bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mercuric oxide nanoparticles deferred germination and devastated root anatomy of maize
Authors: Hassan Yasser M. , AbdElgawad Hamada , Zaki Ayman H. , Hammouda Ola , Khodary Salah-Eldin A. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Given the widespread use of the mercuric oxide NPs (HgO-NPs), they have become increasingly prevalent in the soil ecosystem. As a result, it is important to promptly evaluate their phytotoxic impact on plants. To this end, we have investigated the effects of different concentrations of HgO-NPs (0-200 mg/L) on germination and growth of early emerged maize seedlings. Moreover, the primary root length was measured over time to examine the impacts of both time and doses of HgO-NPs on root growth, specifically studying their interactive effects. Additionally, HgO-NPs effects on root anatomical structures were investigated. Relative to control, HgO-NPs induced marked reductions in germination (percentage, speed and rate) while, increased mean germination time, mean daily germination time and time to 50% germination. Moreover, length and biomass of radical (root) and plumule (shoot) and seedling vigour indices were significantly deteriorated. The obtained inhibition in growth was more pronounced in root than shoot. Growth declines of young maize seedlings were concomitant with a dose and time dependent inhibition of root elongation. This response of root was consistent with the observed reduction in anatomical features, including root diameter, stele size, cortex size and cortex cell count. HgO-NPs effect was does dependent, where the decrease in maize germination and growth became more pronounced at higher doses of HgO-NPs. The most significant reduction was observed at a concentration of 200 mg/L HgO-NPs. The results of this study suggest that the presence of HgO-NPs leads to phytotoxic effects on germination process and the growth of young seedlings, highlighting a noteworthy challenge and environmental concern.
Heterozygous loss-of function variants in DOCK4 cause neurodevelopmental delay and microcephaly
Authors: Herbst Charlotte , Bothe Viktoria , Wegler Meret , Axer-Schaefer Susanne , Audebert-Bellanger Séverine , Gecz Jozef , Cogne Benjamin , Feldman Hagit Baris , Horn Anselm H.C. , Hurst Anna CE , Kelly Melissa A , Kruer Michael C. , Kurolap Alina , Laquerriere Annie , Li Megan , Mark Paul R. , Morawski Markus , Nizon Mathilde , Pastinen Tomi , Polster Tilman , Saugier-Veber Pascale , SeSong Jang , Sticht Heinrich , Stieler Jens T. , Thifffault Isabelle , Eyk Clare L , Marcorelles Pascale , Vezain-Mouchard Myriam , Jamra Rami Abou , Oppermann Henry 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Neurons form the basic anatomical and functional structure of the nervous system, and defects in neuronal differentiation or formation of neurites are associated with various psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Dynamic changes in the cytoskeleton are essential for this process, which is, inter alia, controlled by the dedicator of cytokinesis 4 (DOCK4) through the activation of RAC1. Here, we clinically describe 8 individuals (7 males and one female) with variants in DOCK4 and overlapping phenotype of mild to severe global developmental delay. Additional symptoms include coordination or gait abnormalities, microcephaly, unspecific brain malformations, hypotonia and seizures. Five individuals carry missense variants (four of them detected de novo) and three individuals carry null variants (two of them maternally inherited). Molecular modelling of the heterozygous missense variants suggests that the majority of them affect the globular structure of DOCK4. In vitro functional expression studies in transfected Neuro-2A cells showed that all missense variants impaired neurite outgrowth. Furthermore, Dock4-knock-out Neuro-2A cells also exhibited defects in promoting neurite outgrowth. Furthermore, a sex-specific expressivity is possible, as the only female of the cohort was comparatively mildly affected. Our results, including clinical, molecular and functional data, suggest that loss-of-function variants in DOCK4 cause a variable spectrum of a novel neurodevelopmental disorder with microcephaly.
Potential cellular targets of platinum in the freshwater microalgae Chlamydomomas reinhardtii and Nitzschia palea revealed by transcriptomics
Authors: Hourtané O. , Gonzalez Patrice , Feurtet-Mazel Agnès , Kochoni Emeric , Fortin Claude 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Platinum group element (PGE) levels have increased in natural aquatic environments in the last few decades, in particular as a consequence of the use of automobile catalytic converters on a global scale. This raises questions regarding their possible impacts on aquatic ecosystems, as the natural background concentrations of these rare metals are extremely low. Primary producers, such as microalgae, are of great ecological importance, as they are at the base of the food web. The purpose of this work was to better understand the impact of Pt on a cellular level for freshwater unicellular algae. Two species with different characteristics, a green alga C. reinhardtii and a diatom N. palea, were studied. The bioaccumulation of Pt as well as its effect on growth were quantified. The use of molecular tools also allowed for the determination of possible intracellular effects and pathways of Pt. Both species that could be experiencing copper deficiency: inductions of genes corresponding to copper transporter suggest that Pt might be internalized through the Cu(I) metabolic pathway. Moreover, Pt could possibly be excreted using an efflux pump. Other highlights include a concentration dependant negative impact of Pt on mitochondrial metabolism for C. reinhardtii which is not observed for N. palea.
Whole transcriptome analysis of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infection and identification of circulating miRNA as biomarkers for resilience
Authors: Wright Kathryn , Silva Kumudika , Plain Karren , Purdie Auriol C. 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), the causative agent of Johne’s disease (JD), results in a chronic enteritis affecting ruminants worldwide and presents to severe economic and welfare issues. Pathogenic mycobacteria such as MAP are able to manipulate host transcriptomic pathways to establish infection and cause disease. Following exposure to pathogenic mycobacteria, host microRNA (miRNA) are modulated, effecting downstream gene expression. miRNA have been utilised as circulating biomarkers for several human diseases and cancers, however their applicability to MAP infection in ruminants remains relatively unexplored. Here, we use a combination of small RNA sequencing and microarray data to explore circulating miRNA and mRNA responses of sheep infected with and resilient to MAP. A total of 58 differentially expressed miRNA were identified in only MAP infected sheep and 25 in only resilient sheep. Early and late timepoint specific signatures were also observed between infected and resilient sheep. Together, our data presents a novel miRNA signature of MAP infection, and resilience to infection. Further, we identify key signalling and immune pathways regulated by these miRNA which may contribute to the resilience phenotype and the ability of these sheep to prevent infection.
Sex differences in kinematics and muscle activity during the impact phase of a single-leg landing task after a backhand side overhead stroke in badminton
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Hu Zhe 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Our study aimed to investigate possible risk factors for the high incidence of ACL injuries in women compared to men during the impact phase of badminton single-leg landing maneuvers. Sixteen badminton players (8 male, 8 female) participated in a badminton single-leg landing task in which lower limb kinematics, ground reaction forces, and lower limb muscle activity were measured using a marker-based motion capture system, force plates, and electromyography (EMG). An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze gender differences in leg kinematic data, mean normalized leg muscle activation (MVC%), and muscle co-contraction during the impact phase after landing. During the impact phase of the badminton landing task (100 ms after initial contact), the knee valgus angle at the moment of initial contact （IC）and posterior peak ground reaction force（GRF） was greater in females than in males. Knee flexion angle and ankle plantarflexion angle were less in females than in males at the moment of peak posterior GRF. During the post-landing impact phase, compared to male badminton players, females exhibited greater rectus femoris medial hamstring, medial gastrocnemius, and lateral gastrocnemius muscle activity. In addition, males exhibited a higher co-contraction ratio of the medial and lateral gastrocnemius than female athletes. The neuromuscular control strategies exhibited by female badminton players may be inadequate for ACL protection and may be a potential risk factor for a high incidence of ACL injury.
Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) solubility controlled activation of water by atmospheric pressure air spark discharge
Authors: Zhao Zhiguo , Liu Guoqiang , Li Guofeng , Ni Weiyuan , Liu Dongping 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
The activation of water by the atmospheric pressure air plasma is involved in the diffusion of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) in air and water, their gas-phase and liquid-phase reactions, and their dissolution and evaporation. In this study, by generating the air spark discharge over the surface of water, we have evaluated the chemical and biological reactivities of direct–plasma treatment (DPT) and remote–plasma treatment (RPT) plasma-activated water (PAW) at different water temperatures. We have found that DPT-PAW is much more effective in increasing both the chemical and biological reactivities of PAW than RPT-PAW, and decreasing the water temperature from 40°C to 6°C leads to rapid activation of water. Our analysis shows that when the water temperature varies from 6°C to 40°C, the activation of water by the air discharge is RONS solubility controlled, and the gas-phase and liquid-phase RONS diffusion and chemical reactions are not the controlling steps during the activation of water. The direct plasma treatment of water at a relatively low temperature contributes to an obvious increase in the RONS solubility, thus a rapid activation of DPT-PAW.
A Study on the Spatial Form of Traditional Villages in Jiangnan Region of China from the Perspective of Human Thermal Comfort ：A Case Study of Nanjing, Jiangsu Province
Authors: Yao Xiong , He Yinhui 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Chinese traditional villages have undergone a protracted process of natural selection and evolution, resulting in a spatial configuration with climate adaptability has emerged. This form embodies the ecological wisdom of ancient Chinese civilizations who "adapt to nature and transform nature." Under the context of China's rural revitalization, a study into the microclimate and thermal comfort of traditional villages holds promise for fostering the development of ecologically sustainable and aesthetically pleasing rural communities. This study focuses on three representative traditional villages in Nanjing. By employing a combination of measured data and ENVI-met numerical simulation, the microclimate effects of distinct spatial domains in these villages are analyzed. Additionally, the thermal comfort PET values are calculated using the Rayman platform, thereby objectively examining the relationship between spatial configuration and microclimate factors in Jiangnan traditional villages. The findings reveal that the PET values range from 38.4 to 57°C in summer and from 0.1 to 27°C in winter, with winter thermal comfort generally surpassing that of summer. Finally, the spatial configuration and landscape elements that influence human thermal comfort are revealed and transformation strategies tailored to each space type are summarized, aiming to provide scientifically grounded and rational recommendations for climate-adaptive design in rural areas.
A Study on Practical Byzantine Algorithms Based on Short Group Signatures
Authors: Liu Jialong , Li Jianhua 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT) algorithm is a well-known consensus algorithm used in distributed systems. However, it has limitations in terms of performance and fault tolerance.This paper proposes an improved PBFT algorithm called GR-PBFT, which is based on the Short Group Signatures mechanism. Firstly, we introduce the Short Group Signatures mechanism, which involves adding nodes to the group and allowing the master node to verify messages signed by each member. Once enough signatures are collected, the master node generates the commit message. Replica nodes can then verify the commit message and synchronize the state information, thereby enhancing the interaction between the preparation and commit phases and reducing communication complexity. Secondly, we design a mechanism for dynamic node joining and exiting to improve system performance and scalability. Finally, we verify the performance and fault tolerance of the GR-PBFT algorithm through theoretical analysis and large-scale simulation experiments on the Fabric platform. The results show that GR-PBFT achieves a maximum 49.6% improvement in throughput, a 45.5% reduction in latency, and a 32% improvement in transaction success rate compared to PBFT. Particularly, when the number of nodes exceeds the threshold, PBFT performance drastically declines, whereas GR-PBFT remains relatively stable, demonstrating better performance and reliability.
Exploring the impact of hyper-quantity on the performance to access GHG emission in a full-scale A 2 O+MBR process: From predictions to implementation
Authors: Hu Yongfeng , Zhang Yongxiang , Sun Ruirui , Wang Kun , Cai Qing 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

It was different to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity of the wastewater treatment industry in China, owing to a lack of research and demonstration experience. This study aims to predict hyper-quantity functional performance, and provide a guidance for its real operation to assess the GHG emission in a full-scale anaerobic-anoxic-oxic membrane bioreactor (A2O + MBR) process in Beijing. The emulated result illustrated that ASM model offers broad applicability to predict functional performance during hyper-quantity operational periods. The running results show that the GHG emission intensity decreased from 1.31 CO2e/m3 to 1.24 CO2e/m3, representing a 5.3% decline in 2022, despite the total annual GHG emissions increased by 42.69% compared to the levels in 2018. Further, the GHG emission intensity of CH4, N2O, electricity consumption and chemical agent consumption decreased by 7.4%, 7.1%, 4.9% and 12.5%, respectively. The proportion of CH4, N2O, electricity and chemical agent consumption accounted for 20.38%, 31.89%, 47.67% and 0.06% of the total GHG emissions, showing minimal changes compared to those in 2018. Overall, this research provides valuable insights to policy-makers regarding water and carbon issue, assisting them in identifying to find low-risk and cost-effective solutions to reduce climate change impact.
Detection of Periodontal Bone Loss Types and Furcation Defects from Panoramic Radiographs Using Deep Learning Algorithm: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kurt-Bayrakdar Sevda , Bayrakdar İbrahim Şevki , Yavuz Muhammed Burak , Sali Nichal , Çelik Özer , Köse Oğuz , Saylan Bilge Cansu Uzun , Kuleli Batuhan , Jagtap Rohan , Orhan Kaan 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background This retrospective study aimed to develop a deep learning algorithm for the interpretation of panoramic radiographs and to examine the performance of this algorithm in the detection of some periodontal problems such as horizontal alveolar bone loss, vertical bone defect, and furcation defect. Methods A total of 1121 panoramic radiographic images were used in this study. Total alveolar bone losses in the maxilla and mandibula (n = 2251), interdental bone losses (n = 25303), and furcation defects (n = 2815) were labeled using the segmentation method. In addition, interdental bone losses were divided into horizontal (n = 21839) and vertical (n = 3464) bone losses according to the defect types. A Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based artificial intelligence (AI) system was developed using U-Net architecture. The performance of the deep learning algorithm was statistically evaluated by the confusion matrix and ROC curve analysis. Results The system showed the highest diagnostic performance in the detection of total alveolar bone losses and the lowest in the detection of vertical bone defects. The sensitivity, precision, F1 score, accuracy, and AUC values were found as 1, 0.995, 0.997, 0.994, 0.951 for total alveolar bone loss; found as 0.947, 0.939, 0.943, 0.892, 0.910 for horizontal bone losses; found as 0.558, 0.846, 0.673, 0.506, 0.733 for vertical bone defects and found as 0.892, 0.933, 0.912, 0.837, 0.868 for furcation defects (respectively). Conclusions AI systems offer promising results in determining periodontal bone loss patterns and furcation defects from dental radiographs. This suggests that CNN algorithms can also be used to provide more detailed information such as automatic determination of periodontal disease severity and treatment planning in various dental radiographs.
A cross-sectional study about adversity quotient of newly graduated nurses: From Lanzhou, a city in Northwest of China
Authors: Wang Xinglei , Ma Ting , Ma Li , Wang Yingqiao , Li Weiping , Zhang Liping , Pei Juhong , zhong Juanping , Ding Xiaohua , Dou Xinman 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Objectives
This study aims to investigate the current status of new nurses' adversity quotient and analyze its influencing factors. To provide reference for adopting targeted intervention strategies and improving clinical adaptability.
Background
Adversity quotient not only relates to the development of physical and mental health of newly recruited nurses, but also determines whether they are competent for nursing work.
Design:
A cross-sectional study was performed.
Methods
This study adopted a convenient sampling method and examined the adversity quotient level of 369 newly graduated nurses from tertiary hospital in Lanzhou with questionnaire surveys using the Chinese version of the Adversity Quotient Scale. Other questionnaires included the Connor-Davidson Resilience scale, Organizational justice perception scale., and items on socio-demographic. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with adversity quotient.
Results
The average adversity quotient score of the novice nurse was 130.26 ± 16.98, and the scores for the four dimensions were control(33.01 ± 5.93), origin and ownership(32.31 ± 4.22), reach(33.14 ± 4.97), endurance(31.80 ± 4.87). The stepwise multiple linear regression analysis revealed Age (β = 0.127, P < 0.01), education (β = 0.118, P < 0.05), hospital category (β = 0.099, P < 0.05), and psychological resilience (β = 0.394, P < 0.001) as associated factors for adversity quotient, possibly explaining 18.8% of the total variation(F = 22.250, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Novice nurses present a medium to upper level of AQ. Nurses with a higher psychological resilience level showed higher AQ. The college degree’s novice nurses are more likely to attribute the cause of adversity to external cause. Developing competencies at the beginning of one’s practice, which is crucial for patient’s outcomes, should be accompanied by the strengthening of novice nurses’ adversity quotient.
Implications for Nursing Management:
Managers should formulate reasonable training plans, strive to create a good organizational atmosphere, and cultivate nurses' level of adversity quotient, so as to better cope with various intractable problems.
Study on coupling resonance enhancement characteristics of MPs resonance mode in multilayer MIM structure and F-P cavity mode
Authors: Wei Zhihui , Liu Hai , Wang Bo , Zhang Jian , Tang Haolong , Li Qiang , Shen Zhenfeng , Yang Haigui , Shan Dongzhi , Zhao Yuanhang , Zhao Yi , Wang Kai , Wang Xiaoyi 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In this paper, we propose a cavity-coupled perfect absorber (CCPA) consisting of a bottom gold layer, a SiO2 layer, and multilayer MIM (Metal-Insulator-Metal) nanowires. By coupling the Fabry-Pérot (F-P) cavity mode with the magnetic plasmons (MPs) resonance mode in multilayer MIM structure, the MPs resonance in the multilayer MIM structure is enhanced, and leading to increased absorption of the structure. By designing and optimizing the parameters, near-perfect absorption in the mid-infrared wavelengths can be achieved. The positions of the two absorption peaks can be adjusted by changing the width of the nanowires and the thickness of the SiO2 layer, resulting in the formant excitation at any position in the mid-infrared. The full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) of the short-wave peak is only 0.076 µm, and the FWHM of the long-wave peak is only 0.46 µm. The long-wave absorption peak maintains high efficiency and stability even at large incident angles, exhibiting "omnidirectional" characteristics. The tunable mid-infrared emission peak can be matched to the characteristic spectra of gases, making it suitable for infrared radiation sources in gas detection.
RETRACTED: Comparative analysis of cow dung microflora of different cow breeds for plant growth promoting traits and antifungal properties for prospective use in organic and natural farming system
Authors: Sagar Shweta , Singh Arjun , Bala Jyoti , Chauhan Rakesh , Kumar Rameshwar , Walia Abhishek 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Country-specific roadmaps for scaling up integrated care in Belgium, Slovenia, and Cambodia - Lessons learned from the SCUBY project
Authors: Heine Martin , Martens Monika , Boateng Daniel , Ku Grace Marie , Remmen Roy , Wouters Edwin , Chhim Srean , Susič Antonjia Poplas , Damme Wim van , Olmen Josefien van , Klipstein-Grobusch Kerstin , consortium on behalf of the SCUBY 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Introduction
The SCUBY project aimed to provide knowledge on the scaling-up of an Integrated Care Package (ICP) for type 2 diabetes and hypertension across three distinct health systems (Cambodia, Slovenia, and Belgium). Here, we analyse the different elements of the country-specific scale-up roadmaps to identify similarities and differences, and share lessons learned.
Methods
Thematic analysis was used to derive crucial roadmap elements from key SCUBY documents (n = 20), including policy briefs, interim reports, research outputs, and consortium meeting notes.
Results
Roadmap elements differed according to priority needs, features of the (health) systems, and partly reflected the position of the SCUBY research team within each country. Common cross-country elements were: task-shifting to patients themselves, nurses and community health workers; strengthening monitoring and evaluation; and creating an enabling environment for ICP implementation.
Discussion
Scale-up of complex interventions requires continuous engagement of multiple stakeholders and contextualization of action plans. The linkage of research teams with key implementation stakeholders and policy makers creates change-teams, allowing advancement from formative research to implementation of roadmap strategies and full scale-up in due time.
Conclusion
The development processes and contents of the roadmaps provided essential and reciprocal learnings. These help shape future policy dialogues and best practices to tackle chronic disease in each participating country.