bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A graphical user interface for predicting quality parameters of deep‐fried foods
Authors: Othman Siti Nabihah , Jamil Norazaliza Mohd
Published: September 2024

The process of deep‐frying brings about significant physicochemical changes in the color and moisture content of foods, influenced by heat and mass transfer phenomena. Achieving consistent quality in fried foods, such as nuggets, fries, and chicken pies, is challenging, highlighting the importance of predicting these changes. This study delves into the evolving dynamics of color and moisture content, specifically in French fries during deep frying. To model these changes, the study employs a first‐order kinetic equation for color and moisture content, utilizing numerical solutions like the Runge–Kutta fourth‐order method as well as the Nelder–Mead algorithm in MATLAB. The Arrhenius equation plays a key role in this model. The modified model is compared against an existing model using the root mean square error (RMSE) and Akaike information criterion (AIC). Note that the investigation evaluates how oil temperature (at 150, 170, and 190°C) as well as sample thickness (at 5, 10, and 15 mm) impact the French fries' moisture and color content during frying. Results indicate that the modified model, with its improved accuracy and lower RMSE and AIC values compared to the existing model, provides a more reliable tool for understanding the frying process. Consequently, the inclusion of a user‐friendly graphical interface (GUI) makes this modeling approach accessible even to those with limited mathematical or programming expertise, benefiting professionals seeking more profound insights into the frying process.

Practical applications

The graphical user interface (GUI) for predicting deep‐fried food quality presented in this study holds broad industrial applications. It serves as a pivotal tool in the food industry for ensuring consistent quality across products like fries and nuggets, enabling manufacturers to optimize frying processes. Fast‐food chains can use the GUI to minimize costs and energy consumption while maintaining product quality. In addition, it aids in equipment calibration, becoming an invaluable asset for operators seeking optimal performance and longevity in deep‐frying equipment. Culinary schools benefit from this GUI as an educational tool, offering aspiring chefs a practical understanding of deep‐frying science. Researchers and food scientists can accelerate R&D cycles by efficiently assessing the impact of variables. SMEs, regulatory bodies, and food retailers find utility in the GUI for quality control, compliance, and consumer education, collectively contributing to industry transparency, sustainability, and improved global health outcomes.
Assessment of forgiveness in couple relationships: Adaptation of the Marital Offense‐Specific Forgiveness Scale (MOFS) to a Spanish sample
Authors: Kasprzak Agata , Martínez‐Díaz María Pilar
Published: September 2024

Forgiveness plays an important role in couple relationships, as it is essential in overcoming interpersonal offenses and related to the well‐being of the relationship. To date, no valid instruments are available for Spanish populations to evaluate forgiveness within marital relationships. This study aims to adapt and evaluate the Marital Offense‐Specific Forgiveness Scale (MOFS), comparing the behavior of the scale in two cultural contexts: Spain and the United States.

Two studies were conducted: the first with 389 participants to evaluate the behavior of the scale and to explore the dimensionality of the Spanish version of the MOFS using exploratory factor analysis (EFA); the second study used a sample of 361 Spanish and 119 American participants, conducting a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and an invariance factor analysis.

The EFA revealed two factors: Avoidance–Resentment and Benevolence. Using CFA, the factorial structure of the MOFS was confirmed, with results indicating that the proposed model presents a similar fit to the original version.
The curious case of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis dysfunction in subordinate female naked mole‐rats (Heterocephalus glaber): No apparent role of opioids and glucocorticoids
Authors: Hart Daniel W. , Roberts E. , O'Riain M. J. , Millar R. P. , Bennett N. C.
Published: September 2024

The naked mole‐rat (Heterocephalus glaber) is a unique model mammal in which to study socially induced inhibition of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. Naked mole‐rat groups exhibit a high degree of reproductive bias in which breeding is restricted to one female (the queen) and one male, with subordinate non‐breeding colony members rarely, if ever, having the opportunity to reproduce due to a dysfunctional HPG axis. It is posited that aggression directed at subordinates by the queen suppresses reproduction in these subordinates, yet the underlying physiological mechanisms causing this dysfunction are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the possible factors contributing to the dysfunction of the HPG axis in subordinate female naked mole‐rats with a specific focus on the role of ovarian feedback and stress‐related factors such as circulating glucocorticoid and endogenous opioid peptides. The results showed that stress‐related factors appear to not mediate the suppression of reproductive function in subordinate female naked mole rats. Indeed, in some cases, the activation of the stress axis may lead to reproductive activation instead of deactivation. At the same time, the role of ovarian sex steroid feedback in reproductive suppression is likely limited and not clearly delineated. This study highlights the need for detailed studies to elucidate the mechanism of reproductive suppression in this unique model mammalian species which may shed light on, and reveal novel mechanisms, in the social regulation of reproduction.
Modulation of Melanocyte in Melasma Patients After Picosecond Laser Treatment
Authors: Chen Ching‐Li , Chen Chih‐Chiang , Tsai Feng‐Ling , Chen I‐Ling , Huang Ling , Yen Yu‐Chun , Hwang Chian‐Yaw
Published: September 2024

Background

Melasma is a therapeutically challenging hyperpigmented skin condition. Currently, there is a lack of in vivo observation regarding changes in melanin and dendritic melanocytes after laser treatment.

Objective

To investigate alterations in melanin and melanocytes in melasma before and after laser treatment using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

Eight female melasma patients were enrolled in Taiwan. Based on the baseline OCT scans, the patients were categorized into either epidermal‐type or mixed‐type melasma and were assigned different treatment protocols accordingly. Sequential OCT images were collected from melasma lesions and normal skin at baseline, Week 4 and Week 8.

Results

After 8 weeks of laser treatment, the mean Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI) score improved from 10.92 to 6.30. Results from OCT showed no significant changes in the normalized density, area, or intensity of melanin in both lesional and normal skin. At baseline, the mean length of dendritic melanocytes in the affected skin was 15% longer than those in normal skin; at Week 8, the mean length of lesional dendritic melanocytes became the same as those in normal skin. Additionally, the mean width of dendritic melanocytes decreased from being 4% wider to only 2% wider than those in normal skin.

Conclusion

After 8 weeks of treatment, an improvement of MASI score was noted, mainly attributable to a reduction in lesional area. OCT showed no notable change regarding melanin, but a decrease in length and width of dendritic melanocytes was noted in the lesional skin of melasma patients.
The Abu Dhabi adhan: An orienting soundmark through scaled configurations of space and time
Authors: Rabie Deina
Published: September 2024

Amid its superdiverse population, the call to prayer, the adhan, identifies the UAE as an Arab, Muslim nation state while forming discrete ethno‐class publics around its numerous urban mosque calls. I conceptualize the adhan as a soundmark, which functions as a vital sonic place‐maker and orients listeners' attendant actions through a series of scaled chronotopes. I posit two intersecting umbrella chronotopes, masjid and jāmi‘, which frame how each adhan is listened to and taken up. For autochthonous Emiratis, the chronotope of masjid opens up a portal of copresence with God and attendant rituals of ethical self‐formation. Meanwhile, the chronotope of jāmi‘ positions Emiratis in the iterative constitution of their nation, community, and family. Through these chronotopes, I examine how members of an extended Emirati family use the adhan to reinforce discourses of ethnonational and gendered socialization within their cloistered urban tribal enclave in the capital, Abu Dhabi. However, as the state gradually divests from full economic dependence on oil, infrastructural transformations are leading young Emiratis toward two‐income single‐family homes in multiethnic suburbs. Accordingly, I show how the marked reduction in the adhan in new developments becomes a synecdoche for sociopolitical changes and Emiratis' ambivalence toward them.
Nutritional assessment of under‐three years children availing Anganwadi services from rural areas of Puducherry, India
Authors: Rajendran Govindaraj , Ramasubramani Premkumar , Rajaa Sathish , Kanagalingam Sindhu , Karunakar Pediredla
Published: September 2024

Aim

Undernurition stands as a significant contributor to childhood mortality, particularly in developing nations such as India. At the grass root level, anthropometric monitoring indicators such as stunting, underweight and wasting take place within Anganwadi centres (village courtyard). The scrutiny of growth records, utilising these markers, not only quantifies the burden but also informs corrective measures. This study aimed to assess the prevailing growth monitoring records within the rural vicinity of Puducherry.

Methods

A community‐based cross‐sectional study design was implemented to examine the health condition of children below 3 years of age, who were enrolled and utilising services in Anganwadi centres. The anthropometric data, such as weight and height, were collected from growth monitoring records maintained in Anganwadi. The proportions of undernutrition indicators such as stunting, underweight and wasting were presented with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Within our rural service area encompassing 13 Anganwadis, a total of 572 children aged 3 or less were registered. Notably, approximately 14.2% (95% CI: 11.5–17.3) of these children experienced underweight, 16.4% (95% CI: 13.6–19.7) were stunted and 13.3% (95% CI: 10.8–16.3) were wasted. In terms of gender disparities, the prevalence of undernurition was notably higher among boy children, with 15.4% being underweight, 16.9% stunted and 14.7% wasted.

Conclusions

The prevalence of childhood undernurition is a public health concern, demanding the enhancement of existing nutritional initiatives to ameliorate the healthy well‐being of these children. The timely identification of malnourished children holds paramount importance, as intensified interventions can be promptly employed to uplift the health status of these vulnerable individuals.
Pharmacokinetics and Plasma Protein Binding of Flunixin in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Uney Kamil , Corum Orhan , Durna Corum Duygu , Coskun Devran , Sakin Fatih , Elmas Muammer
Published: September 2024

Flunixin's pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, and plasma protein binding were examined in rainbow trout. The experiment involved 252 rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) maintained at 12 ± 0.6°C. Flunixin was administered to rainbow trout via intravascular (IV), intramuscular (IM), and oral routes at a dosage of 2.2 mg/kg. Plasma samples were collected at times 0 (control), 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. High‐pressure liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet was employed to quantify flunixin concentrations. The elimination half‐life (t1/2ʎz) for flunixin was 8.37 h for IV, 8.68 h for IM, and 8.76 h for oral. The t1/2ʎz was similar between administration groups. The volume of distribution at a steady state and total body clearance were 55.81 mL/kg and 6.83 mL/h/kg, respectively, after IV administration. The mean peak plasma concentration was 6.24 ± 0.41 μg/mL at 4 h for oral administration and 13.98 ± 0.86 μg/mL at 2 h for IM administration. The in vitro protein binding ratio of flunixin in rainbow trout plasma was 96.34 ± 2.29%. The bioavailability of flunixin after oral (25.74%) administration was lower than that after IM (66.70%) administration. Thus, developing an oral pharmaceutical formulation that can be administered with feed and has high bioavailability could enhance the therapeutic effect.
Enactivism: Embodied cognition, sense‐making, and nursing
Authors: McCaffrey Graham
Published: September 2024

Enactivism is a branch of embodied cognition theory that argues for a highly distributed model of cognition as a sense‐making process involving brain, body, environment, and subjective experience. It is a theoretical framework with potential value for nursing since it offers an integrated framework for human sense‐making that includes physiological and psychological factors as well as the primary experience of subjective perceptions. This paper presents an introduction to the background and main tenets of enactivist theory. These are discussed in relation to nursing, and mental health nursing to argue for the relevance of enactivism in nursing knowledge.
Early‐pregnancy BMI, maternal gestational weight gain, and asthma and allergic diseases in children
Authors: Ojwang’ Vincent , Nwaru Bright I. , Hanna‐Mari Takkinen , Heli Tapanainen , Kaila Minna , Ahonen Suvi , Niemelä Onni , Haapala Anna‐Maija , Ilonen Jorma , Toppari Jorma , Hyöty Heikki , Veijola Riitta , Knip Mikael , Virtanen Suvi M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Association of early pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and maternal gestational weight gain (GWG), and asthma and allergic disease in children is unclear.

Methods

We analyzed data from 3176 mother–child pairs in a prospective birth cohort study. Maternal anthropometric measurements in the first and last antenatal clinic visits were obtained through post‐delivery questionnaires to calculate early pregnancy BMI and maternal GWG. Asthma and allergic diseases in children by the age of 5 years was assessed using a validated questionnaire. Furthermore, serum samples were analyzed for IgE antibodies to eight allergens. We applied Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression analyses to estimate the association of early pregnancy BMI and maternal GWG (as continuous variables and categorized into quarters), and asthma, atopic eczema, atopic sensitization, and allergic rhinitis in children.

Results

Neither early pregnancy BMI nor maternal GWG was associated with asthma and allergic disease in children when analyzed as continuous variables. However, compared to the first quarter of GWG (a rate <0.32 kg/week), mothers in the third quarter (rate 0.42–0.52 kg/week) had children with significantly higher odds of developing atopic eczema (adjusted OR 1.49, 95% CI [1.13–1.96]) by 5 years of age.

Conclusion

Association of early pregnancy BMI and maternal GWG, and asthma and allergic disease in children, is inconsistent. High maternal GWG may be associated with increased odds of atopic eczema.
RhLHY‐RhTPPF‐Tre6P Inhibits Flowering in Rosa hybrida Under Insufficient Light by Regulating Sugar Distribution
Authors: Fan Yingdong , Zhang Wuhua , Zhang Jinzhu , Yang Tao , Zhang Naiyu , Liang Shuang , Dong Jie , Che Daidi
Published: September 2024

Light is crucial for flower bud development in plants, serving as both signal and energy source. However, the mechanisms by which daylength and light intensity regulate flowering in modern roses remain unclear. In Rosa hybrida ‘Carola’, insufficient light delays flowering and reduces the sugar content in terminal buds. RNA sequencing identified the Trehalose‐6‐phosphate phosphatase F (RhTPPF) gene as a key responder to insufficient light, modulating Tre6P metabolism. Overexpression of RhTPPF in rose calli enhanced sugar accumulation and suppressed the synthesis of RhCO/FT. In tobacco, overexpression of RhTPPF delayed the transition from vegetative growth to flowering, while silencing RhTPPF in roses accelerated flowering. Silencing RhTPPF in roses elevated trehalose‐6‐phosphate (Tre6P) levels and decreased trehalose. Transcriptome data showed that the expression level of RhTPPF was highly correlated with the circadian rhythm gene LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL (RhLHY). Yeast one‐hybrid assays, dual luciferase assays and EMSA revealed that RhLHY directly binds to the RhTPPF promoters. Overexpression of RhLHY suppressed flowering, while silencing RhLHY promoted flowering. Furthermore, altering the expression of RhLHY influenced Tre6P synthesis and the expression of sucrose‐related transport genes. These findings suggest a RhLHY‐RhTPPF‐Tre6P regulatory module that maintains sugar balance and inhibits flower formation under reduced light conditions by modulating sugar distribution.
An Improved Chromosome‐scale Genome Assembly and Population Genetics resource for Populus tremula.
Authors: Robinson Kathryn M. , Schiffthaler Bastian , Liu Hui , Rydman Sara M. , Rendón‐Anaya Martha , Kalman Teitur Ahlgren , Kumar Vikash , Canovi Camilla , Bernhardsson Carolina , Delhomme Nicolas , Jenkins Jerry , Wang Jing , Mähler Niklas , Richau Kerstin H. , Stokes Victoria , A'Hara Stuart , Cottrell Joan , Coeck Kizi , Diels Tim , Vandepoele Klaas , Mannapperuma Chanaka , Park Eung‐Jun , Plaisance Stephane , Jansson Stefan , Ingvarsson Pär K. , Street Nathaniel R.
Published: September 2024

Aspen (Populus tremula L.) is a keystone species and a model system for forest tree genomics. We present an updated resource comprising a chromosome‐scale assembly, population genetics and genomics data. Using the resource, we explore the genetic basis of natural variation in leaf size and shape, traits with complex genetic architecture.

We generated the genome assembly using long‐read sequencing, optical and high‐density genetic maps. We conducted whole‐genome resequencing of the Umeå Aspen (UmAsp) collection. Using the assembly and re‐sequencing data from the UmAsp, Swedish Aspen (SwAsp) and Scottish Aspen (ScotAsp) collections we performed genome‐wide association analyses (GWAS) using Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) for 26 leaf physiognomy phenotypes. We conducted Assay of Transposase Accessible Chromatin sequencing (ATAC‐Seq), identified genomic regions of accessible chromatin, and subset SNPs to these regions, improving the GWAS detection rate. We identified candidate long non‐coding RNAs in leaf samples, quantified their expression in an updated co‐expression network, and used this to explore the functions of candidate genes identified from the GWAS.

A GWAS found SNP associations for seven traits. The associated SNPs were in or near genes annotated with developmental functions, which represent candidates for further study. Of particular interest was a ~177‐kbp region harbouring associations with several leaf phenotypes in ScotAsp.

We have incorporated the assembly, population genetics, genomics, and GWAS data into the PlantGenIE.org web resource, including updating existing genomics data to the new genome version, to enable easy exploration and visualisation. We provide all raw and processed data to facilitate reuse in future studies.
Reexploring the conception of heat–health risk: From the perspectives of dimensionality and spatiality
Authors: Peng Binbin , Hendricks Marccus D. , Hancock Gregory R.
Published: September 2024

Extreme heat events are more frequent and intense as a result of global climate change, thus posing tremendous threats to public health. However, extant literature exploring the multidimensional features of heat–health risks from a spatial perspective is limited. This study revisits extreme heat–health risk and decomposes this concept by integrating multi‐sourced datasets, identifying compositional features, examining spatial patterns, and comparing classified characteristics based on local conditions. Using Maryland as the focal point, we found that the components of heat–health risk are different from traditional risk dimensions (i.e., vulnerability, hazards, and exposure). Through a local‐level clustering analysis, heat–health risks were compared with areas having similar features, and among those with different features. The findings suggest a new perspective for understanding the socio‐environmental and socio‐spatial features of heat–health risks. They also offer an apt example of applying cross‐disciplinary methods and tools for investigating an ever‐changing phenomenon. Moreover, the spatial classification mechanism provides insights about the underlying causes of heat–health risk disparities and offers reference points for decision‐makers regarding identification of vulnerable areas, resource allocation, and causal inferences when planning for and managing extreme heat disasters.
Supercritical‐Flow Deposits: A New Quantitative Tool to Characterise Deep‐Marine Depositional Environments (Oligocene Annot Sandstones, SE France)?
Authors: Cornard P. H. , Pickering K. T. , Strasser M.
Published: September 2024

Despite a growing interest, few studies integrate quantitative supercritical‐flow deposit (SFD) distribution into paleoenvironmental reconstructions in deep‐marine settings. We present a re‐evaluation of the Oligocene Annot Sandstones (SE France) in terms of flow criticality, by examining the spatial distribution of SFDs. Proximal settings exhibit SFD proportion varying from ~90% to 40% with a common occurrence of cyclic steps, whereas distal environments show <40% SFDs with antidunes and upper‐plane beds prevalent. Comparing SFD spatial distribution to other proxies in the Annot Sandstones and published proxies from the Eocene Ainsa‐Jaca basins (Spanish Pyrenees), SFD trends appear more consistent than those in sandstone percentages, or the distribution of the Bouma sequence divisions. Our approach achieves two goals: (1) establishing the reliability of quantitatively analysing SFDs as a proxy for paleoenvironment reconstructions, characterising the proximal‐to‐basin floor transition at ~40% SFDs and (2) providing fundamental insights into the formation processes compared to other proxies.
Herbicide evaluation in direct seeded rice in the middle Gangetic plains of India
Authors: Upadhaya Bharati , Tiwari Ravindra Kumar , Kishor Kaushal , Harsha B. R. , Singh Sumit Kumar , Kumar Sanjay , Kumar Shailesh
Published: September 2024

A field experiment was conducted in Samastipur district of Bihar, India during kharif season of 2021 and 2022 to identify suitable herbicides for control of composite weed flora in direct seeded rice. Compared to weedy check, application of bispyribac sodium + pyrazosulfuron ethyl as tank mixture effectively reduced weed density at 50 days after seeding during both the cropping season (82% and 86%, respectively) and weed dry weight (7.62 and 7.18 g m−2, respectively) over control and as a result yielded maximum during both the cropping season (47.92 and 51.32 q ha−1, respectively). Based on overall performance, bispyribac sodium + pyrazosulfuron ethyl may be considered as viable weed management option in direct seeded rice for the rice growers of middle Indo‐Gangetic region.
A note on the PDE approach to the L∞$L^\infty$ estimates for complex Hessian equations on transverse Kähler manifolds
Authors: Sivaram P.
Published: September 2024

In this note, the partial differential equation (PDE) approach of Guo–Phong–Tong and Guo–Phong–Tong–Wang adapted to prove an estimate for transverse complex Monge–Ampère equations on homologically orientable transverse Kähler manifolds. As an application, a purely PDE‐based proof of the regularity of Calabi–Yau cone metrics on ‐Gorenstein ‐varieties is obtained.
The structural and functional effects of myosin regulatory light chain phosphorylation are amplified by increases in sarcomere length and [Ca2+]
Authors: Turner Kyrah L. , Vander Top Blake J. , Kooiker Kristina B. , Mohran Saffie , Mandrycky Christian , McMillen Tim , Regnier Michael , Irving Thomas C. , Ma Weikang , Tanner Bertrand C. W.
Published: September 2024

Precise regulation of sarcomeric contraction is essential for normal cardiac function. The heart must generate sufficient force to pump blood throughout the body, but either inadequate or excessive force can lead to dysregulation and disease. Myosin regulatory light chain (RLC) is a thick‐filament protein that binds to the neck of the myosin heavy chain. Post‐translational phosphorylation of RLC (RLC‐P) by myosin light chain kinase is known to influence acto‐myosin interactions, thereby increasing force production and Ca2+‐sensitivity of contraction. Here, we investigated the role of RLC‐P on cardiac structure and function as sarcomere length and [Ca2+] were altered. We found that at low, non‐activating levels of Ca2+, RLC‐P contributed to myosin head disorder, though there were no effects on isometric stress production and viscoelastic stiffness. With increases in sarcomere length and Ca2+‐activation, the structural changes due to RLC‐P become greater, which translates into greater force production, greater viscoelastic stiffness, slowed myosin detachment rates and altered nucleotide handling. Altogether, these data suggest that RLC‐P may alter thick‐filament structure by releasing ordered, off‐state myosin. These more disordered myosin heads are available to bind actin, which could result in greater force production as Ca2+ levels increase. However, prolonged cross‐bridge attachment duration due to slower ADP release could delay relaxation long enough to enable cross‐bridge rebinding. Together, this work further elucidates the effects of RLC‐P in regulating muscle function, thereby promoting a better understanding of thick‐filament regulatory contributions to cardiac function in health and disease.

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Key points

Myosin regulatory light chain (RLC) is a thick‐filament protein in the cardiac sarcomere that can be phosphorylated (RLC‐P), and changes in RLC‐P are associated with cardiac dysfunction and disease.

This study assesses how RLC‐P alters cardiac muscle structure and function at different sarcomere lengths and calcium concentrations.

At low, non‐activating levels of Ca2+, RLC‐P contributed to myofilament disorder, though there were no effects on isometric stress production and viscoelastic stiffness.

With increases in sarcomere length and Ca2+‐activation, the structural changes due to RLC‐P become greater, which translates into greater force production, greater viscoelastic stiffness, slower myosin detachment rate and altered cross‐bridge nucleotide handling rates.

This work elucidates the role of RLC‐P in regulating muscle function and facilitates understanding of thick‐filament regulatory protein contributions to cardiac function in health and disease.
ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ МИКРОБИОМА ЖЕЛУДОЧНО-КИШЕЧНОГО ТРАКТА У ПТИЦ
Authors: Бегахмет А.М. , Текебаева Ж.Б. , Темирбекова А.Ж. , Евнеева Д.О. , Боранбаева Г.К. , Темирханов А.Ж. , Абжалелов А.Б.
Published: September 2024

Одним из важных аспектов исследования микробиома желудочно-кишечного тракта (ЖКТ) птицы является выделение определенных бактерий, которые могут быть использованы в качестве пробиотиков. Пробиотики часто играют важную роль в улучшении здоровья кишечника цыплят посредством множества механизмов, включая усвоение питательных веществ, колонизацию нормальной микрофлорой, ингибирования кишечных инфекций.
Цель исследования – провести анализ разнообразия и распределения бактериальных культур, выделенных из различных отделов ЖКТ птицы для выявления потенциальных пробиотических культур.
Для выделения бактериальных штаммов из ЖКТ курицы породы Австралорп использовались стандартные микробиологические методы. Для этого образцы желудка, прямой, толстой и тонкой кишки отбирали с соблюдением всех правил асептики. Получение чистых культур молочнокислых бактерий (МКБ) проводили серийным разведением, с последующим высевом на чашки с агаром МРС. Инкубацию проводили при 37°C в микроаэрофильных условиях (O2 -5 %; CO2  -10%) в течение 24 – 48 часов.
Из различных отделов ЖКТ всего было выделено 36 бактериальных изолятов: из желудка – 5 изолятов, из тонкой кишки – 8 изолятов, из толстой кишки – 13 изолятов, из прямой кишки – 10 изолятов.
Методом определения нуклеотидной последовательности по 16SrRNA было обнаружено, что 23 штамма относятся к Levilactobacillus brevis, 3 штамма – к Lactobacillus casei, 6 штаммов – к Lactobacillus salivarius, 3 штамма – к Enterococcus faeciumи 1 штамм– к Lactobacillus sanfranciscensis. В результате анализа выделенные изоляты относятся к 5 видам пробиотических бактерий, доминирующими из которых оказались бактерии рода Levilactobacillus brevis для всех отделов. Наибольшее количество бактерий было выделено из толстого кишечника. Отделы толстого и прямого кишечника отличались разнообразием молочнокислых бактериальных культур, включая Lactobacillus casei в тонкой кишке, Lactobacillus sanfranciscensis в прямой кишке и Lactobacillus salivarius как в тонкой, так и в прямой кишке. Эти данные подчеркивают сложную микробиологическую динамику в кишечнике птиц и подчеркивают распространенность специфических видов бактерий в различных сегментах кишечника курицы породы Австралорп.
Результаты исследования представляют важные данные о составе бактериальной флоры в желудочно-кишечном тракте птиц, т.к. аборигенные штаммы имеют больший потенциал для приживления в кишечнике и оказания терапевтического эффекта в связи с выраженными антимикробными свойствами. Настоящее исследование имеет важное значение в скрининге пробиотических культур для перспективного использования в птицеводстве и создания на их основе биопрепарата, альтернативного антибиотикам.
                Работа выполнена в рамках грантового проекта АP14869952 (2022-2024 гг).
РАЗРАБОТКА ПЦР-ТЕСТ-СИСТЕМЫ В РЕЖИМЕ РЕАЛЬНОГО ВРЕМЕНИ ДЛЯ ИДЕНТИФИКАЦИИ FRANCISELLA TULARENSIS
Authors: Даулетов А.Е. , Турсунбай Н.Е. , Кайыржанова А.Д. , Избанова У.А. , Шевцов А.Б.
Published: September 2024

Туляремия – зоонозное заболевание, вызываемое грамотрицательной бактерией Francisella tularensis, факультативный внутриклеточный патоген. Десяти бактериальных клеток F. tularensis subsp. tularensis достаточно для развития инфекционного процесса с летальностью (без лечения) до 24%, что делает F. tularensis потенциальным биологическим оружием. Эпидемиологический мониторинг играет важную роль в контроле за туляремией в Казахстане. Большое разнообразие восприимчивых животных, наличие переносчиков и природных резервуаров выводят на первый план методы основанные на прямом выявлении возбудителя. Данный фактор повышает значимость разработки и использования ПЦР тест-систем при эпидемиологическом мониторинге, особенно, при работе со сложными образцами из окружающей среды. ПЦР в реальном времени является более быстрым, чувствительным и специфическим методом обнаружения патогенов.
В рамках настоящих исследований разработана ПЦР тест-система в режиме реального времени (qPCR) для идентификации F. tularensis.  Разработаны видоспецифичные праймеры и флуоресцентно-меченный зонд TaqMan к последовательности многокопийного инсерционного элемента ISFtu1, частота встречаемости которого в геноме F. tularensis достигает 50 копий.
Результаты выравнивание последовательностей ISFtu1 12 штаммов F. tularensis и 1 штамма F. novacida показало, что эта область высоко консервативна в анализируемых геномах. Был выбран оптимальный участок для подбора прямого праймера ISFtu1_F_54, обратного праймера isftu-1_R_189 и флуоресцентного зонда isftu-2_Probes_108. Оценка специфичности была подтверждена на ДНК двух подвидов F. tularensis subsp. mediasiatica и F. tularensis subsp. holarctica, 27 не целевых бактериальных видах и 3 эукариотических организмов. Наблюдался специфический сигнал только на образцах целевых организмов, без появления амплификации на не целевых образцах. Проверка чувствительности проводилось 4-х кратном серийном разведений ДНК F. tularensis subsp. mediasiatica позволила установить минимальный порог чувствительности в 15 геномных эквивалентов в реакции. В диапазоне от 1 млн до 15 геномных копий в реакции отчетливо наблюдается регистрация флуоресцентного сигнала с пороговым циклом от 15 до 35 соответственно. Использование более низкой копийности не приводит к накоплению флуоресцентного сигнала. По своей чувствительности разработанная нами qPCR не уступает аналогам опубликованным в литературных источниках и потенциально может быть использован для тестирования ДНК выделенной от естественных резервуаров, переносчиков и объектов внешней среды.
Parental Stress Associated with International Migration Processes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Conte Gil Pedro Henrique , Da Silva Peixoto Carolina , Piccinini Cesar Augusto , Pizzinato Adolfo
Published: September 2024

The aim of this systematic review was to analyze scientific articles about the Parental Stress (PS) construct associated with people in international migration processes. Searches were carried out in seven databases: Scopus, Web of Science, PsycInfo, VHL Portal, MEDLINE/CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library, considering publications between 2012-2021. Initially, 2193 documents were found and after the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 21 articles were analyzed according their theoretical-methodological aspects and main Parental Stress results. The critical appraisal of the studies indicates high methodological quality of the articles, since most of them (n = 12) got from 10 to 12 points in the 12 scale-score evaluation criteria. There was a predominance of articles that investigated the relationship between PS and social support, acculturative guidelines, parent-child relationship, mental health of caregivers, and interventions to reduce PS in caregivers. We discuss the dimensions of social support as protective factors for families who are in international migration process. The evidences suggest that government policies and interventions are necessary to mitigate psychosocial impacts on these populations.
Integrated Workflow Development for Data-Driven Neighborhood-Scale Building Performance Simulation
Authors: di Stefano Andrea Giuseppe , Ruta Matteo , Masera Gabriele , Hoque Simi
Published: September 2024

As urbanization intensifies, cities are key contributors to energy consumption and carbon emissions, accounting for a significant portion of global energy use and CO2 emissions. This paper introduces a systematic approach to support the development of urban projects with minimized operational carbon footprints through the integration of data-driven building performance simulation (BPS) tools in early-stage design. Emphasizing the necessity for a collaborative effort among designers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, we discuss the evolution of BPS toward incorporating data-driven tools for energy need reduction and informed decision-making. Despite the proliferation of modeling methods and data-related challenges, we present a theoretical workflow, supported by interactions with design firms in the US and European Union (EU) through interviews. This structured approach, demonstrating adaptability and scalability across urban contexts, foregrounds the potential for future data-driven integration in design practices. Grounded in theoretical concepts and preliminary real-world insights, our work emphasizes the transformation of standard activities toward data-driven processes, showcasing the crucial role of practical experience in advancing sustainable, low-carbon urban development.
Temporal fine structure sensitivity measured with pulse-spreading harmonic complexes
Authors: Macherey Olivier
Published: September 2024

Two experiments investigated sensitivity to temporal fine structure (TFS) in a group of normal hearing participants. The stimuli were bandpass filtered pulse-spreading harmonic complexes (PSHCs) with a regular envelope repetition rate and a phase adjusted so that the TFS peaks were progressively shifted across envelope periods. For up-PSHCs, the TFS peaks were advanced, yielding a rising pitch percept, while for down-PSHCs, the peaks were delayed, yielding a falling pitch percept. Experiment 1 showed that in a fixed frequency region, there was a range of rates for which the direction of the pitch change could be identified. Cochlear model simulations suggested that participants may use either place-of-excitation and/or temporal cues to perform this task. Experiment 2 showed that there was an envelope rate below which down-PSHCs and up-PSHCs could not be discriminated. This lower envelope rate limit of TFS sensitivity significantly increased with increases in frequency region and was similar to the lower rate limit of melodic pitch. The results in high frequency regions suggest that TFS cues are available up to 10 kHz when the rank of the lowest component present in the passband is 18, and all harmonics are presumably unresolved.
Identifying
Candida auris
transmission in a hospital outbreak investigation using whole-genome sequencing and SNP phylogenetic analysis
Authors: Mitchell Brooks I. , Kling Kendall , Bolon Maureen K. , Rathod Shardul N. , Malczynski Michael , Ruiz Javier , Polanco Wanda , Fritz Kevin , Maali Sarah , Stosor Valentina , Zembower Teresa R. , Qi Chao
Published: September 2024

Candida auris
poses a global public health challenge, causing multiple outbreaks within healthcare facilities. Despite advancements in strain typing for various infectious diseases, a consensus on the genetic relatedness threshold for identifying
C. auris
transmission in local hospital outbreaks remains elusive. We investigated genetic variations within our local isolate collection using whole-genome-based single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) phylogenetic analysis. A total of 74
C
.
auris
isolates were subjected to whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and SNP phylogenetic analysis via the QIAGEN CLC Genomics Workbench. Isolates included known related strains from the same patient, strains from different hospitals, strains from our hospital patients with no epidemiological link, and 19 patient isolates from a recent
C. auris
outbreak. All but three isolates were identified to be Clade IV. By examining the genetic diversities of
C. auris
within patients and between patients, we identified a SNP variation range of 0–13 for identifying related isolates. During an outbreak investigation, utilizing this range, maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis revealed two distinct clusters that aligned with the epidemiological links. Determining a SNP variation range to delineate genetic relatedness among isolates is crucial for the application of WGS and SNP phylogenetic analysis in identifying
C. auris
transmission during hospital outbreak investigations. The use of WGS SNP phylogenetic analysis via the CLC Genomics Workbench has emerged as a valuable method for typing
C. auris
in clinical microbiology laboratories.
A lipidomics-based method to eliminate negative urine culture in general population
Authors: Nartey Linda K. , Mikhael Abanoub , Pětrošová Helena , Yuen Victor , Kibsey Pamela , Pekcan Mert , Ernst Robert K. , Chen Michael X. , Goodlett David R.
Published: September 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) pose a significant challenge to human health. Accurate and timely detection remains pivotal for effective intervention. Current urine culture techniques, while essential, often encounter challenges where urinalysis yields positive results, but subsequent culture testing produces a negative result. This highlights potential discrepancies between the two methods and emphasizes the need for improved correlation in urinary tract infection (UTI) detection. Employing advanced lipidomics techniques, we deployed the fast lipid analysis technique (FLAT) on a clinical cohort suspected of having UTIs. Lipid fingerprinting by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS), directly from urine samples without
ex vivo
growth, correctly identified the common uropathogens within a 1 hour timeframe when compared to urine culture. FLAT analysis also identified urine samples without culturable pathogens (negative UTIs) with 99% microbial identification (ID) agreement, whereas urinalysis showed 37% ID agreement with the gold standard urine culture. In 402 urine samples suspected for UTI from outpatients, FLAT assay rapidly ruled out negative urines without the need for culture in 77% of all cases. The potential impact of this innovative lipidomic-based approach extends beyond conventional diagnostic limitations, offering new avenues for early detection and targeted management of urinary tract infections. This research marks a paradigm shift in urine culture methodology, paving the way for improved clinical outcomes and public health interventions.

IMPORTANCE

This study employs a lipidomics-based method that promises to enhance the accuracy and reliability of urine culture diagnostics within 1 hour of sample collection. Our findings underscore the potential of lipidomics as a valuable tool in identifying and characterizing microbial populations present in urine samples and efficiently rule out negative urines, ultimately leading to improved patient care and management of urinary tract infections.
Comparison of a dual antibody and antigen HCV immunoassay to standard of care algorithmic testing
Authors: Bui Tina I. , Brown Abigail P. , Brown Meghan , Lawless Sydney , Roemmich Brittany , Anderson Neil W. , Farnsworth Christopher W.
Published: September 2024

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing, although effective, may miss crucial diagnostic opportunities. The goal of this study was to assess the utility of an antibody (Ab) and antigen (Ag) combination immunoassay as an alternative to traditional HCV screening. Remnant specimens from 1,341 patients with concurrent third-generation serologic (Roche anti-HCV-II) and nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) were assessed using the HCV Duo Ab/Ag immunoassay (Roche). Patient demographics, risk factors, and standard of care (SOC) laboratory results from the medical records were recorded. Overall, 99.0% (197/199) of the HCV Duo Ab+/Ag+specimens accurately identified active infections as confirmed by NAAT, and 99.9% (670/671) Ab−/Ag− samples corresponded to those without HCV infections. Individually, the HCV Duo Ab component demonstrated a 95.6% positive percent agreement (PPA) (95% CI = 93.8–96.9) and 99.1% negative percent agreement (NPA) (98.8–99.6) compared with SOC anti-HCV II Ab assay. The HCV Duo Ag had a 73.5% PPA (67.9–78.4) and 99.8% NPA (99.3–100) with NAAT. Among RNA+ specimens, 73.4% (197/267) were HCV Duo Ag+, and 265/267 (99.3%) were successfully detected on the HCV Duo Ab component. Notably, 5/7 (71.4%) Ab−/RNA +specimens were detected by HCV Duo, which would have been missed by traditional algorithmic testing. Fourth generation HCV Duo Ab/Ag assay demonstrated comparable performance to SOC testing and shortens the diagnostic window but does not eliminate the need for NAAT in all patients. Ab/Ag testing identified several Ab−/RNA+ cases, a subgroup often undiagnosed by current algorithmic testing, demonstrating promise for improved diagnostic efficiency and accuracy in HCV detection.

IMPORTANCE

This study highlights the potential of a combined hepatitis C virus (HCV) Duo antibody (Ab) and antigen (Ag) immunoassay to improve early detection of HCV infections. Traditional Ab−only screening methods recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may miss early-stage infections. The HCV Duo assay showed high accuracy, detecting nearly all active infections confirmed by nucleic acid amplification testing. Dual detection of HCV Ab and Ag shortens the diagnostic window, enabling intervention and treatment in a single visit, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing HCV transmission, especially in areas with limited access to confirmatory molecular testing.
VE-1 regulation of MAPK signaling controls sexual development in
Neurospora crassa
Authors: Cea-Sánchez Sara , Martín-Villanueva Sara , Gutiérrez Gabriel , Cánovas David , Corrochano Luis M.
Published: September 2024

Sexual reproduction in fungi allows genetic recombination and increases genetic diversity, allowing adaptation and survival. The velvet complex is a fungal-specific protein assembly that regulates development, pathogenesis, and secondary metabolism in response to environmental cues, such as light. In
Neurospora crassa
, this complex comprises VE-1, VE-2, and LAE-1. Deletion of
ve-1
or
ve-2
, but not
lae-1
, leads to increased conidiation (asexual spore formation) and reduced sexual development. Mutants lacking
ve-1
and/or
ve-2
are female sterile and male fertile, indicating that a VE-1/VE-2 complex regulates the development of female structures. During sexual development, we observed differential regulation of 2,117 genes in dark and 4,364 genes in light between the wild type and the ∆
ve-1
strain. The pheromone response and cell wall integrity pathways were downregulated in the ∆
ve-1
mutant, especially in light. Additionally, we found reduced levels of both total and phosphorylated MAK-1 and MAK-2 kinases.
In vitro
experiments demonstrated the binding of VE-1 and VE-2 to the promoters of
mak-1
and
mak-2
, suggesting a direct regulatory role of VE-1/VE-2 in the transcriptional control of MAPK genes to regulate sexual development. Deletion of the photosensor gene
white-collar 1
prevented the light-dependent inhibition of sexual development in the ∆
ve-1
mutant by increasing transcription of the pheromone response and cell wall integrity pathway genes to the levels in the dark. Our results support the proposal that the regulation of the MAP kinase pathways by the VE-1/VE-2 complex is a key element in transcriptional regulation that occurs during sexual development.

IMPORTANCE

Sexual reproduction generates new gene combinations and novel phenotypic traits and facilitates evolution. Induction of sexual development in fungi is often regulated by environmental conditions, such as the presence of light and nutrients. The velvet protein complex coordinates internal cues and environmental signals to regulate development. We have found that VE-1, a component of the velvet complex, regulates transcription during sexual development in the fungus
Neurospora crassa
. VE-1 regulates the transcription of many genes, including those involved in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways that are essential in the regulation of sexual development, and regulates the activity of the MAPK pathway. Our findings provide valuable insights into how fungi respond to environmental signals and integrate them into their reproductive processes.