bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of adverse childhood experiences on mental health, sexual risk behaviors, and alcohol consumption in adulthood
Authors: Landa-Blanco Miguel , Vásquez Gabriela , Portillo Gretel , Sproviero Federico , Echenique Yarani
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the study was to determine how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) relate to adulthood flourishing, symptoms of depression, anxiety, somatization, self-reported health, sexual risk behaviors, and alcohol consumption. A quantitative cross-sectional methodology was used. A total of 452 adults completed the survey. The most prevalent ACE include physical abuse (44.69%), separation/divorce of parents (41.81%), living with someone with alcohol problems (39.38%), and being sworn, insulted, or humiliated by adults at home (35.62%). Almost one out of every four respondents (24.34%) reported being touched by an adult, 17.92% reported that an adult tried to manipulate the respondent into touching them, and 8.19% were forced to have sexual intercourse. Results indicate that women reported a higher number of ACE than men. The number of ACE is inversely related to flourishing and self-reported health; while being positively associated with participant’s scores in depression, anxiety, somatization, sexual risk behaviors, and alcohol use. The regression model, including the eleven ACE and respondents’ sex and age, achieved medium effect sizes for somatization, depression, and anxiety symptoms and small effect sizes for flourishing, self-reported health, sexual risk behaviors, and alcohol consumption. Specific ACE have a particularly significant negative impact on mental health outcomes: forced intercourse, witnessing familial violence, verbal humiliation, and living with individuals struggling with mental health issues and drug consumption or who were incarcerated. In conclusion, the study highlights the alarming prevalence of ACE among the Honduran population and their significant negative impact on mental health outcomes during adulthood.
Measles outbreak investigation in Tocha district, southwestern Ethiopia: an unmatched case–control study
Authors: Tefera Simon Fikadu , Admasu Nigatu , Abebe Habtamu , Feyisa Gemechu Chemeda , Midaksa Gachana
Published: April 2024

Background

Measles continues to be a public health challenge in Ethiopia. Rumors of suspected measles were notified on April 8, 2023 from Tocha district. We conducted an assessment to describe measles outbreak and determine risk factors for measles infection in the Tocha district of the Dawuro zone, Southwest Ethiopia.

Methods

We conducted a 1:2 unmatched case–control studies from April to May 2023. We took all 147 cases registered on line list for descriptive analyses. We used a total of 74 randomly selected cases and 147 controls for case–control part. Any person in Tocha district with laboratory-confirmed measles IgM antibody; or any suspected person epidemiologically linked to confirmed measles cases from March 23 to April 26 2023, were included in the case. Neighborhood who did not fulfill this standard case definition were included in controls. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires deployed on Kobo Collect. Descriptive analyses were conducted using Epi info version 7.2.5.0. The analyses were performed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26. Binary logistic regression analyses were utilized to select candidate variables. We conducted multiple logistic regression analysis to identify determinants of measles infection at a p value ≤0.05 with 95% confidence interval.

Results

The overall attack rate of 22.64/10,000 for general population and 104.59/10,000 among under-five children were attributed to the outbreak with a case fatality rate of 2.72%. Vaccine coverage in the last year and this year were 73.52 and 53.88%, respectively, while vaccine effectiveness in the district was 79%. Poor house ventilation (AOR = 3.540, 95% CI: 1.663–7.535) and having contact history with the case (AOR = 2.528, 95% CI: 1.180–4.557) were positively related to measles infection while being previously vaccinated for measles (AOR = 0.209, 95% CI: 0.180–4.577) reduce risk of measles infections.

Conclusion

The highest attack rate was observed among children under 5 years of age, with a case fatality rate of 2.72%. Vaccination coverage was less than what expected to develop herd immunity. Strategies to increase vaccination coverage and strengthening surveillance systems for rumor identification and early responses to prevent person to person transmission are recommended.
Screening for social determinants of health among populations at risk for MASLD: a scoping review
Authors: Kim Rebecca G. , Ballantyne April , Conroy Molly B. , Price Jennifer C. , Inadomi John M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Social determinants of health (SDoH) have been associated with disparate outcomes among those with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its risk factors. To address SDoH among this population, real-time SDoH screening in clinical settings is required, yet optimal screening methods are unclear. We performed a scoping review to describe the current literature on SDoH screening conducted in the clinical setting among individuals with MASLD and MASLD risk factors.

Methods

Through a systematic literature search of MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL Complete databases through 7/2023, we identified studies with clinic-based SDoH screening among individuals with or at risk for MASLD that reported pertinent clinical outcomes including change in MASLD risk factors like diabetes and hypertension.

Results

Ten studies (8 manuscripts, 2 abstracts) met inclusion criteria involving 148,151 patients: 89,408 with diabetes and 25,539 with hypertension. Screening was primarily completed in primary care clinics, and a variety of screening tools were used. The most commonly collected SDoH were financial stability, healthcare access, food insecurity and transportation. Associations between clinical outcomes and SDoH varied; overall, higher SDoH burden was associated with poorer outcomes including elevated blood pressure and hemoglobin A1c.

Conclusion

Despite numerous epidemiologic studies showing associations between clinical outcomes and SDoH, and guidelines recommending SDoH screening, few studies describe in-clinic SDoH screening among individuals with MASLD risk factors and none among patients with MASLD. Future research should prioritize real-time, comprehensive assessments of SDoH, particularly among patients at risk for and with MASLD, to mitigate disease progression and reduce MASLD health disparities.
The relationship between psychological capital, burnout and perceived stress in junior nurses: a latent profile analysis
Authors: Zhang Xu , Chen Siye , Zheng Ziling , Zhao Mi , Song Li , Zhao Yue , Wang Zhiwen
Published: April 2024

Background

Psychological capital, an intrinsic personal asset, enhances junior nurses’ ability to navigate transition and sustain superior job performance. This study aimed to classify junior nurses into distinct psychological capital profiles and examine their associations with burnout and perceived stress levels.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving 480 junior nurses from three hospitals in Beijing assessed psychological capital, stress, and burnout using e-questionnaires, from July 2021 to August 2022. We employed exploratory latent profile analysis for psychological capital profiling and logistic regression with the best subset method to identify the influential factors.

Results

The results of the latent profile analysis supported the models of two latent profiles, which were defined as low psychological capital (224, 46.5%) and high psychological capital (256, 53.5%). Logistic regression revealed that introverted nurses and those experiencing moderate to high levels of burnout and stress were more likely to exhibit low psychological capital.

Conclusion

Nursing management should proactively identify and support junior nurses with low psychological capital, with a focus on introverted individuals, to mitigate the impact of stress and burnout.
North Macedonia interprofessional dementia care (NOMAD) – personalized care plans for people with dementia and caregiver psychoeducation delivered at home by interprofessional teams
Authors: Novotni Gabriela , Taneska Marija , Novotni Antoni , Fischer Julia , Iloski Svetlana , Ivanovska Andrea , Dimitrova Vesna , Novotni Ljubisha , Milutinović Miloš , Joksimoski Boban , Chorbev Ivan , Hasani Shpresa , Dogan Vildan , Grimmer Timo , Kurz Alexander
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The increasing number of people living with dementia and its burden on families and systems particularly in low- and middle-income countries require comprehensive and efficient post-diagnostic management. This study aimed to explore the acceptability and efficacy of a multi-professional case management and psychoeducation model (North Macedonia Interprofessional Dementia Care, or NOMAD) delivered by mobile teams for people with dementia and their caregivers in North Macedonia.

Method

We conducted a two-arm randomized controlled trial comparing the intervention with treatment as usual. Participants were recruited from 12 general practitioner (GP) offices in the Skopje region. The NOMAD intervention included the delivery of a personalized care plan over four home visits to dyads of people with dementia and their caregivers by a team including a dementia nurse and a social worker, in collaboration with GPs and dementia experts, and the introduction of a caregiver manual. We assessed caregivers' depressive symptoms, burden, and quality of life and the neuropsychiatric symptoms, daily living activities, and service utilization of people with dementia at baseline and follow-up; we also assessed the acceptability of the intervention by analyzing case notes and attendance rates.

Results

One hundred and twenty dyads were recruited and randomized to either the control (n = 60) or the intervention group (n = 60). At follow-up, caregivers in the intervention group had, on average, scores that were 2.69 lower for depressive symptoms (95% CI [−4.75, −0.62], p = 0.012), and people with dementia had, on average, 11.32 fewer neuropsychiatric symptoms (95% CI [−19.74, −2.90], p = 0.009) and used, on average, 1.81 fewer healthcare services (95% CI [−2.61, −1.00], p < 0.001) compared to the control group. The completion of the home visits was 100%, but the intervention's acceptability was underpinned by relationship building, GP competencies, and resources to support families with dementia. There were no differences in the caregivers' quality of life and burden levels or daily living activities in people with dementia. NOMAD is the first case management, non-pharmacological, and multi-professional intervention tested in North Macedonia.

Discussion

The trial showed that it is effective in reducing caregivers' depressive symptoms and neuropsychiatric symptoms in people with dementia and the burden on health and social care services, and it is acceptable for families. Implementing NOMAD in practice will require building primary care capacity and recognizing dementia as a national priority.
Complete characterization of ocean color radiometers
Authors: Vabson Viktor , Ansko Ilmar , Duong Kim , Vendt Riho , Kuusk Joel , Ruddick Kevin , Bialek Agnieszka , Tilstone Gavin H. , Gossn Juan Ignacio , Kwiatkowska Ewa
Published: April 2024

Verifying and validating waterleaving radiance measurements from space for an accurate derivation of Ocean/Water Colour biogeophysical products is based on concurrent high-quality fiducial reference measurements (FRM) carried out on the ground or water body. The FRM principles established by the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) recommend that in situ Ocean Colour radiometers (OCR) have a documented history of SI traceable calibrations including uncertainty budgets. Furthermore, there can be significant differences between calibration and use of the instruments in the field due to differences in operating temperature, angular variation of the light field (especially for irradiance sensors), the intensity of the measured radiation, and spectral variation of the target, among others. Each of these factors may interact with individual properties of the instrument when deployed in the field, and estimation of such uncertainties requires instrument characterization in addition to the absolute radiometric calibration if expanded uncertainties within ±10% (k = 2) are the aim. The FRM4SOC Phase 2 project - funded by the European Commission in the frame of the Copernicus Programme and implemented by EUMETSAT - contributes to these efforts, aiming at developing an operational and sustained network of radiometric measurements of FRM quality. Within FRM4SOC-2, scientists from the Tartu Observatory (TO) of the University of Tartu performed an unprecedented batch of calibrations and characterizations on a set of 37 hyperspectral field radiometers representative of the most used OCR classes within the OC community. The calibrations and characterizations performed include the determination of radiometric responsivity, long-term stability, the accuracy of the spectral scale, non-linearity and accuracy of integration times, spectral stray light, angular response of irradiance sensors in air, dark signal, thermal sensitivity, polarization sensitivity, and signal-to-noise ratio of individual OCRs. Consistent correction of biases and extended uncertainty analysis procedures of in situ data obtained from different instruments and measurement models need to be clearly defined, which is the objective of this paper.
Investigating the intention and behavior of vegetable farmers to adopt IoT technology: survey—based evidence from China
Authors: Li Lianying , Zhang Mingzhu , Chandio Abbas Ali , Liu Yan
Published: April 2024

A key instrument for upgrading China’s agriculture is the Internet of Things (IoT). To solve the problem of IoT technology promotion, farmers’ intentions to adopt IoT technology must be transformed into behavior, and their intentions and behaviors must be unified. The multivariate logistic model was used to analyses the factors influencing farmers’ intention to adopt IoT technology and behavioral deviation based on survey data of vegetable farmers in Jiangxi Province. The ISM model was used to investigate the relationship and hierarchy between the factors influencing farmers’ intention to adopt IoT technology and behavioral deviation. The findings revealed that first, a significant deviation exists between vegetable farmers’ IoT technology adoption intention and behavior, with 72.69% of those surveyed having the intention to adopt, but did not follow through. Second, among the 12 factors confirmed as remarkably influencing the deviation, expected return is the most superficial factor; intermediate influencing factors include vegetable price volatility, adoption cost, credit support, related knowledge and skills, and technology maturity; secondary factors include social capital, whether vegetables are registered trademarks, planting scale, planting method, and IoT related equipment supply; and age is the deepest root factor.
Multi-parameter joint analysis of the quality of honey
Authors: Yuan Yang , Ren Changshi , Deng Mengqing , Zhao Tian , Liao Yan , Ren Rongqing , Wang Hua , Wang Yinchen
Published: April 2024

The antioxidant activity of honey is mainly evaluated based on its phenolic acid and total flavonoid content, while other parameters are not considered important. The purpose of this study is to comprehensively evaluate the impact of honey's physicochemical indicators and the altitude of the collection site on its quality. This study measured physical and chemical indicators in Dalbergia hainanensis Merr. et Chun honey (DH), blueberry honey (BH), Eriobotrya japonica Lindl. honey (EH), and Rhus chinensis Mill. honey (RH) and then combined them to comprehensively analyze the influencing factors of honey's antioxidant capacity using correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and regression analysis. The results showed that the 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS+) clearance ability of DH (17.60 ± 4.61 mg/ml) was significantly better than the other three varieties of honey (p <0.05). The results of the correlation analysis showed that the IC50 of the ABTS+ clearance rate was significantly negatively correlated with total flavonoid, Vitamin B1 (VB1), and Vitamin C (VC) content, as well as the a* and b * values, while positively correlated with elevation. The PCA results showed that the principal components (PCs) with eigenvalues exceeding 1 explained 86.28% of the variation. The IC50 of the ABTS+ clearance rate and altitude play an essential role in PC1, suggesting that two indicators are important in distinguishing different honeys. The regression analysis showed that total flavonoid and Vitamins B1 and C content, as well as elevation, are indispensable parameters affecting the antioxidant properties of honey. These results provide a reference method for evaluating the quality of honey from different places and altitudes.
Re-emergence of foot-and-mouth disease in the Republic of Korea caused by the O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e lineage
Authors: Ryoo Soyoon , Kang Hyeonjeong , Lim Da-Rae , Kim Jae-Myung , Won Youngwoo , Kim Ji Ye , King Donald P. , Di Nardo Antonello , Cha Sang-Ho
Published: April 2024

The O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) lineage is a pandemic strain that has recently become dominant within East and Southeast Asia. During May 2023, this viral lineage spread to the Republic of Korea, where 11 outbreaks were detected on cattle and goat farms located in Cheongju and Jeungpyeong. Infected animals displayed typical FMD signs including vesicular lesions with drooling and anorexia. Molecular diagnostic testing and genetic analysis (VP1 sequencing) showed that the causative FMDVs belonged to the O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e lineage and shared the closest nucleotide identity (97.95–99.21%) to viruses that have been collected from Mongolia and South-East Asian countries. Phylogenetic analyses showed that these sequences were distinct to those collected from the previous Korean O/ME-SA/Ind-2001e lineage outbreaks in 2019, demonstrating that these cases are due to a new incursion of the virus into the country. Prompt implementation of emergency vaccination using antigenically matched serotype O vaccines (r1 value: 0.74–0.93), together with intensive active surveillance on farms surrounding the infected premises has successfully prevented further spread of FMD. These recent FMD outbreaks reinforce the importance of research to understand the risks associated with transboundary pathways in the region, in order to reduce the possibility of a further reintroduction of FMD into the Republic of Korea.
Micro-CT and histological examination of accessory canals in 34 equine cheek teeth
Authors: Korsós Szabolcs A. , Staszyk Carsten , Boone Matthieu , Josipovic Iván , Vogelsberg Jörg , Vlaminck Lieven
Published: April 2024

Accessory canals and apical deltas have been extensively studied in human dentistry. Their clinical role as a difficult to clean reservoir for bacteria during endodontic treatments has been well described. Many papers describe in detail the pulp anatomy of equine dentition but little attention has been given to their apical ramifications. The goal of this paper is to describe the presence and anatomy of these accessory canals and apical deltas in healthy equine cheek teeth and discuss their possible relevance in the light of equine endodontics. To accomplish this, 15 maxillary and 19 mandibular healthy cheek teeth were collected ranging from Triadan 06 s to 11 s with eruption ages from 4 to 9 years. Their root anatomy was documented in detail based on micro computed tomography images. A subset of 3 teeth also underwent histological examination. Accessory canals were found in all but two teeth examined. Up to 44 accessory canals per tooth have been found with locations ranging from the root furcation down to the apex of the root and with highly variable diameters. Apical deltas in different stages of development were found in 84% of the roots. The presence of accessory canals identified on microCT images could be confirmed using histological examination although some of them were obliterated by reparative dentin. Accessory canals can be found in most equine cheek teeth and add complexity to their endodontic anatomy. This could have important implications for their treatment in case of pulp pathology. In humans, failure to remove bacterial biofilm from such canals has been associated with failure of endodontic treatment. Research on diseased equine teeth is required to gain a better understanding of their clinical relevance in horses.
Sorting of Mountage Cocoons Based on MobileSAM and Target Detection
Authors: Liu Mochen , Cui Mingshi , Wei Wei , Xu Xiaoli , Sun Chongkai , Li Fade , Song Zhanhua , Lu Yao , Zhang Ji , Tian Fuyang , Zhang Guizheng , Yan Yinfa
Published: April 2024

The classification of silkworm cocoons is essential prior to silk reeling and serves as a key step in improving the quality of raw silk. At present, cocoon classification mainly relies on manual sorting, which is labor-intensive and inefficient. In this paper, a cocoon detection algorithm S-YOLOv8_c based on the cooperation of MobileSAM and YOLOv8 for the mountage cocoons was proposed. The MobileSAM with a designed area thresholding algorithm was used for the semantic segmentation of mountage cocoon images, which could mitigate the effect of complex backgrounds and maximize the discriminability of cocoon features. Subsequently, the BiFPN was added to the neck of YOLOv8 to improve the multiscale feature fusion capability. The loss function was replaced with the WIoU, and a dynamic non-monotonic focusing mechanism was introduced to improve the generalization ability. In addition, the GAM was incorporated into the head to focus on detailed cocoon information. Finally, the S-YOLOv8_c achieved a good detection accuracy on the test set, with a mAP of 95.8%. Furthermore, to experimentally validate the sorting ability, we deployed the proposed model onto the self-developed Cartesian coordinate automatic cocoon harvester, which indicated that it would effectively meet the requirements of accurate and efficient cocoon sorting.
Scenarios for a Scaling-up System for Organic Cassava Production in the Mekong River Basin: A Foresight Approach
Authors: Kumsueb Benjamas , Rattanasriwong Sukit , Phommalath Siviengkhek , Nut Nareth , Fan Jun , Do Hong Xuan , Jintrawet Attachai
Published: April 2024

Organic cassava flour and products are in high demand. However, the expansion of organic cassava (OCS) production is rather slow. To increase OCS production, extension workers, cassava flour mills, farmers, and researchers have been collaborating to support the farmers, but the planted areas have remained limited. This research aimed at understanding the current issues in scaling up the organic cassava production. The findings were subsequently used to formulate scenarios and recommendations for the collaborative scale-up of organic cassava production in the Mekong River Basin (MRB). We carried out a six-step foresight process with leaders of organic cassava farmers, the staff of organic cassava flour mills and factories, extension workers, the staff of research agencies, and local policy makers in Thailand. The results revealed two key factors or drivers of changes, namely, the degree of collaboration among stakeholders using multiple-view scenarios or a single-view situation and the degree of learning and communication about OCS that future stakeholders are likely to experience. Four possible scenarios for a scaling-up system of OCS production in the MRB were developed. The foresight process allowed for recognizing multiple views and opinions about the OCS production scaling-up process, considered as a whole system. The system was found to consist of various interdependent components. The process highlighted the need to increase the capacity and opportunities for productive collaboration in research and development. We concluded that the MRB members should issue a policy formulating a joint task force to coordinate the existing institutions’ plans and resources towards an actionable OCS production scaling-up system for the MRB in 2030.
An Integrated and Multi-Stakeholder Approach for Sustainable Phosphorus Management in Agriculture
Authors: Colombo Federico , Pesenti Michele , Araniti Fabrizio , Pilu Salvatore Roberto , Nocito Fabio Francesco
Published: April 2024

Conventional agriculture relies on non-renewable rock phosphate as a source of phosphorus. The demand for food has led to increased phosphorus inputs, with a negative impact on freshwater biodiversity and food security. The importation of phosphorus fertilizers makes most food systems vulnerable to phosphorus supply risks. The geopolitical instability generated by the pandemic and the current Russia–Ukraine conflict, which has led to a 400% increase in phosphorus commodity prices, offers the international community and institutions an opportunity to embrace the global phosphorus challenge and move towards a more circular system. Here, we discuss an integrated and multi-stakeholder approach to improve phosphorus management in agriculture and increase the efficiency of the whole chain, highlighting the contribution of conventional breeding and genetic engineering, with a particular focus on low-phytic-acid (lpa) crops, whose grains may help in reducing phosphorus-management-related problems. In recent decades, the choice of short-term strategies—such as the use of phytase as a feed additive—rather than lpa mutants, has been carried out without considering the long-term money saving to be derived from lpa crops. Overall, lpa crops have the potential to increase the nutritional quality of foods and feeds, but more research is needed to optimize their performance.
Competition Indices and Economic Benefits of Winter Wheat and Winter Peas in Mixed Cropping
Authors: Vályi-Nagy Marianna , Kristó István , Tar Melinda , Rácz Attila , Szentpéteri Lajos , Irmes Katalin , Kovács Gergő Péter , Ladányi Márta
Published: April 2024

Intensive wheat production, which produces high yields through the excessive use of chemical inputs and non-renewable energy, is unsustainable in the long term. Innovative cultivation methods such as intercropping can address emerging challenges. This kind of plant association offers the possibility of achieving a balanced yield with the use of a natural nitrogen source. An experiment was conducted for three growing seasons (2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023) with a combination of three winter wheat varieties (GK Szilárd, Cellule, GK Csillag) and a winter pea variety (Aviron) in three sowing densities to determine the species interaction and the economics of mixed plots. The intercropping systems were evaluated in terms of the land equivalent ratio (LER), aggressivity (A), competitive ratio CR), actual yield loss (AYL), monetary advantage index (MAI), and intercropping advantage (IA). In almost all mixtures, the values of partial A, CR, and AYL indicated that wheat was more competitive than peas due to the overconcentration of mixtures. For MAI, the mixture Cellule/Aviron 75:50 was more profitable than the others in the first two years. Our results draw attention to the influence of the seeding rate, which can contribute to new directions for current research.
Comparison of IncK-blaCMY-2 Plasmids in Extended-Spectrum Cephalosporin-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolated from Poultry and Humans in Denmark, Finland, and Germany
Authors: Che Meiyao , Fresno Ana Herrero , Calvo-Fernandez Cristina , Hasman Henrik , Kurittu Paula E. , Heikinheimo Annamari , Hansen Lisbeth Truelstrup
Published: April 2024

Escherichia coli carrying IncK-blaCMY-2 plasmids mediating resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC) has been frequently described in food-producing animals and in humans. This study aimed to characterize IncK-blaCMY-2-positive ESC-resistant E. coli isolates from poultry production systems in Denmark, Finland, and Germany, as well as from Danish human blood infections, and further compare their plasmids. Whole-genome sequencing (Illumina) of all isolates (n = 46) confirmed the presence of the blaCMY-2 gene. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing revealed a resistant phenotype to cefotaxime as well as resistance to ≥3 antibiotic classes. Conjugative transfer of the blaCMY-2 gene confirmed the resistance being on mobile plasmids. Pangenome analysis showed only one-third of the genes being in the core with the remainder being in the large accessory gene pool. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis on sequence type (ST) 429 and 1286 isolates showed between 0–60 and 13–90 SNP differences, respectively, indicating vertical transmission of closely related clones in the poultry production, including among Danish, Finnish, and German ST429 isolates. A comparison of 22 ST429 isolates from this study with 80 ST429 isolates in Enterobase revealed the widespread geographical occurrence of related isolates associated with poultry production. Long-read sequencing of a representative subset of isolates (n = 28) allowed further characterization and comparison of the IncK-blaCMY-2 plasmids with publicly available plasmid sequences. This analysis revealed the presence of highly similar plasmids in ESC-resistant E. coli from Denmark, Finland, and Germany pointing to the existence of common sources. Moreover, the analysis presented evidence of global plasmid transmission and evolution. Lastly, our results indicate that IncK-blaCMY-2 plasmids and their carriers had been circulating in the Danish production chain with an associated risk of spreading to humans, as exemplified by the similarity of the clinical ST429 isolate to poultry isolates. Its persistence may be driven by co-selection since most IncK-blaCMY-2 plasmids harbor resistance factors to drugs used in veterinary medicine.
Dose-Dependent Effects of Lipopolysaccharide on the Endothelium—Sepsis versus Metabolic Endotoxemia-Induced Cellular Senescence
Authors: Merk Dennis , Cox Fiona Frederike , Jakobs Philipp , Prömel Simone , Altschmied Joachim , Haendeler Judith
Published: April 2024

The endothelium, the innermost cell layer of blood vessels, is not only a physical barrier between the bloodstream and the surrounding tissues but has also essential functions in vascular homeostasis. Therefore, it is not surprising that endothelial dysfunction is associated with most cardiovascular diseases. The functionality of the endothelium is compromised by endotoxemia, the presence of bacterial endotoxins in the bloodstream with the main endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Therefore, this review will focus on the effects of LPS on the endothelium. Depending on the LPS concentration, the outcomes are either sepsis or, at lower concentrations, so-called low-dose or metabolic endotoxemia. Sepsis, a life-threatening condition evoked by hyperactivation of the immune response, includes breakdown of the endothelial barrier resulting in failure of multiple organs. A deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms in the endothelium might help pave the way to new therapeutic options in sepsis treatment to prevent endothelial leakage and fatal septic shock. Low-dose endotoxemia or metabolic endotoxemia results in chronic inflammation leading to endothelial cell senescence, which entails endothelial dysfunction and thus plays a critical role in cardiovascular diseases. The identification of compounds counteracting senescence induction in endothelial cells might therefore help in delaying the onset or progression of age-related pathologies. Interestingly, two natural plant-derived substances, caffeine and curcumin, have shown potential in preventing endothelial cell senescence.
Strength, Deformation and Fracture Properties of Hard Rocks Embedded with Tunnel-Shaped Openings Suffering from Dynamic Loads
Authors: Wu Hao , Jia Yongsheng
Published: April 2024

In rock engineering, the dynamic loads caused by mechanical action and rock blasting have an extremely significant influence on the stableness of surrounding rock masses. To examine the impact of dynamic load on the mechanical properties and fracturing characteristics of hard rocks as well as the failure responses of underground openings, a number of prismatic samples with holes of different numbers and configurations were prepared for dynamic tests employing an SHPB loading device. The experimental results demonstrate that the order of dynamic compressive strength of each group of samples under the impact nitrogen pressure of 0.45 MPa is: G3 > G2 > G5 > G4 > G7 > G6, and the dynamic deformation process of the samples is parted into three phases: linear elastic deformation, plastic deformation and post-peak deformation. A total of three categories of cracks, i.e., spalling cracks, shear cracks and tensile cracks, occur in the specimens. The failure mode of the samples having one or two holes arranged in a vertical direction is controlled by shear cracks, whilst that of the rest groups of pre-holed specimens belongs to tensile-shear failure. The existence of the fabricated holes in the samples significantly weakens the mechanical properties and affects the fracture evolution characteristics, which rely on the quantity and layout of the cavities in the specimens. The interesting results are also discussed and explained, and could supply some insight in the mechanisms of tunnel surrounding rock failure and rock dynamic hazards such as rock burst.
Predicting Rutting Development Using Machine Learning Methods Based on RIOCHTrack Data
Authors: Cheng Chunru , Wang Linbing , Zhou Xingye , Wang Xudong
Published: April 2024

As the main cause of asphalt pavement distress, rutting severely affects pavement safety. Establishing an accurate rutting prediction model is crucial for asphalt pavement maintenance, pavement structure design, and pavement repair. This study explores five machine learning methods, namely Support Vector Regression (SVR), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT), Random Forest (RF), and Extra Trees, to predict the development of rutting depth using data from RIOHTRack. The model’s performance is measured by comparing the performance evaluation indicators of different models, such as the coefficient of determination, root mean square error, mean absolute error, and mean absolute percentage error. The results demonstrate that integrated learning techniques such as RF, GBDT, and Extra Trees works best with R2 = 0.9761, 0.9833, and 0.9747. Moreover, the GBFT model can capture the trend of the measured rutting progression curve better than the mechanistic-empirical (M-E) model. The analysis of feature importance reveals that, in addition to external factors such as temperature and axle load, the aggregate of the asphalt concrete layer and air void crucially affect rutting. The higher the base strength, the smaller the rutting depth. The proposed model is highly straightforward and serves as an accessible analysis tool for engineers in practice.
Use of Selected Plant Extracts in Controlling and Neutralizing Toxins and Sporozoites Associated with Necrotic Enteritis and Coccidiosis
Authors: Khan Md Maruf , Lillehoj Hyun S. , Lee Youngsub , Adetunji Adedeji O. , Omaliko Paul C. , Kang Hye Won , Fasina Yewande O.
Published: April 2024

Due to increasing concerns about the contamination of animal food products with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and their byproducts, phytogenic feed additives in animal diets have been explored as antibiotic alternatives. In this study, we investigated the effect of ginger root extract (GRE), green tea extract (GTEC caffeinated and GTED decaffeinated), and onion peel combined (OPEC) on the activity of C. perfringens toxin genes and Eimeria tenella sporozoites. To this end, two Clostridium perfringens strains, CP19 and CP240 (Rollins Diagnostic Lab, Raleigh, NC, USA), were cultured (three replicates per treatment) as follows: without additives (Control), with Bacitracin Methylene Disalicylate (BMD), with GRE, with GTEC, with GTED, and, finally, with OPEC for 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 24 h. RNA was extracted to determine the expression of tpeL, alpha toxin (α-toxin), and NetB and we measured the protein concentration of NetB-positive C. perfringens toxin. Also, we evaluated the cytotoxic effect of green tea and ginger extracts on E. tenella sporozoites. Results show that phytogenic extracts, GRE, GTEC, and GTED, significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the level of expression of α-toxin gene compared to control; however, BMD treatment showed much less effect. Furthermore, NetB and tpeL encoding gene expression was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced by GRE and GTED, as well as BMD treatment, compared to the control. In contrast, GTEC treatment did not change the expression levels of these genes and was similar to control. With the CP240 strain, all the selected phytogenic extracts significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the expression of selected genes, except for OPEC, which was similar to control. GRE, GTEC, and GTED all reduced the viability of concentration of E. tenella sporozoites. Overall, our data show that these selected phytogenic extracts reduced the level of expression of toxin encoding genes associated with necrotic enteritis and decreased the viability of sporozoites which cause coccidiosis in broiler chicken.
Peroxymonosulfate Activation by Bi-Fe Oxide Co-Doped Graphitic Carbon Nitride for Degradation of Sulfamethoxazole: Performance and Mechanism
Authors: Wang Zhili , Liang Lan , Li Ning , Wu Shuang , Cheng Zhanjun , Yan Beibei , Chen Guanyi
Published: April 2024

Graphite carbon nitride (g-C3N4) has been employed as an emerging metal-free catalyst in heterogeneous catalysis. However, the catalyst has a poor activation property for peroxymonosulfate (PMS). In this study, Bi-Fe oxide co-doped g-C3N4 (Bi@Fe/CN) was synthesized for PMS activation to degrade sulfamethoxazole (SMX). In particular, Bi@Fe/CN-3 presented remarkable catalytic performance with 99.7% removal of SMX within 60 min in the PMS system. Additionally, Bi@Fe/CN-3 presented good stability and recyclability through the cycling experiments. Moreover, it was shown that free radicals (O2•−, •OH, and SO4•−) and non-free radicals (1O2) were the primary active species in the Bi@Fe/CN-3/PMS system. Bi, Fe, and surface lattice oxygen were confirmed to be the main contributors to the active species. This work elucidates the mechanism of activation of PMS by Bi@Fe/CN-3, which is beneficial to promote the application of bimetallic oxide-modified g-C3N4/PMS systems in wastewater treatment.
1-Deoxynojirimycin Attenuates High-Glucose-Induced Oxidative DNA Damage via Activating NRF2/OGG1 Signaling
Authors: Chen Yuwei , Wang Jun
Published: April 2024

1-Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) is a type of alkaloid that mainly exists in mulberry fruit and leaves. DNJ inhibits α-glucosidase, reduces the absorption of sugar, and suppresses after-meal hyperglycemia. It was reported that DNJ functions in attenuating cellular oxidative stress. However, the mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we firstly confirmed that 5 µmol/L DNJ treatment mitigated the oxidative DNA damage and cell senescence in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) cultured in medium containing 50 mmol/L glucose. Next, we found that DNJ treatment stimulates the expression of anti-oxidative response regulator, Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NRF2) by around 50% in cells cultured with high glucose. In addition, 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1) was upregulated by over 15% after DNJ treatment to mitigate high-glucose-induced oxidative DNA damage, and it was identified as a downstream target of NRF2. Further, DNJ treatment promoted the phosphorylation and activation of AKT (ser473) by around 50% in cells cultured with high glucose, and AKT inhibitor treatment abrogated DNJ-induced upregulation of NRF2 and OGG1. Taken together, our results indicate that DNJ is an effective natural antioxidant in mitigating high-glucose-induced oxidative stress in HUVEC via activating the AKT-NRF2-OGG1 anti-oxidative response.
Finite Element Analysis for Linear Viscoelastic Materials Considering Time-Dependent Poisson’s Ratio: Variable Stiffness Method
Authors: Wang Xueren , Gao Jie , Wang Yanchao , Bai Jianfang , Zhao Zhipeng , Luo Chao
Published: April 2024

For linear viscoelastic materials, this paper proposes a finite element analysis method based on an integral constitutive relationship that can simultaneously consider the relaxation behavior of the elastic modulus and the creep Poisson’s ratio. Firstly, the generalized Maxwell model is employed to depict the relaxation characteristics of the elastic modulus, while the generalized Kelvin model is used to represent the creep Poisson’s ratio. Subsequently, the element relaxation stiffness matrix is established, thereby forming a convolutional finite element equation. Furthermore, the recursive calculation of the convolutional integral is derived, and the calculation steps of the finite element for viscoelasticity considering the time-dependent nature of both the elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio are established. Finally, the accuracy of the proposed algorithm is verified through two numerical examples with linear viscoelastic material. The results indicate that the proposed variable stiffness method for the finite element analysis of linear viscoelastic materials can simultaneously consider the changes in the elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio over time, thereby establishing a new path and idea for the more accurate simulation of viscoelastic materials’ mechanical properties. Compared with the initial strain method for linear viscoelastic materials, the variable stiffness method proposed in this paper effectively avoids the assumption of constant stress during the micro time interval, thus significantly enhancing the finite element calculation accuracy of linear viscoelastic materials. The proposed method establishes a simulation algorithm that matches existing commercial software with viscoelastic material experiments by considering the elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio as material parameters.
Utilizing Cost-Effective Determination Techniques to Authenticate Cosmetics
Authors: Jin Shaoming , Qu Hongren , Ning Xiao , Cui Shenghui , Cao Jin
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: The adulteration of cosmetics has become increasingly common, which seriously harms ordinary consumers. The counterfeit cosmetics pointed out in this study mainly refer to imitating genuine products in terms of ingredients and packaging. Ordinary consumers cannot distinguish their authenticity solely based on appearance and daily use. If there is a convenient and low-cost detection method that can expose this phenomenon of adulteration, it will be able to expose adulteration and protect the interests of consumers quickly and conveniently. (2) Methods: MALDI-TOF, GC-MS, and mid-IR were used to develop low-cost and fast methods for identifying the authenticity of cosmetics. Five types of liquid and five types of emulsion cosmetics purchased from container and wholesale markets were analyzed using the three instruments mentioned above, and their spectra and acquired data were carefully compared to determine their authenticity. MALDI-TOF and GC-MS directly tested cosmetic samples, and mid-IR spectroscopy tested the ink on the outer packaging of cosmetics. (3) Results: The data procured by MALDI-TOF can provide a representation of its product attributes; two liquid samples and one paste sample demonstrated inconsistent test outcomes with the corresponding reference samples, suggesting contamination. The results of GC-MS can illustrate the substance count within cosmetic samples; the comparison outcomes of the total ion chromatogram indicate that one paste sample was a counterfeit. The results attained from mid-IR were consonant with those acquired from the MALDI-TOF analysis and GC-MS. (4) Conclusions: These three newly developed techniques can all be effectively utilized for the task of detecting cosmetic adulteration and quality control in the manufacturing process. With regard to user-friendliness and rapidity, both MALDI-TOF and mid-IR outperform GC-MS, demonstrating consistently superior levels of detection. Conversely, GC-MS has unique advantages in identifying emulsion cosmetics containing a high amount of weak polarity and volatile substances. Consequently, these corresponding methods could serve as efficient and cost-effective ways to detect authenticity issues in real-world cosmetic products.
A Child Burial from Kerch: Mortuary Practices and Approaches to Child Mortality in the North Pontic Region between the 4th Century BCE and the 1st/2nd Century CE
Authors: Porucznik Joanna , Velychko Evgenia
Published: April 2024

This article discusses a poorly studied child elite burial discovered in 1953 at the necropolis of Panticapaeum, situated near the modern city of Kerch, Crimea. A reassessment of previous research is urgently needed since it did not offer an analysis of Bosporan society from the perspective of childhood studies in general and local approaches to child mortality in particular. This fresh approach sheds new light on social structures and transformations within the northern Black Sea region. A broad chronological and geographical perspective is provided in order to detect changing mortuary rituals regarding deceased children in relation to shifting socio-political situations among North Pontic Greek and non-Greek societies. A survey of current social interpretations concerning the (in)visibility of children in the mortuary customs, particularly between the 4th century BCE and the 1st/2nd century CE, is followed by a detailed description of the history of research in the Panticapaeum necropolis. A comprehensive analysis of the grave goods that accompanied the deceased child is also provided. The discussed material suggests that a new form of elite self-representation, expressed through mortuary rites, appeared around the turn of the first millennium. This included a different approach to deceased children, whose ascribed status and expected, yet unfulfilled, social roles were frequently displayed by the family through the funerary ceremony.
A Surprisingly High Enhancing Potential of Nitric Acid in Sulfuric Acid–Methylamine Nucleation
Authors: Qiao Fukang , Zhang Rongjie , Zhao Qiaojing , Ma Fangfang , Chen Jingwen , Xie Hong-Bin
Published: April 2024

Nitric acid (NA) has recently been found to enhance sulfuric acid (SA)-driven new particle formation (NPF) at low temperatures (≤240 K). However, studies on the role of NA in atmospheric NPF remain limited. Herein, we explored the enhancement effect of NA on binary SA–methylamine (MA) nucleation by investigating the mechanism and kinetics of (NA)x(SA)y(MA)z (0 ≤ x, 0 ≤ y, x + y ≤ 3, 0 ≤ z ≤ 3) clusters using quantum chemical calculations and cluster dynamics simulations. We found that the mixed ternary NA-SA-MA clusters have lower evaporation rates compared to the corresponding NA-SA–dimethylamine (DMA) and NA-SA–ammonia (A) clusters, indicating the stronger binding ability of NA with respect to SA-MA clusters. At atmospheric conditions (T ≥ 278.15 K), NA can enhance the cluster formation rate of SA-MA by about six orders of magnitude, demonstrating a surprisingly high enhancing potential. Moreover, NA acts as an important participant in the cluster growth pathways of the NA-SA-MA system, as opposed to the “bridging” role of NA in the previously studied NA-SA-A system. This study proposes the first case of NA efficiently enhancing SA–amine nucleation at ambient temperature, suggesting a larger impact of NA in atmospheric NPF than previously expected.