Browse Articles

Molecular cloning and functional verification of chalcone synthase genes from cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in defense against Tetranychus cinnabarinus infestation

Secondary metabolites such as flavonoids play an important role in protecting plants from biological agents such as fungi, pathogens, bacteria and pests. Chalcone synthase (CHS) is the first enzyme in the plant flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, and is also a key enzyme and rate-limiting enzyme in the secondary metabolite production pathway, which has very important physiological significance in plants. Despite extensive characterization in various plants, the functions of CHS in cassava remain unknown. Here, MeCHS1, MeCHS3 and MeCHS5 genes from Manihot esculenta Crantz were isolated and functionally analyzed. The results showed that the over-expression of the three MeCHSs were beneficial to control the further reproduction of Tetranychus cinnabarinus. At the same time, the transfer of MeCHS1, MeCHS3 and MeCHS5 genes can promote the synthesis of more secondary metabolites in Arabidopsis thaliana. Heterologous expression in A. thaliana indicated the presence of different expression levels of the three MeCHSs in defense against T. cinnabarinus infestation. Correlation analysis showed that the expression of MeCHSs were positively correlated with the synthesis of secondary metabolites, and negatively correlated with survival rate of T. cinnabarinus. These results indicate that the different expression levels of MeCHS genes lead to the difference in the synthesis of secondary metabolites, and thus the resistance of A. thaliana to T. cinnabarinus is also different.

Construction of online classroom instructional quality assessment system of university music based on BP neural network

WeNet-RF: An Automatic Classification Model for Financial Reimbursement Budget Items

Accurate classification of budget items is a critical component of financial reimbursement, as it determines the legitimacy and regulatory compliance of financial expenditures. Currently, manual classification of reimbursement budget items faces to two challenges of inefficiency and inaccuracy. This is primarily due to the labor-intensive nature of the task, which increases the likelihood of selecting incorrect categories. To address these challenges, this study proposed a WeNet-Random Forest (WeNet-RF) model, which leverages speech recognition technology (WeNet) and Random Forest (RF) to improve efficiency and classification accuracy. WeNet-RF includes four steps: speech identification, features extraction, items classification, and evaluated model.This study compared WeNet-RF with Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), Logistic Regression (LR) and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN). WeNet-RF was verified by 50 real financial reimbursement records, and the results show that accuracy rate, precision rate, recall rate, and F1 score of WeNet-RF all are 90.77%. The findings provide a robust solution for improving financial management processes, and a reference model to financial management system.

Multimodal representations of transfer learning with snake optimization algorithm on bone marrow cell classification using biomedical histopathological images

Recognizing employees’ contribution to effectiveness and values: A randomized waitlist-controlled trial of operant-based leadership training

To develop and sustain a healthy and efficient work environment, managers need to provide their employees with relevant and useful performance feedback. However, research on leadership training in functional behaviors, such as performance feedback, has yet to demonstrate consistent long-term effectiveness. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term influence of operant-based leadership training on managers’ performance feedback behaviors. Municipality employees (n = 439) responded to a questionnaire four times over a period of 18 months. The employees’ managers were randomized into an experimental and a control group. The managers in the experimental group received managerial behavioral training, while the waitlist control group managers did not. Multilevel growth curve modeling was used for data analysis. The results showed that employees in the experimental group reported a significantly greater improvement in their managers’ performance feedback behaviors compared to employees in the control group (β = 0.30, p = 0.04). Furthermore, the improvement in the experimental group managers’ leadership behaviors had a linear trajectory throughout the 18-month study period, with no significant deceleration in their learning curve (Δχ2(2) = 2.2, p = 0.34). In conclusion, operant-based leadership training can help managers develop their performance feedback behaviors and the effect of such training is persistent over time. The findings imply that leadership training research and practice should strive to integrate operant learning theory and practice in order to improve the long-term effectiveness of leadership training interventions. Positive utility reactions, achieved by shaping leadership behaviors to optimize their fit with the managers’ work context, may be critical for ensuring the enduring effects of leadership training.

Quantifying grating defects in X-ray Talbot-Lau interferometry through a comparative study of two fabrication techniques

Abstract The performance of an X-ray grating interferometry system depends on the geometry and quality of the gratings. Fabrication of micrometer-pitch high-aspect-ratio gold gratings, which are essential for measuring small refraction angles at higher energies, is challenging. The two widely used technologies for manufacturing gratings are based on gold electroplating in polymeric or silicon templates. Here, gratings manufactured by both approaches were inspected using conventional microscopy, X-ray synchrotron radiography, and computed laminography to extract characteristic features of the gratings profile to be modeled accurately. These models were used in a wave-propagation simulation to predict the effects of the gratings’ geometry and defects on the quality of a Talbot-Lau interferometer in terms of visibility and absorption capabilities. The simulated outcomes of grating features produced with both techniques could eventually be observed and evaluated in a table-top Talbot-Lau-Interferometer.

Incidence, associated factors and impact of the post-COVID-19 condition in Brazil: Study protocol of an observational cohort during the Omicron phase

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a significant impact in Brazil, with over 37 million cases and 690,000 deaths. Survivors often experience prolonged symptoms, termed post-COVID-19 condition or long COVID, affecting various aspects of life. Data on post-COVID-19 in Brazil, particularly amid the Omicron variant, are limited. This study aims to address this gap by assessing the incidence, associated factors, and impact of post-COVID-19 in adults infected during the Omicron phase, using the World Health Organization case definition. This Brazilian cohort study involves virtual recruitment and a nested case-control design. Participants from all regions will be recruited through electronic announcements. Inclusion criteria comprise age ≥ 18, Brazilian residency, and confirmed symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. A nested case-control study will compare cognitive domains in post-COVID-19 cognitive dysfunction cases and controls. Data collection will utilize standardized instruments, including the EQ-5D-3L, Lawton & Brody Scale, Barthel Index, and others. Statistical analyses will employ adjusted models for primary and secondary outcomes. The study follows ethical guidelines, with an informed consent process tailored to participant preferences. Confidentiality measures include restricted access and secure electronic data storage. Results will be disseminated in academic forums, peer-reviewed journals, and directly communicated to participants. Authorship criteria align with international standards, and data sharing requests will be evaluated by the steering committee. The study is currently recruiting participants.

Synthesis of NiCo2O4 supported on Chitosan for potential adsorption of copper ions in water samples

Abstract The present work involved the synthesis of nano-spinel oxide, which was subsequently incorporated into chitosan to enhance the adsorption efficiency of Cu(II) from aqueous samples. The chitosan was compared with the modified chitosan (nickel cobaltite@Chitosan) in terms of adsorption performance toward Cu (II) ions. Structural and morphological characterization was investigated using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), which confirms the crystalline structure; scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to reveal surface morphology, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), to examine the nanoscale dispersion, and thermal analysis, to asses the material stability. Various experimental parameters, including pH and catalyst mass loading, were tuned. The adsorption data were found to be best described by Langmuir isotherm, indicating monolayer adsorption. The reaction order was found to obey pseudo-first-order kinetics, suggesting that physisorption controls the process. The synthesized catalyst had a retention efficiency of 92% across three consecutive cycles, demonstrating its potential as a reusable and efficient adsorbent for Cu(II) removal from water.

Curcumin ameliorates aging-induced blood-testis barrier disruption by regulating AMPK/mTOR mediated autophagy

The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is composed of tight junctions (TJ) between adjacent Sertoli cells (SCs) and is crucial for sperm growth and development. Aging-induced TJ impairment is closely related to testicular dysfunction. Curcumin, a natural compound, has been widely demonstrated to have a wide range of pharmacological activities, but its regulatory effects on tight junction damage in the testis remain unclear. We here explored the effect of curcumin on TJ function and its underlying molecular mechanism by using D-galactose (D-gal)-induced mouse testis and mouse testicular SCs (TM4) aging models in vitro. In this study, D-gal increased the expression of aging-related proteins p16 and p21, whereas significantly decreased the expression of TJ proteins (ZO-1, Claudin-4, Claudin-7, and Occludin). In addition, curcumin restored the adverse effects of D-gal in the SCs. Autophagy is a degradation system for maintaining cell renewal and homeostasis. D-gal significantly decreased the autophagy level, whereas curcumin restored the effect of D-gal. Using chloroquine (CQ), an inhibitor of autophagy, and rapamycin (RAPA), an activator of autophagy, it was demonstrated that autophagy plays a key role in curcumin amelioration of TJ injury in testicular SCs. Further studies unveiled that autophagy activation was mediated through the AMPK/mTOR pathway. In conclusion, curcumin ameliorates aging-induced TJ damage through AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway-regulated autophagy. This study thus clearly identifies a novel action mechanism of curcumin in the treatment of age-related male reproductive disorders.

Comparative effectiveness of pristine and H3PO4-modified biochar in combination with bentonite to immobilize cadmium in a calcareous soil

Correction of stomach cancer CT attenuation values for variations due to differences in CT imaging conditions through repeated CT scans

Purpose To develop methods for correcting variations in CT attenuation values of advanced gastric cancer (AGC) due to differences in CT imaging conditions using repeated pre-treatment CT scans. Methods A total 211 patients (146 men) with AGC who underwent pre-treatment CT twice were included in this retrospective study. The Pearson correlation between the difference in tumor attenuation values measured on both CT scans and the difference in attenuation values of other organs was analyzed. A formula to correct tumor CT attenuation values was developed using univariate linear regression analysis. Results The Pearson correlation coefficient was the highest between the difference in tumor attenuation values and that of the main portal vein (MPV) attenuation values (0.86, P <.01). The formula to correct tumor attenuation values was as follows: calculated tumor attenuation value on CT scan 2 = tumor attenuation value on CT scan 1 - (-3.5 + 0.4 x (MPV attenuation value on CT scan 1 - MPV attenuation value on CT scan 2)). The mean difference between calculated and actual tumor attenuation values was 1.6 HU (SD, 8.7; range -22.5–24.72), with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.95 (P <.01). Conclusion Utilizing the attenuation value of the MPV allows for correction of variations in tumor attenuation values caused by different CT imaging conditions, enabling the prediction of reproducible tumor attenuation in patients with AGC. Future studies are needed to validate these findings and address the study’s limitations, including its retrospective design and the absence of unenhanced CT data. Advances in knowledge The attenuation value of the MPV can be used to predict reproducible tumor attenuation values in gastric cancer.

Identification and verification of mitochondria-related genes biomarkers associated with immune infiltration for COPD using WGCNA and machine learning algorithms

Exploring the interplay of stress, fatigue, and empathy: The mediating role of cognitive flexibility in enhancing the well-being of university students in medical and social disciplines

This study investigates the interplay between stress, fatigue, and empathy among university students in medical and social disciplines, focusing on the mediating role of cognitive flexibility. University students, particularly those in medical fields, experience significant stress and fatigue, which adversely affect their well-being and academic performance. Empathy, essential in both interpersonal and professional contexts, is negatively impacted by stress and fatigue. Cognitive flexibility, the ability to adapt and manage diverse cognitive demands, is proposed as a key mediator that could alleviate the negative effects of stress and fatigue on empathy. The study involved 1,701 students from the Medical University of [to preserve anonymity, the institution’s name has been omitted] and the University of to preserve anonymity, the institution’s name has been omitted], who completed validated questionnaires measuring perceived stress, fatigue, empathy, and cognitive flexibility. The results indicated that cognitive flexibility was positively related to empathy and negatively related to stress and fatigue. Mediation analyses revealed that cognitive flexibility significantly mediated the relationships between stress and empathy, as well as between fatigue and empathy. These findings suggest that enhancing cognitive flexibility may help students better manage stress and fatigue, thereby maintaining higher levels of empathy. This research contributes to understanding the cognitive and emotional interactions in educational settings and highlights the importance of developing interventions that enhance cognitive flexibility to support student mental health and academic success.

Hesitant bi-fuzzy multi-attribute information fusion with expert reliability

Suffering in silence: Accessing mental health care and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for peripartum depression - A qualitative study

Peripartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent and serious mental health disorder that is often underdiagnosed and undertreated due to limited effective and safe treatment options. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as a non-invasive treatment for PPD, yet awareness among patients is low. This study aims to identify barriers and facilitators to accessing mental health treatment, particularly rTMS, for PPD. We conducted 36 interviews with individuals who experienced depressive symptoms during the peripartum period and health providers, followed by a descriptive interpretive thematic analysis. Key risk factors identified include personal (i.e., age), clinical (i.e., traumatic birth), situational (i.e., COVID-19, homelessness), and social (i.e., discrimination, domestic abuse). Five themes emerged regarding barriers and facilitators: 1) the need for mom-centered care, 2) systemic challenges, 3) the importance of mental health education, 4) stigma and custody concerns, and 5) challenges in accessing care. Eighty-three percent of participants were unaware of rTMS, but following a brief description, 75% were willing to receive or refer to rTMS if it was available to them. Addressing systemic and access-related concerns is crucial to ensuring patients with PPD have access to safe, effective, and accessible treatments.

Bacterial profile, antibiotic susceptibility patterns and associated factors among neonates suspected of omphalitis in Arba Minch, Southern Ethiopia

Psychometric validation of Young’s Internet Addiction Test among Chinese undergraduate students

The global prevalence of internet addiction is escalating annually and uncontrollable use of the internet can cause significant physical and psychological damage. Young’s Internet Addiction Test (IAT), widely utilized across diverse cultures, has demonstrated structural inconsistencies in previous research, with some items requiring refinement. This study aimed to validate the IAT among Chinese undergraduate students and assess its psychometric properties. The IAT’s structure was initially explored through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) using pilot study data (n=376), with internal consistency and test-retest reliability (n=96) evaluated. Subsequently, Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was conducted using data from the actual study (n=1042) to confirm the structure. Results showed that a three-factor solution explained 61.29% of the total variance with a satisfactory model fit (χ2/df = 4.382, RMSEA = 0.057, CFI = 0.952, TLI = 0.943, SRMR = 0.045, AIC = 798.755) and psychometric properties, validating the IAT’s utility for future investigations of internet addiction in Chinese undergraduates. Notably, a high prevalence of moderate internet addiction was observed within the sample, highlighting the significance of this issue in the target population and emphasizing the need for further research and potential interventions.

Improved aerosol deposition predictions in human upper respiratory tract using coupled mesh phantom-based computational model

Factors associated with non-adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in adult individuals living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in Mogadishu, Somalia: A hospital-based cross-sectional study

Background Antiretroviral Therapy is an effective method against HIV, reducing mortality and opportunistic infections. In Somalia, high rates of these infections and low adherence to therapy have been reported. However, factors contributing to non-adherence remain unidentified. Therefore, The study aims to assess the magnitude of antiretroviral therapy non-adherence and identify associated factors for individuals living with HIV in Mogadishu, Somalia. Methodology A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire containing socio-demographic, behavioral, familial, psychosocial, clinical, and laboratory characteristics. Antiretroviral Therapy adherence was assessed by quantifying the number of prescribed pills taken in the past month. Those who adhered to ≥95% of the prescribed Antiretroviral Therapy drugs were considered adherent to Antiretroviral Therapy. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with Antiretroviral Therapy non-adherence at significance levels of p < 0.05. Results Out of 453 participants, the magnitude of non-adherence to ART among people living with HIV in Mogadishu, Somalia, was 138 (30.5%) with its 95% CI: 26.3–34.9. The predominant reasons for missing ART were forgetting (7.3%), transportation issues (5.5%), side effects and being busy with other commitments (4.4%), stigma (3.8%), and ART facilities being distant from home (2.6%). In multivariable logistic regression, living alone (AOR=1.81, 95%CI:1.182–2.782), perceived stigma (AOR=3.19, 95%CI:1.784–5.720), smoking cigarettes (AOR=2.96, 95%CI:1.759–5.003), and living with a co-morbid chronic disease (AOR=1.80, 95%CI:1.155–2.813) were factors associated with ART non-adherence among people living with HIV in Mogadishu, Somalia. Conclusion Individuals living with HIV in Mogadishu, Somalia suffer sub-optimal adherence to ART. Priority should be given to strategically addressing the needs of those living alone and individuals with co-morbid chronic conditions, eliminating HIV stigma, and discouraging substance abuse.

The effect of anisotropic electrical conductivity of amphiboles on geophysical anomalies observed in subduction zones

Abstract Electrical-conductivity anomalies in subduction zones are believed to be strongly connected with global water cycling, volcanism and seismicity. However, the causal atomic-scale processes related to conductivity of rock-forming minerals in subducting rocks are virtually unknown. Here, in situ simultaneous high-temperature Raman spectroscopy and resistivity measurements on riebeckite as a model Fe-rich amphibole in subduction zones show that (1) electronic small polarons, with high mobility along the c-axis of the amphibole structure, activate above 500 K; (2) H+ starts diffusing within the crystal above 650 K, although electron transport via polaron hopping is still the dominant mechanism of charge transfer; (3) the anisotropy in the conductivity is enhanced with increasing temperature, emphasizing the dominant role of e − over H+ in causing the high conductivity (above 0.01 S/m) of Fe-rich amphiboles. We show that conductivity data obtained via magnetotelluric measurements are best modelled by considering the effect of stress-driven alignment of amphiboles during plate motion. Our results thus link atomic- and Earth-scale conductivity processes, significantly improving our understanding of subduction processes.