bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Sanitation-related Quality of Life index (SanQoL-5) – validity and reliability in rural and urban settings in Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia
Authors: Akter Fouzia , Banze Neiva , Capitine Igor , Chidziwisano Kondwani , Chipungu Jenala , Cubai Catildo , Cumming Oliver , Dreibelbis Robert , Katana Patrick , Manhiça Cremildo , Panulo Mindy , Sharma Anjali , Tafesse Abiy , Tidwell James B. , Viegas Edna , White Blessings , Ross Ian 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background.
1.5 billion people globally lack access to a basic toilet. Progress on sanitation is primarily measured by types of toilets used. Quality of life (QoL) outcomes are valued by users but rarely rigorously measured. The Sanitation-related Quality of Life (SanQoL-5) index uses five simple questions to measure people’s experiences of sanitation-related disgust, disease, privacy, shame, and safety. Developed in urban Mozambique based on the capability approach to welfare economics, it is increasingly being applied in other countries and in rural areas. We aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the SanQoL-5 in predominantly rural sites in Ethiopia, Malawi, and Zambia, and additional urban sites in Mozambique.
Methods.
We implemented cross-sectional surveys in 3,932 households across 4 countries. Variables collected included the SanQoL-5 questions, participants’ weighting of the SanQoL-5 attributes, and fieldworker observations of toilet characteristics. We assessed construct validity by testing for hypothesised associations between SanQoL-5 index values and toilet characteristics. We assessed internal reliability using Cronbach’s alpha, as well as convergent validity and known groups validity. We used item response theory (IRT) to explore the distinctiveness of attribute levels and the extent of information provided by each attribute.
Findings.
We found good evidence for construct validity of SanQoL-5, with support (p < 0.05) for 88% of hypothesised associations. Internal reliability was also good (Cronbach’s alpha 0.83 in pooled data, range 0.73–0.92). Known groups validity was supported by people with higher levels of sanitation service tending to have higher SanQoL-5 index values. IRT analyses found that all attributes provided good information across the construct.
Conclusion.
This evidence from diverse rural and urban settings shows SanQoL-5 can be widely applied in adult populations. Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on toilet characteristics, will require efficient resource allocation informed by people’s sanitation-related experiences.
Examining factors responsible for non-completion of training among apprentices in the informal motor vehicle repair in Nigeria: A capability approach
Authors: Opeyemi Olaitan Olawale , Onyedikachukwu Ike Joshua , Kingsley Udogu , Ariyo Samson Oluwatimilehin 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Informal Apprenticeship training plays a key role in the preparation of skilled workforce in different trades and as a pathway into labour markets. This paper examines the factors responsible for non-completion of training among apprentices in the informal motor vehicle repair in Nigeria using the capability approach. The study employed cross-sectional descriptive survey and the instrument for data collection is focused life stories and in-depth interviews were utilized to obtain data on unofficial apprentices who were unable to complete their training (non-completion). A portion of the in-depth interview was devoted to discussing the backgrounds and demographics of the apprentices that drop out of the program while items were generated in another portion to seek reasons responsible for non-completion of training. 57 non completers selected through purposive and snowballing sampling process among the non completers in the motor vehicle mechanic trade in Nsukka, Industrial site also known as mechanic village where there is concentration of workshops. The non-completers were interviewed through telephone and personal contact .It presents new data on informal motor vehicle mechanic apprenticeship reasons for non-completion which include financial hardships, personal protective equipment not put in place, safety procedures not followed during performing some specific task, Not paying attention to occupational safety and health, poor working environment and harsh conditions, loss of interest in the trade, not been provided with adequate occupational information, being treated as cheap labourers, bullying and external labour market forces.
Feeling with the victim: Empathy for suffering as a job stressor in Internet Child Exploitation Investigation
Authors: Kleineidam Nicolai Johannes , Fischbach Andrea 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Investigating internet child exploitation cases poses unique challenges for law enforcement employees, particularly investigators, who are routinely exposed to traumatic material depicting the suffering of victims. We posit that the primary source of stress in internet child exploitation investigation stems not from the exposure to the material per se, but rather from investigators' empathy for the suffering of the victims depicted in the material. Drawing from the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, our study investigates the relationship between empathy for suffering and the experiences of burnout and posttraumatic stress disorder among investigators in internet child exploitation cases. Additionally, we explore the moderating effect of social support from colleagues on these relationships. In our online study involving 168 investigators of internet child exploitation (90 women), we sought to emphasize the role of empathy for suffering as a key factor in stress reactions. Our findings indicate that, beyond mere exposure, empathy for suffering is positively correlated with posttraumatic stress disorder and burnout (i.e., emotional exhaustion and cynicism). Furthermore, our study provides partial support for the moderating effect of social support from colleagues on investigators' stress responses to both empathy for suffering and exposure. Our findings indicate that empathy for suffering emerges as a central job stressor, while social support serves as a crucial job resource for mitigating this stress in the context of child exploitation investigation. These results carry implications for risk assessment and health promotion within the realm of internet child exploitation investigations, opening up a broad avenue for further research.
Sustained bacterial N2O reduction at acidic pH
Authors: He Guang , Chen Gao , Xie Yongchao , Swift Cynthia , Cha Gyuhyon , Konstantinidis Konstantinos , Radosevich Mark , Löffler Frank 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a climate-active gas with emissions predicted to increase due to agricultural intensification. Microbial reduction of N2O to dinitrogen (N2) is the major consumption process and has been studied extensively at circumneutral pH; however, microbial N2O reduction under acidic conditions is thought to be limited. Many soils have pH values below 5 and soil acidification, a global process accelerated by anthropogenic practices, introduces high uncertainty into N2O emission budgets. We obtained an enrichment culture from an acidic tropical forest soil that robustly reduces N2O to N2 at pH 4.5. Consecutive transfers at pH 4.5 yielded a co-culture and temporal analyses revealed a bimodal growth pattern with a Serratia sp. growing during an initial pyruvate fermentation phase followed by growth of a novel Desulfosporosinus sp. via hydrogenotrophic N2O reduction. The Desulfosporosinus sp. produced (3.1 ± 0.11) × 108cells per mmol of N2O consumed, on par with growth yields reported for clade II N2O reducers at circumneutral pH. Genome analysis identified a clade II nos gene cluster, but an incomplete pathway for sulfate reduction, a hallmark feature of the genusDesulfosporosinus. Physiological characterization and metabolomic reconstruction revealed interspecies nutritional interactions, with the pyruvate fermenting Serratia sp. supplying amino acids as essential growth factors to the hydrogenotrophic Desulfosporosinus sp. The co-culture reduced N2O between pH 4.5 and 6 but not at or above pH 7, contradicting the notion that growth coupled microbial N2O reduction ceases under acidic pH conditions, and highlighting the N2O reduction potential of acidic soils.
Removal of sequencing adapter contamination improves microbial genome databases
Authors: Moeller Andrew , Dillard Brian , Goldman Samantha , Real Madalena , Sprockett Daniel 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Advances in assembling microbial genomes have led to growth of reference genome databases, which have been transformative for applied and basic microbiome research. Here we show that published microbial genome databases from humans, mice, cows, pigs, fish, honeybees, and marine environments contain significant levels of sequencing adapter contamination that systematically reduces assembly quality. By removing the adapter-contaminated ends of contiguous sequences and reassembling, we improve the accuracy and contiguousness of genome assemblies in these databases.
Characteristics and distribution model of wind and wave in Shengsi mussel culture area under the impacts of tropical cyclones
Authors: Wu Zuli , Xiong Minsi , Shi Yongchuang , Song Yunpeng , Dai Yang , Zhang Shengmao 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The primary industry in Shengsi County, Zhejiang Province, China, is the raft-based cultivation of Mytilus coruscus, which is highly sensitive to wind and wave disturbances. This study aims to understand the characteristics of tropical cyclones along Zhejiang's coast, their relation to climate change, and the impact of wind and waves on Shengsi mussel farming during cyclones. Analyzing data from 2000 to 2018, including tropical cyclone paths, wind and wave data, and mussel farming statistics, the research identifies four cyclone path types, with the peak prevalence from July to September. Annual cyclone energy fluctuates, peaking in August. In the cyclone impact zone, the average wind speed is 24.59 m/s. Type D cyclones have the most significant impact. A linear relationship exists between cyclone center distance and wind speed/wave height. Extreme wind speed and wave height follow the Gumbel joint probability distribution. Since 2000, the Shengsi mussel farming area experienced an 11.20-year return period for wind and waves from the strongest cyclone, Muifa. Given the recurrence period of Muifa intensity cyclones in 2020 and the following years, the study recommends disaster preparedness for the Shengsi mussel farming area and emphasizes the role of mutual aid insurance.
Industrial and Pharmaceutical Applications of Microbial Diversity of
Hypersaline Ecology from Lonar Soda Crater
Authors: Bawane Pradip , Deshpande Shirish , Yele Santosh 
Published: January 2024

Abstract:
The unidentified geochemical and physiochemical characteristics of Soda Lakes
across the globe make it a novel reservoir and bring attention to scientific civic for its conceivable
industrial and pharmaceutical applications. In India, in the Maharashtra state, Lonar Lake is
a naturally created Soda Lake by a meteorite impact. Phylogenetic data from this lake explored a
diverse array of microorganisms like haloalkaliphilic bacteria and Archaea. Previously reported
studies postulated the major microbial communities present in this lake ecosystem are Proteobacteria,
Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Cyanobacteria. Furthermore, it also contains Bacteroidetes,
Nitrospirae, and Verrucomicrobia. This lake is also rich in phytoplankton, with the
predominant presence of the Spirulina plantensis. Unique microbial strains from Lonar Lake
ecosystems have fascinated consideration as a source of biological molecules with medicinal,
industrial, and biotechnological potential. Recent literature revealed the isolation of antibioticproducing
bacteria and alkaline proteases-producing alkaliphilic bacterium, as well as novel
species of rare methylotrophs, other bacterial strains involved in producing vital enzymes, and
unique actinomycetes are also reported. It indicates that the novel bacterial assemblage not
reached hitherto may exist in this modified and unique ecology. This comprehensive review
provides information about microbial diversity and its industrial and pharmaceutical interests
that exist in Lonar Lake, which could be the future source of bioactive enzymes, biosurfactants,
and biofuel and also useful in bioremediation. Furthermore, the novel species of microorganisms
isolated from Lonar Lake have applications in the biosynthesis of medicines like antibiotics,
antivirals, antifungals, anti-inflammatory agents, and precursors for synthesising valuable products.
Data consolidated in the present review will cater to the needs of emerging industrial sectors
for their commercial and therapeutic applications.
Precision Genome Editing Techniques in Gene Therapy: Current State
and Future Prospects
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Bhushan Bharat , Kumar Sunil , Singh Supriya , Macadangdang Romulo R. , Pandey Ekta , Varma Ajit Kumar , Kumar Shivendra 
Published: January 2024

Abstract:
Precision genome editing is a rapidly evolving field in gene therapy, allowing for the
precise modification of genetic material. The CRISPR and Cas systems, particularly the CRISPR--
Cas9 system, have revolutionized genetic research and therapeutic development by enabling precise
changes like single-nucleotide substitutions, insertions, and deletions. This technology has the
potential to correct disease-causing mutations at their source, allowing for the treatment of various
genetic diseases. Programmable nucleases like CRISPR-Cas9, transcription activator-like effector
nucleases (TALENs), and zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs) can be used to restore normal gene function,
paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions. However, challenges, such as off-target
effects, unintended modifications, and ethical concerns surrounding germline editing, require careful
consideration and mitigation strategies. Researchers are exploring innovative solutions, such as
enhanced nucleases, refined delivery methods, and improved bioinformatics tools for predicting
and minimizing off-target effects. The prospects of precision genome editing in gene therapy are
promising, with continued research and innovation expected to refine existing techniques and uncover
new therapeutic applications.
Association of COVID-19 and Arterial Stiffness Assessed using
Cardiovascular Index (CAVI)
Authors: Podzolkov Valery , Bragina Anna , Tarzimanova Aida , Vasilyeva Lyubov , Shvedov Ilya , Druzhinina Natalya , Rodionova Yulia , Ishina Tatiana , Akyol Iuliia , Maximova Valentina , Cherepanov Alexandr 
Published: January 2024

Background::
COVID-19 is characterized by an acute inflammatory response with the
formation of endothelial dysfunction and may affect arterial stiffness. Studies of cardio-ankle vascular
index in COVID-19 patients with considered cardiovascular risk factors have not been conducted.

Objective::
The purpose of our study was to assess the association between cardio-ankle vascular
index and COVID-19 in hospitalized patients adjusted for known cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods::
A cross-sectional study included 174 people hospitalized with a diagnosis of moderate
COVID-19 and 94 people without COVID-19. Significant differences in the cardio-ankle vascular
index values measured by VaSera VS - 1500N between the two groups were analyzed using parametric
(Student's t-criterion) and nonparametric (Mann-Whitney) criteria. Independent association
between COVID-19 and an increased cardio-ankle vascular index ≥ 9.0 adjusted for known cardiovascular
risk factors was assessed by multivariate logistic regression.

Results::
There were significantly higher values of the right cardio-ankle vascular index 8.10
[7.00;9.40] and the left cardio-ankle vascular index 8.10 [6.95;9.65] in patients undergoing inpatient
treatment for COVID-19 than in the control group – 7.55 [6.60;8.60] and 7.60 [6.60;8.70], respectively.
A multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for age, hypertension, plasma glucose
level, glomerular filtration rate and diabetes mellitus showed a significant association between
increased cardio-ankle vascular index and COVID-19 (OR 2.41 [CI 1.09;5.30]).

Conclusion::
Hospitalized patients with COVID-19 had significantly higher cardio-ankle vascular
index values compared to the control group. An association between an increased cardio-ankle vascular
index and COVID-19 was revealed, independent of age, hypertension, plasma glucose level,
glomerular filtration rate and diabetes mellitus.
Insight into the Predictive Power of Surrogate Diagnostic Indices for
Identifying Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Hosseinkhani Shaghayegh , Forouzanfar Katayoon , Hadizadeh Nastaran , Razi Farideh , Darzi Somayeh , Bandarian Fatemeh 
Published: January 2024

Background:
This study aimed to assess the diagnostic capability of insulin surrogate
measurements in identifying individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and propose applicable
indices derived from fasting values, particularly in large study populations.

Methods:
Data were collected from the datasets of the Surveillance of Risk Factors of NCDs in
Iran Study (STEPS). MetS was defined based on the National Cholesterol Education Program
(NCEP) criteria. Various insulin surrogate indices, including Homeostasis Model Assessment
(HOMA), Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI), Fasting glucose to insulin
ratio (FGIR), Reynaud, Reciprocal insulin, McAuley, Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance
(METS-IR), Triglyceride-glucose index (TyG), TG/ HDL-C, TG/ BMI, and TG/ WC
ratio were assessed. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess pathologic
conditions and determine the optimal cut-off through the highest score of the Youden index.
Also, Area Under the Curve (AUC) values were established for each index totally and according
to sex, age, and BMI differences.

Results:
The study population consisted of 373 individuals (49.9% women; 75.1% middle age,
39.1% obese, and 27.3% overweight), of whom 117 (31.4%) had MetS. The METS-IR (AUC:
0.856; 95% CI: 0.817-0.895), TG/ HDL-C (AUC: 0.820; 95% CI: 0.775-0.886), TyG (AUC:
0.808; 95% CI: 0.759-0.857), and McAuley (AUC: 0.804; 95% CI: 0.757-0.852) indices provided
the greatest AUC respectively for detection of MetS. The values of AUC for all the indices
were higher in men than women. This trend was consistent after data stratification based on
BMI categories, middle age, and senile individuals.

Conclusion:
The present study indicated that indices of insulin, including METS-IR, TG/HDLC,
TyG, and McAuley, have an equal or better capacity in determining the risk of MetS than
HOMA-IR, are capable of identifying individuals with MetS and may provide a simple approach
for identifying populations at risk of insulin resistance.
Peak Penetration Force during Stabbing of Chest Wall with a Ceremonial
Sword
Authors: Desmoulin Geoffrey T. , Nolette Marc-André , Milner Theodore E. 
Published: January 2024

Background:
The force required for a sword to penetrate the human chest was identified as an important issue for the defense in a case of homicide by stabbing. Previous literature
on penetration force had tested knives but not swords.

Objective:
The objective of the current study was to determine the peak force during penetration
of a surrogate for human tissue with a ceremonial sword.

Methods:
The sword was secured to an MK-10 Tensile Tester and forced to penetrate a pork rib
cut at speeds of 350 mm/min and 1100 mm/min, including both regions of rib and cartilage for
pork ribs without skin or covered with a layer of porcine skin.

Results:
In the case of the pork ribs without skin, the mean peak penetration force at a speed of
350 mm/min was 11.0 N compared to a mean of 10.5 N at a speed of 1100 mm/min. The distributions of peak penetration forces at the two speeds were not significantly different. In the case
of the pork ribs covered with porcine skin, the mean peak penetration force at a speed of 350
mm/min was 50.0 N compared to a mean of 47.6 N at a speed of 1100 mm/min. The distributions
of peak penetration forces at the two speeds were again not significantly different.

Conclusion:
Forces of less than 50 N would be required for a ceremonial sword to penetrate the
tissues of the human chest, although there is a risk of penetration for forces as low as 5 N when
the effect of the porcine skin is not considered. Furthermore, the force required for penetration
did not vary significantly over a three-fold speed of penetration.
Advancements of Lanthanide-doped Phosphors in Solid-state Lighting
Applications
Authors: Etafo Nelson Oshogwue 
Published: January 2024

Abstract:
The challenge of energy conversion and enhancement has been a problem in the world
of lighting technologies as the population and global industrialization grow rapidly. Solid-state
lighting (SSL) has proven to be a better alternative in the illumination industry because of its environmentally friendly and high energy efficiency. Lanthanide-doped phosphors have gained
global attention in SSL because they have versatile applications with enhanced overall performance and luminescence. This review delves into the advancement in lanthanide-doped phosphors for Solid-state lighting (SSL) applications. It discusses the in-depth analysis of how to tailor the crystal lattice design, optimize the host material for emission efficiency, and minimize the
non-radiative pathways. This paper further discusses the lanthanide-doped phosphor composition, strategies to obtain desired emission spectra, and enhanced color rendering index with the
Energy transfer mechanism and the synthesis techniques. This review also addresses 3 processes
for expanding the light spectrum, current challenges, future directions, and emerging trends present in the lanthanide-doped phosphor in Solid-state lighting (SSL) applications.
Protective Properties of Ablated Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles for Cell Cultures under Conditions of Oxidative Stress under Ultraviolet and Ionizing Irradiation
Authors: Pugachevskii M. A. , Mamontov V. A. , Kryukov A. A. , Dodonova S. A. , Artyushkova E. B. , Pikkiev V. A. 
Published: January 2024

Purpose. Study of the protective properties of ablated cerium oxide nanoparticles for cell cultures in an oxidative reaction under ultraviolet and ionizing irradiation.Methods. Cerium dioxide nanoparticles with high antioxidant activity were obtained using laser ablation. Atomic force microscopy was used to characterize ablated cerium dioxide nanoparticles and cells incubated with cerium dioxide nanoparticles. The protective properties of cerium dioxide nanoparticles were studied after 0 (without incubation), 6and 24-hour incubation using the colorimetric MTT test method.Results. Using laser ablation, cerium oxide nanoparticles with a maximum size of up to 50 nm were obtained. The resulting nanoparticles were incubated with BJ TERT cell lines for 6 and 24 hours. The samples were subjected to ultraviolet (UV) and ionizing irradiation in order to reveal the protective properties of CeO2 nanoparticles. Based on the results of the MTT test, it was found that incubation with cerium dioxide nanoparticles has a pronounced protective effect on the BJ TERT cell line. After UV irradiation, 6-hour and 24-hour incubation of cerium oxide nanoparticles with cell culture provides 15±5% and 20±5% more cell survival, respectively, than without particles. After ionizing radiation, the percentage of survival of cells incubated for 24 hours with cerium nanoparticles also increases by 20±5%.Conclusion. This work shows that ablated cerium dioxide nanoparticles have a protective effect on healthy BJ TERT cells. The work shows that cerium oxide nanoparticles are promising antioxidants that can provide a protective effect for cell cultures from ultraviolet and ionizing radiation.