bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ciprofloxacin Concentrations 100-Fold Lower than the MIC Can Select for Ciprofloxacin Resistance in Neisseria subflava: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Gestels Zina , Kenyon Chris , Abdellati Saïd , Manoharan-Basil Sheeba Santhini
Published: May 2024

Background
Neisseria gonorrhoeae can acquire antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through horizontal gene transfer (HGT) from other Neisseria spp. such as commensals like Neisseria subflava. The prevalence of Neisseria subflava in the oropharynx is close to 100%. Low doses of antimicrobials in food could select for AMR in N. subflava, which could then be transferred to N. gonorrhoeae. In this study, we aimed to determine the lowest concentration of ciprofloxacin that can induce ciprofloxacin resistance (minimum selection concentration – MSC) in N. subflava.
Methods
Neisseria subflava Co000790/2 was serially passaged on GC agar plates containing ciprofloxacin concentrations ranging from 1:100- to 1:10,000-below its ciprofloxacin MIC (0.006 µg/ml) for six days.
Results
After 6 days of serial passaging at ciprofloxacin concentrations 1/100th of the MIC, 24 colonies emerged on the 0.06 µg/ml ciprofloxacin plate. Their ciprofloxacin MICs were between 0.19 to 0.25 µg/ml, and whole genome sequencing revealed a missense mutation T91I in the gyrA gene, which has previously been found to cause reduced susceptibility to fluoroquinolones.
Conclusion
The N. subflava MSCde novo was determined to be 0.06 ng/mL or 1:100 below the MIC. The implications of this finding are that the low concentrations of antibiotics found in certain environmental samples and even the food we eat may be able to select for ciprofloxacin resistance in N. subflava.
Infill Well Location Optimization Method based on Remaining Oil Recoverable Potential Evaluation
Authors: Liu Chen , Feng Qihong , Zhou Wensheng , Li Shanshan , Zhang Xianmin
Published: May 2024

Infill well location optimization poses significant challenges due to its complexity and time-consuming nature. Currently, determining the scope of infill wells relies heavily on field engineers' experience, often using single indices such as remaining oil saturation or abundance of remaining oil reserves to evaluate the potential of remaining oil. However, this approach lacks effectiveness in guiding the precise tapping of remaining oil in ultra-high water cut reservoirs. To address this, our study comprehensively considers factors influencing the recoverable potential of remaining oil in such reservoirs. We characterize differences in reservoir heterogeneity, the scale of recoverable remaining oil reserves, water flooding conditions, and oil-water flow capacity to construct a quantitative evaluation index system for the recoverable potential of remaining oil. Recognizing the varying degrees of influence of different indices on the recoverable potential of remaining oil, we determine the objective weight of each evaluation index by combining an accelerated genetic algorithm with the projection pursuit model. This approach enables the construction of a recoverable potential index for remaining oil and forms a quantitative evaluation method for the recoverable potential of remaining oil in ultra-high water cut reservoirs. Subsequently, we establish a mathematical model for infill well location optimization, integrating and optimizing infill well location coordinates, well length, well inclination angle, and azimuth angle. Using the main layer sand body of an oilfield in Bohai as a case study, we conducted evaluations of remaining oil potential and infill well location optimization. Results demonstrate that the assessment of remaining oil potential comprehensively characterizes the influence of reservoir physical properties and oil-water diversion capacity on remaining oil potential across different regional positions. This evaluation can effectively guide the determination of infill well location ranges based on the evaluation results. Furthermore, further optimization of infill well locations can effectively enhance reservoir development outcomes.
Anisotropic Filtering Based on WY Distribution and Multi-scale Energy Concentration Accumulation Method for Dim and Small Target Enhancement
Authors: Wang Yang , Pan Nian , Jiang Ping
Published: May 2024

In the ground-based infrared optical remote sensing system, the target signal is very weak due to the dynamic strong light background and the movement of small and small targets. In order to improve the limit detection capability, the background suppression and target enhancement methods are required to be more suitable for this scene. To solve this problem, we first analyze the image features in the current scene, and propose a more perfect point target and noise model. Then, we propose a new WY distribution function based on the Fermi Dirac distribution function, and propose an anisotropic filtering method based on this function, and further suppress the back-ground through the difference results of two steps. Then, based on the distribution function, we further designed an energy concentration accumulation strategy in 9 scale directions, through which the SNR of the target is effectively improved and the suppression ability of the background is enhanced. Through quantitative and qualitative experimental analysis, compared with the same type of algorithms, the proposed method has better robustness against extremely weak targets and dynamic backgrounds.
Ricci–Bourguignon Almost Solitons with Special Potential on Sasaki-like Almost Contact Complex Riemannian Manifolds
Authors: MANEV MANCHO
Published: May 2024

Almost contact complex Riemannian manifolds, known also as almost contact B-metric manifolds, are equipped with a pair of pseudo-Riemannian metrics that are mutually associated with each other using the tensor structure. Here we consider a special class of these manifolds, those of the Sasaki-like type. They have an interesting geometric interpretation: the complex cone of such a manifold is a holomorphic complex Riemannian manifold (also called a Kähler–Norden manifold). The basic metric on the considered manifold is specialized here as a soliton, i.e. has an additional curvature property such that the metric is a self-similar solution of an intrinsic geometric flow. Almost solitons are more general objects than solitons because they use functions rather than constants as coefficients in the defining condition. A β -Ricci-Bourguignon-like almost soliton ( β is a real constant) is defined using the pair of metrics. The introduced soliton is a generalization of some well-known (almost) solitons (such as those of Ricci, Schouten, Einstein), which in principle arise from a single metric rather than a pair of metrics. The soliton potential is chosen to be pointwise collinear to the Reeb vector field, or the Lie derivative of any B-metric along the potential to be the same metric multiplied by a function. The resulting manifolds equipped with the introduced almost solitons are characterized geometrically. Appropriate examples for two types of almost solitons are constructed and the properties obtained in the theoretical part are confirmed.
LC-MS Profiling Reveals Metabolic Dynamics in Apis mellifera Worker Bee Larvae–Pupae Transition
Authors: Li Zhen , Zhong Shiqing , Liu Bin , Li Li Zhi , Zhang Hai Bo , Guan Wei Kun , Guo Dongsheng
Published: May 2024

Metabolites present in the hemolymph of honey bees play a crucial role in modulating the metamorphic process within the species. However, the precise alterations in metabolite composition, along with the associated variances and regulatory pathways implicated during the larvae-to-pupae metamorphosis of honey bees, remain incompletely elucidated. In this investigation, we gathered hemolymph samples from honey bee larvae at three distinct physiological stages-feeding, prepupal, and pupae and subjected them to metabolite analysis utilizing the liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) technique. Employing principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), we identified significant differential metabolites and conducted a metabolic pathway analysis on those differentially up-regulated during the prepupal and pupae stages. Notably, metabolites up-regulated in the hemolymph of prepupal stage larvae primarily governed glucose metabolism and fat digestion and absorption, while those in pupae stage larvae were involved in regulating chitin and lipopolysaccharide precursor formation, as well as the biosynthesis of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. These findings bear significant implications for advancing our comprehension of the metamorphic processes in honey bees.
Future-Oriented Methodologies for Inner-Outer Sustainability Assessment: Student Teachers Recognizing IDGs in Higher Education Didactics for Sustainability
Authors: Nordén Birgitta
Published: May 2024

Methodologies for future-oriented research are mutually beneficial to highlight different methodological perspectives and proposals for extending higher education didactics towards sustainability. This study explores how different augmented reality applications can enable new ways of teaching and learning. It systematically investigates how student teachers (n=18) in higher education experienced ongoing realities while designing learning activities for a hybrid conference and interconnecting sustainability knowings via didactic modelling and design thinking. This qualitative study aims to develop a conceptual hybrid framework concerning the implications of student teachers incorporating the design thinking and inner transition into their professional work with future-oriented methodologies on didactic modelling for sustainability commitment. With a qualitative approach data was collected during and after a hackathon-like workshop through student teachers’ reflections, post-workshop surveys, and observation field notes. The thematic analysis shed light on transgressive learning and a transition in sustainability mindset through activation of inner dimensions. Findings reinforcing sustainability commitment evolved around the following categories: being authentic (intra-personal competence), collaborating co-creatively (inter-personal competence), thinking long-term-oriented (futures-thinking competence on implementing didactics understanding), relating with creative confidence (values-thinking competence as embodied engagement), and acting based on perseverant professional knowledge driven change (bridging didactics) by connecting theory-loaded empiricism and empirically loaded theory. The results highlight some of the key features of future-oriented methodologies – and approaches to future-oriented methodologies feature collaboration, boundary crossing and exploration – and show the conditions that can support or hinder methodological development and innovation.
Microbiomes of Two Pest Fly Species of Pennsylvania Mushroom Houses
Authors: Sakamoto Joyce M. , Shikano Ikkei , Rasgon Jason L.
Published: May 2024

Mushroom cultivation vastly improves the yield of mushrooms under optimized, controlled conditions, but may be susceptible to opportunistic colonization by pest species that can establish themselves, as well as the pathogens and pests they may transmit. Here we describe our investigation into the bacterial communities of adult Lycoriella ingenua (Diptera: Sciaridae) and Megaselia halterata (Diptera: Phoridae) collected from button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) production houses in Pennsylvania. We collected adult flies and sequenced the hypervariable v4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA using the Illumina MiSeq. The most abundant bacterial genus detected in both species was Wolbachia, but phylogenetic analysis revealed that the infections are from different clades. Future studies include the characterization of Wolbachia infections on fly behavior and biology, comparison of microbial diversity of fly species colonizing wild mushrooms, and other microbiota that may contribute to the success of certain pest fly species.
Towards a Common Understanding of Gender-Responsive Monitoring and Evaluation for Health Programs and Interventions: Evidence from a Scoping Review
Authors: Kalbarczyk Anna , Krugman Daniel , Elnakib Shatha , Hazel Elizabeth , Luo Amy , Morgan Rosemary
Published: May 2024

Given the many approaches to and definitions of gender responsive monitoring and evaluation (M&E) for health programs and interventions there is a lack of clarity on how to operationalize it including what to measure and how to measure it. We conducted a scoping review to understand what makes M&E gender responsive. We included 31 studies and conducted two rounds of extraction to delineate ways in which gender was integrated into M&E. Twelve articles described the use of theory to guide M&E though most were not related to gender. Twelve articles employed a gender score in data collection, most of which measured Likert scale responses related to gender equity. Even though most studies did not use a specific gender framework, most incorporated gender domains in their analysis. Seven studies used participatory methods in the design and implementation of M&E. Most studies conducted M&E on programs or interventions that were designed to be gender intentional and related to gender issues. Gender responsive M&E intentionally integrates gender into the M&E process, regardless of how gender-intentional the program or intervention is. Gender dimensions can be identified through gender theories, models, scores, and frameworks to inform tool development, data collection, analysis, and stakeholder engagement processes.
Identification of Stage-Specific microRNAs That Govern the Early Stages of Sequential Oral Oncogenesis by Strategically Bridging Genetics and Epigenetics
Authors: Gintoni Iphigenia , Vassiliou Stavros , Chrousos George , Yapijakis Christos
Published: May 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a highly prevalent and aggressive malignancy, with mortality rates that reach 60%, mainly due to an excessive diagnostic delay. MiRNAs, a class of crucial epigenetic gene-expression regulators, have emerged as potential diagnostic biomarkers, with >200 molecules reported to be dysregulated in OSCC. We had previously established an in silico methodology for the identification of the most disease-specific molecules by bridging genetics and epigenetics. Here, we identified the stage-specific miRNAs that govern the asymptomatic early stages of oral tumorigenesis by exploiting the reverse interplay between miRNA-levels and their target-genes’ expression. Incorporating gene expression data from our group’s experimental hamster model of sequential oral oncogenesis, we bioinformatically detected the miRNAs that simultaneously target/regulate >75% of the genes that are characteristically upregulated or downregulated in the consecutive stages of hyperplasia, dysplasia and early-invasion OSCC, while exhibiting the opposite expressional dysregulation in OSCC-derived tissue and/or saliva specimens. We found that all stages share the downregulation of miR-34a-5p, miR124-3p, and miR-125b-5p, while miR-1-3p is underexpressed in dysplasia and early-invasion. Malignant early-invasion stage is distinguished by the downregulation of miR-147a and the overexpression of miR-155-5p, miR-423-3p and miR-34a-5p. The identification of stage-specific miRNA molecules may facilitate their utilization as biomarkers for presymptomatic OSCC diagnosis.
Aflatoxin's Toll on Health: Insights into Human and Animal Impact
Authors: Rai Jai P. , Narware Jeetu , Kumar Ritesh , Kumar Randeep , Pandey Puja , Prakash Nishant , Holkar Somnath K. , Akhtar Nadeem , Bhaskar Sawant Shraddha , Kumar Santosh , Balodi Rekha , Upadhyay Vinod , Chattopadhyay Anirudh , Banerjee Kaushik , Siddiqui Mohammed Wasim , Singh Akoijam Ratankumar , Aravindan S. , Kumari Nisha , Singh Udai B , Ghatak Abhijeet
Published: May 2024

Aflatoxin being a serious threat to public health and international trade, necessi-tates a comprehensive understanding and calculated response with effective inter-vention strategies. This review methodically looks at several aspects of aflatoxin, starting with how it affects international trade laws through feed and feed ingre-dient regulations. Aflatoxin contamination poses serious challenges to world health and the economy, especially in areas that are already at risk. Examining the varia-bles affecting aflatoxin toxicity, the paper clarifies aflatoxin toxicity's complex me-tabolism and the resulting health effects of exposure. The serious repercussions of aflatoxicosis outbreaks and their connections to illnesses like Aspergillosis and cancer are highlighted by a detailed exploration of prospective decontamination techniques as well as strategies for detecting and capturing aflatoxin. A thorough knowledge of the factors that contribute to aflatoxin contamination demonstrates the intricate interactions between environmental variables, farming methods, stor-age circumstances, and different physical, biological, and nutritional components. Strong detection strategies are required due to aflatoxins’ significant effects on an-imal and human health. The paper describes complete preventative tactics that en-compass manipulation in management strategies. global trade and public health from this pervasive threat.
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)-Mediated Antibacterial Oxidative Therapies: Available Methods to Generate ROS and a Novel Option Proposal
Authors: Alfei Silvana , Schito Gian Carlo , Schito Anna Maria , Zuccari Guendalina
Published: May 2024

The increasing emergence of multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogens causes difficult-to-treat infections, with long-term hospitalizations and high incidence of death, thus representing a global public health problem. To manage MDR bacteria bugs, new antimicrobial strategies are necessary, and their introduction in practice is a daily challenge for scientists in the field. An extensively studied approach to treat MDR infections consists in inducing high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by several methods. Although further clinical investigations are mandatory on the possible toxic effects of ROS to mammalian cells, clinical evaluations are extremely promising, and their topical use to treat infected wounds and ulcers, also in presence of biofilm, is already clinically approved. Biochar (BC) is a carbonaceous material obtained by pyrolysis of different vegetable and animal biomass feedstocks, at 200−1000 °C in limited presence of O2. Recently, it has been demonstrated that BC capability of removing organic and inorganic xenobiotics is mainly due to the presence of persistent free radicals (PFRs), which can activate oxygen, H2O2 or persulfate in the presence or not of transition metals by electron transfer thus generating ROS, which in turn degrade pollutants by advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). In this context, the antibacterial effects of BC containing PFRs have been demonstrated by some authors against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, thus giving birth to our idea of the possible use of BC-derived PFRs as a novel method capable of inducing ROS generation for antimicrobial oxidative therapy. Here, the general aspects concerning ROS physiological and pathological production and regulation, and the mechanism by which they could exert antimicrobial effects have been reviewed. The methods currently adopted to induce ROS production for antimicrobial oxidative therapy have been discussed. Finally, for the first time, BC-related PFRs have been proposed as a new source of ROS for antimicrobial therapy via AOPs.
Region-Specific Decellularization of Porcine Uterine Tube Extracellular Matrix: A New Approach for Reproductive Tissue-Engineering Applications
Authors: Almeida Gustavo Henrique Doná Rodrigues , da Silva Raquel Souza , Gibin Mariana Sversut , Gonzaga Victoria Helen de Souza , dos Santos Henrique , Igleisa Rebeca Piatniczka , Fernandes Leticia Alves , Fernandes Iorrane Couto , Nesiyama Thais Naomi Gonçalves , Sato Franciele , Baesso Mauro Luciano , Hernandes Luzmarina , Rinaldi Jaqueline de Carvalho , Meirelles Flavio Vieira , Astolfi-Ferreira Claudete S. , Ferreira Antonio José Piantino , Carreira Ana Claudia Oliveira
Published: May 2024

Uterine tube extracellular matrix is a key component that regulates tubal tissue physiology, and it has a region-specific structural distribution, which are directly associated to their functions. Considering this, application of biological matrices in culture systems is an interesting strategy to develop biomimetic tubal microenvironments and enhance their complexity. However, there are no established protocols to produce tubal biological matrices that consider the organ morphophysiology for such applications. Therefore, this study aimed to establish region-specific protocols to obtain decellularized scaffolds derived from porcine infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus to provide suitable sources of biomaterials for tissue-engineering approaches. Porcine uterine tubes were decellularized in solutions of 0.1% SDS and 0.5% Triton X-100. Decellularization efficiency was evaluated by DAPI staining and DNA quantification. We analyzed ECM composition and structure by optical and scanning electronic microscopy, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. DNA and DAPI assays validated the decellularization, presenting significative reduction of cellular content. Structural and spectroscopy analyses revealed that produced scaffolds remained well structured and with ECM composition preserved. YS and HEK293 cells were used to attest cytocompatibility, allowing cell survival and successful interaction with the scaffolds. These results suggest that such matrices are applicable for future biotechnological approaches in the reproductive field.
Microcystis viridis NIES-102 Algae Lectin MVL Interacts with the COVID-19 Spike Protein RBDs via Protein-Protein Interaction
Authors: Wang Zhengguang , Yang Zhihan , Shishido Mami , Daoudi Khadija , Hidaka Masafumi , Tateno Hiroaki , Futai Eugene , Ogawa Tomohisa
Published: May 2024

The emergence of the coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) has posed a major challenge to healthcare systems worldwide, especially as COVID-19 mutations complicate the development of vaccines and antiviral drugs. Therefore, the search for natural products with broad anti-COVID-19 capabilities is an important option for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. Lectins, which are widely recognized as antiviral agents, could contribute to the development of anti-COVID-19 drugs. In this study, we evaluated the binding ability of a total of six lectins, including MVL from Microcystis viridis NIES-102, to the spike protein RBD of the original (wild) COVID-19 and it’s three mutants: alpha, delta, and omicron. As a result, two lectins, MVL from Microcystis viridis NIES-102 and jacalin from Artocarpus altilis, showed distinct binding ability to the RBDs of the four COVID-19 strains. The other lectins (DB1, ConA, PHA-M and CSL3) did not show any binding ability. Although the glycan specificities of the two lectins, MVL and Jacalin, were different, they showed the same affinity for the RBDs of the four COVID-19 strains, i.e., alpha > delta > original > omicron. The verification of glycan-specific inhibition revealed that jacalin binds to RBDs by glycan-specific recognition, whereas MVL binds to RBDs by protein-protein interactions in addition to glycan-specific recognition.
Bonding Effectiveness of Zirconia to Veneering Ceramic after Different Sandblasting Treatments
Authors: Zicari Francesca , Monaco Carlo , Vivan Cordoso Marcio , Silvestri Davide , Meerbeek Bart Van
Published: May 2024

Objective: To determine the effect of sandblasting before and after sintering on the surface roughness of zirconia and the micro-tensile bond strength of a pressable veneering ceramic to zirconia.
Methods: Pre-sintered zirconia blocks (IPS e.max ZirCAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) were divided into a control group (CTR, no surface treatment) and four test groups of three specimens each: Pre-S-30, Pre-S-50, Pre-S-110 were sandblasted with 30µm SiO2, 50µm Al2O3 and 110µm Al2O3 particles respectively, before sintering, Post-S-30 was sandblasted with 30µm SiO2 after sintering. For each treatment, the surface roughness was measured (Ra, Perthometer M4P, Mahr Perthen). After sintering the zirconia blocks, a liner and a pressable ceramic (IPS e.max ZirPress, Ivoclar Vivadent) were fired. Sixteen micro-bars were obtained from each block and submitted to the micro-tensile bond strength (µTBS) test. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA. Any correlation between Ra and µTBS was evaluated (Sperman test).
Results: Sandblasting before sintering with 110µm Al2O3 (Ra=3.44±0.44µm), 50µm Al2O3 (Ra=2.32±0.46µm), and 30µm SiO2 (Ra=1.22±0.22µm) resulted in significantly higher roughness than sandblasting after sintering with 30µm SiO2 (Ra=0.46±0.11µm). The highest µTBS was measured when the sintered zirconia was sandblasted with 30μm SiO2 (26.79±14.80 MPa), which was significantly different from that of specimens that were sandblasted before sintering (Pre-S-30=20.90±11.70; Pre-S-50=21.27±15.19; Pre-S-110=23.99±16.83) or were not treated (CTR=17.44±14.03).
Conclusions: Sandblasting zirconia before sintering enhances the surface roughness proportionally to the particle size of the sand used. Sandblasting with 30µm SiO2 after sintering appeared to improve bonding between the veneering ceramic and zirconia.
Clinical Significance: Sandblasting with 30µm SiO2 after sintering may improve bonding between veneering ceramics and zirconia, thus reducing ceramic fractures/chippings.
IoT Irrigation System Using Arduino
Authors: Basheer Riskhan , Hanass Nathir Noory , Sheikh Md Amin Ullah , Hussain Khalid
Published: May 2024

The increasing demand for water in agriculture and the need for more efficient irrigation systems has led to the development of smart irrigation systems based on the Internet of Things. In this system, an Arduino microcontroller is used to control and monitor the watering of crops. The system is equipped with sensors that measure soil moisture which are used to optimize the irrigation process. The data collected by the sensors is transmitted to the Arduino, which then adjusts the watering schedule based on the information received. The use of IoT in smart irrigation systems provides several benefits, including reduced water waste, increased crop yields, and improved plant health. The implementation of this system using an Arduino platform is relatively simple, cost-effective, and can be easily integrated into existing irrigation systems. Overall, the use of IoT in smart irrigation using an Arduino platform has the potential to revolutionize the way we manage water resources in agriculture.
Low-Cost Shield ardEEG to Measure EEG with Arduino Uno R4 WiFi
Authors: Rakhmatulin Ildar
Published: May 2024

The article presents an accessible route into the field of neuroscience through ardEEG device. This device allows convert Arduino UNO R4 WIFI into a brain-computer interface, making it easy to measure EEG, EMG and ECG signals with 8 channels. Over the past decade, the proliferation of artificial intelligence has significantly impacted various industries, including neurobiology. The integration of machine learning techniques has opened avenues for practical applications of EEG signals across technology sectors. This surge in interest has led to the widespread popularity of low-cost brain-computer interface devices capable of recording EEG signals using non-invasive electrodes. ardEEG device demonstrates satisfactory noise levels and accuracy for use in applied tasks. Moreover, it successfully detects alpha brain waves, showcasing its effectiveness in capturing essential neurological signals
Adjacency Matrix for the Graph Exponential
Authors: Holly Melissa
Published: May 2024

Introduced in 1967 by Lov\'{a}sz, graph exponentiation has received little attention over the past several decades. Since graph exponentiation produces large graphs and any graph can be constructed utilizing its adjacency matrix, we provide a four step linear construction algorithm that generates the adjacency matrix for the graph exponential.
Nanofibrous Conductive Sensor for Limonene: One-Step Synthesis via Electrospinning and Molecular Imprinting
Authors: Macagnano Antonella , Molinari Fabricio Nicolas , Papa Paolo , Mancini Tiziana , Lupi Stefano , D'Arco Annalisa , Taddei Anna Rita , De Cesare Fabrizio
Published: May 2024

Detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from different plant species and their or-gans can provide valuable information about plant health and environmental factors that affect them. For example, limonene emission can be a biomarker to monitor plant health and detect stress. Traditional methods for VOC detection encounter challenges, prompting the proposal of novel approaches. In this study, we proposed integrating electrospinning, molecular imprinting, and conductive nanofibers to fabricate limonene sensors. In detail, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) served here as fiber and cavity formers, respectively, with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) enhancing conductivity. We developed one-step monolithic molecularly imprinted fibers, where S(-)-limonene was the target molecule using electrospinning technique. The functional cavities were fixed using UV curing method, followed by a target mol-ecule washing. This procedure enabled the creation of recognition sites for limonene within the nanofiber matrix, enhancing sensor performance and streamlining manufacturing. Humidity was crucial for sensor working, with optimal conditions at about 50% RH. The sensors rapidly re-sponded to S(-)-limonene, reaching a plateau within 200 seconds. Enhancing fiber density im-proved sensor performance, resulting in a lower limit of detection (LOD) of 137 ppb. However, excessive fiber density decreased accessibility to active sites, thus reducing sensitivity. Remarka-bly, the thinnest mat on the fibrous sensors created provided the highest selectivity to limonene (Selectivity Index: 72%) compared to other VOCs, such as EtOH (used as a solvent in nanofiber development), aromatic compounds (toluene), and two other monoterpenes (α-pinene and linalo-ol) with similar structure. These findings underscored the potential of the proposed integrated approach for selective VOC detection in applications such as precision agriculture and environ-mental monitoring.
Employee Motivational Factors and Job Satisfaction: A Conceptual Study
Authors: Ang Hong Loong , Lada Suddin , Wang Kehui
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between employee motivational factors and job satisfaction among pet shops in Shanghai, China. The fast economic and social progress in China, along with the rapid growth of urbanization, has led to a growing awareness of independence among residents of cities. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the number of individuals who prefer to keep pets to get emotional support. The rapid expansion of the pet industry in China may lead to job dissatisfaction among employees in this sector due to increased work demands and potential issues related to the treatment and welfare of pets, which can be emotionally challenging. Therefore, this paper attempts to explore the influence of motivational factors on job satisfaction among employees of pet shops in Shanghai, China. Some of the issues being highlighted in the literature previously associated with the pet industry in China are related to antiquated motivational factors, conventional pet shop management, job dissatisfaction, and inefficiency of human resource management. Thus, this paper will discuss the main problems faced by pet shops in Shanghai related to motivational factors in their human resource practices and management.
A randomised controlled trial of the Learning Skills Together (LST) intervention to improve dementia family caregivers’ self-efficacy with complex care
Authors: Meyer Kylie , Lee Kyungmi , Thorngthip Sutthinee , Burant Patricia , Lippe Megan , Neidre Daria , White Carole , Norman Rocio , Choi Byeong Yeob , Glover Crystal M , Bell Janice , Hepburn Kenneth
Published: May 2024

Background
Nearly two-thirds of family caregivers of persons living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (AD/ADRD) provide complex care, including medical care. Family caregivers typically receive little to no training on how to provide this care. Furthermore, family caregivers simultaneously grapple with the presence of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), diminished communication abilities, and comorbidities such as diabetes. We developed Learning Skills Together (LST), a six-week digitally delivered psychoeducational program, to facilitate family caregiver abilities to administer complex care tasks. The goal of the present study is to test the efficacy of LST and to reduce adverse outcomes associated with caregiving, such as depressive symptomology and negative appraisal of BPSD.
Methods
To test the efficacy of LST, we will conduct a two-arm single-site randomised controlled trial (RCT) with N = 200 family caregivers of persons living with AD/ADRD. Eligible family caregivers will be randomly assigned to participate in either the LST intervention or a structurally equivalent control condition focused on healthy living. All family caregivers will complete four surveys, including a baseline survey administered prior to randomisation, a post-intervention survey, and a three- and six-month follow-up survey to assess change in study outcomes. Between-group comparisons of each outcome will be evaluated using generalized estimating equation models. Mediation analyses will assess family caregiver self-efficacy as the intervention’s mechanism of change in depressive symptomology and BPSD. We will also examine caregiver race, ethnicity, and gender as effect modifiers of the intervention.
Discussion
LST findings will inform the field of AD/ADRD and caregiving regarding optimally supporting family caregivers in managing complex care tasks. If efficacious, the LST intervention will support family caregivers in preserving their own mental health while providing complex care.
Trial registration
This study was registered on Clinical Trials.gov on May 6, 2023 (NCT05846984). https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05846984?cond=learning%20skills%20together&rank=2
Deep Learning Guided Video Compression for Machine Vision Tasks
Authors: Kim Aro , Woo Seung-taek , Park Minho , Kim Dong-hwi , Lim Hanshin , Jung Soon-heung , Kwak Sangwoon , Park Sang-hyo
Published: May 2024

In the video compression industry, video compression tailored to machine vision tasks has recently emerged as a critical area of focus. Given the unique characteristics of machine vision, the current practice of directly employing conventional codecs reveals inefficiency, which requires compressing unnecessary regions. In this paper, we propose a framework that more aptly encodes video regions distinguished by machine vision to enhance coding efficiency. For that, the proposed framework consists of deep learning-based adaptive switch networks that guide the efficient coding tool for video encoding. Through the experiments, it is demonstrated that the proposed framework has superiority over the latest standardization project, video coding for machine benchmark, which achieves a Bjontegaard delta (BD)-rate gain of 5.91% on average and reaches up to a 19.51% BD-rate gain.
Retinal Pigment Epithelium-Specific Ablation of GPx4 in Adult Mice Recapitulates Key Features of Geographic Atrophy in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Ueta Takashi , Azuma Kunihiro , Kobayashi Kenta , Suzuki Takafumi , Nagahara Masako , Imai Hirotaka , Suga Akiko , Iwata Takashi , Shiraya Tomoyasu , Makoto Aiharaa
Published: May 2024

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the elderly population, particularly the late-stage of dry AMD known as geographic atrophy (GA), lacks effective treatment options. Genetic mouse models of AMD have revealed the significance of impaired lipid metabolism and anti-oxidative capacity in early/intermediate stage of AMD, but remains unclear in GA that severely damages visual function. Here, to investigate the potential relevance of peroxidized lipids in RPE for late-stage dry AMD, GPx4fl/fl mice underwent subretinal injections of RPE-specific AAV-Cre vector or control AAV vector. RPE-specific GPx4 deficiency led to rapid RPE degeneration resembling key features of late-stage dry AMD, including preceding RPE cell polarity, acrolein and malondialdehyde accumulation, photoreceptor loss, lipofuscin-laden subretinal melanophage infiltration, and complement activation. Treatment with α-tocopherol and ferrostatin-1 mitigated RPE degeneration, and shrunk mitochondria were observed in GPx4 deficient mice, suggesting involvement of ferroptosis. Unexpectedly, necrostatin-1s, an inhibitor of necroptosis, also ameliorated RPE degeneration, and activation of RIP3 and MLKL along with inactivation of caspase-8 was observed, indicating crosstalk between ferroptosis and necroptosis pathways. Our findings shed light on the intricate mechanisms underlying RPE degeneration in AMD and highlight GPx4/lipid peroxidation as potential therapeutic targets. RPE-specific ablation of GPx4 in mice provides a valuable tool for further elucidating the interplay between lipid peroxidation, cell death pathways, and AMD pathogenesis, offering new insights for preclinical research and therapeutic development targeting GA.
Exon-Intron Boundary Detection Made Easy by Physicochemical Properties of DNA
Authors: Jayaram B. , Sharma Dinesh , Aslam Danish , Sharma Kopal , Mittal Aditya
Published: May 2024

Genome architecture in eukaryotes exhibits a high degree of complexity. Amidst the numerous intricacies, the existence of genes as non-continuous stretches composed of exons and introns has garnered significant attention and curiosity among researchers. Accurate identification of exon-intron boundary junctions is crucial to decipher the molecular biology governing gene expression of regular and aberrant splicing. The currently employed frameworks for genomic signals, which aim to identify exons and introns within a genomic segment, need to be revised primarily due to the lack of a robust consensus sequence and the limitations posed by the training on available experimental data sets. To tackle these challenges and capitalize on the understanding that deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) exhibits function-dependent local structural and energetic variations, we present ChemEXIN, an innovative method for predicting exon-intron boundaries. The method utilizes a deep-learning (DL) model alongside tri- and tetra-nucleotide-based structural and energy parameters. ChemEXIN surpasses current methods in accuracy and reliability. Our work represents a significant advancement in exon-intron boundary annotations, with potential implications for understanding gene expression, regulation, and biomedical research.
Reliability and validity evidence of the Swedish shortened mathematics anxiety rating scale elementary (MARS-E)
Authors: Finell Jonatan , Eklöf Hanna , Jonsson Bert , Korhonen Johan
Published: May 2024

The current study assessed reliability and validity evidence of the shortened Swedish Mathematics Anxiety Rating Scale – Elementary (MARS-E), using data from three time points. After initial pilot tests, a total of 429 students participated in the study, completing the MARS-E twice during grade 4 and once during grade 5. Confirmatory factor analyses supported a one-factor structure at each timepoint. The scale displayed both longitudinal and gender measurement invariance across timepoints, ensuring both stability and fairness across gender and time. Factor correlations with criterion variables were examined, revealing a strong correlation between math anxiety (MA) and test anxiety (TA) (r = 0.707). However, the two constructs had distinct relationships to other criterion variables, such as math performance (rma = -0.343, rta = -0.110) and self-concept in math (rma = -0.580, rta = -0.273). Gender correlations provided evidence of girls being more strongly associated with higher math anxiety scores compared to boys. The current paper provides evidence of the Swedish MARS-E as a valid, easily interpreted, unidimensional instrument for measuring math anxiety in Swedish primary school students. Additionally, the study highlights the gender disparities concerning math anxiety in a longitudinal study conducted in primary schools.
Increased diversity of beneficial rhizobia enhances faba bean growth
Authors: Mendoza-Suarez Marcela , Akyol Turgut , Nadzieja Marcin , Andersen Stig
Published: May 2024

Legume-rhizobium symbiosis provides a sustainable nitrogen source for agriculture. Nitrogen fixation efficiency depends on both legume and rhizobium genotypes, but the implications of their interactions for plant performance in environments with many competing rhizobium strains remain unclear. Here, we let 399 Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae strains compete for nodulation of 212 faba bean genotypes. We find that the strains can be categorised based on by their nodule occupancy profiles into groups that show distinct competitive interactions and plant growth-promoting effects. Further, we show that the diversity of strains occupying root nodules affects plant growth and is under plant genetic control. These insights provide a basis for re-designing rhizobium inoculation and plant breeding strategies to enhance symbiotic nitrogen fixation in agriculture.
Rate of Myopia Progression among Ethiopian Myopic Children: An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Tsegaye Demeke , Tadegegne Bezawit , Birhanu Hiwot , Hayilu Dereje
Published: May 2024

Background: Myopia has become a significant global socioeconomic and public health problem. Control of progression of myopia is important in children and the factors that hasten the progression of myopia need to be identified. There is insufficient information about the rate of progression of myopia in Ethiopia. The study aims to determine the rate of myopia progression in children and its determinant factors, from November 2021 to August 2023.
Methodology: An observational cohort study was conducted on 66 children aged 6 to 15 years. Data was collected with face-to-face interview using structured questionnaires and measurements were taken at the beginning of the study and one year after the initial examination. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS software version 26. Rate of progression was determined by using student T- test. The factors associated with progression rate were explored using multivariable binary logistic regression.A P value < 0.05 was used to declare significance in the study.
Results: A total of 66 myopic children aged 6 to 15 years were followed for 1 year. The mean difference in spherical equivalent refractive error after cycloplegia between the last and the first visit was - 0.41 Diopters (P < 0.001). 18.2% of children showed fast progression; 28.8% showed moderate progression and 53% showed slow progression. Prolonged reading time (AOR = 5.00 (95% CI: 1.10, 25.00), P = 0.04)) and longer television watching time (AOR = 3.85 (95% CI:1.16, 12.50), P = 0.03) were associated with a moderate/fast rate of progression
Conclusion: the mean change in spherical equivalent among myopic children after 1 year of follow up was – 0.41 Diopters. Longer reading time per day and longer time spent watching television were associated with higher risk of moderate to fast rate of myopia progression.
Development and usability testing of an online platform for provider training and implementation of cognitive-behavioral therapy guided self-help for eating disorders
Authors: D'Adamo Laura , Laboe Agatha , Goldberg Jake , Howe Carli , Fennig Molly , DePietro Bianca , Firebaugh Marie-Laure , Cooper Zafra , Wilfley Denise , Fitzsimmons-Craft Ellen
Published: May 2024

Background
Most individuals with eating disorders (EDs) do not receive treatment, and those who do receive care typically do not receive evidence-based treatment, partly due to lack of accessible provider training. This study developed a novel “all-in-one” online platform for disseminating training for mental health providers in cognitive-behavioral therapy guided self-help (CBTgsh) for EDs and supporting its implementation. The aim of the study was to obtain usability data from the online platform prior to evaluating its effects on provider training outcomes and patient ED symptom outcomes in an open pilot trial.
Methods
Nine mental health provider participants (n = 4 in Cycle 1; n = 5 in Cycle 2) and 9 patient participants (n = 4 in Cycle 1; n = 5 in Cycle 2) were enrolled over two cycles of usability testing. In Cycle 1, we recruited providers and patients separately to complete brief platform testing sessions. In Cycle 2, we recruited provider-patient dyads; providers completed training using the platform and subsequently delivered CBTgsh to a patient for three weeks. Usability was assessed using the System Usability Scale (SUS), the Usefulness, Satisfaction, and Ease of Use Questionnaire (USE), and semi-structured interviews.
Results
Interview feedback converged on two themes for providers (applicability of program for real-world use, platform structure and function) and two themes for patients (barriers and facilitators to engagement, perceived treatment effects). SUS and USE scores were in the “average” to “good” ranges across cycles.
Conclusions
Findings from this study demonstrate preliminary feasibility and acceptability of the online platform. Data collected in this study will inform further refinements to the online platform. The platform’s effects on provider training outcomes and patient ED symptom outcomes will be evaluated in an open pilot trial. Given the wide treatment gap for EDs and barriers to dissemination and implementation of evidence-based treatments, the online platform represents a scalable solution that could improve access to evidence-based care for EDs.
Induction of tolerogenicity following a molecular dialogue between HTLV-1-infected T cells and dendritic cells
Authors: Dutartre Hélène , Carcone Auriane , Mortreux Franck , Alais Sandrine , Mathieu Cyrille , Journo Chloe
Published: May 2024

Manipulation of immune cell functions, independently of direct infection of these cells, emerges as a key process in viral pathophysiology. Chronic infection by Human T-cell Leukemia Virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is associated with immune dysfunctions, including misdirected responses of dendritic cells (DCs). Here, we interrogate the ability of HTLV-1-infected T cells to indirectly manipulate human DC functions. We show that upon coculture with chronically infected T cells, monocyte-derived DCs (MDDCs) fail to fully mature. We further show that exposure to HTLV-1-infected T cells induces a unique transcriptional signature in MDDCs, which differs from a typical maturation program, and which is correlated with a dampened ability of HTLV-1-exposed MDDCs to subsequently respond to restimulation. Induction of this tolerogenic behavior is not strictly dependent on capture of HTLV-1 viral particles by MDDCs, nor on cell-cell contacts between HTLV-1-infected T cells and MDDCs, but is instead the result of a molecular dialogue between HTLV-1-infected T cells and MDDCs upon coculture, illustrating how HTLV-1 might indirectly induce a local tolerogenic immune microenvironment suitable for its own persistence.