bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maintenance of flower color dimorphism in Ophiorrhiza japonica (Rubiaceae): responses to fluctuating temperatures in a dolomite Karst region
Authors: Wang Xiao-Yue , Tang Han-Qing , Liu Yun-Jing , Xiang Meng-Da , Yao Ren-Xiu , Li Bai-Zhu , Li Yu , Yi Yin , Wen Zhi-Rui , Tang Ming , Tang Xiao-Xin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Flower color polymorphism is often attributed to selection pressures from Q9 pollinators or other non-pollinator stress factors. Generally, flower color polymorphism demonstrates effective acclimatization linked to either pollinator-mediated selection or pleiotropic effects.

Methods

To test these hypotheses in Ophiorrhiza japonica, we compared pollinator visitation frequencies and plant traits between pink and white morphs in Shibing, a dolomite Karst region recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site. We also assessed the ratio of flower morphs and the reproductive success of the two morphs during spring and winter. Additionally, we examined the effects of temperature shifts on the two morphs under various temperature treatments.

Results and discussion

Our results revealed no significant difference in visitation frequencies between the morphs. However, the ratio of pink to white morph differed significantly between spring and winter. The temperature of pink morph was higher than that of white morph at temperatures ranging from 0-24°C, while white morph had higher temperatures than pink morph at -4°C. Based on the aforementioned results, pollinators are not the primary factor influencing the distribution of flower colors in spring and winter. Furthermore, the response of different flower colors to temperature suggests that temperature is more likely the factor driving changes in flower coloration. Our study provides further evidence supporting the pleiotropic effect hypothesis, which posits that flower color polymorphism can be maintained by fluctuating temperatures in the dolomite Karst region. This study offers a potential model for explaining flower color polymorphism in Karst regions.
Genome-wide association study identifies key F-box genes linked to ethylene responsiveness and root growth in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Klinsawang Suparad , Aesomnuk Wanchana , Mangkalasane Piyamongkol , Ruanjaichon Vinitchan , Siangliw Jonaliza L. , Pandey Bipin K. , Bennett Malcolm J. , Wanchana Samart , Arikit Siwaret
Published: December 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a staple food for more than half of the world’s population, but its yields are increasingly threatened by environmental problems, including soil compaction. This problem limits root growth which limits water and nutrient foraging capacity thus reduces productivity due to, restricted diffusion of ethylene, a key plant hormone playing an important role in exacerbating these effects. Elevated ethylene levels in compacted soils can further inhibit root development. However, rice varieties that are less sensitive to ethylene may have an advantage as they exhibit better root growth and resource utilization under such conditions. In this study, 220 diverse rice accessions were analyzed to uncover the genetic factors that influence root length reduction (RLR) in response to ethylene. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified a significant QTL on chromosome 10, named qRLR10, associated with ethylene response. Within this region, 20 candidate genes were identified, with three F-box genes namely Os10g0124700, Os10g0126600 and Os10g0128200 showing a strong correlation with RLR variations. These genes are involved in protein degradation, root development and hormone signaling, indicating their possible role in regulating ethylene sensitivity. The results suggest that rice varieties with lower ethylene sensitivity may have better root growth in compacted soils, making them ideal targets for breeding programs aimed at improving resilience to harsh environmental conditions. These results underscore the critical role of ethylene in rice root development and provide valuable insights for future rice improvement strategies aimed at mitigating the effects of soil compaction.
A network approach to understanding occupational psychological distress: linking depression, anxiety, and burnout among Chinese healthcare professionals
Authors: Yang Cui , Chen Yao , Wang Xuelian , Xu Ping , Song Juan , Yang Lu , Fu Yue
Published: December 2024

Objectives

As a population at high risk for psychological distress, healthcare workers typically experience varying degrees of anxiety, depression, and burnout. Studies have found that depression and anxiety have a negative impact on the mental health domain of burnout in healthcare workers. However, little is known about the symptom-to-symptom interactions between these psychological outcomes. This study aims to elucidate the characteristics of depression, anxiety, and burnout networks among healthcare workers.

Methods

We recruited 846 healthcare workers from March to April 2023 from three hospitals. A total of 826 healthcare workers completed the General Information Scale, the 16-item Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology–Self-Report (QIDS-SR16), the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and the Burnout Clinical Subtype Questionnaire (BCSQ)-36. The network models were constructed using network analysis. The expected influence and the bridge expected influence of nodes were calculated. The stability and accuracy of the network was assessed.

Results

The results showed that the core symptoms in the symptom network mainly included QIDS8 (Energy/Fatigability), SAS3 (Easily upset or frightened), SAS11 (Dizzy), SAS8 (Tiredness), SAS10 (Tachycardia) and BCSQ3 (Worn-out), and the key nodes connecting these symptoms were QIDS2 (Sad mood), SAS20 (Have nightmares), BCSQ3 (Worn-out), SAS8 (Tiredness), QIDS8 (Energy/Fatigability), QIDS4 (Concentration/decision-making) and SAS4 (Madness).

Conclusion

Unique pathways of association between burnout, depression, and anxiety were found to exist. Interventions targeting core symptoms can maximize the improvement of depression, anxiety, and burnout, provide a deeper understanding of the relationship between the three conditions, and provide a target and basis for psychological interventions to improve the emotional wellbeing of healthcare workers and enhance their mental health.
Assessing serial recall as a measure of artificial grammar learning
Authors: Jenkins Holly E. , de Graaf Ysanne , Smith Faye , Riches Nick , Wilson Benjamin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Implicit statistical learning is, by definition, learning that occurs without conscious awareness. However, measures that putatively assess implicit statistical learning often require explicit reflection, for example, deciding if a sequence is ‘grammatical’ or ‘ungrammatical’. By contrast, ‘processing-based’ tasks can measure learning without requiring conscious reflection, by measuring processes that are facilitated by implicit statistical learning. For example, when multiple stimuli consistently co-occur, it is efficient to ‘chunk’ them into a single cognitive unit, thus reducing working memory demands. Previous research has shown that when sequences of phonemes can be chunked into ‘words’, participants are better able to recall these sequences than random ones. Here, in two experiments, we investigated whether serial visual recall could be used to effectively measure the learning of a more complex artificial grammar that is designed to emulate the between-word relationships found in language.

Methods

We adapted the design of a previous Artificial Grammar Learning (AGL) study to use a visual serial recall task, as well as more traditional reflection-based grammaticality judgement and sequence completion tasks. After exposure to “grammatical” sequences of visual symbols generated by the artificial grammar, the participants were presented with novel testing sequences. After a brief pause, participants were asked to recall the sequence by clicking on the visual symbols on the screen in order.

Results

In both experiments, we found no evidence of artificial grammar learning in the Visual Serial Recall task. However, we did replicate previously reported learning effects in the reflection-based measures.

Discussion

In light of the success of serial recall tasks in previous experiments, we discuss several methodological factors that influence the extent to which implicit statistical learning can be measured using these tasks.
Visual dominance of the congruency sequence effect in a cross-modal context
Authors: Tang Xiaoyu , Zhang Xi , Wang Tingting , Yu Hongtao , Wang Aijun , Zhang Ming
Published: December 2024

The congruency sequence effect (CSE) refers to the reduction in the congruency effect in the current trial after an incongruent trial compared with a congruent trial. Although previous studies widely suggested that CSE was observed only in the modality repeat condition, few studies have reported that CSE could also appear in the modality switch condition. However, it remains unclear whether these conflicting findings were caused by partial repetition effects under modality transition conditions. To address this issue, Experiment 1 controlled for partial repetition effects by ensuring that the modality relationships in both the repetition and switch conditions were either fully congruent or incongruent. The results revealed significant CSE only under the modality repetition condition. In particular, a larger CSE was observed in visual–auditory (VA) repetition than in auditory–visual (AV) repetition, indicating that modality asymmetry might affect the CSE by inducing the priming effect. Thus, Experiment 2 concurrently presented visual and auditory stimuli to eliminate priming effects and further validated CSE differences between auditory and visual modalities. The results revealed that the CSE was significantly greater under the VA condition than under the AV condition and confirmed that the visual modality played a dominant role in the CSE, as visual information is prioritized in processing and ultimately reduces the congruency effect in the next trial. Overall, the present study provides evidence for the specificity of CSE under modality repetition conditions by excluding partial repetition effects and further underscores the critical role of visual dominance in cross-modal CSE.
Validation of the World Health Organization’s Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 for children with mental disorders in specialized health-care services
Authors: Díaz-Castro Lina , Arroyo-Belmonte Miriam , Suárez-Brito Paloma , Márquez-Caraveo María Elena , Garcia-Andrade Consuelo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Mental disorders are highly prevalent among children, yet access to timely and effective treatment remains limited. Untreated or poorly managed mental disorders in children are associated with significant functional deterioration and long-term consequences. The validation of reliable assessment tools is crucial for identifying functional impairments and guiding interventions in this population. This study aimed to assess the utility and psychometric properties of the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) in evaluating functional impairment among children and adolescents receiving specialized mental health care in Mexican psychiatric hospitals.

Method

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from January 2018 to February 2020 in two psychiatric public hospitals in Mexico. The Spanish version of the WHODAS 2.0 was adapted for the pediatric population, and its psychometric properties were evaluated among 390 children and adolescents receiving psychiatric care. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and tests of internal consistency and validity.

Results

The WHODAS 2.0 demonstrated high internal consistency (α = .92) and convergent validity, with significant correlations observed between WHODAS scores and clinical variables. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a six-dimensional structure, with gender-specific differences identified in functional impairment patterns.

Discussion

The study provides robust evidence supporting the utility and psychometric properties of the WHODAS 2.0 for assessing functional impairment in children and adolescents with mental disorders in Mexican psychiatric hospitals. These findings have implications for clinical practice, policy-making, and future research aimed at improving outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Impacts of the US CDC recommendation on human papillomavirus vaccine uptake, 2010–2015
Authors: Ghosh Pallab K. , Chaudhry Ahmed , Campbell Janis E. , Kim Myongjin , Smith Kyle , Demir Firat , Zhao Junying
Published: December 2024

Objectives

As one type of vaccine policy, the effectiveness and spillover effects of the US CDC vaccine recommendations are inadequately evaluated. This study aims to fully evaluate its impacts on male adults, in addition to children, using better data.

Design

A before-after study design to examine the CDC’s 2011 HPV vaccine recommendation for men aged 11–21.

Data analysis

Individual-level data included the 2010–2015 US National Health Interview Survey full sample of 7,000 male children aged 11–18, younger adults aged 19–21 and 22–25, and older adults aged 26–60. Pooled cross-sectional surveys contained individual-level vaccination, socioeconomic, and demographic information. Outcome variable is an individual HPV vaccination status, measured as individual probability of HPV vaccination. Dummy regressions were estimated by a Linear Probability Model (LPM) with fixed effects for target and non-target age groups.

Results

The policy was significantly associated with a 14.8% (p < 0.001) increased individual likelihood of HPV vaccination for men aged 11–21. It was also associated with a modest spillover effect, a 5.6% (p < 0.001) increased individual likelihood for men aged 22–25 and marginally for men aged 26–60. African American men and men with poor health were 2.7 and 15.4% less likely to uptake HPV vaccines than white men and men with good or fair health, respectively.

Conclusion

This study complements the existing policy evaluation literature on HPV vaccine recommendation among male children by including adults and using better data. Findings offer comprehensive evidence of the effectiveness and spillover effects of this recommendation type of federal-level policy, provide policy lessons for other vaccines, and identify vulnerable subpopulations as targets for future policies.
A scoping review on how field epidemiology training programs are addressing regional and global health priorities
Authors: Koyie Stephen Leshan , Muehlen Marion , Dhand Navneet , Perrocheau Anne
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Recent global health events underscore the critical need to strengthen public health capacity worldwide, with epidemiologists playing a key role in disease management at the population level. The international community has recognized the importance of enhancing the public health workforce, including epidemiology capacity. This scoping review explores how Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) trainees and graduates have been engaged by their respective health ministries to address public health threats.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, and Google) using specific keywords such as “Epidemiologist,” “Field Epidemiologist,” and “Health workforce.” The search focused on English-language articles published between January 2012 and December 2021. Relevant articles were analyzed descriptively, and data on FETP engagement, impact within health ministries, and career paths were extracted.

Results

The search yielded 30 studies from various regions globally. FETP graduates and trainees were actively engaged in national health priorities, including COVID-19 responses such as surveillance, rapid response teams, and case investigations. FETPs have significantly contributed by developing surveillance systems, investigating outbreaks, and responding to natural disasters. Many FETP graduates have assumed leadership roles in Ministries of Health, NGOs, and international organizations.

Conclusion

FETP graduates are integral to priority public health programs and have significantly strengthened public health systems worldwide. Their contributions highlight the importance of investing in the public health workforce, including field epidemiology training, to effectively detect and respond to emerging outbreaks. Further research is needed to assess the long-term impact of FETP graduates on public health.
Development of a complex intervention to prevent complications in patients recovering at home after transcatheter aortic valve replacement by optimizing home-based cardiac rehabilitation processes: a Delphi study
Authors: Jia Ying Ying , Guo Zhi Tin , Zhang Yu Ping , Song Jian Ping
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to systematically develop a nurse-led complex intervention to enhance the quality of and adherence to home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) care for patients who have undergone transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The intervention integrated stakeholder perspectives, expert insights, empirical evidence, and theoretical frameworks.

Methods

We initially searched for initial cardiac rehabilitation strategies based on the “Behavior Change Wheel” model and literature review. The Delphi method was used in three rounds of consultations. The guidelines for the Conducting and Reporting of Delphi studies were also followed. The Delphi panel consisted of 15 experts in rehabilitation medicine, clinical medicine, cardiovascular nursing, behavioral science, community nursing, geriatric nursing, and nursing management from various provinces and cities in China. Panelists were asked to rate the effectiveness of HBCR strategies on a 5-point Likert scale.

Results

A questionnaire was sent to the members of the expert panel via email. The consensus from 15 experts led to the development of a framework in round 3. The response rates for the three rounds were 88.23, 100.00, and 100.00%, respectively. The expert authority coefficients for all rounds were 0.95. The Kendall coefficients obtained in the three rounds were 0.09, 0.78, and 0.87, respectively.

Conclusion

A set of strategies was developed for a comprehensive HBCR program for patients with TAVR, which can provide practical methods for relevant government departments, healthcare professionals, and patients’ families. Future research should investigate the experiences of stakeholders and assess the cost-effectiveness of implementing these strategies.
Preoperative patient teaching practices and associated factors among nurses working at hospitals in West Shoa Zone, Ethiopia, 2022: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Atomsa Lammi , Temesgen Sidise , Dechasa Abebe , Ayana Mulatu , Amena Nimona , Teklehymanot Dawit , Regea Firaol
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Preoperative teaching is fundamental nursing activity in which a nurse educates the patient about surgery and what to anticipate following the procedure. It is a process via which nurses give standard preoperative information to patients before surgery, and it enables the patients to understand their diagnosis and treatment, actively participate in their own care, overcome feelings of incapacity in relation to their condition, regain health, and maintain home care. However, there is a dearth of studies that determine the extent of preoperative teaching practice in Ethiopia in general and in the study area in particular.

Objective

This study aimed to assess preoperative patient teaching practices and the factors associated with these practices among nurses working in hospitals in the West Shoa, Oromia region, Ethiopia, in 2022.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 267 nurses from 1 September to 30 September 2022, at hospitals in the West Shoa Zone. Two-stage simple random sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data were collected using a pretested and structured self-administered questionnaire. The quantitative data were checked and entered using Epi-data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 26.0 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic analyses were performed, and p-values of <0.05 at a 95% confidence interval were considered statistically significant.

Result

A total of 253 nurses returned the entire questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 94.75%. The study enrolled 132 (52.2%) male, the highest percentage (231, 91.3%) of the participants were in the age group of 18–35, the majority of participants (152, 60.1%) were married, and 164 (64.8%) were protestant. Approximately 101 (39.9%) participants demonstrated good preoperative teaching practice. Lack of teaching material, lack of training workload, time constraints, insufficient staffing, language barrier, severity of patient cases, patient and family’s anxiety, and complexity of patients’ status were significantly associated with preoperative patient teaching practice.

Conclusion

The proportion of preoperative patient teaching practices among nurses working at hospitals in the West Shoa Zone was low. Concerned bodies should emphasize ways to improve preoperative teaching practice.
Associations between perceived overload and quality of care in dementia family caregivers in China: mediating role of familism and social support
Authors: Zou Ni , Cai Chan , Zhou Xinyu , Chen Shunian , Shi Jiabi , Shi Chongqing
Published: December 2024

Background

The quality of care (QoC) of people with dementia is an issue of widespread concern in public health. While perceived overload of family caregivers is thought to negatively affect QoC, the underlying mechanisms of this relationship are not well understood. This study aimed to examine the multiple mediating roles of familism and social support in the relationship between perceived overload and QoC among people with dementia (PwD) within the contemporary Chinese context.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted between February 2023 and October 2023 in three hospitals located in three cities in Hubei Province, China. A total of 213 PwD and their family caregivers were recruited. Participants completed a general demographic questionnaire, the Chinese version of the Overload Scale, the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), the Familism Scale (FS), and the Exemplary Care Scale (ECS). Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 and the PROCESS macro.

Results

Perceived overload among family caregivers was directly related to QoC. Multiple mediation analysis revealed that the relationship between perceived overload and QoC was mediated by familism (effect: −0.111, 95% CI [−0.221, −0.034]) and social support (effect: −0.078, 95% CI [−0.163, −0.007]) both independently and serially (effect: −0.024, 95% CI [−0.054, −0.004]).

Conclusion

Familism and social support serve as multiple mediators in the relationship between perceived overload and QoC. This underscores the importance of incorporating familism and social support into intervention strategies aimed at enhancing QoC.
Needle stick injury and associated factors among acupuncture practitioners: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Jiang Wenjing , Liu Ying , Cao Li , Zhou Ping , Dai Anna , Tang Juan
Published: December 2024

Background

Needle stick injury (NSI) is one of the most common and severe occupational hazards for healthcare workers (HCWs), leading to both physical harm and psychological distress and ultimately affecting patient safety. Previous studies on NSI were predominantly focused on general clinical practice, and limited research has targeted specifical NSI occurring in acupuncture practice in China, which has the greatest use of acupuncture.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate NSI and associated factors among acupuncture practitioners in China.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among acupuncture practitioners across 98 hospitals in southwest China from April to May 2024. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used to collect participants’ experiences of NSI, general information, and knowledge, behavior, and risk perception related to occupational exposure. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to examine factors associated with NSI.

Results

A total of 578 acupuncture practitioners completed the questionnaire, among whom 34.3% experienced at least one NSI in the past three years, yet 46.0% of these incidents were not reported. Factors associated with an increased risk of NSIs included postgraduate education or higher (OR = 2.174, 95% CI: 1.020, 4.634), high probability of occupational exposure (OR = 2.940, 95% CI: 1.826, 4.735), moderate perception of exposure severity (OR = 9.149, 95% CI: 1.948, 42.97), and high perception of exposure severity (OR = 7.025, 95% CI: 1.497, 32.969). Conversely, factors associated with a reduced risk of NSIs included females (OR = OR = 0.576, 95% CI: 0.379, 0.876), nurses (OR = 0.396, 95% CI: 0.210, 0.746), working in other professions (OR = 0.362, 95% CI: 0.151, 0.868), adherence to standard preventive measures (OR = 0.396, 95% CI: 0.210, 0.746), and consistent adherence to post-exposure procedures (OR = 0.092, 95% CI: 0.021, 0.398).

Conclusion

NSI is common among acupuncture practitioners in Chinese medical institutions, and under-reporting is significant. Our findings suggest that standard prevention strategies, adherence to exposure protocols, enhanced training, and effective reporting policies may help reduce NSI and improve reporting rates.
Deception detection in educational AI: challenges for Japanese middle school students in interacting with generative AI robots
Authors: Salem Ahmed , Sumi Kaoru
Published: December 2024

Educational materials that utilize generative AI (e.g., ChatGPT) have been developed, thus, allowing students to learn through conversations with robots or agents. However, if these artificial entities provide incorrect information (hallucinating), it could lead to confusion among students. To investigate whether students can detect lies from these artificial entities, we conducted an experiment using the social robot Furhat and we make it engage in various types of deceptive interactions. Twenty-two Japanese middle school students participated in ten teaching sessions with Furhat using a human and an anime facial appearances while employing different types of deception: Lying, Paltering, Pandering, and Bullshit. The results revealed that the majority of students were deceived by those lies. Additionally, the robot's facial appearance (i.e., social agency) affected both the learning effectiveness and the likelihood of being deceived. We conclude that an anime robot face is recommended to be used as it excelled in learning effectiveness as it attracts students attention. An anime face also provided protection against deceptive techniques due to its low social agency which leads to ineffectiveness in persuasion and deception. This study underscores the importance of preparing AI-based educational tools and scripts carefully to prevent the dissemination of false information produced through generative AI hallucinations to students.
Interpreting CNN models for musical instrument recognition using multi-spectrogram heatmap analysis: a preliminary study
Authors: Chen Rujia , Ghobakhlou Akbar , Narayanan Ajit
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Musical instrument recognition is a critical component of music information retrieval (MIR), aimed at identifying and classifying instruments from audio recordings. This task poses significant challenges due to the complexity and variability of musical signals.

Methods

In this study, we employed convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to analyze the contributions of various spectrogram representations—STFT, Log-Mel, MFCC, Chroma, Spectral Contrast, and Tonnetz—to the classification of ten different musical instruments. The NSynth database was used for training and evaluation. Visual heatmap analysis and statistical metrics, including Difference Mean, KL Divergence, JS Divergence, and Earth Mover’s Distance, were utilized to assess feature importance and model interpretability.

Results

Our findings highlight the strengths and limitations of each spectrogram type in capturing distinctive features of different instruments. MFCC and Log-Mel spectrograms demonstrated superior performance across most instruments, while others provided insights into specific characteristics.

Discussion

This analysis provides some insights into optimizing spectrogram-based approaches for musical instrument recognition, offering guidance for future model development and improving interpretability through statistical and visual analyses.
Integrating groundwater pumping data with regression-enhanced random forest models to improve groundwater monitoring and management in a coastal region
Authors: Kim Jamie , Ma Yueling , Maxwell Reed M.
Published: December 2024

Groundwater is essential for sustaining human life and ecosystems as a freshwater resource. However, intensive groundwater pumping (GWP) can deplete groundwater levels, and exacerbate issues such as sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion in coastal areas, further affecting the availability and accessibility of groundwater. To address these challenges, accurate monitoring and modeling of water table depth (WTD), a key indicator of groundwater storage, is useful for sustainable groundwater management. This work studies the implementation of a regression-enhanced random forest (RERF) model to predict WTD anomalies with pumping as a major input for New Jersey, a coastal state in the United States. The predicted WTD anomalies align well with observations, with a test Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) of 0.49, a test Pearson correlation coefficient (r) of 0.72, and a test root-squared mean error (RMSE) of 1.61 m. Based on a permutation feature importance, the most important input variables in the model for predicting WTD anomalies were long-term mean WTD, precipitation minus evapotranspiration (PME), and GWP. Using the trained RERF model, we generated 90 m spatial resolution WTD anomaly maps for New Jersey for January and July 2015, showing areas of increasing and decreasing WTD. We then inverted the RERF model to predict GWP using WTD anomalies, land cover, and a cross metric as additional inputs. This approach was less effective, yielding a test NSE of 0.40, a test r of 0.65, and a test RMSE of 15.44 million liters/month. A permutation feature importance revealed the most important input variables to be PME, long-term mean WTD, and topographic slope. Again we generated 90 m GWP maps for New Jersey for January and July 2015, offering finer resolution than the previous maps at the subwatershed level. Focusing on New Jersey, the study provides insights into the relationship between WTD anomalies and its critical input variables including GWP in coastal areas. Moreover, significant gaps in WTD observations persist in New Jersey, highlighting the need for comprehensive monitoring efforts. Thus, by employing ML techniques and leveraging available data, this study contributes to improving groundwater management practices and informing future decision-making.
Impact of botanical extracts on mungbean pest management and seed storability in the northern highlands of Tanzania
Authors: Kessy Godfrey Adolph , Mkindi Angela , Binagwa Papias , Ndakidemi Patrick Alois
Published: December 2024

This study assessed the efficacy of plant extracts as alternatives to synthetic pesticides for pest control and seed quality preservation in mungbean cultivation in northern Tanzania, specifically at TARI Selian and Miwaleni. The study employed a randomized complete block design. Four plants’ extracts—Tephrosia vogelii, Clutia abbsynica, Clausena anisata, and Lobelia gibelloa—were evaluated during the 2020 growing season (field) and 2021 storage period (storability). The study focused on their effects on insect pests (leaf beetles, thrips, aphids, whiteflies, and pod borers) and their ability to maintain seed quality during storage. C. anisata emerged as the most effective extract across all pests, demonstrating high suppression rates for thrips (3.4), aphids (3.22), whiteflies (3.4), and pod borers (2.7). In contrast, L. gibelloa was the least effective, with lower suppression rates for thrips (3.1) and aphids (3.1). Furthermore, botanical treatments significantly reduced pest damage in stored seeds, with T. vogelii and C. abbsynica showing superior performance in preserving seed weight and quality during storage. Seeds treated with T. vogelii had significantly fewer holes and lower weight loss compared to other treatments, indicating its effectiveness in both pest management and seed preservation. Conversely, L. gibelloa and C. anisata contributed to greater weight loss, particularly at higher application rates. The study demonstrates that plant extracts can offer a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides, effectively controlling pests and preserving seed quality. These findings are crucial for improving mungbean production and storage, enhancing food security, and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides in diverse agro-ecological contexts. Future research should further explore the long-term ecological impacts and optimal application rates of these botanicals for integrated pest management and seed storage.
Closed trans-intersphincteric fistulotomy: a new modified sphincter-sparing technique for high transsphincteric anal fistula
Authors: Chen Bo , Wang Yueting , Mei Zubing , Mao Chang , Liu Yicheng , Zhao Wenjun , Li Yingying , Ye Qianqian , Xu Jin , Wang Qingming
Published: December 2024

Background

The main goals of surgery for fistula-in-ano are to completely resolve the condition and maintain optimal anal function. Effective management of the internal opening during and proper postoperative drainage of the intersphincter plane are crucial for achieving successful outcomes. This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of a novel sphincter-sparing technique for treating high transsphincteric anal fistula (HTAF).

Methods

This prospective study included 55 patients with HTAF who underwent closed trans-intersphincteric fistulotomy (CTiF) between July 2021 and April 2022 at our institution. Preoperative anorectal magnetic resonance imaging was performed for all patients. The primary outcome measures assessed the rate of fistula healing while the secondary outcome measures evaluated healing time, Cleveland Clinic Florida fecal incontinence score (CCF-FIS), 11-point visual analog scale (VAS) pain score and postoperative complications.

Results

We included 55 patients with HTAF in this study. During a mean follow-up period of 9.3 months, CTiF achieved a healing rate of 90.91% (50/55). The mean time to recovery was 7.09 ± 1.94 weeks. Four (7.27%) patients developed postoperative urinary retention. At the 6-month follow-up, the CCF-FIS and VAS score were 0 [(0,0) range, 0–3] and 0 [(0,1); range, 0–4], respectively. Two patients with recurrent HTAF recovered after treatment with a transanal opening of intersphincteric space procedure, and three recovered after seton placement.

Conclusions

CTiF is a promising and effective sphincter-sparing technique for treating HTAF. To confirm long-term outcomes, larger sample size prospective randomized controlled trials are required.
Exploring Swedish veterinarians' awareness of non-accidental-injuries, animal abuse and the Link to domestic violence, and their role in addressing this societal issue
Authors: Oellig Lisa , Lindsjö Johan , Röcklinsberg Helena
Published: December 2024

Research has established a link between animal abuse and domestic violence (the Link), where the perpetrator uses the animal to control the human victim. Veterinarians are exposed to both vulnerable animals and humans, playing a crucial role in detecting and handling these cases. A study using an online survey was conducted in 2019, exploring the awareness of Swedish veterinarians regarding Non-accidental-injuries (NAI) in animals, the Link between animal abuse and domestic violence and how to handle such cases. The survey was distributed by the Swedish Veterinary Association to 2,627 licensed veterinarians and was answered by 362 respondents. One of ten had experienced the Link in their clinical work while 63% did not know if they had. The awareness of the Link was generally high (90%), whereas 68% of respondents answered that they did not know or were unsure about the concept of NAI. Almost half of the respondents (44%) felt that they were unsure about how NAI should be diagnosed, 56% did not know how NAI should be documented and a third (34%) did not know which authority should be contacted in case of suspicion of animal abuse. A minority, 17%, knew how to act when there was a reason to suspect domestic violence. The responses showed that support in the clinics is inadequate, with only 10% stating that information material and further education is offered about the Link and 17% knew of action plans or procedures for dealing with a suspected case of animal abuse. Only 16% stated that the Link was part of their education. Improving the ability of veterinarians to act appropriately requires more integrated theoretical and practical training during their university studies. At the clinic, further education, action plans and collaboration with competent authorities and organizations are crucial. It is important that resources, such as information material, guidelines, action plans and educational programs are identified and used to support veterinarians in their work to help vulnerable animals and, by extension, people, in line with the concept of One Welfare.
Salivary pH, but not conductivity, is an indicator of diarrhea in neonatal calves
Authors: Riley Beth B. , Corbishley Alexander , Haskell Marie J. , Duthie Carol-Anne , Macrae Alastair I. , Burrough Elizabeth , Mason Colin
Published: December 2024

Neonatal calf diarrhea is a frequent disease of calves and may result in dehydration and metabolic acidosis. The disease causes mortality and reduces growth and future productivity. Early identification of disease improves calf outcomes and thus there is increasing interest in technological methods for detecting disease. Dehydration leads to the blood becoming more concentrated and this can be measured using serum osmolality. Research in humans has shown that saliva conductivity is correlated with serum osmolality. Saliva conductivity may therefore offer a non-invasive opportunity to assess hydration status in calves. Furthermore, as blood pH is a prognostic indicator and there is ion exchange in the salivary ducts, saliva pH may act as an indicator of metabolic acidosis. This observational study aimed to assess the relationship of saliva conductivity and pH with the clinical and biochemical parameters of calves suffering from neonatal calf diarrhea. One hundred and forty-one dairy-bred calves were recruited onto the study at approximately 1 week of age. The health of the calves was assessed daily. Calves had blood and saliva samples taken weekly until 25 days of age or the development of neonatal calf diarrhea. When calves developed diarrhea, they were sampled for three consecutive days. Hematocrit, plasma total protein, saliva pH and saliva conductivity were measured at each sampling. Saliva pH and saliva conductivity were measured using portable meters (LAQUAtwin-pH-33 and LAQUAtwin-EC22). In a subset of 30 matched samples, serum proteins and electrolytes were also measured. Saliva conductivity was not associated with diarrhea or dehydration. Saliva pH was lower in calves with diarrhea, regardless of hydration status. The Lin’s concordance correlation coefficients between saliva variables and hematocrit and strong ion difference were negligible. Dehydrated calves with diarrhea had a higher hematocrit and albumin and the lowest sodium and SID. Calves with diarrhea and no dehydration had a lower plasma total protein. While saliva conductivity has been associated with measures of dehydration in humans, this does not appear to be the case in calves. Saliva pH has not previously been considered for disease detection; however as it is associated with diarrhea, further research is warranted.
Concentrated, Gradient Electrolyte Design for Superior Low-Temperature Li-Metal Batteries
Authors: Packard Jason S. , Adams Ethan A. , Pol Vilas G.
Published: December 2024

Improving the low-temperature performance of lithium-ion batteries is critical for their widespread adoption in cold environments. In this study, we designed a novel LHCE featuring a solvent polarity gradient, designed to maximize both room- and low-temperature ion mobility. Extremely polar fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) and low-freezing-point, −135 °C, non-polar nonaflurobutyl methyl ether (NONA) were supplemented by two intermediate solvents with incremental step-downs in polarity. The intermediate solvents consist of methyl (2,2,2-triflooethyl) carbonate (FEMC) and either diethylene carbonate (DEC), ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), or dibutyl carbonate (DBC). The four solvents were combined with 1 M lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)amide (LiFSI) salt and were able to accommodate 37.5% diluent volume, resulting in ultra-low electrolyte freezing points below −120 °C. This contrasts with our previously investigated three-solvent LHCE, which only allowed for a 14% diluent volume and a −85 °C freezing point. Localized high salt concentrations were shown by less than 3% of FSI- anions being free in solution. The gradient LHCEs also showed room-temperature ionic conductivities above 10–3 S/cm and maintained high ion mobility below −40 °C. Lithium metal coin cells with LiFePO4 (LFP) cathodes featuring the gradient LHCEs, a reference three-solvent LHCE, and commercial (1 M LiPF6 in 1:1 EC:DEC) electrolyte were constructed. All gradient LHCEs outperformed both the three-solvent and commercial electrolytes at all temperatures, with the DEC-based gradient LHCE showing the best performance of 159.7 mAh/g at 25 °C and 109.2 mAh/g at −50 °C, corresponding to a 68% capacity retention. These findings highlight the potential of LHCE systems to improve battery performance in low-temperature environments and propose a new gradient design strategy for electrolytes to yield advantages of both polar and weakly polar solvents.
Dehydrated Human Amnion–Chorion Membrane as a Bioactive Scaffold for Dental Pulp Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Kim Sahng G.
Published: December 2024

The dehydrated human amnion–chorion membranes (dHACMs) derived from the human placenta have emerged as a promising biomaterial for dental pulp regeneration owing to their unique biological and structural properties. The purpose of this review is to explore the potentials of dHACMs in dental pulp tissue engineering, focusing on their ability to promote cellular proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, and neurogenesis. dHACMs are rich in extracellular matrix proteins and growth factors such as TGF-β1, FGF2, and VEGF. They also exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, creating an optimal environment for dental pulp regeneration. The applications of dHACMs in regenerative endodontic procedures are discussed, highlighting their ability to support the formation of dentin and well-vascularized pulp-like tissue. This review demonstrates that dHACMs hold significant potential for enhancing the success of pulp regeneration and offer a biologically based approach to preserve tooth vitality and improve tooth survival. Future research is expected to focus on conducting long-term clinical studies to establish their efficacy and safety.
Process for the Preparation of Artificial Analog of Sanbornite–Glass Composites
Authors: Hormadaly Jacob , Dov Mariana , Friedlander Lonia , Pears Natalia
Published: December 2024

Barium silicates have been investigated as high-expansion components of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) and, therefore, their synthesis and expansion have been the subject of intensive research in recent years. In this article, we briefly present a new process to make glass–crystalline composites, as well as two novel findings related to a synthesis route of sanbornite (BaSi2O5) and the fast in situ formation of a high-expansion sanbornite composite from a Pyrex-type glass powder. The low-temperature synthesis, composition, and expansion of one type of novel glass composite are described. The composites are made by the reaction of BaCO3 and Pyrex-type powders at 850–950 °C for a short time of one hour. The composites are well sintered and hard, and their linear coefficient of thermal expansion is about 12.3 × 10−6 C−1. The crystalline-phase formation, dilatometer measurements, SEM data, and possible applications of the composites are presented and discussed.
Molecular and Metabolic Regulation of Flavonoid Biosynthesis in Two Varieties of Dendrobium devonianum
Authors: Pu Ran , Wu Yawen , Bai Tian , Li Yue , Li Xuejiao , Li Nengbo , Zhou Ying , Zhang Jingli
Published: December 2024

Dendrobium devonianum is an important medicinal plant, rich in flavonoid, with various pharmacological activities such as stomachic and antioxidant properties. In this study, we integrated metabolome and transcriptome analyses to reveal metabolite and gene expression profiles of D. devonianum, both green (GDd) and purple-red (RDd) of semi-annual and annual stems. A total of 244 flavonoid metabolites, mainly flavones and flavonols, were identified and annotated. Cyanidin and delphinidin were the major anthocyanidins, with cyanidin-3-O-(6″-O-p-Coumaroyl) glucoside and delphinidin-3-O-(6″-O-p-coumaroyl) glucoside being the highest relative content in the RDd. Differential metabolites were significantly enriched, mainly in flavonoid biosynthesis, anthocyanin biosynthesis, and flavone and flavonol biosynthesis pathways. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that high expression levels of structural genes for flavonoid and anthocyanin biosynthesis were the main reasons for color changes in D. devonianum stems. Based on correlation analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) analysis, CHS2 (chalcone synthase) and UGT77B2 (anthocyanidin 3-O-glucosyltransferase) were identified as important candidate genes involved in stem pigmentation. In addition, key transcription factors (TFs), including three bHLH (bHLH3, bHLH4, bHLH5) and two MYB (MYB1, MYB2), which may be involved in the regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis, were identified. This study provides new perspectives on D. devonianum efficacy components and the Dendrobium flavonoids and stem color regulation.
High-Efficiency Long-Wave Infrared Quantum Well Photodetector Based on Cascaded Dielectric Metasurfaces with Almost 100% Absorption
Authors: Ge Zihui , Cheng Bo , Zhai Kunpeng , Song Guofeng
Published: December 2024

Quantum well infrared photodetectors (QWIPs) are popular due to their following advantages: low cost, maturity of manufacturing, high uniformity, ease of wavelength adjustment, resistance to heat, and resistance to ionizing radiation. However, their low absorption efficiency due to their unique anisotropic absorption properties and ohmic loss of the metal grating severely limit their further adoption. We cleverly used cascaded dielectric metasurfaces to replace the traditional single-layer metal grating, which increased the absorption efficiency to near the upper limit of 100%. By analyzing the near-field profile of the electric field of the miniaturized device, we found that the upper grating, QWIP, and lower grating formed a high-efficiency FP cavity with a strong photon localization capability, allowing the microdevice to effectively achieve 99.3% absorption. In addition, QWIPs with cascade gratings can be incorporated into a polarimeter, allowing for the comprehensive detection of linear polarization information at a wavelength of 14 μm through rational rotations. Our proposed double-layer grating coupling method can be considered a technology that can effectively address the low-absorption problem associated with QWIPs.