bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Production of N-Acetyl-β-D-Glucosamine from Shrimp Shell Powder Using Chitinolytic Enzyme Cocktail with β-N-Acetylglucosaminidase from Domesticated Microbiome Metagenomes
Authors: Zhou Xiuling , Huang Yang , Liu Yuying , Pan Delong , Zhang Yang
Published: December 2024

The conventional methods used to produce N-acetyl-β-D-glucosamine (GlcNAc) from seafood waste require pretreatment steps that use acids or bases to achieve the extraction and decrystallization of chitin prior to enzymatic conversion. The development of an enzymatic conversion method that does not require the pretreatment of seafood waste is essential for the efficient and clean production of GlcNAc. In this study, the annotated metagenomic assembly data of domesticated microbiota (XHQ10) were analyzed to identify carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), and an in-depth analysis of the high-quality genome FS13.1, which was obtained from metagenomic binning, was performed; this enabled us to elucidate the catabolic mechanism of XHQ10 by using shrimp shell chitin as a carbon and nitrogen source. The only β-N-acetylglucosaminidase (named XmGlcNAcase) was cloned from FS13.1 and biochemically characterized. The direct production of GlcNAc from shrimp shell powder (SSP) via the use of a chitin enzyme cocktail was evaluated. Under the action of a chitin enzyme cocktail containing 5% recombinant XmGlcNAcase and a crude XHQ10 enzyme solution, the yield and purity of the final conversion of SSP to GlcNAc were 2.57 g/L and 82%, respectively. This is the first time that metagene-derived GlcNAcase has been utilized to achieve the enzymatic conversion of untreated seafood waste, laying the foundation for the low-cost and sustainable production of GlcNAc.
Evaluating DL Model Scaling Trade-Offs During Inference via an Empirical Benchmark Analysis
Authors: Trihinas Demetris , Michael Panagiotis , Symeonides Moysis
Published: December 2024

With generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) capturing public attention, the appetite of the technology sector for larger and more complex Deep Learning (DL) models is continuously growing. Traditionally, the focus in DL model development has been on scaling the neural network’s foundational structure to increase computational complexity and enhance the representational expressiveness of the model. However, with recent advancements in edge computing and 5G networks, DL models are now aggressively being deployed and utilized across the cloud–edge–IoT continuum for the realization of in situ intelligent IoT services. This paradigm shift introduces a growing need for AI practitioners, as a focus on inference costs, including latency, computational overhead, and energy efficiency, is long overdue. This work presents a benchmarking framework designed to assess DL model scaling across three key performance axes during model inference: classification accuracy, computational overhead, and latency. The framework’s utility is demonstrated through an empirical study involving various model structures and variants, as well as publicly available datasets for three popular DL use cases covering natural language understanding, object detection, and regression analysis.
The Heme Cavity Is Essential for the Peroxidase and Antibacterial Activity of Homodimer Hemoglobin from the Blood Clam Tegillarca granosa
Authors: Pu Lili , Dai Shuting , Wu Zongming , Wang Sufang , Bao Yongbo
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the essential role of the heme cavity in the peroxidase and antibacterial activities of homodimeric hemoglobin (Tg-HbI) from the blood clam Tegillarca granosa. After treatment with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), the peroxidase and antibacterial activities of the Tg-HbI were significantly inhibited, with the degree of inhibition correlating positively with the SDS concentration. Fluorescence spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and molecular docking analysis further revealed that SDS interacts with key amino acid residues (e.g., His70 and His102) in the heme cavity of Tg-HbI, causing conformational changes that disrupt the internal hydrophobic interactions, thus inhibiting its function. This study confirms that the antibacterial effect of Tg-HbI is mediated through its peroxidase activity and that the heme cavity plays a critical role in maintaining this activity. These findings lay a foundation for further research on the immune defense functions of hemoglobin and provide new insights into the mechanisms of environmental adaptation in T. granosa.
Effectiveness in Cooling a Heat Sink in the Presence of a TPMS Porous Structure Comparing Two Different Flow Directions
Authors: Saghir Mohamad Ziad , Rahman Mohammad M.
Published: December 2024

The triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) is receiving much interest among researchers. The advantage of using this TPMS structure is the ability to design a structure based on engineering need. In the present context, experimental measurement was conducted and compared with numerical models using a foam porous medium and TPMS porous structure, leading to an accurate calibration of the model. A porous medium, metal foam, was heated experimentally at the bottom, and forced convection was investigated for different heating conditions. Then, the porous foam was replaced with a TPMS, and the experiment was repeated under similar conditions. The experimental data were compared with the numerical model using COMSOL software. Besides the model’s accuracy, the TPMS showed a uniform heating condition contrary to the metal foam case. At a later stage, the numerical model was used to investigate the importance of flow direction (two flow directions) in cooling hot surfaces. The first flow was parallel to the hot surface, and the second perpendicular to the hot surface. The TPMS structure was located on the top of the hot surface and acted as a fin in both cases. The Nusselt number exceeded 80 in the presence of the TPMS. As the porosity of the TPMS decreases below 0.7, a more considerable pressure drop is observed. The performance evaluation criterion was found to be greater than 70 when the porosity of the TPMS structure was 0.8.
The Reynolds Number: A Journey from Its Origin to Modern Applications
Authors: Saldana Manuel , Gallegos Sandra , Gálvez Edelmira , Castillo Jonathan , Salinas-Rodríguez Eleazar , Cerecedo-Sáenz Eduardo , Hernández-Ávila Juan , Navarra Alessandro , Toro Norman
Published: December 2024

The Reynolds number (Re), introduced in the late 19th century, has become a fundamental parameter in a lot of scientific fields—the main one being fluid mechanics—as it allows for the determination of flow characteristics by distinguishing between laminar and turbulent regimes, or some intermediate stage. Reynolds’ 1895 paper, which decomposed velocity into average and fluctuating components, laid the foundation for modern turbulence modeling. Since then, the concept has been applied to various fields, including external flows—the science that studies friction—as well as wear, lubrication, and heat transfer. Literature research in recent times has explored new interpretations of Re, and despite its apparent simplicity, the precise prediction of Reynolds numbers remains a computational challenge, especially under conditions such as the study of multiphase flows, non-Newtonian fluids, highly turbulent flow conditions, flows on very small scales or nanofluids, flows with complex geometries, transient or non-stationary flows, and flows of fluids with variable properties. Reynolds’ work, which encompasses both scientific and engineering contributions, continues to influence research and applications in fluid dynamics.
Upcycling of Non-Standard Cakes by Manufacturing Ring-Shaped Cookies
Authors: Campanini Nicolle Christina Silvester Vieira , Weis Cláudia Moreira Santa Catharina , Nabeshima Elizabeth Harumi , Temoczko Luciana Camargo , Bertan Larissa Canhadas , Pinto Vania Zanella , Quast Leda Battestin
Published: December 2024

A creative approach to reducing food waste by reusing industrial cake waste can result in the development of a worldwide favorite snack. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of industrial cake wastes—basic mini cake (BMC), filled mini cake (FMC), and traditional mini cake (TMC)—as sustainable alternatives to wheat flour in producing ring-shaped cookies. After initial screening, FMC was upcycled at 10%, 15%, 20%, 30%, and 50% of wheat flour replacement for ring-shaped cookie processing. Only the formulations containing 10, 15, and 20% FMC waste showed good moldability and similar rheological parameters between each other (p < 0.05). After baking, the cookies made with FMC waste showed greater volume expansion (p < 0.05) compared to the standard formulation. All cookies had water activity below 0.6 and remained stable during the 150 days of storage. Furthermore, after 150 days of storage, the hardness of the standard (T1) formulation was 40.02 N, while formulations with FMC waste (10%—T2, 15%—T3, and 20%—T4) resulted in softer cookies, with hardness values of 26.9 N, 27.9 N, and 27.61 N, respectively. The ring-shaped cookies containing 15% FMC waste showed the best technological performance, considering manufacture, physicochemical, and hardness traits, with no nutritional differences compared to the control.
Effects of Fermentation Modification and Combined Modification with Heat-Moisture Treatment on the Multiscale Structure, Physical and Chemical Properties of Corn Flour and the Quality of Traditional Fermented Corn Noodles
Authors: Mao Chen , Wu Sijia , Zhang Ling , Zhuang Hong
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effects of fermentation modification and combined modification with heat-moisture treatment (HMT) on the multiscale structure, physical and chemical properties, and quality of corn flour in the production of traditional fermented corn noodles (TFCNs). The results indicate that after fermentation modification, the starch granule size decreased while the amylopectin proportion increased. Fermentation also enhanced the relative crystallinity and short-range order of the starch, along with an increase in resistant digestion components and ester content in the noodles. After combined modification with HMT, starch granules lost their spherical, intact structure, underwent melting and reorganization, and displayed an increase in particle size. These changes led to a significant improvement in the thermal stability and textural properties of corn flour, resulting in noodles with enhanced cooking quality. Furthermore, the combined modification significantly increased the contents of flavor compounds such as aldehydes, acids, and alcohols in the noodles while reducing olefin and alkane levels, thus contributing to improved flavor development. These findings demonstrate that fermentation modification and combined modification with HMT play a crucial role in enhancing the multiscale structure and physical and chemical properties of corn starch, thereby improving the quality of TFCN.
Desorption of Cadmium from Cocoa Waste Using Organic Acids
Authors: Piedrahíta-Pérez Sebastián , Rodríguez-Estrada Juliana , Ramírez-Carmona Margarita , Rendón-Castrillón Leidy , Ocampo-López Carlos
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the desorption of cadmium (Cd) from cocoa waste-derived flour using organic acids. Cocoa pods were collected from Antioquia and Casanare, Colombia, to analyze the geographical Cd content and its distribution within the pod tissues. Acid selection was performed using a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) matrix, and Cd desorption was assessed through a full factorial 23 experimental design, considering acid concentration, pulp density, and agitation speed. Additionally, the oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) was monitored as an indicator of the electrochemical dynamics of the process. The results indicated that pods from Casanare exhibited higher Cd concentrations (1.63 ± 0.20 ppm) compared with those from Antioquia (0.87 ± 0.22 ppm), with 49.31% of the metal being accumulated in the pod. Parameters of citric acid at 0.5 M, 5 g/L pulp density, and 120 rpm were found to be optimal for the Cd desorption process, achieving over 95% efficiency. Based on ORP monitoring, a heuristic was proposed to determine the contact time during leaching. This work outlines a scalable process for Cd desorption, adding value to cocoa industry waste for potential applications.
Quantification of Minerals in Edible Mushrooms via Optimized Microwave-Assisted Digestion: Nutritional Contributions of Fe, Mg, Na, K, and Ca
Authors: López Alejandro R. , Ortega-Caneda Elena , Espada-Bellido Estrella , Taracena-Zepeda Oscar R. , Palma Miguel , Fernández-Barbero Gerardo
Published: December 2024

The intake of mushrooms provides numerous beneficial properties for the correct functioning of the human body due to their rich content in carbohydrates, proteins, fibers, vitamins, and minerals. However, most of the reports are focused on the determination of bioactive compounds and only a few regarding the essential mineral content and the evaluation of the RDI. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the mineral composition of different cultivated (A. bisporus and P. ostreatus) and wild edible mushrooms (A. crocodilinus, A. arvensis, A. silvicola, A. impudicus, M. mastoidea, M. rhacodes, and P. ostreatus) collected in the south of Spain and north of Morocco. First, the optimization of a microwave-assisted digestion method was carried out using a Box–Behnken design with a response surface methodology to quantify the total content of five metals: Fe, Mg, Na, K, and Ca in mushrooms. The samples were analyzed by FAAS and ICP-OES. The percentage of the RDI of each mineral covered by the intake of mushrooms was calculated. It was observed that a high percentage of RDI levels are covered and just exceeded for Fe. Thence, due to their beneficial properties and high content of essential minerals, mushrooms would be proposed as a valuable source of nutrients to manufacture some food supplements.
Ripening Study Based on Multi-Structural Inversion of Cherry Tomato qMRI
Authors: Li Yanan , Yao Jingfa , Yang Wenhui , Wei Zhao , Luan Peng , Teng Guifa
Published: December 2024

This study introduces a non-destructive, quantitative method using low-field MRI to assess moisture mobility and content distribution in cherry tomatoes. This study developed an advanced 3D non-local mean denoising model to enhance tissue feature analysis and applied an optimized TransUNet model for structural segmentation, obtaining multi-echo data from six tissue types. The structural T2 relaxation inversion was refined by integrating an ACS-CIPSO algorithm. This approach addresses the challenge of low signal-to-noise ratios in multi-echo MRI images from low-field equipment by introducing an innovative solution that effectively reduces voxel noise while retaining structural relaxation variability. The study reveals that there are consistent patterns in the changes in moisture mobility and content across different structures of cherry tomatoes during their ripening process. Mono-exponential analysis reveals the patterns of changes in moisture mobility (T2) and content (A) across various structures. Furthermore, tri-exponential analysis elucidates the patterns of changes in bound water (T21), semi-bound water (T22), and free water (T23), along with their respective contents. These insights offer a novel perspective on the changes in moisture mobility throughout the ripening process of tomato fruit, thereby providing a research pathway for the precise assessment of moisture status and ripening expression in fruits.
Uncovering a New Concept of Foodnality in Diet Recommendations for Chinese Aging Populations Based on Systematic and Bibliometric Review
Authors: Zhang Guanya , Wang Junqiao , Huang Xiaojun , Xu Xiaoli
Published: December 2024

China is grappling with significant aging challenge, and food patterns play an important role in the health of aging populations. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis with regard to systematically examined population-based studies published between 1 June 2014 and 31 May 2024, and 83 eligible studies, including 43 cross-sectional, 34 longitudinal, and 6 case–control studies, was conducted to investigate the correlations among foods, dietary patterns, and healthy aging concepts. An interesting conclusion from cohort studies was that foods recommended for intake in certain diets might not be recommended in other diets, i.e., food items in various diets showed different contributions. This dual character of foods exhibited in the diet is termed foodnality, a new concept proposed in this study. Foodnality was partially related to the origins, quality, and processing of foods, as well as individual physical status. Therefore, recommended foods with positive foodnality and unrecommended foods with negative foodnality were summarized, and four-dimensional diet recommendations were further proposed, including choosing a suitable dietary pattern, evaluating positive foodnality, upgrading foodnality to a premium diet, and cultivating healthier dietary concepts. This review plays a pivotal role in evaluating the guidelines on food intake and dietary patterns among elderly residents in China.
Rheological Burgers–Faraday Models and Rheological Dynamical Systems with Fractional Derivatives and Their Application in Biomechanics
Authors: Hedrih Katica R. (Stevanović) , Hedrih Andjelka N.
Published: December 2024

Two rheological Burgers–Faraday models and rheological dynamical systems were created by using two new rheological models: Kelvin–Voigt–Faraday fractional-type model and Maxwell–Faraday fractional-type model. The Burgers–Faraday models described in the paper are new models that examine the dynamical behavior of materials with coupled fields: mechanical stress and strain and the electric field of polarization through the Faraday element. The analysis of the constitutive relation of the fractional order for Burgers–Faraday models is given. Two Burgers–Faraday fractional-type dynamical systems were created under certain approximations. Both rheological Burgers-Faraday dynamic systems have two internal degrees of freedom, which are introduced into the system by each standard light Burgers-Faraday bonding element. It is shown that the sequence of bonding elements in the structure of the standard light Burgers-Faraday bonding element changes the dynamic properties of the rheological dynamic system, so that in one case the system behaves as a fractional-type oscillator, while in the other case, it exhibits a creeping or pulsating behavior under the influence of an external periodic force. These models of rheological dynamic systems can be used to model new natural and synthetic biomaterials that possess both viscoelastic/viscoplastic and piezoelectric properties and have dynamical properties of stress relaxation.
Mechanisms, Machinery, and Dynamics of Chromosome Segregation in Zea mays
Authors: Duffy Marissa E. , Ngaw Michael , Polsky Shayna E. , Marzec Abby E. , Zhang Sean S. , Dzierzgowski Owen R. , Nannas Natalie J.
Published: December 2024

Zea mays (maize) is both an agronomically important crop and a powerful genetic model system with an extensive molecular toolkit and genomic resources. With these tools, maize is an optimal system for cytogenetic study, particularly in the investigation of chromosome segregation. Here, we review the advances made in maize chromosome segregation, specifically in the regulation and dynamic assembly of the mitotic and meiotic spindle, the inheritance and mechanisms of the abnormal chromosome variant Ab10, the regulation of chromosome–spindle interactions via the spindle assembly checkpoint, and the function of kinetochore proteins that bridge chromosomes and spindles. In this review, we discuss these processes in a species-specific context including features that are both conserved and unique to Z. mays. Additionally, we highlight new protein structure prediction tools and make use of these tools to identify several novel kinetochore and spindle assembly checkpoint proteins in Z. mays.
Estimating Secondary Earthquake Aftershocks from Tsunamis
Authors: Arsen’yev Sergey A. , Eppelbaum Lev V.
Published: December 2024

Nonlinear solitary waves influence the Earth’s crust because wave pressure on the ocean bottom contains non-hydrostatic components. Our physical-mathematical model allows us to calculate the surplus super-hydrostatic pressure on the Earth’s crust. It depends on the amplitudes of solitary waves and the depth of an ocean. The surplus wave pressure averages 50% from hydrostatic pressure on the shallow ocean shelves. Thus, the solitary wave’s tsunami class can provoke novel (repeated) earthquakes (or landslides) because surplus stresses affect the seismic focus. Theoretical results and experimental physical modeling of soliton waves have shown good agreement. A calculated example of the mega-tsunami in Lituya Bay and a described example of Dickson Fjord (AK, USA) indicate changes in the dynamic pressure after the onset of the tsunami. The presented studies demonstrate a first attempt at creating a numerical model of this phenomenon.
Association Between Shopping Assistance and Functional Decline in Older Residents with Support Levels Under the Long-Term Care Insurance System in Japan: A Retrospective, Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Asao Akihiko , Sone Toshimasa , Fujita Takaaki , Hayashi Hiroshi , Kurasawa Shigeki , Sumigawa Koshi , Ishikawa Yohko , Kawamata Hironori , Mitsuhashi Yuhei , Tanaka Yoshinobu , Kimura Natsumi , Iokawa Kazuaki
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Maintaining functional independence and minimizing disability among older adults living in the community is paramount for mitigating rising care demands. Our study focused on shopping as a critical instrumental activity of daily living (ADL) to explore the association between shopping assistance and functional decline among older individuals receiving support through long-term care insurance (LTCI). Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study included 6202 participants aged >65 years living in a Japanese regional town receiving LTCI support, suggesting that they required assistance with local community life. Logistic regression analysis identified several factors associated with shopping assistance among the participants, including physical and cognitive functions, functional ADL, and psychobehavioral symptoms. Results: In male participants, walking dysfunction, short-term memory decline, decreased frequency of going outdoors, and decreased engagement in personal grooming were significantly associated with requiring shopping assistance. Conversely, in female participants, reduced physical function and walking performance were significantly associated with requiring shopping assistance, whereas dependence on personal grooming was less pronounced than in male participants. Conclusions: These findings suggest that, in addition to direct shopping assistance, tailored interventions targeting physical, cognitive, and ADL functions—while considering gender-specific needs—may help older adults maintain independence in shopping activities as part of their daily community life.
Physical Exercise Intervention Characteristics and Outcomes in Frail and Pre-Frail Older Adults
Authors: Caicedo-Pareja María , Espinosa Diego , Jaramillo-Losada Jennifer , Ordoñez-Mora Leidy T.
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Frailty is a multifactorial syndrome that significantly impacts the functional abilities of older adults, making them more vulnerable to falls, disabilities, and dependence. Exercise can serve as an effective intervention for pre-frail and frail older adults, improving muscle strength and reducing the risk of falls. This research aims to clarify the physical exercise protocols and their outcomes for this population. (2) Methods: A scoping review was conducted to summarize the evidence on physical activity parameters for frail and pre-frail older adults. The search included primary evidence sources published in PubMed, PEDro, Biomed, Scopus, and Springer, as well as search engines like Google Scholar and Dialnet. The keywords used were ([frailty] OR [frail] AND [exercise]). The PEDro and MINORS scales were used to assess the quality of the evidence and evaluate the risk of bias. (3) Results: Eighteen studies met the eligibility criteria. The most commonly reported exercise program was multicomponent, which included aerobic activities at 70% of the maximum effort and strength exercises at 20% to 80% of the participants’ maximum capacity. This approach proved effective for this population. (4) Conclusions: The studies suggest that exercise is a successful intervention strategy for addressing frailty. However, not all the articles provided adequate information regarding the dosing of their interventions.
Joint Crisis Plan in Mental Health Settings: A Reflective Process More than an Intervention Tool?
Authors: Goulet Marie-Hélène , Sergerie-Richard Sophie , Dostie Mathieu , Drouin Jean-Simon , Vigneault Luc , Genest Christine
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Coercion in mental health is challenged, prompting reduction interventions. Among those, the Joint Crisis Plan (JCP), which aims to document individuals’ treatment preferences in case of future de-compensation, regardless of the potential loss of discernment, has been identified as a key path to study. Identified challenges related to its implementation highlight the need to adapt this intervention to the local context. Considering that in Quebec (Canada), the JCP is not widely used, but the scientific literature supports its adoption and corroborates its potential impact on reducing coercion, this study evaluates the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of the JCP among psychiatric and forensic inpatient settings. Methods: A pilot mixed-methods study was conducted through 16 individual interviews with inpatients and healthcare providers, combined with a pre–post analysis of seclusion and restraint use and the violence prevention climate (VPC) based on healthcare providers’ (n = 57) and inpatients’ perspectives (n = 53). Results: Although the challenging implementation of the JCP complicated the evaluation of its effects on seclusion and restraint use, a moderate change (d = 0.40) in the VPC was identified based on healthcare providers’ perspectives. Qualitative findings are also insightful to understand the acceptability and feasibility of the JCP use. A tension emerged between the perspectives of inpatients and healthcare providers: while inpatients valued the reflective process of completing the plan, providers focused more on its technical aspects. Conclusions: The results support the integration of the JCP into patient care pathways, as it provides a tool to amplify patients’ voices, promote patient empowerment, facilitate open dialog on alternatives to coercion, and foster more collaborative and humane mental health care.
A Scoping Review on the Influence of Housing on the Health and Well-Being of People with a Spinal Cord Injury/Dysfunction
Authors: Sivakumaran Sarmitha , Kebede Tsione , Yuzwa Kirstin E. , Wong Ella C. N. , Sheppard Christine L. , Guilcher Sara J. T. , Athanasopoulos Peter , Best Krista L. , Kaiser Anita , Noonan Vanessa K. , Hitzig Sander L.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Despite the growing recognition of housing as a significant concern for individuals with a spinal cord injury/dysfunction (SCI/D), there is limited research available on this topic. This scoping review aimed to identify and describe the literature on housing across the continuum for people with an SCI/D. Methods: This review utilized Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework. Five databases were searched including MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL Plus (EBSCO), PsycINFO (Ovid), and Web of Science (Core Collection). In addition, Google’s Advanced Search function was used to search the gray literature, and reference lists from the included studies were scanned. A preliminary assessment of the Theory of Access (TOA) constructs and their relationships was conducted using Penchansky and Thomas’ Theory of Access and Saurman’s additional updates. An adapted version of this theory was developed by the research team to identify the types of studies that assess the TOA’s six constructs and was used to identify knowledge gaps to advance research in this field. Results: The search yielded 25,861 records, with 36 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Data analysis revealed the participants’ sociodemographic and impairment characteristics, as well as essential information pertaining to housing across the continuum for individuals with an SCI/D, both of which were inconsistently reported across the studies. Several studies (n = 18) reported on the influence of home adaptations on the health and well-being of individuals with an SCI/D. When framed within the TOA, issues of accessibility presented the most substantial barriers for the SCI/D community, followed by acceptability and availability. Conclusions: The findings of this scoping review suggest that housing is an understudied topic and that further research is required to generate evidence to better support the housing needs of individuals with an SCI/D globally.
Impact of Nursing Interventions via Telephone and Email on the Quality of Life of Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Preliminary Results of a Comparative Observational Study
Authors: Mercuri Caterina , Giordano Vincenza , Bosco Vincenzo , Serra Nicola , Spagnuolo Rocco , Nocerino Rita , Rea Teresa , Colaci Carmen , Guillari Assunta , Doldo Patrizia , Simeone Silvio
Published: December 2024

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is a heterogeneous chronic condition characterized by periods of relapse and remission. Ulcerative colitis involves inflammation of the colon and rectum mucosa, while Crohn’s disease causes deeper, transmural inflammation affecting all four gut layers from the mouth to the anus and can lead to complications such as fistulation. IBD significantly impacts patients’ physical and psychological well-being, thus reducing their quality of life (QoL). We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of nursing intervention facilitated through telephone and email support in improving the quality of life (QoL) of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) patients. Methods: A pilot comparative observational design with pre-test and post-test assessments was employed, involving 50 participants assigned to either an intervention group (Group A, n = 26) or a control group (Group B, n = 24). Group A received regular telephone consultations and prompt email responses from trained nurses; Group B received standard care. Data were collected at baseline and six months post-intervention (T1) using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Results: Group A showed significant improvements in anxiety, depression, fatigue, and sleep quality, with p-values indicating the significance of these findings. Conclusions: Tailored nursing support via remote communication significantly benefits IBD patients by alleviating psychological distress and enhancing their overall well-being, underscoring the importance of integrating such interventions into standard IBD care practices.
The Mediating Effects of Chronic Diseases in the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trajectories of Depressive Symptoms in Later Life: A Nationwide Longitudinal Study
Authors: Dai Qianqian , Li Ming , Wang Zhaoyu , Xu Qianqian , Zhang Xinyi , Tao Liyuan
Published: December 2024

Background: Numerous studies have established a link between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the development of depression in later life. However, the interactive relationships between ACEs, depression, and chronic diseases are still not well understood. In this study, the aim was to investigate the impact of ACEs on depressive trajectories among middle-aged and elderly individuals in China, as well as to examine the mediating roles of chronic diseases in this association. Methods: Data were drawn from 6921 participants aged 45 and older, using the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) data from 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2018, combined with the 2014 life history survey. Depressive symptom scores were assessed using the widely recognized CES-D-10 scale. The trajectories of depressive symptoms were identified via group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM). The association between ACEs and depressive trajectories was analyzed using multinomial logistic regression, and the KHB method was employed to test the mediating effects of different chronic diseases. Results: The age of the 6921 participants was 57.2 ± 8.0 years, with females comprising 53.9% and males 46.1%. We found that approximately 70% of Chinese middle-aged and older adults had experienced at least one ACE, and 4.8% had experienced four or more ACEs. The following four distinct trajectories of depressive symptoms were identified: continuing-low (N = 1897, 27.4%), continuing-low-to-middle (N = 2937, 42.4%), continuing-middle-to-high (N = 1649, 23.8%), and continuing-high (N = 438, 6.3%). Compared to individuals without ACEs, those with four or more ACEs had a significantly higher likelihood of following the continuing-low-to-middle trajectory (OR = 2.407, 95%CI: 1.633–3.550), the continuing-middle-to-high trajectory (OR = 7.458, 95%CI: 4.999–11.127), and the continuing-high trajectory (OR = 20.219, 95%CI: 12.115–33.744), rather than the continuing-low trajectory. Exposure to a greater number of ACEs was associated with an increased risk of following an adverse trajectory of depressive symptoms. Multiple chronic diseases significantly mediated the relationship between ACEs and depressive trajectories, with arthritis or rheumatism exerting the largest mediating effect, followed by digestive and respiratory diseases. Conclusions: These findings indicated that ACEs were associated with a higher risk of worse depressive symptom trajectories, with different chronic diseases mediating this relationship. Therefore, developing public measures to prevent ACEs can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and depression in middle-aged and elderly people. Additionally, strengthening the prevention and management of chronic diseases in individuals exposed to ACEs may further reduce their subsequent risk of depression.
Social–Ecological Determinants of Suicidal Ideation Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in the United States
Authors: Pharr Jennifer R. , Batra Kavita
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults are at an increased risk for suicide and suicidal ideation compared with cisgender/heterosexual adults. Due to the complexity of suicidal ideation, individual, social, and systemic factors must be considered. The purpose of this study was to identify determinants of suicidal ideation among SGM adults using constructs from the Social–Ecological Model (SEM). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of data collected from 1034 SGM adults between 27 January and 7 February 2022, and variables reflected the four constructs of the SEM, including individual, family, community, and societal levels. Hierarchical multiple linear regression was used to enter the variables in blocks. Results: The final model explained 55% of the variance in suicidal ideation, and determinants of suicidal ideation were identified at all four levels. At the individual level, factors were depression (p < 0.001, β = 0.231), anxiety (p < 0.001, β = 0.279), vigilance distress (p = 0.036, β = 0.157), not being out/open (p = 0.046, β = 1.136), having some college education (p = 0.002, β = −1.875), and personal strength (p = 0.012, β = −0.131). Family of origin discrimination distress was significant at the family level (p = 0.016, β = 0.174). Social resources (p < 0.001, β = −0.113), victimization distress (p < 0.001, β = 0.795), and harassment/discrimination distress (p = 0.035, β = 0.179) were significant at the community level. At the social level, SGM protective state law score (p = 0.43, β = −0.35) and having a proposed or enacted transgender sports ban (p = 0.027, β = 1.480) were significant. Conclusions: Understanding the factors across the various levels of the SEM that influence suicidal ideation allows for the development of multi-level, social-ecological suicide prevention programs. Such programs can address the unique needs of SGM individuals and help mitigate suicidal ideation.
Standardization of an Effective Scarification and Germination Protocol for Strawberry Seeds That Is Useful for Gamic Propagation
Authors: Giovanetti Giammarco , Marcellini Micol , Pergolotti Valeria , Mecozzi Federica , Mezzetti Bruno , Capocasa Franco , Sabbadini Silvia
Published: December 2024

In strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) breeding programs, seed dormancy adversely affects germination, resulting in delayed seedling emergence and low germination rates. This study investigated the best solution to enhance strawberry seed germination both in terms of efficiency and timing by evaluating the effect of three key factors: genotype, pre-sowing treatment, and germination medium. Chemical scarification treatment with the sulfuric acid of seeds from three different genotypes was optimized; treated seeds were placed to germinate on three germination media (Murashige and Skoog medium, peat, and filter paper) in a growth chamber. Seedlings obtained were acclimatized for evaluating post-acclimatization survival rate and possible phenotypic differences regarding seedling development. Chemical scarification treatment produced the best results, with germination rates of around 100% and the highest speed of germination compared to the not-treated controls. Indeed, more than 90% of the seeds germinated 14 days after sowing, regardless of the genotype or germination medium tested. Seedlings germinated on filter paper gave the poorest performances in terms of post-acclimatization survival rate and showed lower average plant height. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that excellent germination rates can be achieved through proper seed scarification, which is not genotype dependent; furthermore, when this method is combined with the correct germination medium, excellent seedling quality can be achieved.
Fresh Tea Leaf-Grading Detection: An Improved YOLOv8 Neural Network Model Utilizing Deep Learning
Authors: Wang Zejun , Xia Yuxin , Wang Houqiao , Liu Xiaohui , Che Raoqiong , Guo Xiaoxue , Li Hongxu , Zhang Shihao , Wang Baijuan
Published: December 2024

To facilitate the realization of automated tea picking and enhance the speed and accuracy of tea leaf grading detection, this study proposes an improved YOLOv8 network for fresh tea leaf grading recognition. This approach integrates a Hierarchical Vision Transformer using Shifted Windows to replace segments of the original YOLOv8’s network architecture, thereby alleviating the computational load of dense image processing tasks and reducing computational expenses. The incorporation of an Efficient Multi-Scale Attention Module with Cross-Spatial Learning serves to attenuate the influence of irrelevant features in complex backgrounds, which in turn, elevates the model’s detection Precision. Additionally, the substitution of the loss function with SIoU facilitates a more rapid model convergence and a more precise pinpointing of defect locations. The empirical findings indicate that the enhanced YOLOv8 algorithm has achieved a marked improvement in metrics such as Precision, Recall, F1, and mAP, with increases of 3.39%, 0.86%, 2.20%, and 2.81% respectively, when juxtaposed with the original YOLOv8 model. Moreover, in external validations, the FPS enhancements over the original YOLOv8, YOLOv5, YOLOX, Faster RCNN, and SSD deep-learning models are 6.75 Hz, 10.84 Hz, 12.79 Hz, 28.24 Hz, and 21.57 Hz, respectively, and the mAP improvements in practical detection are 2.79%, 2.92%, 3.08%, 7.07%, and 3.84% respectively. The refined model not only ensures efficient and accurate tea-grading recognition but also boasts high recognition rates and swift detection capabilities, thereby establishing a foundation for the development of tea-picking robots and tea quality grading devices.
Information Needs of State-Level Asthma Programs: Recommendations to Increase Accessibility
Authors: Fox Mary , Joseph Ann , Parimi Neha , Huh Haley
Published: December 2024

Asthma is the most common pediatric chronic disease, affecting about 5 million U.S. children. Controlling asthma requires intervention at the individual, household, and community levels. State asthma programs offer activities to support asthma control. We profiled U.S. state asthma programs through a website survey (24 CDC-funded, 10 non-CDC-funded) and then interviewed program managers about their information needs to identify ways to support their work. While CDC-funded and non-CDC-funded programs report similar goals and activities, their levels of engagement differed. Most programs rely on federal agencies or national associations for education materials. Concerns about materials were the lack of accessibility due to readability (reading level above sixth grade) and the lack of translations for culturally and linguistically diverse populations. In addition to priority needs around accessibility of materials, programs requested research to enhance their work and to support asthma management for young adults and incarcerated individuals.
Impact of the Abdominal Drawing-In Maneuver on Spinal Extensor Muscle Activity: A Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Trial Involving Individuals with Non-Specific Low Back Pain
Authors: Soylu Caglar , Atalay Emre Serdar , Turker Duygu , Sahan Tezel Yildirim , Un Yildirim Necmiye
Published: December 2024

Non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is a common musculoskeletal issue that can limit function and reduce the patient’s quality of life. Enhancing spinal stabilizer muscle activity through targeted exercises may help improve spinal alignment and alleviate NSLBP symptoms. This study aimed to investigate whether incorporating the abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) into selected low back exercises influences the electromyographic (EMG) activity of key spinal extensor muscles. Forty participants with NSLBP (n = 29 female and n = 11 male; mean age = 21.42 ± 1.07 years; BMI = 20.65 ± 2.08 kg/m2; 80% right-side dominant) performed three exercises, prone trunk extension, superman, and unstable superman, with and without the ADIM. The EMG amplitudes of the iliocostalis lumborum pars lumborum (ICL), iliocostalis lumborum pars thoracis (ICT), and longissimus thoracis (LT) were measured. A cross-sectional observational study design was employed. Significant main effects were observed for both exercise types and the ADIM on the EMG amplitudes of the ICL, ICT, and LT (ICL: F1,14 = 82.69–114.23, p < 0.001, η2 ≥ 0.88; ICT: F1,14 = 100.69–117.13, p < 0.001, η2 ≥ 0.90; LT: F1,14 = 62.69–74.88, p < 0.001, η2 ≥ 0.81). Under ADIM conditions, the ICL activity decreased significantly (right ICL mean difference: 14.06–20.02; left ICL: 13.06–21.32; p < 0.001), while the ICT and LT activity increased (ICT mean difference: 6.45–8.89; LT: 9.37–12.13; p < 0.001). These changes were most pronounced during the unstable superman exercise (p < 0.01). Integrating the ADIM into specific low back exercises can differentially modulate spinal extensor muscle activity. In particular, the unstable superman exercise demonstrated the greatest changes in the EMG amplitudes. These findings support the inclusion of the ADIM in exercise programs aimed at improving spinal stability and may have implications for NSLBP management. Future research should examine the effects of the ADIM in populations with varying experience levels to enhance its generalizability and refine the clinical recommendations.
Association Between Common Variants in the LAG3/CD4 Genes and Risk for Essential Tremor
Authors: Agúndez José A. G. , Macías Yolanda , Alonso-Navarro Hortensia , García-Martín Elena , Álvarez Ignacio , Pastor Pau , Benito-León Julián , López-Alburquerque Tomás , Jiménez-Jiménez Félix Javier
Published: December 2024

Many clinical, neuroimaging, neuropathological, epidemiological, and genetic data suggest a relationship between essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Several hypothesis-based gene association studies attempted to find a genetic association between these diseases. Recent case–control association studies in Chinese and Spanish populations showed a marginal association between the CD4 rs1922452 and CD4 rs951818 single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and the risk of PD. The proteins encoded by the CD4 and LAG3 genes have an important role in modulating inflammatory responses, and some recent data associated inflammatory markers to ET. This study investigates a possible association between the most common SNVs in the LAG3/CD4 genes and the risk of ET in the Spanish Caucasian population. We genotyped 267 patients diagnosed with familial ET and 270 age- and sex-matched controls using specific TaqMan assays for CD4 rs1922452, CD4 rs951818, and LAG3 rs870849 variants. We found a decreased risk for ET in carriers of the LAG3 rs870849 C/C genotype and the LAG3 rs870849C allelic variant exclusively in men. The mean age of onset of ET was not related to any of the variants studied. These data suggest no association of the gene variants studied with the overall risk for ET, except for a slight decrease in risk in male ET patients carrying the variant LAG3 rs870849C. However, such an association lost significance after correcting for multiple comparisons.
The N-Terminal Mutations of cMyBP-C Affect Calcium Regulation, Kinetics, and Force of Muscle Contraction
Authors: Nabiev Salavat R. , Kopylova Galina V. , Nefedova Victoria V. , Matyushenko Alexander M. , Shchepkin Daniil V. , Bershitsky Sergey Y.
Published: December 2024

The cardiac myosin binding protein-C (cMyBP-C) regulates cross-bridge formation and controls the duration of systole and diastole at the whole heart level. As known, mutations in cMyBP-C increase the cross-bridge number and rate of their cycling, hypercontractility, and myocardial hypertrophy. We investigated the effects of the mutations D75N and P161S of cMyBP-C related to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy on the mechanism of force generation in isolated slow skeletal muscle fibers. The mutation D75N slowed the kinetics of force development but did not affect the relaxation rate. The mutation P161S slowed both the relaxation and force development. The mutation D75N increased the calcium sensitivity of force, and the mutation P161S decreased it. The mutation D75N decreased the maximal isometric tension and increased the tension and stiffness at low calcium. Both mutations studied disrupt the calcium regulation of contractile force and affect the kinetics of its development and thus may impair cardiac diastolic function and cause myocardial hypertrophy.