bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the effectiveness of methods for the selection of sperm with increased DNA fragmentation in ART cycles
Authors: Leontyeva Eugene , Kim Alena , Zastavskiy Ivan , Yakhyarova Mukhabbat , Polumiskov Vadim
Published: April 2024

Sperm DNA stability is significant in male infertility and favorable reproductive outcomes. Increased DNA fragmentation in spermatozoa can negatively affect the fertilization potential and the kinetics of embryo development. The study aimed to compare traditional and improved high-SDF sperm selection methods and evaluate their impact on the embryological parameters of ART programs.The study included 114 ICSI cycles that used different advanced approaches to sperm selection, including traditional ICSI (control group), magnetic-activated sperm selection, morphological ICSI, and physiological ICSI. The software GraphPad Prism 9.5.1 was used to perform the statistical analysis. The criterion for significance was established at a level of P≤0.05. According to the results, magnetic, physiological, and morphological selection did not increase the fertilization frequency (p=0.1020; p>0.9999; p>0.9999). Magnetic-activated selection of sperm increases the yield of good-quality blastocysts compared to the control group (p = 0.0222); this trend was not observed for physiological and magnetic selection (p > 0.9999; p > 0.9999). The formation of blastocysts of any quality did not exhibit any notable variations (p=0.4139; p>0.999; p>0.999). Among the strategies for selecting sperm with increased DNA fragmentation, magnetic selection is a priority approach for obtaining good-quality blastocysts.
Unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) exposure to zebrafish embryos causes lethal and severe teratogenic effects
Authors: Suvorova Mariya , Sailaubekova Pakizat , Biyasheva Zarema , Zharkova Irina , Abdullayeva Bagila
Published: April 2024

The assessment of lethal and teratogenic effects of unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) using zebrafish embryo toxicity test for 72 h was performed. Following UDMH concentrations were studied for embryotoxic effects: 0.64M, 0.13M, 0.06M, 0.04M, 5x10-3M and 1,7x10-3M after 3 h embryo exposure to UDMH at 7-10 hpf. It was shown that high UDMH concentrations (0,64М, 0,13М, and 0,06М) possess significant embryotoxic action to D.rerio embryos followed by concentration-dependent embryo lysis. 0.04M UDMH and vapors caused severe teratogenic effects and growth retardation prior to hatching resulted in embryo mortality to 48 hpf and 72 hpf, respectively. Zebrafish embryos exposure to low UDMH concentrations of 5x10-3M and 1,7x10-3M caused no significant lethal, but pronounced teratogenic effect (in latter case accumulated from 24 to 72 hpf), with observed malformations of spinal cord and tail tip, yolk sac and pericardial edemas, hypopigmentation. Thus short term 3 h. exposure of D.rerio embryos to UDMH at gastrulation stage induces alterations that further revealed themselves throughout embryonic development causing dose-dependent lethal and teratogenic effects.
Chemical composition and biological uses of Artemisia schrenkiana Ledeb
Authors: Syraiyl Sayagul , Ydyrys Alibek , Askerbay Gulnaz , Aitbekov Rinat
Published: April 2024

This article presents an analysis of the medicinal plants found in the domestic flora, emphasizing the significance of Artemisia schrenkiana Ledeb., which thrives in the southeastern region of Kazakhstan. The study aimed to identify the primary groups of biologically active compounds present in this plant species. The results revealed the presence of various compounds, including extractive substances (29.57%), coumarins (0.135%), carbohydrates (2.32%), tannins (10.06%), and amino acids (1.45%). Additionally, a total of 12 amino acids were identified. Notably, Artemisia schrenkiana Ledeb. exhibited significant levels of flavonoids (142.1±2.1mg CAE/g) and phenolic compounds (265.01±1.2mg GAE/g) among other constituents. These bioactive compounds contribute to the plant’s pharmacological properties, encompassing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. Consequently, Artemisia schrenkiana Ledeb. holds promise as a valuable medicinal plant for combating various diseases. In summary, Artemisia schrenkiana Ledeb. emerges as a promising candidate for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes due to its diverse array of bioactive compounds. Continued investigation into its properties and potential applications is warranted to harness its full medicinal potential effectively.
Application of nanomaterials for the removal of heavy metals from wastewater
Authors: Kaur Hardeep , Athwal Shinar
Published: April 2024

Heavy metals ions like mercury, copper, zinc, lead etc. are found in the environment as they are released by various industries directly or indirectly into the soil and water leading to the adverse effects on the nature and its entities so it is a matter of concern which needs immediate attention. These metal ions should be removed from the wastewater via effective methods to protect further contamination caused by it. Heavy metals are noxious substances and, when found in water, lead to adverse effects on humans and the environment. Nanotechnology offers a better treatment method to remove heavy metals from wastewater. The nanomaterials exhibit better adsorption, with significant repeatability to adsorb the heavy metals. This review investigates the prominent mechanisms involved in removing heavy metals from the wastewater such as Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich models followed by the nanomaterials employed for the adsorption purpose. Moreover, the removal of various heavy metal ions has been discussed. Thus, nanotechnology has proven to remarkably remove heavy metals from wastewater with zero or less toxic effects on the environment. This review gives a clear insight into the application of advance nanomaterials and their role in the removal of heavy metals through the process of adsorption.
Nanostructured boron carbon nitride as a visible light-driven catalyst for efficient wastewater treatment
Authors: Kaur Manjot , Sharma Neha , Kumar Akshay
Published: April 2024

To address environmental concerns, there is a need for affordable and efficient photocatalysts to eliminate harmful and cancer-causing dyes from industries, which pose a risk to both humans and marine ecosystems. Boron carbon nitride (BCN) has high potential as a semiconductor photocatalyst for degrading dyes and organic materials. This study focused on the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) using BCN. BCN effectively degraded MB, achieving the highest degradation efficiency of 62.93% in 120 minutes at a BCN catalyst dose of 0.5 g/L. Furthermore, BCN show stability as photocatalyst for MB degradation up to 5 cycles. This study suggests a plan to create photocatalysts based on BCN nanomaterials for the purpose of breaking down noxious organic pollutants found in wastewater and for various environmental remediation purposes.
Biodegradable polymer nanocomposites for active food packaging
Authors: Roy Soumili , Singh Kulwinder , Kumar Abhishek
Published: April 2024

Biodegradable polymer nanocomposites have gained attention in recent years owing to their antimicrobial activity. The article summarizes recent developments in improving antimicrobial, mechanical and barrier properties of biodegradable polymers chitosan, cellulose, gelatin and starch. ZnO, TiO2, reduced graphene oxide and silver reinforced biodegradable polymer nanocomposites exhibit improved tensile strength due to intercalation of nanomaterials into the polymer matrices. Silver nanoparticle reinforced polymer nanocomposites have shown significant antimicrobial properties against various strains of bacteria and fungi. Although, development of antimicrobial nanomaterials embedded packaging films has helped to augment shelf-life of food, leakage of nanomaterials into the packaged food remains an area of concern.
Green synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and their antimicrobial applications
Authors: Kaur Jasmeen , Soni Himanshi , Acevedo Roberto , Verma Meenakshi
Published: April 2024

The exceptional antibacterial properties of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and their prospective uses in different fields have attracted a lot of interest in contemporary times. The chemical agents used in the preparation of Ag NPs are hazardous to human health and the environment. In contrast to chemical approaches, green synthesis techniques involve the use of natural resources, which accomplish the principles of green chemistry and sustainable development goals (SDGs). In this regard, this review article delves into a comprehensive analysis of the green synthesis methods employed for the production of Ag NPs and their utilization as diverse antimicrobial agents. In addition to exploring the many antimicrobial uses of Ag NPs production, this article attempts to give a thorough examination of the processes behind the antibacterial activity of Ag NPs. This review provides in-depth mechanisms of antimicrobial action, including rupture of membranes, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and disruption of cellular functions. Thus, this article explores recent insights into green synthesis approaches for the preparation of Ag NPs which are effectively utilized as antimicrobial agents.
Advancements in microneedle-based drug delivery systems: A painless revolution in transdermal medicine
Authors: Kaur Rajwant , Arora Vimal
Published: April 2024

This comprehensive manuscript explores the forefront of innovation in microneedle-based drug delivery systems, heralding a paradigm shift in the realm of transdermal medicine. It meticulously examines the landscape of available drug delivery systems, offering a deep dive into their fabrication techniques and providing an exhaustive classification of microneedles in all their diverse forms. Going beyond mere description, the study navigates the vast terrain of biomedical applications, shedding light on both the remarkable potential and the inherent limitations of microneedles. By critically examining the pitfalls and challenges in this field, the manuscript underscores the pivotal role of microneedles in revolutionizing the landscape of painless drug administration. The article culminates with a forward-looking perspective, discussing current applications and illuminating the transformative impact microneedle-based drug delivery systems are poised to make on healthcare practices. As transdermal drug delivery systems gain increasing attention for their unique advantages over conventional administration methods, this review serves as an indispensable resource summarizing the latest developments and emerging trends, catering to the research and business communities alike. It paves the way for a future where microneedles redefine how we administer medication, making it virtually painless and more precise.
Brassica oleracea var.acephala of kashmir as a promising candidate for improvement of lipid profile associated with hyperglycemia through in vivo study in male albino rats
Authors: Shafi Shabnum , Dhiman Sunny , Mukherjee Gunjan
Published: April 2024

Diabetes mellitus commonly considered as clandestine killer is a metabolic disorder that affects people all over the world and is a silent killer. A variety of treatments are available, including insulin and oral anti-diabetic medications for regulating blood sugar levels in the body but every treatment option has certain unfavorable side effects that might cause abnormalities with the macro and microvascular systems in the human body. Kale (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) from the brassica family is gaining popularity due to its phytochemical content and ability to prevent many ailments, notably those brought on by oxidative stress. The current study assessed Brassica oleracea var acephala of the UT of Kashmir locally known as khanyari as it is loaded with various bioactive substances including total phenols, flavonoids, and glucosinolates that impart antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. Kale(K-29) showed impressive results in normalizing the blood glucose levels(102.30mg/dl) as well as improving the lipid profile such as cholesterol(76.22mg/dl), HDL(36.4mg/dl), LDL(36.1mg/dl), VLDL(21.2mg/dl) and triglycerides(85.40mg/dl) that is usually accompanied with hyperglycemia. The treatment of K-29 also showed improvisation in the various hepatic parameters such as S.G.P.T(91.14), S.G.O.T (41.18), Alkaline phosphatase (102.32U/L), Albumin (6.12g/dl), S. bilirubin direct(0.6mg/dl), S. bilirubin indirect(0.43mg/dl).
A brief review on the nanomaterials-based detection of CKD biomarkers
Authors: Bhatt Poornima , Kukkar Deepak
Published: April 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) imposes a significant worldwide medical burden, exacerbated by the often limited efficacy of current treatments. The future prevention and management of CKD critically rely on early detection and effective intervention. Nanomaterials (NMs), such as fluorescence carbon dots (CDs), quantum dots (QDs), and metal-based NMs, emerge as unique and highly sensitive probe materials expected to play a substantial role in the precise identification of CKD biomarkers. NMs’ design makes it possible to manage properties including size, shape, charge, and targeting ligands, which enhances the biological compatibility and availability of medicines. Consequently, the rise of NMs in medicine has brought about fresh approaches to CKD diagnosis. This review explores the utility of the NMs for the rapid identification of CKD biomarkers.
Electrochemical detection of ofloxacin with MoS2/RGO composite sensor
Authors: Mohit  , Bhardwaj Vineet , Thakur Kamal Kishor
Published: April 2024

This work presents the development and utilization of a MoS2/RGO nanocomposite sensor for the quantification of ofloxacin. The fabrication of this sensor is based on the combination of graphite oxide and MoS2 as fundamental components. The special shape ordered atomic arrangement, and flatness of the MoS2/RGO nanocomposite have made the sensor more sensitive and able to detect smaller amounts of the target substance. Cyclic voltammetry was employed in the sensing investigation, where the relationship between current and potential was explored using a modified glassy carbon electrode. The data explicitly demonstrates that MoS2/RGO exhibits a substantially higher peak current (22.0–33.9 µA) and considerably lower overpotential (0.27–0.12 V) compared to MoS2 alone. This translates to a significant enhancement in sensitivity (89.89 A/cm²) and detection limit (18.89 µM) for MoS2/RGO. These remarkable improvements are attributed to the nanocomposite's facilitated charge transfer, increased specific surface area, and superior conductivity.
Separating live and dead yeast cells in a serpentine microchannel using Dielectrophoresis
Authors: Puri Paridhi , Sharma Shobha , Garg Divya
Published: April 2024

Separation techniques and particle manipulation has always been a matter of curiosity to research groups worldwide for numerous biomedical applications like cell concentration, separation, patterning, and trapping. The present work describes the fabrication and testing for constant cell separation using Dielectrophoresis phenomenon. The cells with different electric properties separate continuously at different location as they flow across the channel. Known mixture of non viable and viable yeast cells is selectively trapped using negative Dielectrophoresis. We achieved the cell trapping efficiency of 98%. A serpentine structure in the cell separation device appears to be a design choice that addresses the need for continuous separation and improved efficiency by minimizing dead volume.
Experimental study on the strength properties of concrete modified with silica fume and steel fiber
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammadullah , Lallotra Balwinder
Published: April 2024

Concrete is a widely used building material. It has excellent compressive strength but is brittle and relatively weak in tension. This experimental study aims to develop ductile and high-strength concrete by incorporating silica fume and steel fibers. Two types of steel fibers with aspect ratios of 52 and 72 were employed at varying percentages (0.44%, 0.88%, and 1.76% by mass of cement content). Additionally, 8.5% silica fume by cement mass was added to the concrete mixture. A water-to-cement (W/C) ratio of 0.42 and a slump of 100 mm are maintained. Substituting cement with silica fume improves the concrete's mechanical properties and elastic modulus. Moreover, adding steel fibers enhanced flexural and tensile strength. Increasing the percentage of silica fume and steel fibers correlated with higher compressive strength, while the aspect ratio of steel fibers has an inverse effect on compressive strength, with lower aspect ratios exhibiting a higher compressive strength. Furthermore, as the percentage of silica fume and steel fibers increases, the splitting tensile and flexural strength also improve, with the aspect ratio directly influencing these strengths, higher aspect ratios resulting in superior tensile and flexural strength. Ultimately, this investigation demonstrates that the strength properties of concrete rely on the content of silica fume, steel fibers, and the aspect ratio of the steel fibers.
Antiferroelectric Lead based Perovskite Material properties andapplications: A Review
Authors: Chaudhary Shristi , Devi Sheela , Jindal Shilpi
Published: April 2024

In this review paper, the discussion is about some of the lead based antiferroelectric (AFE) perovskite materials. The antiferroelectric perovskite materials mainly lead zirconate (PZ) and lead zirconate titanate (PZT) prepared by solid state reaction route with their structure change at different concentrations, phase transition, their dielectric properties ormore. These materials caught the attention of the researchers because of their use in high energy storage devices, pyroelectric devices, sensors, cooling devices, pulse power generators and have many more applications. The reason could be their electric field phase transformation between the antiferroelectric (AFE) state and ferroelectric (FE) state and the phase switching property can be one of the strong factors responsible for the performance of the PZ based materials. Thecentral focus of this review is to briefly explain the continuous increase in research in the antiferroelectric materials by enhancing the PZ with many dopants. We mainly address PZ and PZT solid solution properties.
On technological solutions for recycling of recycling of polymer waste: A review
Authors: Mankotia Karan , Singh Chohan Jasgurpreet , Singh Rupinder
Published: April 2024

In the past few decades (after the industrial revolution) the pollution caused by polymers has become a matter of concern and recycling of polymers as a solution has attracted global attention. Several studies were conducted in the context of polymer recycling, but hitherto little has been reportedon the impact of technological solutions for recycling polymer waste and its effect on the economy andenvironment. In the present study, different polymer recycling techniques have been outlined in a comprehensive manner along with the effect of recycling on the economy and environment. Also, bibliographic analysis was performed to understand possible research gaps.
Radio Absorbing Material for Next-Generation Wireless Devices
Authors: Singh Harbinder
Published: April 2024

Electrical and computer circuits are particularly susceptible to interference from a wide range of human or natural factors. Interference can occur as noise on communication equipment, flashing over televisions and computer monitors, errors in instrumentation, computer network compatibility problems, and electronic malfunctions. Material absorption and safety serve as a shield to prevent the intrusion of the radio wave from getting through critical components and ensure that electrical circuits perform as planned. Since radio frequency interference can also contribute to damage to infrastructure, proper safety and absorption can greatly increase the service life of electrical and electronic equipment. This paper presents a holistic view of the basic concepts of electromagnetic analysis and developments in radio absorbing materials.
Wärmeerhalt bei liegenden Patienten in kalter Umgebung
Authors: Lechner Raimund , Isser Markus , Paal Peter
Published: April 2024

Eine Unterkühlung ist ein häufiges alpinmedizinisches Problem, welches als alleiniges Krankheitsbild oder zusätzlich zu anderen Erkrankungen oder Verletzungen im Gebirge vorkommen kann. Eine akzidentelle Hypothermie (ungewollte Abkühlung auf < 35 °C Körperkerntemperatur) erhöht die Morbidität und Mortalität deutlich, weshalb eine frühzeitige und konsequente Prävention erfolgen sollte [1. Bei gehfähigen Patienten kann mithilfe einer Rettungsdecke der Wärmeverlust gesenkt werden, ohne dadurch die eigenständige Mobilität einzubüßen. Etabliert haben sich hier die Windeltechnik [2 oder der Tiroler Wrap [3. Der Tiroler Wrap bietet den Vorteil einer besseren Abdeckung des vorderen Körperstamms.
Gene Therapy in Hemophilia A: Achievements, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Bala Natasha S. , Thornburg Courtney D.
Published: April 2024

Strides in advancements of care of persons with hemophilia include development of long-acting factor replacement therapies, novel substitution and hemostatic rebalancing agents, and most recently approved gene therapy. Several decades of preclinical and clinical trials have led to development of adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated gene transfer for endogenous production of factor VIII (FVIII) in hemophilia A (HA). Only one gene therapy product for HA (valoctocogene roxaparvovec) has been approved by regulatory authorities. Results of valoctocogene roxaparvovec trial show significant improvement in bleeding rates and use of factor replacement therapy; however, sustainability and duration of response show variability with overall decline in FVIII expression over time. Further challenges include untoward adverse effects involving liver toxicity requiring immunosuppression and development of neutralizing antibodies to AAV vector rendering future doses ineffective. Real-life applicability of gene therapy for HA will require appropriate patient screening, infrastructure setup, long-term monitoring including data collection of patient-reported outcomes and innovative payment schemes. This review article highlights the success and development of HA gene therapy trials, challenges including adverse outcomes and variability of response, and perspectives on approach to gene therapy including shared decision-making and need for future strategies to overcome the several unmet needs.
Life-history of masked water snakes (Homalopsis buccata) in Java: implications for the sustainability of harvesting
Authors: Arida Evy , Maireda Noor Laina , Herlambang Alamsyah Elang Nusa , Mumpuni   , Riyanto Awal , Hamidy Amir , Shine Richard , Natusch Daniel J. D.
Published: April 2024

Context Masked water snakes (Homalopsis buccata, Homalopsidae) thrive in the muddy edges of agricultural ponds and canals in densely populated areas of West Java, Indonesia, and are harvested by local farmers to protect fish stocks and to provide meat, skins, and medicines for commercial use. Aims Here, we aimed to quantify sexual dimorphism and reproductive biology of H. buccata, so as to deepen our knowledge of the species’ inherent ability to withstand commercial harvests. Methods We examined carcasses of 4286 snakes at six processing sites to quantify biological attributes (e.g. sexual dimorphism in body size and shape, seasonality of reproduction, fecundity, reproductive frequency), with emphasis on traits that affect the ability of snake populations to withstand this intensive harvesting. Key results The snakes we examined were primarily adults (<1% juvenile), with approximately equal numbers of males and females except in January (when females comprised >90% of specimens). Females grow larger than males, and they are more heavy-bodied but shorter-tailed than are males of the same snout–vent length. Reproduction is seasonal in both sexes, with testis volumes decreasing to a minimum over the period August to November (late dry season) when most adult-size females were gravid. Litter sizes ranged from 1 to 37 (mean 12), increasing with maternal body size, with ~75% of females reproducing each year. Conclusions On the basis of these results, we infer that the life history of H. buccata (viviparity, high fecundity, frequent reproduction, rapid maturation) renders it inherently resilient to harvesting, especially because that offtake is based on males as well as females. Because a lack of sustainability is evident only in hindsight, regular monitoring of the trade could assure that any problems are detected rapidly. Implications To further buffer these populations from the impact of harvest, hunting could be restricted during January (a time when gravid females are disproportionately vulnerable) and the largest snakes (females, with high fecundity and reproductive frequency) could be excluded from harvests.
A survey of chromosomal instability measures across mechanistic models
Authors: Lynch Andrew R. , Bradford Shermineh , Zhou Amber S. , Oxendine Kim , Henderson Les , Horner Vanessa L. , Weaver Beth A. , Burkard Mark E.
Published: April 2024

Chromosomal instability (CIN) is the persistent reshuffling of cancer karyotypes via chromosome mis-segregation during cell division. In cancer, CIN exists at varying levels that have differential effects on tumor progression. However, mis-segregation rates remain challenging to assess in human cancer despite an array of available measures. We evaluated measures of CIN by comparing quantitative methods using specific, inducible phenotypic CIN models of chromosome bridges, pseudobipolar spindles, multipolar spindles, and polar chromosomes. For each, we measured CIN fixed and timelapse fluorescence microscopy, chromosome spreads, six-centromere FISH, bulk transcriptomics, and single-cell DNA sequencing (scDNAseq). As expected, microscopy of tumor cells in live and fixed samples significantly correlated (R = 0.72;
P
< 0.001) and sensitively detect CIN. Cytogenetics approaches include chromosome spreads and 6-centromere FISH, which also significantly correlate (R = 0.76;
P
< 0.001) but had limited sensitivity for lower rates of CIN. Bulk genomic DNA signatures and bulk transcriptomic scores, CIN70 and HET70, did not detect CIN. By contrast, scDNAseq detects CIN with high sensitivity, and significantly correlates with imaging methods (R = 0.82;
P
< 0.001). In summary, single-cell methods such as imaging, cytogenetics, and scDNAseq can measure CIN, with the latter being the most comprehensive method accessible to clinical samples. To facilitate the comparison of CIN rates between phenotypes and methods, we propose a standardized unit of CIN: Mis-segregations per Diploid Division. This systematic analysis of common CIN measures highlights the superiority of single-cell methods and provides guidance for measuring CIN in the clinical setting.
The time course of feature-selective attention inside and outside the focus of spatial attention
Authors: Andersen Søren K. , Hillyard Steven A.
Published: April 2024

Research on attentional selection of stimulus features has yielded seemingly contradictory results. On the one hand, many experiments in humans and animals have observed a “global” facilitation of attended features across the entire visual field, even when spatial attention is focused on a single location. On the other hand, several event-related potential studies in humans reported that attended features are enhanced at the attended location only. The present experiment demonstrates that these conflicting results can be explained by differences in the timing of attentional allocation inside and outside the spatial focus of attention. Participants attended to fields of either red or blue randomly moving dots on either the left or right side of fixation with the task of detecting brief coherent motion targets. Recordings of steady-state visual evoked potentials elicited by the flickering stimuli allowed concurrent measurement of the time course of feature-selective attention in visual cortex on both the attended and the unattended sides. The onset of feature-selective attentional modulation on the attended side occurred around 150 ms earlier than on the unattended side. This finding that feature-selective attention is not spatially global from the outset but extends to unattended locations after a temporal delay resolves previous contradictions between studies finding global versus hierarchical selection of features and provides insight into the fundamental relationship between feature-based and location-based (spatial) attention mechanisms.
“Almost a mother tongue”
Authors: Miles William F. S.
Published: April 2024

Passage of Israel’s Jewish nationality law in 2018 shined more than usual light on the Druze citizens of Israel.
It put into painful question their integration into Israeli society. Key to that integration is Druze mastery of the Jewish
State’s official language; hence the question, “How do Israeli Druze learn Hebrew?” The answer is multivariable: pedagogy, gender,
bilingualism, technology, religion, conscription, and socialization are all factors. Druze mastery of Hebrew through the IDF is
being replaced by formal language education. This is reinforced through growing participation of Druze females in Israeli
institutions. Arabic being the maternal tongue of Druze, unlike among the nation’s Jewish majority Hebrew surpasses English as
their second language. Increasing use of social/digital media in Hebrew, particularly among the young, reinforces the bilingual
identity of Israeli Druze. So do Hebrew language textbooks, which “Israelize” Druze by teaching about Judaism and emphasizing
similarities between Jewish and Druze traditions.
Apple stem grooving virus
Authors: CABI  , EPPO
Published: April 2024

A new distribution map is provided for Apple stem grooving virus Betaflexiviridae: Capillovirus Hosts: apple (Malus spp.), pear (Pyrus spp.), Prunus spp. and Citrus spp.
Avocado sunblotch viroid
Authors: CABI  , EPPO
Published: April 2024

A new distribution map is provided for Avocado sunblotch viroid Avsunviroidae: Avsunviroid Host: avocado (
Persea americana
).
Ralstonia syzygii subsp. celebesensis Safni et al.
Authors: CABI  , EPPO
Published: April 2024

A new distribution map is provided for Ralstonia syzygii subsp. celebesensis Safni et al. Betaproteobacteria: Burkholderiales: Burkholderiaceae Host: Musa spp.
Xiphinema bricolense Ebsary, Vrain & Graham
Authors: CABI  , EPPO
Published: April 2024

A new distribution map is provided for Xiphinema bricolense Ebsary, Vrain & Graham Enoplea: Dorylaimida: Longidoridae Host: Undetermined but probably polyphagous.
When Adventure Doesn’t Fit: Size Inclusion in the Outdoors
Authors: Olsen Richelle
Published: April 2024

From hiking the slopes of Mount Everest and mountain biking from Canada to Mexico, to starting my own body positive adventure organisation, I share my adventure journey as a woman in a plus size body, mapping my way to find acceptance, identity and a sense of belonging in the outdoors. Facing the ongoing struggle to find adventure clothing that fits bodies like mine, I explore the ideas of inclusion, safety, and the improved experience that comes from gear that fits. I question the lack of diversity in advertising and the notion that you need to go far, go fast, and look a certain way to be adventurous.

Information

© CAB International 2024
Mott Gap Filling by Doping Electrons through Depositing One Sub-Monolayer Thin Film of Rb on Ca2CuO2Cl2
Authors: Li 李 Han 寒 , Wang 王 Zhaohui 朝晖 , Fan 范 Shengtai 圣泰 , Li 李 Huazhou 华州 , Yang 杨 Huan 欢 , Wen 闻 Haihu 海虎
Published: April 2024

Understanding the doping evolution from a Mott insulator to a superconductor probably holds the key to resolve the mystery of unconventional superconductivity in copper oxides. To elucidate the evolution of the electronic state starting from the Mott insulator, we dose the surface of the parent phase Ca2CuO2Cl2 by depositing Rb atoms, which are supposed to donate electrons to the CuO2 planes underneath. We successfully achieved the Rb sub-monolayer thin films in forming the square lattice. The scanning tunneling microscopy or spectroscopy measurements on the surface show that the Fermi energy is pinned within the Mott gap but close to the edge of the charge transfer band. In addition, an in-gap state appears at the bottom of the upper Hubbard band (UHB), and the Mott gap will be significantly diminished. Combined with the Cl defect and the Rb adatom/cluster results, the electron doping is likely to increase the spectra weight of the UHB for the double occupancy. Our results provide information to understand the electron doping to the parent compound of cuprates.
Evidence for reversible oxygen ion movement during electrical pulsing: enabler of emerging ferroelectricity in binary oxides
Authors: Liu Huan , Yu Fei , Chen Bing , Luo Zheng-Dong , Chen Jiajia , Zhang Yong , Feng Ze , Dong Hong , Yu Xiao , Liu Yan , Han Genquan , Hao Yue
Published: April 2024

Ferroelectric HfO2-based materials and devices show promising potential for applications in information technology but face challenges with inadequate electrostatic control, degraded reliability, and serious variation in effective oxide thickness scaling. We demonstrate a novel interface-type switching strategy to realize ferroelectric characteristics in atomic-scale amorphous binary oxide films, which are formed in oxygen-deficient conditions by atomic layer deposition at low temperatures. This approach can avoid the shortcomings of reliability degradation and gate leakage increment in scaling polycrystalline doped HfO2-based films. Using theoretical modeling and experimental characterization, we show the following. (1) Emerging ferroelectricity exists in ultrathin oxide systems as a result of microscopic ion migration during the switching process. (2) These ferroelectric binary oxide films are governed by an interface-limited switching mechanism, which can be attributed to oxygen vacancy migration and surface defects related to electron (de)trapping. (3) Transistors featuring ultrathin amorphous dielectrics, used for non-volatile memory applications with an operating voltage reduced to ±1 V, have also been experimentally demonstrated. These findings suggest that this strategy is a promising approach to realizing next-generation complementary metal-oxide semiconductors with scalable ferroelectric materials.
Development and validation of risk prediction model for recurrent cardiovascular events among Chinese: the Personalized CARdiovascular DIsease risk Assessment for Chinese model
Authors: Zhou Yekai , Lin Celia Jiaxi , Yu Qiuyan , Blais Joseph Edgar , Wan Eric Yuk Fai , Lee Marco , Wong Emmanuel , Siu David Chung-Wah , Wong Vincent , Chan Esther Wai Yin , Lam Tak-Wah , Chui William , Wong Ian Chi Kei , Luo Ruibang , Chui Celine Sze Ling
Published: April 2024

Aims

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality, especially in developing countries. This study aimed to develop and validate a CVD risk prediction model, Personalized CARdiovascular DIsease risk Assessment for Chinese (P-CARDIAC), for recurrent cardiovascular events using machine learning technique.

Methods and results

Three cohorts of Chinese patients with established CVD were included if they had used any of the public healthcare services provided by the Hong Kong Hospital Authority (HA) since 2004 and categorized by their geographical locations. The 10-year CVD outcome was a composite of diagnostic or procedure codes with specific International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification. Multivariate imputation with chained equations and XGBoost were applied for the model development. The comparison with Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction Risk Score for Secondary Prevention (TRS-2°P) and Secondary Manifestations of ARTerial disease (SMART2) used the validation cohorts with 1000 bootstrap replicates. A total of 48 799, 119 672 and 140 533 patients were included in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. A list of 125 risk variables were used to make predictions on CVD risk, of which 8 classes of CVD-related drugs were considered interactive covariates. Model performance in the derivation cohort showed satisfying discrimination and calibration with a C statistic of 0.69. Internal validation showed good discrimination and calibration performance with C statistic over 0.6. The P-CARDIAC also showed better performance than TRS-2°P and SMART2.

Conclusion

Compared with other risk scores, the P-CARDIAC enables to identify unique patterns of Chinese patients with established CVD. We anticipate that the P-CARDIAC can be applied in various settings to prevent recurrent CVD events, thus reducing the related healthcare burden.
Real-world evaluation of an algorithmic machine-learning-guided testing approach in stable chest pain: a multinational, multicohort study
Authors: Oikonomou Evangelos K , Aminorroaya Arya , Dhingra Lovedeep S , Partridge Caitlin , Velazquez Eric J , Desai Nihar R , Krumholz Harlan M , Miller Edward J , Khera Rohan
Published: April 2024

Aims

An algorithmic strategy for anatomical vs. functional testing in suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) (Anatomical vs. Stress teSting decIsion Support Tool; ASSIST) is associated with better outcomes than random selection. However, in the real world, this decision is rarely random. We explored the agreement between a provider-driven vs. simulated algorithmic approach to cardiac testing and its association with outcomes across multinational cohorts.

Methods and results

In two cohorts of functional vs. anatomical testing in a US hospital health system [Yale; 2013–2023; n = 130 196 (97.0%) vs. n = 4020 (3.0%), respectively], and the UK Biobank [n = 3320 (85.1%) vs. n = 581 (14.9%), respectively], we examined outcomes stratified by agreement between the real-world and ASSIST-recommended strategies. Younger age, female sex, Black race, and diabetes history were independently associated with lower odds of ASSIST-aligned testing. Over a median of 4.9 (interquartile range [IQR]: 2.4–7.1) and 5.4 (IQR: 2.6–8.8) years, referral to the ASSIST-recommended strategy was associated with a lower risk of acute myocardial infarction or death (hazard ratioadjusted: 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77–0.85, P < 0.001 and 0.74 [95% CI 0.60–0.90], P = 0.003, respectively), an effect that remained significant across years, test types, and risk profiles. In post hoc analyses of anatomical-first testing in the Prospective Multicentre Imaging Study for Evaluation of Chest Pain (PROMISE) trial, alignment with ASSIST was independently associated with a 17% and 30% higher risk of detecting CAD in any vessel or the left main artery/proximal left anterior descending coronary artery, respectively.

Conclusion

In cohorts where historical practices largely favour functional testing, alignment with an algorithmic approach to cardiac testing defined by ASSIST was associated with a lower risk of adverse outcomes. This highlights the potential utility of a data-driven approach in the diagnostic management of CAD.
Kinship Taxation as an Impediment to Growth: Experimental Evidence from Kenyan Microenterprises
Authors: Squires Munir
Published: April 2024

This paper documents strong pressure to share income faced by entrepreneurs in a developing country setting. This ‘kinship tax’ can distort productive decisions, including investment. A lab experiment with 361 Kenyan entrepreneurs reveals that a third of them face distortionary pressure to share income. This kinship tax is higher for men, and increasing in entrepreneurial ability. Using a pre-existing randomised cash transfer experiment, I find that only male entrepreneurs who do not face distortionary kinship taxation invest these transfers. Imposing some parametric assumptions, I estimate that kinship taxation decreases aggregate productivity among firms in this sample by one-quarter.
A practical guide to living evidence: reducing the knowledge-to-practice gap
Authors: Allida Sabine M , Hackett Maree L , Lindley Richard , Hill Kelvin , Ferguson Caleb
Published: April 2024

Living evidence involves continuous evidence surveillance to incorporate new relevant evidence into systematic reviews and clinical practice guideline recommendations as soon as it becomes available. Thus, living evidence may improve the timeliness of recommendation updates and reduce the knowledge-to-practice gap. When considering a living evidence model, several processes and practical aspects need to be explored. Some of these include identifying the need for a living evidence model, funding, governance structure, time, team skills and capabilities, frequency of updates, approval and endorsement, and publication and dissemination.
Geographical and climatic distribution of lentil-nodulating rhizobia in Iran
Authors: Dolatabad Hossein Kari , Mahjenabadi Vahid Alah Jahandideh
Published: April 2024

Lentil is one of the most important legumes cultivated in various provinces of Iran. However, there is limited information about the symbiotic rhizobia of lentils in this country. In this study, molecular identification of lentil-nodulating rhizobia was performed based on 16S–23S rRNA intergenic spacer (IGS) and recA, atpD, glnII, and nodC gene sequencing. Using PCR-RFLP analysis of 16S–23S rRNA IGS, a total of 116 rhizobia isolates were classified into 20 groups, leaving seven strains unclustered. Phylogenetic analysis of representative isolates revealed that the rhizobia strains belonged to Rhizobium leguminosarum and Rhizobium laguerreae, and the distribution of the species is partially related to geographical location. Rhizobium leguminosarum was the dominant species in North Khorasan and Zanjan, while R. laguerreae prevailed in Ardabil and East Azerbaijan. The distribution of the species was also influenced by agroecological climates; R. leguminosarum thrived in cold semiarid climates, whereas R. laguerreae adapted to humid continental climates. Both species exhibited equal dominance in the Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, in Lorestan and Kohgiluyeh-Boyer Ahmad provinces.
Protection gaps: child soldier rehabilitation and militarized governance in Sri Lanka
Authors: Macfarlane Kate
Published: April 2024

Child soldier disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) practice has a strong normative commitment to protect children from harm and violence. However, there exist policy and research knowledge gaps in comprehending the translation of such norms in meeting the social and protective needs of children. In Sri Lanka from 2009, 594 former child soldiers from the Liberation Tamil Tigers of Elam (LTTE) underwent a national rehabilitation programme. National engagement with international child protection norms could not materialize from a militarized governance framework implemented at the end of the civil war. This article provides a primary source of data based on 45 semi-structured interviews with former boy and girl child soldiers from the LTTE. The Sri Lankan case-study demonstrates that the DDR programme resulted in the re-calibration of social and political control over child and adult participants. Former child soldiers' social and protective needs therefore remain complex and unresolved because of state generated structural violence related to poverty and militarization. The article advances a framework to account for a generational power dynamic of adult–child relations, and the politics of institutionalized protection to account for children's formal rehabilitation and return experiences.
Global AI governance: barriers and pathways forward
Authors: Roberts Huw , Hine Emmie , Taddeo Mariarosaria , Floridi Luciano
Published: April 2024

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), combined with a proliferation in use, have led to a newfound emphasis on strengthening the global governance of AI. In this article, we assess the prospects for stronger global AI governance and consider potential pathways forward. We map the nascent landscape of international regimes focused on AI governance and conclude that a governance deficit remains due to the inadequacy of existing initiatives, gaps in the landscape and difficulties reaching agreement over more appropriate mechanisms. First-order cooperation problems stemming from interstate competition and second-order cooperation problems from dysfunctional international institutions problematize overcoming current deficiencies in global AI governance. In light of these cooperation problems, we evaluate two pathways for strengthening global AI governance: (a) developing new centralized international AI institution(s); and (b) strengthening coordination between, and capacities of, existing institutions. We argue that strengthening the existing weak ‘regime complex’ of international institutions is the more politically legitimate and viable path forward. Improving coordination between, and capacities of, existing international institutions governing AI would support inclusive and mutually reinforcing policy change that can mitigate a range of risks associated with these technologies. As first steps for strengthening the weak AI regime complex, we recommend that the OECD is foregrounded as a centre of expert AI knowledge so that it can facilitate peer pressure among states and harmonization of policies. We also encourage scrutiny of different nodes in the regime complex to ensure that they are fulfilling appropriate functions based on their democratic mandates.
An efficient segmentation model for abnormal chicken droppings recognition based on improved deep dual-resolution network
Authors: He Pengguang , Wu Rui , Liu Da , Dou Jun , Hayat Khawar , Shang Dongmei , Pan Jinming , Lin Hongjian
Published: April 2024

The characteristics of chicken droppings are closely linked to their health status. In prior studies, chicken droppings recognition is treated as an object detection task, leading to challenges in labeling and missed detection due to the diverse shapes, overlapping boundaries, and dense distribution of chicken droppings. Additionally, the use of intelligent monitoring equipment equipped with edge devices in farms can significantly reduce manual labor. However, the limited computational power of edge devices presents challenges in deploying real-time segmentation algorithms for field applications. Therefore, this study redefines the task as a segmentation task, with the main objective being the development of a lightweight segmentation model for the automated monitoring of abnormal chicken droppings. A total of 60 Arbor Acres broilers were housed in 5 specific pathogen-free cages for over 3 wk, and 1650 RGB images of chicken droppings were randomly divided into training and testing sets in an 8:2 ratio to develop and test the model. Firstly, by incorporating the attention mechanism, multi-loss function, and auxiliary segmentation head, the segmentation accuracy of the DDRNet was enhanced. Then, by employing the group convolution and an advanced knowledge-distillation algorithm, a lightweight segmentation model named DDRNet-s-KD was obtained, which achieved a mean Dice coefficient (mDice) of 79.43% and an inference speed of 86.10 frames per second (FPS), showing a 2.91% and 61.2% increase in mDice and FPS compared to the benchmark model. Furthermore, the DDRNet-s-KD model was quantized from 32-bit floating-point values to 8-bit integers and then converted to TensorRT format. Impressively, the weight size of the quantized model was only 13.7 MB, representing an 82.96% reduction compared to the benchmark model. This makes it well-suited for deployment on the edge device, achieving an inference speed of 137.51 FPS on Jetson Xavier NX. In conclusion, the methods proposed in this study show significant potential in monitoring abnormal chicken droppings and can provide an effective reference for the implementation of other agricultural embedded systems.