bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supplementary fig 1 from Sustained Minimal Residual Disease Negativity in Multiple Myeloma is Associated with Stool Butyrate and Healthier Plant-Based Diets
Authors: Shah Urvi A. , Maclachlan Kylee H. , Derkach Andriy , Salcedo Meghan , Barnett Kelly , Caple Julia , Blaslov Jenna , Tran Linh , Ciardiello Amanda , Burge Miranda , Shekarkhand Tala , Adintori Peter , Cross Justin , Pianko Matthew J. , Hosszu Kinga , McAvoy Devin , Mailankody Sham , Korde Neha , Hultcrantz Malin , Hassoun Hani , Tan Carlyn R. , Lu Sydney X. , Patel Dhwani , Diamond Benjamin , Shah Gunjan , Scordo Michael , Lahoud Oscar , Chung David J. , Landau Heather , Usmani Saad Z. , Giralt Sergio , Taur Ying , Landgren C. Ola , Block Gladys , Block Torin , Peled Jonathan U. , van den Brink Marcel R.M. , Lesokhin Alexander M.
Published: August 2024

Supplementary Figure S1. Volcano plot showing the difference in the relative abundance of butyrate producers between sustained MRD negative and MRD positive/non-sustained MRD negative.
Supplementary Table S2 from Senescence Rewires Microenvironment Sensing to Facilitate Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Chen Hsuan-An , Ho Yu-Jui , Mezzadra Riccardo , Adrover Jose M. , Smolkin Ryan , Zhu Changyu , Woess Katharina , Bernstein Nicholas , Schmitt Georgia , Fong Linda , Luan Wei , Wuest Alexandra , Tian Sha , Li Xiang , Broderick Caroline , Hendrickson Ronald C. , Egeblad Mikala , Chen Zhenghao , Alonso-Curbelo Direna , Lowe Scott W.
Published: August 2024

RNA-Seq data of proliferating (PRO) or senescent (SEN) NSP liver tumor cells, for both p53-restoration and drug-induced (trametinib+palbociclib) settings. PRO and SEN cells were also treated with the BET inhibitor JQ-1 (500 n, 48 h), to expose BRD4-mediated transcriptional output in each cellular state.
Figure 7 from Senescence Rewires Microenvironment Sensing to Facilitate Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Chen Hsuan-An , Ho Yu-Jui , Mezzadra Riccardo , Adrover Jose M. , Smolkin Ryan , Zhu Changyu , Woess Katharina , Bernstein Nicholas , Schmitt Georgia , Fong Linda , Luan Wei , Wuest Alexandra , Tian Sha , Li Xiang , Broderick Caroline , Hendrickson Ronald C. , Egeblad Mikala , Chen Zhenghao , Alonso-Curbelo Direna , Lowe Scott W.
Published: August 2024

IFNγ signaling in senescent tumor cells is necessary for immune surveillance. A,Ifngr1 KO of both proliferating and senescent NSP cells validated by flow cytometry. B, Tumor regression phenotype of Ifngr1 KO or control sgRNA–transfected tumor cells orthotopically injected into Bl/6N mice upon p53 restoration. A control sgRNA targeting a gene desert located on Chr8 (Ctrl KO) serves as a control. C, Tumor regression phenotype of parental NSP tumor cells orthotopically injected into WT or Ifng KO mice upon p53 restoration. D, Representative macroscopic images of tumor collected at day 21 after p53 restoration from C. E, Flow cytometry analysis of CD45 abundance in tumor from indicated groups. F, Representative immunofluorescence in p53-suppressed (proliferating) and p53-restored (senescent, 7 days after p53 restoration) tumor from the indicated host. NSP tumor cells were transduced with GFP-expressing vector for visualization. Scale bars, 50 μm. Data are presented as mean ± SEM. Two-tailed Student t test was used. **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001.
Supplementary Table 3 from Molecular Pathways and Cellular Subsets Associated with Adverse Clinical Outcomes in Overlapping Immune-Related Myocarditis and Myositis
Authors: Siddiqui Bilal A. , Palaskas Nicolas L. , Basu Sreyashi , Dai Yibo , He Zhong , Yadav Shalini S. , Allison James P. , Sheth Rahul A. , Tummala Sudhakar , Buja Maximilian , Bhattacharjee Meenakshi B. , Iliescu Cezar , Rawther-Karedath Anishia , Deswal Anita , Wang Linghua , Sharma Padmanee , Subudhi Sumit K.
Published: August 2024

Clinical characteristics of control patients
Figure 6 from FLT3/CD99 Bispecific Antibody–Based Nanoparticles for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ali Atham , Phan Alvin , Vaikari Vijaya , Park Mincheol , Pospiech Mateusz , Chu Ryan , Meng Yiting , MacKay John A. , Alachkar Houda
Published: August 2024

Midostaurin-resistant MV4-11 cells show sensitivity to CD99/FLT3 antibody-based nanoparticles. MV4-11 cells were selected with resistance to increasing concentrations of midostaurin during several months of culture and evaluated by flow cytometry. A–C, Apoptosis experiments illustrate how the live-cell (Q4) percentage for midostaurin-resistant MV4-11 cells is decreased when compared to naïve cells, eluding at their maintained and increased sensitivity to the different treatment formulations. D, The antibody-based nanoparticles were evaluated against both naïve and resistant cell lines, which show that the nanoparticles maintain their effect in resistant MV4-11 cells, illustrated by the reduction of cell viability. E and F, Engraftment of 106 MV4-11-R cells in NSG mice following the same treatment regiments as previous MV4-11 in vivo experiments show a significant decrease in the percentage of huCD45 cells between A192 and the Co-Assembled construct. Additionally, naïve MV4-11 cells were engrafted as a control to illustrate the effect of midostaurin.
TABLE 1 from Persistent Ethnicity-Associated Disparity in Antitumor Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors Despite Equal Access
Authors: Florez Marcus A. , Kemnade Jan O. , Chen Nan , Du Wendy , Sabichi Anita L. , Wang Daniel Y. , Huang Quillan , Miller-Chism Courtney N. , Jotwani Aparna , Chen Albert C. , Hernandez David , Sandulache Vlad C.
Published: August 2024

Patient and treatment characteristics
Data from FLT3/CD99 Bispecific Antibody–Based Nanoparticles for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ali Atham , Phan Alvin , Vaikari Vijaya , Park Mincheol , Pospiech Mateusz , Chu Ryan , Meng Yiting , MacKay John A. , Alachkar Houda
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Cluster of differentiation 99 (CD99) is a receptor that is significantly upregulated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 internal tandem duplication mutation in AML (FLT3-ITD AML) exhibits even higher levels of CD99 expression. Our group previously employed a novel peptide platform technology called elastin-like polypeptides and fused it with single-chain antibodies capable of binding to FLT3 (FLT3-A192) or CD99 (CD99-A192). Targeting either FLT3 or CD99 using FLT3-A192 or CD99-A192 led to AML cell death and reduced leukemia burden in AML mouse models. Here, we report on the development of a novel Co-Assembled construct that is capable of binding to both CD99 and FLT3 and the antileukemia activity of the bispecific construct in FLT3-ITD AML preclinical models. This dual-targeting Co-Assembled formulation exhibits cytotoxic effects on AML cells (AML cell lines and primary blasts) and reduced leukemia burden and prolonged survival in FLT3-ITD AML mouse models. Altogether, this study demonstrates the potential of an innovative therapeutic strategy that targets both FLT3 and CD99 in FLT3-ITD AML.
Significance:
This study investigates a dual-targeting strategy in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), focusing on FLT3 and CD99. The approach demonstrates enhanced therapeutic potential, presenting a novel option for AML treatment.
PACS2, PACS1, and VACTERL: A Clinical Overlap
Authors: Massey Hannah , Tennant Stephen , Dean John ,   The DDD study
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Whole-exome sequencing has led to the discovery of new genes involved in developmental delay. Two of these are the evolutionary linked proteins phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 1 (PACS1) and phosphofurin acidic cluster sorting protein 2 (PACS2), which function as metabolic switches. We present a case of a patient with the previously described PACS2 c.624G>A; p.Glu209Lys variant, with distinct clinical features, suggesting an overlap between the two conditions. Case Presentation: The patient presented with infantile epilepsy, developmental delay, and cerebellar hypoplasia previously described with PACS2. However, he also had novel features not noted in the literature before; this included anal atresia, tetralogy of Fallot, and vertebral abnormalities. This constellation of features had given him a label of VACTERL. Conclusion: Cardiac abnormalities are more commonly seen in PACS1 variants, and this case strengthens the phenotypic similarities between the two conditions. We also explore the genetic mechanisms causing the cardiac and anal anomalies seen in our patient and suggest the PACS2 disease spectrum should be expanded.
Association of Accommodation and Convergence with Axial Length Elongation in Children with Basic Intermittent Exotropia: A 12-Month Observational Study
Authors: Li Jing-Xin , Hao Jie , Liu Xiang-Xiang , Hong Jie , Li Hui-Xin , Zhang Qiong-Yue , Zhao Yi-Yang , Li Lei , Fu Jing
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The aim of the study was to investigate the association of parameters related to accommodation and convergence and axial elongation in basic intermittent exotropia (IXT) patients and the potential clinical predictors of axial length (AL) growth. Methods: A total of 140 basic IXT patients were recruited in this study. The medians of AL growth in different age brackets were chosen to divide the subjects into group A (slower axial elongation group, n = 69) and group B (faster axial elongation group, n = 71). Parameters of dominant and nondominant eyes were compared and analyzed during the 12-month follow-up period. The parameters, including baseline refraction, angle of deviation, Newcastle control score (NCS), accommodative amplitude (AMP), accommodative facility (AMF), accommodative response, positive or negative relative accommodation (PRA/NRA), and near point of convergence (NPC), were analyzed via univariate and multivariate regression. Results: Subjects in the faster axial elongation group tended to have more myopic spherical equivalents (t = 3.956, p < 0.001), greater AMPs of dominant eyes (t = −2.238, p = 0.027), and fewer near points of convergence (t = 2.347, p = 0.020) than in the slower axial elongation group. For dominant eyes, logistic and linear regression analysis revealed that more negative spherical equivalents (OR = 0.603, p < 0.001; β = −0.045, p < 0.001), greater AMPs (OR = 1.201, p = 0.027; β = 0.023, p = 0.010), and less near points of convergence (OR = 0.883, p = 0.021; β = −0.012, p = 0.019) were correlated with the faster axial elongation. For nondominant eyes, a more myopic spherical equivalent (OR = 0.682; p = 0.001; β = −0.029, p = 0.005) was the only parameter correlated with faster axial elongation through regression analysis. Conclusion: In children with basic IXT, faster axial elongation in the dominant eyes was associated with more myopic spherical equivalents, greater AMPs, and lower NPCs. These accommodative parameters can serve as potential clinical indicators for monitoring myopia progression in addition to AL.
Aging Delays Completion of Head Rotation Cycles in Continuous Gaze Stabilization Exercises despite Putative Healthy Vestibular Function
Authors: Souza Wagner H. , Zobeiri Omid A. , Millar Jennifer L. , Cullen Kathleen E. , Schubert Michael C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Aging is associated with loss of balance, with falls being one of the leading causes of death among the elderly in the USA. Gaze stabilization exercises (GSE) improve balance control in vestibular populations and could be useful to prevent falls in healthy individuals. However, the extent to which aging affects head kinematics in GSE is unknown. Methods: Forty-eight younger (n = 25, 24 ± 6 years, 60% female) and older (n = 23, 66 ± 5 years, 56% female) adults completed six 30-s GSE. Participants were asked to maintain gaze fixation on a stationary target while continuously performing head movements in pitch (e.g., vertical) and yaw (e.g., horizontal) directions. The visual target was placed on the wall 1 m or 2 m away or handheld at arm’s length. Head kinematics were recorded with an inertial measurement unit placed on the back of the participants’ head. Results: Older adults took significantly more time (e.g., delay) to complete cycles of head rotation in both pitch and yaw compared to younger participants across all GSE. Such delay was further increased during yaw head rotation while fixating gaze of the 1 m target. The average peak velocity (APV) and average angular displacement (AAD), however, were equivalent between groups in all GSE. Conclusion: Aging leads to the maintenance of head rotation APV and AAD at the expense of delayed cycles of head rotation, suggesting an age-dependent prioritization strategy (e.g., adapt duration first, range second) during continuous head movements. The distance of the visual target and head movement direction influenced elderly performance and should be considered when prescribing GSE to older populations.
Hyperadrenergic Postural Tachycardia Syndrome: Clinical Biomarkers and Response to Guanfacine
Authors: Okamoto L.E. , Urechie V. , Rigo S. , Abner J.J. , Giesecke M. , Muldowney J.A.S. , Furlan R. , Shibao C.A. , Shirey-Rice J.K. , Pulley J.M. , Diedrich A. , Biaggioni Italo
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

A subset of patients with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) are thought to have a primary hyperadrenergic cause. We assessed clinical biomarkers to identify those that would benefit from sympatholytic therapy.

METHODS:

We measured sympathetic function (supine muscle sympathetic nerve activity, upright plasma norepinephrine, and blood pressure responses to the Valsalva maneuver) in 28 patients with POTS (phenotyping cohort) to identify clinical biomarkers that are associated with responsiveness to the central sympatholytic guanfacine in a separate uncontrolled treatment cohort of 38 patients that had received guanfacine clinically for suspected hyperadrenergic POTS (HyperPOTS).

RESULTS:

In the phenotyping cohort, an increase in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) >17 mm Hg during late phase 2 of the Valsalva maneuver identified patients with the highest quartile of resting muscle sympathetic nerve activity (HyperPOTS) with 71% sensitivity and 85% specificity. In the treatment cohort, patients with HyperPOTS, identified by this clinical biomarker, more often reported clinical improvement (85% versus 44% in nonhyperadrenergic;
P
=0.016), had better orthostatic tolerance (∆Orthostatic Hypotension Daily Activities Scale: −1.9±0.9 versus 0.1±0.5;
P
=0.032), and reported less chronic fatigue (∆PROMIS Fatigue Short Form 7a: −12.9±2.7 versus −2.2±2.2;
P
=0.005) in response to guanfacine.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results are consistent with the concept that POTS is caused by a central sympathetic activation in a subset of patients, which can be identified clinically by an exaggerated DBP increase during phase 2 of the Valsalva maneuver and improved by central sympatholytic therapy. These results support further clinical trials to determine the safety and efficacy of guanfacine in patients with POTS enriched for the presence of this clinical biomarker.
Association of Race and Ethnicity and Social Factors With Postpartum Primary Care or Cardiology Follow‐Up Visits Among Individuals With Preeclampsia
Authors: Countouris Malamo E. , Shapero Kayle S. , Swabe Gretchen , Hauspurg Alisse , Davis Esa M. , Magnani Jared W.
Published: August 2024

Background

Preeclampsia is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and death. Primary care or cardiology follow‐up, in complement to routine postpartum obstetric care, provides an essential opportunity to address cardiovascular risk. Prior studies investigating racial differences in the recommended postpartum follow‐up have incompletely assessed the influence of social factors. We hypothesized that racial and ethnic differences in follow‐up with a primary care provider or cardiologist would be modified by income and education.

Methods and Results

We identified adult individuals with preeclampsia (September 2014 to September 2019) in a national administrative database. We compared occurrence of a postpartum visit with a primary care provider or cardiologist within 1 year after delivery by race and ethnicity using multivariable logistic regression models. We examined whether education or income modified the association between race and ethnicity and the likelihood of follow‐up. Of 18 050 individuals with preeclampsia (aged 31.8±5.7 years), Black individuals (11.7%) had lower odds of primary care provider or cardiology follow‐up within 1 year after delivery compared with White individuals (adjusted odds ratio, 0.77 [95% CI, 0.70–0.85]) as did Hispanic individuals (14.8%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.73–0.87]). Black and Hispanic individuals with higher educational attainment were more likely to have follow‐up than those with lower educational attainment (
P
for interaction=0.033) as did those in higher income brackets (
P
for interaction=0.006).

Conclusions

We identified racial and ethnic differences in primary care or cardiology follow‐up in the year postpartum among individuals diagnosed with preeclampsia, a disparity that may be modified by social factors. Enhanced system‐level interventions are needed to reduce barriers to follow‐up care.
Iron Accumulation and Metabolic Alterations in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Pacheco Gardenia , Gomes Joao A. , Cho Kevin , Morris Daniel L. , Segal Maddison I. , Adkins‐Travis Kayla R. , Stancliffe Ethan , Patti Gary J. , Ziegler Christopher J. , Shriver Leah P.
Published: August 2024

Background

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is a severe type of stroke that is associated with poor outcome. A subset of patients with aSAH will develop secondary complications, most notably delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI), which potentiates neurological injury. In this study, we investigate the relationship between cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) iron accumulation, brain metabolism, and neuronal injury in patients with aSAH with or without DCI.

Methods

We collected longitudinal CSF samples of patients immediately after hospitalization and 5 to 8 days after onset of ictus. CSF was analyzed with electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and metabolomics to determine the presence of redox‐active iron species and metabolic alterations associated with aSAH and DCI. Neuronal pathology induced by iron overload was characterized in neuronal and meningeal cell models.

Results

Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy identified higher levels of an Fe(III) protoporphyrin IX (hemin)‐like molecule in the CSF of patients who developed DCI compared with patients who did not show secondary ischemic injury after aSAH or controls without neurological disease. Treatment of a human neuronal cell line with Fe(III)‐containing hemin resulted in the disruption of the axonal mitochondrial network and loss of viability. This was cell‐type dependent as a meningeal cell line was resistant to hemin treatment, despite both cell types upregulating the iron ferroxidase ceruloplasmin. Metabolomic profiling of the same CSF samples uncovered significant dysregulation of metabolic pathways associated with energy generation and amino acid utilization, consistent with mitochondrial dysfunction. Using machine learning, we identified a set of metabolites that predicted intensive care unit length of stay.

Conclusion

aSAH leads to the accumulation of an Fe(III)‐containing heme species in the CSF of a subset of patients who subsequently develop DCI. The accumulation of an Fe(III) protoporphyrin induces axonal mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to cell death. aSAH alters the CSF metabolome involved in mitochondrial function and a subset of these metabolites are predictive of intensive care unit stay. These results identify potential biomarkers for mitochondrial pathology and provide insight into alterations in brain iron metabolism triggered by aSAH.
A survey of nocturnality and risk for savanna chimpanzees at Assirik, Senegal
Authors: Lindshield Stacy , Ndiaye Papa Ibnou , Walters Addie , Bogart Stephanie L.
Published: August 2024

Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) in Senegal may use nocturnality to mitigate hyperthermia risk in semi-arid environments but the degree of nocturnality for such chimpanzees also in sympatry with large carnivores remains uncertain. We compared diel activity among chimpanzees and their potential predators at Assirik in Niokolo-Koba National Park and contextualized these findings relative to other unit-groups in savanna landscapes. From 2015-2018, we generated a predator inventory using multi-modal methods and monitored the diel activity of chimpanzees and predators with camera traps [ camera trap (CT) days]. From 2015-2023, we also surveyed for evidence of predation during recce walks. Six potential nonhuman predators occur at Assirik, including lions (Panthera leo), leopards (Panthera pardus), spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta), African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus), Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus), and rock pythons (Python sebae). We documented one suspected case of a predator killing a chimpanzee. Nocturnality comprised 12.7% of CT events for chimpanzees and these events were more concentrated at twilight. Chimpanzees were more active during the day, predators were more active at night, and there was substantial temporal overlap among chimpanzees and potential predators during twilight intervals. Our findings support the hypothesis that savanna chimpanzees in Senegal are active at night in response to the extremely hot environment. We hypothesize that Assirik chimpanzees experience a tension between decreasing hyperthermia and increasing predation risk during nocturnality.
Who Wants to Become a Role Model? Personal Narratives of Success and Internal Dynamics of Change in Nairobi’s Ghettos
Authors: Lanne Jean-Baptiste , Pommerolle Marie-Emmanuelle
Published: August 2024

This article contributes to an understanding of the internal dynamics of change in Nairobi’s ghettos (Kenya). Spaces of relegation for the urban poor, referred to by our interlocutors as “ghettos”, are often portrayed either as objects of international interventionism or as deprived areas neglected by national or metropolitan policies. We argue that social and material change in these spaces can be conceptualised at the interface between personal narratives of change and the structural urban dynamics at play. Using qualitative methods of individual narratives, we examine in particular how individuals identified as successful by those around them, born and raised in Nairobi’s marginalised neighbourhoods, construct their self trajectories as role models to invest themselves as vectors of change within their “ghetto”. Drawing on literature that focuses on the power of personal and collective narratives of social change, we explore how they perform their narrative and transform it into a “narrative capital”. This way, they contribute to the production of a narrative that is partially detached from external developmentalist imperatives, emphasising the importance of intergenerational links as a driving force for change, as well as the links that the ghetto maintains with its immediate urban environment.
Reconstructing stop and nasal-initial 1st person pronouns to Proto-Trans-Himalayan
Authors: DELANCEY Scott
Published: August 2024

Two 1st person singular pronouns, #ŋa and #ka, are reconstructed for Proto-Trans-Himalayan. The functions of these roots and the relation between them in the proto-language have not been definitively established. Other work has presented a distinct case for a 1st person plural #ka in PTH. This paper compares the evidence for 1st person singular and plural #ka and argues that they are the same root, which in some languages has shifted from plural to singular function.
A decade of advances in black soldier fly research: from genetics to sustainability
Authors: Athanassiou C.G. , Coudron C.L. , Deruytter D. , Rumbos C.I. , Gasco L. , Gai F. , Sandrock C. , De Smet J. , Tettamanti G. , Francis A. , Petrusan J.-I. , Smetana S.
Published: August 2024

Black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens, is one of the most explored insect species mass-produced for feed, but also for food and technical purposes. Considering the rapid developments in both research and industrial production of this insect species in the last decade, this review intends to reflect on the most current scientific insights and define the future trends and needs for the most relevant associated research fields. The review reflects on the aspects of BSF production and reproduction, utilization of BSF biomass as components of animals’ feeds and human food. It also provides reflection on genetics, microbiology and sustainability. The analysis identifies the need in future research associated with compositions of fungal and viral communities of insects and their environments and mapping the dynamics of BSF gut physiology and microbiota in varying conditions. High interest will be devoted to establishing genomic resources, to characterize genotypic diversity, and to harness its potential through selective breeding to improve BSF performance quantitatively and/or qualitatively. Further research will follow on the use of BSF for food and feed development, potentially for specific application cases, associated with animal gut microbiome improvement and antimicrobial properties of BSF biomass. The further in-depth exploration of the potential of BSF for waste biotransformation and the assessment of its circularity potential are also expected to be major focus points of research in the next decade.
Erratum: SAAr, I., COOPEr, J.A. & TrudEll, S.A. (2024) Two new species of Cystodermella and new combinations in Ripartitella (Agaricineae, incertae sedis) and Cystolepiota (Verrucosporaceae). Phytotaxa 658 (1): 81–98.
Authors: SAAR IRJA , COOPER JERRY A. , TRUDELL STEVEN A.
Published: August 2024

Dr. Konstanze Bensch (MycoBank) informed us that the neotypification of Cystodermella cinnabarina (Albertini & Schweinitz: Fries) Harmaja (2002:45) was not published the Code compliant in Saar et al. 2024 (see paragraph F.5.4, May et al. 2019). Based on the Code (Turland et al. 2018; May et al. 2019) since 2019, typification acts (lecto-, neo- and epitypifications) should be registered in one of the repositories and the issued identifier should be cited with the typification.
Ovicillium sinense, a new species from Guizhou, China
Authors: CHEN WAN-HAO , LI DAN , WEI YAN-JUN , LIANG JIAN-DONG , HAN YAN-FENG
Published: August 2024

A new species, Ovicillium sinense, which was isolated from an infected pupa, is introduced. Morphological comparisons with extant species and DNA-based phylogenies from analysis of a multigene dataset of combined ITS, LSU and TEF sequence data support the establishment of the new species. It differs from other species by its phialides that are attenuated from the middle to the apex, the conidia aggregated in large globose to subglobose heads, and having shorter phialides and smaller conidia.
Machine Learning Framework for Real-Time Pipeline Anomaly Detection and Maintenance Needs Forecast Using Random Forest and Prophet Model
Authors: Nwokonkwo Obi , Samuel Nwankwo , Eze Udoka , John-Otumu Adetokunbo
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces an Intelligent Model for Real-Time Pipeline Monitoring and Maintenance Prediction to enhance infrastructure integrity and operational efficiency in Nigeria's oil and gas sector. Given the country's economic dependence on oil and gas revenue, efficient pipeline transportation is crucial. However, pipelines face challenges such as corrosion, mechanical failures, vandalism, and theft, leading to economic losses and environmental risks. Current monitoring systems are mainly reactive, lacking timely anomaly detection and predictive maintenance capabilities. To tackle these challenges, the study utilized sophisticated machine learning methods by combining the Random Forest classifier for real-time anomaly detection with the Prophet model for predictive maintenance forecasting. Datasets from Kaggle were used. The Random Forest classifier demonstrated robust performance with an accuracy of 93.48%, precision of 93.75%, recall of 96.77%, and an F1-score of 95.24%. The Prophet model provided accurate hourly forecasts of operational parameters, aiding proactive maintenance scheduling. Despite some errors encountered (RMSE: 21.48 and MAE: 18.17), the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 14.87% indicates relatively minor discrepancies compared to actual values. In conclusion, the Intelligent Model shows significant advancements in pipeline monitoring and maintenance prediction by leveraging machine learning for early anomaly detection and timely maintenance interventions. This proactive approach aims to reduce downtime, prevent environmental damage, and optimize operational efficiency in Nigeria's oil and gas infrastructure. Future research could focus on enhancing system scalability across diverse terrains, employing advanced deep learning techniques such as Transformer Networks and Autoencoders for improved prediction accuracy, and exploring cybersecurity measures like blockchain integration to ensure data integrity and protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
Conversational AI and Chatbots: Enhancing User Experience on Websites
Authors: Dobbala Manoj , Lingolu Mani
Published: August 2024

This research paper explores the transformative potential of conversational AI and chatbots in enhancing website user experience (UX). It addresses two key research questions: How do these technologies improve user engagement and satisfaction on websites, and what are the primary challenges in implementing them, along with effective solutions. The study examines case studies across diverse industries, including e-commerce, travel, healthcare, and finance, to gain insights into the underlying technologies powering conversational AI and chatbots, such as natural language processing (NLP), natural language understanding (NLU), and machine learning techniques. The paper highlights the significant benefits of integrating conversational AI and chatbots into websites, including providing personalized assistance, streamlining complex processes, ensuring 24/7 availability, and enhancing accessibility for users. However, the study also addresses the key challenges faced in implementation, ranging from handling ambiguity and context in natural language processing to ensuring data privacy and security, managing user expectations, and the need for continuous improvement and training. The research proposes solutions to these challenges, such as employing advanced NLP algorithms, robust API management tools, and establishing user feedback loops. Ethical considerations, including data privacy and addressing biases in AI responses, are also explored, emphasizing the importance of robust encryption, adherence to data privacy regulations, and advanced access control mechanisms. The paper concludes by providing a comprehensive overview of the current state and future directions of conversational AI and chatbots in enhancing website user experience, exploring emerging trends such as multimodal interactions, contextual awareness and personalization, integration with IoT devices, and the development of emotional intelligence and empathy in chatbots.
A Recognition System for Devanagari Handwritten Digits Using CNN
Authors: Ghimire Nawaraj
Published: August 2024

A Recognition System for Devanagari Handwritten Digits using CNN, a novel approach to recognizing transcribed digits in the Devanagari script using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). This framework represents a significant contribution to the field of pattern recognition and language processing objective of the research project is to perform a literature review, identify an algorithm for a digits recognition system implement the Devanagari digits recognition system for educational activities. In the first phase, a dataset of 150 transcribed digit images is curated, allocating 75% for training (113 images) and 25% for validation (37 images). A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is designed with five convolutional layers, each utilizing 3 × 3 filters with 16, 32, 64, 128, and 128 feature maps, respectively. The experiments conducted involve varying the number of epochs, with results captured at 5, 10, 20, and 100 epochs. This comprehensive evaluation aims to understand the model's convergence and performance over different training durations. The outcomes of this phase contribute to the fine-tuning and optimization of the model for subsequent phases. In the second phase, the dataset is expanded to 100*10 (1000) images, each resized to 28 × 28 pixels through cropping. The CNN architecture remains consistent, with the previously determined layer configuration. Similar experiments are conducted, assessing the model's performance over 5, 10, 20, and 100 epochs. This model with a data size of 1000 demonstrates superior accuracy (100% on mini-batches) compared to the 150 model, with consistently high validation accuracy, while both models exhibit decreasing trends in mini-batch and validation losses, favoring the larger dataset, and maintaining a constant learning rate at 0.0100, albeit with a slightly longer time elapsed for each epoch due to the increased data size. 98.37398 accuracy in the phase 2 experiment in 100 epochs. Similar research and contributions and Devanagari’s character and word recognition system.
The Utilization of Contraceptives by Teenagers in Lesotho: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Khiba Rets’elisitsoe , Nyangu Isabel
Published: August 2024

Background: Contraceptive service provision to teenagers prevents pregnancy and childbirth complications, which are the leading causes of death among teenage girls globally. The study aimed to assess how teenagers utilized the contraceptive services provided at selected healthcare facilities in Lesotho. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 194 teenagers who were conveniently sampled from two health facilities in Berea district, Lesotho. Permission to conduct the study was sought and granted from the Ministry of Health and written informed consent was sought from the participants before they completed self-administered questionnaires. Data was captured and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 24. Most (64.5%) of the teenagers knew that contraceptives prevented pregnancy, whilst a fifth of them referred to them as the prevention of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Utilization of contraceptives was reported by just over a third and about two-fifths were able to access them at the public health clinics daily. Injectables and condoms were the most preferred methods used by teenagers. Factors that enhanced contraceptive usage included nurses’ friendliness, as well as an understanding of why teenagers are not fully utilizing the contraceptive services provided. Most teenagers were found not to be utilizing contraceptive services due to the belief that they led to weight gain and unsatisfactory intercourse. The study findings provided a need for and importance of contraceptive service provision to teenagers, including the need for education to improve their understanding and reduce myths. Hence, healthcare service providers need to improve access to contraceptive services to improve their utilization by teenagers.
CiteSpace Visualisation and Analysis of Research Trends and Hotspots in Degradable Plastics
Authors: Liu Yumeng , Xu Zihang , Wang Zhihan , Liu Yalin , Ning Yueting , Sun Zihao , Zhao Yuan , Wang Songtao , Zhao Bolin , Chen Jiazhou , Wang Huihui , Geng Sai
Published: August 2024

Degradable plastics refer to adding some additives to promote their degradation or using renewable natural substances as raw materials; their light quality, good comprehensive performance, easy processing, and many other advantages have been favoured by society. Through the research method of bibliolatry, retrieval in 2013-2023 Web of Science database about biodegradable plastics research related literature information, using CiteSpace measurement analysis software visual analysis in the relevant literature keywords, publications, high cited frequency, cooperation and common word clustering information change trend, analyze the research situation in the field of biodegradable plastics in recent years, summarizes the biodegradable plastic research status, progress and research hotspot. The results of the analysis show that degradable plastic materials are an emerging research field, and the number of publications has increased rapidly since 2020. The 2019-2022 accounted for about 81% of the total in the research period. Most related studies are published in ACS NANO, ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, NANOSCALE, and other journals, and they have high academic research value. The hot research field of degradable plastics focuses on polylactic acid materials and their mechanical properties. Various research hotspots are very closely related, with strong correlation and complementarity.
Knowledge and Attitude of Congolese Women of Childbearing Age Regarding the Risks and Consequences of Self-Medication: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Michael Kapitene , Michel Wembosongo , Steve Makolo
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Regulations on the sell and use of medicines in the Democratic Republic of Congo are at a rudimentary level. Self-medication is frequently used and it practice in all country, and in all social categories. It is the first therapeutic remedy used by the Congolese, before going to a hospital institution, if and only if the disease persists or worsens. The concern lies in the practice of self-medication among women of childbearing age. Hence the objective of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of Congolese women of childbearing age regarding the risks and consequences of self-medication. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study, with an analytical aim, carried out among women of childbearing age, in Kinshasa town, during the period from March 15 to November 30, 2022. The selection of participants was made in the 4 districts of the Town, by taking women who met our criteria of selection. Study parameters included sociodemographics, prevalence, and determinants of self-medication. Results: In total, 402 subjects have been enroled (mean age 27.3 ±8.4), women in the age group of 25-34 years (53.5%), singles (56.0%), with a high level of education (76.4%) and having a profession (59.2%). The majority of women knew the person authorized to prescribe the medications (78.6%), knew of the existence of self-medication (77.4%), and even practiced it (76.4%); but the majority (78.1%) were unaware of the dangers resulting from the practice of self-medication. The majority of them (64.4%) are victims of complications from self-medication. Civil status and religion remain therisk factors independently associated withself-medication. Conclusion: The Congolese woman of childbearing age, single and with a high level of education, knows the role of the Doctor in medical prescription, knows the existence and practice of self-medication, while ignoring the dangers that can result from it, despite She herself is a victim of complications from self-medication. This practice had as risk factors, marital status and religion.
Preparation and Characterization of Paving Blocks from Polyethylene-Based Plastic Waste and Natural Fibre
Authors: Birnin-Yauri Abubakar , Kareem Musa , Elinge Cosmos , Muhammad Aliyu , Hassan Abdulaziz
Published: August 2024

The current methods of managing plastic waste especially in developing countries have become an issue of environmental and public health concern globally. This has led environmentalists and scientists to work on finding day-to-day activities that can help to reduce the plastic waste disposal problem. Recycling and reuse of plastic waste into construction materials is a valid way to reduce the effect of this improper disposal of plastic waste. This will help to reduce the negative impact of the high cost of cement in the construction industry. In this research, polyethylene waste (table water sachet) was used as a replacement for cement in the construction of paving blocks. The sample with a 1:4 mixing ratio was found to have the highest compressive strength among the different mix ratio examined. Paving blocks were then produced with this mixing ratio from plastic-aggregates and plastic-aggregate-fibre and compared with the standard cement-aggregate paving blocks for their compressive and tensile strengths, water absorption, thickness swelling, density, and thermal properties (thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and horizontal burning rate). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) was also conducted on the paving blocks to determine the distribution of the particles of the blocks, the compatibility of the matrix, and their elemental composition. The results of the compressive strength test showed 18.1667 Nmm-2 for plastic-aggregate block, though lower when compared with the cement-aggregate block with a compressive strength of 21.6667 Nmm-2. The plastic-aggregate block has the least water absorption value among the three samples. The 0.1350% and 1.8861% water absorption values obtained for the plastic-aggregate and plastic-aggregate-fibre bricks respectively showed an impressive water absorption which falls within the maximum of 5% water absorption for quality paving blocks. The plastic-aggregate and plastic-aggregate-fibre both also recorded lower density when compared with the cement-aggregate block, which gives them a logistic advantage over the cement-aggregate block in the case of transporting them from one location to another. The blocks were found to be stable at low temperatures. The SEM images of the plastic-aggregate and plastic-fibre-aggregate paving blocks clearly showed a consistent dispersion of the plastic waste particles within the aggregate matrix over that of the cement-aggregate paving block. Therefore, plastic-aggregate brick can be recommended for use as paving bricks for low-traffic roads, walkways, parks, and gardens, although there is need to carry out further studies on other material properties of the plastic-based paving block.
Designing and Developing an Interactive Syllabus for e-Business Training as Part of Design-Based Research
Authors: Hanna Amelie , Conner Lindsey
Published: August 2024

A syllabus is an arrangement of subjects and a plan for a course of study. It enables visualization of the big picture of the course structure. Syllabi play various valuable functions, including providing information about the communication mechanism between the teacher and students, a planning tool for instructors, a course plan for learners, a source for learning materials or additional readings, a guide that learners can use in their learning both in-class and out-of-class, and it can also serve as a contract or written agreement between learners and instructors or their institutions about learning outcomes. Education today is more interactive, and courses are increasingly multimedia-rich; therefore, syllabi need to be interactive as well. In designing and developing an interactive syllabus for Smart Training for Arabic-speaking Residents on Technology START e-Business Training, learners can visualize the structure of training, search its contents, access frequently asked questions, and explore additional resources. This paper discusses the best strategies used to design START e-Business Training's interactive syllabus and the tools employed to develop it, as a core component of the design-based research DBR methodology. The paper also outlines some challenges in developing an interactive multimedia-rich syllabus, especially with accessibility features, and proposes solutions to overcome these challenges from the perspectives of educators and learning designers. Additionally, the paper explores the iterative process of feedback incorporation and continuous improvement essential to maintaining the syllabus's relevance and effectiveness. By leveraging advanced technological tools and user-centric design principles, the interactive syllabus aims to enhance learner engagement and support diverse learning needs. The discussion includes an evaluation of the pedagogical impacts of the interactive syllabus and its potential to serve as a model for future educational design projects. Furthermore, the implications for broader application in various educational contexts are considered, highlighting the importance of adaptability and innovation in modern educational practices.
Embera Children's Stories: A Strategy for the Preservation of Language and Cultural Identity in Indigenous Education
Authors: Lozano Sandra , Agudelo Derly , Gómez Luz , Gutierrez Maria
Published: August 2024

This study conducted in the Embera Chamí Navera Drua community, located in Darien, Colombia, investigates the impact of children's literature, particularly stories, on strengthening cultural identity and preserving the native language among the community's children. Utilizing a qualitative approach, an ethnographic and participatory action research design was implemented to deeply explore the community's worldview, its educational context, and the sense of cultural belonging developed by the children. The results highlight the importance of intercultural teacher training and the implementation of pedagogical strategies that promote the indigenous worldview through the narrative of stories, which capture the interest and imagination of children. It is concluded that children's stories facilitate the development of a sense of cultural belonging in children, youth, and adults while engaging with their native language. Therefore, it is necessary to train teachers within the community who can link storytelling as a strategy to facilitate the preservation of their language from childhood, allow community participation in preserving their worldview, and contribute to the development of the community's own cultural education.