bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bionic Design of High-Performance Joints: Differences in Failure Mechanisms Caused by the Different Structures of Beetle Femur–Tibial Joints
Authors: Cui Jiandong , Wang Yubo , Lin Sen , Tuo Zhiwei , Lin Zhaohua , Liang Yunhong , Ren Luquan
Published: October 2024

Beetle femur–tibial joints can bear large loads, and the joint structure plays a crucial role. Differences in living habits will lead to differences in femur–tibial joint structure, resulting in different mechanical properties. Here, we determined the structural characteristics of the femur–tibial joints of three species of beetles with different living habits. The tibia of Scarabaeidae Protaetia brevitarsis and Cetoniidae Torynorrhina fulvopilosa slide through cashew-shaped bumps on both sides of the femur in a guide rail consisting of a ring and a cone bump. The femur–tibial joint of Buprestidae Chrysodema radians is composed of a conical convex tibia and a circular concave femur. A bionic structure design was developed out based on the characteristics of the structure of the femur–tibial joints. Differences in the failure of different joint models were obtained through experiments and finite element analysis. The experimental results show that although the spherical connection model can bear low loads, it can maintain partial integrity of the structure and avoid complete failure. The cuboid connection model shows a higher load-bearing capacity, but its failure mode is irreversible deformation. As key parts of rotatable mechanisms, the bionic models have the potential for wide application in the high-load engineering field.
Paralytic Shellfish Toxin Extraction from Bivalve Meat for Analysis Using Potentiometric Chemical Sensors
Authors: Cerqueira Ana Filipa R. , Moreirinha Catarina , Raposo Mariana , Gomes Maria Teresa S. R. , Costa Sara T. , Botelho Maria João , Rudnitskaya Alisa
Published: October 2024

A simple and reliable methodology for the detection of paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) in bivalve tissues using potentiometric chemical sensors was developed. Five methods of PST extraction from mussel and oyster tissues were evaluated, including the AOAC-recommended method, which served as the reference. The main objective was to minimize the matrix effect of the extracts on the sensors’ responses and ensure efficient toxin recovery. Extraction procedures using acetic acid with heating and water yielded the highest responses from the potentiometric chemical sensors to PSTs. The highest recovery of PSTs from bivalve tissues was achieved with extraction using acetic acid and heating. Further extract purification, which is indispensable for liquid chromatography with fluorometric detection (LC-FLD) analysis, was found to be unnecessary for analysis with chemical sensors. While water extraction can also be used as a rapid and simple PST extraction method, the lower recoveries should be considered when interpreting the results. Further research is needed to identify the compounds remaining in the extracts that cause a decrease in sensor responses and to develop procedures for their elimination.
ZnS and Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite-Based Non-Enzymatic Biosensor for the Photoelectrochemical Detection of Uric Acid
Authors: Zhao Yao , Peng Niancai , Gao Weizhuo , Hu Fei , Zhang Chuanyu , Wei Xueyong
Published: October 2024

In this work, we report a study of a zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanocrystal and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite-based non-enzymatic uric acid biosensor. ZnS nanocrystals with different morphologies were synthesized through a hydrothermal method, and both pure nanocrystals and related ZnS/RGO were characterized with SEM, XRD and an absorption spectrum and resistance test. It was found that compared to ZnS nanoparticles, the ZnS nanoflakes had stronger UV light absorption ability at the wavelength of 280 nm of UV light. The RGO significantly enhanced the electron transfer efficiency of the ZnS nanoflakes, which further led to a better photoelectrochemical property of the ZnS/RGO nanocomposites. The ZnS nanoflake/RGO nanocomposite-based biosensor showed an excellent uric acid detecting sensitivity of 534.5 μA·cm−2·mM−1 in the linear range of 0.01 to 2 mM and a detection limit of 0.048 μM. These results will help to improve non-enzymatic biosensor properties for the rapid and accurate clinical detection of uric acid.
Determinants Associated with COVID-19 Vaccination among Korean Adults: Based on Andersen’s Model
Authors: Kim Eungyeong
Published: October 2024

COVID-19 vaccination is a critical public health measure to control the pandemic, but disparities in vaccination uptake remain a concern. This study investigates the determinants of COVID-19 vaccination among Korean adults using the Andersen model. Data from 231,784 participants in the community health survey were analyzed using chi-square testing and logistic regression. The risk of non-vaccination was higher among those aged 19–64 (95% CI: 1.52–1.74), males (95% CI: 1.11–1.24), the unemployed (95% CI: 2.21–2.47), unmarried individuals (95% CI: 1.12–1.24), those with unmet healthcare needs (95% CI: 1.41–1.67), recipients of national basic livelihood guarantees (95% CI: 1.45–1.73), those with lower subjective health (95% CI: 1.20–1.30), individuals with depression (95% CI: 1.28–1.44), current smokers (95% CI: 1.13–1.30), and those skipping breakfast (95% CI: 1.04–1.16). Conversely, the risk was lower for those with less than a high school education (95% CI: 0.72–0.81), individuals with psychological concerns about infection (0.87, 95% CI: 0.82–0.92) or public criticism (0.91, 95% CI: 0.86–0.97), individuals with chronic diseases (95% CI: 0.64–0.72), and current alcohol consumers (95% CI: 0.52–0.58). These findings underscore the need for targeted intervention strategies and support systems to promote vaccination in vulnerable populations. Further research should explore the long-term impact of these interventions on vaccination uptake.
Exploring Determinants of Sustained Participation in New Sports: The Impact of YouTube Engagement and Educator Support
Authors: Kim Dohun , Jeong Yunduk
Published: October 2024

This study explored the determinants of sustained participation in new sports by applying the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and examining the moderating role of social support, as well as the influence of media interest. This present study aimed to contribute to the promotion and effective adoption of new sports by providing valuable data for new-sports educators to teach these activities. A survey was conducted among 313 university students enrolled in new-sports classes across five universities in Korea, utilizing a convenience sampling method. Using SPSS 26.0 and AMOS 26.0, we conducted frequency, correlation, and reliability analyses, followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to validate the measurement model and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the relationships between media interest, attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control (PBC), and behavioral intentions. The software Jamovi version 2.3.21 was employed to analyze the moderating effects of social support from educators on these relationships. The findings reveal that media interest significantly influenced the attitudes, which, in turn, along with subjective norms and PBC, affected the behavioral intentions. Moreover, the social support from educators moderated the effects of attitudes, subjective norms, and PBC on the behavioral intentions. This study concluded that leveraging media interest and enhancing social support can effectively promote engagement and sustained participation in new sports. These insights can offer practical strategies for stakeholders aiming to increase participation rates in new-sports activities.
Impact of Excavation on Adjacent Elevated Bridges and Optimization Analysis of Deformation Control
Authors: Wu Jiangpeng , Yu Junping , Fang Fuguan , Lin Gang , Tang Xiaolin , Ding Haibin , Xu Changjie
Published: October 2024

Based on the deep foundation pit project of the TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) complex of the Shaoxing North High-speed Railway Station, the influence of different construction stages on the deformation and inclination rate of the adjacent elevated bridge and its variation law are studied through field measurement and numerical simulation. The construction process is optimized by the method of reinforcement outside the pit and adjustment of preloaded axial force, and the influence of distance on elevated bridges is summarized. The results show that with the excavation of the foundation pit, the deformation of the bridge pier and bridge pile foundation gradually increases, and the deformation of the bridge piers is larger than that of the bridge pile foundations. As the depth of soil reinforcement outside the pit and the preloaded axial force increases, the maximum vertical displacement of the bridge pier and bridge pile foundations gradually decreases. The deeper the depth of soil reinforcement, the better the displacement control effect on the elevated bridge. In actual construction, it is recommended that the depth of reinforcement be taken as the excavation depth of the pit. It is obvious that the preloaded axial force is subject to the pit angle effect, and the appropriate value of the preloaded axial force should be selected according to the site conditions. The deformation of the bridge pier and bridge pile foundation generally shows a decreasing trend with the increase in the distance between the elevated bridge and the foundation pit. When the elevated bridge is close to the foundation pit, it will be affected by the pit angle effect, and the fluctuation will decrease. The conclusions drawn in the article can serve as the basis and reference for design and construction, and provide reference for similar projects.
Built Environment Influences on Emotional State Loneliness among Young Adults during Daily Activities: An Experience Sampling Approach
Authors: Gijsbers Dominique , Berg Pauline van den , Kemperman Astrid
Published: October 2024

Loneliness among young adults is a growing concern worldwide, posing serious health risks. While the human ecological framework explains how various factors such as socio-demographic, social, and built environment characteristics can affect this feeling, still, relatively little is known about the effect of built environment characteristics on the feelings of loneliness that young people experience in their daily life activities. This research investigates the relationship between built environment characteristics and emotional state loneliness in young adults (aged 18–25) during their daily activities. Leveraging the Experience Sampling Method, we collected data from 43 participants for 393 personal experiences during daily activities across different environmental settings. The findings of a mixed-effects regression model reveal that built environment features significantly impact emotional state loneliness. Notably, activity location accessibility, social company during activities, and walking activities all contribute to reducing loneliness. These findings can inform urban planners and municipalities to implement interventions that support youngsters’ activities and positive experiences to enhance well-being and alleviate feelings of loneliness in young adults. Specific recommendations regarding the built environment are (1) to create spaces that are accessible, (2) create spaces that are especially accessible by foot, and (3) provide housing with shared facilities for young adults rather than apartments/studios.
TSH Stimulation before PET/CT as Our Frenemy in Detecting Thyroid Cancer Metastases—Final Results of a Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Kołodziej Maciej , Saracyn Marek , Lubas Arkadiusz , Brodowska-Kania Dorota , Mazurek Andrzej , Dziuk Mirosław , Durma Adam Daniel , Niemczyk Stanisław , Kamiński Grzegorz
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Non-iodine avid metastases of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) can be found using PET/CT with a fluorine-18-labeled glucose analog ([18F]FDG). There are ongoing discussions on the appropriateness of using exogenous thyrotropin (TSH) stimulation before this examination. Material and Methods: In a retrospective study, 73 PET/CT scans with [18F]FDG performed after exogenous stimulation with recombinant human TSH (rhTSH) and without such stimulation were analyzed. All analyzed patients were suspected of having non-iodine-avid foci of DTC. Results: The stimulation with rhTSH before the PET/CT did not affect the percentage of positive results: 37.5% (18/48) with rhTSH and 40% (10/25) without rhTSH (p = 0.83). The analysis of the ROC curves established the cut-off thyroglobulin point for a positive PET/CT result separately for both subgroups. There was no statistically significant difference between obtaining a positive PET/CT result and the baseline thyroglobulin concentration (both stimulated and unstimulated). The exogenous stimulation of TSH prior to the PET/CT had no effect on the [18F]FDG uptake in the PET/CT lesions. Conclusions: PET/CT with [18F]FDG remains a useful method for the diagnosis of non-iodine-avid DTC lesions; in the presented group, a positive effect of rhTSH stimulation on the number of DTC foci visible in the PET/CT was found, but without affecting its effectiveness.
Applications of Heterogeneous Catalysts in Green Chemistry
Authors: Kumar Anand , Saad Mohammed Ali H. S. , Al-Qaradawi Siham Y.
Published: October 2024

In our day-to-day lives, the utilization of industrial products, including chemicals and fuels, is essential [...]
Correction: Ahmed et al. The Barley S-Adenosylmethionine Synthetase 3 Gene HvSAMS3 Positively Regulates the Tolerance to Combined Drought and Salinity Stress in Tibetan Wild Barley. Cells 2020, 9, 1530
Authors: Ahmed Imrul Mosaddek , Nadira Umme Aktari , Qiu Cheng-Wei , Cao Fangbin , Chen Zhong-Hua , Vincze Eva , Wu Feibo
Published: October 2024

In the original publication [...]
Protective Effects of Keratinocyte-Derived GCSF and CCL20 on UVB-Induced Melanocyte Damage
Authors: Jeayeng Saowanee , Saelim Malinee , Muanjumpon Phetthinee , Buraphat Pongsakorn , Kanchanapiboon Potjanee , Sampattavanich Somponnat , Panich Uraiwan
Published: October 2024

The skin microenvironment created by keratinocytes (KC) influences the stress responses of melanocytes (MC) to UVB insults. This study employed RNA sequencing analysis as well as in vitro and in vivo models to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Our RNA-Seq analysis revealed a statistically significant upregulation of GCSF and CCL20 genes in UVB-irradiated KC, correlating with the protective effects of KC on MC responses to UVB exposure. Recombinant GCSF and CCL20 exhibited the most pronounced modulation of UVB-induced MC responses. These effects included the attenuation of apoptosis and reduction of ROS formation, along with the upregulation of tyrosinase and tyrosinase-related protein-1, which are involved in the melanogenic pathway. ELISA was also used to confirm that UVB could induce the secretion of GCSF and CCL20 from KC. A similar correlation between GCSF and CCL20 expression in KC and tyrosinase levels in MC was observed in UVB-irradiated mouse skin. Our study provides novel insights into the protective role of GCSF and CCL20 in the paracrine effects of KC on UVB-induced MC damage through the modulation of stress response pathways, the MITF-tyrosinase axis, and the regulation of p53. These findings have implications for the development of pharmacological strategies targeting KC-derived paracrine factors for the prevention of skin photodamage.
Upregulation of Fatty Acid Synthase Increases Activity of β-Catenin and Expression of NOTUM to Enhance Stem-like Properties of Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Kelson Courtney O. , Tessmann Josiane Weber , Geisen Mariah E. , He Daheng , Wang Chi , Gao Tianyan , Evers B. Mark , Zaytseva Yekaterina Y.
Published: October 2024

Dysregulated fatty acid metabolism is an attractive therapeutic target for colorectal cancer (CRC). We previously reported that fatty acid synthase (FASN), a key enzyme of de novo synthesis, promotes the initiation and progression of CRC. However, the mechanisms of how upregulation of FASN promotes the initiation and progression of CRC are not completely understood. Here, using Apc/VillinCre and ApcMin mouse models, we show that upregulation of FASN is associated with an increase in activity of β-catenin and expression of multiple stem cell markers, including Notum. Genetic and pharmacological downregulation of FASN in mouse adenoma organoids decreases the activation of β-catenin and expression of Notum and significantly inhibits organoid formation and growth. Consistently, we demonstrate that NOTUM is highly expressed in human CRC and its expression positively correlates with the expression of FASN in tumor tissues. Utilizing overexpression and shRNA-mediated knockdown of FASN, we demonstrate that upregulation of FASN increases β-catenin transcriptional activity, NOTUM expression and secretion, and enhances stem-like properties of human CRC cells. Pharmacological inhibition of NOTUM decreases adenoma organoids growth and proliferation of cancer cells. In summary, upregulation of FASN enhances β-catenin signaling, increases NOTUM expression and stem-like properties of CRC cells, thus suggesting that targeting FASN upstream of the β-catenin/NOTUM axis may be an effective preventative therapeutic strategy for CRC.
Oncological Aspects of Lysosomal Storage Diseases
Authors: Ługowska Agnieszka
Published: October 2024

Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are caused by the deficient activity of a lysosomal hydrolase or the lack of a functional membrane protein, transporter, activator, or other protein. Lysosomal enzymes break down macromolecular compounds, which contribute to metabolic homeostasis. Stored, undegraded materials have multiple effects on cells that lead to the activation of autophagy and apoptosis, including the toxic effects of lyso-lipids, the disruption of intracellular Ca2+ ion homeostasis, the secondary storage of macromolecular compounds, the activation of signal transduction, apoptosis, inflammatory processes, deficiencies of intermediate compounds, and many other pathways. Clinical observations have shown that carriers of potentially pathogenic variants in LSD-associated genes and patients affected with some LSDs are at a higher risk of cancer, although the results of studies on the frequency of oncological diseases in LSD patients are controversial. Cancer is found in individuals affected with Gaucher disease, Fabry disease, Niemann-Pick type A and B diseases, alfa-mannosidosis, and sialidosis. Increased cancer prevalence has also been reported in carriers of a potentially pathogenic variant of an LSD gene, namely CLN3, SGSH, GUSB, NEU1, and, to a lesser extent, in other genes. In this review, LSDs in which oncological events can be observed are described.
Crystallite Size Effects on Electrical Properties of Nickel Chromite (NiCr2O4) Spinel Ceramics: A Study of Structural, Magnetic, and Dielectric Transitions
Authors: Mamidipalli Nagarjuna Rao , Tiyyagura Papireddy , Punna Rao Suryadevara , Kothamasu Suresh Babu , Pothu Ramyakrishna , Boddula Rajender , Al-Qahtani Noora
Published: October 2024

The effect of sintering temperature on the structural, magnetic, and dielectric properties of NiCr2O4 ceramics was investigated. A powder X-ray analysis indicates that the prepared nanocrystallites effectively inhibit the cooperative Jahn–Teller distortion, thereby stabilizing the high-temperature cubic phase structure with space group Fd-3m. Multiple transitions are confirmed by temperature-dependent magnetization M(T) data. Moreover, the magnetization value decreases and the Curie temperature increases with a decrease in the crystallite size. The low-temperature-dependent real permittivity (ε′-T) for a NiCr2O4 crystallite size of 78 nm exhibits a broad maximum at 40 K that is independent of frequency. This establishes a correlation between electric ordering and the underlying magnetic structure. The temperature dependency of the dielectric constant at fixed frequencies for both NiCr2O4 crystallite sizes rises with temperature for a certain range of frequencies. A significant improvement is evident: the dielectric constant (ε’) at room temperature reaches approximately 5738 for the sample with 28 nm crystallites, while the 78 nm crystallite sample shows a noticeable drop to ε’~174. The frequency-dependent conductivity curves for both types of NiCr2O4 nanocrystallites have different conductivity values. The lower-crystallite-size sample demonstrates higher conductivity values than the 78 nm crystallite size one. This observation is attributed to the decrease in crystallite size, which increases the number of grain boundaries and, consequently, scatters a higher number of charge carriers.
The Influence of Pervaporation on Ferulic Acid and Maltol in Dealcoholised Beer
Authors: Jackowski Mateusz , Lech Magdalena , Wnukowski Mateusz , Trusek Anna
Published: October 2024

Non-alcoholic beer is becoming more and more popular every year. Due to the high demand for such drinks, numerous breweries decided to produce non-alcoholic beer. There are various methods to create a beer with a reduced alcohol content. Among them are biological methods influencing the biochemistry of the brewing process and physical methods focused on removing ethanol from ready beer. Thus far, the most popular methods are vacuum rectification and reverse osmosis. This work evaluated another method called pervaporation for non-alcoholic beer production. During the study, low-alcohol beer (0.58 vol.%) was achieved from standard beer (3.62 vol.%) using pervaporation. The colour of the product remained unchanged at level 7 EBC. The concentration of ferulic acid decreased from 11.5 to 9.1 mg/dm3, and maltol was concentrated, reaching a concentration of 38 mg/dm3 in the final retentate during a 5 h process.
A Copper-Based Coating for the Control of Airborne Viable Bacteria in a Prison Environment
Authors: Fuentes-Alburquenque Sebastián , Cañón-Mancisidor Walter , Toledo Álvaro , Mendoza Alejandro , Soto-Rioseco Patricia , Delgado Katherine
Published: October 2024

Infections in confined environments can spread by direct contact, contaminated surfaces, and airborne transmission. This is critical in prison facilities, where cleaning and sanitary conditions are inadequate. An alternative is the development of antimicrobial surfaces. A new antimicrobial coating was developed by incorporating copper microparticles into a standard commercial paint, aiming to reduce the concentration of bacteria on surfaces by granting antimicrobial properties to surfaces. The copper additive comprised Cu2Cl(OH)3 deposited on polyhedral zeolite. The efficacy of this coating was evaluated in detention cells in a police station, which are temporary prisons and inherently dirty environments. The experiment compared a cell painted with the copper additive coating and a control cell with the standard paint. Viable coliforms were measured on different surfaces and in the air for five months under normal usage. Bacterial load was reduced by ca. 68% by the copper-amended paint on cement surfaces. Surprisingly, airborne viable coliforms were reduced by ca. 87% in the detention cell treated with the copper coating. This research highlights the potential of antimicrobial coatings in controlling the spread of infections through contact with contaminated surfaces and emphasizes the significant reduction in airborne bacterial load. It is especially relevant for controlling infections where sanitization is limited but can be extended to other built environments, such as healthcare facilities.
Enhanced Anti-Corrosion and Biological Performance of Plasma-Sprayed Nb/ZrO2/HA Coatings on ZK60 Mg Alloy
Authors: Wan Xiaofeng , Fang Siyi , Xu Shouwei , Yu Lu , Zhou Jingling , Qian Shuangqing , Huang Fenglai , Ma Chunhui
Published: October 2024

Niobium (Nb) and zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) were doped into hydroxyapatite (HA) to fabricate HA-based composite coatings prepared on a ZK60 magnesium alloy by plasma spraying technology to improve anti-corrosion and biocompatibility for clinical applications. The results revealed that the Nb-enriched coating exhibits fewer cracks and pores with a flat surface due to the decreased temperature gradient during spraying, and small needle-like structures can fill the cracks and pores in the ZrO2-contained coating, resulting in a more uniform and dense surface. Compared to coatings with only niobium or zirconium dioxide, the ZrO2/Nb/HA composite coating significantly enhanced the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of the magnesium alloys. Among all the specimens, the ZrO2/HA coating and ZrO2/Nb/HA coating revealed high surface hardness values (327.73 HV and 293.80 HV, respectively). However, the higher hardness value made the ZrO2/HA coating fragile and more likely to crack, while the ZrO2/Nb/HA coating avoided this shortcoming and exhibited a more comprehensive performance. During immersion tests, the ZrO2/Nb/HA coating exhibited a gradual pH increase and minimal mass loss, and the cytocompatibility test demonstrated promising cellular activity.
Tyrosinase Inhibitory Activity of Crude Procyanidin Extract from Green Soybean Seed and the Stability of Bioactive Compounds in an Anti-Aging Skin Care Formulation
Authors: Pohntadavit Kanyarat , Duangmano Suwit , Osiriphan Mallika , Leksawasdi Noppol , Techapun Charin , Sumonsiri Nutsuda , Sommano Sarana Rose , Rachtanapun Pornchai , Nunta Rojarej , Khemacheewakul Julaluk
Published: October 2024

Green soybean (Glycine max L.) seed contains a high procyanidin content and high antioxidant activity. Moreover, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) has proved to be advantageous in providing high extraction efficiency. Hence, this study aimed to extract procyanidins from green soybean seeds (GSSs) using UAE. This study also evaluated the inhibitory activities of tyrosinase and the cytotoxic effects of crude procyanidin extract. The extract exhibited maximum levels of bioactive components and antioxidant capacity when subjected to a temperature of 15 °C and an extraction time of 20 min. The crude procyanidin extract at a concentration of 10 mg/mL inhibited the tyrosinase enzyme by more than 60%, and the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value obtained for the extract was 6.85 ± 0.81 mg/mL. This result was much greater than the IC50 value obtained for kojic acid (0.089 ± 0.08 mg/mL), which was used as a positive control. For the cytotoxicity assessment, the results indicated that the crude procyanidin extract showed no cytotoxicity and actually stimulated the growth of human skin fibroblast cells. More than 80% of the bioactive compounds (total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), procyanidin content (PC)) and antioxidant activities (DPPH and FRAP) of the crude extract powder were retained at 38.68 ± 0.01 mg GAE/g, 16.07 ± 0.01 mg CAE/g, 9.24 ± 0.01 mg PC/g, 359.8 ± 0.72 μM Trolox eq/g, and 1640 ± 2.86 μM Trolox eq/g, respectively, after 12 weeks of storage at 25 °C. The crude procyanidin extract powder was then included in a facial serum formulation and tested for pH value and physical evaluation. The stability of the crude procyanidin extract facial serum was shown to be greater for bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity when stored at a temperature of 4 °C than when stored at a temperature of 25 °C. These results suggest that the GSS extracts obtained via ultrasonication show promise for use in cosmeceutical formulations for whitening skincare products.
Patterns of Zoological Diversity in Iran—A Review
Authors: Noori Sajad , Zahiri Reza , Yusefi Gholam Hosein , Rajabizadeh Mahdi , Hawlitschek Oliver , Rakhshani Ehsan , Husemann Martin , Rajaei Hossein
Published: October 2024

Iran is a country characterized by high biodiversity and complex biogeographic patterns. Its diverse landscape and steep climatic gradients have resulted in significant faunal diversity and high level of endemism. To better understand these patterns, we investigated the historical environmental drivers that have shaped Iran’s current geological and climatological conditions, and, consequently, have shaped the current zoological distribution patterns. Furthermore, we provide an overview of the country’s zoological diversity and zoogeography by reviewing published studies on its fauna. We analyzed nearly all available catalogs, updated checklists, and relevant publications, and synthesized them to present a comprehensive overview of Iran’s biodiversity. Our review reports approximately 37,500 animal species for Iran. We also demonstrated that the country serves as a biogeographic transition zone among three zoogeographical realms: the Palearctic, Oriental, and Saharo-Arabian, where distinct faunal elements intersect. This biogeographic complexity has made it challenging to delineate clear zoogeographical zones, leading to varying classifications depending on the taxon. The uplift of mountain ranges, in particular, has played a crucial role in shaping faunal diversity by serving as barriers, corridors, and glacial refugia. These mountains are largely the result of orogeny and plate collisions during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras, coupled with the development of the Tethyan Sea and the uplift of several ranges during the Miocene. Despite these insights, our understanding of biodiversity distribution in Iran remains incomplete, even for some well-studied taxa, such as certain vertebrate families and arthropods. We highlight the existing gaps in knowledge regarding zoogeographical patterns and propose approaches to address these gaps, particularly concerning less-studied species and the highly diverse group of insects.
How to Recognize Mosses from Extant Groups among Paleozoic and Mesozoic Fossils
Authors: Ignatov Michael S. , Voronkova Tatyana V. , Spirina Ulyana N. , Polevova Svetlana V.
Published: October 2024

This paper describes a range of Paleozoic and Mesozoic mosses and assesses how far they can be referred to extant taxa at the family, ordinal, or class levels. The present study provides new data on Paleozoic mosses of the order Protosphagnales, re-evaluating affinities of some groups previously thought to be unrelated. The leaf areolation pattern, combined with the leaf costa anatomy, results in the subdivision of Protosphagnales into five separate families: Protosphagnaceae (at least six genera), Polyssaieviaceae (at least three genera), and three monogeneric families: Rhizonigeritaceae, Palaeosphagnaceae, and Servicktiaceae. We urge caution in referring Paleozoic and Early Mesozoic fossil mosses as members of Dicranidae and Bryidae, as they may belong to the extinct moss order Protosphagnales. Additional evidence supports the relation of the Permian genus Arvildia to extant Andreaeopsida. We segregate Late Palaeozoic and Early Mesozoic mosses that are superficially similar to extant members of either Dicranales or Polytrichales, into the artificial informal group of Archaeodicranids, distinguishing them from ecostate Paleozoic and Mesozoic mosses, which are combined here into another artificial informal group, Bryokhutuliinids. The latter includes the genus Bryokhutuliinia, widespread in contemporary Asia, from the Middle Jurassic to the Lower Cretaceous, as well as other superficially similar ecostate plants from different regions worldwide, ranging from the Upper Palaeozoic to the Lower Cretaceous. A list of Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Eocene moss fossils suitable for age calibration in phylogenetic trees is provided.
The Gut Microbiome and Lignocellulose Digestion in Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae): A Termite Incorporating Lichen into Its Diet
Authors: Arab Alberto , Paulino Luciana Campos , Rolim Maria Socorro Lacerda , Menezes Letícia Ramos de , Oliveira Mário Herculano de , dos Santos Renato Augusto Corrêa , Cairo João Paulo Lourenço Franco , Bezerra-Gusmão Maria Avany , Costa-Leonardo Ana Maria , Cunha Hélida , Sillam-Dussès David
Published: October 2024

Lichen-feeding termites occupy a distinctive ecological niche. This feeding behavior underscores a complex interplay between the termites’ digestive abilities and the biochemical properties of lichens, known for their resilience and production of secondary metabolites. Understanding the dietary preferences and digestive mechanisms of these termites offers insights into their ecological roles and the evolutionary adaptations that enable them to exploit such a specialized food source. We conducted experiments with Constrictotermes cyphergaster, feeding it with different combinations of its natural food sources: wood bark and lichen from host trees. Gut microbial communities were analyzed through 16S rRNA sequencing and shotgun metagenomics. Our results revealed that a diet containing lichens induces a shift in microbiota composition and increases the abundance of genes encoding an AA3 enzyme with a role in lignin digestion. This study emphasizes the potential role of lichens in enhancing the digestive capabilities of termites, highlighting the intricate relationships between diet, gut microbiota, and enzymatic activity in Termitidae.
Cutting the Gordian Knot: Rare Presentation of Nodular Fasciitis as Supraclavicular Swelling with Muscular Involvement in 68Ga-FAPI-PET/CT
Authors: Brust Lukas A. , Höh Madeleine , Linxweiler Maximilian , Bozzato Alessandro , Burgard Caroline , Rosar Florian , Altmeyer Katrin , Lessenich Carl P. , Kohlwes Elke , Pillong Lukas
Published: October 2024

Background: Nodular fasciitis is a benign, singularly occurring nodular fibroblastic/myofibroblastic neoplasia. Due to the rapid growth and cellular atypia, this rare differential diagnosis in the head and neck region can be mistaken for malignant sarcomas. Methods: We present a 40-year-old female patient with an unclear, rough, and poorly displaceable supraclavicular swelling on the right as part of a medical check-up. Sonographically, the lump was poorly circumscribed with little vascularization. A consecutive core needle biopsy of the lesion yielded inconclusive results showing spindle-shaped tumor cells. 68Ga-FAPI-PET/CT showed an intensive uptake of the right supraclavicular lesion in addition to postoperative changes in the right tonsil. Subsequent operative partial excision of the lesion confirmed the histopathological diagnosis of nodular fasciitis. Results: Nodular fasciitis is the most prevalent pseudosarcoma found in soft tissues. This case is the first description of 68Ga-FAPI-PET/CT in nodular fasciitis. Surgical removal is advised; nevertheless, the tumor frequently diminishes on its own, and recurrence is rare. Extensive surgical therapy is not necessary. Conlcusions: The recognition of nodular fasciitis and its benign characteristics is crucial to prevent diagnostic errors and the subsequent unnecessary operative treatment of the patient.
“I Don’t Know Whether It’s Priority, or Capacity, or Both”: Implementation Gaps in Employment Policies Targeting People with Disabilities in Kenya and Bangladesh
Authors: Hameed Shaffa , Huq Lopita , Musendo David J. N. , Banks Lena Morgon , Olenja Joyce , Shakespeare Tom
Published: October 2024

Disabled people are often excluded from employment, particularly in accessing waged employment. This exclusion persists despite enabling policies and legislature, indicating a need to address gaps in implementation. To improve policy implementation, it is crucial to better understand the gap between policy intention (what was planned) and effect (what happens), including reasons that widen this gap (what explains what happened). This study explores this in the context of Kenya and Bangladesh, drawing on key informant interviews and analysis of policies and programmes related to employment, social protection, and disability. Using the policy triangle framework, we analysed the policy context, process, actors, and content of relevant policies and programmes. The study identified key policy provisions on employment quota, social assistance, job placement services, tax incentives, and training opportunities, all of which were designed to promote employment for disabled people. However, implementation is limited in both countries, for reasons including ambiguity in policies, unavailability of data for monitoring, and lack of transparency among implementers. The data suggest that addressing these aspects would promote accountability among duty-bearers, advocacy power among rights-holders, and ultimately improve implementation and inclusion of disabled people in employment.
Therapeutic Patient Education and Eating Habits: A Challenge in Caries Disease
Authors: Zanini Marjorie , Clerc Mélodie , Azogui-Levy Sylvie , Tenenbaum Annabelle
Published: October 2024

Dietary Factors and Oral Health: Risky dietary behaviors, particularly excessive sugar consumption, significantly contribute to dental caries. Dental practitioners are tasked with detecting and managing these behaviors to effectively treat caries and prevent recurrences. Although dietary assessment tools exist to identify such behaviors, they have limits. Furthermore, traditional methods, focused on information dissemination and advice, often fall short in promoting sustainable changes in patient behavior toward oral health. From our perspective, there is a necessity to integrate educational approaches with therapeutic management for enhancing the ability current and future dental practitioners to effectively care for their patients’ oral health needs. Discussion: Specific educational models have been developed for patients with chronic diseases, through Therapeutic Patient Education (TPE), defined as helping patients acquire or maintain the skills they need to best manage their lives with a chronic disease. Future Directions: By incorporating TPE into dental practice, oral health professionals can empower patients to take control of their eating habits and reduce their risk of caries disease. This holistic approach addresses both the carious lesions and underlying causes of tooth decay, leading to better oral health outcomes for patients.
Grain Crop Yield Prediction Using Machine Learning Based on UAV Remote Sensing: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Yuan Jianghao , Zhang Yangliang , Zheng Zuojun , Yao Wei , Wang Wensheng , Guo Leifeng
Published: October 2024

Preharvest crop yield estimation is crucial for achieving food security and managing crop growth. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can quickly and accurately acquire field crop growth data and are important mediums for collecting agricultural remote sensing data. With the rapid development of machine learning, especially deep learning, research on yield estimation based on UAV remote sensing data and machine learning has achieved excellent results. This paper systematically reviews the current research of yield estimation research based on UAV remote sensing and machine learning through a search of 76 articles, covering aspects such as the grain crops studied, research questions, data collection, feature selection, optimal yield estimation models, and optimal growth periods for yield estimation. Through visual and narrative analysis, the conclusion covers all the proposed research questions. Wheat, corn, rice, and soybeans are the main research objects, and the mechanisms of nitrogen fertilizer application, irrigation, crop variety diversity, and gene diversity have received widespread attention. In the modeling process, feature selection is the key to improving the robustness and accuracy of the model. Whether based on single modal features or multimodal features for yield estimation research, multispectral images are the main source of feature information. The optimal yield estimation model may vary depending on the selected features and the period of data collection, but random forest and convolutional neural networks still perform the best in most cases. Finally, this study delves into the challenges currently faced in terms of data volume, feature selection and optimization, determining the optimal growth period, algorithm selection and application, and the limitations of UAVs. Further research is needed in areas such as data augmentation, feature engineering, algorithm improvement, and real-time yield estimation in the future.
Bioscience Students in Physics Courses with Higher Test Anxiety Have Lower Grades on High-Stakes Assessments and Women Report More Test Anxiety than Men
Authors: Malespina Alysa , Seifollahi Fargol , Singh Chandralekha
Published: October 2024

Test anxiety is beginning to be recognized as a significant factor affecting student performance in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses, potentially contributing to gender inequity within these fields. Additionally, the management of test anxiety can improve self-efficacy, which is a construct that has been well studied in the physics context. In this study, we investigated the relationship between self-efficacy, test anxiety, and gender differences in performance in a two-semester-long introductory physics course sequence for bioscience students in which women outnumber men. Using validated survey data and grade information from students in a two-semester introductory physics course sequence, we compared the predictive power of self-efficacy and test anxiety on female and male students’ performance on both low- and high-stakes assessments. We found that there were gender differences disadvantaging women in self-efficacy and test anxiety in both Physics 1 and Physics 2, as well as gender differences in high-stakes outcomes in Physics 1. There were no gender differences in low-stakes assessment scores. We also found that self-efficacy and test anxiety predicted high-stakes (but not low-stakes) assessment outcomes in both Physics 1 and Physics 2. Comparison of these findings with prior studies involving physical science and engineering students shows that although women outnumber men in physics courses for bioscience students and the career goals of bioscience students are very different from the earlier researched group, most of the negative trends hold even for this new population. Thus, these findings, in a new context involving bioscience students in physics courses, are very important because they reinforce the systemic nature of women being affected more adversely by anxiety in high-stakes assessments, which is a threat to creating equitable and inclusive learning environments. An important implication is that course instructors should carefully consider how high-stakes and low-stakes assessments are used to determine grades and how to create an overall equitable, inclusive, and low-anxiety learning environment.
Affective Experiences of U.S. School Personnel in the Sociopolitical Context of 2021: Reflecting on the Past to Shape the Future
Authors: Wood Miranda , Ha Cheyeon , Brackett Marc , Cipriano Christina
Published: October 2024

This study aims to explore the self-reported affective experiences of U.S. school personnel during 2021. This year found school personnel balancing remote learning, health emergencies, a global pandemic, and intense political upheaval. We contextualize school personnel experiences within the current sociopolitical context. In this sample, school personnel (n = 8052) represent all U.S. states and territories alongside representation of diverse racial and ethnic identities (n = 1901). Participants were surveyed before completing a free virtual course on emotion management. The survey included open-ended questions and scale items. Participants reported primary feelings, sources of stress and joy, and perceptions of personal and social and emotional support for themselves and students. Findings are presented in five cohorts of school personnel across the year. The primary feelings were being anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed, the stressors were lack of support, time, and resources, as well as COVID-19, and workload, and the sources of joy were students, coworkers, and teaching. Anxiety and gratitude decreased throughout the year while happiness increased. Responses differed across time and between racial groups, with Black and African American participants reporting the highest percentages of being stressed by COVID-19 and community fluctuated over time as a source of joy. Implications for the education system and opportunities for emotion management are discussed.
An Examination on the Planning and Practice of Bilingual Education in Primary and Secondary Schools in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Li-Yi
Published: October 2024

Over the past few years, several reforms in language education have been outlined to implement the full-scale bilingualization of the education system in Taiwan. Among the 3392 public primary and secondary schools, nearly one-third of them have been implementing bilingual education in certain subjects. The vast majority of these schools have adopted Immersion, CLIL, or EMI as models for bilingual education. It has been argued that these exotic models cannot be “transplanted” to the education context of Taiwan, and he proposes the FERTILE model. Adopting this model as the theoretical framework, this qualitative study aims to examine how school practitioners plan and practice bilingual education in Taiwan. Data were collected through the document analysis of the progress reports from thirty-five primary and secondary schools and three focus group discussions (FGDs) with nine subject teachers. The findings show that the participants made considerable efforts to construct a bilingual environment and have an identical understanding about the strategies for bilingual instruction that emphasize subject knowledge and students’ comprehension. However, the participants experienced a diverse ecology of bilingual teacher learning communities and received differential support from the principals. Qualified and stable teaching manpower was identified as the key to sustain bilingual education. Implications to different education stakeholders are also discussed.
Interculturality in the Development of Technology-Mediated Courses for Massive Health Education: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cunha Priscila Sanara da , Barbalho Ingridy Marina Pierre , Fernandes Felipe Ricardo dos Santos , Romão Manoel Honorio , Rodrigues da Silva Valentim Janaina Luana , Dantas Coutinho Karla Mônica , Sampaio de Araújo Kaline , de Medeiros Valentim Ricardo Alexsandro , de Pinho Dias Aline , Araújo do Nascimento Batista Natalia , da Silva José Adailton , Clemente Heleni Aires , Pereira Alves Maria de Fátima , Dantas Coutinho Karilany
Published: October 2024

Virtual Learning Environments have become innovative tools in health professionals education. Through Massive Open Online Courses, they enable different ways of connecting with knowledge, facilitating study autonomy, interaction, and closer alignment with professional practices and the context of course participants. MOOCs comprise an educational strategy for many fields, including health. As they educate health professionals about a variety of practices, MOOCs play a crucial role in interculturality by enabling professionals to approach cultural diversity in work settings. This study provides a review of the literature investigating the element of interculturality in the production of healthcare-related MOOCs intended for a variety of audiences, including practicing healthcare professionals, healthcare professional trainees, and the general public. Based on a systematic review protocol, we searched for peer-reviewed studies published between 2016 and 2023 in Science Direct, PubMed, ERIC, and Scopus. Fifteen studies were selected for final analysis, which highlighted MOOC development, its underlying processes, and its importance in promoting health and social well-being. MOOCs have (1) provided new approaches to technology-mediated learning in distance health education, (2) aided training, (3) disseminated knowledge, and (4) promoted interculturality. Continuous collaboration and innovation in MOOC development are essential to ensure their effectiveness and relevance in the contemporary educational scenario.