bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mothers’ Experiences in Caring for Children Diagnosed with Covid-19: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Wanda Dessie , Yayah Yayah , Hayati Happy , Nurhaeni Nani
Published: August 2024

Mothers, as the primary caregivers are most likely affected when children are exposed to the COVID-19 pandemic. A few studies in Eastern countries, particularly in Indonesia, explored how mothers were affected by their children’s hospitalization due to COVID-19. Indonesia and most eastern countries applied collectivism, which is essential for togetherness. This study aimed to identify mothers’ experiences caring for children diagnosed with COVID-19. A phenomenological approach was used, and the data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 mothers recruited using a purposive sampling technique. Thematic analysis was performed to analyze the data by compiling mothers’ experiences caring for children diagnosed with COVID-19 at home and in hospitals. Five themes were revealed: (1) feeling guilty when the child was confirmed positive for COVID-19, (2) feeling worried about the health of the child but thinking positively and becoming stronger, (3) feeling grateful to be able to do the isolation together with the child, (4) making an effort to help the child become cured of COVID-19 and (5) feeling relieved when their children had relatively mild symptoms during isolation. Mothers faced psychological problems including feeling guilty about their child’s condition, but then happy when they were hospitalized and recovering together.
Hologram sebagai Media Edukasi untuk Meningkatkan Pengetahuan Anak dalam Menjaga Kebersihan Lingkungan
Authors: Andriani Dian Sri , Kamilah Fahkriyatul , Nengsih Yanti Karmila
Published: August 2024

Anak merupakan generasi masa depan yang berperan dalam menjaga kelestarian lingkungan. Lingkungan yang dijaga secara baik akan dapat memberikan kehidupan yang layak bagi generasi selanjutnya. Kegiatan pengabdian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan anak dalam menjaga kebersihan lingkungan melalui hologram sebagai media edukasi berbasis teknologi. Lokasi kegiatan di Desa Tanjung Seteko Kabupaten Ogan Ilir. Tahapan kegiatan pengabdian meliputi pembuatan video dengan topik menjaga kebersihan lingkungan, mempersiapkan media hologram, memberikan pretest, menayangkan video edukasi melalui media hologram, dan memberikan posttest untuk mengukur keberhasilan kegiatan ini. Adapun hasil dari pembagian pretest dan posttest menunjukkan perbedaan dalam peningkatan skor setelah ditayangkan video menggunakan media hologram. Rata-rata skor pretest anak adalah 46,65 dalam kategori sedang. Sedangkan skor hasil posttest meningkat menjadi 64,35 dalam kategori tinggi. Hasil uji N-Gain ternormalisasi menunjukkan rata-rata sebesar 0.327 yang termasuk kategori sedang. Berdasarkan hasil angket tersebut diketahui bahwa edukasi menjaga kebersihan lingkungan melalui media hologram dapat meningkatkan pengetahuan anak-anak desa Tanjung Seteko Kabupaten Ogan Ilir.
Legal regulations and sanctions related to the illegal dumping of waste in Polish environmental law
Authors: Wielec Marcin
Published: August 2024

This paper concerns legal regulations and sanctions regarding the illegal dumping of waste in environmental law in Poland. First, introductory remarks are presented, including an outline of the status of Poland’s implementation of EU instruments through national law. This section of the paper concludes with an overview of the basic legal acts that are applicable in Poland, to illustrate the legal spectrum of this topic (related administrative law norms and certain criminal and civil law rules). Second, considerations regarding permits for the transportation and processing of waste are discussed; this section includes relevant administrative provisions applicable in Poland. Third, legal regulations concerning administrative control are presented; in particular, this section pays special attention to control in the context of issuing permits as well as field inspections independent of this process. Fourth, civil liability is addressed. Fifth, provisions of criminal law are discussed, including penal code provisions, extra code provisions, and provisions related to administrative fines. Finally, the paper concludes with a concise summary.
Impact of Droughts on Served Drinking Water Disparities in California, 2007–2020
Authors: Sum Sandy
Published: August 2024

Objectives. To quantify the impact of droughts on drinking water arsenic and nitrate levels provided by community water systems (CWSs) in California and to assess whether this effect varies across sociodemographic subgroups.

Methods. I integrated CWS characteristics, drought records, sociodemographic data, and regulatory drinking water samples (n = 83 317) from 2378 water systems serving 34.8 million residents from 2007 to 2020. I analyzed differential drought effects using fixed-effect regression analyses that cumulatively accounted for CWS-level trends, income, and agricultural measures.

Results. CWSs serving majority Latino/a communities show persistently higher and more variable drinking water nitrate levels. Drought increased nitrate concentrations in majority Latino/a communities, with the effect doubling for CWSs with more than 75% Latino/a populations served. Arsenic concentrations in surface sources also increased during drought for all groups. Differential effects are driven by very small (< 500) and privately owned systems.

Conclusions. Impending droughts driven by climate change may further increase drinking water disparities and arsenic threats. This underscores the critical need to address existing inequities in climate resilience planning and grant making. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(9):935–945. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307758 )
An Experimental Investigation on the Effects of Temperature and Confining Pressure on the Static and Dynamic Behaviors of Shale Rocks
Authors: Wang Zongjun
Published: August 2024

To better understand the associated thermal and mechanical effects on the elastic behaviors of shale rocks, we examine the shale rocks at reservoir stress (static) and elastic conditions (dynamic) at varying temperature (25–110°C) and pressure (5–55 MPa) conditions through coupling dynamic–static experimental measurements. The results illustrate that the shale’s P- and S-wave velocities increase with the increasing confining pressure but decrease with the elevated temperature. For the pressure history, ultrasonic P-wave velocities upon hydrostatic unloading are slightly larger than the loading ones, whereas S-wave velocities are almost overlapping together. Meanwhile, the temperature elevation causes much less velocity reduction at a higher confining pressure than lower confining pressure. The measured data demonstrate that the static bulk modulus is more sensitive to the confining pressure than the dynamic bulk modulus. Moreover, with the elevated temperature, the dynamic bulk moduli separate by showing a decreasing trend in either hydrostatic loading or unloading. The loading–unloading cycle shows that the static bulk moduli present values approaching the dynamic ones at all temperature levels when the confining pressure is initially unloaded from the maximum pressure. Both static and dynamic bulk moduli decrease with the continued unloading, with more decrement for the static bulk modulus. The coupling effects of the pressure and temperature on the static and elastic properties of shale samples imply that, in the practical shale reservoir characterization process, temperature and pressure influences should be considered to characterize the relation of dynamic and static properties of shale rocks. The laboratory investigations on shales imply that the relation of dynamic and static properties is pressure dependent mainly due to the intrinsic behavior of fracture, soft pore, and microstructure in the rock frame.
RETRACTED: The relevance between serum folate and osteoporosis in adults based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Li Senjie , Lv Dongqing , Yang Hong , Yan Shaoyi , Jia Yongping , Wu Lei
Published: August 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Seismic evidence of lithospheric delamination in North America that caused the termination of basin subsidence
Authors: Yang Xiaotao , Liu Lijun , Goddard Andrea Stevens , Peng Lihang , Fischer Karen
Published: August 2024

The existence of cratonic basins indicates protracted periods of tectonic modification inside continental interiors. An enigmatic aspect of this global process is the inversion of cratonic basins with the cessation of subsidence. However, the driving force and mechanical process for subsidence termination in cratonic basins are unclear. Here, using full-wave ambient noise tomography, we reveal distinct seismic low-velocity anomalies below 60 km beneath the Illinois and Michigan Basins, where subsidence terminated in the latest Paleozoic to earliest Mesozoic. These low-velocity volumes, surrounded by distinctly higher velocities, reflect infiltrated asthenospheric materials after lithospheric delamination. Geodynamic modeling shows that the emplacement of these buoyant asthenospheric materials would lead to an uplift of about 3.5 km, sufficient to terminate and reverse basin subsidence. The findings in this study document delamination in the North American midcontinent and demonstrate the important role of lithospheric delamination in the evolution of cratonic basins.
Antioxidant and antidiabetic properties of olive pomace's hydro-ethanolic extract and aqueous fraction using an animal model of diabetes produced by streptozotocin (STZ)
Authors: Benmeliani-Yousfi Fatiha , Guermouche Baya , BELYAGOUBI-BENHAMMOU Nabila , Kherraf Yamna , Benzazoua Nassima , Merzouk Hafida , Medjdoub Houria , Mokhtari-Soulimane Nassima
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Numerous studies have emphasized the role of olive pomace in the prevention of various health problems due to its antioxidant properties. In line with this, our study aimed to explore the phytochemistry, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities of the extracts.
Methods
The phytochemical study investigates the total phenolic content, tannin, and flavonoid levels, as well as the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of the extracts from olive pomace.
Results
The hydro-ethanolic extract exhibited levels of phenolic compounds, tannins, and flavonoids, with antioxidant potentials of 90.14 ± 15.55 mg GAE/g DW, 7.31 ± 0.96 mg CE/g DW, and 73.97 ± 1.08 mg QE/g DW, respectively. The antioxidant capacity determined by the DPPH test showed an EC50 of 1.705 ± 0.023 mg/mL and a TAC of 45.41 ± 4.81 mg GAE/g DW. While the aqueous fraction showed 81 ± 13.99 mg GAE/g DW of phenolic compounds, 52.01 ± 3.41 mg QE/g DW of flavonoids, and 10.960 ± 0.966 mg CE/g DW of tannin, with an antioxidant activity tested by DPPH revealing an EC50 of 2.5 ± 0.04 mg GAE/mL and a TAC of 51.191 ± 3.72 mg GAE/g DW. The olive pomace has promoted insulin secretion and reduced glycemia levels. The polyphenols have thus demonstrated their antioxidant and cytoprotective potential by restoring the redox balance of organs and tissues and reducing oxidative damage caused by diabetes such as levels of malondialdehyde and carbonylated proteins. The histology of the liver, kidneys, and pancreas from treated rats showed a structure similar to that of the control group rats. However, the histology of these organs from the untreated rats presented alterations and inflammation due to streptozotocin's effect, such as infiltration of inflammatory cells, disruption of tissue architecture, and cellular necrosis.
Conclusion
The olive pomace extracts represent a potential source of pharmacological molecules for preserving cellular function, with a broad safety margin for therapeutic use.
Enhanced GNSS-acoustic positioning method implementing with constraints on underwater sound speed structure
Authors: Tomita Fumiaki
Published: August 2024

It is important to appropriately model underwater sound speed structures to detect seafloor displacements accurately using GNSS-acoustic seafloor geodetic observations. In recent years, various sea surface platforms (e.g., wave gliders) have been developed for GNSS-acoustic observations. Sub-mesoscale oceanic phenomena can be detected by simultaneously employing multiple sea surface platforms. However, the use of a single sea surface platform with slow navigation speeds may degrade the modeling accuracy of underwater sound speed structures, even when compared to conventional ship-based observations. Therefore, the development of a GNSS-acoustic positioning technique that expresses a complex underwater sound speed structure and simultaneously provides constraints on sound speed parameters, if necessary. This study arranges the observation equation by considering multiple-layered sound speed gradients and develops a GNSS-acoustic positioning scheme using a Bayesian framework. The performance of the proposed GNSS-acoustic positioning method was investigated using synthetic datasets. The proposed method successfully modeled a complex underwater sound speed structure (e.g., temporal variations in sound speed gradients) using a dataset collected by dual sea surface platforms, which is highly sensitive to the underwater sound speed structure. It also provides robust solutions, even for a dataset with low sensitivity, by appropriately introducing constraints on the sound speed parameters. Moreover, the proposed method was applicable to an actual observational dataset, and it was confirmed that the GNSS-acoustic positioning method under special conditions (assumption of a temporally constant single-layered sound speed gradient) in a previous study can be reproduced by the constraints in the proposed method. Thus, the proposed method enabled us to flexibly model the underwater sound speed structure and accurately detect seafloor displacements for various types of observation datasets. The proposed method was implemented in the open-source GNSS-acoustic positioning software "SeaGap.”
Effect of botanical extracts and salicylic acid on anthracnose incidence and associated physiological and biochemical attributes in guava
Authors: Kaur Taranpreet , Kaur Nirmaljit , Arora NK , Arora Anita , Kang Kirandeep Kaur
Published: August 2024

The present studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of botanical extracts (neem, mint, turmeric and ginger) and salicylic acid on disease incidence and associated physiological and biochemical parameters against anthracnose disease in commercially available guava variety Allahabad Safeda. Three foliar applications of botanical extracts prepared from mint leaf (10, 20 and 30 gL− 1), neem leaf (10, 20 and 30 gL− 1), turmeric rhizome (5, 7.5 and 10 gL− 1), ginger rhizome (5, 7.5 and 10 gL− 1) and salicylic acid (5, 10 and 15 mgL− 1), were applied to the guava trees during flower bud appearance (mid-May), fully opened sepals (end of May) and 50% opened bloom stage (mid-June). Percent disease index (PDI) and physio-biochemical attributes were assessed at 30 DAS, 60 DAS and 90 DAS during 2022 and 2023. Neem @ 30 gL− 1 reduced the incidence of the disease to 11.52 per cent in the infected guava fruits as compared to the untreated control (31.53 per cent) and emerged as most effective against anthracnose. All other treatments at their highest concentration controlled the disease incidence in the guava fruits. Neem leaf extract @ 30 gL− 1 resulted in higher photosynthetic pigments, total soluble sugars, total soluble proteins, free amino acids, antioxidants (ascorbic acid, proline and α-tocopherol content) and lowered H2O2 and malondialdehyde content; with higher activities of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase enzymes as compared to untreated control. The organic acid and salicylic acid content was higher in the peels of fruits taken from trees treated with botanical extracts. This study can be further used to decipher the underlying molecular mechanism during anthracnose infection in guava and to further promote the green management strategy to reduce this disease.
RETRACTED: Dimensionality-enhanced mid-infrared light vortex detection based on multilayer graphene
Authors: Sun Dong , Yang Dehong , Lai Jiawei , Fan Zipu , Wang Shiyu , Chang Kainan , Meng Lili , Cheng Jinluo
Published: August 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Research on the Quantitative Relationship between Stress Shadow Effect of Multiple Thick and Hard Key Layers and Surface Subsidence
Authors: Luo Jianqiao , Shen Yupeng , Meng Xin , Yang Tuo
Published: August 2024

The treatment of surface structures such as villages and rivers that are affected by underground coal mining has long been a hot and difficult issue faced by coal mining, such as building cracking, foundation sinking, and even water body rupture and loss. With the further improvement of environmental protection requirements, some underground coal mines that do not have the conditions for filling and grouting are difficult to ensure the recovery of coal resources and control surface subsidence at the same time. In addition, a large number of common problems have emerged in the Yushen, Binchang mining areas, and some coal fields in Shanxi, seriously restricting the development of coal energy and environmental protection work. Through numerical simulation experiments and mechanical model theoretical calculations, the artificial buffer layer overlying rock structure control technology was proposed, and the stress and displacement evolution laws of various landmark rock layers under different mining method conditions were explored. Finally, it was concluded that choosing LCMTC for artificial buffer layer overlying rock structure control technology can effectively reduce the degree of surface overlying rock movement and improve the theoretical system of rock layer control, Provided theoretical guidance and mechanism explanation for on-site construction.
ClinMED-LLAMA3 A Large Model of Clinical Medicine Based on LLAMA3
Authors: Wei MingYi , Liu Xin
Published: August 2024

ClinMED-LLAMA3 is a large language model designed specifically for the field of clinical medicine. Based on the LLAMA3-8B-Instruct model, it has been professionally adapted through supervised fine-tuning and LoRA technology. The novelty of this model lies in the construction of its dedicated clinical medicine 50K dataset and the establishment of the Alpaca dataset. Through dual verification by humans and AI, the high quality and diversity of the data are ensured, providing a rich set of clinical interactions for model training. The model also possesses the capability for offline private deployment, effectively addressing medical institutions' concerns about data privacy and security. ClinMED-LLAMA3 has been optimized in terms of energy consumption, reducing the demand for computational resources, while maintaining high performance.
Strategies for recurrent selection programs aiming upright common bean plants
Authors: Júnior Indalécio Cunha Vieira , Berchembrock Yasmin Vasques , Pádua José Maria Villela
Published: August 2024

In common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), upright plant architecture is highly valued for agriculture. As plant architecture is controlled by many genes, recurrent selection is the optimal strategy for breeding programs. Additionally, conducting mass selection before flowering to intercross selected plants in the field increases efficiency by reducing the number of harvest cycles needed to complete a selective breeding cycle. For this to be effective, the plant's architecture at flowering must accurately predicts its trait at harvest. Based on that, the objective of this study was to verify whether there is an association between plant architecture at flowering and at harvest and to study the relationship between traits of plant architecture and grain yield. The traits assessed included plant height and plant architecture scores at flowering and harvest, stem diameter, grain yield, and the mass of one hundred grains. Sixty-two progenies from each S0:2, S0:3 and S0:4 generation, with two commercial cultivars as controls, were evaluated across three environments in a triple lattice experimental design. Genetic and phenotypic parameters and correlation coefficient were estimated. Progenies selection was carried out using index Z, and subsequently, the correlated response in the traits was determined. It was found that the correlation between heights and architecture scores at flowering and harvest were of high magnitude. There was also a low correlation between plant architecture traits and grain yield. The results of this study suggest that selecting upright plants during the flowering stage is feasible, and that plant architecture and grain yield are expressed independently.
Exploring the Antidepressant Mechanism of Codonopsis pilosula through Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Analysis
Authors: Lin Mu , Liao Jiangrong , Gong Yadong , Xiao Ran , Liu Mubo , Ding Huihong , Ma Qingqing
Published: August 2024

Objective
To investigate the antidepressant properties and underlying mechanisms of Codonopsis pilosula using network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis.
Methods
The principal constituents of Codonopsis pilosula were identified from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). Genecards and the Online Mendelian Human Inheritance Database (OMIM) were utilized to gather genes associated with depression. Subsequently, Cytoscape software and the STRING database were employed to construct a components-targets network and protein interaction network models for Codonopsis pilosula. The DAVID database was applied for Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of the targets, while Autodock software was utilized for molecular docking of the primary active compounds of Codonopsis pilosula with its key targets.
Results
This investigation identified 18 primary components in Codonopsis pilosula, which have the potential to modulate numerous targets and impact 57 signaling pathways. Through integration of prior research findings and molecular docking validation, it was observed that Lobetyolin, the key constituent of Codonopsis pilosula, exhibits binding affinity with the pivotal target Tumor Protein P53 (TP53).
Conclusion
The findings suggest that Codonopsis pilosula may elicit antidepressant effects through a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach, laying a foundation for further exploration and clinical utilization of Codonopsis pilosula in the prevention and management of depression.
Motivations for a Career in Teaching: Medical Students’ Projections towards their Future Role
Authors: González-Amarante Pilar , Romero-Padrón Manuel A.
Published: August 2024

Background
Medical educators play a crucial role in the perpetuation of the medical profession. Recent concerns have arisen regarding the quality and quantity of current teachers. To comprehend this shortage, it is key to understand future physicians’ attitudes towards venturing in education, their motivations and possible detracting factors. This study aims to explore graduating students' attitudes towards a future teaching role and identify motivating and hindering factors.
Methods
Sixty-eight students in their final year of medical training answered a digital questionnaire. Responses were processed using descriptive statistics and qualitative coding for the open-ended questions.
Results
Teaching was the second most prevalent aspiring role (59%) after the clinical one. Motivations included the following themes: Contribution to the Future of Medicine, Self-Centered Motivations, Non-Economical Advantages, Sense of Duty and Economical Advantages. Conversely, hindering factors revealed consistent themes: Non-Economical Disadvantages, Economical Disadvantages, Cost-Benefit Rationale, Disadvantages Related to Teaching, and Self-Centered Demotivation. Students’ recent experience across the undergraduate path provided insights about the influence of different agents, teachers’ exemplary attributes, and their own confidence and projection for their future role. Teaching is predominantly viewed as an honorable and aspirational role but constrained by inadequate economic compensation. Students feel confident on this path, with limited understanding of teacher professionalization.
Conclusions
Exploring the perspectives of graduating students, delving into their motivations and demotivations, holds the potential to tackle issues from a deeper perspective. This understanding can be instrumental in strategically prioritizing efforts to meet the increasing demand for both quantity and quality in educating future professionals.
Stepwise Multi-Temperature Thermogravimetric Analysis (SMT-TGA) for Rapid Alloy Development
Authors: Monceau Daniel , Enjalbert Hugo , Desgranges Clara , Sanviemvongsak Tom , Casadebaigt Antoine , Perez Thomas
Published: August 2024

The Stepwise Multi-Temperature Thermogravimetric Analysis (SMT-TGA) method is a rapid and time- and material-efficient measurement procedure for oxidation kinetics over a wide range of temperatures. It is suitable for alloy design and material selection procedures. It involves subjecting a sample to a series of steps at increasing temperatures, followed by steps at decreasing temperatures to identify possible effects on the evolution of oxide layer microstructures on oxidation kinetics. This method has been tested for a wide range of metallic alloys in the present work, allowing for the mapping of possible ranges of parabolic oxidation kinetics of industrial alloys between 600 and 1300°C. Two examples of effects of thermal history have also been described in this publication.
Monitoring Lipopolysaccharide-induced Macrophage Polarization by Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Yilmaz Deniz , Culha Mustafa
Published: August 2024

Macrophages are among the most important components of the innate immune system where the interaction of pathogens and their phagocytosis occur as the first barrier of immunity. When nanomaterials interact with the human body, they have to face macrophages as well. Thus, understanding of nanomaterials-macrophage interactions and underlying mechanisms is crucial. For this purpose, various methods are used. In this study, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is proposed by studying lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced macrophage polarization using gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as an alternative to the current approaches. For this purpose, RAW 264.7 cells were polarized by LPS, and polarization mechanisms were characterized by nitrite release, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and monitored using SERS. The spectral changes were interpreted based on the molecular pathways induced by LPS. Furthermore, polarized macrophages by LPS were exposed to the toxic AuNPs doses to monitor the enhanced phagocytosis and related spectral changes. It was observed that LPS induced macrophage polarization and enhanced AuNPs phagocytosis by activated macrophages elucidated clearly from SERS spectra in a label-free non-destructive manner.
Repurposing Rifaximin against Klebsiella pneumoniae via Targeting of Transcription Anti-termination Protein RfaH for Novel Antimicrobial Development
Authors: Ashraf Anam , Choudhary Arunabh , Khan Mohammad Ali , Noor Saba , Islam Asimul , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz
Published: August 2024

Anti-termination protein RfaH plays a crucial role in promoting virulence across various Gram-negative pathogens, including Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP). RfaH directly interacts with RNA-polymerase and ribosomes, which in turn facilitates the activation of operons associated with capsule, cell wall, and pilus biosynthesis. This study aimed to investigate the repurposing potential of rifaximin, a well-established antibiotic, against KP by strategically targeting RfaH, a pivotal anti-terminator protein in transcription. Fluorescence studies observed an excellent binding affinity between rifaximin and RfaH (Ka = 7.38 x 106M−1). Intriguingly, rifaximin treatment causes a significant reduction in capsule production in KP when compared to untreated controls, elucidating its inhibitory influence on RfaH activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration for Rifaximin was calculated as 100µM and a minimum bactericidal concentration of 200µM against KP (ATCC 700603 strain). Docking and MD simulation studies provided detailed atomic insights into the Rifaximin binding to RfaH and structural dynamics of the RfaH-Rifaximin complex. These multifaceted findings collectively investigated the potential of rifaximin as a repurposed antibiotic against KP. Finally, a strong interaction of RfaH with rifaximin and subsequent inhibition of the growth of KP provides a novel avenue for antimicrobial development for addressing the persistent global challenge of antibiotic-resistant infections.
Dietary supplementation with grape seed extract improves energy metabolism by enhancing the production of inosine in the rumen of dairy cows
Authors: Shao Qi , Feng Haihua , Li Guojin , Usman Muhammad , Loor Juan J. , Fang Zhiyuan , Chen Meng , Li Chenxu , Yu Hao , Hao Xue , Ju Lingxue , Zhang Cai , Li Yuanxiao , Song yuxiang , Gao Wenwen , Lei Lin , Liu Guowen , Du Xiliang , Li Xinwei
Published: August 2024

Background
The ruminal microbiota plays a key role in the supply of nutrients and energy-generating compounds to the animal. However, during the transition into lactation dairy cows experience dysbiosis of the microbial community and negative energy balance, both of which render animals prone to metabolic disorders and decreased milk production. Grape seed extract (GSE) can modulate the ruminal microbiota in vitro, but whether it could improve energy metabolism and inflammation during the transition period is unclear.
Results
Feeding GSE during the transition period led to greater milk yield and lower milk somatic cell count. In addition, GSE led to greater concentrations of glucose and lower concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyric acid, acute-phase proteins (haptoglobin and serum amyloid A), and the activity of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in serum. The ruminal microbiota composition and their metabolites were altered, with the concentration of microbiota-derived inosine being greater both in serum and rumen due to feeding GSE. There was a positive correlation in cows fed GSE between inosine and abundance of differentially enriched genera, better milk performance and improved metabolic and inflammation-related markers. In vitro studies showed that inosine acted through adenosine receptors to reduce lipid accumulation, and increase insulin sensitivity and gluconeogenesis in hepatocytes, and inhibit lipolysis and inflammation in adipocytes. In dairy cows with ketosis, inosine treatment alleviated negative energy balance, liver injury, and hepatic lipid accumulation, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and decreased lipolysis and inflammatory response in adipose tissue.
Conclusions
GSE improves energy metabolism and inflammatory state around parturition by promoting the production of ruminal microbiota-derived inosine. Thus, feeding GSE and inosine can be a potential strategy to alleviate metabolic disorders and inflammation in dairy cows during the transition period.
The State of the Lower Volta Delta Beaches in Ghana from Field Observations
Authors: Angnuureng Donatus B. , Brempong Emmanuel K. , Kpogo-Nuwoklo Komla Agbéko , Dada Olusegun A. , Ofosu Godwin Tutu , Ekumah Nanabanyin O. , Attipoe Esinam , Jayson-Quashigah Philip-Neri , Klubi Emmanuel , Ondoa Gregoire Abessolo , Almar Rafael , Acheampong Emmanuel , Agyapong Docia
Published: August 2024

Field observations along West Africa are of extreme importance for understanding rapid beach geomorphological changes. Here, we conducted comprehensive field surveys to understand the geomorphological and hydrodynamic conditions of Ghana's lower Volta Delta. Over five months, in situ data were collected along 90 km of coast, examining temporal bathymetry, beach profiles, beach width variations, waves, and grain sizes. The primary objective was to determine the factors behind the significant coastal erosion and flooding, destabilizing the coastal ecosystems and communities. Results show that grain sizes are in the range of 0.2 < D50 < 0.5 mm. The beach slope, which varies between the flattest 0.4% at Blekusu, Keta Fort, Atiteti and the steepest 21% at Atorkor, is substantial for the returning floods experienced at some sections. Despite the same regional climatic environment, the study reveals contrasted coastal behaviors, with different sections of the Delta exhibiting distinct alterations in beach profiles and widths. Global wave model data (e.g. ERA5), widely used for coastal assessment in terms of magnitude, are significantly inconsistent with in-situ measurements in shallow water as found this study which could affect modeling of wave dynamics in shallow waters. This work serves as a database for current and future projects.
UAM-Net: Unified Attention EfficientNet for Robust Deepfake Detection
Authors: Sudarshana Kerenalli , Vamsidhar Yendapalli
Published: August 2024

The widespread usage of deepfake technology in the rapidly growing area of digital media poses an imminent threat to the authenticity and truthfulness of multimedia content. Deep learning techniques have created hyper-realistic altered visuals, which have caused severe issues in several domains, like social media, politics, and entertainment. This problem necessitates the development of effective deepfake detection tools. Present-day deepfake detection methods rely heavily on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and associated deep learning architectures. Although these methods have been helpful, they usually fail to capture relational and contextual information within images fully. Their ability to recognize subtle variations typical of sophisticated deepfakes is hindered by it. This paper presents a novel deep learning framework called Unified Attention Mechanism into EfficientNet model (UAM-Net). It integrates channel and spatial attention processes inside the EfficientNet architecture. UAM-Net concentrates on channel and spatial information to increase classification accuracy and feature extraction. UAM-Net performs better than current state-of-the-art models in DFDC-Preview Dataset assessments. UAM-Net achieved an AUC-ROC of 99.81%, recall of 98.95%, accuracy of 97.91%, precision of 96.92%, and F1 score of 97.93%. These results reveal how effectively the model performs in various circumstances and highlight its remarkable ability to differentiate between real and fake data. In addition, UAM-Net takes advantage of Class Activation Mapping (CAM). The CAM provides useful insights into the model's decision-making process and enhances its interpretability and application reliability.
Association between Depression, Anxiety Symptoms, Bacteroides Stercoris Abundance in Stool and Functional Constipation: A Bidirectional Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Wang Houdong , Yin Lu , Shen Zhong
Published: August 2024

Background Globally, functional constipation (FC) is a significant health problem. Therefore, greater understanding of the modifiable risk factors is needed to develop effective treatment and preventive strategies. The presence of depression symptoms (DS), anxiety symptoms (AS), and Bacteroides stercoris abundance in stool (BSAIS) has been found to be correlated with FC based on the previous observational study. Nevertheless, the causal relationship between these factors and FC remains uncertain due to observational study limitations.
Methods Mendelian randomization (MR) leverages genetic variants as instrumental variables (IVs), exploiting genetically determined variability to evaluate causal relationships. In this two-sample MR analysis, genetic data were obtained from separate cohorts with DS AS, BSAIS, and FC. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified genetic variants associated with DS, AS, BSAIS, and FC, which were utilized as IVs to infer causality.The study utilized bidirectional MR analysis to examine the influence of DS AS, and BSAIS on the risk of FC, as well as the potential for reverse causation. Subsequently, sensitivity tests including MR Egger, Inverse variance weighted (IVW), and MR-egger_intercept were performed to evaluate heterogeneity and pleiotropy in the IVs, thereby providing a reliable and confident estimation of the causal effect.
Results Utilizing bidirectional two-sample MR analysis, we investigated the potential causal associations between DS, AS, BSAIS, and FC using data from the IEU open GWAS database. Our analysis, based on the IVW method of two-sample MR analysis, revealed significant causal effects of DS (odds ratio [OR] = 1.122, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.031-1.221, P = 0.008), AS (OR = 1.129, 95% CI: 1.037-1.230, P = 0.005), and BSAIS (OR = 1.137, 95% CI: 1.048-1.233, P = 0.002) on FC. Furthermore, we observed reverse causal effects of FC on DS (OR = 1.156, 95% CI: 1.048-1.275, P = 0.004) and AS (OR = 1.164, 95% CI: 1.057-1.281, P = 0.002). Sensitivity analyses did not reveal any evidence of heterogeneity or pleiotropy in the IVs, as indicated by P values exceeding 0.05.
Conclusion This study suggests a potential causal relationship between DS, AS, BSAIS, and FC, along with the presence of reverse causality. No heterogeneity or pleiotropy were revealed by sensitivity tests, making these findings reliable and confident. The mitigation of symptoms of depression and anxiety and manipulation of gastrointestinal microbiota composition may potentially ameliorate symptoms of FC, and vice versa.
Cytotoxic and Genotoxic Assessment of Zinc Oxide, Copper Oxide and Graphene Nanoparticles on A549 cell line
Authors: Mercado-Casares Borja , Fito-López Carlos , Roca-Pérez Luis , Boluda-Hernández Rafael , Andreu-Sánchez Oscar
Published: August 2024

The utilization of Zinc oxide (ZnO), Copper oxide (CuO), and graphene nanoparticles has attracted substantial interest within the industrial sector, notably in the realm of inkjet printing. Consequently, the primary aim of this research was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of these nanoparticles using the MTT assay and the Comet assay on the A459 cell line. In this context, it is necessary to assess the environmental and human health implications of these novel materials, with the intention of categorizing them as emerging contaminants if it was necessary. The characterization of ZnO, CuO, and graphene nanoparticles revealed particle sizes in the range of 10–70 nm for the metal oxides, and multi-layer graphene platelets with lateral size < 0.6 µm. Our findings demonstrated a concentration-dependent relationship between increasing nanoparticle concentration and both cytotoxicity and DNA damage. Specifically, MTT assay results indicated a higher level of toxicity associated with ZnO nanoparticles, whereas genotoxicity was more pronounced with CuO nanoparticles. Furthermore, all nanoparticles exhibited lower EC50 values in the Comet assay. In summary, the current study unveils the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of ZnO, CuO, and graphene nanoparticles on the A549 cell line.
Oxidative Damage and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Cystathionine Beta-synthase Deficiency
Authors: Balci Mehmet Cihan , Gedikbasi Asuman , Dogan Sukru Anil , Kahraman Sevde , Tatoryan Suzin , Neijmann Sebnem Tekin , Karaca Meryem , Atalar Fatmahan , Gokcay Gulden
Published: August 2024

Cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency (CBSD) is the most prevalent inherited disorder of homocysteine metabolism in the transsulphuration pathway. Research have suggested oxidative stress and inflammation as candidate pathogenic mechanisms in CBSD. This study aims to evaluate mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress biomarkers in cystathionine beta-synthase deficiency (CBSD) patients, which may aid in understanding the pathogenesis of CBSD and improving treatment. The study group comprised 23 patients with a diagnosis of CBSD and healthy controls. We analysed serum levels of NAD+ and NADH by fluorometric assay, FGF-21 and GDF-15 by ELISA, mitochondrial DAMPs by real time qRT-PCR, total homocysteine levels in plasma by enzymatic test and compared the results in CBSD group with healthy controls. In patient group, a positive correlation was found between the total homocysteine level and both GDF-15 and NAD+/NADH levels. Furthermore, there was a negative correlation between total homocysteine levels and both total NAD++NADH and NADH levels. The alterations in NAD+, FGF-21, GDF-15 levels, and NAD+/NADH ratio in patients suggest that oxidative damage coexists with mitochondrial dysfunction in CBSD. Assessment of oxidative damage and addition of anti-oxidant therapy together with mitochondrial support may have additional benefits in reducing long-term morbidity in CBSD patients.
Navigating Life’s Twists and Turns: Characteristics of Life Events Across Adulthood
Authors: Radjenovic Sonja , Rupprecht Fiona S. , Nikitin Jana
Published: August 2024

This study examines life-event characteristics across adulthood. We hypothesized that older adults would report less anticipated, less normative, less positive, less controllable, and more strenuous life events than younger adults due to increasing developmental losses and decreasing gains. We also expected older adults to cope better with unfavorable events due to their life experience and emotion regulation skills. Using multilevel modelling on a sample of 6,688 participants aged 18–90, we found that older adults reported less favorable life events but coped better when experiencing the same events as younger adults. Furthermore, life-event characteristics were consistently linked to well-being across adulthood. Our findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between individuals across and within life events when studying age-related experiences.
Side effects of insecticides used in soybean and corn for the egg parasitoid Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae)
Authors: Exteckoetter Vanessa , Oliveira Júlia Assunção Castro , de Figueiredo Karolina Gomes , Bueno Adeney Freitas , Carvalho Geraldo Andrade
Published: August 2024

Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is one of the main pests of corn and soybean crops. Its control is carried out through insecticide applications that often cause biological imbalances with population reduction of natural enemies. One of the natural enemy species associated with this noctuid is the egg parasitoid Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). The objective was to evaluate the side effects of the insecticides chlorantraniliprole, indoxacarb, spinetoram, and chlorpyrifos, at the highest dosages recommended by the manufacturers, aiming to integrate chemical and biological methods. The insecticides were sprayed on eggs of S. frugiperda containing T. remus in its immature phase (egg-larva period and pupal stage) and adult stage. The design used was completely randomized. The number of surviving insects, parasitized eggs, emerged parasitoids, and males and females were evaluated. The insecticide chlorpyrifos reduced parasitism and emergence of insects in the F1 generation by 100% when applied to eggs of S. frugiperda containing T. remus during the egg-larva period and pupal stage, being classified as harmful according to the toxicological classification of IOBC. The other insecticides were selective for the parasitoid in its immature phase. The insecticides spinetoram and chlorpyrifos were toxic to adult females (F0) of the parasitoid exposed to residues of the insecticides on contaminated surfaces. Due to the low toxicity of the insecticides chlorantraniliprole, spinetoram, and indoxacarb to T. remus in its immature phase, and the insecticides indoxacarb and chlorantraniliprole to the adult stage, these insecticides should be prioritized in integrated management programs for S. frugiperda.
Financial Well-being of Rural Households: A Theoretical Framework and Application
Authors: Dong Zekuan , McKendree Melissa G. S. , Lupi Frank
Published: August 2024

The complexity of people's subjective consciousness has led some economists to rethink how to measure financial well-being (FWB). Historically, only financial measures were considered, however, now subjective well-being measures, which take individuals' feelings and perceptions into account, are being incorporated. This paper proposes an innovative framework for studying farmers’ FWB and applies it to U.S. beef producers. The conceptual framework we build consists of two sections: the determinants and measurements of rural households’ FWB. In the determinants section, our framework analyzes the determinants on rural households through micro, meso, and macro levels, as well as their impacts on household or farm aspects. For the measurement section, besides financial ratios to measure objective FWB, we construct a survey to measure subjective FWB. Furthermore, a visualization evaluation figure is provided to present the measurement results. We then apply our framework to cattle grazing households in the U.S. This application illustrates our framework, shows its advantages, and examines the effects of some determinants on FWB.
JEL Codes: I31, Q12, G50
A Novel CaCO 3 /LPE/CA for Cultivating Pyropia haitanensis Conchocelis
Authors: Wu Qiming , Xiang Jionghua , Xu Kai , Liu Qun , Nie Yusen , Weng Wuyin , Zhang Yucang
Published: August 2024

At present, shells have been used to cultivate Pyropia haitanensis (P. haitanensis) conchocelis. To develop a more convenient substrate for P. haitanensis conchocelis cultivation, a novel P. haitanensis conchocelis culture substrate (CaCO3/LPE/CA) was developed from calcite, low-density polyethylene, and calcium alginate. The mechanical properties and stability of CaCO3/LPE/CA, including implanting density (ID) and Yield per unit area, were tested. The results showed that the CaCO3/LPE/CA met practical P. haitanensis conchocelis cultivation application requirements. P. haitanensis was successfully cultured on CaCO3/LPE/CA, and its life cycle was observed through biomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). After conchospores were succrssfully reseased from P. haitanensis conchosporangial branch, the movement and germination of conchospores were also observed.The yield of conchospores per unit area of optimized CaCO3/LPE/CA reached 369.6 × 103 conchospores/cm2, making it a suitable candidate for P. haitanensis conchocelis culture cultivation. Overall, CaCO3/LPE/CA exhibits great potential as a marine bioactive material, and the process and cost of P. haitanensis culture cultivation could be simplified due to its comprehensive characteristics.
Dynamics of Governance Structure and Stock market performance
Authors: Fatima Aabroo , Jamil Muhammad
Published: August 2024

This paper has aimed to identify the intricate relationships between governance structures, organizational performance stock market. We have utilized data from 80 countries over the period from 1990 to 2021, the study employs dynamic panel data models and the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to address time dynamics and endogeneity issues. The findings reveal significant correlations between internal governance mechanisms, such as the Business Disclosure Index and the Shareholder Suits Index, and stock market returns. Moreover, external governance factors like control of corruption, political stability, and rule of law are found to positively impact stock market performance. The study underscores the importance of robust disclosure policies and governance standards in fostering market efficiency and investor confidence. These insights are crucial for policymakers and market regulators aiming to enhance financial market stability and economic growth.
Jel Codes: G30; E44; L22; L25