bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Standardization of Omega-3 Enriched Snacks Incorporating Flaxseeds: A Sensory Evaluation Study
Authors: Bakhetia P. , Bains K. , Sharma S.
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on the development and standardization of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) enriched snack products, including Snack Mix, Nachos, and Rusk, through the incorporation of flaxseeds at varying levels (10–50%) alongside cereals and pulses. These innovative food products aim to deliver enhanced nutritional benefits to consumers. The developed snacks were evaluated for their sensory attributes, nutritional quality, and fatty acid profiles. The Omega-3 PUFA content, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher in the standardized Snack Mix formulations (23.19 to 42.84 mg/100g), Nachos (22.66 mg/100g), and Rusks (42.17 mg/100g) compared to the traditional Alsi Pinni (5.80 mg/100g). Additionally, these products were found to be better sources of protein and fiber. All products demonstrated a shelf life of two months at ambient temperature. Promoting awareness and consumption of these flaxseed-enriched snacks could substantially improve the Omega-3 PUFA intake among the Punjabi population. The technology for producing these high Omega-3 snacks offers significant potential benefits for both consumers and food product manufacturers.
Study of repulsive permanent magnetic levitation mechanism and its dynamic characteristics
Authors: Zhou Fazhu , Yang Jie , Hu Hailin , Gao Tao
Published: September 2024

Permanent magnet magnetic levitation (PMFL) system has the characteristics of zero-power levitation, strong load-carrying capacity and self-stabilization, so it has obvious advantages in the application of rail transportation and heavy-duty transmission and other fields. However, due to the lack of active control of electromagnetism and the existence of multi-point coupling, it is easily affected by external factors, and its dynamic characteristics and its complexity. This paper aims to reveal the levitation mechanism of permanent magnet magnetic levitation system and the coupling motion law of bogie by combining theoretical analysis and experimental verification. Firstly, the proportional and exponential correction coefficients for the magnetic induction strength are introduced to establish an analytical model for the levitation force. Secondly, the three-dimensional dynamic characteristic model of the bogie is established by analyzing the running attitude and external disturbing factors, revealing the four-point levitation coupling mechanism, and judging its stability by using the motion control theory. On this basis, input and output decoupling is realized by the method of coordinate transformation. Finally, through simulation analysis and physical experiments, the bogie motion law under various complex working conditions is explored, and the validity and reliability of the research is proved.
Availability of phenotypic simulation for fruit-related traits in F1 progenies of chili peppers (Capsicum annuum) using genomic prediction based solely on parental information
Authors: Kondo Fumiya , Kumanomido Yui , Palombo Valentino , Ahmed Nahed , Futatsuyama Shino , Nemoto Kazuhiro , D'Andrea Mariasilvia , Matsushima Kenichi
Published: September 2024

Chili pepper (Capsicum spp.) fruits are used as vegetables, spices, and ornamental plants, necessitating various fruit characteristics. However, their genetic improvement is challenging through conventional cross-breeding due to the quantitative traits, which makes it difficult to predict phenotypes in the progeny. As a breakthrough, we focused on phenotypic simulation via genomic prediction (GP) and aimed to clarify its utility for fruit-related traits in chili peppers. The present study used 291 C. annuum accessions, including two populations: inbred lines and F1 accessions derived from 20 inbred parents. We collected data of fruit length, width, shape index (length/width), weight, and pericarp thickness, and obtained single nucleotide polymorphism data via multiplexed inter-simple sequence repeat genotyping by sequencing. We simulated the fruit-related traits in the F1 accessions by inputting their estimated genotypes (based on their parents) into the GP model using the GBLUP-GAUSS model, which was shown to be the most accurate regardless of population or trait differences in the present study. As a result, we observed strong positive correlations (r = 0.833 - 0.908) between the simulated and observed phenotypic values across all traits, suggesting that accurate ranking of F1 progenies based on fruit-related traits can be achieved using parental information. This is the first report demonstrating the utility of phenotypic simulation via GP in chili pepper breeding, offering valuable insights for its application in this field.
Constricted range and limited genetic variation in Reig's Grass Mouse Akodon reigi (Cricetidae: Sigmodontinae) in the Southern Campos
Authors: Quintela Fernando Marques , Pereira Jéssica Bandeira , Gonzalez Enrique , Valiati Victor Hugo , Freitas Thales R. O. , Gonçalves Gislene Lopes
Published: September 2024

We present an updated distribution of Akodon reigi, a sigmodontine endemic to Campos in southern South America, and explore its habitat of occurrence and genetic diversity. Our findings reveal new occurrences of A. reigi extending approximately 110 km northwest and 120 km northeast beyond previously known limits. Contrary to previous assumptions of close association with forest formations, recent sightings suggest a degree of habitat plasticity within the species, with specimens found in shrubby/herbaceous phytophysiognomies. Fifty-three individuals sequenced for Cytochrome b (cyt b; 806 bp) and the first exon of Interphotoreceptor Retinoid Binding Protein (IRBP; 408 bp) showed low variability. Eleven distinct cyt b haplotypes were identified. The largest haplotype richness was observed in a locality in the Sul-Riograndense Shield, a region that could represent a center of the species' genetic diversification. No nucleotide variation was observed for IRBP. No significant indications of population expansion or contraction were detected. The relatively small range, the low genetic diversity, and the current condition of habitat stress due to floods related to global climate change draw attention to the species’ conservation.
Inflammatory Signatures of Microglia in the
Mouse Model of Corticosterone-Induced Depression
Authors: Yang Jing , Zhao Yanxiang , Huang Yingying , Cao Ying
Published: September 2024

Microglia-mediated inflammation has been recognized as a key feature of major depressive disorder. Although hypercortisolemia commonly occurs in depressed patients and can be predictive of treatment response, how chronic exposure to this stress hormone influences microglia is incompletely characterized. Here, we exploited a standard mouse model of depressive-like behaviors induced by peripheral administration of corticosterone. Microglia in the prefrontal cortex of mice were profiled by bulk RNA sequencing, which exhibited the up-regulation of inflammatory markers. In addition, single-cell RNA sequencing identified distinct molecular patterns of microglial responses. Moreover, we revealed the elevation of Pu.1 and Irf8, the two central transcription factors governing microglia-mediated inflammation, in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of corticosterone-treated mice, which was similarly observed in the single-nucleus RNA sequencing dataset of depressed patients' microglia. These results have established inflammatory signatures of microglia in the mouse model recapitulating hypercortisolemia-related depression, providing new insights into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Effect of haplo-allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation timing on patients with severe aplastic anemia without histocompatible matched sibling donor
Authors: Fan Dan , Xiao Fang , Zhao Jia Yi , Yan Xue Qian , Liu Qiang , Liu Li , Wang Wen Qing , Qin Wei Wei
Published: September 2024

To evaluate the impact of transplantation timing, specifically frontline versus salvage haplo-HSCT, on the outcomes of patients with SAA. We conducted this retrospective study of 82 SAA patients who underwent haplo-HSCT following the "Beijing protocol". Patients were categorized into the frontline HSCT group (n = 40, 48.8%) and the salvage HSCT group (n = 42, 51.2%) based on transplantation timing. All 82 patients received grafts from related haploidentical donors. Multivariate analysis identified salvage HSCT (HR: 5.344, 95% CI: 1.904–14.995), ferritin levels > 1000 (HR: 5.588, 95% CI: 1.696–18.414), and CMV infection (HR: 11.909, 95% CI: 2.335–60.725) as independent risk factors for graft failure. The overall survival rate was significantly higher in the front HSCT group (90%, 36/40) compared to the salvage HSCT group (71.4%, 30/42) with mortality rates of 10.0% (4/40) and 28.6% (12/42), respectively (p = 0.029). The expected 5-year OS was significantly higher in the frontline HSCT group compared to the salvage group. Salvage HSCT, ECOG score ≥ 1, and ferritin levels > 1000 were identified as independent risk factors for prognosis. For young patients with primary SAA who lack a MSD, frontline haplo-HSCT demonstrates superior efficacy and safety, making it an effective treatment option deserving further clinical promotion.
Inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in tomato juice by combined treatment of ethanolic clove extract and mild heat
Authors: Kusalaruk Waraporn , Shimamoto Tadashi , Quan Nguyen , Nakano Hiroyuki , Caigoy Jant Cres
Published: September 2024

Combination of plant extracts with mild heat treatment is a promising strategy to provide a microbiologically and chemically safe food product. In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic clove extract against Escherichia coli O157:H7 in nutrient broth, buffer, and tomato juice. E. coli O157:H7 was most sensitive to ethanolic clove extract in nutrient-deficient media, while demonstrating relative resistance in nutrient-rich media and tomato juice. Moreover, we evaluated the potential of clove extract as a preservative in tomato juice stored at cold-storage temperatures of 4°C and 15°C. The clove extract exhibited stronger inhibitory effects against the pathogen in tomato juice stored at 15°C compared to 4°C. Additionally, we assessed the antimicrobial efficacy of clove extract in combination with mild heat treatment against E. coli O157:H7 in tomato juice. The combined treatment of 0.05% clove extract with mild heat at 60°C for 30 minutes achieved a 5-log reduction to the E. coli population. Our findings present a potential hurdle technology against E. coli O157:H7 in tomato juice processing, employing a combination of naturally sourced antimicrobials from clove and mild heat treatment. This approach can be effectively adopted by large-scale industries to small-scale local juice vendors to ensure the safety of tomato juice products.
PRIMARY Scoring in 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT: Correlation with Prostate Cancer Risk Groups and Its Potential Impact on Active Surveillance
Authors: Uslu Hatice , Şahin Dilruba , İbişoğlu Ebru , Tatoğlu Mehmet Tarık
Published: September 2024

Objective
The PRIMARY scoring system is a scale designed to identify clinically significant intraprostatic malignancies on 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT images. Active surveillance is a management method for patients with low-risk prostate cancer. In this study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of PRIMARY scoring in identifying appropriate candidates for active surveillance based on the distribution within prostate cancer risk groups.
Methods
The data of 134 patients diagnosed with PCa by biopsy who underwent 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT imaging for post-diagnostic staging purposes were retrospectively analyzed. Age, total PSA, ISUP grade, prostate lesion SUVmax values, PI-RADS scores, and PRIMARY scores were recorded. Patients were classified into low-risk and intermediate/high-risk groups.
Results
In the intermediate/high-risk group, the PRIMARY score was 1–2 in 17.6% and 3–5 in 82.4% of patients. In the low-risk group, the PRIMARY score was 1–2 in 34.7% and 3–5 in 65.3% of patients. None of the patients in the low-risk group had a PRIMARY score of 5. The most frequent PRIMARY score in both groups was 4, and there was a significant difference between the average SUVmax values of the intermediate/high and low-risk groups with a PRIMARY score of 4 (p = 0.018). The sensitivity of PRIMARY scoring in detecting patients in the intermediate/high-risk group was 82.3%, the specificity was 34.6%, and the positive predictive value (PPV) was 68.6%. When a cut-off SUVmax value 5.0 was used for the PRIMARY score of 4, the sensitivity was 67.0%, the specificity was 65.3% and the PPV was 77.0%. In the ROC analysis, the area under the curve was 0.727 for PRIMARY scoring, 0.662 for PI-RADS, and 0.744 for their combined mean.
Conclusion
The PRIMARY scoring system can complement PI-RADS scoring in mpMRI for selecting patients suitable for active surveillance. Revising the PRIMARY score 4 with an SUVmax cut-off value may increase the specificity.
WITHDRAWN: Comparative investigation of vapour compression-triple effect absorption cascade refrigeration system operating with different refrigerants in vapour compression cycle
Authors: Naga Sakshi , Rajput SPS
Published: September 2024

In this study, a multi-objective optimization of a vapor compression triple-effect absorption cascade cooling system (VC-TEA-CCS) is explored by maximizing the maximization of COP) and exergy efficiency. First, a theoretical analysis of the cycle was performed, and the vapor-compression cycles of different refrigerants were compared. In the vapor compression cycle, the working fluids were considered as R1234yf, R290, R1234ze, and R123, whereas in the absorption cycle, lithium-bromide-water was selected as the working pair. The selected parameters (six), such as the generator temperature, condenser temperature, evaporator temperature, heat exchanger efficiency, overlap temperature, and cascade heat exchanger temperature, were analyzed for the said system to obtain better performance (i.e., highest COP and exergy efficiency). Additionally, the cycle was optimized by applying surface response methods (RSM) based on a central composite design (CCD). In addition, based on the design of the experiment, regression and ANOVA analyses were conducted, and optimal parameters were identified. The optimum results were attained at Tg = 173.58oC, Tc = 30oC °C, Te = 5.08oC, ΔT = 5.02 oC, and plant size = 3000 kW, and the optimized COP and exergy efficiency were estimated as 2.1 and 91.5%, respectively.
Association of Screen Time with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms and Their Development: The Mediating Role of Brain Structure
Authors: Shou Qiulu , Yamashita Masatoshi , Mizuno Yoshifumi
Published: September 2024

Objective
The effect of screen time on the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, as well as the brain, and neural mechanisms underlying the association between screen time and ADHD symptoms remain unclear. This study aims to examine the association between screen time, ADHD symptoms, and the brain, using large-scale longitudinal samples from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study.
Method
From the ABCD study, we extracted, data on screen time, ADHD symptoms based on the Child Behavior Checklist, and brain structure measures of 10116 and 7880 children (aged 9–10 years) at baseline and at the 2-year follow-up, respectively. We used the linear mixed-effects model to examine the association between screen time at baseline, and the development of ADHD symptoms and brain structure after two years. We also examined the mediating role of brain structure on the association between screen time and ADHD symptoms.
Results
Screen time was associated with the development of ADHD symptoms (β = 0.032, p = 0.001) and thickness of some cortical regions (right temporal pole: β=-0.036, false discovery rate (FDR)-corrected p = 0.020; left superior frontal gyrus: β=-0.028, FDR-corrected p = 0.020; and left rostral middle frontal gyrus: β=-0.030, FDR-corrected p = 0.020). Moreover, the total cortical volume partially mediated the relationship between screen time and ADHD symptoms (β = 0.001, p = 0.023) at baseline.
Conclusion
These results suggest that screen time influences ADHD symptom development and brain structure, providing insight into the mechanisms underlying the association between screen time and ADHD symptoms. Furthermore, interventions to reduce screen time may help improve ADHD symptoms.
Archive-based multiple feature construction method using adaptive Genetic Programming
Authors: Jia Kaixuan , Zhang Fan , Gao Xiaoying , Ma Jianbin
Published: September 2024

The quality of features is an important factor that affects the classification performance of machine learning algorithms. Feature construction based on Genetic Programming (GP) can automatically create more discriminative features, sometimes greatly improving classification performance. However, constructing a single feature or a small number of features may make the linkage information between labels and features insufficient, resulting in poor classification performance, so we introduce a multi-feature construction method. In addition, premature convergence of the GP may also affect classification performance. This paper proposes an archive-based multiple feature construction method which uses elite archive strategy to preserve and select effective constructed features, and employs an adaptive strategy for GP to adjust the crossover and mutation probabilities based on fitness values. Experiments on ten datasets show that our proposed archive-based multiple feature construction method without using adaptive GP can significantly improve the classification performance compared with traditional single feature construction method, and the classification performance can be maintained or further improved by adding the adaptive strategy. The comparisons with three state-of-the-art techniques show that our proposed method can significantly achieve better classification performance.
Evaluation of antibiosis resistance in six tomato cultivars to Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Hasan Md Fahmid , Uddin Md. Nizam , Bhuyain Mohammad Mosharof Hossan , Bachchu Md. Adnan Al , Taj Hasan Fuad El , Ullah Mohammad Shaef
Published: September 2024

The two-spotted spider mite (TSSM), Tetranychus urticae (Koch) is a devastating and polyphagous pest of tomato in Bangladesh and other growing regions. This study investigated the impact of six new tomato cultivars (BARI Tomato-2, BARI Tomato-5, BARI Tomato-9, BARI Tomato-10, BARI Tomato-11 and F1 hybrid) on the life history and population growth parameters of TSSM at 25 ± 2°C and a photoperiod of 16:8 hours (L:D) with 60 ± 10% relative humidity. The age-stage, two-sex life table method was employed to explore these parameters. The immature developmental times of TSSM were longest on BARI Tomato-11 (13.45 days) and shortest on BARI Tomato-2 (11.96 days). Fecundity varied significantly among the cultivars, with the lowest observed on BARI Tomato-9 (60.0 eggs female-1) and the highest on BARI Tomato-5 (74.56 eggs female-1). Female longevity also differed across cultivars, with the shortest lifespan on BARI Tomato-2 (20.40 days) and the longest on BARI Tomato-5 (22.33 days). The net reproductive rate (R0) varied from 45.51 on BARI Tomato-2 to 57.51 eggs individual-1 on BARI Tomato-5. The finite rate of increase (λ) was highest on BARI Tomato-5 (1.2790 day-1) and lowest on BARI Tomato-11 (1.2567 day-1). The lowest and highest intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm) was 0.2285 day-1 and 0.2461 day-1 on BARI Tomato-11 and BARI Tomato-5, respectively. The estimated values for mean generation time (T) were lowest on BARI Tomato-2 (15.77 days) and highest (17.57 days) on BARI Tomato-11 (17.57 days). A comparison of TSSM demographic data on six tomato cultivars revealed that BARI Tomato-11 and BARI Tomato-5 were resistant and susceptible cultivars to TSSM. The findings of this research could provide new valuable information for designing a comprehensive IPM strategy for controlling T. urticae infestation in tomato cultivation.
Exploring the Authentic Illness Experience and Health Management Needs of Patients with Moderate to Severe Menopausal Syndrome through the Lens of Social-Ecological Systems Theory: A Qualitative Study
Authors: YE Qiqi , ZHANG Zhijia , SONG Li , ZHONG Kefu , WU Xuedan , HUANG Qihua
Published: September 2024

Background
Patients with moderate to severe menopausal syndrome often face significant physical and mental health challenges, yet their experiences are frequently overlooked in China. This study aims to explore the illness experiences and health management needs of these patients, focusing on their feelings, coping strategies, and demands for health services to address both physical and psychological symptoms, thereby promoting reforms in management programs.
Methods
A phenomenological approach was employed, with an interview guide developed based on socio-ecological systems theory. Twelve patients with moderate to severe menopausal syndrome were selected through purposive sampling for semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using Colaizzi's seven-step method.
Results
Twelve women participated this research. Three primary themes and ten subthemes were emerged: (1) micro- cognitive limitations and reduced coping capacity (aging and confusion, self-regulation and health monitoring, delayed treatment, and divergent expectations); (2) meso- family silence and disappearing workplace care (ambiguous information, feeling of pain, isolation and helplessness, and workplace neglect and gossip); and (3) macro- misaligned healthcare (fleeting communication, absence of health promotion role, and enhancing management plan specificity and systemization).
Conclusion
The study found that patients with moderate to severe menopausal syndrome possess strong self-management awareness; however, their coping abilities require enhancement, particularly for atypical symptoms such as palpitations and joint pain. Developing effective and targeted health management plans relies on collaboration among families, communities, media platforms, medical institutions, and healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive support for patients.
Band engineering with low-energy electron beam irradiation: Towards brighter scintillators
Authors: Li Jing , Jin Xin , Wen Wu , Mo Haoyu , Liang Qingyao , Wang Rui , Liu Yunquan
Published: September 2024

High-performance scintillators are essential for developing the emerging field of nano-scintillation. In this field, cathodoluminescence generated by electron beam interaction with scintillators can be controlled or enhanced by nanophotonic structures, making it valuable for medical imaging, radiative detection, and high-energy physics. Multiple-quantum-well (MQW) structures based on group III-nitride semiconductors are well-known scintillators for their flexibility in tuning the emission wavelength. Still, they suffer from low radiative efficiency due to the strong quantum-confined Stark effect (QCSE) and high defect density. In this work, we demonstrate a brighter AlGaInN MQW scintillator prepared using low-energy electron beam irradiation (LEEBI) for band engineering. LEEBI was successfully utilized for fabricating the first low-resist p-type GaN. By optimizing the energy and current, we achieved a two-order-of-magnitude increase in scintillation intensity without any shift in the emission peak. Furthermore, the carrier lifetime was counter-intuitively ten times longer. Using self-consistent calculations and cathodoluminescence characterization, we analyzed the LEEBI-induced band engineering mechanisms, including the control of QCSE and lateral carrier localization. We believe our findings will not only offer a deeper understanding and resolution to the long-standing contradictions surrounding LEEBI, but also push the boundaries of nanophotonic scintillation. The prominent enhancement of scintillation efficiency suggests new strategies for establishing ultra-low threshold electron-beam-pumped lasers, even in scanning electron microscopes, as a parallel counterpart to optically pumped lasers.
Modifying Post-Surgical Immunity: Controlled Release of TLR7/8 Agonist for Immune Mediated Clearance of Glioblastoma
Authors: Ainslie Kristy
Published: September 2024

Glioblastoma is an aggressive brain cancer with a dismal prognosis despite current therapeutic interventions. Tumor resection is standard-of-care for glioblastoma and has profound immunostimulatory effects. Resulting in a nadir in tumor burden, resection offers a unique opportunity to break local immune tolerance and mount an effective anti-tumor immune response. Here, we explore the effect of local and controlled release of TLR7/8 agonist from a polymer scaffold implanted at the time of tumor resection. We find that sustained release of TLR7/8 agonist leads to clearance of residual post-resection tumor, improved survival, and subsequent protection from tumor challenge in mice bearing orthotopic GL261 or CT2A gliomas. We show that scaffold therapy boosts resection-mediated disruption to the tumor microenvironment, leading to an early inflammatory innate immune response both in the brain and cervical lymph node. This is followed by an influx of activated NK cells in the brain and effector T cells in the lymph node and brain. In sum, sustained local TLR7/8 agonism within the context of tumor resection is a promising approach for glioblastoma.
Control of Spodoptera frugiperda by using plant-derived Nanoparticles in Nashik District Maharashtra India
Authors: Londhe Sachin Shmarao Londhe
Published: September 2024

Background
Spodoptera frugiperda is a polyphagous lepidopteran pest known for its ability to devastate crops by feeding on leaves, stems, and flowers. The larval stage is particularly damaging, capable of stripping plants of foliage and significantly reducing yields. Traditional pest management strategies, including chemical insecticides, face challenges such as resistance development and environmental concerns, prompting the need for alternative control methods. The multivarious and economically significant fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is a pest insect native to tropical and subtropical regions of North America. It poses a severe danger to food security due to its strong flying ability, adaptability to many climates, and wide host range. It causes high economic losses in numerous grains, vegetables, and cash crops. Many issues, such as insecticide resistance, the recurrence of insect pests, the creation of biotypes, and environmental risks, were brought about by the overreliance and abuse of pesticides in the management of Fall Armyworm.
Employing biocontrol agents and green synthesis nanoparticles, which are environmentally benign pest control technologies, is the most significant alternative to address these issues. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are particularly interesting due to their antimicrobial and insecticidal properties. Their high surface area-to-volume ratio enhances their interaction with biological systems, making them potentially effective in pest management. Thus, the current investigation aimed to assess the toxicity of several plant-based synthetic nanoparticles. The biocontrol agent Trichogramma spp. has been evaluated against the fall armyworm.
Result
Silver nanoparticles derived from neem exhibited the highest mortality rate of 83% and the lowest rate of 40% among the second-instar larvae of the fall armyworm. In contrast, the silver nanoparticles from tobacco, onion, mint, ginger, and datura demonstrated mortality rates of 86%, 63%, 76%, 63%, and 73%, respectively, while the lowest mortality rates recorded were 30%, 33%, 30%, 23%, and 16%. Based on these findings, the nanoparticles from datura and neem are recommended as promising bio-based agents for managing Spodoptera frugiperda.
Conclusion
Silver nanoparticles derived from plant sources offer a promising alternative to traditional pest control methods. The high mortality rates observed with tobacco, mint, and datura-derived AgNPs highlight their potential as effective bio-based agents against Spodoptera frugiperda. Datura and neem are recommended as promising bio-based agents for controlling Spodoptera frugiperda based on their significant mortality rates and potential efficacy.
Awareness, Knowledge, and Perception of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative Among Final-Year Midwifery Students at the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ghana
Authors: OBENG FRANK , KUMBONO DESMOND
Published: September 2024

Background
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) was launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF in 1991 to combat the low prevalence of breastfeeding worldwide. This initiative is structured to ensure that breastfeeding is initiated and sustained according to WHO's recommended standards. BFHI has been shown to significantly improve both the initiation and continuation of quality breastfeeding, which offers numerous benefits to both mothers and newborns. These benefits include reduced rates of malnutrition and stunted growth in infants and a lower incidence of ovarian and breast cancers in mothers. Given these benefits, it is crucial for student midwives to possess adequate knowledge of the ten steps to successful breastfeeding, as they will play a pivotal role in counseling and supporting breastfeeding practices in maternity settings. This study aims to assess the awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of final-year midwifery students at the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) regarding BFHI.
Aim
To determine the awareness, knowledge, and perception of BFHI among final-year midwifery students at UHAS in Ho, Ghana.
Methodology
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a quantitative approach to assess the awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of final-year midwifery students at UHAS regarding BFHI. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire composed of closed-ended questions. The questionnaire was administered face-to-face to students who met the inclusion criteria and consented to participate. The collected data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2010 and SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version-22. All analyses were performed with a 95% confidence level and a 5% level of statistical significance.
Results
A total of 75 students participated in the study. The age distribution revealed that 32% (24 participants) were aged 26–30 years, while 68% (51 participants) were aged ≤ 25 years. The majority of respondents, 88% (66 participants), were single, with 12% (9 participants) being married. Regarding religion, 76% (57 participants) identified as Christians, 20% (15 participants) as Muslims, and 4% (3 participants) as traditionalists. All participants were female. Importantly, all participants had heard of BFHI, with 70.7% demonstrating good knowledge of the initiative and 76.0% holding a positive perception of it.
Conclusion
This study concludes that 70.7% of final-year midwifery students at UHAS possess good knowledge of BFHI, and 76.0% have a positive perception of it. Continuous education is recommended to further enhance these levels of knowledge and perception, ultimately improving breastfeeding rates in Ghana.
Factors contributing to prevent malaria in children aged 3 to 59 months after first cycle of seasonal malaria chemoprevention in Tenkodogo Health District of Burkina Faso, July 2020: A prospective cohort study
Authors: KABORE Yewayan Larba Berenger , DIAO Watton Rodrigue , YELBEOGO Dénis , KOIDIMA Arouna , KAFANDO Lassane , DIANDA Fréderic , SAWADOGO Noaga , OUEDRAOGO Jean-Baptiste , KABORE Yamregma , KAMBOU Fréderic , ALBASSA Kodo , OUEDRAOGO Salfo , TRAORE Brahima , SEOGO Pedwinde Hamadou
Published: September 2024

Background
The incidence of malaria in children under 5 years in Burkina Faso was 163‰ with a case fatality of 1.5% in 2018. Despite the implementation of several strategies, malaria incidence increases in Tenkodogo Health District after taking seasonal malaria chemo prevention (SMC). In order to better struggle this situation and take corrective measures, a study was undertaken.
Methods
We conducted a prospective cohort study from 10 June to 5 September 2020 at Tenkodogo Health District. The study population consisted of children aged 03 to 59 months. We conducted a cluster sample and selected 847 eligible children. We conducted a survey with mothers using a questionnaire and a literature review. We used Epi-info 7 for calculating averages, proportions and carried out multivariate logistic regression.
Results
The overall level of SMC adherence was 90.02%. During the 4-week follow-up, malaria incidence was 99.76 cases per 1000 children, increasing from 15.43 to 34.44 cases per 1000 children from the first to the fourth week after the first cycle of SMC. Advice from community health workers was a protective factor against malaria in children (RR = 0.43; CI 95% [0,24–0,75]
Conclusion
A gradual increase in malaria incidence after the first passage of SMC was objectified. Also, the advice given by the community health workers was a protective factor against malaria after first cycle of SMC. Measures to strengthen the quality of advice by community health workers are needed to reduce this incidence of malaria in children after SMC in Tenkodogo health district.
Traditional uses and anti-bacterial activity of Opuntia ficus-indica stem and fruit extracts in Kasese District, Western- Uganda
Authors: Sitenda Diana , Anywar Godwin , Kakudidi Esezah K.
Published: September 2024

Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI), also known as prickly pear, has been used in traditional medicine. This is attributed to its medicinal properties that contribute to treatment of conditions including asthma, stomach ulceration, and diabetes. We carried out a cross-sectional study in 2018 in Kasese district, western Uganda, to determine the traditional uses of O. ficus-indica and the anti-bacterial activity of the stem and fruit extracts of the plant. We interviewed participants using questionnaires and obtained data for traditional uses. We also performed the Agar well diffusion test to measure the anti-bacterial activity of the fruit and stem extracts of OFI. Data was analysed using SPSS version 26.0, and a P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant after performing the one-way ANOVA test. Out of the 56 respondents, results showed that all (100%) of the respondents used prickly pear as food, 90% as ornamental, 80% as an anti-ulcer, 60% as an anti-constipation herb, and 20% used the plant to cleanse the body. On the other hand, fruit and stem extracts exhibited anti-bacterial activity as determined by the diameters of inhibition zones: 27mm and 21mm, respectively, compared to ampicillin (28mm), which was our positive control. The fruit extracts showed a higher anti-bacterial activity against E. coli bacteria than the stem extract (p<0.05), hence the rejection of the null hypothesis, which stated that there is no significant variation in the anti-bacterial activity of Opuntia ficus-indicaextracts from the stem and fruit.
The evaluation of production parameters in BVDV endemically infected bovine suckler herds after implementation of a BVDV eradication strategy including vaccination
Authors: Yarnall Matt , de Leemput Ellen Schmitt-van , Cerviño Manuel , Prieto Ruben , Bolon Arnaud
Published: September 2024

Bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) impacts health and performance of bovine herds. In the present retrospective study, the impact of BVDV control on production performance of suckler herds was tested, using vaccination of all female cows of the herd on the same day (DV). Performance of cows of two commercial suckler herds was analysed during 12 months before DV (PREVAC, n = 497 cows) and during 9 to 21 months after vaccination (POSTVAC, n = 531 cows). The proportion of calves born compared to the initial number of cows subjected to mating did not differ (PREVAC and POSTVAC, 87% and 84% respectively, P = 0.3584). Neither did the proportion of calves weaned compared to the initial number of cows subjected to mating (P = 0.2928) between PREVAC (71%) and POSTVAC (74%). However, the proportion of calves weaned compared to the number of calves born was higher POSTVAC (87%) when compared to PREVAC (81%), (P = 0.0223). Thus, data demonstrate that a BVDV control programme using vaccination in suckler herds, can improve calf survival.
Comparison of Underwater versus Conventional Endoscopic Mucosal Resection for Nonpedunculated Colorectal Neoplasms: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Le Quang Dinh , Le Nhan Quang , Quach Duc Trong
Published: September 2024

Background: Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) has been shown to be a good treatment option for the management of nonpedunculated polyps ≥ 10 mm since its introduction. However, there is a paucity of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in Asia. Therefore, the objective of our study was to compare the efficacy and safety of UEMR with those of conventionalendoscopic mucosal resection (CEMR) in the treatment of nonpedunculated colorectal lesions.
Methods: This RCT was conducted at a tertiary hospital from 10/2022 to 07/2024. Patients with nonpedunculated colorectal neoplasms of 10–30mm were randomly assigned to the UEMR or CEMR group. The primary outcome was the curative resection (R0) rate. The secondary outcomes included en bloc resection, procedure time, adverse events and the number of clips used for defect closure.
Results: A total of 260 patients with 260 lesions (130 UEMRs and 130 CEMRs) were recruited. The median age was 58 (27–85) years, the male‒female ratio was 1.74, and the median lesion size was 20 (10–30) mm. Compared with CEMR, UEMR was associated witha significantly greateren bloc resection rate (100% vs 94.6%; p = .014), shorter procedure time (65 vs 185 seconds; p < .001), lower rate of bleeding complications (1.5% vs 10%; p = .003) and fewer clips used (2 vs 3; p < .001). No perforations were observed in either group. The curative resection (R0) rate was greater in the UEMR group, but the difference was not statistically significant (98.4% vs 95.7%; p = 0.273).
Conclusions: Compared with CEMR, UEMR hasa higher en bloc resection rate, shorter procedure time and fewer bleeding complications and clips used in the management of nonpedunculatedcolorectal neoplasms.
A unique spontaneously immortalised cell line from pig with enhanced adipogenic capacity - a foundational tool for cellular agriculture
Authors: Thrower Thomas , Riley Susanna E. , Lee Seungmee , Esteves Cristina L. , Donadeu F. Xavier
Published: September 2024

Cultivated meat promises to address some of the pressing challenges associated with large-scale production of animals for food. An important limitation to realising such promise is the lack of readily available cell lines that can be expanded robustly for scale-up culture while maintaining the capacity to differentiate into tissues of interest, namely fat and muscle. Here, we report a porcine mesenchymal stem cell line (FaTTy) which, uniquely, upon spontaneously immortalisation acquired enhanced adipogenic efficiency, close to 100%, that has now been maintained for over 200 population doublings. FaTTy is able to differentiate with high efficiency in both 2D and 3D contexts as well as in the absence of serum, and produces mature adipocytes upon prolonged differentiation. Moreover, FaTTy adipocytes display fatty acid profiles largely similar to native pig fat but with higher monounsaturated-to-saturated ratios. FaTTy displays minor aneuploidy, characterised by lack of Y chromosome, and lacks typical genetic or functional properties of tumorigenic cells. These highly distinctive characteristics, together with its non-genetically modified nature, make FaTTy an extremely attractive, potentially game-changing resource for food manufacturing, and particularly cultivated meat.
Investors Reward Countries for Participating in Climate Agreements
Authors: Saxena Konark , Singh Mandeep
Published: September 2024

International climate agreements are one of the best-known approaches to coordinating climate actions among governments but face a free-rider problem, where individual governments lack sufficient incentives to reduce emissions. This study examines the role of investors in providing rewards to governments through sovereign bond yields to encourage climate cooperation and reduce emission intensity. Using a difference-in-differences method, this study examines how sovereign bond yields change around the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The findings show that investors reward governments committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions with a 4 to 5 basis point decrease in sovereign bond yields. This suggests that investors better compensate countries making significant commitments to climate agreements, helping mitigate the free-rider problem and encouraging effective climate action.
Detecting Dengue in Flight: Leveraging Machine Learning to Analyze Mosquito Flight Patterns for Infection Detection
Authors: Javed Nouman , López-Denman Adam J. , Paradkar Prasad N. , Bhatti Asim
Published: September 2024

With the growing global threat of mosquito-borne diseases, there is an urgent need for faster, automated methods to assess disease load of mosquitoes and predict future outbreaks before they occur. Current surveillance practices rely on mosquito traps that require manual collection of samples over days or weeks, followed by labor-intensive lab testing methods like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These processes are time-consuming and resource-intensive, highlighting the need for innovative solutions that deliver rapid, real-time insights into vector infection status. In this study, we applied various machine learning algorithms to detect dengue-infected and noninfected mosquitoes based on their three-dimensional flight patterns. Our methodology involved using a convolutional neural network (CNN) and cubic spline interpolation to detect and track mosquito flight trajectories, followed by classification using machine learning algorithms, including CNN, XGBoost, AdaBoost, Random Forest, Decision Tree, Naive Bayes, Logistic Regression, Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), and a hybrid CNN + XGBoost model. Depending on sequence size, up to 43,278 three-dimensional flight trajectory sequences were used for dengue-infected and noninfected mosquito groups. Based on the mean values of 5-fold cross-validation, the results showed that XGBoost achieved the highest accuracy of 81.43%, closely followed by AdaBoost with 81.31% and Random Forest with 81.12%. In terms of F1 Score, Random Forest exhibited the best performance at 82.80%, while AdaBoost and XGBoost followed with F1 Scores of 82.44% and 82.22%, respectively. Across some folds, the models achieved outstanding performance. For example, in Fold 1, AdaBoost reached 95.85% accuracy with an F1 Score of 95.93%, while Random Forest achieved a recall of 97.77%. The study also analyzed the impact of flight sequence size on models' performance by varying sequence sizes between 50 and 250. Results indicated a direct relationship between sequence size and model performance, with longer sequences providing more accurate predictions. This study demonstrates the potential of artificial intelligence-driven models to enhance mosquito surveillance by automating the detection of infected mosquitoes. By providing a faster and more efficient method for assessing infection status, this approach can support real-time vector monitoring, improve early detection of disease outbreaks, and ultimately contribute to more effective mosquito control strategies.
Comparison of Hydroponic Butterhead Lettuce Grown in Reject Water from a Reverse Osmosis System, Municipal Water, and Purified Water
Authors: Pace Abby , Williams Kimberly A.
Published: September 2024

A main constraint of hydroponics is the need for high-quality water. This study evaluated the viability of reverse osmosis concentrate backflush, or reject water, as a water source for hydroponic lettuce production. We compared the growth of ‘Casey’ butterhead lettuce produced using nutrient film technique hydroponics with municipal (tap) water (TW), reverse osmosis (RO) water, and reject water from an RO system [wastewater (WW)]. Characterization of water sources showed the following: RO had trace minerals; TW had the greatest potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg); and WW had greatest sulfur (S), sodium (Na), and chloride (Cl). No water source had detectable heavy metals. Mineral and heavy metal tissue contents were determined at mid-harvest and end-harvest, and nutrient budgets for nitrogen (N), S, Ca, Mg, Na, and Cl were calculated. Water sources did not impact lettuce growth during the 4-week hydroponic production cycle based on leaf greenness, diameter, fresh weight, or dry weight. In the nutrient reservoirs, Ca and Mg increased over time and were greatest in TW. The Cl and Na levels in WW were 106 and 203 mg·L−1, respectively, and the electrical conductivity (EC) of this treatment increased to 3.5 dS·m−1 after 4 weeks; however, plant water uptake, water use efficiency, and percent moisture loss were unaffected. In shoot tissue, lettuce grown with WW had less Ca at mid-harvest and less Mg at mid-harvest and end-harvest compared with other treatments, suggesting antagonization of uptake by high salt. Tissue S was not different across treatments; however, there were differences in reservoirs of the water sources as S accumulated more from WW. Tissue Na and Cl levels were different among the treatments, and higher amounts in nutrient reservoirs translated to higher uptake by lettuce. Although the heavy metal content in all water sources was <0.01 ppm, arsenic, lead, and chromium were measured in lettuce tissue at levels that exceed recommended limits in most instances. Our results indicated that a water source of RO reject water from municipal feed water is a viable irrigation option for short-term hydroponic production of butterhead lettuce; however, EC reduction in the nutrient solution would be necessary when continuing sequential cropping.
Progressive change in dislocation microstructures in shocked calcite with pressure: Characterization of micrometeoroid bombardment on asteroid Ryugu
Authors: Tomioka Naotaka , Kurosawa Kosuke , Miyake Akira , Igami Yohei , Nagaya Takayoshi , Noguchi Takaaki , Matsumoto Toru , Miyahara Masaaki , Seto Yusuke
Published: September 2024

Shock recovery experiments were performed using a two-stage light gas gun to clarify the progressive deformation microstructures of calcite at the submicron scale concerning pressure. Decaying compression pulses were produced using a projectile that was smaller than the natural marble target. In two experiments, natural marble samples were shocked to 13 and 18 GPa at the epicenters of the targets. Calcite grains shocked in the pressure range of 1.1–18 GPa were examined using polarized light microscopy and (scanning) transmission electron microscopy. The density of free dislocations in the grains shocked at 1.1–2.2 GPa [108–9 (cm-2)] is comparable to that of unshocked Carrara calcite grains. Subparallel bands of entangled dislocations less than 1 µm are formed at 4.2 GPa, and strongly entangled dislocations spread throughout the focused ion beam (FIB) sections at 7.3–18 GPa pressures. Dislocations selectively nucleate and entangle near the slip planes at pressures above ~3 GPa, corresponding to the transition from sharp extinction to undulatory extinction, according to the microstructural evolution with shock pressure. Above approximately 6 GPa, the dislocations nucleated homogeneously throughout the calcite crystals. The dislocation microstructure in a calcite grain collected from the asteroid Ryugu particle is similar to that of the experimentally shocked calcite at 4.2 GPa. The estimated pressure of 2–3 GPa, determined through fault mechanics analyses and the presence of dense sulfide minerals in the Ryugu particles, is in line with this pressure.