bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Oligella spp.: A systematic review on an uncommon urinary pathogen
Authors: Farfour Eric , Vasse Marc , Vallée Alexandre 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
Oligella is an uncommon Gram-negative coccobacillus that was first thought to belong to the urogenital tract. The genus Oligella comprises two species that were recovered from various samples worldwide.

Methods
We perform a systematic review focusing on Oligella microbiological characteristics, habitat, role in Human microbiome and infection, and antimicrobial susceptibility.

Results
In humans, Oligella is mainly found as part of the microbiome of individuals with predisposing conditions. Oligella were also associated with invasive infections in patients with underlying diseases. Nevertheless, their prevalence remains to determine. Oligella culture requires up to 48 h on agar media in vitro, while urinary samples are usually incubated for 24 h. Consequently, microbiologists should be prompt to prolong the incubation of agar media when the direct examination showed Gram-negative coccobacilli. Oligella is accurately identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, but biochemical methods often provided inconsistent results. Specific guidelines for antimicrobial susceptibility testing of Oligella lack but the incubation could require up to 48 h of incubation. In contrast to O. urethralis, which is susceptible to third-generation cephalosporin, O. ureolytica is likely resistant to numerous antimicrobials. Genectic determinants of resistance were identified for beta-lactams and aminoglycosides.

Conclusion
Oligella is an uncommon pathogen that can be underrecognized. Microbiologists should be prompt to prolong the incubation of agar media plated with urines when the direct examination showed Gram-negative coccobacilli. Carbapenems should probably be given for the empirical treatment.
Equal opportunities for non-traditional students? Dropout at a private German distance university of applied sciences
Authors: Klinke Clemens , Kulle Katharina , Schreyögg Bettina , Fischer Katharina , Eckert Marcus 
Published: April 2024

AbstractStudent dropout represents a significant challenge in distance higher education. To better understand this issue, a comprehensive analysis of institutional data, spanning several years from a private German distance learning university of applied sciences, was conducted. The primary objectives were twofold: (1) to pinpoint institutional factors serving as predictors for student dropout and (2) to analyze the underlying psychological mechanisms. The findings indicate that part-time enrollment, age, interruptions, and overdue payments predicted dropout. Conversely, a good match between a student’s occupation and the study program, as well as employer reimbursement of study fees, predicted degree completion. Further results suggest that students who recommend the program to others are more likely to succeed. However, those referred by friends are at a higher risk of dropping out. Additionally, poor grades and late submission of the first assignment were identified as predictors of dropout. A noteworthy finding was the interaction between these factors and the student’s qualification for studying. Vocationally qualified students tend to submit their first assignment earlier but perform worse academically compared to academically qualified students. Generally, the influence of socio-demographic factors such as the educational background, gender, or nationality was low. This suggests that some of the disadvantages that non-traditional students might face at traditional universities in Germany might cease to exist at private distance universities of applied sciences. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Leveraging the industrial internet of things for business process improvement: a metamodel and patterns
Authors: Stoiber Christoph , Schönig Stefan 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIndustrial organizations of all kinds increasingly recognize the industrial internet of thing’s (IIoT) capabilities to enable valuable business process improvement (BPI). However, both theoretically and practically, there is a lack of clarity regarding the systematic and successful identification, specification, and implementation of corresponding applications. This article aims to bridge this research gap by presenting a comprehensive metamodel encompassing all relevant aspects and elements of IIoT applications with BPI propositions. The metamodel is the foundation for deriving generic yet practical patterns that can assist organizations in effectively executing IIoT projects. To evaluate the usefulness of the approach, five initial patterns were designed and applied by a market-leading organization. The metamodel and patterns contribute to the descriptive knowledge of the IIoT and facilitate sense-making, theory-led design, and practical project execution. To ensure rigor, the research endeavor followed fundamental principles of the design science research (DSR) methodology.
Michael’s missed genetic diagnosis
Authors: Lemke Johannes R. , Brandt Christian , Krawitz Peter 
Published: April 2024

AbstractMichael, after whom the Michael Foundation is named, had been diagnosed with neonatal-onset refractory epilepsy that challenged numerous epileptologists at the time. The seizures disappeared in adolescence but a neurodevelopmental disorder with intellectual disability remained. Still, to the best of our knowledge, genetic testing was never considered. Facial photographs of Michael potentially containing the clue to his diagnosis had been published multiple times in the past few decades and are known to a broad audience. Michael passed away in 2023 at the age of 80 years. A post-mortem analysis of Michael’s photographs employing both the human eye and artificial intelligence as well as retrospective anamnesis of Michael’s clinical symptoms revealed Williams–Beuren syndrome to be the by far most likely cause of Michael’s disorder. This diagnosis has implications for affected individuals as well as for the family and relatives and therefore illustrates the importance of genetic testing of neurodevelopmental disorders even in older individuals.
The cryptic microbiota of plant parasitic and entomopathogenic nematodes: diversity, effects on host biology and potential in plant protection
Authors: Rosso Laura Cristina , Lax Paola , Ciancio Aurelio , Colagiero Mariantonietta , Pentimone Isabella 
Published: April 2024

AbstractMany plant parasitic and entomopathogenic nematodes harbor specialized and obligate bacteria as well as viruses. Given their evolutionary persistence, such cryptic species are considered to play effective roles during their host/microbe interactions lifetime, including mutualistic, antagonistic, or yet unknown host effects. To exploit such associations in plant protection, a comprehensive view is needed linking basic evolutionary relationships to applied aspects. This requires identifying the benefit or impact that hosts, acting as pests or biocontrol agents, receive from their endosymbionts. Targeting endosymbionts that are vital for a beneficial nematode or a pest may open novel perspectives for the management of their performance and traits, such as virulence or response to plant defense reactions. Some hypotheses are proposed to develop advanced control strategies through emerging biotechnological approaches.
“A Feeling of Safeness and Freedom”: The Promotion of Mental Health Recovery Through Co-Production in an Italian Community Organization
Authors: Guarino Antonella , Negrogno Luca , Compare Christian , Madeo Alessandra , Bolognini Pamela , Degli Esposti Linda , Filippi Michele , Lamberini Francesca , Morrone Martina , Masetti Matteo , Serra Antonio Marco , Albanesi Cinzia 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIn mental health promotion, recovery is a process that leads to personal strengthening, control over crucial life decisions, and participation in communities through relevant professional, educational, or family social roles. Co-production, a key aspect of the recovery-oriented approach, emphasizes collaboration and active participation of people with mental health first-hand experience, family members, and citizens. Even though studies on co-production are limited and fragmented, there is evidence that co-production leads to positive outcomes, including improved well-being, empowerment, social connectedness, inclusion, and personal competencies. This study aimed to contribute to the limited literature on co-production in mental health by evaluating the co-production process in a non-profit mental health organization and its impact on empowerment processes and personal recovery outcomes. The research team adopted a collaborative approach and conducted qualitative research, including 13 individual semi-structured interviews and four focus groups. Results showed how the different dimensions of empowerment are promoted in and by the organization: (a) co-production processes supported empowered outcomes on an individual level, such as self-awareness; (b) the organization was perceived to promote empowering processes, such as a sense of safeness and protection; (c) co-production was a mean to build and maintain a network with mental health services that acknowledges the dignity and value of each subjectivity and promotes participation and recovery. Peer support workers were seen as facilitators of mental illness management, and the organization as a place for sharing mental health experiences and fostering individual recovery journeys.
The Economic Value of Biodiversity Preservation
Authors: Agliardi Elettra , Agliardi Rossella , Spanjers Willem 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWe study the decision to preserve diverse species when the value of biodiversity is uncertain, or even affected by ambiguity. Optimal decisions are derived both from the perspective of the producer/investor and the policy regulator (ecosystem planner). We find that while calculated risk creates a scope for biodiversity preservation, the presence of ambiguity aversion reduces it, thus accelerating the extinction of species with lower value. Our results suggest that effective conservation strategies would involve a reduction of ambiguity aversion by creating a stable and transparent policy environment. Furthermore, they may involve a two tier strategy, with one tier addressing output targets and the other conservation targets.
Comparison of three unionid mussel species in removing green microalgae grown in recirculating aquaculture system effluent
Authors: Julkunen Ville , Stevčić Čedomir , Pirhonen Juhani , Pulkkinen Katja 
Published: April 2024

AbstractGlobal increase in aquaculture production has created a need to reduce its environmental impacts. Nutrients could be recycled especially at land-based recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) by cultivating green microalgae in aquaculture effluent. However, microalgae are difficult to harvest. As a multi-trophic solution, mussels could be used in harvesting microalgae. We tested three European freshwater mussels (duck mussel Anodonta anatina, swan mussel A. cygnea, and swollen river mussel Unio tumidus) for filtering two common green microalgae (Monoraphidium griffithii and Selenastrum sp.) grown in RAS effluent. Mussels decreased microalgal concentrations in the tanks 42–83% over three consecutive trials. Algal concentrations at the end of each trial were lowest for both microalgae in tanks containing Anodonta mussels. Clearance rates were higher for Anodonta mussels than for U. tumidus. Mussels biodeposited more microalgae to tank bottoms when M. griffithii was filtered. Ammonium concentration decreased or did not change in tanks with M. griffithii, but increased in tanks containing Selenastrum sp. These results suggest that of the tested species Anodonta mussels and M. griffithii show best potential for RAS effluent bioremediation application. We conclude that a co-culture of microalgae and unionid mussels could be used for recycling nutrients in aquaculture.
Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia, Effortful Control, and Child Social Anxiety Symptoms
Authors: Kiel Elizabeth J. , Aaron Elizabeth M. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractEmotion dysregulation is implicated in child social anxiety and its etiology. Child emotion dysregulation has been studied via physiological indicators (e.g., respiratory sinus arrhythmia [RSA]) and behavioral indicators (e.g., effortful control). Previous work suggests that physiological indicators of regulation may predict outcomes in a non-linear manner and must be considered within the context of other intrapersonal factors, perhaps including effortful control. To this end, the current study tested effortful control as a moderator of the relation between RSA and child social anxiety, considering both linear and curvilinear patterns and controlling for inhibited temperament, an established predictor of child anxiety. Children (n = 119; 44% female) participated when they were 4 years old and entering school age (5 to 7 years). Mothers reported on children’s effortful control (age 4) and social anxiety (school age). Children’s RSA (age 4) was calculated from electrocardiogram data when they were at rest (i.e., baseline RSA) and when they were giving a speech. Results indicated that when children were high in effortful control, lower baseline RSA predicted higher social anxiety symptoms. Tentative evidence emerged for a relation between greater suppression of RSA during the speech compared to baseline and higher social anxiety symptoms when children were low in effortful control. Results support assessing the temperamental domain of effortful control as a contextualizing factor in the relation between psychophysiology and child anxiety outcomes.
The role of emotion dysregulation in self-management behaviors among adults with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kollin Sophie R. , Gratz Kim L. , Lee Aaron A. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractSuboptimal disease self-management among adults with type 2 diabetes is associated with greater risk of diabetes related health complications and mortality. Emotional distress has been linked with poor diabetes self-management; however, few studies have examined the role of emotion dysregulation in diabetes management. The purpose of this study was to examine the relations between different facets of emotion dysregulation and diabetes self-management behaviors among a sample of 373 adults with type 2 diabetes. Separate median regression and binary logistic regression models were used to examine the association of emotion dysregulation facets and each diabetes self-care behavior (i.e., medication nonadherence, diet, exercise, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), foot care, and smoking). Generally, greater difficulties in emotion regulation were associated with poorer self-management behaviors. However, several facets of emotion dysregulation were linked with better self-management behaviors. Addressing emotion dysregulation among adults with type 2 diabetes has the potential to improve diabetes related self-management.
Qualification of Microwave SQUID Multiplexer Chips for Simons Observatory
Authors: Jones Dante , Singh Robinjeet , Austermann Jason , Beall J. A. , Daniel David , Duff Shannon M. , Dutcher Daniel , Groh John , Hubmayr Johannes , Johnson Bradley R. , Lew Richard , Link Michael J. , Lucas Tammy J. , Mates John A. B. , Staggs Suzanne , Ullom Joel , Vale Leila , Van Lanen Jeffery , Vissers Michael , Wang Yuhan 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe Simons Observatory is a cosmic microwave background experiment stationed atop Cerro Toco, at an elevation of 5200 ms in Chile’s Atacama Desert. The receivers of the Observatory will contain more than 60,000 transition edge sensor bolometers. In order to read out this large detector count in a scalable manner, we utilize a microwave superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) multiplexing scheme where each detector is inductively coupled to an rf SQUID, which in turn is inductively coupled to a GHz resonator. More than 2000 SQUIDs and resonators are fabricated on a single 76.2-mm-diameter silicon wafer. To qualify wafers before integration, we cryogenically screen $$\sim$$
∼
10% of the devices on each wafer by use of a standard set of measurements. From these data, we report parameter value trends in 47 wafers that were fabricated in the past two years. We show good control in key parameters such as frequency placement, internal quality factor, and response to applied flux. We demonstrate a wafer acceptance yield of 86%.
On Some Weakened Forms of Transitivity in the Logic of Conditional Obligation
Authors: Parent Xavier 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis paper examines the logic of conditional obligation, which originates from the works of Hansson, Lewis, and others. Some weakened forms of transitivity of the betterness relation are studied. These are quasi-transitivity, Suzumura consistency, acyclicity and the interval order condition. The first three do not change the logic. The axiomatic system is the same whether or not they are introduced. This holds true under a rule of interpretation in terms of maximality and strong maximality. The interval order condition gives rise to a new axiom. Depending on the rule of interpretation, this one changes. With the rule of maximality, one obtains the principle known as disjunctive rationality. With the rule of strong maximality, one obtains the Spohn axiom (also known as the principle of rational monotony, or Lewis’ axiom CV). A completeness theorem further substantiates these observations. For interval order, this yields the finite model property and decidability of the calculus.
Nyström discretization of integrodifference equations: numerical continuation of periodic solutions and Floquet multipliers
Authors: Pötzsche Christian , Rackl David 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Integrodifference equations are discrete-time counterparts to reaction-diffusion equations and have various applications in, e.g., theoretical ecology. Their behavior is often illustrated using numerical simulations, which require a spatial discretization. In this paper, we establish that periodic solutions to time-periodic integrodifference equations, their stability and their Floquet spectrum persist under discretization of Nyström-type, which replaces integrals by quadrature or cubature rules. Moreover, it is shown that the convergence rates of the particular integration rules are preserved. By means of a typical model from theoretical ecology, these results are demonstrated in terms of a numerical continuation for periodic solutions and their Floquet multipliers.
Comparison of high power red-emitting diode laser designs for medical applications
Authors: Ryvkin Boris , Avrutin Eugene 
Published: April 2024

AbstractA comparison is made between, on the one hand, the red-emitting laser structure currently widely used for medical applications and based on an ultranarrow waveguide layer with a compressively strained QW active layer in it and, on the other hand, the red emitting laser using a broadened asymmetric waveguide structure with a bulk active layer near the p-cladding, proposed by us. It is shown that the proposed design promises substantial improvements over the ultranarrow one including lower series and thermal resistances, and higher catastrophic degradation threshold, while maintaining relatively narrow far field and allowing the typical power required for medical applications to be achieved at lower currents, particularly at elevated temperatures.
The Profile and Content of Polyphenolic Compounds and Antioxidant and Anti-Glycation Properties of Root Extracts of Selected Medicinal Herbs
Authors: Chociej Patrycja , Foss Kamil , Jabłońska Monika , Ustarbowska Małgorzata , Sawicki Tomasz 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe objective of our study was to analyse the extracts from six medicinal herb roots (marshmallow, dandelion, liquorice, angelica, burdock, and comfrey) in terms of antioxidant capacity (ABTS, DPPH) and inhibition of advanced glycation end product (AGEs) formation. The quantification of phenolic acids and flavonoids was analysed using the UHPLC-DAD-MS method. Fifteen polyphenolic compounds were detected in the studied herbs. The higher number of polyphenols were found in marshmallows (ten polyphenols), while the lowest was in comfrey (five compounds). Liquorice root revealed the highest individual phenolic concentration (382 µg/g dm) with the higher contribution of kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside. Comfrey root extract was characterised by the most abundant TPC (Total Phenolic Content) value (29.79 mg GAE/ g dm). Burdock and comfrey showed the strongest anti-AGE activity studies with the BDA-GLU model. Burdock root was also characterised by the highest anti-AGE activity in the BSA-MGO model. The highest antioxidant capacity was determined by ABTS (72.12 µmol TE/g dw) and DPPH (143.01 µmol TE/g dw) assays for comfrey extract. The p-coumaric acid content was significantly correlated with anti-AGE activity determined by the BSA-MGO model. This research sheds new light on the bioactivity of root herbs, explaining the role of p-coumaric acid in preventing diabetes.
Uterine fibroids in women diagnosed with acromegaly: a systematic review
Authors: Górski Konrad , Zgliczyński Stanisław , Stelmachowska-Banaś Maria , Czajka-Oraniec Izabella , Zgliczyński Wojciech , Ciebiera Michał , Zgliczyńska Magdalena 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe review discusses the relationship between acromegaly and uterine fibroids. It highlights variations in research methodologies and inconsistent findings, emphasizing the complex nature of fibroid development and the role of the somatotropic axis. Additionally, it addresses demographic factors and examines the potential impact of therapies on the risk and prevalence of uterine fibroids in individuals with acromegaly. We conducted an analysis of previously published literature that examined the repercussions of acromegaly on gynecological health in female cohorts, with specific attention directed towards elucidating the prevalence of uterine fibroids. We suggest that larger, more focused studies are needed to understand the specific impact of different treatments on the occurrence of gynecological issues in acromegaly patients. Additionally, our study emphasizes the importance of factors such as disease duration and treatment effectiveness. We hypothesize that a relationship between acromegaly and uterine fibroids may occur. However, it remains an area of ongoing research, with the need for larger, multi-center studies to draw more definitive conclusions.