bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Score‐based likelihood ratios for barefootprint evidence using deep learning features
Authors: BEng Yi Yang , Tang Yunqi , MEng Junjian Cui , MEng Xiaorui Zhao
Published: November 2024

As the court put forward higher requirements for quantitative evaluation and scientific standards of forensic evidence, how to objectively and scientifically express identification opinions has become a challenge for traditional forensic identification methods. Score‐based likelihood ratios are mathematical methods for quantitative evaluation of forensic evidence. However, due to the subtle differences in inter‐class barefootprints, there is no automatic barefootprints matching algorithm with high accuracy under large‐scale dataset validation, and there are few studies related to deep learning barefootprint features for evidence evaluation in court. Therefore, score‐based likelihood ratios for barefootprint evidence using deep learning features are proposed by this paper. Firstly, the largest barefootprint dataset (BFD) is constructed, which contains 54,118 barefootprint images from 3000 individuals. Then, an automatic barefootprint feature extraction and matching algorithm is proposed, which achieves a retrieval accuracy of 98.4% on BFD and an AUC of 0.989 for barefootprint validation. Next, Cosine distance, Euclidean distance and Manhattan distance are employed to measure the comparison scores between intra‐class and inter‐class barefootprints using deep learning features in four dimensions of 64, 128, 512 and 1024, respectively. The performance of proposed model is evaluated by comparing the values and the Tippett plot. Finally, simulated crime scene barefootprint samples are constructed to verify the practical application of the proposed method, which provide further support for the quantitative evaluation of barefootprint evidence in court.
Life table and feeding behavior of Myzus persicae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) at sublethal concentrations of Afidopyropen, Spirotetramat and sulfoxaflor
Authors: Shin So Eun , Koo Hyun‐Na , Kang Yeolgyu , Kim Gil‐Hah
Published: November 2024

The green peach aphid Myzus persicae Sülzer is a major insect pest of cruciferous plants, including vegetables such as Chinese cabbage. The objective of the present study was to determine the effects of sublethal afidopyropen and spirotetramat concentrations on the survival and reproduction of M. persicae. In addition, we used an electrical penetration graph (EPG) to study the feeding behavior of M. persicae on Chinese cabbage leaves treated with various concentrations of afidopyropen, spirotetramat and sulfoxaflor. The results showed that sublethal concentrations (LC10 and LC30) of afidopyropen and spirotetramat significantly decreased adult longevity and fecundity. However, sulfoxaflor had no significant effects. Several population parameters, including the net reproductive rate (R0), intrinsic rate of increase (rm), mean generation time (T), finite rate of increase (λ), and doubling time (DT), were significantly decreased only at the LC30 of spirotetramat. According to the EPG feeding behavior analyses, when all three insecticides were applied at LC30, the nonpenetration (NP) waveform significantly increased. The above results can be used as basic data for the well‐planned use of insecticides.
Distinct microbial communities associated with health‐relevant wild berries
Authors: Vepštaitė‐Monstavičė Iglė , Lukša Juliana , Strazdaitė‐Žielienė Živilė , Serva Saulius , Servienė Elena
Published: November 2024

Lingonberries (Vaccinium vitis‐idaea L.), rowanberries (Sorbus aucuparia L.) and rosehips (Rosa canina L.) positively affect human health due to their healing properties, determined by a high content of bioactive compounds. The consumption of unprocessed wild berries is relevant and encouraged, making their in‐depth microbiological characterization essential for food safety. This study presents the first high‐throughput sequencing analysis of bacterial and fungal communities distributed on the surface of lingonberries, rowanberries and rosehips. Significant plant‐defined differences in the taxonomic composition of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbiota were observed. The bacterial community on rosehips was shown to be prevalent by Enterobacteriaceae, lingonberries by Methylobacteriaceae and rowanberries by Sphingomonadaceae representatives. Among the fungal microbiota, Dothioraceae dominated on rosehips and Exobasidiaceae on lingonberries; meanwhile, rowanberries were inhabited by a similar level of a broad spectrum of fungal families. Cultivable yeast profiling revealed that lingonberries were distinguished by the lowest amount and most distinct yeast populations. Potentially pathogenic to humans or plants, as well as beneficial and relevant biocontrol microorganisms, were identified on tested berries. The combination of metagenomics and a cultivation‐based approach highlighted the wild berries‐associated microbial communities and contributed to uncovering their potential in plant health, food and human safety.
One‐strength dose escalation of house dust mite depot product for subcutaneous immunotherapy is safe and tolerable
Authors: Jutel M. , Vogelberg C. , Duwensee K. , Troyke D. , Klimek L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) aims at modulating the immune response by administration of allergen preparations at regular intervals over several years (1). For subcutaneous AIT (SCIT), the treatment is initiated with a dose escalation phase followed by a maintenance dose administration. Over the last decade, there has been a trend towards shortening dose escalation regimens to increase patient adherence. This open‐label, phase II trial aimed to investigate the safety and tolerability of a house dust mites (HDMs) SCIT product when used in a newly designed one‐strength dose escalation scheme.

Method

Patients, aged 12–65, suffering from HDM‐allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis ± asthma were included. Patients were randomized to the one‐strength (6 injections from the highest strength 3) or the Standard dose escalation regimen (14 injections from strengths 1 to 3) using the HDMs‐SCIT product. All adverse events were reported. Tolerability was assessed on the Likert scale.

Results

One hundred and forty‐three patients were randomized, 79 adults and 64 adolescents. In total, the one‐strength regimen caused more adverse drug reactions (ADRs) than the Standard regimen (p = .0457). With both regimens most ADRs were local reactions which occurred more often in the one‐strength group (p = .0393). But there was no significant difference in the number of patients affected by systemic or serious ADRs between both regimens. No relevant differences occurred between the two age groups and no other risks were observed for adolescents compared to adults.

Conclusion

The safety and tolerability of both regimens can be considered comparable, as most ADRs were local reactions, primarily rated as mild in intensity. Nevertheless, the one‐strength regimen caused more ADRs. Reducing the number of injections from 14 to 6 while using only one strength offers the potential to improve patient adherence which further might increase clinical efficacy. Future trials could confirm this hypothesis.
Grit Difference in the Association Between Academic Stress and adolescents' Meaning in Life: The Roles of School Burnout and Self‐Compassion
Authors: Wang Zhiyou , Li Chunkai , Xie Zhe , Hong Oulin
Published: November 2024

Background

Given the cultural and educational environment with Chinese characteristics, academic pressure on adolescents' meaning in life maybe weak or insignificant, which is contradictory with previous studies conducted in Western countries; yet the influencing mechanisms in the association of academic stress with the meaning in life is rarely explored.

Method

A questionnaire survey was carried out among 616 adolescents aging from 12 to 18 in Jiangsu Province, China. The Macro process method was conducted to test the proposed theoretical model.

Results

The direct effect of academic stress on adolescent meaning in life was not significant, whereas the indirect effects through school burnout and self‐compassion were significant. Specifically, adolescents who suffer from academic stress are more likely to report increased school burnout and reduced self‐compassion, which affects their meaning in life. Besides, grit significantly attenuated the influence of academic stress on school burnout.

Discussion

There are indeed some psychosocial mechanisms including school burnout, self‐compassion, and grit in the relation between academic stress and the meaning in life. Those findings imply that the advancement and implementation of relevant intervention projects focusing on improving the meaning in life could be realized by reducing their academic stress and school burnout and promoting their ability of self‐compassion and grit.
Understanding the determinants of consumer grocery stockpiling behavior
Authors: Wahdat Ahmad Zia , Lusk Jayson L.
Published: November 2024

Grocery stockpiling is a common behavioral response to the emergence of disasters or heightened uncertainty. Nonetheless, the phenomenon and methods for mitigating it are not well understood. Using a model of household shopping and inventory management, we conceptualize stockpiling as a result of an increase in the fixed cost of making grocery shopping trips, or the opportunity cost of time associated with shopping. In a laboratory experiment, we find that stockpiling increases (decreases) by 78 and 41% (22%) with an increase in fixed costs and price reductions (imposition of purchase limits), respectively. We also find that stockpiling leads to fewer (more) grocery trips by 33 and 22% (36%) under the same three conditions, respectively. Our experiment and subsequent cluster analysis suggest that loss aversion suppresses stockpiling. Our experiment shows that imposing purchase limits, a common retail response to stock‐outs, can trigger stockpiling during shopping trips without purchase limits. Although we do not claim external validity, our study suggests that store managers and policymakers should be careful about solutions during a stockpiling event, such that they do not exacerbate stockpiling, which may disproportionately affect vulnerable groups and disrupt supply chains.
Evaluating a mental health support mobile app for adults with type 1 diabetes living in rural and remote communities: The REACHOUT pilot study
Authors: Tang Tricia S. , Klein Gerri , Görges Matthias , Yip Annie , Fisher Lawrence , Polonsky William H. , Hessler Danielle , Taylor Deanne
Published: November 2024

Aims

To evaluate a mobile app that delivers mental health support to adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) living in rural and remote communities using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Intervention fidelity, Maintenance (RE‐AIM) framework.

Methods

This study recruited 46 adults to participate in a 6‐month intervention using REACHOUT, a mobile app that delivers peer‐led mental health support (one‐on‐one, group‐based texting and face‐to‐face virtual). Baseline and 6‐month assessments measured diabetes distress (DD), depressive symptoms and perceived support (from family/friends, health care team and peers) along with other RE‐AIM metrics.

Results

Calculations for reach and adoption found that 3% of eligible adults enrolled in REACHOUT and 55% of diabetes education centres participated in recruitment efforts. Maintenance metrics revealed 56% and 24% of peer supporters and participants, respectively, became peer supporters for a subsequent randomized controlled trial of REACHOUT. Post‐intervention reductions were observed for overall distress (p = 0.007), powerlessness (p = 0.009), management distress (p = 0.001), social perception distress (p = 0.023), eating distress (p = 0.032) and depressive symptoms (p = 0.009); and elevations in support from family/friends and peers. After adjusting for sex and age, only support‐related improvements persisted. When analysing women and men groups separately, women reported lower levels of overall distress, three distress subscales, and higher levels of family/friends and peer support whereas men did not.

Conclusions

While reach was relatively low, metrics for adoption and maintenance are promising. Improvements in distress were observed for the total sample, but these changes were reduced when controlling for sex and age, with significance maintained only for women. Digital health‐enabled peer support may be instrumental in the delivery of mental health support to geographically isolated communities.
Light‐emitting diode traps in commercial greenhouses: A field study report on Encarsia formosa bycatch
Authors: Grupe Björn , Meyhöfer Rainer
Published: November 2024

Yellow sticky traps (YSTs) are a standard tool for insect monitoring in greenhouses. These traps have been further developed by using them in combination with green light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) to increase their attractiveness towards pest insects such as aphids and whiteflies. However, also natural enemies, such as the whitefly parasitoid Encarsia formosa Gahan (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), are attracted to these traps. This may cause problems with biological control of the pest or may be used for indirect monitoring purposes. Therefore, we compared the attractiveness of YSTs and green (521 nm) LED traps towards E. formosa under practical growing conditions in tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L. (Solanaceae) and cucumber, Cucumis sativus L. (Cucurbitaceae), crops in the greenhouse. The aim of the study was to investigate the compatibility of LED traps with this parasitoid frequently used against the greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). The results show LED traps catching less E. formosa than standard YSTs. Moreover, LED traps also showed compatibility with other beneficial insects. The results are discussed in the context of the parasitoid's behaviour towards various green light spectra and in the context of pest and beneficial insect monitoring using different trap types. Our study will help implementing green LED traps in future insect monitoring programmes and developing new pest control strategies without affecting natural enemies.
An Application of Text Embeddings to Support Alignment of Educational Content Standards
Authors: Butterfuss Reese , Doran Harold
Published: November 2024

Large language models are increasingly used in educational and psychological measurement activities. Their rapidly evolving sophistication and ability to detect language semantics make them viable tools to supplement subject matter experts and their reviews of large amounts of text statements, such as educational content standards. This paper presents an application of text embeddings to find relationhips between different sets of educational content standards in a content mapping process. Content mapping is routinely used by state education agencies and is often a requirement of the United States Department of Education peer review process. We discuss the educational measurement problem, propose a formal methodology, demonstrate an application of our proposed approach, and provide measures of its accuracy and potential to support real‐world activities.
Predictors of affective disturbances and cognitive impairment following small spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Jiang Qiuyi , Liu Chunyang , Zhang Hongli , Liu Rui , Zhang Jian , Guo Jinyi , Lu Enzhou , Wu Shouyue , Sun Jianda , Gao Yan , Yang Qiunan , Shi Guangyao , Yuan Chao , Liang Yanchao , Xiang Huan , Wang Lu , Yang Guang
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

Affective disturbances and cognitive impairment are common sequelae of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), yet predictive models for these outcomes remain limited, especially for spontaneous supratentorial ICH with small hematomas (<30 mL). The aim of this study was to investigate predictors of affective disturbances and cognitive impairment following small spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 1692 patients with spontaneous supratentorial ICH between January 2018 and December 2020 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University. Of these, 1563 patients completed a median follow‐up of 3.5 years. Cognitive function was evaluated using the modified Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status, and affective disturbances using the Hamilton Depression Scale and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale. Restricted cubic spline analyses were employed to examine the relationships between predictors and outcomes.

Results

In this cohort, 58.5% had cognitive impairment, 52.8% reported depressive symptoms, and 39.4% exhibited anxiety symptoms. Logistic regression models using Boruta's algorithm demonstrated strong predictive capacity, with areas under the curve of 0.82 for cognitive impairment, 0.78 for depressive symptoms, and 0.73 for anxiety symptoms. Hematoma volume was significantly linked to depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] 1.56, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38–1.76) and inversely to cognitive impairment (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.59–0.77). Uric acid levels displayed a nonlinear relationship with cognitive impairment (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.61–0.81). Hospitalization days significantly raised the risk of both depressive (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.03–1.30) and anxiety symptoms (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.04–1.31).

Conclusions

The logistic regression model, enhanced by Boruta's algorithm, provides a valuable tool for predicting affective disturbances and cognitive impairment after ICH. It facilitates early identification and improves risk assessment for these neuropsychiatric outcomes in patients with small hematomas.
Epilepsy‐pregnancy registries: An update
Authors: Perucca Piero , Battino Dina , Bromley Rebecca , Chen Lei , Craig John , Hernandez‐Diaz Sonia , Holmes Lewis B. , Koshy Kiren G. , Meador Kimford J. , Menon Ramshekhar N. , O'Brien Terence J. , Pennell Page B. , Zhou Dong , Tomson Torbjörn
Published: November 2024

This report is the first comprehensive update on the activities of existing epilepsy‐pregnancy registries since 2010. The primary aim of these registries, which were initiated by independent international research groups some 25 years ago, has been to assess the risk of major congenital malformations (MCMs) in offspring exposed in utero to different antiseizure medications (ASMs). Progress reports are provided here from the five original registries (the International Registry of Antiepileptic Drugs and Pregnancy EURAP, the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry, the UK and Ireland Epilepsy and Pregnancy Register, the Kerala Registry of Epilepsy and Pregnancy, and the Raoul Wallenberg Australian Pregnancy Register of Antiepileptic Drugs) plus the more recently initiated West China Registry. Since their inception, the registries have published a wealth of data revealing important differences in risks across the most frequently used ASM treatments, thereby facilitating rational management of women with epilepsy who are of childbearing potential. Although the number of pregnancies enrolled in the different registries has more than doubled since the 2010 report, many questions remain. These include outcomes following prenatal exposure to most of the newer ASMs or different ASM combinations, as well as associations with specific MCMs rather than MCMs as a collective. All the registries, therefore, remain active and continue to enroll pregnancies. Administrative health care databases have been utilized more recently for the assessment of MCM risks and other adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with in utero exposure to ASMs. Although these can provide population‐based complementary information, they cannot replace the specific epilepsy‐pregnancy registries with their more detailed validated individual information. Given the multiple newer ASMs that are increasingly used and the continuing multiple knowledge gaps for the older ASMs, epilepsy‐pregnancy registries will continue to play an important role in the future.
Research on the Fatigue Performance of Asphalt Mixtures Using Phosphogypsum Whisker as Substitute Filler
Authors: Yin Peng , Pan Baofeng , Liu Yue
Published: November 2024

This study aims to promote the resource utilization of solid waste in asphalt pavements and improve its fatigue performance. For this, phosphogypsum whisker (PSW) was used as a substitute filler to prepare asphalt mixture. Through pavement performance tests and four‐point bending test, the effects of different filler types and substitution ratios on the pavement performance and fatigue performance of asphalt mixtures were investigated. On this basis, the phenomenological method was used to further construct the fatigue performance prediction model. The results indicate that PSW can effectively enhance the high temperature performance and moisture stability of the mixtures but has an adverse effect on low temperature performance. Additionally, the enhancement effect of PSW on pavement performance is more significant than PC42.5 cement (PCC). Both PSW and PCC can enhance the fatigue performance of the mixtures, with PSW exhibiting a more pronounced effect, and the incorporation of substitute fillers helps to curb the degradation trend in fatigue performance. Comparative studies indicate that the error rate of prediction model for various mixtures is significantly below 5%, with low volatility in the prediction results. Furthermore, the variance analysis results reveal that strain has a more pronounced impact on the fatigue performance of the mixtures.
Chromosomal rearrangements associated with SMC5/6 deficiency in DNA replication
Authors: Kusano Yoshiharu , Kinugasa Yasuha , Tashiro Satoshi , Hirota Toru
Published: November 2024

Completion of DNA replication before chromosome segregation is essential for the stable maintenance of the genome. Under replication stress, DNA synthesis may persist beyond S phase, especially in genomic regions that are difficult to proceed with the replication processes. Incomplete replication in mitosis emerges as non‐disjoined segment in mitotic chromosomes leading to anaphase bridges. The resulting chromosome rearrangements are not well characterized, however. Here, we report that incomplete replication due to SMC5/6 deficiency impairs sister chromatid disjunction at difficult‐to‐replicate regions, including common fragile sites. These non‐disjoined regions manifest as cytologically defined symmetric gaps, causing anaphase bridges. These bridges break at the gaps, leading to telomere loss, micronucleation, and fragmentation. Subsequently, fusions between telomere‐deficient chromosomes generate complex chromosomal rearrangements, including dicentric chromosomes, suggesting the occurrence of breakage‐fusion‐bridge cycle. Additionally, chromosomes in micronuclei were pulverized, indicative of chromothripsis. Our findings suggest that incomplete replication facilitates complex chromosomal rearrangements, which may contribute to genomic instability in human cancers.
Les effets du salaire minimum sur l'effort de formation au Brésil
Authors: MARIONI Larissa da Silva
Published: November 2024

L'autrice analyse l'impact du salaire minimum absolu et du salaire minimum relatif sur la prime à la qualification et l'effort de formation en cours d'emploi. Utilisant des données administratives relatives au secteur formel brésilien entre 2006 et 2013, elle tient compte de la variation des prix entre États et périodes pour appréhender l'impact du salaire minimum national. Elle constate que le salaire minimum absolu réduit la prime à la qualification et a, en moyenne, un effet négatif sur la formation, en particulier au bas de l'échelle des salaires. En revanche, le salaire minimum relatif augmente cette prime pour les plus diplômés et n'a pas d'effet significatif sur l'effort de formation moyen. Ses effets semblent cependant différer selon le niveau de la distribution considéré.
Response of Durum Wheat Cultivars to Climate Change in a Mediterranean Environment: Trends of Weather and Crop Variables at the Turn of 21st Century
Authors: Rossini Angelo , Ruggeri Roberto , Belocchi Andreina , Rossini Francesco
Published: November 2024

A better comprehension and analysis of climate impacts on crop traits allows the implementation of more appropriate adaptation strategies and, therefore, a higher resilience of the future cropping systems. The aims of this study were: (i) to assess how the climate changed in the last 32 years in a Mediterranean‐type climate, (ii) to understand how crop traits evolved over time in early and late durum wheat cultivars and (iii) to highlight which weather variables mostly affected the performances of diverse durum wheat varieties. To investigate this, a 32‐year period (i.e., 1989–2020) was analysed, detecting possible significant trends of weather variables (e.g., air temperatures, precipitations, solar radiation) and crop traits (e.g., earliness, yield, yield components and test weight) over time in Viterbo, central Italy. Eight durum wheat varieties (4 early and 4 late cultivars) were chosen from the most used in that location. A clear upward trend of the monthly maximum air temperature during the entire growing season was revealed (0.12°C–0.21°C per year), while rainfall displayed a significant trend only for February and March. Days to heading and number of spikes per unit area showed a significant downward trend moving towards 2020. Anticipation of heading date was much more pronounced in the late cultivars than in the early ones, so that the difference between the two groups was reduced from about 10 days of 1989 to less than 6 days of 2020. Grain yield stagnated around 5 t ha−1 with late varieties that proved to be as good producers as the early ones. Test weight and thousand kernel weight showed a slight increase over time. Maximum temperatures of February and March exerted a considerable influence in reducing time to heading (0.7–3.4 days for each additional°C), while the maximum temperature of May was detrimental for grain yield (−180 to −270 kg ha−1 for each additional °C). Our study identified two weak points in the current durum wheat cultivation: (i) phenology is being more and more similar among modern cultivars; (ii) the number of spikes per unit area dramatically decreased in the last 30 years. Therefore, beside greater genetic diversity, a new agronomic approach, especially from seeding to the end of the tillering stage, will be required to cope with durum cultivation in the future climate scenario of the Mediterranean. The outputs of our analysis add precious information on the comprehension of climate change effects on Mediterranean cropping systems and can guide either the decision making for the management of durum wheat or its breeding activity for the future.
Chemical Fingerprint Analysis of Volatile Components in Batocera horsfieldi Host Plants and Its Correlation With Climate Factors
Authors: Wei Xinju , Xu Danping , Liu Zhiqian , Zhuo Zhihang
Published: November 2024

Batocera horsfieldi is a major wood‐boring pest in China's timber and economic forests, belonging to the order Coleoptera and the family Cerambycidae. This study headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) were used to analyse the volatile components of B. horsfieldi supplementary feeding host plants, and fingerprint profiles were established. The results revealed that the five plants contained 21, 18, 22, 16 and 17 volatile compounds, mostly terpenes, aldehydes and alcohols, along with trace amounts of furans, ketones and ethers. The terpene compounds were mainly monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. The results of hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were consistent. Five common peaks were identified in these host plants, with (E)‐2‐hexenal, caryophyllene, (E)‐cinnamaldehyde, nonanal, and 3,7‐dimethyl‐1,6‐octadien‐3‐ol being the shared volatile components among the five plants. The mantel test, correlation analysis and grey relational analysis indicated that temperature and precipitation are important factors affecting the content of volatile components. These analytical results provide a basis for using plant volatiles as attractants to control B. horsfieldi.
Cold Plasma and Pulsed Light Inactivates Escherichia coli O157: H7 in Romaine Lettuce and Preserves Produce Quality
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sudarsan , Niemira Brendan A. , Ukuku Dike O. , Olanya Ocen M. , Boyd Glenn , Jin Zhonglin T. , Fan Xuetong
Published: November 2024

Fresh produce safety is important for consumer health. Intervention technologies that can lessen the pathogen threat and produce contamination is needed. In this research, cold plasma (CP), pulsed light (PL) and their combinations were assessed for inactivating Escherichia coli O157:H7 on Romaine lettuce. The effects of treatment on native microflora and sensory attributes of lettuce was also determined. An inoculum of multiple E. coli O157:H7 strains was employed for this study. Lettuce leaves were spot inoculated and then treated with PL (1–60 s), CP (15–60 s) or their optimized treatment combinations. A 30 s treatment with PL (fluence dose of 31.5 J/cm2), was optimum which provided 2.7 log CFU/g reduction of the pathogen, while 45 s treatment of CP was optimum, that delivered 2.1 log CFU/g log reduction. Combinations of PL and CP treatments were investigated for enhanced inactivation. For PL‐CP combination, inoculated lettuce was treated with PL for 30 s followed by 45 s of CP exposure. While for CP‐PL combination, treatments sequences were 45 s of CP treatment followed by 30 s PL treatment. Both combination treatments, PL‐CP and CP‐PL, resulted in synergistic inactivation of E. coli cells with > 5 log reductions of the pathogen. These combination treatments significantly (p < 0.05) reduced native microbiota and slowed their growth during storage. Additionally, treatment effects on lettuce quality was not adversely impacted. PL and CP are both non‐aqueous, sustainable technologies. This study demonstrated that integration of PL and CP technology can enhance microbial safety and preserve quality of Romaine lettuce.
Clostridioides difficile infection increases in‐hospital mortality, length of stay, and hospital cost but not 30‐day mortality in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Jaroenlapnopparat Aunchalee , Prasitsumrit Vitchapong , Ponvilawan Ben , Waitayangkoon Palapun , Charoenngam Nipith
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a leading cause of nosocomial infection and is associated with both higher morbidity and mortality. Cirrhotic patients are more susceptible to CDI because of impaired gut immune response, use of proton pump inhibitor, and frequent hospitalization. We aim to investigate the impact of CDI on cirrhotic patients' in‐hospital and 30‐day mortality, length of stay, and hospital cost.

Methods

Potentially eligible studies were identified from Embase, Medline, and Web of Sciences databases.

Results

A total of 2320 articles were identified. After reviewing, nine studies reporting in‐hospital mortality and three reporting 30‐day mortality of cirrhotic patients with CDI versus those without CDI were included. The meta‐analysis of nine studies, consisting of 7 746 126 patients, revealed a significant association between CDI and in‐hospital mortality in cirrhotic patients with the pooled OR of 1.68 (95% CI 1.29–1.85, I2 94%). Length of stay and hospital cost were also higher in the CDI group (pooled MD of 6.56 days [95% CI 5.75–7.36, I2 94%] and 27.85 (×$1000) [95% CI 10.41–45.29, I2 100%], respectively). The funnel plots for the meta‐analysis of the association between CDI and in‐hospital mortality, length of stay, and hospitalization cost were not suggestive of publication bias. From three studies consisting of 3694 patients, we found that CDI was not associated with 30‐day mortality in cirrhotic patients (pooled OR 1.20, 95% CI 0.75–2.24, I2 74%).

Conclusion

CDI is associated with increased in‐hospital mortality, length of stay, and hospital costs, but not with 30‐day mortality in cirrhotic patients.
An Economic and Reliable PCR Approach to Distinguish the Primary Pathogens Armillaria mellea and A. ostoyae From Other European Armillaria Species
Authors: Cornejo Carolina , Kupper Quirin , Queloz Valentin
Published: November 2024

Armillaria is a soil‐borne genus of basidiomycetes whose species can cause stem and root rot in woody plants. The effects of plant‐pathogenic Armillaria species are well known in forests, but are underestimated in urban areas, where cases causing damage to trees and shrubs in green spaces have been steadily increasing in Switzerland since the 1980s. In this study, we present a simple, rapid, and cost‐effective protocol for high‐throughput diagnostics of the two primary pathogens A. mellea and A. ostoyae based on partial PCR amplification of the RPB2 gene. The specificity and sensitivity of the presented duplex PCR‐I and single‐plex PCR‐II were evaluated using different methods: (i) testing both PCRs on tree pathogenic or soil‐borne fungi of genera other than Armillaria, (ii) using dilution series of Armillaria‐DNA to determine a minimum detection limit, and (iii) sequencing the selected RPB2 region to verify the primer sequences and positions. The utility of PCR‐I and PCR‐II as a high‐throughput method was successfully tested on 65 DNA samples of Armillaria from Switzerland. Finally, an uninvolved person compared both classical methods, pairing test and sequencing, with PCR‐I and PCR‐II in a blind test. This study provides a reliable and alternative protocol for the rapid diagnosis of A. mellea and A. ostoyae causing root rot of woody plants.
A small antimicrobial peptide derived from a Burkholderia bacterium exhibits a broad‐spectrum and high inhibiting activities against crop diseases
Authors: Mohamed Gamarelanbia , Ji Ao , Cao Xinyu , Islam Md. Samiul , Hassan Mohamed F. , Zhao Yang , Lan Xing , Dong Wubei , Wu Hongqu , Xu Wenxing
Published: November 2024

Crop diseases cause significant quality and yield losses to global crop products each year and are heavily controlled by chemicals along with very limited antibiotics composed of small molecules. However, these methods often result in environmental pollution and pest resistance, necessitating the development of new bio‐controlling products to mitigate these hazards. To identify effective antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) considered as potential sources of future antibiotics, AMPs were screened from five bacterial strains showing antagonism against a representative phytopathogenic fungus (Rhizoctonia Solani) through the Bacillus subtilis expression system, which has been developed for identifying bacterial AMPs by displaying autolysis morphologies. A total of 5000 colonies were screened, and five displaying autolysis morphologies showed antagonism against R. solani. A novel AMP with the strongest antagonism efficiency was determined and tentatively named HR2‐7, which is composed of 24 amino acids with an alpha‐helical structure. HR2‐7 has strong and broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity, tested against 10 g‐positive and ‐negative bacteria and four phytopathogenic fungi by contact culture in plates with minimal lethal concentrations of 4.0 μM. When applied as purified peptide or in fermented B. subtilis culture solution, HR2‐7 showed strong controlling efficiency on plants against diverse fungal and bacterial pathogens. Based on current understanding, HR2‐7 is recognized as the first AMP derived from an agricultural antagonistic bacterium. It exhibits wide‐ranging and notable antimicrobial efficacy, offering a supplementary approach for managing plant diseases, in addition to conventional chemical pesticides and antibiotics.
Determination of S‐Allele Combination in an Italian Apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.) Germplasm Core Collection
Authors: Alessandri Sara , De Franceschi Paolo , Alvisi Nicolò , Dondini Luca
Published: November 2024

An S‐RNase‐based gametophytic self‐incompatibility (GSI) system, a mechanism that forces outbreeding by preventing self‐fertilization, characterizes the genus Malus. Knowledge of the self‐incompatibility (S) genotypes of apple cultivars is crucial for choosing pollen donors for fruit production and breeding. Even though the S‐allele of most commercial apple cultivars has already been identified, limited information is available about the S‐allele diversity within local germplasm collections. In this study, 67 S‐allele combinations of local apple accessions were identified. The allele S3 was the most common among local apple accessions followed by S1 and S7. The main aim of this study is to provide new information on cultivar compatibility, and these results will be used to set up new parent selection in apple breeding programmes as well as pollinator selection for the commercial orchard.
Clerodendrum trichotomum Extract Attenuates UV‐B‐Induced Skin Impairment in Hairless Mice by Inhibiting MAPK Signaling
Authors: Kim Ki Mo , Im A‐Rang , Shim Ki‐Shuk , Lee A. Yeong , Kim Taesoo , Choi Sung‐a , Nam Kung‐Woo , Lee Sanghyun , Hyun Jin Won , Chae Sungwook
Published: November 2024

Background

Exposure to solar ultraviolet‐B (UV‐B) radiation significantly accelerates skin aging by inducing the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) such as MMP‐1, leading to alterations in the extracellular matrix and consequent photoaging. Some plant components, renowned for their UV‐absorbing and antioxidative properties, show potential for mitigating photoaging by reducing UV‐B‐induced MMP levels. In this context, we explored the inhibitory effects of Clerodendrum trichotomum extract (CTE) on UV‐B‐induced skin damage.

Methods

The mechanism of CTE was predicted using network pharmacology approach. Also, antiaging efficacy was evaluated by mouse model and cellular system using human epidermal keratinocytes (HEKa), including its modulation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways.

Results

CTE effectively counters UV‐B‐induced skin damage, as evidenced by the suppression of MMP‐9 and MMP‐1 expression in mice. We found that each fraction and chemical constituents of CTE suppressed UV‐B‐induced MMP‐1 secretion in HEKa cells.

Conclusion

CTE inhibits UV‐B‐induced skin aging by partially suppressing MMP‐1 and MMP‐9 secretion via the modulation of MAPK signaling pathways.
Application and effectiveness of adaptive AI in elderly healthcare
Authors: Li Hsiao‐Hui , Liao Yuan‐Hsun
Published: November 2024

Background

In addressing elderly healthcare issues, cognitive impairment can cause significant disruptions in daily life and may potentially develop into dementia. Thus, finding ways to delay the progression of cognitive impairment is a critical issue.

Methods

This study aims to develop an adaptive artificial intelligence (AI) mechanism that creates enjoyable and beneficial content to help delay cognitive impairment in the elderly. Utilising virtual reality (VR) and a fishing game, the design enhances reaction time and attention through interactive fishing activities. The AI personalises content based on individual performance to improve cognitive function.

Results

Experimental results showed that adaptive AI increased participant satisfaction from 86.84 to 91.05 points and future willingness from 75.26 to 85.68 points. The number of fish caught rose from 98 to 120, with the average per participant increasing from 2.64 to 2.85.

Conclusions

This is undoubtedly the trend of the future. VR allows the elderly to have a more impactful and memorable first experience, while AI dynamically adjusts the game's difficulty based on the elderly's performance, addressing the issue of reduced willingness to continue due to inappropriate game difficulty. The VR game developed in this study is designed to be relaxing and incorporates mechanisms to promote the elderly's health. It is not restricted by location or time and, more importantly, meets the health promotion needs of the elderly.
Political accountability and social equity in public budgeting: Examining the role of local institutions
Authors: Wei Wenchi
Published: November 2024

This paper examines how local institutions in U.S. municipalities can affect budget allocations for socially disadvantaged groups, specifically focusing on eight key institutions related to electoral rules, power dynamics, and bureaucratic authority. Additionally, we develop a composite index to assess the overall level of (de)politicization within the local institutional framework. Theoretically, local institutions can shape public officials’ political accountability and administrative discretion during policy processes, thereby influencing their decision‐making on budget allocations. Empirical analyses primarily use data from ICMA's multiround national surveys and employ the historical background of municipalities as an instrumental variable (IV) to address potential endogeneity problems associated with local institutions. We find that local institutions that strengthen politicians’ political accountability to citizens lead to greater budget allocations for redistributive social welfare, thereby fostering social equity in public budgeting. Conversely, the institutions that enhance the authority of senior bureaucrats negatively affect budget allocations for redistributive social welfare.
Cultural group diversity and team performance: The importance of international employees
Authors: Wang Guan‐Yuan
Published: November 2024

In the ongoing debates regarding performance disparities between homogeneous and heterogeneous teams, we examine team dynamics within the National Basketball Association to provide insights into this issue. Utilizing Shannon entropy, we measure the cultural diversity of player nationalities within each team. Through panel data modeling with interactive and mediating effects, we empirically investigate the impact of workforce diversity on team performance. Our findings reveal that diversity influences team success through both offensive performance and defensive effort. Importantly, our results highlight a positive relationship between team heterogeneity and win percentages, underscoring the advantages of diversity in enhancing overall team performance.
T
1
-Positions of Four-Bar Linkages
Authors: Chugh Tanya , Rama Krishna K.
Published: November 2024

This paper deals with the hitherto unexplored problem of determining the T1-positions of the first-kind of the coupler link for all types of 4R four-bar linkages. Geometrical proofs for the existence and number of T1-positions are given based on geometrical inequalities. The number of T1-positions are enumerated for each circuit and branch of all types of linkages. Analytical as well as geometric methods for the determination of the configuration of the linkage at an asymptotic configuration are also presented. T1-positions of a 3R1P four-bar linkage are also discussed.
GPU-Accelerated Full-Wheel Large-Eddy Simulations of a Transonic Fan Stage
Authors: Wang Kan , Bose Sanjeeb , Ivey Christopher
Published: November 2024

A single-stage transonic axial-flow fan is simulated using graphic processing unit (GPU)-accelerated wall-modeled large-eddy simulations. The computational meshes are generated using Voronoi diagram-based approach. Two types of mesh are employed for grid sensitivity study. The first type uses isotropic hexagonal close-packed (HCP) seeding whereas the second combines the background HCP mesh with anisotropic boundary-layer type of mesh around the blade surfaces. The effect of the rotor tip clearance is examined using a rotor-only configuration. The sweep of the performance curve at full rotation speed is carried out for both the rotor and the stage. The computational results are compared against the experimental measurement and excellent agreement is observed when adequate near-wall resolution is employed. The code performance of the GPU-accelerated solver is compared to the CPU-based version. The high throughput of the GPU solver significantly reduces the computational cost. On a mesh with 84 million control volumes, 10 rotor revolutions can be computed within 1 day using 20 GPUs.
A Comparison Between Fatigue Capacity of a Subsea Connector Per S-N and Fracture Mechanics Methods
Authors: Sepehri Ali , Bansal Gaurav
Published: November 2024

Designing a high pressure, high temperature (HPHT) well is a complex and challenging task that requires careful planning, analysis, and execution. HPHT wells have pressures greater than 15,000 psi (103.4 MPa) and/or temperatures of more than 350°F (450K). These severe conditions pose significant risks and technical difficulties for drilling, completion, and production operations. To safely overcome the challenges in these operations, more advanced tools and new technologies are needed. In addition, because of the sensitivity of and potential impact on the environment, the industry is striving to homogenize the design and acceptance criteria. The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) requires equipment operating at high pressures and temperatures to pass a design verification analysis. This analysis includes structural, functional, and fatigue analyses, which are performed using finite element analysis (FEA) per ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) Section VIII, Divisions 2 and 3, API STD 17G, and API TR 17TR8.

In service, HPHT equipment exposed to cyclic loadings (i.e., pressure, thermal, and external loads) is subjected to a fatigue screening to determine if a fatigue assessment is needed to calculate its life-cycle estimation for compliance with its functional specifications. If the HPHT equipment design does not satisfy the fatigue screening criteria described in ASME BPVC Section VIII, Division 2, it is deemed fatigue sensitive, and a more rigorous evaluation is required using design practices involving S-N fatigue curves (S-N design) or fracture mechanics (FM design), as recommended in API TR 17TR8 and per the methodology defined in ASME BPVC Section VIII, Division 3, API 579-1/ASME FFS-1, or BS 7910.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the fatigue service life of an HPHT subsea connector using the S-N and FM design methods. The fatigue life evaluation of the connector was performed with a finite element model using 3D geometry and elastic material properties. The S-N curves for steel forgings in air subjected to a high mean tensile stress from DNV-RP-C203 were used in this analysis. The material properties for fracture mechanics analysis were selected from BS 7910 and test data.

It was observed that fatigue capacity curves based on the S-N method following application of the design factors in API TR 17TR8 were more conservative than that based on the FM method in this study.