bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resolving the Structure and Magnetic Properties of FePc/CdSe Organic/Inorganic Semiconducting Nanocomposite
Authors: Gabrouny Esraa , Said Shimaa A. , Mahdy Manal A. , Amer Taghreed Zaghloul , El-Bahnasawy Hany H. , El-Sayed Afaf
Published: September 2024

The exploration of diverse methodologies for creating hybrid organic/inorganic semiconducting nanocomposites represents a significant area of scientific inquiry, driven by the escalating demand to cater to magnetic-based technologies. In this work, we employed a straightforward solid-state calcination process to fabricate FePc/CdSe QDs nanocomposites with two distinct ratios, specifically 1:1 and 3:5. Structural analysis and the assessment of magnetic properties of these nanocomposites were conducted utilizing a comprehensive array of techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). Our investigation substantiates the formation of nanocomposites comprising FePc molecules, CdSe QDs, and γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Notably, these nanocomposites demonstrate a soft ferromagnetic behaviour, serving as a stark contrast to the diamagnetic behaviour observed in original CdSe QDs.
A comparative study of target fabrication strategiesfor microgram muonic atom spectroscopy
Authors: Antwis Luke , Bara Silvia , Bruhn Camillo , Cocolios Thomas E. , Deseyn Marie , Doinaki Anastasia , Düllmann Christoph E. , Fletcher Julian , Heines Michael , Heller René , Indelicato Paul , Kentsch Ulrich , Kieck Tom , Kirch Klaus , Knecht Andreas , Maugeri Emilio A. , Niikura Megumi , Ouf Ahmed , Pereira Lino M.C. , Phyo War War Myint Myat , Pohl Randolf , Renisch Dennis , Ritjoho Narongrit , Vantomme André , Vogiatzi Stergiani M. , von Schoeler Katharina , Wauters Frederik , Zendour Aziza , Zweidler Sami
Published: September 2024

Muonic atom spectroscopy is a method that can determine absolute nuclear charge radii with typical relative precision of 10-3. Recent developments have enabled to extend muonic atom spectroscopy to microscopic target quantities as low as 5 µg. This substantial reduction from the traditional limit of the order of 100 mg is based on a transfer mechanism in a high-pressure hydrogen gas cell, which transports the muon to the surface of the target material rather than stopping it over a broad depth range. This approach enables the measurement of absolute nuclear charge radii of long-lived radioactive isotopes (half-life above ~20 years), but the production of appropriate targets for the technique has presented some major challenges, such as the formation of organic layers on the substrate. This study presents a systematic investigation of the stopping efficiency for different target preparation methods: ion implantation, drop-on-demand printing, and molecular plating. Notable differences between the three methods were discovered in terms of their performance allowing to further fine tune the method of choice for future target preparations. Our findings show that implantation provides appropriate targets for our method with negligible losses. This achievement opens the landscape of potential measurements to isotopes where high mass separation is required not achievable with other methods. Furthermore, molecular plated targets performed substantially better than those prepared using drop-on-demand printing.
Designing a broad-spectrum multi-epitope mRNA candidate vaccine targeting the Porcine Pseudorabies Virus (PRV) gB protein based on immunoinformatics-guided approaches
Authors: Gan Tianyirui , Pan Zhicheng , Xu Yezhao , Yi Haibo , Zhu Xuerui , Zhou Yuancheng , Xiong Yongai , Gao Xinghong
Published: September 2024

Pseudorabies virus (PRV) is an alpha-herpesvirus capable of infecting pigs, resulting in reproductive disorders in sows, orchitis in boars, piglet diarrhea, and various other diseases, thus inflicting significant economic losses on the swine industry. The advancement of immunoinformatic and computer epitope prediction technologies holds promise in designing optimal candidate vaccines. Therefore, in this study, based on the non-conserved properties of PRV gB proteins and adsorption acting on viruses, we used immunoinformatics tools to design a multi-epitope mRNA vaccine for gB proteins of the three PRV vaccine strains (types I and II) containing five CTL, two HTL, and five LBL shared epitopes, which was named the MgB vaccine in this study. Subsequent steps involved the prediction, optimization, and evaluation of the vaccine's structure and physicochemical properties to closely mimic the natural state. Concurrently, the immunization effect of the vaccine is evaluated by simulating the reaction process of the vaccine with the receptor in vivo and the immune response of the vaccine. The immunoinformatic analysis revealed promising immunological activity of the multi-epitope mRNA vaccine, positioning it as a potential candidate for commercial PRV vaccines. Finally, the MgB vaccine sequences were codon-optimized for in-silico cloning.
Efficacy of varying concentrations of agroforestry-derived botanical extracts on aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae) populations and yield performance in rape (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Lawrence Mango , Morleen Nhete , Tapiwa Kugedera Andrew
Published: September 2024

Synthetic herbicides are becoming unaffordable for many smallholder farmers in southern Africa. In controlling pesticides, most resource-poor farmers use plant extracts, which are less expensive and environmentally friendly. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of agroforestry crude plant extracts in the control of aphids, and growth and yield performance of Brassica napus Linnaeus. The experiment was performed in a randomized complete block design with seven treatments replicated three times. The results revealed no significant effect (p > 0.05) on aphid number per plant from the use of various concentrations of the botanical extracts and Dimethoate. However, the use of 30 g L− 1 Tephrosia vogelii or 30 g L− 1 Tagetus minuta decreased the number of aphids per plant over time. The use of T. vogelii or T. minuta for 2–8 weeks had a significant effect on Brassica napus yield at different concentrations. The highest fresh yield (9.26 ± 0.02 t ha− 1) of rape was obtained from the 30 g L− 1 T.v. concentration, and the lowest fresh yield (0.80 ± 0.64 t ha− 1) was recorded from the 10 g L− 1 T. vogelii concentration but was not significantly different from that of dimethoate (8.85 ± 0.12 t ha− 1). The T. vogelii and T. minuta concentrations reduced the aphid population and improved fresh rape yield. However, farmers are encouraged to use T. vogelii and T. minuta botanical extracts at 30 g L− 1 concentration or higher, as an economically viable aphid management strategy.
Dual-responsive Semi-IPN Hydrogels Based on Poly (N-isopropyl Acrylamide-co-Acrylic acid)/ Glycyrrhizin Cross-linked Chitosan for Controlled Drug Release
Authors: Saeedi Mostafa , Moghbeli Mohammad Reza , Vahidi Omid
Published: September 2024

The development of novel semi-IPN hydrogels composed of a cross-linked chitosan (CC) network and a thermo-responsive linear copolymer, i.e. poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide-co-acrylic acid) [P(NIPAM-co-AA)], with drug release capability in response to both temperature and pH changes has various potential medical applications. The thermo-responsive free copolymer chains inside the CC network were synthesized via free-radical polymerization to prepare the thermal and pH dual-responsive P(NIPAM-co-AA)/CC hydrogels with a semi-IPN structure. The prepared copolymers and semi-IPN hydrogels were characterized by FTIR, TGA, 1H and 13C NMR apparatus, and the LCST transition was determined using UV/Vis spectroscopy. The stronger C-H stretching of the semi-IPN sample at 2920 cm− 1 than the CC sample showed that the NIPAM and AA monomers successfully polymerized inside the CC network structure. TGA analysis of the semi-IPN sample exhibited peaks at 249, 379, and 290°C, corresponding to the presence of the thermo-responsive copolymer composition and the chitosan polymer, respectively. The results showed that depending on the temperature below and above the LCST, the semi-IPN hydrogel exhibited a lower (194%) and higher swelling percentage (413%) because the copolymer chain conformation changed form the coil to globule. The drug release results implied that above the LCST, the hydrogen bond between the gallic acid molecules (GA, drug model) and the semi-IPN structure may be broken, causing a change in drug release in the range of 4.5 − 39.1%. The anti-bacterial test and cytotoxicity of the selected semi-IPN sample were carried out. In an MTT assay, the highest cell viability of the semi-IPN sample with 7.5 mg/ml at 37°C was 4% more than the control group. The semi-IPN containing GA exhibited anti-bacterial action against the S aureus bacterial strain significantly. This research describes a method to prepare a smart dual-responsive semi-IPN structure with a potential for transdermal applications.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Design Parameters for Tractor Hydro-Mechanical Continuously Variable Transmissions
Authors: Zhu Zhen , Hou Rui , Zhang Hongwei , Wang Dehai , Chen Long
Published: September 2024

The design parameters of the transmission directly affect the vehicle's dynamics and fuel economy, due to the complexity of the tractor's working conditions and operating modes, the optimization of the transmission design parameters is more difficult. In this paper, an independently designed hydro-mechanical CVT transmission is taken as the research object, and the transmission design parameters are optimized based on the tractor's whole life-cycle speed usage rate, and the multi-objective genetic algorithm is used for optimization and solution. In this paper, the fuel consumption rate and hill climbing degree are taken as the optimization objective function, the parameters that have a greater influence on the optimization objectives are selected as the design variables, and the constraints are determined. A multi-objective genetic algorithm based on the Pareto optimality principle combined with experimental design is used to establish a multi-objective optimization model of the transmission device based on modeFrontier, and a global search for optimality is carried out, and a Pareto optimal solution is finally obtained. The results of the study find the optimal solution under the constraints, reflecting the conflicting characteristics between power and fuel economy. The design variables of the Pareto optimal solution obtained through optimization iterations based on the whole life cycle speed usage rate satisfy the matching requirements of the transmission well.
Patient Safety Competence and Second Victim Experience Among Nurses
Authors: Sun Si , Shang Shuhua , Sun Hongxia
Published: September 2024

Background
Nurses engage in the most direct contact with patients and face a high risk of becoming second victims.Nurses' patient safety competency is an important factor in patient safety.The relationship between second-victim patient safety competence and second-victim experience remains unclear.Hence, the objective of this study was to explore the impacts of patient safety competence on the experiences of and support provided to the second victims of adverse nursing events.
Methods
A total of 924 nurses who had experienced adverse events in four tertiary-level A hospitals in Jiangsu Province were recruited from November 03,2022 ,to April 30,2023 using the convenience sampling method; these nurses were surveyed using the SociodemographicCharacteristics Questionnaire, the Characteristics of Experiencing Adverse Events Questionnaire, the Second Victim Experience and Support Tool, and the Patient Safety Competency Self-Rating Scale.
Results
The second victim experience and support of the nurses included in this research were at moderate level, with a mean score of 2.98±0.45; psychological distress received the highestrating at 4.00±0.83 points, while coworker support received the lowest rating at 2.59±0.53 points. Nurses exhibited a higher level of patient safety competency (4.321±0.584); furthermore,patient safety competency was negatively correlated with the level of second victim distress and positively correlated with the level of second victim support, while patient safety competency was an independent factor influencing second victim experience.
Conclusion
The higher the nurse's level of patient safety competency is, the lower the level of distress and the higher the level of perceived support experienced by the second victim, thus suggesting that improving patient safety competency scan provide organizational support for the second victim and promote the second victim's recovery.
Stress and fertility decisions: Evidence from a home team’s championship victory
Authors: Cho Hyunkuk , Kim Yoonmin
Published: September 2024

The literature shows that in-utero maternal stress significantly decreases newborn babies’ birth weight. If this is the case, it is likely that women tend to avoid pregnancy during times of stressful events. We examined this hypothesis using a baseball home team’s championship victory when people likely gather and make a noise, which could affect emotions and stress levels. Data were taken from South Korea, where baseball is the most popular professional sport. As the championship team region changed yearly, we employed a difference-in-differences estimation method. We found that a home team’s championship win did not change the overall birth rate nine months later. However, the birth rate among women with college degrees decreased by 4.7%, while the birth rate among those without degrees remained unaffected.
JEL Classifications: D91; I10: J13; Z20
Comparison of taste threshold in postmenopausal and non-menopausal women and men
Authors: Ekhtiari Afsaneh , fard Mohammad Javad Kharazi , Jalilvand Pouya , Jafari Aryan , alaee arezoo
Published: September 2024

Background
One of the problems of women after menopause is the occurrence of changes in the taste sense.it could affect on reducing the quality of life .the researcher decided to conduct the present study to express this issue
Methods
This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 113 people, including 38 menopausal women and 39 non-menopausal women and 36 men who were all qualified and matched in different factors was done. The taste threshold was evaluated by solutions of sucrose, citric acid, sodium chloride, caffeine and monosodium glutamate .The data were recorded after removing confounding items and judged through SPSS version 17 software and Kruskal-Wallis test.
Results
There was no significant difference between non-menopausal women and men in the distribution of the study subjects according to the taste threshold perception in different types of sweets (p = 0.911), but between menopausal women and non-menopausal women, as well as the group men had a significant difference and postmenopausal women had a higher taste threshold than both groups (p = 0.000) and (p-= 0.002). In the taste of sourness, there was no significant difference between non-menopausal women and men (p = 0.058), also there was no significant difference between menopausal women and men (p = 1), but there was a significant difference between menopausal women and non-menopausal women. and menopausal women had a higher taste threshold than non-menopausal women (p = 0.033). There was no significant difference between menopausal women and men in different types of umami taste (p = 1), but there was a significant difference between menopausal women and non-menopausal women, and menopausal women had a higher taste threshold than non-menopausal women (p = 0.005) Also, there was a significant difference between men and non-menopausal women, and men had a higher taste threshold than non-menopausal women (p = 0.007). There was no significant difference in the distribution of study subjects according to the taste threshold in different concentrations of saltiness and bitterness flavors in all three studied groups (p-= 0.195) (p = 0.091)
Conclusions
It seems that the taste threshold of sweet, sour and umami flavors was significantly higher in menopausal women compared to non-menopausal women.
A QR Code for the Brain: A dynamical systems framework for computing neurophysiological biomarkers
Authors: Bosl William , Enlow Michelle Bosquet , Nelson Charles
Published: September 2024

Neural circuits are often considered the bridge connecting genetic causes and behavior. Whereas prenatal neural circuits are believed to be derived from a combination of genetic and intrinsic activity, postnatal circuits are largely influenced by exogenous activity and experience. A dynamical neuroelectric field maintained by neural activity is proposed as the fundamental information processing substrate of cognitive function. Time series measurements of the neuroelectric field can be collected by scalp sensors and used to mathematically quantify the essential dynamical features of the neuroelectric field by constructing a digital twin of the dynamical system phase space. The multiscale nonlinear values that result can be organized into tensor data structures, from which latent features can be extracted using tensor factorization. These latent features can be mapped to behavioral constructs to derive digital biomarkers. This computational framework provides a robust method for incorporating neurodynamical measures into neuropsychiatric biomarker discovery.
Trends of Copper Homeostasis in Neoplasms,A Systemic Bibliometric from 2013 to 2023
Authors: Lin Yuhai , Lin Wenhao , Lai Yucheng , Chen Yuqiang
Published: September 2024

Copper dysregulation is pivotal in tumorigenesis. This study aimed to elucidate the knowledge framework of copper homeostasis within neoplasms utilizing bibliometric analysis. Publications about copper homeostasis in neoplasms from 2013 to 2023 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection and PubMed databases. The bibliometric analysis was conducted using CiteSpace software, VOSviewer software and the R package "bibliometrix." A total of 1701 articles were indexed from 73 countries and regions. China has emerged as the leading country with a publication proportion of 32.45%, followed by the United States (10.35%) and India (8.41%). Significant collaborations have been conducted among Chinese academic institutions. The Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry emerged as the most prominent journal. Among the 4,841 keywords extracted from 671 journals, concepts of cell death, positron emission tomography and tumor microenvironment emerged as the most significant hotspots. This bibliometric study reviewed significant academic development and synthesized research trends on copper homeostasis in neoplasms, providing a valuable reference for scholars.
Potential role of host autophagy in Clonorchis sinensis infection
Authors: Shang Mei , Gong Yu , Luo Hui , Chen Wenjun , Wu Yinjuan , Hu Bo , Dong Huimin , Li Xuerong
Published: September 2024

An in vivo mouse model of Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) infection with or without the administration of autophagy inhibitor chloroquine (CQ) stimulation was established to assess the possible involvement of autophagic response during C. sinensis infection. Abnormal liver function was observed at four, six, eight weeks post-infection, as indicated by elevated levels of ALT/GPT, AST/GOT, TBIL, α-SMA in the infected group. Our findings indicated C. sinensis infection activated autophagy, as shown by a decreased LC3II/I ratio and accumulated P62 expression in infected mice. Interestingly, CQ administration exhibited dual and opposing effects during the infection. In the early stage of infection, the engagement of CQ appeared to mitigates symptoms by reducing inflammation and fibrotic responses. However, in the later stage of infection, CQ might contribute to parasite survival by evading autophagic targeting, thereby exacerbating hepatic impairment and worsening liver fibrosis. Autophagy in liver was suppressed throughout the infection. These observations attested that C. sinensis infection triggered autophagy, and highlighted a complex role for CQ, with both protective and detrimental effects, in the in vivo progression of C. sinensis infection.
“I went to the primary health centre close to my workplace, but their capacity cannot deliver the baby”: Understanding factors influencing choice of providers for maternal health services in Nigeria
Authors: Akinsola Kofoworola O. , Salako Julius , Quadri Risikat , Olasupo Olabisi , Emmanuel Oluwapelumi , Bakare Oluwabunmi , King Carina , Falade Adegoke , Bakare Ayobami Adebayo
Published: September 2024

Background
Maternal health remains a significant public health concern globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria. Despite concerted efforts to improve maternal health services to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of less than 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030, maternal mortality rates in Nigeria remain unacceptably high. Understanding the factors that shape women's choices in selecting the place of delivery could help tailor services and improve quality of care for mothers and infants. Therefore, our study seeks to understand the experiences, barriers and facilitators influencing where women choose to access maternal health services in three diverse Nigerian states: Lagos, Oyo and Jigawa.
Methods
We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews with nursing mothers, healthcare workers in Lagos, Oyo and Jigawa states, and traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in Lagos and Oyo. We used maximum variation sampling to purposefully recruit nursing mothers in their puerperium who delivered in different places. Healthcare workers and TBAs were purposively selected from birth health facilities and birth homes. We used reflexive thematic analysis to generate themes across participant types and states.
Results
We identified five major themes: (1) preference for safe, comfortable and quality health services; (2) Social diffusion and cultural/religious influences; (3) Physical, geographical and financial inaccessibility; (4) Symbolic perception of health facilities and (5) Misunderstanding of health promoting and preventive care in pregnancy. The main reasons for choice of place of delivery were preference for safe, comfortable, and high-quality healthcare as well as the perceived convenience and accessibility of birth homes within close proximity to the women’s homes.
Conclusions
We found women’s choice of place of delivery is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Prominent among these are health system inadequacies, socio-economic influences, and the desire for comfortable and quality maternal healthcare. Healthcare providers, TBAs, and nursing mothers emphasised these determinants as critical in shaping their decisions regarding where to give birth. This highlights the need for comprehensive interventions across policy, healthcare delivery, community engagement, and individual levels to overcome barriers, improve maternal health outcomes, and support women in making informed childbirth decisions.
The mechanical property changes of bridge structures using a Viscoelastic Model and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Q. , Nguyen Thuy T. , Nguyen Phuoc T.
Published: September 2024

The article evaluates changes in the mechanical structure of a bridge using a model of a viscoelastic oscillator system. The study uses the vibration spectrum of the bridge structure through vibration signals as a research model. The vibration response spectrum of the bridge is considered in two independent states in practice, including the bending and torsional states to investigate the change in material mechanical properties. The first proposal of this study is to use the actual vibration model of the bridge to build a response spectrum that is as close to reality as possible with the support of machine learning. Using a CNN network model, the draught was optimised and enriched with information extracted from the vibration spectrum. The features of the spectrum serve as a basis for determining the existence of defects in the structure. From there, this research model allows the author to explore the influence of mechanical components on the structure through the proposed dissipation coefficient. The second proposal is to build a model of the value of the regression surface of the dissipation coefficient in the structural material. This quantity helps to evaluate the degree of data dispersion of the dissipation coefficient obtained from the response spectrum data. The study shows that the proposed quantity can evaluate the model for good practical results. In the future, this research model can be applied to many different types of structures with complex load states.
The impact of Internet use on the health status of Chinese women: the chain mediating effect of participation in cultural activities, physical exercise and social entertainment activities
Authors: Wei Pingqiang , Qin Ting , Xie Yuanyuan
Published: September 2024

Objective：The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of Internet use on the health status of Chinese women, and to analyze the chain mediating role of participation in cultural activities, physical exercise and social entertainment activities.
Methods：Based on the data of China General Social Survey in 2021, a total of 4469 Chinese women were selected, and multiple linear regression model, structural equation model and Bootstrap mediating effect test method were used.
Results: (1) Internet use has a positive impact on women 's health; (2) Participation in cultural activities plays an intermediary role in the impact of Internet use on women 's health status; (3) Participation in physical exercise plays an intermediary role in the impact of Internet use on women 's health status; (4) Participation in social entertainment activities plays an intermediary role in the impact of Internet use on women 's health status; (5) Participation in cultural activities, physical exercise and social entertainment activities play a chain mediating role in the impact of Internet use on women 's health status.
Conclusion: Internet use has a positive impact on the health status of Chinese women, with an average increase of 0.153 points in health status, that is, higher frequency of Internet use has a more positive impact on women 's health status. In order to maintain women 's physical and mental health, women should reasonably arrange their online time, pay attention to the quality of information, cultivate healthy living habits, actively participate in offline social activities and improve their self-management ability. At the same time, relevant departments should also strengthen Internet supervision and governance to create a safe, healthy and positive network environment for women.
Minimum Pulse Rate During Sleep as a Potential Non-Invasive Biomarker for Subtle Abnormalities in Mini-Mental State Examination in Active Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Multifaceted Survey
Authors: Tanaka Yuji , Saito Kozo , Tsuchiya Kyoichiro , Iwata Yusuke , Ando Takashi , Mochizuki Kazuki , Taniguchi Tamami , Mitsui Takahiko
Published: September 2024

Background: Developing quantitative indicators of daily life that detect subtle cognitive decline is an important challenge in today's growing population of older adults worldwide. In this study, we aimed to explore novel candidates for indicators associated with subtle abnormalities in brief dementia screening test.
Methods: This was a multifaceted cross-sectional study. Data were collected from 35 older adults who had not been certified for long-term care or diagnosed with cognitive impairment usingquestionnaires, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), body composition measurements, sleep apnoea testing, activity monitoring, motor function assessments, blood tests, and nutrient analyses. Of the 89 factors examined in this study, several less invasive indicators for cognitive impairment were identified using Spearman’s correlation analysis, two-group comparison, and multiple linear regression model analysis.
Results: An increased minimum pulse rate during sleep was found to be the most important non-invasive marker associated with both the correlation with MMSE scores and the risk classification of cognitive impairment (mild cognitive impairment or dementia).
Conclusions: The minimum pulse rate during sleep is easily detectable owing to recent developments and widespread use of wearable devices. The results of this study will not only provide opportunities for older adults and their families to recognise slight cognitive decline but will also contribute to the early detection of cognitive decline, as a guide for the development of research evaluating the detection sensitivity and specificity of these indicators.
Evaluation of insecticide resistance in different field populations of Cabbage aphid, Brevicornye brassicae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) to selected organophosphate insecticides
Authors: Mir Irfan Ahmad , Hussain Barkat , Ahmad Tariq
Published: September 2024

The Cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae is the most devastating pest of cruciferous crops, and management strategies mainly rely on insecticidal treatment. In this study, we evaluated the susceptibility of different field populations of B. brassicae collected from eight major cruciferous crop-producing districts of Kashmir, India, in 2023. The Toxicity of Chlorpyrifos (25% EC Kohiban), Dimethoate (30% EC Tafgor), and Quinalphos (25% EC Flash) was evaluated by foliage spray method under laboratory conditions. Different populations showed varied levels of susceptibility to the insecticides evaluated at various concentrations. The variability of the LC50 values was 3.71 mlL− 1 for dimethoate, 4.61 mlL− 1 for chlorpyrifos, and 3.97 mlL− 1 for quinalphos. After comparing insecticides resistance ratios (RR) with most susceptible field populations, resistance ratio to quinalphos was highest in the range of 1.13-3.07-fold, followed by 1.10-2.17-folds for dimethoate and 1.07-2.9-fold for Chlorpyrifos. The highest level of resistance to dimethoate was found in Budgam (LC50 = 7.32 ml L−1) and lowest in Anantnag (LC50 = 2.52 ml L − 1). Resistance against quinalphos was highest in Baramulla (LC50 = 8.45 mlL− 1) and lowest in Anantnag (LC50 = 2.75 mlL− 1). When exposed to the same insecticide, Bandipora exhibits the lowest resistance (LC50 = 3.18 mlL− 1) and Anantnag the highest resistance (LC50 = 6.92 mlL− 1). Rotation of insecticides with different modes of action where populations have no, very low, or low levels of resistance could be helpful in the management of B. brassicae infestation.
Genome sequencing and mining expand the natural product repertoire of Lysobacter
Authors: Bierman Jeffrey J. , Walker Mark C.
Published: September 2024

Background
Compounds produced by living organisms serve as an important source of inspiration for the development of pharmaceuticals. A potential source of new natural products are bacteria from a genus with species that are known to produce bioactive natural products, but are relatively understudied. Lysobacter is a genus of bacteria that have attracted attention as possible biocontrol agents and are known to produce antibiotic natural products. To further explore the biosynthetic potential of Lysobacter, we sequenced the genomes of two species and performed genome mining studies on those and publicly available genomes.
Results
In this study we produced draft genome sequences for Lysobacter firmicutimachus and Lysobacter yananisis. We additionally examined 113 publicly available Lysobacter genomes and found that biosynthetic potential of individual species ranges broadly, with species having between 1 and nearly 20 biosynthetic gene clusters. Filtering for more complete genome assemblies and 9 or more biosynthetic gene clusters, we performed genome mining on 24 Lysobacter genomes. Within these genomes we identified 21 unique nonribosomal peptide, 11 unique hybrid polyketide/nonribosomal peptide, 4 unique polyketide, and 27 unique lanthipeptide biosynthetic gene clusters that produce uncharacterized compounds. Additionally, we tentatively identified the biosynthetic gene cluster in L. firmicutimachus responsible for producing plusbacins, which has not been previously identified.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that Lysobacter have a large repertoire of natural products that remain to be characterized. Additionally, we found that some Lysobacter species are substantially more biosynthetically gifted than others and that strains of the same species of Lysobacter have similar biosynthetic capacities.
Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) and Human Health Risk Impact of Some Nigerian Poly-Herbal Formulations
Authors: Ogidi Odangowei Inetiminebi
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to assess the presence of potentially harmful substances in specific Nigerian poly-herbal formulations and to evaluate the associated health risks by calculating their carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic indices. Four poly-herbal formulations were acquired at random from Cynflac Pharmacy in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.The samples underwent wet digestion for analysis, and the presence of potentially harmful components was assessed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The human health risk associated with the administration of the analysed poly-herbal formulations was evaluated by computing non-carcinogenic estimated daily intake (EDI), Target hazard quotients (THQ), and Hazard Index (HI), as well as carcinogenic risks. The concentrations of potentially harmful elements ranged from 0.036 to 0.26 mg/kg for Cd, 0.003 to 0.54 mg/kg for Cr, 0.37 to 0.52 mg/kg for Ni, 0.13 to 1.5 mg/kg for Cu, 0.002 to 1.4 mg/kg for Pb, 0.43 to 2.8 mg/kg for Zn, 0.54 to 0.86 mg/kg for Mn, and 4.4 to 6.5 mg/kg for Fe. Nevertheless, Nickel was not identified in the Rz and Jn poly-herbal formulations. The investigation indicated that the concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn were within the permitted limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The concentrations of Ni (Gk and Yy), Mn, and Fe were found to exceed the permitted limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). From a perspective of human health, the evaluations of non-carcinogenic risk were found to be within acceptable limits and were lower than 1. However, the evaluation of carcinogenic risk revealed that a majority of the samples of the poly-herbal formulation exceeded the average incremental lifetime cancer risk of 10 − 4. According to the findings of this study, consuming these poly-herbal formulations may provide a cancer-causing health risk to the consumer. Hence, it is imperative to implement a consistent and rigorous regulatory oversight to guarantee the safety of poly-herbal formulations and consumers in Nigeria.
Targeting hypoxia-inducible factor-1 in a hypoxidative stress model of age-related macular degeneration protects RPE cells from cell death and metabolic dysregulation
Authors: Henning Yoshiyuki , Schubert Annika , Silva Maria Lobo Barbosa da , Ambrock Tabea , Terosian Orbel , Malyshkina Anna , Padberg Claudia , Larafa Safa , Matschke Johann , Fandrey Joachim
Published: September 2024

Although age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common blinding disease in the elderly population, there are still many unknowns in the pathophysiology of this disease. This is also reflected by a lack of convincing treatment options against the most common subtype, dry AMD. Oxidative stress and hypoxia in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are hallmarks of dry AMD. Previously, we have shown that a combination of these two risk factors, i.e. hypoxidative stress, exacerbates RPE cell death by ferroptosis. Hypoxia leads to stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), key regulators of cellular adaptation to hypoxic conditions. In the present study, we have therefore investigated the roles of HIF-1 and HIF-2 on RPE cell death in a human RPE cell line under hypoxidative stress. For this purpose, we conducted siRNA-mediated knockdowns of the α-subunits of HIF-1 and HIF-2. We found that especially iron metabolism was affected by HIF-1α silencing, resulting in decreased iron levels and ferroptosis susceptibility. Surprisingly, heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) contributed to cell death. We also observed that cell metabolism, which is usually impaired in AMD RPE cells, was improved by HIF-1α silencing. Furthermore, we identified an FDA-approved small molecule inhibitor, Vorinostat, to fully rescue RPE cells from hypoxidative stress-induced cell death. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of considering targeted HIF inhibition as a promising approach for treating dry AMD and RPE degeneration.
Emotion Classification In-Context in Spanish
Authors: Thapa Bipul , Cofre Gabriel
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates the classification of customer feedback into emotions and examines document clustering to uncover themes within the feedback in Spanish using advanced NLP techniques, ML models, and Deep Learning embedding. We evaluate Logistic Regression, custom Neural Networks (cNN), and Support Vector Machine (SVM) models. Our experiments reveal that Logistic Regression and cNN achieve average accuracies of 97.13% and 98%, respectively, on the training set, and 85.17% and 86.12% on the test set. Various SVM kernels with two principal components (PCAs) resulted in training accuracies of 64.11%, 66.51%, 67.22%, and 46.29% for the linear, polynomial, RBF, and sigmoid kernels, respectively, and corresponding test accuracies of 62.20%, 62.20%, 64.11%, and 44.02%. A grid search identified the RBF kernel with C = 0.5 and γ = 10 as having the highest training and test accuracies of 66.51% and 64.59%. Using a 3-PCA SVM approach, training accuracies for the linear, polynomial, RBF, and sigmoid kernels were 66.63%, 66.39%, 70.93%, and 61.60%, and test accuracies were 62.68%, 63.64%, 70.33%, and 60.77%. The RBF kernel with C = 10 and γ = 1 achieved the highest training and test accuracies of 69.86% and 70.81%. These findings highlight the complexity of emotion classification in Spanish and demonstrate the potential for high accuracy using these models.
From National to Local: A Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment Framework for Climate Change Adaptation in Bhutan
Authors: Waiba Tashi Norbu , Dorji Yonten
Published: September 2024

Climate change has evolved into a dire global crisis, affecting communities and nations worldwide. Bhutan, a small landlocked country in the fragile eastern Himalayas, faces significant challenges due to climate change. To effectively plan for climate change adaptation, it is crucial to assess local vulnerabilities and understand community-specific needs at a finer spatial level. National-level studies often fail to capture the location specificity of smaller areas, highlighting the need for localized assessments. Therefore, this study focuses on the climate change vulnerability assessment of nine Southwestern districts in Bhutan. It integrates quantitative analysis with qualitative information obtained from primary field surveys. The primary objective is to mainstream climate change adaptation and mitigation measures into the developmental plans of these districts based on this detailed vulnerability assessment. Another key objective is to prioritize adaptation strategies for enhancing community resilience in areas highly vulnerable to climate change. The study assesses communities' exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity using 40 indicators (six for exposure, 14 for sensitivity, and 20 for adaptive capacity) to compute vulnerability indexes. The results indicate that Dagana (-0.72) and Sarpang (-0.71) districts are the most vulnerable, due to their high exposure and sensitivity. Conversely, Tsirang (-0.35), Thimphu (-0.36), and Haa (-0.38) districts are less vulnerable, attributed to higher adaptive capacity. The study recommends incorporating climate change adaptation and mitigation measures into district development plans. Prioritizing adaptation strategies based on district-specific vulnerabilities is essential for enhancing community resilience. This research contributes to informed decision-making and effective climate change adaptation in Bhutan.
Co-migration of hundreds of species over metres drives selection and promotes non-motile hitchhikers
Authors: Grigson Susanna , Hutton Abbey , Carlson-Jones Jessica , Paterson James , Giles Sarah , Harker Clarice , Grigson Amelia , Annells Amy , Roach Michael , Speck Peter , Edwards Robert , Mitchell James
Published: September 2024

Prokaryotes dominate the biosphere and form diverse communities disrupted by invasion. Invaders and remaining community members experience resource surfeit, competition, and selective pressures. Little is known about invasion in natural microbial communities. We examined invasion by chemotaxis in a meso-tube system at taxonomic, functional, and genomic levels as communities sank, rose, and formed a chemotactic band that migrated for metres. The band velocity increased as the community migrated despite non-motile bacterial hitchhikers and up to 10⁶ viruses/ml. Migrating communities left complex residual communities in their wake, showing dynamic taxonomic composition and adaptation through increased migration-associated genes. Approximately 500 species migrated together, competing for dominance. This system offers a superior method for studying band and residual community dynamics, bacterial hitchhiking, viral transport, gene evolution, and survival strategies, revealing cohesive communities that persist over extended distances. Our methods and results provide an experimental foundation for investigating microbial invasion in multiple ecological settings.
Enhancing Supply Chain Visibility and Performance: A Review of Industry 4.0 Enablers
Authors: Emon Md Mehedi Hasan , Khan Tahsina
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This systematic review investigates the implications of Industry 4.0 technologies on supply chain visibility and operational efficiency. The primary aim is to discern the impact of technological integration on contemporary supply chain dynamics.
Design/Methodology/Approach: A comprehensive search strategy identified 67 pertinent studies published between 2015 and 2023. The review adheres to systematic methodologies, employing the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme framework for quality assessment. Data synthesis incorporates qualitative and quantitative analyses to distill key themes and patterns.
Findings: The review unveils the pivotal role of information visibility in fortifying supply chain outcomes, emphasizing the need for a dual investment strategy encompassing technological solutions and a collaborative organizational culture. Regional variations in supply chain practices, insights from humanitarian supply chains, and the influence of environmental factors on agility broaden the understanding of Industry 4.0 implications.
Research Limitations/Implications: The study acknowledges limitations in the geographical focus of the included studies and the evolving nature of Industry 4.0 technologies. These considerations prompt a call for ongoing research to capture emerging trends and global nuances.
Practical Implications: Organizations are urged to adopt a context-specific, adaptive approach, recognizing the significance of intangible assets and tailoring strategies to local contexts for optimal supply chain performance.
Originality/Value: This systematic review contributes a nuanced understanding of Industry 4.0's transformative potential in supply chain management, emphasizing the interplay between technology, organizational culture, and regional contexts.
A New Approach of a Path Tracking System of a Differential Drive Robot for An Arbitrary Set of Waypoints Using Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Asham Amin Danial
Published: September 2024

Autonomous differential-drive robots are typically controlled to follow a desired path. This path may be defined by a continuous curve or set of waypoints. A few studies have examined cases in which a path is defined by an arbitrary set of waypoints. This paper introduces a new approach to a path-tracking system for an arbitrary set of waypoints using a sliding mode control (SMC) system. This approach is based on the nonlinear kinematic model of the tracking error derived in this study for a differential-drive robot. Based on the derived error model, a sliding mode controller is introduced to drive the tracking error to zero. The stability of the system was also investigated. In addition, the effects of robot dynamics were incorporated into the proposed controller without prior knowledge of the exact parameters of the robot. Simulations were conducted to compare the proposed control system with a widely used approach to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller. The proposed technique was verified through real-time experimental tests using a differential drive robot.
Relationship between Social Media and Body Dysmorphia - Meta-analysis
Authors: J Monisha , AS Niyathi , Anthony Madalaimuthu
Published: September 2024

The current research aimed to study the relationship between social media and body dysmorphia. This paper adopted a systematic review process to synthesize existing studies published in peer-reviewed journals, from the Pub Med and Google Scholar search engines. Social media and body dysmorphia were used as keywords to conduct a systematic search. The inclusion criteria required the study to be quantitative and include sample size and correlation coefficient, which were based on the selection of research articles from 2013–2023. Qualitative studies or articles lacking correlation coefficients were excluded. After refining the articles, 20 studies were exported to Jamovi, using the MAJOR module, and a meta-analysis was carried out. The PRISMA model was used for sample selection to report the study process and findings. The analysis revealed that social media and body dysmorphia were positively related to heterogeneous effect size. The study also revealed that self-objectification, compulsive online behaviour, and body dysmorphia were significantly related. Further research is required for screening assessment techniques, emphasizing the necessity for body image and media literacy initiatives to address the influence of social media.
Response of Hydroponic Tomato Yield and Yield-correlated Morphological Characteristics to Constant or Growth Stage-based Nutrient Management Strategies
Authors: Dunn Ronnie J. , Nattrass Michael
Published: September 2024

In the United States, the annual revenue attributable to tomato production is $1 billion. However, tomato production can cause negative environmental impacts, such as water pollution, often in the form of eutrophication-causing nutrient pollution. Hydroponic production can decrease excess nutrient leaching; however, optimization of nutrient management and cultivar choices could further decrease excess nutrient discharges. The objectives of this study were as follows: to evaluate and compare the responses of tomato growth characteristics, yield, and yield components to two nutrient management regimes (varying nutrient solution concentrations by growth stage and the use of a constant nutrient solution concentration from transplant to termination), and to analyze the effects of growth habits among six cultivars (Big Beef, Cherokee Purple, Heatmaster, Legend, Mountain Fresh Plus, and Tropic) on tomato yield and yield-correlated morphological characteristics. The nutrient management strategies were applied to tomato plants, and data regarding yield and related morphological characteristics were obtained. Data were analyzed using SAS PROC GLM. An analysis revealed no significant difference in the total fruit weight/plant between nutrient management regimes (P = 0.05); however, the mean fruit weight (164.26 g) and diameter (71.70 mm) were significantly greater (P < 0.0001) for plants that received the constant concentration nutrient regime. Indeterminate plants had a significantly greater (P < 0.0001) mean fruit weight (192.76 g) and mean fruit diameter (76.42 mm). Among cultivars, Big Beef had a significantly greater (P < 0.05) total fruit weight/plant (9.25 kg). Applying a constant nutrient concentration to indeterminate cultivars, particularly Big Beef and Cherokee Purple, improved the factors analyzed and could decrease negative environmental impacts while increasing profits of the producers.