bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beliefs of US chiefs of police about substance use disorder, fentanyl exposure, overdose response, and use of discretion: Results from a national survey
Authors: Bailey Amelia , Andraka-Christou Barbara , Rouhani Saba , Clark M.H. , Atkins Danielle , Pozo Bradon del
Published: November 2024

Background
To inform the feasibility and acceptability of police practices related to substance use, addiction, and overdose, we sought to better understand how US police chiefs perceive substance use and related policing practices.
Methods
A national sample of randomly selected US police chiefs (N = 276) completed a 37-item survey about substance use and policing. Nine items assessed chiefs’ perceptions of: officers’ discretion in making arrests, effectiveness of overdose responses, risks of fentanyl exposure, de-escalation practices, harmful drugs in their community, and illicitly-obtained buprenorphine. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and exploratory ordinal logistic regressions.
Results
Most chiefs (72.5%) agreed that arrest for any nonviolent misdemeanor was at the discretion of their officers, and they overwhelmingly (94.9%) trusted their officers to make the right arrest decision. The majority of chiefs (87.7%) felt their officers could effectively respond to an opioid overdose, and 83.7% reported their officers carried naloxone on patrol. Chiefs in the Northeast were significantly less likely to be confident in their officers’ ability to respond to a methamphetamine overdose than chiefs in the West. Most (90.0%) were receptive to implementing methamphetamine de-escalation strategies (i.e., techniques to resolve crises short of force). Almost all chiefs (91.2%) agreed with the inaccurate statement that fentanyl exposure at a drug overdose scene could harm officers.
Conclusions
Police chiefs have interest in several types of harm reduction and public health approaches to policing. Critically, there is a need to curtail fentanyl misinformation and to improve officer knowledge about medications for treating opioid use disorder.
FTO and NOS3 genes associated with pediatric obesity: Corações de Ouro Preto Study
Authors: Batista Aline Priscila , de Souza Thomas Viana , de Menezes-Junior Luiz Antônio Alves , Costa Anna Carolina Motta , Cangussu Camila Blanco , Lourenção Luciano Garcia , de Oliveira Wandeir Wagner , Avelar Gabriel Trindade , Rocha Daniela Fonseca Abdo , Rodrigues Iriane Marques de Carvalho , Rocha André Versiani Caldeira , de Moura Joana Paula Mendes , Machado-Coelho George Luiz Lins
Published: November 2024

Background
Obesity is the largest global public health epidemic, increasingly affecting children and adolescents. Studies suggest that this single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) is associated with the development of obesity. Obesity susceptibility genes identified include alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase (FTO) and endothelial nitric oxide (NOS3). Furthermore genetic predisposition can interact with other environmental factors, such as clinical risk factors for obesity. In this context, the potential interaction between the FTO and NOS3 SNPs and clinical risk factors such as non-exclusive breastfeeding, high birth weight, and a family history of chronic diseases warrants investigation.There is a clear need for more research on the FTO and NOS3 genes in Brazilian children. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the FTO (rs1121980) and NOS3 (rs1799983) genes and obesity in children and adolescents in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Methods
A cross-sectional population-based study was conducted with elementary school students aged 6–17 years in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, between April and December 2021. The study evaluated sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical variables and the SNPs rs1121980 and rs1799983 in the FTO and NOS3 genes, respectively, for associations with obesity.
Results
The study revealed that the prevalence of obesity was notably high, reaching 8.5% in the study population. Homozygotes for the risk alleles of the FTO and NOS3 genes (genotypes AA and TT, respectively) remained significant, with both showing a more than twofold increased likelihood of being obese [OR: 2.12 (CI: 1.40–4.31) and 2.64 CI: (1.40–6.09), respectively]. The same combination of alleles associated with clinical risk factors (nonexclusive breastfeeding, high birth weight, family history of diabetes, obesity and dyslipidemia) was associated with a significantly greater chance of being obese at a young age.
Conclusions
Our results support the idea that the SNP rs1121980 in the FTO gene and rs1799983 in the NOS3 gene can affect the occurrence of obesity in Brazilian children and adolescents living in urban areas.
Enhanced El Nino predictability from climate mode interactions
Authors: Bódai Tamás
Published: November 2024

With further extension of the XROM introduced by Zhao et al., by including the ENSO-state-dependence of the external noise forcing as well as a seasonal modulation of both the additive and state dependent part of the forcing, I am able to improve the ENSO prediction skill considerably, especially felt for longer lead times. My new data-driven forecast model is inferred by Maximum Likelihood Estimation, from observational data in 1979-2022, which is much more costly than solving a linear regression problem by matrix inversion. This is the -- completely affordable -- price of obtaining the currently best forecast model of large scale features of ENSO, falsifying the claim of Zhao et al. that a reliable estimation of the state dependence is too data-intensive. I also make a few points of scrutiny by introducing a package of four concepts, those of: the apparent, theoretical maximum, climatological and true prediction skills. Finally, from the viewpoint of the philosophy of science, I examine whether Zhao et al. have delivered on their promise of explaining the enhancement of the prediction skill of the XROM in comparison with the celebrated recharge oscillator model (ROM) of ENSO.
The isotopic effect of deuteration on the conductive properties of chitosan films
Authors: Uali Aitolkyn , Aslanbek Assylay
Published: November 2024

Chitosan biopolymer has gained attention due to its distinctive chemical and environmental characteristics, such as its biocompatibility and biodegradability, ability to form fibres/films, and ionic conductivity. Its functional groups offer various interactions, including cross-linking, intermolecular hydrogen bonding, complex formation, and chelation. All this makes chitosan one of the most extensively used platforms for developing biomedical and pharmaceutical applications, agriculture, water treatment, environmental protection, energy storage systems and many others. This study examined the structure and properties of protonated and partially deuterated chitosan films. Herein, we present the chitosan films prepared from their acidic solutions by casting. By employing spectroscopic techniques, it was shown that, firstly, there is a partial deuteration of chitosan polymer films; secondly, the higher the content of D2O used for deuteration, the lower the conductivity of CS films, thus, the more apparent kinetic isotope effect arising from hydrogen-deuterium exchange in the polymer structure. The conductive properties were evaluated by using chronoamperometry and a four-probe approach. This work provides a simple way to shed light on the probable semi-classical nature of the mechanism underlying the conductive properties of chitosan.
First detection and diversity of Astroviruses in wild migratory birds of Sakhalin Island, North Pacific.
Authors: Zhirov Dmitry , Dubovitskiy Nikita , Derko Anastasiya , Loginova Arina , Sobolev Ivan , Ktitorov Pavel , Kulikova Olga , He Guimei , Wang Zhenghuan , Wang Wen , Alekseev Aleksander , Shestopalov Alexander , Sharshov Kirill
Published: November 2024

Researchers have identified Avastrovirus (AAstV) as a significant genus of bird viruses, linked to various avian diseases such as enteritis, growth retardation, nephritis and hepatitis. These infections lead to substantial economic losses for farms and have a widespread impact on global food production. Although there have been numerous studies on these viruses, the available data mainly focuses on poultry viruses. Research on astroviruses in wild bird populations has revealed a wide genetic diversity of these viruses, yet our understanding of their biological and ecological characteristics remains limited. In this study, we detected avastrovirus for the first time in wild migratory birds of the families Anatidae and Columbidae from Sakhalin Island, North Pacific Ocean. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of Avastrovirus 2 in wild doves and Avastrovirus 3 in wild ducks. These findings provide valuable insights into the circulation of astroviruses on Sakhalin Island, which lies along the path of the East Asian–Australasian Flyway.
Timing of Activation of Different Inspiratory Muscles During Incremental Inspiratory Loading in Healthy Adults
Authors: Matsumura Umi , Rodrigues Antenor , Mori Tamires , Rassam Peter , Hollebeke Marine Van , Rozenberg Dmitry , Brochard Laurent , Goligher Ewan C , Roblyer Darren , Reid W. Darlene
Published: November 2024

Purpose
To evaluate whether the onset and duration of electromyography [EMG] activity of different inspiratory muscles vary during an incremental inspiratory threshold loading (ITL) in healthy adults and whether it is associated with dyspnea and inspiratory mouth pressure (Pm) at task failure.
Methods
Twelve healthy adults (30 ± 7 years, 6 females) performed incremental ITL starting at warm-up (7.6 ± 1.7 cmH2O) followed by 50g increments every two minutes until task failure. EMG onset (relative to inspiratory flow) and activity duration of scalene, parasternal intercostal, sternocleidomastoid, and costal diaphragm/7th intercostal were quantified using a validated algorithm. Ventilatory parameters including Pm were evaluated.
Results
Pm increased during incremental ITL (p ≤ 0.033), reaching 52 [25–110] cmH2O at task failure. This was explained by increased activity of extra-diaphragmatic muscles (p ≤ 0.016). EMG onset of sternocleidomastoid (p < 0.001), parasternal intercostal (p = 0.002) and scalene (p = 0.002) were earlier at task failure load compared to low loads and correlated with Pm at task failure load (r: -0.65, -0.45, -0.29, respectively; p ≤ 0.034). Earlier EMG onsets of scalene in early loads were associated with achieving longer endurance time at task failure (r: -0.7, -0.75, respectively; p ≤ 0.026). An earlier EMG onset of sternocleidomastoid at task failure load was associated with higher dyspnea intensity (r: -0.61, p = 0.036). However, both onset and duration of the diaphragm/7th intercostal EMG activity did not vary throughout the ITL (p ≥ 0.449).
Conclusion
Earlier activities of extra diaphragmatic inspiratory muscles were related to dyspnea intensity and with achieving higher inspiratory force and longer duration during incremental inspiratory loading.
Epigallocatechin -3- gallate mitigates diazinon neurotoxicity via suppression of pro-inflammatory genes and upregulation of antioxidant pathways
Authors: Onukak Charles Etang , Femi-Akinlosotu Omowumi Moromoke , Obasa Adedunsola Adewunmi , Folarin Oluwabusayo Racheal , Ajibade Temitayo Olabisi , Igado Olumayowa Olawumi , Esan Oluwaseun Olarenwaju , Oyagbemi Taiwo Olaide , Adeogun Adewunmi Victoria , Oyagbemi Ademola Adetokunbo , Ola-Davies Olufunke Eunice , Omobowale Temidayo Olutayo , Olopade James Olukayode , Oguntibeju Oluwafemi Omoniyi , Yakubu Momoh Audu
Published: November 2024

Diazinon is a commonly used organophosphate (OP) insecticide especially in developing countries for the control of insect pests, however, exposure to its toxic impact especially in humans and other non-target species remains an important public health concern. The study aimed to investigate the effect of epigallocatechin − 3- gallate (EGCG), abundant in green tea plants on neurobehavioural, biochemical, and pathological changes in the brain of male Wistar rats following exposure to diazinon toxicity. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were acclimatized for seven days and subsequently randomly assigned into six treatment groups as follows: Group I: Control group (0.2 mL distilled water); Group II: Diazinon at 3 mg/kg (1% LD50) of diazinon; Group III: Diazinon (3mg/kg) + EGCG (50 mg/kg, ~ 2% of LD50); Group IV: Diazinon (3mg/kg) + EGCG (100 mg/kg, ~ 5% of LD50); Group V: EGCG (50mg/kg) and Group VI: EGCG (100 mg/kg). All treatments were administered orally once daily for 14 days. Neurobehavioural studies, biomarkers of oxidative stress, histology, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT qPCR) were performed. Diazinon alone impaired recognition memory, increased oxidative stress markers and altered antioxidant defense in the brain. It upregulated TNF-α and IL-6 genes and repressed GPx 4 gene expressions. It was also associated with increased GFAP, Tau, and α-SN immunoreactivity. Microscopic examination revealed loss of purkinje and hippocampal cells in brain. Co-treatment with EGCG however improved cognition, lowered oxidative stress markers, improved antioxidant status and suppressed TNF-α and IL-6. In conclusion, findings from this study demonstrated that EGCG offered protection against diazinon-induced neurotoxicity.
Association between health indifference and the Breslow Health Practice Index: A cross-sectional study of Japanese corporate employees
Authors: Iwase Yumiko , Hosokawa Rikuya
Published: November 2024

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global cause of death, emphasizing the need for lifestyle improvements to reduce the risk of NCDs.
Higher Breslow Health Practice Index (HPI) scores are associated with lower disease incidence and mortality. However, many individuals remain indifferent to their health, and as a result, they are not improving their lifestyle. Furthermore, validation of the Health Interest Scale (HIS) for external applicability is needed, particularly among employees at higher risk of NCDs. Therefore, this study clarifies the association between health indifference and the HPI among a sample of Japanese company employees. By doing so, it provides critical data for designing effective workplace interventions explicitly tailored toward health-indifferent individuals.
Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed the health check-up data collected from 2,260 employees at a Japanese information technology (IT) company in 2023. Multiple regression analysis was conducted using HPI and HIS as dependent and independent variables, respectively. The association between individual health behaviors within the HPI and HIS was also evaluated through multivariable logistic regression analysis. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Ver. 28, with a significance level at p<0.05.
Results: Multiple regression analysis revealed a moderate association between HIS and HPI scores (β = 0.25,p < 0.001). HPI scores were lower among employees in sedentary jobs and managerial positions (β = 0.17, p < 0.001; β = 0.16, p < 0.05).
Multivariable logistic regression indicated that higher HIS scores were significantly associated with several health behaviors, particularly moderate alcohol consumption (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.05, p < 0.05) and non-smoking (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.09–1.15, p < 0.001). Women had significantly higher odds of moderate drinking (OR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.33–3.09, p < 0.05) and non-smoking (OR = 5.52, 95% CI: 2.96–10.27, p < 0.001) compared to men.
Conclusions: This study clarified the association between higher health interest and engagement in health behaviors. Since engagement in health behaviors was significantly higher among women, non-sedentary workers, and non-managerial employees, incorporating strategies that consider health interests, job types, positions, and gender needs into workplace health programs may enhance their effectiveness.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Corporate Image
Authors: Gabriel Tilenenge
Published: November 2024

This study focuses on Corporate Social Responsibility and Organizational Image. The study sought to identify if attracting and retaining good employees improves organizational image, if maintaining legal and statutory requirements improves organizational image and if communicating with key audiences improves organizational image of Dangote Cement plc Gboko. A case study research design was adopted with population of a 1908 and sample size of 292 which was established from the population using Taro Yamane’s formula. A simple random sampling technique was used for the sample selection. Questionnaires were distributed to the sampled respondents. Collected data were presented in frequency and percentage tables whereas the formulated hypotheses were tested using Pearson’s product moment correlation technique. Findings indicate that; attracting and retaining good employees improve organizational image, communicating with key audiences improve organizational image, maintaining legal and statutory requirements improves organizational image. Based on the result of this study, recommendations were made that; every organization should showcase policies and practices that are capable of attracting and retaining good employees to improve their organizational image, as well they should improve their communication process to build relationship with key audiences. In addition, organizations should focus on maintaining legal and statutory requirements to improve their organizational image.
Characterization of Nanocellulose Derived from Aloe Vera Using Two Distinct Nanofabrication Techniques
Authors: Sabet Javad Mehrani , Seifi Hossein , Rouhani Yasaman , gill Pooria , Deravi Niloofar
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Aloe vera has been extensively studied for its medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, and has been utilized in dentistry for several biomedical applications, including dentistry. Nanocellulose (NC), a natural fiber derived from cellulose, has been synthesized for several biomedical applications, including dentistry, where it has improved the mechanical properties of dental materials. This study aims to extract A. vera-based nanocellulose using two distinct nanofabrication methods, ultrasonication and cryocrushing, and characterize the resulting A. vera-derived nanocellulose, with potential applications in dentistry.
Method
After extracting the inner gel-like part of A. vera, the nanoization process was carried out utilizing two distinct nanofabrication techniques. After that to confirm the nanoization, transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis and to determine the thermal stability and compare the effective materials, before and after using two distinct nanofabrication techniques, and simultaneous thermal analysis of STA and GC-MS was performed.
Results
The successful transformation of A. vera extract into A. vera-derived nanocellulose by both nanofabrication techniques without change in its chemical structure and thermal stability were confirmed based on TEM, GC-MS and STA analyses.
Conclusion
The successful nanoization of A. vera extract by both nanofabrication techniques were done.
Cold, creeping things: Deep phylogeographic structure in a naturally fragmented cool-adapted skink (Scincidae; Anepischetosia) from south-eastern Australia
Authors: Schembri Rhiannon , Catullo Renee A. , Shea Glenn M. , Oliver Paul M.
Published: November 2024

The temperate forests of eastern Australia have been extensively fragmented over the last 200 years and are now increasingly threatened by fire and climate change. To understand and manage the impacts of these threats, there is a need to understand patterns of endemism and diversity across an array of ecologically divergent taxa. Anepischetosia is a monotypic genus of scincid lizards that is adapted to cool, wet forest habitats in far south-eastern mainland Australia. Here we use reduced representation genomic data and sequencing of the mitochondrial ND4 locus from museum tissue samples to characterise phylogeographic structure and population-level genetic diversity in this taxon. These data reveal novel patterns of deep and geographically localised genetic structuring, including at least six ESUs spanning several candidate species. The depth of divergences between lineages is greater than previously observed within morphospecies of the south-east Australian herpetofauna. Many divergent lineages are associated with localised patches of mesic habitat, especially in the north of the range, suggesting long histories of persistence through major environmental change across the Plio-Pleistocene, similar to that observed in some mesic and temperate taxa from non-glaciated landscapes in the northern hemisphere. Two putative ESUs, whose ranges overlap areas impacted by recent high-intensity bushfires, have low genetic diversity and may be of conservation concern. Additional seemingly isolated and divergent populations in western Victoria remain poorly sampled and may comprise yet further ESUs or candidate species, highlighting the need for surveys, taxonomic research and conservation assessment in this lizard genus.
Exploring Chaotic Dynamics: A Fractal-Fractional Approach to Financial Modeling and Stability Analysis
Authors: Almaghrebi Yousef S. , Raslan K. R. , Salam Mohamed A. Abd El , Ali khalid K.
Published: November 2024

This search uses fractal and fractional derivatives to construct a nancial chaotic model (FCM). The existence and uniqueness of the solution are proved by using the xed point theorem. Using the xed point method, we establish the Ulam-Hyers (UH) stability and Ulam-Hyers-Rassias (UHR) stability for the nonlinear fractal-fractional dierential equations. Numerical solutions are found for FCM using the Adams-Bashforth method (ABM). We tracked the eect of parameters on numerical results, which explained some vague phenomena in the FCM.
UV Treatment Effects on MoS₂ FET Performance: Comprehensive Analysis of Electrical and Noise Characteristics
Authors: Cho Hyeran , Choi YunJae , JinWoo Ahn , Kim Doyoon , Kim DongHyeon , Kim BeomJun , Kim Gyu Tae
Published: November 2024

Photo-induced doping has emerged as a promising method for doping two-dimensional (2D) material-based devices due to its simplicity and minimal damage to the channel. However, most studies have primarily focused on improving specific performance metrics such as photo-responsive properties and mobility with limited analysis on noise, which is crucial for device reliability and stability. This study comprehensively investigated both the electrical and noise characteristics of multilayer MoS₂ field-effect transistors (FETs) as a function of ultraviolet (UV) exposure time. Various performance parameters, such as field-effect mobility (μFE) and interface trap density (Dit), were extracted and compared. UV exposure induced a typical n-doping effect, with the threshold voltage shift revealing a more dominant role of oxide traps than interface traps. The 1/f noise pattern of the normalized drain current power spectral density (PSD) decreased with the UV exposure, fitting well to the CNF model in the strong accumulation region and the CNF-CMF model in the weak accumulation region. Extracted noise-related parameters indicated the filling of oxide traps near the interface by UV irradiation. These findings suggest that UV irradiation can modulate oxide traps near the interface, thereby improving the noise characteristics of MoS₂ FETs. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the UV effects on electrical contacts, interface or oxide traps with different levels of noise.
Identifying root-associated bacteria and potential mechanisms linked to compost suppressiveness towards Fusarium oxysporum.
Authors: Amutuhaire Hildah , Faigenboim-Doron Adi , Friedman Jonathan , Cytryn Eddie
Published: November 2024

Background
Soilborne fungal phytopathogens pose a significant threat to global food security. While chemical control remains an effective method for managing these pathogens, increasing regulations due to health and environmental concerns, along with rising fungicide resistance, have restricted their use, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. The use of compost to enhance soil fertility and suppress plant diseases is well documented. Several studies have underlined the role of microorganisms in disease suppression, but the mechanisms facilitating this disease suppression remain unclear. We evaluated the impact of compost amendment on the composition and functional capacity of the rhizosphere microbiome in cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus) inoculated with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum (FORC) under controlled greenhouse conditions using amplicon sequencing, shotgun metagenomic and culture-based techniques.
Results
Compost amendment significantly reduced FORC-induced disease in cucumber relative to non-amended treatments. While FORC inoculation resulted in significant shifts in microbial (bacterial and fungal) community composition in the rhizosphere of non-amended plant, this phenomenon was substantially less pronounced in the rhizosphere of compost-amended plants. Specifically, compost amendment sustained the presence of Actinomycetota (Streptomyces, Actinomadura, Saccharomonospora, Pseudonocardia, Glycomyces, Thermobifida) and Bacillota (Planifilum, Novibacillus) in FORC inoculated plants, that diminished significantly in inoculated plants without compost. These taxa contained a myriad of non-ribosomal peptides (NRPS) and polyketides (PKS) biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) with putative antimicrobial and iron-chelating functions. We successfully isolated two Streptomyces strains from disease suppressed compost amended rhizosphere (almost identical to the most prominent strain identified in the molecular analyses) that produced extracellular metabolites that inhibited growth of FORC in-vitro. Genome analysis of these strains revealed BGCs that encode for compounds with potential antimicrobial capacity.
Conclusions
Based on results presented in this study, we demonstrate that compost alleviates FORC-induced dysbiosis of the rhizosphere microbiome, maintaining abundance of specific bacterial taxa. These bacterial groups may contribute to disease suppression through a myriad of mechanisms including iron chelation and production of fungal antagonizing secondary metabolites.
Full-length transcriptomics enabled the temperature-dependent changes of volatile oil content in Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC
Authors: Zhu Juan , Alami Mohammad Murtaza , Zhong Shumei , Li Meilian , Mao Mengke , Liu Yuanlong , Mei Zhinan , Wang Xuekui , Weng Duanyang , Feng Shengqiu , Shu Shaohua
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the effects of temperature variations on the volatile oil content and physiological responses of Atractylodes lancea, a medicinal herb known for its therapeutic properties. The research focuses on how different temperature regimes impact the accumulation of key secondary metabolites, such as β-Eudesmol and atractylodin, and various physiological parameters in A. lancea. Plants were subjected to temperatures of 28°C, 34°C, and 40°C for 2, 4, and 6 days. The study found that β-Eudesmol content varied significantly with temperature and duration, showing the highest levels at 28°C two days post-treatment and a decreasing trend with prolonged exposure. In contrast, atractylodin content peaked under different conditions, with notable increases at 34°C after four days in leaves and at 28°C in rhizomes. Photosynthesis rates, intercellular CO2 concentration, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rates were also measured to understand the broader physiological impacts of temperature stress. Full-length transcriptome analysis using SMRT sequencing revealed significant changes in gene expression related to sesquiterpene biosynthetic pathways. Key enzymes involved in sesquiterpene production showed differential expression patterns, with normal temperatures favoring higher expression levels. The findings highlight the complex interplay between temperature and secondary metabolite production in A. lancea. Understanding these dynamics can inform cultivation practices to optimize the therapeutic potential of A. lancea by ensuring consistent quality in herbal products. The study underscores the importance of environmental factors in modulating plant physiology and secondary metabolite accumulation, providing insights for future research and agricultural practices.
Design and Analysis of an Off-Grid Green Hydrogen Refueling Station for Edinburgh's Public Transport Using PLEXOS
Authors: Varhegyi Gergo , Nour Mutasim
Published: November 2024

This paper advances the feasibility analysis of a green hydrogen refuelling station designed to transition half of Edinburgh's public transportation bus fleet from diesel to hydrogen. Unlike existing studies, which primarily focus on either on-grid configurations or basic renewable integrations, this research comprehensively integrates an off-grid, wind-powered electrolyzer system with battery storage, specifically tailored to meet the hydrogen demands of urban public transport dynamics. A novel methodology is introduced to accurately quantify hydrogen demand, optimising fuel allocation for enhanced operational efficiency. Detailed techno-economic optimisation was employed using PLEXOS simulation software to appropriately size the required wind farm, battery, and hydrogen storage. This analysis revealed a levelized cost of hydrogen (LCoH) of 3.41 USD/kg. Coupled with the UK’s Hydrogen Business Model, which offers a strike price 12 USD/kg for 15 years, the project demonstrates an economically attractive payback period of less than 4 years. This approach not only aligns with the UK's stringent climate targets, but also fills significant research gaps, providing a scalable and economically feasible model to reduce $CO_2$ emissions in urban transportation.
Lactate promote Klebsiella pneumoniae invasive infection by increasing capsular polysaccharide biosynthesis via PTS-CRP axis in liver abscess microenvironment
Authors: Li Min , Zhu Junying , Wang Guangyu , Xi Wei , Shen Zhen , Wei Qing , Fang Xiaoqiong
Published: November 2024

The global incidence of invasive Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess syndrome (IKPLAS) is increasing, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive, hindering the development of effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we analyzed bacterial molecular profiles and clinical data from patients with invasive and non-invasive KPLA infection, and found that no significant difference in the molecular characterization of K. pneumoniae isolate between the two groups while elevated serum lactate was observed as an independent predictor of invasive KPLA infection. Further study revealed that lactate promote K. pneumoniae invasive infection by enhancing capsular polysaccharide (CPS) biosynthesis. Mechanically, lactate reduced cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels by downregulating the expression of mannose-specific phosphotransferase system (man-PTS) enzyme II, and the reduction of cAMP positively regulated CPS biosynthesis by binding to the cAMP receptor protein (CRP). Our in vitro and in vivo experiments confirm lactate’s role in increasing CPS biosynthesis, offering new insights into the pathogenesis of IKPLAS.
Measurement of newborn mid-thigh circumference to identify preterm neonates, an institution based cross-sectional study, 2022.
Authors: Yigzaw Hailemelekot Kassie , Amare Ashenafi Tazebew , Teshager Nahom Worku , Gebrehana Alazar Wogayehu
Published: November 2024

Background
It is well known that prematurity is among the commonest causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early identification of premature newborns is paramount in improving their survival. Our study aimed to
assess the use of newborn mid thigh circumference as a screening tool to identify preterm newborns.
Method
Institutional based cross-sectional study design was conducted on 206 newborns admitted in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Systematic sampling technique was employed. Optimal cut-off newborn mid thigh circumference and area under the curve (AUC) was calculated by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves analysis to assess the power mid thigh circumference measurement for diagnosis of prematurity.
Results
The mean mid-thigh circumference was 13.65 ± 2.41cm.Mid thigh circumference had strong power (AUC = 0.967) for classifying preterm from term newborns. The optimal cut-off newborn mid thigh circumference to predict prematurity was 13.25 cm. Newborn mid thigh circumference of ≤ 13.25cm had a sensitivity and specificity of 94.3% and 86.8%, respectively. Weight and gestational age had a significant strong positive correlation with a mid thigh circumference (r = 0.820) and (r = 0.720) respectively.
Conclusion
Mid-thigh circumference had a higher sensitivity and specificity in identifying preterm newborns making it a reliable tool that could be used in a rural setup.
Counteracting localization effects on core-periphery dynamics: evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Tsai I-Ju
Published: November 2024

This study aims to investigate the counteraction of localization effects against the core-periphery effect driven by trade liberalization involving large factor flows for a small economy. The data utilized in this study comprise industry census data from Taiwan, customs trade statistics, and information on investment in China by Taiwan’s listed companies. The data period spans from 2006 to 2017. Localization effects are assessed by examining the expansion of industrial clusters. The findings indicate that an increase in the number of establishments and the birth of new establishments within a cluster lead to a decrease in the ratio of investment in China by Taiwan’s listed companies to industrial fixed capital values. The fall in the ratio of investment suggests the diminishing of the migration of factors toward China, i.e., the core-periphery effect. The policy implication is that, with factors being free to move, small economies promoting cluster development can help alleviate the industrial hollowing out that occurs through trade with larger economies.
JEL codes: F13, R11,R12
Utilizing the mechanisms of Nicotiana benthamiana asparagine synthetase NbAS-B for the creation of PGANPs: A novel approach to enhance growth and induce resistance against viral infection
Authors: Sun Xianchao , Qiao Gang , Liu Changyun , Chen Li , Tian ShaoRui , Yang Juan , Xiao Siyi , Luo Xingyi , Ma Xiaozhou , Cai Lin
Published: November 2024

Asparagine synthetase AS-B plays a pivotal role in the response to tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) infection. In this study, the evolutionarily conserved NbAS-B was found to induce both antiviral and growth-promoting responses in an expression intensity-dependent manner in Nicotiana benthamiana. These effects were mediated through glutamate-dependent enhancement of salicylic acid (SA) signaling and reprogramming of the photosynthesis pathway. Further, based on the stronger resistance induction of polyglutamic acid (PGA), a polymer of glutamate, we developed nanogels (PGANPs) by loading PGA onto chitosan via electrostatic interactions to regulate the glutamate-dependent salicylic acid (SA) signaling. Notably, PGANPs exhibited enhanced antiviral activity beyond the combined effects of PGA and chitosan, while maintaining long-term foliar persistence that continuously activated SA signaling pathways, resulting in prolonged TMV resistance. Importantly, this persistence did not adversely affect plant growth or development, making these environmentally friendly, biopolymer-based nanogels a promising sustainable solution for controlling plant viral diseases.
Privacy-enabled and Local-global Hashing with Adaptive Adjustment: a Robust Multi-drone Object Detector
Authors: Zhang Luming
Published: November 2024

Multi-drone object detection aims to robustly localize and identify multi-category objects by training a detector using videos recorded from multiple drones. This task presents three main challenges: 1) maintaining data privacy by keeping videos captured by each drone local during training, 2) generating lightweight deep features for efficient between-object comparison, and 3) accurately encoding object-aware clues in the presence of mislabeled videos. In this work, we propose an encrypted hashing technique to enable distributed and adaptive training of an object detector. The core idea is a local-global learning approach that adapts server parameters to progressively update local (\textit{i.e.}, drone-specific) parameters, optimizing local hash model (LHM) training. Specifically, for each drone, we develop an LHM to convert each sliding window into binary codes for fast comparison. This approach integrates three key attributes: i) correction of mislabeled video data, ii) preservation of explicit data structure, and iii) computation of deep binary codes. Due to the non-convexity of LHM, we introduce an iterative solution. To combine multiple LHMs into a robust global hash model (GHM), we employ an encrypted distributed learning scheme. This allows each LHM to communicate its inherent parameters to the GHM for iterative optimization, with adaptive guidance from the GHM feedback loop enhancing LHM training. Notably, our local-global hash architecture ensures drone data privacy since only LHM parameters are visible externally, while drone-recorded videos are retained locally. Extensive empirical evaluations on three drone image datasets demonstrated the efficiency and accuracy of our method. Furthermore, the FPGA implementation of our object detector achieved 265 fps (frames per second) on 1K drone videos and 58 fps on 4K drone videos.
Groundwater Sustainability in the Varuna River Basin: Impacts of Climate Change and Population Growth
Authors: Kumar Ranveer , Bhattacharjee Rajarshi , Gaur Shishir , Ohri Anurag
Published: November 2024

This study uses the SWAT model combined with bias-corrected climate projections across four SSP scenarios to assess the impacts of climate change and population-driven groundwater demand on groundwater sustainability in the Varuna River Basin (VRB). Climate anomaly analysis revealed a significant decrease in precipitation and an increase in temperature under higher emission scenarios (SSP370 and SSP585), intensifying recharge drought conditions and evapotranspiration rates. Using Anselin's Local Moran's I method, we identified distinct spatial patterns of groundwater recharge. The low-emission scenario showed a stable recharge distribution (SSP126), whereas higher-emission pathways revealed extensive clusters of recharge hotspots and coldspots, indicating regional disparities in recharge. Additionally, the analysis of the groundwater sustainability ratio (GSR) dynamics showed intensified over-exploitation risks in SSP585, which were driven by reduced recharge and higher atmospheric water demand. These findings highlight the necessity for adaptive water management strategies to address climate-driven recharge disparities and enhance groundwater sustainability in the VRB through artificial recharge.
A New Reality for Telehealth: A Simulation-Based Comparison of Wearable Mixed Reality with Videoconferencing for Clinician-to-Clinician Telehealth
Authors: Santomauro Chiara , Best Daniel , Wray Beth , Burgmann Felicity , Pilotto Tricia , Pearce Sarah , McLanders Mia
Published: November 2024

Introduction
Telehealth is crucial to the provision of high-quality treatment of critically unwell patients in rural areas. Our aim was to explore the benefits and limitations of a Mixed Reality (MR) headset for clinician-to-clinician telehealth in a simulated rural context, in which the advising clinician directly views the treating clinician’s point-of-view and uses holographic annotations to provide visual guidance in 3D space.
Methods
Twenty-five clinicians trialled a MR headset—the Microsoft HoloLens 2—and evaluated it against a trolley-based videoconferencing device used in current practice. Each participant trialled the devices while role-playing one of two perspectives: the Rural Clinician accessing support or the Advising Clinician providing support.
Results
Advising Clinicians had higher ratings of usability and self-efficacy, and lower ratings of mental workload, when providing support via the MR headset compared to the videoconferencing trolley (ps< .035). However, Rural Clinicians rated the MR headset lower on usability compared to the videoconferencing trolley (p= .020), and rated their self-efficacy and mental workload equally when using both devices (ps > .253). Participants generally preferred to use the MR headset over the videoconferencing trolley. On average, scenarios took 1 minute longer to complete when using the MR headset (p < .001).
Discussion
Wearable MR technology has the potential to improve the quality of support provided to rural clinicians; however, it may be more beneficial for those dialling in to the device (advising clinicians) rather than those wearing the device (rural clinicians). Factors that may limit its safety and efficiency are discussed.
Cannabigerol Mitigates Haloperidol-Induced Vacuous Chewing Movements in Mice
Authors: Ponciano Rafaela , Hallak Jaime Eduardo Cecílio , Crippa José Alexandre , Guimarães Francisco Silveira , Bel Elaine Aparecida Del
Published: November 2024

Chronic use of typical antipsychotics can lead to varying motor effects depending on the timing of analysis. Acute treatment typically induces hypokinesia, resembling parkinsonism, while repeated use can result in tardive dyskinesia, a hyperkinetic syndrome marked by involuntary orofacial movements such as vacuous chewing movements in mice. tardive dyskinesia is particularly concerning due to its potential irreversibility and associated motor discomfort. One prevailing theory suggests that tardive dyskinesia arises from hypersensitivity of D2-type dopaminergic receptors due to continuous blockade by typical antipsychotics like haloperidol. Additionally, factors such increased inflammation, oxidative stress, and elevated FosB protein expression in the dorsolateral striatum are implicated in its pathophysiology. Current treatments for tardive dyskinesia often lack clear effectiveness and can lead to significant side effects. Cannabigerol, a non-psychotomimetic cannabinoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has been investigated for its potential antidyskinetic effects. In this study, mice were treated with cannabigerol at doses of 3 and 10 mg/kg to evaluate its ability to prevent, ameliorate, or reverse haloperidol-induced vacuous chewing movements. Cannabigerol did not induce dyskinetic effects on its own and successfully reduced vacuous chewing movements without impacting normal motor activity or exacerbating haloperidol-induced hypokinesia. However, no significant reversal of the symptoms was observed under the current protocol. Furthermore, cannabigerol did not alter FosB expression or microglia morphology. These findings underscore the need for further research to fully explore cannabigerol's therapeutic potential, contributing to our understanding of its possible clinical applications in managing tardive dyskinesia.
Design and Evaluation of an Egg Sorting Machine
Authors: Hernando Herald Kam , Rabanera Jennyfer C. , Bravo Joseph G. , Echanique Mylene C. , Laureano Angelica G. , Solaina Viverly B.
Published: November 2024

An egg sorting machine using a weight sensor was developed using low-cost, locally available materials and local manufacturing technologies to sort eggs into different sizes based on weight. The fabricated machine comprises several parts, including the transmission, transporting, and sorting mechanisms. The transporting mechanism is powered by a 15 RPM, 12V gear motor, chain, and sprocket for the transmission unit. The weighing and sorting unit used the Servo motor, Arduino Uno Microcontroller, and Load Cell with HX711 amplifier. Performance test results for the 360 table egg samples show that the egg sorting machine has an average sorting accuracy of 93.88% with a capacity of 889 table eggs per hour (4.05 seconds per egg). It shows that the machine is accurate. Thus, the machine reduces the use of manpower and drudgery of manual sorting while maintaining a higher accuracy and speed in sorting table eggs. It can be used in egg-laying farms to classify small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. The annual income is Php 36, 421 and in 1 008 hours a year of sorting eggs, the machine was expected to meet its break-even period of 92,396.8 eggs per year, and it will reach its payback period after 0.39 years.
Viscosity measurements of selected lunar regolith simulants
Authors: Stapperfend Simon , Dingwell Donald B. , Hess Kai-Uwe , Sutherland Jennifer , Müller Axel , Müller Dirk , Eitel Michael , Baasch Julian , Linke Stefan , Stoll Enrico
Published: November 2024

In the context of evaluating lunar construction options, this study focuses on characterizing the viscosities and glass transition properties of lunar regolith simulants to support the development of additive manufacturing processes using molten regolith. Employing the modular TUBS lunar regolith simulant system, we measured the viscosities of different simulants through high-temperature experiments conducted between 1,051 °C and 1,490 °C using Concentric Cylinder viscometry in air. Additionally, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was utilized to evaluate the glass transition temperatures, which were in the range between 689 °C and 815 °C. The measured viscosity data were parameterized by the Vogel—Fulcher—Tammann (VFT) equation, adept at describing the viscosities and related properties of silicate liquids. The measured viscosities were compared with the predicted values of six viscosity models. It was shown that the model by Sehlke and Whittington predicts the viscosities of the tested lunar regolith simulants at superliquidus temperatures best, whereby no model adequately predicts viscosities at the glass transition temperature, indicating a need for further research in this area. We infer that 3D printing technologies based on molten lunar regolith, are viscosity-wise best constrained to highland regions. The reduced environment on the Moon influences the 3D printing process in a positive manner.