bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FemaSeed Directional Intratubal Artificial Insemination for Couples with MaleFactor or Unexplained Infertility Associated with Low Male Sperm Count
Authors:   Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA, H. Liu James , Lee-Sepsick Kathy ,   Femasys Incorporated, Suwanee, GA, USA, Glassner Michael ,   Main Line Fertility & Reproductive Center, Bryn Mawr, PA, USA, R. Gracia Clarisa ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA, B. Johnstone Erica ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA, L. Schnell Vicki ,   Shady Grove Fertility, Houston, TX, USA, A. Thomas Michael ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA, Morrison Leavitt ,   Biostatistical Consulting Inc., Lexington, KY, USA
Published: February 2025

Objective: To report pregnancy outcomes following intratubal insemination without catheterization using the FemaSeed device in
a population of low sperm count couples.
Methods: A prospective, single-arm, historical control, pivotal trial (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04968847) of females aged 19-40
years with male-factor or unexplained infertility and total motile sperm count of 1-20 million undergoing intratubal insemination
(ITI) with the FemaSeed device, conducted at twelve academic and private medical centers in the USA. Pregnancy was confirmed
at 3 weeks (-7 days) by serum β-hCG and follow-up continued at 7 weeks (±7 days) for safety, including pregnancy test by serum
β-hCG and ultrasonography.
Results: The pregnancy rate for ITI with FemaSeed per subject was 26.3% (95%CI: 13.4‒43.1%; n=10/38) and 17.5% per cycle
(95%LCB: 7.6%, 95%CI: 5.7‒29.4%; n=10/57), which was significantly higher than the performance goal of 7% based on the
historical control (one-sided P=0.041). The cumulative pregnancy rates through the first and second ITI cycles were 15.8%
(95%CI: 7.4‒31.8%) and 30.7% (95%CI: 16.5‒52.5%), respectively. Safety reports were consistent with intrauterine insemination
(IUI), of note ectopic pregnancy and uterine perforation occurred in 0.5% (95%CI: <0.05‒2.5%; n=1/222) and 0.0% of cycles,
respectively.
Conclusion: Targeted intratubal insemination of washed spermatozoa using the FemaSeed ITI device is a safe artificial insemination
technique that demonstrated high effectiveness for couples with male-factor/unexplained infertility associated with low male
sperm count. Delivery of washed spermatozoa directly into the utero-tubal ostium and fallopian tube without catheterization likely
increases sperm-oocyte interaction, suggestive of improved efficiency over conventional intrauterine insemination particularly for
male-factor infertility
Tác động của phong cách lãnh đạo số đến hành vi đổi mới sáng tạo trong công việc của nhân viên tại các doanh nghiệp Việt Nam: Vai trò trung gian của văn hóa số
Authors: Lê Thị Mỹ Linh , Nguyễn Huy Độ , Trương Ngọc Minh , Nguyễn Hà Chi , Phạm Thảo Linh
Published: February 2025

Nghiên cứu này khám phá mối quan hệ giữa phong cách lãnh đạo số, văn hóa số và hành vi đổi mới sáng tạo trong công việc của nhân viên tại các doanh nghiệp Việt Nam. Phương pháp nghiên cứu kết hợp định tính và định lượng, gồm phỏng vấn sâu 11 lãnh đạo và nhân viên cùng khảo sát 446 nhân viên, chủ yếu từ các doanh nghiệp công nghệ thông tin, truyền thông, chế biến và chế tạo. Kết quả cho thấy, phong cách lãnh đạo số tác động tích cực đến văn hóa số và hành vi đổi mới sáng tạo trong công việc của nhân viên. Văn hóa số cũng ảnh hưởng tích cực đến hành vi đổi mới sáng tạo trong công việc và đóng vai trò trung gian giữa phong cách lãnh đạo số và hành vi đổi mới sáng tạo trong công việc của nhân viên. Nghiên cứu đề xuất giải pháp giúp doanh nghiệp khuyến khích thực hiện phong cách lãnh đạo số và phát triển văn hóa số để thúc đẩy hành vi đổi mới sáng tạo trong công việc của nhân viên.
Mối quan hệ giữa đòn bẩy tài chính và hiệu quả tài chính tại doanh nghiệp chế biến thức ăn chăn nuôi ở Việt Nam
Authors: Nguyễn Thị Xuân
Published: February 2025

Bài viết nghiên cứu mối quan hệ nhân quả giữa đòn bẩy tài chính và hiệu quả tài chính, đồng thời xem xét vai trò điều tiết của quy mô doanh nghiệp đến mối quan hệ nhân quả này. Phương pháp ước lượng bình phương nhỏ nhất 3 giai đoạn (3SLS) kết hợp với phương pháp hồi quy dữ liệu bảng động GMM dựa trên bộ dữ liệu thu thập được từ nguồn Tổng Cục thống kê giai đoạn 2010-2022 với mẫu 116 doanh nghiệp chế biến thức ăn chăn nuôi tại Việt Nam. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy tồn tại mối quan hệ nhân quả giữa đòn bẩy tài chính và hiệu quả tài chính, đòn bẩy tài chính tác động ngược chiều đến hiệu quả tài chính đồng thời hiệu quả tài chính tác động ngược chiều trở lại đòn bẩy tài chính; quy mô doanh nghiệp góp phần làm cho mối quan hệ này trở lên mạnh hơn.
Architectural Discourse and Gender
Authors: Aboul-dahab Mai , Moustafa Yasser , Mansour Yasser
Published: February 2025

Architectural magazines serve as valuable historical documents, enriching the narrative of architectural history and informing teaching practices. This paper examines the representation of women in five Egyptian architectural and engineering magazines published throughout the 20th century: al-ʿImara (The Architecture), al-Nashra al-Maʿmarya (The Architectural Bulletin), al-Maʿmar (The Architectural), ʿAlam al-Bena'a (The Construction World), and Majallat al-Muhandisin (The Engineers Magazine), covering the period from monarchy till President Mubarak's era, which had complex shifts toward women's status in society and architectural thought. This study employs discourse analysis, examining both the visual and textual elements of the content in the selected magazines, with particular attention to the language used. It traces how these magazines contributed to shaping the image of women in architecture. Early publications, like al-ʿImara, reinforced male dominance in the field, associating women with domesticity and consumerism. Nevertheless, women resisted these narratives by engaging in writing, art exhibitions, and architectural patronage, though often within constrained frameworks. Publications, such as Majallat al-Muhandisin, aligned with socialist ideologies, presenting women as professionals and maternal figures in line with state-driven modernization efforts. By the late 1960s, however, women’s visibility in professional discourse diminished. The late 70s and early 1980s marked a shift, with a growing number of female architects and increased representation in magazines like ʿAlam al-Benaa. Despite this progress, gender imbalances persisted, as women’s contributions to completed architectural projects were limited and often framed as collaborative efforts with male colleagues. The research highlights the fluctuating representation of women in architecture, shaped by political, cultural, and societal transformations in Egypt.
COMBINATION OF LEARNING VECTOR QUANTIZATION AND LINEAR DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS FOR TEA LEAF DISEASE CLASSIFICATION
Authors: Mutasar Mutasar , Niesa Chaeroen
Published: February 2025

Tea farming, one of the key pillars of Indonesia's economy, faces productivity challenges due to diseases affecting tea leaves. Manual identification of tea leaf diseases requires significant time and cost, making an automated solution necessary. This research develops an innovative model for classifying tea leaf diseases by synergizing Learning Vector Quantization (LVQ) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). By leveraging LVQ’s prototype-based classification and LDA’s dimensionality reduction, the model ensures accurate and efficient disease identification. During preprocessing, tea leaf images were converted to the CIELAB color space to enhance segmentation using Otsu’s Thresholding. Features such as Mean Color and texture attributes based on Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM) were extracted, reduced via LDA, and classified using LVQ. Tested on five tea leaf disease classes, the model achieved 94.1% accuracy. This performance underscores its potential to significantly assist farmers in early detection and management of tea leaf diseases, while also providing researchers with a robust tool for advancing agricultural technology.
BEYOND ALGORITHMS: AN INTEGRATED APPROACH TO FAKE NEWS DETECTION USING MACHINE LEARNING TECHNIQUES
Authors: Hamdikatama Bimantyoso
Published: February 2025

The internet has become a major source of information, but it also facilitates the rapid spread of fake news, which can significantly influence public opinion and social decisions. While various techniques have been developed for detecting fake news, many studies focus on individual algorithms, which often result in suboptimal performance. This study addresses this gap by comparing machine learning models, including Support Vector Classification (SVC), XGBoost, and a Stacking Ensemble that combines both SVC and XGBoost, to determine the most effective approach for fake news detection. Text preprocessing was performed using IndoBERT, which provides context-aware and semantically rich text representations specifically for the Indonesian language. The evaluation results demonstrate that the Stacking Ensemble outperforms the individual models, achieving an accuracy of 82%, compared to 79% for XGBoost and 78% for SVC. This superior performance is attributed to the complementary strengths of the base models: SVC excels in handling high-dimensional data, while XGBoost effectively manages imbalanced datasets and captures complex feature interactions. The use of IndoBERT further enhances model performance by improving text representation through contextual embeddings. These findings highlight the effectiveness of ensemble learning in enhancing predictive performance and robustness for fake news detection, demonstrating the potential of combining different machine learning techniques with advanced preprocessing methods to achieve more reliable results.
Indonesian timber harvesting workers’ knowledge of occupational safety and health
Authors: Yuniawati Yuniawati , Septina Ane Dwi , Ningrum Mutia Herni , Andini Sarah
Published: February 2025

Background: Occupational accidents potentially occur in timber harvesting work. Because this work has a high accident risk, workers’ knowledge of occupational safety and health (OSH) is essential. In this study we analysed a group of Indonesian timber harvesting workers’ knowledge of OSH, particularly as it relates to operations in natural forests.
Methods: We interviewed 30 people who directly undertake timber harvesting work and asked them to answer surveys containing 15 questions related to different aspects of OSH knowledge. Responses were quantified using the Likert scale and validity and reliability tests were performed.
Results: The results showed that: 1) worker knowledge regarding the benefits of using personal protective equipment (PPE) was highest compared to the other 14 indicators; 2) workers had less knowledge about timber harvest planning, the meaning of occupational safety and health, safe ways of working and the frequency of work accidents when timber harvesting; and 3) validity and reliability tests showed that this survey was a valid instrument for collecting information on workers’ knowledge of OSH.
Conclusions: The Indonesian timber harvesting workers surveyed had limited knowledge of the planning of tree felling, timber skidding, and loading, yet they perceive the cognition of OSH, working methods to minimise accidents, and the frequency of work accidents during timber harvesting every year. Ongoing training to improve workers’ knowledge of OSH, including correct use of personal protective equipment is important for reducing the risk of workplace accidents. The use of serious games can assist with this training.
Mengelola Emosi dalam Keuangan: Pengaruh Stoisisme pada Perilaku Konsumen dan Keputusan Finansial
Authors: Sedana Putra Komang Widhya , Wulandari Laksmi Kadek
Published: February 2025

Penelitian ini mengkaji pengaruh perilaku konsumen terhadap keputusan finansial di kalangan Generasi Z di Kota Denpasar dan mengevaluasi peran stoisisme sebagai moderator dalam hubungan tersebut. Menggunakan metode survei dengan populasi Generasi Z berusia 15 hingga 25 tahun dan sampel 60 individu yang ditentukan melalui rumus Slovin, penelitian ini mengumpulkan data menggunakan kuesioner skala Likert untuk mengukur perspektif responden mengenai perilaku konsumen, stoisisme, dan keputusan finansial. Data dianalisis dengan perangkat lunak PLS (Partial Least Squares) untuk uji reliabilitas, analisis deskriptif, dan inferensial. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa perilaku konsumen memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap keputusan finansial, mendukung teori perilaku konsumen dan pengambilan keputusan rasional. Sebaliknya, stoisisme sebagai moderator menunjukkan pengaruh negatif yang signifikan, mengurangi efektivitas perilaku konsumen dalam meningkatkan keputusan finansial. Temuan ini menggarisbawahi pentingnya perilaku konsumen yang rasional dalam pengambilan keputusan finansial dan menunjukkan bahwa prinsip stoisisme, meskipun bermanfaat untuk mengelola stres, dapat mengurangi responsivitas terhadap peluang finansial. Penelitian ini memberikan wawasan bagi praktisi dan peneliti tentang pengaruh perilaku konsumen dan stoisisme dalam konteks finansial generasi digital.
Strategi Keberlanjutan Perusahaan: Mengukur Implikasi Kinerja Keuangan dengan Dukungan Inovasi Produk
Authors: Ariwangsa IGN Oka , Sedana Putra Komang Widhya , Laksmi Kadek Wulandari , Sukarnasih Desak Made
Published: February 2025

Riset ini bersasaran untuk menelaah implikasi kinerja keuangan terhadap keberlanjutan usaha dengan inovasi produk sebagai variabel moderasi. Latar belakang dari riset ini adalah pentingnya keberlanjutan usaha di era persaingan bisnis yang ketat, di mana kinerja keuangan yang kuat dan inovasi produk menjadi faktor kunci dalam mempertahankan kelangsungan bisnis. UKM, khususnya di Bali, memiliki peran penting dalam perekonomian lokal, sehingga memahami bagaimana kinerja keuangan dan inovasi produk sanggup mendukung keberlanjutan usaha adalah hal yang penting. Metodologi riset yang diterapkan dalam riset ini adalah metode kuantitatif, dimana instrumen kuncinya berupa kuesioner yang disebarkan kepada 100 UKM di Bali yang ditetapkan menggunakan cara purposive sampling. Data yang dikumpulkan diteliti dengan metode Partial Least Squares untuk menguji hubungan antara kinerja keuangan, inovasi produk, dan keberlanjutan bisnis. Kuesioner tersebut dikalkulasi menggunakan skala Likert untuk mengevaluasi persepsi responden terkait variabel riset. Hasil studi memperlihatkan bahwa kinerja keuangan secara meyakinkan dan positif memengaruhi keberlanjutan usaha, sedangkan inovasi produk mampu memoderasi hubungan tersebut. Inovasi produk memperkuat implikasi kinerja keuangan terhadap keberlanjutan, menyiratkan bahwa perusahaan yang melakukan inovasi produk secara efektif mampu memanfaatkan kinerja keuangannya untuk mencapai keberlanjutan usaha yang lebih baik. Riset ini berkontribusi dalam memberi panduan strategis bagi perusahaan dalam memadukan kinerja keuangan dan inovasi produk untuk mendukung keberlanjutan usaha secara berkelanjutan.
Model Strategi dan Kebijakan Ekonomi dalam Pengembangan Kawasan Budidaya Ikan Nila di Kecamatan Baturraden, Kabupaten Banyumas
Authors: Yuliani Tri Wahyu , Sandri Dian
Published: February 2025

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui bagaimana strategi dan kebijakan ekonomi yang tepat dalam pengembangan kawasan budidaya ikan Nila di Kecamatan Baturraden, Kabupaten Banyumas. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dan data sekunder yang bersumber dari berbagai literatur yang berkaitan dengan masalah yang sama. Cara pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini melalui wawancara semi-terstruktur, observasi, dan analisis dokumen. Variabel yang diteliti adalah volume produksi, Nilai produksi, akses modal, serta potensi dan akses pasar. Dari analisis data, strategi untuk mengembangkan budidaya ikan Nila di Kecamatan Baturraden meliputi pengelolaan modal, diversifikasi usaha menjadi bisnis kreatif, peningkatan Nilai produk, dan perbaikan strategi pemasaran. Penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Kecamatan Baturraden memiliki potensi besar sebagai pusat budidaya ikan Nila dengan manajemen modal yang baik, diversifikasi usaha, dan pemasaran yang modern. Penerapan strategi ini diharapkan dapat meningkatkan produktivitas, pendapatan masyarakat, dan kontribusi sektor perikanan terhadap peningkatan pertumbuhan ekonomi.
Forensic Audit: Theoretical Insights and Practical Applications
Authors: Sinha Sandip
Published: February 2025

This article explores the application of key forensic audit theoretical frameworks across various industries. By examining the fraud triangle, agency theory, internal control theory, red flags theory, and compliance theory, the study highlights how these frameworks are utilized to detect and prevent fraud. The analysis provides insights into the practical implications of these theories in enhancing financial integrity and organizational governance.
Locking Financial Depletion by Unlocking Frauds using Forensic Audit: A Lynchpin
Authors: Ghosh Nabanita
Published: February 2025

The value of the financial system is getting dilapidated as frauds are increasing both at a domestic and international level. Audit assignment performed by the several categories of auditors demonstrated only the deviations or non-compliance of the clienteles’ performance in their audit reports but not taken to the court of law for scrutinization in the presence of the auditor. Therefore, the frauds can be detected by applying the forensic audit which exhibits the motives of the perpetrators behind the occurrence of the fraud. Cost and Management Accountants can be judgmental in this task.
Audit Through Artificial Intelligence Tools
Authors: Rao Nageswara
Published: February 2025

Using artificial intelligence (AI) in the audit process offers new opportunities to improve the efficiency, productivity and importance of activities taken up by the auditors. To implement AI properly, it is desired that the auditors understand the nuances of the technology and its advantages/limitations. While the auditors possess all the desired skills, using AI will improve their performance by moving them away from routine activities and enabling them to use their energies to bring out better insights to the organisation. This is the right time for the audit teams to start working on bringing the synergy between the audit process and AI, to ensure a win-win situation for the auditors and their clients.
Financial Frauds and Cyber Crimes in India
Authors: Kashyap Shashi , Kashyap Harish
Published: February 2025

The aim of this article is to study cybercrimes in India and find out the present scenario of cybercrime in India. It is also aimed to identify the different types of financial frauds that occur in banking industry. In depth knowledge, awareness and trends of cybercrime will help the common people to understand and carry out e- transactions safely. It has been found that UPI is the most popular device to trap people. The study on cybercrime in India is significant due to the increasing rate of cybercrimes in the country, as evidenced by a substantial rise in reported cases. Understanding the types of cybercrimes, their impact on individuals and organizations, and the preventive measures is crucial for enhancing cybersecurity practices and protecting against digital threats. This study sheds light on the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the importance of proactive measures to combat cybercrime effectively.
Forensic Audit: A Step Ahead of Internal Audit
Authors: Sahu Shailendra Kumar
Published: February 2025

Forensic is process of establishing evidence scientifically to prove a crime. Such evidences are required to be presented before any court to render appropriate judgment over crime. ‘Audit’ can be defined as examination of facts and state of any item.
Forensic Audit is a purposeful process of getting evidence which can be used in a court of law. This process includes various audit technique like analysis, inquiry, observation, evaluation and examination.
Without technology doing any business by any organization is very difficult nowadays. Technology provides ease for doing business. Many businesses are now running on screen based platforms and most businesses now cannot be imagined without technology. Technology has its own risks. Technology can also be used for carrying out frauds. Therefore many organizations have established their own Risk Assurance / management cells. Where this is not the case they hire external forensic expert to unearth frauds.
Implication of GST on GI Tag Products: Special Reference to Aranmula Mirror
Authors: Rajesh T. , R. Indurajani
Published: February 2025

Aranmula Kannadi, an indigenous hand-made mirror from Aranmula in Kerala is embattled by controversies surrounding its Geographical Indication (GI) tag and the effect of goods and services tax (GST) in India. GST which initially was 20 per cent and later reduced to 12 per cent has increased production costs due to escalating prices of inputs such as tin and copper, while lack of Government backing has led to the contraction in the market. This research study probes how GST impacts Aranmula Kannadi with reference to taxonomy, incentives and changes that must be made for sustainable development of the art as well as its traditional values.
The Green Bottom Line: How Costing Strategies Can Enhance ESG Value
Authors: Ghosh Subhasish
Published: February 2025

The adaption and integration of green costing in the R2R [ record 2 report] process will enable the enterprise to determine, the sustainability of their bottom line, in terms of ESG quotient.
Environmental Cost-Benefit Analysis of Satellite Toll Collection System in India
Authors: Gaurav Mrinal , Kaushik Hemant
Published: February 2025

This article assesses the ecological expenses and advantages of using satellite toll collection systems in India. The study evaluates the effects of satellite toll systems on emissions, transportation flow and resource efficiency by analyzing secondary data. The results suggest that implementing satellite toll collection systems can lead to notable environmental advantages, such as considerable decreases in CO2 emissions and enhanced traffic flow. These benefits, when combined, contribute to improved air quality and reduced fuel usage. Nevertheless, the report also highlights significant environmental drawbacks, including the energy consumption required for satellite operations and the difficulties related to electronic waste. The overall environmental impact remains favorable, endorsing the implementation of satellite toll systems as a sustainable substitute for conventional approaches. The article offers suggestions for policy and practical application, as well as guidance for future research.
Virtual Management Accounting Services: A Growth Catalyst for SMEs
Authors: Jain Naveen
Published: February 2025

Management accounting empowers businesses with internal financial insights for informed decision-making. Traditionally catered by a full-time in-house professional, this role is crucial for the growth of SMEs but is often neglected due to cost constraints, lack of awareness, and talent limitations.
Virtual management accounting services bridge this gap by offering cost-effective access to specialized expertise and improved efficiency through automation and realtime data. This allows SMEs to focus on core activities, make strategic decisions and achieve sustainable growth through services like financial analysis, business advisory, tax planning and industry-specific solutions. Essentially, virtual management accountants act as strategic partners, providing financial guidance SMEs need to thrive.
New microbiological preparations for alfalfa
Authors: Grebennikov Artem , Kostenko Sergey , Chernyavskih Vladimir , Dumacheva Elena , MAKSIMOVA Polina , GAAR Aleksandr , AKIMOV Aleksandr
Published: February 2025

Comparative tests of the efficiency of using various biopreparations based on consortia of microorganisms and fungal cultures in field conditions were conducted and their efficiency was assessed. The following preparations were used: "Kormilitsa Mycorhiza" (Russia), MikoKrop® (Germany), "Biogor" (Russia). The efficiency of seed treatment with biopreparations was demonstrated. Plants of the Alekseevskaya 1 alfalfa variety, the seeds of which were treated with the "Biogor" preparation, had friendly aligned shoots, formed a better developed root system, which subsequently resulted in an improvement in the elements of the structure of seed and fodder productivity, as well as a reliable increase in yield. The results of the dispersion analysis showed that the difference between the treatment options is reliable, and the treatment with the consortium of microorganisms and fungal cultures "Biogor" has a positive effect on the yield of green mass, dry matter and seeds. The use of the preparation of the "Biogor" series, containing a consortium of beneficial microorganisms, is promising for alfalfa: the number of productive stems increases by 14.4%, the number of fruitlets — by 73.3%, the number of beans in a fruitlet — by 66.7%, the weight of 1000 seeds — by 5.5%, the yield of dry matter in two cuts — by 55.2%, the yield of alfalfa seeds — by 52.6%.
A study on the differences in the gut microbiota and metabolism between male and female mice in different stress periods
Authors: Qiao Yajun , Guo Juan , Xiao Qi , Wang Jianv , Zhang Xingfang , Liang Xinxin , Wei Lixin , Bi Hongtao , Gao Tingting
Published: February 2025

The sex difference in depression has long been an unsolved issue. Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression as men. However, there were significant differences in the composition of gut microbiota between women and men. There is a lack of studies linking sex differences in depression to microbiota, and the specific mechanisms of this process have not been explained in detail. The main purpose of this study was to explore the gender differences in the intestinal tract of male and female depressed mice. In this study, chronic restraint stress (CRS) mouse models were used to simulate chronic stress, and behavioral tests were conducted, including the open field test (OFT), tail suspension test (TST) and forced swimming test (FST). Microbial diversity analysis and metabolomics were performed on collected mouse feces. The results showed that female mice were highly active and prone to anxious behavior before stress, and the levels of f-Rikenellaceae, f-Ruminococcaceae and 16α-hydroxyestrone were significantly different from those in male mice. After 21 days (Days) of stress, female mice showed depression-like behavior, and the levels of f-Erysipelotrichaceae, 5α-pregnane-3,20-dione, and 2-hydroxyestradiol were significantly different from those in male mice. After 14 days of stress withdrawal, the depression-like behavior continued to worsen in female mice, and the levels of 5α-pregnane-3,20-dione, estrone glucuronide and f-Erysipelotrichaceae were significantly different from those in male mice. In summary, female mice have stronger stress sensitivity and weaker resilience than male mice, which may be related to differences in bacterial diversity and estrogen metabolism disorders.
Research on guest comfort and satisfaction with indoor environmental quality in former GBI-certified green hotels: a study case from Malaysia
Authors: Abdulaali Hayder Saadoon , Usman Ismar M. S. , Alawi Mohsen , Alqawzai Shagea
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) on guest comfort and satisfaction in former Green Building Index (GBI)-certified green hotels in Malaysia’s historic cities, including Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Penang. With many hotels moving away from certification, it highlights the need to maintain high environmental and comfort standards. The research evaluates IEQ performance, suggests additional parameters, and explores how comfort mediates the relationship between IEQ and satisfaction. Eight hypotheses were tested, focusing on indoor air quality (IAQ), thermal comfort, lighting, acoustics, visual comfort, building features, decoration, and indoor greenery. A survey of 700 hotel guests resulted in 384 valid responses, confirming that IEQ significantly influences comfort and satisfaction. Among the factors, acoustic/noise (Beta = 0.305), IAQ (Beta = 0.221), and building characteristics (Beta = 0.167) were the most impactful, followed by thermal comfort, lighting, decoration, visual comfort, and indoor greenery. Regression analysis showed a strong link between guest comfort and satisfaction, with comfort as a key mediator. Challenges included noise, thermal discomfort, and lighting problems. The study emphasizes the importance of air quality, thermal comfort, and noise management while balancing aesthetic elements like greenery and decoration to improve guest experiences. It offers valuable insights for hotel operators, advancing sustainable practices and guest satisfaction in green-certified hotels.
Disruption of zinc homeostasis reverses tigecycline resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Wang Jinyu , Xia Cuiping , Xia Zhaoxin , Shen Jilu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Zinc exhibits potent antimicrobial properties due to its ability to compromise bacterial structure and protein functionality, effectively inhibiting and eradicating bacteria. However, bacteria have evolved mechanisms to expel excess zinc ions from their cells, enabling them to thrive in environments rich in metal ions at high concentrations. This evolutionary advancement limits the clinical application of metal ions as antimicrobial agents. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential of zinc ionophores to overcome bacterial resistance by elevating intracellular zinc ion levels.

Methods

We employed the zinc ionophore PBT2 to elevate intracellular zinc ion levels in Klebsiella pneumoniae, a bacterium known for its resistance to various antibiotics. By treating K. pneumoniae with PBT2, we aimed to assess its impact on bacterial resistance to tigecycline, an antibiotic commonly used in clinical settings. The changes in intracellular zinc ion levels, superoxide dismutase activity, reactive oxygen species concentration, and cell wall synthesis pathway were monitored to evaluate the mechanism of action of PBT2.

Results

Our results revealed that PBT2 successfully reversed the resistance of K. pneumoniae to tigecycline. Specifically, PBT2 increased the concentration of intracellular zinc ions in K. pneumoniae, leading to a suppression of superoxide dismutase activity within the cell and an elevation of reactive oxygen species concentration. These changes impaired the oxidative stress response of the bacteria. Additionally, the disruption of zinc homeostasis significantly inhibited the cell wall synthesis pathway in K. pneumoniae, potentially restricting the efflux pump mechanism that predominantly drives tigecycline resistance.

Discussion

The findings of this study pave the way for innovative strategies and approaches in the clinical development of novel antimicrobial agents. By using zinc ionophores such as PBT2 to elevate intracellular zinc ion levels, we can overcome bacterial resistance to antibiotics like tigecycline. The suppression of superoxide dismutase activity and elevation of reactive oxygen species concentration suggest that PBT2 impairs the oxidative stress response of K. pneumoniae, further enhancing its susceptibility to antibiotics. Furthermore, the inhibition of the cell wall synthesis pathway and restriction of the efflux pump mechanism provide additional mechanisms by which PBT2 reverses antibiotic resistance. These results highlight the potential of zinc ionophores as a novel class of antimicrobial agents and warrant further investigation into their clinical applications.
Relationship between personality traits and spontaneous coronary artery dissection risk: evidence from Mendelian randomization
Authors: Zheng Kun , Wu Mengdi , Wang Junhua , Sun Jinjin , Li Yuqian , Wang Peng , Zhang Zhiyue , Pan Xiuming , Yang Yifeng , Li Tianqi , Guo Yujie
Published: February 2025

Background

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) significantly contributes to myocardial infarction among young individuals. Despite the elusive nature of its etiology, empirical evidence indicates a substantial correlation between sociopsychological factors and the disorder. This investigation endeavored to discern a genetic basis for personality traits influencing SCAD susceptibility.

Methods

Bidirectional univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were hereby conducted to investigate the putative causal nexus between personality dimensions and SCAD risk. Besides, data regarding SCAD and personality were extracted from expansive genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and rigorous statistical inferences were made using inverse variance weighting (IVW) and ancillary methodologies. Additionally, sensitivity evaluations were performed to bolster statistical assertions.

Results

Univariate MR analyses indicated heightened neuroticism scores as harbingers of increased SCAD risk [Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.31, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.08–1.60, P = 0.007], while other personality characteristics revealed no causal interplay with SCAD. After excluding single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) confounded by extrinsic variables, the association of neuroticism scores with SCAD susceptibility persisted. These findings were further substantiated by multivariate MR analyses.

Conclusions

In summary, this study identified a significant association between genetically predicted neuroticism scores and an elevated risk of SCAD. However, additional investigation is still required to elucidate the biological underpinnings of this relationship, as well as the impact of gender, environmental influences, and other contributing factors.
Basic assumptions, core connotations, and path methods of model modification—using confirmatory factor analysis as an example
Authors: Xiong Zhangbo , Xia Huixian , Ni Jianjun , Hu Hongzhen
Published: February 2025

Structural equation modeling (SEM) is a widely used statistical method in social science. However, many published articles employing SEM appear to contradict its underlying principles and assumptions, which undermines the scientific rigor of the research. Model modifications should be data-driven and clearly justified, rather than arbitrarily changing the relationships between variables. Removing measurement indicators can significantly reduce discrepancies between the sample data and the model. This approach is often considered optimal for model modification. Except for certain specific models, error correlations should only be established based on theoretical support to improve the model’s goodness-of-fit. Finally, any modifications to the model should undergo cross-validation to ensure its applicability to other sample datasets.
Prognostic value of the lactate dehydrogenase to albumin ratio in advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with the first-line PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors combined with chemotherapy
Authors: Luo Meifeng , Wei Huiting , Qiu Moqin , Su Cuiyun , Ning Ruiling , Zhou Shaozhang
Published: February 2025

Background

This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of pretreatment lactate dehydrogenase to albumin ratio (LAR) in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with first-line programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) checkpoint inhibitors and chemotherapy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on advanced NSCLC patients treated with first-line PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors plus chemotherapy at Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis determined the optimal LAR cutoff values for prediction. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified independent prognostic factors, and survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Subgroup analysis evaluated the association between high LAR and disease progression and death risk.

Results

A total of 210 patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 58.56 ± 10.61 years and a male proportion of approximately 79.05%. ROC analysis found the optimal LAR cutoff value was 5.0, resulting in a sensitivity of 78.87% and a specificity of 44.6% (area under the ROC curve 0.622; P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed a significant positive association between LAR and overall survival (OS) after adjusting for confounders (HR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.25-3.96, P = 0.007). Subgroup analysis confirmed the relationship between high LAR and the risk of disease progression and death across all patient subgroups.

Conclusions

Pretreatment LAR may be a potential independent prognostic marker for advanced NSCLC patients receiving PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors plus chemotherapy. A large-scale, prospective study is necessary to confirm these findings.
A nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine prevents enterovirus A71 infection in mouse model
Authors: Chi Fengyu , Zhang Xu , Zhang Dong , Zhu Airu , Zhuang Zhen , Zhang Zhaoyong , Zhang Zhenjie , Quan Chuansong , Nie Kaixiao , Li Juan , Yin Chunhong , Tong Jie , Li Yuming
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Human Enterovirus A71 (EV-A71) is the primary pathogen responsible for severe hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). Vaccination plays a crucial role in controlling its spread. Although inactivated vaccines have been approved, there is growing interest in developing new candidates using advanced platforms. mRNA vaccines, widely used for enveloped viruses, are less studied for non-enveloped viruses like EV-A71. This study investigates the potential of an mRNA vaccine targeting the EV-A71 VP1 protein.

Methods

A nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine encoding the VP1 protein of EV-A71, encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), was developed. Immunogenicity and protective efficacy were evaluated in BALB/c and neonatal A129 mice, respectively. Immune responses were assessed by ELISA, micro-neutralization assays, ELISpot, and intracellular cytokine staining (ICS). Passive protection was tested by transferring immune sera to neonatal mice challenged with EV-A71.

Results

The VP1 mRNA-LNP vaccine elicited robust humoral and cellular immunity, including high levels of VP1-specific IgG, neutralizing antibodies, and a Th1-biased T-cell response. Notably, the mRNA vaccine outperformed the inactivated vaccine in eliciting cellular immunity. Immune sera provided complete protection against lethal EV-A71 challenge, significantly reducing viral load and pathology.

Discussion

This study demonstrates that the mRNA vaccine exhibits significant potential for combating non-enveloped viruses. These findings highlight the promising role of mRNA platforms in advancing vaccine development against non-enveloped viral pathogens, offering new avenues for future research and clinical applications.
A new strategy for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer: utilizing nanotechnology to regulate the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Xiong Zixuan , Huang Yichun , Cao Shulong , Huang Xuqun , Zhang Haiyuan
Published: February 2025

Advanced ovarian cancer (AOC) is prone to recurrence, which can be attributed to drug resistance. Drug resistance may be related to the tumor microenvironment (TME), including the immune and non-immune TME. In the immune TME, the immune effector cells such as dendritic cells (DCs), M1-like tumor-associated macrophages (M1-TAMs), and T cells are inhibited. In contrast, immunosuppressive cells such as M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (M2-TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs) are activated. These changes make it difficult to produce immune effects and affect the efficacy of chemo-immunotherapy. In the non-immune TME, mechanisms such as apoptosis inhibition, DNA damage response (DDR), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) can promote tumor growth, metastasis, and drug resistance. Despite the challenges posed by the TME in the treatment of AOC, the unique biological advantages of nanoparticles (NPs) make it possible to regulate the TME. NPs can stimulate the immune responses of M1-TAMs, DCs, and T cells while reducing the infiltration of immune suppressive cells such as M2-TAMs and Tregs, thereby regulating the AOC immune TME. In addition, NPs can regulate the non-immune TME by reducing apoptosis in AOC cells, inhibiting homologous recombination (HR) repair, reversing EMT, and achieving the effect of reversing drug resistance. In summary, the application of NPs provides some new venues for clinical treatment in AOC.
Prevalence of gastroparesis symptoms and its associated factors among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in West Bank in Palestine: a national cross-sectional study
Authors: Asad Diya , Zreqat Qusai , Idais Shahd , Hussein Bara'ah , Ayyad Alaa , Hunjul Marah , AbuGharbieh Hamzeh M. I. , Neiroukh Haroun , Zuhour Areen , AbuKhalaf Salsabeel , Al-Atrash Nour , Alzughayyar Roa , Njoum Yumna , Hallak Hussein
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) is defined as delayed gastric emptying without any mechanical obstruction in diabetic patients.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study using an Arabic-validated translated version of the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index (GCSI). A total of 3,542 diabetic patients were interviewed, of whom 91.6% were finally included in the analysis.

Results

DGP symptoms were present in 14.5% of the study population, of which 10.2% had a GCSI score of severe disease. Further analysis of individuals with GCSI scores≥1.9 (14.5%; 470) revealed that 50.8% of them visited a doctor at least once, and 18% had been hospitalized due to DGP symptoms. However, only nine patients (1.9%) were diagnosed with DGP. The most common symptoms were stomach fullness and early satiety. The binary regression model showed that DGP symptoms were more likely to occur in patients who had diabetes for >10 years and glycosylated hemoglobin >9. Furthermore, the model revealed that females were at a higher risk of developing DGP.

Discussion

This was the first study in Palestine on DGP, which showed that the condition is underdiagnosed. This is not only because of the unavailability of standard diagnostic methods but also due to the under appreciation of gastrointestinal complaints in diabetic patients.
Sludge water: a potential pathway for the spread of antibiotic resistance and pathogenic bacteria from hospitals to the environment
Authors: Zhao Bingxuan , Zhang Rui , Jin Baolin , Yu Zuozhou , Wen Weicheng , Zhao Tong , Quan Yue , Zhou Jingya
Published: February 2025

Hospitals play an important role in the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The ARGs present in hospital wastewater tend to accumulate in activated sludge, with different ARGs exhibiting varying migration rates. As a result, sludge water produced during the activated sludge treatment process may be a significant source of ARGs entering the environment. Despite this, research into the behavior of ARGs during sludge concentration and dewatering remains limited. This study hypothesizes that ARGs might exhibit new behaviors in sludge water during sludge concentration. Using metagenomic analysis, we explored the distribution and migration risks of ARGs and human pathogenic bacteria (HPB) in sludge water, comparing them with those in hospital wastewater. The findings reveal a strong correlation between ARGs in sludge water and hospital wastewater, with subtypes such as arlR, efpA, and tetR showing higher abundance in sludge water. Although the horizontal gene transfer potential of ARGs is greater in hospital wastewater than in sludge water, the resistance mechanisms and migration pathways are similar even when their HPB host associations differ. ARGs in both environments are primarily transmitted through coexisting mobile genetic elements (MGEs). This suggests that sludge water serves as a critical route for the release of hospital-derived ARGs into the environment, posing potential threats to public health and ecological safety.
Vegetation types shape the soil micro-food web compositions and soil multifunctionality in Loess Plateau
Authors: Chen Zhiming , Kang Wenjuan , He Renyuan , Li Guang , Luo Zhuzhu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Vegetation degradation and soil erosion are severe problems in the Loess hilly region, rendering it one of the most ecologically vulnerable areas in China and globally. Vegetation restoration has been recognized as an effective approach to amending the fragile ecological environment and restoring degraded ecosystems.

Methods

The effects of different vegetation types: Caragana korshinskii, Prunus armeniaca L., Pinus tabuliformis Carrière, Medicago sativa L., and the control vegetation Stipa bungeana on soil micro-food webs and soil multifunctionality, as well as their response mechanisms to soil environmental drivers, were investigated using High-throughput sequencing technology.

Results

C. korshinskii significantly enhanced soil physicochemical properties and soil enzyme activities by facilitating the stability of the soil micro-food web structure driven by soil bacteria and fungi and increasing the soil multifunctionality in contrast to S. bungeana. Prunus armeniaca also improved soil multifunctionality by promoting soil organic carbon and alkaline phosphatase activity. However, the stability of the soil micro-food web structure and soil multifunctionality were suboptimal in P. tabuliformis and M. sativa. Soil pH, along with carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycling nutrients and enzymes, profoundly influences the structure of the soil micro-food web and soil multifunctionality; among these factors, those related to the carbon and phosphorus cycles are identified as key influencing factors.

Discussion

Therefore, a vegetation restoration strategy prioritizing C. korshinskii as the dominant vegetation type, supplemented by P. armeniaca, significantly impacts restoring soil multifunctionality and stabilizing the soil micro-food web in Loess hill regions and comparable ecological areas.
Propionate metabolism in Desulfurella acetivorans
Authors: Pettinato Eugenio , Steiner Thomas M. , Cassens Eric A. , Geisberger Thomas , Seitz Christian , König Simone , Eisenreich Wolfgang , Berg Ivan A.
Published: February 2025

Desulfurella acetivorans is a strictly anaerobic sulfur-reducing deltaproteobacterium that can grow heterotrophically by oxidation of acetate or autotrophically with molecular hydrogen. Here we show that D. acetivorans possesses a putative operon encoding enzymes of the methylcitrate cycle of propionate oxidation and demonstrate that this bacterium is capable of propionate growth. However, activities of the methylcitrate cycle enzymes could not be detected in extracts of propionate-grown cells, and experiments with [U-13C3]propionate and comparative proteomic analysis of acetate- and propionate-grown cells suggested that the methylcitrate cycle is not active during propionate growth. Instead, propionyl-CoA assimilation proceeds via its carboxylation to methylmalonyl-CoA, which is further converted to succinyl-CoA. The latter is directed to the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, where it is converted to oxaloacetate and condenses with acetyl-CoA (produced by decarboxylation of another oxaloacetate molecule) to form citrate, which is oxidized in the TCA cycle. These results highlight the uncertainty of genomic predictions in the analysis of microbial metabolic pathways and the need for their experimental confirmation.