bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Type VI Secretion System Accessory Protein TagAB-5 Promotes Burkholderia pseudomallei Pathogenicity in Human Microglia
Authors: Lohitthai Sanisa , Rungruengkitkun Amporn , Jitprasutwit Niramol , Kong-Ngoen Thida , Duangurai Taksaon , Tandhavanant Sarunporn , Sukphopetch Passanesh , Chantratita Narisara , Indrawattana Nitaya , Pumirat Pornpan 
Published: October 2023

Central nervous system (CNS) melioidosis caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei is being increasingly reported. Because of the high mortality associated with CNS melioidosis, understanding the underlying mechanism of B. pseudomallei pathogenesis in the CNS needs to be intensively investigated to develop better therapeutic strategies against this deadly disease. The type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a multiprotein machine that uses a spring-like mechanism to inject effectors into target cells to benefit the infection process. In this study, the role of the T6SS accessory protein TagAB-5 in B. pseudomallei pathogenicity was examined using the human microglial cell line HCM3, a unique resident immune cell of the CNS acting as a primary mediator of inflammation. We constructed B. pseudomallei tagAB-5 mutant and complementary strains by the markerless allele replacement method. The effects of tagAB-5 deletion on the pathogenicity of B. pseudomallei were studied by bacterial infection assays of HCM3 cells. Compared with the wild type, the tagAB-5 mutant exhibited defective pathogenic abilities in intracellular replication, multinucleated giant cell formation, and induction of cell damage. Additionally, infection by the tagAB-5 mutant elicited a decreased production of interleukin 8 (IL-8) in HCM3, suggesting that efficient pathogenicity of B. pseudomallei is required for IL-8 production in microglia. However, no significant differences in virulence in the Galleria mellonella model were observed between the tagAB-5 mutant and the wild type. Taken together, this study indicated that microglia might be an important intracellular niche for B. pseudomallei, particularly in CNS infection, and TagAB-5 confers B. pseudomallei pathogenicity in these cells.
Yellow Field Pea Protein (Pisum sativum L.): Extraction Technologies, Functionalities, and Applications
Authors: Asen Nancy D. , Aluko Rotimi E. , Martynenko Alex , Utioh Alphonsus , Bhowmik Pankaj 
Published: October 2023

Yellow field peas (Pisum sativum L.) hold significant value for producers, researchers, and ingredient manufacturers due to their wealthy composition of protein, starch, and micronutrients. The protein quality in peas is influenced by both intrinsic factors like amino acid composition and spatial conformations and extrinsic factors including growth and processing conditions. The existing literature substantiates that the structural modulation and optimization of functional, organoleptic, and nutritional attributes of pea proteins can be obtained through a combination of chemical, physical, and enzymatic approaches, resulting in superior protein ingredients. This review underscores recent methodologies in pea protein extraction aimed at enhancing yield and functionality for diverse food systems and also delineates existing research gaps related to mitigating off-flavor issues in pea proteins. A comprehensive examination of conventional dry and wet methods is provided, in conjunction with environmentally friendly approaches like ultrafiltration and enzyme-assisted techniques. Additionally, the innovative application of hydrodynamic cavitation technology in protein extraction is explored, focusing on its prospective role in flavor amelioration. This overview offers a nuanced understanding of the advancements in pea protein extraction methods, catering to the interests of varied stakeholders in the field.
HbBIN2 Functions in Plant Cold Stress Resistance through Modulation of HbICE1 Transcriptional Activity and ROS Homeostasis in Hevea brasiliensis
Authors: Qiu Yi-Min , Guo Jing , Jiang Wei-Zeng , Ding Jia-Hui , Song Ru-Feng , Zhang Jian-Long , Huang Xi , Yuan Hong-Mei 
Published: October 2023

Cold stress poses significant limitations on the growth, latex yield, and ecological distribution of rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis). The GSK3-like kinase plays a significant role in helping plants adapt to different biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the functions of GSK3-like kinase BR-INSENSITIVE 2 (BIN2) in Hevea brasiliensis remain elusive. Here, we identified HbBIN2s of Hevea brasiliensis and deciphered their roles in cold stress resistance. The transcript levels of HbBIN2s are upregulated by cold stress. In addition, HbBIN2s are present in both the nucleus and cytoplasm and have the ability to interact with the INDUCER OF CBF EXPRESSION1(HbICE1) transcription factor, a central component in cold signaling. HbBIN2 overexpression in Arabidopsis displays decreased tolerance to chilling stress with a lower survival rate and proline content but a higher level of electrolyte leakage (EL) and malondialdehyde (MDA) than wild type under cold stress. Meanwhile, HbBIN2 transgenic Arabidopsis treated with cold stress exhibits a significant increase in the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Further investigation reveals that HbBIN2 inhibits the transcriptional activity of HbICE1, thereby attenuating the expression of C-REPEAT BINDING FACTOR (HbCBF1). Consistent with this, overexpression of HbBIN2 represses the expression of CBF pathway cold-regulated genes under cold stress. In conclusion, our findings indicate that HbBIN2 functions as a suppressor of cold stress resistance by modulating HbICE1 transcriptional activity and ROS homeostasis.
Molecular Survey of Rickettsia raoultii in Ticks Infesting Livestock from Pakistan with Notes on Pathogen Distribution in Palearctic and Oriental Regions
Authors: Shehla Shehla , Almutairi Mashal M. , Alouffi Abdulaziz , Tanaka Tetsuya , Chang Shun-Chung , Chen Chien-Chin , Ali Abid 
Published: October 2023

Ticks are hematophagous ectoparasites that transmit different pathogens such as Rickettsia spp. to domestic and wild animals as well as humans. Genetic characterizations of Rickettsia spp. from different regions of Pakistan are mostly based on one or two genetic markers and are confined to small sampling areas and limited host ranges. Therefore, this study aimed to molecularly screen and genetically characterize Rickettsia spp. in various tick species infesting camels, sheep, and goats. All the collected tick specimens were morphologically identified, and randomly selected tick species (148) were screened molecularly for the detection of Rickettsia spp. by amplifying three rickettsial DNA fragments, namely, the citrate-synthase gene (gltA), outer-membrane protein A (ompA), and outer-membrane protein B (ompB). After examining 261 hosts, 161 (61.7%) hosts were found infested by 564 ticks, including 287 (50.9%) nymphs, 171 (30.3%) females, and 106 (18.8%) males in five districts (Kohat, Dera Ismail Khan, Lower Dir, Bajaur, and Mansehra). The highest occurrence was noted for Hyalomma dromedarii (number = 72, 12.8%), followed by Haemaphysalis sulcata (n = 70, 12.4%), Rhipicephalus turanicus (n = 64, 11.3%), Rhipicephalus microplus (n = 55, 9.7%), Haemaphysalis cornupunctata (n = 49, 8.7%), Hyalomma turanicum (n = 48, 8.5%), Hyalomma isaaci (n = 45, 8.0%), Haemaphysalis montgomeryi (n = 44, 7.8%), Hyalomma anatolicum (n = 42, 7.5%), Haemaphysalis bispinosa (n = 38, 6.7%), and Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides (n = 37, 6.6%). A subset of 148 ticks were tested, in which eight (5.4%) ticks, including four Hy. turanicum, two Ha. cornupunctata, one Ha. montgomeryi, and one Ha. bispinosa, were found positive for Rickettsia sp. The gltA, ompA, and ompB sequences revealed 100% identity and were phylogenetically clustered with Rickettsia raoultii reported in China, Russia, USA, Turkey, Denmark, Austria, Italy, and France. Additionally, various reports on R. raoultii from Palearctic and Oriental regions were summarized in this study. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report regarding genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of R. raoultii from Pakistan. Further studies to investigate the association between Rickettsia spp. and ticks should be encouraged to apprise effective management of zoonotic consequences.
Patients’ and GPs’ views and expectations of home monitoring with a pulse oximeter: a mixed-methods process evaluation of a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Smit Karin , Venekamp Roderick P , Geersing Geert-Jan , Rutten Frans H , Schoonhoven Lisette , Zwart Dorien LM 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundResearch on how home monitoring with a pulse oximeter is executed and experienced by patients with an acute illness such as COVID-19 and their GPs is scarce.AimTo examine the process of structured home monitoring with a pulse oximeter for patients with COVID-19, their caregivers, and their GPs.Design and settingThis was a mixed-method process evaluation alongside a pilot feasibility randomised controlled trial. Patients drawn from a general practice setting, with COVID-19, and aged ≥40 years with cardiovascular comorbidities were included.MethodQuantitative trial data from 21 intervention group participants (age 63.2 years) were used, plus qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 15 patients (age 62.9 years), eight informal caregivers, and 10 GPs.ResultsAdherence to the intervention was very high; 97.6% of protocolised peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurements in the first 14 days until admission to hospital were recorded (677/694, median daily per patient 2.7). Three identified themes from the interviews were: (a) user-friendliness of home monitoring: easy use of the pulse oximeter and patient preference of a three times daily measurement scheme; (b) patient empowerment: pulse oximeter use enhanced patient self-assurance and empowered patients and informal caregivers in disease management; and (c) added value to current clinical decision making. GPs perceived the pulse oximeter as a useful diagnostic tool and did not experience any additional workload. They felt more secure with remote monitoring with a pulse oximeter than only phone-based monitoring, but emphasised the need to keep an overall view on the patient’s condition.ConclusionStructured home monitoring by pulse oximetry supports patients and their informal caregivers in managing, and GPs in monitoring, acute COVID-19 disease. It appears suitable for use in acutely ill patients in general practice.
A paradox of problems in accessing general practice: a qualitative participatory case study
Authors: Voorhees Jennifer , Bailey Simon , Waterman Heather , Checkland Kath 
Published: October 2023

BackgroundDespite longstanding problems of access to general practice, attempts to understand and address the issues do not adequately include perspectives of the people providing or using care, nor do they use established theories of access to understand complexity.AimTo understand problems of access to general practice from the multiple perspectives of service users and staff using an applied theory of access.Design and settingA qualitative participatory case study in an area of northwest England.MethodA community-based participatory approach was used with qualitative interviews, focus groups, and observation to understand perspectives about accessing general practice. Data were collected between October 2015 and October 2016. Inductive and abductive analysis, informed by Levesqueet al’s theory of access, allowed the team to identify complexities and relationships between interrelated problems.ResultsThis study presents a paradox of problems in accessing general practice, in which the demand on general practice both creates and hides unmet need in the population. Data show how reactive rules to control demand have undermined important aspects of care, such as continuity. The layers of rules and decreased continuity create extra work for practice staff, clinicians, and patients. Complicated rules, combined with a lack of capacity to reach out or be flexible, leave many patients, including those with complex and/or unrecognised health needs, unable to navigate the system to access care. This relationship between demand and unmet need exacerbates existing health inequities.ConclusionUnderstanding the paradox of access problems allows for different targets for change and different solutions to free up capacity in general practice to address the unmet need in the population.
Artifact side peaks in saturated absorption spectroscopy caused by inappropriate lock-in amplification
Authors: Matsuoka Leo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Saturated absorption spectroscopy is a powerful technique that provides valuable information about gas-phase atomic targets, including not only the precise positions of transitions but also the effects of velocity-changing collisions, which manifest as changes in the shape of the peaks. However, using a lock-in amplifier inappropriately can generate artifact side peaks, potentially leading to a misinterpretation of results. To investigate the emergence of these artifacts, we conducted numerical calculations based on the basic Lambert–Beer’s law. Our model reproduced the artifact side peaks and revealed that these artifacts become more significant as the transmittance of the probe laser decreases.
Cu2ZnSnS4 formation by laser annealing in controlled atmosphere
Authors: Shimamune Yosuke , Nagumo Reiya , Jimbo Kazuo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Laser annealing is an attractive process to form high-quality semiconductor films because of localized annealing area and short annealing time. In a previous study, a Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) polycrystalline semiconductor film was realized using laser annealing in air as a light absorption layer for solar cells, although the crystallization was not sufficient in comparison with CZTS formed by the conventional thermal sulfurization process. In this study, we demonstrate a newly developed gas-atmosphere-controlled laser annealing system. A Cu–Zn–Sn–S-based precursor was formed, followed by laser annealing of the system. Laser annealing in air, Ar, and 5% H2S/Ar gas was performed to investigate the influence of the gas species on the crystallization of the precursor. A 5% H2S/Ar atmosphere promoted the crystallization of CZTS with the suppression of S desorption and Cu sulfide formation, while air and Ar atmospheres allowed the formation of Cu sulfide.
Effect of ytterbium on hardness and color of titanium nitride thin films
Authors: Bin Onn Khairul Abrar , Sawaya Shu , Suzuki Tsuneo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Yb mononitride (YbN) has a B1 (NaCl-type) structure similar to the structure of titanium nitride (TiN), which makes it a candidate for use in new hard coating materials via solid-solution hardening. Ternary system (Ti–Yb–N) thin films with various Yb contents were prepared on Si substrates by pulsed laser deposition, and compositional analysis confirmed that the resultant films contained the expected elements. Phase identification revealed that the ternary nitride (Ti1−x
Yb
x
)N thin films were all single-phase thin films that comprised YbN in TiN as a solid solution in the form of a B1- (Ti1−x
Yb
x
)N phase. Although the hardness of the Ti–Yb–N thin films could be increased to a certain degree compared with that of a pure TiN thin film, the improvement was not significant. A change in the optical properties of the (Ti1−x
Yb
x
)N thin films was indicated by a change in their color from gold to copper to silver with increasing x. This effect could make such thin films suitable for use as decorative coatings that are resistant to oxidation.
Numerical calculation of thermoreflectance coefficient of c-Si for wavelengths of 200–800 nm and temperatures of 300–500 K
Authors: Shimofuri Masaki , Murakami Taichi , Miyake Shugo , Banerjee Amit , Hirotani Jun , Tsuchiya Toshiyuki 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
In this paper, the thermoreflectance (TR) coefficient of c-Si is numerically calculated over the wavelength range of 200–800 nm and the temperature range of 300–500 K using a complex permittivity model that considers interband transitions and free carriers. The calculated results are in good agreement with literature values, and it is found that the temperature dependence of the TR coefficient is almost negligible at wavelengths above 500 nm. On the other hand, in the wavelength range of 200–500 nm, the TR coefficient depends strongly on the wavelength, and the temperature stability also changes significantly depending on the wavelength. This suggests that the wavelength of the probe light for TR measurement should be appropriately selected to realize high sensitivity and temperature stability, considering the constraints of the optical system and the temperature range of the sample.
Demonstration of multi-active region p-down green LEDs with high quantum efficiency
Authors: Rahman Sheikh Ifatur , Armitage Robert , Rajan Siddharth 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Longer wavelength emitters such as green LEDs display a pronounced efficiency drop at higher current densities, resulting in relatively low wall-plug efficiency (WPE). Multi-active region approach can improve the WPE significantly and tackle the “green gap” challenge. This work reports multi-active region p-down LEDs with high external efficiency operating entirely in the green wavelength. Devices were developed using p-down topology, where the PN junction is oriented such that electric fields from depletion and built-in polarization dipoles are aligned. Ga-polar multi-active region green LEDs with excellent voltage and external quantum efficiency scaling, and significantly higher WPE is demonstrated in this work.
Coexistence of Neonatal Bartter Syndrome and Congenital Cutis Laxa, in which a new mutation in SLC12A1 was identified
Authors: İşleyen Fatih , Ulubaş Işık Dilek , Kavurt Ayşen Sumru , Bayram Arslan , Baş Ahmet Yağmur , Demirel Nihal 
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Neonatal Bartter Syndrome (NBS) is an extremely rare congenital chronic renal tubular transport disorder characterized by preterm birth, polyhydramnios, polyuria, salt wasting, and severe dehydration. Congenital Cutis Laxa (CCL) is a rare disease characterized by loss of skin flexibility and laxity, and atypical facial appearance.
Case Presentation: A 1290-gram female baby at 30+6 weeks of gestation was hospitalized due to premature birth and respiratory distress. During physical examination, an atypical facial appearance, wrinkles on the forehead, skin laxity, and philtrum were visible as well as a small chin and arachnodactyly in the fingers and toes. The patient displayed metabolic alkalosis in her blood gases. The patient, with an atypical face and current findings submitted her exome for genetic diagnosis. Genetic analysis revealed the presence of homozygous NM_001184832.2:c.2485+5G>A (rs749269268) in SLC12A1, and NBS Type 1 was diagnosed. A novel heterozygous NM_000501.4:c.352G>T, p.Val118Phe (rs781922544) variant was detected in ELN, and CCL syndrome with autosomal dominant inheritance was diagnosed.
Conclusions: The rare co-occurrence of NBS and CCL syndrome in our patient was seen as a mere coincidence. Since this is the first reported case in the literature, it was deemed appropriate to present this case.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE TO ASSESS THE WATER QUALITY IN AQUACULTURE AREA
Authors: Abdul Rahim Muhamad Najih , Awg Hamid Dayang Tiawa , Muhamad Said Mohd Farid , Jamaludin Mohd Najeb , Rozalan Hanif Hafizin 
Published: October 2023

Abstract: Aquaculture has been recognized as a sector that can assist to diversify the Brunei economy from relying on the oil and gas industry. Previous research has indicated that water quality in aquaculture settings is a major limiting factor; thus, it is important to examine and determine the influencing elements that would harm them. However, traditional methods of assessing water quality are unsafe, expensive, labor-intensive; and the sampling measurements may not represent the overall aquaculture areas. Thus, alternative method in collecting the samples is applied using Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). In this paper, the design of an innovative ROV equipped with sensors, cameras, and lighting systems in conducting in-situ measurement of the main water quality parameter are presented. The main objective of this ROV is to increase the safety of humans working in difficult-to-access underwater in obtaining measurements with a probe or to collect samples and analyze them in a laboratory. Temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), nitrate, ammonia, and pH of water are among the assessed parameters. The sensors attached to ROV will take measurements at 15 sample waypoints in existing aquaculture areas. The data gathered may also be utilized to interpret the spatial distribution of measurements in the aquaculture areas. This project is expected to increase the productivity of Brunei aquaculture industry in the new future.
Keywords: Aquaculture; Oil and gas; ROV; Water quality; In-situ measurement
TINJAUAN PENGETAHUAN, SIKAP DAN AMALAN PEKERJA PENGHANTAR MAKANAN DI MALAYSIA TERHADAP JANGKITAN COVID-19
Authors: Mohamad Saleh Mohamad Saifudin , Rahip Nurdiyana Ridzyianty 
Published: October 2023

Abstract: The increase in COVID-19 cases is depressing and threatens the community’s economic, social, and health well-being, notably those serving on the front lines, such as food delivery workers. This study strives to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of food delivery workers in Malaysia regarding COVID-19 infection. Utilizing the Knowledge, Attitude, Practices (KAP) model as a guide, the researcher administered a questionnaire to 173 food delivery workers in Malaysia. The study’s findings reveal that the knowledge of food delivery workers in Malaysia about COVID-19 is at a high level. In addition, the attitude of food delivery workers in Malaysia towards COVID-19 is also very positive. Food delivery workers in Malaysia also have good practices, particularly complying with standard operating procedures (SOP) as recommended by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). The findings of this study are in line with the KAP model, where good knowledge influences good attitudes and practices among food delivery workers in Malaysia toward COVID-19 infection. It is hoped that this study can fill the gap of previous research in social science research related to COVID-19, which is limited and further contributes to the corpus of health communication knowledge in Malaysia.
Keywords: COVID-19, KAP Model, Knowledge, Practice, Malaysia
Abstrak: Peningkatan kes terhadap COVID-19 sememangnya amat membimbangkan dan ianya mengancam kesejahteraan ekonomi, sosial dan kesihatan masyarakat khususnya mereka yang bekerja di barisan hadapan seperti pekerja penghantar makanan. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk meninjau pengetahuan, sikap dan amalan pekerja penghantar makanan di Malaysia terhadap jangkitan COVID-19. Dengan menggunakan model Knowledge, Attitude, Practices (KAP) sebagai panduan, pengkaji telah menggunakan kaedah tinjauan dengan mengedarkan borang soal selidik secara dalam talian terhadap 173 orang pekerja penghantar makanan di Malaysia. Analisis data secara deskriptif dijalankan dengan menggunakan perisian Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.Dapatan kajian menunjukkan pengetahuan pekerja penghantar makanan di Malaysia terhadap COVID-19 adalah pada tahap tinggi. Sikap pekerja penghantar makanan di Malaysia terhadap COVID-19 juga adalah sangat positif dan pekerja penghantar makanan di Malaysia turut mempunyai amalan yang baik terutamanya dalam mematuhi prosedur operasi standard (SOP) seperti yang telah disarankan oleh Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia (KKM). Dapatan kajian ini selari dengan model KAP di mana pengetahuan yang baik mempengaruhi sikap dan amalan yang baik dalam kalangan pekerja penghantar makanan di Malaysia terhadap jangkitan COVID-19. Diharapkan kajian ini dapat mengisi kelompongan kajian lepas dalam aspek kajian berbentuk sains sosial berkaitan COVID-19 yang terhad dan seterusnya menyumbang kepada korpus ilmu komunikasi kesihatan di Malaysia.
Kata Kunci: COVID-19, Model KAP, Pengetahuan, Amalan, Malaysia