bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Personality Perceptions from Voices and Faces – Impressions and Kernels of Truth
Authors: Skuk Verena G. , Jacob Isabell , Wientzek Rebecca , Ward Robert , Schweinberger Stefan R 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We investigated the perception of Big Five personality traits from trait-average voices when traits were based either on speakers´ self-ratings (Exp. 1, E1) or on other perceivers’ ratings of perceived personality of the original voice samples (E2). Trait-average voices were created from a voice database of 93 speakers (40 male, 53 female) using TANDEM-STRAIGHT n-way morphing. For speaker sex, trait and for two sentences, we created five-voice averages from speakers scoring either high or low on the target trait. We then measured perceivers´ ability to discriminate high and low trait-averages per trait. We also assessed facial trait perception (E3) using the paradigm and the full facial composite images by Kramer and Ward (2010). In trait-average voices based on self-ratings (E1), extraversion (for female speakers) and neuroticism (for male speakers) were the only traits that could be discriminated above chance levels. For trait-average voices which were based on other perceivers´ personality ratings of individual voices (E2), all Big Five traits were discriminated with high accuracy, demonstrating stereotyping in the sense of consistent (though not necessarily valid) personality impressions from voices. By comparison with E1, we found substantially better perception of self-rated traits from faces (E3), for all traits except for openness, replicating Kramer and Ward (2010). Individual differences in trait perception were substantial, and there were small but significant correlations between facial and vocal trait perception skills in both E1 and E2. Overall, the present methodological approach offers a promising window into personality perception from voices.
Carotenoids; a unique biomarker for monitoring Peridinium dinoflagellate blooms in freshwaters
Authors: Mudiyanselage Anuththara Sandunmali Vasana Gunawardana Menik Hitimami , Sanjaya Kelum , Atapath Keerthi Sri Senarath , Masakorala Kanaji , Mudiyanselage Ajith Lalith Weerasinghe Yapa Yapa , Gamage Shirani Manel Kumari Widana 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Peridinium is a rare but, toxic bloom-forming dinoflagellate in freshwaters. Its toxic effects were reported from several countries including Sri Lanka although not-much attened. In this study, we developed a remote sensing-based empirical model to quantify Peridinium using Maussakelle Reservoir in Sri Lanka as the model. Since carotenoids are the major light-harvesting accessary pigments of Peridinium and many other dinoflagellates, it serves as a unique biomarker. Thus, spectral signatures of carotenoids allowed us to distinguish Peridinium in the background of chlorophyll-dominated mix population of phytoplankton. Ground data and Sentinel-2 satellite images were collected when a high density of Peridinium and carotenoid pigment levels were present and a set of linear regression models were developed. Among the models, that developed with B2 and B3 bands of Sentinel-2 better regressed with measured carotenoid (R2 = 0.93, p < 0.001). The relationship between measured and model-predicted carotenoid concentrations displayed a correlation (R2) of 0.86 and root mean squared error (RMSE) of 2.82. Further, a second regression model was developed to predict Peridinium cell density using carotenoid as a proxy. The established relationship was strong and significant (R2 = 0.85, p < 0.001). Then a final empirical model was derived by coupling the two regression models to quantify Peridinium cell density (R2 = 0.71, p < 0.001). We highlight that this method would be a novel approach that directs reliable and accurate prediction and quantification of carotenoid pigments and Peridinium cell density in freshwaters.
NHEJ and HDR occurring simultaneously during gene integration into the genome of Aspergillus niger
Authors: Fritsche Susanne , Reinfurt Aline , Fronek Felix , Steiger Matthias G. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homology-directed repair (HDR) are two mechanisms in filamentous fungi to repair DNA damages. NHEJ is the dominant response pathway to rapidly join DNA double-strand breaks, but often leads to insertions or deletions. On the other hand, HDR is more precise and utilizes a homologous DNA template to restore the damaged sequence. Both types are exploited in genetic engineering approaches ranging from knock-out mutations to precise sequence modifications. In this study, we evaluated the efficiency of a HDR based gene integration system designed for the pyrG locus of Aspergillus niger. While gene integration was achieved at a rate of 91.4%, we also discovered a mixed-type repair (MTR) mechanism with simultaneous repair of a Cas9-mediated double-strand break by both NHEJ and HDR. In 20.3% of the analyzed transformants the donor DNA was integrated by NHEJ at the 3’ end and by HDR at the 5’ end of the double-strand break. Furthermore, sequencing of the locus revealed different DNA repair mechanisms at the site of the NHEJ event. Together, the results support the applicability of the genome integration system and a novel DNA repair type with implication on the diversity of genetic modifications in filamentous fungi.
Development and validation of an automated Tomotherapy planning method for cervical cancer
Authors: Han Feiru , Xue Yi , Huang Sheng , Lu Tong , Yang Yining , Cao Yuanjie , Chen Jie , Hou Hailing , Sun Yao , Wang Wei , Yuan Zhiyong , Tao Zhen , Jiang Shengpeng 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to develop an automated Tomotherapy (TOMO) planning method for cervical cancer treatment, and to validate its feasibility and effectiveness.
Materials and Methods
The study enrolled 30 cervical cancer patients treated with TOMO at our center. Utilizing scripting and Python environment within the RayStation (RaySearch Labs, Sweden) treatment planning system (TPS), we developed automated planning methods for TOMO and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) techniques. The clinical manual TOMO (M-TOMO) plans for the 30 patients were re-optimized using automated planning scripts for both TOMO and VMAT, creating automated TOMO (A-TOMO) and automated VMAT (A-VMAT) plans. we compared it with M-TOMO and A-VMAT plans. The primary evaluated relevant dosimetric parameters and treatment plan efficiency were assessed using the two-sided Wilcoxon signed-rank test for statistical analysis,with a P-value < 0.05 indicating statistical significance.
Results
A-TOMO plans maintained similar target dose uniformity compared to M-TOMO plans, with improvements in target conformity and faster dose drop-off outside the target, and demonstrated significant statistical differences (P+<0.01). A-TOMO plans also significantly outperformed M-TOMO plans in reducing V50Gy, V40Gy, and Dmean for the bladder and rectum, as well as Dmean for the bowel bag, femoral heads, and kidneys (all P+<0.05). Additionally, A-TOMO plans demonstrated better consistency in plan quality. Furthermore, the quality of A-TOMO plans was comparable to or superior than A-VMAT plans. In terms of efficiency, A-TOMO significantly reduced the time required for treatment planning to approximately 20 minutes.
Conclusion
We have successfully developed an A-TOMO planning method for cervical cancer. Compared to M-TOMO plans, A-TOMO plans improved target conformity and reduced radiation dose to OARs. Additionally, the quality of A-TOMO plans was on par with or surpasses that of A-VMAT plans. The A-TOMO planning method significantly improved the efficiency of treatment planning.
An African Perspective on Publication of Postgraduate Residents’ Dissertation: A qualitative study exploring residents’ research experiences, barriers to publication and strategies to improve publication rates from Kenyan medical residents
Authors: Macharia Brigette , Kamya Dorothy , Waweru-Siika Wangari , Kathomi Caroline 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Postgraduate medical residents in Kenya must complete and submit a research dissertation as part of their Master of Medicine studies. However, the rate of subsequent publication of this research is lower than the publication rate in higher income settings, denying Kenyans the potential benefit of population-specific data. This study was carried out to explore residents’ research experiences and reasons for the low publication rate and to identify strategies to improve the publication rate of residents’ research in low-income settings.
Methods: In-depth interviews of 8 faculty and academic staff and 18 former residents were conducted to investigate their experiences of conducting, supervising and publishing research. Strategies to improve to improve publications rates were explored.
Results: The former residents described difficult research journeys – from concept development to final submission of dissertation – which discouraged them from seeking publication. Many faculty and staff lacked time or sufficient expertise to successfully guide residents to publication. Departmental research culture, faculty expertise as supervisors and prioritisation of clinical work over research and lack of dedicated research time impacted both residents’ and faculty attitudes to research. Strategies to improve publication rates focused on developing faculty research expertise, more protected research time, and a more structured approach to teaching research methodology, including academic writing skills.
Conclusions: Residents in low middle income countries such as Kenya encounter systemic and personal challenges to successful publication of research. The ease or difficulty of a resident’s research journey influences their attitudes to subsequent publication. Strategies to improve publication rates can improve the dissemination of relevant research data in such settings.
Effect of esaxerenone on circulating microparticles and vascular endothelial function in diabetic mice
Authors: Taguchi Kumiko , Kondo Hiroyuki , Matsumoto Takayuki , Kobayashi Tsuneo 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction exacerbates hypertension and other vascular complications in diabetes mellitus (DM). Circulating microparticles (MPs) and extracellular vesicles released in patients with DM have emerged as novel regulators of endothelial dysfunction. The obstruction of mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) is a potential therapeutic approach to reduce cardiovascular complications. Their impact on the obstruction of MRs on circulating MPs and endothelial dysfunction in DM remains unclear. DM was induced in mice through a single intravenous dose of streptozotocin (STZ; 200 mg/kg). Esaxerenone (ESAX; 3 mg/kg/day), a MR blocker was administered via diet for 8 weeks. In this study, the aortas of the DM group showed the endothelial dysfunction and the administration of ESAX ameliorated the endothelial-dependent responses. Moreover, ESAX influences the impaired endothelial-dependent responses of DM-derived MPs. Interestingly, MP levels increased in DM whereas decreased after ESAX administration. In the aorta, the DM-derived MPs increased the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1). ESAX inhibited the adhesion of DM-derived MPs. Moreover, the ICAM-1 inhibitor A205804 shows similar effects as ESAX. These results indicate that the release and adhesion properties of MPs can be partially obstructed by ESAX via the ICAM-1 signaling pathway, which clarifies the other functions beyond the anti-hypertensive effects of ESAX.
Influence of force parameters of rotary friction welding on the microstructure and mechanical properties of welded joints of high-strength drill pipes
Authors: Atamashkin Artem , Priymak Elena , Tulibaev Egor , Syomka Yaroslav , Trushov Vladimir 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The present investigation provides an assessment of the influence of the force parameters of rotary friction welding (RFW), namely the friction force and the forging force during welding tubular samples with a diameter of 73 mm and a wall thickness of 9 mm from Cr-Mn-Mo steel G105 according to API 5DP in connection with AISI 4340 The microstructure, microhardness, tensile mechanical properties and impact strength of welded joints after welding and after post-weld stress-relieving tempering were studied. The evolution of the microstructure was studied using optical and scanning electron microscopy. The length of microstructural features of the joint such as thermomechanically affected zone (TMAZ) and heat affected zone (HAZ) were measured. The welded joint of G105 and AISI4340 steels under the studied conditions has equal tensile strength compared to the base G105 steel, both in the initial state after welding and after post-weld tempering. It has been shown that carbide particles of various morphologies, separated during welding and subsequent tempering, play a major role in the processes of strengthening the thermomechanical affected zone (TMAZ). The tensile failure location is fixed in the G105 base steel. It has been established that welding power parameters influence the impact toughness of the steel interface zone: with an increase in welding force parameters, an increase in impact toughness and fracture ductility occurs. The highest impact strength occurs after the following welding parameters: friction force 145 kN, forging force 280 kN, rotation speed during friction 600 rpm, burn-off length 7 mm and subsequent tempering at 550oC. Fractographic studies have established that the fracture surface after this treatment consists entirely of small dimples of ductile fracture. This mode can be recommended as optimal for obtaining an equal-strength connection with high impact strength.
Assessing prognosis in HCV-induced early-stage liver cirrhosis: An integrated model based on CX3CR1-associated immune infiltration genes
Authors: Cai Haozheng , Zhang Jing , Chen Chuwen , Shen Junyi , Zhang Xiaoyun , Peng Wei , Li Chuan , Lv Haopeng , Wen Tianfu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Chemokine (C-X3-C motif) Receptor 1 (CX3CR1) is a chemokine receptor that functions primarily by mediating the chemotaxis and adhesion of immune cells. However, the role of CX3CR1 in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-induced early-stage liver cirrhosis remains unexplored. GSE15654 retrieved from the GEO. Cox regression model, CIBERSOT and LASSO technique was utilized to identify CX3CR1-associated prognostic genes. Surgical resection samples were collected for verification. High expression of CX3CR1 in the liver was linked to worse prognosis in individuals with HCV-induced early-stage liver cirrhosis. CX3CR1-associated immune infiltration genes(IIGs), namely ACTIN4, CD1E, TMCO1, LOC400499, MTHFD2, and WSF1, were identified, showing specific expression in the livers of individuals with post-hepatic cirrhosis and liver failure compared to HC. Notably, high infiltration of plasma cells and low infiltration of monocytes were predictive of poor prognosis in early-stage cirrhosis. The combined risk model predicted that high expression of CX3CR1-associated IIGs and increased infiltration of plasma cells were associated with unfavorable prognosis in individuals with HCV-induced early-stage liver cirrhosis. Elevated expression of CX3CR1 is a risk factor for individuals with HCV-induced early-stage liver cirrhosis. The developed combined risk model effectively predicted the prognosis of such individuals.
Urediniospore size variation and morphological novelties of Hemileia vastatrix on Coffea spp. in Mexico
Authors: Pelayo–Sánchez Gabriela , Yáñez-Morales María de Jesús , Solano–Vidal Roney , Silva–Rojas Hilda Victoria , Alvarado–Rosales Dionicio , Morales–Rodriguez Simón , Jiménez–García Luis Felipe , Lara–Martínez Reyna , Ramírez-Ramírez Iván , Valdez–Carrasco Jorge M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We analyzed size variation of Hemileia vastatrix coffee leaf rust urediniospores. Further, the morphological structure and vegetative hyphae of uredinia were examined. The study included isolates collected in 17 coffee cultivars grown at various altitudes (229 to 1,649 m) in 14 regions of four Mexican states. In 2015, 265 leaf samples with rust symptoms were collected from Coffea arabica, Coffea canephora, and Catimores (C. arabica × Timor hybrid) trees (n = 3,808 leaves). Thirty spores per sample, on a final subset of 65 leaves (n = 1,950 spores), were measured and grouped using the Ward centroid method. Uredinia morphology and vegetative hyphae in lesions and tissue sections were examined by electron microscopy. Pathogen identity was confirmed based on symptoms, morphology, and ITS-rRNA sequence analysis. We identified eight significant groups of spores based on size. Groups 8h and 3a had a smallest and largest spore size respectively, and groups 1b–7f having a variable intermediate size. Novel structures were observed on uredinia: double-cell walls on pedicel and urediniospores, split septum between spore and attached pedicel, apical half-septum wall covering the pedicel, and urediniospore ventral side protuberances and hilum; and on lesions: leaf surface and intracellular hyphae anastomoses, and haustoria anastomoses. It is suggested that urediniospore size variation may facilitate interaction to the diversity of coffee cultivars and environmental conditions, and doble cell wall involved for spore development, release, and protection; and anastomoses are likely sources of H. vastatrix acquire nonsexual variation. These findings encourage further analysis for management coffee rust disease.
Efficacy of Machine Learning in Simulating Precipitation and Its Extremes Over the Capital Cities in North Indian States
Authors: Tandon Aayushi , Awasthi Amit , Pattnayak Kanhu Charan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Climate change-induced precipitation extremes have become a pressing global concern. This study investigate the predictability of precipitation patterns and its extremes using MERRA2 datasets across North Indian states for the period 1984 to 2022 utilizing machine learning (ML) models. A strong positive correlations of precipitation 0.4 was found with dew point temperature and relative humidity significant at 0.05. In simulating precipitation, Random Forest Classifier (RFC) achieved the highest accuracy (~ 83%) for Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, while Support Vector Classifier (SVC) performed best (79–83% accuracy) for other states. However, the ML models exhibited about 5% lower skill in higher elevated stations as compared to the lower elevated stations, its due to the different atmospheric mechanisms control differently over the lower and higher topography. For extreme precipitation events (10th and 95th percentiles of intensity), RFC consistently outperformed SVC across all states. It demonstrated superior ability to distinguish extreme from non-extreme events (Area under curve ~ 0.90) and better model calibration (Brier Scores ~ 0.01). The developed ML models successfully simulated precipitation and extreme patterns, with RFC excelling at predicting extreme precipitation events. These findings can contribute to disaster preparedness and water resource management efforts in the region with varied topography and complex terrain.
Performance evaluation of Cement Fly-ash Gravel piles of recycled construction and demolition waste aggregates under erosion conditions
Authors: Zhang Shiping , Yu Xiaolu , Zhang Junhui , Shi Jinxing , Xu Zhan , Cabrera Milkos Borges 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Construction and demolition waste (C&DW) has been mainly used in the field of building materials and road engineering, but relatively few applications in soft soil foundation treatment. This study was aimed to the performance evaluation of the Cement Fly-ash Gravel (CFG) piles using recycled C&DW aggregates in soft ground foundations in inland saline areas, in coasts with high water content and rich in a large number of erosive salt ions. In this paper, erosion experiment simulation conditions were set, the test object was recycled aggregate CFG piles, and the control group was modified aggregate CFG piles and natural aggregate CFG piles under the same conditions. Through the compressive strength test and water absorption test on the pile specimens under different erosion conditions, the changes in the strength and water content of the piles before and after the erosion were obtained. The prediction formulae of water absorption and compressive strength of the piles in the submerged environment and the compressive strength of the piles in the salt-ionized environment were proposed, which reveal the performance deterioration of the recycled aggregate CFG piles. The experimental results showed that the water absorption rate of CFG piles with recycled aggregate under long-term water immersion conditions firstly increased and then tended to stabilize with the immersion time. The change of its compressive strength firstly increased and then declined and finally tended to stabilize. The change of the compressive strength gradually decreased with the salt ion concentration under the salt ion erosion environment.
Initiatives to promote uptake and adherence to Option B+ program among rural pregnant women living with HIV in Malawi
Authors: Chilanga Emmanuel , Mbeya Ruth Agather 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Malawi is the first country in the world to introduce Option B+, a test-and treat program for preventing vertical transmission of HIV from mothers to young children during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The program has significantly reduced the number of children that contract HIV from their mothers. Although this is the case, gaps remain as the program is marred with challenges such as clients opting out, low drug adherence, and default. This study examines the effectiveness of individual and community level approaches used to promote uptake of Option B+ program through reduction of intimate partner violence (IPV) in central Malawi.
Methods
A retrospective narrative qualitative research method was used to understand strategies that HIV positive pregnant women and community stakeholders used to improve uptake of Option B+ program. Twenty-five participants that were directly involved in Option B+ program as beneficiaries and service providers were interviewed. The interviews were audio recoded and transcribed verbatim. Data was manually coded to derive key themes and concepts.
Results
Prevalent forms of IPV against HIV pregnant mothers during initial stage of Option B+ program was identified. They include husband restricting women from taking Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), declining the use of condoms, and reducing family support. Various risk-taking behaviours was used to minimize IPV when some pregnant women were diagnosed HIV positive. These include opting out of the program, concealing the HIV serostatus and ART drugs. The integration of community based reproductive health initiatives such as expert clients, male championship, and safe motherhood into Option B+ program reduced cases of IPV and improved couple uptake of HIV testing.
Conclusion
Integration of Option B+ program with community based reproductive health promotion initiatives has a potential of reducing IPV against HIV positive pregnant women. The strategy can also increase the number of couples that can adopt Option B+ program in rural communities.