bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying root-associated bacteria and potential mechanisms linked to compost suppressiveness towards Fusarium oxysporum.
Authors: Amutuhaire Hildah , Faigenboim-Doron Adi , Friedman Jonathan , Cytryn Eddie 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Soilborne fungal phytopathogens pose a significant threat to global food security. While chemical control remains an effective method for managing these pathogens, increasing regulations due to health and environmental concerns, along with rising fungicide resistance, have restricted their use, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. The use of compost to enhance soil fertility and suppress plant diseases is well documented. Several studies have underlined the role of microorganisms in disease suppression, but the mechanisms facilitating this disease suppression remain unclear. We evaluated the impact of compost amendment on the composition and functional capacity of the rhizosphere microbiome in cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus) inoculated with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum (FORC) under controlled greenhouse conditions using amplicon sequencing, shotgun metagenomic and culture-based techniques.
Results
Compost amendment significantly reduced FORC-induced disease in cucumber relative to non-amended treatments. While FORC inoculation resulted in significant shifts in microbial (bacterial and fungal) community composition in the rhizosphere of non-amended plant, this phenomenon was substantially less pronounced in the rhizosphere of compost-amended plants. Specifically, compost amendment sustained the presence of Actinomycetota (Streptomyces, Actinomadura, Saccharomonospora, Pseudonocardia, Glycomyces, Thermobifida) and Bacillota (Planifilum, Novibacillus) in FORC inoculated plants, that diminished significantly in inoculated plants without compost. These taxa contained a myriad of non-ribosomal peptides (NRPS) and polyketides (PKS) biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) with putative antimicrobial and iron-chelating functions. We successfully isolated two Streptomyces strains from disease suppressed compost amended rhizosphere (almost identical to the most prominent strain identified in the molecular analyses) that produced extracellular metabolites that inhibited growth of FORC in-vitro. Genome analysis of these strains revealed BGCs that encode for compounds with potential antimicrobial capacity.
Conclusions
Based on results presented in this study, we demonstrate that compost alleviates FORC-induced dysbiosis of the rhizosphere microbiome, maintaining abundance of specific bacterial taxa. These bacterial groups may contribute to disease suppression through a myriad of mechanisms including iron chelation and production of fungal antagonizing secondary metabolites.
Full-length transcriptomics enabled the temperature-dependent changes of volatile oil content in Atractylodes lancea (Thunb.) DC
Authors: Zhu Juan , Alami Mohammad Murtaza , Zhong Shumei , Li Meilian , Mao Mengke , Liu Yuanlong , Mei Zhinan , Wang Xuekui , Weng Duanyang , Feng Shengqiu , Shu Shaohua 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The study investigates the effects of temperature variations on the volatile oil content and physiological responses of Atractylodes lancea, a medicinal herb known for its therapeutic properties. The research focuses on how different temperature regimes impact the accumulation of key secondary metabolites, such as β-Eudesmol and atractylodin, and various physiological parameters in A. lancea. Plants were subjected to temperatures of 28°C, 34°C, and 40°C for 2, 4, and 6 days. The study found that β-Eudesmol content varied significantly with temperature and duration, showing the highest levels at 28°C two days post-treatment and a decreasing trend with prolonged exposure. In contrast, atractylodin content peaked under different conditions, with notable increases at 34°C after four days in leaves and at 28°C in rhizomes. Photosynthesis rates, intercellular CO2 concentration, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rates were also measured to understand the broader physiological impacts of temperature stress. Full-length transcriptome analysis using SMRT sequencing revealed significant changes in gene expression related to sesquiterpene biosynthetic pathways. Key enzymes involved in sesquiterpene production showed differential expression patterns, with normal temperatures favoring higher expression levels. The findings highlight the complex interplay between temperature and secondary metabolite production in A. lancea. Understanding these dynamics can inform cultivation practices to optimize the therapeutic potential of A. lancea by ensuring consistent quality in herbal products. The study underscores the importance of environmental factors in modulating plant physiology and secondary metabolite accumulation, providing insights for future research and agricultural practices.
Design and Analysis of an Off-Grid Green Hydrogen Refueling Station for Edinburgh's Public Transport Using PLEXOS
Authors: Varhegyi Gergo , Nour Mutasim 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This paper advances the feasibility analysis of a green hydrogen refuelling station designed to transition half of Edinburgh's public transportation bus fleet from diesel to hydrogen. Unlike existing studies, which primarily focus on either on-grid configurations or basic renewable integrations, this research comprehensively integrates an off-grid, wind-powered electrolyzer system with battery storage, specifically tailored to meet the hydrogen demands of urban public transport dynamics. A novel methodology is introduced to accurately quantify hydrogen demand, optimising fuel allocation for enhanced operational efficiency. Detailed techno-economic optimisation was employed using PLEXOS simulation software to appropriately size the required wind farm, battery, and hydrogen storage. This analysis revealed a levelized cost of hydrogen (LCoH) of 3.41 USD/kg. Coupled with the UK’s Hydrogen Business Model, which offers a strike price 12 USD/kg for 15 years, the project demonstrates an economically attractive payback period of less than 4 years. This approach not only aligns with the UK's stringent climate targets, but also fills significant research gaps, providing a scalable and economically feasible model to reduce $CO_2$ emissions in urban transportation.
Lactate promote Klebsiella pneumoniae invasive infection by increasing capsular polysaccharide biosynthesis via PTS-CRP axis in liver abscess microenvironment
Authors: Li Min , Zhu Junying , Wang Guangyu , Xi Wei , Shen Zhen , Wei Qing , Fang Xiaoqiong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The global incidence of invasive Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess syndrome (IKPLAS) is increasing, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive, hindering the development of effective therapeutic strategies. In this study, we analyzed bacterial molecular profiles and clinical data from patients with invasive and non-invasive KPLA infection, and found that no significant difference in the molecular characterization of K. pneumoniae isolate between the two groups while elevated serum lactate was observed as an independent predictor of invasive KPLA infection. Further study revealed that lactate promote K. pneumoniae invasive infection by enhancing capsular polysaccharide (CPS) biosynthesis. Mechanically, lactate reduced cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels by downregulating the expression of mannose-specific phosphotransferase system (man-PTS) enzyme II, and the reduction of cAMP positively regulated CPS biosynthesis by binding to the cAMP receptor protein (CRP). Our in vitro and in vivo experiments confirm lactate’s role in increasing CPS biosynthesis, offering new insights into the pathogenesis of IKPLAS.
Measurement of newborn mid-thigh circumference to identify preterm neonates, an institution based cross-sectional study, 2022.
Authors: Yigzaw Hailemelekot Kassie , Amare Ashenafi Tazebew , Teshager Nahom Worku , Gebrehana Alazar Wogayehu 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
It is well known that prematurity is among the commonest causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early identification of premature newborns is paramount in improving their survival. Our study aimed to
assess the use of newborn mid thigh circumference as a screening tool to identify preterm newborns.
Method
Institutional based cross-sectional study design was conducted on 206 newborns admitted in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Systematic sampling technique was employed. Optimal cut-off newborn mid thigh circumference and area under the curve (AUC) was calculated by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves analysis to assess the power mid thigh circumference measurement for diagnosis of prematurity.
Results
The mean mid-thigh circumference was 13.65 ± 2.41cm.Mid thigh circumference had strong power (AUC = 0.967) for classifying preterm from term newborns. The optimal cut-off newborn mid thigh circumference to predict prematurity was 13.25 cm. Newborn mid thigh circumference of ≤ 13.25cm had a sensitivity and specificity of 94.3% and 86.8%, respectively. Weight and gestational age had a significant strong positive correlation with a mid thigh circumference (r = 0.820) and (r = 0.720) respectively.
Conclusion
Mid-thigh circumference had a higher sensitivity and specificity in identifying preterm newborns making it a reliable tool that could be used in a rural setup.
Counteracting localization effects on core-periphery dynamics: evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Tsai I-Ju 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the counteraction of localization effects against the core-periphery effect driven by trade liberalization involving large factor flows for a small economy. The data utilized in this study comprise industry census data from Taiwan, customs trade statistics, and information on investment in China by Taiwan’s listed companies. The data period spans from 2006 to 2017. Localization effects are assessed by examining the expansion of industrial clusters. The findings indicate that an increase in the number of establishments and the birth of new establishments within a cluster lead to a decrease in the ratio of investment in China by Taiwan’s listed companies to industrial fixed capital values. The fall in the ratio of investment suggests the diminishing of the migration of factors toward China, i.e., the core-periphery effect. The policy implication is that, with factors being free to move, small economies promoting cluster development can help alleviate the industrial hollowing out that occurs through trade with larger economies.
JEL codes: F13, R11,R12
Utilizing the mechanisms of Nicotiana benthamiana asparagine synthetase NbAS-B for the creation of PGANPs: A novel approach to enhance growth and induce resistance against viral infection
Authors: Sun Xianchao , Qiao Gang , Liu Changyun , Chen Li , Tian ShaoRui , Yang Juan , Xiao Siyi , Luo Xingyi , Ma Xiaozhou , Cai Lin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Asparagine synthetase AS-B plays a pivotal role in the response to tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) infection. In this study, the evolutionarily conserved NbAS-B was found to induce both antiviral and growth-promoting responses in an expression intensity-dependent manner in Nicotiana benthamiana. These effects were mediated through glutamate-dependent enhancement of salicylic acid (SA) signaling and reprogramming of the photosynthesis pathway. Further, based on the stronger resistance induction of polyglutamic acid (PGA), a polymer of glutamate, we developed nanogels (PGANPs) by loading PGA onto chitosan via electrostatic interactions to regulate the glutamate-dependent salicylic acid (SA) signaling. Notably, PGANPs exhibited enhanced antiviral activity beyond the combined effects of PGA and chitosan, while maintaining long-term foliar persistence that continuously activated SA signaling pathways, resulting in prolonged TMV resistance. Importantly, this persistence did not adversely affect plant growth or development, making these environmentally friendly, biopolymer-based nanogels a promising sustainable solution for controlling plant viral diseases.
Privacy-enabled and Local-global Hashing with Adaptive Adjustment: a Robust Multi-drone Object Detector
Authors: Zhang Luming 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Multi-drone object detection aims to robustly localize and identify multi-category objects by training a detector using videos recorded from multiple drones. This task presents three main challenges: 1) maintaining data privacy by keeping videos captured by each drone local during training, 2) generating lightweight deep features for efficient between-object comparison, and 3) accurately encoding object-aware clues in the presence of mislabeled videos. In this work, we propose an encrypted hashing technique to enable distributed and adaptive training of an object detector. The core idea is a local-global learning approach that adapts server parameters to progressively update local (\textit{i.e.}, drone-specific) parameters, optimizing local hash model (LHM) training. Specifically, for each drone, we develop an LHM to convert each sliding window into binary codes for fast comparison. This approach integrates three key attributes: i) correction of mislabeled video data, ii) preservation of explicit data structure, and iii) computation of deep binary codes. Due to the non-convexity of LHM, we introduce an iterative solution. To combine multiple LHMs into a robust global hash model (GHM), we employ an encrypted distributed learning scheme. This allows each LHM to communicate its inherent parameters to the GHM for iterative optimization, with adaptive guidance from the GHM feedback loop enhancing LHM training. Notably, our local-global hash architecture ensures drone data privacy since only LHM parameters are visible externally, while drone-recorded videos are retained locally. Extensive empirical evaluations on three drone image datasets demonstrated the efficiency and accuracy of our method. Furthermore, the FPGA implementation of our object detector achieved 265 fps (frames per second) on 1K drone videos and 58 fps on 4K drone videos.
Groundwater Sustainability in the Varuna River Basin: Impacts of Climate Change and Population Growth
Authors: Kumar Ranveer , Bhattacharjee Rajarshi , Gaur Shishir , Ohri Anurag 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

This study uses the SWAT model combined with bias-corrected climate projections across four SSP scenarios to assess the impacts of climate change and population-driven groundwater demand on groundwater sustainability in the Varuna River Basin (VRB). Climate anomaly analysis revealed a significant decrease in precipitation and an increase in temperature under higher emission scenarios (SSP370 and SSP585), intensifying recharge drought conditions and evapotranspiration rates. Using Anselin's Local Moran's I method, we identified distinct spatial patterns of groundwater recharge. The low-emission scenario showed a stable recharge distribution (SSP126), whereas higher-emission pathways revealed extensive clusters of recharge hotspots and coldspots, indicating regional disparities in recharge. Additionally, the analysis of the groundwater sustainability ratio (GSR) dynamics showed intensified over-exploitation risks in SSP585, which were driven by reduced recharge and higher atmospheric water demand. These findings highlight the necessity for adaptive water management strategies to address climate-driven recharge disparities and enhance groundwater sustainability in the VRB through artificial recharge.
A New Reality for Telehealth: A Simulation-Based Comparison of Wearable Mixed Reality with Videoconferencing for Clinician-to-Clinician Telehealth
Authors: Santomauro Chiara , Best Daniel , Wray Beth , Burgmann Felicity , Pilotto Tricia , Pearce Sarah , McLanders Mia 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Telehealth is crucial to the provision of high-quality treatment of critically unwell patients in rural areas. Our aim was to explore the benefits and limitations of a Mixed Reality (MR) headset for clinician-to-clinician telehealth in a simulated rural context, in which the advising clinician directly views the treating clinician’s point-of-view and uses holographic annotations to provide visual guidance in 3D space.
Methods
Twenty-five clinicians trialled a MR headset—the Microsoft HoloLens 2—and evaluated it against a trolley-based videoconferencing device used in current practice. Each participant trialled the devices while role-playing one of two perspectives: the Rural Clinician accessing support or the Advising Clinician providing support.
Results
Advising Clinicians had higher ratings of usability and self-efficacy, and lower ratings of mental workload, when providing support via the MR headset compared to the videoconferencing trolley (ps< .035). However, Rural Clinicians rated the MR headset lower on usability compared to the videoconferencing trolley (p= .020), and rated their self-efficacy and mental workload equally when using both devices (ps > .253). Participants generally preferred to use the MR headset over the videoconferencing trolley. On average, scenarios took 1 minute longer to complete when using the MR headset (p < .001).
Discussion
Wearable MR technology has the potential to improve the quality of support provided to rural clinicians; however, it may be more beneficial for those dialling in to the device (advising clinicians) rather than those wearing the device (rural clinicians). Factors that may limit its safety and efficiency are discussed.
Cannabigerol Mitigates Haloperidol-Induced Vacuous Chewing Movements in Mice
Authors: Ponciano Rafaela , Hallak Jaime Eduardo Cecílio , Crippa José Alexandre , Guimarães Francisco Silveira , Bel Elaine Aparecida Del 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Chronic use of typical antipsychotics can lead to varying motor effects depending on the timing of analysis. Acute treatment typically induces hypokinesia, resembling parkinsonism, while repeated use can result in tardive dyskinesia, a hyperkinetic syndrome marked by involuntary orofacial movements such as vacuous chewing movements in mice. tardive dyskinesia is particularly concerning due to its potential irreversibility and associated motor discomfort. One prevailing theory suggests that tardive dyskinesia arises from hypersensitivity of D2-type dopaminergic receptors due to continuous blockade by typical antipsychotics like haloperidol. Additionally, factors such increased inflammation, oxidative stress, and elevated FosB protein expression in the dorsolateral striatum are implicated in its pathophysiology. Current treatments for tardive dyskinesia often lack clear effectiveness and can lead to significant side effects. Cannabigerol, a non-psychotomimetic cannabinoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has been investigated for its potential antidyskinetic effects. In this study, mice were treated with cannabigerol at doses of 3 and 10 mg/kg to evaluate its ability to prevent, ameliorate, or reverse haloperidol-induced vacuous chewing movements. Cannabigerol did not induce dyskinetic effects on its own and successfully reduced vacuous chewing movements without impacting normal motor activity or exacerbating haloperidol-induced hypokinesia. However, no significant reversal of the symptoms was observed under the current protocol. Furthermore, cannabigerol did not alter FosB expression or microglia morphology. These findings underscore the need for further research to fully explore cannabigerol's therapeutic potential, contributing to our understanding of its possible clinical applications in managing tardive dyskinesia.
Design and Evaluation of an Egg Sorting Machine
Authors: Hernando Herald Kam , Rabanera Jennyfer C. , Bravo Joseph G. , Echanique Mylene C. , Laureano Angelica G. , Solaina Viverly B. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

An egg sorting machine using a weight sensor was developed using low-cost, locally available materials and local manufacturing technologies to sort eggs into different sizes based on weight. The fabricated machine comprises several parts, including the transmission, transporting, and sorting mechanisms. The transporting mechanism is powered by a 15 RPM, 12V gear motor, chain, and sprocket for the transmission unit. The weighing and sorting unit used the Servo motor, Arduino Uno Microcontroller, and Load Cell with HX711 amplifier. Performance test results for the 360 table egg samples show that the egg sorting machine has an average sorting accuracy of 93.88% with a capacity of 889 table eggs per hour (4.05 seconds per egg). It shows that the machine is accurate. Thus, the machine reduces the use of manpower and drudgery of manual sorting while maintaining a higher accuracy and speed in sorting table eggs. It can be used in egg-laying farms to classify small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. The annual income is Php 36, 421 and in 1 008 hours a year of sorting eggs, the machine was expected to meet its break-even period of 92,396.8 eggs per year, and it will reach its payback period after 0.39 years.
Viscosity measurements of selected lunar regolith simulants
Authors: Stapperfend Simon , Dingwell Donald B. , Hess Kai-Uwe , Sutherland Jennifer , Müller Axel , Müller Dirk , Eitel Michael , Baasch Julian , Linke Stefan , Stoll Enrico 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
In the context of evaluating lunar construction options, this study focuses on characterizing the viscosities and glass transition properties of lunar regolith simulants to support the development of additive manufacturing processes using molten regolith. Employing the modular TUBS lunar regolith simulant system, we measured the viscosities of different simulants through high-temperature experiments conducted between 1,051 °C and 1,490 °C using Concentric Cylinder viscometry in air. Additionally, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was utilized to evaluate the glass transition temperatures, which were in the range between 689 °C and 815 °C. The measured viscosity data were parameterized by the Vogel—Fulcher—Tammann (VFT) equation, adept at describing the viscosities and related properties of silicate liquids. The measured viscosities were compared with the predicted values of six viscosity models. It was shown that the model by Sehlke and Whittington predicts the viscosities of the tested lunar regolith simulants at superliquidus temperatures best, whereby no model adequately predicts viscosities at the glass transition temperature, indicating a need for further research in this area. We infer that 3D printing technologies based on molten lunar regolith, are viscosity-wise best constrained to highland regions. The reduced environment on the Moon influences the 3D printing process in a positive manner.