bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dung Beetle Optimizer Algorithm and Machine Learning-Based Genome Analysis of Lactococcus lactis: Predicting Electronic Sensory Properties of Fermented Milk
Authors: Dai Jinhui , Li Weicheng , Dong Gaifang
Published: June 2024

In the global food industry, fermented dairy products are valued for their unique flavors and nutrients. Lactococcus lactis is crucial in developing these flavors during fermentation. Meeting diverse consumer flavor preferences requires the careful selection of fermentation agents. Traditional assessment methods are slow, costly, and subjective. Although electronic-nose and -tongue technologies provide objective assessments, they are mostly limited to laboratory environments. Therefore, this study developed a model to predict the electronic sensory characteristics of fermented milk. This model is based on the genomic data of Lactococcus lactis, using the DBO (Dung Beetle Optimizer) optimization algorithm combined with 10 different machine learning methods. The research results show that the combination of the DBO optimization algorithm and multi-round feature selection with a ridge regression model significantly improved the performance of the model. In the 10-fold cross-validation, the R2 values of all the electronic sensory phenotypes exceeded 0.895, indicating an excellent performance. In addition, a deep analysis of the electronic sensory data revealed an important phenomenon: the correlation between the electronic sensory phenotypes is positively related to the number of features jointly selected. Generally, a higher correlation among the electronic sensory phenotypes corresponds to a greater number of features being jointly selected. Specifically, phenotypes with high correlations exhibit from 2 to 60 times more jointly selected features than those with low correlations. This suggests that our feature selection strategy effectively identifies the key features impacting multiple phenotypes, likely originating from their regulation by similar biological pathways or metabolic processes. Overall, this study proposes a more efficient and cost-effective method for predicting the electronic sensory characteristics of milk fermented by Lactococcus lactis. It helps to screen and optimize fermenting agents with desirable flavor characteristics, thereby driving innovation and development in the dairy industry and enhancing the product quality and market competitiveness.
Effects of Freeze–Thaw Pretreatment Combined with Hot Air on Snake Gourd (Trichosanthes anguina L.)
Authors: Gu Dandan , Li Xiao , Dong Mingyue , Ji Wenxuan , Yan Zihao , Zhao Ting , Zhang Min , Liu Peng , Yue Panpan , Mao Guanghua , Yang Liuqing
Published: June 2024

Snake gourd is a seasonal vegetable with a high water content and medicinal value, but the short harvest period limits the large-scale application of snake gourd. Therefore, the effects of freeze–thaw pretreatment (FT) combined with hot air (HD) on the drying characteristics, active ingredients and bioactivities of snake gourd were investigated. The results showed that FT pretreatment reduced browning and shortened the drying time by 44%; the Page model was the best fit for describing the drying process. The polysaccharide contents (21.70% in alcoholic extract (TG1) and 44.34% in water extract (TG2)) and total phenol contents (1.81% in TG1 and 0.88% in TG2) of snake gourd pretreated by FT-HD were higher than those of snake gourd pretreated by the corresponding HD treatment. The FT pretreatment decreased the molecular weight of snake gourd polysaccharides and increased the molar ratio of glucose. The extracts pretreated by FT-HD showed greater chemical, cellular antioxidant capacity and α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition than those pretreated by HD. FT-HD can be recommended for achieving a short drying time and high quality of snake gourd and can be used for the drying of other fruits and vegetables.
Isolation, Characterization and IgE Binding of Two 2S Albumins of Pomegranate Seeds
Authors: Tuppo Lisa , Alessandri Claudia , Zaccaro Laura , Giangrieco Ivana , Tamburrini Maurizio , Mari Adriano , Ciardiello Maria Antonietta
Published: June 2024

Literature reports suggest that the presence of proteins in pomegranate seeds is responsible for sensitization and IgE-mediated allergic reactions. The objective of this study was the analysis of a pomegranate seed extract and the isolation and characterization of proteins contained in high amounts. The extract characterization showed a protein profile with main bands at about 18 kDa and below 10 kDa upon SDS-PAGE, and molecules were recognized by specific IgEs upon immunoblotting. Then, two new 2S albumins, a monomeric and a heterodimeric one, were isolated by using classical biochemical methods. They were identified via direct protein sequencing and mass spectrometry, and their primary structure was analyzed and compared with homologous allergenic proteins via bioinformatics. In an Italian population of 703 suspected allergic patients, analyzed by using the FABER® test, the frequency of sensitization to the monomeric and heterodimeric 2S albumins was 1.7% and 0.28%, respectively. This study reports for the first time the isolation and characterization of two 2S albumins from pomegranate seeds. The clinical relevance of these molecules needs further investigation, for instance in populations having different exposures and allergy profiles.
Comparative 1H NMR-Based Metabolomics of Traditional Landrace and Disease-Resistant Chili Peppers (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Seong Gi-Un , Yun Dae-Yong , Shin Dong-Hyeok , Cho Jeong-Seok , Lee Gyuseok , Choi Jeong Hee , Park Kee-Jai , Ku Kyung-Hyung , Lim Jeong-Ho
Published: June 2024

Chili peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) are economically valuable crops belonging to the Solanaceae family and are popular worldwide because of their unique spiciness and flavor. In this study, differences in the metabolomes of landrace (Subicho) and disease-resistant pepper cultivars (Bulkala and Kaltanbaksa) widely grown in Korea are investigated using a 1H NMR-based metabolomics approach. Specific metabolites were abundant in the pericarp (GABA, fructose, and glutamine) and placenta (glucose, asparagine, arginine, and capsaicin), highlighting the distinct physiological and functional roles of these components. Both the pericarp and placenta of disease-resistant pepper cultivars contained higher levels of sucrose and hexoses and lower levels of alanine, proline, and threonine than the traditional landrace cultivar. These metabolic differences are linked to enhanced stress tolerance and the activation of defense pathways, imbuing these cultivars with improved resistance characteristics. The present study provides fundamental insights into the metabolic basis of disease resistance in chili peppers, emphasizing the importance of multi-resistant varieties to ensure sustainable agriculture and food security. These resistant varieties ensure a stable supply of high-quality peppers, contributing to safer and more sustainable food production systems.
Effects of Defatting Pretreatment on Polysaccharide Extraction from Rambutan Seeds Using Subcritical Water: Optimization Using the Desirability Approach
Authors: Nilmat Kamonthip , Hunsub Panusorn , Ngamprasertsith Somkiat , Sakdasri Winatta , Karnchanatat Aphichart , Sawangkeaw Ruengwit
Published: June 2024

Rambutan seeds are by-products generated from fruit-processing factories; the leftover seeds are buried in landfills, generating methane emissions. This work aimed to extract polysaccharides (POLS) from rambutan seeds by using subcritical water extraction (SWE). The effects of defatting pretreatment and operating parameters in SWE were investigated using a Box–Behnken design. The results show that defatting pretreatment significantly enriched the POLS yield, while it had no significant effect on the total sugar content. Using the desirability approach, the suitable feedstock for SWE was defatted rambutan seeds. The maximum desirability of 0.86 was found at a temperature range of 145–150 °C, an extraction time of 15 min, and a liquid–solid ratio of 10:1. The POLS yield and total sugar content were in the range of 52.33–55.63 g/100 g feedstock and 83.37–87.45 g/100 g POLS, respectively. The extracted POLS had an equivalent molecular weight of 413.70 kDa that could be used as an extender in plant-based products. In conclusion, the defatting pretreatment of rambutan seeds not only improved the POLS yield obtained via SWE but also generated additional lipids that could be utilized as an unconventional source of specialty fat.
Stability of Buriti Oil Microencapsulated in Mixtures of Azuki and Lima Bean Flours with Maltodextrin
Authors: Fuzetti Caroline Gregoli , Nicoletti Vânia Regina
Published: June 2024

Buriti oil (Mauritia flexuosa L.) is rich in carotenoids, mainly β-carotene, and has great value for application as a food, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic ingredient, as well as a natural pigment. Microencapsulation is a promising technique to protect compounds sensitive to degradation such as β-carotene. Materials composed of carbohydrates and proteins, such as azuki bean (Vigna angularis L.) and lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) flours, are alternative matrices for microencapsulation, which additionally provide good amounts of nutrients. In combination with maltodextrin, the flours represent a protective barrier in stabilizing lipophilic compounds such as buriti oil for subsequent spray drying. In this work, the performance of mixtures of maltodextrin with whole azuki and lima bean flours was evaluated in the microencapsulation of buriti oil. The microcapsules showed good results for solubility (>80%), hygroscopicity (~7%), encapsulation efficiency (43.52 to 51.94%), and carotenoid retention (64.13 to 77.49%.) After 77 days of storage, the microcapsules produced maintained 87.79% and 90.16% of carotenoids, indicating that the powders have high potential for application as encapsulants in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
New Insights into Milk and Dairy Products: Quality and Sustainability
Authors: Formaggioni Paolo , Franceschi Piero
Published: June 2024

The dairy industry is confronting a major challenge that could profoundly affect its future and its long-standing role as a cornerstone of human nutrition [...]
Widely Targeted Metabolomics Provides New Insights into Nutritional Profiling and Reveals the Flavonoid Pathway of Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Sun Longqing , Li Li , Chen Hongwei , Han Xuesong , Liu Liangjun , Liu Changyan
Published: June 2024

To learn more about the nutritional composition and health benefits for human consumers of peas, we used a widely targeted metabolomics-based approach to reveal the metabolite components from three main varieties, and a total of 1095 metabolites were identified. A comparison of 487 differentially accumulated metabolites shared among three varieties of fresh and dried peas found most of the amino acids and derivatives were downregulated and most of the lipids and flavonoids were upregulated in dried peas. Furthermore, comparing the main nutrient profiles exclusively showed that there were few differences in free fatty acids, sugars, vitamins, and alkaloids between dried and fresh peas. Peas are especially enriched with B-group vitamins. Through detailed identification and classification, the flavonoid pathway of peas was revealed; a variety of glycosylated derivatives from kaempferol, quercetin, and luteolin were confirmed to be abundant in peas. It was also found that isoflavones are richer in peas than in many other plants, and putatively the isoflavone synthesis pathway originates from liquiritigenin and naringenin. Our study not only offers guidance for understanding the nutritional components of peas, but also provides the basis for healthy diet analysis of the edible value and health benefits of peas.
The Protective Effects of Silkworm (Bombyx mori) Pupae Peptides on UV-Induced Skin Photoaging in Mice
Authors: Lin Xiao , Fan Yuting , Li Liuying , Chen Jiamin , Huang Songyuan , Yue Wenqi , Wu Xuli
Published: June 2024

Silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupae are popular edible insects with high nutritional and therapeutic value. Currently, there is growing interest in the comprehensive application of silkworm pupae. In this study, peptides that exhibited anti-photoaging activity were obtained from silkworm pupae protein, aiming to investigate the protective effects and potential mechanisms of silkworm pupae peptides (SPPs) on skin photoaging. The results showed that SPPs were composed of 900 short peptides and could effectively alleviate skin photoaging progression. They significantly eliminated excessive production of ROS and MDA; meanwhile, they also renovated the antioxidant enzyme activities. The biomarkers related to collagen synthesis and degradation, including hydroxyproline, interstitial collagenase, and gelatinase, demonstrated that SPPs could suppress collagen degradation. Histopathological results showed that SPPs could reduce the inflammatory infiltrate and the thickness of the dermis and epidermis, as well as increase the collagen bundles and muscle fibers. The histopathological and biochemical results confirmed that SPPs could alleviate photoaging by inhibiting abnormal skin changes, reducing oxidative stress, and immune suppression. Overall, these data prove the protective effects of SPPs against the photoaging process, suggesting their potential as an active ingredient in skin photoaging prevention and therapy.
Forecasting Thailand’s Transportation CO2 Emissions: A Comparison among Artificial Intelligent Models
Authors: Janhuaton Thananya , Ratanavaraha Vatanavongs , Jomnonkwao Sajjakaj
Published: June 2024

Transportation significantly influences greenhouse gas emissions—particularly carbon dioxide (CO2)—thereby affecting climate, health, and various socioeconomic aspects. Therefore, in developing and implementing targeted and effective policies to mitigate the environmental impacts of transportation-related carbon dioxide emissions, governments and decision-makers have focused on identifying methods for the accurate and reliable forecasting of carbon emissions in the transportation sector. This study evaluates these policies’ impacts on CO2 emissions using three forecasting models: ANN, SVR, and ARIMAX. Data spanning the years 1993–2022, including those on population, GDP, and vehicle kilometers, were analyzed. The results indicate the superior performance of the ANN model, which yielded the lowest mean absolute percentage error (MAPE = 6.395). Moreover, the results highlight the limitations of the ARIMAX model; particularly its susceptibility to disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, due to its reliance on historical data. Leveraging the ANN model, a scenario analysis of trends under the “30@30” policy revealed a reduction in CO2 emissions from fuel combustion in the transportation sector to 14,996.888 kTons in 2030. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers in the fields of strategic planning and sustainable transportation development.
A Focus on Railway Shift in Urban Freight Transport: Scenarios and Applications
Authors: Comi Antonio , Hriekova Olesia
Published: June 2024

This research germinates from the statement that cities need to solve the impacts caused by freight transport to improve their sustainability by implementing a set of city logistic measures. Urban freight distribution through environmentally friendly vehicle measures is one of the main sustainable actions being implemented worldwide, with a significant potential to reduce the congestion and pollution levels according to the assessment performed around the world. In this context, this paper aims to explore the use of railways for urban freight transport and then focuses on the potential of shifting from a road to railway system, which uses an advanced demand modelling framework specified and calibrated according to the results of surveys carried out in the study area. Subsequently, the potential benefits of introducing this urban freight transport through the metro system in Rome (Italy) are investigated, showing significant positive effects, both in terms of operational and external costs.
Inheritance of Resistance to Chickpea Fusarium Wilt Disease (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris Race 2) in a Wide-Cross Cicer arietinum × Cicer reticulatum Mapping Family
Authors: Lakmes Abdulkarim , Jhar Abdullah , Sadanandom Ari , Brennan Adrian Christopher , Kahriman Abdullah
Published: June 2024

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is a major food legume providing high quality nutrition, especially in developing regions. Chickpea wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris) causes significant annual losses. Integrated disease management of Fusarium wilt is supported by resistant varieties. Relatively few resistance genes are known so there is value in exploring genetic resources in chickpea wild relatives. This study investigates the inheritance of Fusarium wilt resistance (race 2) in recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from a cross between a cultivated susceptible chickpea variety (Gokce) and a wild resistant Cicer reticulatum line (Kayat-077). RILs, parents, resistant and susceptible tester lines were twice grown in the greenhouse with inoculation and disease symptoms scored. DNA was extracted from dried leaves and individuals were single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyped. SNPs were placed on the reference chickpea genome and quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping was performed. Significant QTL regions were examined using PulseDB to identify candidate genes. The results showed the segregation of Fusarium wilt resistance conforming to a single gene inheritance. One significant QTL was found at the start of chromosome 8, containing 138 genes, three of which were disease-resistance candidates for chickpea breeding.
Identification and Comprehensive Analysis of OFP Genes for Fruit Shape Influence in Mango
Authors: Wu Qiuping , Xia Rui , Yang Jie , Chen Rong , Zeng Zaohai , Fan Chao
Published: June 2024

OVATE family proteins (OFPs) are a class of plant-specific proteins with a conserved OVATE domain that play fundamental roles in fruit development and plant growth. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is an economically important subtropical fruit tree characterized by a diverse array of fruit shapes and sizes. Despite extensive research on OFPs across various species, there remains a scarcity of information regarding OFPs in mango. Here, we have successfully identified 25 OFP genes (MiOFPs) in mango, each of which exhibits the conserved OVATE domains. The MiOFP gene exhibit a range of 2–6 motifs, with all genes containing both motif 1 and motif 2. Phylogenetic analysis on 97 OFPs (including 18 AtOFPs, 24 SlOFPs, 25 MiOFPs, and 30 OsOFPs) indicated that MiOFPs could be divided into three main clades: clade I, II, and III. Comparative morphological analysis identified significant variations in fruit longitudinal diameter, fruit transverse diameter, and fruit shape index between two distinct shaped mango cultivars (‘Hongxiangya’ and ‘Jingpingmang’) at DAP5, DAP7, and DAP10 stages. The subsequent examination of paraffin sections revealed distinct patterns of cell elongation. The majority of MiOFP genes exhibited predominantly expressed in developing organs, specifically flowers and immature fruits, while displaying distinct expression patterns. RNA-Seq analysis revealed significant disparities in the expression levels of several OFP genes, including MiOFP5, MiOFP11, MiOFP21, MiOFP22, MiOFP23, and MiOFP25, between the two mango cultivars. These findings suggest that these six genes may play a crucial role for fruit shape in mango, especially the MiOFP22. The findings of this study have established a basis for future investigations into MiOFPs in mango, offering a solid foundation for further research in this field.
Soil Microbial Communities in Lemon Orchards Affected by Citrus Mal Secco Disease
Authors: Mosca Alexandros , Dimaria Giulio , Nicotra Daniele , Modica Francesco , Massimino Maria , Catara Antonino , Scuderi Giuseppe , Russo Marcella , Catara Vittoria
Published: June 2024

Mal secco is a vascular disease of citrus caused by the mitosporic fungus Plenodomus tracheiphilus. Soil containing infected plant material constitutes an inoculum source for root infections. In this study, the soil bacterial and fungal communities of five lemon orchards located in Syracuse Province (Sicily, Italy) affected by mal secco were analyzed. Soil samples were collected under lemon tree canopies and subjected to total genomic DNA extraction. The fungal DNA was detected through qPCR in all orchards, with variable concentrations. Bacterial and fungal communities were profiled using 16S and ITS amplicon-based high-throughput sequencing, respectively. According to our results, the relative abundances of the most represented bacterial phyla (e.g., Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, Acidobacteriota) changed across the orchards, while in the fungal community, the phylum Ascomycota was dominant, with Basidiomycota and Mortierellomycota abundances fluctuating. On the whole, β diversity analysis showed significant variation in the composition of the soil microbial communities across the orchards. This result was confirmed by the analysis of the core community (taxa present at ≥ 75% of total samples), where putative beneficial bacteria resulted in significantly enriched fungus-infected soil samples, suggesting complex microbial interactions. Our findings shed light on the composition and diversity of the soil microbiome in lemon orchards with the occurrence of mal secco infections.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanism of the Leaf Yellowing in Allotriploid Cucumber
Authors: Wang Han , Xia Lei , Chen Jinfeng , Cheng Chunyan
Published: June 2024

Yellowing leaves are ideal materials for studying the metabolic pathways of photosynthetic pigment chloroplast development, and the mechanism of photosynthetic systems. Here, we obtained a triploid material HCC (2n = 3x = 26), which was derived from hybridization between the artificial tetraploid Cucumis × hytivus (2n = 4x = 38, HHCC) and the cultivated cucumber Cucumis sativus (2n = 2x = 14, CC), and this triploid HCC showed obvious leaf yellowing characteristics. Phenotypic observation results showed that chloroplast development was impaired, the chlorophyll content decreased, and photosynthesis decreased in yellowing HCC leaves. The transcriptome results indicated that HCC-GLK is significantly downregulated in HCC and participates in the regulation of leaf yellowing. GO enrichment analysis revealed that differential genes were enriched in the heme binding and tetrapyrrole binding pathways related to leaf color. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that differential genes were predominantly enriched in photosynthesis-related pathways. The experimental results of VIGS and yeast hybridization showed that silencing the GLK gene can induce leaf yellowing in cucumber plants, and the GLK protein can affect plant chloroplast development by interacting with the CAB3C protein (light-harvesting chlorophyll a/b binding) in the plant chlorophyll synthesis pathway. The current findings have not only enhanced our understanding of the regulatory mechanism of the GLK transcription factor in cucumber but also introduced novel insights and directions for investigating the molecular mechanism underlying polyploid leaf yellowing.
Long-Term Care Insurance for Older Adults in Terms of Community Care in South Korea: Using the Framework Method
Authors: Chon Yongho , Lee Seok-Hwan , Kim Yun-Young
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to analyze the long-term care insurance for older adults in South Korea in terms of community care. An analytical framework was designed for the study, focusing on comprehensiveness, adequacy, and integration. The findings suggest that Korean LTCI is significantly limited for the development of community care. First, in terms of comprehensiveness, the use of visiting nurses and the availability of short-stay services have been significantly reduced, and the supporting services for informal caregivers are at the beginning stage of their introduction. Second, in terms of adequacy, the quantity of benefits, such as three to four hours of care a day, are insufficient to meet older adults’ substantial needs. Furthermore, the overall quality of home care services is low, particularly with regard to short-stay services and welfare equipment. Finally, in terms of integration, basic linkage of organizations has not been properly conducted in local areas, and there remains an absence of care managers in the LTCI system. To cope with these challenging issues, the following policy measures are suggested: the activation of rehabilitation services, the expansion of benefit quantities, the improvement of service quality, and the creation of organizational linkages through local authorities and long-term care centers.
Evaluating Sexual Health in Women with Multiple Sclerosis: A Study on the Interplay of Disability and Quality of Life
Authors: Dourou Panagiota , Gourounti Kleanthi , Lykeridou Aikaterini , Gaitanou Konstantina , Petrogiannis Nikolaos , Athanasiadou Chrysoula Rozalia , Sousamli Aikaterini , Xanthos Theodoros , Sarantaki Antigoni
Published: June 2024

In the context of evolving perceptions of sexuality, particularly within the realm of health and disability, this study investigates the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on female sexual function and quality of life. A quantitative study involving 130 female MS patients aged 35 to 50 was conducted, employing measures such as The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19), and The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results indicate a significant association between greater sexual dysfunction and poorer quality of sex life, alongside the correlation of increased fatigue with diminished sexual satisfaction. Specifically, the mean FSFI score was 20.8 (SD = 9.36), with 83.8% of participants experiencing severe fatigue (FSS score ≥ 36). Sexual dysfunction demonstrated a strong, negative correlation with all FSFI subscales (p < 0.01). Factors such as education level (p = 0.016), time of diagnosis (p = 0.035), and treatment regimen (p = 0.041) also significantly influenced outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of supportive interventions, including counseling, to enhance the quality of sex life for women with disabilities, particularly those with MS.
Effects of Acute Beetroot Juice Supplementation and Exercise on Cardiovascular Function in Healthy Men in Preliminary Study: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled, and Crossover Trial
Authors: Yuschen Xie , Choi Jae-Ho , Seo Jisoo , Sun Yerin , Lee Eunjoo , Kim Sung-Woo , Park Hun-Young
Published: June 2024

Nitrate-rich beetroot juice (NRBRJ) can potentially enhance exercise performance and improve cardiovascular function, leading to an increased use of NRBRJ over the years. However, the combined effects of NRBRJ supplementation and exercise on cardiovascular function remain unclear. Therefore, this study compared cardiovascular function responses to submaximal exercise with either placebo (PLA) or NRBRJ supplementation in healthy men. Twelve healthy men (aged 25.2 ± 2.3 years) completed the 30-min submaximal cycle ergometer exercise trials corresponding to 70% maximal heart rate (HRmax) with either PLA or NRBRJ supplementation in a random order. The mean exercise load, heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and total peripheral resistance (TPR) were measured during exercise. The brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and flow-mediated dilation (FMD) were measured before and after exercise. NRBRJ supplementation was more effective than PLA in increasing the mean exercise load and decreasing DBP and MAP during submaximal exercise. Furthermore, baPWV decreased in the NRBRJ trial and was considerably lower after exercise in the NRBRJ-supplemented group than in the PLA-supplemented group. FMD significantly increased in the PLA and NRBRJ trials; however, NRBRJ supplementation demonstrated a significantly higher FMD before and after exercise than PLA supplementation. In conclusion, acute NRBRJ supplementation and exercise were more effective than PLA supplementation and exercise in improving aerobic exercise capacity and cardiovascular function in healthy men.
Development and Psychometric Properties of the Spanish Social Stigma Scale (S3)
Authors: Arranz-López José Germán , Pérez-Corrales Jorge , Machancoses Francisco H.
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: Mental health problems are associated with negative connotations that may lead to discrimination and rejection of people diagnosed with mental disorders. The present study aimed to develop and validate a new scale (the Spanish Social Stigma Scale—S3) to assess the current level of social stigma in the general Spanish population. (2) Methods: The assessment tool was developed after reviewing the items of existing tools that represent the most appropriate indicators for the assessment of social stigma. A review was performed by volunteer subjects and by a group of experts in the field, based on the participation of 563 respondents to a survey. (3) Results: The confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the developed tool fits with the factors that determine the level of social stigma and shows good internal consistency (χ2SB = 412.0321, gl = 293, p < 0.01; BBNNFI = 0.922; CFI = 0.930; IFI = 0.931; RMSEA = 0.028 [0.022, 0.035]). (4) Conclusions: The S3 is useful for assessing knowledge, attitudes, and behavior towards people diagnosed with a mental disorder. This tool may be used for the identification and development of mechanisms necessary for the reduction of social stigma in the general population.
Psychological Factors Associated with General Quality of Life in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study on a Multicultural Sample of Romanian Medical Students
Authors: Mihăilescu Alexandra Ioana , Popa-Velea Ovidiu , Ciobanu Adela Magdalena , Diaconescu Liliana Veronica , Graur Alexandra , Ioniţă Ioana , Carsote Mara
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the general quality of life (GQOL) of a large number of individuals, including those in the academic environment. This study investigated GQOL in a sample of 613 Romanian medicine students (81.57% were female; mean age = 21.40 ± 1.749 years) in relation to their Big Five personality characteristics, Perceived Stress and Fear of COVID-19. The study was conducted between June 2020 and March 2022. These variables were investigated with the Big Five Inventory-2: Extra-Short Form, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), the Perceived Stress Scale-10 and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Statistical analysis included hierarchical linear regression and t-tests. The results indicated a significant direct relationship between GQOL and the personality traits of Conscientiousness, Extraversion and Agreeableness. However, a significant inverse relationship was observed between GQOL and Perceived Stress and Neuroticism. Fear of COVID-19 was significantly higher in women, while no other socio-demographic variables were associated with GQOL. A total of 61.7% of the studied population returned to their original residency during the pandemic years. These results could be important for better understanding the vulnerability to significant epidemiological events in academic populations and for planning adequate preventive or interventional measures.
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease with Early-Onset Complications: Characteristics and Aortic Outcomes
Authors: Selbst Maximilian A. , Ward Colin R. , Svetgoff Megan L. , Michelena Hector I. , Sabate-Rotes Anna , De Backer Julie , Mosquera Laura Muiño , Yetman Anji T. , Bissell Malenka M. , Andreassi Maria Grazia , Foffa Ilenia , Hui Dawn S. , Caffarelli Anthony , Kim Yuli Y. , Guo Dongchuan , Citro Rodolfo , De Marco Margot , Tretter Justin T. , Morris Shaine A. , McBride Kim L. , Body Simon C. , Prakash Siddharth K.
Published: June 2024

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart malformation in adults, but it can also cause childhood-onset complications. The presentation and clinical course of young adults who present due to BAV complications are relatively uncharacterized. In a multicenter study, we found that young people who experience significant complications related to BAV disease before age 30 are distinguished from the majority of BAV cases that manifest after age 50 by a relatively severe clinical course, with higher rates of surgical interventions, more frequent second interventions, and a greater burden of congenital heart malformations. These observations highlight the need for prompt recognition, regular lifelong surveillance, and targeted interventions to address the significant health burdens of patients with early-onset BAV complications.
Automatic Removal of Non-Architectural Elements in 3D Models of Historic Buildings with Language Embedded Radiance Fields
Authors: Rusnak Alexander , Pantoja-Rosero Bryan G. , Kaplan Frédéric , Beyer Katrin
Published: June 2024

Neural radiance fields have emerged as a dominant paradigm for creating complex 3D environments incorporating synthetic novel views. However, 3D object removal applications utilizing neural radiance fields have lagged behind in effectiveness, particularly when open set queries are necessary for determining the relevant objects. One such application area is in architectural heritage preservation, where the automatic removal of non-architectural objects from 3D environments is necessary for many downstream tasks. Furthermore, when modeling occupied buildings, it is crucial for modeling techniques to be privacy preserving by default; this also motivates the removal of non-architectural elements. In this paper, we propose a pipeline for the automatic creation of cleaned, architectural structure only point clouds utilizing a language embedded radiance field (LERF) with a specific application toward generating suitable point clouds for the structural integrity assessment of occupied buildings. We then validated the efficacy of our approach on the rooms of the historic Sion hospital, a national historic monument in Valais, Switzerland. By using our automatic removal pipeline on the point clouds of rooms filled with furniture, we decreased the average earth mover’s distance (EMD) to the ground truth point clouds of the physically emptied rooms by 31 percent. The success of our research points the way toward new paradigms in architectural modeling and cultural preservation.
Investigating Embodied Presence across Various Formats in Higher Education: A Phenomenological Heuristic Approach from a Bildung-Theoretical Perspective
Authors: Knapp Jonathan , Giese Martin
Published: June 2024

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions on face-to-face interaction, digital communication methods have undergone unprecedented breakthroughs, especially in the realm of higher education. The glaring differences between face-to-face seminars and the physical distance of participants in online seminars raise questions about the meaning of embodied presence of subjects in various formats. The understanding of body and lived body is often based on a dichotomous interpretation, in which the body-as-object is instrumentally subordinated to the mind. To revalorize the body, recent theories of education and Bildung-theoretical approaches, in particular, emphasize not only discursive, but also embodied, practices and increasingly focus on the potential of the body-as-subject as a medium for the subjective configuration of interactive situations. As the embodied perspective poses different challenges for qualitative research, it seems appropriate to validate the methodological approach. Utilizing a three-step method, we provide a phenomenological heuristic strategy through which our instrument underwent critical and intersubjective reflection. Ideally, subsequent research endeavors can expand upon and refine this methodology to further explore the concepts of embodiment and embodied presence in higher education.
Autochthonous Red Varieties in the Oltrepò Pavese Wine District: An Effective Tool for Adaptation to Climate Change
Authors: Vercesi Alberto , Gatti Matteo , Garavani Alessandra , Pelusi Francesco , Poni Stefano
Published: June 2024

Global warming is challenging the performances of medium-to-late ripening red Vitis vinifera cultivars whose harvest dates might be consistently anticipated at the detriment of still insufficient phenolic maturity. A 3-year study (2021–2023) was devised to compare cv Croatina—the most grown red cultivar in the Oltrepò Pavese district—with the following five autochthonous genotypes: Croà, Moradella, Mornasca, Ughetta, and Uva Rara. Weather trends, main yield components, and grape composition parameters were recorded each year; in two out of the three trial seasons, ripening curves for total soluble solids (TSS) and titratable acidity (TA) were also derived. In terms of yield performance, all minor varieties showed a level of basal node fruitfulness (about 1.1 clusters/shoot) high enough to perform short pruning, which was not possible to achieve in Croatina. As per grape quality at harvest, Uva Rara behaved quite similarly to Croatina, whereas Ughetta, Moradella, and Croà were judged to be unsuitable due to poor berry coloration at harvest (less than 0.7 mg/kg). Conversely, Mornasca’s performance was truly interesting and promising. In 2021 and 2023, Mornasca had delayed sugar accumulation, which was strongly uncoupled with total anthocyanins, which were not limited. In 2022, a hot and dry season, Mornasca outdid Croatina because the required TSS was assured, and the color significantly improved. The conclusion is that Mornasca is less susceptible than Croatina to imbalances in pigment formation or degradation, which typically occurs with berry overheating.
The Complete Chloroplast Genome of an Epiphytic Leafless Orchid, Taeniophyllum complanatum: Comparative Analysis and Phylogenetic Relationships
Authors: Zhou Zhuang , Chen Jinliao , Wang Fei , Wu Xiaopei , Liu Zhongjian , Peng Donghui , Lan Siren
Published: June 2024

Taeniophyllum is a distinct taxon of epiphytic leafless plants in the subtribe Aeridinae of Orchidaceae. The differences in chloroplast genomes between extremely degraded epiphytic leafless orchids and other leafy orchids, as well as their origins and evolution, raise intriguing questions. Therefore, we report the chloroplast genome sequence of Taeniophyllum complanatum, including an extensive comparative analysis with other types of leafless orchids. The chloroplast genome of T. complanatum exhibited a typical quadripartite structure, and its overall structure and gene content were relatively conserved. The entire chloroplast genome was 141,174 bp in length, making it the smallest known chloroplast genome of leafless epiphytic orchids. It encoded a total of 120 genes, including repetitive genes, comprising 74 protein-coding genes, 38 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. A phylogenetic analysis was conducted on the chloroplast genomes of 43 species belonging to five subfamilies of Orchidaceae. The results showed that the five subfamilies were monophyly, with nearly all segments having a 100% bootstrap value. T. complanatum and Chiloschista were clustered together as a sister group to Phalaenopsis and occupied the highest position in the Epidendroideae. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that T. complanatum and other leafless orchids within the Orchidaceae evolved independently. This study may provide the foundation for research on phylogenetic and structural diversity in leafless epiphytic orchids, thereby enhancing the resources available for chloroplast genome studies in Orchidaceae.
Using Respondent-Driven Sampling (RDS) to Identify the Healthcare Needs among Women of Reproductive Age Who Migrated from Venezuela to Brazil, 2018–2021
Authors: Szwarcwald Celia Landmann , de Souza Junior Paulo Roberto Borges , de Carvalho Thaiza Dutra Gomes , de Queiroz Rita Suely Bacuri , de Castilho Euclides Ayres , Leal Maria do Carmo
Published: June 2024

In 2021, an RDS survey was conducted among Venezuelan migrant women of reproductive age who migrated to two Brazilian cities (Manaus and Boa Vista) from 2018 to 2021. To start the RDS recruitment, we chose seeds non-randomly in both cities. The study variables were age, educational level, self-rated health, pregnancy, migratory status and use of health services. We estimated the prevalence, confidence intervals and homophily effects by variable category. We used a multivariate logistic regression model to identify the main factors associated with healthcare use. A total of 761 women were recruited in Manaus and 1268 in Boa Vista. Manaus showed more irregular migrants than Boa Vista. The main reasons for using health services were as follows: illness, disease prevention and prenatal care. The logistic regression model showed the use of health services was associated with educational level and healthcare needs but not with migratory status. The social inclusion of Venezuelan migrants is extremely relevant, although many challenges must be overcome. The strategy of the Brazilian Federal Government for providing humanitarian assistance to Venezuelan migrants should be expanded to include and facilitate their integration into labor markets, access to healthcare and education, benefiting both migrants and the Brazilian people by reducing social inequality.
The Burden of Cardiovascular Disease and Geriatric Syndromes in Older Patients Undergoing Chronic Hemodialysis
Authors: Nguyen Tan Van , Pham Thu Thi Xuan , Nguyen Tu Ngoc
Published: June 2024

Background. There is limited evidence on the complexity of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and geriatric syndromes in older patients with end-stage renal disease. Our aims were to (1) examine the prevalence of CVD in older patients on chronic hemodialysis, (2) compare the burden of geriatric syndromes in patients with and without CVD, and (3) examine the impact of CVD on hospitalization. Methods. This prospective, observational, multi-center study was conducted at two dialysis units of two major hospitals in Vietnam. Consecutive older adults receiving chronic hemodialysis were recruited from November 2020 to June 2021. CVD was defined as having one of these conditions: heart failure, ischemic heart disease, or stroke. Participants were assessed for geriatric conditions including frailty, malnutrition, impairment in instrumental activities/activities of daily living, depression, falls, and polypharmacy. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied to examine the impact of CVD on 6-month hospitalization, adjusting for age, sex, duration of dialysis, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and geriatric conditions. Results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results. There were 175 participants (mean age 72.4 ± 8.5 and 58.9% female). CVD was present in 80% of the participants (ischemic heart disease: 49.7%, heart failure: 60.0%, and stroke: 25.7%). Participants with CVD had a higher burden of geriatric syndromes compared to those without CVD. During the 6-month follow-up, 48.6% of the participants were hospitalized (56.4% of those with CVD vs. 17.1% of those without CVD), p < 0.001). CVD independently increased the risk of hospitalization (adjusted OR 3.32, 95% CI 1.12–9.80). Conclusions. In this study, there was a very high prevalence of CVD in older patients undergoing chronic dialysis. Participants with CVD had a higher burden of geriatric syndromes and their risk of 6-month hospitalization increased by three times. There is a need for a multidisciplinary and patient-centered approach to treatment planning for these patients.
Elucidating Uncertainty in Heat Vulnerability Mapping: Perspectives on Impact Variables and Modeling Approaches
Authors: Jeong Sockho , Lim Yeonyeop , Kang Yeji , Yi Chaeyeon
Published: June 2024

Heat vulnerability maps are vital for identifying at-risk areas and guiding interventions, yet their relationship with health outcomes is underexplored. This study investigates the uncertainty in heat vulnerability maps generated using health outcomes and various statistical models. We constructed vulnerability maps for 167 municipalities in Korea, focusing on the mild and severe health impacts of heat waves on morbidity and mortality. The outcomes included incidence rates of heat-related outpatient visits (morbidity) and attributable mortality rates (mortality) among individuals aged 65 years and older. To construct these maps, we utilized 11 socioeconomic variables related to population, climate, and economic factors. Both linear and nonlinear statistical models were employed to assign these socioeconomic variables to heat vulnerability. We observed variations in the crucial socioeconomic variables affecting morbidity and mortality in the vulnerability maps. Notably, nonlinear models depicted the spatial patterns of health outcomes more accurately than linear models, considering the relationship between health outcomes and socioeconomic variables. Our findings emphasize the differences in the spatial distribution of heat vulnerability based on health outcomes and the choice of statistical models. These insights underscore the importance of selecting appropriate models to enhance the reliability of heat vulnerability maps and their relevance for policy-making.
Highly Dispersive Gold Nanoclusters Confined within Micropores of Defective UiO-66 for Highly Efficient Aldehyde Oxidation at Mild Conditions
Authors: He Ming-Qin , Chang Xin-Yu , Li Hong-Wei , Wu Yuqing
Published: June 2024

The oxidative esterification of aldehydes under mild conditions remains a significant challenge. This study introduces a unique defective UiO-66 to achieve gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) for efficient aldehyde oxidation under mild conditions. The construction and characterization of these materials are thoroughly investigated by techniques of XRD, SEM and TEM images, FT-IR, Raman, and XPS spectrum, emphasizing the unique microporous in defective UiO-66 are conducive to the fabrication of AuNCs. The catalytic performance of the prepared materials in aldehyde oxidation reactions is systematically evaluated, demonstrating the remarkable efficiency of dispersed Au@UiO-66-25 with high-content (9.09 wt%) Au-loading and ultra-small size (~2.7 nm). Moreover, mechanistic insights into the catalytic process under mild conditions (70 °C for 1 h) are provided, elucidating the determination of defective UiO-66 in the confined fabrication of AuNCs and subsequent furfural adsorption, which underlie the principles governing the observed enhancements. This study establishes the groundwork for the synthesis of highly dispersed and catalytically active metal nanoparticles using defective MOFs as a platform, advancing the catalytic esterification reaction of furfural to the next level.