bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic identification of R2R3-MYB S6 subfamily genes in Brassicaceae and its role in anthocyanin biosynthesis in Brassica crops
Authors: Chen Daozong , Wang Chenchen , Liu Yi , Shen Wenjie , Cuimu Qiushi , Zhang Dawei , Zhu Bo , Chen Lunlin , Tan Chen
Published: January 2024

The Brassicaceae family encompasses various plants, including the widely studied Arabidopsis thaliana and several vegetables and oil crops that hold significant economic importance as human food sources. The S6 subfamily's R2R3-MYB genes play a crucial role in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis in plants, however, their systematic identification in Brassicaceae plants remains incomplete. Notably, Brassica crops have undergone significant genomic changes, including tripling and post-natural hybridization doubling events, during their long evolutionary journey after diverging from Arabidopsis. Consequently, the copy number of R2R3-MYB genes has experienced substantial alterations, and its functions may be significantly differentiated. Hence, Brassica crops present an optimal model for investigating copy number variation and functional divergence of S6 subfamily R2R3-MYB genes. In this investigation, we systematically identified 31 homologous genes of R2R3-MYB transcription factors belonging to the S6 subfamily in Brassicaceae. A total of 92 homologous genes were identified, with species representation ranging from 0 to 10. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the classification of these homologous genes into six distinct groups. Notably, approximately 70% of the homologous genes were found within the G6 group, suggesting a high degree of evolutionary conservation. Moreover, a phylogenetic analysis was performed on 35 homologous genes obtained from six species belonging to the Brassica U's triangle. The findings provided evidence of high conservation among orthologous genes across species and demonstrated strong collinearity on subgenomic chromosomes. However, notable tandem duplications were observed on chromosomes A7 and C6. Subsequently, the cis-acting elements of these 35 homologous genes were predicted, and their structures, conserved motifs, and characteristic conserved domains were analyzed. Once again, the results confirmed the significant similarities between orthologous genes. Simultaneously, we employed white and purple flower rapeseed specimens to perform qRT-PCR validation of the principal genes and transcriptional regulators associated with the anthocyanin synthesis pathway. The outcomes revealed a significant differential expression of BnaPAP2.A7.b in purple flowers, alongside the differential expression of BnaPAP2.C6.d. Ultimately, drawing upon prior research findings and the findings of this investigation, a transcriptional regulatory framework was proposed to govern anthocyanin accumulation in distinct tissues or organs of B. napus. The findings of our study offer novel perspectives on the functional diversification of R2R3-MYB transcription factors within the S6 subfamily homologous genes, while also shedding light on the regulatory network governing anthocyanin biosynthesis in species belonging to the Brassicaceae family.
Community and health systems factors contributing to delayed tuberculosis detection in an urban setting: situating software and hardware bottlenecks in local health systems
Authors: Chillala Sandra Beauty , Silumbwe Adam , Zulu Joseph Mumba , Tetui Moses , Bulawayo Maio , Chewe Mwimba , Hangoma Peter
Published: January 2024

Background
Despite several global interventions, tuberculosis (TB) remains a leading cause of death affecting millions of people globally. Many TB patients either have no access to quality care or go undetected by national health systems. Several multilevel factors account for under-detection of TB cases. This study sought to explore community and health systems software and hardware factors contributing to delayed TB detection in Lusaka District, Zambia.
Methods
This was an exploratory qualitative case study that adopted a software and hardware lens of conceptualizing health systems. Data were collected from across three sites – urban and peri-urban areas: Chongwe, Kafue, and Lusaka – within Lusaka Province, Zambia. Sixteen (n = 16) key informant interviews were conducted with the TB corner nurses, community TB treatment supporters and TB program managers in the sampled facilities. Six (n = 6) focus group discussions were conducted with the community members. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis approach.
Results
In terms of community health system software elements, the study identified inadequate TB knowledge and awareness, poor health-seeking behavior, and social stigma against TB patients in urban areas as factors contributing to delays. Meanwhile, hardware elements within the community health system, such as unbalanced schedules, and lack of training for TB treatment supporters, also play a role in prolonging TB detection. Within the formal health system, negative attitudes of health providers towards TB patients and demotivation of TB staff were identified as software elements contributing to delays in TB detection. Additionally, hardware elements leading to delays in the formal health system included high diagnostics and transportation costs, outdated diagnostics in primary care facilities, and slow referral mechanisms in urban settings.
Conclusion
This study moves beyond isolating individual factors contributing to delay in TB detection to appreciating the role of the complex interactions between community and health systems software and hardware. Our findings serve as a departure point for TB program managers to consider system strategies aimed at addressing the different pathways to TB care, thereby mitigating delays in early detection at both community and health systems levels.
Mechanical properties, thermal properties and durability of lightweight thermal insulation recycled concrete
Authors: Xu Chenyang , Pan Wangjie , Li Qiuyi , Guo Yuanxin
Published: January 2024

To improve forestry solid waste reuse, reduce building energy consumption, and increase building capacity, preparing lightweight concrete with new materials has gained recent attention. This paper used waste wood and expanded perlite (EP) to design lightweight thermal insulation recycled concrete (LTIRC) with different volume admixtures. Compared to mineral aggregate, wood aggregate (WA) and EP show large differences in water absorption, particle morphology, density, and crushing index. Therefore, this paper comprehensively evaluated the dry density, mechanical properties, thermal properties, chloride ion permeability, and frost resistance of LTIRC. The results showed WA and EP introduction effectively reduced concrete bulk weight and met the dry density standard for lightweight concrete. Regarding thermal insulation performance, both WA and EP are characterized by porous, low–density, and low thermal conductivity. Consequently, LTIRC thermal conductivity was reduced by up to 76.5% versus conventional concrete, effectively increasing resistance to heat flow through concrete and providing potential for building energy savings. Additionally, WA and EP addition caused LTIRC to experience mechanical and durability property deterioration. However, some LTIRCs achieved over 80% of the strength of natural aggregate concrete. Moreover, WA addition inhibited internal crack generation in LTIRC and slowed concrete damage from increased WA and EP dosage. The maximum mass loss of LTIPC was 2.72% after 100 freeze–thaw cycles. LTIPC precast panels are suitable for preparing low–carbon insulated building wall panels.
Multifunctional ENR-g-PNIPAM/PPy/cotton fabric composites for hexavalent chromium removal
Authors: Ding Hongda , Yang Xiaoran , Wang Yanqiu , Shen Xiande
Published: January 2024

Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) grafted Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (ENR-g-PNIPAM) hydrogel was exploited by classic free radical polymerization, which exhibited practical potential for temperature-sensitive material. Free ENR was introduced in the ENR-g-PNIPAM hydrogel to construct a secondary network that will form chain entanglement and further improve the chemical and physical properties of the hydrogel. The renewable ENR and a facile fabrication process make large-scale production of the ENR-g-PNIPAM hydrogel possible and prompt its commercial value. The content of ENR was systematically varied and studied to ensure optimal ratio. Among various compositions examined, the 7:3 weight ratio of ENR/NIPAM in the hydrogel(70ENR) exhibited excellent properties. Additionally, a simple scheme was also designed for fabricating a multifunctional ENR-g-PNIPAM/polypyrrole/cotton (EPPC) composites with simultaneous adsorption of Cr (VI) and electrothermal conversion. The EPPC composites demonstrated good adsorption capacity with 127 mg/g at pH = 2 in an aqueous solution containing 100mg/L Cr (VI), while also functioning as a thermistor with enhanced sensitivity. The adsorption data can be better described by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Freundlich isotherm model, indicating that the adsorption was a chemical and multilayer. Benefiting from these research results, enabling the synthesized hydrogel a crucial role in terms of Cr (VI) treatment and thermal sensor.
Psychometric properties of the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale: confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Escribano Silvia , Herrero-Oliver Raquel , Oliver-Roig Antonio , Richart-Martínez Miguel
Published: January 2024

Background
Maternal satisfaction related to their breastfeeding process should also be included as an appropriate outcome indicator. The aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of different proposed versions of the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale in a Spanish sample.
Methods
This was a longitudinal, observational study, evaluated at three different timepoints: at hospital after delivery, 5 and 12 months after delivery in a Spanish sample
Results
A total of 690 mother participated in this study. Comparing three different models of the scale, the results of Confirmatory Factor Analysis reflected a better fit of the data to the original model. The variable satisfaction with breastfeeding is negatively related to the difficulty percieved in continuing breastfeeding due to return to work and positively related to the rate of breastfeeding at five months postpartum. Finally, the scale can predict breastfeeding behavior at twelve months after birth.
Conclusions
The results of this study indicated that the structure of the original version of the MBFES is valid and reliable for evaluating mothers' perception of their breastfeeding experience in Spain. The research contributes to a better understanding of the maternal satisfaction with the breastfeeding experience and its potential implications for supporting breastfeeding practices, potentially impacting academic, healthcare, and policy spheres.
Analysis of factors associated with rotational stability of toric intraocular lens after high axial myopia cataract surgery
Authors: Lin Tao , Tang XiaoTing , Wu Wei , Huang ManSha , Ma Yiming , Yuan YongGang
Published: January 2024

Background: To observe the rotational stability (RS) of toric intraocular lens (TIOL) in patients with high axial myopia cataract and to analyse the factors associated with it.
Methods: This study was approved by a certified local review board (Registered: 2023-387-01, Date: 2023.01.04) and enrolled 60 cataract patients after TIOL implantation in GuangZhou Red Cross Hospital of Jinan University from January 2023 to June 2023, of which 30 patients in group A were diagnosed high axial myopia (Axial Length, AL ≥ 26 mm) and 30 patients in group B were normal AL (22 mm <AL < 26 mm), and the data of were collected and analysed at least half a year after surgery. To analyse the RS of TIOL and the correlation between RS and AL, TIOL material, White-To-White (WTW) and IOL power.
Results: The difference in rotation angle (RA) between group A and B was statistically significant (RAA group = 16.03 ± 21.47, RAB group = 5.60 ± 8.27, p = 0.013 < 0.05); the difference in clinically significant rotation (CSR) between group A and group B was statistically significant (CSRA group = 17, CSRB group = 7, P = 0. 008 < 0.05), postoperative RA and CSR were positively correlated with the AL (pRA = 0.010, rRA = 0.332; pCSR = 0.008, rCSR = 0.342); and there was significantly more CSR of hydrophilic lens in group A than hydrophilic lens in group B (CSRHydrophilic-A group = 10 ＞ CSRHydrophilic-B group = 3, p = 0.01 < 0.05). There was a strong correlation between CSR and AL (p = 0.002, r = 0.720); more patients rotated counterclockwise than clockwise after TIOL and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.004 < 0.05), and significantly more patients with hydrophobic lens rotated counterclockwise ( P= 0.035 < 0.05).
Conclusions: The longer the AL of the eye, the more likely the toric lens will rotate post-operatively and the greater the RA; the toric lens tends to rotate counterclockwise, which is more pronounced in hydrophobic IOLs; hydrophilic toric lenses tend to rotate in patients with high axial myopia and the longer the AL, the greater the likelihood of rotation.
Radiomic and deep learning analysis of dermoscopic images for skin lesion pattern decoding
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wang Chong , Peng Li , Lin Kaibin , Xue Yang , Chen Xiao , Bao Linlin , Liu Chao , Zhang Jianglin , Xie Yang
Published: January 2024

This study aims to explore the efficacy of a hybrid deep learning and radiomics approach, supplemented with patient metadata, in the noninvasive dermoscopic imaging-based diagnosis of skin lesions. We analyzed dermoscopic images from the International Skin Imaging Collaboration (ISIC) dataset, spanning 2016–2020, encompassing a variety of skin lesions. Our approach integrates deep learning with a comprehensive radiomics analysis, utilizing a vast array of quantitative image features to precisely quantify skin lesion patterns. The dataset includes cases of three, four, and eight different skin lesion types. Our methodology was benchmarked against seven classification methods from the ISIC 2020 challenge and prior research using a binary decision framework. The proposed hybrid model demonstrated superior performance in distinguishing benign from malignant lesions, achieving area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) scores of 99%, 95%, and 96%, and multiclass decoding AUROCs of 98.5%, 94.9%, and 96.4%, with sensitivities of 97.6%, 93.9%, and 96.0% and specificities of 98.4%, 96.7%, and 96.9% in the internal ISIC 2018 challenge, as well as in the external Jinan and Longhua datasets, respectively. Our findings suggest that the integration of radiomics and deep learning, utilizing dermoscopic images, effectively captures the heterogeneity and pattern expression of skin lesions.
An Onboard Hyperspectral Image Processing System Based on Deep Belief Network Using FPGA
Authors: Shibi Sherin , Lincy Babitha , Rubia Jency
Published: January 2024

Real-time processing of hyperspectral images has been widely adopted in the field of remote sensing applications. Deep learning methods have been proved that it has high accuracy compared to traditional algorithms like Support Vector Machines (SVMs). It is very challenging to achieve real-time performance in hyperspectral imagery with deep learning algorithms due to its computational complexity and high dimensionality of hyperspectral images. Deep Belief Network (DBN) is an emerging deep learning algorithm that involves unsupervised pretraining and supervised fine-tuning. Gaussian– Bernoulli Restricted Boltzmann Machines (GBRBMs) are used to construct the layers of DBN. This work presents a novel methodology for the implementation of the DBN algorithm on the Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) platform. In experimental analysis, a real hyperspectral image is considered for evaluation and the proposed algorithm is implemented on the Virtex-6 FPGA board. The experimental results show that the proposed implementation shows promising processing speed, high accuracy and low power consumption.
Crossover and recombination hotspots massively spread across human genome
Authors: Ohadi Mina , Arabfard Masoud , Khamse Safoura , Alizadeh Samira , Vafadar Sara , Bayat Hadi , Ohadi Hamid , Tajeddin Nahid , Maddi Ali , Delbari Ahmad , Khorshid Hamid Reza Khorram
Published: January 2024

The recombination landscape and subsequent natural selection have vast consequences in evolution and speciation. However, most of the recombination hotspots in the human genome are yet to be discovered. We previously reported colonies of CG-rich trinucleotide two-repeat units (CG-TTUs) across the human genome, several of which were shared, with extensive dynamicity, as phylogenetically distant as in mouse. Here we performed a whole-genome analysis of AT-rich trinucleotide two-repeat units (AT-TTUs) in human and found that the majority (96%) resided in approximately 1.4 million colonies, spread throughout the genome. In comparison to the CG-TTU colonies, the AT-TTU colonies were significantly more abundant and larger in size. Pure units and overlapping units of the pure units were readily detectable in the same colonies, signifying that the units are the sites of unequal crossover. Subsequently, we analyzed several of the AT-TTU colonies in several primates and mouse. We discovered dynamic sharedness of several of the colonies across the primate species, which mainly reached maximum complexity and size in human. In conclusion, we report massive crossover and recombination hotspots of the finest molecular resolution and evolutionary relevance in human. In respect of crossover and recombination, the human genome is far more dynamic than previously imagined.
Diagnostic accuracy of isometric knee extension strength as a sarcopenia criteria in community-dwelling older women
Authors: Pérez-Ros Pilar , Barrachina-Igual Joaquín , Pablos Ana , Fonfria-Vivas Rosa , Cauli Omar , Martínez-Arnau Francisco M
Published: January 2024

Background. Muscle strength is one of the most reliable measures used for the identification of sarcopenia. The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People update (EWGSOP2) proposed the use of the Grip Strength and Chair Stand tests, while clarifying that isometric torque methods can be used when performing the Grip Strength test is impossible. The aim is to assess isometric knee extension (IKE) strength as a potential criterion for detecting sarcopenia within the assessment of muscle strength, and to propose a cutoff for diagnosis. Methods. A cross-sectional study was designed and community-dwelling women aged 70 years and over were included. IKE and sarcopenia criteria (EWGSOP2) were assessed. Skeletal muscle mass was assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis; muscle mass strength by handgrip; and physical performance by the 5 times sit-to-stand test, the Short Physical Performance Battery, and gait speed. The diagnostic accuracy for each sarcopenia criterion was calculated using sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and the area under the curve (AUC). Cutoff points for sarcopenia from IKE were defined with the ROC curve. Results. The sample comprised 94 women with a mean age of 75.9 years (standard deviation 5.6, range 70–92), of whom 25.5% (n = 24) met criteria for sarcopenia—mainly severe sarcopenia (73.8%, n = 17). Correlations were observed between IKE and each individually analyzed sarcopenia criterion except skeletal muscle mass, with AUC values exceeding 0.70 in all cases. The IKE cutoff showing the highest accuracy for the diagnosis of sarcopenia was 12.5 kg or less (AUC 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64–0.88; sensitivity: 65.2%, 95% CI 45.7–84.7; specificity 77.4%, 95% CI 60.3–94.5; positive predictive value 62.5%, 95 CI% 42.7–82.3; negative predictive value 88.8%, 95% CI 75.9–100). Conclusions. IKE could be a suitable tool for measuring muscular strength in sarcopenia when other strength parameters cannot be assessed or in people with walking difficulties.
Evaluation of the polycaprolactone (PCL) hydrolytic degradation in acid solvent and its influence on the electrospinning process
Authors: Anaya-Mancipe Javier Mauricio , Figueirdo Agnes Chacor , Rabello Lucas Gomes , Dias Marcos Lopes , Thiré Rossana Mara S. M.
Published: January 2024

Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) is one of the most widely used biopolymers in biomedicine for the production of scaffolds and biomaterials in tissue engineering. This is due to its characteristics as a drug carrier, as well as excellent controlled release properties compared to other biopolymers. Electrospinning is a technique often employed for manufacturing mats with this application, although chlorinated or fluorinated solvents are predominantly used, presenting high cellular toxicity. A viable alternative as a green solvent is glacial acetic acid in the preparation of electrospinning solutions. In this study, we investigated the molecular degradation via acid hydrolysis of PCL in acidic solvents (acetic acid/formic acid) and how the contact time (storage) influences the morphology of the produced structures. Solutions containing 30% by weight of PCL in acetic acid/formic acid (9:1) were prepared and stored at 35 °C for up to 14 days. Subsequently, samples were tested by electrospinning to assess the resulting morphology. To analyze the acid degradation of PCL, samples were evaluated by GPC, XRD, and FTIR, revealing an approximately 50% reduction in molar mass during the solubilization process. This allowed for better chain packing, generating higher crystallinity indices, increasing from approximately 37% to 49 %, due to the storage time of the solutions. On the other hand, it was observed that this reduction in molar mass resulted in lower molecular interactions and entanglement of the chains, reflecting in the formation of unstable Taylor cones that produced mats with various morphologies, including fibers, beaded fibers, and isolated beads. However, this degradation demonstrated an increase in water adsorption capacity, indicating exposure of hydrogen bonds from the acid hydrolysis of the ester linkage in PCL, an important feature for applications in regenerative medicine. This highlights the high potential of these hydrolyzed materials for cell anchoring applications in tissue engineering.
RSEI-based monitoring of ecological quality and analysis of drivers in the Daling River Basin
Authors: Ge Jintao , Qian Cheng , Zhang Chao , Zhang Li , Song Weimin , Na Fuchao , Ma Hongwei , Guo Changlai , Jiang Shan
Published: January 2024

The Daling River basin is an important ecological functional area in the western region of Liaoning, and the monitoring of the ecological environment quality and the analysis of the factors in the basin are of great significance for the protection of the ecological environment and the improvement of the quality of the economy. In this paper, based on the three periods of remote sensing images in 1995, 2010 and 2020 as the basic data, we use platforms and technical means such as RS and GIS to decipher and extract the land use information of the three periods, establish the transfer matrix of land use types, and collect the data to extract the corresponding four remote sensing indices of NDVI, LST, WET and NDBSI, and construct the remote sensing eco-index of Daling River Basin (RSEI) model. Based on the land use change, combined with the trend of remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) of Daling River Basin, so as to achieve the purpose of rapid and efficient dynamic monitoring of ecological quality of Daling River Basin from 1995 to 2020. The geodetector model was applied to systematically evaluate the drivers of ecological quality in the basin, providing a scientific basis for the implementation of further ecological environmental protection measures.
Resilience as mediator and moderator in witnessing workplace bullying and professional identity
Authors: Song Yeoungsuk , Lee Yoonmi , Lee Junghoon
Published: January 2024

Aim
This study was aimed to examine the relationship among witnessing workplace bullying, resilience, and professional identity in student nurses, and to investigate the mediating and moderating effects of resilience on the relationship between witnessing workplace bullying and professional identity.
Background
Workplace bullying is an increasingly serious problem in nursing practice and can affect the professional identity of student nurses. Resilience, a potential protective role, must be examined in relation to witnessing workplace bullying and professional identity.
Method
Cross-sectional design and secondary data analysis were conducted. 127 junior and senior nursing students in eight colleges and universities were recruited.
Results
A significant positive correlation was found between resilience and professional identity (r = 0.51, p < 0.001). However, the mediating and moderating effects of resilience were not significant.
Conclusion
Resilience is a crucial factor in promoting professional identity among nursing students. However, further research investigating witnessing workplace bullying, resilience, and professional identity is required.
Psychosocial status and COVID-19 outcome are significantly associated
Authors: Sinha Nirmalya K. , Maiti Smarajit
Published: January 2024

Covid-19 pandemic raised both physical and mental threat to human. Globally, 607,497,755 cases of infection and 6,492,948 deaths were recorded until August, 2022. The psychosocial-conditions in pre-infection-period might influence disease. Here, we delineate the impact of socio-economic status, pre- or post- Covid-19 psychosocial and other factors (lockdown/self-isolation/diagnosis) on this disease outcome. Pre-Covid mental-status (depression-anxiety, tobacco-smoking and suicide-mortality), quality-of-life (QOL) and Global-Health-Security (GHS) were correlated with total-infection and case-fatality-rate (CFR) in > 170 countries. The database of World-Health-Organization/World-Bank/United-Nations and the Johns-Hopkins-Center for Health-Security was utilized. The Student’s t test, multivariate-ANOVA, correlation and linear-regression were performed. Psychological wellbeing indicators (happiness/GSH/QOL) and mental-impairments like depression-anxiety positively correlated with infection and CFR (p < 0.05-p < 0.001). The happiness-index positively associated with QOL/GSH/anxiety and depression. Higher CFR was noticed in congested/populated territories. Canonical regression strongly suggests this result. Variable host-virus interactions associated with race/ethnicity and body-composition. Positive correlations between mental state-QOL and anxiety-depression paralleled with adverse outcome of Covid-19.
Anti-inflammatory action of resveratrol in the central nervous system in relation to glucose concentration - an in vitro study on a blood-brain barrier model
Authors: Komorowska Justyna , Watroba Mateusz , Bednarzak Małgorzata , Grabowska Anna D. , Szukiewicz Dariusz
Published: January 2024

Objective and Design: This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of resveratrol (RSV) on astrocyte cytokine profiles within the in vitro model of blood-brain barrier (BBB) under varying glucose concentrations (2.2, 5.0, and 25.0 mmol/L).
Material:The subjects comprised the in vitro co-cultures of endothelial cells and astrocytes within the BBB model with 0.4-µm-wide pores between them.
Treatment:RSV was administered at a dosage of 50 μM to the microvascular compartment (MC), and the duration of the intervention was 24 hours.
Methods: Cytokine levels (IL-1 α, IL-1 β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8) in the brain compartment (BC) were assessed using a Multi-Analyte ELISArray Kit before and after the addition of LPS and RSV. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine significance levels.
Results: RSV significantly reduced the concentration of all studied cytokines in the BC, regardless of glucose levels. The most substantial decrease occurred under normoglycemic conditions. The concentration of RSV in the BC was highest in normoglycemic conditions compared to hypo- and hyperglycemia.
Conclusions:Administration of RSV in the MC demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects within BC, particularly in normoglycemia-simulating conditions. Future in vivostudies, including animal and human research, are needed to explore the bioavailability of RSV within the CNS.
Integrated assessment of a coastal lagoon ecological status based on benthic macroinvertebrates
Authors: Boutahar Loubna , Maanan Mehdi , Bououarour Oussama , Kamcha Reda El , Maanan Mohamed , Bazairi Hocein
Published: January 2024

Coastal lagoons are considered as one of the most productive ecosystems worldwide but are also vulnerable to the growing human-made stressors. This study aimed at assessing, for the first time, the ecological status of the Oualidia lagoon (Atlantic coast of Morocco) using benthic macroinvertebrates as bioindicators. An integrative ecological monitoring approach based on spatial diversity patterns of species assemblages (examined using taxonomic indices, structural trophic guilds as indicators of the functional biodiversity, and marine biotic indices) in relation to sedimentary and hydrological descriptors was performed. Results showed that hydrodynamic conditions, represented by intra-lagoon currents and the watershed, govern the entire sediment distribution within the lagoon and establish a longitudinal downstream-upstream gradient and transverse right-left banks, which explained 66% of the total variation observed in benthic assemblage composition. Seagrass meadows affect positively the abundance of dominant species but do not support high diversity. Overall, macrozoobenthos spatial pattern consists in modification of the relative abundance of species, independently of species composition. The average score of the ecological classes obtained from five biotic indices (AMBI, BENTIX, H’, MAMBI and ITI) showed an acceptable status of the benthic assemblages. This integrated analysis resulted in a holistic view of the benthic-ecosystem that will serve in implementing an ecosystem-based approach to the management of the Oualidia lagoon.
Digital storytelling online: A case report exploring virtual design, implementation opportunities and challenges
Authors: Mansfield Elizabeth , Jalal Nafeesa , Sanderson Rani , Shetty Geeta , Hylton Andrea , D'Silva Chelsea
Published: January 2024

Background: Digital storytelling is an arts-informed approach that engages short, first-person videos, typically three to five minutes in length, to communicate a personal narrative. Prior to the pandemic, digital storytelling initiatives in health services research were often conducted during face-to-face workshops scheduled over multiple days. However, throughout the COVID-19 lockdowns where social distancing requirements needed to be maintained, many digital storytelling projects were adapted to online platforms.
Methods: As part of a research project aiming to explore the day surgery treatment and recovery experiences of women with breast cancer in Peel region, we decided to pivot our digital storytelling process to an online format. During the process, we observed that the online digital storytelling format had multiple opportunities and challenges to implementation.
Results: This paper outlines our promising practices and lessons learned when designing and implementing an online digital storytelling project including pre-production, production and post-production considerations.
Conclusions: We provide lessons learned for future teams intending to conduct an online digital storytelling project.
Low Temperature NO2 Gas Sensing by Delafossite-Structured AgFeO2 Nanograins
Authors: More Neha , Bhise Rahul , Zirpe Maheshwari , Padvi Mukesh , Thakur Jyotsna
Published: January 2024

Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) gas monitoring has become increasingly important to ensure the safety of human lives and the environment. The present study investigates the potential of low-cost delafossite-structured AgFeO2 nanoparticles to detect NO2 gas at low temperature. Highly porous, grain-like AgFeO2 nanoparticles were prepared by simple co-precipitation method and characterized using XRD, FESEM-EDS, TEM and BET analysis.AgFeO2 nanograins synthesized by conventional method, demonstrated gas-sensing performance with respect to sensitivity (1.89%), short response (51s) and, selectivity at low temperature of 50 oC, towards 8 ppm NO2 gas.
Patient Perceptions of the Benefits of Physical Activity Throughout the Cancer Continuum in Cancer Survivor Populations
Authors: Dean Kristin , Stamp Elizabeth , Morris Mhairi
Published: January 2024

Purpose
Physical activity (PA) and exercise have multiple benefits throughout the cancer continuum, including alleviating treatment side effects, improving quality of life, and preventing secondary recurrence. Despite these benefits being well-documented, most cancer survivors do not meet the minimum exercise guidelines.
Method
To assess cancer survivors’ beliefs and experiences surrounding exercise during treatment, a 12-question survey was disseminated to a range of cancer survivors. Free-form comments were reviewed to identify common themes.
Results
Out of the 275 initial respondents, 198 male and female cancer survivors completed the questionnaire, upon which qualitative and quantitative analysis was conducted revealing a reduction in feelings of depression and anxiety in 83.36% of respondents. Physical barriers were the most common reported theme, followed by healthcare-related barriers due to lack of knowledge and guidance, with 99% of respondents agreeing a greater emphasis on this aspect is needed. Stretching/yoga-based activities were the most favoured type of exercise amongst respondents.
Conclusions
The findings presented herein comprehensively demonstrate the benefits of and barriers to participating in PA throughout the cancer continuum. Healthcare practitioners working with cancer survivors need to be cognisant of these barriers when designing interventions aimed at improving PA adherence.
Implications for Cancer Survivors: Individualised exercise programmes that consider all aspects of an individual’s cancer journey (cancer type, treatment modalities, etc.) may be able to correct the disconnect between knowledge of the benefits of PA and adherence to current guidelines amongst cancer survivors.
The ABCs of Russia's post-transition growth: What went wrong?
Authors: Ogloblin Constantin , Brock Gregory
Published: January 2024

The study uses industry-level data to examine the drivers of Russia’s economic growth in 2000–2008, when the average annual growth rate was 6.45%, in comparison with 2010–2016, when it fell to 1.75%. We apply the stochastic frontier method to quantify input-driven, technology-driven, and efficiency-driven growth. The influence of the world oil price on Russia’s growth is estimated from the perspective of its effects on both expansion of inputs (extensive growth) and production efficiency (intensive growth). The oil price movements affected capital and labor growth, but the government used a rent management system to mitigate these effects. As a result, the rate of extensive growth in 2000–2008, when the oil price was rising, was about the same (around 3%) as in 2010–2016 when the oil price was falling. The intensive (TFP-driven) growth rate fell from an average of 2.7% per year in 2000–2008 to − 1% in 2010–2016 due to a substantial decline in production efficiency during the latter period. Although the world price of oil could be partly responsible for this trend, we found the evolution of Russia’s economic system from generally market-oriented to largely controlled by kleptocracy to be the main factor behind it. Despite some changes in the economy’s industrial structure that occurred during both periods, the structural transformation had a negligible effect on growth.
NDR1 mediates PD-L1 deubiquitination to promote prostate cancer immune escape via USP10
Authors: Sun Huimin , Fu Meiling , Li Jinxin , Xuan Zuodong , Bai Yang , Zheng Zeyuan , Liu Yankuo , Zhang Zeyi , Xue Yi , Zheng Jianzhong , Zhong Min , Liu Bin , Du Yifan , Sui Suiyuan , Zhang Lei
Published: January 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common male genitourinary system malignancies. The reasons for the poor therapeutic efficacy of anti-PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in PCa, despite its significant benefits in other cancers, are unclear. NDR1 plays an important role in innate immunity, but its role in tumor immunity and immunotherapy has not been investigated. The role of NDR1 in the immune microenvironment of PCa and the related mechanisms are unknown. Here, we found a positive correlation between NDR1 and PD-L1 expression in PCa. NDR1 significantly inhibited CD8 + T cell infiltration and function and promoted PCa immune escape. More importantly, NDR1 inhibition significantly enhanced CD8 + T cell activation, which enhanced the therapeutic effect of anti-PD-L1. Mechanistic studies revealed that NDR1 inhibits ubiquitination-mediated PD-L1 degradation via the deubiquitinase USP10, upregulates PD-L1, and promotes PCa immune escape. Thus, our study suggests a unique PD-L1 regulatory mechanism underlying PCa immunotherapy failure. The significance of NDR1 in PCa immune escape and its mechanism of action were clarified, and combined NDR1/PD-L1 inhibition was suggested as an approach to boost PCa immunotherapy effectiveness.
Egalitarian preferences in young children depend on the sexes of the interacting partners
Authors: Wingerden Marijn van , Oberliessen Lina , Kalenscher Tobias
Published: January 2024

In decisions between equal and unequal resource distributions, women are often believed to be more prosocial than men. Previous research showed that fairness attitudes develop in childhood, but their – possibly gendered, developmental trajectory remains unclear. We hypothesized that gendered fairness attitudes might depend not only on the sex of the actor, but also on that of the interaction partner. To examine this, we tested 332 three to eight-year-old children in a paired resource allocation task, with both boys and girls acting as allocators and recipients. We found sex effects that gradually emerged during childhood: girls more than boys aimed to reduce advantageous inequality, and allocators of both sexes were more averse against male recipients being better off. Notably, girls exhibited an envy bias, i.e., they tolerated less when the resource allocation was in favour of boys than if it favoured other girls. We also observed a sex spite gap: unlike girls, even the oldest boys treated other boys with spite, i.e., they valued unfair distributions in their own favour over equal outcome alternatives. This pattern hints at contextualized gendered fairness preferences that evolve with age and are, next to other factors, possibly sharpened by same- and cross-sex past interaction experiences.
The uniform structure of g⊗4
Authors: Avetisyan Maneh , Isaev Alexey P. , Krivonos Sergey , Mkrtchyan Ruben
Published: January 2024

We obtain a uniform decomposition into Casimir eigenspaces (most of which are irreducible) of the fourth power of the adjoint representation g⊗4 for all simple Lie algebras. We present universal, in Vogel’s sense, formulae for the dimensions and split Casimir operator’s eigenvalues of all terms in this decomposition.We assume that a similar uniform decomposition into Casimir eigenspaces with universal dimension formulae exists for an arbitrary power of the adjoint representations.
Discovery of a deadly species of box jellyfish Chironex indrasaksajiae in Palk Bay, southeast coast of India
Authors: Saravanan R. , Ranjith L. , Thirumalaiselvan S. , Sadiq I. Syed , Vinod K.
Published: January 2024

The current study documents the occurrence of Chironex indrasaksajia, a potentially deadly box jellyfish species, in Palk Bay. This is the first time a species of Chironex has been discovered along the Indian coast, and up to now, no box jellyfish from the genus Chironex has been documented. As a result, fishermen need to be aware of how to manage stings in an emergency and prevent severe envenomation. Further study on the species distribution around Indian coastal water is required to understand its distribution. This study confirms the westward distribution range of this species from its previously reported area Gulf of Thailand. Among the three species of Chironex, this is the first species reported from Indian waters.
Research on Optimization and dispatch of Non cooperative Games among Four Parties in the Comprehensive Energy Market under the Mapping of Stepped Carbon Tax
Authors: Zhang Shuaibo , He Fei
Published: January 2024

Within the context of the global "dual-carbon" policy, the study explores the low-carbon energy transactions among diverse entities in the comprehensive energy market and the constraints imposed by the design of tiered carbon tax policies. This has emerged as a research hotspot in the field of low-carbon economic dispatch. The paper comprehensively examines the coupled relationship between the energy consumption and corresponding carbon emission factors among four entities: microgrid energy operators, flexible shared energy storage, electric to heat transfer operator, and community aggregator. It maps the corresponding energy prices into the interests of a non-cooperative game among entities, thereby guiding each entity to achieve a balance between carbon emissions and economic costs. The paper utilizes an enhanced genetic-particle swarm hybrid algorithm for solving and validates the effectiveness of the dispatch strategy by analyzing the marginal and cumulative effects generated by the design of tiered carbon tax policies. The findings indicate that under continuous tiered carbon tax mapping, the formulation strategy of electricity and heat prices has been further optimized, balancing the interests of the four entities, and effectively enhancing the integration of new energy while reducing the output of fossil energy units.
Relationship Between Globalization and the Forest Area Footprint: An Ardl Approach for Brazil
Authors: Rocha Moisés S. , Ferreira Lindomayara F. , Faria Weslem R.
Published: January 2024

This article aims to identify the relationship between globalization and the forest product and carbon Footprint, used as proxies for the Ecological Footprint of the forestry area, for the Brazilian context. Specifically, we verify their relationships between the main dimensions of globalization (from the KOF Globalization Index). To determine the short-run and long-run relationships between the variables, the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach of time series data between 1989 and 2018 is used. The main results suggest that the general globalization index does not have a significant influence on the Ecological Footprint of the forest area. However, the dimensions of disaggregated globalization – economic, social, and political – present different relationships with the Ecological Footprint of the forest area in the short and long term. In conclusion, the results provide important evidence for developing policies that encourage society to adopt trends and habits of consumption, production, and cultural aspects to mitigate the degradation of forests and air and water pollution.
Quality of Child Care Environment among the Parents of Children with Disabilities, In the case of Khovd Province, Mongolia
Authors: Gan-Yadam Amarsanaa
Published: January 2024

The main purpose of this study was to assess the quality of the childcare environment among parents of children with disabilities. The study also looks at the factors that influence the childcare environment and assesses the validity of using the Index of Child Care Environment in the context of Mongolia, particularly for children with disabilities. A total of 84 parents with disabled children were surveyed based on their self-reported responses, and the child care environment was assessed using the Index of Child Care Environment. Simple descriptive analysis, the X2 test, and logistic regression analyses were used for quantitative data analysis. All the statistical analyses were performed with IBM SPSS version 27. The qualitative methods were used to obtain deeper insights into parents’ perceptions and attitudes in relation to the study subjects. Content analysis was used for qualitative data analysis. The study results revealed that the Index of Child Care Environment can be used to assess the quality of the child care environment in Mongolia. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that parents’ education, employment status, and accommodation type were significantly related to the child care environment. On the other hand, the children’s age was significantly related to going shopping with parents and meeting children of similar ages. The children’s gender was related to reading books with their parents. The study also revealed that the quality of the child care environment was not sufficient for the selected parents. Further studies with more diverse settings are required to identify and assess child care environments in Mongolia to identify local-based strategies and models for caring for children in a local culture-based context.
Applying Knowledge Graphs for Personalized Product Recommendation in E-commerce According to Consumers Interests
Authors: tang chuming , tao peng , li yan
Published: January 2024

Large-scale e-commerce platforms often encompass various recommendation scenarios to cater to the diverse needs of different consumers. In recent years, the application of knowledge graph-based multi-domain recommendation (MDR) has drawn increasing attention of researchers. The state-of-the-art MDR methods have typically shared structures, shared parameters, and domain-specific components with specific parameters. However, due to the variations in data distributions across different domains, shared parameters often suffer from domain conflicts during the training process, while domain-specific parameters are prone to overfitting in sparse data domains. To address these problems, we have proposed the GDKG2D (GDKG + DN + DR) model for multi-domain recommendation of products. An unsupervised learning approach is firstly employed to construct a generalized domain knowledge graph (GDKG), in which a Local Weighted Smoothing (LWS) scheme according to consumer interests has been designed to encode the nodes. Node embeddings is then used in LWS to train encoders for consumers in the consumer-product bipartite graph. Subsequently, a Domain Negotiation (DN) strategy is employed to alleviate domain conflicts. Domain Regularization (DR) is applied finally in training in other domains to enhance the generalization performance of specific parameters. After evaluating on the product recommendation datasets from Amazon and Taobao, the GDKG2D model demonstrates significant advantages over conventional MDR methods. It exhibits superior performance, particularly in terms of AUC scores.