bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of GC-IMS and Stoichiometry to Characterize Flavor Volatiles in Different Parts of Lueyang Black Chicken during Slaughtering and Cutting
Authors: He Linlin , Yang Hui , Lan Fei , Chen Rui , Jiang Pengfei , Jin Wengang
Published: June 2024

Chilled and cut chicken is preferred by consumers for its safeness and readiness to cook. To evaluate the quality characteristics of various chilled chicken products, differences in volatile organic components (VOCs) of six different cut parts (breast, back, leg, heart, liver, and gizzard) of Lueyang black chicken were characterized through gas chromatography–ion mobility spectroscopy (GC-IMS) combined with stoichiometry. A total of 54 peaks in the signal of VOCs were detected by GC-IMS, and 43 VOCs were identified by qualitative analysis. There were 22 aldehydes (20.66–54.07%), 8 ketones (25.74–62.87%), 9 alcohols (4.17–14.69%), 1 ether (0.18–2.22%), 2 esters (0.43–1.54%), and 1 furan (0.13–0.52%), in which aldehydes, ketones, and alcohols were the main categories. Among the six cut parts, the relative content of aldehydes (54.07%) was the highest in the gizzard, and the relative content of ketones (62.87%) was the highest in the heart. Meanwhile, the relative content of alcohols (14.69%) was the highest in the liver. Based on a stable and reliable predictive model established by orthogonal partial least squares–discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), 3-hydroxy-2-butanone (monomer and dimer), acetone, 2-butanone monomer, hexanal (monomer and dimer), isopentyl alcohol monomer, and n-hexanol monomer were picked out as characteristic VOCs based on variable importance in projection (VIP value > 1.0, p < 0.05). Principal component analysis (PCA) and the clustering heatmap indicated that the characteristic VOCs could effectively distinguish the six cut parts of Lueyang black chicken. The specific VOCs responsible for flavor differences among six different cut parts of Lueyang black chicken were hexanal (monomer and dimer) for the gizzard, 2-butanone monomer and hexanal dimer for the breast, hexanal monomer for the back, 3-hydroxy-2-butanone monomer for the leg, 3-hydroxy-2-butanone (monomer and dimer) for the heart, and acetone and isopentyl alcohol monomer for the liver. These findings could reveal references for quality assessment and development of chilled products related to different cut parts of Lueyang black chicken in the future.
Improvement of Stress Resistance of Microencapsulated Lactobacillus plantarum by Emulsion Electrospinning
Authors: Wu Yuehan , Zhang Shanshan , Yan Ziyou , Li Shiyang , Wang Qianwen , Gao Zhiming
Published: June 2024

Probiotics have become increasingly recognized for their potential health-promoting properties; however, the viability of probiotics can be affected by storage and transportation processes as well as the stressful environment of the human digestive tract, preventing them from achieving effective concentration (107 CFU/mL). In this regard, the embedding technology of probiotics provides an effective protection method. Dextran-based water in water (W/W) emulsion loaded with Lactobacillus plantarum was used as spinning solution to prepare Lactobacillus plantarum-loaded electrospun fibers. The structure of the W/W emulsion and the electrospun fibers was charactered. Lactobacillus plantarum were uniformly embedded in the internal phase of the W/W emulsion and the loading efficiency was 9.70 ± 0.40 log CFU/g. After 240 min digestion in the gastrointestinal tract, and temperature treatment in 65 °C and 72 °C, the loaded probiotics maintained high activity. Even after 5 days of storage in room temperature and 4 °C, the loaded probiotic activity levels remained high, with counts >8 log CFU/g. These results suggest that probiotics encapsulated by emulsion electrospinning could be potentially delivered in a novel food delivery system used in the future food industry.
Monitoring the Aging and Edible Safety of Pork in Postmortem Storage Based on HSI and Wavelet Transform
Authors: Xie Anguo , Zhang Yu , Wu Han , Chen Meng
Published: June 2024

The process of meat postmortem aging is a complex one, in which improved tenderness and aroma coincide with negative effects such as water loss and microbial growth. Determining the optimal postmortem storage time for meat is crucial but also challenging. A new visual monitoring technique based on hyperspectral imaging (HSI) has been proposed to monitor pork aging progress. M. longissimus thoracis from 15 pigs were stored at 4 °C for 12 days while quality indexes and HSI spectra were measured daily. Based on changes in physical and chemical indicators, 100 out of the 180 pieces of meat were selected and classified into rigor mortis, aged, and spoilt meat. Discrete wavelet transform (DWT) technology was used to improve the accuracy of classification. DWT separated approximate and detailed signals from the spectrum, resulting in a significant increase in classification speed and precision. The support vector machine (SVM) model with 70 band spectra achieved remarkable classification accuracy of 97.06%. The study findings revealed that the aging and microbial spoilage process started at the edges of the meat, with varying rates from one pig to another. Using HSI and visualization techniques, it was possible to evaluate and portray the postmortem aging progress and edible safety of pork during storage. This technology has the potential to aid the meat industry in making informed decisions on the optimal storage and cooking times that would preserve the quality of the meat and ensure its safety for consumption.
Pork Meat Composition and Health: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Vicente Filipa , Pereira Paula C.
Published: June 2024

Meat has been part of the human diet for centuries and it is a recognizable source of high-biologic-value protein and several micronutrients; however, its consumption has been associated with an increased risk of non-communicable diseases (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, cancer). These concerns are mostly related to red meat. However, meat composition is quite variable within species and meat cuts. The present study explores the composition of pork meat, and the differences among different pork meat cuts and it reviews the evidence on the influence of its consumption on health outcomes. Pork meat contributes to 30% of all meat consumed worldwide and it offers a distinct nutrient profile; it is rich in high-quality protein, B-complex vitamins, and essential minerals such as zinc and iron, though it contains moderate levels of saturated fat compared to beef. Additionally, research on sustainability points out advantages from pork meat consumption considering that it is a non-ruminant animal and is included in one of the five more sustainable dietary patterns. In what concerns the data on the influence of pork meat consumption on health outcomes, a few clinical studies have shown no harmful effects on cardiovascular risk factors, specifically blood lipids. Several arguments can justify that pork meat can be an option in a healthy and sustainable diet.
Climate Effects on Ergot and Ergot Alkaloids Occurrence in Italian Wheat
Authors: Peloso Mariantonietta , Minkoumba Sonfack Gaetan , Prizio Ilaria , Baraldini Molgora Eleonora , Pedretti Guido , Fedrizzi Giorgio , Caprai Elisabetta
Published: June 2024

In recent years, there has been an intensification of weather variability worldwide as a result of climate change. Some regions have been affected by drought, while others have experienced more intense rainfall. The incidence and severity of moldy grain and mycotoxin contamination during the growing and harvesting seasons have increased as a result of these weather conditions. Additionally, torrential rains and wet conditions may cause delays in grain drying, leading to mold growth in the field. In July 2023, a wheat field in Lecco (Lombardy, Italy) was affected by torrential rains that led to the development of the Claviceps fungi. In the field, dark sclerotia were identified on some ears. Wheat ears, kernels, and sclerotia were collected and analyzed by LC-MS/MS at IZSLER, Food Chemical Department, in Bologna. The wheat ears, kernels, and sclerotia were analyzed for 12 ergot alkaloids (EAs) according to (EU) Regulation 2023/915 (ergocornine/ergocorninine; ergocristine/ergocristinine; ergocryptine/ergocryptinine; ergometrine/ergometrinine; ergosine/ergosinine; ergotamine/ergotaminine), after QuEChERS (Z-Sep/C18) purification. The analyzed sclerotia showed significant differences in total alkaloid content that vary between 0.01 and 0.5% (w/w), according to the results of the 2017 EFSA scientific report. EAs detected in sclerotia were up to 4951 mg/kg, in wheat ears up to 33 mg/kg, and in kernels were 1 mg/kg. Additional mycotoxins, including ochratoxin A, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, fumonisins, T2-HT2 toxins, and aflatoxins, were investigated in wheat kernels after purification with immunoaffinity columns (IAC). The analysis revealed the presence of deoxynivalenol in wheat kernels at a concentration of 2251 µg/kg. It is expected that climate change will increase the frequency of extreme weather events. In order to mitigate the potential risks associated with mycotoxin-producing fungi and to ensure the protection of human health, it is suggested that official controls be implemented in the field.
Anisotropy of Magnetohydrodynamic and Kinetic Scale Fluctuations through Correlation Tensor in Solar Wind at 0.8 au
Authors: Stumpo Mirko , Benella Simone , Di Bartolomeo Pier Paolo , Sorriso-Valvo Luca , Alberti Tommaso
Published: June 2024

Space plasma turbulence is inherently characterized by anisotropic fluctuations. The generalized k-th order correlation tensor of magnetic field increments allow us to separate the mixed isotropic and anisotropic structure functions from the purely anisotropic ones. In this work, we quantified the relative importance of anisotropic fluctuations in solar wind turbulence using two Alfvénic data samples gathered by the Solar Orbiter at 0.8 astronomical units. The results based on the joined statistics suggest that the anisotropic fluctuations are ubiquitous in solar wind turbulence and persist at kinetic scales. Using the RTN coordinate system, we show that their presence depends on the anisotropic sector under consideration, e.g., the RN and RT sectors exhibit enhanced anisotropy toward kinetic scales, in contrast with the TN. We then study magnetic field fluctuations parallel and perpendicular to the local mean magnetic field separately. We find that perpendicular fluctuations are representative of the global statistics, resembling the typical picture of magnetohydrodynamic turbulence, whereas parallel fluctuations exhibit a scaling law with slope ∼1 for all the joined isotropic and anisotropic components. These results are in agreement with predictions based on the critical balance phenomenology. This topic is potentially of interest for future space missions measuring kinetic and MHD scales simultaneously in a multi-spacecraft configuration.
A Preliminary Study Examining the Correlation between EGFRI Treatment, Clinic Dermatoscopy Features, and Serum Levels of Anti-Alpha-Galactosyl IgE in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Popa Cristina Maria , Cherciu Harbiyeli Irina Florina , Ciurea Ana Maria , Cazacu Irina Mihaela , Ianosi Simona Laura , Schenker Michael , Saftoiu Adrian
Published: June 2024

The introduction of molecularly targeted therapies, particularly the epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIs), has had a positive impact by increasing the life expectancy of patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC). The most used anti-EGFRIs monoclonal antagonist, Cetuximab, induces skin responses in most patients, leading to a reduction of dosages or even therapy discontinuation, all with devastating effects. Our study aimed to assess the predictive role and the possible correlations of clinical features, imaging aspects (dermatoscopy), and laboratory tests (anti-alpha-galactosyl IgE levels) for early detection of Cetuximab skin toxicity in patients with metastatic CRC. The association of IgE antibodies against goat alpha-1,3-galactose serum levels with various degrees of skin toxicity encountered during the oncologic treatment resulted in higher concentrations in patients with pruritus and hair changes. Incorporating dermatoscopy into the routine dermatological consultation allowed us to perform a severity assessment, dynamically record, and identify even the erupting lesions previously invisible to classical examination. Hence, we were enabled to generate a broad report and to classify various degrees of skin toxicity severity linked to Cetuximab treatment in 19 patients with metastatic CRC. Detecting the emergent lesions and initiating dermatological treatment in the early stages decreased the severity of skin toxicity. As a result, the duration of the antibiotic treatment was much shorter, and the risk of dose reduction or interruption of the cancer treatment was diminished. In conclusion, we emphasize the need for a regular dermatological examination with dermatoscopy of CRC patients undergoing Cetuximab treatment. Skin toxicity is a significant concern for these patients, and healthcare providers should be vigilant in monitoring and managing this side effect in order to optimize patient care. The correlation between anti-alpha-Gal IgE levels and Cetuximab-induced skin toxicities is an emerging area. More extensive studies need to be published in order to establish this relationship directly.
Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Adaptive Evolution and Conservation Implications for the Endangered Magnolia lotungensis
Authors: Shi Chenyu , Xie Yanjun , Guan Delong , Qin Guole
Published: June 2024

Magnolia lotungensis is an extremely endangered endemic tree in China. To elucidate the genetic basis of M. lotungensis, we performed a comprehensive transcriptome analysis using a sample integrating the plant’s bark, leaves, and flowers. De novo transcriptome assembly yielded 177,046 transcripts and 42,518 coding sequences. Notably, we identified 796 species-specific genes enriched in organelle gene regulation and defense responses. A codon usage bias analysis revealed that mutation bias appears to be the primary driver of selection in shaping the species’ genetic architecture. An evolutionary analysis based on dN/dS values of paralogous and orthologous gene pairs indicated a predominance of purifying selection, suggesting strong evolutionary constraints on most genes. A comparative transcriptomic analysis with Magnolia sinica identified approximately 1000 ultra-conserved genes, enriched in essential cellular processes such as transcriptional regulation, protein synthesis, and genome stability. Interestingly, only a limited number of 511 rapidly evolving genes under positive selection were detected compared to M. sinica and Magnolia kuangsiensis. These genes were enriched in metabolic processes associated with adaptation to specific environments, potentially limiting the species’ ability to expand its range. Our findings contribute to understanding the genetic architecture of M. lotungensis and suggest that an insufficient number of adaptive genes contribute to its endangered status.
Assessing Falling Number Stability Increases the Genomic Prediction Ability of Pre-Harvest Sprouting Resistance in Common Winter Wheat
Authors: Albrecht Theresa , Oberforster Michael , Hartl Lorenz , Mohler Volker
Published: June 2024

Pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) resistance is a complex trait, and many genes influencing the germination process of winter wheat have already been described. In the light of interannual climate variation, breeding for PHS resistance will remain mandatory for wheat breeders. Several tests and traits are used to assess PHS resistance, i.e., sprouting scores, germination index, and falling number (FN), but the variation of these traits is highly dependent on the weather conditions during field trials. Here, we present a method to assess falling number stability (FNS) employing an after-ripening period and the wetting of the kernels to improve trait variation and thus trait heritability. Different genome-based prediction scenarios within and across two subsequent seasons based on overall 400 breeding lines were applied to assess the predictive abilities of the different traits. Based on FNS, the genome-based prediction of the breeding values of wheat breeding material showed higher correlations across seasons (r=0.505−0.548) compared to those obtained for other traits for PHS assessment (r=0.216−0.501). By weighting PHS-associated quantitative trait loci (QTL) in the prediction model, the average predictive abilities for FNS increased from 0.585 to 0.648 within the season 2014/2015 and from 0.649 to 0.714 within the season 2015/2016. We found that markers in the Phs-A1 region on chromosome 4A had the highest effect on the predictive abilities for FNS, confirming the influence of this QTL in wheat breeding material, whereas the dwarfing genes Rht-B1 and Rht-D1 and the wheat–rye translocated chromosome T1RS.1BL exhibited effects, which are well-known, on FN per se exclusively.
Genomic Characterization of Quality Wool Traits in Spanish Merino Sheep
Authors: Anaya Gabriel , Laseca Nora , Granero Antonio , Ziadi Chiraz , Arrebola Francisco , Domingo Andrés , Molina Antonio
Published: June 2024

The native Spanish Merino breed was the founder of all the other Merino and Merino-derived breeds worldwide. Despite the fact that this breed was created and improved to produce the highest quality fine wool, the global wool market crisis led to the wholescale crossing of most of the herds with breeds for meat purposes. Nevertheless, there are still some purebred animals with a high potential for producing quality wool. The objective of this study was to characterize the current wool quality of the breed and identify genes associated with these parameters. To achieve this, over 12,800 records from the most representative animals of the breed (registered in the herd book) were analyzed using the Australian OFDA 2000 system, for parameters such as fiber diameter (FD), standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), fibers over 15 microns (>15%), staple length (SL), and comfort factor (CRV). Additionally, animals with the most extreme FD values were whole-genome sequenced using NGS. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) determined the association of 74 variants with the different traits studied, which were located in 70 different genes. Of these genes, EDN2, COL18A1, and LRP1B, associated with fibers over 15%, and FGF12 and ADAM17, associated with SL, play a key role in hair follicle growth and development. Our study reveals the great potential for recovering this breed for fine wool production, and identifies five candidate genes whose understanding may aid in that selection process.
Genetic Analysis of Egg Production Traits in Luhua Chickens: Insights from a Multi-Trait Animal Model and a Genome-Wide Association Study
Authors: Yang Qianwen , Lu Xubin , Li Guohui , Zhang Huiyong , Zhou Chenghao , Yin Jianmei , Han Wei , Yang Haiming
Published: June 2024

Egg production plays a pivotal role in the economic viability of hens. To analyze the genetic rules of egg production, a total of 3151 Luhua chickens were selected, the egg production traits including egg weight at first laying (Start-EW), egg weight at 43 weeks (EW-43), egg number at 43 weeks (EN-43), and total egg number (EN-All) were recorded. Then, the effects of related factors on egg production traits were explored, using a multi-trait animal model for genetic parameter estimation and a genome-wide association study (GWAS). The results showed that body weight at first egg (BWFE), body weight at 43 weeks (BW-43), age at first egg (AFE), and seasons had significant effects on the egg production traits. Start-EW and EW-43 had moderate heritability of 0.30 and 0.21, while EN-43 and EN-All had low heritability of 0.13 and 0.16, respectively. Start-EW exhibited a robust positive correlation with EW-43, while Start-EW was negatively correlated with EN-43 and EN-All. Furthermore, gene ontology (GO) results indicated that Annexin A2 (ANXA2) and Frizzled family receptor 7 (FZD7) related to EW-43, Cyclin D1 (CCND1) and A2B adenosine receptor (ADORA2B) related to EN-All, and have been found to be mainly involved in metabolism and growth processes, and deserve more attention and further study. This study contributes to accelerating genetic progress in improving low heritability egg production traits in layers, especially in Luhua chickens.
Determination of Constrained Modulus of Granular Soil from In Situ Tests—Part 2 Application
Authors: Massarsch K. Rainer
Published: June 2024

The paper demonstrates how the concepts presented in the companion paper: “Determination of Constrained Modulus of Granular Soil from In Situ Tests—Part 1 Analyses” can be applied in practice. A settlement design based on the tangent modulus method is described. Extensive in situ tests were performed on a well-documented test site consisting of sand with silt and clay layers. The field tests comprised different types of penetration tests, such as the cone penetration test, the flat dilatometer, and the seismic down-hole test. The modulus number and the constrained tangent modulus were derived from the cone penetration test with pore water pressure measurement and the flat dilatometer test. In addition, the shear wave speed was determined from two seismic down-hole tests, from which the small-strain shear modulus could be evaluated. The constrained modulus obtained from the cone penetration test with pore water pressure measurement (CPTU) and the flat dilatometer (DMT) was compared with that from the seismic down-hole tests. The importance of the stress history on the constrained modulus was demonstrated. The range of modulus numbers, derived from different in situ tests, compares favorably with empirical values reported in the literature.
The Geomechanics of the Dangkhar Landslide, Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Kaspar Markus , Kieffer D. Scott
Published: June 2024

The Dangkhar Landslide is an extremely large landslide located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The landslide is situated in a remote high mountain desert within the Tethys Himalaya at elevations between 3400 m and 5600 m. It is amongst the five largest continental landslides on earth, covering an area of approximately 54 km2 and having an estimated volume of 15–20 km3. Geomechanical evaluations based on the block theory indicate that the Dangkhar Landslide formed as a result of unfavorable combinations of structural geological features and complex surface morphology. A massive kinematically removable block is created by a regional synclinal flexure that is crosscut and kinematically liberated by bounding side valleys. Three-dimensional block kinematics are necessary to permit the release of the giant block and its sliding along the synclinal flexure. Pseudostatic slope stability sensitivity analyses incorporating estimates of site seismicity and shear strength parameters suggest that earthquake shaking could have triggered instability if the static factor of safety was less than or in the range of about 1.5–1.9. Considering the glacial history of the region, ice debuttressing represents an additional potential triggering mechanism.
University Students’ Vaccination Intention after the Fifth Wave of the COVID-19 Outbreak in Hong Kong: Inspiration from a Health Belief Model
Authors: Chen Lu Hua , Hui Victoria Ka-Ying , Lai Yi-Ching Victoria , Xu Richard Huan , Guo Yingqi
Published: June 2024

The fifth wave of COVID-19, driven by the Omicron variant, started to surge in Hong Kong in December 2021. Previous studies have shown that younger adults, compared to older adults, are vulnerable to increased risks of side effects after vaccination. However, little is known about the COVID-19 vaccination behavior among younger adults, especially university students, in Hong Kong. Therefore, the present online survey study aimed to investigate the predictors of COVID-19 vaccination intention among university students in Hong Kong using the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a framework. Two other potential predictors, the previous influenza vaccine uptake frequency and the Hong Kong SAR government vaccination lottery program, were also examined. The intention to receive another dose of the COVID-19 vaccine was low (36.4%). Multivariate binomial logistic regression analysis showed that, after controlling for demographic and baseline characteristics, the perceived susceptibility (OR = 2.98, CI = 1.18–7.53) and previous influenza vaccine uptake frequency (OR = 1.54, CI = 1.08–2.19) significantly and positively predicted the COVID-19 vaccination intention. However, the government vaccination lottery program (i.e., wining prizes for being vaccinated) (OR = 0.87, CI = 0.34–2.26) was not a significant motivator of COVID-19 vaccination. Future public health campaigns should focus on the individual susceptibility to COVID-19 and past influenza vaccination history to promote increased vaccination uptake among university students.
Depression Accompanied by Hopelessness Is Associated with More Negative Future Thinking
Authors: Han Hailong , Midorikawa Akira
Published: June 2024

Background: This study aimed to delineate the interplay between depression, hopelessness, and episodic future thinking (EFT), focusing on cognitive biases towards negative future thinking that are central to depressive symptomatically. Methods: A Japanese university student was utilized to scrutinize divergences in EFT across groups stratified by varying degrees of depression and hopelessness. The research leveraged a modified future thinking task (FTT), the Beck Hopelessness Scale, and the Beck Depression Inventory-II to gauge participants’ levels of hopelessness and depressive symptoms. Results: Consistent with prior research, the non-depressed group showed a reduction in positive EFT, reinforcing the idea that diminished positive future thinking is a hallmark of depressive conditions, even in the absence of a clinical diagnosis. Moreover, individuals with comorbid depression and elevated hopelessness demonstrated a significant decrease in positive EFT and an increase in negative EFT, substantiating a distinctive cognitive profile for this subgroup. This finding suggests that the presence of hopelessness exacerbates the negative cognitive biases associated with depression. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the importance of considering hopelessness as an independent construct when assessing EFT in clinical contexts. The pronounced impact of hopelessness on future thinking in those with depression suggests that targeted interventions, such as future-directed therapy (FDT), may be particularly effective for individuals with hopelessness depression by focusing on modifying negative future thinking patterns and enhancing life quality.
Equity in the Australian Higher Education System: An Examination of Trends in Policy Affecting the Participation and Outcomes of Higher Education Students
Authors: Dean Jenny
Published: June 2024

This paper reviews policies affecting domestic students in the higher education system in Australia over the last several decades. It examines the implementation and expansion of Australia’s student loan program and policies to encourage widening participation in the higher education sector among equity or target groups, including those from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Using quantitative data from Australian government and university sources as well as the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey, this research seeks to assess whether equity and inclusion in higher education over this period has improved or been maintained. The findings show that while the conditions under which students are able to access higher education in Australia remain relatively generous, the participation rates of equity groups have not substantially improved over the last two decades. Further, the less advantaged circumstances of equity students continue to predict their outcomes prior to and beyond degree completion.
Hot Water Treatment Preserves Chinese Chestnut (Castanea mollissima Blume) Quality during Storage by Increasing Its Sugar Accumulation and ROS-Scavenging Ability
Authors: Wang Yanpeng , Yao Jin , Jiang Xibing , Gong Bangchu , Yang Jinhui , Wang Yifan
Published: June 2024

Heat treatment is a widely used physical technology for postharvest fruit and crops. The Chinese chestnut cultivar “Kuili” has high sugar and amylose contents, and is popular among people. However, the chestnut quality decreases quickly after harvest. In order to maintain the chestnuts’ quality during storage, this study explores five hot water treatments for chestnuts: T1 (control, no treatment), T2 (50 °C), T3 (65 °C), T4 (75 °C), and T5 (90 °C) for 45 min. T1 was dried at ambient temperature, while the other heat treatments were dried at 30 °C for 30 min. After treatment, chestnuts were placed in plastic trays, covered with a 15 μm thick PVC film, and stored at 4 °C with 70% relative humidity; they remained in the same air for 120 days. Results indicated that T3 and T4 showed slight color changes while maintaining shell and kernel firmness, and their weight loss was reduced (+5–8%), as well as their decay rate (limited to within 20%). The T3, T4, and T5 treatments (from days 60 to 120) decreased their pest survival rates to <2%. Additionally, heat treatments facilitated the accumulation of total soluble sugar and increased the expression of sugar biosynthesis-related genes. Meanwhile, T3 and T4 delayed starch reduction (they maintained relatively higher contents, from 288 to ~320 mg g−1 DW) and altered some starch biosynthesis genes. Furthermore, T2, T3, and T4 exhibited higher antioxidant activity and lower hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide anions (O2−) contents than T1. At the end of storage, the scores of T3 and T4 treatments were 55.1 and 52.3, and they ranked first and second among the five treatments, respectively. Therefore, these findings provide valuable insights for controlling postharvest losses in chestnuts.
Genome-Wide Identification of the WUSCHEL-Related Homeobox (WOX) Gene Family in Three Cymbidium Species and Expression Patterns in C. goeringii
Authors: Wang Fei , Chen Xiuming , Cheng Mengya , Zhou Chengcheng , Zheng Ruiyue , Wu Xiaopei , Duan Yanru , Ahmad Sagheer , Liu Zhongjian , Chen Jinliao , Peng Donghui
Published: June 2024

Numerous members of the WOX gene family play pivotal roles during the processes of growth and development in many plants, as has been demonstrated. Cymbidium goeringii, Cymbidium ensifolium, and Cymbidium sinense are ornamental plants with a fascinating floral morphology that are economically important in China. However, there is limited knowledge about the members of the WOX gene family and their functions in these three Cymbidium species. Hence, the WOX genes in three Cymbidium species were identified on the ground of the genomes data of C. goeringii, C. ensifolium, and C. sinense in this study. These identified WOX genes were further studied for their physicochemical properties, evolutionary relationship, gene structure, protein structure, and cis-acting elements of promoters, as well as the expression pattern of the WOX genes in different tissues of C. goeringii. The findings revealed that eight WOX genes in C. goeringii, twelve WOX genes in C. ensifolium, and nine WOX genes were identified. These WOX genes were further subdivided into WUS, ancient, and intermediate clades. The length of the coding region ranged from 149 to 335 aa, and it was predicted that all WOX genes would be located on the cell nucleus. The promoter cis-acting elements primarily comprised stress response, phytohormone response, plant growth and development, and transcription factor elements. Furthermore, both the transcriptomic data and RT-qPCR analysis showed that most WOX genes may be involved in multiple developmental stages of C. goeringii. To sum up, these results may serve as a theoretical foundation for further study of the function analysis of WOX genes in orchids.
Analysis of Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Leaf Spectral Properties and Photosynthesis According to Growth Period
Authors: Goo Heewoong , Roh Yongseung , Lee Joonwoo , Park Kyoung Sub
Published: June 2024

This study analyzed the leaf spectral properties and photosynthesis rates of greenhouse-grown bell pepper leaves according to the growth period and leaf position to investigate the changes in carbon assimilation function according to leaf aging. Photosynthesis, growth, transpiration, stomatal conductance, light transmittance, and light reflectance were measured. As the plants’ growth progressed, the number of leaves, fresh weight, and dry weight increased, but the specific leaf area decreased, likely due to the increased distribution of assimilates to reproductive organs. The average photosynthesis rate, according to the measured dates, exhibited a high value despite a large standard error, which was likely influenced by measurement errors caused by external environmental factors. The reflectance and transmittance increased from the upper to the middle and bottom leaves, and the absorption ratio decreased in the same order. The green light spectrum (500–580 nm) had a lower absorption ratio than other spectra because the green coloration of the leaves increased the light reflectance of this spectrum. As the PPFD increased where the leaf was positioned higher, the photosynthesis rate, transpiration amount, and stomatal conductance also increased. The higher the leaf position, the higher the photosynthesis rate, the amount of transpiration, and the stomatal conductance. As the CO2 concentration increased, the photosynthesis rate increased, but the transpiration and stomatal conductance changed little, indicating that the gas exchange within leaves was hardly affected by CO2, but the light levels promoted photosynthesis. From the results of this study, the optical properties of the leaves indicate that they are consistent with Lambert–Beer’s law, which implies that the length of the optical path is linearly proportional to the number of molecules in the absorption layer. We obtained the light saturation point and CO2 saturation point of bell peppers grown in a greenhouse and were able to determine the physiological changes in the leaves with increasing leaf age. Therefore, based on this information, it appears that a leaf removal model based on the productivity of bell pepper leaves could be developed.
Adsorption and Incorporation of AgNPs Mediated by Seed Priming in Cultivated Taify Pomegranate: Integrated Approaches
Authors: Alyamani Amal Ahmed , Morsi Maissa M. , Abdelmigid Hala M.
Published: June 2024

A novel approach known as seed priming has been developed to improve seed germination and, ultimately, increase growth and yield. For high-value crops like pomegranates (Punica granatum) in high-altitude regions like the Taif area, affordable, sustainable, and efficient seed treatments are yet to be discovered. In this study, we employed a green synthesis method using pomegranate peel and coffee ground extracts to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) at a concentration of 80 mg/mL. These AgNPs were then utilized to prime pomegranate seeds for 24 h. Furthermore, a chemical reduction method using trisodium citrate was used for comparison. The adsorption of NPs was verified using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), while their incorporation was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We further validated our EM results with X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). According to the findings of this study, AgNPs were observed to be present within seeds even after undergoing storage during priming. There is a possibility that the results obtained could potentially contribute to maintaining the quality of crops in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner.
Dimensions of Parenting and Children’s Conduct Problems: The Importance of Considering Children’s Callous–Unemotional Traits
Authors: Facci Carolina , Baroncelli Andrea , Frick Paul J. , Ciucci Enrica
Published: June 2024

Research has clearly indicated that the development of serious behavioral problems in children and adolescents is influenced by parenting. However, recent research has refined the role of parenting by showing the importance of distinguishing between different types of parenting and in considering the role of callous–unemotional traits (CU traits) and conduct problems (CP) of the children. In the current study, we advance this research by distinguishing between emotional (e.g., parental warmth; parental hostility) and behavioral (e.g., use of positive reinforcement; inconsistent discipline/harsh discipline) aspects of parenting and by considering the way parents respond to children’s emotions (i.e., coaching and dismissing). The sample consisted of 136 mothers (M = 38.09 years, SD = 4.51 years, 45.41% high school degree) with a child (age range 3–5 years) enrolled in kindergarten in central Italy. Multiple regression analyses indicated that, after controlling for level of CP, use of positive reinforcement (β = −0.31, p < 0.001) and warm feelings (β = −0.22, p < 0.05), remained associated with CU traits and punitive parenting was no longer significant. Consistent with predictions, use of positive reinforcement was no longer associated with conduct problems when controlling for CU traits and the positive associations with punitive parenting (β = 0.24, p < 0.05) and negativity (β = 0.36, p < 0.001) remained significant. These findings support the need for continued research that considers both the emotional and behavioral aspects of parenting and disentangles their associations with conduct problems and CU traits. Such research could not only advance causal theories for children with conduct problems but also help to guide more effective treatments, especially for those with elevated CU traits who often leave treatment with significant conduct problems remaining.
An Assessment of the Ocular Toxicity of Two Major Sources of Environmental Exposure
Authors: Rauchman Steven H. , Kasselman Lora J. , Srivastava Ankita , De Leon Joshua , Reiss Allison B.
Published: June 2024

The effect of airborne exposure on the eye surface is an area in need of exploration, particularly in light of the increasing number of incidents occurring in both civilian and military settings. In this study, in silico methods based on a platform comprising a portfolio of software applications and a technology ecosystem are used to test potential surface ocular toxicity in data presented from Iraqi burn pits and the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment. The purpose of this analysis is to gain a better understanding of the long-term impact of such an exposure to the ocular surface and the manifestation of surface irritation, including dry eye disease. In silico methods were used to determine ocular irritation to chemical compounds. A list of such chemicals was introduced from a number of publicly available sources for burn pits and train derailment. The results demonstrated high ocular irritation scores for some chemicals present in these exposure events. Such an analysis is designed to provide guidance related to the needed ophthalmologic care and follow-up in individuals who have been in proximity to burn pits or the train derailment and those who will experience future toxic exposure.
The Effect of Stigma and Social Networks on Role Expectations among African Immigrants Living with HIV
Authors: Koku Emmanuel F.
Published: June 2024

This paper examines how African immigrants living with HIV negotiate and reconstruct their productive (i.e., educational and career opportunities), sexual, and reproductive identities. We used data from a mixed-methods study to explore how stigma and social networks in which participants were embedded shaped how they understood and negotiated their role expectations and responsibilities. Participants revealed how HIV not only changed their identities and limited their sex life, partner choices, and fundamental decisions about fertility and reproduction, but also presented them with the opportunity to reinvent/reshape their lives. Our analysis revealed that the cultural discourses about illness and HIV in participant’s countries of origin, the acculturative and migratory stressors, and the competing influences and expectations from family and friends in their home and host countries shape their illness experience, and how they adjust to life with HIV. This paper builds on sociological understanding of illness experience as a social construct that shapes the ill person’s identity, role, and function in society. Specifically, the paper contributes to discourses on how (i) participants’ social location and identity (as transnational migrants adjusting to acculturative stressors associated with resettlement into a new country), (ii) cultural discourses about illness and HIV in their countries of origin, and (iii) embeddedness in transnational social networks influence health outcomes, including lived experiences with chronic illnesses and stigmatized conditions such as HIV.
Sleep Disturbance Caused by Step Changes in Railway Noise Exposure and Earthquakes
Authors: Morihara Takashi , Murakami Yasuhiro , Shimoyama Koji , Morinaga Makoto , Yokoshima Shigenori , Tsujimura Sohei , Hiraguri Yasuhiro , Yano Takashi
Published: June 2024

Kyushu Shinkansen and conventional railway lines run parallel in the areas 5 km north of Kumamoto Station (northern area) and 12 km south of the station (southern area). Following the operation of the Kyushu Shinkansen Line in 2011, the adjacent conventional railway line in the north was elevated, a new station was operated in the south, and large earthquakes struck the Kumamoto area from March to April 2016. Sleep disturbances were compared before and after the interventions and earthquakes based on noise source (Shinkansen and conventional railways), area (northern and southern), and house type (detached and apartment) through socio-acoustic surveys from 2011 to 2017. The Shinkansen railway caused significantly less sleep disturbances in detached houses in the north after compared to before the earthquakes, presumably due to more frequent closures of bedroom windows in northern detached houses following the earthquakes. The Shinkansen railway caused significantly more sleep disturbances in apartments in the south after compared to before the earthquakes, presumably because the Shinkansen slowed down immediately after the earthquakes and returned to normal speed during the survey, suddenly increasing the noise exposure. There was no significant difference in the other six cases investigated. Overall, the interventions may not have caused significant differences in sleep disturbances. This article expands on the congress paper by Morihara et al. presented in the “Community Response to Noise” session at the 52nd International Congress and Exhibition on Noise Control Engineering in Makuhari, Japan, organized by the International Institute of Noise Control Engineering.
COVID-19 Policy Response Analysis: A Canadian Perspective
Authors: Klein Andrew , Begen Mehmet A.
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the challenges that go into effective policymaking. Facing a public health crisis of epic proportion, government bodies across the world sought to manage the spread of infectious disease and healthcare-system overwhelm in the face of historic economic instability and social unrest. Recognizing that COVID-19 debates and research are still actively ongoing, this paper aims to objectively compare COVID-19 responses from countries across the world that exhibit similar economic and political models to Canada, identify notable failures, successes, and key takeaways to inform future-state pandemic preparedness.
Rehabilitation Services for Young-Onset Dementia: Examples from High- and Low–Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Suárez-González Aida , Savage Sharon A , Alladi Suvarna , Amaral-Carvalho Viviane , Arshad Faheem , Camino Julieta , Caramelli Paulo , Comas-Herrera Adelina , Cook Julia , Cooper Claudia , García Díaz Laura , Grasso Stephanie M. , Jokel Regina , Lavoie Monica , León Tomás , Priya Thomas , Ramos Franco Teresita , Taylor-Rubin Cathleen , Townsend Rosemary , Thöne-Otto Angelika , Slachevsky Andrea , Volkmer Anna , Weidner Wendy , O’Connor Claire MC
Published: June 2024

The WHO Dementia Global Action Plan states that rehabilitation services for dementia are required to promote health, reduce disability, and maintain quality of life for those living with dementia. Current services, however, are scarce, particularly for people with young-onset dementia (YOD). This article, written by an international group of multidisciplinary dementia specialists, offers a three-part overview to promote the development of rehabilitation services for YOD. Firstly, we provide a synthesis of knowledge on current evidence-based rehabilitative therapies for early-onset Alzheimer’s disease (EOAD), behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), primary progressive aphasia (PPA), and posterior cortical atrophy (PCA). Secondly, we discuss the characteristics of rehabilitation services for YOD, providing examples across three continents for how these services can be embedded in existing settings and the different roles of the rehabilitation multidisciplinary team. Lastly, we conclude by highlighting the potential of telehealth in making rehabilitation services more accessible for people with YOD. Overall, with this paper, we aim to encourage clinical leads to begin introducing at least some rehabilitation into their services, leveraging existing resources and finding support in the collective expertise of the broader multidisciplinary dementia professional community.
An Evidence-Based Guide for Delivering Mental Healthcare Services in Farming Communities: A Qualitative Study of Providers’ Perspectives
Authors: Purc-Stephenson Rebecca , Roy Nicole , Chimaobi Adachukwu , Hood Deanna
Published: June 2024

Individuals living in rural areas often face challenges in accessing healthcare, increasing their risk of poor health outcomes. Farmers, a sub-population in rural areas, are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues and suicide, yet they exhibit low rates of help-seeking behavior. The aim of our study was to develop an in-depth understanding of the issues influencing mental help-seeking among farmers living in rural areas from the perspectives of healthcare providers, as well as to explore the strategies providers use to navigate through these issues to effectively engage with this vulnerable population. Methods: We used a descriptive phenomenological approach to understand healthcare providers’ perspectives, experiences, and approaches to providing mental healthcare to farmer clients in rural areas. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants practicing in Canada between March and May 2023. Results: Our analysis yielded five thematic areas: (1) ensuring accessibility, (2) establishing relatability, (3) addressing stoicism and stigma, (4) navigating dual roles, and (5) understanding community trauma. Conclusions: Healthcare service delivery for farmers is multifaceted. This study fills a gap in knowledge by translating these data to inform an evidence-based model and a list of recommendations for implementing agriculturally informed practices in rural areas.