bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internal and external self-affirmation resources: validation and assessment of psychometric properties of the spontaneous self-affirmation measure using structural equation modeling
Authors: Rader Lena , Gauggel Siegfried , Drueke Barbara , Weise Lorenz , Forster Saskia Doreen , Mainz Verena
Published: April 2024

Introduction

People use coping strategies such as self-affirmation to manage threats to their self-esteem. In empirical research, self-affirmation often involves recalling personal values, strengths, or relationships to restore moral integrity. Research shows it improves attitude adjustment, resolves cognitive dissonance, and enhances well-being. Some studies stress the importance of distinguishing between different aspects of self-affirmation, like strengths or social relations. These aspects align with concepts in psychotherapy that differentiate between internal and external resource activation, benefiting health, self-esteem, and resilience. The aim of the current study was twofold: first, to independently test the three-factor structure of the Spontaneous Self-affirmation Measure (SSAM), and second, to integrate self-affirmation strategies into a broader resource activation framework as resilience factors. It also examined associations with self-esteem and effects of age, gender, and education on spontaneous self-affirmation.

Methods

1,100 participants (72% female, age 18–65) were recruited online. The original three-factor structure of the SSAM (with the factors Strengths, Values and Social relations) was examined using structural equation modeling. Further, a theory driven two-factor structure applying an internal and external resources framework was examined, integrating the factors of the SSAM into the taxonomy of resource activation (Internal resources: Strengths and Values; External resources: Social relations).

Results

The results of confirmatory factor analyses showed that both the original three-factor structure and the complementary two-factor structure with an Internal resources and External resources factor fit the data appropriately. All three factors of the original factor model showed a high reliability (Strengths: ωt = 0.91, Values: ωt = 0.91, Social relations: ωt = 0.92). We also found measurement invariance across age, gender, and education. Furthermore, group differences regarding gender, education and ethnicity in the utilization of spontaneous self-affirmation strategies were apparent. Finally, it was demonstrated that the Internal resources factor of the complementary two-factor model is significantly more strongly correlated with self-esteem than the External Resources factor [z = 12.80, p < 0.001, 95%CIdiff (0.24, 0.33)].

Discussion

The study confirms the validity of both the three-factor and two-factor structures of the SSAM. Integrating self-affirmation into the resource activation framework may facilitate applying findings from self-affirmation studies to clinical contexts.
Cooperative behavior in adolescents: a contribution of empathy and emotional regulation?
Authors: Martínez-Velázquez Eduardo Salvador , Ponce-Juárez Sandra Pamela , Díaz Furlong Alfonso , Sequeira Henrique
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aims to identify different levels of empathy and emotional regulation along adolescent years and their relationship with cooperative behavior.

Methods

Eighty healthy males were divided into four age groups: 20 Early Adolescents, 20 Middle Adolescents, 20 Late Adolescents and 20 Adults. Participants responded to empathic and emotional regulation scales, then were assigned to an unknown partner to perform the prisoner’s dilemma paradigm.

Results

The statistical analyses allowed to distinguish the groups on the basis of the components making up the two scales: scores on the Perspective Taking component were higher for Adults and Late Adolescents participants than for Middle Adolescents and Early Adolescents groups (p < 0.05); scores on the Personal Distress component were higher for Early Adolescents group than for Late Adolescents and Middle Adolescents groups (p < 0.05); scores on the Difficulties engaging in goal directed behavior component were higher for Middle Adolescents and Early Adolescents groups than for Adults group (p < 0.05). We observed differences between groups (p < 0.001) with higher number of cooperation responses in Adults compared to Middle Adolescents (p < 0.05) and Early Adolescents groups (p < 0.001).

Discussion

These findings suggest that the cooperative behavior changes during the different stages of adolescence seem to be related to the development of empathy and emotional regulation components.
The effect of sense of security on job performance of medical staff: the mediating effect of psychological capital
Authors: Xu Yixuan , Zhan Ningjing , Zhang Dantong , Xie Zhanghao , Li Gege , Huang Huigen
Published: April 2024

Objective

To investigate the current situation of sense of security, psychological capital and job performance of medical staff in Guangdong Province, and to explore the mediating role of psychological capital on the relationship between sense of security and job performance of medical staff.

Methods

In this study, 969 health care workers were selected from February 2023 to April 2023 from 37 hospitals in Guangdong Province, China, using purposive sampling method. The Sense of Security Scale for Medical Staff (SSS-MS), psychological capital scale (PCS) in Chinese version and the Chinese version of job performance scale (JPS) were used in this study. We use SPSS 26.0 for statistical analysis and Amos 24.0 for structural equation modeling (SEM). The control variables entering SEM were selected by regression analysis. SEM analysis confirmed psychological capital scale's mediating function in the link between work performance scale and Sense of Security.

Results

The overall SSS-MS, PCS, and JPS scores were 67.42 ± 16.136, 87.06 ± 15.04, and 77.87 ± 10.50, respectively. The results of Pearson's correlation analysis showed that there was a positive relationship between PCS and JPS (r = 0.722, P < 0.01), SSS-MS and JPS (r = 0.312, P < 0.01), and SSS-MS and PCS (r = 0.424, P < 0.01). PCS demonstrated a fully mediating influence on the link between medical workers' SSS-MS and JPS, according to structural equation modeling.

Conclusion

The JPS of medical personnel in Guangdong Province is at a medium level, with much room for improvement. PCS is positively impacted by a sense of security. There is a supportive correlation between PCS, JPS, and SSS-MS. Furthermore, PCS fully mediates the relationship between medical staff members' JPS and their SSS-MS. The Job Diamond-Resource model and Conservation of Resource theory are further validated and supplemented by the findings of this study, which also gives managers a theoretical foundation for enhancing medical staff performance.
Social identity and social integration: a meta-analysis exploring the relationship between social identity and social integration
Authors: Hu Jieyi , Cheung Chau Kiu Jacky
Published: April 2024

Social identity formation is crucial for psychosocial development, particularly in the case of migrating adults. A body of research exploring how social identity influences social integration among migrants shows that social identity affects social integration through a range of moderators and procedures. This study reports on a meta-analysis of 33 studies with 47 cases (total N = 33,777; Fisher’s z = 0.33, moderate effects) examining the relationship between social identity and social integration in research conducted from 2005–2020. The research findings suggest that social identity can affect social integration directly without any moderators, indicating that most of the identified moderators in the previous studies are sample-specific variables. More importantly, the effects of various aspects of identities exert similar degrees of impact (moderate effect) on social integration; in other words, the usefulness of analyzing different aspects of social identity on social integration is challenged.
Position and ranking influence in padel: somatic anxiety and self-confidence increase in competition for left-side and higher-ranked players when compared to pressure training
Authors: Conde-Ripoll Rafael , Escudero-Tena Adrián , Bustamante-Sánchez Álvaro
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to analyze the differences in the precompetitive anxiety and self-confidence according to the side of play, the ranking and the match outcome, under different competitive scenarios, in high level men’s padel players from Finland who trained under pressure prior to the competition. 10 men’s padel players (28.60 (4.17) years old) from the highest category participated in the research. The CSAI-2R (Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 Revised) and STAI-S (State–Trait Anxiety Inventory – State) questionnaires were used and descriptive and inferential analyzes were performed, including Mann–Whitney’s U tests. The findings illuminate that, across the player spectrum, somatic anxiety and self-confidence levels are higher before competition compared to training matches. This trend holds true for left-side, higher-ranked and match winning players. Even lower-ranked players exhibit heightened self-confidence preceding competitions. These insights offer valuable considerations for players, coaches, and sports psychologists, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between pressure training, competition, and the athlete’s psychological landscape.
In vitro study of radiosensitivity in colorectal cancer cell lines associated with Lynch syndrome
Authors: Sun Mingzhu , Moquet Jayne , Barnard Stephen , Mancey Hannah , Burling David , Baldwin-Cleland Rachel , Monahan Kevin , Latchford Andrew , Lloyd David , Bouffler Simon , Badie Christophe , Anyamene Nicola A. , Ainsbury Elizabeth
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Lynch syndrome patients have an inherited predisposition to cancer due to a deficiency in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes which could lead to a higher risk of developing cancer if exposed to ionizing radiation. This pilot study aims to reveal the association between MMR deficiency and radiosensitivity at both a CT relevant low dose (20 mGy) and a therapeutic higher dose (2 Gy).

Methods

Human colorectal cancer cell lines with (dMMR) or without MMR deficiency (pMMR) were analyzed before and after exposure to radiation using cellular and cytogenetic analyses i.e., clonogenic assay to determine cell reproductive death; sister chromatid exchange (SCE) assay to detect the exchange of DNA between sister chromatids; γH2AX assay to analyze DNA damage repair; and apoptosis analysis to compare cell death response. The advantages and limitations of these assays were assessed in vitro, and their applicability and feasibility investigated for their potential to be used for further studies using clinical samples.

Results

Results from the clonogenic assay indicated that the pMMR cell line (HT29) was significantly more radio-resistant than the dMMR cell lines (HCT116, SW48, and LoVo) after 2 Gy X-irradiation. Both cell type and radiation dose had a significant effect on the yield of SCEs/chromosome. When the yield of SCEs/chromosome for the irradiated samples (2 Gy) was normalized against the controls, no significant difference was observed between the cell lines. For the γH2AX assay, 0, 20 mGy and 2 Gy were examined at post-exposure time points of 30 min (min), 4 and 24 h (h). Statistical analysis revealed that HT29 was only significantly more radio-resistant than the MLH1-deficient cells lines, but not the MSH2-deficient cell line. Apoptosis analysis (4 Gy) revealed that HT29 was significantly more radio-resistant than HCT116 albeit with very few apoptotic cells observed.

Discussion

Overall, this study showed radio-resistance of the MMR proficient cell line in some assays, but not in the others. All methods used within this study have been validated; however, due to the limitations associated with cancer cell lines, the next step will be to use these assays in clinical samples in an effort to understand the biological and mechanistic effects of radiation in Lynch patients as well as the health implications.
Dentists and dental hygienists’ comprehension of HIV infection associated periodontal implications and management
Authors: Ahmed Muzammil Moin
Published: April 2024

Background

In an era wherein, persuasive evidence continues to witness the association between systemic and periodontal diseases, the absence of scientific data on dental professionals’ comprehension concerning the HIV infection and periodontal link is lamentably backward. Thus, the key objective of this research is to ascertain the extent of comprehension possessed by dentists and dental hygienists concerning periodontal implications and their management in HIV patients.

Methods

It is a quantitative cross-sectional survey employing a descriptive approach focusing on a specific cohort of dental professionals. The study setting featured an online platform for the distribution of concealed, closed-ended, structured questionnaire. The data was gathered for four sections: six comprehension statements about periodontal manifestations in HIV patients; fifteen comprehension statements about HIV patients’ periodontal management; eight familiarity statements about HIV management; and two educational statements about HIV. The comparisons of comprehension scores were drawn between variables such as specialties, age groups, and genders.

Results

The survey represented 468 dental professionals representing distinct dental specialties, with a mean age of 24.26 ± 7.53 years. The mean comprehension score for all groups of participants is 10.31 ± 9.34 (33.25%). The highest scores were recorded among those aged 31–40 (20.67 ± 8.31), followed by those aged 40+ (19.38 ± 9.39), 20–30 (9.53 ± 8.96), and under 20 (8.92 ± 8.57), at p < 0.001. The female participants (15.06 ± 12.2) exhibited substantially better scores in contrast to the male participants (8.74 ± 7.57). Periodontists (27.77 ± 3.08) comprehended most, then the oral medicine practitioners (25 ± 0). Dental hygiene students (5.52 ± 3.56) and hygienists (7.67 ± 9.72) comprehended the least. The scores for all four domains assessed were disappointingly low: knowledge about HIV-periodontal manifestations (2.81 ± 2.18), knowledge about management of periodontal diseases in HIV patients (3.73 ± 4.7), familiarity with periodontal care in HIV patients (2.87 ± 3.01), and education received about HIV and periodontal diseases (0.91 ± 0.66).

Conclusion

Dental professionals are notably incomprehensive, unfamiliar, and lacking in expertise in the realm of periodontal facets of HIV. The periodontists and oral medicine practitioners showed a substantial amount of comprehension, while the dental hygiene students and dental hygienists presented a conspicuously inadequate level of comprehension. The study outcome could potentially serve as an invaluable instrument for self-assessment by dental professionals and educators. HIV/AIDS ought not to persist as an unspoken taboo or disregarded subject within the dental field, particularly in periodontics, but rather should receive prominence in dental schools and professional development programs.
Experiencing accessibility of historical heritage places with individuals living with visible and invisible disabilities
Authors: Ruiz-Rodrigo Alicia , Morales Ernesto , Lakoud Maryem , Riendeau Jonathan , Lemay Miranda , Savaria Ariane , Mathieu Samuel , Feillou Isabelle , Routhier François
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Around 16% of world's population lives with visible and invisible disabilities. People with disabilities' participation may be limited because of the environmental obstacles. Moreover, historic heritage places were built before the development of accessibility standards and the rights of people living with disabilities and the majority were not designed to be accessible. Access to historic heritage places is important for carrying out the activities in place but also to create and reinforce identity. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of people with visible and invisible disabilities when visiting heritage sites considering accessibility issues.

Methods

This study is a qualitative interpretive description. Participants were adults with visible (e.g., motor disability) or invisible (e.g., autism) disabilities. For data collection, go along interviews (also referred to in the literature as “walking interview” in two different locations in the Historic District of Old Quebec in Quebec City were conducted. Thematic analysis was done.

Results

Twenty-one participants completed two go along interviews: one in theSéminaire de Québec(Seminary of Quebec City) and the other in Petit-Champlain and Place Royale areas of Quebec City. Three themes emerged: (1) Obstacles and impact on participation; (2) Disabling accessibility; and (3) Heritage meaning.

Discussion

The barriers identified by participants are diverse and differ according to the person and the type of disability. However, social and leisure activities were particularly limited, despite the strategies developed by some participants. Participants in the study demonstrated an interest in accessing to heritage places, therefore it seems essential to consider the needs of people with disabilities when developing accessibility solutions, and to seek a balance between preserving heritage and promoting inclusive and equitable access for all.
Analyzing the relationship between consumers’ and entrepreneurs’ food waste and sustainable development using a bibliometric approach
Authors: Kostakis Ioannis , Papadaki Stamatina , Malindretos George
Published: April 2024

The present study investigates the relationship between food waste and sustainable development, aiming to reveal contextual insights and present novel findings regarding the pivotal importance of waste and environmental strategies toward a circular economy. This research represents an effort to delineate methodological and thematic contributions, thoroughly analyze key themes, examine co-citation patterns, assess collaboration among countries, and identify current knowledge gaps in the literature. As waste management takes precedence within the framework of sustainable development goals, policymakers, and academia will better understand how effective food waste management can contribute to environmental sustainability. Methodologically, we employ systematic review, employing the PRISMA approach, analyzing 761 final papers, and investigating the relationship between food waste and sustainable development. We delve deeper to reveal contextual insights and present empirical findings that underscore the critical role of food waste in the economy and environment. Furthermore, guided by the identified knowledge gaps, we illuminate potential future research avenues that hold immense promise for advancing our understanding of food waste and its impact on sustainable development.
Treatment success in cats with chronic enteropathy is associated with a decrease in fecal calprotectin concentrations
Authors: Heilmann Romy M. , Riggers Denise S. , Trewin Isla , Köller Gábor , Kathrani Aarti
Published: April 2024

Feline chronic enteropathies (FCE) are challenging to diagnose and monitor for progression and response to treatment. Fecal calprotectin might be a useful non-invasive marker to evaluate clinical endpoints of therapeutic monitoring in FCE. We evaluated fecal calprotectin concentrations in cats with FCE before and after initiation of treatment comprised of immunomodulation and/or dietary intervention. Included were 17 cats with FCE and 18 healthy controls. Clinical investigation of FCE cases included clinical severity grading (feline chronic enteropathy activity index, FCEAI) in all cats, abdominal ultrasonography in 15 cats, and gastrointestinal biopsies in 6 cats. Fecal calprotectin was measured in samples from 12 cats with FCE before treatment, all 17 FCE cats ≥6 weeks after treatment initiation, and all healthy controls. Fecal calprotectin concentrations in FCE cases before treatment (median: 61 μg/g) were significantly higher than after treatment initiation (median: 15 μg/g; p = 0.0098) and compared to controls (median: 6 μg/g; p = 0.0235) and correlated with the FCEAI scores (ρ = 0.54, p = 0.0316). Fecal calprotectin concentrations after treatment initiation were higher with more severe duodenal/proximal jejunal pathology (ρ = 0.83, p = 0.0427) and shorter intervals between sampling time points (ρ = −0.54, p = 0.0250). Relevant decreases in initially increased fecal calprotectin concentrations are seen in cats with FCE on varying treatment strategies that significantly improve or have remission of clinical signs. This supports the utility of fecal calprotectin as a surrogate biomarker to assess disease severity in FCE cases. Further studies need to evaluate fecal calprotectin concentrations longitudinally in relation to mucosal healing vs. clinical response.
Consensus statement from the first RdRp Summit: advancing RNA virus discovery at scale across communities
Authors: Charon Justine , Olendraite Ingrida , Forgia Marco , Chong Li Chuin , Hillary Luke S. , Roux Simon , Kupczok Anne , Debat Humberto , Sakaguchi Shoichi , Tahzima Rachid , Nakagawa So , Babaian Artem , Abroi Aare , Bejerman Nicolas , Ben Mansour Karima , Brown Katherine , Butkovic Anamarija , Cervera Amelia , Charriat Florian , Chen Guowei , Chiba Yuto , De Coninck Lander , Demina Tatiana , Dominguez-Huerta Guillermo , Dubrulle Jeremy , Gutierrez Serafin , Harvey Erin , Jayaraj Mallika Fhilmar Raj , Karapliafis Dimitris , Lim Shen Jean , Kasibhatla Sunitha Manjari , Mifsud Jonathon C. O. , Nishimura Yosuke , Ortiz-Baez Ayda Susana , Raco Milica , Rivero Ricardo , Sadiq Sabrina , Saghaei Shahram , San James Emmanuel , Shaikh Hisham Mohammed , Sieradzki Ella Tali , Sullivan Matthew B. , Sun Yanni , Wille Michelle , Wolf Yuri I. , Zrelovs Nikita , Neri Uri
Published: April 2024

Improved RNA virus understanding is critical to studying animal and plant health, and environmental processes. However, the continuous and rapid RNA virus evolution makes their identification and characterization challenging. While recent sequence-based advances have led to extensive RNA virus discovery, there is growing variation in how RNA viruses are identified, analyzed, characterized, and reported. To this end, an RdRp Summit was organized and a hybrid meeting took place in Valencia, Spain in May 2023 to convene leading experts with emphasis on early career researchers (ECRs) across diverse scientific communities. Here we synthesize key insights and recommendations and offer these as a first effort to establish a consensus framework for advancing RNA virus discovery. First, we need interoperability through standardized methodologies, data-sharing protocols, metadata provision and interdisciplinary collaborations and offer specific examples as starting points. Second, as an emergent field, we recognize the need to incorporate cutting-edge technologies and knowledge early and often to improve omic-based viral detection and annotation as novel capabilities reveal new biology. Third, we underscore the significance of ECRs in fostering international partnerships to promote inclusivity and equity in virus discovery efforts. The proposed consensus framework serves as a roadmap for the scientific community to collectively contribute to the tremendous challenge of unveiling the RNA virosphere.
Transcriptome Sequencing Provides Insights into High-Temperature-Induced Leaf Senescence in Herbaceous Peony
Authors: Zu Mengting , Qiu Shuying , Qian Yi , Tao Jun , Zhao Daqiu
Published: April 2024

Global warming causes frequent high temperatures in summer; which negatively impacts herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) by accelerating leaf senescence and reducing biomass accumulation, leading to reduced flower quality in the subsequent year. Our findings revealed that as heat stress progressed, the high-temperature-sensitive cultivar ‘Meigui Zi’ (MGZ) exhibited a higher rate of chlorophyll content reduction and more pronounced premature aging symptoms than the high-temperature-tolerant cultivar ‘Chi Fen’ (CF). To investigate gene expression differences between CF and MGZ under high-temperature stress, we combined PacBio Iso-Seq sequencing (Iso-Seq) with next-generation sequencing (RNA-seq). Iso-seq yielded 352,891 full-length transcripts ranging from 61 bp to 49,022 bp in length. RNA-seq generated 257,562 transcripts across all samples. Further analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between CF and MGZ were primarily enriched in “Photosynthesis”, with most photosynthesis-related DEGs highly expressed in CF. This indicates that CF has higher stability in its photosystem compared with MGZ, which is crucial for mitigating leaf senescence caused by high temperatures. Additionally, the highly expressed chlorophyll degradation genes stay-green (SGR) and stay-green-like (SGRL) in MGZ may be involved in chlorophyll content reduction induced by high temperature. This study preliminarily revealed the molecular mechanism of high-temperature-induced leaf senescence of in herbaceous peony and provided candidate genes for further studies of the regulation mechanism of high -temperature-induced leaf senescence.
Insights to Study, Understand and Manage Extruded Dry Pet Food Palatability
Authors: Le Guillas Gautier , Vanacker Pascal , Salles Christian , Labouré Hélène
Published: April 2024

Pet food production is a fast-growing industry. While extruded dry pet food is the favored pet food due to its convenience of use, it may have poorer palatability than other pet foods such as wet pet foods. However, palatability plays a pivotal role in meeting nutritional requirements or providing therapeutic benefits in cats and dogs, as it ensures food acceptance. Thus, both academics and manufacturers conduct routine palatability tests to assess acceptance and preference of products among pets, alongside sensory analyses involving human panels. Palatability is greatly influenced by species-specific and environmental factors in cats and dogs. The review will hence present the current knowledge on palatability assessment and animal food perception; it will then aim to explore strategies for effectively managing palatability in dry pet food by examining the impact of key ingredients and process parameters on the finished product’s palatability. Moreover, the demands and needs for sustainable and healthier products as well as supply constraints present novel challenges and opportunities for academics and manufacturers.
Livestock Depredation by Large Carnivores and Human–Wildlife Conflict in Two Districts of Balochistan Province, Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Najeeb , Basheer Irum , Rehman Faiz ur , Zhang Minghai , Khan Muhammad Tayyab , Khan Sanaullah , Du Hairong
Published: April 2024

Livestock herding is a vital practice in Balochistan, contributing to the economy and culture. The livestock sector is significant in Balochistan, providing 20% of the national stock. Large predators and their prey species, including livestock, have coexisted in these mountainous landscapes for centuries. The aim of the present research is to investigate the impacts of livestock depredation by large predators on livelihoods and predator conservation in two districts of Balochistan, Pakistan. A human–carnivore conflict survey was conducted from July to September 2019, collecting data from 311 residents in a selected study area. Large predators in the study area preyed on a total of 876 livestock during a one-year period, including 560 goats, 292 sheep, 19 cows, and 5 donkeys. The gray wolf is the leading predator, responsible for 66.3% of livestock depredation, followed by the caracal (24.3%), Asiatic jackal (8.9%), and striped hyena (0.6%). The total economic loss was USD 78,694. Overall, 80% of respondents had a negative perception of wolves compared to 24.4% for caracals. Only 20.6% of respondents knew about the importance of conserving carnivores. Livestock depredation by carnivores in the study area created a negative perception of these animals among people. There is a lack of awareness about the importance of conserving carnivore species and their role in the ecosystem. This lack of understanding has ultimately led to detrimental effects on predator populations. It is imperative to raise awareness among people about the ecological significance of carnivores through community meetings, seminars in educational institutions, and providing basic education to herders about effective livestock guarding practices.
A Serial Multi-Scale Feature Fusion and Enhancement Network for Amur Tiger Re-Identification
Authors: Xu Nuo , Ma Zhibin , Xia Yi , Dong Yanqi , Zi Jiali , Xu Delong , Xu Fu , Su Xiaohui , Zhang Haiyan , Chen Feixiang
Published: April 2024

The Amur tiger is an important endangered species in the world, and its re-identification (re-ID) plays an important role in regional biodiversity assessment and wildlife resource statistics. This paper focuses on the task of Amur tiger re-ID based on visible light images from screenshots of surveillance videos or camera traps, aiming to solve the problem of low accuracy caused by camera perspective, noisy background noise, changes in motion posture, and deformation of Amur tiger body patterns during the re-ID process. To overcome this challenge, we propose a serial multi-scale feature fusion and enhancement re-ID network of Amur tiger for this task, in which global and local branches are constructed. Specifically, we design a global inverted pyramid multi-scale feature fusion method in the global branch to effectively fuse multi-scale global features and achieve high-level, fine-grained, and deep semantic feature preservation. We also design a local dual-domain attention feature enhancement method in the local branch, further enhancing local feature extraction and fusion by dividing local feature blocks. Based on the above model structure, we evaluated the effectiveness and feasibility of the model on the public dataset of the Amur Tiger Re-identification in the Wild (ATRW), and achieved good results on mAP, Rank-1, and Rank-5, demonstrating a certain competitiveness. In addition, since our proposed model does not require the introduction of additional expensive annotation information and does not incorporate other pre-training modules, it has important advantages such as strong transferability and simple training.
Antibiotic Stewardship in Surgical Departments
Authors: Kourbeti Irene , Kamiliou Aikaterini , Samarkos Michael
Published: April 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the leading public health threats of the 21st century. New evidence underscores its significance in patients’ morbidity and mortality, length of stay, as well as healthcare costs. Globally, the factors that contribute to antimicrobial resistance include social and economic determinants, healthcare governance, and environmental interactions with impact on humans, plants, and animals. Antimicrobial stewardship (AS) programs have historically overlooked surgical teams as they considered them more difficult to engage. This review aims to summarize the evolution and significance of AS in surgical wards, including the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) and the role of diagnostic stewardship (DS). The contribution of AS team members is presented. The new diagnostic modalities and the new technologies including artificial intelligence (AI) are also reviewed.
Suitable Cottonseed Protein Concentrate Supplementation in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Serves as an Effective Strategy for Fish Meal Sparing Based on Improvement in Intestinal Antioxidant Capacity, Barrier and Microbiota Composition
Authors: Fan Ze , Ge Kaibo , Wu Di , Wang Liansheng , Li Jinnan , Li Chenhui , Zhou Meng , Zhang Haitao , Miao Linghong , Ge Xianping
Published: April 2024

The application of cottonseed protein concentrate (CPC) is an effective strategy to moderate the shortage of fish meal (FM) for the aquafeed industry. However, little attention has been paid to the effects of replacing fishmeal with CPC on cyprinid fish. This study used common carp (Cyprinus carpio) as the biological model and assessed the potential of applying CPC as a substitute for fishmeal in the diet of common carp. The proportion of fish meal substituted with CPC in the six diets was 0% (CPC0), 25% (CPC25), 50% (CPC50), 75% (CPC75), and 100% (CPC100). Each diet was fed to three replicate groups of common carp (4.17 ± 0.02 g) for 56 days. Results revealed that the CPC50 group significantly increased the growth indexes via up-regulating the genes of the GH/IGF axis and the TOR pathway. The intestinal digestive ability was also elevated in the CPC50 group via markedly increasing intestinal villus height, protease and lipase activities in the whole intestine, and the amylase activity of the foregut and midgut. The CPC50 group captured significantly higher activities and gene expressions of antioxidant enzymes and lower malonaldehyde contents via evoking the Nrf2/Keap1 signal pathway. The CPC50 group enhance the intestinal mechanical barrier via up-regulating the gene expressions of tight junction proteins and heighten the intestinal biological barrier by increasing the probiotics (Lactococcus) and decreasing the harmful bacteria (Enterococcus). But excessive substitution levels (75% and 100%) would compromise growth performance, intestinal antioxidant capacity, and immune function. The optimum substitution level was estimated to be 46.47%, 47.72%, and 46.43% using broken-line regression analyses based on mass gain rate, protein efficiency ratio, and feed conversion rate. Overall, the fishmeal in common carp feed could be substituted up to 50% by CPC without negative influence on growth, feed utilization, and or intestinal health.
Harmony in Motion: Unraveling the Nexus of Sports, Plant-Based Nutrition, and Antioxidants for Peak Performance
Authors: Ayaz Asma , Zaman Wajid , Radák Zsolt , Gu Yaodong
Published: April 2024

The intricate interplay between plant-based nutrition, antioxidants, and their impact on athletic performance forms the cornerstone of this comprehensive review. Emphasizing the pivotal importance of dietary choices in the realm of sports, this paper sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of how stress and physical performance are interconnected through the lens of nutrition. The increasing interest among athletes in plant-based diets presents an opportunity with benefits for health, performance, and recovery. It is essential to investigate the connection between sports, plants, and antioxidants. Highlighting the impact of nutrition on recovery and well-being, this review emphasizes how antioxidants can help mitigate oxidative stress. Furthermore, it discusses the growing popularity of plant-based diets among athletes. It elaborates on the importance of antioxidants in combating radicals addressing stress levels while promoting cellular health. By identifying rich foods, it emphasizes the role of a balanced diet in ensuring sufficient intake of these beneficial compounds. Examining stress within the context of sports activities, this review provides insights into its mechanisms and its impact on athletic performance as well as recovery processes. This study explores the impact of plant-based diets on athletes including their types, potential advantages and challenges. It also addresses the drawbacks of relying on plant-based diets, concerns related to antioxidant supplementation and identifies areas where further research is needed. Furthermore, the review suggests directions for research and potential innovations in sports nutrition. Ultimately it brings together the aspects of sports, plant-based nutrition, and antioxidants to provide a perspective for athletes, researchers and practitioners. By consolidating existing knowledge, it offers insights that can pave the way for advancements in the ever-evolving field of sports nutrition.
Bioflocculant Producing Bacillus megaterium from Poultry Slaughterhouse Wastewater: Elucidation of Flocculation Efficacy and Mechanism
Authors: Mukandi Melody Ruvimbo , Basitere Moses , Ntwampe Seteno Karabo Obed , Chidi Boredi Silas
Published: April 2024

The study focused on isolating bioflocculant-producing microorganisms from poultry slaughterhouse wastewater (PSW). Microorganisms (n = 20) were isolated, and the D2 isolate, identified as Bacillus megaterium using 16S rDNA and RpoD (sigma 70), had maximum flocculation activity. Furthermore, characteristics of the bioflocculant produced by B. megaterium were determined, and the optimum storage conditions, including the flocculation mechanism, were identified. The bioflocculant was composed mainly of polysaccharides and proteins and was better stored frozen in a crude form. Furthermore, the flocculation efficacy was assessed using response surface methodology at pH 4 (min) and 9 (max), bioflocculant dosage of 1% (min) and 3% (max, v/v), indicating pH 6.5 and dosage of 2% (v/v) as optimum flocculation conditions for floc formation under ambient temperature. These results were further confirmed with microscopy assessments with zeta potential measurements confirming that the bioflocculant was ionic, albeit charge neutralization was not the primary mechanism for floc agglomeration. Hydrogen bonding was predominant, indicative of a neutralization-bridging mechanism, an assertion also based on the functional groups prevalent in the isolate-B. megaterium. The results obtained indicate that bioflocculants can be used to treat isolates that are sourced from wastewater.
A Generative Artificial Intelligence Using Multilingual Large Language Models for ChatGPT Applications
Authors: Tuan Nguyen Trung , Moore Philip , Thanh Dat Ha Vu , Pham Hai Van
Published: April 2024

ChatGPT plays significant roles in the third decade of the 21st Century. Smart cities applications can be integrated with ChatGPT in various fields. This research proposes an approach for developing large language models using generative artificial intelligence models suitable for small- and medium-sized enterprises with limited hardware resources. There are many generative AI systems in operation and in development. However, the technological, human, and financial resources required to develop generative AI systems are impractical for small- and medium-sized enterprises. In this study, we present a proposed approach to reduce training time and computational cost that is designed to automate question–response interactions for specific domains in smart cities. The proposed model utilises the BLOOM approach as its backbone for using generative AI to maximum the effectiveness of small- and medium-sized enterprises. We have conducted a set of experiments on several datasets associated with specific domains to validate the effectiveness of the proposed model. Experiments using datasets for the English and Vietnamese languages have been combined with model training using low-rank adaptation to reduce training time and computational cost. In comparative experimental testing, the proposed model outperformed the ‘Phoenix’ multilingual chatbot model by achieving a 92% performance compared to ‘ChatGPT’ for the English benchmark.
Effects of Potential Prebiotics from Codium fragile on Intestinal Diseases
Authors: Oh Su Won , Kim Sung Keun , Ahn Byung Jae , Yim Sung Kun , Yang Seung Hwan
Published: April 2024

This study examined the effects of an extract of the green algae Codium fragile (hereafter referred to as CFE) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. As the administration of CFE increased, the proliferation of Akkermansia muciniphila, which is a key player in metabolic and gastrointestinal disorders, also increased. After CFE administration for 10 weeks, acetic acid was identified as the major metabolite in mouse cecum and β-glucuronidase activity in mouse fecesdecreased. Further, CFE significantly alleviated the acute intestinal injury induced by DSS administration, including DAI score, colon length, and histological score. The experimental group also displayed indications of significantly lower neutrophil activity and inflammation. In conclusion, the protective effect of CFE against DSS colitis suggests its clinical use by IBD patients.
Optimization of Sensor Placement for Modal Testing Using Machine Learning
Authors: Kelmar Todd , Chierichetti Maria , Davoudi Kakhki Fatemeh
Published: April 2024

Modal testing is a common step in aerostructure design, serving to validate the predicted natural frequencies and mode shapes obtained through computational methods. The strategic placement of sensors during testing is crucial for accurately measuring the intended natural frequencies. However, conventional methodologies for sensor placement are often time-consuming and involve iterative processes. This study explores the potential of machine learning techniques to enhance sensor selection methodologies. Three machine learning-based approaches are introduced and assessed, and their efficiencies are compared with established techniques. The evaluation of these methodologies is conducted using a numerical model of a beam to simulate real-world scenarios. The results offer insights into the efficacy of machine learning in optimizing sensor placement, presenting an innovative perspective on enhancing the efficiency and precision of modal testing procedures in aerostructure design.
Research on Hybrid Relay Protocol Design and Cross-Layer Performance Based on NOMA
Authors: Chen Zhixiong , Cao Tianshu , Wang Pengjiao , Feng Junhao
Published: April 2024

Wireless and power line communication hybrid relay technology can realize complementary advantages and comprehensively improve the communication coverage and performance of power Internet of Things. In order to study the mechanism of the physical layer and Media Access Control (MAC) layer algorithm that affects the performance of hybrid relay systems, the cross-layer performance modeling, optimization, and simulation analysis are carried out for the non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) technology. Firstly, a two-hop NOMA media access control protocol is designed based on the CSMA algorithm. Considering the effects of non-ideal channel transmission at the physical layer and competitive access at the MAC layer on the system performance, a cross-layer performance analysis model of hybrid wireless and power line communication relay system under NOMA is established. Finally, a cross-layer optimization model based on multi-objective programming is established for the hybrid relay system. By analyzing the relationship between transmitting power and performance index, the joint optimization of transmitting power and power distribution factor between users is realized. Simulation results verify the validity and reliability of the proposed cross-layer model. The results show that the hybrid relay algorithm combined with NOMA and CSMA can effectively improve the performance of the system throughput, packet loss probability, and delay.
The Influence of Friction and Twisting Angle on the Tensile Strength of Polypropylene Baling Twine
Authors: Kostic Sonja , Kocovic Vladimir , Petrovic Savic Suzana , Miljanic Dragomir , Miljojkovic Jasmina , Djordjevic Milan , Vukelic Djordje
Published: April 2024

Polypropylene is a widely used linear hydrocarbon polymer with diverse applications due to its exceptional physicochemical characteristics and minimal changes during the recycling process. Numerous studies have focused on factors influencing the mechanical properties of polypropylene and its application in composites. However, despite their significance in the agricultural industry, there is limited research on polypropylene baling twines. This study analyses the behaviour of polypropylene baling twine under tensile loading, exploring the influence of fibre friction and twisting angle on the material’s tensile strength. Experimental investigation indicated that tensile strength increases with twisting angle, but only until the angle reaches a critical value. Further increase in the twist angle led to a decrease in tensile strength. The increase in tensile strength is attributed to the rise in the coefficient of friction between fibres in the twine. An experimental approach was employed to evaluate the mechanical characteristics of the twine, including the effect of prestressing by twisting. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for enhancing the quality of polypropylene baling twines and optimising their application in the agricultural industry.
Characteristics of Soil Temperature Change in Lhasa in the Face of Climate Change
Authors: Jia Minghui , Dai Changlei , Yu Miao , Yang Hongnan , Li Ruotong , Feng Xue
Published: April 2024

Soil temperature is an important index of climate change, and the analysis of soil temperature change is of great significance for understanding climate change and ecohydrological processes. This study was based on the measured meteorological data of a meteorological station, combined with the soil temperature data of 0–10, 10–40, 40–100 and 100–200 cm from the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS-NOAH). The Mann–Kendall test, wavelet analysis, linear tendency estimation and other methods were used to analyze the variability, periodicity and trend of soil temperature in Lhasa from 2006 to 2022. The results showed that the soil temperature of different soil layers had abrupt changes in annual and seasonal time series, and all showed a warming phenomenon after abrupt changes. In terms of periodicity, the average annual soil temperature of different soil layers has similar periodic changes, and the periodic oscillation is strong around 10a, which is the main cycle of soil temperature change. The soil temperature in Lhasa showed a significant rising trend in the interannual and seasonal time series, and the average annual rising trend of soil temperature was greater than that of air temperature. The correlation between soil temperature and mean air temperature (MAT), maximum air temperature (Tmax), minimum air temperature (Tmin) and snow depth (SD) was investigated by Pearson correlation analysis. Soil temperature in spring, autumn and winter had a strong correlation with MAT, Tmax and Tmin, showing a significant positive correlation. The negative correlation between soil temperature and SD in 0–40 cm soil in spring and winter was more severe. The research results show that Lhasa has experienced a rise in air temperature and soil temperature in the past 17 years, and reveal the specific changes in soil temperature in Lhasa against the background of climate change. These findings have reference significance for understanding the impact of climate change on the natural environment.