bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting the Potential Habitat Distribution of Relict Plant Davidia involucrata in China Based on the MaxEnt Model
Authors: Wang Tianxiang , Li Wenting , Cui Hongxia , Song Yunrui , Liu Changyong , Yan Qing , Wu Yaoxing , Jia Yihang , Fang Lizheng , Qi Lianghua
Published: January 2024

Davidia involucrata Baill. 1871 (D. involucrata), as a tertiary relict plant unique to China, is a national Class I protected plant with high economic value. Oil extracted from its seeds and peels can be used for both consumption and industrial purposes. It has become a popular income-earning export tree in China because of its graceful posture and beautiful white bracts. Climate change affects the distribution of the species’ potential habitat areas. Thus, studying its natural distribution pattern and future potential habitat distribution changes has great significance for the sustainable resource utilization and biodiversity conservation of D. involucrata. Here, we employed the MaxEnt model and ArcGIS software to predict the current and future (the 2050s and 2070s) potential habitats of D. involucrata via 130 species distribution records and 37 environmental variables. Meanwhile, we used the jackknife method to assess the importance of environmental factors. Our results showed the following: (1) When the RM = 4 and FC = LQHPT, the MaxEnt model exhibited the lowest complexity and overfitting degree while achieving high model prediction accuracy. The area under the curve (AUC) value of the simulated training was 0.958, indicating an excellent forecast. (2) Under the current climate scenario, D. involucrata was mainly concentrated in eastern Sichuan, western Hubei, northern Guizhou, and northwestern Hunan, with an area of 98.02 × 104 km2. (3) The precipitation in the warmest quarter (Bio18, 30%), mean temperature in the driest quarter (Bio9, 24.4%), annual mean radiation (Bio20, 14.6%), and elevation (ele, 12.7%) were the main environmental factors affecting its habitat distribution; the t contribution was 82.1%. (4) Under different future climate scenarios, the potential habitat area of D. involucrata decreased overall. Compared with the current climate scenario, the areas of potential habitats gradually decreased in both the 2050s and 2070s under the ssp126 and ssp585 climate scenarios but decreased in the 2050s and then increased in the 2070s under the ssp370 climate scenario. Therefore, it is of great significance to track and monitor the existing population or community on the basis of the possible changes in its distribution area. Moreover, the artificial breeding of its seedlings should be considered in the future to improve the quality of its germplasm resources. In summary, our findings can provide a scientific understanding of D. involucrata distribution in China and are conducive to conservation and utilization.
Freezing-Rain- and Snow-Induced Bending and Recovery of Birch in Young Hemiboreal Stands
Authors: Donis Jānis , Šņepsts Guntars , Zdors Leonīds , Vuguls Jānis , Jansons Āris
Published: January 2024

Damage to birch (Betula spp.) trees after an extensive freezing rain and snowing event was assessed in hemiboreal stands aged from 2 to 30 years. Tree diameter, height, and stem bending were measured, stand age and time of thinning were obtained from inventory data, and the relative distance from a sample plot to the nearest adjacent stand was calculated. Stem bending was remeasured after one and three growing seasons to assess tree recovery potential. Stem damage was found for 31.0% of birch trees, with 93.7% of them bent. The probability of being bent was increased (p < 0.001) for trees of a lower social position within the stand and was higher in stands with larger growing stock (p < 0.05) and relative distance to the adjacent stand (p < 0.001). The probability of damage was significantly (p < 0.05) affected by recent tree removal, with decreasing susceptibility until five to six years after the last thinning. After one growing season, 31.3% of trees had less intense bending, and 8.2% had more intense bending compared with the initial assessment. A tree’s ability to recover stem bending to less than 15° was linked (p < 0.001) to its damage intensity, whereas the magnitude of the recovery was affected by both the damage intensity and the relative diameter (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). The results indicate the importance of timely thinning that maintains a stable tree form and is performed considering the spatial planning of heterogeneity in the heights of adjacent stands to avoid damage at a young age.
Towards Sustainable Protein Sources: The Thermal and Rheological Properties of Alternative Proteins
Authors: Burghardt Kaitlyn , Craven Tierney , Sardar Nabil A. , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: January 2024

Reducing meat consumption reduces carbon emissions and other environmental harms. Unfortunately, commercial plant-based meat substitutes have not seen widespread adoption. In order to enable more flexible processing methods, this paper analyzes the characteristics of commercially available spirulina, soy, pea, and brown rice protein isolates to provide data for nonmeat protein processing that can lead to cost reductions. The thermal and rheological properties, as well as viscosity, density, and particle size distribution, were analyzed for further study into alternative protein-based food processing. The differential scanning calorimetry analysis produced dry amorphous-shaped curves and paste curves with a more distinct endothermic peak. The extracted linear temperature ranges for processing within food production were 70–90 °C for spirulina, 87–116 °C for soy protein, 67–77 °C for pea protein, and 87–97 °C for brown rice protein. The viscosity analysis determined that each protein material was shear-thinning and that viscosity increased with decreased water concentration, with rice being an exception to the latter trend. The obtained viscosity range for spirulina was 15,100–78,000 cP, 3200–80,000 cP for soy protein, 1400–32,700 cP for pea protein, and 600–3500 cP for brown rice protein. The results indicate that extrusion is a viable method for the further processing of protein isolates, as this technique has a large temperature operating range and variable screw speed. The data provided here can be used to make single or multi-component protein substitutes.
Breaking the Chains: Advances in Substance Addiction Research through Single-Cell Sequencing, Epigenetics, and Epitranscriptomic
Authors: Filošević Vujnović Ana , Stanković Matić Ivana , Saftić Martinović Lara , Dević Pavlić Sanja
Published: January 2024

Addiction is a complex brain disease influenced by genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Psychostimulants, cocaine, and methamphetamine influence different cell types in different brain regions, with a focus on the neurons responsible for rewarding effects in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA). Known markers for psychostimulant-induced neuronal plasticity in combination with droplet-based high-throughput single-cell sequencing divided the heterogeneity of cell populations in NAc and VTA into clusters, where all cells of the same type do not respond equally to exposure to psychostimulants. To explain psychostimulant-induced neuronal plasticity as changes in the amplitude and phase shifts of gene expression, we focused on epigenetic mechanisms of DNA and chromatin modifications, as well as DNA accessibility. We also comment on epitranscriptomics as a novel approach in the study of messenger RNA posttranslational modification, which regulates translation and potentially localized transcription in synapses in order to address the molecular chains that connect addiction from changes in gene expression to synaptic and, finally, neuronal plasticity.
A Multiparametric Method Improves the Serological Characterization of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Preliminary Results from a Multicenter Eastern Europe Study
Authors: Panic Nikola , Marino Marco , Hauser Goran , Jacobsen Silvia , Curcio Francesco , Meroi Francesco , Cifù Adriana , Castagnaviz Eleonora , Pistis Cinzia , Terrosu Giovanni , Bulajic Milutin , Vadalà di Prampero Salvatore Francesco , Tarabar Dino , Krznaric-Zrnic Irena , Kovacevic Gordana , Ranković Ivan , Fabris Martina
Published: January 2024

The serological support for early diagnosis and differential diagnosis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) is actually very limited. In this study, we evaluated the performance of a promising multiparametric method including either well-established and newly developed biomarkers. We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional study at the Gastroenterology Units of Udine (Italy), Rijeka (Croatia) and Belgrade (Serbia). Sera was collected from IBD patients, and autoantibody profiles were determined using a mosaic cell and tissue-based indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) method simultaneously investigating anti-saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCAs), anti-atypical perinuclear neutrophilic antibodies (P-ANCAs), anti-pancreatic antigens antibodies (PABs) and anti-goblet cells antibodies (GAB). The study finally enrolled 156 patients with IBD: 100 affected by Crohn’s disease (CD) and 56 by ulcerative colitis (UC). Twenty age-sex matched blood donors (BDs) were included as controls. PAB (anti-CUZD1 and/or anti-GP2 antibodies) were present in 24 CD patients versus none of the UC patients or BDs (24% sensitivity, 100% specificity). As regards CD patients, combined positivity of PAB and ASCA (sensitivity 84%, specificity 71.4%) performed better than ASCA alone. Colon involvement (87.5% vs. 60.5%; p = 0.014), deep mucosal lesions (58.3% vs. 25.0%; p = 0.002) and need for biologic therapies (79.2% vs. 46.1%; p = 0.005) were significantly more prevalent in PAB-positive than in PAB-negative CD patients. Multivariate analysis identified PAB positivity (OR = 3.67; 95%CI = 1.29–10.46) and anti-CUZD1 in particular (OR = 3.54; 95%CI = 1.08–11.63) as significant risk factors for deep mucosal lesion development in CD. A multiparametric diagnostic approach appears very useful to better characterize IBD patients. PABs, whether isolated or combined with other autoantibodies, may support differential diagnosis but above all facilitate the selection of CD patients at risk for more severe disease.
Innovative Program to Prevent Pediatric Chronic Postsurgical Pain: Patient Partner Feedback on Intervention Development
Authors: Ruskin Danielle , Szczech Klaudia , Tyrrell Jennifer , Isaac Lisa
Published: January 2024

Background: The risk of developing chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) in youth is related to psychological factors, including preoperative anxiety, depression, patient/caregiver pain catastrophizing, and poor self-efficacy in managing pain. While interventions exist to address these factors, they are generally brief and educational in nature. The current paper details patient partner feedback on the development of a psychologist-delivered perioperative psychological program (PPP) designed to identify and target psychological risk factors for CPSP and improve self-efficacy in managing pain. Methods: Qualitative interviews were conducted with two patients and their caregivers to discuss their surgical and pain management experience and to advise on components of the PPP. Results: Reflexive thematic analysis of interviews generated the following themes, which were incorporated into the content and implementation of the PPP: caregiver involvement, psychological and physical strategies for pain management, biopsychosocial pain education, intervention structure, and supporting materials. Conclusions: The development of a novel psychologist-led PPP is a promising approach to mitigate mental health risks associated with pediatric CPSP and potentially boost postoperative outcomes and family wellbeing. Integrating patient partner feedback ensures that the PPP is relevant, acceptable, and aligned with the needs and preferences of the patients it is designed to serve.
Acceptability of Telerehabilitation: Experiences and Perceptions by Individuals with Stroke and Caregivers in an Early Supported Discharge Program
Authors: Ouédraogo Fatimata , Auger Louis-Pierre , Moreau Emmanuelle , Côté Odile , Guerrera Rosalba , Rochette Annie , Kairy Dahlia
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Telerehabilitation (TR) is a promising method for facilitating the delivery and access to post-stroke rehabilitation services. Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the acceptability of TR and factors influencing its adoption by individuals with stroke and caregivers. Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Six individuals with stroke and three caregivers participated in individual online interviews. An abductive thematic analysis was employed to analyze the qualitative data, using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT-2) model. Results: Participants reported positive experiences with TR, resulting in improvements in functional abilities, such as manual dexterity, balance, and positive interactions with therapists. They found the technology easy to learn and use, facilitating engagement in TR. Participants’ prior experiences with technology, along with support from caregivers and therapists, facilitated acceptance and the use of TR. The COVID-19 pandemic also motivated participants to accept TR. However, technical issues, unstable internet connections, and lack of feedback were barriers to the use of TR. Conclusion: Despite existing obstacles, TR can be used to provide rehabilitation services for individuals with stroke. Addressing these barriers is necessary to promote the widespread and effective use of TR in the context of stroke recovery.
Effects of Substitute Substrate, Water, and Fertilizer Management on the Growth of Potted Chrysanthemums
Authors: Lu Yufan , Zhou Tongjun , Guo Jinqing , Zhong Jian , Li Dawei , Shi Huajin , Liu Chang , Xiang Ruizi , Sun Ming
Published: January 2024

The chrysanthemum is a perennial herbaceous flower with a long history of cultivation dating back over 3000 years. The potted chrysanthemum is a significant type and is widely used in landscaping. Expensive substrate costs, complicated management of water and fertilizer, and uneven product quality currently plague the potted chrysanthemum industry. This study systematically investigated the growth status of potted chrysanthemums under different substrates, water, and fertilizer ratios and established a simplified cultivation system for potted chrysanthemums. The substitute substrate experiment demonstrated that coir: moss peat: perlite: pine needle mulch = 2:4:2:2 is the most suitable substitute substrate. Research on fertilizer ratios found that chrysanthemums’ best growth and flowering characteristics were achieved with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium concentrations of 336 mg/L, 93 mg/L, and 273 mg/L, respectively. A comprehensive, simplified cultivation system was established when utilizing T4 substitute substrate (2:4:2:2 ratios of coir, moss peat, perlite, and pine needle mulch), 40% water capacity, and F9 fertilizer (336 mg/L nitrogen, 93 mg/L phosphorus, and 273 mg/L potassium). This study comprehensively and systematically explored the cultivation and maintenance schemes in the production of potted chrysanthemums and built a light, simple, and efficient production technology system of potted chrysanthemums in the open field suitable for the climatic characteristics of northern China, which provides feasible technical specifications and a theoretical basis for the refinement and large-scale management of potted chrysanthemums. This experiment lays the foundations for cost reduction and efficiency in the potted chrysanthemum industry.
System Intertwining and Immigration Action Plans: The Case of a Provincial Funding Program in Quebec (Canada)
Authors: Frozzini Jorge
Published: January 2024

The ability of political power to be deployed on several levels of governance is a key element of public administration, insofar as it enables the various needs of the population to be met. However, conflicts of competence, jurisdiction or vision can arise when it comes to articulating these different levels of management or intervention, particularly when policies with a broader scope are applied to local situations, thus proving ill suited to the realities experienced on the ground. This essay, with an example in the province of Quebec, illustrates how the provincial and municipal levels of governance—each with differing visions and objectives—are confronted with dilemmas respecting the constraints imposed by their levels of government. Through a systemic point of view, I show how intertwining systemic levels can produce conflicts since each has its own logic. This is explained with the example of a text-based mediated organization conducted by the “Programme d’appui aux collectivités” (PAC). The essay also identifies some challenges faced by civil servants working at two different levels of government as well as the place of the idea of resilience, and proposes recommendations.
Vulnerability to Aquifer Pollution in the Mexican Wine Producing Valley of Guadalupe, México
Authors: Díaz-Gutiérrez Guadalupe , Daesslé Luis Walter , Del-Toro-Guerrero Francisco José , Villada-Canela Mariana , Seingier Georges
Published: January 2024

Groundwater pollution is one of the main challenges in our society, especially in semi-arid Mediterranean regions. This issue becomes especially critical in predominantly agricultural areas that lack comprehensive knowledge about the characteristics and functioning of their aquifer system. Vulnerability to groundwater pollution is defined as the sensitivity of the aquifer to being adversely affected by an imposed pollution load. For the Guadalupe aquifer, various indicators including water level depth, level variation, aquifer properties, soil composition, topography, impact on the vadose zone, and hydraulic conductivity were evaluated to establish spatial vulnerability categories ranging from very low to very high. Two pollution vulnerability scenarios (wet and dry) were studied. The results were compared with the analysis of nitrate concentration and distribution (2001, 2020, and 2021) from samples collected in the field. In the Calafia area, which predominantly relies on viticulture, the primary recharge inputs were identified in areas with a high vulnerability to pollution. Surprisingly, these vulnerable areas exhibited lower nitrate concentrations. This scenario underscores the need for effective management measures to safeguard aquifers in agricultural regions.
Assessing the Efficiency of Rainstorm Drainage Networks Using Different Arrangements of Grate Inlets
Authors: Fathy Ismail , Abdel-Aal Gamal M. , Fahmy Maha Rashad , Fathy Amira , Zelenakova Martina , Abd-ElHamid Hany F. , Raček Jakub , Moussa Ahmed Moustafa A.
Published: January 2024

Urban flooding is a problem faced by most countries because of climate change. Without storm drainage systems, negative impacts may occur, such as traffic problems and increasing groundwater levels, especially in lowlands. The implementation of storm drainage networks and their fittings in poor countries is affecting their economic development. Therefore, improving the efficiency of the storm drainage network is an important issue that should be considered. This paper aims to study the most appropriate position or arrangements of grate inlets to upgrade drainage efficiency at less cost. Different arrangements of grates were studied and their efficiency was determined. A comparison between the total grate’s efficiency was conducted and the best arrangement was selected. Additionally, a dimensional analysis equation was developed to determine the total efficiency of the system. Finally, the FLOW-3D program was used to simulate the laboratory results using different discharges and numbers of inlets. The error of calculation ranged between 5% and 8%. Therefore, the results indicated that this program is a powerful tool for predicting the discharge efficiency and velocity direction for large discharges. A comparison was made between this study and previous studies. The results indicated that the same trend existed. A new equation was developed to correlate discharge efficiency (E) with relative total discharge Q and number of inlets. The equation can be used by planning engineers to conduct initial planning of storm drainage layout systems and achieve cost saving.
The Impact of Postpartum Depression on the Early Mother-Infant Relationship during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perception versus Reality
Authors: Richards Misty C. , Ferrario Camila A. , Yan Ying , McDonald Nicole M.
Published: January 2024

Postpartum depression (PPD) can interfere with the establishment of affective bonds between infant and mother, which is important for the cognitive, social–emotional, and physical development of the child. Rates of PPD have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, likely due to the added stress and limited support available to new parents. The present study examined whether parenting-related stress, perceived bonding impairments, the quality of observed mother–infant interactions, and salivary oxytocin levels differ between depressed and non-depressed mothers, along with differential impacts of COVID-19 on depressed mothers. Participants included 70 mothers (45 depressed, 25 controls) with infants aged 2–6 months. All data were collected remotely to ease participant burden during the pandemic. Depression was associated with experiences of heightened parenting-related stress and bonding difficulties. These differences were not observed during mother–infant interactions or in salivary oxytocin levels. Differences in COVID-19-related experiences were minimal, though depressed mothers rated slightly higher stress associated with returning to work and financial impacts of the pandemic. Findings highlight the importance of early intervention for PPD to mitigate long-term effects on mothers, children, and families. Additionally, they underscore the need for early intervention to support the developing mother–infant dyad relationship during this crucial time.
Oral Cardiac Drug–Gut Microbiota Interaction in Chronic Heart Failure Patients: An Emerging Association
Authors: Paraskevaidis Ioannis , Briasoulis Alexandros , Tsougos Elias
Published: January 2024

Regardless of the currently proposed best medical treatment for heart failure patients, the morbidity and mortality rates remain high. This is due to several reasons, including the interaction between oral cardiac drug administration and gut microbiota. The relation between drugs (especially antibiotics) and gut microbiota is well established, but it is also known that more than 24% of non-antibiotic drugs affect gut microbiota, altering the microbe’s environment and its metabolic products. Heart failure treatment lies mainly in the blockage of neuro-humoral hyper-activation. There is debate as to whether the administration of heart-failure-specific drugs can totally block this hyper-activation, or whether the so-called intestinal dysbiosis that is commonly observed in this group of patients can affect their action. Although there are several reports indicating a strong relation between drug–gut microbiota interplay, little is known about this relation to oral cardiac drugs in chronic heart failure. In this review, we review the contemporary data on a topic that is in its infancy. We aim to produce scientific thoughts and questions and provide reasoning for further clinical investigation.
Plant miR8126-3p and miR8126-5p Decrease Lipid Accumulation through Modulation of Metabolic Genes in a Human Hepatocyte Model That Mimics Steatosis
Authors: Díez-Sainz Ester , Aranaz Paula , Amri Ez-Zoubir , Riezu-Boj José I. , Lorente-Cebrián Silvia , Milagro Fermín I.
Published: January 2024

Plant-based food interventions are promising therapeutic approaches for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) treatment, and microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as functional bioactive components of dietary plants involved in cross-kingdom communication. Deeper investigations are needed to determine the potential impact of plant miRNAs in NAFLD. This study aimed to identify plant miRNAs that could eventually modulate the expression of human metabolic genes and protect against the progression of hepatic steatosis. Plant miRNAs from the miRBase were used to predict human target genes, and miR8126-3p and miR8126-5p were selected as candidates for their potential role in inhibiting glucose and lipid metabolism-related genes. Human HepG2 cells were transfected with plant miRNA mimics and then exposed to a mixture of oleic and palmitic acids to mimic steatosis. miR8126-3p and miR8126-5p transfections inhibited the expression of the putative target genes QKI and MAPKAPK2, respectively, and had an impact on the expression profile of key metabolic genes, including PPARA and SREBF1. Quantification of intrahepatic triglycerides revealed that miR8126-3p and miR8126-5p attenuated lipid accumulation. These findings suggest that plant miR8126-3p and miR8126-5p would induce metabolic changes in human hepatocytes eventually protecting against lipid accumulation, and thus, they could be potential therapeutic tools for preventing and alleviating lipid accumulation.
Alleviative Effect of Geniposide on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated Macrophages via Calcium Pathway
Authors: Kim Hyun-Ju , Park Wansu
Published: January 2024

In this study, we investigated how geniposide (a bioactive ingredient of gardenia fruit) acts on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages. Griess reagent assay, Fluo-4 calcium assay, dihydrorhodamine 123 assay, multiplex cytokine assay, quantitative RT-PCR, and flow cytometry assay were used for this study. Data showed that geniposide at concentrations of 10, 25, and 50 μM reduced significantly the levels of nitric oxide, intracellular Ca2+, and hydrogen peroxide in LPS-activated RAW 264.7. Multiplex cytokine assay showed that geniposide at concentrations of 10, 25, and 50 μM meaningfully suppressed levels of IL-6, G-CSF, MCP-1, and MIP-1α in RAW 264.7 provoked by LPS; additionally, geniposide at concentrations of 25 and 50 μM meaningfully suppressed the levels of TNF-α, IP-10, GM-CSF, and MIP-1β. Flow cytometry assay showed that geniposide reduces significantly the level of activated P38 MAPK in RAW 264.7 provoked by LPS. Geniposide meaningfully suppressed LPS-induced transcription of inflammatory target genes, such as Chop, Jak2, Fas, c-Jun, c-Fos, Stat3, Nos2, Ptgs2, Gadd34, Asc, Xbp1, Nlrp3, and Par-2. Taken together, geniposide exerts alleviative effects in LPS-stimulated macrophages via the calcium pathway.
Members of the Capsicum annuum CaTrxh Family Respond to High Temperature and Exhibit Dynamic Hetero/Homo Interactions
Authors: Hong Suji , Huh Sung Un
Published: January 2024

Climate change adversely affects the water and temperature conditions required for plant growth, leading to a decrease in yield. In high temperatures, oxidative stress causes cellular damage in plant cells, which is a negative factor for crop production. Thioredoxin (Trx) is a small redox protein containing a conserved WC(G/P)PC motif that catalyzes the exchange of disulfide bonds. It is known to play an important role in maintaining cellular redox homeostasis. Trx proteins are widely distributed across various subcellular locations, and they play a crucial role in responding to cellular stresses. In this study, seven CaTrxh-type genes present in pepper were identified and the CaTrxh-type family was classified into three subgroups. CaTrxh genes responded to heat stress. Moreover, subcellular locations of the CaTrxh family exhibited dynamic patterns in normal conditions, and we observed relocalizations in heat stress conditions. Each CaTrxh family protein member formed homo-/heteromeric protein complexes in BiFC assay. Unexpectedly, subgroup III CaTrxh9 and CaTrxh10 can recruit subgroup I and II CaTrxh proteins into the plasma membrane. Thus, the function of the CaTrxh-type family is expected to play a protective role in the cell in response to high-temperature stress via protein complex formations. CaTrxh may have potential applications in the development of crops with enhanced tolerance to oxidative stress.
P2X7 Receptor-Induced Human Mast Cell Degranulation Is Enhanced by Interleukin 33
Authors: Salcman Barbora , Bahri Rajia , West Peter W. , Tontini Chiara , Affleck Karen , Bulfone-Paus Silvia
Published: January 2024

MCs are tissue-resident immune cells that strategically reside in barrier organs and respond effectively to a wide range of stimuli, such as IL-33, a mediator released upon epithelial damage. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) accumulates at sites of tissue injury and is known to modulate MC activities. This study investigated how an inflammatory tissue environment rich in IL-33 modulates the ATP-mediated activation of MCs. Human primary MCs primed with IL-33 displayed a strongly increased response to ATP but not ADP. This resulted in increased degranulation, IL-8 release, and pERK1/2 signalling. Such effects are unique to IL-33 stimulation and not shared by the epithelial alarmin, TSLP. MC exposure to IL-33 also increased membrane expression of purinergic and ATP-binding P2X receptors. The use of selective P2X receptor inhibitors identified P2X7 receptor as the key mediator of the enhanced ATP-induced ERK1/2 signalling and degranulation in IL-33-primed MCs. Whilst the inhibition of P2X1 and P2X4 receptors had no effect on MC degranulation, inhibiting these receptors together with P2X7 resulted in further decreased MC-mediated degranulation. These data therefore point toward the potential mechanisms by which IL-33 contributes to the modulation of ATP-mediated activation in human MCs.
Evaluation of Non-Invasive Methods for (R)-[11C]PK11195 PET Image Quantification in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Mantovani Dimitri B. A. , Pitombeira Milena S. , Schuck Phelipi N. , de Araújo Adriel S. , Buchpiguel Carlos Alberto , de Paula Faria Daniele , M. da Silva Ana Maria
Published: January 2024

This study aims to evaluate non-invasive PET quantification methods for (R)-[11C]PK11195 uptake measurement in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and healthy controls (HC) in comparison with arterial input function (AIF) using dynamic (R)-[11C]PK11195 PET and magnetic resonance images. The total volume of distribution (VT) and distribution volume ratio (DVR) were measured in the gray matter, white matter, caudate nucleus, putamen, pallidum, thalamus, cerebellum, and brainstem using AIF, the image-derived input function (IDIF) from the carotid arteries, and pseudo-reference regions from supervised clustering analysis (SVCA). Uptake differences between MS and HC groups were tested using statistical tests adjusted for age and sex, and correlations between the results from the different quantification methods were also analyzed. Significant DVR differences were observed in the gray matter, white matter, putamen, pallidum, thalamus, and brainstem of MS patients when compared to the HC group. Also, strong correlations were found in DVR values between non-invasive methods and AIF (0.928 for IDIF and 0.975 for SVCA, p < 0.0001). On the other hand, (R)-[11C]PK11195 uptake could not be differentiated between MS patients and HC using VT values, and a weak correlation (0.356, p < 0.0001) was found between VTAIF and VTIDIF. Our study shows that the best alternative for AIF is using SVCA for reference region modeling, in addition to a cautious and appropriate methodology.
Research on the Internal Flow Difference between Peak and Valley Conditions of Water Jet Propulsion Pump during Working at Hump Region
Authors: Han Hanqiao , Long Yun , Zhong Jinqing
Published: January 2024

When we tested the water jet propulsion pump, we found that there were significant vibrations in the pump, especially at small flow points that deviated from the design conditions. The water jet propulsion pump is a mixed-flow pump with guide vane, which is commonly employed for water jet propulsion. However, the guide vane mixed-flow pump is susceptible to a phenomenon known as “hump”, which can cause flow disturbances, increased vibration, and noise when the pump operates within the hump region. According to the vibration phenomenon found in our experiment, the mechanism of vibration needs to be revealed. This study focuses on vorticity and turbulence distributions of a mixed flow water jet propulsion pump under the valley and peak operating conditions of the hump region. The research is conducted using experimental and numerical simulation methods. The SST k-ω turbulence model is employed for turbulence calculations. The experiments are conducted on a closed test rig for axial (mixed) flow pumps. A comparison of experimental and numerical simulation results of hydraulic performance curves are conducted to validate the accuracy of the numerical simulation. Cavitation flow structures of the critical cavitation stage under valley conditions and under peak conditions are compared. A comparative analysis is conducted to examine the differences in internal vortex core distribution and turbulence kinetic energy distribution between the valley and peak operating conditions when working within the hump region. The pressure and velocity vectors of the pump impeller blades and the velocity streamline distribution between the impeller and the guide vane blades are compared. To further analyze the flow state in different flow channels under valley and peak conditions, the streamline distribution at Span = 0.5 in the impeller and diffuser basin is extracted. This study provides theoretical foundations and technical support for the design of high-performance, low-vibration water jet propulsion pumps.
Simplified Strength Assessment for Preliminary Structural Design of Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Semi-Submersible Platform
Authors: Dong Yan , Zhang Jian , Zhong Shaofeng , Garbatov Yordan
Published: January 2024

The study aims to develop a simplified strength assessment method for the preliminary structural design of a semi-submersible floating offshore wind turbine platform. The method includes load cases with extreme wave load effects and a load case dominated by wind load. The extreme load effects due to waves are achieved using the design waves. Seven characteristic responses of the semi-submersible platform due to waves are chosen. The design waves for the extreme characteristic responses are all from extreme wave conditions where the significant wave heights are close to the one for a return period of 100 years. The extreme load effects dominated by wind loads are approximated using the modified environmental contour method. The load effects are the tower base shear force and bending moment. The two load effects are correlated, and a linear equation can approximate the relationship between their extreme values. The finite element analysis results show that the frame design of the bottom of the outer column is essential for structural strength. The wave load can also result in significant stress in the area close to the tower base.
What Is Denialism? An Examination and Classification of Definitional Approaches and Relevant Actors
Authors: Godulla Alexander , Seibert Daniel , Klute Tim
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, virtually all discussions of social relevance involve actors negating the scientific consensus and disrupting the public discourse with so-called alternative facts. So far, this phenomenon, referred to as denialism, has encompassed different meanings and definitions that vary depending on the field of application, thereby making correct usage difficult. This paper therefore aims to develop an understanding of denialism by examining how the existing interdisciplinary literature is defining the term. Using an integrative systematic literature analysis, the interdisciplinary field of research is examined. This allows not only for the derivation of a definition of denialism but also for the identification and categorisation of denialist actors and the discussion of potential coping strategies. Finally, the definition integrated in this paper describes denialism from a communication studies point of view as a phenomenon that is characterised by the use of certain rhetorical tactics, a systematic and targeted approach, and an underlying motivation.
Urbanization in Dynamics: The Influence of Land Quota Trading on Land and Population Urbanization
Authors: Tian Tian , Hao Meizhu , Zhang Zhanlu , Ran Duan
Published: January 2024

Establishing a unified urban–rural construction land market, facilitating factors flow within urban and rural areas, and promoting people-centered new urbanization are important strategies for China to achieve high-quality development in the new era. The land quota trading (LQT) system in Chongqing is an essential policy practice. This study analyzes the impact mechanism of the LQT policy on land and population urbanization through the lens of urban spatial expansion, population migration, and human–land coordination. Using the time-varying DID model and examining from both sending and receiving areas’ perspectives, we assesses the impact of the LQT policy on the land urbanization, population urbanization, and urbanization coordination of Chongqing’s 38 districts and counties since 2009. We also analyzes the spatial heterogeneity of the policy. The results indicate the following: (1) The implementation of the LQT policy has a significant positive effect on land urbanization, population urbanization, and urbanization coordination. (2) The impact of the LQT policy shows spatial heterogeneity; its influence on pure receiving areas’ land and population urbanization is more substantial, reflecting the further concentration of land and population elements towards the urban center due to the LQT policy. (3) At the county level, the implementation of the LQT policy only significantly affects population urbanization, with no notable impact on land urbanization, which indicates that the LQT is an import practice to realize policies of the linkage of increase and decrease of construction land, and the citizenization of farmers.
Spatial–Temporal Differentiation and Driving Factors of Cultivated Land Use Transition in Sino–Vietnamese Border Areas
Authors: Pang Xiaofei , Xie Binggeng , Lu Rucheng , Zhang Xuemao , Xie Jing , Wei Shaoyin
Published: January 2024

Understanding the transformation of cultivated land use is crucial for advancing sustainable development goals related to food security. However, in mountainous regions, there is a lack of comprehensive studies that fully account for the diverse factors influencing cultivated land use transformation. This study aims to elucidate the temporal and spatial dynamics of cultivated land resource transformation in the mountainous Sino–Vietnam border area, uncover its underlying driving mechanisms, and offer insights for safeguarding cultivated land, promoting economic development, ensuring homeland security, enhancing ecological security, and bolstering border stability and prosperity. To investigate the cultivated land use transformation pattern in the Sino–Vietnam border area from 2000 to 2020, we employed kernel density estimation and geo-information spectra. Additionally, we developed a comprehensive driving force system tailored to the unique characteristics of cultivated land use in the border region. We applied a spatial econometric model to dissect the driving mechanisms governing cultivated land use transformation. Our findings revealed several key insights: (1) The density of cultivated land in the Sino–Vietnam border area exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease. Notably, the transformation of cultivated land was most prominent in the eastern plains, intensifying over time. (2) The predominant type of transformation in the Sino–Vietnamese border area revolved around the mutual conversion of cultivated land and woodland, with the mutual conversion of cultivated land and grassland ranking second. (3) Against the backdrop of urban–rural integration, the transformation of cultivated land use at the border progressed from a phase of rapid decline to a phase of slower decline. (4) The transformation of cultivated land was influenced by a complex interplay of socio-economic factors, natural environmental conditions, policy management, and transportation infrastructure. The relative importance of these factors in driving cultivated land use transformation varied significantly across different time periods. In light of these findings, we recommend promoting agricultural modernization and industrialization in the Sino–Vietnamese border areas. It is essential to consider the region’s distinct cultivated land characteristics, implement tailored land policies, and develop diversified strategies for the utilization and management of cultivated land. Furthermore, harnessing land resources to stimulate economic development should be a focal point of future initiatives in the area.
Synchronization of Dual Induction Motor Multi-Frequency Control Based on Fixed Speed Ratio
Authors: Zhang Xin , Jia Lei
Published: January 2024

For the same frequency, a vibrating screen usually can only achieve a circular or linear motion trajectory, which will lead to the phenomenon of screen clogging. The compound frequency vibrating screen can achieve various motion trajectories according to different frequency ratios, thus perfectly solving this problem. Thus, the multi-frequency control synchronization problem of the dual induction motor-driven vibration system based on the fixed speed ratio was studied. Firstly, by establishing an electromechanical coupled dynamics model of the vibration system driven by dual induction motors, the response equation of the fixed speed ratio vibration system was derived. Then, the master–slave control strategy was used to control the two induction motors through PID control optimized by a genetic algorithm. The slave motor tracked the main motor through the speed ratio method and achieved fixed speed ratio control synchronization. The simulation analysis showed that the two induction motors vibration system could not achieve self-synchronous motion with a fixed speed ratio, but by using the back propagation proportion-integral-derivative control (BP PID, PID based on BP neural network), we were able to achieve control synchronization with a fixed speed ratio. Herein, the arbitrariness of the fixed speed ratio parameter is also discussed, and controlled synchronous motion of the vibration system with a non-integer fixed speed ratio was realized. Finally, the simulation results were verified through experiments with the fixed speed ratio parameter n = 1.5, which verified the validity of the synchronization theory of fixed speed ratio control in vibrating systems and made it possible to apply it in compound frequency vibrating screens.
An Enhanced FCM Clustering Method Based on Multi-Strategy Tuna Swarm Optimization
Authors: Sun Changkang , Shao Qinglong , Zhou Ziqi , Zhang Junxiao
Published: January 2024

To overcome the shortcoming of the Fuzzy C-means algorithm (FCM)—that it is easy to fall into local optima due to the dependence of sub-spatial clustering on initialization—a Multi-Strategy Tuna Swarm Optimization-Fuzzy C-means (MSTSO-FCM) algorithm is proposed. Firstly, a chaotic local search strategy and an offset distribution estimation strategy algorithm are proposed to improve the performance, enhance the population diversity of the Tuna Swarm Optimization (TSO) algorithm, and avoid falling into local optima. Secondly, the search and development characteristics of the MSTSO algorithm are introduced into the fuzzy matrix of Fuzzy C-means (FCM), which overcomes the defects of poor global searchability and sensitive initialization. Not only has the searchability of the Multi-Strategy Tuna Swarm Optimization algorithm been employed, but the fuzzy mathematical ideas of FCM have been retained, to improve the clustering accuracy, stability, and accuracy of the FCM algorithm. Finally, two sets of artificial datasets and multiple sets of the University of California Irvine (UCI) datasets are used to do the testing, and four indicators are introduced for evaluation. The results show that the MSTSO-FCM algorithm has better convergence speed than the Tuna Swarm Optimization Fuzzy C-means (TSO-FCM) algorithm, and its accuracies in the heart, liver, and iris datasets are 89.46%, 63.58%, 98.67%, respectively, which is an outstanding improvement.
On Bicomplex (p,q)-Fibonacci Quaternions
Authors: Çelemoğlu Çağla
Published: January 2024

Here, we describe the bicomplex p,q-Fibonacci numbers and the bicomplex p,q-Fibonacci quaternions based on these numbers to show that bicomplex numbers are not defined the same as bicomplex quaternions. Then, we give some of their equations, including the Binet formula, generating function, Catalan, Cassini, and d’Ocagne’s identities, and summation formulas for both. We also create a matrix for bicomplex p,q-Fibonacci quaternions, and we obtain the determinant of a special matrix that gives the terms of that quaternion. With this study, we get a general form of the second-order bicomplex number sequences and the second-order bicomplex quaternions. In addition, we show that these two concepts, defined as the same in many studies, are different.
Fuzzy Fractional Caputo Derivative of Susceptible-Infectious- Removed Epidemic Model for Childhood Diseases
Authors: Subramanian Suganya , Kumaran Agilan , Ravichandran Srilekha , Venugopal Parthiban , Dhahri Slim , Ramasamy Kavikumar
Published: January 2024

In this work, the susceptible-infectious-removed (SIR) dynamics are considered in relation to the effects on the health system. With the help of the Caputo derivative fractional-order method, the SIR epidemic model for childhood diseases is designed. Subsequenly, a set of sufficient conditions ensuring the existence and uniqueness of the addressed model by choosing proper fuzzy approximation methods. In particular, the fuzzy Laplace method along with the Adomian decomposition transform were employed to better understand the dynamical structures of childhood diseases. This leads to the development of an efficient methodology for solving fuzzy fractional differential equations using Laplace transforms and their inverses, specifically with the Caputo sense derivative. This innovative approach facilitates the numerical resolution of the problem and numerical simulations are executed for considering parameter values.
Chemical and Pharmacological Prospection of the Ascidian Cystodytes dellechiajei
Authors: Batista Pedro Jatai , Nuzzo Genoveffa , Gallo Carmela , Carbone Dalila , dell’Isola Mario , Affuso Mario , Barra Giusi , Albiani Federica , Crocetta Fabio , Virgili Riccardo , Mazzella Valerio , Castiglia Daniela , d’Ippolito Giuliana , Manzo Emiliano , Fontana Angelo
Published: January 2024

Marine invertebrates are a traditional source of natural products with relevant biological properties. Tunicates are soft-bodied, solitary or colonial, sessile organisms that provide compounds unique in their structure and activity. The aim of this work was to investigate the chemical composition of the ascidian Cystodytes dellechiajei, selected on the basis of a positive result in biological screening for ligands of relevant receptors of the innate immune system, including TLR2, TLR4, dectin-1b, and TREM2. Bioassay-guided screening of this tunicate extract yielded two known pyridoacridine alkaloids, shermilamine B (1) and N-deacetylshermilamine B (2), and a family of methyl-branched cerebrosides (3). Compounds 2 and 3 showed selective binding to TREM2 in a dose-dependent manner. N-deacetylshermilamine B (2), together with its acetylated analogue, shermilamine B (1), was also strongly cytotoxic against multiple myeloma cell lines. TREM2 is involved in immunomodulatory processes and neurodegenerative diseases. N-deacetylshermilamine B (2) is the first example of a polycyclic alkaloid to show an affinity for this receptor.