bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should environmental taxes be imposed on agriculture? Analysis from the welfare perspective
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Wu Guangpu , Guo Ying , Zhang Xiaran
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Environmental taxation is an essential regulatory tool for governments seeking to optimize agricultural production, enhance the environment, and guarantee food safety. Concerns exist, however, regarding the imposition of environmental taxes on agriculture, as this could be detrimental to the interests of agricultural producers and consumers. To address these challenges, it is essential to integrate agricultural production, environmental protection, and economic development, which can better comprehend the effects of agricultural environmental taxes on production decisions, the environment, the economy, and society.

Methods

To better comprehend the effects of agricultural environmental taxes on production decisions, the environment, the economy, and society, this paper constructs a mathematical model and analyzes optimal outcomes from a welfare perspective. The study examines the structure of consumer groups, classifying them as either green or non-green.

Results and discussion

First, when both consumer groups coexist on the market, imposing environmental taxes on non-green agricultural producers does not always result in a reduction in social welfare. Within a specific tax range, it is possible to accomplish a tripling of social welfare, agricultural producer welfare, and environmental benefits. Second, as the tax rate rises, the environment progressively improves while consumer surplus diminishes. Within a particular tax range, producer surplus and social welfare both increase. Third, as the proportion of green consumers in the market and ordinary consumers’ awareness of green agricultural foods increases, the positive impact of taxation on the environment decreases, while its positive impact on producer surplus and consumer surplus increases. Taxation can also have a positive effect on the social welfare under certain conditions.

Contributions

First, we comprehensively investigate the feasibility of agricultural environmental taxation from a welfare perspective, considering market competition and segmentation, which fills a gap in previous studies. Second, we establish a reasonable range for taxation that simultaneously enhances social welfare, producer welfare, and environmental benefits. Third, we explore the relationship between market segmentation structure, ordinary consumers’ awareness of green agricultural foods, and welfare, providing insights into the different attitudes of countries and regions toward agricultural environmental taxation.
Chinese and Thai consumers’ willingness to pay for quality rice attributes: a discrete choice experiment method
Authors: Boonkong Achara , Jiang Baichen , Kassoh Fallah Samuel , Srisukwatanachai Tanapon
Published: October 2023

Food safety scandals have heightened the general public concern about food quality, safety, and environmental friendliness in food markets globally. Several studies have ascertained that consumers are willing to pay a premium price for food products with quality and safety information labels. However, most of these studies are country-specific, while few studies have investigated consumer preferences in a comparative context. In this study, we employed the Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) to examine 1,900 Chinese and 2,986 Thai consumers’ willingness-to-pay (WTP) for brand, traceability, and green and organic certification labels on rice. A mixed logit model (MXL) was used to compute consumers’ WTP. The results demonstrate that consumers from both countries preferred green and organic certified labels. However, Chinese consumers’ preference for green and organic certified rice outweighs that of Thai consumers. For brand labels and green and organic certifications, Thai consumers are willing to pay more than the Chinese due to awareness and trust. However, Chinese consumers are willing to pay more for information with traceability labels than Thai consumers because of the increase in household income and health consciousness. The MXL also shows that trust, income, and age are factors associated with consumers’ preferences for certified rice in both countries. To boost consumers’ preferences for certified rice, relevant stakeholders need to implement the use of brand labels, traceability, and certification labels in the rice value chain.
Investigating the effect of autograft diameter for quadriceps and patellar tendons use in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a biomechanical analysis using a simulated Lachman test
Authors: Amirouche Farid , Solitro Giovanni Francesco , Gligor Brandon Zachary , Hutchinson Mark , Koh Jason
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Current clinical practice suggests using patellar and quadriceps tendon autografts with a 10 mm diameter for ACL reconstruction. This can be problematic for patients with smaller body frames. Our study objective was to determine the minimum diameter required for these grafts. We hypothesize that given the strength and stiffness of these respective tissues, they can withstand a significant decrease in diameter before demonstrating mechanical strength unviable for recreating the knee's stability.

Methods

We created a finite element model of the human knee with boundary conditions characteristic of the Lachman test, a passive accessory movement test of the knee performed to identify the integrity of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The Mechanical properties of the model's grafts were directly obtained from cadaveric testing and the literature. Our model estimated the forces required to displace the tibia from the femur with varying graft diameters.

Results

The 7 mm diameter patellar and quadriceps tendon grafts could withstand 55–60 N of force before induced tibial displacement. However, grafts of 5.34- and 3.76-mm diameters could only withstand upwards of 47 N and 40 N, respectively. Additionally, at a graft diameter of 3.76 mm, the patellar tendon experienced 234% greater stiffness than the quadriceps tendon, with similar excesses of stiffness demonstrated for the 5.34- and 7-mm diameter grafts.

Conclusions

The patellar tendon provided a stronger graft for knee reconstruction at all diameter sizes. Additionally, it experienced higher maximum stress, meaning it dissociates force better across the graft than the quadriceps tendon. Significantly lower amounts of force were required to displace the tibia for the patellar and quadriceps tendon grafts at 3.76- and 5.34-mm graft diameters. Based on this point, we conclude that grafts below the 7 mm diameter have a higher chance of failure regardless of graft selection.
Case report: Endovascular stent-graft repair of aortic penetrating trauma, literature review, and case report
Authors: Bayona Juan Gabriel , Rey Chaves Carlos Eduardo , Hernández Rodríguez Oscar Geovanny , Barón Vladimir , Fajardo Ernesto , Posada Eduardo
Published: October 2023

Penetrating aortic injuries are infrequent. Its incidence is unknown because most patients die of hemorrhage even before they receive adequate treatment. Aortic wounds generally require conventional thoracotomy/laparotomy repair and are related to high mortality rates. Recently with the advent of endovascular techniques, most authors prefer endovascular management when feasible due to better (still poor) outcomes. The short- and mid-term results of immediate endovascular repair of traumatic aortic injuries are promising, especially when compared with open surgical treatment, indicating that endovascular therapy is preferable in patients with multi-trauma and traumatic ruptures of the thoracic aorta. Here we present the diagnosis and treatment of a 30 years-old male patient with multiple traumatic stab wounds, including anterior aortic laceration with a grade II aortic lesion successfully managed with an endovascular stent graft.
Estimation of Total Nitrogen Content in Topsoil Based on Machine and Deep Learning Using Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Kim Min-Jee , Lee Jae-Eun , Back Insuck , Lim Kyoung Jae , Mo Changyeun
Published: October 2023

Excessive total nitrogen (TN) content in topsoil is a major cause of eutrophication when nitrogen flows into water systems from soil losses. Therefore, TN content prediction is essential for establishing topsoil management systems and protecting aquatic ecosystems. Recently, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) has been used as a rapid, nondestructive technique for quantifying various soil properties. This study developed a machine and deep learning-based model using hyperspectral imaging to rapidly measure TN contents. A total of 139 topsoil samples were collected from the four major rivers in the Republic of Korea. Visible-to-near-infrared (VNIR) and near-infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging data were acquired in the 400–1000 nm and 895–1720 nm ranges, respectively. Prediction models for predicting the TN content in the topsoil were developed using partial least square regression (PLSR) and one-dimensional convolutional neural networks (1D-CNNs). From the total number of pixels in each topsoil sample, 12.5, 25, and 50% of the pixels were randomly selected, and the data were augmented 10 times to improve the performance of the 1D-CNN model. The performances of the models were evaluated by estimating the coefficients of determination (R2) and root mean squared errors (RMSE). The Rp2 values of the optimal PLSR (with maximum normalization preprocessing) and 1D-CNN (with SNV preprocessing) models were 0.72 and 0.92, respectively. Therefore, HSI can be used to estimate TN content in topsoil and build a topsoil database to develop conservation strategies.
Soil Microbial Community Composition and Diversity Are Insusceptible to Nitrogen Addition in a Semi-Arid Grassland in Northwestern China
Authors: Tuo Hanghang , Li Meihui , Ghanizadeh Hossein , Huang Jiandi , Yang Mengru , Wang Zilin , Wang Yibo , Tian Huihui , Ye Faming , Li Wei
Published: October 2023

Human-caused nitrogen (N) deposition is a global environmental issue that can change community composition, functions, and ecosystem services. N deposition affects plants, soil, and microorganisms regionally and is linked to ecosystem, soil, and climate factors. We examined the effects of six N addition levels (0, 2.34 g, 4.67, 9.34,18.68, and 37.35 g N m−2 yr−1) on aboveground vegetation, surface soil properties, and microbial community. Alterations in microbial communities in response to N addition were monitored using 16S rRNA (16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid, where S donates a sedimentation coefficient) and ITS (internal transcribed spacer) regions for bacterial and fungal communities, respectively. N addition positively affected aboveground vegetation traits, such as biomass and community weighted mean of leaf nitrogen. N addition also limited phosphorus (P) availability and altered the microbial community assembly process from random processes to deterministic processes. The microbial community diversity and composition, however, were not sensitive to N addition. Partial least squares structural equation models showed that the composition of bacterial communities was mainly driven by the composition of plant communities and total nitrogen, while the composition of fungal communities was driven by soil pH and community weighted mean of leaf nitrogen. Taken together, the results of this research improved our understanding of the response of grassland ecosystems to N deposition and provided a theoretical basis for grassland utilization and management under N deposition.
Diversity and Distribution of Mites (ACARI) Revealed by Contamination Survey in Public Genomic Databases
Authors: Xie Jiazheng , Zhang Yi
Published: October 2023

Acari (mites and ticks) are a biodiverse group of microarthropods within the Arachnida. Because of their diminutive size, mites are often overlooked. We hypothesized that mites, like other closely related microorganisms, could also contaminate public genomic database. Here, using a strategy based on DNA barcodes previously reported, we scanned contaminations related to mites (Acari, exclusive of Ixodida) in Genbank WGS/TSA database. In 22,114 assemblies (17,845 animal and 4269 plant projects), 1717 contigs in 681 assemblies (3.1%) were detected as mite contaminations. Additional taxonomic analysis showed the following: (1) most of the contaminants (1445/1717) were from the specimens of Magnoliopsida, Insecta and Pinopsida; (2) the contamination rates were higher in plant or TSA projects; (3) mite distribution among different classes of hosts varied considerably. Additional phylogenetic analysis of these contaminated contigs further revealed complicated mite-host associations. Overall, we conducted a first systemic survey and analysis of mite contaminations in public genomic database, and these DNA barcode related mite contigs will provide a valuable resource of information for understanding the diversity and phylogeny of mites.
Special Issue on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Pharmacy, Food and Nutrition
Authors: Tirillini Bruno
Published: October 2023

Since the dawn of humankind, people have always turned to the natural world to meet their varied needs [...]
Analysis of Surface and Building Deformation by Shield Tunneling through Geology
Authors: Tian Zhongxi , Yu Chao , Zhang Baoliang , Zhao Qingshuang , Wang Zhiwei
Published: October 2023

The research in this paper relies on the Baochang shield construction section of Jinan Metro Line R2 and uses MIDAS GTS and MIDAS GEN to construct a three-dimensional calculation model to numerically simulate the process of shield tunneling through abrupt geology. The main research focuses on surface settlement and building deformation during excavation, as well as monitoring of building deformation and surface settlement after adopting settlement control measures. The research results are as follows: The maximum settlement of tunnel excavation from hard rock to soft rock and from soft rock to hard rock occurs at the longitudinal center of the tunnel, with values of 1.66 mm and 4.82 mm. The excavation direction has a significant impact on surface deformation. The tunnel is excavated from hard rock to soft rock and the maximum deformation values in the vertical and horizontal directions of the building are 2.04 mm and 1.92 mm. After adopting settlement control measures, surface settlement and deformation of buildings were monitored. The monitoring results showed that the deformation monitoring values of the surface and buildings, after adopting engineering measurements, were lower than the values of numerical simulation. This indicates that the engineering control measures adopted can effectively constrain surface settlement and the deformation of buildings.
Experimental Study for the Evaluation of Titanium Disc Decontamination and Osseointegration in the Rabbit Tibia Model
Authors: Kim Hye Jin , Choi Kyoungseok , Park Chulyoung , Kim Ji Hyun , Ryu Jaeyoung , Jung Seunggon , Kook Min-Suk , Oh Hee-Kyun , Lim Yun Kyong , Kook Joong-Ki , Park Hong-Ju
Published: October 2023

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory lesion leading to bone destruction resulting from bacterial infection and biofilm formation. Treatments of peri-implantitis aim at bacterial controls and decontamination to promote re-osseointegration. The present study aimed to assess the decontamination of biofilm and the osseointegration of titanium discs in a rabbit tibia model. Discs were immersed in culture medium inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus and incubated at 37 °C for 24 h and allocated to different treatments (n = five per group). The decontamination methods were an air-polishing system, 0.12% chlorhexidine rinse, and Er:Yag laser treatments. Each disc from the experimental groups was observed using scanning electron micrography. The rest of the discs were then implanted in four male New Zealand rabbits. Histological and radiographic evaluations were performed. For the quantification of bone density in radiographic data, the fractal dimension (FD) and mean grayscale value (GV) were measured. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare bone density (p < 0.05). Statistically significant differences in FD were observed between the air-polishing treatment with chlorhexidine rinse and the air-polishing treatment with chlorhexidine rinse and Er:Yag laser treatment compared to the contaminated group (p < 0.05). Also, there were statistically significant differences in the results obtained for the group undergoing air-polishing treatment with chlorhexidine rinse and Er:Yag laser treatment compared to the contaminated group (p < 0.05). The decontamination method using air polishing treatment, chlorhexidine rinse, and Er:Yag treatment showed favorable osseointegration with good bone quality.
A New Pseudo-Type κ-Fold Symmetric Bi-Univalent Function Class
Authors: Swamy Sondekola Rudra , Cotîrlă Luminita-Ioana
Published: October 2023

We introduce and study a new pseudo-type κ-fold symmetric bi-univalent function class that meets certain subordination conditions in this article. For functions in the newly formed class, the initial coefficient bounds are obtained. For members in this class, the Fekete–Szegö issue is also estimated. In addition, we uncover pertinent links to previous results and give a few observations.
Spectrum of the Cozero-Divisor Graph Associated to Ring Zn
Authors: Rashid Mohd , Alali Amal S. , Ahmed Wasim , Mozumder Muzibur Rahman
Published: October 2023

Let R be a commutative ring with identity 1≠0 and let Z(R)′ be the set of all non-unit and non-zero elements of ring R. Γ′(R) denotes the cozero-divisor graph of R and is an undirected graph with vertex set Z(R)′, w∉zR, and z∉wR if and only if two distinct vertices w and z are adjacent, where qR is the ideal generated by the element q in R. In this article, we investigate the signless Laplacian eigenvalues of the graphs Γ′(Zn). We also show that the cozero-divisor graph Γ′(Zp1p2) is a signless Laplacian integral.
In Vivo Ultrafast Doppler Imaging Combined with Confocal Microscopy and Behavioral Approaches to Gain Insight into the Central Expression of Peripheral Neuropathy in Trembler-J Mice
Authors: Martínez Barreiro Mariana , Vázquez Alberdi Lucia , De León Lucila , Avellanal Guadalupe , Duarte Andrea , Anzibar Fialho Maximiliano , Baranger Jérôme , Calero Miguel , Rubido Nicolás , Tanter Mickael , Negreira Carlos , Brum Javier , Damián Juan Pablo , Kun Alejandra
Published: October 2023

The main human hereditary peripheral neuropathy (Charcot-Marie-Tooth, CMT), manifests in progressive sensory and motor deficits. Mutations in the compact myelin protein gene pmp22 cause more than 50% of all CMTs. CMT1E is a subtype of CMT1 myelinopathy carrying micro-mutations in pmp22. The Trembler-J mice have a spontaneous mutation in pmp22 identical to that present in CMT1E human patients. PMP22 is mainly (but not exclusively) expressed in Schwann cells. Some studies have found the presence of pmp22 together with some anomalies in the CNS of CMT patients. Recently, we identified the presence of higher hippocampal pmp22 expression and elevated levels of anxious behavior in TrJ/+ compared to those observed in wt. In the present paper, we delve deeper into the central expression of the neuropathy modeled in Trembler-J analyzing in vivo the cerebrovascular component by Ultrafast Doppler, exploring the vascular structure by scanning laser confocal microscopy, and analyzing the behavioral profile by anxiety and motor difficulty tests. We have found that TrJ/+ hippocampi have increased blood flow and a higher vessel volume compared with the wild type. Together with this, we found an anxiety-like profile in TrJ/+ and the motor difficulties described earlier. We demonstrate that there are specific cerebrovascular hemodynamics associated with a vascular structure and anxious behavior associated with the TrJ/+ clinical phenotype, a model of the human CMT1E disease.
Evaluation of an Adapted Semi-Automated DNA Extraction for Human Salivary Shotgun Metagenomics
Authors: Meslier Victoria , Menozzi Elisa , David Aymeric , Morabito Christian , Lucas Del Pozo Sara , Famechon Alexandre , North Janet , Quinquis Benoit , Koletsi Sofia , Macnaughtan Jane , Mezabrovschi Roxana , Ehrlich S. Dusko , Schapira Anthony H. V. , Almeida Mathieu
Published: October 2023

Recent attention has highlighted the importance of oral microbiota in human health and disease, e.g., in Parkinson’s disease, notably using shotgun metagenomics. One key aspect for efficient shotgun metagenomic analysis relies on optimal microbial sampling and DNA extraction, generally implementing commercial solutions developed to improve sample collection and preservation, and provide high DNA quality and quantity for downstream analysis. As metagenomic studies are today performed on a large number of samples, the next evolution to increase study throughput is with DNA extraction automation. In this study, we proposed a semi-automated DNA extraction protocol for human salivary samples collected with a commercial kit, and compared the outcomes with the DNA extraction recommended by the manufacturer. While similar DNA yields were observed between the protocols, our semi-automated DNA protocol generated significantly higher DNA fragment sizes. Moreover, we showed that the oral microbiome composition was equivalent between DNA extraction methods, even at the species level. This study demonstrates that our semi-automated protocol is suitable for shotgun metagenomic analysis, while allowing for improved sample treatment logistics with reduced technical variability and without compromising the structure of the oral microbiome.
Effectiveness on Quality of Life and Life Satisfaction for Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Life Review and Reminiscence Therapy across Settings
Authors: Zhong Qing , Chen Cheng , Chen Shulin
Published: October 2023

Background: With the growing trend of ageing, there is an urgent need for effective interventions that enhance positive psychological functions among older adults. Objective: (1) To evaluate the effectiveness of life review and reminiscence therapy in enhancing the quality of life and life satisfaction among older adults. (2) To discover efficacious variables during interventions, such as form of intervention and number of sessions. Methods: Relevant randomized controlled trials in both English and Chinese languages were searched across eight databases. The meta-analysis was conducted by a random effects model using STATA 17. The registration number of this review is CRD42023424085. Results: Thirty-two studies with 2353 participants were included. Experimental groups of older adults significantly improved their quality of life (SMD 1.07; 95% CI 0.48 to 1.66; p < 0.001) and life satisfaction (SMD 1.12; 95% CI 0.63 to 1.60; p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed that individual sessions of life review and reminiscence therapy had a more significant impact on improving quality of life and six to eight intervention sessions could enhance life satisfaction more effectively. Conclusions: Life review and reminiscence therapy hold promise for application in medical and nursing care for older adults, suggesting the potential benefits of implementing intervention designs with effective settings for positive psychological functions.
Production of Prebiotic Galacto-Oligosaccharides from Acid Whey Catalyzed by a Novel β-Galactosidase from Thermothielavioides terrestris and Commercial Lactases: A Comparative Study
Authors: Limnaios Athanasios , Tsevdou Maria , Tsika Elena , Korialou Nausika , Zerva Anastasia , Topakas Evangelos , Taoukis Petros
Published: October 2023

The steadily increasing global popularity of Greek strained yoghurt has necessitated alternative valorization approaches for acid whey, the major straining process effluent. In this context, prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides can be enzymatically synthesized from acid whey lactose, via either commercial or novel β-galactosidases. A comparative study of galacto-oligosaccharide production from acid whey was carried out, employing two commercial β-galactosidases (from Kluyveromyces lactis and Aspergillus oryzae) and one novel, in-house produced (from Thermothielavioides terrestris), as a function of the initial lactose content and enzyme load. Selected reaction conditions for β-galactosidases from K. lactis, A. oryzae, and T. terrestris were 35 °C at pH 7.2, 45 °C at pH 4.5, and 50 °C at pH 4.0, respectively. Maximum galacto-oligosaccharide yields equal to 23.7, 23.4, and 25.7% were achieved with, respectively, 0.13 U/mL of K. lactis β-galactosidase in non-concentrated acid whey, 4 U/mL of A. oryzae β-galactosidase, and 8 U/mL of T. terrestris β-galactosidase in acid whey concentrated to 20% w/v initial lactose content. The increased galacto-oligosaccharide productivity of the thermophilic β-galactosidase from T. terrestris can be a determining asset in a combined concentration and oligomerization industrial process. This will allow for high galacto-oligosaccharide yields for efficient, cost-effective production of valuable prebiotics from acid whey.
Study on the Hydrogenation of Ethyl Stearate to the Fatty Alcohol 1-Octadecanol over Ru on Tungstated Zirconia
Authors: Quintero-Ramos Diego , Checa Manuel , Jordá Jose Luis , Sabater Maria J.
Published: October 2023

Fatty alcohols are important products in the chemical industry, given that they are frequently used in the formulation of surfactants and lubricants. In this context, this work describes a catalytic heterogeneous approach for the production of 1-octadecanol (C18OH) from ethyl stearate (ES) using nanosized Ru-supported on tungstated zirconia (W/Zr). The activity and selectivity of this series of catalysts have been studied during the hydrogenation of ES in a batch reactor at 175 °C and PH2 = 40 bar. The so-prepared catalysts were characterized by a sort of characterization techniques (i.e., X-ray diffraction, H2-TPR, etc.), confirming the high dispersion and higher reducibility of Ru nanoparticles on the W/Zr surface (primarily tetragonal zirconia) with respect to pure zirconia. Overall, the catalysts were significantly active. In addition, a strong synergistic effect was revealed between Ru and W species, according to catalytic data. Finally, the reaction sequence towards fatty alcohol has also been elucidated, pointing to the ester hydrogenolysis to the aldehyde and ulterior hydrogenation of the latter as the main route for fatty alcohol formation.
Denosumab and Zoledronic Acid Differently Affect Circulating Immune Subsets: A Possible Role in the Onset of MRONJ
Authors: Roato Ilaria , Pavone Lorenzo , Pedraza Riccardo , Bosso Ilaria , Baima Giacomo , Erovigni Francesco , Mussano Federico
Published: October 2023

This work investigated whether the anti-resorptive drugs (ARDs) zoledronic acid (Zol) and denosumab (Dmab) affect differently the levels of circulating immune cell subsets, possibly predicting the risk of developing medication-related ONJ (MRONJ) during the first 18 months of treatment. Blood samples were collected from 10 bone metastatic breast cancer patients receiving cyclin inhibitors at 0, 6, 12, and 18 months from the beginning of Dmab or Zol treatment. Eight breast cancer patients already diagnosed with MRONJ and treated with cyclin inhibitors and ARDs were in the control group. PBMCs were isolated; the trend of circulating immune subsets during the ARD treatment was monitored, and 12 pro-inflammatory cytokines were analyzed in sera using flow cytometry. In Dmab-treated patients, activated T cells were stable or increased, as were the levels of IL-12, TNF-α, GM-CSF, IL-5, and IL-10, sustaining them. In Zol-treated patients, CD8+T cells decreased, and the level of IFN-γ was undetectable. γδT cells were not altered in Dmab-treated patients, while they dramatically decreased in Zol-treated patients. In the MRONJ control group, Zol-ONJ patients showed a reduction in activated T cells and γδT cells compared to Dmab-ONJ patients. Dmab was less immunosuppressive than Zol, not affecting γδT cells and increasing activated T cells.
Identification of BRCC3 and BRCA1 as Regulators of TAZ Stability and Activity
Authors: Sberna Silvia , Lopez-Hernandez Alejandro , Biancotto Chiara , Motta Luca , Andronache Adrian , Verhoef Lisette G. G. C. , Caganova Marieta , Campaner Stefano
Published: October 2023

TAZ (WWTR1) is a transcriptional co-activator regulated by Hippo signaling, mechano-transduction, and G-protein couple receptors. Once activated, TAZ and its paralogue, YAP1, regulate gene expression programs promoting cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation, thus controlling embryonic development, tissue regeneration, and aging. YAP and TAZ are also frequently activated in tumors, particularly in poorly differentiated and highly aggressive malignancies. Yet, mutations of YAP/TAZ or of their upstream regulators do not fully account for their activation in cancer, raising the possibility that other upstream regulatory pathways, still to be defined, are altered in tumors. In this work, we set out to identify novel regulators of TAZ by means of a siRNA-based screen. We identified 200 genes able to modulate the transcriptional activity of TAZ, with prominence for genes implicated in cell–cell contact, cytoskeletal tension, cell migration, WNT signaling, chromatin remodeling, and interleukins and NF–kappaB signaling. Among these genes we identified was BRCC3, a component of the BRCA1 complex that guards genome integrity and exerts tumor suppressive activity during cancer development. The loss of BRCC3 or BRCA1 leads to an increased level and activity of TAZ. Follow-up studies indicated that the cytoplasmic BRCA1 complex controls the ubiquitination and stability of TAZ. This may suggest that, in tumors, inactivating mutations of BRCA1 may unleash cell transformation by activating the TAZ oncogene.
Print Quality of Coated Paper from Invasive Alien Plant Goldenrod
Authors: Sarjanović Anja , Možina Klemen , Gregor-Svetec Diana
Published: October 2023

When designing products with a shorter lifespan, such as packaging and graphic products, sustainability and circular economy are particularly important. The use of an alternative fiber source for papermaking, such as collected biomass from invasive alien plant species (IAPS), is a good example of sustainable natural resource management, where IAPS are seen as a potential source of various new products. The aim of the present study was to analyze the printability of paper made from the IAPS Goldenrod. CMYK prints were made using inkjet digital technology, and their print quality was determined. IAPS Goldenrod paper, with its natural brownish color, low gloss, high voluminosity, high surface roughness and porosity, shows inferior print quality compared to recycled office paper. In order to improve the printability of this paper, surface coating using three different wet film depositions was applied. The results indicate that the smallest coat weight used suppresses the color and inferior properties of IAPS Goldenrod paper efficiently, resulting in similar printability for both the analyzed papers. Only a small difference in print quality between coated IAPS Goldenrod and recycled paper was determined, suggesting that low-value, non-demanding graphic products and packaging could be made from the coated IAPS Goldenrod paper.
Eco-Friendly Sol–Gel Coatings as Microfouling Barrier for Marine Applications
Authors: Diaz Jalaff Leslie , Ortega Cancino Eduardo , Altavilla Manuela , Vargas Hurtado Karla , Nolan Mella Nicolas , Faccini Mirko
Published: October 2023

Biofouling poses a significant challenge to the marine industry, resulting from the undesirable accumulation of various living organisms, including microorganisms, plants, shellfish, and others, on different surfaces submerged in seawater. The primary approach to address this issue involves the application of antifouling coatings, often incorporating active agents whose environmental impact has raised considerable concerns. In this article, we compare the effects of two natural and environmentally friendly antimicrobial compounds, capsaicin (CP) and Cinnamomum cassia oil (CO), when incorporated into hybrid sol–gel coatings. We tested formulations containing 4% and 8% by weight of each biocide for coating nylon substrates through immersion. This process yielded colorless, uniform surfaces with minimal defects and strong adhesion. We evaluated the antibacterial properties of the pure organic biocides against five bacterial strains commonly found in Chilean microfouling. Both compounds exhibited similar behavior against Gram-positive bacteria, but CP showed 2–5 times greater efficacy than CO against Gram-negative strains. Subsequently, we selected a Gram-negative strain for antibacterial tests on sol–gel/biocide samples. The results indicated that coatings with CP incorporation outperformed those with CO, achieving an efficiency of 99.9%. Lastly, leaching tests demonstrated that coatings with lower biocide concentrations (4%) exhibited a steady and gradual release of organic molecules, with sol–gel/CP 4% emerging as the most promising microfouling barrier coating for marine applications.
The Contribution of the Pore Size of Titanium DC (Direct Current) Sputtered Condensation Polymer Materials to Electromagnetic Interruption and Thermal Properties
Authors: Han Hye-Ree
Published: October 2023

Using special materials has been in the spotlight, along with their multifunctional demands, research on electromagnetic interruption, thermal characteristics, biosignal sensors, secondary batteries, etc. In this study, titanium was sputtered into a condensation polymer material and considered in depth in terms of electromagnetic interruption, thermal properties, infrared blocking, etc. As a result of observing the electromagnetic wave shielding effect, the electromagnetic wavelength value decreased from 168.0 to 42.7 to 64.0 when titanium DC sputtered film samples were placed in front of the electromagnetic wave source. The titanium DC sputtered samples significantly reduced electrical resistance compared to the untreated samples. In addition, the IR transmittances of the titanium sputtered specimens were decreased compared to the untreated specimens. When only the cross-section was treated with titanium sputtering and the titanium surface was directed toward the infrared irradiator, the infrared permeability was 64.3 to 0.0%. After taking an infrared thermal image, ΔH, ΔV, ΔS, ΔY, ΔCr, and ΔCb values were calculated. It is believed that the titanium DC sputtered polyamide materials produced in this study can be used for high-functional protective clothing, sensors by applying electromagnetic interruption, IR blocking, and stealth functions.
Gemology, Spectroscopy, and Mineralogy Study of Aquamarines of Three Different Origins
Authors: Cui Shiyuan , Xu Bo , Shen Jiaqi , Miao Zhuang , Wang Zixuan
Published: October 2023

New aquamarine deposits have been found around the world in recent years, and how to compare and distinguish aquamarines of different origin has become a significant problem. Aquamarines from Koktokay, Minas Gerais, and Namaqualand were collected for standard gemology tests, spectroscopy, and chemical analysis in this paper. The spectroscopy experiment included infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Chemical composition analysis comprises electron microprobe and laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The results show that infrared absorption peaks related to [Fe2(OH)4] and NaH are found in Koktokay and Minas Gerais aquamarines, respectively. Compared with other two origins, Namaqualand aquamarine have strongest type II water Raman peak related to alkali metal content. Compared with aquamarines from other sources, aquamarines from Xinjiang and Minas Gerais are characterized by relatively high aluminum and low alkali contents in chemical composition, while Namaqualand aquamarine have a high scandium content.
Do Histology and Primary Tumor Location Influence Metastatic Patterns in Bladder Cancer?
Authors: Park Hyung Kyu
Published: October 2023

Metastasis is the leading cause of death in patients with bladder cancer. This study utilized a statistical analysis of patient data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database to examine the influence of histological type and primary site on the metastatic behavior of bladder cancer. Significantly different metastatic patterns were observed among bladder cancer patients depending on their histological type. Patients with squamous cell carcinoma showed a significantly (p < 0.001) lower bone metastasis rate (27.2%) than patients with urothelial carcinoma (UC) (38.3%). Patients with neuroendocrine carcinoma showed a significantly (p < 0.001) higher liver metastasis rate (52.1%) and a significantly (p = 0.001) lower lung metastasis rate (25.7%) than patients with UC (22.6% and 33.5%, respectively). UC patients also demonstrated differences in metastatic behavior according to histological subtype. The sarcomatoid subtype showed a significantly (p < 0.001) higher lung metastasis rate (51.6%) and a significantly lower (p = 0.002) lymph node metastasis rate (22.6%) than the micropapillary subtype (12.1% and 54.1%, respectively). Significant differences in metastatic behavior were also observed among patients with conventional UCs originating from the bladder, ureter, and renal pelvis. This study highlights the impact of histological characteristics and primary site on metastatic tendencies in bladder cancer, highlighting the importance of tailoring treatment and surveillance strategies.
Approach to Imaging of Mediastinal Masses
Authors: Ahuja Jitesh , Strange Chad D. , Agrawal Rishi , Erasmus Lauren T. , Truong Mylene T.
Published: October 2023

Mediastinal masses present a diagnostic challenge due to their diverse etiologies. Accurate localization and internal characteristics of the mass are the two most important factors to narrow the differential diagnosis or provide a specific diagnosis. The International Thymic Malignancy Interest Group (ITMIG) classification is the standard classification system used to localize mediastinal masses. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the two most commonly used imaging modalities for characterization of the mediastinal masses.
Postoperative Bladder Neck to Pubic Symphysis Ratio Predictive for De Novo Overactive Bladder after Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Matsuyama Nayuka , Naiki Taku , Hamamoto Shuzo , Sugiyama Yosuke , Kubota Yasue , Hamakawa Takashi , Etani Toshiki , Iwatsuki Shoichiro , Taguchi Kazumi , Ota Yuya , Gonda Masakazu , Aoki Maria , Morikawa Toshiharu , Kato Taiki , Okada Atsushi , Yasui Takahiro
Published: October 2023

Background: The aim was to investigate the incidence and clinical predictive factors of de novo overactive bladder (OAB) after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP), including a Retzius-sparing (RS) approach, in the same period at a single institution. Methods: Of a total of 113 patients with localized prostate cancer, 81 received conventional RARP (CON-RARP) and 32 received RS-RARP at our institution. The basic characteristics data of patients and self-assessment questionnaires, including IPSS and OABSS, were obtained preoperatively and 1, 3, and 6 months after RARP. In addition, a retrospective biomarker analysis was also performed of predictive clinical parameters obtained from cystography that included a postoperative bladder neck to pubic symphysis (BNPS) ratio. Results: Patients’ basic characteristics were similar between CON-RARP and RS-RARP groups. With respect to the surgical procedure, anastomosing time was found to be significantly longer for patients in the RS-RARP compared to the CON-RARP group (p < 0.01). Compared to the CON-RARP group, the RS-RARP group showed a significantly lower postoperative BNPS and aspect ratio (p < 0.001). The incidence of de novo OAB in patients of the CON-RARP group was greater than for those in the RS-RARP group (40.7% CON-RARP vs. 25.0% RS-RARP), though this was not significant. Regarding the emergence of de novo OAB, the following were revealed in univariate analysis to be independent prognostic factors: age > 64 years (hazards ratio [HR]: 4.32, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.51–12.3), postoperative BNPS ratio > 0.44 (HR: 8.7, 95% CI: 6.43–54.5), postoperative aspect ratio > 1.18 (HR: 3.36, 95% CI: 1.49–7.61). Additionally, multivariate analysis identified a sole significant prognostic factor: postoperative BNPS ratio > 0.44 (HR: 13.3, 95% CI: 4.33–41.1). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the postoperative BNPS ratio may be a practical predictive indicator of the emergence of de novo OAB after RARP.
Laser Flare Photometry to Monitor Childhood Chronic Uveitis: A Preliminary Report of a Monocentric Italian Experience
Authors: Maccora Ilaria , De Libero Cinzia , Peri Matilde , Danti Gioia , Rossi Alessio , Marrani Edoardo , Pasqualetti Roberta , Pagnini Ilaria , Mastrolia Maria Vincenza , Simonini Gabriele
Published: October 2023

Background: Childhood chronic non-infectious uveitis (cNIU) is a challenging disease that needs close monitoring. Slit lamp evaluation (SLE) is the cornerstone of ophthalmological evaluation for uveitis, but it is affected by interobserver variability and may be problematic in children. Laser flare photometry (LFP), a novel and objective technique, might be used in children with uveitis. Aim: The aim of this study was to attempt the use of LFP in cNIU clinical practice. Methods: Children, attending the Rheumatology Unit and who were scheduled to receive ophthalmological evaluation, were prospectively enrolled to concomitantly receive SLE and LFP. SLE was performed blind to LFP measure. Demographic, laboratory, clinical, and ophthalmology data were collected. Results: A total of 29 children (58 eyes) were enrolled, including 3 with juvenile idiopathic arthritis without uveitis (JIA-no-U), 15 with JIA-associated uveitis (JIA-U), and 11 with idiopathic chronic uveitis (ICU). We observed significantly higher LFP values in the eyes of children with uveitis compared to the others (10.1 IQR 7.1–13.6 versus 6.2 IQR 5.8–6.9, p = 0.007). Accordance between the SLE and LFP measures, at baseline (ρ.498, p < 0.001) and during the follow-up (LFP II ρ 0.460, p < 0.001, LFP III ρ 0.631, p < 0.001, LFP IV ρ 0.547, p = 0.006, LFP V ρ 0.767, p = 0.001), was detected. We evaluated significant correlation between LFP values and the presence of complications (ρ 0.538, p < 0.001), especially with cataract formation (ρ 0.542, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this cohort, LFP measurements showed a good correlation with SLE. LFP values showed a positive correlation with the presence of complications. LFP might be considered as a reliable objective modality to monitor intraocular inflammation in cNIU.
Characteristics of Patients with Laryngomalacia: A Tertiary Referral Center Experience of 106 Cases
Authors: Bredun Sergii , Kotowski Michal , Mezydlo Jakub , Szydlowski Jaroslaw
Published: October 2023

Laryngomalacia (LM) is the most common airway congenital anomaly and the main cause of stridor in infants. Some patients with severe airway symptoms or with feeding difficulties require surgical intervention. Synchronous airway lesions (SALs) may influence the severity and course of the disease. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of various types of LM and SALs and their influence on surgical intervention decisions and feeding difficulties. Moreover, the study focused on the interrelations between SALs and the type of LM or the presence of feeding difficulties. A retrospective analysis of 106 pediatric patients revealed a significant relationship between type 2 LM and the necessity of surgical treatment. We also found a significant effect of LM type 2 on feeding difficulty. Type 1 LM is significantly more characteristic in premature children. Among different comorbidities, SALs are suspected of modification of the course and severity of LM. This study did not find a significant effect of SALs on the incidence of supraglottoplasty or feeding difficulty.
Soft Quantization Using Entropic Regularization
Authors: Lakshmanan Rajmadan , Pichler Alois
Published: October 2023

The quantization problem aims to find the best possible approximation of probability measures on Rd using finite and discrete measures. The Wasserstein distance is a typical choice to measure the quality of the approximation. This contribution investigates the properties and robustness of the entropy-regularized quantization problem, which relaxes the standard quantization problem. The proposed approximation technique naturally adopts the softmin function, which is well known for its robustness from both theoretical and practicability standpoints. Moreover, we use the entropy-regularized Wasserstein distance to evaluate the quality of the soft quantization problem’s approximation, and we implement a stochastic gradient approach to achieve the optimal solutions. The control parameter in our proposed method allows for the adjustment of the optimization problem’s difficulty level, providing significant advantages when dealing with exceptionally challenging problems of interest. As well, this contribution empirically illustrates the performance of the method in various expositions.
Comment on Albantakis et al. Computing the Integrated Information of a Quantum Mechanism. Entropy 2023, 25, 449
Authors: Rourk Christopher
Published: October 2023

Integrated information theory (IIT) is a powerful tool that provides a framework for evaluating consciousness, whether in the human brain or in other systems. In Computing the Integrated Information of a Quantum Mechanism, the authors extend IIT from digital gates to a quantum CNOT logic gate, and while they explicitly distinguish the analysis from quantum theories of consciousness, they nonetheless provide an analytical road map for extending IIT not only to other quantum mechanisms but also to hybrid computing structures like the brain. This comment provides additional information relating to an adiabatic quantum mechanical energy routing mechanism that is part of a hybrid biological computer that provides an action selection mechanism, which has been hypothesized to exist in the human brain and for which predicted evidence has been subsequently observed, and it hopes to motivate the further evaluation and extension of IIT not only to that hypothesized mechanism but also to other hybrid biological computers.
School-Family and Family-School Enrichment: A Study with Portuguese Working Student Parents
Authors: Andrade Cláudia , Fernandes Joana Lobo
Published: October 2023

In recent years, higher education institutions have progressively undertaken efforts to attract more diversified populations to their programs, both in the first and second cycles. These new groups include students who work professionally and who are parents. The literature that aims to address the management of multiple roles of higher education students has mainly devoted its attention to the potential conflict of roles, with a scarcity of studies focused on the positive aspects that may result from this articulation. The present study aims to analyze the relationships between satisfaction with social support (in the academic/school, work, and family domain), satisfaction with role management and academic performance and school-family and family-school enrichment experiences. The study was carried out using a questionnaire, with 155 students working fathers/mothers allowed to identify predictors of school-family and family-school enrichment. The results provide a better understanding of the factors that contribute to a student role having a positive impact on other life roles, namely the professional role and the role of father/mother.