bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Root colonization of endophytic Trichoderma virens as a biological control for oil palm using SGFP reporter gene
Authors: Mohamed-Azni Intan Nur Ainni , Angel Lee Pei Lee , Sirajuddin Salwa Abdullah , Sundram Shamala 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Trichoderma virens 7b and 159c, are endophytes isolated from the roots of the oil palm. Both isolates are potential biological control agent that acts as a protective root shield against Ganoderma basal stem rot (BSR) disease. To investigate its mechanism in vivo, T. virens 7b and 159c were transformed via Agrobacterium tumefaciens, AGL1 strain carrying vector pCAMBgfp containing hygromycin (HygB) resistance cassette and synthetic green fluorescent protein (SGFP) gene. The putative transformed colonies were screened using SGFP-forward and SGFP-reverse primers that generated an amplicon of ~ 750 bp. Restriction analysis using SalI generated three fragments sized ~ 9700 bp, ~ 2865 bp and ~ 1435 bp, confirming the presence of the desired genes. Trichoderma virens 7b and 159c harbouring the SGFP gene were selected on PDA media supplemented with 175 µg/ml and 150 µg/ml Hygromycin B (HygB), respectively. Inoculation of transformed T. virens into the roots of 3-month-old oil palm tissue culture ramets showed positive colonization of the fungus examined under light microscope and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). These findings suggest that the Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of T. virens carrying the SGFP reporter gene can be used to monitor the colonization and detection of this beneficial biological control agent in the oil palm root system.
Reduction of Hospital-Acquired Infections at Surgical Clinics by Hand Hygiene Predictors
Authors: MARINKOVIC Mirjana , DJORDJEVIC Miodrag , DJORDJEVIC Vukica , KARANIKOLIC Vesna , NOVAK Sonja , PERIŠIĆ Jelena 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to explore hand hygiene compliance risk factors at surgical clinics of the University Clinical Center Niš in Serbia, addressing a significant research gap in global efforts to prevent hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
Methods
The research was conducted in four phases. Initially, a qualitative observational approach was integrated into the infection control protocol based on the World Health Organization’s “Five Moments for Hand Hygiene.” An anonymous survey using the WHO’s “Hand Hygiene Knowledge Questionnaire for Health-Care Workers” was conducted. The third phase involved examining the interplay between leadership qualities and job satisfaction among staff using the Leadership Trait Questionnaire and the Job Satisfaction Survey. The final phase analyzed various operational parameters of the surgical clinics. A descriptive study was conducted from August to September 2023, covering 500 healthcare professionals in surgery clinics and related intensive care units, utilizing a mixed-method approach with the WHO-standardized Hand Hygiene Questionnaire.
Results
The study found a statistically significant difference in hand hygiene compliance scores between different organizational units and professions. There was a significant correlation between the leader’s rating and the type of hand hygiene method used, as well as between job satisfaction and the practice of removing gloves for examination.
Conclusion
Key recommendations include developing a comprehensive educational initiative to promote hand hygiene, supported by a robust promotional campaign. Additionally, enhancing the leadership qualities of managerial staff is crucial for improving hand hygiene practices.
The Random Neural Network – based Approach and Evolutionary Intelligence are integral components ofIOT – RNNEI, an intrusion detection system for IOT Networks
Authors: RAHMANI PARISA , AREFI MOHAMAD , SHOJAE SEYYED MOHAMMAD SABER SEYYED , MIRZAEE ASHRAF 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Over the past few years, there has been significant research on the Internet of Things (IOT), with a major challenge being network security and penetration. Security solutions require careful planning and vigilance to safeguard system security and privacy. Adjusting the weights of neural networks has been shown to improve detection accuracy to some extent. In attack detection, the primary goal is to enhance the precision of attack detection using machine learning techniques. The paper details a fresh approach for adjusting weights in the random neural network to recognize attacks. Reviews of the method under consideration indicate better performance than random neural network methods, Nearest Neighbor, and Support Vector Machine (SVM). Up to 99.49% accuracy has been achieved in attack detection, while the random neural network method has improved to 99.01%. The amalgamation of the most effective approaches in these experiments through a multi-learning model led to an accuracy improvement to 99.56%. The proposed model required less training time compared to the random neural network method.
The relationship between Intrinsic Capacity and Functional Ability in older adults
Authors: Ahmadi Somayeh , Afshar Pouya Farokhnezhad , Malakouti Kazem , Azadbakht Mojtaba 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
Intrinsic Capacity in integrated geriatric care emphasizes the importance of a thorough functional assessment. Monitoring the intrinsic capacity of older individuals provides standardized and reliable information to prevent or delay disability. This study assessed the relationship between intrinsic capacity and functional ability in older adults.
Method
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 210 older individuals aged 60 and above referred to Rasoul Akram Hospital. Data collection included ADL and IADL scales, the Snellen chart, the Hearing Handicap Inventory, the hand dynamometer, the TUG test, the AMT test, and the GDS. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software v.26 via independent t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple regression analysis.
Results
The participants were 70.13 ± 7.04 years. 57.6% were older women and 42.4% were older men. Age showed a significant and inverse correlation with both ADL (P < 0.001, r = -0.23) and IADL (P < 0.001, r = -0.39). The adjusted coefficient of determination (R²) for the five domains of intrinsic capacity (sensory, cognitive, locomotion, psychological, vitality) as well as age and BMI was 0.16 for ADL and 0.32 for IADL.
Conclusion
Age, vision, and locomotion were identified as predictors of ADL, while vision, handgrip strength, cognition, and age were predictive factors of IADL. Therefore, evaluating age, vision, handgrip strength, cognition, and locomotion can help predict functional ability.
Trends of asthma mortality in China, 2008-2021
Authors: Su Hang , Hua Wen , Bao Wuping , Xu Zichong , Zhang Xue , Zhao Lei , Han Lei , Xue Yishu , Shen Huahao , Zhang Min 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Few studies have explored asthma mortality trends in China over the past decade. This study examines these trends across all age groups in China from 2008 to 2021, utilizing a nationally database.
Methods
This population-based study utilized DSPs data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2008–2021) to determine asthma mortality rates per 100,000 individuals. The spearman test assessed trends, while simple linear regression explored the potential association between air pollutant levels, socioeconomic factors and asthma mortality.
Results
The crude mortality rate of asthma in China (2008–2021) generally decreased, especially in the elderly (33.8% decline), but increased in individuals aged 15–19 in recent years. Mortality rates peaked around 2015 and then declined annually. Geographically, the most substantial decline rate was observed in the eastern region (10.5% decline), followed by the central region (8.1% decline). However, the decline rate in the western region was less pronounced and even displayed an upward trend, particularly in urban areas. During the 2020–2021 COVID-19 pandemic period, the mortality rate stabilized. A significant correlation was found between elderly mortality rates and changes in air quality, but not observed in younger individuals.
Conclusions
The asthma mortality rate in China has experienced a comprehensive decline over the past decade. However, rates in certain groups, like the elderly and those in western China, remained higher than the global average, while in the youth population a slight upward trend was observed. Addressing these disparities is crucial for future efforts.
Loss of phytochromobilin synthase activity leads to larger seeds with higher protein content in soybean
Authors: Su Xin , Wang Hao-Rang , Zhang Yong , Hong Hui-Long , Sun Xu-hong , Wang Lei , Song Ji-Ling , Yang Meng-Ping , Yang Xing-Yong , Han Ying-Peng , Qiu Li-juan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Seed weight is an important agronomic trait that is related to seed size and determines yield in soybean (Glycine max). We previously identified a spontaneous soybean mutant with light green leaves called ygl2. Here, we cloned YGL2, which encodes a phytochromobilin (PΦB) synthase involved in synthesizing the chromophore of the photoreceptor phytochrome. The lesion in ygl2 is a 10-bp deletion, causing a frameshift mutation and a premature stop codon that truncates the encoded protein. In contrast to the wild type, ygl2 lacks PΦB synthase activity and function. This appears to promote cell expansion, thus increasing seed weight. Surprisingly, the ygl2 mutant also exhibits excellent traits including early maturity and high protein content. Moreover, under the condition of dense planting (3cm), the yield of YGL2 mutant was significantly increased. Mutants harboring ygl2 mutations that we generated via gene editing had enlarged seeds with high protein content. Moreover, the expression levels of the photoperiod sensitive genes (E1, FT2a, FT5a) were lower in the ygl2 mutant than in the wild type in the mutant. Mutating the YGL2 gene resulted in increased biliverdin content and decreased heme content. We determined that Lhcb4, a chlorophyll a/b binding protein in photosystem II, interacts with YGL2 but not with the mutant version of the protein. We thus identified a mutation in a PΦB synthase gene that enhances seed weight in soybean, providing a promising breeding target for this important crop.
Work Intensification and Occupational Fatigue on Nurses: A Cross-sectional and Correlational Study
Authors: Güngör Serkan , Sönmez Betül 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This research aimed to determine the relationship between work intensification and occupational fatigue in nurses using a cross-sectional and correlational design.
Methods
The sample included 597 nurses from public, private, and university hospitals in Istanbul, selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the "Nurse Information Form," the "Intensification of Job Demands Scale," and the "Occupational Fatigue Exhaustion/Recovery Scale." Analysis involved descriptive tests, correlation, and hierarchical linear regression.
Results
Results showed higher-than-average levels of both chronic and acute fatigue, with acute fatigue being more prevalent. The mean intershift recovery score was below average. A significant positive correlation was found between chronic and acute fatigue, while a significant negative correlation was observed between both fatigue types and intershift recovery. Work intensification levels were above average and correlated positively with chronic and acute fatigue, except for intensified career-related planning. Conversely, a negative correlation was found with recovery, except for intensified skill-related learning demands. Regression analysis revealed that demographic and occupational characteristics of nurses other than age, work intensification, acute fatigue, and intershift recovery explained 59.8% of chronic fatigue. For acute fatigue, these factors explained 11.2%, and for intershift recovery, 12.8%.
Conclusions
This study highlights the correlation between work intensification and occupational fatigue in nurses, suggesting that increased work intensity leads to higher occupational fatigue. The findings contribute to the literature and assist nurse managers and decision-makers in preventing occupational fatigue by re-evaluating and regulating current working conditions where job demands are intensified.
Association between weight-related bullying and the academic, professional, and romantic pathways in emerging adulthood
Authors: Stamate Iris Fibia , Aimé Annie , Villatte Aude 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Bullying is associated with psychological, physical, academic, and interpersonal problems that can persist into emerging adulthood, a developmental phase marked by changes and exploration in academic, professional, and romantic domains. While weight is known to be a leading cause of bullying, no study has explored how weight-related bullying during adolescence and emerging adulthood might influence the life trajectories of emerging adults. This study examines the academic, professional, and romantic pathways of emerging adults based on the chronicity of the weight-related bullying they experienced. Using a longitudinal design, data was collected from 104 emerging adults aged 24 to 29. Four groups were compared: those who had never been bullied, those who had experienced weight-related bullying during one, two, or three periods (adolescence, early and/or late emerging adulthood). ANCOVA analyses and chi-squared tests were conducted to examine the differences between the four groups. Results show that despite objective pathways that are broadly comparable to those of their peers, chronic victims report lower academic, professional, and romantic satisfaction. This study highlights the importance of considering the chronicity of weight-related bullying when designing interventions to identify individuals in particular need of support and promote the positive development of emerging adults.
The role of cannabinoid agonists and antagonists on folliculogenesis, and evolutionary events in mouse ovary
Authors: mirzaie Vida , Eslaminejad Touba , Sheikhbahaei Fatemeh , vafaei Shayan , nabipour Fatemeh , Behzadi Mina , Nematollahi-Mahani Seyed Noureddin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Cannabinoids, as member of Cannabis sativa L. derivatives (such as marijuana, hashish) are able to activate the endocannabinoid system via two endogenous receptors CB1 and CB2. This system plays an important role in the regulating folliculogenesis and fertility and affects many of the processes of the reproductive system. This study was conducted to investigate the possible effects of cannabinoid agonists and antagonists on the ovarian health and function of female mice.
Material & Method: A total of 80 NMRI mice were divided into 10 groups. Treatment groups received CB1 or CB2 agonist or antagonist or a combination of them for 5 days. Animals were sacrificed;ovaries were removed, measured to determine the weight and volume, total RNA from the left ovary was extracted for q-PCR, and the right ovary was fixed in Boin’s fixative to evaluate folliculogenesis.
Results:Treatment of animals with CB1/CB2 agonist + CB1 antagonist (W102+AM251) decreased the level of NAPE-PLD and increased the level of FAAH gene compared to all groups. CB2 antagonist (AM630) increased the number of primary, preantral and antral follicles as well as the volume and weight of ovaries, and estrogen levels. While the CB1 antagonist (AM251) significantly increased the number of micro vessels in the ovary.
Conclusion: Cannabinoid products affect the physiology of the ovaries and impair folliculogenesis. The CB2 receptor appears to play a major role in this process. Antagonism at CB2 appeared to differentially affect cannabinoid-metabolizing enzymes in ovarian follicles and also differentially affects their maturation.. However, our preliminary novel findings in mice require human studies before application in clinics
Evaluating Non-Fluoroscopic Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Drainage for Pancreatic Pseudocysts: Clinical Outcomes and Complications in a Resource-Limited Environment
Authors: Mithushan Jesuthasan , Subasinghe Duminda , Fernandopulle Nilesh 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided drainage has become a routine strategy in the management of pancreatic fluid collections (PFC). Although numerous studies in literature examine the safety and efficacy of EUS-guided PFC drainage using fluoroscopy, evidence for the effectiveness of techniques without fluoroscopy is still emerging. We aimed to retrospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of EUS-guided drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts (PCs) and compare the success rates and complications among patients without fluoroscopic control in a resource-limited setting.
Methods
A retrospective study was carried out among 56 patients who underwent EUS-guided drainage of PCs over a 4-year period at a tertiary care center. The procedure was performed under deep sedation. A cysto-gastrostomy or cysto-duodenostomy was created with a self-expandable bi-flanged metal stent/ plastic stent placed with a linear echoendoscope, with or without fluoroscopy guidance according to the fluoroscopy availability. Clinical success, technical success, and complications were analyzed and compared between both groups.
Results
The mean age was 41 years (range 9–76), while 47 (84%) were male. Thirty-seven (66%) underwent the procedure with fluoroscopy guidance (F), while 19 (34%) did not have fluoroscopy (FL). Acute pancreatitis was the leading cause of the PCs (n = 34, 60.7%), and abdominal pain (n = 37, 66%) was the commonest indication for drainage. The overall clinical and technical success rates were 96.4% and 89.2% respectively, which are comparable between the sub-groups. The overall complication rate was 7.2% (F = 2.7% vs. FL = 15.8%, p > 0.05), with no statistically significant differences among the subgroups.
Conclusion
EUS-guided transmural drainage of PC without fluoroscopy guidance is a successful and effective method with minimal complications and can be used by experienced Endo-sonographers in low-income settings where fluoroscopy facilities are not routinely available.
Part A: Interspecific Eavesdropping on Chemical Communication between Pomegranate, Aphis punicae, Enemies, and Protectors in the Taif Governorate Field using open-loop stripping.
Authors: M’sakni Nour Houda , Alsufyani Taghreed , Alotaibi Noura J. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

The requirement for alternative pesticides for agricultural crops has become a public health necessity. By using an ecological approach, we aim to examine how chemical interactions between Taif Pomegranate, Aphis punicae, enemies, and protectors can be tracked in the field. Describe how these substances could be utilized as a powerful crop biocontrol tool to implement integrated pest management (IPM) against A. punicae. Based on insect chemical ecology, volatile organic compounds were collected from four ecological systems: 1) aphid-infested pomegranates (AIP), 2) AIP with ant, 3) AIP with ant and ladybird after 24 h, and 4) AIP with ant and ladybird after 48 h. The composition and quantity of VOCs emitted can result in various responses. The VOC profile of AIP revealed that it is experiencing early injury due to low β-farnesene, methyl salicylate, and high levels of caryophyllene. The main ant pheromone compound, 4-heptanone, can be repellent to aphids by adding ants and ladybirds to AIP for 24 hours. After 48 hours, the key factor in repelling aphids is identified to be as 1-ethyl-3-methylbenzene, 1,3,5-trimethylbenzene, and 1-methyl-1H-imidazole. Meanwhile, methyl salicylate, sabinene, limonene, pentadecane, and heptadecane are found to attract predators. This study's findings will be beneficial for future quantitative investigations that can pinpoint the concentration of every volatile compound required for the biological control of A. punicae.
Discovery of novel SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro inhibitors from natural products by FRET-based assay
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Ye Xianlong , Wang Jixia , Zhou Han , Liu Longying , Zhou Liangliang , Xu Fangfang , Wang Pan , Hou Tao , Liu Yanfang , Liang Xinmiao , Liu Liangji 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

As a highly conserved protease, 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) plays a key role in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) replication, and drugs targeting 3CLpro have shown promising therapeutic effects. Promising applications have been achieved with direct-acting antivirals targeting 3CLpro. Natural products are an important source of medicinal compounds. In this study, we expressed and purified fusion proteins and obtained soluble 3CLpro, and the enzymatic activity was evaluated using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays at optimized concentrations of protease and substrate. This assay was further applied to validate the 3CLpro inhibitory activity of 30 compounds selected from 583 compounds via virtual screening. Epitheaflagallin 3-O-gallate (ETFGg) was identified with binding free energy of − 66.90 kcal/mol and an IC50 value of 8.73 ± 2.30 µM and was selected for the ligand-protein interaction study. Dynamics simulation results suggested that ETFGg interacted with HIE163, THR190 and GLN192 of 3CLpro, and was stable in the binding pocket of 3CLpro during the simulation. Together, this work identified ETFGg as a 3CLpro inhibitor with prominent binding capability, which could serve as a potential lead compound for drug development against COVID-19.
Assistive Technologies in Healthcare: Utilization and Healthcare Workers Perceptions in Germany
Authors: Sommer Domenic , Lermer Eva , Wahl Florian , G. Luis I. Lopera 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background: Assistive technologies (ATs), such as robots or decision support systems, can improve efficiency and reduce workload. Our study evaluates the adoption and perception of ATs among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Germany.
Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted through August 2024 with HCWs in Bavaria, asking about (i) usage, (ii) usefulness, and (iii) perceptions regarding ATs. The survey comprised 11 close-ended and three open-ended questions, including story stems evaluated by qualitative template analysis.
Results: 371 HCWs participated in our survey, primarily 133 administrators, 116 nurses, and 34 doctors. More than half reported having advanced technical skills. Regarding the usage, (i) communication platforms (82.2%) and hardware (86%) are the most commonly used ATs. Advanced ATs such as body-worn sensors (ii), medical devices with interfaces (iii), identification devices (iv), and robots (v) are underutilized. ATs were reported to be helpful in all professional roles, but improvements in capacity and integration were needed. Key barriers to adoption include outdated infrastructure, lack of interoperability, and insufficient training.
Conclusion: ATs as communication platforms are widely adopted and positively perceived. HCWs voice for digital literature and more integration of advanced ATs. Our findings indicate further research regarding AT’s role and outcomes.