bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) to assess xenobiotics in a river catchment using macroinvertebrates as bioindicators
Authors: Krtolica Ivana , Kamenko Ilija , Paunović Momir , Raković Maja , Popović Nataša , Atanacković Ana , Talanov Max
Published: April 2024

The Danube flows through densely populated areas and is exposed to numerous stress factors such as dams, canalisation, agriculture, and urbanisation, which cause most of the changes in the Danube catchment area. This paper highlights the benefits of using cutting-edge Machine Learning (ML) models on data gathered from the Joint Danube Survey 3 (JDS 3) dataset to detect xenobiotics in rivers using reliable biomarkers. Recognized as key indicators under the Water Framework Directive, macroinvertebrate communities specifically signal chemical pollution through their varied responses to chemical stressors. The use of ML models such as 4-Layer Perceptron, Long Short-Term Memory, and Transformer Neural Networks allows for a precise determination of the ecological conditions of rivers based on biological and chemical parameters.
Certain xenobiotics, especially pesticides like 2,4-Dinitrophenol, Chloroxuron, Bromacil, Fluoranthene, and Bentazone, showed a significant correlation with macroinvertebrates in the Danube River basin. The most suitable ML model is an Artificial Neural Network developed by a specific combination of inputs and outputs. The observation of the correlation between 2,4-Dinitrophenol and Bentazone concentrations and the macroinvertebrate communities indicates the high effectiveness of Long Short-Term Memory models in modelling the ecological status of rivers. The 4-Layer Perceptron model excels in predicting 2,4-Dinitrophenol and Fluoranthene output parameters, while Transformer Neural Networks perform optimally in modelling Bromacil and Fluoranthene concentrations with macroinvertebrates throughout the Danube River Basin. These established artificial neural network architectures can also be applied to other lotic systems and biological parameters.
Electroreduction-Driven Distorted Nanotwins to Activate Pure Cu for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Fang Fang , Li Zhe , Wang Yueshuai , Liu Hui , Du Xiwen , Xie Zhiheng , Zhou Jihan , Liu Yang , Song Yun , Wang Fei , Sui Manling , Lu Yue , Sun Dalin
Published: April 2024

Precious metals like Pt have been favored as catalysts due to their excellent catalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, the scarcity and high cost of precious metals have prompted researchers to explore alternative, non-precious metal catalysts. Cu is an attractive candidate for HER due to its plentiful reserves, affordability, and good electrical conductivity. However, Cu shows poor catalytic performance due to its weak binding with intermediates and is generally used as a current collector instead of a catalyst. Herein, the catalytic activity of pure Cu is greatly activated by electroreduction-driven local structure regulation, showing superior HER catalytic performance over commercial Pt/C catalysts at the working current densities greater than 100 mA cm-2 in acid electrolyte. The activation process involved two steps. First, polycrystalline Cu2O were prepared by pulsed laser ablation, resulting in abundant grain boundaries within Cu2O particles. Next, the Cu2O particles were electroreduced to nano pure Cu, inducing the formation of distorted nanotwins and edge dislocations. These local structure regulations introduce strong lattice strain and decrease the Cu coordination number, which enhance the interaction between Cu and intermediates, leading to excellent catalytic activity and durability of pure Cu catalyst. The transformation of non-active nature into high catalytic activity, coupled with the intrinsic low cost, makes pure Cu a promising HER catalyst for large-scale industrial applications.
Insight into Physiological and Biochemical Markers against Formaldehyde Stress in Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum L.)
Authors: Imtiaz Hifza , Khan Sabaz Ali , Hassan Amjad , Khan Abdul Rehman , Khurshid Ghazal , Khan Zahid Ahmad , Sajjad Yasar
Published: April 2024

Formaldehyde is a prominent volatile organic compound and also considered an indoor air pollutant. Chlorophytum comosum, an indoor plant, has been reported to metabolize indoor formaldehyde. But the phytotoxic effects of formaldehyde, being a pollutant, on C. comosum is not well explored. Furthermore, C. comocum responses that can be considered as markers at the physiological and biochemical level against formaldehyde stress are not yet investigated. Therefore, the current research study was aimed to evaluate such potential markers against formaldehyde in C. comosum. Briefly, C. comosum was exposed to 5, 10, and 20 ppm formaldehyde doses in an airtight glass chamber. Plant samples were then taken to analyze morpho-anatomical, physiological, and biochemical responses after short (2, 4, and 6 hours), medium (12 and 24 hours) and extended durations (48 and 96 hours) for each tested dose. Two-ways ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test at p ≤ 0.05 indicated that application of 10 and 20 ppm formaldehyde doses led to a significant incline in enzymatic antioxidants like CAT, GPX and SOD, and non-enzymatic parameters including TPC, TFC, T-AOC, carotenoids and intercellular CO2. However, formaldehyde application negatively affected the physiological responses of C. comosum by reducing its photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance. Additionally, extended exposure of C. comosum to 10 and 20 ppm formaldehyde doses led to visible leaf damage. Principal Component Analysis indicated that enzymatic (SOD, CAT and GPX) and non-enzymatic (MDA, TPC, TFC, TAO, carotenoids, TSS and intercellular CO2) parameters contributed the most to the total variance. Thus, these parameters have potential to serve as physiological and biochemical markers in C. comosum against formaldehyde stress.
Application of IUCN Red List Criteria for Assessment of Some Savanna Trees of Nigeria, West Africa
Authors: Nodza George Isaac , Tochukwu Eze , Igbari Aramide Dolapo , Onuminya Temitope Olabisi , Ogundipe Oluwatoyin Temidayo
Published: April 2024

Nigeria is one of the most floristic rich countries on the continent of Africa due to the variation in climate, which favors the growth of several species. Sadly, its biodiversity is one of the most threatened in the world, mainly due to deforestation and various unsustainable land use patterns, which are human activities. However, these anthropogenic activities are more prevalent in Nigeria's northern savanna zone (NSZ). In this study, we present the first regional conservation assessments and red listing of tree species in the northern savanna zone (NSZ) of Nigeria according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria and categories. We recorded 31 tree species as the most utilized in the region. For the assessments, we provided the fundamental taxonomic information of each species, their local names, and their uses. This study provided the extent of occurrence, area of occupancy, population size and trend, description of habitats, and ecological requirements and discussion of the threats affecting each species and their habitats. We further inform conservation actions and research activities needed to ensure the future of the tree species and their sustainable uses. Overall, approximately 97% of the taxa were evaluated as threatened (41% as endangered, 31% as critically endangered, 24% as vulnerable, and 4% as least concerned). Therefore, we recommend the adoption of the risk status of the species to develop sound conservation strategies and measures for the management of flora in this inundated region.
Development and numerical validation of a simplified method of analysis for the final steady state of sloping capillary barriers under constant intensity rain
Authors: Wheeler Simon J. , Mudcharoen Paverean , Scarfone Riccardo
Published: April 2024

A new simplified method of analysis is proposed for predicting the final steady state behaviour of sloping capillary barriers subjected to continuous rain of constant intensity. In contrast to an existing simplified method, the proposed new method assumes approximate final steady state suction profiles on vertical cross-sections of the finer layer that are appropriate for sloping capillary barriers, with flow parallel to the slope in the lower part of the finer layer. Numerical validation, performed by hydraulic FE modelling, shows that, in all cases studied, the final steady state profiles of suction, degree of saturation and horizontal seepage velocity predicted by the new simplified method are excellent matches to the corresponding results from FE simulations. As a consequence, values of water storage capacity and water transfer capacity are accurately predicted in all cases, together with the final steady state variation of water stored with horizontal coordinate. A parametric study shows the influence of key variables (slope angle, material of finer layer, thickness of finer layer and rainfall intensity) on water storage capacity and water transfer capacity of sloping capillary barriers.
L-Shaped Association Between Daily food Selenium Intake and Erectile Dysfunction Among Adult Male in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Fan Longlong , Wu Jianwei , Zhang Shiqiang , Zheng Wenzhong
Published: April 2024

Background
The association between dietary intake and erectile dysfunction is receiving increasing attention. However, the relationship between erectile dysfunction and dietary selenium intake is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between dietary intake of selenium and erectile dysfunction (ED) using the data from the 2001 to 2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Methods
We used unadjusted analysis and adjusted logistic regression models to explore the association between covariates or selenium intake and ED. Generalized additive models were used to examine the presence of nonlinear relationships. Upon finding a nonlinear relationship, a recursive algorithm was used to calculate the inflection point.
Results
We observed a non-linear relationship between daily food selenium intake and ED among US male adults. The selenium intake level was lower than the threshold of 180.5 mcg, it was negative correlated with the likelihood of ED ([OR]: 0.99, 95%CI: 0.991–0.995, P < 0.01). Whereas when the selenium intake level was higher than 180.5mcg, there was no significance with the likelihood of ED ([OR]: 0.99, 95%CI: 0.991-1.000, 0.126).
Conclusions
We found an L-shaped association between dietary selenium intake and ED in the general American population.
Deciphering Deformation Along the Finisterra Terrain: AMS Petrofabric and Magmatism Analysis of Sodium-Rich Orthogneisses in the Foz do Douro Metamorphic Complex
Authors: Sousa Mónica , Sant’Ovaia Helena , Noronha Fernando
Published: April 2024

The Anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMShas been applied to deformed rocks of the “Foz do Douro Metamorphic Complex” to characterize their petrofabricand origins. AMS data from orthogneisses of the newly defined sodium-rich series, consisting of biotite orthogneisses and garnet leucocratic orthogneisses, reveal that the first derived from infra to basicrustal, “magnetite-type” biotite granitoids, formed from magmas with a strong mantle contribution, under oxidizing conditions. The garnet leucocratic orthogneisses derived from “ilmenite-type” granitoids and reveal a genesis in the intermediate to upper crust, under reducing conditions. The variations in the degree of anisotropy in both lithologies along the metamorphic complex, the respective variability in the eccentricity of the ellipsoids, plus the variations of the magnetic foliations and lineations and the strain heterogeneity suggest the partitioning of the deformation, which is typical of shear zones.
Position and Velocity Controls in Children and Adults during a Wrist-Tracking Task
Authors: Kim Jihun , Lee Jongho , Kim Jaehyo
Published: April 2024

Children's motor control skills develop with age, but it is unclear when the development begins and ends. To identify those critical points, we conducted a wrist-tracking task and examined position and velocity controls in children and adults. The task consisted of a visible circular orbit, a tracer rotating at a constant speed of 0.1 Hz, and target-visible and -invisible subsections. We had three age groups for younger elementary school children (n = 16, 8.0 ± 0.8 years, Group 1), older elementary school children (n = 13, 11.6 ± 0.6 years, Group 2), and adults (n = 10, 23.5 ± 2.7 years, Group 3). Absolute angular position difference Δθ and absolute angular velocity difference Δω between the target and tracer were computed to compare the position and velocity control abilities among the groups. Statistical hypothesis tests on the control parameters revealed that the mean Δθ of Group 2 (4.06 ± 0.71 deg) was statistically smaller than Group 1 (6.17 ± 1.51 deg, p < 0.006) and equivalent to Group 3 (2.76 ± 0.51 deg, p < 0.075), whereas the mean Δω of Group 2 (19.8 ± 4.5 deg/s) was statistically equivalent to Group 1 (20.5 ± 2.9 deg/s, p < 1.0) but greater than Group 3 (12.9 ± 2.0 deg/s, p < 0.0011). It indicated that the older children performed comparably accurate position control to the adults but exercised immature velocity control. However, we noticed that velocity control in the older children was actively developing since they managed to decrease Δω significantly (17.4 ± 3.53 deg/s, p < 0.003) during the target-invisible phase, just like the adults did (11.8 ± 1.08 deg/s, p < 0.017). Therefore, we could also infer that children start to obtain feedforward abilities and internal models in preteens.
Dramatic Improvement Followed by Rapid Deterioration after Glucocorticoid Pulse Therapy in a Case of Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease with Hashimoto's Encephalopathy Features: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Tianchen , Liang Yan , Wu Zhengzheng , Chen Jinbin , Zhang Zhennian , Yang Hui
Published: April 2024

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare and fatal transmissible spongiform encephalopathy that results in rapidly progressive dementia. The diagnosis of CJD is often delayed due to the reliance on brain tissue biopsy, which is not a routine clinical examination. Therefore, the confirmation of CJD in patients is often delayed. We reported a case of patient presented with rapid-onset neurological symptoms, initially resembling Hashimoto's Encephalopathy but later diagnosed as CJD. The patient's serum thyroid antibodies were significantly elevated, which initially led us to consider a diagnosis of Hashimoto's encephalopathy (HE). After receiving steroid pulse therapy, the patient's clinical symptoms dramatically improved, but one week later, there was a rapid deterioration in cognitive function. The patient's cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tested positive for 14-3-3 protein, and the RT-QuIC assay revealed the presence of prion protein in the CSF. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with CJD. We present the series of EEG and MRI abnormalities to raise awareness of the value of diagnosing early cerebral injury in patients with CJD.
Optimization of NADESs-UAE extraction of phytochemicals from African nutmeg (Monodora myristica (Gaertn.) Dunal) Peels: antioxidant and antiradical scavenging activity by Rotatable Center Composite Design-Response Surface Methodology (RCCD-RSM)
Authors: Okeke Udodinma Jude , Micucci Matteo , Mihaylova Dasha , Cappiello Achile
Published: April 2024

A RCCD-RSM was used to optimize the extraction of bioactive compounds from African nutmeg peels based on UAE-NADESs. Four independent factors determined in previous studies that significantly affect bioactive molecule extraction were optimized to elucidate the best conditions that produce the maximum TPC and TFC extracts, with high antiradical scavenging activity through CUPRAC, FRAP, and DPPH inhibition. The optimized conditions with maximum desirability for TPC, TFC, CUPRAC, FRAP, and DPPH were temperature, time, volume, and concentration of 45ºc, 5 min, 25 ml, & 90%; 30ºc, 5min, 25 ml, & 90%; 30ºc, 5 min, 25 ml, % 90%; 45ºc, 25 min, 25 ml, & 50%; and 50ºc, 15 min, 15 ml, & 70%, respectively. CaFr11 performs highest for TPC and TFC extraction as well as in CUPRAC antiradical scavenging activity at the optimized conditions than the rest of the NADESs studied. CaSu11 had the highest FRAP power, while CaXy12 gave the highest DPPH inhibition at optimized conditions. Besides, all the studied NADESs were better than water in TPC, TFC extraction, and in DPPH inhibition. Our results are similar to results obtained by other researchers who performed optimization of extraction based on UAE-NADESs using other plant materials.
Prepartal vaccination has no influence on mammary health and milk yield of dairy cows: a retrospective study addressing non-specific effects of vaccination
Authors: Kuhn Caroline , Zerbe Holm , Schuberth Hans-Joachim , Römer Anke , Egmond Debby Kraatz-van , Wesenauer Claudia , Resch Martina , Stoll Alexander , Zablotski Yury
Published: April 2024

Background: Prepartal vaccinations against newborn calf diarrhea pathogens are performed in the last weeks of pregnancy, with the intention to induce a maternal adaptive humoral immune response and to protect calves in the first weeks of life via colostral transferred pathogen-specific antibodies. There is evidence that vaccination-related innate immune responses can also affect the mother's immune system response to stressors. Whether such non-specific vaccine effects alter the disease susceptibility of dairy cows in the very sensitive transition period has not been addressed so far. In a retrospective cross-sectional study, we investigated the influence of prepartal maternal vaccination on mammary health and milk yield of the periparturient dairy cow. Herd record data from 73,378 dairy cows from 20 farms located in Eastern Germany, together with on-site-collected survey data, were analyzed using linear mixed-effects regression, quantile regression and random forest machine-learning algorithms. A total of 57,166 transition periods without prior vaccination, distributed along 16 herds, and 63,228 transition periods on 13 herds with prior vaccination are included. Additionally healthy primiparous cows from alternately vaccinated herds were analyzed.
Results: Herd management-related factors, such as herd in general and calving year, as well as parity proved to be most influential for mammary health and milk yield, while prepartal vaccination occurred as least influential. Vaccinated cows did not show significant differences in mastitis prevalence and somatic cell count as compared with non-vaccinated cows. Also, energy corrected milk yield on first test day of milk recordings, as well as in 305-days of lactation, of healthy primiparous cows with and without prior vaccination showed no significant differences.
Conclusions: This study presents evidence that prepartal vaccination against newborn calf diarrhea does not have significant non-specific effects on mammary health and milk yield parameters. Instead, the findings highlight the importance of herd management factors. This work emphasizes the significance of multivariable analysis based on a large database with high statistical power. It also recommends further research to explore potential non-specific vaccination effects on other organ systems, infectious diseases, and production metrics in cows.
Bioequivalence Study of Azilsartan in Healthy Chinese Subjects
Authors: Liu Xiaobei , Dai Xiangrong , Yu Xiaohui , Zhou Huan , Xie Jing
Published: April 2024

Objective
To study the bioequivalence of generic Azilsartan tablet and original drug in Chinese healthy subjects under single dose fasting and postprandial conditions.
Methods
A single-center, randomized, open, single-dose, double-cycle, double-cross clinical trial was designed. For fasting and postprandial tests, 30 healthy subjects were included for random cross-administration, respectively. The concentration of Azilsartan in human plasma was determined by liquid chromatographer-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) after a single oral administration of test preparation and reference preparation 20mg (1 tablet). The pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by WinNonlin8.2 software, and the equivalence was evaluated by SAS 9.4.
Results
The main pharmacokinetic parameters of test preparation and reference preparation of Azilsartan tablets in fasting test group were as follows: AUC0-t was (1.51×104±3511.19) and (1.58×104±3642.97) h•ng•mL-1, AUC0-∞ was (1.54×104±3692.29) and (1.62×104±3784.64) h•ng•mL-1, Cmax was (2055.00±438.70) and (2306.67±534.82) ng•mL-1, Tmax was (2.89±1.38) and (1.99±0.58) h, and t1/2 was (9.68±1.02) and (9.76±0.90) h, respectively. The main pharmacokinetic parameters of the test preparation and reference preparation of Azilsartan tablets in the postprandial test group were as follows: AUC0-t was (1.52×104±3278.33) and (1.54×104±3362.99) h•ng•mL-1, AUC0-∞ was (1.57×104±3474.30) and (1.58×104±3606.97) h•ng•mL-1, Cmax was (1959.67±304.10) and (1966.55±331.73) ng•mL-1, Tmax was (3.42±1.00) and (3.57±1.26) h, and t1/2 was (10.29±1.02) and (10.32±1.07) h, respectively. The geometric mean ratios and 90% confidence intervals for Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-∞ of test preparation and reference preparation in fasting test group and postprandial test group were in the range of 80.00%~125.00%. The incidence of adverse events in fasting and postprandial tests was 30% (9/30) and 33.3% (10/30), respectively, and no serious adverse events and unintended adverse drug reactions occurred.
Conclusion
The test preparation and the reference preparation of Azilsartan tablets are bioequivalent and safe in Chinese healthy subjects under fasting and postprandial conditions.
Assessment of Complementary Feeding Practices and Associated Factors among Infants Aged from 6-24 months in Hargeisa, Somaliland: A Cross-Sectional Study in 2024"
Authors: Hassan Hamse Kh. , Ahmed Abdeta M , Ahmed Mohamed A.
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: The weaning process from the breast milk to intake of other foods and drinks, during infancy is a very crucial stage whereby a child is vulnerable to malnourishment should proper feeding practices not be put into practice. This work was essentially important to assess the prevalence and associated factors of appropriate complementary feeding practice among infants aged from 6-24 months in Hargeisa, Republic of Somaliland 2024. .
Methods: A descriptive cross- sectional study was carried out among the primary health facilities in Hargeisa. The multistage sampling approach was very used and recruited 370 mother-and-child pairs. The data collection was done through the pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire with the WHO infant and young children feeding indicators (IYCF) IBM SPSS version 23 was employed to go into and encode quantitative data. data was presented in descriptive statistics using tables and figures by computing the frequencies and percentages of Appropriate complementary feeding practices, Bivariate logistic regression analyses was done to identify candidate variables for adjusted regression at p-values of <0.05 and multivariable logistic regression were presented as p-value <0.05 with Adjusted Odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals. All tests were two sided to determine statistical significance
Results: The analysis revealed that the overall prevalence of appropriate complementary feeding practices was 46%. While Unemployed mothers were more likely to practice ACFP compared to employed ones (AOR=3.5, 95% CI: 2.15-5.69, p<0.001). Larger families (≥5 members) exhibited higher adherence to ACFP (AOR=4.193, 95% CI: 2.650-6.634, p<0.001). Avoiding bottle feeding (AOR=2.907, 95% CI: 1.88-4.49, p<0.001), maintaining good WASH and hygiene status (AOR=4.488, 95% CI: 2.86-7.05, p<0.001), achieving adequate dietary diversity (AOR=0.032, 95% CI: 0.05-0.068, p<0.001), meeting the minimum acceptable diet (AOR=0.012, 95% CI: 0.005-0.027, p<0.001), and timely introduction of complementary foods at 6 months (AOR=2.504, 95% CI: 1.636-3.832, p<0.001) were all significantly associated with higher ACFP adherence. These findings underscore the importance of addressing socio-demographic and dietary factors to improve infant feeding practices in the community.
Conclusion and Global Health Implications: The research revealed that problematic complementary feeding practices were in the high cases. Measurement of composite indices showed a qualitative picture of these various practices and their components, understanding the diverse manifestations of complementary feeding. This information may be very indispensable to obtain targeted interventions aimed at improving the complementary feeding practices in this community.
Removal of Copper From the Vineyard Land of Pješivci (Montenegro) Using Amino Acids
Authors: Kastratović Vlatko , Knežević Bojana
Published: April 2024

Copper compounds in the form of fungicides are most commonly used as a measure of protection against vine diseases. Typically, around a dozen treatments are done throughout a year with a dispersion of approximately 5–10 kg of Cu per hectare. For many years, the remediation of heavy metals has often involved the use of ex-situ soil washing with chelating reagents. Amino acids have a lower metal chelation capability compared to EDTA and its derivatives, but they have numerous other advantages in comparison. The main goal of this research was to investigate the ability of 9 amino acids and one dipeptide to extract Cu from various vineyard soil samples and compare their chelating ability with other 'green' chelating agents. The average content of Cu extracted with amino acids is 34.7 ± 16.7 mg/kg or 30.3 ± 5.43 wt.% relative to the pseudo-total content. This is more than what was extracted with carboxylic acid salts (9.91 ± 7.49 mg/kg or 8.45 ± 5.56 wt.%) but less than with EDTA (98.5 ± 42.7 mg/kg or 79.9 ± 7.12 wt.%). The descending order of tested amino acids relative to the removed Cu (mg/kg) is: His > Ser > Thr > Leu > Gly > Val > Phe > Gly-Gly ~ Ala > Arg. The results of this paper show that the amino acid structure is the most important factor for efficient Cu extraction, while the physicochemical properties of the vineyard soil have less impact.
Modified Lomax Distribution: Properties and Applications
Authors: Telee Lal Babu Sah , Yadav Ram Suresh , Kumar Vijay
Published: April 2024

Here, a new distribution having three called Modified Lomax Distribution is proposed. Some important statistical properties of the introduced distribution are explained ere. The Least Square method of Estimation (LSE), Cramer-Von Mises method of estimation (CVM) and Maximum Likelihood method (MLE) methods are used for estimation of the parameter using R programming software. A data set is discussed and performed the goodness-of-fit to assess the application of the proposed distribution. Various methods of model comparison and model validation are also used. The proposed model called Modified Lomax Distribution is better than some earlier defined probability model.
Molecular characterizations of Cryptosporidium spp. in brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) from an animal feedlot in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Li Min , Li Ping , He Yongqiang , Zhao Chenhao , Yu Fuchang , Dong Hui , Zhang Zhenjie , Qi Meng
Published: April 2024

Cryptosporidiumspp. infection is common in rodents worldwide. In this study, 435 wild brown rats were captured from an animal feedlot in Xinjiang, China, and a fecal sample was collected directly from the rectal contents of each rat. The extracted DNA from all fecal samples was examined for Cryptosporidium spp. by PCR at SSU rRNA gene. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in brown rats was 5.5% (24/435). The infection rates varied across different animal enclosures. Specifically, infection rates were 0% (0/51) in chicken coop, 0% (0/3) in cowshed, 6.1% (6/98) in sheepfold, 7.6% (10/132) in pigsty, 7.0% (5/71) in dovecote, and 3.8% (3/80) in outdoor environments. The study identified three species and one genotype of Cryptosporidium, including C. occultus (n = 10), C. parvum (n = 4), C. ditrichi (n = 1), and Cryptosporidium Rat genotype IV (n = 9). Of the C. parvum isolates, two were successfully subtyped as IIdA19G1 (n = 2) at the gp60 gene. These findings present fundamental data on the prevalence and genetic evolution of Cryptosporidium in rodents.
A sensitive fluorescence analysis method of pathogenic microorganisms based on Silicon Photomultiplier
Authors: Chen Yi , Dai Licheng , Zhang Fei , Zhao Tianqi , Jin Shangzhong
Published: April 2024

The monitor of pathogenic microorganisms in water is important for public health and disease outbreaks prediction. Recently, the optical detection techniques have drawn much attention due to the advantages of rapid response, security and high sensitivity. In this paper, a fluorescence spectrometer based on 375 nm exciting laser and the microchannel liquid sample flow technology is proposed. The 4×4 narrowband filter array was coupled to a Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) array with single-photon sensitivity. B500 fluorescent microspheres and Escherichia coli were used for performance evaluation of the spectrometer. As a result, it is feasible to use random particle counting method to detect the bacteria concentration level in water even low to several CFU/mL. In addition, based on Python tools and neural network algorithm models, the fluorescence spectra of different kinds of substances (biotic and abiotic) can be classified with an accuracy of more than 97%. The method was successfully applied to tap water samples. The results suggest that the proposed method is applicable for on-site bacteria detection.
Long-term probabilistic analysis of slope stability: a case study from Northeast Algeria
Authors: Ghedjati Samir , Lamara Mohammed
Published: April 2024

A large landslide has occurred causing extend soil mass instabilities, along side the East-West motorway El Harrouch section, located in Ain Bouzian commune, Skikda province within Northeastern Algeria. In this paper a probabilistic study was performed for a slope profile with a total height of 36 m. In order to assess the effect of saturation conditions on the slope stability two hydrology cases are considered with and without water table. The analysis was conducted assuming long-term conditions; therefore the effective stresses and soil properties were adopted. First a determinist analysis was done using limit equilibrium and strength reduction methods. Then in order to investigate the failure probability of the slope, the Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) was employed. The input random variables considered in this analysis are the Cohesion C’ and friction angle φ’, with factor of safety (FOS) is the probabilistic system responses. In addition, a parametric study was carried out to inspect the effect of input geotechnical parameter variations on the reliability of slope stability.
Integrating the Classical and Molecular Approaches Toward Passion Fruit Resistance Against CABMV
Authors: de Oliveira Julie Anne Vieira Salgado , Viana Alexandre Pio , Cavalcante Natan Ramos , Santos Eileen Azevedo , Boechat Marcela Santana Bastos , Mendes Débora Souza , Coelho Luis Carlos Loose , Silva Flavia Alves , Lima Joameson Antunes , Costa Thays Correa
Published: April 2024

Passion fruit, a tropical species cultivated across various nations, faces challenges in expanding its cultivation areas due to several constraints, including total crop losses, caused by the fruit woodiness virus. In Brazil, this condition is attributed to the cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV), and currently, no passion fruit cultivars are resistant to this virus. This research aimed to assess the resistance to CABMV within the third backcross generation (BC3) of passion fruit, employing both phenotypic and genotypic methodologies to identify the most promising families and genotypes. The study utilized a randomized block design and a rating scale to evaluate the manifestation of virus symptoms, facilitating the estimation of the area under the disease progress curve. The 'disease resistance' trait was analyzed using mixed models to estimate variance components through Restricted Maximum Likelihood (REML) and to predict selection gains via Best Unbiased Linear Prediction (BLUP). Twenty-seven microsatellite markers (SSR) were applied to determine the genetic distances among 95 genotypes within the studied population. These SSR markers were effective in differentiating the evaluated groups. Among the top 30 genotypes ranked for CABMV resistance, four genotypes from different families exhibited superior traits, making them suitable candidates for the next backcross generation.
Molecular Cloning and Immunogenicity Determination of Norovirus Proteins as Vaccine Candidates
Authors: Bingül Demet Yalçın , Başbülbül Gamze
Published: April 2024

Human Noroviruses (HuNoVs) are considered the main cause of gastroenteritis in developed and developing countries. Aim of this research was to recombinant production of some structural and functional Norovirus proteins and to determine their immunogenicity in mice. Synthetic VP1, VP2, p22 and a polypeptide (EP123) sequences were amplified with PCR and then amplicons in pET-30a (+) expression vector were transformed into E. coli BL21 cells. Recombinantly produced proteins were purified by Ni-NTA chromotograhy and ammonium sulphate precipitation. Molecular weights of recombinant VP1, VP2, P22 and EP123 were estimated as 63, 34.4, 26 and 27.9 kDa, respectively. Indirect ELISA method was applied to detect IgG levels from serum samples of vaccinated mice. Considering that samples with a p/n ratio of 2 and greater than 2 were positive, VP1 was found to be immunogenic up to a dilution of 1/160 (p/n = 2.09). While VP2 and P22 were found to be immunogenic up to a dilution of 1/80 and 1/20 respectively, EP123 did not give positive result in any dilution. These results suggest that recombinantly produced VP1, has immunogenic potential, whereas VP2, P22 and EP123 polypeptide did not show promising result as a vaccine candidate.
Associations between urine glyphosate levels and metabolic health risks: insights from a large cross-sectional population-based study
Authors: Otaru Sarah , Jones Laura E. , Carpenter David O.
Published: April 2024

Background: Prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) in American adults has risen from 37.6% in the 2011-12 period to 41.8% in 2017-2018. Environmental exposure, particularly to common compounds such as glyphosate, has drawn increasing attention as a potential risk factor.
Methods: We employ three cycles of data (2013-2018) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in a cross-sectional study to examine potential associations between urine glyphosate measurements and the MetS. We first created a MetS score using Exploratory Factor Analysis of 6 International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria for MetS, with data drawn from the 2013-2018 NHANES cycles, and validated this score independently on an additional associated metric, Albumin to Creatinine Ratio. The score was validated via a machine-learning approach in predicting ACR score via binary classification, then used in multivariable regression to test association between quartile-categorized glyphosate exposure and the MetS score.
Results: In adjusted multivariable regressions, quartile regressions between glyphosate exposure and MetS score show a significant inverted U-shaped or saturating dose-response profile, often with largest effect for exposures in quartile 3. Exploration of potential effect modification by sex, race, and age category shows significant differences by race and age, with older people (ages > 65 years) and non-Hispanic African American participants showing larger effect sizes for all exposure quartiles.
Conclusions: We find that urinary glyphosate is significantly associated with a statistical score designed to capture the MetS, and that dose-response is nonlinear, with advanced age and non-Hispanic African American and Mexican American and other Hispanic participants showing higher effect sizes.
Performance Improvement of Savonius Hydrokinetic Turbine Using Upstream Crescent Shape Deflector
Authors: Rehman Muneeb Ur , Ali Zaib
Published: April 2024

The use of non-renewable sources such as coal, natural gas, and oil for energy generation has caused negative environmental impacts. In response, clean and sustainable energy technologies are being rapidly developed. Hydrokinetic turbines, which can harness kinetic energy from free-flowing water in various settings, have been studied for their potential to generate electricity. The Savonius turbine is a hydrokinetic turbine that utilizes drag force and has a straightforward design that is independent of flow direction but suffers from lower efficiency. In this work, the effect of a crescent-shaped deflector installed upstream of the returning blade on the performance of the Savonius hydrokinetic turbine has been investigated. The numerical results indicate that the overall performance of the Savonius hydrokinetic turbine was positively influenced by the installation of the crescent deflector upstream, with a maximum power coefficient (Cp) of 0.264 achieved at a Tip Speed Ratio (TSR)=0.8. A further increase of up to 19.51% in the coefficient of power (Cp) of the Savonius hydrokinetic turbine was obtained at TSR=0.8 when a flat plate deflector upstream of the driving blade was installed along with a crescent-shaped deflector.
A Preliminary Investigation of the Differences in Immune Responses in Different Strains of Mice with Localized Allergic Rhinitis Tolerance Models
Authors: Zhang Qidi , Zhu Wanting , Zou Zhixin , Yu PHD. Wenting , Gao PHD. Pei , Long Ziyi , Wang Ying , Chen Jianjun
Published: April 2024

Background：
BALB/c and C57BL/6 are two common mice strains for the study of allergic rhinitis (AR). We previously found that both mice differed in symptoms and immune phenotypes in the local allergy models.This study aimed to systematically compare the immune differences between the two mice in a local tolerance model and explore the underlying mechanisms.
Methods:
We used ovalbumin (OVA) as a topical nasal drop for 15 weeks in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. Allergic symptoms were recorded. Serum-specific OVA antibodies (IgE, IgG1, IgG2a) and cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ) in the spleen cell culture supernatants were tested. The expression of eosinophils, goblet cells, TGF-β, IL-10, eotaxin, and RNA-seq on the nasal mucosa was examined.
Results:
Nasal symptoms of BALB/c worsened first and then relieved, whereas C57BL/6 showed continuously worsened symptoms. The serum antibodies levels in BALB/c increased over time. IgE and IgG1 levels in C57BL/6 showed a trend similar to that of BALB/c, while IgG2a levels did not increase throughout the course. IL-4 first increased and then decreased, while IL-10 remained increased in BALB/c, whereasC57BL/6 showed no significant changes. In BALB/c, the expression of eosinophils and eotaxin in the nasal mucosa increased to a certain extent and remained unchanged, whereas TGF-β and IL-10 expression was upregulated. In C57BL/6, the expression of eosinophils and eotaxin was higher than that in BALB/c at the 15th week. The RNA-sequencing results showed that gene expression in BALB/c was upregulated in biological processes, the tolerance and negative regulatory pathway at the 15th week. Gene expression in C57BL/6 is upregulated in cell synthesis- and secretion-related pathways.
Conclusion:
Local tolerance and systemic sensitisation was successfully induced in BALB/c by long-term stimulation with OVA. However, local tolerance could not be induced in C57BL/6 . The normal function of T regulatory cells is key to local tolerance.
Characterizing gut fauna of American cockroach: Presence of Lophomonas striata and Iodamoeba bütschlii
Authors: Paul Sneha , Sardar Shatavisa , Ghosh Jayati
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives Cockroach gut houses mostly anaerobic microbial communities. Most of these eukaryotes live as endocommensal rather as pathogenic entity. The morphological diversity of the eukaryotic microorganisms present in the intestinal tract of American cockroach, Periplanata americana were investigated.
Methods Cockroach host were dissected in 0.67% saline and temporary iodine wet mount were prepared. Microrganisms were stained permanently with Delafield and Heidenhain haematoxylin. Feulgen methods were used to study nuclear organization and PAS method was performed to observe mucopolysaccharide utilization and localization. Prevalence of all microscopic specimens was also noted.
Results The study revealed the assemblage of complex eukaryotic fauna showing unique morphological peculiarities. Two oxyurid helminth genuses namely Hammerschmidtiella and Thelastoma were isolated with 44% and 68% prevalence respectively. Among the protozoans the highest prevalence was shown by Nyctotherus ovalis (91.2%). Feulgen reaction revealed that in most of the specimen micronucleus was embedded over the macronucleus of N. ovalis. PAS positive granules were mostly located in the anterior one third region of the cell. A new species of Nyctotheruswas also described (Nyctotherus membralis) showing characteristic membrane fold. Iodamoeba bütschlii (Prowazek, 1912) was isolated and reported for the first time from Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Another human pathogen reported to cause lung infection, Lophomonas striata was also detected with a prevalence of 9%. A moderate number of Endamoeba blattae (41%) and Gregarine blattarum (18%) isolated from hind gut and mid gut respectively.
Conclusions Iodamoeba bütschlii was detected for the first time from Kolkata, West Bengal, India. The isolation of Lophomonas striata, the potential pathogen of human lungs from cockroach gut constitutes a major health risk. Discovery of new species of the ciliate Nyctotherus from cockroach hind intestine also stimulates interest on its contribution towards the host physiology.
Ruxolitinib-loaded poly-ɛ-caprolactone (PCL) nanoparticles inhibit the JAK2/STAT5 signaling via downregulating Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 on BT474 breast cancer cells
Authors: CELIK Esin GUVENIR , EROGLU Onur
Published: April 2024

Background: To regulate proliferation, JAK/STAT signaling is important. Reducing proliferation and inducing cell death with gene-specific inhibitors such as Ruxolitinib, an RTK inhibitor targeting JAK1/2, are therapeutic approaches. The use of nanoparticles can reduce the toxic and side effects of drugs, as they act directly on cancer cells, and can selectively increase drug accumulation in tumor cells. PCL is a polymer that is frequently used in drug development. This study aimed to increase the effectiveness of Ruxolitinib in BT474 cells by synthesizing Rux-PCL-NPs and to understand the effect of JAK/STAT and apoptotic cell death in cells.
Methods and Results: Rux-PCL-NPs synthesized by nanoprecipitation. Moreover, Rux-PCL-NPs have a spherical and mean particle size of 219 - 88.6 nm, and a zeta potency of 0.471 - 0.453 mV. In vitro cytotoxicity and anti-proliferative effects were determined by MTT and Soft Agar Colony Formation assay, respectively. The effects of Ruxolitinib, PCL-NPs, and Rux-PCL-NPs on apoptosis and JAK/STAT pathways in cells were examined by western blot assay. PCL-NPs didn’t have a toxic effect on the cells. IC50 values of Ruxolitinib decreased 50-fold with the nanoform of Ruxolitinib. By inhibiting the JAK/STAT pathway by reducing JAK2 and STAT5 expression, Rux-PCL-NPs promote cell death.
Conclusions: Our results revealed the roles of Ruxolitinib, increased drug efficiency with Rux-PCL-NPs, on regulating apoptosis and JAK2/STAT5 pathways. Rux-PCL-NPs can be used to increase the drug efficacy of Ruxolitinib.
Association Between Symptoms of Depression and Generalised Anxiety Disorder evaluated through PHQ-9 and GAD-7 and anti-obesity treatment in Polish Adult Women
Authors: Witaszek Tomasz , Kłoda Karolina , Mastalerz-Migas Agnieszka , Babicki Mateusz
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Obesity impacts mental health greatly. Psychological factors may influence the effectiveness of its treatment. This study aimed to compare symptoms of generalised anxiety disorder and depression among adult women across different weight categories. We examined the associations between PHQ-9 and GAD-7 questionnaire scores, the use of anti-obesity medications, and former bariatric surgery. We hypothesised that higher BMI would correlate with higher questionnaires’ scores, and that anti-obesity medication usage and bariatric surgery status would impact them.
Methods
The sample consisted of 1,105 adult women. The Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) utilising the 7-item Generalised Anxiety Disorders Scale (GAD-7) and the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was used.
Results
Both GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores correlated positively with BMI (r = 0.121, p < 0.001 and r = 0.173, p < 0.001, respectively), and negatively with age (r=-0.106, p < 0.001 and r=-0.103, p < 0.001, respectively). Patients undergoing treatment with semaglutide scored lower for both anxiety symptoms (8.71 ± 6.16, p = 0.013) and depression symptoms (9.76 ± 6.37, p = 0.013). Women who underwent bariatric surgery screened less frequently for anxiety (8.03 ± 6.27, p = 0.002) but not for depression.
Conclusion
An interdisciplinary approach involving mental health professionals within the therapeutic team can comprehensively address factors contributing to obesity development and treatment outcomes. More investigation of semaglutide's use is needed, due to the promising evidence suggesting a positive effect on decreasing the severity of depression and anxiety symptoms, to assess the direct or indirect character of this influence. The link between bariatric surgery and mental health status requires more research.
Multi-Features and Multi-Deep Learning Networks to identify, prevent and control pests in tremendous farm fields combining IoT and pests sound analysis
Authors: Ali Md. Akkas , Sharma Anupam Kumar , Dhanaraj Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

The agriculture sectors, which account for approximately 50% of the worldwide economic production, are the fundamental cornerstone of each nation. The significance of precision agriculture cannot be understated in assessing crop conditions and identifying suitable treatments in response to diverse pest infestations. The conventional method of pest identification exhibits instability and yields subpar levels of forecast accuracy. Nevertheless, the monitoring techniques frequently exhibit invasiveness, require significant time and resources, and are susceptible to various biases. Numerous insect species can emit distinct sounds, which can be readily identified and recorded with minimal expense or exertion. Applying deep learning techniques enables the automated detection and classification of insect sounds derived from field recordings, hence facilitating the monitoring of biodiversity and the assessment of species distribution ranges. The current research introduces an innovative method for identifying and detecting pests through IoT-based computerized modules that employ an integrated deep-learning methodology using the dataset comprising audio recordings of insect sounds. This included techniques, the DTCDWT method, Blackman-Nuttall window, Savitzky-Golay filter, FFT, DFT, STFT, MFCC, BFCC, LFCC, acoustic detectors, and PID sensors. The proposed research integrated the MF-MDLNet to train, test, and validate data. 9,600 pest auditory sounds were examined to identify their unique characteristics and numerical properties. The recommended system designed and implemented the ultrasound generator, with a programmable frequency and control panel for preventing and controlling pests and a solar-charging system for supplying power to connected devices in the networks spanning large farming areas. The suggested approach attains an accuracy (99.82%), a sensitivity (99.94%), a specificity (99.86%), a recall (99.94%), an F1 score (99.89%), and a precision (99.96%). The findings of this study demonstrate a significant enhancement compared to previous scholarly investigations, including VGG 16, VOLOv5s, TSCNNA, YOLOv3, TrunkNet, DenseNet, and DCNN.