bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A double edged sword: predation risk effects of a non-native species that acts as predator and prey
Authors: DiNuzzo Eleanor , Nogueria Haleigh , Donelan Sarah C , Sheriff Michael J
Published: July 2024

Non-native species are becoming increasingly pervasive worldwide. In an effort to help predict the impact of non-native species, they are often categorized into a single trophic level. However, many species can be both predator and prey to resident species, so generalizations made by assignments to either category alone may not accurately predict the effects of the non-native species. Here, we explored how a non-native species to New England rocky shores, the crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus that can be prey for the resident predator (Carcinus maenas) and also predator to the native prey (Nucella lapillus), impacts the risk responses of Nucella. We found that when Hemigrapsus was added to the food chain, Nucella spent similar time in refuge overall and consumed a similar amount of food but changed the specific refuge they used and grew less compared to exposure of Carcinus alone. When Nucella were exposed to Hemigrapsus alone, they altered the specific refuge they used but reduced their foraging and had similar growth compared to Carcinus alone. Exposure to each predator individually induced a fear response in Nucella, but these effects were non-additive when Nucella were exposed to both predators. We suggest this is due to a reduction in the predatory actions of both crabs on Nucella, given that Hemigrapsus could also have served as prey to Carcinus here. Our results demonstrate that only examining the dyadic interactions of non-native and resident species may not provide a good understanding of the actual impact of non-native species on resident food webs.
Effect of coated calcium feeding on growth performance, carcass traits, immunity, blood biochemicals and tibial bone morphometry in commercial broiler chicken
Authors: Dongare Balaji Sanjayrao , Kulkarni Ram Chandrakant , Vasanthi Balan , Awandkar Sudhakar Pralhad , Gaikwad Nandkumar Zatingrao , Gadegaonkar Ganesh Mahadeo , Raziuddin Mohammad , More Akash
Published: July 2024

The bone abnormalities pose great concern in heavy, rapidly growing broilers, resulting in significant economic loss, and health issues in birds. To address these problems and prevent unnecessary mineral excretion into environment, it is crucial to optimise the inclusion level of dietary calcium in broiler’s diet. The calcium utilisation by the bird is also affected by its source, particle size, bioavailability etc. Hence this study aimed to study the effect of partially replacing conventional dietary calcium source with coated calcium on growth performance, immune response, carcass traits, blood calcium and phosphorus, and mineral retention in broilers. About 416 broilers were randomly distributed into four treatments, each with eight replicates of 13 birds and fed with iso-calcium, isocaloric, and isonitrogenous diet for 6 weeks. The T0 (control) was a basal diet while the T1, T2, and T3, were treatment diets in which conventional calcium source (limestone) was partially replaced with coated calcium by 10, 20, and 30% respectively. The growth performance, immunity, carcass traits, tibial morphometry, calcium and phosphorus content in serum, bone and excreta were studied. The birds of T3 group showed significantly higher body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, carcass yields compared to T0, T1, and T2 diet fed birds. Further the treatment groups exhibited significantly (P<0.001) higher cell-mediated and humoral immune responses and immune organ weights compared to control. The tibial bone weight, length and average diameter was highest in T3. Moreover, the T3 diet fed group also showed higher calcium and phosphorus content in serum and bone and lowest content of these minerals in the excreta compared to T2, T1 and control. Therefore, the dietary replacement of 30% conventional calcium source with coated calcium enhanced the growth performance, immunity, carcass traits and mineral retention in broilers.
Thermoneutral Environment Improves Mouse Metabolism and Reduces Stress in Metabolic Cages
Authors: Seebeck Petra , Villiger Philipp , Calvet Charlotte , Pastor-Arroyo Eva , Wagner Carsten
Published: July 2024

Metabolic cages [MCs] are frequently used to collect feces and urine samples. However, MC housing is stressful for mice and thereby potentially influences parameters of interest.
We compared a standard protocol for MC housing (4 days at 23°C, including 3 days of permanent acclimatisation and 24h sampling) with a) short-term intermittent acclimatisation (3 days for 3h plus 24h MC housing), b) providing a nest (4 days at 23°C) and c) MC housing at thermoneutrality (4 days at 30°C). C57BL6/N mice were implanted with telemetric transmitters acquiring ECG, blood pressure, body core temperature, and activity.
Body core temperature decreased, and heart and respiratory rates increased during MC housing at 23°C. Mice housed in MCs with a nest or at 30°C showed strongly reduced heart/respiratory rates and a higher body core temperature compared to the group housed at 23°C. Mice ate more and lost more weight when housed in MCs at 23°C in combination with a much higher brown fat activity. Torpor-like episodes were observed in male mice housed at 23°C. In addition, they had higher corticosterone levels.
Our study demonstrates that MC housing at 23°C strongly influences mouse physiology and metabolism due to a substantial cold stress. Female mice seem to be less affected compared to male mice. MC housing at thermoneutrality offers a simple solution to improve animal wellbeing during MC housing. Moreover, one short-term acclimatization presumably has the same acclimatisation effect as repeated exposure to the MCs.
Ethnobotany, Total Polyphenol Content, and Cytotoxicity of African olive (Canarium schweinfurthii Engl.) Fruit Pulp
Authors: Tabula Arthur , Nakyinsige Khadijah , Bamuwamye Michael , Komujuni Praise , Hoeglinger Otmar
Published: July 2024

Background
Neither indigenous knowledge nor cytotoxicity of Canarium schweinfurthii Engl. have been documented, which may limit its utilization. Henceforth, this study aimed at conducting an ethnobotanical survey and determining total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and cytotoxicity of C. schweinfurthii fruit pulp.
Methods
The ethnobotanical survey was conducted in Kamuli, Luwero, and Mayuge districts, Uganda using validated questionnaires following purposive and snowball sampling. Following cold and hot water extraction of the fruit pulp extract, Total Polyphenol Content (TPC) was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method while the antioxidant capacity on human colon (Caco-2) cell lines was determined using the oxidative stress and 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining model. Cytotoxicity at 1:2, 1:5, 1:10, 1:25, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200 and 1:1000 concentrations was determined using the human colon (Caco-2) cell lines and resazurin assay.
Results
The study revealed that various parts of C. schweinfurthii are used in the management of various health complications whereas the fruit is utilized as food. The TPC obtained for C.schweinfurthii fruit pulp was 2.48 ± 0.10 and 2.88 ± 0.02 mg GAE/g dry weight for cold and hot extracts, respectively. There was no significant antioxidant activity observed after treatment of human colon (Caco-2) cell lines with the different fruit pulp extract concentrations. Zero to very low cytotoxicity was observed in cell lines treated with 1:10, 1:25, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200 and 1:1000 fruit pulp extract.
Conclusion
The findings of this study suggest that in addition to its utilization as a food, C.schweinfurthii fruit pulp is a potential therapeutic agent.
LINC01197 inhibits Influenza A Virus replication by serving as a PABPC1 decoy
Authors: Wang Yihe , Shi Ning , Zhang Hansi , Luo Jinna , Yan Hongjian , Hou Huiyan , Guan Zhenhong , Zhao Lili , Duan Ming
Published: July 2024

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) are known to impose a significant impact on both animal and human health due to its zoonotic potential. A growing body of evidence indicates that host long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in regulating host-virus interactions during IAV infection. However, numerous lncRNAs associated with IAV infection have not been well-characterized. Here, we identified the LINC01197 as an antiviral host factor. LINC01197 was significantly upregulated after IAV infection which is controlled by NF-κB pathway. Functional analysis demonstrated that overexpression of LINC01197 inhibited IAV replication and virus production while knockdown of LINC01197 facilitated IAV replication. Mechanistically, LINC01197 directly interacted with poly(A) binding protein cytoplasmic 1 (PABPC1), which in turn sequesters and restricts its functions. This work demonstrates that LINC01197 functions as a protein decoy to suppress IAV replication, indicating a novel function of LINC01197 in controlling IAV replication.
The effect of chocolate with high inulin, erythritol, and stevia instead of sugar on diabetic patients, a protocol of the randomized clinical trial
Authors: Shafiei Gita , Karimpour Farzad , Sabbaghi Hassan , Jamei Sara , Khodabandeh Simin , Panahande Seyed Bahman
Published: July 2024

This study will aim to investigate how dietary chocolate affects the sugar and lipid profile of individuals with type 2 diabetes. The study will be conducted as a clinical trial, with 60 participants who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. These participants will be randomly assigned to two groups, one receiving 30 grams of diet chocolate containing inulin, erythritol, and stevia, while the other group will receive basic chocolate. Blood samples will be taken from all participants at the beginning and end of a 60-day intervention period to assess their HbA1c and lipid profile. Many people are searching for solutions in the food industry to manage their weight and maintain their health to prevent dangerous diseases. The outcomes of this study can have a positive impact on individuals with diabetes and pave the way for future dietary interventions.
Spectroscopic Evaluation of Colour Grading of Type Ia Diamonds†.
Authors: Ardalkar Rajendra , Mane Sandesh , Goswami Anik , Gaonkar Mahesh , Joshi Bhavik , Bagla Hemlata , Reddy A. V.R.
Published: July 2024

Colour grading of diamonds is determined routinely by experienced graders, and grades range from D to Z, with D being pure white and valuable. Efforts by researchers are focused to develop an instrumental method for bias-free grading. Presence of nitrogen in type Ia diamonds results in yellow tint and its intensity increases with increase in nitrogen content (grades from D to Z). In the present work electronic and vibrational spectra of diamond standards of Gemological Institute of America (GIA) were measured to develop and standardize the methodology by utilizing nitrogen based vacancies. Data on platelet peak position and its width were analysed for a possible correlation with the colour grade. Platelet peak position data obtained from IR spectra gave a good correlation with colour grade upto grade L. For the grades E to M, data fitted well to both quadratic (R2 = 0.92 ± 0.02) and linear equations (R2 = 0.91 ± 0.01). Using peak position fit, colour grades of 336 diamonds were evaluated and compared with visual grades that were determined by the graders of Gemmological Institute of India (GII) and results are discussed. Absorbance of N3 Peak (415 nm) in the visible region also gave a good correlation with colour grading. Colour grades of diamonds referred as test samples were determined using UV data and the results are encouraging. Therefore, it appears feasible to develop an instrumental methodology for colour grading of type-Ia diamonds based on only absorption measurements in the visible region.
Temperature-dependent photoluminescence from nanostructured silicon: role of quantum confined band states and interfacial defects
Authors: Basu Shayari , Ghanta Ujjwal , Khan Saddam , Pramanik Manotosh , Rajalingam Thangavel , Pal Bipul , Syed Minhaz Hossain
Published: July 2024

There are long-standing conflicting reports concerning the origin of strong visible photoluminescence (PL) observed in surface-oxidized nanostructured silicon. Though different competitive radiative recombination pathways involving intrinsic band states and oxide-related interfacial defects/traps mutually contribute to efficient PL emission, their individual role is still not well conceived. Temperature-dependent (\(5-350 K\)) PL measurements on nanostructured silicon with different crystallite size enable us to assign three distinct recombination channels comprising band-to-band, band-to-trap and trap-to-trap transitions to multiple emission bands appearing in the convoluted broad PL spectrum. At lower temperatures \((⪅ 225 K)\), the peaks originated from band-assisted transitions exhibit a nearly linear blue spectral shift following redshift at higher temperatures while the peak energy solely associated to trap involved transitions, increases monotonically almost at a constant rate throughout the experimental range of temperature. The temperature coefficients \(\alpha\) of the peak energy for the blue shifting region of the band-assisted transitions are found to show strong power law dependence \(\left( \alpha ={\alpha }_{0}+\frac{B}{{a}^{n}} \right)\) on the effective crystallite size \(\left(a\right)\)characterized by distinct values of the exponents\(\left(n\right)\). We have also presented a general analytical model for finite systems with separable pseudo-potential for obtaining carrier recombination dynamics within all possible recombination channels to assess their relative contribution in PL. The theoretical findings agree well with the experimentally obtained values of the power-law exponents\(\left(n\right)\). This study provides a novel approach to qualitatively differentiate between the radiative recombination channels involving quantum confined band-edge states and size independent defect states in nanostructured silicon.
Study on Phenotypic Variation and Diversity of Natural Polyspora Populations at Different Environmental Gradient, China
Authors: Gong Maiyu , Fan Zhifeng , Ma Changle , Yang Jianxin , Wang Lijuan , Den Lilan
Published: July 2024

Polyspora pertains to Theaceae. It is a perennially green tree or shrub, flowering in winter. It served as an exceptional species of garden, mountain afforestation, and timber tree. It is primarily distributed in the tropical regions of Southeast Asian Islands and Indo-China Peninsula; eight varieties are spread across China, which is the northern periphery of the genus's distribution area, chiefly dispersed in subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests. The phenotypic variability of Polyspora in China was relatively extensive, with leaf traits of Polyspora longicarpa exhibiting the most substantial variation, with an average coefficient of variation of 28.46%, flower characteristics of Polyspora chrysandra demonstrating a higher variation (16.26%), and capsule and seed traits of Polyspora displaying the most significant variation (20.15%); the phenotypic differentiation primarily originated from intergroups, and that of Polyspora chrysandra was slightly lower than that of intragroups, and that of Polyspora speciosa was not significantly distinguished between and within groups. The phenotypic differentiation between and within groups was not evident, and the phenotypic differentiation of Polyspora longicarpa and Polyspora hainanensis primarily originated from within groups; leaf length, leaf perimeter, leaf area, capsule length, and seed quality were the pivotal indicators of the phenotypic disparities of the species; leaf phenotypic variation of Polyspora was influenced by its own genetic factors and geographic environment, and the two roles were comparable; among the environmental factors, the bioclimatic factors and UV radiation had a more profound impact on the leaf phenotypes.
Geochemical Distribution Characteristics of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Elements in Soils, and a Soil-Fertility Evaluation for Chuxiong Prefecture, Central Yunnan
Authors: ba yong , yang minglong , chen weizhi , zhang ya , zhu zhiping , li zihui , hou zheng , wang haoyu , wen fangping , qian kun
Published: July 2024

To identify spatial characteristics of soil fertility in Chuxiong Prefecture, central Yunnan, soil contents of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are reported in a systematic geochemical investigation. Average concentrations of these elements throughout this region are 1.16 g/kg (N), 0.597 g/kg (P), and 17.853 g/kg (K). A comparison of element concentrations from the surface to deeper soils, and in rocks, suggests that N and P in surface soils mainly emigrate into them, and K mainly immigrates from them. Soils throughout Chuxiong Prefecture are mostly medium-fertile; only one-third of the area has rich soil. These findings provide a scientific basis on which nutrients, fertilization, and agricultural cultivation in Chuxiong Prefecture, and to highland agriculture in general, can be more rationally utilized or planned for development.
Modular Integrated Construction Detection Algorithm for Optimized YOLOv8
Authors: Liu Xinqi , Liao Longlong , Zhou Weifeng
Published: July 2024

Detecting module components at the factory is crucial for safety monitoring, quality control, and productivity enhancement. However, traditional detection methods are not cost-effective and also lack real-time performance. To address these challenges, this study proposes an improved YOLOv8 modular integrated construction detection algorithm, introducing the construction of a small object-YOLO that optimizes the YOLOv8 model by replacing the basic module with a new cross-stage partial network fusion module. In contrast, this module uses deformable convolution Networks v2 to handle geometric variations of objects and focus on relevant image regions. Additionally, the Wise-IoU strategy reduces the competitiveness of high-quality anchor boxes and harmful gradients generated by low-quality examples. The Multi-Head self-attention further improves detection accuracy by capturing the relationship between the image and important objects, making it more suitable for the modular integrated construction dataset. As construction images are often taken from a top or bird's-eye view, small objects can be difficult to detect. Therefore, this algorithm introduces a small object algorithm to enhance the model's ability to detect small objects. Experimental results demonstrate that the improved YOLOv8 model that effectively identifies moving objects. Compared to the original YOLOv8 model, the improved model achieves a 4.4% increase in mAP and a 4.3% increase in F1 score while reducing parameters by 54.05% and GFLOPs by 55.39%. The proposed algorithm will be a reference for automatic detection methods of modular integrated construction at the factory.
Dynamic Residual Bandwidth Distribution Based on Adaptive Chaotic Q-Learning for Low-Latency Communications in IoT Gateways
Authors: Chakour Imane , akraoui Bouchra El , Daoui Cherki , Baslam Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Efficiently managing networks is crucial for handling the increasing data flow in IoT devices. IoT gateways act as intermediaries between devices and cloud servers, managing data transfer. Effective bandwidth management is key to ensuring smooth data movement through these gateways. However, current methods struggle to adapt to different needs, especially during peak usage periods. To address these challenges, our article introduces a new method that combines smart bandwidth management with a reinforcement learning algorithm. Our idea is to utilize unused bandwidth to enhance network performance without incurring extra costs. We propose specific strategies for allocating bandwidth to different types of connections. Additionally, our proposed Chaotic Q-learning algorithm integrates the-Chaotic Greedy Selection Strategy to dynamically optimize band-width allocation. Experimental analysis demonstrates the superior performance of our proposed algorithm. The-Chaos-Greedy strategy requires fewer iterations (15 vs. 25 for-Greedy) and achieves higher rewards. Moreover, Chaotic Q-learning (CQL) achieves higher throughput (80 Mbps vs. 70 Mbps for Q-learning) with reduced packet loss (2.5% vs. 5.5%), lower latency (35 ms vs. 45 ms), and higher fairness (0.90 vs. 0.78 fairness index). Furthermore, the bifurcation diagram generated by CQL sheds light on network resource allocation dynamics and aids in studying system stability, crucial for optimizing performance.
Assessment of Willingness to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine and Associated Factors among Teachers in Dambi Dollo Town, Qellem Wallaga Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia: Institution-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Shiferaw Desalegn , Melaku Chara , Assefa Lamessa , Kinati Tadele
Published: July 2024

Background
COVID-19 devastated the routine life of all humankind since its discovery in Wuhan, China in 2019 and is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) infections. Vaccination is an effective means for controlling the communicability of the disease and every effort has to be made to increase the proportion of vaccinated people against COVID-19.
Objective
The main objective of this study was to assess the willingness of teachers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and its associated factors in Dambi Dollo town, in 2022.
Methods
School-based cross-sectional study design was applied. The data were collected self-administered questionnaire and analysed by SPSS version 23.0. Variables that showed association with the dependent variable in the bivariate analyses at 0.25 were entered into multiple stepwise logistic regression model. P- Value 0.05 was considered statistically significant in this study. Adjusted Odds ratios together with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were used to interpret the findings.
Results
About 92% of the teachers in Dambi Dollo town have heard covid-19 vaccine and 67.2% of them know that the vaccine can prevent the COVID-19 disease. On the other hand, 51%( 95%CI: 44.8, 57.2) of the respondents had good knowledge about the COVID-19 vaccine. From the total 247 participants who have responded to our inquiry on their willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, 68.4% (95%CI: 62.5, 74.3) of them were willing to receive the vaccine immediately while the remaining were either not willing or not ready at the time of data collection. Those participants having good knowledge of the vaccine were about six times more willing to get vaccinated, (AOR = 5.85, 95%CI: 2.74, 12.47) in comparison with those having poor knowledge of the vaccine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the level of willingness to receive the COVID-19 Vaccine was 68.4% relatively low in the current study population and participants’ religion and knowledge status are the two variables significantly associated with willingness to receive the vaccine.
Can Wheel Polishers Improve Surface Properties and Color Stability of Monochromatic Resin Composites?
Authors: Turkun Lezize Sebnem , Canevi Cankut , Degirmenci Alperen , Boyacioglu Hayal
Published: July 2024

Background
To investigate the surface roughness, gloss, and color change of monochromatic resin composites polished with wheel systems after being immersed in coffee.
Materials and Methods
Omnichroma, Zenchroma, Essentia Universal, Charisma Diamond One and NeoSpectra ST were used to obtain 24-disc samples/group. Only one side of the sample was polished with Twist Dia (TWD) or Nova Twist (NOV). The samples were examined for surface roughness, gloss, and color (ΔE and ΔE00) before and after 7 days of immersion in coffee and subsequent repolishing. The discs were examined via SEM. ANOVA, Tukey’s test, Pearson’s correlation test, T-tests, and Dunnett’s post-hoc test were used to analyze the data.
Results
For TWD groups, the smoothest material was Omnichroma (p < 0.05), while for NOV groups, the smoothest material was Omnichroma and Zenchroma. Omnichroma was the glossiest, while Charisma Diamond One was the least glossy. Similarly, in the TWD groups, Charisma Diamond One and Essentia Universal were the most discolored, while Zenchroma and Omnichroma were the least discoloured. Similarly, for the NOV groups, Essentia Universal and Charisma Diamond One were the most discolored, while NeoSpectra ST, Omnichroma and Zenchroma were the least discoloured. After repolishing, Charisma Diamond One did not reach the level of ΔE < 2, while the other groups showed values below. Color evaluation with the CIELab and CIEDE2000 systems revealed similar results for the TWD groups after post-staining.
Conclusions
Smooth and glossy surfaces could be achieved with the wheel system regardless of the composite resin. Repolishing after discoloration ensures that the color recovery is below the acceptable limit. Color evaluations with CIELab and CIEDE2000 yielded similar results.
Impact of Short-Term Total Dissolved Gas Supersaturation on Cognitive Functions and Swimming Performance in Medaka (Oryzias latipes)
Authors: Liao Jialin , Li Minne , Yang Xin , Shi Haoran , Yuan Quan
Published: July 2024

During the flood season, high dam operations for flood discharge result in total dissolved gas (TDG) supersaturation. This condition causes gas bubble trauma (GBT) and can even lead to fish mortality, posing a significant threat to downstream river ecosystems. Assessing the ecological risks of TDG presents a major challenge in water power-intensive river basins worldwide. Limited research has explored the impact of TDG on fish behaviors such as aggression and memory, which are crucial for feeding, reproduction, and predator avoidance. This study investigated the effects of acute TDG supersaturation stress on swimming behavior, aggression, and memory in medaka. Results indicated that Medaka exposed to 115% and 130% TDG supersaturation for 2 hours showed significantly reduced swimming performance. At TDG levels of 100%, 115%, and 130%, medaka displayed activity rates in the mirror arm of 44.34 ± 12.88%, 40.27 ± 15.44%, and 35.35 ± 16.07%, respectively, and in the active stimulus arm of 50.35 ± 14.75%, 40.76 ± 12.51%, and 35.35 ± 18.47%, respectively. As TDG levels increased, both aggression and memory in medaka significantly declined. The findings of this study could contribute to developing a TDG ecological risk assessment model based on fish memory and aggression, providing essential data for ecological management strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of TDG.
Towards Robust Urdu Aspect-based Sentiment Analysis through Weakly-Supervised Annotation Framework
Authors: Maqsood Zoya , Latif Seemab , Salman Ahmad , Latif Rabia
Published: July 2024

Aspect-Based Sentiment Analysis (ABSA) is pivotal for diverse applications but faces significant hurdles in under-resourced languages like Urdu, primarily due to the absence of a comprehensive, annotated benchmark corpus. This study tackles this gap by introducing a novel Weakly Supervised technique to construct a benchmark dataset tailored for Urdu ABSA, addressing public availability, domain coverage, and annotation comprehensiveness. Our dataset encompasses detailed annotations across all ABSA dimensions i.e. aspect, opinion, sentiment polarity and category. Through a comparative analysis involving Large Language Models (LLMs), human annotations, and pre-trained models based on expertly curated datasets, we demonstrate the dataset’s complexity and the nuanced nature of ABSA in Urdu, as reflected in the challenging outcomes of ABSA subtasks using a basic LSTM approach. This research not only advances Urdu ABSA techniques but also illuminates the broader challenges of Opinion Mining in under-resourced languages, setting a precedent for future work in this critical area.
Glucoregulatory hormonal responses to acute hypoglycemia in elderly type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Li Liyan , Liu Shudong , Yang Ping
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To investigate the glucoregulatory hormonal response to acute hypoglycemia in elderly type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.
Methods
Participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus (n = 92) were enrolled and divided into elderly (≥ 60 years old) and nonelderly (< 60 years old) groups. Several glucoregulatory hormones were measured before (b) and 30 minute after (P30’) the correction of hypoglycemia.
Results
The magnitude of change in adrenaline concentrations (Δ-adrenaline) before and after hypoglycemia was significantly lower in the elderly group than in the nonelderly group. The b-and p30’-dopamine concentrations and the change in dopamine (Δ-dopamine) were greater in the elderly group than in the nonelderly group. The b-free triiodothyronine (FT3), b-free thyroxine (FT4), p30’FT3, and p30’FT4 concentrations were lower in the elderly group than in the nonelderly group. Compared to the nonelderly group, the elderly group had significantly decreased renin concentrations during hypoglycemia. There were no significant between-group differences in noradrenaline, cortisol, C-peptide, angiotensin II, aldosterone, or thyroid stimulating hormone concentrations.
Conclusion
Our results demonstrated that acute hypoglycemia had a complicated effect on glucoregulatory hormones in elderly diabetic patients, which dramatically differed from the effect observed in nonelderly patients.
Measurement of the 12C(e, e') cross sections at Q2 = 0.8 GeV2/c2
Authors: Mihovilovic Miha , Doria Luca , Achenbach Patrick , Ankowski Artur M. , Bacca Sonia , Bosnar Damir , Denig Achim , Distler Michael O. , Esser Anselm , Friscic Ivica , Giusti Carlotta , Hoek Matthias , Kegel Simon , Littich Maximilian , Megias Guillermo D. , Merkel Harald , Müller Ulrich , Pochodzalla Josef , Schlimme B. Sören , Schoth Matthias , Sfienti Concettina , Sirca Simon , Sobczyk Joanna Ewa , Stöttinger Yvonne , Thiel Michaela
Published: July 2024

We present the findings of a study based on a new inelastic electron-scattering experiment on the 12C nucleus focusing on the kinematic region of Q2=0.8 GeV2/c2. The measured cross section is sensitive to the transverse response function and provides a stringent test of theoretical models, as well as of the theoretical assumptions made in Monte-Carlo event-generator codes developed for the interpretation of neutrino-nucleus experiments, such as DUNE and HyperK. We find that modern generators such as GENIE and GiBUU reproduce our new experimental data within 10%.
PAC Codes: 12.20.-m , 25.30.Bf , 41.60.-m
Achieving Background-Limited Performance with Light-Induced Band Inversion in a Room-Temperature BP/Ge Heterojunction
Authors: Li Guanhai , Li Xin , Wang Jian , Chen Jin , Yu Feilong , Wang Jie , Liu Changlong , Guo Jiaoyang , Song Yuxin , Yang Jiaji , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei
Published: July 2024

Achieving Background-Limited Infrared Performance (BLIP) sets the ultimate standard for photodetector sensitivity, determined by unavoidable background radiation rather than intrinsic device noise. This threshold is critical for applications such as environmental monitoring and security systems. Traditional photodetectors, often limited by requirements for cryogenic cooling and precise lattice matching, do not suffice for practical scenarios. We introduce an approach using light-induced band inversion, exemplified by black phosphorus (BP) and germanium (Ge) heterojunction, which operates at room temperature. This method not only circumvents the need for complex environmental controls but also enhances performance under ambient conditions. The heterojunction's capability for dual photoresponse- producing both positive and negative outputs based on incident wavelength- is crucially bolstered by the suppression of carrier recombination at the interface. This advancement contributes to a low dark current density of approximately 1.2×10−6 A/cm² and a noise equivalent photon of 50, facilitating a peak detectivity of 9.81×1011 cm⋅Hz1/2⋅W−1 at 3460 nm, reaching the BLIP limit within the band 3460 ~ 4000 nm. The broad applicability of light-induced band inversion indicates its potential as a universal strategy for enhancing photodetection across diverse platforms and wavelength domains, paving the way for unmatched sensitivity and reliability.
Efficient Synthesis of Organosulfur Compounds via Electrochemical Biomass Conversion
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Xia Qing , Gao Xin , Wu Jie , Wang Xinzhong , Zhai Yanjie , Gong Shanhe , Li Weisong
Published: July 2024

Artificial C-S bond formation plays a pivotal role in the preparation of drugs and their intermediates. Utilizing an electrochemical method powered by renewable energy offers a sustainable pathway to produce organosulfur compounds, but challenged by the low faradic efficiency (<6.8%) and production rate (< 10 µmol cm-2 hr-1). In this study, we developed an efficient electrochemical approach to build C-S bonds and prepare a broad range of C-S species in high yield by coupling biomass oxidation with an S-containing nucleophile using commercial catalysts. Taking methanol as a representative, we successfully synthesized hydroxymethanesulfonate (HMS), sulfoacetate (SA), and methanesulfonate (MS). This system achieved a remarkable faradaic efficiency of over 95% within a low current density below 10 mA cm-2. At commercial current densities ranging from 100-1000 mA cm-2, the faradaic efficiency remained consistently over 60% in a practical flow reactor and high production rates, with stable operation over 50 hours without significant voltage increases or yield decreases at 100 mA cm-2. Four reaction pathways, with *CH2O, *CH3, and *CH2CH2O as key intermediates have been identified to facilitate the C-S bond formation. Impressively, this process can be effortlessly extended to synthesize a wide range of organosulfur and organonitrogen compounds from diverse feedstocks, achieving impressive production rates. Our approach promises to revolutionize the production of pharmaceuticals, textile chemicals, and agrochemicals.
From ctenophores to scyphozoans: a parasitic spillover of the burrowing sea anemone Edwardsiella (Cnidaria: Actinaria)
Authors: Iakovleva Anastasiia , Morov Arseniy R. , Angel Dror , Guy-Haim Tamar
Published: July 2024

Most host-parasite associations are explained by phylogenetically conservative capabilities for host utilization, and therefore parasite switches between distantly related hosts are rare. Here we report the first evidence of a parasitic spillover of the burrowing sea anemone Edwardsiella from the invasive ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi to two scyphozoan hosts: the native Mediterranean barrel jellyfish Rhizostoma pulmo and the invasive Indo-Pacific nomad jellyfish Rhopilema nomadica, collected from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. The Edwardsiella planulae found in these jellyfish were identified using molecular analyses of the mitochondrial 16S and nuclear 18S rRNA genes. Overall, 93 planulae were found on tentacles, oral arms, and inside of the gastrovascular canals of the scyphomedusae, whereas no infection was observed in co-occurring ctenophores. DNA metabarcoding approach indicated seasonal presence of Edwardsiella in the Eastern Mediterranean mesozooplankton, coinciding with jellyfish blooms in the region. Our findings suggest a non-specific parasitic relationship between Edwardsiella and various gelatinous hosts based on shared functionality rather than evolutionary history, potentially driven by shifts in host availability due to jellyfish blooms. This spillover raises questions about the ecological impacts of parasitism on native and invasive scyphozoan hosts and the potential role of Edwardsiella in controlling their populations.
Development of a specialized method for simultaneous quantification of functional intestinal metabolites by GC/MS-based metabolomics
Authors: Funahashi Kazuki , Fukuda Shinji , Lee Chol Gyu , Sugitate Kuniyo , Kagata Noriko , Fukuda Noriko , Song Isaiah , Ishii Chiharu , Hirayama Akiyoshi
Published: July 2024

Intestinal metabolites produced by gut microbes play a significant role in host health. Due to their different chemical structures, they are often analyzed using multiple analyzers and methods, such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for SCFAs and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) for bile acids (BAs), amino acids (AAs), and sugars. In this study, we aimed to develop a specialized method for the simultaneous determination of important intestinal metabolites, specifically addressing the main issue of SCFA volatilization during the dry solidification process. We discovered that these compounds can all be measured in fecal samples by GC/MS after trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatization despite the expected volatility of SCFAs. Validating the results using SCFA standards suggested that the fecal matrix exerts a stabilizing effect. This method enabled the simultaneous quantification of 65 metabolites. For further validation in a biological context, a mouse study showed that high-MAC and high-fat diets increased SCFAs and BAs in feces, respectively, and showed a negative correlation between Alistipes and sugars, all consistent with previous studies. As a result, we successfully developed a specialized simultaneous quantification method for SCFAs, BAs, AAs, AA derivatives, and sugars in fecal samples using GC/MS-based metabolomics in conjunction with a TMS derivatization pretreatment process.
Tensile strain-induced disorder and weak localization in SrRuO3 thin films on (100) KTaO3 substrates
Authors: Alka Km , Chauhan Shital , Singh Sandeep , Siwach P. K. , Singh H. K.
Published: July 2024

SrRuO3 (SRO) thin (~ 12 nm) films have been grown on KTaO3 (001) substrates by RF magnetron sputtering. The as-prepared films are under enormous in-plane tensile strain, which corresponds to the elastic energy of ~ 1.5 MJ. Annealing in oxygen at 900 °C for 6 hr relaxes strain, partially lowering the elastic energy. The surface topography shows a transition from granularity as the Ar + O2 pressure increases from 5 mTorr to 200 mTorr, with a simultaneous change in the average surface roughness from 4 nm to 0.8 nm. Annealing transforms the topography to island-type and enhances surface roughness. The films deposited at 5 mTorr are semiconducting, and annealing further enhances the resistivity, but the overall temperature dependence of resistivity (ρ-T) remains semiconducting. The ρ-T of films grown at 200 mTorr shows a metallic behavior with an inflection in the ρ-T at TC~150 K, indicating the Curie transition. The resistivity upturn at lower temperatures shows the disordered nature of these films. Thus that large tensile strain causes strong disorder and hence is inimical to metallicity. The ρ-T behavior of the films grown at 5 mTorr follows the eq. \(\:\rho\:\left(T\right)=\frac{1}{{\sigma\:}_{0}+a{T}^{\frac{1}{2}}+{a}_{1}{T}^{\frac{p}{2}}}+b{T}^{\alpha\:}\) in the range 2K-300K with p=2 and α = 2. In the 200 mTorr deposited film, the above eq. is valid at T<95 K with p=2 and α = 1.5. At TC<T≤300 K, the ρ-T follows eq. \(\:{\rho\:}\left(\text{T}\right)={{\rho\:}}_{0}+\:{{\rho\:}}_{1}{\text{T}}^{{\alpha\:}}\) with α = 1.3 and 1.5 for the as-grown and annealed films. The lower temperature ρ-T upturn appears to be due to either the disorder-enhanced renormalized e-e interaction (REEI) or weak localization (WL) effects. The temperature and magnetic field-dependent magnetoresistance evidence a substantial WL effect in the films grown at 200 mTorr. Our results establish a strong correlation between the nature of strain, surface topography, and carrier transport mechanisms.
Awareness among medical students about pancreas transplantation in patients with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Absi Marla Michel , Basiki Mohamad laith Yahia , Hammoud Taghrid
Published: July 2024

Objective
To study the awareness of medical students at the Syrian Private University about pancreas transplantation to treat type 1 diabetes and highlight the importance of the study in promoting the procedure of pancreas transplantation in our region.
Methods and materials:
A cross-sectional study. Data collection was conducted through electronic questionnaires and through personal interviews with students. The data collection process took place during the period 2-15-2024 until 5-31-2024, and then the data was entered and analyzed using the SPSS-28 statistics program.
Results
250 male and female students from different academic years participated in the research 97.6% of the students had heard of the pancreas transplantation process, and most of the students’ knowledge was from university lectures and the Internet, at rates of 58.8% and 21.2%, respectively. The percentage of students with weak knowledge was 20%, the percentage of those with moderate knowledge was 49.2%, and the percentage of those with good knowledge 30.8%, most students 98.6% believe that it is necessary to raise awareness about pancreas transplantation among the general public and medical community.
Conclusion
Our sample size is small, and the participation was only from medical students, and it is not equal. All of this makes it difficult to generalize the results or formulate an accurate conclusion, but it confirms the need for more studies to evaluate students’ information about pancreas transplantation.
The Negative Ions at the Lunar Surface (NILS) instrument on the Chang’E-6 mission
Authors: Canu-Blot Romain , Wieser Martin , Kerényi Máté , Barabash Stas , Wang Xiao-Dong , Maynadie Thomas , Zhang Aibing , Wang Wenjing , Melville Neil , Wang Qiong , Zou Yongliao , Dou Hao , Zhu Hanyou , Alatalo Vesa , Edström Andreas , Kalla Leif , Karlsson Stefan , Oja Magnus , Olsen Jonas , Peterson Joakim , Stålnacke Daniel , Upton David
Published: July 2024

The Negative Ions at the Lunar Surface (NILS) instrument is a compact mass resolving negative ion and electron analyser flown on the Chinese Chang’E-6 mission to the Moon. NILS measures negative ions an electrons in the energy range of 3 eV/q to 3 keV/q with a mass resolution of m/Δm of about 2. The mass resolution is sufficient to separate charge converted solar wind protons and sputtered negatively charged atoms form the surface. An electro-magnetic electron suppression system allows to switch between electron and ion measurements. The fan-shaped field-of-view is divided into 16 discrete angular pixels that are scanned sequentially. For each viewing direction, an electron and an ion energy spectrum is acquired in 4.06 s. NILS has a mass of 919 g, excluding cables and multi-layer insulation. The power consumption is on average 2.7 W during nominal operations.
Factores de riesgo asociados a la agresividad en adolescentes: diferenciación por sexo.
Authors: Silva-Fernández Claudia Susana , Pabón Poches Daysy Katherine
Published: July 2024

La agresividad se ha reconocido como prevalente en la población adolescente, debido a su carácter impulsivo y de inestabilidad emocional, que también caracteriza a la adolescencia. Ello lleva a la necesidad de conocer la frecuencia y la relación de los factores de riesgo de la agresividad en población adolescente, explorando sus diferencias según sexo. Así, esta investigación de enfoque cuantitativo, diseño no experimental, transversal de alcance correlacional, estudió la presencia y las relaciones entre la agresividad y sus factores de riesgo en 212 mujeres y 188 hombres   adolescentes, entre 12 y 17 años de edad. Para lo cual, se aplicó una ficha de valoración de factores de riesgo y el cuestionario de agresividad premeditada e impulsiva (CAPI-A). Los hallazgos muestran mayor prevalencia de agresividad impulsiva, y la presencia de más relaciones con factores de riesgo en mujeres respecto a los hombres. Los factores de riesgos relevantes en las mujeres son las actitudes hacia la norma, la percepción sobre la agresividad y los sentimientos; en los hombres, las conductas de riesgo y los sentimientos. Esto resulta de utilidad para la comprensión de la agresividad como pauta comportamental, y el diseño de intervenciones preventivas de la agresividad y sus consecuencias
Psychological contract and turnover intention in luxury hotels
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Deeprasert Jirawan , Jiang Songyu
Published: July 2024

Human resources are critical assets in the hotel industry, and retaining employees is crucial for the sustainable development of hotels. To reduce employee turnover, the study aims to explore the role of psychological contract and emotional labor on turnover intention. Data from an online survey of 743 employees of luxury hotels in China were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results show that employer relational psychological contracts (p < 0.001), employee relational psychological contracts (p < 0.001), and employer transactional psychological contracts (p < 0.01) have an impact on turnover intentions. The study also finds that employee transactional psychological contracts (p > 0.05) do not affect turnover intentions. Furthermore, employee-employer relational psychological contracts (p < 0.01) significantly influence emotional labor, whereas employer transactional psychological contracts (p > 0.05) do not. Emotional labor (p < 0.01) significantly affects turnover intentions. The connection between psychological contracts and turnover intentions is also mediated by emotional labor. These results imply that luxury hotels should prioritize employees’ emotional well-being, create a harmonious work environment, and enhance employee loyalty. This paper provides valuable insights that may reduce turnover and foster sustainable development within the hospitality sector.
Pamuklu İpliklerin Köpük Aplikasyon Metodu Kullanılarak İndigo Boyarmadde ile Boyanması
Authors: Yavuz Sıddık , Balcı Onur
Published: July 2024

İndigo boyarmaddesi, insanlığın kullandığı en eski boyarmaddelerden bir tanesidir. 20. Yüzyıl’ın başından itibaren, denim (kot) kumaşı ve bu kumaştan yapılan pantolonlar (jeans) Dünya çapında yaygınlaşmıştır. İndigo boyarmaddesi tekstilde kullanılan diğer boyarmaddeler ile kıyaslandığında kimyası ve boyama mekanizması bakımından birçok noktada farklılıklar göstermektedir. Bu çalışma kapsamında köpük aplikasyon yöntemi ile %100 pamuklu ipliklere indigo boyarmadde ile boyama yapmak ve klasik metotlara alternatif bir yaklaşım geliştirmek hedeflenmiştir. Köpük aplikasyonu yapabilmek için bir aparat tasarlanmış ve imalatı gerçekleştirilmiştir. Geliştirilen yeni aparat kullanılarak, çözgü ipliklerine köpük aplikasyon tekniği ile indigo boyamalar yapılarak denim kumaş dokunmuştur. Elde edilen numunelerin renk, haslık, dayanım ve elastikiyet gibi performans özellikleri araştırılmıştır. Böylece çalışma sonunda köpük aplikasyon yönteminin indigo boyama için uygulanabilirliği kanıtlanmıştır. Köpük aplikasyon yöntemi ile indigo boyamanın konvansiyonel yönteme göre avantajları, yatırım maliyeti ve yerleşim alanın daha az olması, boyama sonu çıkan atıkların çevreye olan etkisinin az oluşu ve daha az iplik telefinin çıkması olarak sıralanabilmektedir.