bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-fidelity, Large-scale Targeted Profiling of Microsatellites
Authors: Loh Caitlin A. , Shields Danielle A. , Schwing Adam , Evrony Gilad D.
Published: November 2023

Microsatellites are highly mutable sequences that can serve as markers for relationships among individuals or cells within a population. The accuracy and resolution of reconstructing these relationships depends on the fidelity of microsatellite profiling and the number of microsatellites profiled. However, current methods for targeted profiling of microsatellites incur significant “stutter” artifacts that interfere with accurate genotyping, and sequencing costs preclude whole-genome microsatellite profiling of a large number of samples. We developed a novel method for accurate and cost-effective targeted profiling of a panel of > 150,000 microsatellites per sample, along with a computational tool for designing large-scale microsatellite panels. Our method addresses the greatest challenge for microsatellite profiling — “stutter” artifacts — with a low-temperature hybridization capture that significantly reduces these artifacts. We also developed a computational tool for accurate genotyping of the resulting microsatellite sequencing data that uses an ensemble approach integrating three microsatellite genotyping tools, which we optimize by analysis of de novo microsatellite mutations in human trios. Altogether, our suite of experimental and computational tools enables high-fidelity, large-scale profiling of microsatellites, which may find utility in diverse applications such as lineage tracing, population genetics, ecology, and forensics.
LiveMalasseziastrains isolated from the mucosa of patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Cho Yong-Joon , Yang Juan , Shin Seung Yong , Kim Hyo Keun , Rintarhat Piyapat , Park Minji , Sung Muhyeon , Lagree Kate , Underhill David M. , Lee Dong-Woo , Choi Chang Hwan , Yang Chul-Su , Jung Won Hee
Published: November 2023

The human gut is inhabited by a complex ecosystem of diverse microorganisms. While most studies on the gut microbiota have focused on bacteria, accumulating evidence has underscored the role of the mycobiota in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study is the first to isolate and characterize liveMalassezia globosastrains from the intestinal mucosa of patients with ulcerative colitis.Malasseziaspecies primarily inhabit the human skin. We therefore compared theM. globosagut isolates with theM. globosaskin isolates and noted a striking disparity between them. The gut isolates led to a greater exacerbation of colitis in mice. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the gut isolates were more sensitive to normoxia than the skin isolates, suggesting adaptation to hypoxia prevalent in the intestinal environment. These findings provide novel insights into the potential impact ofM. globosaon the pathogenesis of IBD and the influence of niche-specific adaptations on its virulence.
Structural snapshots of phenuivirus cap-snatching and transcription
Authors: Williams Harry M. , Thorkelsson Sigurdur R. , Vogel Dominik , Busch Carola , Milewski Morlin , Cusack Stephen , Grünewald Kay , Quemin Emmanuelle R.J. , Rosenthal Maria
Published: November 2023

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a human pathogen that is now endemic to several East Asian countries. The viral large (L) protein catalyzes viral transcription by stealing host mRNA caps via a process known as cap-snatching. Here, we establish anin vitrocap-snatching assay and present three high-quality electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the SFTSV L protein in biologically relevant, transcription-specific states. In a priming-state structure, we show capped RNA bound to the L protein cap-binding domain (CBD). The L protein conformation in this priming structure is significantly different from published replication-state structures, in particular the N- and C-terminal domains. The capped-RNA is positioned in a way that it can feed directly into the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) ready for elongation. We also captured the L protein in an early-elongation state following primer-incorporation demonstrating that this priming conformation is retained at least in the very early stages of primer extension. This structural data is complemented byin vitrobiochemical and cell-based assays. Together, these insights further our mechanistic understanding of how SFTSV and other bunyaviruses incorporate stolen host mRNA fragments into their viral transcripts thereby allowing the virus to hijack host cell translation machinery.
Fecal transplant allows transmission of the gut microbiota in honey bees
Authors: Cabirol Amélie , Chhun Audam , Liberti Joanito , Kesner Lucie , Neuschwander Nicolas , Schaerli Yolanda , Engel Philipp
Published: November 2023

The gut of honey bees is colonized by symbiotic bacteria during the first days of adult life, once bees have emerged from their wax cells. Within five days, the gut microbiota becomes remarkably stable and consistent across individual bees. Yet, the modes of acquisition and transmission of the gut microbiota are to be confirmed. Few studies suggested bees could be colonized via contact with fecal matter in the hive and via social interactions. However, the composition of the fecal microbiota is still unknown. It is particularly unclear whether all bacterial species can be found viable in the feces and can therefore be transmitted to newborn nestmates. Using 16s rRNA gene amplicon sequencing we revealed that the composition of the honey bee fecal microbiota is strikingly similar to the microbiota of entire guts. We found that fecal transplantation resulted in gut microbial communities largely similar to those obtained from feeding gut homogenates. Our study shows that fecal sampling and transplantation are viable tools for the longitudinal analysis of bacterial community composition and host-microbe interactions. Our results also imply that contact of young bees with fecal matter in the hive is a plausible route for the acquisition of the core gut microbiota.
Clinical and functional analysis of the germlineTP53p.K164E acetylation site variant
Authors: Pinto Emilia Modolo , Ribeiro Enilze M.S.F. , Wang Jinling , Phillips Aaron H. , Kriwacki Richard W. , Zambetti Gerard P.
Published: November 2023

TP53plays a critical role as a tumor suppressor by controlling cell cycle progression, DNA repair, and apoptosis. Post-translational modifications such as acetylation of specific lysine residues in the DNA binding and carboxy-terminus regulatory domains modulate its tumor suppressor activities. In this study, we addressed the functional consequences of the germlineTP53p.K164E (NM_000546.5: c.490A>G) variant identified in a patient with early-onset breast cancer and a significant family history of cancer. K164 is a conserved residue located in the L2 loop of the p53 DNA binding domain that is post-translationally modified by acetylation. In silico, in vitro, and in vivo analyses demonstrated that the glutamate substitution at K164 marginally destabilizes the p53 protein structure but significantly impairs sequence-specific DNA binding, transactivation, and tumor cell growth inhibition. Although p.K164E is currently considered a variant of unknown significance by different clinical genetic testing laboratories, the clinical and laboratory-based findings presented here provide strong evidence to reclassifyTP53p.K164E as a likely pathogenic variant.
Tapping into the configurational paths to employee digital innovation in the realm of the dualistic AMO framework
Authors: Li Fumeng , Long Jiancheng
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Enterprises in the digital context attach importance to the participation of heterogeneous subjects in co-creation activities. As the core source of organizational innovation, employees are bound to assume responsibilities or provide role value in the process of digital innovation. While employee-driven digital innovation frameworks are being explored, together with research on employee innovation behavior mostly focusing on the “net effect” of single-level variables on outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the interaction logic of employee level and organizational level, this study applies ability, motivation and opportunity (AMO) theory and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis to explore the influence of various digitization related factors' conditional configuration on employees' digital innovation behavior.

Findings

The results indicate that type of “self-motivation with multiple supports”, “organization-driven with digital oriented” and “digital-driven with ambidextrous complementary” constitute the configuration that drives high digital innovation behavior, while type of “cognitive deficit with environmental slack” and “fuzzy motivation with opportunity misapplication” constitute the configuration that drives nonhigh digital innovation behavior.

Originality/value

This conclusion enriches the theoretical research on digital innovation that regards individuals as action potentials and provides important guidance for how to cultivate and activate employees' digital innovation behaviors in management practice.
Knowledge and experience of Zambian teaching faculties with scholarly communication and dissemination practices
Authors: Subaveerapandiyan A. , Tiwary Neelam , Kasonde Cecilia Christabel , Ugwulebo Jeremiah Emeka , Amees Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the knowledge and experience of Zambian teaching faculties with scholarly communication and dissemination practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers used a survey to quickly obtain information about a large sample of individuals of interest. The study population consisted of faculties from two Zambian public universities with research and publication experience. The researchers used random sampling techniques. A total of 125 valid responses were received from the selected population.

Findings

The findings show that most respondents agreed that publishing in open-access journals increased visibility and readership, had a more significant impact, facilitated collaboration and interdisciplinary research, was cost-effective and provided accessibility. Google Scholar was the most commonly used platform, followed by ResearchGate and ORCID.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s limitations focus on only two Zambian public universities. This study’s practical implications include improving the universities’ open-access policies and educating faculties on the benefits of open access.

Originality/value

This study’s originality lies in exploring the Zambian teaching faculties’ perceptions of open access and academic social networking sites. The results of this study can help universities and researchers in Zambia to understand the importance of scholarly communication and dissemination practices and help them implement effective policies for promoting open-access publishing, institutional repositories and academic social networking sites.
Do welfare regimes matter? Perceptions of welfare in contemporary word
Authors: Mäntyneva Päivi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper takes an ideal type of different welfare regimes as a starting point. It investigates with survey data people's experiences and expectations towards the welfare state and its functioning against various social risks. The paper discusses questions like, are there differences in perceptions between welfare regimes? And what is the role of the welfare state regime in explaining those differences?

Design/methodology/approach

This research article is based on OECD survey data and classical welfare state classifications. The analysis of welfare regimes provides both a theoretical and methodological structure for study. The study-applied analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) to test a hypothesis that regimes matter analyses more nuanced aspects of current and prospects to the near future welfare state provision.

Findings

This examination suggests that welfare regimes still matter even though the differences in averages were not as immense as expected. Perceptions in different welfare regimes also have priorities related to the willingness to pay more taxes in order to receive better access to services and financial support if needed. In Nordic countries, the acute priority based on survey data is investment in education and re-training. In Continental Europe, more financial support is needed for pensions. Overall, respondents representing emerging Eastern European and Mediterranean welfare regimes think that welfare provision should be financed more compared to other welfare regime respondents. Health is a universal and unifying issue, particularly in ageing welfare states, and brings health as a traditional and central question again.

Originality/value

Respondents' perceptions work as people's voice and assessments are used to gain a contemporary understanding of welfare and about welfare state functioning.
How does institutional quality determine energy consumption? Empirical evidence from the South Asia region
Authors: Tabash Mosab I. , Farooq Umar , Ahmed Adel
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Due to an increase in energy demands, it has become vital to devise efficient energy policies. Literature has suggested multiple factors influencing the consumption of specific energy types. Among others, institutional quality (INQ) is another factor that can determine energy consumption. Given this, the current study aimed to investigate the impact of INQ on fossil fuel energy (FFE) and renewable energy consumption (REC).

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical analysis was conducted on 20 years (2000–2019) of data from South Asian economies, and regression among variables was established by employing the dynamic ordinary least square and fully modified ordinary least square models. The selection of both techniques is subject to the existence of cointegration identified by the Johansen cointegration test. Other pre-estimation techniques include cross-section dependence and unit root testing validating the estimation of coefficients in the long run.

Findings

The analysis mainly reveals the negative impact of INQ on FFE and the positive impact of INQ on REC. The authors further find the asymmetric impact of control variables including foreign direct investment inflow, economic growth, inflation rate, financial sector development and energy investment on the consumption of both types of energy.

Research limitations/implications

Given the positive influence of INQ on REC, it is recommended to focus on improving the efficiency of institutions specifically those that are directly linked with energy-related policies. A better INQ can ensure environmental sustainability by enhancing the consumption of renewable energy. Therefore, it is advised to exert more efforts to improve the INQ.

Practical implications

In view of the positive influence of INQ on REC, it is recommended to focus on improving the efficiency of institutions specifically that are directly linked with energy-related policies. A better INQ can ensure environmental sustainability by enhancing the consumption of renewable energy. Therefore, it is advised to exert more efforts for improving the INQ.

Originality/value

This study offers robustness to the empirical findings of existing literature on the INQ-REC nexus and complements the underdeveloped literature on the INQ-FFE relationship.
Exploring integrity in Australian public services: A method to benchmark public service codes of conduct
Authors: Moon Katie , Brunoro David , Connor James , Dickinson Helen , Huybers Twan
Published: November 2023

Integrity is an ongoing concern in the public sector. Contemporary examples include fraud incidents, ethical violations, theft, and a disregard of legal advice resulting in significant harms to the public. Public service integrity management systems are interconnected frameworks of legislation and institutions intended to reduce such incidents, including Codes of Conduct (CoCs). A CoC is typically defined as a written set of norms that outline virtuous or desired behaviours, often creating or linking to sanctions for violations. Despite matters of integrity and corruption being a high concern for citizens, no method exists to compare monitoring, reporting, and review of CoCs across jurisdictions. We developed and applied a method to assess CoC implementation using specific assessment criteria developed by reviewing available content across jurisdictions and the current literature on CoCs and integrity management. Our results reveal substantial inconsistency between jurisdictions and a lack of available or accessible data for many CoC elements. Our method serves both as a tool for analysis of the effectiveness of CoCs over time and as an assessment of how jurisdictions are currently reporting on their compliance with their own CoCs.

Points for practitioners

A lack of evidence exists in terms of how CoCs are monitored, reported on, and reviewed.

As a first stage of a research program, we develop and apply a method to all Australian states, territories, and the Australian Public Service to compare the monitoring, reporting, and review activities undertaken by these jurisdictions.

Application of the method reveals opportunities for jurisdictions to improve the availability and accessibility of CoC data collection, reporting, and review.

Auditors General and Public Accounts Committees should consider this method as part of their works programs and potentially use it to inform their scrutiny programs and requirements for performance and annual reporting.

Public Service Commissions could find the data useful in adapting and improving their CoC monitoring, reporting, and review systems.
A rapid and non‐destructive identification for paper cup evidence based on shifted‐excitation Raman difference spectroscopy and SOM clustering
Authors: Tian Luchuan , Jiang Hong , Zhang Xin
Published: November 2023

In order to achieve rapid, non‐destructive, efficient, and accurate classification of paper cup samples, we propose a classification model that integrates shifted‐excitation Raman difference spectroscopy (SERDS) with self‐organizing map (SOM) and Bayesian optimization–support vector machine (BO‐SVM). We collected differential Raman data from 52 paper cup samples using SERDS, with an excitation wavelength range of 784–785 nm, a laser power of 440 mW, an integration time of 10 s, and a spectral range spanning from 280 to 2700 cm−1. Subsequently, principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to reduce the dimensionality of the data. The SOM clustering outcomes were utilized as the foundation for constructing the discriminant analysis (FDA) and BO‐SVM classification models. The primary constituent of the paper cup samples was identified as cellulose, while additional fillers such as talc, calcium carbonate, and kaolin were also present. The SOM clustering categorized the samples into seven distinct groups. The FDA model achieved a classification accuracy of 92.3%, and the BO‐SVM model reached a classification accuracy of 96.2%. The SOM clustering effectively discerned samples with different fillers, as evidenced by distinct peak numbers and shapes in the differential Raman spectra, thereby underscoring the practical significance of SOM clustering. In comparison with FDA, BO‐SVM exhibited enhanced classification accuracy and exceptional performance in handling outliers and linearly inseparable data, indicating its superior generalization capabilities.
Predicting visceral pleural invasion in lung adenocarcinoma presenting as part‐solid density utilizing a nomogram model combined with radiomics and clinical features
Authors: Wang Fen , Pan Xianglong , Zhang Teng , Zhong Yan , Wang Chenglong , Li Hai , Wang Jun , Guo Lili , Yuan Mei
Published: November 2023

Background

To develop and validate a preoperative nomogram model combining the radiomics signature and clinical features for preoperative prediction of visceral pleural invasion (VPI) in lung nodules presenting as part‐solid density.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 156 patients with pathologically confirmed invasive lung adenocarcinomas after surgery from January 2016 to August 2019. The patients were split into training and validation sets by a ratio of 7:3. The radiomic features were extracted with the aid of FeAture Explorer Pro (FAE). A CT‐based radiomics model was constructed to predict the presence of VPI and internally validated. Multivariable regression analysis was conducted to construct a nomogram model, and the performance of the models were evaluated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and compared with each other.

Results

The enrolled patients were split into training (n = 109) and validation sets (n = 47). A total of 806 features were extracted and the selected 10 optimal features were used in the construction of the radiomics model among the 707 stable features. The AUC of the nomogram model was 0.888 (95% CI: 0.762–0.961), which was superior to the clinical model (0.787, 95% CI: 0.643–0.893; p = 0.049) and comparable to the radiomics model (0.879, 95% CI: 0.751–0.965; p > 0.05). The nomogram model achieved a sensitivity of 90.5% and a specificity of 76.9% in the validation dataset.

Conclusions

The nomogram model could be considered as a noninvasive method to predict VPI with either highly sensitive or highly specific diagnoses depending on clinical needs.
Using warming tolerances to predict understory plant responses to climate change
Authors: Wei Liping , Sanczuk Pieter , De Pauw Karen , Caron Maria Mercedes , Selvi Federico , Hedwall Per‐Ola , Brunet Jörg , Cousins Sara A. O. , Plue Jan , Spicher Fabien , Gasperini Cristina , Iacopetti Giovanni , Orczewska Anna , Uria‐Diez Jaime , Lenoir Jonathan , Vangansbeke Pieter , De Frenne Pieter
Published: November 2023

Climate change is pushing species towards and potentially beyond their critical thermal limits. The extent to which species can cope with temperatures exceeding their critical thermal limits is still uncertain. To better assess species' responses to warming, we compute the warming tolerance (ΔTniche) as a thermal vulnerability index, using species' upper thermal limits (the temperature at the warm limit of their distribution range) minus the local habitat temperature actually experienced at a given location. This metric is useful to predict how much more warming species can tolerate before negative impacts are expected to occur. Here we set up a cross‐continental transplant experiment involving five regions distributed along a latitudinal gradient across Europe (43° N–61° N). Transplant sites were located in dense and open forests stands, and at forest edges and in interiors. We estimated the warming tolerance for 12 understory plant species common in European temperate forests. During 3 years, we examined the effects of the warming tolerance of each species across all transplanted locations on local plant performance, in terms of survival, height, ground cover, flowering probabilities and flower number. We found that the warming tolerance (ΔTniche) of the 12 studied understory species was significantly different across Europe and varied by up to 8°C. In general, ΔTniche were smaller (less positive) towards the forest edge and in open stands. Plant performance (growth and reproduction) increased with increasing ΔTniche across all 12 species. Our study demonstrated that ΔTniche of understory plant species varied with macroclimatic differences among regions across Europe, as well as in response to forest microclimates, albeit to a lesser extent. Our findings support the hypothesis that plant performance across species decreases in terms of growth and reproduction as local temperature conditions reach or exceed the warm limit of the focal species.
Measuring Spatial Dispersion: An Experimental Test on the M‐Index
Authors: Tidu Alberto , Guy Frederick , Usai Stefano
Published: November 2023

Despite representing a very accurate method for assessing spatial distribution, Marcon and Puech's M has been insufficiently exploited so far, most likely because its computation relies on pairing every point of interest (i.e., firms, plants) with every other point within the area under analysis. Such a figure rapidly grows to unmanageable levels when said area is larger than a neighborhood or when every industry is taken into account. Consequently, practical applications of M have been exclusively experimental and circumscribed to very limited areas or to a handful of industries. This seems much regrettable since M provides many advantages compared to conventional measures of spatial distribution and also to alternative distance measures. In this article, we assess the reliability of using small administrative units instead of exact postal addresses for the localization of plants, in order to reduce M's computational burden. Working with a dataset that provides the location, the specific industry and the number of employees for every single plant/establishment in Italy for both manufacturing and services, we can also draw a preliminary but certainly interesting picture of Sardinia's economic geography and its development through the Great Recession toughest years between 2007 and 2012.
The association between trypsin‐like protease activity in the oral cavity and kidney function in Japanese workers
Authors: Iwasaki Masanori , Inoue Maki , Usui Michihiko , Ariyoshi Wataru , Nakashima Keisuke , Nagai‐Yoshioka Yoshie , Nishihara Tatsuji
Published: November 2023

Aim

To evaluate the association between trypsin‐like protease (TLP) activity in the oral cavity as an indicator of periodontal health status and kidney function in Japanese workers.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 1117 Japanese workers (mean age = 43.8 years). Tongue‐swab TLP activity was quantified as a* value (the redness intensity of the matrix disc of the TLP activity assessment kit; a larger value indicates more intense enzymatic activity in the samples and poorer periodontal health status). Kidney function was assessed using the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; a lower value indicates poorer kidney function). We performed ordinal logistic regression analyses to assess the association of the a* value with three eGFR categories: ≥90, 60–89 and <60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Results

The prevalence for each eGFR category was as follows: ≥90 (31.6%), 60–89 (63.8%) and <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (4.6%). After adjusting for potential confounders, the a* value was found to be significantly associated with reduced kidney function. The multivariable‐adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for reduced kidney function was 1.12 (1.02–1.22) per unit increase in the a* value.

Conclusions

Higher TLP activity was associated with reduced kidney function in Japanese workers.
Sensory analysis of sweetness in viscous solutions and gels with agar
Authors: Okamoto Yoko , Tayama Kenji , Kurotobi Tomoka , Watanabe Yoshimi
Published: November 2023

We prepared 81 samples of sweetened viscous solutions and gels with agar concentrations ranging from 0.025% to 0.60% and compared their sweetness intensities to reference solutions without agar. Sweetened viscous solutions containing agar showed significantly higher sweetness intensity in six solutions containing D‐glucose, three solutions containing sucrose, and four solutions containing D‐sorbitol compared to the reference solutions. Notably, some sweetened viscous solutions with extremely low viscosity showed higher sweetness intensity than the reference solution, which is a novel finding. Sweet samples containing agar showed significantly lower sweetness intensity than the reference solution in 15 samples containing D‐glucose, 17 samples containing sucrose, and 15 samples containing D‐sorbitol, supporting previous theories. We performed a simple regression analysis on the sweetness intensity of viscous solutions and gels containing agar and their physical properties. Our results showed a strong correlation between sweetness intensity and physical properties. These findings suggest that as sweetness intensity decreases, physical properties tend to increase.

Practical Applications

To prevent noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes, it is recommended to practice carbohydrate restriction and reduce the consumption of sweet foods. In this study, upon being offered extremely low‐viscosity sweetened solutions, we anticipate perceiving a slightly stronger sweetness and an increased sense of satisfaction in contrast to tasting sweetened aqueous solutions without viscosity. These findings hold the potential to provide pioneering insights into the interplay between taste and texture for entities such as food manufacturers. They could facilitate applications designed to elevate the quality of health‐conscious food production.
Transmission mode predicts coinfection patterns of insect‐specific viruses in field populations of the Queensland fruit fly
Authors: Sharpe Stephen R. , Morrow Jennifer L. , Cook James M. , Papanicolaou Alexie , Riegler Markus
Published: November 2023

Insect‐specific viruses (ISVs) can affect insect health and fitness, but can also interact with other insect‐associated microorganisms. Despite this, ISVs are often studied in isolation from each other, in laboratory populations. Consequently, their diversity, prevalence and associations with other viruses in field populations are less known, yet these parameters are important to understanding virus epidemiology. To help address this knowledge gap, we assessed the diversity, prevalence and coinfections of three ISVs (horizontally transmitted cripavirus, biparentally transmitted sigmavirus and maternally transmitted iflavirus) in 29 field populations of Queensland fruit fly, Australia's most significant horticultural pest, in the context of their different transmission modes. We detected new virus variant diversity. In contrast to the very high virus prevalence in laboratory populations, 46.8% of 293 field flies carried one virus and 4.8% had two viruses. Cripavirus and sigmavirus occurred in all regions, while iflavirus was restricted to subtropical and tropical regions. Cripavirus was most prevalent (37.5%), followed by sigmavirus (13.7%) and iflavirus (4.4%). Cripavirus coinfected some flies with either one of the two vertically transmitted viruses. However, sigmavirus did not coinfect individuals with iflavirus. Three different modelling approaches detected negative association patterns between sigmavirus and iflavirus, consistent with the absence of such coinfections in laboratory populations. This may be linked with their maternal transmission and the ineffective paternal transmission of sigmavirus. Furthermore, we found that, unlike sigmavirus and iflavirus, cripavirus load was higher in laboratory than field flies. Laboratory and mass‐rearing conditions may increase ISV prevalence and load due to increased transmission opportunities. We conclude that a combination of field and laboratory studies is needed to uncover ISV interactions and further our understanding of ISV epidemiology.
Timing's not everything: Immediate and delayed feedback are equally beneficial for performance in formative multiple‐choice testing
Authors: Ryan Anna T. , Judd Terry , Wilson Carey , Larsen Douglas P. , Elliott Simone , Kulasegaram Kulamakan , Swanson David
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Test‐enhanced learning (TEL) is an impactful teaching and learning strategy that prioritises active learner engagement through the process of regular testing and reviewing. While it is clear that meaningful feedback optimises the effects of TEL, the ideal timing of this feedback (i.e. immediate or delayed) in a medical education setting is unclear.

Method

Forty‐one second‐year medical students were recruited from the University of Melbourne. Participants were given a multiple‐choice question test with a mix of immediate (i.e. post‐item) and delayed (i.e. post‐item‐block) conceptual feedback. Students were then tested on near and far transfer items during an immediate post‐test, and at a one‐week follow‐up.

Results

A logistic mixed effects model was used to predict the probability of successful near and far transfer. As expected, participants in our study tended to score lower on far transfer items than they did on near transfer items. In addition, correct initial response on a parent question predicted subsequent correct responding. Contrary to our hypotheses, the feedback timing effect was non‐significant—there was no discernible difference between feedback delivered immediately versus delayed feedback.

Discussion

The findings of this study suggest that the timing of feedback delivery (post‐item versus post‐item‐block) does not influence the efficacy of TEL in this medical education setting. We therefore suggest that educators may consider practical factors when determining appropriate TEL feedback timing in their setting.
K+ and pH homeostasis in plant cells is controlled by a synchronized K+/H+ antiport at the plasma and vacuolar membrane
Authors: Li Kunkun , Grauschopf Christina , Hedrich Rainer , Dreyer Ingo , Konrad Kai R.
Published: November 2023

Stomatal movement involves ion transport across the plasma membrane (PM) and vacuolar membrane (VM) of guard cells. However, the coupling mechanisms of ion transporters in both membranes and their interplay with Ca2+ and pH changes are largely unclear.

Here, we investigated transporter networks in tobacco guard cells and mesophyll cells using multiparametric live‐cell ion imaging and computational simulations.

K+ and anion fluxes at both, PM and VM, affected H+ and Ca2+, as changes in extracellular KCl or KNO3 concentrations were accompanied by cytosolic and vacuolar pH shifts and changes in [Ca2+]cyt and the membrane potential. At both membranes, the K+ transporter networks mediated an antiport of K+ and H+. By contrast, net transport of anions was accompanied by parallel H+ transport, with differences in transport capacity for chloride and nitrate. Guard and mesophyll cells exhibited similarities in K+/H+ transport but cell type‐specific differences in [H+]cyt and pH‐dependent [Ca2+]cyt signals. Computational cell biology models explained mechanistically the properties of transporter networks and the coupling of transport across the PM and VM.

Our integrated approach indicates fundamental principles of coupled ion transport at membrane sandwiches to control H+/K+ homeostasis and points to transceptor‐like Ca2+/H+‐based ion signaling in plant cells.
Photobiomodulation for melasma treatment: Integrative review and state of the art
Authors: Galache Thais Rodrigues , Sena Michelle Mota , Tassinary João Alberto Fioravante , Pavani Christiane
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) is a versatile technique for treating skin diseases. Melasma, a chronic hyperpigmentation condition, has recently been associated with vascular features and dermal photoaging and poses significant management challenges. We review the recent literature on melasma etiology and the evidence supporting PBM as a therapeutic modality for melasma treatment.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature search in three different databases from May to August 2023, focusing on studies published in the past 10 years. The inclusion criteria comprised full‐text studies investigating low‐power lasers and/or light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) in in vitro or in vivo models, as well as clinical trials. We excluded studies discussing alternative melasma therapies or lacking experimental data. We identified additional studies by searching the reference lists of the selected articles.

Results

We identified nine relevant studies. Clinical studies, in agreement with in vitro experiments and animal models, suggest that PBM effectively reduces melasma‐associated hyperpigmentation. Specific wavelengths (red: 630 nm; amber: 585 and 590 nm; infrared: 830 and 850 nm) at radiant exposures between 1 and 20 J/cm2 exert modulatory effects on tyrosinase activity, gene expression, and protein synthesis of melanocytic pathway components, and thus significantly reduce the melanin content. Additionally, PBM is effective in improving the dermal structure and reducing erythema and neovascularization, features recently identified as pathological components of melasma.

Conclusion

PBM emerges as a promising, contemporary, and non‐invasive procedure for treating melasma. Beyond its role in inhibiting melanogenesis, PBM shows potential in reducing erythema and vascularization and improving dermal conditions. However, robust and well‐designed clinical trials are needed to determine optimal light parameters and to evaluate the effects of PBM on melasma thoroughly.
Trace element composition of fluorite from the Chumathang pegmatite deposit, eastern Ladakh, India
Authors: Namga Stanzin , Srivastava Pankaj K. , Magotra Rajni , Singh Pawan
Published: November 2023

The fluorite deposit of the Chumathang area of south‐eastern Ladakh, India, is hosted in pegmatite which cross‐cuts the Paleogene Chumathang granite. The rare earth element and yttrium (REE‐Y) and the trace element's composition of different colored (green, purple, and white) fluorite were investigated to understand its genesis. The green fluorite core is surrounded by purple fluorite, indicating that green fluorite crystallized earlier than the purple one. The white fluorite is mineralized with green fluorite, it does not exhibit any zoning like the other fluorite. The REE pattern of green and white fluorites is similar to those in the host pegmatite and associated Chumathang granite. ƩREE content in fluorite increases from green, white to purple. Fluorites in the study area are characterized by negative Ce suggesting partial reducing conditions during its formation. The Y/Y*, Ce/Ce*, and Eu/Eu* ratios show that fluorite records the compositional evolution of the hydrothermal solutions that transported the trace and REE from the host granite during the fluid–wall rocks interactions. The fluorite exhibits a positive Y anomaly which is suggestive of strong Y‐Ho fractionation in the fluid system. Chumathang fluorite show significant degrees of differentiation between terbium (Tb) and lanthanum (La) in all the purple, green, and white colored fluorite. The Tb/La and Tb/Ca ratios of the fluorites confirm the role of pegmatitic melt and hydrothermal fluid in the genesis of Chumathang fluorite.
Socio‐scientific issues instruction for scientific literacy: 5E Framing to enhance teaching practice
Authors: Owens David C. , Sadler Troy D.
Published: November 2023

Socio‐scientific issues (SSI) instruction positions the understanding and practice of science in the context of issues that are informed by science but require reasoning about their societal dimensions to respond to those issues effectively. For this reason, instruction in the context of SSI has been considered the gateway to contemporary visions of scientific literacy. SSI instruction is often framed in line with the Socio‐Scientific Issues Teaching and Learning (SSI‐TL) framework, which is prominent in the literature and well‐used by researchers to frame professional development but potentially less familiar to classroom teachers. Given that teachers are likely familiar with the 5E learning cycle, they might experience an easier transition to developing and facilitating SSI instruction using the SSI‐TL model if framed through a lens of 5E. In this article, we unpack the SSI‐TL model of instruction through a 5E lens, then provide an exemplary prototype of the new SSI‐TL infused 5E instruction in the context of a globally relevant SSI to highlight the overlap between engagement in essential science practices and socio‐scientific reasoning. We hope that teachers become more comfortable developing science literacy by addressing both science and societal dimensions of contemporary SSI by considering the SSI‐TL Framework through a 5E lens.
FLOWABILITY PROPERTIES OF BINARY POWDER MIXTURES CONTAINING DATES POWDER (PHEONIX DACTYLIFERA) MIXED WITH LACTOSE MONOHYDRATE AND MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE BASED EXCIPIENTS
Authors: Ahmad Hamidi Fara Wahida , Anuar Mohd Shamsul , Baharuddin Azhari Samsu , P. Mohammed Mohd Afandi , Naim Mohd Nazli , Mohd Tahir Suraya
Published: November 2023

Powder flow is important in powder processing industries to obtain a quality by design product and efficient manufacturing process. Poor powder flowability can cause problems especially during high speed tableting and capsule filling processes. In this study, dates powder (DP), lactose monohydrate powder, and two types of microcrystalline-based powder excipients evaluated for their flow properties as a binary mixture. Angle of repose (AoR), Hausner ratio (HR) and Carr index (CI) were used to characterize the extent of the powder cohesion. The results show that generally, as particle size increases, values of AoR generally decreases, depicting lower flowability characteristics with decreasing binary mixture particle size. However, HR and CI flowability indicators give contrasting flowability characteristics for the binary mixture containing lactose monohydrate and dates powder.
Hybrid Approach of Mathematical Optimization for Multi-Objective Model of Islamic Banking
Authors: Kamil Karmila Hanim , Shahimi Shahida Shahimi , Ismail Abdul Ghafar , Isa Zaidi
Published: November 2023

The integration of economic and social objectives is essential for Islamic bank to stimulate economic growth through the effective management and allocation of wealth and resources. This article proposes a hybrid mathematical optimization between the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and multi-choice goal programming (MCGP) methods. The hybrid methods make the amalgamation of economic and social objectives possible in the multi-objective model of Islamic banking. The AHP method is used to determine the priorities or weights on each of the economic and social objectives. MCGP on the other hand, serves as an optimizer to the Multi-objective Decision Making (MODM) model that fits the priorities to the objectives and possible target goals. Results confirmed on the practicality and flexibility of the hybrid AHP-MCGP model which enable Islamic banks to better utilize their financial resources based on the priorities and multiple target goals. The feasible achievement of multi-objective with an interval target goal has offered the avenue for the decision makers at Islamic bank to satisfy economic and social goals simultaneously.
Constructing Bootstrap Confidence Intervals of Process Capability Indices for a Three Parameter Weibull Distribution
Authors: Ali Shafaqat , Khoo Michael Boon Chong , Kashif Mohammad , Javed Zunair , Saha Sajal
Published: November 2023

Statistical Quality Control (SQC) technique is used in investigating the quality improvement features in a manufacturing process. One of the important tools in SQC is the process capability indices (PCIs), for measuring and comparing the characteristics of a productionprocess to engineering specifications. This article evaluates the performance of the PCIs for a three parameter Weibull distribution which is commonly employed in almost all fields of studies, such as reliability, stability and breakage data. In this article, three different techniques of constructing bootstrap confidence intervals (BCIs) of PCIs are investigated using simulations for the three parameterWeibull distribution. The three different techniques considered are percentile bootstrap, bias-corrected percentile bootstrap and normal  bootstrap techniques. By using simulation, the authors investigate the average widths of the BCI of each of the three different techniques. It is found that the average widths of the bias-corrected percentile bootstrap technique are shorter than that of the other two techniques.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Interconnectedness of Stocks in Bursa Malaysia
Authors: Bahaludin Hafizah , Mahamood Fatin Nur Amirah , Abdullah Mimi Hafizah , Fauzi Muhammad Ashraf , Omar Mawardi
Published: November 2023

Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has a massive impact on economic growth and the stock market. Due to COVID-19’s high transmission rate, a movement control order (MCO) was enforced by the Malaysian government in four stages. Consequently, this situation has affected the stability and the relationship of stocks listed on Bursa Malaysia. Thus, this study is motivated to investigate and visualize a correlation of securities listed on FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI by employing a network analysis approach. The limitation of correlation analysis is that it only provides the strength and direction of the association, which is not visually shown in the graph. As a result, the network analysis technique is used to highlight the correlations between the stocks. The input of the network is based on the rate of return of each stock. The data is divided into two parts. The first duration is the period before implementation of MCO which is from 17th December 2019 to 17th March 2020. The second duration is during four stages of MCO which cover from 18th March 2020 to 3rd May 2020. There are changes in the interconnection between stocks in which seventeen stocks increased in the correlation measure during MCO. The importance of stocks is determined by applying centrality measures to disclose a topological structure of a network. This study finds that the stock with the highest connectivity based on the degree centrality before the MCO was unable to maintain the status as the central hub during the MCO. The results can assist the market participant to strategize the asset allocation to obtain well diversified portfolio selection.
Intraguild Predation Model with Stage Structure and Cannibalism in Prey Population
Authors: Manimaran Kritika , Mustapha Faridah , Mohd Siam Fuaada
Published: November 2023

This paper concerns an intraguild predator model with stage structure and cannibalism in the prey population, where the prey population is divided into two stages, namely, a juvenile stage, and an adult stage. We investigated the dynamics of this model. We obtained the  quilibrium points, the conditions of existence, and the condition for stability using the  Jacobian matrix and Routh Hurwitz criterion. We use numerical simulation to illustrate the dynamics of the model over time. Furthermore, we illustrate the effects of the maturation rate on the adult prey population and the carrying capacity of the basal resources on the existence and stability region of the model. We also analysed the transcritical bifurcation with the maturation rate selected as the primary bifurcation parameter. We demonstrate herein that each equilibriumpoint undergoes stability switching of the equilibria with the change of maturation rate either from stable to unstable to stable, or unstable to stable to unstable. The obtained result indicates that a large maturation rate can lead to a system where the prey population can escape from predation yet negatively impacts the survival rate of basal resources in the ecosystem. Whereas, an intermediate maturation rate indicates that the species could co-exist whereby theoretically, it can ensure that the optimal predator population exists in the ecosystem. This is in parallel able to stabilise the effect of overpopulation of predators with competition factor. An ecosystem with all species coexists could ensure a healthy ecological interaction for a sustainable environment.