bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-silico identification of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase potential inhibitors in edible millipedes
Authors: Nkaiwuatei Jimmy
Published: May 2024

Antimicrobial resistance is currently one of the leading causes of death globally, and one of the heaviest health burdens in the African region. Despite this challenge, research and development of novel antimicrobial drugs is still quite slow due to the long process and cost involved. Some of the serious pathogens attributable to antimicrobial-resistant infections are the Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing pathogens which mainly include the gram-negative bacteria. The goal of this study was to identify potential ESBL inhibitors from edible millipedes. Millipedes contain a variety of bioactive compounds including alkaloids (p-benzoquinone) and phenols (p-cresol), and they have been used as sources of food for humans. Studies have shown that the Bobo people of Burkina Faso consume three types of millipede species, namely;Tymbodesmus falcatus,Sphenodesmus sheribongensisandSpirostreptidaeas food sources. Based on the literature, these edible millipede species contain a variety of compounds in their grandular defensive secretions which include; p-cresol, p-benzoquinone, hydrogen cyanide, toluquinone, 2, 3-dimethoxybenzoquinone, 2-methoxy-3-methylbenzoquinone, toluhydroquinone and mandelonitrile. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the activity of these compounds secreted by the edible millipede species on ESBL in comparison with 2 positive and 2 negative controls. This work was entirely performed computationally using various bioinformatics tools and softwares and was achieved by performing molecular docking of the ligands (the millipede compounds) against the target protein (ESBL) which served as the receptor. First, the 3D structures of all the ligands were downloaded from the PubChem chemical structures database while that of the target protein (ESBL) was obtained from the RCS Protein Databank (PDB). The structures of both the ligands and the target protein were prepared using UCSF Chimera tool as well as Autodock4 tool and subsequently converted into executable files. Then molecular docking was performed using Autodock vina and the scripts were run on the Windows Command Prompt to determine the binding affinities of the ligands on the target protein, the binding residues, and the physicochemical properties of the ligands as well as the best beta-lactamase enzyme inhibitor. The drug-likeness of the ligands, ADME properties and toxicity were tested using Lipinski’s rule of five, the Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (Swiss-ADME) software and admetSAR web server, respectively. Out of the eight ligands tested, it was found that 2, 3-dimethoxybenzoquinone with a binding energy of -7.2 is a potential ESBL inhibitor.
Early stopping strategies in Deep Image Prior
Authors: Benfenati Alessandro , Catozzi Ambra , Franchini Giorgia , Porta Federica
Published: May 2024

The so-called Deep Image Prior approach is an unsupervised deep learning methodology which has gained great interest in recent years due to its effectiveness in tackling imaging problems.
However, a well known drawback of Deep Image Prior is the need for a proper early stopping technique to prevent undesired corruptions in the reconstructed images. Determining the optimal number of iterations depends on both the specific application and the features of the images being processed. As a consequence, several numerical trials are typically required to decide when to stop the Deep Image Prior procedure, resulting in significant computational costs and time requirements.
This paper aims to introduce two early stopping techniques for Deep Image Prior, based on different approaches and different perspectives. The first one relies on the Neural Architecture Search strategy by generating hyperparameters configurations for the neural network employed in Deep Image Prior, configurations that shall be able to provide clean images comparable to those obtained by the standard configuration, optimally stopped, but with significantly fewer iterations. The second proposed early stopping strategy is based on a modified version of the BRISQUE metric, a no-reference image quality measure, and it aims to track the behaviour of the PSNR curve, obtained by applying Deep Image Prior, without knowing the ground truth image. While the NAS-based early stopping technique is particularly suited in those situations where the computational time is limited, this latter one is also relevant when a larger number of iterations is allowed. Several numerical experiments on different denoising applications show a promising performance of Deep Image Prior combined with the suggested early stopping procedures.
Challenges of Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Education in Bangladesh During COVID-19 Pandemic: Students’ Perspectives
Authors: Hannan Md. Abdul
Published: May 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a deadly disease affecting almost all the countries of the world. The education system of Bangladesh has been highly affected by it. For around 18 months, education was being delivered online which was not adequate for all the students of Bangladesh due to some systemic constraints. Most of the primary students were not at all prepared to receive their education online. Although the secondary level students somehow managed to continue online education by preparing and submitting their assignments, the tertiary level students had to wait a long time for their online final examinations. This study aimed at identifying the major challenges of primary, secondary, and tertiary level education in Bangladesh during Covid-19 pandemic, from students' perspectives. The approach was mixed, non-experimental and descriptive in nature. Surveying a total of 60 students through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, it was found that major challenges of the students include educational difficulties, socio-psychological abnormalities, pedagogical limitations, infrastructural shortcomings, economic disorders, technological barriers, mental health issues, and so on. Level-specific challenges of the students were also observed as the tertiary level students were found to be the worst affected due to this pandemic.
Cutting Path Planning Using Reinforcement Learning with Adaptive Sequence Adjustment and Attention Mechanisms
Authors: Wang Kaiqi , Zhang Shijin , Wu Yuqiang , Jiang Fengyang
Published: May 2024

In industrial manufacturing, cutting path planning is very important since it directly affects cutting quality and efficiency. However, traditional methods are no longer suitable for large-scale and real-time cutting path planning due to the long computation time needed. Currently, though the deep learning method can be used for cutting path planning, the node number has to be fixed, and a large amount of labeled data is required. Another method is deep reinforcement learning, which can be used for cutting path planning. The node number also has to be fixed. As a result, these two potential methods are unsuitable for practical industrial cutting problems. To solve the above problem, this study provides a new reinforcement learning approach that integrates adaptive sequence adjustment and attention mechanisms. Compared to traditional methods, which took hours or days to finish a complicated cutting path plan, this approach significantly improves processing efficiency, completing tasks in seconds, and also minimizes non-cutting travel paths. And compared to deep learning and deep reinforcement learning provided by others, a variable number of nodes can be processed with this method. Therefore, it is more suitable for practical industrial cutting problems.
Enhancing maternity healthcare workers' wellbeing using Insider Participatory Action Research
Authors: Wood Claire Margaret , Chambers Mary , Marshall Jayne E
Published: May 2024

Background Good healthcare worker (HCW) wellbeing positively impacts service user outcomes, yet the United Kingdom (UK) National Health Service (NHS) is suffering workforce burnout and retention issues. While urgently needing evidence-based wellbeing strategies, participatory interventions using positive psychology have been under-investigated. We aimed to develop a caring, collegial NHS labour ward environment wherein maternity HCWs created paths to enhancing individual and collective workplace wellbeing.Methods A social constructionist, pragmatic approach was adopted, applying positive psychology within Insider Participatory Action Research (IPAR). All clinical and non-clinical HCWs on a consultant-led labour ward in the East Midlands, England, UK were invited to identify current sources of workplace wellbeing on which to collectively construct future ways of working. Qualitative data from several methods (below) were inductively thematically analysed.Results Between October 2018 and July 2020, data derived from 83 paper and 13 online questionnaires; 59 interviews; 16 comments on data displays; three emails; three action groups; and six peer participant reviewers. Three themes represented sources of workplace wellbeing: emotional, professional, and physical nourishment. Culture shifted to be more compassionate and inclusive, and morale, positivity, and atmosphere improved. Ways of working changed: colleagues more proactively cared for each other; worked well together in teams; expressed thanks and feedback; and instigated interventions for colleagues’ and women’s welfare. Participants proposed that IPAR activities prompted change including: the researcher being considered an accessible colleague wellbeing resource; raised awareness of the importance of HCW wellbeing; and strengthened HCW relationships. The HEARS wellbeing intervention model (HCW driven; Everyone involved; Ask what makes a person feel good at work; Responses displayed; Steps taken) was developed to frame processes by which HCW participation catalysed impact towards workplace wellbeing.Conclusions This is the first study to use IPAR towards enhancing HCW wellbeing. Colleagues from diverse occupational groups improved individual and collective wellbeing through self-determined action. The use of participatory methodology and positive psychology encouraged a more compassionate and inclusive culture. Subject to implementation research evaluating these strategies’ impact in different settings, we propose the HEARS wellbeing intervention model and workplace-based Colleague Support Volunteers as actions towards wellbeing and retention in healthcare organisations.
Antimicrobial resistance, virulence genes profiles and molecular epidemiology of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strains from captive giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
Authors: Yan Xia , Yang Mei , Ayala James Edward , Li Lin , Zhou Yang , Hou Rong , Liu Songrui , Li Yunli , Yue Chanjuan , Zhang Dongsheng , Su Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Background:Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) increases the difficulty of clinical treatmen of giant pandas. This study aimed to investigate the antibiotic susceptibility, ARGs, MGEs, virulence genes, and molecular epidemiology of CRKP strains isolated from giant pandas. 187 nonduplicated Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) isolates were collected from fresh feces of captive giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Then CRKP were isolated and identified through carbapenase Carba NP assay. Subsequently, the antimicrobial susceptibility testing and antibiotic resistance genes of CRKP isolates were studied by disk diffusion (K-B) and HT-qPCR, respectively. Then the mobile genetic elements (MGEs) and virulence gene of CRKP isolates were analyzed both by PCR. In addition, molecular epidemiology was analyzed among the CRKP strains using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST).
Results: 8 strains of CRKP (4.5%) were isolated and identified among the 187 KP strains, and seven of eight CRKP strains both exhibited resistance to imipenem, while one strain showed resistance to meropenem, and one demonstrated multiple resistance; 8 CRKP strains carried a large amount of ARGs, among which ampC/blaDHA,blaSHV-01, blaSHV-02, tetB-01, tetB-02, tetC-01, and tetC-02 were the most abundant. MGEs analysis revealed the presence of intI1 in all strains, while the detection rates of other MGEs varied, and strain 24 exhibited the highest diversity of MGE species. Seven virulence genes, including wabG, uge, ycf, entB, kpn, alls, and wcaG, showed positive results with different proportions across the strains. In addition, PFGE patterns indicated a high level of genetic diversity among the CRKP strains. MLST analysis classified the strains into different sequence types (STs).
Conclusions: This study highlighted the diversity of CRKP strains isolated from giant pandas, which exhibited varying levels of antibiotic resistance along with multiple ARGs, MGEs and virulence genes present. These findings emphasized the importance of monitoring and researching antibiotic resistance within wildlife populations to protect the health status of these endangered animals.
Falls and subsequent cognitive function in older adults in England and the USA, 2010–2020: a population-based, cross-nationally harmonized, longitudinal study
Authors: Kou Wenkai , Shi Sailong , Huang Jing , Xie Yuheng , Qiu Peiyuan
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION:
The understanding of the long-term cognitive consequences of falls remains insufficient. Our research aims to explore the association between falls and domain-specific cognitive decline, utilizing nationally representative aging cohorts.
METHODS
We studied 13,652 individuals from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). Linear mixed-effects models estimated associations between falls and domain-specific cognitive decline (z-standardized) and rates of cognitive change.
RESULTS
Individuals with a single fall (pooled β = -0.007; 95% CI, -0.013 to -0.002; P = 0.006) and those with multiple falls (pooled β = -0.021; 95% CI, -0.026 to -0.016; P < 0.001) experienced a faster decline in global cognitive z scores compared to no history of falls. Similar patterns were observed across memory, executive, and orientation functions.
DISCUSSION
In this combined cohort study, including samples from ELSA and HRS, we discerned a marked association between the falls and domain-specific cognitive decline.
Comparative analysis of cestode and human NPC1: evolutive and structural insights for ezetimibe repurposing for the treatment of visceral cestodiases
Authors: Ferreira Henrique Bunselmeyer , Corá Renato Kulakowski , Paludo Gabriela Prado , Paes Jéssica Andrade
Published: May 2024

Visceral cestodiases, like cysticercoses and echinococcoses, are caused by cystic larvae from parasites of the Cestoda class and are among the most common human helminthiases. Current therapeutic approaches these diseases are complex and present limitations and risks. Then, new safer and more effective treatments are urgently needed. The Niemann-Pick C1 (NPC1) protein is a cholesterol transporter that is the solely responsible for cholesterol uptake in cestodes. Considering that human NPC1L1 is a known target of ezetimibe, used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, it has the potential for repurposing for the treatment of visceral cestodiases. Here, phylogenetic, selective pressure and structural analyses were carried out to assess NPC1 evolutive and structural conservation, especially between cestode and human orthologs. Two NPC1 orthologs were identified in cestode species (NPC1A and NPC1B), which likely underwent functional divergence, leading to the loss of cholesterol transport capacity in NPC1A. Comparative interaction analyses of ezetimibe with human NPC1L1 and cestode NPC1B pointed out to similarities that consolidate the idea of cestode NPC1B as a target for the repurposing of ezetimibe as a drug for the treatment of visceral cestodiases.
Symptom cluster profiles predict all-cause mortality among older adults with heart failure
Authors: Wang Zequan , Walsh Stephen , Jeon Sangchoon , Conley Samantha , Chyun Deborah , Redeker Nancy
Published: May 2024

Background
Heart failure (HF) has a high mortality risk in older adults. Individual symptoms as predictors of mortality in HF patients; however, symptoms often manifest in clusters, which may be more predictive of future risks than isolated symptoms. However, research on symptom clusters in older adults who have HF is limited. To explore the extent to which symptom cluster profiles predict all-cause mortality among older adults with HF, while adjusting for demographic and clinical factors.
Methods
A secondary study was conducted using the data from the Health and Retirement Study. We measured six symptoms (fatigue, shortness of breath, pain, swelling, depressive symptoms, and dizziness), and used latent class analysis to identify baseline symptom cluster profile. We performed survival analysis for time to death with Kaplan Meier survival analyses and Cox Proportional Hazard models.
Results
The sample included 684 participants (mean age = 74.9 (SD = 10.0) years) who demonstrated three symptom cluster profiles (high-burden, low-burden, and cardiopulmonary-depressive). The estimated median time-to-death was 71 (95% CI= [64, 79]) months. Participants in the high symptom burden and respiratory-depressive distress profiles had adjusted hazard ratios of 1.48 (95% CI = 1.15, 1.94) and 1.44 (95% CI = 1.14, 1.80) for time to death compared to those in the low burden profile.
Conclusion
Symptom profiles can assist in identifying older adults with HF who are at risk for earlier mortality. Further research is needed to determine whether alleviating these symptom clusters decreases the risk of mortality.
Visual Perception and Overlay Welding Motion Planning for the Cross-section of Bulkhead in Steam Turbine
Authors: Cheng Hongtai , Guan Xiao han , Bi Mingching
Published: May 2024

With the integration of overlay welding and 3D printing technology, the possibilities of automatic cross-section repair have expanded significantly. However, there are still several challenges in perception and planning, such as uncertain and various geometric features (grooves, inner holes, and obstacles); particular welding process character, and molten pool fluidity. Conventional motion planning methods are inadequate to meet the complex requirements of the cross-section repair task. To address these challenges, this paper focuses on the visual perception and motion planning problem.Firstly, a Scan-Locate-Split-Merge (SLSM) workflow is proposed to deal with the perception problem.Based on the fact that the cross-section is a plane and all the geometric features are close to it, the cross-section plane can be identified from the point cloud and act as an anchor. Then all the geometric features can be clustered and classified according to their dimension and location. After merging these features, the task parameters such as plane boundary and groove radius and length can be extracted. Secondly, a hybrid overlay weld path planning method is proposed to deal with the planning problem. In order to eliminate the risk of overflow, an offset path is included in each layer; In order to improve the coverage rate, reciprocating paths is used in each layer. Furthermore, a special weld path connect pattern is proposed to reduce defects. The efficacy and reliability of the proposed method are validated through simulation analysis and physical experiments. The results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves an overall coverage rate of over 95% on the target surface. The repaired cross-section surface meets the flatness requirements.
Single-nucleus multi-omic profiling of polyploid heart nuclei identifies fusion-derived cardiomyocytes in the human heart.
Authors: Choudhury Sangita , Sivankutty Indu , Jung Youngsook , Huang August , Araten Sarah , Kenny Connor , An Zheming , Doan Ryan , Foijer Floris , Matsu Erica , Rosen Ila , Marciano Jack , Jain Asish , Sun Liang , Hilal Nazia , Lee Eunjung , Walsh Christopher , Chen Ming
Published: May 2024

Understanding the mechanisms of polyploidization in cardiomyocytes is crucial for advancing strategies to stimulate myocardial regeneration. Although endoreplication has long been considered the primary source of polyploid human cardiomyocytes, recent animal work suggests the potential for cardiomyocyte fusion. Moreover, the effects of polyploidization on the genomic-transcriptomic repertoire of human cardiomyocytes have not been studied previously. We applied single-nuclei whole genome sequencing, single nuclei RNA sequencing, and multiome ATAC + gene expression (from the same nuclei) techniques to nuclei isolated from 11 healthy hearts. Utilizing post-zygotic non-inherited somatic mutations occurring during development as “endogenous barcodes,” to reconstruct lineage relationships of polyploid cardiomyocytes. Of 482 cardiomyocytes from multiple healthy donor hearts 75.7% can be sorted into several developmental clades marked by one or more somatic single-nucleotide variants (SNVs). At least ~10% of tetraploid cardiomyocytes contain cells from distinct clades, indicating fusion of lineally distinct cells, whereas 60% of higher-ploidy cardiomyocytes contain fused cells from distinct clades. Combined snRNA-seq and snATAC-seq revealed transcriptome and chromatin landscapes of polyploid cardiomyocytes distinct from diploid cardiomyocytes, and show some higher-ploidy cardiomyocytes with transcriptional signatures suggesting fusion between cardiomyocytes and endothelial and fibroblast cells. These observations provide the first evidence for cell and nuclear fusion of human cardiomyocytes, raising the possibility that cell fusion may contribute to developing or maintaining polyploid cardiomyocytes in the human heart.
Organohydrogels with Adaptive Surface Wettability Enabled by Polyacrylamide/Polysiloxane Emulsion-based Heteronetworks
Authors: Wang Shaohua , Yu Peng , Li Xinjin , Lin Huijuan , Song Shasha , Zhao Zengdian , Dong Yunhui , Li Xiangye
Published: May 2024

Hydrogel-based softmaterials have attracted significant attentions in various fields due to their high water content, good biocompatibility and variable mechanical strength. However, due to the hydrophilic properties of hydrogel networks, most of the hydrogel-based soft materials are easy to swell in water and have monotonous surface wettability. Here, taking advantage of the intrinsic hydrophobicity of siloxane, novel heteronetwork organohydrogels were synthesized by covalently integrating reactive siloxane monomers into the hydrophilic hydrogel networks through emulsion polymerization. The surface of the heteronetwork organohydrogels exhibited adaptive wettability owing to the rearrangement of the surface chemistry induced by different solvent condition. Moreover, the heterogeneous networks endowed organohydrogels with excellent antiswelling abilities in water or oil (n-heptanes). The potential application of the prepared organohydrogels in the field of oil/water separation was also preliminarily explored. The idea and method of integrating polysiloxane into hydrogels in this study might provide a new insight to develop high-performance polysilxane-based heteronetwork gel materials.
Protein-free media for cardiac differentiation of hPSCs in 2000 mL suspension culture
Authors: Kriedemann Nils , Manstein Felix , Hernandez-Bautista Carlos , Ullmann Kevin , Triebert Wiebke , Franke Annika , Mertens Mira , Stein Inês Carvalheira Arnaut Pombeiro , Leffler Andreas , Witte Merlin , Askurava Tamari , Fricke Veronika , Gruh Ina , Piep Birgit , Kowalski Kathrin , Theresia Kraft , Zweigerdt Robert
Published: May 2024

Background Commonly used media for the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into cardiomyocytes (hPSC-CMs) contain high concentrations of proteins, in particular albumin, which is prone to quality variations and presents a substantial cost factor, hampering the clinical translation of in vitro-generated cardiomyocytes for heart repair. To overcome these limitations, we have developed chemically defined entirely protein-free media based on RPMI, supplemented with L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate (AA-2P) and either the non-ionic surfactant Pluronic F-68 or a specific polyvinyl alcohol (PVA).
Methods & Results Both media compositions enable the efficient, directed differentiation of embryonic and induced hPSCs, matching the cell yields and cardiomyocyte purity ranging from 85-99 % achieved with the widely used protein-based CDM3 medium. The protein-free differentiation approach was readily up-scaled to a 2000 mL process scale in a fully controlled stirred tank bioreactor in suspension culture, producing >1.3×109 cardiomyocytes in a single process run. Transcriptome analysis, flow cytometry, electrophysiology, and contractile force measurements revealed that the mass-produced cardiomyocytes differentiated in protein-free medium exhibit the expected ventricular-like properties equivalent to the well-established characteristics of CDM3-control cells.
Conclusions This study promotes the robustness and upscaling of the cardiomyogenic differentiation process, substantially reduces media costs, and provides an important step toward the clinical translation of hPSC-CMs for heart regeneration.
Thelaziasis callipaeda infection in an urban woman in Beijing ： a case report and literature review
Authors: Tan Shumei , Li Fanshu , Zhang Youzhuo , Liu Ziyuan , Li Xuemin
Published: May 2024

Background: Thelaziasis is a zoonotic disease mainly caused by Thelazia callipaeda (Spirurida, Thelaziidae, Thelazia), which can cause mild to severe signs and lesions, such as foreign body sensation, itching, tearing, eye pain, conjunctival bleeding, conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, and even blindness. Besides, thelaziasis is mainly prevalent in areas with poor economic and health conditions and a large number of local domestic or wild animals infected, especially in summer and autumn.
Case presentation:
A 41-year-old office lady presented to the hospital and reported itching in her right eye for one month in Beijing. This patient had a history of seasonal allergy and owned a cat and once found cat fur on her contact lens before the itching onset. Four worms were observed in the superior conjunctival sac of her right eye. The worms were removed and identified as Thelazia callipaeda. The symptoms resolved after the removal of the worms. Then, The patient received gatifloxacin ointment for one week. There were no recurrences at the 2-month follow-up.
conclusions:
We report a case of human thelaziasis in Beijing. Then, we provide an overview of and perspectives on human thelaziasis in China by mining publicly available databases for the period from 2014 to 2023. Though most previous cases were from rural areas with poor sanitation, doctors should be aware of the possibility of this disease in the city. In our report, several clinical signs were discussed as indications for the diagnosis, which may lead to faster identification of thelaziasis and earlier treatment initiation.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on acute Cardiology and Neurology services in a secondary peripheral hospital
Authors: Bernstine Tomer , Spitzer Sivan , Pleban Ron , Ron Aviva , Armon-Omer Ayelet , Kains Isabelle , Hamudi Jihad , Shahien Radi , Edelstein Michael
Published: May 2024

The indirect impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical services in peripheral hospitals is not fully described. We compared the impact of COVID-19 on Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA) and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) management and outcome in an Israeli peripheral hospital. We included 1029 CVA and 497 STEMI patients. Those who arrived during (15/3/2020-15/4/2022) and before (1/1/2018-14/3/2020) the pandemic were demographically comparable. During the pandemic, median time for CVA patients from arrival to imaging was longer (23 vs. 19 minutes, p = 0.001); timing from arrival to tissue Plasminogen Activator administration was similar (49 vs. 45 min, p = 0.61); transfer to another hospital was more common (20.3% vs. 14.4% p = 0.01) and median length of stay (LOS) was shorter (3 vs. 4 days, p < 0.05). Among STEMI patients, median time from arrival to intervention intra- pandemic was shorter (45 vs. 50 minutes p = 0.02); Mean LOS shorter (3.86 vs. 4.48 p = 0.01), and unplanned re-admission less frequent (7.8% vs. 14.6% p = 0.01). Mortality didn’t significantly change. Our data shows no major negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on CVA outcomes, and possibly improved care for STEMI patients. Follow-up qualitative studies with neurology and cardiology staff will inform how quality of care was maintained during the crises.
Decline in daily maximum wind speed over the Tibetan Plateau during 1973-2020: An examination of likely causes
Authors: MA Yaoyao , Shi Peijun , Azorin-Molina Cesar , Minola Lorenzo , Guijarro Jose A. , Ma Heng , Wang Yiwen , Zhang Gangfeng
Published: May 2024

Strong winds have evident impacts on the environment and the society. It can affect the dispersion of air pollutants, land erosion, damage buildings, representing a severe hazard to people and properties. However, the changes and variabilities of extreme winds are still largely unknown, especially in global high-elevation regions, e.g., the Tibetan Plateau. This study analyses for the first-time changes in extreme wind speed over the Tibetan Plateau using homogenized near-surface daily maximum wind speed observations for 1973–2020. Results show that the daily maximum wind speed has significantly decreased in most stations during 1973–2020, with the largest decline in magnitude observed in spring. The frequency of daily maximum wind speed exceeding the 95% percentile shows a similar slowdown pattern. The detected decline is linked to large-scale atmospheric circulation, particular to changes in the patterns of westerly and monsoon, which explain 35%~57% of daily maximum wind speed anomaly variations. Furthermore, this study reveals that changes in (a) geostrophic wind, (b) vertical wind shear, and (c) Tibetan Plateau low vortex also contributes to the observed decreasing trends of daily maximum wind speed.
QTL mapping using Arabidopsis thaliana MAGIC Lines identifies candidate genes controlling adventitious root development
Authors: López-Ruiz Brenda Anabel , Banta Joshua , Salazar-Hernández Perla , Espinoza-Gutiérrez Daniela , Alfaro-Mendoza Andrea , Rosas Ulises
Published: May 2024

Background
The Multi-Parent Advanced Generation Inter-Cross (MAGIC) population is a powerful tool for dissecting the genetic architecture controlling natural variation in complex traits. In this work, the natural variation available in Arabidopsis thaliana MAGIC lines was evaluated by mapping quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for primary root length (PRL), lateral root number (LRN), lateral root length (LRL), adventitious root number (ARN) and adventitious root length (ARL).
Methods and Results
We analyzed the differences in the root structure of 139 MAGIC lines by measuring PRL, LRN, LRL, ARN and ARL. Through QTL mapping, we identified new potential genes that may be responsible for these traits. Furthermore, we detected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the coding regions of candidate genes in the founder accessions. We obtained a significant region on chromosome 1 associated with ARN. This region spans 316 genes, some of which are related to auxin and gibberellin signaling and homeostasis. We identified SNPs in the coding regions of these candidate genes in the founder accessions that could contribute to natural variation in the AR of the recombinant inbred lines. Additionally, we found a novel gene encoding a Hydroxyproline-rich glycoprotein family protein that displays differential SNPs in accessions with contrasting AR formation.
Conclusions
The study found that natural variation in AR number could be explained by a significant QTL on chromosome 1 associated with genes related to auxin and gibberellin signaling and homeostasis. Some founder accessions showed missense and in-frame deletions in these genes, which could explain the observed differences in AR development.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction and antioxidant activity of polysaccharides from Tenebrio molitor
Authors: YANG SHENGRU , LI Xu , Zhang Hui
Published: May 2024

[Objective]The study aimed to extract polysaccharides from Tenebrio molitor using ultrasound-assisted extraction and assess their structural characteristics and antioxidant activity.
[Methods]Defatted Tenebrio molitor was utilized, with extraction temperature, time, ultrasonic power, and liquid-to-material ratio varied. Response surface experiments determined optimal extraction parameters, yielding 9.513% polysaccharides.
[Result] Infrared spectroscopy revealed pyranose structure with predominant C-O, C=O, and O-H functional groups. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by scavenging DPPH·, OH·, and ABTS+· radicals and Fe3+ reduction. Polysaccharide concentration positively correlated with radical scavenging abilities. Compared to Vitamin C, polysaccharides exhibited stronger scavenging of DPPH· and OH·, moderate scavenging of ABTS+·, and Fe3+ reduction, with IC50 values of 0.9625, 9.1909, and 235.69 mg/mL respectively. Notably, Fe3+ reduction peaked at 1.6 mg/mL with an absorbance of 0.38899.
[Conclusion] Tenebrio molitor polysaccharides demonstrated substantial antioxidant activity, suggesting their potential in various applications. This research provides valuable insights for leveraging Tenebrio molitor as a functional ingredient, contributing to its development and utilization.
Continuous renal replacement therapy with cytokine-adsorbing hemofilter to control resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta-related ischemia-reperfusion injury in a swine hemorrhagic shock model
Authors: Hayashi Yosuke , Izawa Yoshimitsu , Tanaka Yasutaka , Aoki Makoto , Matsumura Yosuke
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is beneficial for uncontrollable torso bleeding; however, prolonged REBOA causes ischemia-reperfusion injury. The purpose of this study is to examine the hypothesis that continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) with a cytokine-adsorbing hemofilter would improve mortality due to hemorrhagic shock with REBOA-reperfusion injury by controlling metabolic acidosis, hyperkalemia, and hypercytokinemia.
Methods: Hemorrhagic shock with 40% blood loss was induced by phlebotomy in eight female swine. CRRT was performed on four swine after 90 min of REBOA, and the remaining four swine (control group) underwent the same procedures except for CRRT. We evaluated the survival time and trends of pH, HCO3-, potassium, lactate, circulatory inflammatory cytokines, and histopathology of the intestine for 180 min after REBOA deflation.
Results: Two swine in the CRRT group and one in the control group survived; no significant difference were observed in survival rates between the groups (p=0.45). Furthermore, no significant differences in the transition of biomarkers and histopathological grades were observed between the groups. The CRRT group showed a tendency of increasing pH and HCO3-, decreasing lactate, lower elevation of potassium and cytokine levels (interleukin 6, CRRT: 1008.5 [770.4–1246.6], control; 1636.7 [1636.7–1636.7] pg/mL at t=270), and lower intestine histopathological grade (jejunum, CRRT; 1.5 [1.3–1.8], control; 4.0 [4.0–4.0], ileum, CRRT; 1.5 [1.3–1.8], control; 4.0 [4.0–4.0] at t=270) than the control group.
Conclusions: CRRT may mitigate acute-REBOA-related ischemia-reperfusion injury by controlling biomarkers. Further research is required to evaluate the impact on long-term mortality.
Network analysis on political election: populist vs social emergent behaviour
Authors: Russo Andrea , Miracula Vincenzo , Picone Antonio
Published: May 2024

Social networks play an important role in people's daily socialization, particularly through social media platforms, which have become key channels for communication and information dissemination. The digital ecosystem does not only evolve communication on multi-network (like TV, social media, and online newspapers) but also provides the social researcher with useful data to explain social-complex dynamics. Our work focuses on cultural dynamics-reactions that occurred during the 2020 Emilia-Romagna elections'' in Italy, where a stronghold culture felt in danger of losing against the strong populism and Euro-scepticism present in digital ecosystems. We would like to show how the interaction between parts of society, during cultural and/or political shifting, can lead to or induce emerging behavior from society, creating groups that react against or improve the status quo. We developed a word-entry network based on three different levels of participation: pro, con, and neutral. We have analyzed the tweets collected (as text) with the word embedding tools, to see, the most used words (which may suggest the main topics) and the most related words among the various groups. We show how a careful analysis of groups through networks, can give important information about the current event.
The DFT study of the structural, hydrogen, electronic, mechanical, thermal, and optical properties of KXH3 (X = Ca, Sc, Ti, & Ni) perovskites for H2 storage applications
Authors: Rehman Muhammad Awais , Rehman Zia Ur , Usman Muhammad , Hamad Abu
Published: May 2024

In this study, we employ density functional theory calculations to comprehensively investigate the structural, electronic, hydrogen storage capacity, mechanical, thermal, and optical properties of KXH3 (X = Ca, Sc, Ti, & Ni) hydride perovskites, unveiling their potential for H2 storage applications. The lattice parameters, calculated using the GGA-PBE functional, are found to be 4.482 Å, 4.154 Å, 3.974 Å, and 3.686 Å for KCaH3, KScH3, KTiH3, and KNiH3, respectively. Interestingly, the electronic structure analysis reveals that while KScH3, KTiH3, and KNiH3 exhibit metallic behavior, KCaH3 stands out as a semiconductor. Population analysis indicates that these compounds possess a strong potential for hydrogen storage due to their strong bonding and long bond lengths. Furthermore, the investigation of dynamic and mechanical stability suggests that the studied materials are promising candidates for experimental synthesis, as they exhibit both thermodynamic and mechanical stability. Gravimetric analysis reveals promising hydrogen storage capacities of 3.646 wt%, 3.452 wt%, 3.346 wt%, and 3.005 wt% for KCaH3, KScH3, KTiH3, and KNiH3, respectively. The calculated hydrogen desorption temperatures are 442.40 K for KCaH3, 518.68 K for KScH3, 592.47 K for KTiH3, and 614.82 K for KNiH3, indicating the suitability of these materials for hydrogen storage applications within practical operating temperature ranges.
Novelty Statement: In this study, we present a comprehensive theoretical investigation of the novel perovskite materials KXH3(X = Ca, Sc, Ti, Ni), encompassing their structural, electronic, hydrogen storage, mechanical, thermal, and optical properties. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report providing insights into these unexplored compounds, as no previous theoretical or experimental studies have been conducted on them.
Disrespect and Abuse Experienced by Mothers While Accessing Delivery Healthcare Services in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Md Nuruzzaman , Khanam Shimlin Jahan , Islam M Mofizul
Published: May 2024

Background Disrespect and abuse (D&A) during childbirth pose significant barriers to accessing maternal healthcare services, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of D&A among mothers accessing delivery healthcare services in Bangladesh.Methods This study analyzed data collected from 891 mothers through a cross-sectional survey conducted in 12 healthcare facilities across three randomly selected districts in Bangladesh: Rajshahi, Mymensingh, and Rangpur. Disrespect and abuse (D&A) was categorized into three groups: no D&A, moderate D&A, and severe D&A and considered as the outcome variable. Explanatory variables included mothers' socio-demographic characteristics, use of antenatal healthcare services, and the types of healthcare facilities (public or private) from which delivery healthcare services were accessed. Multivariate multinomial logistic regressions were conducted to explore the association between the outcome variable and explanatory variables.Results Over half of the mothers (53%) reported experiencing moderate (33%) and severe (20%) levels of D&A. The prevalence of D&A was higher among mothers accessing services from government healthcare facilities compared to private facilities (73% vs 40%). Lower likelihoods of D&A were found among mothers with higher education levels, no formal employment, mothers residing in households in comparatively high wealth quintiles, mothers who reported a higher number of antenatal healthcare visits, mothers with rural residency, and those accessing healthcare services from private facilities.Conclusion The study underscores a high prevalence of D&A among mothers accessing delivery healthcare services in Bangladesh, especially in government healthcare facilities. Addressing structural challenges within healthcare facilities and implementing training programs for healthcare personnel focused on effective communication and the provision of dignified services for mothers during delivery healthcare services are recommended.
From Policy to Practice: A Process Evaluation of Implementing Opt-Out HIV Testing in Antenatal Clinics Across Ghana
Authors: PhD MS Isaac Amankwaa; , MPhil Sebastian Gyamfi; , Owusu Mark , Boateng Daniel , RN Fidelis Atibila; , Maude Robyn
Published: May 2024

In 2008, Ghana adopted the WHO/UNAIDS guideline for 'opt-out' HIV testing in antenatal clinics (ANCs). Although initial concerns were expressed about healthcare providers’ (HCPs’) ability to adhere to the intervention’s delivery, mainstream research has predominantly emphasised effectiveness questions to report variable testing uptake. This process evaluation aims to uncover the contextual factors that moderate adherence to the intervention in 12 of Ghana’s antenatal clinics (ANCs). We employed Carroll's (2007) modified framework of implementation fidelity to investigate factors that moderated the implementation of the provider-initiated opt-out HIV testing policy. Moderating factors explored were complexity, context, facilitating strategies, and participant responsiveness. We conducted 28 individual interviews and 11 focus group discussions, together with unstructured non-participant observations of the ANC environment and HIV testing activities. Key informants included 4 national-level officers, 4 regional-level officers, and 12 ANC managers. HCP interviews explored the complexity and facilitation of the HIV testing process and experiences with the opt-out intervention. Pregnant women's interviews explored their experiences with the opt-out intervention. The data was analysed using the constructs of Carroll’s implementation framework. We found weak antenatal clinic infrastructure, the complex nature of the opt-out intervention, a lack of facilitation, varied participant responses and power imbalance as moderators of the opt-out intervention implementation. These moderating factors collectively hinder the adoption of a right-based approach to HIV testing.
Evaluation of Select Monarda Taxa in Montane and Piedmont Regions of Georgia: II. Floral Morphology and Nectar Production
Authors: Smith Rachel S. , Pennisi Svoboda V. , Affolter James , Alley Heather , Fair Conor G.
Published: May 2024

We analyzed the floral morphology and nectar production of several cultivars and species of Monarda representing five cultivars and four species grown in Georgia Piedmont and Montane regions. Over the course of two seasons, we detected significant differences among the samples in terms of inflorescence size, petal lobe and corolla widths and lengths, and total sugar content. M. didyma had larger glomerules, longer corollas and petal lobes, and higher nectar volume and total sugar content per flower. M. fistulosa and M. punctata had smaller glomerules, corolla and petal lobe lengths, and total sugar content per flower. Petal lobe and corolla length strongly correlated with sucrose and nectar production. Combined with data on horticultural performance, these results could be valuable in informing breeding goals for conservation-oriented landscape plants.
Morphological Characteristics and Drought Tolerance of the Diploid and Tetraploid Angelonia angustifolia
Authors: Liao Yu-Chun , Tsai Yun-Shan , Yeh Der-Ming
Published: May 2024

Angelonia (Angelonia angustifolia) is an important potted flowering plant or bedding plant widely used in tropical and subtropical regions. However, most Angelonia cultivars have relatively small flowers and demonstrate limited drought tolerance in root-restricted environments such as small containers. Polyploid plants often exhibit larger flowers and enhanced drought tolerance. In this study, Angelonia ‘Serena White’ seeds and ‘Serena Purple’ seedlings were treated with 0.1% and 0.2% colchicine to induce polyploid lines, respectively. The resulting tetraploids had larger pollen and flowers, along with thicker, greener leaves distinguished by serrated edges, longer stomata, and lower stomatal density compared with diploid ‘Serena White’ and ‘Serena Purple’ plants. Both diploid and tetraploid plants subjected to a 20% volumetric water content (VWC) treatment exhibited smaller leaves, higher SPAD-502 readings, and a decreased number of flowers compared with those subjected to 40% VWC treatment. Moreover, tetraploids had higher photosynthetic rates than diploids under both 20% and 40% VWC conditions. When grown in 0.8-L containers, tetraploid plants required fewer watering events and had thicker, erect stems with larger flowers than diploids, even under a 20% VWC treatment. Colchicine-induced polyploidization presents a promising method to potentially enhance drought tolerance in angelonia.
Improvement of boron-doped graphene material as an anode candidate for sustainable energy storage based lithium batteries
Authors: Trihutomo Prihanto , Sulaiman Fahrofi , Mahardika Richo
Published: May 2024

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly employed as energy providers for porTable electronic gadgets due to their noTable characteristics, which encompass a substantial energy storage capacity, exceptional efficiency, and lightweight design. Nonetheless, it's worth noting that current commercially available LIBs continue to confront challenges, such as comparatively lower power density and a shorter overall cycle life when compared to other significant electrochemical energy storage alternatives. This research describes the method of making graphene derived from graphite and making anodes used in lithium-ion battery applications. The process of making graphene is that graphite is weighed as much as 7 grams, then mixed into a solution of H2SO4 and H3PO4 in a ratio (9:1) of 840 mL H2SO4 and 93.8 mL H3PO4. The next process is stirring using magnetic stirrer for 6 hours at 1000 rpm and added slowly KMnO4 42 grams to solution. The resulting solution was then mixed using ice cubes added with H2O2 (2800 mL and 21 mL), then the solution was filtrated using filter paper. The next process is washing, the solution that has been filtered is then washed using deionized water (1400 mL), ethanol (1400 mL). The sample was then dried by allowing it to stand at room temperature for 12 hours. After that, the process of making battery anodes by mixing 5 grams of graphene with boron acid solutions (0.5 M and 1 M) as much as 100 ml and then given hydrothermal treatment to the sample. Anodes of GO, BrGO 0.5 M, BrGO 1 M has the potential to enhance the perform of lithium-ion batteries. In the FTIR test results, it is known that B-C bond is found at a peak of 1222 cm-1 and the B-O bond at a peak of 1454 cm-1. XRD testing shows the crystal size of GO is 4.55 nm, BrGO 0.5 is 3.89 nm, and BrGO 1 shows a sample size of 3.19 nm