bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet-of-Things Traffic Analysis and Device Identification Based on Two-Stage Clustering in Smart Home Environments
Authors: Asano Mizuki , Miyoshi Takumi , Yamazaki Taku
Published: December 2023

Smart home environments, which consist of various Internet of Things (IoT) devices to support and improve our daily lives, are expected to be widely adopted in the near future. Owing to a lack of awareness regarding the risks associated with IoT devices and challenges in replacing or the updating their firmware, adequate security measures have not been implemented. Instead, IoT device identification methods based on traffic analysis have been proposed. Since conventional methods process and analyze traffic data simultaneously, bias in the occurrence rate of traffic patterns has a negative impact on the analysis results. Therefore, this paper proposes an IoT traffic analysis and device identification method based on two-stage clustering in smart home environments. In the first step, traffic patterns are extracted by clustering IoT traffic at a local gateway located in each smart home and subsequently sent to a cloud server. In the second step, the cloud server extracts common traffic units to represent IoT traffic by clustering the patterns obtained in the first step. Two-stage clustering can reduce the impact of data bias, because each cluster extracted in the first clustering is summarized as one value and used as a single data point in the second clustering, regardless of the occurrence rate of traffic patterns. Through the proposed two-stage clustering method, IoT traffic is transformed into time series vector data that consist of common unit patterns and can be identified based on time series representations. Experiments using public IoT traffic datasets indicated that the proposed method could identify 21 IoTs devices with an accuracy of 86.9%. Therefore, we can conclude that traffic analysis using two-stage clustering is effective for improving the clustering quality, device identification, and implementation in distributed environments.
Effects of Solid-State Fermented (SSF) Pelleted Feed with Lactobacillus plantarum on Tachysurus fulvidraco: Growth, Digestion, Antioxidant, Immunity, Intestinal Morphology, and Microbiota
Authors: Wang Tao , Wang Jianqiao , Zhang Shasha , Xu Junjie , Dong Xiaojing , Miao Shuyan , Sun Longsheng
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of solid-state fermented commercial pelleted feed with Lactobacillus plantarum on growth performance, digestive physiology, antioxidant, and immune capacity, as well as morphology and microbiota in intestinal of Tachysurus fulvidraco. A total of 420 fish (49.96 ± 7.10 g) were randomly allocated to twelve 300 L buckets for a 60 d farming trial. The diets of three treatments were established: the untreated commercial diet (UCD), the commercial diet mixed with fermented liquid (MFLD), and the solid-state fermented commercial diet (SSFD). The results indicated that SSFD treatment had a significant positive effect on the growth performance of T. fulvidraco, with an increase of 15.69% to 16.57% (p < 0.05) compared with UCD and MFLD treatments. MFLD and SSFD treatments also showed higher total anti-oxygen capacity, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities in the intestine significantly compared with UCD treatment (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the activities of alkaline phosphatase and lysozyme activities both in the liver and intestine were significantly higher in MFLD and SSFD treatments than in UCD treatment (p < 0.05). The villus height in the midintestine was also greater in MFLD and SSFD treatments compared with UCD treatment (p < 0.05). Regarding the intestinal microbiota, the dominant bacteria in UCD treatment was Cetobacterium, with the highest abundance in whole intestinal segments. However, in MFLD and SSFD treatments, the abundance of Cetobacterium in the foreintestine significantly decreased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study elucidates that solid-state fermentation feed may not only improve the digestive capacity, antioxidant ability, immune function, and intestinal morphology of T. fulvidraco to enhance growth performance but also influence intestinal microbial composition. These findings provide beneficial proof for developing fermented feed of T. fulvidraco.
Tambaqui Production at Different Stocking Densities in RAS: Growth and Physiology
Authors: Ananias Imaculada de Morais Carvalho , Silva Sidney dos Santos , Santos Fábio Aremil Costa dos , Souza André de Sena , Magalhães Thamara Bentivole , Reis Pedro Alves Ribeiro , Favero Gisele Cristina , Luz Ronald Kennedy
Published: December 2023

Stocking densities were evaluated for the rearing tambaqui in an RAS system. Experiment 1 used juveniles weighing 0.54 g at the following densities for 15 days: D0.3—0.3; D0.6—0.6; and D0.9—0.9 kg m−3. Experiment 2 used juveniles weighing 8.22 g at the following densities for 75 days: D0.8—0.8; D1.2—1.2; and D1.6—1.6 kg m−3. Experiment 3 used juveniles weighing 142.18 g at the following densities for 75 days: D2—2; D4—4 and D6—6 kg m−3. In Experiment 1, density did not influence performance (p > 0.05), with the exception of biomass, which was greatest in D0.9 (p < 0.05). In Experiment 2, final weight, weight gain and daily weight gain were highest for D0.8 (p < 0.05), as was triglycerides (p < 0.05), whereas biomass increased with increasing density (p < 0.05). In Experiment 3, weight, weight gain and daily weight gain were greater for D2 and D4 (p < 0.05), while final biomass was lowest for D2 (p < 0.05). Hemoglobin was lower for D4 and D6 (p < 0.05), while cholesterol and glucose levels were higher for D2 and D6 (p < 0.05). Colossoma macropomum demonstrated adaptive capacity for reared in RAS at high stocking densities.
The Factors Driving the Spatial Variation in the Selection of Spawning Grounds for Sepiella japonica in Offshore Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Wu Tian , Liang Jun , Zhou Yongdong , Xuan Wendan , Fang Guangjie , Zhang Yazhou , Chen Feng
Published: December 2023

Due to overfishing and marine pollution, the status of fishery resources and the ecological environment in the sea areas have considerably changed. The proliferation and release of fishery resources have become the main means of human intervention to maintain and conserve the resource populations. The annual output of Sepiella japonica (S. japonica), once one of the four major seafood species in the East China Sea, has now recovered to a level of 4000 t. However, do the traditional spawning grounds of S. japonica still exist? Have the spawning grounds shifted? These scientific questions are worthy of attention. Based on the survey data of fishery resources and environment at 120 stations in coastal Zhejiang waters from 2015 to 2022, the spatial and temporal distribution and resource center of gravity of S. japonica in springtime were analyzed. Random forest (RF) was used to explain the importance of six environmental variables, including water depth, sea surface temperature, sea surface salinity, chlorophyll a, pH, and dissolved oxygen. The generalized additive model (GAM) nonparametric smoothing function was used to analyze the relationship between environmental factors and the distribution of S. japonica inhabiting the offshore areas of Zhejiang province, and the effects of environmental factors on spawning habitat selection of S. japonica were revealed. This study found that there was a significant interannual variation in S. japonica resources, with an overall increasing trend in the resource. The spawning grounds were mainly distributed in the Jiushan Islands Marine Reserve, the Dachen Islands Marine Reserve, and their nearby sea areas. The resource peaked at latitude 28.3° N. Additionally, the most important variables affecting the distribution of S. japonica were depth of water, followed by sea surface salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, sea surface temperature, and chlorophyll a. S. japonica mainly inhabited sea areas with a depth of 15~25 m and a sea surface salinity of 26~32. When the pH ranged from 7.6 to 8.3, dissolved oxygen ranged from 6 to 9 mg/L, sea surface temperature ranged from 14 to 17 °C, and chlorophyll a ranged from 2.5 to 5 µg/L, S. japonica was more likely to be present. This study provides insights into the spatial distribution of S. japonica in offshore Zhejiang province, offering a reference for the rational utilization and scientific protection of this resource.
Feeding Patterns of Fish in Relation to the Trophic Status of Reservoirs: A Case Study of Rutilus rutilus (Linnaeus, 1758) in Five Fishing Waters in Serbia
Authors: Radenković Milena , Milošković Aleksandra , Stojković Piperac Milica , Veličković Tijana , Curtean-Bănăduc Angela , Bănăduc Doru , Simić Vladica
Published: December 2023

The roach, Rutilus rutilus (Linnaeus, 1758), is one of the most common fish species in mesotrophic and eutrophic lakes throughout Europe. In the Serbian reservoirs selected for this study, this species accounts for the majority of juvenile fish biomass. The aim of this study was to investigate the diet composition of juvenile roach to assess their niche based on resource availability in five Serbian reservoirs with different trophic statuses. A modified Costello graph and Kohonen artificial neural network (i.e., a self-organizing map, SOM) were employed to examine the feeding habits of 142 specimens of roach caught in five reservoirs. Our results show that juvenile roach use zooplankton, benthic macroinvertebrates, algae and detritus in their diet. In addition, five neuron clusters (A, B, C, D and E) were isolated in the SOM output network. The SOM identifies specimens that share similar feeding patterns and categorizes them onto the same or adjacent neurons, determined by dominant prey. In terms of the number of specimens, cluster B was the most numerous, and the predominant prey of these specimens were Daphnia sp., Bosmina sp. and calanoid and cyclopoid copepods. The cluster with the lowest number of specimens is cluster C, and the specimens in it benefited from Chironomidae and Insecta. Due to the different trophic statuses of the reservoirs selected for this study, knowledge of fish feeding habits is essential for the formulation of effective conservation and management strategies for both the species and the reservoirs.
Unlocking the Potential of the ANN Optimization in Sweet Potato Varieties Drying Processes
Authors: Šovljanski Olja , Lončar Biljana , Pezo Lato , Saveljić Anja , Tomić Ana , Brunet Sara , Filipović Vladimir , Filipović Jelena , Čanadanović-Brunet Jasna , Ćetković Gordana , Travičić Vanja
Published: December 2023

This study explores the unexploited potential of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) optimization techniques in enhancing different drying methods and their influence on the characteristics of various sweet potato varieties. Focusing on the intricate interplay between drying methods and the unique characteristics of white, pink, orange, and purple sweet potatoes, the presented experimental study indicates the impact of ANN-driven optimization on food-related characteristics such as color, phenols content, biological activities (antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-inflammatory), chemical, and mineral contents. The results unveil significant variations in drying method efficacy across different sweet potato types, underscoring the need for tailored optimization strategies. Specifically, purple sweet potatoes emerge as robust carriers of phenolic compounds, showcasing superior antioxidant activities. Furthermore, this study reveals the optimized parameters of dried sweet potato, such as total phenols content of 1677.76 mg/100 g and anti-inflammatory activity of 8.93%, anti-hyperglycemic activity of 24.42%. The upgraded antioxidant capability is presented through DPPH●, ABTS●+, RP, and SoA assays with values of 1500.56, 10,083.37, 3130.81, and 22,753.97 μg TE/100 g, respectively. Additionally, the moisture content in the lyophilized sample reached a minimum of 2.97%, holding favorable chemical and mineral contents. The utilization of ANN optimization proves instrumental in interpreting complex interactions and unlocking efficiencies in sweet potato drying processes, thereby contributing valuable insights to food science and technology.
Relationship between Physicochemical and Cooking Quality Parameters with Estimated Glycaemic Index of Rice Varieties
Authors: Pereira Cristiana L. , Sousa Inês , Lourenço Vanda M. , Sampaio Pedro , Gárzon Raquel , Rosell Cristina M. , Brites Carla
Published: December 2023

Rice is a significant staple food in the basic diet of the global population that is considered to have a high glycaemic index. The study of the physical and chemical parameters in rice that are related to the starch digestion process, which allows us to quickly predict the glycaemic index of varieties, is a major challenge, particularly in the classification and selection process. In this context, and with the goal of establishing a relationship between physicochemical properties and starch digestibility rates, thus shedding light on the connections between quality indicators and their glycaemic impact, we evaluated various commercial rice types based on their basic chemical composition, physicochemical properties, cooking parameters, and the correlations with digestibility rates. The resistant starch, the gelatinization temperature and the retrogradation (setback) emerge as potent predictors of rice starch digestibility and estimated glycaemic index, exhibiting robust correlations of r = −0.90, r = −0.90, and r = −0.70 (p ≤ 0.05), respectively. Among the rice types, Long B and Basmati stand out with the lowest estimated glycaemic index values (68.44 and 68.10), elevated levels of resistant starch, gelatinization temperature, and setback values. Furthermore, the Long B showcases the highest amylose, while the Basmati with intermediate, revealing intriguingly strong grain integrity during cooking, setting it apart from other rice varieties.
Green Purchase Behaviour Gap: The Effect of Past Behaviour on Green Food Product Purchase Intentions among Individual Consumers
Authors: Witek Lucyna , Kuźniar Wiesława
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine factors affecting green food product purchase intentions and, specifically, to specify the role of past behaviour in shaping purchase intentions for these products and in switching to environmentally friendly food purchases. As for the theoretical framework, the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) was used, with certain modifications proposed; namely, additional constructs were included: past behaviour, knowledge, and trust in green food. Data were collected from 650 green product consumers in Poland. The online survey method was employed. The research revealed that past behaviour is a powerful indicator, which, to the greatest extent, explains purchase behaviours towards green food. This paper explores the fact that attitudes are also strongly linked to green food purchase intentions. Moreover, social norms, trust, and knowledge also have a positive effect on the intention to purchase green food products. Perceived behavioural control is relatively weak but statistically significant. The extended model explains 57% of the variance in green food purchase intentions. By incorporating past behaviour into the TPB, this study gives a new insight into understanding the inconsistency between positive attitudes towards green food and real purchase behaviours. The results of the study provide managers working in the food sector with relevant guidelines for the design of marketing strategies.
Sensory Perception and Willingness to Pay for a Local Ancient Pear Variety: Evidence from In-Store Experiments in Italy
Authors: Rivaroli Sergio , Calvia Massimiliano , Spadoni Roberta , Tartarini Stefano , Gregori Roberto , Calvo-Porral Cristina , Canavari Maurizio
Published: December 2023

Product optimisation is one of the most crucial phases in the new product development or launch process. This work proposes applying penalty analysis to investigate the impact of not just-about-right (JAR) sensorial aspects on willingness to pay (WTP) and an overall liking for a local Italian ancient pear variety and to verify the mediating role of pleasantness in the relationship between not-JAR sensory attributes and consumers’ WTP using structural equation model (SEM). One hundred and twelve non-expert participants recruited during an in-store experiment evaluated overall liking and JAR attributes and were involved in an in-field experimental auction based on the non-hypothetical Becker–DeGroot–Marshak (BDM) mechanism. The participants’ average WTP for the sample was EUR 3.18 per kilogramme. Only juiciness and sourness significantly impact consumers’ overall liking but not on consumers’ WTP. Moreover, pleasantness did not mediate the relationship between non-balanced sensorial aspects and WTP. In conclusion, the penalty analysis for attributes not being JAR in monetary and hedonic terms is a beneficial research approach for a deep-inside evaluation of the potentiality of the product in the marketplace, providing helpful directions for product optimisation. Results show market potential for the local ancient pear variety ‘Angelica’.
Multivariate Optimization and Validation of a Modified QuEChERS Method for Determination of PAHs and PCBs in Grilled Meat by GC-MS
Authors: Ostadgholami Mahsa , Zeeb Mohsen , Amirahmadi Maryam , Daraei Bahram
Published: December 2023

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are recognized as carcinogens and mutagenic food contaminants that threaten public health. As for food safety aspects, control of these contaminants in processed and fatty food is necessary. In this study, eleven factors were screened by the Plackett–Burman design, and four variables were chosen to optimize with the central composite design (CCD) for the improvement of extraction and cleanup procedures of these food contaminants. The optimized variables include 5 g of sample, 2 mL mixture of 2/2/1 ethyl acetate/acetone/isooctane, 1.6 g of ammonium formate, 0.9 g of sodium chloride, and 0.25 g of sorbent Z-Sep+. A 5 min cleanup vortex time with the spike calibration curve strategy, analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), led to the validated limits of quantification (LOQs) for 16 PAHs and 36 PCBs of 0.5–2 and 0.5–1 ng/g, respectively, and recoveries of 72–120%, with an average relative standard deviation (%RSD) of 17, for PAHs, and 80–120%, with an %RSD of 3, for PCBs. The method introduces excellent accuracy, precision, and efficiency, and minimizes matrix effects, and ensures a control procedure, adopted with international standards, for food authorities to determine the contaminants of interest in processed meat, and consequently, prevent food-borne disease to improve public health indices.
Comparison of Volatile and Nonvolatile Metabolites in Black Tea under Four Second-Drying Methods Using Widely Targeted Metabolomics
Authors: Lan Tianmeng , Zeng Qingbin , Chen Lin , Tu Zheng , Ye Yang , Liu Yueyun , He Weizhong
Published: December 2023

Second-drying has an impact on the development of flavor and aroma in black tea. However, the effect of the shape changes of the tea leaves during second-drying on the quality of black tea has yet to be evaluated. In this study, GC-TOFMS and UPLC-HRMS identified 411 volatile metabolites and 253 nonvolatile metabolites. Additionally, 107 nonvolatile compounds and 21 different volatiles were screened. Significant alterations (p < 0.01) were found in 18 amino acid derivatives, 17 carbohydrates, 20 catechins, 19 flavonoids, 13 phenolic acids, and 4 organic acids. The content of certain amino acids and carbohydrates correlated with the shape of black tea. Furthermore, sweet aroma compound formation was facilitated by hot-air second-drying while the remaining second-drying approaches encouraged the formation of the fruity aroma compound. The results of the study provide a theoretical basis and technical instructions for the accurate and precise processing of premium black tea.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Aeration and Chlorination during Washing to Reduce E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica, and L. innocua on Cucumbers and Bell Peppers
Authors: Benitez Julysa A. , Aryal Jyoti , Lituma Ivannova , Moreira Juan , Adhikari Achyut
Published: December 2023

The attachment strength of bacteria to surfaces can affect the efficacy of sanitizers during washing. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of chlorination and aeration in the removal of pathogens from the surface of produce. Cucumbers and bell peppers were inoculated with Listeria innocua, Escherichia coli O157:H7, or Salmonella enterica; afterwards, the produce was washed with or without chlorinated water (100 ppm) for 3 min in combination with or without aeration. Cucumbers washed with chlorinated water, with or without aeration, presented significant reductions of L. innocua (3.65 log CFU/cm2 and 1.13 log CFU/cm2, respectively) (p < 0.05). Similarly, bell peppers washed in chlorinated water with aeration (1.91 log CFU/g) and without aeration (2.49 log CFU/g) presented significant reductions of L. innocua. A significant reduction of L. innocua was observed on bell peppers washed with non-chlorinated water with aeration (2.49 log CFU/g) (p < 0.05). Non-chlorinated water was also effective in significantly reducing the level of Salmonella enterica (p < 0.05) on cucumbers and bell peppers. Washing with chlorinated water with aeration reduced Salmonella enterica levels from 4.45 log CFU/cm2 on cucumbers to below the detectable limit (0.16 log CFU/cm2). The highest reduction of Salmonella enterica from bell peppers occurred after washing with chlorinated water with aeration (2.48 log CFU/g). E. coli O157:H7, L. innocua, and Salmonella enterica levels present in non-chlorinated water after washing contaminated produce with or without aeration were significantly greater than those in chlorinated water (p < 0.05). After treatment, the population levels of all pathogens in chlorinated water with or without aeration were below the detectable limit for bell peppers (<1.10 log CFU/mL) and cucumbers (<1.20 log CFU/mL). Using chlorine in combination with forced aeration during washing minimizes cross-contamination of bacterial pathogens.
Power-Efficient Electronically Tunable Fractional-Order Filter
Authors: Tasneem Sadaf , Ranjan Rajeev Kumar , Paul Sajal K. , Herencsar Norbert
Published: December 2023

This article describes a low-voltage, low-power fractional-order low-pass filter (FO-LPF) of order 1 + α, which is implemented using a voltage differencing differential difference amplifier (VDDDA). The VDDDA structure is implemented using the bulk-driven metal oxide semiconductor transistor technique. The transistors operate in the subthreshold region to maintain low-supply voltage and low-power consumption. The FO-LPF structure implemented using this VDDDA structure is compact. It includes three VDDDAs and three grounded capacitors along with two active resistors implemented using MOS transistors. In addition, this filter structure provides electronic tuning of its order and cut-off frequency through the bias current of the active component used. The effects of tracking error and parasitics on the functionality of the proposed FO-LPF were investigated. The VDDDA and filter operate at ±300 mV and dissipate only 207 nW and 663 nW of power, respectively. Thus, the VDDDA structure and filter are suitable for low-voltage and low-power operation. Layouts of the proposed VDDDA as well as the FO-LPF were designed in the Cadence Virtuoso environment. Post-layout simulation results of the designed circuits imply that they are suitable for fabrication. Noise, total harmonic distortion, Monte-Carlo, and PVT analyses were also performed.
The Impact of Turkish Economic News on the Fractality of Borsa Istanbul: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Balcı Mehmet Ali , Akgüller Ömer , Batrancea Larissa M. , Nichita Anca
Published: December 2023

This study explores the connection between the fractal dimensions of time series representing sentiments regarding economic news and the fractal dimensions of correlation networks among companies listed in the Borsa Istanbul star section. While there have been many studies on the correlation between different time series, the investigation into the impact of fractal dimensions on correlation networks’ dynamics has been somewhat restricted. This study investigates the correlation networks among companies listed in the Borsa Istanbul Stars segment, employing distance and topological filters. The network fractional dimensions are evaluated using the box counting and information dimension techniques. A convolutional neural network is employed to perform analysis of sentiments regarding on 2020 Turkish economic news. The network is trained on user comments and specifically built to identify fluctuations in news editorials. The Zemberek natural language processing framework is beneficial for data preprocessing. Identical analytical methods are employed to quantify the fractal dimensions of each sentiment time series. Experiments are performed on these measurements using various sliding window widths to ascertain both independence and causality. The findings indicate a substantial correlation between market behavior and the feelings expressed in economic news.
Engineered Dynamic Hydrogel Niches for the Regulation of Redox Homeostasis in Osteoporosis and Degenerative Endocrine Diseases
Authors: Yuan Weihao , Xu Jiankun , Yang Na , Wang Han , Li Jinteng , Zhang Mengyao , Zhu Meiling
Published: December 2023

Osteoporosis and degenerative endocrine diseases are some of the major causes of disability in the elderly. The feedback loop in the endocrine system works to control the release of hormones and maintain the homeostasis of metabolism, thereby regulating the function of target organs. The breakdown of this feedback loop results in various endocrine and metabolic disorders, such as osteoporosis, type II diabetes, hyperlipidemia, etc. The direct regulation of redox homeostasis is one of the most attractive strategies to redress the imbalance of the feedback loop. The biophysical regulation of redox homeostasis can be achieved through engineered dynamic hydrogel niches, with which cellular mechanics and redox homeostasis are intrinsically connected. Mechanotransduction-dependent redox signaling is initiated by cell surface protein assemblies, cadherins for cell–cell junctions, and integrins for cell–ECM interactions. In this review, we focused on the biophysical regulation of redox homeostasis via the tunable cell–ECM interactions in the engineered dynamic hydrogel niches. We elucidate processes from the rational design of the hydrogel matrix to the mechano-signaling initiation and then to the redox response of the encapsulated cells. We also gave a comprehensive summary of the current biomedical applications of this strategy in several degenerative endocrine disease models.
Model Simulation and Rheological Research on Crosslinking Behavior of Polyethylene Resin
Authors: Chen Xuelian , Huang Qigu
Published: December 2023

The crosslinking behavior of polyethylene (PE) determines its exceptional performance and application. In this study, we investigated the crosslinking behaviors of different PE resins through model simulation and rheological methods. Specifically, the mathematical equation of “S” model was established for PE resin. According to this equation, the optimal maximum gel content for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) was found to be around 85%. Moreover, the maximum crosslinking degrees for different PE resins depended largely on their density and molecular weight. The melt viscosities before crosslinking in PE resins were highly influenced by their melt index. The higher melt indexes resulted in the lower storage moduli, improving melt processability during processing. In addition, the crosslinking rates of PE resins were strongly influenced by peroxide concentration, independent of PE resin structures. For high molecular weight and low-density PE resins, they exhibited decreased ti values, increased A0 values, and decreased k6 values. However, there were no noticeable variations in the values of k2 and phi among different PE resins. All simulated modeling outcomes showed remarkable consistency with the experimental rheological data. These findings are of strong significance in the industrial manufacture of PE resin.
Goat miR-92a-3p Targets APOL6 Gene to Regulate the Differentiation of Intramuscular Precursor Adipocytes
Authors: Qubi Wuqie , Zheng Jianying , Wang Youli , Xu Guishan , Li Yanyan , Xiong Yan , Wang Yong , Liu Wei , Lin Yaqiu
Published: December 2023

The quality of lamb meat is positively correlated with intramuscular fat content. In recent years, a large number of studies have shown that miRNAs play an important role in the proliferation and differentiation of adipocytes. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of miR-92a-3p on the differentiation of goat intramuscular preadipocytes. The results showed that the expression level of miR-92a-3p was low in the early stage of differentiation, reached the highest level on the third day of differentiation, and then decreased. And miR-92a-3p can inhibit the accumulation of lipid droplets and down-regulate the determinants of adipogenic differentiation. Mechanistically, by predicting target genes, we found that miR-92a-3p affects the differentiation of goat intramuscular preadipocytes and the accumulation of lipid droplets by regulating the expression of goat gene APOL6. This study provides important new information to better understand the relationship between miRNAs and the differentiation of goat intramuscular preadipocytes, thus providing a new reference for goat intramuscular adipogenesis.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of High- and Low-Growth Genotypes of Eucalyptus urophylla in Response to Long-Term Nitrogen Deficiency
Authors: Yang Xiaohui , Xu Fang , Pan Wen , Zhang Weihua , Liao Huanqin , Zhu Baozhu , Xu Bin , Chen Xinyu , Yang Huixiao
Published: December 2023

Nutrients play important roles in the growth and development of most plant species. However, in perennial trees, the function of nutrients in different genotypes is poorly understood. Three different nutrient levels (low, sufficient, and high nutrient levels) were applied to two contrasting Eucalyptus urophylla cultivars (a high-growth cultivar ZQUA44 and a low-growth cultivar ZQUB15), and growth and expression levels were analyzed. Although the growth traits of both genotypes under nutrient starvation treatment were much lower than under abundant nutrients, tree height, crown width, and biomass of different ZQUA44 tissues were much higher than those of ZQUB15 at all three nutrient levels. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) clustered into six subclusters based on their expression patterns, and functional annotation showed that the DEGs involved in glutathione metabolism and flavonoid biosynthesis may be responsible for nutrient starvation across different genotypes, while the DEGs involved in carotenoid biosynthesis and starch and sucrose metabolism may have a range of functions in different genotypes. The DEGs encoding the MYB-related family may be responsible for nutrient deficiency in all genotypes, while B3 may have different functions in different genotypes. Our results demonstrate that different genotypes may form different pathways to coordinate plant survival when they face abiotic stresses.
The Evolving Landscape of Gout in the Female: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lee Jennifer , Sumpter Nicholas , Merriman Tony R. , Liu-Bryan Ru , Terkeltaub Robert
Published: December 2023

Gout is at least three times more prevalent in males than in females. However, concurrent with rising total gout prevalence, complex factors, including comorbidities, diet, lifestyle, and aging, have promoted higher gout prevalence in females. This narrative review focuses on summarizing recent developments in the landscape of gout in females and the mechanisms involved. New knowledge on sex hormone effects on both urate-excreting and urate-reabsorbing transporters and higher hypertension and chronic kidney disease prevalence in females compared to males may help explain why gout incidence rises robustly after menopause in females, to approach that in males. Racial and ethnic factors, risk profiles based on heritable genetic polymorphisms of urate transporters, diet, body mass index, and lifestyle factors differ according to sex. In addition, sex differences in clinical phenotypes, outcomes of gout, and non-gout illnesses include more frequent comorbidities, more pain and disability during gout flares, different perceptions of disease burden, and more frequent severe cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction to allopurinol in females. Collectively, such findings support the potential clinical benefits of tailoring gout and hyperuricemia treatment according to sex.
Oral Health Knowledge, Self-Assessed Oral Health Behavior, and Oral Hygiene Practices among the Adult General Population in Croatia
Authors: Tadin Antonija , Badrov Marija
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Emphasizing the significance of optimal oral health for enhancing overall well-being, this study aimed to investigate oral health knowledge, self-assessed oral health behaviors, and oral hygiene practices within the Croatian general population. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted online, utilizing a questionnaire collecting sociodemographic characteristics and inquiring about respondents’ oral health knowledge, self-assessed oral health status, oral hygiene habits, and use of oral hygiene products. Collected data underwent both descriptive and regression analyses to unveil patterns and relationships within the dataset. Results: The respondents showed a high level of knowledge about oral health (median score 9, IQR 7.00–10.00, maximum possible score 10), with significant factors for higher knowledge being engaged in dental professions; above-average socioeconomic status; and the use of an electric brush, dental floss, and interdental brushes (p ˂ 0.05). Insufficient knowledge, on the other hand, was associated with bleeding gums and daily smoking (p ˂ 0.05). Although 69.4% of respondents considered their oral health to be very good, 32.5% reported tooth decay, and 38.2% reported tooth sensitivity. The majority (62.0%) cited regular check-ups as the reason for their last visit to the dentist, with 74.1% feeling no anxiety or discomfort during these visits. Daily toothbrush use was widespread (97.8%), but only 34.1% and 19.1% of respondents reported using floss and/or interdental brushes daily. A remarkable 69.0% of respondents indicated that low oral health literacy and low prioritization contribute to suboptimal oral health. Conclusions: While respondents demonstrated commendable oral health knowledge, the prevalence of reported issues suggests a potential gap between perception and actual oral health status. To address this, targeted educational interventions focusing on comprehensive oral hygiene practices and debunking misconceptions should be prioritized in Croatia.
Empathy and Violence in Schizophrenia and Antisocial Personality Disorder
Authors: Tasios Konstantinos , Douzenis Athanasios , Gournellis Rossetos , Michopoulos Ioannis
Published: December 2023

A paucity of cognitive and affective features of empathy can be correlated with violent behavior. We aimed to identify differences in empathy among four groups in a sample of 100 male participants: (1) 27 violent offenders with schizophrenia, (2) 23 nonviolent patients with schizophrenia, (3) 25 patients with antisocial personality disorder, and (4) 25 subjects from the general population, who formed the control group. Schizophrenia symptoms were quantified with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale. Empathy was measured with the empathy quotient. Theory of mind was evaluated using (a) the first-order false-belief task, (b) the hinting task, (c) the faux pas recognition test and (d) the “reading the mind in the eyes” test (revised). Differences noted among the groups were age (controls were younger) and educational status (antisocials were less educated). The empathy quotient scoring (p < 0.001) and theory-of-mind tests (p < 0.001) were distinct between the control group and the three other groups of participants, but not among the three patient groups. Patients with antisocial personality disorder, violent psychotic offenders and psychotic nonviolent patients show no remarkable differences in affective or cognitive empathy tests, but they all present deficits in empathy and theory of mind when compared to controls.
Effects of Basic Psychological Needs on Physical Self-Efficacy and Attitudes toward PE in Korean Middle-School Physical Education
Authors: Shin Jongseob , Gwon Heonsu
Published: December 2023

This study explored the effect of basic psychological needs in secondary physical education (PE) classes in South Korea on physical self-efficacy and attitudes toward PE. Data from 296 middle-school students were collected from May to June 2022 in Seoul or Gyeonggi-do. Participants were surveyed via simple random sampling. Confirmatory factor, correlation, and multiple regression analyses were conducted, and reliability was assessed with Cronbach’s α. Basic psychological needs had a significant positive effect on physical self-efficacy. Competence and autonomy positively and significantly affected perceived physical competence (β = 0.535 and 0.320, respectively). Basic psychological needs had a significant positive effect on classroom attitudes toward PE. Autonomy and relatedness positively and significantly affected basic attitudes (β = 0.317 and 0.388, respectively) and social attitudes (β = 0.3498 and 0.213, respectively). Physical self-efficacy had a significant positive effect on PE classroom attitudes. Perceived physical competence and physical self-presentation confidence had a positive and significant effect on basic attitudes (β = 0.258 and 0.166, respectively). The results implied that attitudes toward school life can be improved through physical activity in secondary PE classes.
Exploring the Role of Community Exercise Rehabilitation Centers through the Rehabilitation Experiences of Patients with Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Park Dongjoo , Kim Jiyoun
Published: December 2023

We investigated the perception of community sport rehabilitation centers by examining the experiences of living lab participants and discussing the centers’ roles. From 50 living lab participants in the exercise rehabilitation center, in-depth interviews were conducted with the 10 among them (three males and seven females) who had high participation rates and consented voluntarily. The data collected through participant observation and a review of the literature were analyzed through inductive categorization. The findings show the points as follows: (a) owing to inadequate cognitive and physical accessibility, the older population faced challenges in utilizing the center, causing deficiency in the requisite information and knowledge essential for effective rehabilitation; (b) human and material services, including older adult rehabilitation instructors, systematic management, and service platforms were provided to the participants through the centers; (c) after 12-week program operation, participants experienced improved physical health, and by engaging in the rehabilitation exercise services, developed positive perception of the center. Participants desired to continue with the program and were willing to recommend it to others. These findings emphasize the importance of specialized instructors to older-adults’ physical activities, implementing systematic data management and utilization practices, and the collaboration between healthcare institutions and local communities. This is particularly important because of the rapid rise in the older adult population.
Optimizing Surgical Care Amidst COVID-19: A Scoping Review of Practices and Policies
Authors: Alzerwi Nasser A. N. , Rayzah Musaed , Alnemare Ahmad K. , Elkhalifa Ahmed M. E.
Published: December 2023

Background: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic significantly disrupted surgical care worldwide, affecting different specialties in various ways. Lockdowns, surges in COVID-19 cases, and changes in hospital policies notably impacted patient attendance, management practices, and access to surgical services. This scoping review examines the adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical services and the policies adopted to address these care barriers. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Our search, spanning 31 December 2019, to 29 January 2023, focused on understanding the multifaceted impacts of COVID-19 on surgical services, particularly across different specialties. Results: An analysis of 75 articles indicated that the pandemic challenged surgeons worldwide to maintain a balance between delivering emergency and elective surgical care, and implementing safety measures against viral transmission. There was a marked decline in the surgical volume, leading to extended waitlists and decreased operating theater usage. Strategies such as prioritizing medically necessary and time-sensitive surgeries and integrating telemedicine have emerged as pivotal for ensuring the continuity of urgent care. Despite the reduced rates, essential surgeries such as appendectomies and cancer-related operations continued, yet faced hurdles, including reduced staffing, limited operating theater capacity, and complications in patient transfers. Conclusions: This review emphasizes the steep reduction in surgical service utilization at the beginning of the pandemic and emergence of new compounded barriers. Policies that designated surgeries as essential, and focused on equitable and timely access, were effective. Incorporating these findings into post-pandemic assessments and future planning is crucial to sustain adequate surgical care during similar health emergencies.
Understanding Children’s Online Victimization through the Psychosocial Lens: The Roles of Loneliness, Online Social Currency, and Digital Citizenship
Authors: Hsieh Yi-Ping , Gourneau Bonni
Published: December 2023

This study employed a risk and resilience framework to investigate the influence of multidimensional factors, considering psychosocial and behavioral aspects, on online victimization among fifth-grade children (ages 10–11). Loneliness, online social currency disturbance, and digital citizenship were examined as predictors of online victimization. Data were collected from 196 students through a self-reported online survey conducted on electronic devices provided by the schools. The findings indicated that 78.6% of fifth-graders owned a smartphone, 70.9% had a gaming console, and the most common online activities were playing online gaming (73%), talking with friends (62.8%), and seeking entertainment (62.2%). Online victimization was prevalent, with 30.8% of children reporting they had been called bad names, 24.7% receiving rude comments, 15.9% expressing feelings of worry or threat due to online harassment, and 3.1% experiencing cyberbullying lasting for days. Furthermore, the results revealed a negative association between digital citizenship and online victimization, while loneliness and online social currency disturbance were positively associated with online victimization after accounting for children’s gender and time spent online. In conclusion, this study suggests that efforts to prevent and address online victimization should prioritize promoting digital citizenship and increasing awareness of the roles of loneliness and social currency disturbances in online social dynamics.
Towards the Contemporary Conservation of Cultural Heritages: An Overview of Their Conservation History
Authors: Li Lanxin , Tang Yue
Published: December 2023

This paper seeks contemporary cultural heritage conservation principles by reviewing its history, starting from the 18th century, in practices, international documents, and the literature on this topic. It intends to lay a foundation to avoid damaging cultural heritages by misconducting conservation. This study first found that the conservation objects of cultural heritage include particularly important ones and general ones that are closely related to daily life, and they involve tangible and intangible aspects. Second, cultural heritage conservation involves document-based restoration when necessary as well as identifying the value of them to play their role nowadays. Third, integrating cultural heritage conservation within the context of sustainable development goals is essential for successfully balancing the relationship between the built and natural environments. Fourth, mobilising the public to participate in cultural heritage conservation enables the implementation of conservation to meet the expectations of the public, and may have a positive influence on people’s consciousness. Fifth, as a treasure, cultural heritage conservation is a global responsibility that involves conjoint cooperation. Sixth, more cultural heritage conservation interdisciplinary methods have been developed and could be applied, but this should be limited in order to not destruct their authenticity and integrity.
Composition and Physicochemical Properties of Pomace of Various Cultivars of Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus L.)
Authors: Čechovičienė Indrė , Šlepetienė Alvyra , Gumbytė Milda , Paulauskienė Aurelija , Tarasevičienė Živilė
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study is to assess the proximate chemical composition, and the physical and techno-functional properties of blackberry pomace from different cultivars (‘Polar’, ‘Orkan’, ‘Brzezina’). Blackberry pomace primarily comprises seeds and other parts, such as pulps/skins. It serves as a rich source of bioactive compounds, particularly anthocyanins, and demonstrates notable functional properties, including water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, swelling capacity, and various fiber fractions. Moreover, anthocyanin-rich fruits are interesting due to their health-promoting properties and intensive color. Total anthocyanin content (TAC) ranged from 113.82 mg 100 g−1 d.w. to 129.58 mg 100 g−1 d.w. in blackberry pomace. Fiber fractions, including ADF, NDF, lignin, and WSCs, exhibited significant variations among the different blackberry pomace cultivars as well as color.
Parthenocarpic Cactus Pears (Opuntia spp.) with Edible Sweet Peel and Long Shelf Life
Authors: Livera-Muñoz Manuel , Muratalla-Lúa Alfonso , Flores-Almaraz Roberto , Ortiz-Hernández Yolanda Donají , González-Hernández Víctor Arturo , Castillo-González Fernando , Hernández-Ramírez Carlos , Varela-Delgadillo Oscar Eduardo , López-Soto Magnolia , Valdez-Carrasco Jorge Manuel , Carrillo-Salazar José Alfredo , Ramírez-Ramírez Ivan
Published: December 2023

The fruits of the nopal (Opuntia spp.), cactus pears, are considered functional foods due to their content of nutritive and bioactive substances. Its pulp is generated by numerous seeds that limit their consumption due to their size and hardness and detract from their quality. Other undesirable fruit characteristics are its inedible peel and its short shelf life. In the case of the cactus pear cactus (Opuntia spp.), no cultivar has been reported that produces quality parthenocarpic fruits, nor have they been obtained by artificially inducing parthenocarpy. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the response of 11 genotypes to the induction of parthenocarpy, to characterize the fruits of the genotypes with the best response, and to determine their postharvest life. To induce parthenocarpy, floral buds were used in the pre-anthesis stage, from which the style-stigma, stamens, and tepals were removed, generating a cavity in which a solution of growth regulators was applied (250 mg L−1 AG3 + 75 mg L −1 BA + 15 mg L−1 of AIB). A similar number of buds was used as a control, without treatment, and in free pollination. Only two genotypes, MX CP-30 Red and MX CP-40 Yellow, produced parthenocarpic fruits since their empty integuments produced pulp, remaining small, empty, and soft. Their peel was sweet (10–14 °Brix) and edible, and they had a longer shelf life than the corresponding fruits with seeds.