bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of four major bioactive components of Cynanchum auriculatum extract: a UPLC–MS/MS study in normal and functional dyspepsia rats
Authors: Sun Jia , Meng Xin , Huang Di , Gong Zipeng , Liu Chunhua , Liu Ting , Pan Jie , Lu Yuan , Zheng Lin
Published: October 2023

Introduction:Cynanchum auriculatum (CA) is usually used to treat digestive disorders, such as anorexia, enteritis, dysentery, and indigestion. Functional dyspepsia (FD) is characterized by a group of symptoms associated with the gastroduodenal region. Recent pharmacological studies have demonstrated the efficacy of CA for treating FD. However, the pharmacokinetics (PK) and tissue distribution of CA in physiological and FD states is still unclear. The present study aimed to clarify the differences in PK parameters and tissue distribution of the four major active components of CA (baishouwu benzophenone, deacylmet-aplexigenin, qingyangshengenin, and syringic acid) under both physiological and FD states.

Methods: For this, normal and FD rats were orally administered 10 mg/kg CA extract. Then, plasma and tissue (heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, brain, stomach, and small intestine) samples were obtained. The four active components of CA in rat plasma and tissues were quantified by developing and validating a fast and reliable ultra–high–performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry method.

Results: The area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time zero to time t (AUC0-t) of baishouwu benzophenone was significantly lower in the FD group than in the normal group (p < 0.01). The FD group had significantly lower (p < 0.001) apparent volume of distribution and plasma clearance of qing-yangshengenin and significantly higher (p < 0.05) AUC0-t of deacylmetaplexigenin and qingyangshengenin. The four active components were rapidly distributed into various tissues, and the main target organs of CA activity were the stomach and small intestine. In addition, baishouwu benzophenone, deacylmetaplexigenin, and qingyangshengenin could cross the blood-brain barrier, indicating that the brain may be another target organ in the treatment of FD.

Discussion: These results indicate that the pathological state of FD alters the PK behavior and tissue distribution characteristics of baishouwu benzophenone, deacylmetaplexigenin, qingyangshengenin, and syringic acid in the CA extract, providing an experimental basis for the role of CA in FD treatment.
Rough colloids at fluid interfaces: from fundamental science to applications
Authors: Rahman Md Anisur , Beltramo Peter J.
Published: October 2023

Colloidal particles pinned to fluid interfaces have applications ranging from Pickering emulsions and foams to the development of 2D materials via Langmuir-Blodgett deposition. While colloids come in virtually any size, shape, and chemistry, particle surface topography, or roughness, has recently found renewed interest as a design parameter for controlling interfacial pinning, capillary interactions, assembly, and mechanics of particulate monolayers. In this review, we highlight the fundamental science regarding rough colloidal particles at fluid interfaces and how manipulating roughness can be a tool for material design, rather than merely a characteristic needing to be dealt with. While existing work reveals the importance of roughness, the field is still rather nascent and therefore this review highlights both challenges and opportunities for future research.
Battery Earth: using the subsurface at Boulby underground laboratory to investigate energy storage technologies
Authors: Daniels Katherine A. , Harrington Jon F. , Wiseall Andrew C. , Shoemark-Banks Edward , Hough Edward , Wallis Humphrey C. , Paling Sean M.
Published: October 2023

Renewable energy provides a low-carbon alternative to power generation in the UK. However, the resultant supply varies on daily, weekly and seasonal cycles, such that for green energies to be fully exploited new grid-scale energy storage systems must be implemented. Two pilot facilities in Germany and the United States have demonstrated the potential of the Earth as a battery to store compressed air, using off-peak surplus energy. Natural accumulations of salt (halite deposits) in the UK represent a large and untapped natural storage reservoir for compressed air with the ability to provide instantaneous green energy to meet peak demand. To realise the potential of this emerging technology, a detailed knowledge of the relationship between mechanics, chemistry and geological properties is required to optimise cavern design, storage potential and economic feasibility. The variable stresses imposed on the rock matrix by gas storage, combined with the cyclic nature of cavern pressurisation are barriers to deployment that need to be addressed to enable large-scale adoption of schemes. Well-designed field experiments are a lynchpin for advancing research in this area, especially when supported by state-of-the-art characterisation and modelling techniques. The research facility at STFC’s Boulby Underground Laboratory presents the ideal location to tackle these fundamental issues to optimise “Battery Earth”.
Parallel evolution, atavism, and extensive introgression explain the radiation of Epimedium sect. Diphyllon (Berberidaceae) in southern East Asia
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Meng Ran , Meng Ying , Guo Bao-Lin , Liu Quan-Ru , Nie Ze-Long
Published: October 2023

East Asia is the richest region of plant biodiversity in the northern temperate zone, and its radiation provides key insights for understanding rapid speciation, including evolutionary patterns and processes. However, it is challenging to investigate the recent evolutionary radiation among plants because of the lack of genetic divergence, phenotypic convergence, and interspecific gene flow. Epimedium sect. Diphyllon is a rarely studied plant lineage endemic to East Asia, especially highly diversified in its southern part. In this study, we report a robust phylogenomic analysis based on genotyping-by-sequencing data of this lineage. The results revealed a clear biogeographic pattern for Epimedium sect. Diphyllon with recognition into two major clades corresponding to the Sino–Himalayan and Sino–Japanese subkingdoms of East Asian Flora and rapid diversification of the extant species dated to the Pleistocene. Evolutionary radiation of Epimedium sect. Diphyllon is characterized by recent and predominant parallel evolution and atavism between the two subkingdom regions, with extensive reticulating hybridization within each region during the course of diversification in southern East Asia. A parallel-atavism-introgression hypothesis is referred to in explaining the radiation of plant diversity in southern East Asia, which represents a potential model for the rapid diversification of plants under global climate cooling in the late Tertiary. Our study advances our understanding of the evolutionary processes of plant radiation in East Asia as well as in other biodiversity hotspot regions.
Characterization of neurocognitive deficits in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome: persistence, patients’ complaints, and clinical predictors
Authors: Kozik Valeska , Reuken Philipp , Utech Isabelle , Gramlich Judith , Stallmach Zoe , Demeyere Nele , Rakers Florian , Schwab Matthias , Stallmach Andreas , Finke Kathrin
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Cognitive symptoms persisting beyond 3 months following COVID-19 present a considerable disease burden. We aimed to establish a domain-specific cognitive profile of post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS). We examined the deficits’ persistence, relationships with subjective cognitive complaints, and clinical variables, to identify the most relevant cognitive deficits and their predictors.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined cognitive performance and patient-reported and clinical predictors of cognitive deficits in PCS patients (n = 282) and socio-demographically comparable healthy controls (n = 52).

Results

On the Oxford Cognitive Screen-Plus, the patient group scored significantly lower in delayed verbal memory, attention, and executive functioning than the healthy group. In each affected domain, 10 to 20% of patients performed more than 1.5 SD below the control mean. Delayed memory was particularly affected, with a small effect of hospitalization and age. Attention scores were predicted by hospitalization and fatigue.

Discussion

Thus, PCS is associated with long-term cognitive dysfunction, particularly in delayed memory, attention, and executive functioning. Memory deficits seem to be of particular relevance to patients’ experience of subjective impairment. Hospitalization, fatigue, and age seem to predict cognitive deficits, while time since infection, depression, and pre-existing conditions do not.
An 18-week model of Parent–Child Interaction Therapy: clinical approaches, treatment formats, and predictors of success for predominantly minoritized families
Authors: Jent Jason F. , Rothenberg William A. , Peskin Abigail , Acosta Juliana , Weinstein Allison , Concepcion Raquel , Dale Chelsea , Bonatakis Jessica , Sobalvarro Cindy , Chavez Felipa , Hernandez Noelia , Davis Eileen , Garcia Dainelys
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Disruptive behavior disorders are among the most prevalent pediatric mental health referrals for young children. However, families from historically minoritized social identities have experienced disparities in treatment access, retention, and outcomes. Evidence-based interventions such as Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) have been found to be effective in reducing children’s disruptive behaviors in minoritized families. However, variable treatment length as a result of skill-based graduation criteria (e.g., observed caregiver verbalizations) may slow and/or hinder treatment progress, particularly for families where expected treatment verbalizations are less linguistically relative (e.g., no exact English to Spanish translations) and/or culturally familiar. Time-limited PCIT has been proposed as a strategy for promoting equity in treatment completion and outcomes amongst minoritized families, because treatment progression and/ or completion is not contingent upon caregiver linguistic skill demonstration.

Methods

The current study evaluated the overall effectiveness of an 18-week model of PCIT and examined predictors of retention and treatment outcomes. Participants (N = 488 dyads) included predominantly racially, ethnically, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse children aged two to eight years, and their caregivers.

Results

Overall findings indicate that the 18-week PCIT model is an effective intervention for reducing children’s externalizing and internalizing behaviors and improving caregiver parenting skills for most treatment completers. Despite advances in treatment completion, some caregiver social identities and PCIT treatment characteristics were predictive of lower completion rates and/or less optimal treatment outcomes.

Discussion

Overall, this study provides strong support for widely disseminating use of the 18-week model of PCIT for most families served. Clinical implications and considerations for continued treatment inequity are discussed.
Research on the impact of basic psychological needs satisfaction on career adaptability of Chinese college students
Authors: Xu Min , Lu Haidong , Guo Qi
Published: October 2023

Introduction

With social changes, the realization of smooth and satisfactory employment of college students is an issue that requires deep thought. Basic psychological needs satisfaction play an important role as a guiding factor that affects students’ career adaptability. This study aims to explore the relationship and mechanism between the satisfaction of students’ basic psychological needs satisfaction and their career adaptability.

Methods

A survey is conducted among students from six different universities across the country, using the Basic Psychological Needs Satisfaction Scale, the Career Adaptability Scale, the Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Career Outcome Expectations Scale.

Results

The satisfaction of basic psychological needs, career decision self-efficacy, and career outcome expectations are all significantly positively correlated with career adaptability.Career decision self-efficacy plays a partial mediating role between basic psychological needs satisfaction and career adaptability among college students. The moderated mediation model found that career outcome expectations play a regulatory role in the effect of career decision self-efficacy on career adaptability.

Discussion

College students’ basic psychological need satisfaction can positively predict career adaptability directly and indirectly affect career adaptability through career decision self-efficacy, and career outcome expectations have a moderating role between career decision self-efficacy and career adaptability.
A whole exome sequencing study to identify rare variants in multiplex families with alcohol use disorder
Authors: Hill Shirley Y. , Hostyk Joseph
Published: October 2023

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) runs in families and is accompanied by genetic variation. Some families exhibit an extreme susceptibility in which multiple cases are found and often with an early onset of the disorder. Large scale genome-wide association studies have identified several genes with impressive statistical probabilities. Most of these genes are common variants. Our goal was to perform exome sequencing in families characterized by multiple cases (multiplex families) to determine if rare variants might be segregating with disease status.

Methods

A case-control approach was used to leverage the power of a large control sample of unrelated individuals (N = 8,983) with exome sequencing [Institute for Genomic Medicine (IGM)], for comparison with probands with AUD (N = 53) from families selected for AUD multiplex status. The probands were sequenced at IGM using similar protocols to those used for the archival controls. Specifically, the presence of a same-sex pair of adult siblings with AUD was the minimal criteria for inclusion. Using a gene-based collapsing analysis strategy, a search for qualifying variants within the sequence data was undertaken to identify ultra-rare non-synonymous variants.

Results

We searched 18,666 protein coding genes to identify an excess of rare deleterious genetic variation using whole exome sequence data in the 53 AUD individuals from a total of 282 family members. To complete a case/control analysis of unrelated individuals, probands were compared to unrelated controls. Case enrichment for 16 genes with significance at 10–4 and one at 10–5 are plausible candidates for follow-up studies. Six genes were ultra rare [minor allele frequency (MAF) of 0.0005]: CDSN, CHRNA9, IFT43, TLR6, SELENBP1, and GMPPB. Eight genes with MAF of 0.001: ZNF514, OXGR1, DIEXF, TMX4, MTBP, PON2, CRHBP, and ANKRD46 were identified along with three protein-truncating variants associated with loss-of-function: AGTRAP, ANKRD46, and PPA1. Using an ancestry filtered control group (N = 2,814), nine genes were found; three were also significant in the comparison to the larger control group including CHRNA9 previously implicated in alcohol and nicotine dependence.

Conclusion

This study implicates ultra-rare loss-of-function genes in AUD cases. Among the genes identified include those previously reported for nicotine and alcohol dependence (CHRNA9 and CRHBP).
Health behaviors and problems in Polish homeless men
Authors: Repka Bernadetta , Bejda Grzegorz , Kułak-Bejda Agnieszka , Czarnecki Damian , Ziółkowski Marcin , Mosiołek Anna , Szulc Agata , Waszkiewicz Napoleon , Ślifirczyk Anna , Kułak Wojciech , Krajewska-Kułak Elżbieta
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Homelessness is considered to be a global problem, independent of the material situation of a given country and occurring in most societies around the world.

Aim of the study

Assessment of the preferred health behaviors of homeless people.

Materials and methods

The study covered 153 men who are homeless and 312 men who are not homeless. The original questionnaire of homeless, and validated the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI), the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHLC) Scale were used. The research covered fully completed questionnaires from 153 homeless men staying in Białystok and Gdańsk homelss centers.

Results

On average, the homeless men assessed their health at 6.0 ± 2.7 points, and the non-homeless at 7.8 ± 2.2 points (p < 0.001). Significant differences were found between people experiencing a homelessness crisis and the control group in selected aspects concerning the everyday life hygiene of the respondents, health self-assessment, declarations of visits to a specialist and carrying out check-ups, level of satisfaction with life, coping with difficult situations, preferred pro-health behaviors and dimensions of health control. In the used scales, SWLS, HBI, GES, and MHCL, the majority of homeless men obtained average scores. They were rather dissatisfied with their lives, with a low level of effectiveness in coping with difficult situations and obstacles, a low level of health behaviors, and in the scope of health, control increasing the impact of chance.

Conclusion

The level of the presented health behaviors showed statistically significant diversification with all dimensions of the health locus of control, and its internal dimension with age, homelessness phase, the respondents’ criminal history, being under constant medical care, and self-assessment of health.
Trajectories of depressive symptoms in young and middle-aged men who have sex with men with new HIV-diagnosis: a 1-year prospective cohort study in Beijing, China
Authors: Li Xiao , Liu Yu , Han Jing , Lin Keke , Bai Xiaoyan , Lu Fengling
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Due to the sexual orientation and HIV diagnosis, young and middle-aged men who have sex with men (MSM) with new HIV-diagnosis may experience more depressive syndromes and face greater psychological stress. The study explored trajectories of depressive symptoms of young and middle-aged MSM within 1 year after new HIV-diagnosis and analyze the related factors.

Methods

From January 2021 to March 2021, 372 young and middle-aged MSM who were newly diagnosed as HIV-infection were recruited in two hospitals in Beijing. Self-rating Depression Scale was used to measure the participants’ depressive symptom in 1st month, 3rd month, 6th month, 9th month and 12th month after HIV diagnosis. The latent class growth model was used to identify trajectories of the participants’ depressive symptoms. Multinomial logistic regression was used to analyse factors related with the trajectories.

Results

Three hundred and twenty-eight young and middle-aged MSM with new HIV-diagnosis completed the research. Depressive symptom in 328 young and middle-aged MSM was divided into three latent categories: non-depression group (56.4%), chronic-mild depression group (28.1%), and persistent moderate–severe depression group (15.5%). The participants assessed as non-depression (non-depression group) or mild depression (chronic-mild depression group) at the baseline were in a non-depression state or had a downward trend within one-year, and the participants assessed as moderate and severe depression (persistent moderate–severe depression group) at the time of diagnosis were in a depression state continuously within 1-year. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that, compared with the non-depression group, monthly income of 5,000 ~ 10,000 RMB (equal to 690 ~ 1,380 USD) was the risk factor for the chronic-mild depression group, and self-rating status being fair/good and self-disclosure of HIV infection were protective factors for the persistent moderate–severe depression group while HIV-related symptoms was the risk factor.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms in young and middle-aged MSM is divided into three latent categories. Extra care must be given to young and middle-aged MSM assessed as moderate or severe depression at the time of HIV-diagnosis, especially to those who had poor self-rating health status, did not tell others about their HIV-infection and experienced HIV-related symptoms.
Life-time HIV testing among people who inject drugs in Iran: results from the National Rapid Assessment and Response survey
Authors: Roshanfekr Payam , Karimi Salah Eddin , Narouee Sakineh , Moftakhar Leila , Vameghi Meroe , Ali Delaram , Higgs Peter , Soleimanvandiazar Neda
Published: October 2023

Background

HIV testing is recommended for people who inject drugs (PWID). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of lifetime HIV testing among PWID and to better understand the predictors for HIV testing in a convenience sample across Iran.

Materials and methods

This study is a secondary analysis of Iran’s National Rapid Assessment and Response survey conducted between October 2016 and March 2017. Analysis includes the 999 people who reported injecting drugs across the capital cities of 21 provinces. Data were collected by using the venue-based application of the Time Location Sampling (TLS) frame. Chi-square tests were used to examine the difference between HIV testing across different quantitative variables. Logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of life-time HIV testing. Analysis was performed using STATA V.12 software with a significance level of 95%.

Results

Most participants were male (n = 902, 93.50%), and over half (n = 555, 59.17%) were older than 35 years old. About one-third, (n = 326, 38%) of people interviewed were single and another one-third (n = 251, 29%) reported being divorced. Over two-thirds of participants (n = 678, 69.78%) in this study reported lifetime HIV testing. The results from a multiple variable logistic regression showed people with a university education were more likely to have been previously tested for HIV than illiterate people (OR = 18.87, 95%CI 2.85–124.6, value of p = 0.002). Those individuals who reported ever receiving methadone treatment were 2.8 times more likely to have been tested for HIV than individuals without methadone treatment experience (OR = 2.89, 95%CI 1.53–5.42, value of p < 0.001). Needle syringe sharing in last month, was negatively associated with life-time HIV testing (OR = 0.29, 95%CI 0.17–0.48, value of p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Despite Iran’s wide availability and access to counseling services for HIV testing in key populations, the proportion of PWID being tested for HIV could be improved. Developing effective strategies to increase people’s understanding and awareness of the importance of and need for HIV prevention and familiarity with HIV testing sites is an essential step in increasing HIV testing for this population. Studies on more recent HIV testing are required to better assess and understand the frequency of HIV testing among PWID in Iran.
Coming together for something good: recommendations from a scoping review for dissemination and implementation science to improve indigenous substance use disorder treatment
Authors: Hirchak Katherine A. , Oluwoye Oladunni , Nadeau Melanie , Richardson Meenakshi , Bajet Kelsey , Brigman Mariah , Herron Jalene L. , Hernandez-Vallant Alexandra , Vasquez Angel , Pham Cuong , Oliver Karen Anderson , Baukol Paulette , Webb Kellie , Belone Lorenda , McDonell Michael G. , Venner Kamilla L. , Campbell Aimee N. C.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Dissemination and Implementation (D&I) science is growing among Indigenous communities. Indigenous communities are adapting and implementing evidence-based treatments for substance use disorders (SUD) to fit the needs of their communities. D&I science offers frameworks, models, and theories to increase implementation success, but research is needed to center Indigenous knowledge, enhancing D&I so that it is more applicable within Indigenous contexts. In this scoping review, we examined the current state of D&I science for SUD interventions among Indigenous communities and identified best-practice SUD implementation approaches.

Methods

PubMed and PsycINFO databases were queried for articles written in English, published in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. We included key search terms for Indigenous populations and 35 content keywords. We categorized the data using the adapted and extended Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework that emphasizes equity and sustainability. RE-AIM has also been used as a primary model to consistently identify implementation outcomes.

Results

Twenty articles were identified from the original unduplicated count of over 24,000. Over half the articles discussed processes related to Reach, Adoption, and Implementation. Effectiveness was discussed by 50% of the studies (n = 10), with 25% of the articles discussing Maintenance/sustainability (n = 4). Findings also highlighted the importance of the application of each RE-AIM domain for meaningful, well-defined community-engaged approaches.

Conclusion

Finding indicated a need to prioritize Indigenous methods to culturally center, re-align and adapt Western treatments and frameworks to increase health equity and improve SUD treatment outcomes. Utility in the use of the modified RE-AIM and the continued modification for Indigenous communities was also noted.
Understanding women’s suffering and psychological well-being: exploring biopsychosocial factors in mothers of children with ADHD – a case study
Authors: Angeline Jonah , Rathnasabapathy Maya
Published: October 2023

Overview

Parents play a dynamic part in child development. Mothers have a great responsibility towards the upbringing child. Previous research has demonstrated that parenting stress levels are high among Parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Aim

Parenting stress affects the psychological well-being of the mother. It is necessary to identify the factors that affect psychological well-being based on Biopsychosocial factors, including biological, psychological, and social factors.

Methodology

An in-depth case study was conducted with the mother of a 7-year-old child diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Results

The mother lacks self-efficacy and low perceived social support in. Equipping themselves and building up the knowledge on handling the child and training the child with the developmental disorder increase parenting self-efficacy. Support from family, partner, and society will help them strengthen themselves and may have high psychological support.
Physiological and Biochemical Parameters of Field Bean (Vicia faba var. minor) Seeds Stored for 33 Years
Authors: Michalczyk Dariusz J. , Krupka Magdalena , Kamiński Jan , Wierzbicka Marta , Floryańska Sonia , Kopeć Wiktor , Piotrowicz-Cieślak Agnieszka I.
Published: October 2023

Changes occurring in seeds of two field bean cultivars during long-term storage at −14 °C, +4 °C and +20 °C were examined. It was found that after 33 years of storage at low temperatures, the seeds showed a significant decline in biological quality, and the seeds stored at +20 °C completely lost their germination capacity. As the seeds aged, changes in their phenolic composition, concentrations of polyamines and activity of enzymes associated with redox homeostasis and phenolic metabolism could be easily observed. The activity of ascorbate peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase in deteriorated seeds was higher than in high-quality seeds. The activity of guaiacol peroxidase, catalase and glutathione reductase in low-quality seeds was decreased. With superoxide dismutase, the pattern was less clear-cut and depended on both seed biological quality and cultivar. Whole seed levels of spermine and spermidine decreased in ageing seeds and were lowest in non-germinating seeds. However, the opposite pattern was observed regarding spermine and spermidine, as well as putrescine, in seed coats. The obtained results indicate that changes in the activity of redox and protective systems in seeds have a clear relationship with the seed biological quality and can be detected even at a moderate level of seed deterioration. The analyses of such changes can significantly facilitate the assessment of seed quality and can therefore be of interest for seed companies and seed banks.
Irrigation Salinity Affects Water Infiltration and Hydraulic Parameters of Red Soil
Authors: Tan Shuai , Su Xinyue , Jiang Xi , Yao Wangxing , Chen Shaomin , Yang Qiliang , Ning Songrui
Published: October 2023

Unconventional water resources (e.g., saline water, etc.) for irrigation as a promising supplementary water source can alleviate the freshwater shortage in the agriculture of red soil areas in Southern China. It should be noted that the presence of soluble salt in this water source may have detrimental influences on soil water infiltration and crop growth. Understanding the effect of unconventional water irrigation (UWI) on water infiltration in red soil is important. Previous studies have shown that the salinity of UWI can alter soil hydraulic properties to change soil water movement in saline soils. However, the underlying mechanism and factors of water infiltration in red soil under UWI with different salinity levels remain limited. Therefore, a laboratory experiment (one-dimensional vertical infiltration experiment and centrifuge method) was conducted to evaluate the effect of UWI with different salinity levels [0 (the distilled water, CK), 1 (S1), 2 (S2), 3 (S3), 5 (S5), and 10 (S10) g L−1] on the soil water infiltration process, soil water characteristic curve (SWCC), soil water constants estimated using the SWCC, saturated and unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (KS and K) as well as the soil chemistry of soil profile [pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and Na+ and Cl− contents]. The primary factors of soil water infiltration were identified using stepwise regression and path analysis methods. The results showed that UWI salinity decreased water infiltration by 1.53–7.99% at the end of infiltration in red soil, following the order of CK > S1 > S5 > S2 > S3 > S10. Moreover, UWI could enhance soil water availability with an increase of 8.55–12.68% in available water capacity. In contrast, lower KS and K were observed in S1–S10, and there was a negative linear relationship between irrigation salinity and KS. UWI also produced the EC, Na+, and Cl− accumulations in the soil profile. As the salinity level of UWI increased, the accumulations aggravated. Soil acidification was found in S1–S5, while soil alkalization was observed in S10. Additionally, α, PWP, and KS were the primary factors influencing the water infiltration of red soil. This study can help optimize the soil infiltration model under UWI and establish a foundation for unconventional water management in the red soil regions of Southern China and other similar regions. In addition, the undisturbed red soil under agricultural unconventional water irrigation and the long-term effect of unconventional water application should be considered.
Relating the Ramsay Quotient Model to the Classical D-Scoring Rule
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander
Published: October 2023

In a series of papers, Dimitrov suggested the classical D-scoring rule for scoring items that give difficult items a higher weight while easier items receive a lower weight. The latent D-scoring model has been proposed to serve as a latent mirror of the classical D-scoring model. However, the item weights implied by this latent D-scoring model are typically only weakly related to the weights in the classical D-scoring model. To this end, this article proposes an alternative item response model, the modified Ramsay quotient model, that is better-suited as a latent mirror of the classical D-scoring model. The reasoning is based on analytical arguments and numerical illustrations.
Assessment of Salinomycin’s Potential to Treat Microcotyle sebastis in Korean Rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii)
Authors: Woo Won-Sik , Shim Sang Hee , Kang Gyoungsik , Kim Kyung-Ho , Son Ha-Jeong , Sohn Min-Young , Lee Seungjin , Kim Jaekyeong , Seo Jung-Soo , Kwon Mun-Gyeong , Kim Do-Hyung , Park Chan-Il
Published: October 2023

Aquaculture, a crucial sector of the global food industry, faces a myriad of issues due to parasitic invasions. One such parasite, Microcotyle sebastis, which afflicts Korean rockfish in South Korea, has a significant economic impact. The impending danger of resistance to traditional anthelmintics necessitates the exploration of new antiparasitic candidates. Although the efficacy of salinomycin against aquatic parasites such as ciliates and sporozoans is known, its influence on monogeneans has yet to be studied. Therefore, this study investigated the efficacy and safety of salinomycin for the treatment of M. sebastis infections, presenting the first exploration of salinomycin’s therapeutic potential against monogeneans. In vitro examinations revealed a minimum effective concentration of salinomycin of 5 mg/kg, which led to necrosis of the haptor upon dislodging from the gill filaments. The one-time oral administration of the drug at concentrations of 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg showed a significant dose-dependent reduction in parasite counts, with no apparent behavioral side effects in Korean rockfish. Biochemical analyses monitored the liver, heart, and kidney enzymes, specifically aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatine kinase–myocardial band (CK-MB). At both 20 °C and 13 °C, no significant differences were observed in the levels of AST and ALT. However, at 20 °C, alterations in BUN levels were evident on Day 14, a deviation not observed at 13 °C. The CK-MB analysis revealed elevated enzyme levels at both temperatures when compared to the control group, reflecting the similar changes observed in terrestrial animals administered salinomycin. The biochemical data suggest that the oral administration of salinomycin is potentially more favorable at 13 °C than at 20 °C. Although our findings warrant further comprehensive studies, including on the long-term and potential effects on nontarget species and water quality, they also suggest that salinomycin could be considered as an alternative or adjunctive treatment if resistance to the currently used praziquantel against M. sebastis is confirmed.
Oral Microbiome and Oral Health: Current Stage and Future Prospective
Authors: Nomura Yoshiaki , Inai Yuko , Okada Ayako , Yamamoto Yuko , Sogabe Kaoru , Hanada Nobuhiro
Published: October 2023

Evidence concerning the oral microbiome has been exponentially increasing [...]
Improved Cardiac Performance with Dexamethasone Therapy in Premature Neonates: Novel Insights Using Serial Echocardiographic Assessments
Authors: Ladele Jejelola , Saker Ayman , Altamimi Talal , De La Hoz Andrea , Lalitha Renjini , Miller Michael R. , Bhattacharya Soume
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: dexamethasone is used for the prevention and treatment of chronic lung disease (CLD) in premature neonates, and its impact on cardiac performance and pulmonary vascular resistance has not been well studied. (2) Methods: eligible neonates of <30 weeks gestational age (GA) had echocardiograms performed on them at three time points—before the initiation of dexamethasone (Echo-1), 24–48 h post the completion of dexamethasone therapy (Echo-2), and 7–14 days after course completion (Echo-3). (3) Results: 28 neonates with a 25.2 week mean GA and 652.9 g birthweight were included. The mean cumulative dose of dexamethasone was 0.98 mg/kg, given over 8–10 days. Echo-1 and Echo-2 showed a significant improvement in the right ventricular fractional area change (RV FAC 44.88 vs. 49.71, p = 0.025), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE 0.65 cm vs. 0.70 cm, p = 0.013), and RV S’ (7.18 vs. 8.56, p = 0.05). The left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction was similar but with a significant increase in the LV S’ (4.77 vs. 6.01, p = 0.006). A longitudinal analysis at three time points showed a significant increase in RV FAC (0.02 units 95% CI (0.00–0.04), p = 0.037), TAPSE (0.09 units 95% CI (0.06–0.13), p < 0.001), RV S’ (0.97 units (95% CI = 0.11–1.84), p = 0.028), a reduction in the eccentricity index (0.07 units 95% CI (−0.14–−0.01), p = 0.030), and an increase in the LV S’ (0.56 units (95% CI = 0.18–0.94)). (4) Conclusion: The use of postnatal dexamethasone for the prevention/treatment of CLD in premature neonates resulted in an expected improvement in respiratory status along with a significant improvement in the echocardiographic measures of biventricular heart performance.
Discrete Element Simple Shear Test Considering Particle Shape
Authors: Zhu Houying , Li Xuefeng , Lv Longlong , Yuan Qi
Published: October 2023

The particle shape has significant effects on the slip and rotation of particles in the shear of geomaterials, which is an important factor in the deformation and strength of geomaterials. This paper employed particle flow code (PFC3D) to simulate the simple shear test, and ellipsoidal particles with different aspect ratios were prepared to study the effects of particle shape on the mechanical behavior and fabric evolution of granular materials under complex stress paths. The numerical results show that the particle shape has a significant effect on the peak strength, dilatancy, non-coaxiality, and other mechanical properties of granular materials. The contact fabric evolves from orthotropy to transverse isotropy under the principal stress axes rotation. This paper will provide a reference for natural granular materials with different shapes in the study of mechanical behavior and the micro-constitutive model.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Low Velocity Impact Behavior of ABR Pipe
Authors: Shan Changxi , Hu Shaowei , Xue Xiang , Pan Fuqu , Li Wenhao , Qi Hao
Published: October 2023

The low velocity impact load on pipes during transportation, construction and operation will cause pipeline damage and lay hidden dangers for the safety of pipeline engineering. To study the low velocity impact performance of pipes made of acrylate polymer blended with polyvinyl chloride resin for water supply (ABR), 20 sets of specimens with different heights and different masses of drop hammer were carried out to study the mechanical properties of ABR pipes. Based on the impact time curve, the energy dissipation capacity and impact peak value of ABR pipe specimens were analyzed, and the empirical calculation formula of impact force peak based on the test data is obtained by the dimensional analysis method, with a relative error ranging from −7.8% to 4.1%. Moreover, the finite element numerical simulation of ABR pipe specimens subjected to impact load is carried out, and the strain development law and failure mode of the pipe under low-speed impact load are analyzed. Therefore, the calculation formula of peak impact force and failure mode proposed in this paper can provide safety assessment methods for pipeline engineering designers and constructors.
Measurement of CO2 Emissions by the Operation of Freight Transport in Mexican Road Corridors
Authors: Mendoza-Sanchez Juan F. , Alonso-Guzman Elia M. , Martinez-Molina Wilfrido , Chavez-Garcia Hugo L. , Soto-Espitia Rafael , Obregón-Biosca Saúl A. , Delgado-Alamilla Horacio
Published: October 2023

The freight transport industry in Mexico has grown significantly since the establishment of trade agreements in North America, which has brought significant environmental consequences to the main transport corridors. This paper proposes a methodology for the estimation of emissions for freight vehicles on road transportation corridors. The variables included in this analysis allow adequate characterization of the conditions of the vehicle fleet, the geometry and the quality of the road, the environment, and the average annual daily traffic (AADT) of heavy vehicles. The results were structured to show two indicators, the amount of CO2 emissions per kilometer and the amount of emissions per tonne transported. These results will allow establishing a baseline of CO2 emissions through which we can implement actions in the road transport sector to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) to mitigate climate change and develop parameter values for use in Cost Benefit Analysis. The indicators can also be applied to geospatial modeling of emissions in road transport corridors and forecast its growth.
Making Automotive Radar Sensor Validation Measurements Comparable
Authors: Elster Lukas , Staab Jan Philipp , Peters Steven
Published: October 2023

Virtual validation of radar sensor models is becoming increasingly important for the safety validation of Light Detection and Rangings (lidars). Therefore, methods for quantitative comparison of radar measurements in the context of model validation need to be developed. This paper presents a novel methodology for accessing and quantifying validation measurements of radar sensor models. This method uses Light Detection and Rangings (lidars) and the so-called Double Validation Metric (DVM) to effectively quantify deviations between distributions. By applying this metric, the study measures the reproducibility and repeatability of radar sensor measurements. Different interfaces and different levels of detail are investigated. By comparing the radar signals from real-world experiments where different objects are present, valuable insights are gained into the performance of the sensor. In particular, the research extends to assessing the impact of varying rain intensities on the measurement results, providing a comprehensive understanding of the sensor’s behavior under these conditions. This holistic approach significantly advances the evaluation of radar sensor capabilities and enables the quantification of the maximum required quality of radar simulation models.
Extended-Range Forecast of Regional Persistent Extreme Cold Events Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Wu Weichen , Wang Yaqiang , Wei Fengying , Liu Boqi , You Xiaoxiong
Published: October 2023

Regional persistent extreme cold events are meteorological disasters that cause serious harm to people’s lives and production; however, they are very difficult to predict. Low-temperature weather systems and their effects have a significant low-frequency oscillation period (10–20 d and 30–60 d). This paper uses deep learning to analyze the extended-range time scale and predict regional persistent extreme cold events. The dominant low-frequency oscillation components of cold events are obtained via wavelet transform and Butterworth filtering. The low-frequency oscillation component is decomposed via empirical orthogonal function decomposition to extract the main spatial mode and time coefficient. A convolutional neural network is used to establish the correlation between large-scale circulations and the time coefficient of the low-frequency oscillation component of the lowest temperature. The proposed deep learning model exhibits good prediction accuracy for regional persistent extreme cold events with low-frequency oscillations.
Are Near-Coastal Sea Levels Accelerating Faster Than Global during the Satellite Altimetry Era?
Authors: Qu Ying , Jevrejeva Svetlana , Palanisamy Hindumathi
Published: October 2023

Impact and risk assessments in coastal areas are informed by current and future sea level rise and acceleration, which demands a better understanding of drivers for regional sea level acceleration. In our study, we analyze the near-coastal sea level acceleration compared with global values during satellite altimetry (1993–2020) and discuss the potential drivers of regional sea level acceleration. We estimate regional sea level acceleration using high-resolution satellite altimetry sea surface height anomalies. Our study reveals a wide range of regional acceleration estimates, varying from −1.2 to 1.2 mm·yr−2, which can be up to 20 times larger or smaller than the global mean sea level acceleration of 0.07 mm·yr−2. Notably, sea level acceleration near the global coastline is calculated at 0.10 ± 0.03 mm·yr−2, exceeding the global mean sea level acceleration by 40%. Regional patterns of sea level acceleration are in good agreement with acceleration patterns calculated from the steric sea level. However, the magnitude of acceleration is only partially explained by the changes in steric sea level, with increasing contributions from the non-steric component.
A Modified Quantum-Inspired Genetic Algorithm Using Lengthening Chromosome Size and an Adaptive Look-Up Table to Avoid Local Optima
Authors: Hakemi Shahin , Houshmand Mahboobeh , Hosseini Seyyed Abed , Zhou Xujuan
Published: October 2023

The quantum-inspired genetic algorithm (QGA), which combines quantum mechanics concepts and GA to enhance search capability, has been popular and provides an efficient search mechanism. This paper proposes a modified QGA, called dynamic QGA (DQGA). The proposed algorithm utilizes a lengthening chromosome strategy for a balanced and smooth transition between exploration and exploitation phases to avoid local optima and premature convergence. Apart from that, a novel adaptive look-up table for rotation gates is presented to boost the algorithm’s optimization abilities. To evaluate the effectiveness of these ideas, DQGA is tested by various mathematical benchmark functions as well as real-world constrained engineering problems against several well-known and state-of-the-art algorithms. The obtained results indicate the merits of the proposed algorithm and its superiority for solving multimodal benchmark functions and real-world constrained engineering problems.
ZeroTrustBlock: Enhancing Security, Privacy, and Interoperability of Sensitive Data through ZeroTrust Permissioned Blockchain
Authors: Thantharate Pratik , Thantharate Anurag
Published: October 2023

With the digitization of healthcare, an immense amount of sensitive medical data are generated and shared between various healthcare stakeholders—however, traditional health data management mechanisms present interoperability, security, and privacy challenges. The centralized nature of current health information systems leads to single points of failure, making the data vulnerable to cyberattacks. Patients also have little control over their medical records, raising privacy concerns. Blockchain technology presents a promising solution to these challenges through its decentralized, transparent, and immutable properties. This research proposes ZeroTrustBlock, a comprehensive blockchain framework for secure and private health information exchange. The decentralized ledger enhances integrity, while permissioned access and smart contracts enable patient-centric control over medical data sharing. A hybrid on-chain and off-chain storage model balances transparency with confidentiality. Integration gateways bridge ZeroTrustBlock protocols with existing systems like EHRs. Implemented on Hyperledger Fabric, ZeroTrustBlock demonstrates substantial security improvements over mainstream databases via cryptographic mechanisms, formal privacy-preserving protocols, and access policies enacting patient consent. Results validate the architecture’s effectiveness in achieving 14,200 TPS average throughput, 480 ms average latency for 100,000 concurrent transactions, and linear scalability up to 20 nodes. However, enhancements around performance, advanced cryptography, and real-world pilots are future work. Overall, ZeroTrustBlock provides a robust application of blockchain capabilities to transform security, privacy, interoperability, and patient agency in health data management.