bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melatonin Rinsing Treatment Associated with Storage in a Controlled Atmosphere Improves the Antioxidant Capacity and Overall Quality of Lemons
Authors: Yang Mengjiao , Zheng Enlan , Lin Ziqin , Miao Ze , Li Yuhang , Hu Shiting , Gao Yanan , Jiang Yuqian , Pang Lingling , Li Xihong
Published: October 2024

Antioxidant capacity is one of the most important biological activities in fruits and vegetables and is closely related to human health. In this study, ‘Eureka’ lemons were used as experimental materials and stored at 7–8 °C MT (melatonin, 200 μmol, soaked for 15 min) and CA (controlled atmosphere, 2–3% O2 + 15–16% CO2) individually or in combination for 30 d. The changes in lemon fruits’ basic physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, and antioxidant capacities were studied. Comparing the combined treatment to the control, the outcomes demonstrated a significant reduction in weight loss, firmness, stomatal opening, and inhibition of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) activities. Additionally, the combined treatment maintained high levels of titratable acidity (TA), vitamin C (VC), total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant capacity and preserved the lemon aroma. Meanwhile, the correlation between fruit color, aroma compounds, and antioxidant capacity was revealed, providing valuable insights into the postharvest preservation of lemons. In conclusion, the combined treatment (MT + CA) was effective in maintaining the quality and antioxidant capacity of lemons.
Selection Attributes of Integrated Mobility Apps on Affecting Users’ Intention to Use: A Case of Republic of Korea
Authors: Tae Il Joon , Broillet-Schlesinger Alexandra , Kim Bo Young
Published: October 2024

The innovative trend of “as a service” due to digital development and the rise of issues such as air pollution and traffic congestion led to the emergence of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) in the transportation sector. Companies and governments are experimenting to create a sustainable and efficient transportation future with MaaS. However, MaaS realization and business success from MaaS are still in their growing phase, making this study particularly relevant and timely. This study aims to identify the attributes of users’ selection of integrated mobility app services and the MaaS attributes that affect the behavioral intention to use through the mediation of perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. This study marked four selection attributes—habit-congruence, information accuracy, relative advantage on efficiency, and IT system quality—for the integrated mobility app service, and 315 actual users of integrated mobility apps in Republic of Korea were sampled and analyzed. In terms of influence, information accuracy, relative advantage on efficiency, and habit-congruence significantly impacted perceived usefulness, in which habit-congruence had the most significant impact on perceived ease of use. In addition, habit-congruence and information accuracy were found to positively affect the behavioral intention to use, mediated by perceived usefulness and perceived ease. We also found that IT system quality was not a user selection attribute where this study was conducted. By providing empirical findings, this study can give management guidelines to companies and researchers in developing integrated mobility app service strategies to increase the number of users and maintain long-term customer relationships.
Micro-Sharing Mobility for Sustainable Cities: Bike or Scooter Sharing?
Authors: Bergantino Angela Stefania , Intini Mario , Rotaris Lucia
Published: October 2024

Urban pollution awareness is a subject of widespread debate, particularly regarding the role of future urban transportation. In recent years, local policymakers and private operators have implemented various measures to address the negative impacts of transportation, including promoting micro-shared mobility services. Our research investigates the factors influencing citizens’ decisions to use these services, focusing on e-bike sharing and e-scooter sharing. We collected data on individual mobility patterns in Italian cities and administered hypothetical choice tasks to examine revealed and stated preferences. Our findings highlight the most influential factors guiding users’ decisions and identify the preferred sharing option between e-bikes and e-scooters. The implications of our results could provide valuable insights for local regulators and shared mobility operators in designing effective and sustainable future transportation policies.
Nutritional Status, Diet, and Intestinal Permeability of Mexican Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Pedroza-García Karina Alejandra , Anaya-Loyola Miriam Aracely , Ronquillo Dolores , Caamaño María del Carmen , Masuoka David , Palacios-Delgado Jorge , Rosado Jorge L.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprises a group of developmental disorders characterized by deficits in social interaction and behavioral patterns. Children with ASD may face nutritional challenges, primarily due to their restrictive behaviors and frequent gastrointestinal issues. Objective: The objective of the present study was to assess nutritional status, dietary habits, and intestinal permeability in a sample of individuals with ASD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 24 children and adolescents (both sexes), aged 4 to 18 years, living in two cities of Mexico (Aguascalientes and Querétaro). Weight and height were measured, and body mass index for age was calculated and compared using WHO Z-scores. Diet was assessed through three 24 h dietary recalls and a food frequency questionnaire. Intestinal permeability was evaluated using a lactulose/mannitol test by HPLC. Results: A high prevalence of malnutrition was observed; 12.5% of the participants were underweight, and 45.8% were overweight or obese. Children had a low intake of fiber, vitamin E, folate, potassium, zinc, and phosphorus and a high intake of sodium. On average, the intestinal permeability ratio was 0.09 ± 0.05, with 54.2% of the children exhibiting high intestinal permeability. Conclusions: It is advisable to develop food counseling strategies for children with ASD to prevent micronutrient deficiencies, promote healthy weight, and improve gastrointestinal integrity.
Non-Cirrhotic Ascites: Causes and Management
Authors: Carrier Paul , Debette-Gratien Marilyne , Jacques Jérémie , Loustaud-Ratti Véronique
Published: October 2024

Ascites is a common syndrome characterized by an excess of fluid in the peritoneum. While cirrhosis is the most common cause, a wide range of other conditions—such as cancer, right heart failure, and tuberculosis—can also lead to ascites, and multiple etiologies may be present simultaneously. Effective diagnosis and management are essential, primarily relying on clinical examination and paracentesis, guided by specific tests.
A Balloon Mapping Approach to Forecast Increases in PM10 from the Shrinking Shoreline of the Salton Sea
Authors: Sinclair Ryan G. , Gaio Josileide , Huazano Sahara D. , Wiafe Seth A. , Porter William C.
Published: October 2024

Shrinking shorelines and the exposed playa of saline lakes can pose public health and air quality risks for local communities. This study combines a community science method with models to forecast future shorelines and PM10 air quality impacts from the exposed playa of the Salton Sea, near the community of North Shore, CA, USA. The community science process assesses the rate of shoreline change from aerial images collected through a balloon mapping method. These images, captured from 2019 to 2021, are combined with additional satellite images of the shoreline dating back to 2002, and analyzed with the DSAS (Digital Shoreline Analysis System) in ArcGIS desktop. The observed rate of change was greatly increased during the period from 2017 to 2020. The average rate of change rose from 12.53 m/year between 2002 and 2017 to an average of 38.44 m/year of shoreline change from 2017 to 2020. The shoreline is projected to retreat 150 m from its current position by 2030 and an additional 172 m by 2041. To assess potential air quality impacts, we use WRF-Chem, a regional chemical transport model, to predict increases in emissive dust from the newly exposed playa land surface. The model output indicates that the forecasted 20-year increase in exposed playa will also lead to a rise in the amount of suspended dust, which can then be transported into the surrounding communities. The combination of these model projections suggests that, without mitigation, the expanding exposed playa around the Salton Sea is expected to worsen pollutant exposure in local communities.
Integrating Machine Learning Workflow into Numerical Simulation for Optimizing Oil Recovery in Sand-Shale Sequences and Highly Heterogeneous Reservoir
Authors: Bui Dung , Koray Abdul-Muaizz , Appiah Kubi Emmanuel , Amosu Adewale , Ampomah William
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to evaluate the efficiency of various machine learning algorithms integrating with numerical simulations in optimizing oil production for a highly heterogeneous reservoir. An approach leveraging a machine learning workflow for reservoir characterization, history matching, sensitivity analysis, field development and optimization was proposed to accomplish the above goal. A 3D subsurface model representing studied sand-shale sequences was constructed based on geophysical and petrophysical logs, core measurements, and advanced machine learning techniques. After that, a robust sensitivity analysis and history matching process were conducted using a machine learning workflow. The most sensitive control variables were the aquifer properties, permeability heterogeneity in different directions, and water–oil contacts. The history matching results from the constructed geological model showed that the oil rate, water rate, bottom hole pressure, and average reservoir pressure were matched within a 10% deviation from the observed data. Several field development scenarios were generated using the validated model to optimize cumulative oil recovery. Different injection well placement locations, well patterns, and the possibility of converting existing oil-producing wells to water injection wells were investigated. A machine learning-based proxy model was built for the prediction of cumulative oil production and then optimized with hybrid machine learning techniques. The Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithm was found to provide higher field cumulative oil production compared with the Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) of 3.5% and 26.5%, respectively. Following the detailed proposed machine learning-based workflow, one can effectively decide on the development strategy and apply the findings from this research to their field.
Oral Health Assessment for Older Residents in Long-Term Care Facilities Using Video Recording by a Mobile Electronic Device
Authors: Ako Kazuki , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Watanabe Masataka , Suzuki Hosei , Namikawa Kae , Hirayama Mana , Yamane Kunihito , Mukai Tomoko , Hatanaka Yukiko , Furuya Junichi
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Many older adults who require long-term care need oral health management. However, access to dental care is limited, and connecting older patients with dental professionals is a future challenge. Therefore, the development of a remote oral health assessment system is required. This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of video-based oral health assessments in older adults residing in facilities. Methods: This study comprised 60 older adults residing in facilities who consented to dental home visit treatment by the Department of Oral Function Management at Showa University Dental Hospital between July 2021 and December 2022. The Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT) was used to evaluate the oral health status at the facilities by one dentist. The concordance of the oral health assessments conducted by this dentist at the facilities (OHAT-B) was compared with those conducted by the same dentist (OHAT-V1) and two other dentists (OHAT-V2 and V3) using approximately 1 min video recordings of the oral cavity taken with a mobile electronic device. Results: On the OHAT total score, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC [1.1]) for OHAT-B and V1 was 0.931; the ICC (2.1) was 0.889 when compared with V2 and 0.788 when compared with V3. Moreover, the comparison between V2 and V3 showed high agreement, with an ICC (2.1) of 0.750. Conclusions: This study revealed that the oral health assessment of older adults residing in facilities using video recordings of the oral cavity taken with a mobile electronic device may be possible, suggesting the possibility of remote oral health assessment.
Process Groups for Supporting Resident Wellbeing: Factors Influencing Resident Wellness amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ilaria Shawen , Coppola Kristen M. , Copeland Liesel , Kim Sarang , Fanning Christine , Sharma Ranita , Rashid Hanin
Published: October 2024

Background: Burnout is a well-recognized problem among resident physicians. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the dynamics of the patient/resident relationship and introduced new stressors for medical trainees, such as new restrictions in the hospital, increased patient death, and uncertainty around safety. There is limited research on the implementation of group therapy for residents to address issues of wellbeing and burnout during the pandemic. Method: In response to perceived burnout amongst internal medicine residents, a university-based internal medicine residency program in the Northeast United States implemented process groups, a form of group therapy, in the curriculum. These sessions were held hourly once every five weeks for each cohort of twelve residents during the academic year. We sought to measure resident burnout and identify themes that impacted wellbeing to facilitate the intervention of process groups during the pandemic. In 2021 and 2022, internal medicine residents were invited to complete the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and answer two open-ended questions about the factors that most negatively and positively influenced their wellness. Results: Of the 134 participants, 82% had high emotional exhaustion or depersonalization. The most prevalent themes hindering wellness were negative personal interactions at work, most notably rude behavior by patients, unsupportive attendings, residency program expectations, and work intensity. Findings unique to the pandemic include social isolation from family, distress from poor outcomes, and fear of contracting or spreading the virus. The most prevalent themes for supporting wellness were personal life, camaraderie, professional satisfaction, and program structured support. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that programs can tailor structured support to improve wellness, despite the presence of significant stressors.
Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Impact of Long COVID Among Adults in South Korea
Authors: Son Ha-Eun , Hong Young-Seoub , Lee Seungho , Son Hyunjin
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to identify the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of long COVID in a community-based representative sample of patients with COVID-19 aged 19–64 years. Methods: A total of 975 participants completed online or telephone surveys at 1 and 3 months post-diagnosis, covering persistent symptoms, daily activity limitations, vaccination status, and underlying diseases. Results: Long COVID, as defined by the WHO criteria, had a prevalence of 19.7–24.9% in females and 12.7% in males. Logistic regression revealed that the odds of having long COVID symptoms were higher among females compared to males (OR, 2.43; 95% CI, 1.53–3.87), and higher in those aged ≥ 30 years compared to those aged 19–29 years: 30–39 years (OR, 2.91; 95% CI, 1.59–5.33), 40–49 years (OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.51–4.89), and 50–64 years (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.10–3.49). Additionally, patients with underlying diseases had higher odds of long COVID symptoms compared to those without underlying diseases (OR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.24–2.64). Among those with long COVID, 54.2% experienced daily activity limitations, and 40.6% received treatment. Furthermore, lower income groups faced greater daily activity limitations but had similar treatment rates to higher income groups. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the need for interest in and the development of programs to support these low-income populations.
A Mixed Methods Study of Ethnic Identity and Mental Health Recovery Processes in Minoritized Young Adults
Authors: Moore Kiara L. , Rodwin Aaron H. , Shimizu Rei , Munson Michelle R.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Ethnic identity development is associated with positive mental health in young adults from ethnic minority groups. How a sense of belonging and attachment to one’s ethnic culture is related to personal mental health recovery remains unexplained. This study examines the experiences of ethnic minority young adults in the U.S. to understand the aspects of culture and identity development that are relevant to their recovery processes. Methods: Young adults who were living with chronic mental disorders were recruited from four rehabilitation programs. Interviews produced quantitative and qualitative data. An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was used to integrate the qualitative findings from a sub-group of young adults (n = 44) with the results from the quantitative study. Directed content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data, and the integrated data were analyzed in joint displays. Results: The prominent themes characterizing ethnic identity development in personal recovery were (a) cultural history, traditions, and values; (b) mental illness stigma within the ethnic community; and (c) bias and discrimination in mental health services. Young adults with high ethnic identity development reported having more support from family, but they also described experiences with stigma and racism. Conclusions: The integrated results suggest that ethnic identity development promotes mental health recovery in minoritized young adults through social support and improved well-being and resilience. Experiences of intersectional stigma and structural racism associated with ethnic identity can interfere with self-determination and access to care among minoritized Hispanic/Latine, Black, and multiracial young adults in the U.S.
Unveiling the Core Competencies in Neuroscience Nursing Within the Context of Italy: A Qualitative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Bonacaro Antonio , La Malfa Elisa , Minari Michele , La Sala Rachele , Artioli Giovanna , Cortese Federico
Published: October 2024

Background: In 2008, the European Association of Neuroscience Nursing (EANN) initiated the NeuroBlend™ project, which aimed to delineate the roles and competencies of neuroscience nurses across Europe. This project resulted in the development of the European Competence Profile (ECP), intended to standardize educational pathways and professional recognition for this specialized field. Aim: This study examines the relevance of neuroscience nursing practices to the competencies outlined in NeuroBlend™ across different Italian care settings, including multiple sclerosis, pediatric neurosurgery, pediatric neurology, Alzheimer’s disease, and substance addiction. Methods: A phenomenological approach was employed, utilizing focus groups to gather the perspectives of nurses on the competencies defined by the NeuroBlend™ model. The focus groups were conducted from May 2022 to September 2022. The data collected from the focus groups were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Thirty nurses participated in the focus groups. Thematic analysis revealed the core competencies, such as communication, empathy, flexibility, and reflective skills, as critical in all care settings. The main themes that emerged were relationships with patients and families, personalized care, and continuity of care. Conclusions: The competencies outlined in the NeuroBlend™ framework are vital to the role of neuroscience nurses in the settings studied and remain highly relevant in the context of Italian healthcare.
Ultrasound-Guided Approach to the Distal Tarsal Tunnel: Implications for Healthcare Research on the Medial Plantar Nerve, Lateral Plantar Nerve and Inferior Calcaneal Nerve (Baxter’s Nerve)
Authors: Fernández-Gibello Alejandro , Camuñas Nieves Gabriel , Jara Pacheco Ruth Liceth , Fajardo Pérez Mario , Galluccio Felice
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The tibial nerve, commonly misnamed the “posterior tibial nerve”, branches into four key nerves: the medial plantar, lateral plantar, inferior calcaneal (Baxter’s nerve), and medial calcaneal branches. These nerves are integral to both the sensory and motor functions of the foot. Approximately 15% of adults with foot issues experience heel pain, frequently stemming from neural origins, such as tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS). TTS diagnosis remains challenging due to a high false negative rate in neurophysiological studies. This study aims to improve the understanding and diagnosis of distal tarsal tunnel pathology to enable more effective treatments, including platelet-rich plasma, hydrodissections, radiofrequencies, and prolotherapy. Methods: Ultrasound-guided techniques were employed to examine the distal tarsal tunnel using the Heimkes triangle for optimal probe placement. Results: The results indicate that the tunnel consists of two chambers separated by the interfascicular septum, housing the medial, lateral plantar, and inferior calcaneal nerves. Successful interventions depend on precise visualization and patient positioning. This study emphasizes the importance of avoiding the calcaneus periosteum to reduce discomfort. Conclusions: Standardizing nerve involvement classification in TTS is difficult without robust neurophysiological studies. The accurate targeting of nerve branches is essential for effective treatment.
Real World Predictors, Timing, and Outcomes of Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Blackburn Lisa , Mansour Anthony , Zhao Qiuhong , Cottini Francesca , Khan Abdullah , Bumma Naresh , Devarakonda Srinivas , Umyarova Elvira , Rosko Ashley E. , Vaughn Jennifer , Sharma Nidhi , Benson Don M.
Published: October 2024

Background—Autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) is integral to the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), although its absolute necessity in first remission has been recently questioned. We report real-world factors that influence clinical decision-making and outcomes from ASCT in 733 patients with MM. Results—Similar to recent prospective data, we found a significant progression-free survival (PFS) benefit with early versus deferred ASCT (median PFS of 5.1 years versus 2.6 years, p < 0.001); however, there was no significant difference in overall survival (median OS of 8.3 years and 8.6 years, p = 0.21). Patient preference, age, marital status, body mass index, and comorbidities influence ASCT timing. Conclusion—These findings highlight the emerging role of an individualized, shared decision-making model regarding the timing of ASCT between patients and physicians with the myriad of treatment options available in the contemporary era.
Optimising Floor Plan Extraction: Applying DBSCAN and K-Means in Point Cloud Analysis of Valencia Cathedral
Authors: Escudero Pablo Ariel , López González María Concepción , García Valldecabres Jorge L.
Published: October 2024

Accurate documentation of the geometry of historical buildings presents a considerable challenge, especially when dealing with complex structures like the Metropolitan Cathedral of Valencia. Advanced technologies such as 3D laser scanning has enabled detailed spatial data capture. Still, efficient handling of this data remains challenging due to the volume and complexity of the information. This study explores the application of clustering techniques employing Machine Learning-based algorithms, such as DBSCAN and K-means, to automate the process of point cloud analysis and modelling, focusing on identifying and extracting floor plans. The proposed methodology includes data geo-referencing, culling points to reduce file size, and automated floor plan extraction through filtering and segmentation. This approach aims to streamline the documentation and modelling of historical buildings and enhance the accuracy of historical architectural surveys, significantly contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage by providing a more efficient and accurate method of data analysis.
Contributions to the Morphogenesis, Inventory, and Valorization of a Unique Speleological Geomorphosite from Miresii Cave—The Large Key of Dâmbovița, the Corridor Bran—Dragoslave (Romania)
Authors: Bilașco Ștefan , Trif Septimius , Petrea Dănuț , Cocean Pompei , Ioan Fodorean , Sanda Roșca , Vescan Iuliu
Published: October 2024

The present study contributes to the morphogenesis of the Miresii Cave, located in Cheia Mare of Dâmbovița in the area of the Bran—Dragoslavele Corridor, an important tourist axis in Romania. The main aim of the research is the proposal to the Scientific Council of Piatra Craiului National Park to bring to the attention of the national decision-making commissions that the cave be declared a natural monument. The inventory of this speleological geomorphosite suggested its inclusion in a thematic geotouristic circuit integrated into national and EU-protected natural areas. The novelty of the present research lies in the fact that the cave has never been studied before, being difficult to access. This cave, spatially found in the strict protection zone of the national park, is not included in its management plan. When being integrated into other nature protection areas, it is necessary to exclude any form of recreational tourism so that the cave can be exploited as a geotouristic resource strictly for research and educational purposes. The morphogenetic analysis of the cave, based on the information synthesized from geomorphological and geological literature, allowed us to decipher the morphological individualization of Miresii Cave in the local and regional geocronomorphological context, in accordance with the chronological separation of the karstification phenomenon manifested first in phreatic and later in vadose karst. The diversified typology of speleothems has been rendered according to the geomorphologic generating processes. The identification of the Rhinolophus ferrumequinum chiropteran colony and observations of its biotope highlighted the ecological significance of the cave. The inventory of the individuals of the colony led to the conclusion that the cave harbors one of the first two largest bat communities of this species in the national park and the adjacent depressional corridor. The present study may allow the documentation of the photographs and description of the geomorphosite integrated into the proposed thematic circuit to be included on billboards and in promotional brochures. Thus, it could also be useful for the decision-making authorities of Rucar and Podu Dâmboviței villages, which are interested in making decisions related to the promotion of geotourism, especially due to the existence of numerous geological and geomorphological tourist resources in the administrative territories.
The Effect of Course Delivery Mode on Student Performance and Student Satisfaction: A Case Study
Authors: Reichgelt Johannes , Smith Tim C.
Published: October 2024

There is an ongoing debate in the halls of traditional universities about the effectiveness of course delivery modes other than face-to-face instruction. This paper reports on a natural experiment that we were able to conduct in Spring 2022 as we offered the same course to similar student populations in three different delivery modes (face-to-face, synchronously online via Teams, and asynchronously online). While about a quarter of the students who responded to a survey about their preferred delivery mode who were not enrolled in a face-to-face class indicated that they preferred a face-to-face class, the experiment did not find any differences between the three groups in terms of their assessment of teaching or in their performance both in the course overall or in the individual assignments in the course. While the experiment may suffer some shortcomings, the results indicate that a well-designed online course, delivered synchronously or asynchronously, may encourage student learning more effectively than a face-to-face course.
Molecular Research Progress on Gametophytic Self-Incompatibility in Rosaceae Species
Authors: Coulibaly Daouda , Gao Feng , Bai Yang , Ouma Kenneth Omondi , Antwi-Boasiako Augustine , Zhou Pengyu , Iqbal Shahid , Bah Amadou Apho , Huang Xiao , Diarra Sabaké Tianégué , Segbo Silas , Hayat Faisal , Gao Zhihong
Published: October 2024

Self-incompatibility (SI) is a complex mechanism that prevents plants from self-fertilizing to preserve and promote genetic variability. The angiosperm species have developed two different SI systems, the sporophytic (SSI) and the gametophytic (GSI) systems. SI is a significant impediment to steady fruit production in fruit tree species of the Rosaceae. In Rosaceae, GSI is genetically regulated via a single locus, named the ‘S-locus’, which includes a minimum of two polymorphic and relatively intercorrelated S genes: a pistil-expressed S-RNase gene and several pollen-expressed SFBB (S-locus F-Box Brothers) or SFB (S haplotype-specific F-box protein). This necessitates the interaction of S-RNases with the male determinants. Although genetic and molecular analyses of S genes have shown that mutations in both pistils and pollen-specific components induce self-compatibility in many species and cultivars, other genes or molecules outside the S-locus can co-participate in the male gamete rejection in GSI. However, we highlight and synthesize the most recent knowledge on different mechanisms of GSI in Rosaceae in this current review.
Analyses of Rhizosphere Soil Physicochemical Properties and Microbial Community Structure in Cerasus humilis Orchards with Different Planting Years
Authors: Mu Xiaopeng , Wang Jing , Qin Hao , Ding Jingqian , Mou Xiaoyan , Liu Shan , Wang Li , Zhang Shuai , Zhang Jiancheng , Wang Pengfei
Published: October 2024

Cerasus humilis has been widely used as a key ecological improvement plant species in barren lands in Northern China; however, the soil improvement effects of long-term C. humilis planting have rarely been reported. Our study aimed to determine the effects of planting C. humilis after 3, 6, and 10 years on the physicochemical properties and microbial community structures of the rhizosphere soil. pH decreased significantly with increasing time. Organic matter (OM), total phosphorus (TP), available phosphorus (AP), total potassium (TK), and available potassium (AK) increased gradually from 3 to 10 years. Alkaline and total nitrogen increased significantly and peaked at 6 years. Alkaline phosphatase, urease, sucrase, and hydrogen peroxide activities peaked at 6 years and decreased. Significant differences occurred in C. humilis rhizosphere bacterial and fungal community diversity and richness. Ace, Chaol, Shannon, and Simpson indices indicated diversity and richness of bacterial and fungal communities peaked at 3 and 10 years, respectively. Soil physicochemical properties, except pH, were positively significantly correlated with microbial community structure. AK and TK were the main factors for bacteria and fungi, respectively, with time. Increases in C. humilis rhizosphere soil microbial community relative abundance may be attributed to beneficial bacteria (Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria) and fungi (Ascomycota, Mortierellomycota, and Basidiomycota). Physicochemical and soil and microbial community structure properties gradually improved; however, with time, adequate nutritional supplementation was needed to prevent decreased microbial community richness and diversity.
Titanium Nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) as Catalysts for Enhancing Drought Tolerance in Grapevine Saplings
Authors: Daler Selda , Kaya Ozkan , Korkmaz Nesrin , Kılıç Tuğba , Karadağ Ahmet , Hatterman-Valenti Harlene
Published: October 2024

Drought is a major stress that hinders plant growth and causes water stress, posing a significant threat to global food security. While nanotechnology, particularly the use of nanoparticles such as TiO2, offers a promising solution by enhancing plants’ resilience to drought stress, improving nutrient absorption, and promoting growth under adverse conditions, its application in viticulture remains underexplored. The objective of this research was to investigate the effects of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs; 100, 10, 1, and 0 ppm (control)) on various physiological, biochemical, and morphological parameters in grapevine saplings. Three different rootstock varieties, 41 B/Crimson Seedless (CS), 1103 P/CS, and 5 BB/CS, were included in the experiment to assess how rootstock variety influences the response of grapevine saplings to TiO2-NPs under drought stress (40–50%) and well-irrigated (90–100%) conditions. Young vines grown in pots under greenhouse conditions were used in this study. Applications of 10 ppm TiO2-NPs improved growth parameters and the SPAD index and enhanced stomatal conductance, relative water content, and protein content in grapevine saplings under both drought and well-irrigated conditions. Conversely, oxidative stress parameters, including the membrane damage index, hydrogen peroxide, drought index, and lipid peroxidation levels, were significantly reduced following 10 ppm TiO2-NP applications under drought conditions. Furthermore, total phenolic content, proline content, and ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activities, which increased significantly with drought stress, were reduced to lower levels, paralleling the alleviation of drought-induced oxidative stress. Our results suggest that the primary role of TiO2 nanoparticles in enhancing drought tolerance is due to their beneficial effects in alleviating damage caused by drought stress. This finding applies not only to grapevines but may also be relevant for other agricultural crops.
The Cumulative Variations of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Fusion Protein (F) in Ten Consecutive Years in China
Authors: Wang Fengjie , Jiang Mingli , Han Zhenzhi , Xu Yanpeng , Sun Yu , Zhu Runan , Chen Dongmei , Guo Qi , Zhou Yutong , Yao Yao , Cao Ling , Qu Dong , Li Muya , Zhao Linqing
Published: October 2024

Background: Variations in the fusion (F) protein of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) with main antigenic sites I–V and Ø may affect the development of RSV vaccines and therapies. Methods: In the study, 30 respiratory specimens positive for RSV were randomly selected from children with acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) in Beijing every year from 2012 to 2021 for F gene sequencing. Then, 300 F gene sequences and 508 uploaded to GenBank from China were subjected to phylogenetic analysis. Results: The results indicated the nucleotide identities were 95.4–100% among 446 sequences of RSV A, and 96.3–100% among 362 of RSV B. The most common variant loci were N80K (100.00%) and R213S (97.76%) for site Ø, and V384I/T (98.43%) for site I among sequences of RSV A, and M152I (100.00%), I185V (100.00%), and L172Q/H (94.48%) for site V, and R202Q (99.45%) for site Ø among sequences of RSV B. N276S appears in 95.29% sequences of RSV A, while S276N and N262 I/S appear in 1.38% and 0.55% sequences of RSV B, respectively. No variation was found in all sequences at the binding sites of 14N4 and motavizumab. Conclusions: There were cumulative variations of the RSV F gene, especially at some binding sites of antigenic sites.
Electroacupuncture Reduces Heart Rate and Perceived Exertion During a Bike Test: A Preliminary Analysis
Authors: Gaudet Emily , Castonguay Tristan , Fortin Maryse , Dover Geoffrey
Published: October 2024

Background: Preliminary research suggests that acupuncture can improve cardiovascular function. The purpose of our study was to determine if electroacupuncture can improve performance and post-exercise recovery. Methods: Thirty-two healthy people participated in this study (14 men and 18 women, aged 23.6 ± 3.5 years). The first visit included baseline measurements. Then, the participants received daily electroacupuncture at acupuncture point PC6 for a week, followed by a second visit. Heart rate, perceived exertion, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured before, during, and after a YMCA submaximal bike test. Results: The heart rate was significantly reduced during the final stage of the YMCA test (151.3 ± 7.0 to 146.7 ± 11.8; p = 0.013) on the second visit. The rate of perceived exertion was significantly lower during all stages in Visit 2 (average RPE Visit 2 = 10.71 ± 2.02; average RPE Visit 1 = 11.45 ± 1.98; p = 0.004). Systolic blood pressure significantly decreased during the 5 min post-test recovery (SBP Visit 2 = 116.9 ± 12.0; SBP Visit 1 = 145.7 ± 14.6, p < 0.05). Conclusions: A week of electroacupuncture at PC6 led to reduced heart rate and perceived exertion during exercise, making the workload feel less strenuous. Electroacupuncture at PC6 shows potential for increasing participation in physical activities by making them feel easier to accomplish.
Toward Universal Health Coverage: What Socioeconomic and Clinical Factors Influence Health Insurance Coverage and Restrictions in Access to Viral Hepatitis Services in Nasarawa State, Nigeria?
Authors: Adepoju Victor Abiola , Udah Donald C. , Ezenwa Chinonye Alioha , Ganiyu Jamiu , Lawal Sumaiya Muhammad , Haruna James Ambo , Adnani Qorinah Estiningtyas Sakilah , Ibrahim Adamu Alhassan
Published: October 2024

Background: Viral hepatitis B and C (HBV and HCV) pose significant public health concern in Nigeria, where access to healthcare and treatment affordability are limited. This study investigated sociodemographic and clinical predictors of health insurance coverage and access to care among patients with HBV and HCV in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional facility-based study was conducted at two secondary hospitals in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Participants included patients diagnosed with HBV, HCV, or both who were ≥18 years old. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic and clinical information, health insurance details, and economic impact. Binary logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between sociodemographic/clinical factors and health insurance status. Results: Out of 303 participants, 68% had health insurance, which mostly covered hepatitis screening and vaccination. Significant predictors of health insurance coverage included being aged 36–40 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 11.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.38–50.89, p = 0.002), having post-secondary education (aOR: 25.2, 95% CI: 9.67–65.68, p < 0.001), being employed (aOR: 27.83, 95% CI: 8.85–87.58, p < 0.001), and being HIV-positive (aOR: 4.06, 95% CI: 1.55–10.61, p = 0.004). Nearly all those insured (99%) faced restrictions in insurance coverage for viral hepatitis services. Conclusions: This study reveals that while health insurance coverage is relatively high among viral hepatitis patients in Nasarawa State, significant restrictions hinder access to comprehensive services, especially for vulnerable groups like younger adults, the unemployed, and PLHIV. Key factors influencing coverage include age, education, employment, and HIV status. Expanding benefit packages to include viral hepatitis diagnosis and treatment, raising awareness about viral hepatitis as part of insurance strategy, improving access for underserved populations, and integrating hepatitis services into existing HIV programs with strong policy implementation monitoring frameworks are crucial to advancing universal health coverage and meeting the WHO’s 2030 elimination goals.
Enhancing Obstetric Healthcare Providers’ Knowledge of Black Maternal Mental Health: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Floyd James Kortney , Reaves Keisha , Richards Misty C. , Choi Kristen R.
Published: October 2024

Despite guidelines for screening and treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), systemic issues and clinician biases often result in unmet mental health needs in Black women. This study assessed the feasibility and impact of comprehensive PMAD training on obstetric healthcare providers’ attitudes, knowledge, and implicit racial biases. We conducted a feasibility study with two cohorts of healthcare providers who received either in-person or virtual training. The training focused on PMADs, implicit bias, and culturally responsive care. Participants completed pre- and post-training assessments measuring attitudes, knowledge, empathy, and implicit racial biases. Both training modalities showed trends towards improved PMAD screening attitudes and empathy, with significant increases in beliefs about treatment efficacy. Implicit bias scores approached significance, showing a shift toward fewer participants with racial preferences. However, there was an unexplained increase in preference for White over Black post training. The training improved healthcare providers’ readiness to screen for PMADs and enhanced their understanding of PMADs. However, the persistence of implicit biases highlights the need for ongoing, sustained interventions to address deeply rooted biases. Future research should incorporate continuous learning strategies and link training to healthcare outcomes for minoritized communities.
Glycine Transporter 1 Inhibitors Minimize the Analgesic Tolerance to Morphine
Authors: Galambos Anna Rita , Essmat Nariman , Lakatos Péter P. , Szücs Edina , Boldizsár Imre , Abbood Sarah Kadhim , Karádi Dávid Á. , Kirchlechner-Farkas Judit Mária , Király Kornél , Benyhe Sándor , Riba Pál , Tábi Tamás , Harsing Laszlo G. , Zádor Ferenc , Al-Khrasani Mahmoud
Published: October 2024

Opioid analgesic tolerance (OAT), among other central side effects, limits opioids’ indispensable clinical use for managing chronic pain. Therefore, there is an existing unmet medical need to prevent OAT. Extrasynaptic N-methyl D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) containing GluN2B subunit blockers delay OAT, indicating the involvement of glutamate in OAT. Glycine acts as a co-agonist on NMDARs, and glycine transporters (GlyTs), particularly GlyT-1 inhibitors, could affect the NMDAR pathways related to OAT. Chronic subcutaneous treatments with morphine and NFPS, a GlyT-1 inhibitor, reduced morphine antinociceptive tolerance (MAT) in the rat tail-flick assay, a thermal pain model. In spinal tissues of rats treated with a morphine–NFPS combination, NFPS alone, or vehicle-comparable changes in µ-opioid receptor activation, protein and mRNA expressions were seen. Yet, no changes were observed in GluN2B mRNA levels. An increase was observed in glycine and glutamate contents of cerebrospinal fluids from animals treated with a morphine–NFPS combination and morphine, respectively. Finally, GlyT-1 inhibitors are likely to delay MAT by mechanisms relying on NMDARs functioning rather than an increase in opioid efficacy. This study, to the best of our knowledge, shows for the first time the impact of GlyT-1 inhibitors on MAT. Nevertheless, future studies are required to decipher the exact mechanisms.
Assessing Genetic Diversity in Endangered Plant Orchidantha chinensis: Chloroplast Genome Assembly and Simple Sequence Repeat Marker-Based Evaluation
Authors: Zhou Yiwei , Tan Jianjun , Huang Lishan , Ye Yuanjun , Xu Yechun
Published: October 2024

Orchidantha chinensis T. L. Wu, an endemic species in China, is listed as a key protected wild plant in Guangdong Province. However, the lack of reports on the chloroplast genome and simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers has hindered the assessment of its genetic diversity and conservation strategies. The limited number of molecular markers to assess the genetic diversity of this species, and thus develop proper conservation strategies, highlighted the urgent need to develop new ones. This study developed new SSR markers and investigated genetic variation using 96 samples of O. chinensis from seven populations. Through high-throughput sequencing, a complete chloroplast genome of 134,407 bp was assembled. A maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree, based on the chloroplast genome, showed that O. chinensis is closely related to Ravenala madagascariensis. The study identified 52 chloroplast SSRs (cpSSRs) and 5094 expressed sequence tag SSRs (EST-SSRs) loci from the chloroplast genome and leaf transcriptome, respectively. Twenty-one polymorphic SSRs (seven cpSSRs and fourteen EST-SSRs) were selected to evaluate the genetic variation in 96 accessions across seven populations. Among these markers, one cpSSR and 11 EST-SSRs had high polymorphism information content (>0.5). Cluster, principal coordinate, and genetic structure analyses indicated that groups G1 and G6 were distinct from the other five groups. However, an analysis of molecular variance showed greater variation within groups than among groups. The genetic distance among the populations was significantly positively correlated with geographical distance. These findings provide new markers for studying the genetic variability of O. chinensis and offer a theoretical foundation for its conservation strategies.
Oral Pathobiont-Derived Outer Membrane Vesicles in the Oral–Gut Axis
Authors: Catalan Eduardo A. , Seguel-Fuentes Emilio , Fuentes Brandon , Aranguiz-Varela Felipe , Castillo-Godoy Daniela P. , Rivera-Asin Elizabeth , Bocaz Elisa , Fuentes Juan A. , Bravo Denisse , Schinnerling Katina , Melo-Gonzalez Felipe
Published: October 2024

Oral pathobionts are essential in instigating local inflammation within the oral cavity and contribute to the pathogenesis of diseases in the gastrointestinal tract and other distant organs. Among the Gram-negative pathobionts, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum emerge as critical drivers of periodontitis, exerting their influence not only locally but also as inducers of gut dysbiosis, intestinal disturbances, and systemic ailments. This dual impact is facilitated by their ectopic colonization of the intestinal mucosa and the subsequent mediation of distal systemic effects by releasing outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) into circulation. This review elucidates the principal components of oral pathobiont-derived OMVs implicated in disease pathogenesis within the oral–gut axis, detailing virulence factors that OMVs carry and their interactions with host epithelial and immune cells, both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we shed light on the less acknowledged interplay between oral pathobionts and the gut commensal Akkermansia muciniphila, which can directly impede oral pathobionts’ growth and modulate bacterial gene expression. Notably, OMVs derived from A. muciniphila emerge as promoters of anti-inflammatory effects within the gastrointestinal and distant tissues. Consequently, we explore the potential of A. muciniphila-derived OMVs to interact with oral pathobionts and prevent disease in the oral–gut axis.