) and APD2 (R2 = 0.153, P ≤ 0.010).

Conclusion

The study demonstrated a significant relationship between the AGD and meatal position. Therefore, AGD may be used to predict the intra-operative meatal position and hence, the severity of hypospadias before surgery.
Digital nomadism from the perspective of places and mobilities: a literature review
Authors: Bozzi Alberica
Published: September 2024

Digital nomadism (DN), an emerging lifestyle based on remote working, digital technology, and leisure travels, has grown from a marginal phenomenon concerning isolated individuals in the early 2000s to a flourishing movement in less than two decades. In the post COVID-19 context of mainstream remote work, the number of digital nomads has risen sharply. Digital nomads are professionals who live, travel, and work online from multiple destinations with a reliable internet connection. In response to this rapid growth, both public and private actors have launched new initiatives targeting digital nomads (e.g. dedicated visa schemes and coliving spaces). Despite the proliferation of these initiatives, there is a lot to discover on digital nomads, including their demographics, travel patterns, and impacts. Based on a systematic literature review covering the last decade, this article explores DN from the perspective of places and mobilities. Findings show that places and mobilities largely shape definitions of DN, how nomads perceive their identity, and how they select travel destinations. Moreover, DN has many impacts on mobilities and places by creating demand for specific infrastructures and contributing to gentrification. In the post-pandemic context, research on DN is needed to address the challenges raised by new mobile lifestyles and remote work practices.
Georeferenced X (formerly twitter) data as a proxy of mobility behaviour: case study of Norway
Authors: Díez-Gutiérrez María , Babri Sahar , Dahl Erlend , Malmin Olav Kåre
Published: September 2024

Georeferenced messages on social media represent a powerful data source to gain a different perspective for estimating mobility behaviour, which is still mainly based on travel surveys. These data are openly available, yet few studies have explored their potential. This paper assesses the feasibility of large-scale Twitter data as a proxy of human mobility behaviour to complement traditional travel surveys, and for calibration and validation of transport models. Almost 12 million Tweets from more than 90,000 users were further analysed to detect the trip patterns at municipality level in Norway from 2012 to 2022. Results showed that the mobility patterns changed between 2014 and 2019 for the travel survey, as for 2019 most of the reported trips were short and concentrated in the densely populated areas of the country, where most respondents lived, triggering a lack of information for certain areas. In contrast, Twitter data presented a more stable data source along both years with similar population distribution and average trip length. Although Twitter data have limitations in relation to the socio-demographic information of the users, it could complement the travel survey given the broader spatial and temporal distribution of this large-scale data.
Organizational change: challenges for workplace psychosocial risks and employee mental health
Authors: Backhaus Insa , Lohmann-Haislah Andrea , Burr Hermann , Nielsen Karina , di Tecco Cristina , Dragano Nico
Published: September 2024

Background

Constant organizational change is the norm in many companies today. At present, evidence on the impact of organizational change on psychosocial risks at work and employee mental health is limited. We investigate organizational change and its association with psychosocial risks and mental health in three consecutive surveys covering 12 years.

Methods

The study was based on data from three cross-sectional waves (2006, 2012, 2018) of the German BIBB/BAuA Employment Survey, comprising 53,295 employees. Four change indicators (i.e., introduction of new software, changes in goods and services produced/provided, downsizing and restructuring), five indicators of psychosocial risks (i.e., time pressure, interruptions, multitasking, working to the limits of capability, and working very quickly) and four mental health indicators (i.e., sleep disturbances, nervousness, tiredness and depressive symptoms) were investigated. We applied Poisson regression analysis to examine associations between organizational change, psychosocial risks, and mental health.

Results

According to the pooled analysis of all three waves, the majority of employees reported having experienced at least one organizational change, such as downsizing or restructuring, between 2006 and 2018. Organizational change was negatively associated with psychosocial risks (e.g., working to the limits of one’s capability, PR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.48–1.86) and with employee mental health (PR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.61–2.04).

Conclusions

Organizational change is omnipresent in the modern economy. Our research suggests that transformation processes in organizations can bear risks to employees’ health as psychosocial risks increase. Therefore, companies planning organizational change should accompany such processes with occupational health and safety measures.
No effects of four weeks of combined brace and Schroth therapy in moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis on plantar pressure distribution
Authors: Ohlendorf Daniela , Schlegel Christian , Oremek Gerhard M. , Holzgreve Fabian , Wanke Eileen M. , Mauer-Grubinger Christian , Diaremes Panagiotis , Hülstrunk Christian , Zabar Omar , Groneberg David A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Positive effects of brace treatments in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients on gait were proven.

Aim

Therefore, this study examined whether the influence of brace therapy in combination with Schroth therapy influencing the plantar pressure distribution, pre and post intensive rehabilitative inpatient treatment.

Design

Prospective cohort study, longitudinal.

Setting

Scoliosis rehabilitation clinic “Asklepios Katharina-Schroth-Klinik” (Bad Sobernheim, Germany).

Population

Twenty (14f/6m) patients (12–16 years) had a medically diagnosed moderate idiopathic scoliosis (Cobb angle 20–50°, Median 30°) and an indication for combined brace and Schroth therapy with an inpatient stay (4 weeks) at the Asklepios Katharina Schroth Clinic (Germany).

Methods

At the beginning (T1) and at the end of the stay (T2), the plantar pressure distribution with (A) and without wearing a brace (B) was recorded (walking distance 10 m).

Results

No significant differences between the left and right foot were found at baseline (T1). The T1 - T2 comparison of one foot revealed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05 − 0.001, respectively) for (A): mean pressure right midfoot, loaded area total left foot, left midfoot, left inner ball of foot, right midfoot, impulse total right foot, right midfoot and for (B): mean pressure right midfoot, right outer ball of foot, loaded area total right foot, right heel, right midfoot, impulse right heel, right midfoot, right outer ball of foot.

Conclusions

A combined brace and Schroth therapy maintains the initial symmetrical plantar pressure distribution over the duration of four weeks since the significant differences fall within the range of measurement error.

Clinical rehabilitation impact

The insole measuring system can be used to objectively support therapeutic gait training as part of rehabilitation and to assess insole fitting based on foot shape. Due to its convenient handling and rapid data acquisition, it may be a suitable method for interim or follow-up diagnostics in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis.
New learning technique based on real-time kinematic feedback from an inertial sensor for manual therapy in shoulder joint: a randomised trial
Authors: Trinidad-Fernández Manuel , González-Molina Francisco , Roldán-Jiménez Cristina , Vaes Peter , González-Sánchez Manuel , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio Ignacio
Published: September 2024

Background

Reducing teacher subjectivity and checking skill corrections have an impact on the manual therapy learning, one of the most crucial components of physical therapy clinical practise. The aim of this study was to analyse the effectiveness of a kinematic real-time feedback strategy (KRTF) with an inertial sensor as a new methodology for the learning of glenohumeral joint mobilisation, comparing it with the traditional teaching method.

Methods

This study was a randomised trial. 59 undergraduate students without experience in manual therapy were randomised into two different groups (G1: Traditional methods group; G2: KRTF group). G1: students would practice the technique while an expert in manual therapy would supervise them. G2: could perform the mobilisation and observe the kinematic characteristics of the technique on a laptop. For the two movements that compose the mobilisation (angulation and translation), the result variables extracted were: maximum displacement, minimum displacement, area under the curve and the difference between the area under the curve of angulation and translation. In addition, the consistency of the measurement and reliability were calculated, too.

Results

Some significant differences were observed within groups, between groups and in the group x time interaction, the difference between the angulation and translation area. The synchronization of the movements in in the post comparison was better in G2 because the differences in the areas of both movements were significantly smaller (Mean Difference G1 vs. G2 = 1111.4°s (p > 0.05)).

Conclusions

After comparing the kinematic variables recorded between the two intervention groups analysed in the present study, we observed that the kinematic registers were significantly different between the two groups, with a higher evolution in the KRTF group compared to the traditional learning method. The effectiveness of KRTF was proved over the traditional teaching methods in facilitating the learning process of the glenohumeral joint mobilisation.

ClinicalTrials.gov ID

NCT02504710, 22/07/2015.
Motivation for patient engagement in patient safety: a multi-perspective, explorative survey
Authors: Raab Caroline , Gambashidze Nikoloz , Brust Larissa , Weigl Matthias , Koch Amelie
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

Despite increasing calls for more patient engagement in patient safety, limited knowledge remains on what actually motivates key stakeholders in healthcare to promote patient engagement. We therefore set out to survey key stakeholders of patient engagement in patient safety (i.e., patients, healthcare professionals, and managers). We aimed to identify and explore stakeholder’s distinct and shared motives for patient engagement.

Methods

A stepwise Delphi method was applied, utilizing semi-structured online interviews for determination of stakeholder motives for patient engagement in patient safety. In a subsequent online survey, statements were evaluated and identified. 34 subject-matter experts from all relevant stakeholder groups completed the online interviews and 33 the online survey. We used content analysis approaches for qualitative and descriptive analyses for quantitative measures. Further, we evaluated the consensus on distinct and shared motives across stakeholder groups.

Results

Seven key motives for patient engagement in patient safety were identified. Major motives attributed to patients were: (1) To improve experiences and care outcomes for oneself, as well as (2) for future patients, (3) to express gratitude and appreciation, (4) to cope successfully with treatment-related emotions. A motive shared by patients and professionals was (5) to contribute actively to improved delivery of healthcare. To optimize patient safety, costs, and care processes (6) was shared by professionals and managers. Lastly, (7) to improve patient-provider relationships was jointly shared by all stakeholder groups. For four motives (1, 2, 6, 7) consensus was established.

Conclusions

In order to unlock the full potential of future interventions in patient engagement, a deeper understanding of stakeholder motives is essential. We identified a set of distinct and shared motives for patient engagement across relevant stakeholder groups. Our findings may inform future interventions in patient engagement that take account of the motivational foundations and aspirations of all stakeholders who are key for the success for collaborative patient safety and care improvements.

Trial registration

ID DRKS00031837 (Date May 8, 2023).
Probing erythrocytes as sensitive and reliable sensors of metabolic disturbances in the crosstalk between childhood obesity and insulin resistance: findings from an observational study, in vivo challenge tests, and ex vivo incubation assays
Authors: González-Domínguez Álvaro , Savolainen Otto , Domínguez-Riscart Jesús , Landberg Rikard , Lechuga-Sancho Alfonso , González-Domínguez Raúl
Published: September 2024

Background

Although insulin resistance (IR) is among the most frequent and pathogenically relevant complications accompanying childhood obesity, its role in modulating and exacerbating obesity pathophysiology has not yet been completely clarified.

Methods

To get deeper insights into the interplay between childhood obesity and IR, we leveraged a comprehensive experimental design based on a combination of observational data, in vivo challenge tests (i.e., oral glucose tolerance test), and ex vivo assays (i.e., incubation of erythrocytes with insulin) using a population comprising children with obesity and IR, children with obesity without IR, and healthy controls, from whom plasma and erythrocyte samples were collected for subsequent metabolomics analysis.

Results

Children with concomitant IR showed exacerbated metabolic disturbances in the crosstalk between endogenous, microbial, and environmental determinants, including failures in energy homeostasis, amino acid metabolism, oxidative stress, synthesis of steroid hormones and bile acids, membrane lipid composition, as well as differences in exposome-related metabolites associated with diet, exposure to endocrine disruptors, and gut microbiota. Furthermore, challenge tests and ex vivo assays revealed a deleterious impact of IR on individuals’ metabolic flexibility, as reflected in blunted capacity to regulate homeostasis in response to hyperinsulinemia, at both systemic and erythroid levels.

Conclusions

Thus, we have demonstrated for the first time that metabolite alterations in erythrocytes represent reliable and sensitive biomarkers to disentangle the metabolic complexity of IR and childhood obesity. This study emphasizes the crucial need of addressing inter-individual variability factors, such as the presence of comorbidities, to obtain a more accurate understanding of obesity-related molecular mechanisms.
Systems biology of electrogenic Pseudomonas putida - multi-omics insights and metabolic engineering for enhanced 2-ketogluconate production
Authors: Weimer Anna , Pause Laura , Ries Fabian , Kohlstedt Michael , Adrian Lorenz , Krömer Jens , Lai Bin , Wittmann Christoph
Published: September 2024

Background

Pseudomonas putida KT2440 has emerged as a promising host for industrial bioproduction. However, its strictly aerobic nature limits the scope of applications. Remarkably, this microbe exhibits high bioconversion efficiency when cultured in an anoxic bio-electrochemical system (BES), where the anode serves as the terminal electron acceptor instead of oxygen. This environment facilitates the synthesis of commercially attractive chemicals, including 2-ketogluconate (2KG). To better understand this interesting electrogenic phenotype, we studied the BES-cultured strain on a systems level through multi-omics analysis. Inspired by our findings, we constructed novel mutants aimed at improving 2KG production.

Results

When incubated on glucose, P. putida KT2440 did not grow but produced significant amounts of 2KG, along with minor amounts of gluconate, acetate, pyruvate, succinate, and lactate. 13C tracer studies demonstrated that these products are partially derived from biomass carbon, involving proteins and lipids. Over time, the cells exhibited global changes on both the transcriptomic and proteomic levels, including the shutdown of translation and cell motility, likely to conserve energy. These adaptations enabled the cells to maintain significant metabolic activity for several weeks. Acetate formation was shown to contribute to energy supply. Mutants deficient in acetate production demonstrated superior 2KG production in terms of titer, yield, and productivity. The ∆aldBI ∆aldBII double deletion mutant performed best, accumulating 2KG at twice the rate of the wild type and with an increased yield (0.96 mol/mol).

Conclusions

By integrating transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses, this work provides the first systems biology insight into the electrogenic phenotype of P. putida KT2440. Adaptation to anoxic-electrogenic conditions involved coordinated changes in energy metabolism, enabling cells to sustain metabolic activity for extended periods. The metabolically engineered mutants are promising for enhanced 2KG production under these conditions. The attenuation of acetate synthesis represents the first systems biology-informed metabolic engineering strategy for enhanced 2KG production in P. putida. This non-growth anoxic-electrogenic mode expands our understanding of the interplay between growth, glucose phosphorylation, and glucose oxidation into gluconate and 2KG in P. putida.
Photosynthesizing carbonate/nitrate into Chlorococcum humicola biomass for biodiesel and Bacillus coagulans-based biohydrogen production
Authors: Aldaby Eman S. E. , Danial Amal W. , Abdel-Basset R.
Published: September 2024

Biofuel can be generated by different organisms using various substrates. The green alga Chlorococcum humicola OQ934050 exhibited the capability to photosynthesize carbonate carbon, maybe via the activity of carbonic anhydrase enzymes. The optimum treatment is C:N ratio of 1:1 (0.2 mmoles sodium carbonate and 0.2 mmoles sodium nitrate) as it induced the highest dry mass (more than 0.5 mg.mL−1). At this combination, biomass were about 0.2 mg/mL−1 carbohydrates, 0.085 mg/mL−1 proteins, and 0.16 mg/mL−1 oil of this dry weight. The C/N ratios of 1:1 or 10:1 induced up to 30% of the Chlorococcum humicola dry mass as oils. Growth and dry matter content were hindered at 50:1 C/N and oil content was reduced as a result. The fatty acid profile was strongly altered by the applied C.N ratios. The defatted leftovers of the grown alga, after oil extraction, were fermented by a newly isolated heterotrophic bacterium, identified as Bacillus coagulans OQ053202, to evolve hydrogen content as gas. The highest cumulative hydrogen production and reducing sugar (70 ml H2/g biomass and 0.128 mg/ml; respectively) were found at the C/N ratio of 10:1 with the highest hydrogen evolution efficiency (HEE) of 22.8 ml H2/ mg reducing sugar. The optimum treatment applied to the Chlorococcum humicola is C:N ratio of 1:1 for the highest dry mass, up to 30% dry mass as oils. Some fatty acids were induced while others disappeared, depending on the C/N ratios. The highest cumulative hydrogen production and reducing sugar were found at the C/N ratio of 10:1.
Evaluation of research co-design in health: a systematic overview of reviews and development of a framework
Authors: Peters Sanne , Guccione Lisa , Francis Jill , Best Stephanie , Tavender Emma , Curran Janet , Davies Katie , Rowe Stephanie , Palmer Victoria J. , Klaic Marlena
Published: September 2024

Background

Co-design with consumers and healthcare professionals is widely used in applied health research. While this approach appears to be ethically the right thing to do, a rigorous evaluation of its process and impact is frequently missing. Evaluation of research co-design is important to identify areas of improvement in the methods and processes, as well as to determine whether research co-design leads to better outcomes. We aimed to build on current literature to develop a framework to assist researchers with the evaluation of co-design processes and impacts.

Methods

A multifaceted, iterative approach, including three steps, was undertaken to develop a Co-design Evaluation Framework: 1) A systematic overview of reviews; 2) Stakeholder panel meetings to discuss and debate findings from the overview of reviews and 3) Consensus meeting with stakeholder panel. The systematic overview of reviews included relevant papers published between 2000 and 2022. OVID (Medline, Embase, PsycINFO), EBSCOhost (Cinahl) and the Cochrane Database of Systematic reviews were searched for papers that reported co-design evaluation or outcomes in health research. Extracted data was inductively analysed and evaluation themes were identified. Review findings were presented to a stakeholder panel, including consumers, healthcare professionals and researchers, to interpret and critique. A consensus meeting, including a nominal group technique, was applied to agree upon the Co-design Evaluation Framework.

Results

A total of 51 reviews were included in the systematic overview of reviews. Fifteen evaluation themes were identified and grouped into the following seven clusters: People (within co-design group), group processes, research processes, co-design context, people (outside co-design group), system and sustainment. If evaluation methods were mentioned, they mainly included qualitative data, informal consumer feedback and researchers’ reflections. The Co-Design Evaluation Framework used a tree metaphor to represent the processes and people in the co-design group (below-ground), underpinning system- and people-level outcomes beyond the co-design group (above-ground). To evaluate research co-design, researchers may wish to consider any or all components in the tree.

Conclusions

The Co-Design Evaluation Framework has been collaboratively developed with various stakeholders to be used prospectively (planning for evaluation), concurrently (making adjustments during the co-design process) and retrospectively (reviewing past co-design efforts to inform future activities).
Calculating the similarity between prescriptions to find their new indications based on graph neural network
Authors: Han Xingxing , Xie Xiaoxia , Zhao Ranran , Li Yu , Ma Pengzhen , Li Huan , Chen Fengming , Zhao Yufeng , Tang Zhishu
Published: September 2024

Background

Drug repositioning has the potential to reduce costs and accelerate the rate of drug development, with highly promising applications. Currently, the development of artificial intelligence has provided the field with fast and efficient computing power. Nevertheless, the repositioning of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is still in its infancy, and the establishment of a reasonable and effective research method is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention. The use of graph neural network (GNN) to compute the similarity between TCM prescriptions to develop a method for finding their new indications is an innovative attempt.

Methods

This paper focused on traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions containing ephedra, with 20 prescriptions for treating external cough and asthma taken as target prescriptions. The remaining 67 prescriptions containing ephedra were taken as to-be-matched prescriptions. Furthermore, a multitude of data pertaining to the prescriptions, including diseases, disease targets, symptoms, and various types of information on herbs, was gathered from a diverse array of literature sources, such as Chinese medicine databases. Then, cosine similarity and Jaccard coefficient were calculated to characterize the similarity between prescriptions using graph convolutional network (GCN) with a self-supervised learning method, such as deep graph infomax (DGI).

Results

A total of 1340 values were obtained for each of the two calculation indicators. A total of 68 prescription pairs were identified after screening with 0.77 as the threshold for cosine similarity. Following the removal of false positive results, 12 prescription pairs were deemed to have further research value. A total of 5 prescription pairs were screened using a threshold of 0.50 for the Jaccard coefficient. However, the specific results did not exhibit significant value for further use, which may be attributed to the excessive variety of information in the dataset.

Conclusions

The proposed method can provide reference for finding new indications of target prescriptions by quantifying the similarity between prescriptions. It is expected to offer new insights for developing a scientific and systematic research methodology for traditional Chinese medicine repositioning.
Enhancing canine semen quality through a second centrifugation after 48 hours of storage: a comparative study
Authors: Sinagra Letizia , Polisca Angela , Donato Giulia , Caspanello Tiziana , Pettina Giorgia , Pastore Sara , De Majo Massimo , Cristarella Santo , Quartuccio Marco , Zappone Viola
Published: September 2024

Background

Centrifugation is a common procedure to improve the quality of chilled and frozen canine semen by removing debris and seminal plasma and adding semen extenders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and influence of a second centrifugation after 48 h of storage at 5 °C on the sperm quality of canine semen. The ejaculates of 45 healthy male dogs, divided into three groups according to body weight, were analyzed for macro- and microparameters such as ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, kinematic parameters, morphology, and integrity of plasma membrane. Samples were analyzed at baseline conditions (T0), after 24 h (T24) and after 48 h (T48) to assess the effects of the different treatments on sperm quality.

Results

The results showed a significant effect of a second centrifugation on the improvement of chilled sperm quality compared to the other techniques, especially up to 48 h.

Conclusions

Analysis of the data showed that the semen samples centrifuged and then cooled at 5 °C had acceptable semen parameters, especially in terms of motility, with a gradual decrease in serial evaluations after 24 and 48 h. A second centrifugation after 48 h of storage may lead to better semen quality and improve the kinetics of sperm parameters, the percentage of morphologically normal sperm and the percentage of sperm with intact membranes.
Enhancing infection control practices and biosecurity plans on Swedish pig farms: insights, challenges, and strategies
Authors: Rajala Elisabeth , Gröndal Hedvig , Eriksson Johan , Lewerin Susanna Sternberg
Published: September 2024

Background

African swine fever (ASF) poses a threat to the global pig industry, leading to significant economic losses and widespread disruptions in pig farming and associated sectors. In September 2023, the first case of ASF in Swedish wild boar triggered immediate responses from authorities, including the establishment of restricted zones and culling measures. A new ASF certification programme for pig herds was initiated to improve biosecurity and proactive disease management. This survey aimed to assess the sentiments and actions of Swedish pig farmers six months post-outbreak, particularly regarding biosecurity measures. Such information is important to improve preparedness for future disease threats. A questionnaire was distributed to members of the Swedish pig producers' organisation.

Results

A total of 113 farmers responded (response rate 27%), with the majority considering the risk of ASF reappearing in Sweden as high. The estimated cost for connecting the farms to the ASF certification programme varied greatly, with a majority identifying cost as a substantial hurdle. While many farmers sought biosecurity advice from veterinarians, 43% had not implemented suggested measures. Over one third had not received concrete measures that would fit their farms, and 14% had not received any biosecurity advice from veterinarians at all. Discussions among farmers emphasized concerns about ASF outbreaks, transmission mechanisms, and regulatory compliance, highlighting the importance of ongoing communication and knowledge exchange to address the challenges posed by ASF effectively. Additionally, participants also mentioned the role of dense wild boar populations and shortcomings in municipal food waste management as important risk factors.

Conclusions

The responding farmers expressed widespread concern about new ASF outbreaks. A majority identified cost as a substantial hurdle for joining the ASF certification programme. While many farmers consulted veterinarians for advice on biosecurity, a significant number had yet to implement suggested measures and one third had not received specific guidance suitable for their farms. Stakeholder conversations highlighted concerns about ASF outbreaks, transmission, and compliance. They also discussed the role of dense wild boar populations and issues with municipal food waste management as significant risk factors for ASF.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure effects on trajectories of maternal and adolescent mental health
Authors: DeSerisy Mariah , Salas Leilani , Akhundova Emiliya , Pena Dahiana , Cohen Jacob W. , Pagliaccio David , Herbstman Julie , Rauh Virginia , Margolis Amy E.
Published: September 2024

Background

Parental psychological distress is a well-known risk factor for developmental psychopathology, with longer term parental distress associated with worse youth mental health. Neurotoxicant exposure during pregnancy is a risk factor for both poor maternal and youth mental health. The impact of one class of pollutant, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), on long-term trajectories of maternal distress and youth self-reported mental health symptoms in adolescence has been understudied.

Methods

PAH exposure was measured by DNA adducts in maternal blood sampled during the third trimester of pregnancy. Maternal distress, operationalized as maternal demoralization, was measured at 11 timepoints (prenatal to child age 16). Adolescent mental health symptoms were measured at age 13–15. Follow up analyses examined a subset of measures available at age 15–20 years. Structural equation modeling examined associations between PAH exposure during pregnancy and latent growth metrics of maternal distress, and between maternal distress (intercept and slope) and youth mental health symptoms in a prospective longitudinal birth cohort (N = 564 dyads).

Results

Higher prenatal PAH exposure was associated with higher concurrent maternal distress. Prenatal maternal distress was associated with adolescent’s self-reported anxiety, depression, and externalizing problems. On average, maternal distress declined over time; a slower decline in mother’s distress across the course of the child’s life was associated with greater self-reported anxiety and externalizing problems in youth.

Conclusions

Our findings are consistent with an intergenerational framework of environmental effects on mental health: PAH exposure during pregnancy affects maternal mental health, which in turn influences mental health outcomes for youth well into adolescence. Future research is necessary to elucidate the possible social and biological mechanisms (e.g., parenting, epigenetics) underlying the intergenerational transmission of the negative effects of pollution on mental health in caregiver-child dyads.
Tumor-associated neutrophils upregulate Nectin2 expression, creating the immunosuppressive microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Luo Haizhen , Ikenaga Naoki , Nakata Kohei , Higashijima Nobuhiro , Zhong Pingshan , Kubo Akihiro , Wu Chenyi , Tsutsumi Chikanori , Shimada Yuki , Hayashi Masataka , Oyama Koki , Date Satomi , Abe Toshiya , Ideno Noboru , Iwamoto Chika , Shindo Koji , Ohuchida Kenoki , Oda Yoshinao , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: September 2024

Background

Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) constitute an abundant component among tumor-infiltrating immune cells and have recently emerged as a critical player in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression. This study aimed to elucidate the pro-tumor mechanisms of TAN and identify a novel target for effective immunotherapy against PDAC.

Methods

Microarray and cytokine array analyses were performed to identify the mechanisms underlying the function of TANs. Human and mouse TANs were obtained from differentiated HL-60 cells and orthotopically transplanted PDAC tumors, respectively. The interactions of TANs with cancer and cytotoxic T-cells were evaluated through in vitro co-culture and in vivo orthotopic or subcutaneous models. Single-cell transcriptomes from patients with PDAC were analyzed to validate the cellular findings.

Results

Increased neutrophil infiltration in the tumor microenvironment was associated with poor survival in patients with PDAC. TANs secreted abundant amounts of chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5), subsequently enhancing cancer cell migration and invasion. TANs subpopulations negatively correlated with cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell infiltration in PDAC and promoted T-cell dysfunction. TANs upregulated the membranous expression of Nectin2, which contributed to CD8+ T-cell exhaustion. Blocking Nectin2 improved CD8+ T-cell function and suppressed tumor progression in the mouse model. Single-cell analysis of human PDAC revealed two immunosuppressive TANs phenotypes: Nectin2+ TANs and OLR1+ TANs. Endoplasmic reticulum stress regulated the protumor activities in TANs.

Conclusions

TANs enhance PDAC progression by secreting CCL5 and upregulating Nectin2. Targeting the immune checkpoint Nectin2 could represent a novel strategy to enhance immunotherapy efficacy in PDAC.