bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“It’s a Postcode Lottery”: How Do People Affected by Dementia in Wales Experience Their Diagnosis and Post-Diagnostic Support, and How May These Be Improved?
Authors: Roberts Jennifer Rhiannon , Windle Gill , MacLeod Catherine Anne , Sullivan Mary Pat , Camic Paul M. , Stott Joshua , Brotherhood Emilie , Jackson Kiara , Crutch Sebastian
Published: June 2024

National dementia strategies are government policies that guide the provision of appropriate support for people living with dementia. These strategies, developed through extensive stakeholder engagement, should be tailored to the cultural and demographic needs of a country. Using a mixed methods survey design, this study explored the aims of the Dementia Action Plan (2018–2022) for Wales (UK) around assessment, diagnosis, and post-diagnostic support, and assessed whether these are being realized. Further, it sought to gain insight from people living with dementia and their carers around how the experience may be improved for others in the future, as the development of the next iteration of the Action Plan is anticipated. Respondents included 71 people, affected by typical and rarer types of dementia, living in both rural and urban areas. Findings suggest both positive and negative experiences, reflecting a ‘postcode lottery’ of service provision. Attainable recommendations for improvement were made by respondents, which would ultimately likely be cost-effective and reduce strain on formal services. The findings reported in this paper concur with those reported by people living with dementia in other countries, indicating their relevance for policymakers beyond Wales.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Food Insecurity among Pregnant Women in an Important City of the Amazon Region: A Study of the Years 2021 and 2022
Authors: Santos Maria Tamires Lucas dos , Costa Kleynianne Medeiros de Mendonça , Ramalho Alanderson Alves , Valentim-Silva João Rafael , Andrade Andreia Moreira de
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Food insecurity (FI) experienced during pregnancy represents a relevant public health problem, as it negatively affects maternal and child health. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of FI among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic and determine associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the period from 2021 to 2022, with a representative sample of 423 women resulting from a sample calculation based on the average (2912 births) that occurred in the years 2016 to 2020 in the only maternity hospital in the municipality. After analyzing the medical records, interviews were carried out with the postpartum women using a standardized questionnaire and the Brazilian Food Insecurity Scale. Poisson regression with robust variance was used to calculate prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals to measure associations. Results: FI was observed in 57.0% of cases and was associated with age under 20 years (PR = 1.52; 95% CI 1.29; 1.79), receipt of government assistance (PR = 1.31; 95% CI 1.10; 1.55), loss of family employment (PR = 1.40; 95% CI 1.20; 1.64), greater number of residents (PR = 1.17; 95% CI 1.00; 1.37), and prenatal care in a public institution (PR = 1.53; 95% CI 1.04; 2.26). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of FI cases, associated with socioeconomic, demographic, and prenatal care characteristics during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Use of Antivibration Technology to Reduce Demands for In-Home Nursing Care and Support in Rural Settings for Persons with Essential Tremors: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mohammadnejad Fatemeh , Freeman Shannon , Klassen-Ross Tammy , Hemingway Dawn , Banner Davina
Published: June 2024

Introduction: With the increased integration of technologies in the healthcare sector, it is important to understand the benefits emerging technologies may play to reduce demands on the health care system. The Steadiwear antivibration glove shows promise for enhancing the independence in functional abilities for persons with essential tremors and for alleviating the need for support from the health care system. The objective of this study was to examine Registered Nurses’ (RN) perceptions of the potential for the Steadiwear antivibration glove to reduce the need for in-person support from community healthcare workers. Methods: Eleven RNs, experienced in providing care in rural communities, participated in a semi-structured interview sharing their perspectives towards use of the Steadiwear antivibration glove in community practice settings. Thematic analysis guided by Braun and Clarke was undertaken. Results: Nurses described the value of this technology to reduce client needs for support for activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, feeding) and independent activities of daily living (e.g., banking, transportation). Conclusions: Enhanced access to this technology may reduce the need for nursing and personal care support from the health system. Therefore the Steadiwear antivibration glove also shows potential to delay and/or prevent the need for more intensive support and mitigate the need for transition to a long-term care facility.
Users’ Perceptions of Access to and Quality of Unified Health System Services in Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study and Implications to Healthcare Management Challenges
Authors: Souza Jhoyce S. , Reis Edna A. , Godman Brian , Campbell Stephen M. , Meyer Johanna C. , Sena Luann W. P. , Godói Isabella P. D.
Published: June 2024

Evaluating the access to and quality of healthcare services from the users’ perspective is an important assessment process to identify priorities. This study assessed the profile of health service usage and the views of the Unified Health System (SUS) users about the access to and quality of SUS public health services. A cross-sectional study was conducted with participants from the Coastal Lowlands Region of the Rio de Janeiro State/Brazil, between August and November 2023. The association between categorical variables was analyzed using the Pearson Chi-Square test, using R software 4.3. A total of 200 individuals were interviewed using a 66-question survey instrument. Participants who reported using SUS services more frequently rated this system as essential (p-value = 0.031). However, overall, 64% of participants rated the quality of care to be very bad/bad and 34.9% rated access as very bad/bad. Access was considered poor by respondents who used public services rarely or sometimes (p-value = 0.002). In terms of accessing SUS services consultations provided by specialists (e.g., neurologists), these were available only in another municipality (p-value = 0.001). Many participants were SUS dependent for health services, and gaps and weaknesses were observed regarding users‘ perspectives of the access to and quality of SUS health care. Policymakers should prioritize evaluations and dialogue with the community to make SUS services responsive and to optimize value-for-money in health service planning.
Impact of Airborne Exposure to PM10 Increases Susceptibility to P. aeruginosa Infection
Authors: McClellan Sharon A. , Wright Robert , Muhammed Farooq , Hazlett Linda D.
Published: June 2024

The effects of exposure to airborne particulate matter with a size of 10 μm or less (PM10) on C57BL/6 mouse corneas, their response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infection, and the protective effects of SKQ1 were determined. C57BL/6 mouse corneas receiving PBS or SKQ1 were exposed to control (air) or PM10 for 2 weeks, infected, and the disease was documented by clinical score, PMN quantitation, bacterial plate count, RT-PCR and Western blot. PBS-treated, PM10-exposed corneas did not differ at 1 day postinfection (dpi), but exhibited earlier (3 dpi) corneal thinning compared to controls. By 3 dpi, PM10 significantly increased corneal mRNA levels of several pro-inflammatory cytokines, but decreased IL-10, NQO1, GR1, GPX4, and Nrf2 over control. SKQ1 reversed these effects and Western blot selectively confirmed the RT-PCR results. PM10 resulted in higher viable bacterial plate counts at 1 and 3 dpi, but SKQ1 reduced them at 3 dpi. PM10 significantly increased MPO in the cornea at 3 dpi and was reduced by SKQ1. SKQ1, used as an adjunctive treatment to moxifloxacin, was not significantly different from moxifloxacin alone. Exposure to PM10 increased the susceptibility of C57BL/6 to PA infection; SKQ1 significantly reversed these effects, but was not effective as an adjunctive treatment.
Michael Acceptors as Anti-Cancer Compounds: Coincidence or Causality?
Authors: Andrés Celia María Curieses , Pérez de la Lastra José Manuel , Bustamante Munguira Elena , Andrés Juan Celia , Pérez-Lebeña Eduardo
Published: June 2024

Michael acceptors represent a class of compounds with potential anti-cancer properties. They act by binding to nucleophilic sites in biological molecules, thereby disrupting cancer cell function and inducing cell death. This mode of action, as well as their ability to be modified and targeted, makes them a promising avenue for advancing cancer therapy. We are investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying Michael acceptors and their interactions with cancer cells, in particular their ability to interfere with cellular processes and induce apoptosis. The anti-cancer properties of Michael acceptors are not accidental but are due to their chemical structure and reactivity. The electrophilic nature of these compounds allows them to selectively target nucleophilic residues on disease-associated proteins, resulting in significant therapeutic benefits and minimal toxicity in various diseases. This opens up new perspectives for the development of more effective and precise cancer drugs. Nevertheless, further studies are essential to fully understand the impact of our discoveries and translate them into clinical practice.
NOS2 and COX-2 Co-Expression Promotes Cancer Progression: A Potential Target for Developing Agents to Prevent or Treat Highly Aggressive Breast Cancer
Authors: Coutinho Leandro L. , Femino Elise L. , Gonzalez Ana L. , Moffat Rebecca L. , Heinz William F. , Cheng Robert Y. S. , Lockett Stephen J. , Rangel M. Cristina , Ridnour Lisa A. , Wink David A.
Published: June 2024

Nitric oxide (NO) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) exert profound biological impacts dictated by their chemistry. Understanding their spatial distribution is essential for deciphering their roles in diverse biological processes. This review establishes a framework for the chemical biology of NO and RNS, exploring their dynamic reactions within the context of cancer. Concentration-dependent signaling reveals distinctive processes in cancer, with three levels of NO influencing oncogenic properties. In this context, NO plays a crucial role in cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, chemotherapy resistance, and immune suppression. Increased NOS2 expression correlates with poor survival across different tumors, including breast cancer. Additionally, NOS2 can crosstalk with the proinflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) to promote cancer progression. NOS2 and COX-2 co-expression establishes a positive feed-forward loop, driving immunosuppression and metastasis in estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancer. Spatial evaluation of NOS2 and COX-2 reveals orthogonal expression, suggesting the unique roles of these niches in the tumor microenvironment (TME). NOS2 and COX2 niche formation requires IFN-γ and cytokine-releasing cells. These niches contribute to poor clinical outcomes, emphasizing their role in cancer progression. Strategies to target these markers include direct inhibition, involving pan-inhibitors and selective inhibitors, as well as indirect approaches targeting their induction or downstream effectors. Compounds from cruciferous vegetables are potential candidates for NOS2 and COX-2 inhibition offering therapeutic applications. Thus, understanding the chemical biology of NO and RNS, their spatial distribution, and their implications in cancer progression provides valuable insights for developing targeted therapies and preventive strategies.
Untargeted Metabolome Analyses Revealed Potential Metabolic Mechanisms of Leymus chinensis in Response to Simulated Animal Feeding
Authors: Zhou Chunxu , Zhao Ruiqi , Wang Han , Liu Bao , Yu Yingjie , Jiang Lili
Published: June 2024

Leymus chinensis (Trin.) Tzvel., also known as the “Alkali Grass”, is a major forage grass in the eastern and northeastern steppe vegetation in the Songnen Prairie. It is of great practical significance for grassland management to understand the influence of animal saliva on L. chinensis during animal feeding. In this study, we used clipping and daubing animal saliva to simulate responses to grazing by L. chinensis, and analyzed the physiological and metabolomic changes in response to simulated animal feeding. Results showed that the effects of animal saliva on physiological and metabolic processes of the treated plants produced a recovery phenomenon. Moreover, the effects of animal saliva produced a large number of differential metabolites related to several known metabolic pathways, among which the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway has undergone significant and persistent changes. We posit that the potential metabolic mechanisms of L. chinensis in response to simulated animal feeding are closely related to flavonoid biosynthesis.
Gene Regulatory Network Controlling Flower Development in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)
Authors: Ma Yaying , Fu Wenhui , Wan Suyan , Li Yikai , Mao Haoming , Khalid Ehsan , Zhang Wenping , Ming Ray
Published: June 2024

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is a dioecious, diploid, wind-pollinated crop cultivated worldwide. Sex determination plays an important role in spinach breeding. Hence, this study aimed to understand the differences in sexual differentiation and floral organ development of dioecious flowers, as well as the differences in the regulatory mechanisms of floral organ development of dioecious and monoecious flowers. We compared transcriptional-level differences between different genders and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to spinach floral development, as well as sex-biased genes to investigate the flower development mechanisms in spinach. In this study, 9189 DEGs were identified among the different genders. DEG analysis showed the participation of four main transcription factor families, MIKC_MADS, MYB, NAC, and bHLH, in spinach flower development. In our key findings, abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellic acid (GA) signal transduction pathways play major roles in male flower development, while auxin regulates both male and female flower development. By constructing a gene regulatory network (GRN) for floral organ development, core transcription factors (TFs) controlling organ initiation and growth were discovered. This analysis of the development of female, male, and monoecious flowers in spinach provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of floral organ development and sexual differentiation in dioecious and monoecious plants in spinach.
In Vitro Cell Culture Model for Osteoclast Activation during Estrogen Withdrawal
Authors: Gandhi Nisha , Omer Safia , Harrison Rene E.
Published: June 2024

Estrogen (17β-estradiol) deficiency post-menopause alters bone homeostasis whereby bone resorption by osteoclasts exceeds bone formation by osteoblasts, leading to osteoporosis in females. We established an in vitro model to examine the consequences of estrogen withdrawal (E2-WD) on osteoclasts derived from the mouse macrophage RAW 264.7 cell line and utilized it to investigate the mechanism behind the enhanced osteoclast activity post-menopause. We found that a greater population of osteoclasts that underwent E2-WD contained a podosome belt necessary for osteoclasts to adhere and resorb bone and possessed elevated resorptive activity compared to osteoclasts exposed to estrogen (E2) continuously. Our results show that compared to osteoclasts that received E2 continuously, those that underwent E2-WD had a faster rate of microtubule (MT) growth, reduced RhoA activation, and shorter podosome lifespan. Thus, altered podosome and MT dynamics induced by the withdrawal of estrogen supports podosome belt assembly/stability in osteoclasts, which may explain their enhanced bone resorption activity.
Perspective and Therapeutic Potential of the Noncoding RNA–Connexin Axis
Authors: Li Xinmu , Wang Zhenzhen , Chen Naihong
Published: June 2024

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a class of nucleotide sequences that cannot be translated into peptides. ncRNAs can function post-transcriptionally by splicing complementary sequences of mRNAs or other ncRNAs or by directly engaging in protein interactions. Over the past few decades, the pervasiveness of ncRNAs in cell physiology and their pivotal roles in various diseases have been identified. One target regulated by ncRNAs is connexin (Cx), a protein that forms gap junctions and hemichannels and facilitates intercellular molecule exchange. The aberrant expression and misdistribution of connexins have been implicated in central nervous system diseases, cardiovascular diseases, bone diseases, and cancer. Current databases and technologies have enabled researchers to identify the direct or indirect relationships between ncRNAs and connexins, thereby elucidating their correlation with diseases. In this review, we selected the literature published in the past five years concerning disorders regulated by ncRNAs via corresponding connexins. Among it, microRNAs that regulate the expression of Cx43 play a crucial role in disease development and are predominantly reviewed. The distinctive perspective of the ncRNA–Cx axis interprets pathology in an epigenetic manner and is expected to motivate research for the development of biomarkers and therapeutics.
The Latest Advances in Ink-Based Nanogenerators: From Materials to Applications
Authors: Shao Bingqian , Chen Zhitao , Su Hengzhe , Peng Shuzhe , Song Mingxin
Published: June 2024

Nanogenerators possess the capability to harvest faint energy from the environment. Among them, thermoelectric (TE), triboelectric, piezoelectric (PE), and moisture-enabled nanogenerators represent promising approaches to micro–nano energy collection. These nanogenerators have seen considerable progress in material optimization and structural design. Printing technology has facilitated the large-scale manufacturing of nanogenerators. Although inks can be compatible with most traditional functional materials, this inevitably leads to a decrease in the electrical performance of the materials, necessitating control over the rheological properties of the inks. Furthermore, printing technology offers increased structural design flexibility. This review provides a comprehensive framework for ink-based nanogenerators, encompassing ink material optimization and device structural design, including improvements in ink performance, control of rheological properties, and efficient energy harvesting structures. Additionally, it highlights ink-based nanogenerators that incorporate textile technology and hybrid energy technologies, reviewing their latest advancements in energy collection and self-powered sensing. The discussion also addresses the main challenges faced and future directions for development.
Anti-Obesity Properties of Blackberries Fermented with L. plantarum JBMI F5 via Suppression of Adipogenesis Signaling Mechanisms
Authors: Park Jae Young , Kim Ha-Rim , Lee Seung-Hyeon , Lee Sang-Wang , Sin Hong-Sig , Lim Tae-Gyu , Kim Seon-Young , Park Mi Hee
Published: June 2024

Blackberries (Rubus fruticosus), which are known to include a variety of bioactive substances, have been extensively studied for their antioxidant properties. Blackberries possess multiple health beneficial effects, including anti-inflammation, anti-atherosclerosis, anti-tumor and immunomodulatory activity. However, the potential biological effects and precise molecular mechanisms of the fermented extracts remain largely unexplored. In this research, we demonstrate the effect of blackberries fermented with Lactobacillus for addressing obesity. We investigated the effect of blackberries fermented by Lactobacillus on mice fed a high-fat (60% kcal) diet for 12 weeks. Fermented blackberry administration reduced the body weight and epididymal fat caused by a high-fat diet compared to the obese group. The triglyceride and total cholesterol, which are blood lipid indicators, and the levels of leptin, which is an insulin resistance indicator, were significantly increased in the obese group but were significantly decreased in the fermented blackberries-treated group. Additionally, the expression of adipogenesis marker proteins, such as CEBPα, PPAR-γ and SREBP-1, was significantly increased in the obese group, whereas it was decreased in the fermented blackberries-treated group. These results suggest that fermented blackberries have a protective effect against high-fat-diet-induced obesity by inhibiting adipogenesis and are a potential candidate for the treatment of obesity.
Human Sputum Proteomics: Advancing Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Respiratory Diseases with Enhanced Biomarker Analysis Methods
Authors: Guzman Norberto A. , Guzman Andrea
Published: June 2024

Many ailments can be diagnosed while they are asymptomatic, meaning that the patient has no signs or symptoms of a progressing disease. If caught in their initial stage of formation, these disorders can be effectively treated, leading to successful outcomes; curative therapies can halt illnesses from advancing, thus improving the quality of life and long-term survival of the patient. Still, cutting-edge upgrades in precision technologies are necessary for early, reliable, affordable, and rapid disease detection, but also vital for the well-being of people and the future of global public health. The emerging role and utility of non-invasive and repeatable diagnostic test approaches for the detection of health conditions have been exemplified by liquid biopsies based on genomic biomarkers. As such, biological fluids permit any measurable molecular indicator or signature (e.g., proteins) to provide valuable information on an individual’s wellness and/or disease. Among the bodily secretions used for non-invasive diagnostics is sputum, a complex viscous gel-like biopolymeric network that has gained growing recognition as a rich source of biomarkers of airway infections and pulmonary diseases, and serves as a determinant to reveal other illnesses. As per the World Health Organization, the burden of respiratory conditions is exacerbated by factors ranging from considerable subjection to air pollution and occupational contaminants to tobacco smoking and second-hand smoke, in addition to poor socio-economic status. Due to the likely increase in these determinants, respiratory tract ailments are on the rise, affecting the health of many individuals, in addition to putting stress on healthcare facilities and services worldwide. The aim of this study was to perform a narrative review of sputum constituents with an emphasis on proteins and glycoproteins assessed as possible biomarkers of lung and other organ diseases. A search was conducted using mucus, sputum proteomics, sputum biomarkers, and point-of-care testing as keywords employing Google, PubMed (MEDLINE), and Web of Science, selecting the most referenced and related papers of the last decade. We, therefore, highlight the need to use expectorated or induced sputum specimens as a routine sample source for testing valuable protein biomarkers to diagnose these chronic disorders, predict inflammation and disease progression, as well as monitor the effectiveness of treatments. Further, we discuss the urgent need for fast and reliable point-of-care methods to detect and quantify crucial protein biomarkers in sputum specimens, and the limitations faced when dealing with their complex matrices.
Ethylene: A Modulator of the Phytohormone-Mediated Insect Herbivory Network in Plants
Authors: Bungala Leonel Tarcisio da Cristina , Park Chanung , Dique José Eulário Lampi , Sathasivam Ramaraj , Shin Su Young , Park Sang Un
Published: June 2024

Plants have evolved to establish insect herbivory defences by modulating their metabolism, growth, and development. Precise networks of phytohormones are essential to induce those herbivory defences. Gaseous phytohormone ET plays an important role in forming herbivory defences. Its role in insect herbivory is not fully understood, but previous studies have shown that it can both positively and negatively regulate herbivory. This review presents recent findings on crosstalk between ET and other phytohormones in herbivory responses. Additionally, the use of exogenous ETH treatment to induce ET in response to herbivory is discussed.
One Step beyond Species Description: Unveiling a Fine-Scale Diversity within the Genus Dzhanokmenia Kostjukov (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)
Authors: Ganbaatar Bolormaa , Li Qin , Xi Ouyan , Cao Huanxi , Zhu Chaodong
Published: June 2024

Although Chalcidoidea is one of the megadiverse superfamilies in Hymenoptera, numerous species are still being discovered and described. However, the difficulties in delimiting intra- and interspecific variation hinder this process. In this study, DNA barcoding methods using the COI gene were employed to investigate the morphological variation within Dzhanokmenia Kostjukov, 1977. The nuclear locus, 28S D2, was used to infer a phylogeny to gain an understanding of the relationship of Dzhanokmenia with other potentially close genera. Through a preliminary DNA barcode library established here, including eight species, we calibrated the intraspecific variation in certain diagnostic characters for the new species described here, D. brevifunis Ganbaatar & Cao sp. nov. Maximum likelihood results show that Dzhanokmenia is clustered with the genera associated with Tetrastichus, such as Chaenotetrastichus Graham, 1987, Baryscapus Förster, 1856, Tetrastichus Haliday, 1844, and Oomyzus Rondani, 1870 involved in this study. Our results indicate that the species diversity of Dzhanokmenia is understudied and tentatively confirm that Dzhanokmenia has a potential close relationship with Baryscapus. Along with the DNA barcode library, the referenced phylogeny datasets improve the understanding of the systematic position of Dzhanokmenia within the subfamily Tetrastichinae and the definition of this genus in terms of morphology, thereby facilitating species delimitation, discovery, and description within Dzhanokmenia.
The Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in HIV Patients—A Review
Authors: Chmiel James , Kurpas Donata , Rybakowski Filip , Leszek Jerzy
Published: June 2024

Introduction: HIV is a severe and incurable disease that has a devastating impact worldwide. It affects the immune system and negatively affects the nervous system, leading to various cognitive and behavioral problems. Scientists are actively exploring different therapeutic approaches to combat these issues. One promising method is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive technique that stimulates the brain. Methods: This review aims to examine how tDCS can help HIV patients. Searches were conducted in the Pubmed/Medline, Research Gate, and Cochrane databases. Results: The literature search resulted in six articles focusing on the effects of tDCS on cognitive and behavioral measures in people with HIV. In some cases, tDCS showed positive improvements in the measures assessed, improving executive functions, depression, attention, reaction time, psychomotor speed, speed of processing, verbal learning and memory, and cognitive functioning. Furthermore, the stimulation was safe with no severe side effects. However, the included studies were of low quality, had small sample sizes, and did not use any relevant biomarkers that would help to understand the mechanisms of action of tDCS in HIV. Conclusions: tDCS may help patients with HIV; however, due to the limited number of studies and the diversity of protocols used, caution should be exercised when recommending this treatment option in clinical settings. More high-quality research, preferably involving neurophysiological and neuroimaging measurements, is necessary to better understand how tDCS works in individuals with HIV.
Unlocking the Future: Bioprinting Salivary Glands—From Possibility to Reality
Authors: Shopova Dobromira , Yaneva Antoniya , Mihaylova Anna , Dinkova Atanaska , Bakova Desislava
Published: June 2024

Salivary gland biofabrication represents a promising avenue in regenerative medicine, aiming to address the challenges of salivary gland dysfunction caused by various factors such as autoimmune diseases and radiotherapy. This review examines the current state of bioprinting technology, biomaterials, and tissue engineering strategies in the context of creating functional, implantable salivary gland constructs. Key considerations include achieving vascularization for proper nutrient supply, maintaining cell viability and functionality during printing, and promoting tissue maturation and integration with surrounding tissues. Despite the existing challenges, recent advancements offer significant potential for the development of personalized therapeutic options to treat salivary gland disorders. Continued research and innovation in this field hold the potential to revolutionize the management of salivary gland conditions, improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This systematic review covers publications from 2018 to April 2024 and was conducted on four databases: Google Scholar, PubMed, EBSCOhost, and Web of Science. The key features necessary for the successful creation, implantation and functioning of bioprinted salivary glands are addressed.
Enhancing Antimicrobial Performance of Gauze via Modification by Ag-Loaded Polydopamine Submicron Particles
Authors: Cui Junnan , Shu Haobo , Zhu Panpan , Cao Zhimin , Wang Shuilin , Cao Pan
Published: June 2024

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are known for their antibacterial properties and their ability to promote wound healing. By incorporating silver nanoparticles into medical gauze, the resulting composite material shows promise as an advanced wound dressing. However, clinical applications are hindered by challenges related to the stability of silver nanoparticle loading on the gauze as nanoparticle leaching can compromise antibacterial efficacy. In this study, silver nanoparticles were immobilized onto polydopamine (PDA) submicron particles, which were then used to modify medical gauze. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) was employed to analyze the elemental distribution on the modified gauze, confirming successful surface modification. The antibacterial properties of the modified gauze were assessed using a laser scanning confocal microscope (CLSM). The results demonstrated a significant reduction in the adhesion rates of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) by 99.1% and 63%, respectively, on the PDA–Ag-modified gauze. Optical density (OD) measurements at 590 nm indicated that the modified gauze effectively inhibited biofilm formation, underscoring its potent antimicrobial capabilities. Further antibacterial efficacy was evaluated by diluting and plating co-cultured bacterial solutions with the modified dressing, followed by 24 h incubation and colony counting. The gauze exhibited an antibacterial efficiency of 99.99% against E. coli and 99.8% against S. aureus. Additionally, cell compatibility tests, involving the co-culture of PDA–Ag composites with human cells, demonstrated excellent biocompatibility. These findings suggest that PDA–Ag-modified medical gauze holds significant potential for the treatment of infected wounds, offering a promising solution to improve wound care through enhanced antimicrobial activity and biocompatibility.
Contrasting Performance of Two Winter Wheat Varieties Susceptible to Leaf Rust under Diverse Pathogen Pressure, Fungicide Application, and Cultivation Practices
Authors: Jevtić Radivoje , Župunski Vesna , Živančev Dragan , Arsov Emilija , Mitrev Sasa , Mihajlov Ljupco , Orbović Branka
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the relationship between yield, thousand kernel weight (TKW), and crude protein of soft white winter wheat–club variety (Barbee) and soft white winter wheat common variety (Zvezdana) susceptible to leaf rust and powdery mildew under different cultivation practices. Results revealed divergence in associations between yield, TKW, and crude protein loss of winter wheat varieties susceptible to obligate pathogens. Under the same level of leaf rust infection, N-input limited yield loss of the two varieties but not to the same extent. TKW loss was affected only by variety×cultivation practice and was significantly correlated with yield loss (r = −0.727, p = 0.011) and crude protein loss (r = −0.600, p = 0.05) only in club winter wheat. We suspected that Ninput affects the difference in the relationship between yield and TKW loss among varieties. Crude protein and yield loss had a low association (R2 = 18%, p = 0.05). Finally, this study indicated that more attention should be paid to the determination of pathogen pressure that triggers yield loss. It also pointed out that yield, TKW, and crude protein response to fungicides could differ in susceptible varieties. The contribution of fungicide to yield enhancement was highly associated with the specific reaction of the variety to pathogen infection rather than solely the disease level itself.
Code Stroke Alert: Focus on Emergency Department Time Targets and Impact on Door-to-Needle Time across Day and Night Shifts
Authors: Buleu Florina , Popa Daian , Williams Carmen , Tudor Anca , Sutoi Dumitru , Trebuian Cosmin , Ioan Covasala Constantin , Iancu Aida , Cozma Gabriel , Marin Ana-Maria , Pah Ana-Maria , Petre Ion , Mederle Ovidiu Alexandru
Published: June 2024

Background and objectives: To minimize stroke-related deaths and maximize the likelihood of cerebral reperfusion, medical professionals developed the “code stroke” emergency protocol, which allows for the prompt evaluation of patients with acute ischemic stroke symptoms in pre-hospital care and the emergency department (ED). This research will outline our experience in implementing the stroke code protocol for acute ischemic stroke patients and its impact on door-to-needle time (DTN) in the ED. Methods: Our study included patients with a “code stroke alert” upon arrival at the emergency department. The final sample of this study consisted of 258 patients eligible for intravenous (IV) thrombolysis with an onset-to-door time < 4.5 h. ED admissions were categorized into two distinct groups: “day shift” (from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) (n = 178) and “night shift” (from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.) (n = 80) groups. Results: An analysis of ED time targets showed an increased median during the day shift for onset-to-ED door time of 310 min (IQR, 190–340 min), for door-to-physician (emergency medicine doctor) time of 5 min (IQR, 3–9 min), for door-to-physician (emergency medicine doctor) time of 5 min (IQR, 3–9 min), and for door-to-physician (neurologist) time of 7 min (IQR, 5–10 min), also during the day shift. During the night shift, an increased median was found for door-to-CT time of 21 min (IQR, 16.75–23 min), for door-to-CT results of 40 min (IQR, 38–43 min), and for door-to-needle time of 57.5 min (IQR, 46.25–60 min). Astonishingly, only 17.83% (n = 46) of these patients received intravenous thrombolysis, and the proportion of patients with thrombolysis was significantly higher during the night shift (p = 0.044). A logistic regression analysis considering the door-to-needle time (minutes) as the dependent variable demonstrated that onset-to-ED time (p < 0.001) and door-to-physician (emergency medicine physicians) time (p = 0.021) are predictors for performing thrombolysis in our study. Conclusions: This study identified higher door-to-CT and door-to-emergency medicine physician times associated with an increased DTN, highlighting further opportunities to improve acute stroke care in the emergency department. Further, door-to-CT and door-to-CT results showed statistically significant increases during the night shift.
Online Review Helpfulness and Information Overload: The Roles of Text, Image, and Video Elements
Authors: Wang Liang , Che Gaofeng , Hu Jiantuan , Chen Lin
Published: June 2024

Online reviews have become an important source of information for consumers, significantly influencing their purchasing decisions. However, the abundance and variety of review formats, especially the mix of text, image, and video elements, can lead to information overload and hinder effective decision-making. This study investigates how different review formats and their combinations affect the perceived helpfulness of reviews. We develop a comprehensive framework to analyze the interactions between text, image, and video elements and their impact on the helpfulness of reviews. We collect and code 8693 online reviews from JingDong Mall Mallacross six product categories, including both experience products and search products, and use multiple regression analysis to test our hypotheses. Our results show that textual review elements significantly increase review helpfulness. However, their effectiveness decreases as the amount of information increases, indicating cognitive overload. Text reviews are more prone to contribute to information overload, while visual elements such as images and videos generally do not contribute to information overload in the coexistence of text, image, and video reviews. Imagery components have a minimal effect on review helpfulness. Video elements are relatively short, which may not be sufficient to convey useful information. We also find that the impact of review formats varies between experience products and search products, and that star ratings moderate the alignment of textual or imagery components with consumer expectations. We conclude that the hybrid of text, image, and video elements in online reviews plays a crucial role in shaping consumer decision-making and information overload. Our research contributes to the literature on online reviews and information overload while providing practical implications for online retailers, review platforms, and consumers to optimize review formats, star ratings, and product types to facilitate informed purchase decisions.
Dynamic Incentive Mechanisms for Collaborative Innovation of Green Supply Chain Considering Digital Capability and Consumer Green Preference
Authors: Cheng Wen , Wu Qunqi , Li Qian , Ye Fei , Tan Lingling
Published: June 2024

In light of increasingly prominent environmental issues, inspiring green supply chain (GSC) members to engage in collaborative innovation is crucial to improve environmental performance. In this paper, in relation to a two-level GSC consisting of manufacturers and suppliers, differential equations involving the greenness of intermediate and final products as state variables are constructed considering the effect of digital capability on green innovation. Subsequently, designs for three incentive mechanisms—the greenness reward, the R&D effort reward, and the digital construction reward—are presented, and their long-term dynamic effects on the economic, environmental, and social benefits are compared and analyzed. Finally, the impacts of consumer green preference and the contribution of digital capability to the advancement of green innovation are explored. The findings show that all these incentives can boost economic, environmental, and social benefits while motivating the supplier. To achieve the best incentive effect, the reward coefficient should fall within a specific range. The digital construction reward mechanism is the most favourable in the initial stage, while the R&D effort reward mechanism is the most appropriate in the long term. The promotion effects of digital capability on green innovation and consumer green preference have the potential to enhance economic, environmental, and social performance.
Digital Virtual Simulation for Cultural Clothing Restoration: Case Study of Tang Dynasty Mural ‘Diplomatic Envoys’ from Crown Prince Zhang Huai’s Tomb
Authors: Liu Chunxiao , Cui RongRong , Wang Zhicheng
Published: June 2024

The advent of 3D virtual presentation technology for clothing has led to the gradual popularisation of digital virtual clothing in the modern fashion industry. However, there remains a gap between the application of this technology and the integration of cultural attributes in the field of digital communication of traditional cultural clothing. Consequently, the objective of this paper is to propose the establishment of a fusion system integrating archaeological research on traditional culture with emerging virtual presentation technology. This paper draws inspiration from the replicability and easy dissemination of digital products to combine cultural archaeology and digital technology. The aim is to provide ideas for the diversity of dissemination of cultural heritage. The research object is Diplomatic Envoys, a Chinese mural painting of the Tang Dynasty that depicts friendly exchanges between countries. The research is divided into two research stages. A CLO3D software-based digital restoration test was conducted to reproduce the costumes of officials and foreign envoys depicted in the Tang Dynasty mural. The FAHP model was employed to verify the accuracy of the restoration results. The experiment demonstrated that the digitally reconstructed clothing exhibited a high degree of similarity to the unearthed mural figure clothing object. Furthermore, the restoration result passed the credibility verification, resulting in a ‘credible’ outcome. The application of digital virtual simulation clothing restoration methods offers two key advantages. Firstly, in comparison with traditional clothing restoration methods, digital restoration enables the rapid assessment of the resulting clothing effect, thereby reducing the likelihood of secondary damage to cultural relics due to manual errors. Secondly, the benefits of digital technology facilitate the convenient storage, replication, and dissemination of clothing data information. Data can not only be extended to online exhibition halls but also to game animation, clothing production, and other fields for the purposes of creative redesign and information dissemination. Furthermore, these benefits can penetrate the education industry to disseminate information to the public through all-round display models and explanations.
Predicting Land Cover Using a GIS-Based Markov Chain and Sea Level Inundation for a Coastal Area
Authors: Healey Colleen , Ghoneim Eman , Loh Ai Ning , You Yalei
Published: June 2024

New Hanover County, North Carolina, has been experiencing rapid population growth and is expected to continue this growth, leading to increased land use and development in the area. The county is also threatened by sea level rise (SLR) and its effects because of its coastal location and frequent occurrences of major storms and hurricanes. This study used a land change modeler to map the land cover change throughout the county over a period of 20 years, and predicted land cover distribution in the area in the years 2030 and 2050. Statistics revealed that the developed land in the area increased by 85 km2 between 2000 and 2010, and by 60 km2 between 2010 and 2020. Such land is predicted to increase by another 73 km2 by 2030, and 63 km2 by 2050. This increase in development is expected to occur mainly in the central area of the county and along the barrier islands. Modeling of SLR illustrated that the northwestern part of New Hanover County along the Cape Fear River, as well as the beach towns located on the barrier islands, are estimated be the most affected locations. Results indicate that sections of major highways throughout the county, including I-140 near downtown Wilmington and US-421 in Carolina Beach, may be inundated by SLR, which might delay residents during mandatory evacuations for emergency situations such as hurricanes. Some routes may be unusable, leading to traffic congestion on other routes, which may impede some residents from reaching safety before the emergency. Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach are estimated to have the highest levels of inundation, with 71.17% and 40.58% of their land being inundated under the most extreme SLR scenario of 3 m, respectively. The use of the present research approach may provide a practical, quick, and low-cost method in modeling rapidly growing urban areas along the eastern United States coastline and locating areas at potential risk of future SLR inundation.
D-Limonene Is the Active Olfactory Attractant in Orange Juice for Bactrocera dorsalis (Insecta: Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Liu Leyuan , Yang Lang , Yuan Jinxi , Zhang Jie , Liu Chenhao , Zhou Hongxu , Liu Wei , Wang Guirong
Published: June 2024

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), poses a significant threat to the global fruit industry, causing damage to diverse fruits like citrus, mango, and guava. Chemical pesticides have limited effectiveness, and pesticide residues and pesticide resistance are pressing issues. Therefore, it is essential to develop environmentally friendly pest control methods to address this problem. Behavior-modifying chemicals, including male attractants and intersex protein baits, play a critical role in the control of B. dorsalis. The mature host fruit serves as both an oviposition site and food source under natural conditions, making it a potential attraction source for oriental fruit flies. Orange, Citrus sinensis, is a main host of B. dorsalis, and commercial orange juice is a common attractant for the egg laying of B. dorsalis. Although it can both attract and elicit oviposition behaviors in B. dorsalis adults, its active components are still unclear. This study utilized analytical chemistry, behavioral tests, and electrophysiology to identify the active components of commercial orange juice that attract B. dorsalis, with the aim of providing a reference for the development of behavior-modifying chemical-based techniques to control B. dorsalis. Five compounds with a high abundance were identified via a GC-MS, including D-Limonene, butanoic acid ethyl ester, β-myrcene, linalool, and α-terpineol. Behavioral and electrophysiological experiments uncovered that D-Limonene was the active substance that was the main attractant in the mixture of these five substances, evoking a strong electrophysiological response in adult B. dorsalis. D-Limonene strongly attracts adult B. dorsalis only when they are sexually mature, and the attraction is not rhythmic. Olfaction plays a leading role in the attraction of D-Limonene to adult B. dorsalis, and Orco−/− mediates the perception of D-Limonene by B. dorsalis. Overall, D-Limonene is one of the key attractant compounds for B. dorsalis in the volatile compounds of commercial orange juice, offering possible support for the development of behavior-modifying chemical-based technology to control B. dorsalis in the future.