bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Multiscale Neighbor-Aware Attention Network for Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Zheng Jianxing , Jing Tengyue , Cao Feng , Kang Yonghong , Chen Qian , Li Yanhong
Published: October 2023

Most recommender systems rely on user and item attributes or their interaction records to find similar neighbors for collaborative filtering. Existing methods focus on developing collaborative signals from only one type of neighbors and ignore the unique contributions of different types of neighbor views. This paper proposes a multiscale neighbor-aware attention network for collaborative filtering (MSNAN). First, attribute-view neighbor embedding is modeled to extract the features of different types of neighbors with co-occurrence attributes, and interaction-view neighbor embedding is leveraged to describe the fine-grained neighborhood behaviors of ratings. Then, a matched attention network is used to identify different contributions of multiscale neighbors and capture multiple types of collaborative signals for overcoming sparse recommendations. Finally, we make the rating prediction by a joint learning of multi-task loss and verify the positive effect of the proposed MSNAN on three datasets. Compared with traditional methods, the experimental results of the proposed MSNAN not only improve the accuracy in MAE and RMSE indexes, but also solve the problem of poor performance for recommendation in sparse data scenarios.
Examining Real-Road Fuel Consumption Performance of Hydrogen-Fueled Series Hybrid Vehicles
Authors: Naganuma Kaname , Sakane Yuhei
Published: October 2023

The use of hydrogen fuel produced from renewable energy sources is an effective way to reduce well-to-wheel CO2 emissions from automobiles. In this study, the performance of a hydrogen-powered series hybrid vehicle was compared with that of other powertrains, such as gasoline-powered hybrid, fuel cell, and electric vehicles, in a simulation that could estimate CO2 emissions under real-world driving conditions. The average fuel consumption of the hydrogen-powered series hybrid vehicle exceeded that of the gasoline-powered series hybrid vehicle under all conditions and was better than that of the fuel cell vehicle under urban and winding conditions with frequent acceleration and deceleration. The driving range was longer than that of the battery-powered vehicle but approximately 60% of that of the gasoline-powered series hybrid. Regarding the life-cycle assessment of CO2 emissions, fuel cell and electric vehicles emitted more CO2 during the manufacturing process. Regarding fuel production, CO2 emissions from hydrogen and electric vehicles depend on the energy source. However, in the future, this problem can be solved by using carbon-free energy sources for fuel production. Therefore, hydrogen-powered series hybrid vehicles show a high potential to be environmentally friendly alternative fuel vehicles.
Balancing Portfolios with Metals: A Safe Haven for Green Energy Investors?
Authors: Dias Rui Manuel , Chambino Mariana , Teixeira Nuno , Alexandre Paulo , Heliodoro Paula
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the relationship between energy metals and precious metals to assess their suitability as safe haven assets in clean energy investment portfolios. This study aims to conduct an effect analysis of the events that occurred during the years 2020 and 2022, characterized by substantial investments in the field of clean energy. The analysed period encompasses the period from 13 July 2018 to 11 July 2023. The study is carried out in multiple stages with the aim of investigating a highly tumultuous period in the global economy. To assess long-term relationships, the econometric methodology proposed by Gregory and Hansen will be employed. The research shows a positive association between energy metals (excluding nickel futures) and clean energy indexes, suggesting their potential as secure investments for green investors diversifying their portfolios. Additionally, the study confirms the reliability of precious metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum as safe havens for clean energy stock indexes. These findings highlight the stability that both energy and precious metals can offer within clean energy portfolios during market volatility, emphasizing their value in such investment strategies. In brief, this study affirms that energy and precious metals are invaluable pillars in the structure of clean energy portfolios, offering unwavering support during market turbulence.
Transient Behavior Analysis of the Infiltration Heat Recovery of Exterior Building Walls
Authors: Alaidroos Alaa
Published: October 2023

This research study investigated the transient behavior of the convection–diffusion model for the infiltration heat recovery (IHR) and the influence of the building envelope heat capacity, along with other factors. A transient numerical model was developed and validated to analyze the IHR under various conditions. The results highlight the role of heat capacity, thermal conductivity, wall thickness, airflow rate, airflow direction, and wall porosity on the temperature distribution and the heat recovery factor within the wall. Higher-heat-capacity walls displayed a delayed temperature rise, while low-thermal-conductivity walls reduced the conduction heat transfer and increased the IHR factor. The impact of heat capacity diminished with very low thermal conductivity walls but became evident for high-thermal-conductivity walls, particularly at higher Peclet numbers. Thicker walls enhanced the heat retention and improved the IHR, with a reduced influence of airflow rate. Higher IHR factors were associated with thicker walls, lower Peclet numbers, and higher heat capacities. The analysis also showed that the wall porosity affected the IHR with less significance than the other factors. Incorporating these findings into building energy modeling tools could improve the prediction accuracy of the thermal behavior of buildings. Accordingly, this study contributes to building physics by understanding IHR dynamics and thermal mass interactions, as well as improving building energy modeling accuracy for performance prediction. Future research can explore the impacts of additional factors on IHR and investigate the effect of IHR on the overall energy consumption of buildings.
Climate Change Mitigation in Thailand’s Domestic Aviation: Mitigation Options Analysis towards 2050
Authors: Champeecharoensuk Arthit , Dhakal Shobhakar , Chollacoop Nuwong
Published: October 2023

Thailand’s civil aviation industry has expanded rapidly in the past ten years resulting in increasing aviation greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption. The rapid growth in air transport is anticipated to continue further. Presently, domestic aviation and the economy of many countries are recovering rapidly in the post-COVID-19 period, resulting in fuel consumption and GHG emissions gradually increasing again. However, despite implementing the ICAO’s CORSIA (International Civil Aviation Organization’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation) rule for international aviation, GHG emissions in the domestic aviation sector are largely unregulated. Moreover, the literature lacks a GHG emissions analysis that considers this sector’s potential growth and mitigation policies for future GHG emissions. To close the gap, this study conducted a GHG emissions analysis from this sector under various scenarios through 2050 using historical data during 2008–2020 to forecast future trends. It evaluates the impact of the mitigation policies, such as fuel switching and aircraft technology, on improving fuel efficiency due to technological advancements in aircraft and carbon pricing. The results show that the fuel switching option would result in a significant long-term reduction in GHG emissions, whereas the carbon pricing option and aircraft technology option are desirable in reducing GHG emissions in the short term. Therefore, to meet GHG emissions reduction targets more successfully, all measures must be simultaneously executed to address short- and long-term mitigation strategies. These findings have significant implications for both present and future GHG emissions reduction measures, supporting Thailand’s 2050 climate targets and energy efficiency policies as the domestic aviation industry adjusts.
Microtopographic Variation in Biomass and Diversity of Living and Dead Wood in a Forest in Dongling Mountains, China
Authors: Ma Fang , Wang Shunzhong , Sang Weiguo , Zhang Shuang , Ma Keming
Published: October 2023

Habitat heterogeneity caused by topographic variations at the local scale is the environmental basis for the establishment and evolution of biodiversity and biomass patterns. The similarities and distinctions between the effects of microtopographic variables on living wood (LWD) and dead wood (CWD) remain unknown. In the present study, the response mechanisms of biomass and species diversity patterns of living wood (LWD) and coarse woody debris (CWD) to microtopographic parameters were quantified in a warm temperate secondary forest located in Dongling Mountain, China. This quantification was achieved using a generalized additive model on a completely mapped 20-hectare permanent plot. The evaluation of biomass and species diversity of woody plants was carried out by utilizing the total basal area of all individuals and the species richness within each 20 m × 20 m quadrat as a standard. The results indicate that there are notable disparities in the influence of microtopographic elements on the LWD and CWD. In the case of LWD, microtopography accounts for 22.90% of the variation in total basal area, with convexity making a greater relative contribution than elevation, slope, and aspect. Additionally, microtopography explains 46.20% of the variation in species richness, with aspect making a greater relative contribution than elevation, convexity, and slope. Nevertheless, the influence of microtopography on CWD may only account for a deviation of 10.20% in the total basal area and 4.95% in the species richness; aspect and slope have been identified as the primary drivers in this regard. The inclusion of microtopographic factors in the model resulted in a 23.10% increase in the explanatory deviations of LWD biomass and an 8.70% increase in the explanatory deviations of CWD biomass. The findings suggest that topographic considerations have a greater impact on the biomass distribution of LWD compared to that of CWD. Conversely, the biomass of CWD is more influenced by the species richness. The presence of microtopography plays a vital role in determining the spatial distribution of species and biomass at local scales, reflecting the multiple response mechanisms and growth strategies of vegetation in response to redistribution in water, soil, and light.
Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm.: The Multifaceted Suitability of the Lung Lichen to Monitor Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Ravera Sonia , Benesperi Renato , Bianchi Elisabetta , Brunialti Giorgio , Di Nuzzo Luca , Frati Luisa , Giordani Paolo , Isocrono Deborah , Nascimbene Juri , Vallese Chiara , Paoli Luca
Published: October 2023

Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm. is a tripartite, broad-lobed foliose lichen usually found on bark and on epiphytic and epilithic mosses in humid forests. Currently, the species is threatened in most European countries because of its sensitivity to environmental alterations. In this paper, a total of 107 previous studies across more than 50 years were analysed to gain insight into the multiple roles that L. pulmonaria plays in forest habitats, specifically relating to ecosystem services and as environmental bioindicator. Content analysis was employed to systematically characterise and classify the existing papers on the functions performed by L. pulmonaria into several groups mostly based on research topic and scope. Two main types of ecosystem services (N2 fixation and feeding) offered by L. pulmonaria have been identified, with varying research aims and types of parameters measured in the studies. Two aspects of current biomonitoring applications using L. pulmonaria in forest habitats (concerning atmospheric pollution and forest management) were analysed, and it was found that the number of related studies increased significantly in recent years. Finally, the current practices of monitoring using L. pulmonaria as a biological indicator are discussed, and recommendations are provided.
Stress-Protective Role of Dietary α-Tocopherol Supplementation in Longfin Yellowtail (Seriola rivoliana) Juveniles
Authors: Asencio-Alcudia Gloria Gertrudys , Sepúlveda-Quiroz Cesar Antonio , Pérez-Urbiola Juan Carlos , Rodríguez-Jaramillo María del Carmen , Teles Andressa , Salas-Leiva Joan Sebastián , Martínez-García Rafael , Jiménez-Martínez Luis Daniel , Galaviz Mario , Tovar-Ramírez Dariel , Alvarez-González Carlos Alfonso
Published: October 2023

Aquaculture practices expose fish to several factors that may generate stress, modifying the balance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activity of antioxidant defenses that induce cell damage. Alpha-tocopherol (VE) improves the antioxidant capacity against ROS production in fish. A 50-day trial with longfin yellowtail (Seriola rivoliana) juveniles was conducted to compare the dietary supplementation of 500 mg/kg of VE against a control diet without VE supplementation on growth, lymphoid tissue enzymatic activity, immune-system-related gene expression, and the histology of the liver and spleen. Growth, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed conversion rate, and survival did not show significant differences (p > 0.05) among treatments. Fish fed with an α-tocopherol-enriched diet showed a higher enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase in the liver (p < 0.05) and a lower percentage of melanomacrophage coverage area in the lymphoid organs (p < 0.05). Overexpression was observed of MyD88 and il-10 in the spleen, and il-1b in the liver in fish fed 500 mg/kg of VE, as well as overexpression of Toll-like 3 in the head kidney, spleen, and liver in fish fed the control diet. Dietary supplementation with VE reduces the effects of oxidative stress and improves lymphoid tissue defense and immune-related gene expression in S. rivoliana.
The Effect of Theaflavins on the Gut Microbiome and Metabolites in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Wang Jun , Qin Yixin , Jiang Jingjing , Shan Hongyan , Zhao Changyu , Li Songnan
Published: October 2023

With the development of diabetes, the gut microbiome falls into a state of dysbiosis, further affecting its progression. Theaflavins (TFs), a type of tea polyphenol derivative, show anti-diabetic properties, but their effect on the gut microbiome in diabetic mice is unclear. It is unknown whether the improvement of TFs on hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in diabetic mice is related to gut microbiota. Therefore, in this study, different concentrations of TFs were intragastrically administered to mice with diabetes induced by a high-fat-diet to investigate their effects on blood glucose, blood lipid, and the gut microbiome in diabetic mice, and the plausible mechanism underlying improvement in diabetes was explored from the perspective of the gut microbiome. The results showed that the TFs intervention significantly improved the hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia of diabetic mice and affected the structure of the gut microbiome by promoting the growth of bacteria positively related to diabetes and inhibiting those negatively related to diabetes. The changes in short-chain fatty acids in mice with diabetes and functional prediction analysis suggested that TFs may affect carbohydrate metabolism and lipid metabolism by regulating the gut microbiome. These findings emphasize the ability of TFs to shape the diversity and structure of the gut microbiome in mice with diabetes induced by a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin and have practical implications for the development of functional foods with TFs.
Anti-Influenza Virus Activity of Citrullus lanatus var. citroides as a Functional Food: A Review
Authors: Morimoto Ryosuke , Isegawa Yuji
Published: October 2023

Influenza is an acute respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus, in response to which vaccines and antiviral drugs are administered. In recent years, the antiviral effects of plants and foods have garnered attention. This review is the first to summarize the therapeutic properties of wild watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. citroides) against influenza from a phytochemical viewpoint. Wild watermelon is a wild plant with significant potential as a therapeutic candidate in antiviral strategies, when focused on its multiple anti-influenza functionalities. Wild watermelon juice inhibits viral growth, entry, and replication. Hence, we highlight the possibility of utilizing wild watermelon for the prevention and treatment of influenza with stronger antiviral activity. Phytochemicals and phytoestrogen (polyphenol, flavonoids, and prenylated compounds) in wild watermelon juice contribute to this activity and inhibit various stages of viral replication, depending on the molecular structure. Wild plants and foods closely related to the original species contain many natural compounds such as phytochemicals, and exhibit various viral growth inhibitory effects. These natural products provide useful information for future antiviral strategies.
Green Processing of Black Raspberry Pomace: Application of Sonotrode-Based Extraction Technique and Particles from Gas-Saturated Solutions (PGSS) Technology
Authors: Nastić Nataša , Mutavski Zorana , Živković Jelena , Ambrus Rita , Fernández Naiara , Menković Nebojša , Vidović Senka
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to develop, for the first time, anthocyanin-enriched fractions from black raspberry pomace (BRP) using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) via sonotrode and the Particles from Gas-Saturated Solutions (PGSS) process. UAEs with different amplitudes and sonication times were evaluated and showed relevant effects on the yields of target analytes. The raspberry pomace extracts were formulated in a powder form by PGSS using glyceryl monostearate as a carrier at different extract-to-carrier ratios of 1:11, 1:5, and 1:3. The effects of all variables were evaluated in terms of extraction yield, total phenolic content, and encapsulation yield. UAE was strongly affected by amplitude, and the highest amplitude (100%) provided the best results for extraction yield and total phenolics. HPLC of UAE extracts and powders was utilized for quantification of polyphenol compounds, showing cyanidin-3-rutinoside as a main compound, followed by cyanidin-3-glucoside, rutin, ellagic acid, and gallic acid. These results show that these time-efficient and high-performance techniques enable the production of natural fractions from industrial BRP with acceptable characteristics to be used for the development of nutraceuticals and different food formulations.
Optimization of a Microencapsulation Process Using Oil-in-Water (O/W) Emulsion to Increase Thermal Stability of Sulforaphane
Authors: Zambrano Víctor , Bustos Rubén , Arozarena Yipsy , Mahn Andrea
Published: October 2023

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a bioactive compound widely studied for its potential applications in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and food industries since it offers health benefits due to its nature as a Phase 2 enzyme inducer. Its application in the food industry has been limited because SFN is unstable at high temperatures in an aqueous milieu. An option to increase SFN stability and protect it from thermal degradation is microencapsulation. The aim of this work was to optimize a microencapsulation process using oil-in-water emulsion to increase the thermal stability of SFN. The operation conditions that gave the highest entrapment efficiency were determined via experimental design and response surface methodology. Thermal degradation of microencapsulated SFN was studied at 37, 50, 60, and 70 °C. The optimum microencapsulation conditions were 8 min stirring, SFN/Gum Arabic ratio of 0.82, and surfactant/oil ratio of 1.0, resulting in an entrapment efficiency of 65%, which is the highest reported so far. The thermal stability of microencapsulated SFN was greatly enhanced compared with free SFN, with a 6-fold decrease in the degradation kinetic constant and a 41% increase in the activation energy. These results will contribute to a more efficient incorporation of SFN in various food matrices and explore new microencapsulation technologies to maximize the efficiency and stability of SFN.
Dietary Supplementation with Pomegranate and Onion Affects Lipid and Protein Oxidation in the Breast Meat, Thigh, and Liver, Cellular Stress Protein Responses, and Gene Expression of Liver Enzymes Involved in Protein Synthesis in Broilers
Authors: Savvidou Soumela , Panteli Nikolas , Dotas Vassilios , Symeon George , Galamatis Dimitrios , Panitsidis Ioannis , Voutsinou Eirini , Tatidou Christina , Kumar Prafulla , Antonopoulou Efthimia , Michailidis Georgios , Giannenas Ilias
Published: October 2023

The present study examined the effects of dietary supplementation with extracts of pomegranate (Punica granatum) and onion (Allium cepa), either encapsulated in cyclodextrin (POMALCD group) or in an aqueous (POMALAQ group) form, on breast meat, thigh meat, and liver composition, oxidative stability, cellular signaling pathways, and the gene expression of certain hepatic genes. The results showed that breast and thigh meat contained significantly (p < 0.05) higher moisture content in the group with the aqueous extract, compared to the control and POMALCD groups. Moreover, the protein content was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the thigh and liver samples of the treated groups in comparison to the control. The iron-induced challenge deteriorated (p < 0.001) the lipid and protein oxidative status of the control group, whereas both supplemented groups showed considerable tolerance in all tissues. The supplementation of pomegranate and onion extracts mitigated or maintained heat shock protein (HSP) levels and elevated (p < 0.05) the Bcl-2/Bad ratio in thigh and breast meat, whereas mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation was modulated at a lower rate. After normalization to β-actin expression, quantitative real-time PCR analysis revealed a significant (p < 0.05) induction in the expression of MTR and MSRB1 genes in the liver of the supplemented groups. No differences were observed for the TAT, SMS, and BHMT genes. In conclusion, dietary mixtures of herbal extracts with pomegranate and onion improved protein and lipid oxidative stability in meat, enhanced the hepatic energy status, and exerted ameliorative effects on stress-related proteins. The encapsulated extract of pomegranate and onion, using cyclodextrin as a carrier, appeared to reduce lipid oxidation to a greater extent than the aqueous extract. In contrast, the aqueous extract exhibited higher total antioxidant capacity (TAC) values and provided better protection against protein carbonyl formation.
Current Advances in Stimuli-Responsive Hydrogels as Smart Drug Delivery Carriers
Authors: Zhang Yulong , Wu Benjamin M.
Published: October 2023

In recent years, significant advancements in the field of advanced materials and hydrogel engineering have enabled the design and fabrication of smart hydrogels and nanogels that exhibit sensitivity to specific signals or pathological conditions, leading to a wide range of applications in drug delivery and disease treatment. This comprehensive review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the stimuli-responsive principles exhibited by smart hydrogels in response to various triggers, such as pH levels, temperature fluctuations, light exposure, redox conditions, or the presence of specific biomolecules. The functionality and performance characteristics of these hydrogels are highly influenced by both their constituent components and fabrication processes. Key design principles, their applications in disease treatments, challenges, and future prospects were also discussed. Overall, this review aims to contribute to the current understanding of gel-based drug delivery systems and stimulate further research in this rapidly evolving field.
Characterization and Expression Analysis of Genes from Megalobrama amblycephala Encoding Hemoglobins with Extracellular Microbicidal Activity
Authors: Wang Qijun , Zhao Xiaoheng , Liu Yunlong , Zheng Juan , Cui Hujun , Wang Haotong , Ding Houxu , Liu Hong , Ding Zhujin
Published: October 2023

Hemoglobin (Hb) usually comprises two α and two β subunits, forming a tetramer responsible for oxygen transportation and storage. Few studies have elucidated fish hemoglobin immune functions. Megalobrama amblycephala is a freshwater-cultured fish prevalent in China. We identified two M. amblycephala hemoglobin subunits and analyzed their expression patterns and antibacterial activities. The respective full-length cDNA sequences of the M. amblycephala Hb α (MaHbα) and β (MaHbβ) subunits were 588 and 603 bp, encoding 143 and 148 amino acids. MaHbα and MaHbβ were highly homologous to hemoglobins from other fish, displaying typical globin-like domains, most heme-binding sites, and tetramer interface regions highly conserved in teleosts. In phylogenetic analyses, the hemoglobin genes from M. amblycephala and other cypriniformes clustered into one branch, and those from other fishes and mammals clustered into other branches, revealing fish hemoglobin conservation. These M. amblycephala Hb subunits exhibit different expression patterns in various tissues and during development. MaHbα is mainly expressed in the blood and brain, while MaHbβ gene expression is highest in the muscle. MaHbα expression was detectable and abundant post-fertilization, with levels fluctuating during the developmental stages. MaHbβ expression began at 3 dph and gradually increased. Expression of both M. amblycephala Hb subunits was down-regulated in most examined tissues and time points post-Aeromonas hydrophila infection, which might be due to red blood cell (RBC) and hematopoietic organ damage. Synthetic MaHbα and MaHbβ peptides showed excellent antimicrobial activities, which could inhibit survival and growth in five aquatic pathogens. Two M. amblycephala hemoglobin subunits were identified, and their expression patterns and antibacterial activities were analyzed, thereby providing a basis for the understanding of evolution and functions of fish hemoglobins.
Influence of the 2020 Seismic Hazard Update on Residential Losses in Greater Montreal, Canada
Authors: Rosset Philippe , Long Xuejiao , Chouinard Luc
Published: October 2023

Greater Montreal is situated in a region with moderate seismic activity and rests on soft ground deposits from the ancient Champlain Sea, as well as more recent alluvial deposits from the Saint Lawrence River. These deposits have the potential to amplify seismic waves, as demonstrated by past strong, and recent weak, earthquakes. Studies based on the 2015 National Seismic Hazard Model (SHM5) had estimated losses to residential buildings at 2% of their value for an event with a return period of 2475 years. In 2020, the seismic hazard model was updated (SHM6), resulting in more severe hazards for eastern Canada. This paper aims to quantify the impact of these changes on losses to residential buildings in Greater Montreal. Our exposure database includes population and buildings at the scale of dissemination areas (500–1000 inhabitants). Buildings are classified by occupancy and construction type and grouped into three building code levels based on year of construction. The value of buildings is obtained from property-valuation rolls and the content value is derived from insurance data. Damage and losses are calculated using Hazus software developed for FEMA. Losses are shown to be 53% higher than the SHM5 estimates.
Hard Flaccid Syndrome: A Biopsychosocial Management Approach with Emphasis on Pain Management, Exercise Therapy and Education
Authors: Billis Evdokia , Kontogiannis Stavros , Tsounakos Spyridon , Konstantinidou Eleni , Giannitsas Konstantinos
Published: October 2023

Hard flaccid syndrome (HFS) is a rather rare, acquired clinical entity affecting young men’s well-being, sexual and social life. HFS presents with a cluster of symptoms including penile-specific somatosensory disturbances, a semi-rigid penis at the flaccid state without any stimulation or desire, erectile dysfunction, perineal and/or penile pain, associated urinary symptoms, emotional distress as well as other psychosocial and stress-related manifestations. Although its pathophysiology is still not well understood, initial penile trauma causing minor nerve and vascular disturbances to the penis and associated pelvic floor musculature is suggested to trigger the syndrome. Despite the scarcity of research on HFS, the present report describes a case of a young male clinically diagnosed with HFS, who benefited from a biopsychosocial management strategy, focusing on pain management, therapeutic exercise approaches, such as pelvic floor exercise re-education, graded exposure to activity as well as education on lifestyle and stress-related modifications. This holistic management approach has been clinically reasoned in this case report, and the need for more evidence-based studies developing diagnosing criteria, elaborating pathophysiological mechanisms and testing the efficiency of different therapeutic options is highlighted.
Social Media Fact-Checking: The Effects of News Literacy and News Trust on the Intent to Verify Health-Related Information
Authors: Kožuh Ines , Čakš Peter
Published: October 2023

The recent health crisis and the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence have caused misinformation on social media to flourish by becoming more sophisticated and challenging to detect. This calls upon fact-checking and questions users’ competencies and attitudes when assessing social media news. Our study provides a model of how fact-checking intent is explained by news literacy and news trust to examine how users behave in the misinformation-prone social media environment. Structural equation modeling was used to examine survey data gathered from social media users. The findings revealed that users’ intent to fact-check information in social media news is explained by (1) news literacy, such as the awareness of various techniques used by creators to depict situations about COVID-19; (2) news trust, in terms of the conviction that the news contains all the essential facts; and (3) intent, such as an aim to check information in multiple pieces of news. The presented findings may aid policymakers and practitioners in developing efficient communication strategies for addressing users less prone to fact-checking. Our contribution offers a new understanding of news literacy as a sufficient tool for combating misinformation, which actively equips users with knowledge and an attitude for social media news fact-checking.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Cervical Cancer Prevention and Screening among Female Pharmacy Students at a Public University in a Southern Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Easwaran Vigneshwaran , Shorog Eman Mohammed , Alshahrani Almaha Ali , Mohammad Asif Ansari Shaik , Sadiq Mantargi Mohammad Jaffar , Alavudeen Sirajudeen Shaik , Khan Noohu Abdulla , Akhtar Md Sayeed , Almeleebia Tahani Musleh , Alshahrani Sultan Mohammed
Published: October 2023

Despite the availability of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines and screening facilities at various health centers in Saudi Arabia, the annual death rate due to cervical cancer is high. Therefore, knowledge and awareness are essential for self-care and educating others, particularly among healthcare students. The present descriptive, cross-sectional study explored female pharmacy students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to cervical cancer. A total of 140 students participated in the survey. The survey was conducted for the period between April 2022 to September 2023. We observed a good knowledge score and positive attitudes among 8.5% and 93.5% of participants, respectively. A total of 10% of the study participants reported good practice scores. Most participants had never been screened for cervical cancer (94.3%). Among the non-screened subjects, feeling healthy and lacking information were the participants’ significant reasons for not screening for cervical cancer. A positive history of cancer related to smoking significantly impacted the knowledge score (p = 0.050). The current study reveals that healthcare awareness programs for cervical cancer and HPV vaccination are necessary at the level of educational institutions to improve public health.
Multiple Cesarean Section Outcomes and Complications: A Retrospective Study in Jazan, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Murtada Maha , Hakami Nasser , Mahfouz Mohamed , Abdelmola Amani , Eltyeb Ebtihal , Medani Isameldin , Maghfori Ghadah , Zakri Atheer , Hakami Ahlam , Altraifi Ahmed , Khormi Ali , Chourasia Uma
Published: October 2023

Background: Given the increase in the rate of cesarean sections (CSs) globally and in Saudi Arabia, this study was conducted to assess the maternal and perinatal complications after repeat cesarean sections in the studied population. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the records of all women who underwent CSs between January and July 2023 in three hospitals in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Results: Of the 268 women studied, 195 (72.7%) had a CS for the first or second time and 73 (27.3%) had two, three, or four previous CSs (repeat CS). The most common maternal intra-operative complications reported by the repeat CS group were intra-peritoneal adhesions (7.5%) and fused abdominal layers (7.1%) while the most common postoperative complications were the need for blood transfusion (22%) and UTIs (3%). The most common neonatal complications were a low Apgar score (19%), needing neonatal resuscitation (2.6%), and intensive care admission. In addition, 3.7% of mothers failed to initiate breastfeeding in the first 24 h. Conclusions: The frequent complications were intra-peritoneal adhesions, fused abdominal wall layers, blood transfusion, and postoperative infections which were overcome by the optimal hospital care. However, the frequent neonatal complications were a low Apgar score, needing neonatal resuscitation, and intensive care admission.
Species-Specific Level Variation in Polyamines in Coniferous and Deciduous Woody Plant Species in Urban Areas
Authors: Kebert Marko , Kostić Saša , Rašeta Milena , Stojanović Dejan V. , Stojnić Srđan , Orlović Saša
Published: October 2023

Urban heat islands (UHIs) and global warming will unavoidably have a negative impact on human health in urban areas, making urban forests much more susceptible to the risk of heat waves than forests. It is pivotal for urban forest management to understand tree species’ adaptation mechanisms by focusing on the species-dependent variability of polyamines (PAs), significant players in the amelioration of biotic and abiotic stress in plants, to mitigate the negative effects of UHIs and global warming on human health. Based on this background, the content of major polyamines (PAs) (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) and total phenolics and the corresponding antioxidant capacities were determined and analyzed in the 24 most prevalent deciduous and coniferous tree species found in urban areas, namely Futoški Park in Novi Sad (Serbia). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with fluorometric detection (HPLC-FD) was used to separate and quantify major PAs from tree species. Results showed a species-specific level variation in polyamines, total phenolic, and antioxidant capacity in coniferous and deciduous woody plant species in inspected urban areas. In terms of total PA content, the most notable deciduous tree species were Betula pendula, Junglans regia, and Quercus rubra, while the coniferous tree species Thuja occidentalis, Taxodium distichum, Pinus nigra, and Abies concolor stand out. The most dominant foliar PA in most of the inspected species was putrescine (ranging from 527.67 to 10,049.3 nmol g−1 DW), followed by spermidine (from 250.56 to 2015.92 nmol g−1 DW) and spermine (from 168.8 to 718.41 nmol g−1 DW). Furthermore, significant intra-genus variability in terms of PA content was recorded within the genera Pinus, Thuja, and Picea. This study demonstrated that the PA and phenolic compounds, in combination with antioxidant assays, can serve as reliable and trustworthy criteria and descriptors for the selection of adaptable tree species in the context of urban climate–smart forestry.
Effect of Processing Methods on the Postharvest Quality of Cape Gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.)
Authors: Agudelo-Sánchez Sara , Mosquera-Palacios Yadiela , David-Úsuga Dairon , Cartagena-Montoya Susana , Duarte-Correa Yudy
Published: October 2023

The cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) is an exotic tropical fruit of great national and international importance due to its nutritional and organoleptic properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate different postharvest treatments—coating, vacuum impregnation, and immersion—on the conservation of several quality characteristics of cape gooseberry fruit. Moreover, the different conditions of the selected treatments were studied. Weight loss was assessed with a gravimetric analysis of the fresh and treated fruit. Firmness was determined by the instrumental texture. A sensory analysis was conducted using a multidimensional profile approach. Of the treatments evaluated, the lowest weight loss was recorded with the use of coating and immersion. However, the immersion process resulted in the product with the highest overall quality according to the sensory analysis and presented the most appropriate texture according to the firmness values. Finally, in the evaluation of the immersion, a significant influence of the CaCl2 immersion time (p < 0.05) on the firmness values of the product was found, resulting in longer times leading to less firm products. Considering 10% as a commercial standard limit for weight loss, the fruit treated under immersion and coating processes can be stored for at least 12 days. The immersion process is highlighted because it improved the sensory characteristics with respect to the control (i.e., without treatment). Therefore, it is a promising alternative for the postharvest treatment of cape gooseberries.
Bioactive Compounds, Amino Acids, Fatty Acids, and Prebiotics in the Seed of Mahuad (Lepisanthes rubiginosa (Roxb.) Leenh)
Authors: Bunyatratchata Apichaya , Chumroenphat Theeraphan , Saensouk Surapon , Siriamornpun Sirithon
Published: October 2023

The seeds of Mahuad (Lepisanthes rubiginosa (Roxb.) Leenh (LRL) were analyzed for proximate composition and the contents of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and sugars/oligosaccharides. The LRL seeds contained approximately 29% moisture, 10% protein, 2% fat, 16% fiber, 2% ash, and 42% carbohydrate. The major phenolic acids were vanillic acid and p-hydroxybenzoic acid, accounting for 30% and 26% of total phenolic content, respectively. The predominant flavonoids were quercetin (62% of total flavonoid content) followed by myricetin (22%). Proline, methionine, and arginine were the dominant amino acids, constituting 35%, 19%, and 13% of total amino acid content, respectively. Prebiotic fructooligosaccharide (5.3 mg/g) and stachyose (4.2 mg/g) were also found in the LRL seeds. The major fatty acids were palmitic acid (C 16:0, 41%), oleic acid (C 18:1n9, 27%), and linoleic acid (C 18:2n6, 19%). This information reveals useful information about LRL seeds as a potential source of bioactive compounds for future use in various aspects including food, feeds, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
An Efficient and Accurate Convolution-Based Similarity Measure for Uncertain Trajectories
Authors: Li Guanyao , Deng Xingdong , Xu Jianmin , Liu Yang , Zhang Ji , Xiong Simin , Gao Feng
Published: October 2023

With the rapid development of localization techniques and the prevalence of mobile devices, massive amounts of trajectory data have been generated, playing essential roles in areas of user analytics, smart transportation, and public safety. Measuring trajectory similarity is one of the fundamental tasks in trajectory analytics. Although considerable research has been conducted on trajectory similarity, the majority of existing approaches measure the similarity between two trajectories by calculating the distance between aligned locations, leading to challenges related to uncertain trajectories (e.g., low and heterogeneous data sampling rates, as well as location noise). To address these challenges, we propose Contra, a convolution-based similarity measure designed specifically for uncertain trajectories. The main focus of Contra is to identify the similarity of trajectory shapes while disregarding the time/order relevance of each record within the trajectory. To this end, it leverages a series of convolution and pooling operations to extract high-level geo-information from trajectories, and subsequently compares their similarities based on these extracted features. Moreover, we introduce efficient trajectory index strategies to enhance the computational efficiency of our proposed measure. We conduct comprehensive experiments on two trajectory datasets to evaluate the performance of our proposed approach. The experiments on both datasets show the effectiveness and efficiency of our approach. Specifically, the mean rank of Contra is 3 times better than the state-of-the-art approaches, and the precision of Contra surpasses baseline approaches by 20–40%.
Revealing the Spatio-Temporal Heterogeneity of the Association between the Built Environment and Urban Vitality in Shenzhen
Authors: Li Zhitao , Zhao Guanwei
Published: October 2023

Sensing urban vitality is a useful method for understanding urban development. However, the spatio-temporal characteristics of the association between the built environment and urban vitality in Shenzhen, the youngest mega-city in China, have not yet been explored. In this paper, we examined the effects of built environment indicators on urban vitality by using spatial regression models and multi-source geospatial data. The main research findings were as follows. Firstly, urban vitality displayed a consistent high–low pattern during both weekdays and weekends. Differences in the distribution of urban vitality with time between weekdays and weekends were more significant. Secondly, the effects of various built environment indicators on urban vitality exhibited significant temporal disparities. Within a day, population density, building density, bus station density, and distance to metro stations all exhibited positive effects, while distance to the central business district (CBD) exhibited negative effects, with pronounced diurnal differences. Moreover, the effects of road network density and functional mix on urban vitality were both positive and negative throughout the day. Thirdly, besides population density and building density, road network density, functional mix, bus stop density, and distance from metro stations exhibited positive and negative disparities within the study area. Overall, distance to the CBD had a negative effect on urban vitality. This concludes that planning for urban vitality should consider the spatio-temporal heterogeneity of the association between the built environment and urban vitality.
PagMYB205 Negatively Affects Poplar Salt Tolerance through Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging and Root Vitality Modulation
Authors: Zhou Lieding , Huan Xuhui , Zhao Kai , Jin Xia , Hu Jia , Du Shuhui , Han Youzhi , Wang Shengji
Published: October 2023

Salt stress is one of the major abiotic stresses that limits plant growth and development. The MYB transcription factor family plays essential roles in plant growth and development, as well as stress tolerance processes. In this study, the cDNA of the 84K poplar (Populus abla × Populus glandulosa) was used as a template to clone the full length of the PagMYB205 gene fragment, and transgenic poplar lines with PagMYB205 overexpression (OX) or inhibited expression (RNAi, RNA interference) were cultivated. The role of PagMYB205 in poplar growth and development and salt tolerance was detected using morphological and physiological methods. The full-length CDS sequence of PagMYB205 was 906 bp, encoding 301 amino acids, and the upstream promoter sequence contained abiotic stress-related cis-acting elements. The results of subcellular localization and transactivation assays showed that the protein had no self-activating activity and was localized in the nucleus. Under salt stress, the rooting rate and root vitality of RNAi were higher than OX and wild type (WT). However, the malondialdehyde (MDA) content of the RNAi lines was significantly lower than that of the wild-type (WT) and OX lines, but the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging ability, such as the peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities, was dramatically more powerful. Most significantly of all, the RNAi3 line with the lowest expression level of PagMYB205 had the lowest MDA content, the best enzyme activity and root vitality, and the best salt stress tolerance compared to the other lines. The above results suggest that the transcription factor PagMYB205 could negatively regulate salt stress tolerance by regulating antioxidant enzyme activity and root vitality.
The Problem with Inventing Molecular Mechanisms to Fit Thermodynamic Equations of Muscle
Authors: Baker Josh
Published: October 2023

Almost every model of muscle contraction in the literature to date is a molecular power stroke model, even though this corpuscular mechanism is opposed by centuries of science, by 85 years of unrefuted evidence that muscle is a thermodynamic system, and by a quarter century of direct observations that the molecular mechanism of muscle contraction is a molecular switch, not a molecular power stroke. An ensemble of molecular switches is a binary mechanical thermodynamic system from which A.V. Hill’s muscle force–velocity relationship is directly derived, where Hill’s parameter a is the internal force against which unloaded muscle shortens, and Hill’s parameter b is the product of the switch displacement, d, and the actin–myosin ATPase rate. Ignoring this model and the centuries of thermodynamics that preceded it, corpuscularians continue to develop molecular power stroke models, adding to their 65-year jumble of “new”, “innovative”, and “unconventional” molecular mechanisms for Hill’s a and b parameters, none of which resemble the underlying physical chemistry. Remarkably, the corpuscularian community holds the thermodynamicist to account for these discrepancies, which, as outlined here, I have done for 25 years. It is long past time for corpuscularians to be held accountable for their mechanisms, which by all accounts have no foundation in science. The stakes are high. Molecular power stroke models are widely used in research and in clinical decision-making and have, for over half a century, muddied our understanding of the inner workings of one of the most efficient and clean-burning machines on the planet. It is problematic that corpuscularians present these models to stakeholders as science when in fact corpuscularians have been actively defending these models against science for decades. The path forward for scientists is to stop baseless rejections of muscle thermodynamics and to begin testing corpuscular and thermodynamic mechanisms with the goal of disproving one or the other of these hypotheses.