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Comparative genomic and physiological characterization of a lichen-associated Streptacidiphilus strain from Antarctica
Early fault detection in gearboxes via dynamic principal component analysis–driven multivariate statistical process control
Early detection of gearbox failure is essential due to their critical role in industrial operations. Therefore, effective condition monitoring techniques are required to identify incipient deviations in operational behaviour. Therefore, this study proposes a dynamic principal component analysis methodology, integrated within a multivariate statistical process control framework, to detect progressive failures in spur gearboxes from vibration signals. The signal is segmented into sub-windows and characterised using condition indicators in the time and frequency domains. Diagnosis is based on Hotelling’s T 2 statistic and the squared prediction error, which define statistical control limits to discriminate between normal and failure conditions. Empirical validation uses an experimental dataset covering combinations of load, speed, and failure severity. The results demonstrate high sensitivity to progressive degradation and accurate early-stage detection, supporting the multivariate statistical process control approach with dynamic principal component analysis as an effective tool for diagnosis and predictive maintenance in high-criticality industrial environments.
Reduction of energy consumption and enhancement of hydrogen yield from E-waste via plasma gasification process with waste heat recovery system
Factors influencing N95 respirator use among healthcare workers in a TB specialized hospital, Bangladesh
Background Healthcare workers (HCWs) in public tertiary care hospitals, including chest diseases hospitals, experience a substantial tuberculosis (TB) burden, with 40−48% demonstrating baseline TB infection and incidence rates of 4.2–4.8 per 100 person-years, indicating occupational exposure in high TB-burden settings. TB infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines recommend that HCWs wear N95 respirators in pulmonary TB patient areas. To ensure appropriate use of N95 respirators by HCWs, an understanding of the barriers and facilitators associated with respiratory protection is needed. This study explored factors influencing N95 respirator use and reuse among HCWs in a TB-specialized tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods Between December 1, 2013, and June 05, 2014, a field team consisting of five social scientists conducted a qualitative study to explore the factors influencing N95 respirator use and reuse among HCWs in a TB-specialized, tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. We initially conducted a day long training workshop with 28 HCWs (doctors, nurses and ancillary workers) working in two multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB inpatient wards on the proper use, reuse, and storage of respirators. Participants also underwent N95 respirator fit testing and received a two-month supply (60 days) of N95 respirators. We also conducted observations with 22 HCWs before and after the workshop to document use of N95 respirators and in-depth interviews with the 24 HCWs to explore TB risk perceptions, and the reported barriers and facilitators of N95 respirator uses. Results At baseline, N95 respirators use was high among nurses (8/9), whereas none of the doctors and ancillary workers used N95 respirators. Post-workshop observation findings showed that the use of N95 respirators remained highest among nurses (11/12) compared to doctors (1/5) and ancillary workers (2/5). Perception that N95 prevents germs from entering the body, the feeling of increased confidence when wearing them and concerns about MDR-TB were identified as key motivators for respirator use. In contrast, misperceptions that long-term exposure to TB confer immunity against infection, discomfort, lack of motivation from senior colleagues, pain, difficulties in accessing respirators, communication challenges, fogging of spectacles and cumbersome storage for reuse were identified as the main barriers to consistent N95 respirator use by HCWs. Conclusion N95 respirator use among HCWs was feasible but varied substantially across professional groups, with consistently higher uptake among nurses. Persistent behavioral, structural, and institutional barriers limited consistent use. Addressing misconceptions, improving access and storage systems, strengthening leadership support, and reinforcing institutional policies may enhance adherence to respirator use in high TB-burden settings.
Oxidative Damage Fine‐Tunes G‐Quadruplex Structures in Human Gene Promoters
ABSTRACT Oxidative damage can convert guanine (G) into 8‐oxoguanine ( O8 G), resulting in altered gene expression and genome instability. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Herein, we show that the NEIL3 gene proximal promoter sequence forms a mixture of parallel and hybrid G‐quadruplex structures ( NEIL3 ‐G4s), exhibiting intrinsic structural polymorphism. Strikingly, site‐specific O8 G modifications significantly reduce this polymorphism, promoting the stabilization of either the parallel or the (3+1) hybrid‐1 G4 topology. A single G‐to‐ O8 G substitution is sufficient to trigger a clear structural transition from the parallel to the (3+1) hybrid‐1 G4, highlighting the profound impact of O8 G on G4‐mediated epigenetic regulation. We have determined the NMR solution structures of both native and O8 G‐modified NEIL3 ‐G4s, providing mechanistic insights into how O8 G induces specific G4 structural rearrangements. Functional analysis demonstrates that both forms of NEIL3 ‐G4s can form in extended DNA contexts and inhibit DNA polymerase activity. Under oxidative stress, the formation of NEIL3 ‐G4s correlates with elevated NEIL3 gene expression, suggesting that they play a role as sensors of oxidative damage and function as molecular switches for gene upregulation. Collectively, these findings underscore the crucial role of O8 G‐induced G4 structural plasticity in the cellular response to oxidative stress and in regulating gene expression.
Post-Chornobyl thyroid papillary carcinomas display distinct past 131I exposure and radiation-associated carcinogenesis molecular signatures at low and high thyroid doses
The association between life events and mental health among adults in Java, Indonesia: Investigating the moderating effects by education, asset index, and rural-urban area of residence
Life events (LE) are significant experiences (e.g., bereavement, illness, or job loss) that require psychological adjustment and may contribute to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Indonesia faces a rising burden of these conditions, yet limited research has explored their relationship with LE in its diverse socio-cultural context. This study examines the associations between LE, depression, and anxiety among adults in Java, Indonesia. It further explores how these associations vary by education, asset ownership (proxy of household wealth) index, and rural-urban area of residence. We used cross-sectional data from the baseline of the Sustainable Treatment and Care for Anxiety and Depression (STAND) 2023 longitudinal household survey. The study included 19,186 participants aged 18 years and older. Depression and anxiety were assessed using the CES-D-10 and GAD-7 scales, respectively, both validated for this population. LE was measured using the Social Readjustment Rating Scale, which categorises exposure into low, moderate, and high-stress levels over the past 12 months. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the associations, adjusting for demographic, socioeconomic, lifestyle, and health-related factors. Both primary models (main effects only) and interaction models (to explore moderation) were fitted. Overall, 4.4% of respondents reported depressive symptoms, and 8.5% reported anxiety. In the primary models, experiencing moderate or high levels of LE was significantly associated with depression (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: 2.6–3.6; AOR = 10.2, 95% CI: 8.0–12.9, respectively) and anxiety (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI: 2.5–3.1; AOR = 6.5, 95% CI: 5.3–8.0, respectively). These associations were moderated by socioeconomic factors. Higher education, a higher asset index, and urban residence were associated with lower odds of anxiety and depression. Interventions should prioritise mental health literacy and access to care, particularly in rural and socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.
Protein yogurt and whey protein produce comparable muscle gains, but divergent microbiome shifts during strength training in older adults
Trypanosomatid species infecting bats in the Fiocruz Atlantic Forest Biological Station, an urban forested fragment in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Trypanosomatids (Protozoa; Kinetoplastea) are obligate parasitic protozoans that infect a wide range of vertebrate hosts, including bats – the only volant mammals, widely distributed across the globe. In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Atlantic Forest remnants persist within urban landscapes, including the Fiocruz Atlantic Forest Biological Station (EFMA), a unit embedded in a highly urbanized environment. Between 2013 and 2019 (excluding 2015), field surveys were conducted in four landscape physiognomies with different degrees of environmental degradation. Blood and other tissue samples (spleen, liver and skin) were collected from bats to investigate the infection and diversity of trypanosomatid infections. A total of 270 bats were examined through parasitological techniques (fresh blood examination and hemoculture) and molecular diagnosis through phylogenetic analysis. Overall, 24.1% (n = 65) of bats tested positive for trypanosomatids. Molecular identification revealed a diverse assemblage of species, including Crithidia mellificae , Trypanosoma cruzi (DTUs TcI and TcII), Trypanosoma dionisii , Trypanosoma sp. Neobat 1 and 4, Trypanosoma lainsoni, and Trypanosoma rangeli A. Our findings underscore the critical role of direct molecular detection in tissue samples for uncovering infections missed by traditional parasitological methods, particularly those caused by uncultivable species/genotypes such as Trypanosoma sp. Neobat 1 and 4. The recurrent detection of T. dionisii , T. cruzi DTU TcI and T. rangeli A, reinforces their sustained circulation in bats from this urban-forest interface. Moreover, the presence of C. mellificae , traditionally regarded as a monoxenous species, adds new bat hosts to the already extant list of mammal species recognized as able to harbor this parasite. Notably, this study provided the first record of T. lainsoni and T. cruzi DTU TcI in mammals from the EFMA, highlighting a surprising richness of trypanosomatids in this small, and human-impacted forest remnant. The high diversity of trypanosomatid communities infecting bats, recognized as habitat-resilient hosts, reinforces the complexity of the sylvatic transmission of those parasites that may not be disrupted even under strong anthropogenic pressures.
Impact frequency and interval modulate brain network outcomes in a rat model of repetitive mild traumatic brain injury
Physical and microbial root-zone factors underlying tomato wilt in long-term biofloc aquaponic systems
Biofloc aquaponics presents a sustainable approach to soilless crop production, but its long-term reliability is often compromised by root-zone disorders such as root rot and wilt. This study evaluated four media-based biofloc aquaponic designs over two years (encompassing two full fish production cycles and four tomato growing seasons) to investigate system failures, including plant wilting, necrosis, and the underlying physical and microbial stressors. In the first year, plant wilt was primarily linked to poor drainage and sludge accumulation in coupled systems, resulting in root-zone hypoxia and a 21% reduction in yield compared to decoupled systems. In response, system modifications were implemented in the second year, including the implementation of radial flow settlers upstream of filters and timer-controlled pumps, which improved oxygenation and solids management. These interventions reversed previous trends: coupled systems had > 45% higher yields than decoupled systems. However, wilting still occurred in a subset of plants during the second year. Root-zone analysis showed that wilted plants exhibited 65% lower dissolved oxygen levels than non-wilted, and a tendency for higher relative abundance of potential pathogens and parasitic organisms ( Pythium graminicola and Xiphinema rives ). In contrast, healthy root zones were associated with greater abundance of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), particularly taxa with known biocontrol potential. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining oxygen-rich root environments and effective solids management to support long-term aquaponic productivity.
Numerical modeling to assess the hydrodynamic behavior of the Gallinas River in San Luis Potosí under atypical hydrometeorological conditions
Understanding travel intention formation in government culture and tourism TikTok accounts: An integration of the SOR model and emotion appraisal theory
This study draws on the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model and emotion appraisal theory to examine how information quality and service quality of government culture and tourism TikTok accounts are linked to audience travel intentions. It identifies mediating mechanisms involving destination image perception and positive emotions. Using survey data from 406 respondents, a structural equation model is constructed for analysis. The results indicate that information quality is positively associated with audience travel intentions and is also linked to it indirectly through destination image perception and positive emotions. Service quality is not directly associated with audience travel intentions but is indirectly associated with them through destination image perception and positive emotions. In addition, both information quality and service quality are related to audience travel intentions through the serial mediation of destination image perception and positive emotions. Based on these findings, the study suggests an operational approach that emphasizes enhancing information quality, integrating intelligent service-interaction functions, and adopting an operational framework that moves from cognitive construction to emotional reinforcement. These suggestions provide practical insights for social media marketing in government tourism and culture departments.
Sustainable corrosion inhibition of carbon steel in hydrochloric acid using repurposed expired clarithromycin as a reverse of mining
Abstract Corrosion of carbon steel in acidic environments represents a major challenge in many industrial operations, particularly during pickling, acidizing, mining, and cleaning processes. In this study, expired clarithromycin (CTM) was evaluated as a green corrosion inhibitor for carbon steel in 1.0 M hydrochloric acid using complementary chemical (weight loss and hydrogen evolution) and electrochemical (potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) techniques. Surface morphology and composition were analyzed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The corrosion rate decreased progressively with increasing CTM concentration, with inhibition efficiency exceeding 90% at 5 mM and 298 K. The protective effect is attributed to the adsorption of CTM molecules onto the steel surface, forming a stable and durable barrier. Thermodynamic analysis revealed negative ΔG° ads values ranging from − 33.88 to − 37.58 kJ mol⁻ ¹ , indicating spontaneous adsorption via a mixed physicochemical mechanism. A decrease in the adsorption equilibrium constant ( K ads ) at elevated temperatures suggested partial desorption of pre-adsorbed molecules. In contrast, high adsorption energy values confirmed strong interactions between CTM and the metal surface. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of repurposing expired pharmaceuticals as effective and environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitors. The study highlights a sustainable and cost-effective strategy for protecting carbon steel in acidic media, aligning with green chemistry principles and offering a practical approach to pharmaceutical waste valorization in corrosion inhibition technology.
The relationship between personal COVID-19 vaccination decisions and cattle vaccination practices: Evidence from a survey of South Dakota beef producers
Objectives Vaccination was a contentious issue during the COVID-19 pandemic, and experts warned about a possibility of a spillover effect—negative attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines might start affecting attitudes toward other vaccines. We evaluated the correlates between beef producers’ personal vaccination decisions and cattle vaccination practices. Methods Using publicly available information from USDA payment program participants, we invited 6,238 beef producers in South Dakota to participate in an online survey. The survey was conducted in October 2024 and measured the use of established cattle vaccines, attitudes toward a cattle vaccine for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), and personal COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to analyze the data. Results We received responses from 339 beef producers. We found that 94% of participants regularly vaccinate their cattle with established vaccines, while 24% were likely to vaccinate their cattle for HPAI when a vaccine becomes available. Over 44% of respondents never received a COVID-19 vaccination. Regression analysis results showed no association between COVID-19 vaccine uptake and the use of established cattle vaccines (aOR: 1.45, 95% CI: 0.76–2.74) and a positive and statistically significant association with the likelihood of using HPAI vaccine in cattle (aOR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.41–2.26). Conclusion Overall, we found partial evidence for the presence of a relationship. It is plausible that beef producers who have not received a COVID-19 vaccination might be less likely to adopt new cattle vaccines in the future.
Quantitative analysis of airflow velocity distribution and average wind speed line localization in irregular mine roadways
Abuse and coping strategies among older adults (above 60 years) in Lira district, Northern Uganda: A mixed-methods study protocol
Background There is a growing number of older adults facing a wide range of abuses by their caregivers and the public. However, there is not only limited information on the outcomes of such abuses but also on the ways that these people employ to cope when faced with such abuses. In this study, we intend to assess the different forms of abuse, estimate their level of abuse, and explore the coping strategies among older adults through a community-based study in a rural setting in northern Uganda. Methods The study will employ a community-based, explanatory sequential design. The study will be conducted in Lira district, Lango subregion, Northern Uganda. According to recent (2023) estimates, Lira district has a population of 19,000 older adults (aged over 60) out of a total population of 655,173 people. A sample of 330 participants will be selected by systematic random sampling and interviewed using a researcher-administered questionnaire. Questions on background characteristics, forms of abuse, and copping strategies will be asked. Qualitative data on the experiences of the older adults will be collected through in-depth interview guides to supplement the questionnaire data. The main study outcome is abuse, which will be assessed using the Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test (HS-EAST). Data collection will commence in April 2025. The STATA version 17 software will be utilized to perform statistical analysis at univariate, bivariate, and multivariate levels to establish levels of abuse and associated factors. Statistical significance will be set at 5% with a confidence interval of 95%. Qualitative data will be transcribed verbatim and analyzed manually through the thematic method of analysis. The study has obtained approval from the Lira University Research Ethics Committee (LUREC-2023–24). Discussion Understanding and recognizing that the elderly suffer harassment, violence, insults, abandonment, isolation, and loneliness is crucial to responding effectively to this phenomenon. Researchers can gain insights into the specific challenges faced by older adults and develop appropriate interventions for prevention and support to improve the wellbeing of older adults, and their families.
Determination of the Florfenicol drug solubility in supercritical CO2 and thermodynamic modeling by PR EoS/vdW and density-based correlations
Receipt of healthcare provider advice to quit tobacco use among Indian men
Introduction Healthcare provider (HCP) advice to quit smoking is an essential component of smoking cessation interventions. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is a periodic health survey of the Indian population. In this cross-sectional analysis we compared NFHS 2015−16 to NFHS 2019−21, and examined the prevalence of the HCP advice to quit tobacco and its associated factors among male cigarette and bidi users. Methods The analytic sample included those who had a HCP visit in the past 12 months. We defined quit advice as receiving any advice to quit smoking from a HCP in the last 12 months (“HCP advice to quit”). We compared sociodemographic characteristics of participants between NFHS-4 and 5. We pooled both samples to conduct multivariate logistic regression analysis for the binary outcome of HCP advice to quit, and examined sociodemographic (age, education, caste, occupation), lifestyle and environmental (smoking frequency, alcohol consumption, second hand smoke exposure), health (non-communicable disease diagnosis), and healthcare use (oral examination, health insurance coverage) factors associated with this outcome. Results Among cigarette and bidi users visiting a HCP, advice to quit significantly improved from NFHS-4 (54.2%) to NFHS-5 (56.7%) (p < 0.025). Being 45−54 years of age (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.47-1.89), having a non-communicable disease diagnosis (AOR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.53-2.12), and smoking >10 cigarettes/bidi per day (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.29-1.60) were significantly associated with HCP advice to quit. Individuals from Scheduled Tribes were less likely to receive HCP advice to quit (AOR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.50-0.71). Conclusions While HCP advice to quit increased from NFHS-4 to NFHS-5, it was limited to those who fit the risk factor profile of a middle-aged male with non-communicable diseases. Although the study is limited by self-reported cross sectional data and survey-item differences between NFHS rounds, our findings present a pressing need for interventions to increase HCP advice to quit to other demographics of men who smoke.