bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Leclercia barmae sp. nov., a urease-positive, 3-nitropropionic acid and glycerol consuming bacterium, isolated from the worm castings of manure worm, Eisenia fetida
Authors: Barman Partha , Sinha Shilpa , Chakraborty Ranadhir 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A comprehensive polyphasic characterization validated the unique taxonomic position of a novel bacterium, strain EMC7T, isolated from the worm castings of earthworm, Eisenia fetida. This Gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, motile rod-shaped bacterium showed maximum sequence homology with Leclercia adecarboxylata NBRC 12595T, placing it within the genus Leclercia. The genome of EMC7T is 5.03 Mbp with a G + C content of 56.3 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses established its distinctiveness from Leclercia adecarboxylata and Leclercia tamurae. DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) value was 23.6%, and the average nucleotide identity (ANI) was 82.1%, both below the thresholds for prokaryotic species differentiation. The predominant fatty acids were C16:0 (29.53%), summed feature 3 (C16:1ω7c/C16:1ω6c, 16.51%), and C18:1ω7c (10.90%). Notably, EMC7T exhibited urease activity and could metabolize 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NPA), glycerol, tellurite, selenate, and selenite, suggesting potential bioremediation applications. Biochemical tests, phenotypic traits, genotypic data, and physiological properties cumulatively differentiated EMC7T from its closest relatives. Based on chemotaxonomic, phenotypic, genomic, and phylogenetic evidence, strain EMC7T represents a novel bacterial species of the genus Leclercia, for which the name Leclercia barmai sp. nov. (type strain EMC7T = MCC 5183T = JCM 36544T) is proposed.
The impact of selenium fertilizer application on the yield, quality, and selenium accumulation characteristics of various sweet potato varieties
Authors: ZHANG Yixuan , Li Huifeng , Li Yanqing , Huang Yongmei , Hua Jingfeng , Yin Jie , Xiao Dong , Chen Tianyuan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The study focuses on the Gui 10 sweet potato variety, with different concentrations of selenium fertilizer applied (0, 4, 8, 12, and 14 mg/kg). The effects of selenium fertilizer on the agronomic traits, nutritional quality, yield, and selenium absorption of sweet potatoes are investigated to determine the optimal selenium supply level for the Gui 10 sweet potato variety, while also providing insights for the development of sweet potatoes. The results indicate that exogenous selenium supplementation increases the number of branches per plant, the longest vine length, and the number of tubers per plant, promoting the absorption of nutrients by sweet potatoes, thereby enhancing yield (by 26%). The contents of soluble sugar and starch show an increase, while the contents of reducing sugar and protein demonstrate a decrease. Additionally, selenium application significantly enhances selenium content in various parts of sweet potatoes, with the order of tuber > stem > leaf > root observed across different selenium application concentrations, indicating that tubers are the most susceptible to selenium accumulation. These findings suggest that the amount of selenium fertilizer has a specific impact on selenium accumulation in sweet potatoes. In conclusion, the optimal selenium application concentration for improving soil fertility, promoting sweet potato growth, enhancing quality, and increasing yield is 16 mg/kg− 1.
The Impact of Climate Change on Road Traffic Crashes in Ghana
Authors: Akorli Ruth , Antwi-Agyei Philip , Davies Patrick , Damsere-Derry James , Baffour-Ata Frank , Nakua Emmanuel , Donkor Peter , Mock Charles 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Despite the substantial injuries and fatalities from Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs), evidence of climate change's impact on RTCs in Ghana is lacking. This study assessed the impact of climate change on RTCs in Ghana by combining quantitative (Mann-Kendall trend tests, Continuous Wavelet Transform analysis, causal inference analysis) and qualitative (15 key stakeholder interviews) methods. The quantitative analysis employed monthly rainfall and temperature data (1991–2021) alongside RTC data (1998–2021) across 10 regions. While rainfall trends varied regionally, the wet season (April through mid-October) showed a strong link to crash severity for all regions across Ghana. Wavelet analysis showed higher crash severity in the wet season within every 2–8 months period in a particular annual year during the study period. Causal inference analysis revealed rainfall's stronger influence (3.59%) on fatal crashes during the wet season compared to temperature (0.04%). Key stakeholder interviews highlighted perceived changes in temperature and intense rainfall patterns affecting RTCs, especially during rainy seasons suggesting an association between increased rainfall and crash severity. These findings emphasize the multifaceted role of climate change on road safety and the need to address weather-specific risks.
Performance of commercial okra genotypes at salinity levels
Authors: Silva Maria Amélia de Oliveira , Souza Kátia Barbosa , Costa Ester da Silva , Souza Luís Fernando dos Santos , Silva Michelangelo de Oliveira , Varjão Luís Felipe Barbosa , Costa Kleyton Danilo da Silva 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Okra is a vegetable grown in Brazil. In arid and semiarid regions of the country, to guarantee production, farmers use irrigation, which often comes from low-quality water sources and high salinity levels, which can lead to a reduction in crop yields if the genotypes used are not tolerant to salinity stress. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of commercial okra genotypes subjected to different salinity levels. To this end, an experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at the Federal Institute of Alagoas - Piranhas Campus using a randomized block design in a factorial scheme (12 × 5), with 60 treatments and three replications, totaling 180 experimental plots. Twelve okra genotypes were evaluated: Apuim, Santa Cruz 47, Valença, IAC Midori, Clemson Americano 80, Speedy, Quiabel, Carcará, Estrela, Cariri, Guará and Canindé. The genotypes were subjected to five levels of salinity, corresponding to 0.0 dS m− 1 (control), 2.5 dS m− 1, 5.0 dS m− 1, 7.5 dS m− 1 and 10.0 dS m− 1. All the genotypes showed a reduction in the values of the characteristics studied as the salt level increased, with the exception of the root length variable. It was possible to conclude that the Carcará, Cariri and IAC Midori genotypes obtained the best performances for most of the variables studied, regardless of the salinity levels, and that the genotypes showed no tolerance from the 2.5 dS m− 1 level onward.
Using a Novel Small-scale Model to Investigate Mechanical Behaviours of Full-scale Shield Tunnels
Authors: Zhang Tianqi , Yuan Tengfei , Sun Jibin , Zheng Gang , Li Zhenkun , Chen Shubin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

A novel small-scale model was proposed to investigate the mechanical behaviour of the full-scale shield tunnels. Because it used a fine-aggregate grout material, the dimensions of the model can be significantly scaled down, therefore, showed cost advantages. Although small, the most structural features of a practical shield tunnel, such as bolts and steel reinforcements, were retained in the model. Utilizing self-designed casting moulds, the model tunnel can be manufactured with high accuracy. Benchmark loading tests were conducted to test the performance of proposed model. Basically, both the deformation and the failure of the model tunnel showed good agreements with those in the full-scale experiment. Complex loading tests were then carried out to investigate the response of a shield tunnel under the effect of both unilateral unloading and soil arching. The results showed that horizontal unloading can be much more adverse and deserved special attention when compared with vertical unloading for a shield tunnel as it usually first exhibits a horizontal ovalling deformation after construction due to overburden pressure.
Epidemiological profile of women with inferlity in Mbujimayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mpoyi Constantin Mukeba , Mbuyamba Hervé Tshikomba , Musasa Mechack Musasa , Kadima Célestin Lufuluabo , Kadima Clément Mutombo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The WHO ranks infertility in the young population as the fifth highest serious global disability. Infertility is worldwide problem affecting people of all communities, though the cause and magnitude may vary with geographical location and socioeconomic status.
The objective of this study is to determine epidemiological profile of women with infertility attended at CliniquesUniversitaires de Mbujimayi (CUM).
Methods
This was a retrospective cross- sectional study carried out over a period of 9 months, from April 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023 at obstetrics and gynaecology of CUM including 83 patients who diagnosed with infertility.
Results
The frequency of female infertility is 23.6% in Mbujimayi, DRC. Uterine myomas followed by Sexual Transmitted Disease (STI) were the most causes of female infertility with 26.5% and 36.1% respectively. Secondary infertility (women who have conceived in their past history) was noted with 69.9%.
Conclusion
Study outlines that female infertility is a public health problem worldwide and particularly in low-income countries where STI is the main cause, with high prevalence among young adults. The high frequency of myomas in the sexually active group age and the delay of diagnosis are pointed to be associated with infertility. Anyway we recommend to CUM and Authorities to facilitate the diagnosis tools of infertility as well as possible to make it free.
Two Decades of Change in Chinese Oldest Old’s Fruit and Vegetable Consumption Behaviors and Health Disparities, 1998-2018
Authors: Zhang Li 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Prior literature has repeatedly documented the influence of dietary behaviors on older adults’ health. Nonetheless, there is hardly comprehensive temporal model for understanding the time and cohort variations on oldest old’s health due to fruits and vegetable (FV) consumption. This study aimed to fill the voids of prior literature by studying Chinese oldest old through analyzing data from eight (1998, 2000, 2002, 2005, 2008, 2011-12, 2014 and 2018) waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). Health was measured by self-rated health (SRH), cognitive function and subjective wellbeing. The results showed a higher percentage of Chinese oldest old who frequently consumed vegetables than fresh fruits. Frequent FV consumers showed better predicted SRH, cognitive function and subjective wellbeing. Regarding period effects, except for years 2008 to 2011, a general increasing trend was found in fresh fruit consumption, but percentages of oldest old who frequently consumed vegetables stayed stable. Oldest old’s cognitive function and subjective wellbeing showed rising trends over time. Period effects were also found in times of economic recessions and natural disasters by showing a significant drop in oldest old’s positive feeling scores. The study emphasized strong period effects and underscored FV consumption in preventing oldest old’s cognitive function decline and promoting their subjective wellbeing.
Training of artificial neural networks with reduced-order models for the prediction of thermal errors on machine tools
Authors: Naumann Christian , Kumar Tharun Suresh , Vettermann Julia , Geist Alexander , Saak Jens , Benner Peter , Ihlenfeldt Steffen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Thermal errors are among the most significant factors affecting the positioning accuracy of a machine tool. This paper demonstrates the advantages of combining reduced-order model (ROM) finite element method (FEM) simulations with data-driven error prediction algorithms, such as artificial neural networks (ANN) or characteristic diagrams. First, the thermal behavior of a five-axis milling machine (DMU 80 eVo) was modelled in ANSYS, after experimental determination of the relevant thermal boundary conditions. The FE model was then validated with measurements taken from the machine tool with movements of all five axes under different operating conditions, such as dry air-cutting, air-cutting with coolant and stand-by. The validated thermo-elastic FE model can then be used for training prediction algorithms (ANN, char. diagrams) for online thermal error compensation. The use of ROMs overcomes the long computation times of the high-dimensional simulation models by reducing them to equivalent low-dimensional models enabling much faster thermo-elastic simulations while preserving a specified result accuracy. An ANSYS ACT extension was utilized to export the FE model data in the form of an input-output system, which is required for the application of the model order reduction (MOR) techniques. This inclusion of MOR tremendously speeds up the process of generating training data for the prediction algorithms. ANN based prediction algorithms trained by the ROM simulation data are finally validated with simulated independent thermal test scenarios.
Adaptive laboratory evolution of Lipomyces starkeyi for high production of lignin derivative alcohols and lipids with comparative untargeted metabolomics-based analysis
Authors: Putra Filemon Jalu Nusantara , Kahar Prihardi , Kondo Akihiko , Ogino Chiaki 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background Adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) is an impactful technique for cultivating microorganisms to adapt to specific environmental circumstances or substrates through iterative growth and selection. This study utilized an adaptive laboratory evolution method on Lipomyces starkeyi for high tolerance in producing lignin derivative alcohols and lipids from syringaldehyde. Afterward, untargeted metabolomics analysis was employed to find the key metabolites that play important roles in the better performance of evolved strains compared to the wild type. Lignin, a prominent constituent of plant biomass, is a favorable source material for the manufacture of biofuel and lipids. Nevertheless, the effective transformation of chemicals produced from lignin into products with high economic worth continues to be a difficult task.
Results In this study, we exposed L. starkeyi to a series of flask passaging experiments while applying selective pressure to facilitate its adaptation to syringaldehyde, a specific type of lignin monomeric aldehyde. Using ALE, we successfully enhanced the synthesis of lignin-derivative alcohols and lipids in comparison to the original strain. In addition, a comprehensive examination of untargeted metabolomics identified six specific crucial metabolites linked to the improved conversion of lignin.
Conclusion The results of our study reveal the ways in which L. starkeyiadapts to using substrates produced from lignin. These findings offer important information for developing strategies to improve the process of converting lignin into useful products for sustainable biorefinery applications.
An Improve Crested Porcupine Algorithm for UAV Delivery Path Planning in Challenging Environments
Authors: Liu Shenglin , Lin Hanting , Jin Zikai , Lu Huimin 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of drone technology, the need for effective path planning in complex environments has become increasingly critical. Traditional algorithms struggle with complex terrain, obstacles, and weather changes, often falling into local optima. This study introduces an Improved Crown Porcupine Optimizer (ICPO) for drone path planning. Inspired by porcupines' defense mechanisms, a visuo-auditory synergy perspective is adopted, improving early convergence by balancing visual and auditory defenses. The study also employs a good point set population initialization strategy to enhance diversity and eliminates the traditional population reduction mechanism. To avoid local optima in later stages, a novel periodic retreat strategy inspired by porcupines' precise defenses is introduced for better position updates. Analysis on the IEEE CEC2022 test set shows that ICPO achieves near-optimal values, demonstrating robustness and stability. In complex terrains, including mountainous, urban, and composite environments, ICPO outperformed other advanced algorithms, proving its effectiveness and reliability in drone delivery path planning.
Medicine communication from hospital to residential aged care facilities: a cross-sectional survey of aged care facility staff
Authors: Browning Sarah , Raleigh Rachael , Hattingh Laetitia 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background: Continuity of medicines management can be compromised when older people are transferred between hospital and residential aged care facilities.
Aim: This study explored medicine management practices at facilities during patients’ transfer of care from hospital, and staff experiences with medicines information handover from hospitals.
Method: An electronic cross-sectional questionnaire sent to all residential aged care facilities within a metropolitan region, February to April 2022. The survey comprised 23 questions covering facilities’ profiles, medicines management practices, and medicine management at transfer of care from hospital.
Results: Of 53 listed facilities, thirty-one (58.5%) responded representing > 80% banner organisations. Facilities varied in size ranging between < 50 and 200 beds. A variety of services were provided with 87.1% offering more than one level of care. Responses indicated differences in medicines management processes with 19.4% solely using hardcopy medication charts. Handover from hospitals to manage patients’ medicines at transfer was inconsistent with only 48.4% reporting consistently receiving appropriate documentation.
Conclusion: Diverse processes and practices exist for medicines management in residential aged care facilities for routine activities and when residents transfer from hospital to facilities. Medicine communication received from hospital during discharge to a facility varies considerably, potentially compromising patient safety and care.
Selenium attenuates reproductive dysfunction by attenuating arsenic- induced alterations in the expression of H3K14ac and steroidogenic genes
Authors: Li Xiangli , Shen Kaina , Yang Yan , Dong Xiuxia , Wang Bohe , Feng Xiaojuan , Li Fang , Zhao Xinrui , Yuan Dunxuan , Tian Fangzhou , Quan Jinrou , Wang Junling 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Arsenic exposure has been known to be associated with the male reproduction injury. Exploring the antidote of arsenic and ascertaining proper dose of antidote are important for detoxifying the male reproductive toxicity of arsenic. Selenium, which is essential for the male reproduction and spermatogenesis, can alleviate the toxicity of many environmental toxins, such as metals, and F. Selenium relives arsenic-induced reductions in spermatogenesis index and testicular function marker enzymes via promoting the antioxidative ability of rats. Our previous study has found that arsenic can induce reproductive toxicity by affecting the level of H3K14ac in the testis, so we further investigate whether selenium can antagonize arsenic-induced male reproductive toxicity through the H3K14ac pathway, and ascertain the appropriate dose of selenium. The results show that selenium intervention reduce the accumulation of arsenic in rat testis probably attributing to promote the excretion of arsenic from rat, then improve the testis injury induced by arsenic. Selenium intervention enhances sperm quality, testosterone level and expression of steroidogenic genes by regulating H3K14ac level and expression of its associated enzymes (KAT2A, P300, BAZ2A, HDAC3 and HDAC6), thus alleviates the male reproductive toxicity of arsenic and the proper dose of Se for mitigating arsenic male reproductive toxicity is 1mg/kg.
Impacts of Data Consistency Levels in Cloud-based NoSQL for Data-intensive Applications.
Authors: Ferreira Saulo , Mendonça Júlio , Andrade Ermeson 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

When using database management systems (DBMSs), it is common to distribute instance replicas across multiple locations for disaster recovery and scaling purposes. To efficiently geo-replicate data, it is crucial to ensure that the data and its replicas remain consistent, having the same and the most up-to-date data. However, DBMS’ inner characteristics and external factors, such as the replication strategy and network latency, can affect system performance when dealing with data replication, especially when the replicas are deployed far apart from the others. Thus, it is essential to comprehend how achieving high data consistency levels in geo-replicated systems can impact systems performance. This work analyzes various data consistency settings for the widely used NoSQL DBMSs, namely MongoDB, Redis, and Cassandra. The analysis is based on real-world experiments in which DBMS nodes are deployed on cloud platforms in different locations, considering single and multiple region deployments. Based on the results of the experiments, we provide a comprehensive analysis regarding the system throughput and response time when executing reading and writing operations, pointing out scenarios where each DBMS could be better employed. Some of our findings include, for instance, that opting for strong data consistency significantly impacts Cassandra’s reading operations in the single-region deployment, while MongoDB writing operations are most affected in a multi-region scenario. Additionally, all of these DBMSs exhibits statistically significant variations across all scenarios in the multi-region setup when the data consistency is switched from weak to stronger level.
Investigating Wall Shear Stress and the Static Pressure in Bone Scaffolds: A Study of Porosity and Fluid Flow Dynamics
Authors: Gadgil Vedang , Kumbhojkar Shriram , Sapre Tushar , Deshmukh Prathamesh , Dhatrak Pankaj 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In bone tissue engineering, scaffolds are crucial as they provide a suitable structure for cell proliferation. Transporting DMEM to the cells and regulating the scaffold's biocompatibility are both controlled by the dynamics of the fluid passing through the scaffold pores. Scaffold design selection and modelling are thus important in tissue engineering to achieve successful bone regeneration. This study aims to design and analyse three scaffold designs - Face-Centred Cubic (FCC), and two newly developed designs Octagonal Truss and Square Pyramid with four porosity variations. The research aims to analyse the effect of design and porosity variation on pressure and wall shear stress, which are essential for analysing scaffold biocompatibility in tissue engineering. Three scaffold designs with varying porosities having strut diameters ranging from 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm were modelled for analysing the behaviour using BioMed Clear Resin. The fluid dynamics within these scaffolds were then examined using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to understand how different porosity levels affect fluid flow pressure and wall shear stress. The findings revealed variations in wall shear stress and their influence on cell proliferation. The maximum value of wall shear stress (WSS) is observed in the Square Pyramid model. The analysis shows that WSS at the inlet decreases as strut diameters increase or porosity percentages rise offering valuable insights for the development of effective scaffold designs. It can be concluded from the results that the Square Pyramid design has the highest value of WSS, thus increasing the chances of cell growth. From a biological perspective, the results of this work show promise for creating better scaffolds for tissue engineering.