bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Realising the social value of impermanent carbon credits
Authors: Balmford Andrew , Keshav Srinivasan , Venmans Frank , Coomes David , Groom Ben , Madhavapeddy Anil , Swinfield Thomas
Published: July 2023

Efforts to avert dangerous climate change by conserving and restoring natural habitats are hampered by widespread concerns over the credibility of methods used to quantify their net long-term benefits. We develop a novel, flexible framework for estimating the long-run social benefit of impermanent carbon credits generated by nature-based interventions which integrates three substantial advances: the conceptualisation of the permanence of a project’s impact as its additionality over time (relative to a statistically-derived counterfactual); the risk-averse estimation of the social cost of future reversals of carbon gains; and the deployment of post-credit monitoring to correct for errors in deliberately pessimistic release forecasts. Our framework generates incentives for safeguarding already-credited carbon while enabling would-be investors to make like-for-like comparisons of diverse carbon projects. Preliminary comparisons suggest that after fully adjusting for the impermanence of their effects, nature-based interventions may offer less costly ways of reducing climate damages than more technological solutions.
The Effect of Back Massage on Increasing Breast Milk Production: Scoping Review
Authors: Sinaga Sri Putriani , Mufdlilah Mufdlilah
Published: July 2023

Exclusive breastfeeding begins within one hour after birth until the baby is six months old. Early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding can help children survive and have antibodies to protect against common diseases, such as diarrhea and pneumonia. Breastfed children perform better on intelligence tests and are less likely to develop obesity and diabetes. This scoping review aims to review the evidence base regarding the effect of back massage on increasing milk production. Inclusion criteria: the criteria included in this review were Indonesian or English articles published within the last five years. These articles focused on the effect of back massage on increasing milk production. The method that will be used in this review is the scoping review technique, which is a systematic exploratory method by mapping the available literature in an article, topics, theories, and sources that have been obtained. The results of the study show that back massage can increase milk production. The most dominant factor in increasing milk production was in the group that did back massage, while the control group did not experience smooth milk production due to a lack of increase in milk production. Increased milk production can also be influenced by nutrition, rest, baby sucking, and breast care performed by the mother.
Machine learning enhanced cell tracking
Authors: Soelistyo Christopher J. , Ulicna Kristina , Lowe Alan R.
Published: July 2023

Quantifying cell biology in space and time requires computational methods to detect cells, measure their properties, and assemble these into meaningful trajectories. In this aspect, machine learning (ML) is having a transformational effect on bioimage analysis, now enabling robust cell detection in multidimensional image data. However, the task of cell tracking, or constructing accurate multi-generational lineages from imaging data, remains an open challenge. Most cell tracking algorithms are largely based on our prior knowledge of cell behaviors, and as such, are difficult to generalize to new and unseen cell types or datasets. Here, we propose that ML provides the framework to learn aspects of cell behavior using cell tracking as the task to be learned. We suggest that advances in representation learning, cell tracking datasets, metrics, and methods for constructing and evaluating tracking solutions can all form part of an end-to-end ML-enhanced pipeline. These developments will lead the way to new computational methods that can be used to understand complex, time-evolving biological systems.
Disentangling the role of electrons and phonons in the photoinduced CO desorption and CO oxidation on (O,CO)-Ru(0001)
Authors: Tetenoire Auguste , Juaristi J. Iñaki , Alducin Maite
Published: July 2023

The role played by electronic and phononic excitations in the femtosecond laser induced desorption and oxidation of CO coadsorbed with O on Ru(0001) is investigated using ab initio molecular dynamics with electronic friction. To this aim, simulations that account for both kind of excitations and that only consider electronic excitations are performed. Results for three different surface coverages are obtained. We unequivocally demonstrate that CO desorption is governed by phononic excitations. In the case of oxidation the low statistics does not allow to give a categorical answer. However, the analysis of the adsorbates kinetic energy gain and displacements strongly suggest that phononic excitations and surface distortion also play an important role in the oxidation process.
Potential consequences for rising temperature trends in the Oti River Basin, West Africa
Authors: Kwawuvi Daniel , Mama Daouda , Agodzo Sampson K. , Bessah Enoch , Yangouliba Gnibga Issoufou , Aklamati Wisdom S.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

One of the ways that climate change manifest itself is through temperature changes. Though the Oti River basin has been grappling with drought incidents, there has been little or no emphasis on analyzing temperature fluctuations in the basin. This study aimed to analyze the mean annual and seasonal temperature for the observed (1981–2010) and future periods (2021–2050) over the Oti River basin.

Methods

Historical data were obtained from meteorological stations and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resources (NASA POWER). Data quality assessment was conducted, and the NASA POWER temperature was validated against the stations' temperature. Ensemble of eight models acquired from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX–Africa) under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5), were used for the future projection. The mean annual and seasonal temperatures were analyzed for 1981–2010 and 2021–2050 (under RCPs 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios). The Modified Mann–Kendall test was used for trend analysis at 5% significant level.

Results and discussion

In the near-future, temperature is anticipated to increase at the mean monthly scale in the ranges of +0.88°C in October to +2.65°C in January under the RCP4.5 scenario, while the RCP8.5 predicts increases between +2.71°C in July and +6.48°C in January. The annual mean temperature change for the entire basin is projected at +1.47°C (RCP4.5) and +4.2°C (RCP8.5). For the rainy season period, the RCP4.5 projects annual mean temperature changes in the ranges of −0.72°C and +1.52°C while the RCP8.5 predicts changes between +1.06°C and +4.45°C. Concerning the dry season period, the anticipated changes in the annual mean temperature under the RCP4.5 would range from −0.43°C to +2.78°C whereas that of RCP8.5 would be between +1.97°C and 7.25°C. The Modified Mann–Kendall test revealed significantly increasing trends for temperature projections in the basin under both the RCPs 4.5 and 8.5 in the basin. The study provides significant contribution to the comprehension of temperature patterns in time and space which is necessary for the sustenance of rainfed agriculture and water resources within the basin.
Science journalism in pandemic times: perspectives on the science-media relationship from COVID-19 researchers in Southern Europe
Authors: Marín-González Esther , Navalhas Inês , Dijkstra Anne M. , De Jong Anouk , Luís Cristina
Published: July 2023

Several studies have investigated the relationship between scientists and journalists. However, Southern Europe has been less studied when it comes to understanding the nature and effectiveness of collaborations between these two groups of professionals. To address this gap, this study focused on researchers (i.e., academics and scientists from different fields, including clinical researchers and medical doctors) who conducted research activities on COVID-19-related topics in three Southern European countries (Italy, Portugal, and Spain). Using an approach that combined survey data (n = 317) with semi-structured interviews (n = 40), we explored researchers' personal beliefs, opinions, and experiences regarding their encounters with the media during the pandemic. Our results show that researchers' motivations, concerns, and benefits in their interactions with the media remained largely unchanged during the pandemic. Despite the additional challenges posed by the health emergency, most researchers in Italy, Portugal, and Spain rated their interactions with journalists positively. Several practices to promote and maintain trustful and fruitful cooperation with journalists were also identified. Additionally, lessons learned were extracted from the interactions between researchers and journalists during the pandemic. They hold particular relevance in a context of uncertainty, fake news, high demand for information and high expectations in science and technology. These findings aim to support both the scientific community and media professionals to deal with current and future communicative challenges such as health, environmental and social crises that require joint efforts from multiple societal actors.
Prevalence, awareness, treatment, and risk factor control of high atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Liu Hui , Lin Weiquan , Tu Kexin , Zhou Qin , Wang Chang , Sun Minying , Li Yaohui , Liu Xiangyi , Lin Guozhen , Li Sidong , Bao Wei
Published: July 2023

Background

Identifying individuals at high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and implementing targeted prevention strategies might be the key to reducing the heavy disease burden in China. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and risk factor control among individuals with high 10-year ASCVD risk in Guangzhou, China.

Methods

This study included 15,165 adults (aged 18 years and older) from 138 urban and rural communities in the 2018 survey of China Chronic Disease and Risk Factors Surveillance in Guangzhou. 10-year ASCVD risk was estimated using the risk assessment models recommended in the Chinese Guideline for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease 2017. The prevalence, awareness, treatment, and risk factor control of high ASCVD risk (defined as 10-year risk ≥10%) were examined.

Results

Among the study population, the weighted proportion of men was 51.9%, and the mean age was 41.27 ± 0.52 years. The overall standardized prevalence of high 10-year ASCVD risk was 13.8% (95% CI, 12.4%–15.3%). The awareness rates for hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia were 48.0% (95% CI, 42.8%–53.4%), 48.3% (95% CI, 43.0%–53.7%), and 17.9% (95% CI, 14.4%–22.1%) among those with corresponding risk factors. The proportions of drug use in prevention were relatively low in primary prevention, with the rates of using BP-lowering, glucose-lowering, lipid-lowering, and aspirin being 37.7% (95% CI, 32.8%–42.8%), 41.4% (95% CI, 35.8%–47.3%), 6.7% (95% CI, 4.5%–10.0%), and 1.0% (95% CI, 0.6%–1.8%), respectively. As for risk factor control, only 29.3% (95% CI, 25.7%–33.2%), 16.8% (95% CI, 15.0%–18.6%), and 36.0% (95% CI, 31.1%–41.2%) of individuals with high ASCVD risk had ideal levels of blood pressure, LDL-C, and body weight.

Conclusion

The estimated prevalence of 10-year high ASCVD risk was high in Guangzhou, while the rates of treatment and risk factor control in primary prevention were still far from optimal, especially for lipid management. These findings suggested that substantial improvement in ASCVD prevention is needed in this population.
Research progress of non-coding RNA in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Xue Zongqian , Zhu Jinbiao , Liu Juan , Wang Lingli , Ding Jijun
Published: July 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia in clinic, and its incidence is increasing year by year. In today's increasingly prevalent society, ageing poses a huge challenge to global healthcare systems. AF not only affects patients' quality of life, but also causes thrombosis, heart failure and other complications in severe cases. Although there are some measures for the diagnosis and treatment of AF, specific serum markers and targeted therapy are still lacking. In recent years, ncRNAs have become a hot topic in cardiovascular disease research. These ncRNAs are not only involved in the occurrence and development of AF, but also in pathophysiological processes such as myocardial infarction and atherosclerosis, and are potential biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases. We believe that the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanism of AF and the study of diagnosis and treatment targets can form a more systematic diagnosis and treatment framework of AF and provide convenience for individuals with AF and the society.
A study on the simulation of psychological and behavioral dynamics in the unsafe state of coal mine workers
Authors: Yin Jueli , Liu Zhen , Yu Kai , Kong Biao , Mou Xiaowei , Zhang Xiaolong , Ma Wanli
Published: July 2023

The coal mine production safety hazards are large, and the situation is difficult, and coal mine workers are affected psychologically, producing unsafe psychological states and triggering unsafe behavior. This paper firstly studies the interactive influence process of the unsafe psychological state of coal mine workers and reveals the emergence process of unsafe psychology and behavior of coal mine workers. According to the characteristics of qualitative simulation of safety behavior, safety psychology and unsafe state of coal mine personnel, 23 simulation schemes are designed, and simulation analysis is carried out using QSIM simulation software platform. According to the simulation results of 23 schemes, the dynamic emergence process of safety behavior, safety psychology, and unsafe state of coal mine workers was sorted out from the aspects of different states and the intensity of different management measures, and the law of the effect of coal mine workers' safety psychology on safety behavior and safety state was obtained , revealing the interactive influence of coal mine workers' psychology on the unsafe state and the internal evolution mechanism of the emergent process. It is of great theoretical and practical significance for coal mine safety management to study the interaction of hazardous psychological states of coal mine workers and the dynamic generation mechanism of the emergence process of unsafe behaviors.
Investigating Mazon Creek fossil plants using computed tomography and microphotography
Authors: Herrera Fabiany , Hotton Carol L. , Smith Selena Y. , Lopera Paula A. , Neander April I. , Wittry Jack , Zheng Yuke , Heck Philipp R. , Crane Peter R. , D’Antonio Michael P.
Published: July 2023

More than 20,000 siderite concretions from the Mazon Creek area of northern Illinois, United States are housed in the paleobotanical collections of the Field Museum. A large proportion contain fossil plants of Middle Pennsylvanian age that often have excellent three-dimensional morphology and sometimes anatomical detail. Approximately eighty plant taxa have been recognized from the Mazon Creek Lagerstätte, but few have been studied in detail, and in some cases the systematic affinities of these fossils need reevaluation. The three-dimensional (3D) preservation of Mazon Creek fossil plants makes them ideal candidates for study using x-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT), and here we apply these techniques to more accurately reconstruct the morphology of specimens of Tetraphyllostrobus Gao et Zodrow and Crossotheca Zeiller. The mineralogical composition of the fossil plant preservation was studied using elemental maps and Raman spectroscopy. In-situ spores were studied with differential interference contrast, Airyscan confocal super-resolution microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, which reveal different features of the spores with different degrees of clarity. Our analyses show that μCT can provide excellent detail on the three-dimensional structure of Mazon Creek plant fossils, with the nature of associated mineralization sometimes enhancing and sometimes obscuring critical information. Results provide guidance for selecting and prioritizing fossil plant specimens preserved in siderite concretions for future research.
Increasing the reading ability of a student with dyslexia in elementary school: an explanatory case study by using family support, remedial teaching, and multisensory method
Authors: Tarjiah Indina , Supena Asep , Pujiastuti Sri Indah , Mulyawati Yuli
Published: July 2023

Dyslexia is a neurodevelopmental disorder that may lead to difficulties in reading and other language-related cognitive processes. Approximately 5 to 10% of students in public schools have this disorder, which requires specific learning strategies to improve their reading abilities. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the successful experiences of teachers in improving the reading ability of a student with dyslexia. To achieve this, a qualitative approach was used, with an explanatory case study method conducted in a public inclusive Elementary School located in Bogor City, Indonesia. This particular school was selected due to the presence of dyslexia and experienced teachers in handling students with disabilities. The participants comprised of four individuals, including a 3rd-grade student diagnosed with dyslexia, an experienced teacher, an assistant teacher, and parents of the diagnosed student. Furthermore, interviews were conducted with classroom teachers and the assistant, as well as parents. Document analysis and four-time classroom observation were also carried out to support the data. The result showed that there were four key factors in determining the success of reading in a student with dyslexia, namely (1) remedial teaching, (2) application of multisensory methods, (3) reading media use, and (4) parental support. It provided valuable insights for teachers dealing with the students with dyslexia, in order to improve their reading skills while considering the specific needs.
How the pandemic shaped teenagers’ views on violence: exploring the complexities of post-confinement attitudes
Authors: Rodríguez Juan Carlos , Rodríguez-Góngora Josefina , Rodríguez-Rodríguez José Antonio
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Violent extremism is a complex and urgent issue that affects all sectors of society and necessitates research aimed at preventing and transforming violent behavior.

Methods

This study presents the findings of a questionnaire comprising 34 items administered to 1,169 teenagers from two secondary schools in Almería and Madrid, Spain, immediately following the conclusion of COVID-19 confinement measures. The primary objective of the study is to analyze teenagers’ perspectives on violent extremism and pro-violent attitudes, along with their association with various factors such as digital consumption, interpersonal relationships, and the socio-demographic circumstances of their families. Data collection involved direct interventions with the students at the participating educational institutions.

Results

The findings demonstrate that variables such as gender, number of siblings, and religious practice influence violent extremism, whereas nationality does not emerge as a significant factor. Additionally, the study identifies several contributing factors to the prevalence of extremist and pro-violent attitudes, and employs a moderation analysis utilizing the mother’s level of education as a moderator variable.

Discussion

Based on these results, the study recommends further research to enhance our understanding of the development of violent attitudes and behaviors. Additionally, it suggests implementing family and personal support programs aimed at fostering healthy adolescent development.
Gamified dances, digital and socio-emotional skills in collaborative virtual environments of university students surviving the Covid-19 virus
Authors: Holguin-Alvarez Jhon , Cruz-Montero Juana
Published: July 2023

The use of virtual dance avatars and virtual learning guides has enabled gamified dance teaching to virtualize the current university. In this experience, the objective was to test four hypotheses about the gamified dance developed in collaborative Zoom environments, and its effects on the digital and socioemotional skills of individuals who were severely or moderately infected by the Covid-19 virus between the years 2020 and 2022. We worked with 119 students and eight teachers from the Professional School of Primary Education of a private university in the city of Lima (Peru). An experimental design with pre and post-test was applied and Likert-type scales were used for data collection. The experience with gamified dances took place over four weeks in a dance competition at the university. The results allow us to assert that gamified dances developed digital skills, emotional skills, as well as socioemotional skills. These skills differ between the experimental group and the control group, with the exception of digital security skills, and the ability to improve self-esteem, which are skills that require more body practice as was achieved in the experimental group (dance virtual), which was also developed in the students of the control group (face-to-face dance).
Composition of the intestinal microbiota and its variations between the second and third trimesters in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and without gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liu Nana , Sun Yin , Wang Yaxin , Ma Liangkun , Zhang Suhan , Lin Hang
Published: July 2023

Objective

This study was designed to explore the composition of the intestinal microbiota and its longitudinal variation between the second trimester (T2) and the third trimester (T3) in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance.

Methods

This observational study was conducted at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). Women with GDM and pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance were enrolled in the study, and fecal samples were collected during T2 (weeks 24~28) and T3 (weeks 34~38). Fecal samples were analyzed from 49 women with GDM and 42 pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance. The 16S rRNA gene amplicon libraries were sequenced to analyze the microbiota and QIIME2 was used to analyze microbiome bioinformatics.

Results

The four dominant phyla that Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria which accomplish about 99% of the total relative abundance did not significantly change between the T2 and T3 in the GDM and healthy groups. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Scardovia (0 vs. 0.25%, P = 0.041) and Propionibacterium (0 vs. 0.29%, P = 0.041) increased significantly in the control group, but not in the GDM group. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria was significantly different between women with GDM and pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance in both T2 and T3. In T2 and T3, the relative abundances of unidentified_Lachnospiraceae, Blautia, and Parabacteroides were significantly higher in the GDM group than in the control group (P<0.05). The relative abundance of Bifidobacterium in the GDM group was lower than in the control group in both T2 and T3.

Conclusions

The intestinal microbiota composition was stable from T2 to T3 in the GDM and control groups; however, the intestinal microbiota composition was different between the two groups.
The global, regional and national burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus in the past, present and future: a systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Ye Junjun , Wu Yixi , Yang Shuhui , Zhu Dan , Chen Fengwu , Chen Jingxian , Ji Xiaoxia , Hou Kaijian
Published: July 2023

Aim

To report the global, regional, and national burden of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in 2019, assess its trends in the past, and forecast its trends in the future.

Methods

The main data source was the Global Burden of Disease 2019 database. We assessed the changes in T2DM burden from 1990 to 2019 with joinpoint regression analysis. Age-period-cohort analysis was used to forecast the T2DM incidence and mortality rate from 2020 to 2034.

Results

The burden of T2DM has increased from 1990 to 2019 generally. The low-middle socio-demographic index (SDI) region had the highest increase in age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (ASDR) due to T2DM. Nationally, the increase in ASIR (r=0.151, p=0.046) and the decrease in ASMR (r=0.355, p<0.001) were positively correlated with SDIs. In 2019, the global ASIR, ASPR, ASMR, ASDR due to T2DM were 259.9 (95% UI 240.3-281.4), 5282.9 (95% UI 4853.6-5752.1), 18.5 (95% UI 17.2-19.7), and 801.5 (95% UI 55477000-79005200) per 100,000 population, respectively. Additionally, the ASIR (r=0.153, p=0.030) and ASPR (r=0.159, p=0.024) of T2DM were positively correlated with SDIs, while ASMR (r=-0.226, p=0.001) and ASDR (r=-0.171, p=0.015) due to T2DM were negatively correlated with SDIs. The ASIR was estimated to increase to 284.42, and ASMR was estimated to increase to 19.1 from 2030 to 2034, per 100,000 population.

Conclusion

Globally, the burden of T2DM has increased in the past and was forecast to continue increasing. Greater investment in T2DM prevention is needed.
Rapid weight gain in early life is associated with central precocious puberty in girls, not in boys - a nationwide population-based study in Korea
Authors: Choe Yunsoo , Cha Jong Ho , Kim Yun Jin , Choi Jinjoo , Lee Kyeongmi , Kim Nayoung , Na Jae Yoon , Yang Seung
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the effect of rapid weight gain (RWG) on the incidence of central precocious puberty (CPP) using nationwide population-based data.

Methods

A total of 253,967 children (101,841 boys and 152,126 girls) who underwent regular health consultations under the National Health Insurance Service from 2007 to 2010 were followed up until the age of 10 years for boys and 9 years for girls. We calculated differences in the weight Z-scores from 4–6 months to 9–12 months (infancy) and from 9–12 months to 18–24 months or 30–36 months (toddlerhood) using the lambda-mu-sigma method. The population was subdivided into four groups: RWGinf/tod (infancy > + 0.67 standard deviation score [SDS], toddlerhood > 0 SDS), RWGinf (infancy > + 0.67 SDS, toddlerhood < 0 SDS), RWGtod (toddlerhood > + 0.67 SDS), and control (no RWG). The diagnosis of CPP was based on the diagnostic codes of the International Classification of Diseases 10th revision and the prescription of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists. The cumulative risk of CPP based on age was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves, and the association between the RWG groups and CPP was assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

CPP was diagnosed in 268 boys and 9,225 girls. For the girls, the CPP-free probability was the highest in the control group, followed by the RWGtod, RWGinf, and RWGinf/tod groups (log-rank p < 0.001). However, the incidence of CPP did not vary significantly for the boys. Compared to the control group, the other groups had a higher risk of CPP in girls (RWGinf/tod: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.35, 95%, confidence interval [95% CI] 1.13–1.62; RWGinf: aOR 1.25, 95% CI 1.13–1.38; and RWGtod: aOR 1.18, 95% CI 1.09–1.28).

Conclusions

This nationwide population-based study demonstrated that any RWG from birth to 3 years of age contributed to an increased risk of CPP in girls but not in boys. Girls who experienced RWG during both infancy and toddlerhood had the highest risk of developing CPP. These findings suggest that early detection and appropriate management of excessive weight gain in early life may be important for preventing CPP in girls.
Promising therapeutic mechanism for Chinese herbal medicine in ameliorating renal fibrosis in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Wang Shengju , Qin Shuai , Cai Baochao , Zhan Jihong , Chen Qiu
Published: July 2023

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the most serious chronic microvascular abnormalities of diabetes mellitus and the major cause of uremia. Accumulating evidence has confirmed that fibrosis is a significant pathological feature that contributes to the development of chronic kidney disease in DN. However, the exact mechanism of renal fibrosis in DN is still unclear, which greatly hinders the treatment of DN. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has shown efficacy and safety in ameliorating inflammation and albuminuria in diabetic patients. In this review, we outline the underlying mechanisms of renal fibrosis in DN, including oxidative stress (OS) generation and OS-elicited ASK1-p38/JNK activation. Also, we briefly summarize the current status of CHM treating DN by improving renal fibrosis. The treatment of DN by inhibiting ASK1 activation to alleviate renal fibrosis in DN with CHM will promote the discovery of novel therapeutic targets for DN and provide a beneficial therapeutic method for DN.
Production of optical pure L-lactic acid from Cabernet Sauvignon grape pomace by engineered Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Authors: Shen Yuli , Kang Bohua , Lu Yi , Du Xinyuan , Qin Chuan , Li Jing , Zhao Zhaoer , Yu Ran , Shi Suan , Han Lujia
Published: July 2023

Cabernet Sauvignon grape pomace contains carbohydrates and various amino acids that could be used as substrates for lactic acid (LA) production. In this study, a mutant strain of L. plantarum with deletion of the D-lactate synthesis gene was developed and used to produce optical pure L-LA from grape pomace. The highest optical purity of the L-LA produced by this mutant strain was 99.61%. The direct bioconversion of the raw substrate showed a low LA yield. Several pretreatment methods were applied to improve the LA yield, including ball milling, hydrothermal, dilute acid pretreatment, alkaline pretreatment, and combined wet alkaline mechanical pretreatment. Due to the efficient delignification, alkaline pretreatment achieved the highest lactic acid yield of 96.26% at 15% solid loading, with corresponding LA concentration and volumetric productivity of 18.45 g/L and 2.30 g/L·h, respectively.
Investigating fracture initiation and propagation in deep buried shale due to thermal shock: a numerical approach
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhao Peng , Liao Yisha , Zhang Yuelei , Peng Jiao , Xian Hongyu , Liu Jun
Published: July 2023

As the burial depth of shale exploitation increases, it is challenge to form fracture networks through hydraulic fracturing technology. When cryogenic fluid contacts with hot rock, heat exchange process occurs and temperature gradient is generated at the rock surface, resulting in thermal stress. Once the thermal stress exceeds the tensile strength, the fractures are generated. To study the initiation and propagation of fractures induced by thermal shock, a thermal-mechanical (TM) coupled two-dimensional model is developed in the paper. To simulate the heat exchange process, the heat convective boundary is applied in the surface between the fluid and the rock. In addition, the initiation and propagation of fractures are described by the cohesive zone model. The accuracy and reliability of the numerical model is validated by an existing analytical solution. Under the thermal shock, the temperature at the contact surface drops quickly. The stress distribution is determined by the temperature variation. The variations of temperature and stress are greatly affected by the heat exchange coefficient. With the fractures embedded in the model, the initiation and propagation of fractures are analysed. The multi-fracture propagation induced by thermal shock exhibits competition effect. With the propagation of fractures, the stress distribution in the rock changes. The heat exchange coefficient has a significant effect on fracture initiation and propagation, presenting more fractures generation in the larger coefficient.
The persistence of snow on the ground affects the shape of streamflow hydrographs over space and time: a continental-scale analysis
Authors: Le Edward , Janssen Joseph , Hammond John , Ameli Ali A.
Published: July 2023

Snow persistence (SP) is a widely available remotely-sensed measure of snowpack accumulation and ablation, reflecting the duration of snow presence on the ground in a given year. Available local-scale studies showed that SP is associated with the average magnitude of streamflow. However, despite the intuitive relationship between SP and catchment storage/release functioning, the spatial and temporal links between the persistence of snow on the ground and the shape and functionality of streamflow hydrographs were not studied empirically and were not generalized to diverse climatic settings. This study empirically explores the spatial and temporal links that SP has with measures of hydrograph shape and variability during low-flow and high-flow conditions across continent-wide gradients of aridity and seasonality. In arid in-phase and wet out-of-phase climates, higher SP is spatially associated with a damper (i.e., less flashy) streamflow hydrograph during low-flow and high-flow conditions. This is shown by a larger ratio of baseflow to average flow, a larger ratio of extreme low-flow to average flow, lower low-flow variability, and lower high-flow variability. While SP is spatially associated with a damped hydrograph in both arid/in-phase and wet/out-of-phase climates, this effect is stronger in the former region. For example, the size of the nonlinear impact of SP on reducing low-flow and high-flow variabilities is larger in arid in-phase climates (−7.64, −3.44, respectively) than in wet out-of-phase climates (−4.34, −2.02, respectively). Temporal analyses for “typical snow-rich” catchments show that years with relatively higher SP may lead to relatively flashier streamflow hydrographs, with lower baseflow indices, lower ratios of extreme low-flow to average flow, higher ratios of extreme high-flow to average flow and higher high-flow variability. Such results 1) demonstrate the utility of SP as a globally available descriptor of streamflow hydrograph shape and variability in a wide diversity of climatic conditions, 2) highlight that climate-driven snow loss may lead to substantial changes to hydrograph form and functionality, and 3) indicate that space-time symmetry may not be a valid assumption in hydrology.
Improving prediction accuracy for acid sulfate soil mapping by means of variable selection
Authors: Estévez Virginia , Mattbäck Stefan , Boman Anton , Beucher Amélie , Björk Kaj-Mikael , Österholm Peter
Published: July 2023

Acid sulfate soils can cause environmental damage and geotechnical problems when drained or exposed to oxidizing conditions. This makes them one of the most harmful soils found in nature. In order to reduce possible damage derived from this type of soil, it is fundamental to create occurrence maps showing their localization. Nowadays, occurrence maps can be created using machine learning techniques. The accuracy of these maps depends on two factors: the dataset and the machine learning method. Previously, different machine learning methods were evaluated for acid sulfate soil mapping. To improve the precision of the acid sulfate soil probability maps, in this qualitative modeling study we have added more environmental covariates (17 in total). Since a greater number of covariates does not necessarily imply an improvement in the prediction, we have selected the most relevant environmental covariates for the classification and prediction of acid sulfate soils. For this, we have applied eleven different variable selection methods. The predictive abilities of each group of selected variables have been analyzed using Random Forest and Gradient Boosting. We show that the selection of each environmental covariate as well as the relationship between them are extremely important for an accurate prediction of acid sulfate soils. Among the variable selection methods analyzed, Random Forest stands out, as it is the one that has best selected the relevant covariates for the classification of these soils. Furthermore, the combination of two variable selection methods can improve the prediction of the model. Contrary to the general belief, a low correlation between the covariates does not guarantee a good performance of the model. In general, Random Forest has given better results in the prediction than Gradient Boosting. From the best results obtained, an acid sulfate soils occurrence map has been created. Compared with previous studies in the same area, variable selection has improved the accuracy by 15%–17% for the models based on Random Forest. The present study confirms the importance of variable selection for the prediction of acid sulfate soils.
Urbanization causes shifts in the functional traits and foraging activity, and alters food particle size preference and biomass removal of urban-dwelling ants
Authors: Chen Yuan-Hung , Neoh Kok-Boon
Published: July 2023

Urbanization may lead to changes in assemblage and result in shifts in trait distribution from natural habitats to highly urbanized habitats. The shift in functional traits can affect ecosystem functions in urban areas. This study explored the foraging period of ants over 72 h and determined the relationship between the behavioral, morphological, and physiological traits of local foragers ants and environmental conditions in urban and forest sites. In addition, this study examined the ants’ ecosystem functions and compared it with that of their forest counterparts. Our results revealed that the foraging period of ants (i.e., Cardiocondyla sp.1, Monomorium chinense, Paratrechina longicornis, Pheidole megacephala, and Solenopsis sp.1) in urban areas peaked between 0900 and 1500 and that of some ants (i.e., Carebara diversa, P. megacephala, Pheidole fervens, Plagiolepis longwang, and Nylanderia sp.1) in forest areas was constant over time. For urban ants, a weak correlation was observed between foraging period and body size traits (i.e., Weber’s length and head width). This finding indicates that the major factor underlying the change in the foraging period might not be related to body size. Rather, the change may be attributed to synchronization between food availability and human activity (waste disposal; i.e., between 0900 and 1800). The shift in the functional traits of ants affects ecosystem functions in urban areas. In urban areas, although only one predatory ant species (P. megacephala) was sampled, its activity density was high. Most of these individuals were active during the daytime, indicating that the predatory behavior of ants in the novel urban environment has decreased temporally and is limited to the daytime. Urban ants tended to choose smaller food particles, whereas forest ants preferred larger food particles and had a twofold higher food removal rate.
Spatial variation of perceived equity and its determinants in a gateway community of Giant Panda National Park, China
Authors: Li Qingyu , Huang Junlong , Zhang Yin , Gu Guangcan , Brockington Dan
Published: July 2023

Social equity is essential in the governance of protected areas (PAs), as ignoring such consideration can lead to resistance and jeopardize conservation objectives. However, more research is required to understand the spatial heterogeneity of perceived social equity and its underlying spatial factors. Using a survey of 361 respondents, we presented spatial distribution patterns of perceived equity by kernel density estimation (KDE) in Giant Panda National Park, China. The regression analysis showed that local residents who live closer to the PA boundary are more likely to develop negative responses and those who with easy access to tourism spots have more positive procedural and distributional perceptions. Notably, the proximity to the PA authority decreases locals’ perceptions of fairness in all aspects, which is potentially due to the opaque participative channels provided by the PA authority. We argue that those spatial differentials in fairness perceptions are driven by the intrinsic discrepancy of biodiversity protection requirements and the unevenly distributed consequences of management policies. Key steps to advance social equity considerations include multi-industry guidance, extending participative channels, and co-producing better compensation plans. Herein, this study appeals to a greater focus on the spatial aspect of social equity issues in PAs.
Far-reaching effects on soil properties and underground microbial ecosystem after the introduction of black locusts in forest
Authors: Zhang Lili , Li Hua , Wu Cuihua , Linghu Gaoman , Zhu Hengchen , Khamphilavong Khambay , Li Meng , Zhou Xiaoqiang , Ma Gangzhen , Kang Yongxiang
Published: July 2023

Black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.), a common woody afforestation species, may threaten native biodiversity and ecosystems. Its invasive nature has not been examined in Asia, and links between aboveground and underground ecosystems have been inadequately established. Here, to figure out its effect on native ecosystems along the afforestation chronosequence, we selected three age class mixed forests of Robinia pseudoacacia/Platycladus orientalis stands (M7, M13, and M23) and a pure native forest of Platycladus orientalis stands (P0) as the control group on the Loess Plateau in China. The results exhibited that Black locust significantly increased the shrub diversity by 23.24%, herb richness by 10.79%, total carbon by 6.14%, organic carbon by 16.05%, and total nitrogen by 36.24% in 13 years of introduction. While the decrease in the diversity and richness of shrubs and herbs, soil pH, and total phosphorus emerged after the introduction of 13 years. Despite the increasing richness and diversity of soil bacteria, total phosphorus was inferred to be a limiting factor for microbes after 23 years. The partial least squares path models showed strong correlations and remarkable aboveground–underground associations. Moreover, vegetation, the main driving force, had the most decisive influence on soil properties and microbial communities. Taken together, these results will contribute to assessments and management of black locust plantations and provide insights into the biological invasion and aboveground–underground theories.
Endoscopic reversal of roux-en-Y gastric bypass prevents worsening of nutritional outcomes in patients with severe malnutrition
Authors: Dutta Nirjhar , Scott Adam W. , Marka Nicholas A. , Wise Eric S. , Amateau Stuart K.
Published: July 2023

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) can precipitate protein-calorie malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Sonographically guided endoscopic reversal (ER) via deployment of a stent from the gastric pouch to the remnant stomach in RYGB anatomy has emerged as a novel option for increasing both intestinal transit time and absorptive surface area. In this investigation, short-term nutritional outcomes after ER of a RYGB in patients (age ≥ 18) with severe protein-calorie malnutrition from a single academic health center in Minneapolis, Minnesota over a seven-year period (2015-2021) were retrospectively reviewed pre-procedurally, and at six and twelve months post-procedurally. 17 patients underwent ER for severe protein-calorie malnutrition, or dependence on tube feeds (TF) or total parenteral nutrition (TPN). At 6 months post-ER, two patients were no longer malnourished and only on oral nutrition; three patients were liberated from TPN. Laboratory markers of protein-calorie malnutrition, renal function, and micronutrients were not significantly different at six- or twelve-month follow-up (P > 0.05). In all patients, access to the gastric remnant was maintained via stent placement through the gastric pouch or proximal Roux limb throughout the study period and no complications were noted after ER. Despite the small sample size, this investigation revealed that ER of RYGB may prevent progressive deleterious weight loss, and worsening macro- and micro-nutrient deficiencies, though improvement in weight and nutritional parameters was not observed. Overall, ER was found to be a nuanced and safe, advanced technique useful for when remnant access is desired in RYGB patients.
Persistent and transient olfactory deficits in COVID-19 are associated to inflammation and zinc homeostasis
Authors: Lupi Lorenzo , Bordin Anna , Sales Gabriele , Colaianni Davide , Vitiello Adriana , Biscontin Alberto , Reale Alberto , Garzino-Demo Alfredo , Antonini Angelo , Ottaviano Giancarlo , Mucignat Carla , Parolin Cristina , Calistri Arianna , De Pittà Cristiano
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is mainly a respiratory syndrome that can affect multiple organ systems, causing a variety of symptoms. Among the most common and characteristic symptoms are deficits in smell and taste perception, which may last for weeks/months after COVID-19 diagnosis owing to mechanisms that are not fully elucidated.

Methods

In order to identify the determinants of olfactory symptom persistence, we obtained olfactory mucosa (OM) from 21 subjects, grouped according to clinical criteria: i) with persistent olfactory symptoms; ii) with transient olfactory symptoms; iii) without olfactory symptoms; and iv) non-COVID-19 controls. Cells from the olfactory mucosa were harvested for transcriptome analyses.

Results and discussion

RNA-Seq assays showed that gene expression levels are altered for a long time after infection. The expression profile of micro RNAs appeared significantly altered after infection, but no relationship with olfactory symptoms was found. On the other hand, patients with persistent olfactory deficits displayed increased levels of expression of genes involved in the inflammatory response and zinc homeostasis, suggesting an association with persistent or transient olfactory deficits in individuals who experienced SARS-CoV-2 infection.