bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Application of Biocomplex AgroMaximum Antistress + Protection on Soybeans in the Conditions of the Krasnodar Territory
Authors:   FGBNU “Rosinformagrotech”, Negreba O.N.
Published: September 2024

The article deals with the results of the influence of the biological complex AgroMaximum Antistress + Protection on the productivity of soybeans while using the production technology of cultivation in the conditions of the Krasnodar Territory. It was found that the use of the preparations as foliar treatment of plants in the phase of one to three true trifoliate leaves stimulates the immune system, increases plant resistance to pathogens and ensures the increase in seed yield by 16.9%.
Substantiation of the Rigidity of the Block of Balancing Springs of the Copying Device of a Multi-Variant Cabbage Harvester
Authors:   Chuvash State Agrarian University, Alatyrev A.S.
Published: September 2024

The article deals with the particularities of counter-balancing of the part of the weight of a cabbage harvester cutting unit with a spring block for high-quality copying of the soil relief with minimal pressure of the support skis. It is proposed to prevent the “galloping” of the cutting unit by leaving a small part of the weight of the cutting unit unbalanced in its lower extreme position.
Investigation on the Distribution of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria In Dry Fish of Chalan Beel Area From Northwestern Part of Bangladesh
Authors: Zohura Fatema , Rahman M Habibur
Published: September 2024

Dried fish, a valuable animal protein source, may pose health risks due to microbial contamination influenced by water quality, hygiene practices, handling, packaging, and transportation. This research focuses on conducting an in-depth analysis of the occurrence and antibiotic resistance patterns of bacteria, identified through 16S rRNA sequencing, in different dried fish varieties obtained from the Chalan beel area in Northwestern Bangladesh. For the purpose of this study, homogenization of collected samples was carried out and resulting homogenates were refrigerated at a temperature of -20°C. Then the samples were subjected to a series of 10-fold dilutions and spread over 1.5% nutrient agar supplemented with Tetracycline. Thereafter, plates were incubated at 37°C for a duration of 24 hours to form bacterial colonies.  Twelve aseptically collected dried fish samples had a total viable count ranging from 2.0 × 10² to 6.5 × 10⁵ CFU/ml, with tetracycline influence at 32 µg/ml (7 × 10² to 5.4 × 10³ CFU/ml) and 64 µg/ml (3.0 × 10² to 2.1 × 10³ CFU/ml). Notably, Tengra fish (Mystus sp.) exhibited the highest viable count 6.5 × 105 CFU/ml (Control), while Darikana (Esomus danricus), Chela (Salmostoma phulo), Moa (Amblypharyngodon mola), and Guchi (Mastacembelus pancalus) fish showed the lowest count (3.0 × 10² CFU/ml) at a Tetracycline concentration of 64 µg/ml. Moreover, microbial analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequencing identified twelve unique bacteria belong to genera. The most prevalent genus appears to be Enterobacter, identified by 6 strains. These include Enterobacter hormaechei strains UCHE20, RB13, AUH-ENM30 and 20710, Enterobacter ludwigii strain JCR-38 and Enterobacter sp. M3. Other identified genera included Klebsiella (with Klebsiella variicola and Klebsiella pneumoniae), Proteus (Proteus mirabilis), Macrococcus (Macrococcus caseolyticus), Acinetobacter (Acinetobacter johnsonii), and Bacillus (Bacillus sp.). This study provides valuable insights into the complex microbial dynamics in dried fish, emphasizing the need for enhanced food safety and public health measures.
J. Bio-Sci. 32(2): 61-69, 2024
Aplikasi Sistem Prediksi Mahasiswa Penerima Beasiswa Berbasis Web dengan Menerapkan Model Klasifikasi K-Nearest Neighbors
Authors: Kurniadi Dede , Nuraeni Fitri , Hazar Aura Fitria
Published: September 2024

Beasiswa Kartu Indonesia Pintar Kuliah atau KIP-K merupakan salah satu dari banyaknya beasiswa yang disediakan oleh pemerintah untuk melanjutkan pendidikan ke jenjang tinggi bagi para pelajar yang berprestasi namun terkendala oleh biaya. Salah satu perguruan tinggi di Garut yang menyediakan penerimaan mahasiswa baru melalui jalur beasiswa ini adalah Institut Teknologi Garut. Setiap tahunya, Institut Teknologi Garut selalu mengalami kenaikan jumlah pendaftar beasiswa KIP-K akan tetapi hal ini tidak sebanding dengan jumlah kuota yang didapatkan sehingga harus dilakukan proses seleksi agar beasiswa dapat tepat sasaran. Proses seleksi sendiri dilakukan secara manual tanpa bantuan sistem khusus yang dapat membantu menyeleksi dengan lebih tepat dan efisien. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk membangun aplikasi sistem prediksi berbasis web dengan menerapkan model klasifikasi K-Nearest Neighbors dalam membantu menyeleksi calon penerima beasiswa KIP-K di Institut Teknologi Garut berdasarkan skor hasil tes, kondisi ekonomi, prestasi akademik dan non akademik dari setiap peserta. Model klasifikasi diterapkan dalam sistem sebagai proses pengklasifikasian kelayakan calon penerima agar proses seleksi lebih terfokus pada peserta yang terkategori layak. Sistem dibangun dengan menggunakan metode pendekatan waterfall agar pembangunan sistem lebih terstruktur. Penelitian ini menghasilkan aplikasi berupa sistem prediksi berbasis web yang dapat membantu mengklasifikasikan kelayakan serta menyeleksi calon penerima beasiswa KIP-K di Institut Teknologi Garut dengan tingkat akurasi sistem dalam memprediksi kelayakan peserta sebesar 91,86%.
Analisis Kuat Lentur dan Geser Balok Beton dengan Bundel Tulangan
Authors: Nurliana Ade Linda , Walujodjati Eko
Published: September 2024

Balok beton bertulang sebagai elemen struktur yang berfungsi menahan lentur dan geser dimana parameter utama untuk menentukan kuat lentur dan geser balok beton bertulang meliputi: dimensi penampang, mutu beton, mutu baja tulangan, ukuran baja tulangan dan jumlah baja tulangan yang digunakan. Dalam konstruksi parameter tersebut umumnya memiliki batasan minimum, seperti halnya dengan jarak tulangan dan dimensi penampang kecil. Untuk mendapatkan elemen struktur dengan penampang kecil namun memiliki kekuatan yang besar, dengan jarak tulangan yang kecil karena luas tulangan yang dibutuhkan besar, maka perlu dilakukan penempatan tulangan dengan cara bundel. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui nilai kuat lentur dan geser balok beton tulangan bundel TP 4Φ6 dan balok beton tulangan tunggal Φ12 yang memiliki proporsi luas penampang tulangan yang sama. Analisis dilakukan dengan metode analisis teoritis dengan data yang diperoleh dari hasil eksperimen terdahulu. Berdasarkan hasil analisis diperoleh nilai kuat lentur rata-rata balok tulangan bundel TP 4Φ6 = 8,53 kN.m, dan balok tulangan tunggal Φ12 = 11,31 kN.m. Nilai kuat geser rata-rata balok tulangan bundel TP 4Φ6 = 58,88 kN, dan balok tulangan tunggal Φ12 = 57,92 kN. Dari hasil eksperimen dan analisis diperoleh perbedaan kuat lentur balok tulangan bundel TP 4Φ6 sebesar (6,36%) dan balok tulangan tunggal Φ12 sebesar (48,62%). Sedangkan kuat geser balok tulangan bundel TP 4Φ6 diperoleh hasil yang sama yaitu 58,88 kN dan balok tulangan tunggal Φ12 diperoleh perbedaan sebesar (0,03%).
Pengaruh Perlambatan Arus Kendaraan Berdasarkan Kinerja Lalu Lintas Jalan
Authors: Ramadhan Ismil Nur , Farida Ida
Published: September 2024

Jalan Karangpawitan adalah salah satu jalan di Kabupaten Garut yang mengalami kemacetan lalu lintas karena banyaknya lalu lintas dari industri, sekolah, samping jalan, dan bisnis masyarakat yang memadati jalan tersebut. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah mengetahui kondisi arus lalu lintas sepanjang Jalan Karangpawitan, menganalisis pengaruh apa saja yang memperlambat arus kendaraan berdasarkan kinerja lalu lintas sepanjang Jalan Karangpawitan, menentukan lokasi yang paling dominan terhadap pengaruh lambatnya arus kendaraan sepanjang Jalan Karangpawitan. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah dengan menggunakan metode deskriptif kuantitatif, pengambilan data secara langsung (survey), berdasarkan Pedoman Kapasitas Jalan Perkotaan Kementrian Pekerjaan Umum Tahun 2014. Dari penelitian ini didapatkan hasil kondisi arus lalu lintas pada lokasi 1 dengan nilai derajat kejenuhan 0,96, arus lalu lintas tidak stabil, terkadang kendaraan terhenti, dan segmen jalan sudah mendekati kapasitas. Kondisi arus lalu lintas pada lokasi 2, arus lalu lintas tidak stabil, kecepatan terkadang terhenti, permintaan mendekati kapasitas, dengan nilai derajat kejenuhan 1,27 dan lokasi 3 dengan nilai derajat kejenuhan 1,28, lalu lintas yang dipaksakan, kecepatan rendah, volume yang melebihi kapasitas, antrian yang panjang, pada lokasi 4 dengan nilai derajat kejenuhan 0,82, arus lalu lintas mendekati stabil, kecepatan masih dapat dikendalikan. Volume lalu lintas dengan nilai sebesar 1673,81 skr/jam, kriteria kelas hambatan samping pada lokasi 1 rendah, pada lokasi 2 sangat tinggi, pada lokasi 3 sedang, pada lokasi 4 tinggi. Untuk nilai kapasitas jalan pada lokasi 1 sebesar 1526,56 skr/jam, pada lokasi 2 nilai kapasitas jalan sebesar 1282,96 skr/jam, pada lokasi 3 nilai kapasitas jalan sebesar 1494,08 skr/jam, pada lokasi 4 nilai kapasitas jalan sebesar 2378 skr/jam. Lokasi yang paling dominan terhadap pengaruh lambatnya arus kendaraan disepanjang Jalan Karangpawitan adalah lokasi 2 atau lokasi Pabrik Bulu Mata.
The Mediating Role of Basic Psychological Needs Satisfaction Between Transformational Leadership and Work Motivation of Predoctoral Researchers at German Professorships
Authors: Lauer Sabine , Wilkesmann Uwe
Published: September 2024

This study examines the relationship between predoctoral researchers’ perceptions of transformational leadership and their autonomous work motivation, with basic psychological need satisfaction (autonomy, relatedness, and competence) as a mediator. Based on the full range leadership model and self-determination theory, hypotheses are tested using an online survey (n=1,969) conducted from March to May 2022 among professors and their academic staff at German research universities in the fields of business administration, biology, mechanical engineering, and sociology. For the subsample of predoctoral researchers (n=1,005), the structural equation model reveals that transformational leadership increases autonomous work motivation through perceived autonomy and competence, whereas perceived relatedness has a negative effect. In addition, academic career aspirations positively influence autonomous work motivation, while gender has no significant effect. These findings highlight the role of transformational leadership in promoting basic psychological needs satisfaction among emerging scientists.
KEBIJAKAN RUANG TERBUKA HIJAU DI KOTA BEKASI
Authors: Sarofah Riska , Herliana Priska Ayu , Fadli Yusuf
Published: September 2024

This paper explains the green open space policy that, as a regional environmental ecosystem controller, calls for a structural solution. Green open space policy number 10 for Bekasi City in 2011 with regards to order, cleanliness, and attractiveness. Only 15% of the required green open space has been achieved, even though the norm should have been 30%. Through the Bekasi city regional regulation (PERDA) number 13 of 2011, the Bekasi city government established a rule pertaining to the Bekasi city development plan to achieve 30% of green open space (RTH), with specifics of 20% for green open space and 10% for public space. In this study, a qualitative technique was employed to collect the data. Descriptive analysis was then performed to analyse the data using the N-vivo 12 Plus program. A variety of trustworthy and pertinent sources, including websites, journals, publications, and online media news analysts, were used to gather the data. The study's findings suggest that a number of factors, including the presence of citizens, financial resources or APBD, geographical circumstances, area size, and priority programs, affect the amount of green open space in the city of Bekasi. Regulations and the expansion of the green open space area are two variables that affect the availability of green space in Bekasi. The development of must involve a number of groups, including the community, the private sector, and the local government green open spaces so that the target of green open spaces in the city of Bekasi can be achieved.
Optimization of bacteriophage therapy for difficult-to-treat musculoskeletal infections: a bench-to-bedside perspective
Authors: Bessems Laura , Chen Baixing , Uyttebroek Saartje , Devolder David , Lood Cédric , Verwimp Stefaan , De Munter Paul , Debaveye Yves , Depypere Melissa , Spriet Isabel , Van Gerven Laura , Dupont Lieven , Wagemans Jeroen , van Noort Vera , Lavigne Rob , Metsemakers Willem-Jan , Onsea Jolien
Published: September 2024

Given the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance, scientists are urgently seeking adjunct antimicrobial strategies, such as phage therapy (PT). However, despite promising results for the treatment of musculoskeletal infections in our center, crucial knowledge gaps remain. Therefore, a prospective observational study (PHAGEFORCE) and a multidisciplinary approach was set up to achieve and optimize standardized treatment guidelines. At our center, PT is strictly controlled and monitored by a multidisciplinary taskforce. Each phage treatment follows the same pathway to ensure standardization and data quality. Within the PHAGEFORCE framework, we established a testing platform to gain insight in the safety and efficacy of PT, biodistribution, phage kinetics and the molecular interaction between phages and bacteria. The draining fluid is collected to determine the phage titer and bacterial load. In addition, all bacterial isolates are fully characterized by genome sequencing to monitor the emergence of phage resistance. We hereby present a standardized bench-to-bedside protocol to gain more insight in the kinetics and dynamics of PT for musculoskeletal infections.
Attitudes and perceptions of Chinese oncologists towards artificial intelligence in healthcare: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Li Ming , Xiong Xiaomin , Xu Bo
Published: September 2024

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare, yet little is known about Chinese oncologists’ attitudes towards AI. This study investigated oncologists’ knowledge, perceptions, and acceptance of AI in China.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 228 oncologists across China. The survey examined demographics, AI exposure, knowledge and attitudes using 5-point Likert scales, and factors influencing AI adoption. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results

Respondents showed moderate understanding of AI concepts (mean 3.39/5), with higher knowledge among younger oncologists. Only 12.8% used ChatGPT. Most (74.13%) agreed AI is beneficial and could innovate healthcare, 52.19% respondents expressed trust in AI technology. Acceptance was cautiously optimistic (mean 3.57/5). Younger respondents (∼30) show significantly higher trust (p = 0.004) and acceptance (p = 0.009) of AI compared to older respondents, while trust is significantly higher among those with master’s or doctorate vs. bachelor’s degrees (p = 0.032), and acceptance is higher for those with prior IT experience (p = 0.035).Key drivers for AI adoption were improving efficiency (85.09%), quality (85.53%), reducing errors (84.65%), and enabling new approaches (73.25%).

Conclusions

Chinese oncologists are open to healthcare AI but remain prudently optimistic given limitations. Targeted education, especially for older oncologists, can facilitate AI implementation. AI is largely welcomed for its potential to augment human roles in enhancing efficiency, quality, safety, and innovations in oncology practice.
Urban low-carbon governance and ecological efficiency: new evidence from prefecture-level cities in China
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Xu Kexin , Jin Dian , Wu Chengliang , Zhang Yang
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In the search for sustainable development, urban eco-development is becoming a core agenda for all countries. China’s low-carbon city pilot (LCCP) policy is an important initiative to promote urban low-carbon governance. And exploring the direction of LCCP policy is an important step towards sustainable urban development.

Methods

Super-SBM is employed to calculate urban ecological efficiency using panel data from 254 prefecture-level cities between 2007 and 2020. The methods of kernel density estimation and spatial Markov chains are applied to the spatial analysis of urban ecological efficiency. The spatial analyses examine the spatiotemporal patterns and dynamic evolving trends of urban ecological efficiency. Additionally, the multiperiod difference-in-differences method is used to assess the impact of the LCCP policy on urban ecological efficiency. On this basis, we apply the method of mechanism analysis to discuss the influence mechanism.

Results

The results indicate that urban ecological efficiency gradually forms a continuous spatial clustering pattern, although there is a widening tendency in the absolute differences. In the subsequent transfer process, the spatial factor plays a highly significant role. Benchmark regressions and auxiliary robustness tests demonstrate that the LCCP policy is effective in improving urban ecological efficiency. Further analysis shows that the effect of LCCP policies on ecological efficiency can be transmitted by promoting green technology innovation as well as facilitating a low-carbon transition in the energy mix. The above findings indicate the presence of the "Green Innovation Effect" and the "Decoupling Effect".

Discussion

These discoveries enhance the theoretical framework of urban ecology and offer valuable insights for other regions seeking to implement low-carbon urban governance.
Advances in stem cell therapy for diabetic foot
Authors: Xia Yinfeng , Wu Ping , Chen Hong , Chen Zhiyong
Published: September 2024

Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU) represent a grave complication often encountered in the advanced stages of diabetes mellitus. They frequently lead to recurrent hospitalizations and, in severe cases, can result in life-threatening conditions such as infections, gangrene, and even amputation Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), as a serious complication in the late stage of diabetes mellitus, are prone to lead to repeated hospitalization, and in severe cases, infection, gangrene, and even amputation. Although there are many methods for treating diabetic foot, there is no clear and effective method to reduce the amputation rate of diabetic foot patients. In recent years, advancements in the understanding of stem cell therapy for the treatment of DFU have shed light on its potential as a novel therapeutic approach. In recent years, as the research on stem cell therapy for diabetic foot is gradually deepening, stem cells are expected to become a new therapeutic method for treating DFU in the future. Their therapeutic effects are through promoting angiogenesis, secreting paracrine factors, controlling inflammation, promoting collagen deposition, and regulating immunity, etc. Despite numerous studies confirming the efficacy of stem cell therapy in treating DFU, there is still a need for the establishment of standardized treatment protocols. Although numerous studies have shown that stem cell therapy for DFU is real and effective, there has not yet been a standardized treatment protocol. This article reviews studies related to stem cell therapy for DFU, looking at the mechanism of action, types of stem cells, and modes of administration.
What makes each of us unique? The nine-banded armadillo as a model to study individuality
Authors: Leao Delva P. , Duque Alvaro , Dietrich Marcelo O.
Published: September 2024

The human brain is the foundation of our identity as a species and as individuals. It is where our unique sensations, emotions, and thoughts arise. The same way no two individuals are alike, no two brains are identical. Understanding the expression of inter-individual differences in brain and behavior and their underlying biological mechanisms can profoundly influence neuroscience and the science of individuality. Here, we argue that the nine-banded armadillo is a unique organism for the study of how inter-individual differences are expressed in the mammalian brain. Our argument is based on the fascinating reproductive biology of armadillos, the only known mammals that always generate offspring that are genetic clones, and on how this characteristic can help understand the complex interplay between genetic, environmental, and stochastic factors in the biology of individuality. We will first review the sources of variance in brain-related traits and behavior, then the biology of armadillos, and finally how they can aid in understanding the origins of variance in brain structure and function. Finally, we will provide an overview of the type of studies that can be performed using armadillos and how these studies can advance the science of individuality.
Comparing the environmental impacts of pollution from two types of industrial zones on the coast
Authors: Liang Jian , Ma Chae-Woo , Kim Kwang-Bae
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The construction of coastal industrial zones has significantly impacted the marine environment, with the extent of these effects varying based on the type of industrial activity. This study compares the environmental impact of two prevalent types of industrial zones along South Korea’s coast: ironworks and shipyards.

Methods

We assessed heavy metal pollution near these industrial zones using the Pollution Load Index (PLI) and Nemerow Pollution Index (Pn). To evaluate the impact of heavy metals and organic matter on macrobenthic communities, we employed redundancy analysis (RDA) and Spearman correlation analysis. Additionally, we used the AZTI’s Marine Biotic Index (AMBI), Multivariate AMBI (M-AMBI), and Benthic Pollution Index (BPI) to gauge the ecological quality of the affected marine environments.

Results and discussion

Our findings indicated that the biodiversity and abundance of species near shipyards were significantly lower than those near ironworks. Results of PLI and Pn revealed that the ecological risk posed by heavy metals from shipyard activities was significantly higher than from ironworks. The AZTI’s Marine Biotic Index (AMBI), Multivariate AMBI (M-AMBI), and Benthic Pollution Index (BPI) demonstrated that the ecological quality of Asan Bay (ironworks) is better than that of Dangdong Bay (shipyard). RDA analysis identified Lumbrineris longifolia, Ancistrosyllis hanaokai, and Theora fragilis as biological indicators for assessing heavy metal and organic matter pollution. Spearman correlation analysis indicated that BPI and species richness index are effective indicators for evaluating such pollution. Overall, the negative impact of shipyards on the marine environment was significantly more significant than that of ironworks. Our study provides valuable insights for the South Korean government in managing coastal industrial zones and formulating relevant policies.
The acquired pco gene cluster in Salmonella enterica mediates resistance to copper
Authors: Hikal Ahmed F. , Hasan Sameer , Gudeta Dereje , Zhao Shaohua , Foley Steven , Khan Ashraf A.
Published: September 2024

The pervasive environmental metal contamination has led to selection of heavy-metal resistance genes in bacteria. The pco and sil clusters are located on a mobile genetic element and linked to heavy-metal resistance. These clusters have been found in Salmonella enterica serovars isolated from human clinical cases and foods of animal origin. This may be due to the use of heavy metals, such as copper, in animal feed for their antimicrobial and growth promotion properties. The sil cluster can be found alone or in combination with pco cluster, either in the chromosome or on a plasmid. Previous reports have indicated that sil, but not pco, cluster contributes to copper resistance in S. enterica Typhimurium. However, the role of the pco cluster on the physiology of non-typhoidal S. enterica remains poorly understood. To understand the function of the pco gene cluster, a deletion mutant of pcoABCD genes was constructed using allelic exchange mutagenesis. Deletion of pcoABCD genes inhibited growth of S. enterica in high-copper medium, but only under anaerobic environment. Complementation of the mutant reversed the growth phenotype. The survival of S. enterica in RAW264.7 macrophages was not affected by the loss of pcoABCD genes. This study indicates that the acquired pco cluster is crucial for copper detoxification in S. enterica, but it is not essential for intracellular replication within macrophages.
Bibliometric analysis of global research trends in magnetic resonance imaging studies of substantia nigra in Parkinson’s disease (2001–2024)
Authors: Jiang Mei , Deng Xu , Qiu Zixiong , Li Jie , Song Zifan , Chen Xiaoshuai , Chen Ruiqi , Huang Xianzhi , Cui Xiaojun , Fu Yuan
Published: September 2024

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a globally prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, primarily characterized by muscle rigidity, resting tremor, and bradykinesia. The incidence of PD is rapidly escalating worldwide. Numerous studies have been conducted on the application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in investigating the substantia nigra (SN) in PD patients. However, to date, no bibliometric analysis has been performed on this specific research area. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current status in MRI research on the SN in PD patients.

Materials and methods

MRI study records related to the SN in PD patients from 2001 to 2024 were searched by using the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database and then the CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to conduct bibliometric analysis.

Results

Our analysis found that the number of published articles related studies on MRI of the SN in PD showed an overall upward trend over the past decade, in which Lehericy, Stephane, Du, Guangwei, and Huang, Xuemei are the top three authors with the most articles. Additionally, United States, China and Germany are the main contributors to MRI studies of SN in PD. And Shanghai Jiao Tong University, University of Florida and Seoul National University are the leading institutions in the field. Finally, the keyword analysis showed that the hotspots and trends of research in this field are mainly concentrated in quantitative susceptibility mapping, neuroimaging, and neuromelanin-sensitive MRI.

Conclusion

These analysis identified the most influential authors, institutions, countries and research hotspots in the field of SN-MRI research in PD, which has reference significance for the research interest in this field and provides a new idea for PD prevention.
Modeling seizure networks in neuron-glia cultures using microelectrode arrays
Authors: Boddeti Ujwal , Langbein Jenna , McAfee Darrian , Altshuler Marcelle , Bachani Muzna , Zaveri Hitten P. , Spencer Dennis , Zaghloul Kareem A. , Ksendzovsky Alexander
Published: September 2024

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder, affecting over 65 million people worldwide. Unfortunately, despite resective surgery, over 30% of patients with drug-resistant epilepsy continue to experience seizures. Retrospective studies considering connectivity using intracranial electrocorticography (ECoG) obtained during neuromonitoring have shown that treatment failure is likely driven by failure to consider critical components of the seizure network, an idea first formally introduced in 2002. However, current studies only capture snapshots in time, precluding the ability to consider seizure network development. Over the past few years, multiwell microelectrode arrays have been increasingly used to study neuronal networks in vitro. As such, we sought to develop a novel in vitro MEA seizure model to allow for study of seizure networks. Specifically, we used 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) to capture hyperexcitable activity, and then show increased network changes after 2 days of chronic treatment. We characterize network changes using functional connectivity measures and a novel technique using dimensionality reduction. We find that 4-AP successfully captures persistently elevated mean firing rate and significant changes in underlying connectivity patterns. We believe this affords a robust in vitro seizure model from which longitudinal network changes can be studied, laying groundwork for future studies exploring seizure network development.
Nasopharyngeal carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae among children aged 30 days to <60 months in Beijing and Shenzhen, China (2018–2021) during pneumococcal conjugate vaccine introduction and the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic
Authors: Du Qianqian , Liu Zhaoqiu , Wang Hongmei , Wang Yani , Liu Li , Wen Xuexia , Yu Sangjie , Ren Qingqing , Gonzalez Elisa , Arguedas Adriano , Fletcher Mark A. , Pan Kaijie , Morales Graciela Del Carmen , Deng Jikui , Yao Kaihu
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To describe the carriage rate, serotype distribution, and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) nasopharyngeal (NP) isolates among healthy children aged 30 days to <60 months in the cities of Beijing and Shenzhen during 2018–2021.

Methods

A NP swab sample was collected among four annual cohorts of healthy children at routine well-child visits. S. pneumoniae was identified by culture, optochin sensitivity and bile solubility, serotypes determined by latex agglutination and Quellung, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing performed using E-test strips.

Results

S. pneumoniae NP carriage was 13.1% (645/4,911), with the highest S. pneumoniae carriage prevalence (15.3%) observed in 25 to <60 months. The carriage prevalence was 15.1% in children 13–24 months, 13.2% in children 7–12 months, and 8.2% in children 30 days to 6 months (P < 0.01). Living with siblings [20.0% vs. 9.4%: OR: 2.42 (95% CI: 2.05–2.87)] or attending day-care [31.8% vs. 11.3%: OR: 3.67 (95% CI: 2.94–4.57)] increased the risk (P < 0.01). During the period (January 2020–April 2021) of strict non-pharmaceutical interventions to prevent and control the COVID-19 pandemic, the proportion of children with S. pneumoniae colonization declined from 16.0% (94/587) to 5.8% (108/1,848) in Beijing while increasing from 14.5% (64/443) to 18.6% (379/2,033) in Shenzhen. Among S. pneumoniae isolates, 36.7% (237/645) belonged to 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) serotypes, 64.3% (408/645) were non-PCV13 serotypes, including 20.8% (134/645) non-serotypeable S. pneumoniae (NST). A total of 158/644 isolates (24.5%) were MDR. For the PCV13 isolates, MDR was detected in 36.3% (86/237) of isolates; in comparison, 17.6% (72/407) of non-PCV13 serotypes, including NST, were MDR (P < 0.01). S. pneumoniae NP carriage was detected in 10.7% of children with previous pneumococcal vaccination (PCV7 or PCV13 only) compared with 14.9% in children without previous pneumococcal vaccination.

Conclusions

The highest S. pneumoniae carriage prevalence were found in the oldest age group (25 to <60 months) and in children living with siblings or attending day-care. Vaccination with PCV7 or PCV13 was associated with lower PCV13-serotype colonization. In Beijing, S. pneumoniae carriage significantly declined during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Targeting mitochondrial homeostasis in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a review
Authors: Deng Yalan , Dong Yuan , Zhang Sitian , Feng Yingmei
Published: September 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, and its prevalence is rapidly increasing. Antioxidants, lipid-lowering medications, and lifestyle interventions are the most commonly used treatment options for NAFLD, but their efficacy in inhibiting steatosis progression is limited and their long-term ineffectiveness and adverse effects have been widely reported. Therefore, it is important to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of NAFLD and to identify more effective therapeutic approaches. Mitochondrial homeostasis governs cellular redox biology, lipid metabolism, and cell death, all of which are crucial to control hepatic function. Recent findings have indicated that disruption of mitochondrial homeostasis occurs in the early stage of NAFLD and mitochondrial dysfunction reinforces disease progression. In this review, we summarize the physical roles of the mitochondria and describe their response and dysfunction in the context of NAFLD. We also discuss the drug targets associated with the mitochondria that are currently in the clinical trial phase of exploration. From our findings, we hope that the mitochondria may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of NAFLD.
PNNGS, a multi-convolutional parallel neural network for genomic selection
Authors: Xie Zhengchao , Weng Lin , He Jingjing , Feng Xianzhong , Xu Xiaogang , Ma Yinxing , Bai Panpan , Kong Qihui
Published: September 2024

Genomic selection (GS) can accomplish breeding faster than phenotypic selection. Improving prediction accuracy is the key to promoting GS. To improve the GS prediction accuracy and stability, we introduce parallel convolution to deep learning for GS and call it a parallel neural network for genomic selection (PNNGS). In PNNGS, information passes through convolutions of different kernel sizes in parallel. The convolutions in each branch are connected with residuals. Four different Lp loss functions train PNNGS. Through experiments, the optimal number of parallel paths for rice, sunflower, wheat, and maize is found to be 4, 6, 4, and 3, respectively. Phenotype prediction is performed on 24 cases through ridge-regression best linear unbiased prediction (RRBLUP), random forests (RF), support vector regression (SVR), deep neural network genomic prediction (DNNGP), and PNNGS. Serial DNNGP and parallel PNNGS outperform the other three algorithms. On average, PNNGS prediction accuracy is 0.031 larger than DNNGP prediction accuracy, indicating that parallelism can improve the GS model. Plants are divided into clusters through principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means clustering algorithms. The sample sizes of different clusters vary greatly, indicating that this is unbalanced data. Through stratified sampling, the prediction stability and accuracy of PNNGS are improved. When the training samples are reduced in small clusters, the prediction accuracy of PNNGS decreases significantly. Increasing the sample size of small clusters is critical to improving the prediction accuracy of GS.
Comparing psychometric characteristics of a computerized cognitive test (BrainCheck Assess) against the Montreal cognitive assessment
Authors: Huynh Duong , Sun Kevin , Ghomi Reza Hosseini , Huang Bin
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Previous validation studies demonstrated that BrainCheck Assess (BC-Assess), a computerized cognitive test battery, can reliably and sensitively distinguish individuals with different levels of cognitive impairment (i.e., normal cognition (NC), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia). Compared with other traditional paper-based cognitive screening instruments commonly used in clinical practice, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is generally accepted to be among the most comprehensive and robust screening tools, with high sensitivity/specificity in distinguishing MCI from NC and dementia. In this study, we examined: (1) the linear relationship between BC-Assess and MoCA and their equivalent cut-off scores, and (2) the extent to which they agree on their impressions of an individual’s cognitive status.

Methods

A subset of participants (N = 55; age range 54–94, mean/SD = 80/9.5) from two previous studies who took both the MoCA and BC-Assess were included in this analysis. Linear regression was used to calculate equivalent cut-off scores for BC-Assess based on those originally recommended for the MoCA to differentiate MCI from NC (cut-off = 26), and dementia from MCI (cut-off = 19). Impression agreement between the two instruments were measured through overall agreement (OA), positive percent agreement (PPA), and negative percent agreement (NPA).

Results

A high Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.77 (CI = 0.63–0.86) was observed between the two scores. According to this relationship, MoCA cutoffs of 26 and 19 correspond to BC-Assess scores of 89.6 and 68.5, respectively. These scores are highly consistent with the currently recommended BC-Assess cutoffs (i.e., 85 and 70). The two instruments also show a high degree of agreement in their impressions based on their recommended cut-offs: (i) OA = 70.9%, PPA = 70.4%, NPA = 71.4% for differentiating dementia from MCI/NC; (ii) OA = 83.6%, PPA = 84.1%, NPA = 81.8% for differentiating dementia/MCI from NC.

Discussion

This study provides further validation of BC-Assess in a sample of older adults by showing its high correlation and agreement in impression with the widely used MoCA.
Prediction of medical admissions after psychiatric inpatient hospitalization in bipolar disorder: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Miola Alessandro , De Prisco Michele , Lussignoli Marialaura , Meda Nicola , Dughiero Elisa , Costa Riccardo , Nunez Nicolas A. , Fornaro Michele , Veldic Marin , Frye Mark A. , Vieta Eduard , Solmi Marco , Radua Joaquim , Sambataro Fabio
Published: September 2024

Objective

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a severe mental illness associated with high rates of general medical comorbidity, reduced life expectancy, and premature mortality. Although BD has been associated with high medical hospitalization, the factors that contribute to this risk remain largely unexplored. We used baseline medical and psychiatric records to develop a supervised machine learning model to predict general medical admissions after discharge from psychiatric hospitalization.

Methods

In this retrospective three-year cohort study of 71 patients diagnosed with BD (mean age=52.19 years, females=56.33%), lasso regression models combining medical and psychiatric records, as well as those using them separately, were fitted and their predictive power was estimated using a leave-one-out cross-validation procedure.

Results

The proportion of medical admissions in patients with BD was higher compared with age- and sex-matched hospitalizations in the same region (25.4% vs. 8.48%). The lasso model fairly accurately predicted the outcome (area under the curve [AUC]=69.5%, 95%C.I.=55–84.1; sensitivity=61.1%, specificity=75.5%, balanced accuracy=68.3%). Notably, pre-existing cardiovascular, neurological, or osteomuscular diseases collectively accounted for more than 90% of the influence on the model. The accuracy of the model based on medical records was slightly inferior (AUC=68.7%, 95%C.I. = 54.6-82.9), while that of the model based on psychiatric records only was below chance (AUC=61.8%, 95%C.I.=46.2–77.4).

Conclusion

Our findings support the need to monitor medical comorbidities during clinical decision-making to tailor and implement effective preventive measures in people with BD. Further research with larger sample sizes and prospective cohorts is warranted to replicate these findings and validate the predictive model.
Age- and sex-related differences in risk factors for perioperative intra-aortic balloon pump application in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Gao Junyi , Zhao Qing , Cheng Yi
Published: September 2024

Background

An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is a mechanical circulatory device frequently used in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). As a treatment for perioperative haemodynamic instability, IABP insertion often implicates an adverse outcome. This study aimed to investigate the age- and sex-related disparity in risk factors for perioperative IABP insertion in CABG patients.

Methods

A total of 2,460 CABG patients were included and divided into subgroups by age (elderly subgroup, ≥65 years; young subgroup, <65 years) and sex. Basic characteristics were compared between IABP and non-IABP patients in the overall patient group and the subgroups. Multivariate logistic analysis was used to investigate the significant risk factors for perioperative IABP application, and interaction effects among the potential risk factors were analysed. Combined receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to evaluate the prediction value of combined risk factors.

Results

The overall patient group had a mean age of 61.5 years. The application rate of perioperative IABP was 8.0%. A left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50% significantly correlated with perioperative IABP application in the overall patient group and the subgroups. Traditional factors such as myocardial infarction history, atrial fibrillation history, and intraoperative estimated blood loss were significant risk factors in certain subgroups. Small dense low-density lipoprotein levels were significantly associated with IABP insertion in the male subgroup and young subgroup. The area under the curve of combined risk factors was significantly higher than that of LVEF <50% alone in the overall patient group and subgroups.

Conclusion

Age- and sex-related differences were present in the risk factor distribution for perioperative IABP insertion in CABG patients.
Analysis and Simulation of Permanent Magnet Adsorption Performance of Wall-Climbing Robot
Authors: Ji Haifeng , Li Peixing , Wang Zhaoqiang
Published: September 2024

In response to problems such as insufficient adhesion, difficulty in adjustment, and weak obstacle-crossing capabilities in traditional robots, an innovative design has been developed for a five-wheeled climbing robot equipped with a pendulum-style magnetic control adsorption module. This design effectively reduces the weight of the robot, and sensors on the magnetic adsorption module enable real-time monitoring of magnetic force. Intelligent control adjusts the pendulum angle to modify the magnetic force according to different wall conditions. The magnetic adsorption module, using a Halbach array, enhances the concentration effect of the magnetic field, ensuring excellent performance in high-load tasks such as building maintenance, bridge inspection, and ship cleaning. The five-wheel structural design enhances the stability and obstacle-crossing capability, making it suitable for all-terrain environments. Simulation experiments using Maxwell analyzed the effects of the magnetic gap and the angle between the adsorption module and the wall, and mechanical performance analysis confirmed the robot’s ability to adhere safely and operate stably.
Design and Analysis of a Robotic Gripper Mechanism for Fruit Picking
Authors: Xu Yongpeng , Lv Mingming , Xu Qian , Xu Ruting
Published: September 2024

A gripper is the critical component of the robot end effector for the automatic harvesting of fruit, which determines whether the fruit can be harvested intact or undamaged. In this paper, a robotic gripper mechanism based on three-finger and variable-angle design is designed and analyzed for spherical or cylindrical fruit picking. Among the three fingers of the mechanical gripper, two fingers are rotatable through a pair of synchronous gears to ensure enough contact area for the grasping surfaces, which adapt to fruits of different sizes, such as cherry, loquat, zucchini, and so on. Furthermore, the mathematical relationship between gripper driving force and finger gripping force is obtained by the kinematic analysis of the gripper to realize stable grasping, and a grasping index is employed for the structural parameter optimization of our gripper. The grasping motion is analyzed, and the kinematic simulations are carried out, when the driving speeds of the gripper are 5 mm/s, 10 mm/s, and 15 mm/s, respectively. The system transfer function related to driving speed is obtained by curve fitting. Then, the grasping experiments are conducted with various spherical and cylindrical fruit, of which the weights are between 8 and 300 g and the diameters are from 9 to 122 mm. The experimental results demonstrate that our gripper has good kinematic performance and fruit adaptability. At the same time, the grasping is stable and reliable while no obvious damage appears on the fruit surface.
Employees’ Emotional Intelligence and Job Satisfaction: The Mediating Role of Work Climate and Job Stress
Authors: García del Castillo-López Álvaro , Pérez Domínguez María
Published: September 2024

(1) Background: This study examines the mediating roles of work climate and perceived job stress on the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and job satisfaction using a serial mediation model in a sample of employees. Although EI is known to influence several organizational outcomes, its interaction with work climate and job stress is less well understood. (2) Methods: The PROCESS macro (Model 6) v4.2 by Hayes was employed to test the multiple mediating effects of work climate and perceived job stress on the relationship between emotional intelligence and job satisfaction. (3) Results: The results indicate that higher EI is associated with a more positive work climate, higher job satisfaction, and lower perceived job stress. Work climate and job stress mediate the relationship between EI and job satisfaction. Specifically, EI improves job satisfaction both directly and indirectly by increasing positive work climate and decreasing job stress. (4) Conclusions: These findings highlight the critical role of EI in creating a supportive work environment and improving employee well-being.
A Diversity–Distraction–Dependency System as a Positive Human Factor in Crews’ Interplanetary Missions
Authors: Tafforin Carole
Published: September 2024

In successful scenarios of missions to the Moon and Mars, humans develop multi-factorial systems through adapted behaviors to build cohesive multi-national crews with their individual features. We assume that frequencies of social interactions, social orientations, and facial vs. collateral expressions change according to mixed-culture and mixed-gender crew characteristics and as a function of the crewmember’s grouping at the same time and in the same place. The ethological method, with the phases of observation, description, and quantification of behavioral manifestations, was applied to the SIRIUS program and MARS-500 program. This involved simulating a 120-day confinement, a 240-day confinement, and a 520-day confinement in a multi-module facility. Focus was made on the meal area, sports area, and leisure area. We investigated the full nationality–gender-varied crew and the crewmember’s attendance and localization for distractive or festive activities during their free time. Social optimization declined and then grew in a temporal dynamic. Global behavioral distribution showed differences according to the duration of experiments during collective time. As a result, a system based on crew diversity, crew distraction, and crewmembers’ inter-dependence should be considered as a positive human factor in the process of adaptation with the goal of enhancing the well-being of future interplanetary crews.