bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Employability of People with Limited Capability for Work: The Participatory Development and Validation of a Questionnaire
Authors: Hiemstra S. R. , Fleuren B. P. I. , de Jonge A. , Naaldenberg J. , Vaandrager L. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Understanding sustainable employability (SE) of people with limited capability for work (LCW) due to physical or mental disability is crucial for the sustainable participation of this target group. Therefore, adequate measurement instruments for SE are needed. This study aims to validate a questionnaire to measure SE among people with LCW using a participatory approach, including person-job fit (PJ fit) and work-related sense of coherence (Work-SoC).

Methods
Existing scales for the main concepts were tested and adapted for face validity via cognitive interviews (n = 6), with the involvement of a co-researcher with LCW in the research team. Next, the questionnaire was administered among people with LCW (n = 248) to assess its factor structure (Confirmatory Factor Analysis) and reliability (Cronbach’s alpha).

Results
Analysis of the cognitive interviews identified problems with clarity and readability of items, instructions and response categories of used (existing) scales. The main adjustments concerned the shortening of text length, the usage of familiar language and examples, and the addition of an introduction game. Most of the adapted SE indicator scales showed an overall good fit and acceptable-to-good internal reliability. The overall SE model had an overall good fit, and excluding ‘internal employability’ further improved this fit. PJ fit and Work-SoC had an acceptable/good model fit and internal consistency.

Conclusion
The participatory validation process resulted in a validated and comprehensive questionnaire to measure SE, PJ fit and Work-SoC among people with LCW, which enables research into the development of their SE. This questionnaire can be utilised to contribute to a more inclusive labour market.
Rapid DNA methylation-based classification of pediatric brain tumors from ultrasonic aspirate specimens
Authors: Simon Michèle , Kuschel Luis P. , von Hoff Katja , Yuan Dongsheng , Hernáiz Driever Pablo , Hain Elisabeth G. , Koch Arend , Capper David , Schulz Matthias , Thomale Ulrich-Wilhelm , Euskirchen Philipp 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Although cavitating ultrasonic aspirators are commonly used in neurosurgical procedures, the suitability of ultrasonic aspirator-derived tumor material for diagnostic procedures is still controversial. Here, we explore the feasibility of using ultrasonic aspirator-resected tumor tissue to classify otherwise discarded sample material by fast DNA methylation-based analysis using low pass nanopore whole genome sequencing.

Methods
Ultrasonic aspirator-derived specimens from pediatric patients undergoing brain tumor resection were subjected to low-pass nanopore whole genome sequencing. DNA methylation-based classification using a neural network classifier and copy number variation analysis were performed. Tumor purity was estimated from copy number profiles. Results were compared to microarray (EPIC)-based routine neuropathological histomorphological and molecular evaluation.

Results
19 samples with confirmed neuropathological diagnosis were evaluated. All samples were successfully sequenced and passed quality control for further analysis. DNA and sequencing characteristics from ultrasonic aspirator-derived specimens were comparable to routinely processed tumor tissue. Classification of both methods was concordant regarding methylation class in 17/19 (89%) cases. Application of a platform-specific threshold for nanopore-based classification ensured a specificity of 100%, whereas sensitivity was 79%. Copy number variation profiles were generated for all cases and matched EPIC results in 18/19 (95%) samples, even allowing the identification of diagnostically or therapeutically relevant genomic alterations.

Conclusion
Methylation-based classification of pediatric CNS tumors based on ultrasonic aspirator-reduced and otherwise discarded tissue is feasible using time- and cost-efficient nanopore sequencing.
DynamicAug: Enhancing Transfer Learning Through Dynamic Data Augmentation Strategies Based on Model State
Authors: Yu Xinyi , Zhao Haodong , Zhang Mingyang , Wei Yan , Zhou Libo , Ou Linlin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractTransfer learning has made significant advancements, however, the issue of overfitting continues to pose a major challenge. Data augmentation has emerged as a highly promising technique to counteract this challenge. Current data augmentation methods are fixed in nature, requiring manual determination of the appropriate intensity prior to the training process. However, this entails substantial computational costs. Additionally, as the model approaches convergence, static data augmentation strategies can become suboptimal. In this paper, we introduce the concept of Dynamic Data Augmentation (DynamicAug), a method that autonomously adjusts the intensity of data augmentation, taking into account the convergence state of the model. During each iteration of the model’s forward pass, we utilize a Gaussian distribution based sampler to stochastically sample the current intensity of data augmentation. To ensure that the sampled intensity is aligned with the convergence state of the model, we introduce a learnable expectation to the sampler and update the expectation iteratively. In order to assess the convergence status of the model, we introduce a novel loss function called the convergence loss. Through extensive experiments conducted over 27 vision datasets, we have demonstrated that DynamicAug can significantly enhance the performance of existing transfer learning methods.
GDPD3 Deficiency Alleviates Neuropathic Pain and Reprograms Macrophagic Polarization Through PGE2 and PPARγ Pathway
Authors: Li Wenqian , Fan Youjia , Lan Haizhen , Li Xiaoxiao , Wu Qichao , Dong Rong 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe complex mechanism of neuropathic pain involves various aspects of both central and peripheral pain conduction pathways. An effective cure for neuropathic pain therefore remains elusive. We found that deficiency of the gene Gdpd3, encoding a lysophospholipase D enzyme, alleviates the inflammatory responses in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of mice under neuropathic pain and reduces PE (20:4) and PGE2 in DRG. Gdpd3 deficiency had a stronger analgesic effect on neuropathic pain than Celecoxib, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Gdpd3 deficiency also interferes with the polarization of macrophages, switching from M1 towards M2 phenotype. The PPARγ/ FABP4 pathway was screened by RNA sequencing as functional related with Gdpd3 deficient BMDMs stimulated with LPS. Both protein and mRNA levels of PPARγ in GDPD3 deficient BMDMs were higher than those of the litter control mice. However, GW9962 (inhibitor of PPARγ) could reverse the reprogramming polarization of macrophages caused by GDPD3 deficiency. Therefore, our study suggests that GDPD3 deficiency exerts a relieving effect on neuropathic pain and alleviates neuroinflammation in DRG by switching the phenotype of macrophages from M1 to M2, which was mediated through PGE2 and PPARγ/ FABP4 pathway.
Development and comprehensive evaluation of a dual-port textile UWB MIMO antenna for biomedical use
Authors: Elnaggar Azza H. , Abd El-Hameed Anwer S. , Yakout Mohamed A. , Areed Nihal F. F. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, a textile two-port multi-input multi-output (MIMO) half-circle antenna with corrugated borders is designed and fully analyzed for nearfield ultra-wideband biomedical diagnostic applications. The orthogonal polarization technique is introduced for mutual coupling reduction, signal quality, and imaging accuracy improvement. A low pass filter with significant out-of-band rejection is inserted between the two MIMO structural elements to improve the isolation from element to element. For simple system integration, A 50 ohms feed coplanar waveguide is suggested for each element. The entire antenna is constructed using textile materials, with the radiating element composed of conductor fabric. The substrate, on the other hand, is crafted from cotton material which possesses a relative permittivity of and a tan δ value of 0.025. The size of each antenna element has low-profile dimensions of 40 × 40 × 0.3 $${mm}^{3}$$

mm

3

. The measured results obtained demonstrate an extremely broad bandwidth extends from 2.5 GHz to 12 GHz. Omnidirectional radiation pattern is obtained, with 6 dBi maximum gain and 96% efficiency. In order to ensure flexibility, a range of bending conditions were analyzed, and the durability was assessed through wash ability testing. Safety was confirmed by measuring the specific absorption rate. Furthermore, time domain and MIMO performance assessments were performed to ensure its suitability for imaging systems.
Insights into Thermal Interactions in Frozen Pharmaceutical Vials: Effects on Ice Nucleation Times and Inhibition
Authors: Pisano Roberto , Semeraro Jessica , Artusio Fiora , Barresi Antonello A. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the thermal interactions between adjacent vials during freezing and assesses their impact on nucleation times.

Methods
Various loading configurations were analyzed to understand their impact on nucleation times. Configurations involving direct contact between vials and freeze-dryer shelves were studied, along with setups using empty vials between filled ones. Additionally, non-conventional loading configurations and glycol-filled vials were tested. The analysis includes 2R and 20R vials, which are commonly utilized in the freezing and lyophilization of drug products, along with two different fill depths, 1 and 1.4 cm.

Results
The investigation revealed that configurations with direct contact between vials and freeze-dryer shelves led to substantial thermal interactions, resulting in delayed nucleation in adjacent vials and affecting the temperature at which nucleation takes place in a complex way. In another setup, empty vials were placed between filled vials, significantly reducing thermal interactions. Further tests with non-conventional configurations and glycol-filled vials confirmed the presence of thermal interactions with a minimal inhibitory effect.

Conclusions
These findings carry significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry, highlighting the role of thermal interactions among vials during freezing and their impact on the temperature at which ice nucleation occurs.
Caricature, recognition, misrepresentation
Authors: Fantelli Federico 
Published: May 2024

AbstractCaricature undeniably excels at mocking people and their foibles. But is this mode of depiction limited to human beings? Can animals, objects, or even abstract concepts be caricatured? The first goal of this paper is to trace the limits of the caricaturable and see how far they extend beyond the human figure. The second goal is to understand how the wondrous modification enacted by caricature works. To do so, I analyze the features that caricature selects, and argue that such features have a relational nature—they are instantiated by the depicted subject but their sense hinges on implicit norms. I then outline the deep structure of reference exploited by caricature for depicting. Finally, I use this account to unravel the paradox of caricature: how can a picture both misrepresent its subject and prompt an accurate recognition? I defend the controversial claim that caricature per se does not amount to misrepresentation.
The falling of a tree in the forest is the beginning of significant changes in the soil
Authors: Sokołowski Karol , Gawryś Radosław , Błońska Ewa 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Aims
The aim of the project was to determine the vertical variability of soil under the influence of deadwood (DWD) in a temperate forest ecosystem.

Methods
The laboratory analyses included soil layers of 0–5 cm, 5–10 cm, 10–20 cm and 20–40 cm, which were taken directly under the deadwood, as well as the forest litter layer and deadwood fragments. The control samples were taken 30 m away.

Results
The decomposition processes of deadwood are associated with a 55% increase in soil organic carbon (SOC) deposition to a depth of -40 cm and a 36% increase in total nitrogen (N) content compared to soils without deadwood. DWD significantly increases exchangeable cations, especially at a depth of -5 cm to -20 cm. Deadwood contains slightly more hydrogen (H+) and aluminum ions (Al3+) than forest litter, but soil acidification is related to pedogenic processes rather than decomposition of deadwood in hyperacid forest soils. The soil surface under deadwood with a high degree of decomposition is characterised by a lower bulk density (BD) value than the soil where only forest litter was present.

Conclusions
Our studies suggest that the physicochemical properties of forest soils change under the influence of deadwood such that the deeper layers beneath the logs take on propertie8s that make them similar to the shallower layers without deadwood. To summarise, leaving deadwood in the forest has a positive effect on soil fertility by enriching the soil with nutrients (Ca2+, K+, Na+, less Mg2+) and improving its physical properties.
Fertilization by short-term stored sperm alters DNA methylation patterns at single-base resolution in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) embryos
Authors: Cheng Yu , Zhang Songpei , Nayak Rigolin , Věchtová Pavlína , Schumacher Fabian , Linhartová Pavla , Gazo Ievgeniia , Linhartová Zuzana , Waghmare Swapnil Gorakh , Kleuser Burkhard , Dey Abhipsha , Rodinová Vladimíra , Rodina Marek , Štěrba Jan , Alavi Sayyed Mohammad Hadi , Labbé Catherine , Linhart Otomar 
Published: May 2024

AbstractSperm after short-term storage in vitro is widely used for artificial fertilization in aquaculture. It has been shown that short-term storage affects sperm motility characteristics, resulting in diminished fertility. However, the detrimental effects of short-term sperm storage on embryos development have remained unexplored in single-base methylome resolution. The main aim of the present study was to investigate DNA methylation in the offspring of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) derived from short-term stored sperm. Sperm were stored in artificial seminal plasma on ice (0–2 °C) for 0, 3 and 6 days in vitro, fertilization was performed using oocytes from a single female, and embryos were collected at the mid-blastula stage. In the DNA methylation study, DNA from both sperm and embryos was extracted and analysed using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). Concurrently, DNA methylation levels of embryos in single base were evaluated through whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS). Sperm storage showed negative effects on sperm motility, viability, and DNA integrity, but had no effect on global DNA methylation of spermatozoa and resulting embryos. Results from the WGBS showed that methylation of 3313 differentially methylated regions (DMRs)-target genes was affected in the embryos fertilized with the 6-day-stored sperm, and the identified DMRs were mainly involved in cell adhesion, calcium, mitogen-activated protein kinase and adrenergic signalling, melanogenesis, metabolism and RNA transport. Such results suggest that prolongation of storage time may have certain impacts on embryonic development. These initial results provide valuable information for future consideration of the DNA methylome in embryos generated from short-term stored sperm, which are used for genetic management of broodstock in aquaculture.
Assessing emerging sustainability-oriented technologies: the case of precision agriculture
Authors: Rennings Michael , Baaden Philipp , Block Carolin , John Marcus , Bröring Stefanie 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe pressing need for a transition towards a more sustainable economy has given rise to sustainability-oriented innovations (SOIs). The development of SOIs involves a wide range of emerging technologies, some of which are highly uncertain and may have the potential to transform an existing industry. Thus, the identification and assessment of emerging technologies is pivotal for established companies to evaluate business opportunities as well as for researchers and policy makers to support the transition to a more sustainable economy. Therefore, we aim to contribute by offering a new approach that seeks to assess such emerging technologies that contribute to sustainability transition (i.e., sustainability-oriented technologies (SOTs)) by means of spectral cluster analysis based on the semantic similarities of scientific research articles in the field of precision agriculture (PA); a case example where multiple SOIs occur. Our analyses reveal that spectral cluster analysis is a suitable approach for assessing emerging SOTs. In addition, multi-perspective assessments based on, inter alia, related United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Web of Science subject categories, strategic diagrams, and business models allows to render a holistic assessment of a scientific research area (in this case PA) and its emerging SOTs as well as their evolution into commercial SOIs.
A review of on-farm recording tools for smallholder dairy farming in developing countries
Authors: Resti Yuni , Reynoso Gustavo Gutierrez , Probst Lorenz , Indriasari Sofiyanti , Mindara Gema Parasti , Hakim Annisa , Wurzinger Maria 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe dairy industry has been expanding significantly recently, which has prompted the improvement and adoption of increasingly digital dairy recording tools with cutting-edge technology. The study aimed to identify smallholder dairy farmers’ recording tools in developing countries. The study presents the results of an extensive literature review conducted using electronic journal databases. The review involved applying a combination of search terms and Boolean operators. The search found a total of 412 research publications. However, only 21 articles with 24 recording tools were deemed appropriate and were subsequently included in the study. Dairy recording entails gathering and managing data on animal information, traceability, health, and productivity that can be conducted using various methods, from manual record-keeping to digitization. The results show that most studies have endeavoured to develop digital recording tools that focus on production performance (PR), mainly milk production, using the Internet of Things (IoT) and mobile phone applications. Moreover, various technologies, such as networks, desktops, and web apps, have also been invented. Given the widespread ownership of mobile phones among the general population, the use of mobile phones continues to be an appealing choice for recording tools. To enhance the advancement of these tools, it is necessary to address technological obstacles, particularly those associated with access and connectivity. In addition, it is also important to consider the continuity of data input and feedback obtained to the farmers, thus helping them evaluate their farms periodically.
An Evaluation of Long-Term Contaminated Soil from a Manufactured Gas Plant for in Situ Biodegradation Potential and as a Source of Ferrocyanide-Degrading Bacteria
Authors: Chojnacka Aleksandra , Sut-Lohmann Magdalena , Jonczak Jerzy , Banasiewicz Joanna , Detman-Ignatowska Anna , Sikora Anna 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDespite the high abundance and potential toxicity of ferrocyanide in the environment, data on the bioremediation of these complexes in contaminated soils are missing. In this study we isolated forty bacterial species presented in soil highly contaminated with ferrocyanide complexes, originating from a Manufactured Gas Plant (MGP). All bacterial strains were resistant to ferrocyanide (500 mg L−1). Six isolates showed better growth in the presence of ferrocyanide and were able to use it as a sole nitrogen source. One of them was able to assimilate ferrocyanide‐derived nitrogen and carbon. The strains varied in their tolerance to the ferrocyanide. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) values determined in the rich medium ranged from 1400 mg L−1 to 2000 mg L−1 and in all cases were greater than those set on the minimal medium. Molecular analysis revealed that the investigated isolates had the highest similarity to the Bacillus and Rummeliibacillus lineages. Rummeliibacillus was recognized for the first time for its ferrocyanide-degrading potential. Soil samples collected from MGP sites indicated that the overall indigenous population of microorganisms was low. Total cyanide content ranged from 220 mg kg−1 to 346 mg kg−1. Additionally, elevated Pb concentrations and an imbalanced C:N:P ratio were observed. Our study provides new information about the presence of a well-acclimated bacterial community associated with long-term ferrocyanide-contaminated soil. This bacterial community could play an important role in MGP site bioremediation processes and has the potential for application for other bioremediation purposes; however, it is likely limited due to unfavorable environmental conditions.
Ultra-Efficient Removal of Mercury from Contaminated Water using Selected Phenylimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Živković Igor 
Published: May 2024

AbstractHeterocycles, including imidazole derivatives, are important chemicals due to their structural similarity to active natural molecules. This study explored the utilization of phenylimidazole derivatives for mercury removal from aqueous solutions. Three derivatives were tested, including one harboring a sulfhydryl functional group, thus offering distinct mercury-binding capabilities. Mercury binding experiments revealed modest mercury binding by two derivatives. However, extraordinary efficiency of mercury binding by the sulfhydryl-bearing compound was demonstrated through a reduction in mercury concentrations in pure water by 43-fold in just 15 min and decreasing below the analytical detection limit with prolonged exposure (30 min). Moreover, the ultra-efficiency of mercury binding was demonstrated by a capability to reduce mercury concentrations even in highly contaminated environmental water sample by a factor exceeding 1200-fold in 20 h, using minimal amounts of the compound. This phenylimidazole derivative exhibited comparable efficiency in binding mercury from authentic environmental water samples, hinting at practical applications for real-world remediation efforts. Kinetic investigations showed a pseudo-first order reaction with a rate constant of 0.26 min−1 and half-life of 2.69 min that governs mercury binding to this phenylimidazole derivative. These findings underscore the potential of the sulfhydryl-containing phenylimidazole derivative, as swift and effective binding material for aqueous mercury removal. Its rapid action, coupled with binding efficiency, suggests a promising material for addressing mercury contamination in highly contaminated environmental water samples.