bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CO2-Water-Rock Interaction and Pore Structure Evolution of the Tight Sandstones of the Quantou Formation, Songliao Basin
Authors: Zhao Yue , Wu Songtao , Chen Yongjin , Yu Cong , Yu Zhichao , Hua Ganlin , Guan Modi , Lin Minjie , Yu Xiaobo
Published: December 2022

As an important part of carbon dioxide capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), the progress of injecting CO2 into oil reservoirs could increase the recovery rate and achieve large-scale carbon storage. It has become one of the most important carbon storage methods around the world. This paper selected the tight sandstone of the fourth member of the Quantou Formation in the southern Songliao Basin to carry out a CO2 storage physical simulation experiment. Representative samples were collected at 24 h, 72 h, 192 h and 432 h to study the CO2 water-rock interaction and to analyze the mineral composition, pore structure and the evolutionary characteristics of physical reservoir properties over time. Physical property analysis, Ion analysis, X-ray diffraction mineral analysis, QEMSCAN mineral analysis, scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution CT scanning techniques were adopted. The main points of understanding were: (i) It shows a differential evolution of different minerals following the storage time of CO2, and carbonate minerals are mainly dissolved with ankerite as a typical representation; a small amount of calcite is formed in 24 h, and dissolved in the later period; feldspar and quartz were partially dissolved; clay mineral precipitation blocked the pores and gaps; (ii) The evolution in mineral variation leads to the complexity of pore structure evolution, following a trend of “small pores decreasing and large pores increasing” with extending storage time. The final porosity and permeability ratios gradually increase from 4.07% to 21.31% and from 2.97% to 70.06% respectively; (iii) There is a negative correlation between the increasing ratio and the original physical properties of the tight stones due to the dissolution of ankerite. Relevant research could provide scientific guidance and technical support for the geological storage of CO2 in lacustrine tight continental sandstones and the development of CCUS technology.
Harmonic Source Location and Characterization Based on Permissible Current Limits by Using Deep Learning and Image Processing
Authors: Eslami Ahmadreza , Negnevitsky Michael , Franklin Evan , Lyden Sarah
Published: December 2022

Identification of harmonic sources contributing to harmonic distortion, and characterization of harmonic current injected by them, are crucial tasks in harmonic analysis of modern power systems. In this paper, these tasks are addressed based on the permissible current limits recommended by IEEE 519 Standard, with a determination of whether or not injected harmonics are within these limits. If limits are violated, the extent of the violations are characterized to provide information about harmonic current levels in the power system and facilitate remedial actions if necessary. A novel feature extraction method is proposed, whereby each set of harmonic measurements in a power system are transformed into a unique RGB image. Harmonic State Estimation (HSE) is discretized as a classification problem. Classifiers based on deep learning have been developed to subsequently locate and characterize harmonic sources. The approach has been demonstrated effectively both on the IEEE 14-bus system, and on a real transmission network where harmonics have been measured. A comparative study indicates that the proposed technique outperforms state-of-the-art techniques for HSE, including Bayesian Learning (BL), Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) and hybrid Genetic Algorithm Least Square (GALS) method in terms of accuracy and limited number of monitors.
Advancements in Thyroidectomy: A Mini Review
Authors: Kim Woochul , Lee Ja , Yu Hyeong , Choi June
Published: December 2022

Demand for minimally invasive surgery has driven the development of new gadgets and surgical techniques. Yet, questions about safety and skeptical views on new technology have prevented proliferation of new modes of surgery. This skepticism is perhaps due to unfamiliarity of new fields. Likewise, there are currently various remote-access techniques available for thyroid surgeons that only few regions in the world have adapted. This review will explore the history of minimally invasive techniques in thyroid surgery and introduce new technology to be implemented.
Analysis of the Alternative Splicing Events of Exogenous δ-Aminolevulinic Acid under NaCl Stress in Wild Jujube Seedlings
Authors: Zhu Chunmei , Liu Zhiyu , Chang Xinyi , Zhang Zhijun , Shi Wenchao , Zhang Zhongrong , Zhao Baolong , Sun Junli
Published: December 2022

Salt injury, as an abiotic stress factor, seriously affects the quality and yield of crops. This study was conducted by analyzing alternative splicing in the control (CK), δ-aminolevulinic acid (ALA), NaCl, and ALA + NaCl treatments of wild jujube (Zizyphus spinosus (Bunge)Hu) using RNA-seq. It was found that the unique differential alternative splicing is closely related to the alleviation of salt stress and the analyzed intermediates of chlorophyll synthesis and chlorophyll content in the leaves. The results showed that the content and synthesis of chlorophyll were reduced and disrupted in wild jujube leaves under NaCl stress, and the exogenous spraying of ALA could alleviate the effect of NaCl stress on the content of chlorophyll. RNA-seq indicated that the alternative splicing of genes was dominated by exon skipping in all the experimental treatments. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses revealed that the CK and ALA + NaCl comparison groups were primarily enriched in porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, chloroplast, and energy metabolism pathways. It is hypothesized that ALA treatment can alleviate the effects of salt stress on chlorophyll by altering the alternative splicing of genes related to photosynthesis, chlorophyll metabolism, and energy metabolism in wild jujube. In addition, the verification of alternative splicing genes related to chlorophyll metabolism in wild jujube revealed that treatment with ALA significantly upregulated the expression of HEMH, UROIII, and ChlD genes in the leaves under salt stress and increased the content of the chlorophyll biosynthetic intermediates endogenous ALA, porphobilinogen, protoporphyrin IX, Mg-protoporphyrin IX, and protochlorophyllide, which served to alleviate the effects of NaCl stress on chlorophyll in wild jujube.
Trade-Offs and Synergies between Plant Species Diversity and Water Retention Capacity of Pinus massoniana Plantation Community in Danjiangkou Reservoir Area
Authors: Li Siyao , Tang Zhiying , Zhang Ao , Wang Aihua , Qi Lianghua
Published: December 2022

In order to quantify the plant species diversity characteristics of Pinus massoniana plantations with different stand densities in the Danjiangkou reservoir area of Hubei Province and the relationship of their trade-offs and synergies with the water retention capacity in the reservoir area to give full play to the forest ecosystem services in the reservoir area and improve the level of sustainable management of plantations, we used the typical plot method, selected 35-year-old Pinus massoniana with low density (925–1000 plants·ha), medium density (1425–1625 plants·ha), and high density (2375–2525 plants·ha), and its community structure, species composition, and understory plant species diversity were studied, respectively, and the relationship of the trade-offs and synergies between the two services of water retention capacity and plant species diversity in Pinus massoniana plantations were calculated. We found that: (1) According to the survey statistics, there were 69 species of plants in the shrub and herb layers under forest including 32 species of shrubs and 37 species of herbs, belonging to 33 families and 62 genera. (2) The species richness of the shrub layer increased with the increase in the stand density, which was opposite in the herb layer. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index and Simpson dominance index of the shrub layer showed the regularity of high density > low density > medium density, while the herb layer decreased gradually with the increase in density. The Pielou evenness index of the shrub layer and herb layer was the highest in the high-density and medium-density stands, respectively. (3) Trunk flow, soil layer water storage and plant species diversity under medium and high density conditions, litter layer water storage and plant species diversity under low-medium density conditions showed synergistic relationships in the shrub layer and herb layer, everything else were trade-off relationships. As far as the Danjiangkou reservoir area is concerned, the low-density Pinus massoniana plantations have higher understory plant species diversity and more stable community structure, and there is a trade-off relationship between the water retention capacity and understory plant species diversity.
Internet Video Delivery Improved by Super-Resolution with GAN
Authors: Liborio Joao da Mata , Melo Cesar , Silva Marcos
Published: December 2022

In recent years, image and video super-resolution have gained attention outside the computer vision community due to the outstanding results produced by applying deep-learning models to solve the super-resolution problem. These models have been used to improve the quality of videos and images. In the last decade, video-streaming applications have also become popular. Consequently, they have generated traffic with an increasing quantity of data in network infrastructures, which continues to grow, e.g., global video traffic is forecast to increase from 75% in 2017 to 82% in 2022. In this paper, we leverage the power of deep-learning-based super-resolution methods and implement a model for video super-resolution, which we call VSRGAN+. We train our model with a dataset proposed to teach systems for high-level visual comprehension tasks. We also test it on a large-scale JND-based coded video quality dataset containing 220 video clips with four different resolutions. Additionally, we propose a cloud video-delivery framework that uses video super-resolution. According to our findings, the VSRGAN+ model can reconstruct videos without perceptual distinction of the ground truth. Using this model with added compression can decrease the quantity of data delivered to surrogate servers in a cloud video-delivery framework. The traffic decrease reaches 98.42% in total.
Automated and Rapid Easy-to-Use Magnetic Solid-Phase Extraction System for Five Heavy Metals in Cereals and Feeds
Authors: Tian Wei , Liu Yonglin , Wang Songxue , Ye Jin , Liu Hongmei , Wang Yue , Zhou Minghui
Published: December 2022

A rapid, accurate, and ecofriendly pretreatment plays an extremely important role prior to ICP-MS for heavy metal analysis. In order to improve the pretreatment efficiency, a high-throughput and automatic magnetic solid-phase extraction of five heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Mn, Cu, and Zn) was carried out by a magnet-controlled pretreatment system with an ecofriendly diluted acid as an extracting agent and carboxyl-functionalized magnetic beads as a pretreatment material. Key conditions, including the pH, adsorption time, and eluent solution, were optimized. The time for purification and enrichment was only 8 min. The adsorption capacities of the carboxyl-functionalized magnetic beads were in the range of 152~426 mg g−1. The preconcentration factor of Cu was 40, and others were 200. In the optimal conditions, the limits of detection for Mn, Zn, Cd, Cu, and Pb by ICP-MS were 3.84, 2.71, 0.16, 11.54, and 6.01 ng L−1, respectively. The percentage recoveries were in the range of 80~110%, and the relative standard deviations were less than 3%. The developed method was in good agreement with traditional standard microwave digestion. Additionally, the designed system could simultaneously process up to 24 samples within 22 min, reducing the time to less than 1 min/sample. Thus, the proposed auto-MSPE-ICP-MS method was successfully applied to analyze five heavy metals in cereals and feeds with a simple operation and high precision, safety, and reliability.
The Flavor Profiles of Highland Barley Fermented with Different Mushroom Mycelium
Authors: Wang Kai , Yang Cuicui , Dai Ziyan , Wen Zhenxiang , Liu Yin , Feng Xi , Liu Ying , Huang Wen
Published: December 2022

Highland barley was fermented with Cordyceps militaris, Stropharia rugoso-annulata, Morchella esculenta, Schizophyllum commune and Tremella sanguinea. The flavor profiles were investigated by electronic nose (E-nose), headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) and sensory evaluation by train panel. Fermentation with mushroom mycelium was able to change the aroma profile of highland barley. The original strong grassy taste was reduced due to a decrease in hexanal, decanal and 2-pentylfuran, and new aromatic flavors (floral, sweet and mushroom fragrance) were acquired after fermentation. The overall flavor of the fermented highland barley varied with mushroom strains. Schizophyllum commune gave a heavier sour taste to the fermented highland barley. However, fermentation with T. sanguinea increased the content of methyl 4-methoxybenzoate making the sample difficult to accepted. Fermentation with C. militaris, M. esculenta, and S. rugoso-annulata increased the volatile contents. The high levels of 1-octen-3-ol and esters gave a strong mushroom, oily and fruity flavor. Morchella esculenta showed the best performance and the highest acceptance in the fermented highland barley. Our results suggest that fermentation with mushroom mycelium can improve the flavor of highland barley, which provides an innovative utilization of highland barley.
Lactoferrin Inhibits the Development of T2D-Induced Colon Tumors by Regulating the NT5DC3/PI3K/AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Huiying , Yao Qianqian , Li Chaonan , Fan Linlin , Wu Haoming , Zheng Nan , Wang Jiaqi
Published: December 2022

Although increasing evidence shows the association between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and colorectal cancer, the related mechanism remains unclear. This study examined the suppressive effect of lactoferrin (LF) on the development of T2D-induced colon cancer. First, a co-cultured cell model consisting of NCM460 and HT29 cells was constructed to mimic the progression of T2D into colon cancer. The migration ability of NCM460 cells increased significantly (p < 0.05) after cultivation in HT29 cell medium (high glucose), while LF suppressed the progression of T2D to colon cancer by regulating the 5′-nucleotidase domain-containing 3 (NT5DC3) protein and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in diabetic BALB/c mice and in cell models. A mutation assay of the phosphorylation site in the NT5DC3 protein and a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) protein binding test were performed to further ascertain a mechanistic link between LF and the NT5DC3 protein. The results indicated that LF specifically bound to the NT5DC3 protein to activate its phosphorylation at the Thr6 and Ser11 sites. Next, metabolic-specific staining and localization experiments further confirmed that LF acted as a phosphate donor for NT5DC3 protein phosphorylation by regulating the downstream metabolic pathway in T2D-induced colon tumors, which was specifically accomplished by controlling Thr6/Ser11 phosphorylation in NT5DC3 and its downstream effectors. These data on LF and NT5DC3 protein may suggest a new therapeutic strategy for cancer prevention, especially in T2D patients susceptible to colon cancer.
Selenium-Based Drug Development for Antioxidant and Anticancer Activity
Authors: Debnath Sashi , Agarwal Abhijeet , Kumar Neha R. , Bedi Anjan
Published: December 2022

Selenium is one of the eight necessary trace elements humans require for active health balance. It contributes in several ways to the proper functioning of selenoprotein. Selenium has received enormous interest recently due to its therapeutic potential against a number of ailments. To date, numerous chemical compounds containing selenium have been investigated for the therapy of cancer and other disorders. Unifying the selenium atom into chemical components (typically organic) greatly increased their bioactivities. We foresee that the structure–property relationship of recently developed materials could significantly decrease the laborious work of background research to achieve target-oriented drug design in coming years. This review summarizes the research progress in the last 10 to 15 years and the application of selenium-containing compounds in the design and synthesis of those materials for potential antioxidant and anticancer agents.
Pantothenate and L-Carnitine Supplementation Improves Pathological Alterations in Cellular Models of KAT6A Syndrome
Authors: Munuera-Cabeza Manuel , Álvarez-Córdoba Mónica , Suárez-Rivero Juan , Povea-Cabello Suleva , Villalón-García Irene , Talaverón-Rey Marta , Suárez-Carrillo Alejandra , Reche-López Diana , Cilleros-Holgado Paula , Piñero-Pérez Rocío , Sánchez-Alcázar José
Published: December 2022

Mutations in several genes involved in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression have been considered risk alterations to different intellectual disability (ID) syndromes associated with features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Among them are the pathogenic variants of the lysine-acetyltransferase 6A (KAT6A) gene, which causes KAT6A syndrome. The KAT6A enzyme participates in a wide range of critical cellular functions, such as chromatin remodeling, gene expression, protein synthesis, cell metabolism, and replication. In this manuscript, we examined the pathophysiological alterations in fibroblasts derived from three patients harboring KAT6A mutations. We addressed survival in a stress medium, histone acetylation, protein expression patterns, and transcriptome analysis, as well as cell bioenergetics. In addition, we evaluated the therapeutic effectiveness of epigenetic modulators and mitochondrial boosting agents, such as pantothenate and L-carnitine, in correcting the mutant phenotype. Pantothenate and L-carnitine treatment increased histone acetylation and partially corrected protein and transcriptomic expression patterns in mutant KAT6A cells. Furthermore, the cell bioenergetics of mutant cells was significantly improved. Our results suggest that pantothenate and L-carnitine can significantly improve the mutant phenotype in cellular models of KAT6A syndrome.
Community-Based Participatory Research: Partnering with College Students to Develop a Tailored, Wellness-Focused Intervention for University Campuses
Authors: Barr Makenzie L. , McNamara Jade
Published: December 2022

College students face unique challenges with leading healthful lifestyles. Using a community-based participatory research approach, college student research partners at two land-grant universities collected data and developed a tailored intervention to improve the well-being of college students. To inform the design of the program, college students were trained to conduct a needs assessment that included a campus-wide survey on the health behaviors of college students, environmental audits of health policies and food pantries on campus, and stakeholder interviews with campus health professionals. Outcomes of the needs assessment data highlighted university students ranked their health as “good” but nutrition health as “fair/poor.” Low or very low food security was self-reported by 36.9% of participants and had an overall diet quality score of 47.6 ± 10.1 out of 100. Health professional interview data indicated campuses provide healthful resources to students, but students are not aware those resources exist. Utilizing the needs assessment data previously mentioned, the nominal group technique was then used for student research partners to collaboratively determine the best intervention approaches and develop a wellness program. Student partners identified (1) education, (2) sharing of campus resources, and (3) incentives as important areas of intervention. Using the data collected, the student research partners developed a program titled, The College Cooking Connection, to address health-related quality of life in college students. Using a community-based participatory research approach to program planning, educators and researchers have a greater likelihood of addressing the current needs of the population they are targeting and developing a successful intervention to meet those health concerns. This study aims to partner with young adult university students to understand the college environment and allow the target community to be involved with the development of intervention programs for their campus.
Exploring the Association between Neighborhood Blue Space and Self-Rated Health among Elderly Adults: Evidence from Guangzhou, China
Authors: Chen Yujie , Yuan Yuan , Zhou Yuquan
Published: December 2022

Blue spaces is associated with self-rated health (SRH), but little is known about the pathways underlying this association among Chinese urban elderly individuals. Based on neighborhood effect theory, this study examined the relationship between neighborhood blue spaces and SRH among elderly individuals using data from a questionnaire survey conducted in Guangzhou, remote sensing images, street views, and environmental information in the context of a Chinese megacity. In addition, multilevel linear model and mediating effect model empirical analyses were performed. Results showed that first, the SRH of the elderly was associated with individual- and neighborhood-level factors. Second, the multilevel mediation model revealed that multiple biopsychosocial pathways existed between neighborhood blue spaces and the SRH of the elderly, specifically, the blue space characteristics related to the SRH of the elderly via the mediating effect of stress. Third, owing to demographic characteristics and socioeconomic status, the stratified analyses also indicated a strong association between neighborhood blue spaces and SRH outcomes in the older and low-income groups. The mediating effect of stress in the age and income groups was also observed, and the mediation pathways and group differences were confirmed in the context of Chinese cities. This research enriches the empirical literature on blue spaces and elderly health from a multidisciplinary perspective and suggests the need for “healthy neighborhood” and “health-aging” planning in Chinese settings.
Post-Stroke Experiences and Rehabilitation Needs of Community-Dwelling Chinese Stroke Survivors: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Chau Janita Pak Chun , Lo Suzanne Hoi Shan , Butt Laveeza , Liang Surui
Published: December 2022

Stroke survivors encounter significant limitations in daily life activities and face increased risk of health complications such as stroke recurrence. Considering the escalating demand for personalised community rehabilitation services, this qualitative study was conducted to understand the current recovery experiences, needs, and expectations of community-dwelling stroke survivors. Fifty stroke survivors were recruited from two tertiary teaching hospitals and community centres in two provinces in mainland China. Semi-structured interviews were carried out, and participants were asked to describe their experiences of stroke, current lifestyles, exercise habits, and rehabilitation needs and expectations. Resulting data were thematically analysed. The majority of participants were first-time stroke survivors (80%) and lived with their family or caregivers (92%). Four main themes and twelve sub-themes emerged from the data: (1) shifts in social life, (2) shaken sense of self and perceived helplessness, (3) complex rehabilitation needs, and (4) perceptions and patterns of physical activity. Findings suggest that though survivors recognised their need for further rehabilitation, their demands remained unmet due to a combination of personal and external factors such as limited mobility and the absence of supportive companions and accessible facilities. The enhancement and diversification of home rehabilitation strategies are therefore necessary to make community rehabilitation more accessible and equitable.
The Relationship between Social Participation and Subjective Well-Being among Older People in the Chinese Culture Context: The Mediating Effect of Reciprocity Beliefs
Authors: He Xinyu , Shek Daniel T. L. , Du Wenbin , Pan Yangu , Ma Yin
Published: December 2022

It is demonstrated that the subjective well-being (SWB) of older people greatly relies on their social participation. However, there are few studies on reciprocity beliefs as a mediating mechanism between social participation and SWB. In this study, 297 participants aged 60 and over in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, completed a questionnaire of social participation, reciprocity beliefs, and SWB. We used multiple linear regression and mediation analyses to verify the mediating effect of reciprocity beliefs. Results showed that social participation was positively relative to SWB and reciprocity beliefs, and reciprocity beliefs played an intermediary role in social participation and SWB. These findings suggest the importance of social participation for SWB, with reciprocity beliefs (behaviors) playing a positive mediating role, particularly in China. In conclusion, analysis of the mediating effect of reciprocity beliefs provides us with knowledge that could help in achieving a healthy old age. Additionally, this study opens up new perspectives of research.
Consumers’ Attitudes towards Animal Suffering: A Systematic Review on Awareness, Willingness and Dietary Change
Authors: Fonseca Rui Pedro , Sanchez-Sabate Ruben
Published: December 2022

Planetary and human health depend on Westerners’ ability to reduce meat consumption. Meat production degrades the environment while excessive meat intake is associated with cancer and cardiovascular disease, among others. Effective reasons and motivations are needed for consumers to change their diet. The fact that modern animal agriculture inflicts a great deal of pain on animals from their birth to their slaughter, animal welfare/suffering may drive consumers to curtail their meat consumption. This systematic review examined a total of 90 papers to ascertain consumers’ awareness of the pain animals experience in animal agriculture, as well as consumer attitudes towards meat reduction due to animal welfare. Results show that consumers have low awareness of animal agriculture. Awareness of animal agricultural practices and animal sentience is associated with increased negative attitudes towards animal suffering. Animal suffering due to farming practices, transportation, slaughter, and animal sentience are factors that may encourage a reduction in meat consumption, and even dietary change in the short term. There is also evidence that animal suffering may be a more compelling motivation for consumers’ willingness to change their diet than for health or environmental reasons. Therefore, increasing consumers’ awareness of animal suffering in meat production is paramount to contributing to reduced pressure on the environment and improved human health.
Does Appearance Matter during Pregnancy? A Cross-Sectional Study of Body Satisfaction from Pre-Pregnancy to Late Gestation
Authors: Dalhaug Emilie Mass , Haakstad Lene Annette Hagen
Published: December 2022

Few studies have explored the associations between body satisfaction and physical activity and weight gain during pregnancy, and none have been conducted in Scandinavia. Hence, the aim of the present study was to evaluate changes in body satisfaction from pre-pregnancy to late pregnancy and investigate whether this differed according to parity. We also wanted to explore the association between body satisfaction and physical activity and weight gain among pregnant women in Norway. This cross-sectional survey used an electronic questionnaire to assess physical activity level, weight gain and women’s satisfaction with body weight and size. In total, 150 pregnant women answered the questionnaire. Related-samples Wilcoxon signed rank tests, Mann–Whitney U tests and chi-square tests were used to answer our research questions. The proportion of women who were dissatisfied with their body weight and shape increased from pre-pregnancy to late gestation (body weight p = 0.030 and body shape p = 0.040). Body dissatisfaction before and during pregnancy was linked to weight gain above recommendations. Characterising oneself as physically active prior to pregnancy was associated with satisfaction with body shape pre-pregnancy. Given that mothers strongly influence how a child will judge their body later in life, the results of this study underline the importance of addressing these issues during pregnancy.
Correction: Standen et al. Aboriginal Population and Climate Change in Australia: Implications for Health and Adaptation Planning. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 7502
Authors: Standen Jeffrey C. , Spencer Jessica , Lee Grace W. , Van Buskirk Joe , Matthews Veronica , Hanigan Ivan , Boylan Sinead , Jegasothy Edward , Breth-Petersen Matilde , Morgan Geoffrey G.
Published: December 2022

In the original publication [...]
I Am a Mother Because I Wanted to—I Am a Grandmother Because Others See Me That Way—Motherhood as a Critical Life Event for Ageing Women
Authors: Błachnio Aleksandra , Kuryś-Szyncel Karolina
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyse women’s perceptions of their transition to motherhood in the late decades of their female adulthood. The research problem was whether and to what extent the meaning of the transition to motherhood changes for women from different birth cohorts. Our sample included mothers from two generational cohorts: 50 women in middle adulthood (M = 47.66), and 52 women in late adulthood (M = 69.35). The results were analysed using qualitative data analysis methods, including frequency analysis and qualitative narrative analysis. Based on the analyses, the category of transition to motherhood was found to be a standard feature for all the women studied in middle and late adulthood. In both older generations, some women recalled the birth of their first child as a coping with change. Indicators of criticality were extracted from their narratives: potential bivalence, the unpredictability of consequences, and longevity of life changes. The results showed that the generation of women in late adulthood exhibited significantly fewer difficulties related to their own motherhood. The semantic dominant of the narratives studied is motherhood as taking responsibility for another person.
Do Vibrant Places Promote Active Living? Analyzing Local Vibrancy, Running Activity, and Real Estate Prices in Beijing
Authors: Lai Yuan , Li Jiatong , Zhang Jiachen , Yan Lan , Liu Yifeng
Published: December 2022

Although extensive research has investigated urban vibrancy as a critical indicator for spatial planning, urban design, and economic development, the unclear relationship between local vibrancy and active living needs to be clarified and requires more in-depth analysis. This study localizes urban vibrancy at both hyper-local and neighborhood scales by integrating high-resolution, large-scale, and heterogeneous urban datasets and analyzing interactions among variables representing vibrancy’s environmental, economic, and social aspects. We utilize publicly available urban open data, Points of Interest requested from API, and leisure running trajectories acquired through data mining to investigate the spatial distribution of various vibrancy indicators and how they interact with physical activity at the local scale. Based on these variables, we then construct linear regression models and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) models to test and estimate how local vibrancy and physical activity relate to residential real estate characteristics. The results reveal the strong impact of urban form on local vibrancy but not physical activeness. At the neighborhood level, all vibrancy factors are statistically significant to local residential real estate prices but with different interactions based on location. Our study highlights the importance of accounting for locality and different physical, environmental, social, and economic factors when analyzing and interpreting urban vibrancy at a granular scale within a city.
Integrative Effects between a Bubble and Seal Program and Workers’ Compliance to Health Advice on Successful COVID-19 Transmission Control in a Factory in Southern Thailand
Authors: Kongkamol Chanon , Ingviya Thammasin , Chusri Sarunyou , Surasombatpattana Smonrapat , Kwanyuang Atichart , Chaichulee Sitthichok , Sophark Intouch , Seesong Chaiwat , Sorntavorn Thanawan , Detpreechakul Tanyawan , Phaiboonpornpong Pindanunant , Krainara Kamol , Sathirapanya Pornchai , Sathirapanya Chutarat
Published: December 2022

Applying health measures to prevent COVID-19 transmission caused disruption of businesses. A practical plan to balance public health and business sustainability during the pandemic was needed. Herein, we describe a “Bubble and Seal” (B&S) program implemented in a frozen seafood factory in southern Thailand. We enrolled 1539 workers who lived in the factory dormitories. First, the workers who had a high fatality risk were triaged by RT-PCR tests, quarantined and treated if they had COVID-19. Newly diagnosed or suspected COVID-19 workers underwent the same practices. The non-quarantined workers were regulated to work and live in their groups without contact across the groups. Workers’ personal hygiene and preventive measures were strongly stressed. Between the 6th and 9th weeks of the program, the post-COVID-19 infection status (PCIS) of all participants was evaluated by mass COVID-19 antibody or RT-PCR tests. Finally, 91.8% of the workers showed positive PCIS, which was above the number required for program exit. Although no workers had received a vaccination, there was only one case of severe COVID-19 pneumonia, and no evidence of COVID-19 spreading to the surrounding communities. Implementation of the B&S program and workers’ adherence to health advice was the key to this success.
Urban Flood Risk Assessment Based on Dynamic Population Distribution and Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Chen Hao , Xu Zongxue , Liu Yang , Huang Yixuan , Yang Fang
Published: December 2022

Floods are one of the most common natural disasters that can cause considerable economic damage and loss of life in many regions of the world. Urban flood risk assessment is important for urban flood control, disaster reduction, and risk management. In this study, a novel approach for assessing urban flood risk was proposed based on the dynamic population distribution, improved entropy weight method, fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method, and the principle of maximum membership, and the spatial distribution of flood risk in four different sessions or daily time segments (TS1–TS4) in the northern part of the Shenzhen River Basin (China) was assessed using geographic information system technology. Results indicated that risk levels varied with population movement. The areas of highest risk were largest in TS1 and TS3, accounting for 7.03% and 7.07% of the total area, respectively. The areas of higher risk were largest in TS2 and TS4, accounting for 4.54% and 4.64% of the total area, respectively. The findings of this study could provide a theoretical basis for assessing urban flood risk management measures in Shenzhen (and even throughout China), and a scientific basis for development of disaster prevention and reduction strategies by flood control departments.
Evaluation Method of Equalization of Basic Medical Services from the Spatial Perspective: The Case of Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhan Liang , Li Nana , Li Chune , Sang Xuejia , Ma Jun
Published: December 2022

Protecting residents’ health and improving equality are important goals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The recent outbreak of COVID-19 has placed a heavy burden on the medical systems of many countries and been disastrous for the low-income population of the world, which has further increased economic, health, and lifelong inequality in society. One way to improve the population’s health is to equalize basic medical services. A scientific evaluation of the status quo or the equalization of basic medical services (EBMS) is the basic prerequisite and an important basis for realizing the equitable allocation of medical resources. Traditional evaluation methods ignore the spatial characteristics of medical services, mostly using the indicator of equal weight evaluation, which restricts the objectivity of the evaluation results. Given this, this research proposes a set of EBMS evaluation methods from a spatial perspective and takes the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China (Xinjiang) as an example for studying the status quo of EBMS. This study puts forward a set of EBMS evaluation methods from a geospatial perspective and makes full use of spatial analysis and information theory techniques to construct a two-level evaluation indicator that takes into account the spatial characteristics of EBMS. The entropy weight method and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method have been used to reveal the current status quo of EBMS in Xinjiang to objectively reflect the differences in EBMS. When using the entropy and TOPSIS methods, the evaluation is always based on the data so that the results can more objectively reveal the medical resources available to the residents. Therefore, the government can realize a reasonable allocation of medical resources.
The Molecular Gut-Brain Axis in Early Brain Development
Authors: Muhammad Fahim , Fan Bufang , Wang Ruoxi , Ren Jiayan , Jia Shuhui , Wang Liping , Chen Zuxin , Liu Xin-An
Published: December 2022

Millions of nerves, immune factors, and hormones in the circulatory system connect the gut and the brain. In bidirectional communication, the gut microbiota play a crucial role in the gut-brain axis (GBA), wherein microbial metabolites of the gut microbiota regulate intestinal homeostasis, thereby influencing brain activity. Dynamic changes are observed in gut microbiota as well as during brain development. Altering the gut microbiota could serve as a therapeutic target for treating abnormalities associated with brain development. Neurophysiological development and immune regulatory disorders are affected by changes that occur in gut microbiota composition and function. The molecular aspects relevant to the GBA could help develop targeted therapies for neurodevelopmental diseases. Herein, we review the findings of recent studies on the role of the GBA in its underlying molecular mechanisms in the early stages of brain development. Furthermore, we discuss the bidirectional regulation of gut microbiota from mother to infant and the potential signaling pathways and roles of posttranscriptional modifications in brain functions. Our review summarizes the role of molecular GBA in early brain development and related disorders, providing cues for novel therapeutic targets.
Light Emission from M-Type Enantiomer of 2,13-bis(hydroxymethyl)[7]-thiaheterohelicene Molecules Adsorbed on Au(111) and C60/Au(111) Surfaces Investigated by STM-LE
Authors: Krukowski Paweł , Hattori Takuma , Akai-Kasaya Megumi , Saito Akira , Osuga Hideji , Kuwahara Yuji
Published: December 2022

Light emission from the M-type enantiomer of a helicene derivative (2,13-bis(hydroxymethyl)[7]-thiaheterohelicene) adsorbed on the clean Au(111) and the C60-covered Au(111) surfaces were investigated by tunneling-current-induced light-emission technique. Plasmon-originated light emission was observed on the helicence/Au(111) surface and it was strongly suppressed on the area where the helicene molecules were adsorbed at the edges of the Au(111) terraces. To avoid luminescence quenching of excited helicene molecules and to suppress strong plasmon light emission from the Au(111) surface, C60 layers were used as decoupling buffer layers between helicene molecules and the Au(111) surface. Helicene molecules were adsorbed preferentially on the Au(111) surface rather than on the C60 buffer layers due to the small interaction of the molecules and C60 islands. This fact motivated us to deposit a multilayer of helicene molecules onto the C60 layers grown on the Au(111) surface, leading to the fact that the helicene/C60 multilayer showed strong luminescence with the molecules character. We consider that such strong light emission from the multilayer of helicene molecules has a plasmon origin strongly modulated by the molecular electronic states of (M)-[7]TH-diol molecules.
INO80 Is Required for the Cell Cycle Control, Survival, and Differentiation of Mouse ESCs by Transcriptional Regulation
Authors: Yoo Seonho , Lee Eun Joo , Thang Nguyen Xuan , La Hyeonwoo , Lee Hyeonji , Park Chanhyeok , Han Dong Wook , Uhm Sang Jun , Song Hyuk , Do Jeong Tae , Choi Youngsok , Hong Kwonho
Published: December 2022

Precise regulation of the cell cycle of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is critical for their self-maintenance and differentiation. The cell cycle of ESCs differs from that of somatic cells and is different depending on the cell culture conditions. However, the cell cycle regulation in ESCs via epigenetic mechanisms remains unclear. Here, we showed that the ATP-dependent chromatin remodeler Ino80 regulates the cell cycle genes in ESCs under primed conditions. Ino80 loss led to a significantly extended length of the G1-phase in ESCs grown under primed culture conditions. Ino80 directly bound to the transcription start site and regulated the expression of cell cycle-related genes. Furthermore, Ino80 loss induced cell apoptosis. However, the regulatory mechanism of Ino80 in differentiating ESC cycle slightly differed; an extended S-phase was detected in differentiating inducible Ino80 knockout ESCs. RNA-seq analysis of differentiating ESCs revealed that the expression of genes associated with organ development cell cycle is persistently altered in Ino80 knockout cells, suggesting that cell cycle regulation by Ino80 is not limited to undifferentiated ESCs. Therefore, our study establishes the function of Ino80 in ESC cycle via transcriptional regulation, at least partly. Moreover, this Ino80 function may be universal to other cell types.
Biocidal Activity of Tannic Acid-Prepared Silver Nanoparticles towards Pathogens Isolated from Patients with Exacerbations of Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Szaleniec Joanna , Gibała Agnieszka , Stalińska Joanna , Oćwieja Magdalena , Żeliszewska Paulina , Drukała Justyna , Szaleniec Maciej , Gosiewski Tomasz
Published: December 2022

The microbiome’s significance in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is unclear. Antimicrobials are recommended in acute exacerbations of the disease (AECRS). Increasing rates of antibiotic resistance have stimulated research on alternative therapeutic options, including silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). However, there are concerns regarding the safety of silver administration. The aim of this study was to assess the biological activity of tannic acid-prepared AgNPs (TA-AgNPs) towards sinonasal pathogens and nasal epithelial cells (HNEpC). The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) for pathogens isolated from patients with AECRS was approximated using the well diffusion method. The cytotoxicity of TA-AgNPswas evaluated using an MTT assay and trypan blue exclusion. A total of 48 clinical isolates and 4 reference strains were included in the study (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiellaoxytoca, Acinetobacter baumannii, Serratia marcescens, Enterobacter cloacae). The results of the studies revealed that the MIC values differed between isolates, even within the same species. All the isolates were sensitive to TA-AgNPs in concentrations non-toxic to human cells during 24 h exposition. However, 48 h exposure to TA-AgNPs increased toxicity to HNEpC, narrowing their therapeutic window and enabling 19% of pathogens to resist the TA-AgNPs’ biocidal action. It was concluded that TA-AgNPs are non-toxic for the investigated eukaryotic cells after short-term exposure and effective against most pathogens isolated from patients with AECRS, but sensitivity testing may be necessary before application.
Heterozygote Dopamine Transporter Knockout Rats Display Enhanced Cocaine Locomotion in Adolescent Females
Authors: Pardo Marta , Martin Michele , Gainetdinov Raul R. , Mash Deborah C , Izenwasser Sari
Published: December 2022

Cocaine is a powerful psychostimulant that is one of the most widely used illicit addictive. The dopamine transporter (DAT) plays a major role in mediating cocaine’s reward effect. Decreases in DAT expression increase rates of drug abuse and vulnerability to comorbid psychiatric disorders. We used the novel DAT transgenic rat model to study the effects of cocaine on locomotor behaviors in adolescent rats, with an emphasis on sex. Female rats showed higher response rates to cocaine at lower acute and chronic doses, highlighting a higher vulnerability and perceived gender effects. In contrast, locomotor responses to an acute high dose of cocaine were more marked and sustained in male DAT heterozygous (HET) adolescents. The results demonstrate the augmented effects of chronic cocaine in HET DAT adolescent female rats. Knockout (KO) DAT led to a level of hyperdopaminergia which caused a marked basal hyperactivity that was unchanged, consistent with a possible ceiling effect. We suggest a role of alpha synuclein (α-syn) and PICK 1 protein expressions to the increased vulnerability in female rats. These proteins showed a lower expression in female HET and KO rats. This study highlights gender differences associated with mutations which affect DAT expression and can increase susceptibility to cocaine abuse in adolescence.
COVID-19 Vaccines, Effectiveness, and Immune Responses
Authors: Abufares Haneen Imad , Oyoun Alsoud Leen , Alqudah Mohammad A. Y. , Shara Mohd , Soares Nelson C. , Alzoubi Karem H. , El-Huneidi Waseem , Bustanji Yasser , Soliman Sameh S. M. , Semreen Mohammad H.
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has captivated the globe’s attention since its emergence in 2019. This highly infectious, spreadable, and dangerous pathogen has caused health, social, and economic crises. Therefore, a worldwide collaborative effort was made to find an efficient strategy to overcome and develop vaccines. The new vaccines provide an effective immune response that safeguards the community from the virus’ severity. WHO has approved nine vaccines for emergency use based on safety and efficacy data collected from various conducted clinical trials. Herein, we review the safety and effectiveness of the WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines and associated immune responses, and their impact on improving the public’s health. Several immunological studies have demonstrated that vaccination dramatically enhances the immune response and reduces the likelihood of future infections in previously infected individuals. However, the type of vaccination and individual health status can significantly affect immune responses. Exposure of healthy individuals to adenovirus vectors or mRNA vaccines causes the early production of antibodies from B and T cells. On the other hand, unhealthy individuals were more likely to experience harmful events due to relapses in their existing conditions. Taken together, aligning with the proper vaccination to a patient’s case can result in better outcomes.