bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis Efektifitas Para Pesepeda di Kecamatan Garut Kota
Authors: Farida Ida , Nasrillah Riska Amalia
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini dimaksudkan sebagai bahan masukan dalam perumusan kebijakan pembangunan jalur sepeda guna mendukung para pesepeda yang tidak mempunyai jalur khusus ketika berada di jalan, kebanyakan orang bersepeda di sekitar Alun-alun Garut Kota. Pengumpulan data dalam perencanaan jalur sepeda meliputi survei preferensi penggunaan sepeda, survei geomtetrik, counting, wawancara dan perlengkapan jalan. Dalam teknik analisa data diperoleh karakteristik responden dan desain jalur sepeda. Dari hasil analisis perencanaan jalur sepeda menggunakan beberapa metode analisa data yang digunakan untuk menentukan kebutuhan jalur sepeda yang memenuhi kriteria dan teori perencanaan jalur sepeda itu sendiri. Jalur yang optimum didapat berdasarkan banyaknya orang yang bersepeda, lebar jalan, dan hambatan Yng berupa parkir sembarangan. Hasil dari penelitian ini berupa desain jalur sepeda dengan konsep bike lane yaitu dimana jalur sepeda berada di badan jalan dibedakan dengan cat atau marka jalan. Lebar jalur sepeda yang dibuat yaitu 1 meter cukup untuk satu pengguna sepeda tepat berada di jalurnya dengan rute jalur dari titik Alun-alun Garut – Jl. Pramuka – Jl. Bank – Jl. Veteran – Jl. Ahmad Yani.
Perencanaan Distribusi Air Sumur Bor Desa Cibunar Kecamatan Cibatu
Authors: Rosidin Ahmad , Permana Sulwan
Published: September 2024

Air bersih sangat berperan penting dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Namun pada musim kemarau mengakibatkan krisis air di beberapa wilayah Kabupaten Garut, dampak dari krisis air yang dilanda salah satunya adalah Desa Cibunar Kecamatan Cibatu. Tujuan dari penelitian ini yaitu merencanakan debit kebutuhan air minum, kapasitas bak penampung dan perencanaan distribusi air dengan memaksimalkan potensi air sumur bor sebagai sumber air baku. Perlu adanya rekayasa distribusi dengan jaringan pipa berbahan PVC dan sistem pengaliran kombinasi. Dalam perencanaan jaringan ini proyeksi penduduk menggunakan metode geometrik dengan tahun rencana 2023-2042 dengan jumlah penduduk di akhir tahun rencana sebesar 11191 jiwa, jumlah kebutuhan air perjiwa sebesar 60 liter/orang/hari. Jumlah total kebutuhan air domestik untuk satu desa sebesar 671460 liter/orang/hari atau 7,77 liter/detik pada akhir tahun proyeksi rencana 2042. Data-data yang telah lengkap kemudian dianalisis dengan aplikasi EPANET 2.2, hasil dari analisis didapat tekanan rata-rata 25,23 m, headloss rata-rata 0,56 km/m dan kecepatan aliran rata-rata 0,18 m/s dan dari hasil analisis tersebut didapat diameter ideal pipa dsitribusi dengan diameter 100-200 mm. Sedangkakan hasil running dengan skenario jam puncak didapat debit sebesar 879 liter/jam. Dalam perencanaan spesifikasi pompa yang dibutuhkan total head sebesar 159,34 m dan daya sebesar 45,41 Kw dengan tipe pompa CR 120-5-1. Perencanaan jaringan distribuisi Desa Cibunar pada akhir tahun rencana dapat memenuhi kebutuhan masyarakat selama periode perencanaan.
Pelatihan Pengembangan Keterampilan Guru SMA Melalui Pembuatan Flipbook Sebagai Sumber Belajar Mandiri
Authors: Ekaputra Firdiawan , Fuldiaratman Fuldiaratman , Rusdi Muhammad , Dewi Fatria , Theis Roseli
Published: September 2024

Guru memegang peranan penting dalam kualitas pembelajaran yang dilakukan. Keterbatasan kemampuan guru dalam mengoperasikan perangkat lunak atau platform pembuat flipbook menjadikan media pembelajaran yang bervarisi belum dapat dikembangkan dan diterapkan secara optimal. Oleh karena itu, pelatihan kepada guru SMA Negeri 15 Muaro Jambi dalam mengembangkan keterampilan melalui pembuatan flipbook sangat diperlukan. Kegitan pelatihan dilaksanakan pada tanggal 18 Juli 2024 di SMA Negeri 15 Muaro Jambi yang diikuti oleh 18 guru dari seluruh mata pelajaran. Metode yang yang digunakan dalam pelatihan ini meliputi metode persiapan, pelaksanaan dan evaluasi. Kegiatan pelatihan pengembangan keterampilan melalui pembuatan flipbook sebagai sumber belajar mandiri yang telah dilakukan memiliki rerata ketercapaian sebesar 4,60 dengan kategori sangat baik. Peserta pelatihan sangat antusias dengan pelatihan yang dilakukan mengenai pembuatan flipbook sebagai sumber belajar mandiri dikarenakan guru SMA Negeri 15 Muaro Jambi mengamali peningkatan keterampilan teknis yang memadai dan kreativitas serta dan inovasi dalam membuat bahan ajar flipbook.
Developing a Quantitative Methods Course for Civil and Construction Engineering Students
Authors: Greenburg David S. , Davis William J. , Righter James , Singleton Eva
Published: September 2024

The ability to apply quantitative methods to gather, review, analyze and draw conclusions from data to support decision making is an important skillset in the engineering profession. We developed a new three-credit hour undergraduate course to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for basic quantitative methods for construction engineering students. The course’s main objective is to provide basic skills in quantitative methods, by familiarizing students with the critical steps in an analytical approach to decision-making. The course applies a hands-on approach to problem solving and decision making using various engineering-themed problems that practicing engineers are likely to face. The specific methods explored include; constructing quantitative models to include break-even analysis, decision trees, linear optimization, PERT/CPM schedule development and crashing, as well as Monte Carlo Simulation and sensitivity analysis to generate and interpret problem solutions. Instruction emphasizes a hands-on approach and practical assignments to develop a logical framework for describing and solving problems. This new course emphasizes Excel software rather than hand calculations and introduces use of Excel Solver and other data analysis tools.
Student Satisfaction With Learning Experience and Its Impact on Likelihood Recommending University: Net Promotor Score Approach
Authors: Pinar Musa , Wilder Coleen , Luth Matthew , Girard Tulay
Published: September 2024

Like any business, universities realize the importance and relevance of customer satisfaction that leads to customer recommendations, which is vital to their long-term success, survival, and growth. This study examines university students’ satisfaction with various aspects of their college learning experience, recommending a university as measured by Net Promoter Score (NPS), and the influence of factors related to student satisfaction on the likelihood of recommending the university. The survey results, based on 220 responses from current students, identify students’ satisfaction with the factors included in the study, where students had the highest satisfaction with the attribute ‘feeling support by faculty and staff.’ The study also found that the NPS is -0.40, indicating that students are not likely to recommend this university to other potential students, where NPS varies by gender, class level, and major. In addition, a regression analysis identifies factors to predict the likelihood of recommending this university. These findings offer insights to university administrators for designing strategies to improve student satisfaction and procure recommendations.
An Extension of Small Business Cybersecurity Into the Classroom and Community
Authors: Raineri Ellen M. , Brennan Erin A.
Published: September 2024

Small business owners often feel immune to hackers because of their business’s size and consequently do not have adequate security training, safeguards, policies, or insurance. Accordingly, small businesses are easy and frequent cybercrime targets because of limited budgets, technical personnel, and awareness. To increase small business owners’ awareness, a university conference for Cybersecurity and Small Business was offered with PCI DSS, Social Engineering, and Company Cases topics. To augment such cyber knowledge generation, this paper contains cybersecurity outreach activities for small businesses and cybersecurity learning activities for entrepreneurship students who aspire to be small business owners.
Impact of Massage Gun on Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) in Soccer Players
Authors: Mustaqim Ridha , Rimasa Dery , Kardjono Kardjono , Mazaulan Mardiana
Published: September 2024

This study aims to determine the effect of using massage gun media on RPE (Rated Perceived Exertion) in soccer players. The method used is an experimental approach with a one-group pretest-posttest model design. The research instrument used is RPE. The population of this study consisted of 30 athletes from Persib Bandung Academy who were around sixteen years old and attended intensive training four times a week. Using a purposive sampling approach, 18 athletes were selected as research subjects. To determine the RPE scale, subjects underwent high-intensity training using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test. After the exercise, a 15-minute massage was performed using a massage gun, and then RPE was measured again. The results of data analysis showed that the massage method using a massage gun had a significant impact on reducing RPE, with a value of p=0.000. This indicates that the use of massage guns can significantly reduce the fatigue level of athletes after intensive training. In conclusion, a massage gun effectively reduces fatigue as measured by RPE. Nevertheless, improving the quality of research is still needed by increasing the number of participants and developing a more structured training program both in time and day.
Processamento e análises físico química, microbiológica e sensorial de doce de leite pastoso sem adição de açúcar e formulado com soro de leite
Authors: Jesus Maria Antônia Carvalho Lima de , Araujo Raillane Oliveira de , Oliveira Caio Henrique da Silva , Pereira Isabela dos Santos
Published: September 2024

A produção de alimentos sem adição de açúcar segue uma tendência mundial crescente que é a de produtos dietéticos, indicados para pessoas que desejam hábitos alimentares mais saudáveis, perder ou controlar peso e para quem apresenta distúrbios alimentares como é o caso dos diabéticos. Associada a essa perspectiva de mercado, a produção de doce de leite pastoso com soro do leite tem crescido muito no mercado devido ao fato do soro ser um subproduto abundante da indústria queijeira que apresenta valor nutritivo. Diante disso, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo desenvolver o doce de leite pastoso sem adição de açúcar com substituição de parte do leite por soro (25%, 35% e 50% de soro) bem como elaborar o briefing sobre o novo produto a ser desenvolvido. As formulações dos doces foram submetidas a análises físico químicas, microbiológicas, análise sensorial e rendimento do processo. A formulação com melhor aceitação sensorial foi analisada por um período de quatro meses de armazenamento (análises físico químicas e microbiológicas). A tabela de informação nutricional também foi desenvolvida. A formulação que apresentou um maior índice de aceitação para os atributos sensoriais avaliados bem como uma maior intenção de compra foi a formulação com 50% de leite e 50% de soro. O produto manteve-se estável microbiologicamente durante o armazenamento. O doce de leite pastoso processado com leite e soro de leite sem adição de açúcar mostrou-se uma excelente alternativa de derivado lácteo conferindo mais uma possibilidade para o mercado crescente de opções inovadoras no ramo alimentício.
The social science of offshore aquaculture: uncertainties, challenges and solution-oriented governance needs
Authors: Krause Gesche , Weitzman Jenny , Rector Megan E. , Filgueira Ramon , Burg Sander van den , Dankel Dorothy Jane , Olsen Marit Schei , Osmundsen Tonje C.
Published: September 2024

Aquaculture technology is on the move, enabling production in more open and exposed ocean environments around the world. These new systems offer solutions to environmental challenges facing conventional aquaculture, yet new technologies also create new social challenges while potentially exacerbating, or at minimum recreating, others. Offshore aquaculture research and governance are still in early stages, as is our understanding of the social repercussions and challenges associated with development. This paper provides an evaluation and reflection on offshore aquaculture from a social science perspective and is based on findings from a modified World Café group discussion method including the thoughts and experiences of social science experts. Key challenges and uncertainties including a lack of an appropriate regulatory framework, societal perceptions of offshore aquaculture, and offshore aquaculture’s contribution to society were identified. The governance implications of these challenges are discussed as well as the need for social sciences to address these challenges through transformative and transdisciplinary approaches that bridge science and society.
Effects of victim’s body posture and attacker’s gender on slashing attacks: a biomechanical study
Authors: Li Shangxiao , Yuan Shufang , Shi Yi , Ni Bin , Guo Wenxia , Yang Chaopeng , Wang Mingzhi , Hao Weiya
Published: September 2024

Objective

Sharp force injury has been and will remain to be a major cause of violent death; however, scientific evaluations on the impact of body posture of the victim and gender of the perpetrator on sharp force injury have been scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical characteristics found in individuals (male and female) when using a Chinese kitchen knife to slash the neck of a dummy while it was in the standing and supine positions. This work offers a solid basis for forensic identifications, criminal investigations, and court trials.

Methods

A total of 12 male and 12 female college students participated in this study. Kinematic, kinetic, and surface electromyography (sEMG) data were evaluated when slashing the neck of a dummy while it was in the standing and supine positions using a Chinese kitchen knife.

Results

When slashing the neck of a standing dummy, participants showed shorter contact time (19.5%) and slower shoulder velocities (30.9%) as well as higher hip velocity (26.0%) and increased root mean square (RMS) and integral electromyography (iEMG) for the anterior deltoid (51.3% and 51.2%, respectively) compared to those while the dummy was in the supine position (all p < 0.05), regardless of gender. When slashing a dummy’s neck while it was in standing and supine positions, male participants showed higher shoulder, elbow, and wrist velocities (22.6%, 22.7%, and 24.4%, respectively) and higher slashing velocity (19.8%), slashing force (24.2%), and energy (46.2%) than female participants (all p < 0.05). In addition, male participants showed shorter contact time (17.8%), and the values of RMS and iEMG of the anterior deltoid, biceps brachii, extensor carpi radialis longus, and flexor carpi ulnaris were less than those of female participants (98.9%, 47.3%, 65.6%, and 33.4% for RMS and 115.1%, 59.4%, 80.1%, and 47.8% for iEMG, respectively).

Conclusion

There was no difference in slashing speed, slashing force, and energy when using a Chinese kitchen knife to slash the dummy’s neck while it was in different body postures (standing and supine), suggesting a similar level of injury severity. However, there were significant differences in slashing action patterns between the two body postures, with longer contact time, smaller hip velocity, greater shoulder velocity, and less muscle activation level of the deltoid exertion when slashing the dummy’s neck in the supine position. Gender may have a greater effect on the severity of slashing, and the gender difference may be partly related to the body weight difference. The findings from this study may provide quantitative indicators and references for analyzing the motive behind the crime, as well as for case reconstruction, and for the court’s conviction and sentencing processes.
Lung epithelial-endothelial-mesenchymal signaling network with hepatocyte growth factor as a hub is involved in bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Sang Yating , Qiao Lina
Published: September 2024

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is fundamentally characterized by the arrest of lung development and abnormal repair mechanisms, which result in impaired development of the alveoli and microvasculature. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), secreted by pulmonary mesenchymal and endothelial cells, plays a pivotal role in the promotion of epithelial and endothelial cell proliferation, branching morphogenesis, angiogenesis, and alveolarization. HGF exerts its beneficial effects on pulmonary vascular development and alveolar simplification primarily through two pivotal pathways: the stimulation of neovascularization, thereby enriching the pulmonary microvascular network, and the inhibition of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the alveolar structure. We discuss HGF and its receptor c-Met, interact with various growth factors throughout the process of lung development and BPD, and form a signaling network with HGF as a hub, which plays the pivotal role in orchestrating and integrating epithelial, endothelial and mesenchymal.
The impact of coupling a dynamic ocean in the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System
Authors: Gramer Lewis J. , Steffen John , Aristizabal Vargas Maria , Kim Hyun-Sook
Published: September 2024

Coupling a three-dimensional ocean circulation model to an atmospheric model can significantly improve forecasting of tropical cyclones (TCs). This is particularly true of forecasts for TC intensity (maximum sustained surface wind and minimum central pressure), but also for structure (e.g., surface wind-field sizes). This study seeks to explore the physical mechanisms by which a dynamic ocean influences TC evolution, using an operational TC model. The authors evaluated impacts of ocean-coupling on TC intensity and structure forecasts from NOAA’s Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System v1.0 B (HFSB), which became operational at the NOAA National Weather Service in 2023. The study compared existing HFSB coupled simulations with simulations using an identical model configuration in which the dynamic ocean coupling was replaced by a simple diurnally varying sea surface temperature model. The authors analyzed TCs of interest from the 2020–2022 Atlantic hurricane seasons, selecting forecast cycles with small coupled track-forecast errors for detailed analysis. The results show the link between the dynamic, coupled ocean response to TCs and coincident TC structural changes directly related to changing intensity and surface wind-field size. These results show the importance of coupling in forecasting slower-moving TCs and those with larger surface wind fields. However, there are unexpected instances where coupling impacts the near-TC atmospheric environment (e.g., mid-level moisture intrusion), ultimately affecting intensity forecasts. These results suggest that, even for more rapidly moving and smaller TCs, the influence of the ocean response to the wind field in the near-TC atmospheric environment is important for TC forecasting. The authors also examined cases where coupling degrades forecast performance. Statistical comparisons of coupled versus uncoupled HFSB further show an interesting tendency: high biases in peak surface winds for the uncoupled forecasts contrast with corresponding low biases, contrary to expectations, in coupled forecasts; the coupled forecasts also show a significant negative bias in the radii of 34 kt winds relative to National Hurricane Center best track estimates. By contrast, coupled forecasts show very small bias in minimum central pressure compared with a strong negative bias in uncoupled. Possible explanations for these discrepancies are discussed. The ultimate goal of this work will be to enable better evaluation and forecast improvement of TC models in future work.
Simulation and prediction of land subsidence in Decheng District under the constraint of InSAR deformation information
Authors: Hu Jinming , Chen Beibei , Chu Xiaoyu , Gong Huili , Zhou Chaofan , Yang Yabin , Sun Xiaoxiao , Zhao Danni
Published: September 2024

Land subsidence, marked by a decline in surface elevation, poses a significant threat to urban infrastructure and safety. Accurate subsidence information and a reliable prediction model are crucial for prevention and control. In this study, we used persistent scatterer interferometric synthetic aperture radar (PS-InSAR) technology to obtain long-term land subsidence data and analyzed subsidence characteristics in Decheng District. By integrating hydrogeological and groundwater data, we developed a three-dimensional groundwater flow and one-dimensional compaction model through numerical simulation. Furthermore, the subsidence data monitored by PS-InSAR were used to further constrain and validate the model. The evolution trend of land subsidence under different groundwater exploitation scenarios was predicted and analyzed. The results showed that from May 2017 to December 2021, the cumulative maximum subsidence in Decheng District reached −173 mm. The subsidence area is mainly concentrated in the northern area, and its subsidence center is near Qiaoyuan Town. According to the Land Subsidence Prevention and Control Plan of Dezhou City, Shandong Province (2018–2025), we set up different groundwater mining scenarios with the goal that the rate of land subsidence in the key prevention and control area is less than 35 mm/yr in 2025.The Fluid-solid coupled model prediction analysis results indicated that a 30% reduction in groundwater exploitation is reasonable.
Effects of FGF21 overexpression in osteoporosis and bone mineral density: a two-sample, mediating Mendelian analysis
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Jiang Jun , Li Yunjia , Chen Qiaojun , Yang Ting , Lei Yanfa , He Zewei , Wang Xiaowei , Na Qiang , Lao Changtao , Luo Xinlei , Yang Lirong , Yang Zhengchang
Published: September 2024

Objective

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a secreted protein that regulates body metabolism. In recent years, many observational studies have found that FGF21 is closely related to bone mineral density and osteoporosis, but the causal relationship between them is still unclear. Therefore, this study used two-sample, mediated Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal relationship between FGF21 and osteoporosis and bone mineral density.

Methods

We conducted a two-sample, mediator MR Analysis using genetic data from publicly available genome-wide association studies (GWAS) that included genetic variants in the inflammatory cytokine FGF21, and Total body bone mineral density, Heel bone mineral density, Forearm bone mineral density, Femoral neck bone mineral density, osteoporosis. The main analysis method used was inverse variance weighting (IVW) to investigate the causal relationship between exposure and outcome. In addition, weighted median, simple median method, weighted median method and MR-Egger regression were used to supplement the explanation, and sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the reliability of the results.

Results

MR Results showed that FGF21 overexpression reduced bone mineral density: Total body bone mineral density (OR=0.920, 95%CI: 0.876-0.966), P=0.001), Heel bone mineral density (OR=0.971, 95%CI (0.949-0.993); P=0.01), Forearm bone mineral density (OR=0.882, 95%CI(0.799-0.973); P=0.012), Femoral neck bone mineral density (OR=0.952, 95%CI(0.908-0.998), P=0.039); In addition, it also increased the risk of osteoporosis (OR=1.003, 95%CI (1.001-1.005), P=0.004). Sensitivity analysis supported the reliability of these results. The effect of FGF21 overexpression on osteoporosis may be mediated by type 2 diabetes mellitus and basal metabolic rate, with mediating effects of 14.96% and 12.21%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the overexpression of FGF21 may lead to a decrease in bone mineral density and increase the risk of osteoporosis, and the effect of FGF21 on osteoporosis may be mediated through type 2 diabetes and basal metabolic rate. This study can provide a reference for analyzing the potential mechanism of osteoporosis and is of great significance for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
Regulatory T cells: masterminds of immune equilibrium and future therapeutic innovations
Authors: Ge Junwei , Yin Xuan , Chen Lujun
Published: September 2024

Regulatory T cells (Tregs), a subset of CD4+T cells marked by the expression of the transcription factor forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3), are pivotal in maintaining immune equilibrium and preventing autoimmunity. In our review, we addressed the functional distinctions between Foxp3+Tregs and other T cells, highlighting their roles in autoimmune diseases and cancer. We uncovered the dual nature of Tregs: they prevented autoimmune diseases by maintaining self-tolerance while contributing to tumor evasion by suppressing anti-tumor immunity. This study underscored the potential for targeted therapeutic strategies, such as enhancing Treg activity to restore balance in autoimmune diseases or depleting Foxp3+Tregs to augment anti-tumor immune responses in cancer. These insights laid the groundwork for future research and clinical applications, emphasizing the critical role of Foxp3+Tregs in immune regulation and the advancement of next-generation immunotherapies.
Automated segmentation and classification of supraspinatus fatty infiltration in shoulder magnetic resonance image using a convolutional neural network
Authors: Saavedra Juan Pablo , Droppelmann Guillermo , Jorquera Carlos , Feijoo Felipe
Published: September 2024

Background

Goutallier’s fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus muscle is a critical condition in degenerative shoulder disorders. Deep learning research primarily uses manual segmentation and labeling to detect this condition. Employing unsupervised training with a hybrid framework of segmentation and classification could offer an efficient solution.

Aim

To develop and assess a two-step deep learning model for detecting the region of interest and categorizing the magnetic resonance image (MRI) supraspinatus muscle fatty infiltration according to Goutallier’s scale.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study was performed from January 1, 2019 to September 20, 2020, using 900 MRI T2-weighted images with supraspinatus muscle fatty infiltration diagnoses. A model with two sequential neural networks was implemented and trained. The first sub-model automatically detects the region of interest using a U-Net model. The second sub-model performs a binary classification using the VGG-19 architecture. The model’s performance was computed as the average of five-fold cross-validation processes. Loss, accuracy, Dice coefficient (CI. 95%), AU-ROC, sensitivity, and specificity (CI. 95%) were reported.

Results

Six hundred and six shoulders MRIs were analyzed. The Goutallier distribution was presented as follows: 0 (66.50%); 1 (18.81%); 2 (8.42%); 3 (3.96%); 4 (2.31%). Segmentation results demonstrate high levels of accuracy (0.9977 ± 0.0002) and Dice score (0.9441 ± 0.0031), while the classification model also results in high levels of accuracy (0.9731 ± 0.0230); sensitivity (0.9000 ± 0.0980); specificity (0.9788 ± 0.0257); and AUROC (0.9903 ± 0.0092).

Conclusion

The two-step training method proposed using a deep learning model demonstrated strong performance in segmentation and classification tasks.
Whole genome sequence analysis reveals high genomic diversity and potential host-driven adaptations among multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli from pre-weaned dairy calves
Authors: Lee Katie Y. , Schlesener Cory L. , Aly Sharif S. , Huang Bihua C. , Li Xunde , Atwill Edward R. , Weimer Bart C.
Published: September 2024

Food-producing animals such as dairy cattle are potential reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with multidrug-resistant (MDR) organisms such as Escherichia coli observed in higher frequency in young calves compared to older cattle. In this study, we characterized the genomes of enteric MDR E. coli from pre-weaned dairy calves with and without diarrhea and evaluated the influence of host-level factors on genomic composition. Whole genome sequence comparative analysis of E. coli (n = 43) revealed substantial genomic diversity that primarily clustered by sequence type and was minimally driven by calf diarrheal disease status (healthy, diarrheic, or recovered), antimicrobial exposure, and dietary zinc supplementation. Diverse AMR genes (ARGs)—including extended-spectrum beta-lactamase genes and quinolone resistance determinants—were identified (n = 40), with unique sets of ARGs co-occurring in gene clusters with large AMR plasmids IncA/C2 and IncFIB(AP001918). Zinc supplementation was not significantly associated with the selection of individual ARGs in E. coli, however analysis of ARG and metal resistance gene pairs identified positive associations between certain aminoglycoside, beta-lactam, sulfonamide, and trimethoprim ARGs with acid, tellurium and mercury resistance genes. Although E. coli in this study lacked the typical virulence factors of diarrheagenic strains, virulence genes overlapping with those in major pathotypes were identified. Among the 103 virulence genes detected, the highest abundance and diversity of genes corresponded to iron acquisition (siderophores and heme uptake). Our findings indicate that the host-level factors evaluated in this study were not key drivers of genomic variability, but that certain accessory genes in enteric MDR E. coli may be enriched. Collectively, this work provides insight into the genomic diversity and host-microbe interface of MDR E. coli from pre-weaned dairy calves.
TMS assessment of corticospinal tract integrity after stroke: broadening the concept to inform neurorehabilitation prescription
Authors: Kumar Sapna , Ferraro Mary , Nguyen Lienhoung , Cao Ning , Ung Nathaniel , Jose Joshua S. , Weidenauer Cheryl , Edwards Dylan J. , Mayer Nathaniel H.
Published: September 2024

Upper limb actions require intersegmental coordination of the scapula, shoulders, elbows, forearms, wrists, and hand muscles. Stroke hemiparesis, presenting as an impairment of an intersegmentally coordinated voluntary movement, is associated with altered integrity of corticospinal tract (CST) transmission from the motor cortex (M1) to muscles. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) elicited by M1 transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of “at rest” muscles, or as a backup, during muscle contraction have been used to identify CST integrity and predict the outcome after hemiparesis, under the implicit assumption that MEPs present in only one or two muscles are manifest surrogates of CST integrity for other muscles of the upper limbs. This study presents a method for applying TMS during motor tasks that involve proximal and distal muscles. It focuses on evaluating multi-muscle electromyography (EMG) and MEPs across all task-relevant limb segments. Protocols are presented for assessing voluntary motor behavior in individuals with hemiparetic stroke using isometric, unimanual, bimanual, and “REST” conditions that broaden the concept of the degree of CST integrity in order to inform clinical prescription for neurorehabilitation and distinguish its potential as a prognostic tool. Data describing the recordings of multi-muscle transcranial magnetic stimulation induced motor evoked potentials (TMS-MEP) will be presented in a case of subacute hemiparetic stroke to elucidate our perspective.
The digital cumulative complexity model: a framework for improving engagement in digital mental health interventions
Authors: Cross Shane P. , Alvarez-Jimenez Mario
Published: September 2024

Mental health disorders affect a substantial portion of the global population. Despite preferences for psychotherapy, access remains limited due to various barriers. Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) have emerged to increase accessibility, yet engagement and treatment completion rates are concerning. Evidence across healthcare where some degree of self-management is required show that treatment engagement is negatively influenced by contextual complexity. This article examines the non-random factors influencing patient engagement in digital and face-to-face psychological therapies. It reviews established models and introduces an adapted version of the Cumulative Complexity Model (CuCoM) as a framework for understanding engagement in the context of digital mental health. Theoretical models like the Fogg Behavior Model, Persuasive System Design, Self-Determination Theory, and Supportive Accountability aim to explain disengagement. However, none adequately consider these broader contextual factors and their complex interactions with personal characteristics, intervention requirements and technology features. We expand on these models by proposing an application of CuCoM’s application in mental health and digital contexts (known as DiCuCoM), focusing on the interplay between patient burden, personal capacity, and treatment demands. Standardized DMHIs often fail to consider individual variations in burden and capacity, leading to engagement variation. DiCuCoM highlights the need for balancing patient workload with capacity to improve engagement. Factors such as life demands, burden of treatment, and personal capacity are examined for their influence on treatment adherence. The article proposes a person-centered approach to treatment, informed by models like CuCoM and Minimally Disruptive Medicine, emphasizing the need for mental healthcare systems to acknowledge and address the unique burdens and capacities of individuals. Strategies for enhancing engagement include assessing personal capacity, reducing treatment burden, and utilizing technology to predict and respond to disengagement. New interventions informed by such models could lead to better engagement and ultimately better outcomes.
The effects of the ‘active before school’ programme on the academic skills of 8–9-year-old children: a physically and cognitively engaging intervention
Authors: Korcz Agata , Krzysztoszek Jana , Bojkowski Łukasz , Koszałka-Silska Agnieszka , Khorkova Maryna , Gomołysek Anna , Bronikowski Michał
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Literature underscores the significance of exercise and cognitive stimulation for achieving academic success. This study aims to investigate the effects of the technology-based “Active Before the First School Bell” programme, comparing the effects of two school-based interventions (physical activity vs. cognitive engagement) on the academic skills of 8–9-year-old children.

Methods

This encompasses their school skills, visual-motor coordination, levels and attitudes towards physical activity, and fitness. The study involved 88 primary school children (age: 8.3 years, 58.0% girls). To assess the programme’s distinct effects children were categorised into three groups. The first group (n = 31) participated in cognitive classes (CEG), the second (n = 27), in physical activity classes (PAEG), and the third (n = 30), was a control one (CG). A 12-week intervention, consisting of three 15-min sessions per week before school, was implemented. Self-report questionnaires gauged levels of physical activity. Academic skills were assessed using a battery of diagnostic methods for school failure in early childhood education. Fitness was measured using selected items from the Eurofit test battery. Pre- and post-test measures were collected and analysed, employing one-way ANOVA on ranks with Dunn’s post-hoc tests.

Results

Significant post-test differences between the groups were observed in visual spatial function, with the PAEG outperforming the CG, and in auditory and language functions, where both experimental groups outperformed the CG. Results suggest that before school physical activities may be more effective than cognitive activities in improving the academic skills.

Conclusion

The short-term effects obtained provide insights for implementing before-school programmes for children in the early school years.
Active Composite Control of Disturbance Compensation for Vibration Isolation System with Uncertainty
Authors: Zhu Zhijun , Xiao Yong , Zhou Minrui , Li Yongqiang , Yu Dianlong
Published: September 2024

The pointing and positioning accuracy of precision instruments in aerospace are often disturbed by low-frequency vibrations. An active/passive vibration isolation system is a feasible solution to suppress low-frequency vibrations. However, the vibration isolation performance of the active control strategy is seriously affected by the uncertainty of the system and the difficulty to meet the higher requirements of new-generation equipment. This paper proposes an active composite control (ACC) strategy for vibration isolation systems with uncertainty. The proposed ACC integrates feedforward control based on known systems and feedback control based on the Kalman filter for systems with uncertainty. Further, the derivation and stability analyses of the proposed ACC algorithm are provided, and the influence of system uncertainty on vibration isolation performance based on the proposed ACC is analyzed. Experimental verification is conducted and the experimental results confirm that the proposed ACC can effectively realize the low-frequency and wide-band vibration isolation for the system with uncertainty. Starting from 30 Hz, the vibration isolation performance of the proposed ACC with uncertainty is significantly improved than that of the ACC completely based on a deterministic system model.
Characteristic Analysis of the Soil Bacterial Community Structure of Dendrocalamus brandisii from Seven Geographical Provenances in Yunnan Province
Authors: Chen Qian , Zhang Manyun , Omidvar Negar , Xu Zhihong , Bai Shahla Hosseini , Hui Chaomao , Liu Weiyi
Published: September 2024

Soil is the basis of bamboo growth and quality formation of bamboo shoots and has an important contribution to the sustainable development of agriculture. To this end, We studied the soil properties and microbial communities of Dendrocalamus brandisii by collecting twenty-one soil samples from its seven typical geographic provenances in Yunnan Province, China. Bacterial 16S rRNA gene amplicons were used to detect soil bacteria and predict bacterial functions using Tax4Fun. The results indicated that the soil bacterial diversity indices (ACE, Chao1, Simpson, and Shannon) were significantly different among different geographical provenances. The dominant bacterial groups at the phylum level in all seven regions were Proteobacteria (19.78~29.06%), Actinobacteria (13.53~30.01%), Chloroflexi (8.03~31.47%), and Acidobacteria (7.12~19.17%), with markedly different constitution proportions. Total phosphorus, available potassium, and pH were the main environmental factors affecting soil bacterial communities. There were significant differences in the secondary metabolic pathways and phenotypes of soil bacterial functions, exhibiting a diversity of functions. The geographical variables of the soil bacterial community in D. brandisii varied with spatial scales. Environmental factors such as available potassium (AK), pH, and total nitrogen (TN) have an impact on soil bacterial communities.
Is Exclusive Small Airway Asthma a Possibility?
Authors: Hopp Russell J.
Published: September 2024

Although the small airway component of chronic asthma is becoming a more important topic, its impact in the daily assessment of pediatric asthma is limited. The intrinsic airway autonomic control in asthma suggests some potential mechanisms by which more distal obstruction may dominate in some situations. We suggest theoretical possibilities for small airway dominance and present clinical data supporting this possibility.
The Use of Genomic Screening for the Detection of Chromosomal Abnormalities in the Domestic Horse: Five New Cases of 65,XXY Syndrome in the Pura Raza Español Breed
Authors: Valera Mercedes , Karlau Ayelén , Anaya Gabriel , Bugno-Poniewierska Monika , Molina Antonio , Encina Ana , Azor Pedro J. , Demyda-Peyrás Sebastián
Published: September 2024

Sex chromosomal abnormalities are a well-established cause of reproductive failure in domestic horses. Because of its difficult diagnosis, the Pura Raza Español breeding program established a routine screening for chromosomal abnormalities in all the horses prior to enrolling in the studbook. This genomic procedure combines an initial assessment based on the results from Short Tandem Repeat (STR) parentage testing followed by a Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) based copy number aberration (CNA) confirmative analysis in positive cases. Using this methodology, we identified five new individuals carrying a 65,XXY chromosomal number aberration (CNA) among 27,330 foals enrolled over the past two reproductive seasons. The animals were initially flagged as CNA candidates due to abnormal results in STR testing. Subsequent analysis genotyping using an STR sex-linked dedicated panel and a medium-density SNP array in ECAX and ECAY confirmed the diagnosis as 65,XXY carriers. Four cases (upon sample availability) underwent further analysis using in situ fluorescent hybridization with ECAX and ECAY probes, showing identical results. Phenotypic analysis revealed abnormal gonad development in one of the cases, showing that the remaining four had a normal reproductive morphology. To our knowledge, this represents the largest number of horses exhibiting the equine form of Klinefelter syndrome (65,XXY) reported to date. Our study highlights the importance of genomic screening in the accurate detection of chromosomal abnormalities in horses.
Detection of Gastrointestinal Pathogens with Zoonotic Potential in Horses Used in Free-Riding Activities during a Countrywide Study in Greece
Authors: Tyrnenopoulou Panagiota , Tsilipounidaki Katerina , Florou Zoi , Gkountinoudis Christos-Georgios , Tyropoli Konstantina , Starras Alexandros , Peleki Christina , Marneris Danai , Arseniou Nikoletta , Lianou Daphne T. , Katsarou Eleni I. , Petinaki Efthymia , Fthenakis George C.
Published: September 2024

The objectives of this study were (a) to detect zoonotic gastrointestinal pathogens in faecal samples of horses using the FilmArray® GI Panel and (b) to identify variables potentially associated with their presence. Faecal samples collected from 224 horses obtained during a countrywide study in Greece were tested by means of the BioFire® FilmArray® Gastrointestinal (GI) Panel, which uses multiplex-PCR technology for the detection of 22 pathogens. Gastrointestinal pathogens were detected in the faecal samples obtained from 97 horses (43.3%). Zoonotic pathogens were detected more frequently in samples from horses in courtyard housing (56.0%) than in samples from horses in other housing types (39.7%) (p = 0.040). The most frequently detected zoonotic pathogens were enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (19.2% of horses) and Shiga-like toxin-producing E. coli stx1/stx2 (13.8%). During multivariable analysis, two variables emerged as significant predictors for the outcome ‘detection of at least one zoonotic pathogen in the faecal sample from an animal’: (a) the decreasing age of horses (p = 0.0001) and (b) the presence of livestock at the same premises as the horses (p = 0.013). As a significant predictor for the outcome ‘detection of two zoonotic pathogens concurrently in the faecal sample from an animal’, only the season of sampling of animals (autumn) emerged as significant in the multivariable analysis (p = 0.049). The results indicated a diversity of gastrointestinal pathogens with zoonotic potential in horses and provided evidence for predictors for the infections; also, they can serve to inform horse owners and handlers regarding the possible risk of transmission of pathogens with zoonotic potential. In addition, our findings highlight the importance of continuous surveillance for zoonotic pathogens in domestic animals.
Unraveling the Protective Role of Oleocanthal and Its Oxidation Product, Oleocanthalic Acid, against Neuroinflammation
Authors: Barbalace Maria Cristina , Freschi Michela , Rinaldi Irene , Zallocco Lorenzo , Malaguti Marco , Manera Clementina , Ortore Gabriella , Zuccarini Mariachiara , Ronci Maurizio , Cuffaro Doretta , Macchia Marco , Hrelia Silvana , Giusti Laura , Digiacomo Maria , Angeloni Cristina
Published: September 2024

Neuroinflammation is a critical aspect of various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. This study investigates the anti-neuroinflammatory properties of oleocanthal and its oxidation product, oleocanthalic acid, using the BV-2 cell line activated with lipopolysaccharide. Our findings revealed that oleocanthal significantly inhibited the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduced the expression of inflammatory genes, counteracted oxidative stress induced by lipopolysaccharide, and increased cell phagocytic activity. Conversely, oleocanthalic acid was not able to counteract lipopolysaccharide-induced activation. The docking analysis revealed a plausible interaction of oleocanthal, with both CD14 and MD-2 leading to a potential interference with TLR4 signaling. Since our data show that oleocanthal only partially reduces the lipopolysaccharide-induced activation of NF-kB, its action as a TLR4 antagonist alone cannot explain its remarkable effect against neuroinflammation. Proteomic analysis revealed that oleocanthal counteracts the LPS modulation of 31 proteins, including significant targets such as gelsolin, clathrin, ACOD1, and four different isoforms of 14-3-3 protein, indicating new potential molecular targets of the compound. In conclusion, oleocanthal, but not oleocanthalic acid, mitigates neuroinflammation through multiple mechanisms, highlighting a pleiotropic action that is particularly important in the context of neurodegeneration.
The Quantification of Myocardial Fibrosis on Human Histopathology Images by a Semi-Automatic Algorithm
Authors: Gonciar Diana , Berciu Alexandru-George , Danku Alex Ede , Lorenzovici Noemi , Dulf Eva-Henrietta , Mocan Teodora , Nicula Sorina-Melinda , Agoston-Coldea Lucia
Published: September 2024

(1) Background: Considering the increasing workload of pathologists, computer-assisted methods have the potential to come to their aid. Considering the prognostic role of myocardial fibrosis, its precise quantification is essential. Currently, the evaluation is performed semi-quantitatively by the pathologist, a method exposed to the issues of subjectivity. The present research proposes validating a semi-automatic algorithm that aims to quantify myocardial fibrosis on microscopic images. (2) Methods: Forty digital images were selected from the slide collection of The Iowa Virtual Slidebox, from which the collagen volume fraction (CVF) was calculated using two semi-automatic methods: CIELAB-MATLAB® and CIELAB-Python. These involve the use of color difference analysis, using Delta E, in a rectangular region for CIELAB-Python and a region with a random geometric shape, determined by the user’s cursor movement, for CIELAB-MATLAB®. The comparison was made between the stereological evaluation and ImageJ. (3) Results: A total of 36 images were included in the study (n = 36), demonstrating a high, statistically significant correlation between stereology and ImageJ on the one hand, and the proposed methods on the other (p < 0.001). The mean CVF determined by the two methods shows a mean bias of 1.5% compared with stereology and 0.9% compared with ImageJ. Conclusions: The combined algorithm has a superior performance compared to the proposed methods, considered individually. Despite the relatively small mean bias, the limits of agreement are quite wide, reflecting the variability of the images included in the study.