bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibodies to Aedes spp. salivary proteins: a systematic review and pooled analysis
Authors: Etienne Veronique , Gallagher Adriana , Christofferson Rebecca C. , McCracken Michael K. , Cummings Derek A.T. , Long Maureen T.
Published: November 2023

Aedes spp. mosquitos are responsible for transmitting several viruses that pose significant public health risks, including dengue, Zika, yellow fever, chikungunya, and West Nile viruses. However, quantifying the number of individuals at risk and their exposure to Aedes spp. mosquitos over time is challenging due to various factors. Even accurate estimation of mosquito numbers at the population level may not fully capture the fluctuations in human exposure based on factors that affect biting rates of mosquitoes. Measuring the antibody response of humans to mosquito salivary proteins (MSP) has been proposed as a method to assess human exposure to mosquito bites and predict disease risk. The presence of antibodies to MSP can be quantified using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). While there is known variability in laboratory methods, the consistency of MSP measurements across different research groups has not been quantitatively examined. Variation in laboratory protocols, antigens used, and the human populations sampled all may contribute to differences observed in measured anti-MSP responses. In this study, we conducted a systematic review of the published literature focusing on antibody responses to MSP in humans and other vertebrate hosts. Whenever possible, we extracted individual-level anti-MSP IgG data from these studies and performed a pooled analysis of quantitative outcomes obtained from ELISAs, specifically optical densities (OD). We analyzed the pooled data to quantify variation between studies and identify sample and study characteristics associated with OD scores. Our candidate list of characteristics included the type of antigen used, age of human subjects, mosquito species, population-level mosquito exposure, collection season, Köppen-Geiger climate classification, and OD reporting method. Our findings revealed that the type of antigen, population-level mosquito exposure, and Köppen-Geiger climate classification were significantly associated with ELISA values. Furthermore, we developed a classification algorithm based on OD scores, which successfully distinguished samples from individuals living in areas where a specific mosquito species was present from those where it was not, with a high degree of accuracy. The pooled analysis we conducted provides a harmonized assessment of ELISA testing, which can be utilized to refine the use of antibody responses as markers for mosquito exposure. In conclusion, our study contributes to the understanding of antibody responses to MSP and their utility as indicators of mosquito exposure. By identifying the factors associated with variations in ELISA values, we have provided valuable insights for future research and the refinement of antibody-based assessments of mosquito exposure.
Three conceptual clarifications about syntax and the brain
Authors: Coopmans Cas W. , Zaccarella Emiliano
Published: November 2023

Linguistic theories offer empirical hypotheses about the architecture of human language, which provide the basis for neurobiological investigations into the study of language use. Unfortunately, progress in linking the two fields of inquiry is hampered because core concepts and ideas from linguistics are not seldom misunderstood, making them controversial and seemingly irrelevant to the neurobiology of language. Here we identify three such proposals: the distinction between competence and performance, the autonomy of syntax, and the abstract nature of syntactic representations. In our view, confusion about these concepts stems from the fact that they are interpreted at a level of analysis different from the level at which they were originally described. We clarify the intended interpretation of these concepts and discuss how they might be contextualized in the cognitive neuroscience of language. By doing so, the discussion about the integration of linguistics and neurobiology of language can move toward a fruitful exploration of linking hypotheses within a multi-level theory of syntax in the brain.
A new era for science-industry research collaboration – a view towards the future
Authors: Baker Matthew R. , Steins Nathalie A. , Pastoors Martin A. , Neuenfeldt Stefan , de Boer Andries , Haasnoot Dirk , Madsen Stephanie , Muller Johan , Post Kobus , Sparrevohn Claus R. , van der Meij Mart
Published: November 2023

Direct engagement of the fishing industry in the provision and co-creation of knowledge and data for research and management is increasingly prevalent. In both the North Atlantic and North Pacific, enhanced and targeted engagement is evident. More is needed. Science-Industry collaborative approaches to developing questions, collecting data, interpreting data, and sharing knowledge create opportunities for information transfer and improved understanding of ecosystem interactions, stock dynamics, economic incentives, and response to management. These collaborations require clear communication and awareness of objectives and outcomes. These initiatives also require careful attention to conditions and interactions that foster respect, trust, and communication. Respect is critical and entails acknowledging the respective skills and expertise of both scientists and fishers. Trust is needed to build confidence in the information developed and its use. Communication is essential to maintain relationships and leverage shared insights. To assess current trends and future opportunities related to this type of engagement, we convened a networking session of research scientists, industry scientists, industry leaders, and fishers at the Annual Science Meeting of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) to address the following questions: (1) What are scientific needs that could be addressed with industry-collected data or knowledge? And (2) How can science-industry collaboration be made sustainable? Here we identify opportunities and acknowledge challenges, outline necessary conditions for respectful and sustainable collaborative research, and highlight ways to promote stakeholder involvement in developing science. We address industry concerns and solicit industry advice. We also address challenges to scientists in ensuring standards for scientific data, conflict of interest, and applying information to advise management. The discussions in this session and subsequent correspondence have led to a set of guidelines and best practices that provide a framework to advance further collaboration between industry and research science. We identify opportunities for directed engagement. We also detail potential approaches to clarify expectations and develop avenues for iterative communication and engagement to sustain collaborative efforts over time. The intent is to improve and expand data streams and contextual understanding of ecosystem processes, stock assessment, and socio-economic dynamics to the benefits of science and industry alike.
Characterization and genome analysis of Neobacillus mesonae NS-6, a ureolysis-driven strain inducing calcium carbonate precipitation
Authors: Xu Rui , Zhang Shuqi , Ma Zhiwei , Rao Qingyan , Ma Yanling
Published: November 2023

In this study, a highly promising bacterium was isolated from sandstone oil in the Ordos Basin, named strain NS-6 which exhibited exceptional urease production ability and demonstrated superior efficiency in inducing the deposition of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Through morphological and physiochemical characteristics analysis, as well as 16S rRNA sequencing, strain NS-6 was identified as Neobacillus mesonae. The activity of urease and the formation of CaCO3 increased over time, reaching a maximum of 7.9 mmol/L/min and 184 mg (4.60 mg/mL) respectively at 32 h of incubation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed CaCO3 crystals ranging in size from 5 to 6 μm, and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis verified the presence of calcium, carbon, and oxygen within the crystals. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis further confirmed the composition of these CaCO3 crystals as calcite and vaterite. Furthermore, the maximum deposition of CaCO3 by strain NS-6 was achieved using response surface methodology (RSM), amounting to 193.8 mg (4.845 mg/mL) when the concentration of calcium ions was 0.5 mmol/L supplemented with 0.9 mmol/L of urea at pH 8.0. Genome-wide analysis revealed that strain NS-6 possesses a chromosome of 5,736,360 base pairs, containing 5,442 predicted genes, including 3,966 predicted functional genes and 1,476 functionally unknown genes. Genes like ureA, ureB, and ureC related to urea catabolism were identified by gene annotation, indicating that strain NS-6 is a typical urease-producing bacterium and possesses a serial of genes involved in metabolic pathways that mediated the deposition of CaCO3 at genetic level.
Si-Ni-San alleviates early life stress-induced depression-like behaviors in adolescence via modulating Rac1 activity and associated spine plasticity in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Ye Lihong , Wu Jiayi , Liu Zuyi , Deng Di , Bai Shasha , Yang Lei , Xuan Yao , Liu Zehao , Shi Yafei , Liu Zhongqiu , Zhang Rong , Zhao Jinlan
Published: November 2023

Background: Early life stress (ELS) is a major risk factor for depression in adolescents. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a key center of the reward system, and spine remodeling in the NAc contributes to the development of depression. The Si-Ni-San formula (SNS) is a fundamental prescription for treating depression in traditional Chinese medicine. However, little is known about the effects of SNS on behavioral abnormalities and spine plasticity in the NAc induced by ELS.

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect and the modulatory mechanism of SNS on abnormal behaviors and spine plasticity in the NAc caused by ELS.

Methods: We utilized a model of ELS that involved maternal separation with early weaning to explore the protective effects of SNS on adolescent depression. Depressive-like behaviors were evaluated by the sucrose preference test, the tail suspension test, and the forced swimming test; anxiety-like behaviors were monitored by the open field test and the elevated plus maze. A laser scanning confocal microscope was used to analyze dendritic spine remodeling in the NAc. The activity of Rac1 was detected by pull-down and Western blot tests. Viral-mediated gene transfer of Rac1 was used to investigate its role in ELS-induced depression-like behaviors in adolescence.

Results: ELS induced depression-like behaviors but not anxiety-like behaviors in adolescent mice, accompanied by an increase in stubby spine density, a decrease in mushroom spine density, and decreased Rac1 activity in the NAc. Overexpression of constitutively active Rac1 in the NAc reversed depression-related behaviors, leading to a decrease in stubby spine density and an increase in mushroom spine density. Moreover, SNS attenuated depression-like behavior in adolescent mice and counteracted the spine abnormalities in the NAc induced by ELS. Additionally, SNS increased NAc Rac1 activity, and the inhibition of Rac1 activity weakened the antidepressant effect of SNS.

Conclusion: These results suggest that SNS may exert its antidepressant effects by modulating Rac1 activity and associated spine plasticity in the NAc.
The Impact of Family Life Cycle on Farmers’ Living Clean Energy Adoption Behavior—Based on 1382 Farmer Survey Data in Jiangxi Province
Authors: Ding Xiang , Wang Jing , Li Shiping
Published: November 2023

Encouraging farmers to adopt greener and cleaner energy is crucial for reducing energy pollution and achieving carbon neutrality goals. In rural China, the decision making of farmers is often closely related to the whole family. At different stages of the family life cycle, the family has different characteristics, which leads to heterogeneity in the focus and final decision of farmers in adopting living clean energy. Therefore, this paper studies the farmers’ living clean energy adoption behavior from the perspective of the family life cycle. It is helpful to identify the different policy needs and the evolution of farmers in different stages in order to provide a reference and inspiration for encouraging the adoption of living clean energy by farmers and for promoting the development of clean energy in rural areas. Based on the survey data of 1382 farmers in Jiangxi Province, this paper uses a multiple linear regression model to explore the impact of the family life cycle on farmers’ clean energy adoption behavior. The results show the following: (1) The family life cycle has a significant impact on farmers’ living clean energy adoption behavior, which is reflected in four aspects: energy demand, livelihood strategy, health demand and support burden; (2) Awareness of environmental ecology and frequency of government promotion have significant positive effects on farmers’ living clean energy adoption behavior, while gender has significant negative effects on farmers’ clean energy adoption behavior; (3) There are also differences in the influencing factors of farmers’ living clean energy adoption behavior at different stages of the family life cycle. Therefore, when promoting clean energy in rural areas, a precise clean energy incentive mechanism should be adopted to treat families in different family life cycle stages differently.
Research and Experiment on Soybean Plant Identification Based on Laser Ranging Sensor
Authors: Ye Shenghao , Xue Xinyu , Sun Zhu , Xu Yang , Sun Tao , Ye Jinwen , Jin Yongkui
Published: November 2023

When endeavoring to study the complex growth conditions of soybean plants under natural conditions, a problem arises due to the similar appearances of both soybean plants and weeds. To address this issue, a soybean plant recognition model based on a laser ranging sensor is proposed. To demonstrate the applicability of the soybean plant recognition model, experiments are conducted using ultrasonic sensors and laser ranging sensors to analyze the diameter, height, and spacing conditions in the model. A test environment is built, and during the pre-test, the laser range sensor detects objects with diameters of 3 mm and 5 mm with two and three measurement points, respectively, at a speed of 0.2 m/s. At a speed of 0.3 m/s, there is one measurement point for objects with 3 mm diameter and two measurement points for objects with 5 mm diameter. At 0.4 m/s, there are also one and two measurement points for objects with diameters of 3 mm and 5 mm, respectively. These results demonstrate that the laser range sensor can more accurately recognize the diameter conditions of soybean plants and weeds and can distinguish between the diameters of soybean plants and weeds. Subsequently, the recognition rate of the model is evaluated by observing whether the weeding mechanism can synchronize seedling avoidance after the soybean plant passes through the sensor. The recognition rates of the optimized model at speeds of 0.2 m/s, 0.3 m/s, and 0.4 m/s are 100%, 98.75%, and 93.75%, respectively. Upon comprehensive analysis, the soybean plant recognition model is determined to achieve a recognition rate of 98.75% at a speed of 0.3 m/s, which is considered a moderate speed, and demonstrates more stable recognition of plant diameters. The test further verifies the reliability and effectiveness of the method for distinguishing between soybean plants and weeds. The research results can serve as a reference for recognizing soybean plants based on the use of laser ranging sensors.
Compatibility between Conservation Agriculture and the System of Rice Intensification
Authors: Carnevale Zampaolo Francesco , Kassam Amir , Friedrich Theodor , Parr Adam , Uphoff Norman
Published: November 2023

Conservation Agriculture (CA) and the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) are both agroecologically-oriented production systems that support more productive, sustainable, and resource-conserving farming, with synergies arising from their respective assemblages of reinforcing agronomic methods. This review article examines the compatibility between CA and SRI, considering examples of their being utilized in complementary ways. The application of CA principles enhances the growth, yield, and performance of the crops grown under the cropping system as well as the health and resilience of the whole ecosystem. SRI practices create more favorable conditions for the development of crop plants below- and above-ground, including conditions that can be enhanced by CA management. SRI practices such as reduced plant density m−2 can elicit a better phenotypic expression of the genetic potentials of crops grown with CA. For these two agronomic systems to converge at the field level, some of their respective practices for plant, soil, water, and nutrient management need to be modified or aligned. One such adaptation is to practice SRI in CA systems on permanent, no-till, mulch-covered raised beds, with rainfall or irrigation water in the furrows between the beds furnishing and controlling water and providing weed suppression and improved nutrient recycling. SRI rice cropping can benefit from the CA practices of no-tillage, mulch soil cover, and diversified cropping, both in paddies and on raised beds. Several examples have shown that this convergence of cropping systems is feasible for smallholding farmers as well as for larger-scale producers and also that SRI practices within a CA system are amenable to considerable mechanization. Further research and experimentation are needed to identify and assess appropriate practices for capitalizing upon their synergies.
Differential Cellular Interactome in Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder—Discriminatory Biomarker Role
Authors: Menéndez-Valle Iván , Cachán-Vega Cristina , Boga José Antonio , González-Blanco Laura , Antuña Eduardo , Potes Yaiza , Caballero Beatriz , Vega-Naredo Ignacio , Saiz Pilar , Bobes Julio , García-Portilla Paz , Coto-Montes Ana
Published: November 2023

Schizophrenia (SCH) and bipolar disorder (BD) are two of the most important psychiatric pathologies due to their high population incidence and disabling power, but they also present, mainly in their debut, high clinical similarities that make their discrimination difficult. In this work, the differential oxidative stress, present in both disorders, is shown as a concatenator of the systemic alterations—both plasma and erythrocyte, and even at the level of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC)—in which, for the first time, the different affectations that both disorders cause at the level of the cellular interactome were observed. A marked erythrocyte antioxidant imbalance only present in SCH generalizes to oxidative damage at the plasma level and shows a clear impact on cellular involvement. From the alteration of protein synthesis to the induction of death by apoptosis, including proteasomal damage, mitochondrial imbalance, and autophagic alteration, all the data show a greater cellular affectation in SCH than in BD, which could be linked to increased oxidative stress. Thus, patients with SCH in our study show increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER)stress that induces increased proteasomal activity and a multifactorial response to misfolded proteins (UPR), which, together with altered mitochondrial activity, generating free radicals and leading to insufficient energy production, is associated with defective autophagy and ultimately leads the cell to a high apoptotic predisposition. In BD, however, oxidative damage is much milder and without significant activation of survival mechanisms or inhibition of apoptosis. These clear differences identified at the molecular and cellular level between the two disorders, resulting from progressive afflictions in which oxidative stress can be both a cause and a consequence, significantly improve the understanding of both disorders to date and are essential for the development of targeted and preventive treatments.
The Key Role of GSH in Keeping the Redox Balance in Mammalian Cells: Mechanisms and Significance of GSH in Detoxification via Formation of Conjugates
Authors: Georgiou-Siafis Sofia K. , Tsiftsoglou Asterios S.
Published: November 2023

Glutathione (GSH) is a ubiquitous tripeptide that is biosynthesized in situ at high concentrations (1–5 mM) and involved in the regulation of cellular homeostasis via multiple mechanisms. The main known action of GSH is its antioxidant capacity, which aids in maintaining the redox cycle of cells. To this end, GSH peroxidases contribute to the scavenging of various forms of ROS and RNS. A generally underestimated mechanism of action of GSH is its direct nucleophilic interaction with electrophilic compounds yielding thioether GSH S-conjugates. Many compounds, including xenobiotics (such as NAPQI, simvastatin, cisplatin, and barbital) and intrinsic compounds (such as menadione, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and dopamine), form covalent adducts with GSH leading mainly to their detoxification. In the present article, we wish to present the key role and significance of GSH in cellular redox biology. This includes an update on the formation of GSH-S conjugates or GSH adducts with emphasis given to the mechanism of reaction, the dependence on GST (GSH S-transferase), where this conjugation occurs in tissues, and its significance. The uncovering of the GSH adducts’ formation enhances our knowledge of the human metabolome. GSH–hematin adducts were recently shown to have been formed spontaneously in multiples isomers at hemolysates, leading to structural destabilization of the endogenous toxin, hematin (free heme), which is derived from the released hemoglobin. Moreover, hemin (the form of oxidized heme) has been found to act through the Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1 (Keap1)–nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway as an epigenetic modulator of GSH metabolism. Last but not least, the implications of the genetic defects in GSH metabolism, recorded in hemolytic syndromes, cancer and other pathologies, are presented and discussed under the framework of conceptualizing that GSH S-conjugates could be regarded as signatures of the cellular metabolism in the diseased state.
Quantification of Bile Acids in Cerebrospinal Fluid: Results of an Observational Trial
Authors: Harnisch Lars-Olav , Neugebauer Sophie , Mihaylov Diana , Eidizadeh Abass , Zechmeister Bozena , Maier Ilko , Moerer Onnen
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Bile acids, known as aids in intestinal fat digestion and as messenger molecules in serum, can be detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), although the blood–brain barrier is generally an insurmountable obstacle for bile acids. The exact mechanisms of the occurrence, as well as possible functions of bile acids in the central nervous system, are not precisely understood. (2) Methods: We conducted a single-center observational trial. The concentrations of 15 individual bile acids were determined using an in-house LC-MS/MS method in 54 patients with various acute and severe disorders of the central nervous system. We analyzed CSF from ventricular drainage taken within 24 h after placement, and blood samples were drawn at the same time for the presence and quantifiability of 15 individual bile acids. (3) Results: At a median time of 19.75 h after a cerebral insult, the concentration of bile acids in the CSF was minute and almost negligible. The CSF concentrations of total bile acids (TBAs) were significantly lower compared to the serum concentrations (serum 0.37 µmol/L [0.24, 0.89] vs. 0.14 µmol/L [0.05, 0.43]; p = 0.033). The ratio of serum-to-CSF bile acid levels calculated from the respective total concentrations were 3.10 [0.94, 14.64] for total bile acids, 3.05 for taurocholic acid, 14.30 [1.11, 27.13] for glycocholic acid, 0.0 for chenodeoxycholic acid, 2.19 for taurochenodeoxycholic acid, 1.91 [0.68, 8.64] for glycochenodeoxycholic acid and 0.77 [0.0, 13.79] for deoxycholic acid; other bile acids were not detected in the CSF. The ratio of CSF-to-serum S100 concentration was 0.01 [0.0, 0.02]. Serum total and conjugated (but not unconjugated) bilirubin levels and serum TBA levels were significantly correlated (total bilirubin p = 0.031 [0.023, 0.579]; conjugated bilirubin p = 0.001 [0.193, 0.683]; unconjugated p = 0.387 [−0.181, 0.426]). No correlations were found between bile acid concentrations and age, delirium, intraventricular blood volume, or outcome measured on a modified Rankin scale. (4) Conclusions: The determination of individual bile acids is feasible using the current LC-MS/MS method. The results suggest an intact blood–brain barrier in the patients studied. However, bile acids were detected in the CSF, which could have been achieved by active transport across the blood–brain barrier.
Investigating the Influential Factors of Mild Water-Filtered Infrared-A Whole-Body Hyperthermia for Pain Relief in Fibromyalgia: A Mixed-Methods Approach Focusing on Predictors and Patient Perspectives
Authors: Öznur Özlem , Schlee Christoph , Utz Sandra , Langhorst Jost
Published: November 2023

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic condition characterized by chronic widespread pain, persistent fatigue, and disrupted sleep, significantly impacting well-being. Mild water-filtered infrared-A (wIRA) whole-body hyperthermia (WBH) is emerging as a promising pain management approach to FMS. Within the present randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials ID: NCT05135936), FMS patients underwent six sessions of mild wIRA-WBH over 3 weeks. Their pain levels were assessed at baseline and at week 12, while body core temperature and plateau phase duration were monitored during WBH. Qualitative interviews were conducted at week 12. Results from this mixed-methods study revealed that baseline pain intensity and plateau phase duration significantly predicted pain intensity at week 12. Thematic analysis of the interviews revealed diverse patient experiences with the treatment, with all patients reporting improvements in perceived pain and overall well-being. The onset and duration of pain relief varied among individuals. Overall, the findings suggest that the duration of the plateau phase may serve as an indicator for long-term pain reduction, although individual factors may influence treatment outcomes. Despite varying experiences, a prevailing trend of positive patient evaluations emerged. This study sheds light on the potential of wIRA-WBH as a therapeutic option for alleviating pain for and enhancing the well-being of FMS patients.
Elucidating the Histone Deacetylase Gene Expression Signatures in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells That Correlate Essential Cardiac Function and Aid in Classifying Coronary Artery Disease through a Logistic Regression Model
Authors: Monisha K. , Mahema S. , Chokkalingam M. , Ahmad Sheikh F. , Emran Talha Bin , Prabu Paramasivam , Ahmed Shiek S. S. J.
Published: November 2023

A proinflammatory role of HDACs has been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis as an emerging novel epigenetic diagnostic biomarker. However, its association with the clinical and cardiovascular function in coronary artery disease is largely unknown. The study aimed to profile the gene expression of HDAC1–11 in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and to evaluate their influence on hematological, biochemical, and two-dimensional echocardiographic indices in CAD. The HDAC gene expression profiles were assessed in 62 angioproven CAD patients and compared with 62 healthy controls. Among the HDACs, upregulated HDACs 1,2, 4, 6, 8, 9, and 11 were upregulated, and HDAC3 was downregulated, which was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) linked with the hematological (basophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and neutrophils), biochemical (LDL, HDL, and TGL), and echocardiographic parameters (cardiac function: biplane LVEF, GLS, MV E/A, IVRT, and PV S/D) in CAD. Furthermore, our constructed diagnostic model with the crucial HDACs establishes the most crucial HDACs in the classification of CAD from control with an excellent accuracy of 88.6%. Conclusively, our study has provided a novel perspective on the HDAC gene expression underlying cardiac function that is useful in developing molecular methods for CAD diagnosis.
How Trait Gratitude Influences Adolescent Subjective Well-Being? Parallel–Serial Mediating Effects of Meaning in Life and Self-Control
Authors: Li Yulin , Liu Sige , Li Dan , Yin Huazhan
Published: November 2023

The relationship between trait gratitude and subjective well-being is well documented in the literature. Recently, growing attention has been given to examining which factors are determinants in the relationship. However, there are no studies to present a comprehensive model of how meaning in life and self-control jointly play a role in this relationship. This study investigated parallel and serial mediation of the presence of meaning, the search for meaning, and self-control in the relationship between trait gratitude and subjective well-being. A total of 764 adolescents (Mage = 14.10, SD = 1.43, 48.43% males) from three middle schools in China completed a six-item measures of gratitude questionnaire form, a meaning in life questionnaire, a middle school students’ self-control ability questionnaire, and a satisfaction with life scale. The study revealed that trait gratitude affected the presence of meaning and subsequently affected subjective well-being. In addition, trait gratitude affected self-control through the presence of meaning and the search for meaning, and it subsequently affected subjective well-being. Therefore, the presence of meaning, the search for meaning, and self-control played an important role in the positive effects of trait gratitude on adolescent subjective well-being. The findings were in line with the intrinsic and extrinsic goal theory of gratitude and provided new insight to inform the improvement of adolescent subjective well-being in the future.
A Visualization Study of Highway Investment Based on Network Analysis
Authors: Cui Xiangyu , Zhou Qixun , Wang Huajin , Feng Ke , Wu Zezhou , Niu Yongning
Published: November 2023

The proportion of highways in infrastructure investment is growing and playing a significant role. It has many advantages in all aspects of social life and has become a timely subject of recent research. However, the existing literature lacks a systematic review of the current research status of highway investment. Thus, this study aims to conduct a scientometric analysis of the existing literature on highway investment to provide an overview of its current state of research. Using the Web of Science Core Collection database, this study conducted searches and screenings of 614 documents related to highway investment from 2013 to 2023. Subsequently, VOSviewer software was employed to perform a visual analysis of source journals, authors, countries/regions, article citations, and keywords. The results reveal that Transportation Research Record is identified as the most influential journal in the field of highway investment. Bullock, Darcy M. has published the greatest number of articles. In addition, the United States has published the largest number of studies and contributed significantly to the advancement of highway investment. Benjamin Faber has received the highest number of citations and normalized citations. Through co-occurring keywords analysis, keywords such as “risk”, “influence”, “investment decision”, and “infrastructure investment” receive more attention. The findings of this research can contribute to providing researchers and scholars with a more comprehensive understanding of the current research status of highway investment and its key issues.
Analysis of Indoor Residential Environment Satisfaction among Social Housing Households in Seoul
Authors: Chung Sang-Hyun , Kim Jun Ha
Published: November 2023

Social housing in Seoul has been provided since 2015 via collaboration between the city and the private sector to address the increasing housing burden for single-person households and the younger generation. Despite the eight years since the implementation of this initiative, there remains a lack of research regarding the satisfaction of residents with respect to indoor social housing environments. The aim of this study is two-fold: (1) to explore household characteristics, such as floor area and living room, bathroom, and kitchen issues; and (2) to examine the factors that affect indoor residential environment satisfaction. In May and June of 2022, 57 households from 22 social housing projects participated in the survey, and data were analyzed using frequency and descriptive methods. The results indicated that the interior layout of the house affected and influenced residential satisfaction. This was followed by accessibility to major facilities, interactions with the community, accessibility to transportation, and facility maintenance. The implications of these findings were discussed.
Investigations into the Shear Load-Capacity of Strengthened Reinforced Concrete Structures with Carbon-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: May Sebastian , Schumann Alexander
Published: November 2023

As part of the experiments, 4-point-bending tests to investigate the shear capacity of strengthened T-beams were carried out. Thereby, 5 reference beams and 25 T-beams with carbon reinforced concrete strengthening were tested. Two different impregnated carbon grids in various strengthening configurations at the beams’ webs were checked. The number of strengthening layers was varied as well as the orientation of the grid in the strengthening layer. Furthermore, the influence of pre-damage of the RC beam before strengthening and two different shear slendernesses were investigated. A load increase of 25% to 42% compared to the unstrengthened reference specimens demonstrates the capability of carbon concrete for shear strengthening. In addition to the presentation of tested large-scale specimens, a test analysis will also be conducted, along with the derivation of a limit value for the maximum possible strengthening ratio using carbon-reinforced concrete based on the observed failure modes.
Investigation of WO3 and BiVO4 Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Sensing of Xylene, Toluene and Methanol
Authors: Petruleviciene Milda , Savickaja Irena , Juodkazyte Jurga , Ramanavicius Arunas
Published: November 2023

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a notable group of indoor air pollutants released by household products. These substances are commonly employed as solvents in industrial operations, and some of them are recognized or suspected to be cancer-causing or mutagenic agents. Due to their high volatility, VOCs are typically present in surface waters at concentrations below a few micrograms per liter. However, in groundwater, their concentrations can reach levels up to thousands of times higher. This study analyses the applicability of the photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensing of VOCs in aqueous medium. Tungsten oxide and bismuth vanadate photoanodes were tested for PEC sensing of xylene, toluene, and methanol in sodium chloride and sodium sulfate electrolytes. The crystalline structure and morphology of coatings were analyzed using XRD and SEM analyses. Photoelectrochemical properties were evaluated using cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results of the study show that aromatic compounds tend to block the surface of the photoelectrode and interfere with the PEC sensing of other substances. WO3 photoanode is found to be suitable for the PEC sensing of methanol under the mild conditions in aqueous electrolytes; however, electrode engineering and assay optimization are required to achieve better detection limits.
Does Acupuncture Hurt? A Retrospective Study on Pain and Satisfaction during Pediatric Acupuncture
Authors: Gold Jeffrey I. , Kobylecka Monika , Ngo Nhat H. , Lin Christopher T. , Hurray Caitlyn N.
Published: November 2023

Previous studies have shown the benefit and safety of pediatric acupuncture, but it is often rejected by patients and their caregivers due to the perception of needling pain associated with acupuncture. A retrospective cohort study of 230 unique patients (1380 sessions) aged 8 to 21 underwent Kiiko Matsumoto Style acupuncture in an outpatient pain clinic. Patients completed a post-acupuncture survey, including the Faces Pain Scale-Revised and Likert-like scales about overall satisfaction, relaxation, and anxiolysis. Univariate analyses were conducted on all outcomes of interest. The mean needling pain score was 1.3 out of 10 with 57.7% of patients reporting no needling pain during their first acupuncture session. The mean score for overall satisfaction was 8.4 out of 10, relaxation was 8.2 out of 10, and anxiety reduction was 7.7 out of 10. The overall satisfaction, relaxation, and anxiolytic effect of acupuncture was increased in patients with more sessions (p = 0.003, 0.022, 0.004, respectively). There was no change in needling pain scores in patients with an increased number of acupuncture sessions (p = 0.776). Patients experience minimal needling pain during acupuncture needling and are highly satisfied with acupuncture. Those with more treatment sessions report feeling increased satisfaction and relaxation.
Distributed Representation for Assembly Code
Authors: Yoshida Kazuki , Suzuki Kaiyu , Matsuzawa Tomofumi
Published: November 2023

In recent years, the number of similar software products with many common parts has been increasing due to the reuse and plagiarism of source code in the software development process. Pattern matching, which is an existing method for detecting similarity, cannot detect the similarities between these software products and other programs. It is necessary, for example, to detect similarities based on commonalities in both functionality and control structures. At the same time, detailed software analysis requires manual reverse engineering. Therefore, technologies that automatically identify similarities among the arge amounts of code present in software products in advance can reduce these oads. In this paper, we propose a representation earning model to extract feature expressions from assembly code obtained by statically analyzing such code to determine the similarity between software products. We use assembly code to eliminate the dependence on the existence of source code or differences in development anguage. The proposed approach makes use of Asm2Vec, an existing method, that is capable of generating a vector representation that captures the semantics of assembly code. The proposed method also incorporates information on the program control structure. The control structure can be represented by graph data. Thus, we use graph embedding, a graph vector representation method, to generate a representation vector that reflects both the semantics and the control structure of the assembly code. In our experiments, we generated expression vectors from multiple programs and used clustering to verify the accuracy of the approach in classifying similar programs into the same cluster. The proposed method outperforms existing methods that only consider semantics in both accuracy and execution time.
Luminescence Properties of LaAlO3:Pr under Hydrostatic Pressure
Authors: Zhanturina Nurgul , Beketova Gulnara , Gorecka Natalia , Szczodrowski Karol , Lesniewski Tadeusz , Aimaganbetova Zukhra , Bizhanova Karlygash , Bekeshev Amirbek
Published: November 2023

The article presents the results of measuring the luminescence spectra, luminescence excitation spectra and luminescence spectra under high pressures for LaAlO3:Pr with concentration of 1%. The materials were synthesized by solid phase synthesis. Diffraction pattern is fully relates to LaAlO3 phase. The photoluminescence spectra show the main energy transitions. The change in the position of the main bands under the hydrostatic pressure of 23, 55, 160 and 191 kBar was demonstrated. The main band at 491 nm is slightly red-shifted, while the line at 605 nm is shifted to the high-energy part of the spectrum. The intensity of all bands increases with increasing hydrostatic pressure. The dynamics of changes in the intensities of maxima and emissions from different transitions are analyzed. Studies of luminescence under high hydrostatic compression are important in observing changes in the internal structure and electronic states of materials under the influence of high pressure, studying internal processes such as recombination of electrons and holes, transitions between energy levels and the release of photons. Understanding the changes that occur under compression can help researchers develop new materials with unique properties.
Genetic Association Studies of MICB and PLCE1 with Severity of Dengue in Indonesian and Taiwanese Populations
Authors: Faridah Imaniar Noor , Dania Haafizah , Maliza Rita , Chou Wan-Hsuan , Wang Wen-Hung , Chen Yen-Hsu , Perwitasari Dyah Aryani , Chang Wei-Chiao
Published: November 2023

Dengue is an arboviral disease that has spread globally and become a major public health concern. A small proportion of patients may progress from symptomatic dengue fever (DF) to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Findings from a previous genome-wide association study (GWAS) demonstrated that variations in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I chain-related B (MICB) and the phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1) genes were related to DSS in a Vietnamese population. This study investigated associations of variations in MICB (rs3132468) and PLCE1 (rs3740360, rs3765524) with dengue severity and thrombocytopenia in both the Indonesian and Taiwanese populations. We sampled 160 patients from the Indonesian population and 273 patients from the Taiwanese population. None of the patients had DSS in the Taiwanese population. Based on age demographics, we found that dengue is more prevalent among younger individuals in the Indonesian population, whereas it has a greater impact on adults in the Taiwanese population. Our results showed the association between MICB rs3132468 and DSS. In addition, an association was identified between PLCE1 rs3740360 and DHF in secondary dengue in Indonesian patients. However, there is no association of MICB or PLCE1 variants with thrombocytopenia. This study highlights the value of genetic testing, which might be included in the clinical pathway for specific patients who can be protected from severe dengue.
Computer Aided Full Arch Restoration by Means of One-Piece Implants and Stackable Guide: A Technical Note
Authors: Manfredini Mattia , Poli Pier Paolo , Maiorana Carlo , Salina Federica Eugenia , Tandurella Marco , Beretta Mario
Published: November 2023

This technical note aims to present a recently developed computer-guided protocol characterized by titanium-reinforced stackable surgical guides during post-extractive implant placement and subsequent immediate loading. A full maxillary edentulism was rehabilitated with one-piece implants, starting from a pre-existing removable denture. 3D digital scans of the removable denture and upper and lower arches were performed. On this basis, a prototype with ideal esthetic and functional outcomes was realized and replicated into a custom-made radiological stent with markers. The superimposition of STL and DICOM files allowed virtual planning of one-piece implants in the ideal prosthetically driven position. The stackable guides, composed of a fixed base template and additional removable components, were then realized. The fixed template, initially secured with anchor pins to the bone, was no longer removed. The removable components, which were screwed to the base template, were used to perform implant surgery and immediate prosthetic loading. No surgical complications occurred, the implants achieved a minimum insertion torque of 35 Ncm, and immediate prosthetic loading was performed. The base template allowed for the maintenance of a fixed reference during the entire workflow, improving the transition between the digital project, the surgical procedure, and the prosthetic rehabilitation.
Exploring Trends in Innovation within Digital Economy Research: A Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Hakam Lazuardi Imani , Ahman Eeng , Disman Disman , Mulyadi Hari , Hakam Dzikri Firmansyah
Published: November 2023

Significant advancements have been made in studying innovation within the digital economy over the past 20 years. Research on innovation and the digital economy is crucial since it changes all facets of human existence, including business models and entrepreneurial trends. Research regarding innovation in the digital economy has experienced growth over time. However, only a small number of research works have investigated their references using the most widely utilized citation mapping approach, scientometric analysis. This scientometric analysis used 822 published innovation and digital economy research papers from 2000 to August 2023 from the Scopus database. Data analysis and visualization were carried out using biblioshiny (bibliometric package) in R and VOSviewer. According to the data, the study on innovation within the digital economy has grown by 22.75% yearly since 2000. This study offers valuable insight for society, academics, academic institutions, researchers, policymakers, and businesses. The findings reveal the pivotal aspects of the research, derived from the most frequently referenced subjects, publications, authors, and keywords to determine current and future trends in innovation in the digital economy.
The Impact of Information and Communication Technologies on International Trade: The Case of MENA Countries
Authors: Touati Kamel , Aljazea Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Given the importance of international trade, we empirically investigate the impact of information and communication technologies on the exports, imports, and total trade of five service items by using a panel data for 19 MENA countries from 2005 to 2019. Unlike most previous studies, we use the Information and Communication Technologies Development Index, which is a composite index that combines 11 indicators that include the access, use, and skill aspects of the technology. The results are as follows: the Information and Communication Technologies Development Index has a negative and statistically significant effect on exports of information technology services, and a positive and statistically significant effect on imports and total trade in financial services. Furthermore, we found also that the Information and Communication Technologies access sub-index has a significant effect on total trade in information technology services and transport. For the Information and Communication Technologies use sub-index, its effect on imports of travel services and exports of both travel and information technology services is significant. It also has a significant positive effect on total trade in travel and information technology services. As for the Information and Communication Technologies skills sub-index, the results show that it has significant positive effects on total trade in IT services and travel, and a negative significant effect on transport. These results provide interesting policy insights for information and communication technologies development and the growth of services trade for policy makers.