bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Supplementing a Bacillus Multi-Strain Probiotic to a Post-Weaning Diet on Nutrient Utilisation and Nitrogen Retention of Piglets
Authors: Huting Anne Maria Stevina , Lagos Liz Vanessa , Hansen Lea Hübertz Birch , Molist Francesc
Published: November 2023

Probiotics are suggested to improve pig health, nutrient utilisation, performance, and they may reduce nitrogen (N) pollution. However, the effectivity of a single strain might be different from that of a multi-strain. The study was conducted to investigate the effect of a novel Bacillus multi-strain on nutrient digestibility, energy utilisation, and N retention in weaned piglets using an European diet. The experiment consisted of a control diet (CD) and a supplemented diet (SD). The probiotic used for SD consisted of B. amyloliquefaciens—516 and B. subtilis—541. A total of eight boars/treatment were weaned (day 0; 8.5 kg body weight). Only boars were used to ease the collection of urine. Until day 10, piglets were fed ad libitum and were housed in pairs; from day 11, piglets were fed semi ad libitum (feeding level 3.2× metabolic body weight) and were housed individually. From day 14, faecal and urine were collected twice daily. Piglets were humanely euthanised at day 19 (15.0 kg bodyweight) after which the jejunum, ileum, and colon content were collected. In faeces, the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of, amongst others, DM, organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), non-starch polysaccharides (NSP), and subsequently net energy (NE) were calculated using titanium dioxide as an indigestible marker. In the jejunum and ileum, the apparent digestibility of CP was estimated, and in the ileum, the apparent AA digestibility was measured. In urine, the N content was measured to determine N retention. The volatile fatty acid (VFA), branched-chain fatty acid (BCFA), and lactic acid content were analysed in the colon and faeces. The apparent CP digestibility in the jejunum and ileum was not affected by treatment (p > 0.05), and no effect was observed on the apparent ileal digestibility of AA (p > 0.05). Supplementation with the multi-strain probiotic improved the ATTD of DM (p = 0.01; +1.3%) and OM (p = 0.02; +1.2%) and tended to improve the ATTD of CP (p = 0.10; +2.2%) and NSP (p = 0.07; +1.9%). The multi-strain probiotic also improved the NE value (p = 0.02; +0.2 MJ/kg DM) and improved N retention (p = 0.05; +1.6%). Supplementation did not influence the VFA, BCFA, and lactic acid content in the faeces (p > 0.05). However, in the colon, supplementation did influence the lactic acid content (lower; p = 0.01) and tended to influence the valeric acid content (higher; p = 0.09). In conclusion, results from the current study suggest that the multi-strain probiotic has the potential to contribute to improve nutrient efficiency in weaned piglets. More research needs to be conducted to identify the impact of the improved nutrient utilisation on gut health in post-weaned pigs as well as environmental pollution.
Assessment of Radiological Risks due to Indoor Radon, Thoron and Progeny, and Soil Gas Radon in Thorium-Bearing Areas of the Centre and South Regions of Cameroon
Authors: Serge Atangana Bingana Martin , Didier Takoukam Soh Serge , Samuel Bineng Guillaume , Kranrod Chutima , Omori Yasutaka , Hosoda Masahiro , Saïdou  , Tokonami Shinji
Published: November 2023

Indoor radon, thoron and thoron progeny concentrations, along with the equilibrium factor for thoron progeny and soil gas radon concentrations, have been measured to assess radiological risks in the centre and south regions of Cameroon. Indoor radon and thoron concentrations were estimated using radon–thoron discriminative detectors (RADUET), while thoron progeny monitors measured the equilibrium equivalent thoron concentration (EETC). Radon concentrations in the soil were determined using a MARKUS 10 detector. It was found that radon, thoron and thoron progeny concentrations range between 19 and 62 Bq m−3, 10 and 394 Bq m−3 and 0.05 and 21.8 Bq m−3, with geometric means of 32 Bq m−3, 98 Bq m−3 and 4.9 Bq m−3, respectively. The thoron equilibrium factor ranges between 0.007 and 0.24, with an arithmetic mean of 0.06 ± 0.03; this is higher than the world average value of 0.02 provided by the United Nations Scientific Commission on the Effects of Atomic Radiation(UNSCEAR, New York, USA). The level of the soil radon concentration ranges from 4.8 to 57.3 kBq m−3, with a geometric mean of 12.1 kBq m−3 at a depth of 0.7 m. Of the sampling points, 66% fall within normal radon risk areas, and 3% of the sampling areas are high radon risk areas exceeding 50 kBq m−3. The annual effective dose was found to be 0.03 ± 0.01 mSv for radon, 0.08 ± 0.05 mSv for thoron, 0.63 ± 0.12 mSv for radon progeny and 1.40 ± 0.84 mSv for thoron progeny. The total dose is estimated to be 2.14 mSv y−1. The mean estimated indoor excess lifetime cancer risk values due to radon, thoron, radon progeny and thoron progeny are 0.12 × 10−3, 0.31 × 10−3, 2.51 × 10−3 and 5.58 × 10−3, respectively. Thoron progeny contributed 60% to the effective dose. Thus, thoron progeny cannot be neglected in dose assessments, in order to avoid biased results in radio-epidemiological studies.
Dynamic Analysis and FPGA Implementation of a New Fractional-Order Hopfield Neural Network System under Electromagnetic Radiation
Authors: Yu Fei , Lin Yue , Xu Si , Yao Wei , Gracia Yumba Musoya , Cai Shuo
Published: November 2023

Fractional calculus research indicates that, within the field of neural networks, fractional-order systems more accurately simulate the temporal memory effects present in the human brain. Therefore, it is worthwhile to conduct an in-depth investigation into the complex dynamics of fractional-order neural networks compared to integer-order models. In this paper, we propose a magnetically controlled, memristor-based, fractional-order chaotic system under electromagnetic radiation, utilizing the Hopfield neural network (HNN) model with four neurons as the foundation. The proposed system is solved by using the Adomain decomposition method (ADM). Then, through dynamic simulations of the internal parameters of the system, rich dynamic behaviors are found, such as chaos, quasiperiodicity, direction-controllable multi-scroll, and the emergence of analogous symmetric dynamic behaviors in the system as the radiation parameters are altered, with the order remaining constant. Finally, we implement the proposed new fractional-order HNN system on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). The experimental results show the feasibility of the theoretical analysis.
A Visualization Method of Knowledge Graphs for the Computation and Comprehension of Ultrasound Reports
Authors: Feng Jiayi , Zhang Runtong , Chen Donghua , Shi Lei
Published: November 2023

Knowledge graph visualization in ultrasound reports is essential for enhancing medical decision making and the efficiency and accuracy of computer-aided analysis tools. This study aims to propose an intelligent method for analyzing ultrasound reports through knowledge graph visualization. Firstly, we provide a novel method for extracting key term networks from the narrative text in ultrasound reports with high accuracy, enabling the identification and annotation of clinical concepts within the report. Secondly, a knowledge representation framework based on ultrasound reports is proposed, which enables the structured and intuitive visualization of ultrasound report knowledge. Finally, we propose a knowledge graph completion model to address the lack of entities in physicians’ writing habits and improve the accuracy of visualizing ultrasound knowledge. In comparison to traditional methods, our proposed approach outperforms the extraction of knowledge from complex ultrasound reports, achieving a significantly higher extraction index (η) of 2.69, surpassing the general pattern-matching method (2.12). In comparison to other state-of-the-art methods, our approach achieves the highest P (0.85), R (0.89), and F1 (0.87) across three testing datasets. The proposed method can effectively utilize the knowledge embedded in ultrasound reports to obtain relevant clinical information and improve the accuracy of using ultrasound knowledge.
Exploring the Role of Neuroplasticity in Development, Aging, and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Marzola Patrícia , Melzer Thayza , Pavesi Eloisa , Gil-Mohapel Joana , Brocardo Patricia S.
Published: November 2023

Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to reorganize and modify its neural connections in response to environmental stimuli, experience, learning, injury, and disease processes. It encompasses a range of mechanisms, including changes in synaptic strength and connectivity, the formation of new synapses, alterations in the structure and function of neurons, and the generation of new neurons. Neuroplasticity plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining brain function, including learning and memory, as well as in recovery from brain injury and adaptation to environmental changes. In this review, we explore the vast potential of neuroplasticity in various aspects of brain function across the lifespan and in the context of disease. Changes in the aging brain and the significance of neuroplasticity in maintaining cognitive function later in life will also be reviewed. Finally, we will discuss common mechanisms associated with age-related neurodegenerative processes (including protein aggregation and accumulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation) and how these processes can be mitigated, at least partially, by non-invasive and non-pharmacologic lifestyle interventions aimed at promoting and harnessing neuroplasticity.
Cognitive Neuroscience Perspectives on Language Acquisition and Processing
Authors: Prystauka Yanina , DeLuca Vincent , Luque Alicia , Voits Toms , Rothman Jason
Published: November 2023

The earliest investigations of the neural implementation of language started with examining patients with various types of disorders and underlying brain damage [...]
Financial Toxicity in Swiss Cancer Patients Treated with Proton Therapy: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study on Self-Reported Outcome
Authors: Bachtiary Barbara , Grawehr Leonie , Grillo Ruggieri Filippo , Held Ulrike , Weber Damien C.
Published: November 2023

Background: Proton therapy is indicated for cancers that would be difficult to treat with conventional radiotherapy. Compulsory healthcare insurance covers the costs of this therapy in Switzerland, but this does not mean that proton therapy is cost-neutral for every cancer patient. Significant out-of-pocket (OOP) costs may arise due to expenses associated with proton therapy, and patients may experience treatment-related financial distress—an effect known as “financial toxicity.” This study investigates the financial toxicity of patients undergoing proton therapy in a high-income country with a compulsory health insurance policy. Methods: Between September 2019 and November 2021, 146 Swiss cancer patients treated with proton therapy participated in this study, of whom 90 (62%) were adults and 56 (38%) were caregivers of child cancer patients. Financial toxicity was assessed using the FACIT Comprehensive Score for Financial Toxicity (COST). OOP costs during proton therapy were recorded weekly, and financial coping strategies were captured at the end of treatment. Findings: The median COST score, indicating financial toxicity, was 29.9 (IQR 21.0; 36.0) for all patients, 30.0 (IQR 21.3; 37.9) for adults, and 28.0 (IQR 20.5; 34.0) for children’s caregivers. Higher income (estimate 8.1, 95% CI 3.7 to 12.4, p ≤ 0.001) was significantly associated with higher COST scores, indicating less financial toxicity. Further distance from home to the treatment centre per 100 km (estimate −3.7, 95% CI −5.7 to −1.9, p ≤ 0.001) was significantly associated with lower COST scores, indicating increased financial toxicity. Married adult patients had substantially lower COST scores than single patients (estimate: −9.1, 95% CI −14.8 to −3.4, p ≤ 0.001). The median OOP cost was 2050 Swiss francs (CHF) and was spent mainly on travel, accommodation, and eating out. Sixty-three (43%) patients used their savings; 54 (37%) cut spending on leisure activities; 21 (14.4%) cut living expenses; 14 (9.6%) borrowed money; nine (6.2%) worked more; and four (2.7%) sold property. Patients with high COST scores used significantly fewer coping strategies such as saving on leisure activities (estimate −9.5, 95% CI −12.4 to −6.6, p ≤ 0.001), spending savings (estimate −3.9, 95% CI −6.3 to −1.4, p = 0.002), borrowing money (estimate −6.3, 95% CI −10.4 to −2.2, p = 0.003), and increasing workload (estimate −5.5, 95% CI −10.5 to −0.4, p = 0.035). Interpretation: A substantial number of cancer patients treated with proton therapy experience financial toxicity in Switzerland. Long travel distances to the proton therapy centre and low income negatively affect the financial well-being of these patients during proton therapy.
Advances of Protein Palmitoylation in Tumor Cell Deaths
Authors: Lin Xiangyi , Shi Yuxuan , Zhan Yuxin , Xing Yuying , Li Yu , Zhou Zhiqing , Chen Guoan
Published: November 2023

In this comprehensive survey, we delve into the multifaceted role of palmitoylation across various cell death modalities in the oncological context, from its intricate correlations with tumorigenesis, steered by the Asp-His-His-Cys tetrapeptide motif (DHHC) family, to the counter-process of depalmitoylation mediated by enzymes like Palmitoyl protein thioesterase-1 (PPT1). Innovations in detection methodologies have paralleled our growing understanding, transitioning from rudimentary techniques to sophisticated modern methods. Central to our discourse are agents like Ezurpimtrostat (GNS561) and dimeric chloroquine (DC661), promising heralds in palmitoylation-targeted cancer therapy. Collectively, this review accentuates palmitoylation’s transformative potential in oncology, foreshadowing groundbreaking therapeutic strategies and deepening our molecular comprehension of cancer dynamics.
Assessing Cannabidiol as a Therapeutic Agent for Preventing and Alleviating Alzheimer’s Disease Neurodegeneration
Authors: Chen Long , Sun Yuan , Li Jinran , Liu Sai , Ding Hancheng , Wang Guangji , Li Xinuo
Published: November 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a leading neurodegenerative condition causing cognitive and memory decline. With small-molecule drugs targeting Aβ proving ineffective, alternative targets are urgently needed. Neuroinflammation, which is central to AD’s pathology, results in synaptic and neuronal damage, highlighting the importance of addressing inflammation and conserving neuronal integrity. Cannabidiol (CBD), derived from cannabis, is noted for its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, having shown efficacy in neuropathic pain management for epilepsy. To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of CBD in AD and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms, we aimed to contribute valuable insights for incorporating AD prevention recommendations into future CBD nutritional guidelines. Aβ1–42 was employed for in vivo or in vitro model establishment, CBD treatment was utilized to assess the therapeutic efficacy of CBD, and RNA-seq analysis was conducted to elucidate the underlying therapeutic mechanism. CBD mitigates Aβ-induced cognitive deficits by modulating microglial activity, promoting neurotrophic factor release, and regulating inflammatory genes. The administration of CBD demonstrated a protective effect against Aβ toxicity both in vitro and in vivo, along with an amelioration of cognitive impairment in mice. These findings support the potential inclusion of CBD in future nutritional guidelines for Alzheimer’s disease prevention.
Planetary Health and Anthropocene Discourse: The Role of Muslim Religious Leaders
Authors: El-Sherbini Mona Said , Tajudeen Yusuf Amuda , Oladipo Habeebullah Jayeola , Oladunjoye Iyiola Olatunji , Adebayo Aminat Olaitan , Mahmood Jemilah
Published: November 2023

The Anthropocene epoch marks a critical phase in the history of humanity, where anthropogenic activities have profoundly impacted our planet. Alongside remarkable ecological crises, the Anthropocene worldview has raised existential questions, with a cultural and ethical discourse that recognizes the intrinsic value and calls for more responsible sustainable living. Addressing these collective challenges necessitates a broader perspective guided by a unified sense of purpose toward personal and planetary health. In this context, the role of religious leaders in shaping the social and environmental worldviews of their followers cannot be underestimated. Religious teachings provide a moral framework for promoting climate action, global ethics, the rights of Indigenous peoples, peace, and justice, and other aspects of planetary health. By examining the global ecological crises through the lens of Islam, the Religion of Nature, or Din al-Fitrah, and its environmental and spiritual teachings, we can gain valuable insights into humanity’s connection to the fabric of creation and its interaction with the world. These principles, rich in moral values, are intertwined with accountability and social cohesiveness. Therefore, the role of Muslim religious leaders considering the planetary-scale threats warrants further elucidation, recognizing that many other faiths and faith leaders can similarly contribute together for the common good.
Long-Term Effects of Child Early Surgical Ventricular Septal Defect Repair on Maternal Stress
Authors: Gerlach Jennifer , Decker Elena S. , Plank Anne-Christine , Mestermann Stefan , Purbojo Ariawan , Cesnjevar Robert A. , Kratz Oliver , Eichler Anna
Published: November 2023

The ventricular septal defect (VSD) represents the most common congenital heart defect (CHD). The diagnosis of and cardiac surgery for their child’s VSD are highly stressful experiences for parents; especially mothers, who are at risk of developing long-lasting stress-related symptoms. This study examined long-term alterations in maternal stress including self-reported psychological and biophysiological stress levels in a case-control design. We investigated 24 mothers of children with an isolated, surgically corrected VSD compared to non-affected controls. Maternal self-reports on psychopathology, everyday stress, parenting stress and hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) were measured during children’s primary school age (6–9 years, t1) and early adolescence (10–14 years, t2). In maternal self-reports, psychopathology and stress symptoms in the VSD-group and controls were comparable at t1, whereas at t2, mothers in the VSD-group even showed a decrease in psychopathology. Maternal HCC levels in the VSD-group were significantly lower (hypocortisolism) than HCC levels of controls at t1. This effect was no longer observed at t2 reflecting an approximation of HCC levels in the VSD-group to controls’ levels. This study highlights the potential for improved stress hormone balance and psychological well-being in mothers following their child’s surgical VSD repair. However, the need for parent-centered interventions is discussed, particularly during peri-operative phases and in early child developmental stages.
Comparison of Easy-to-Use Bronchiolitis Scores in the Post-COVID-19 Era—An Observational Study
Authors: Martín-Latorre María del Mar , Martínez-Campos Leticia , Martín-González Manuel , Castro-Luna Gracia , Lozano-Paniagua David , Nievas-Soriano Bruno José
Published: November 2023

In the post-restrictions COVID-19 period, the incidence of bronchiolitis in infants has increased considerably. Several scores determine the degree of severity of the bronchiolitis episode, but few are clinician-friendly. The main aim of this research was to find the easy-to-use score that most accurately estimated the severity of patients’ infections according to their clinical situations and most accurately predicted the need for hospital admission. An observational cross-sectional study was performed in a reference pediatric hospital during the post-restrictions period of the COVID-19 pandemic (2021 and 2022). A comparison was made between the severity estimate provided by five international acute bronchiolitis scales and the clinical severity of the acute bronchiolitis episode. Three hundred and seventy-seven patients participated in the investigation, with a mean age of 5.68 months; 68.7% of the participants had a mild episode of bronchiolitis, 24.5% had a moderate episode, and 6.9% had a severe episode. The severity estimated by the Tal scale modified by McCallum showed a statistically significant correlation with the clinical severity established by clinical criteria (0.836; p < 0.001). It showed a high correlation with other international scores, such as the Wang score (0.820; p < 0.05) and the Wood–Downes–Ferrés score (0.936; p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the constituent variables of the modified Tal score appeared in the final model that predicts the need for hospital admission. In the context of increased incidence after COVID-19, the Tal score modified by McCallum is an easy-to-use measuring instrument that presents an excellent concordance with the clinical severity estimated at first care contact. It also offers a more significant prediction of the need for hospital admission.
Sol-Gel-Derived Functional Coatings for Pre-Sowing Seed Treatment
Authors: Shilova Olga A. , Khamova Tamara V. , Panova Gayane G. , Udalova Olga R. , Artemyeva Anna M. , Kornyukhin Dmitry L. , Nikolaev Anton M. , Kovalenko Anastasiya S. , Sinel’nikov Alexandr A. , Kopitsa Gennady P.
Published: November 2023

The superatomic structure of film-forming sols obtained by the acid hydrolysis of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) in an aqueous medium (free of organic solvents) was studied using the SAXS method. The formation of nanoparticles (NPs) was confirmed in alcohol-free silica sols with both a low (1 vol. %) content of TEOS and a high (10 vol. %) content of TEOS, hydrolyzed in an aqueous-alcoholic medium. A trimodal size distribution was revealed for the resulting NPs, with radii ranging from less than 1 nm to ~11 nm. The volume fraction of NPs tends to grow with increases in TEOS concentration, as well as with the introduction of magnetic NPs of iron oxides into silica sols. The synthesized silica sols and suspensions based on silica sols with FexOy NPs were used for the pre-sowing treatment of white and cauliflower cabbage seeds in order to provide a functional coating on their surfaces, thereby improving seed germination, stimulating their growth in the early stages of development, and suppressing the effect of phytopathogens. The effect of the pre-sowing seed treatment in sol-gel compositions on seed germination and the growth characteristics of plant seedlings is analyzed, including the influence of iron-oxide magnetic NPs’ compositions and concentrations in silica sols.
Comparison of Various Conversion Layers for Improved Friction Performance of Railway Wheel-End Bearings
Authors: Broitman Esteban , Ruellan Arnaud , Meeuwenoord Ralph , Nijboer Daan , Brizmer Victor
Published: November 2023

With a growing global railway market which needs to reduce its energy consumption and emissions, railway wheel-end bearing units are being optimized to further reduce power losses with no compromise on reliability. One of the different solutions being evaluated is the selection of the optimum surface engineering. Inner and outer rings of railway bearing units are currently coated with a zinc-calcium phosphate conversion coating designed for anti-corrosion, anti-fretting, and mounting properties. In this study, different conversion layers, like zinc-calcium phosphate, manganese-phosphate and tribological black oxide, have been compared in terms of friction performance using a single-contact tribometer and a grease-lubricated bearing friction test rig. Results demonstrate that an optimum tribological black oxide conversion layer can reduce the bearing torque by up to 30% in both low and intermediate speeds relevant to intercity trains.
Inverse Design of Axis Fan for Permanent Magnet Drive Motor for Special Vehicles
Authors: Ma Changjun , Li Chunming , Liu Kai , He Zhixiang , Pang Daqian , Hua Wei
Published: November 2023

The control of mechanical energy loss is especially key in the design of permanent magnet drive motors for special vehicles. This paper takes a 300 kW high-efficiency motor as an example, and under the operating condition of 9000 rev/min, in order to control the size of the mechanical loss Pmech, improve the efficiency of the motor, as well as enhance the ventilation and heat dissipation performance of the motor, the structural parameters of the motor’s Axis fan are identified by using the Reverse Engineering (RE), and the fan performance is simulated and analysed by using the standard k-ε turbulence model of Computational Fluid Dynamics. The mechanical loss calculation model is investigated, and the effects of different blade numbers, wrap angles, and mounting angle parameters of the fan on the mechanical loss Pmech are derived. And finally, the scheme is calculated to show that when the blade number Z is 13, the wrap angle Δφ is 60°, the front mounting angle Φ1 is 45°, and the rear mounting angle Φ2 is 30°, the mechanical loss Pmech decreases from 8.0 kW to 2.54 kW, and the motor efficiency η0 is greatly improved, increasing from 94.2% to 96.1%. Meanwhile, based on finite element simulation experiments, the effects of the motor Axis fan on the steady-state temperature field of the pre-optimised and post-optimised fans are compared, and the optimised axis fan makes the motor ventilation and heat dissipation more reasonable. The maximum temperature of the motor under the same working condition decreased by 16.7 K, the efficiency η0 of this motor was greatly improved, and the efficiency η0 increased from 94.2% to 96.1%.
Experimental Tests on the Influence of Accumulated Pressure Energy on the Response Time of a Hydraulic Cylinder under External Load Actuated in a Classic and Distributed System Structure
Authors: Siwulski Tomasz
Published: November 2023

The need to develop hydraulic systems having reduced energy-consumption and improved operating parameters has led to an increased interest inter alia in the character of the actuator movement depending on the structure of the hydrostatic power supply system. The state-of-the-art analysis of the response time of the actuated hydraulic cylinder are typically based on the response times of the valves and on the propagation velocity of the pressure wave and have insufficiently focused on the flow of the energy accumulated in the power supply line. This article presents the results of tests which indicate a relationship between the amount of the energy accumulated in the power supply line and the response time of the cylinder and thus demonstrates that this parameter cannot be ignored in such analyses. The presented tests involved a comparative analysis of the results obtained for systems with different valve architectures. The comparison included the actuation times for a cylinder controlled with the classic 3-position valve and for a case with the control valve installed on the cylinder. The results and conclusions presented in this article are of significant utilitarian character and may become an element of further works on the development of electro-hydraulic systems with increased operating parameters.
Genome-Wide Identification of AhMDHs and Analysis of Gene Expression under Manganese Toxicity Stress in Arachis hypogaea
Authors: Liu Ying , Zhao Min , Shi Jianning , Yang Shaoxia , Xue Yingbin
Published: November 2023

Malate dehydrogenase (MDH) is one kind of oxidation–reduction enzyme that catalyzes the reversible conversion of oxaloacetic acid to malic acid. It has vital functions in plant development, photosynthesis, abiotic stress responses, and so on. However, there are no reports on the genome-wide identification and gene expression of the MDH gene family in Arachis hypogaea. In this study, the MDH gene family of A. hypogaea was comprehensively analyzed for the first time, and 15 AhMDH sequences were identified. According to the phylogenetic tree analysis, AhMDHs are mainly separated into three subfamilies with similar gene structures. Based on previously reported transcriptome sequencing results, the AhMDH expression quantity of roots and leaves exposed to manganese (Mn) toxicity were explored in A. hypogaea. Results revealed that many AhMDHs were upregulated when exposed to Mn toxicity, suggesting that those AhMDHs might play an important regulatory role in A. hypogaea’s response to Mn toxicity stress. This study lays foundations for the functional study of AhMDHs and further reveals the mechanism of the A. hypogaea signaling pathway responding to high Mn stress.
Barriers and Enablers Experienced by General Practitioners in Delivering Safe and Equitable Care during COVID-19: A Qualitative Investigation in Two Countries
Authors: Van Poel Esther , van Loenen Tessa , Collins Claire , Van Roy Kaatje , Van den Muijsenbergh Maria , Willems Sara
Published: November 2023

Addressing equity in healthcare is fundamental for delivering safe care to vulnerable patients, especially during COVID-19. This paper aims to identify barriers and enabling factors for general practitioners (GPs) in delivering safe and equitable care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews took place during May–July 2020 among 18 Flemish and 16 Dutch GPs. Thematic analysis of the interviews demonstrated that while GPs acknowledged a smooth information flow by governments and professional organizations on care guidelines, the fast-changing information challenged them to stay up to date. Media communication facilitated information dissemination but also fueled misinformation and miscommunication, creating unrealistic patient expectations. Certain guidelines and patient reluctance delayed necessary care. A shortage of personal protective equipment made GPs concerned about patient safety during face-to-face contacts. Teleconsultations became a popular alternative, but posed increased patient safety risks. GPs struggled to identify and reach vulnerable patients. Equitable care was hindered by time constraints; thus, having the appropriate materials facilitated such care. An interprofessional collaboration involving paramedical, social, and city services benefited patient safety and equity in healthcare. However, limitations in this collaboration pressured GPs. The unprecedented and resource-constrained environment challenged GPs’ capacity to provide the healthcare quality they aspired to deliver. A well-structured collaborative network involving all stakeholders could benefit safe and equitable care in future pandemics.
Effects of Multi-Task Mode on Cognition and Lower Limb Function in Frail Older Adults: A Systematic Search and Review
Authors: Wang Cenyi , Wang Bingqing , Liang Jiling , Niu Ziru , Lu Aming
Published: November 2023

The application of multi-tasking (MT), especially dual-tasking (DT), in frail older adults is currently gaining attention. The aim was to review the application of the MT mode on cognition and lower limb function in frail older adults, including the MT test and MT training. By searching five electronic databases, Scopus, PubMed, PEDro, Web of Science and the Chinese electronic database, a total of 18 studies were finally included in this study, with 7 articles on MT testing and 11 articles on MT training. The results of the study showed that the current testing and training of MT is mainly based on the DT mode, with a wide variety of test types and protocols, as well as a variety of outcomes. The included studies suggested that DT can be used as a test to assess cognitive and lower limb function in the frail population and that an MT (DT) training program with an intervention period of ≥3 months or a duration of ≥60 min per session could improve cognitive and lower limb function in the frail population, thereby reducing the risk of falls. Further research is required to explore the effects of different types of MT and task prioritization in frail older adults.
Inter-Row Management and Clay Content Influence Acari and Collembola Abundances in Vineyards
Authors: Möth Stefan , Khalil Sarhan , Rizzoli Rudi , Steiner Magdalena , Forneck Astrid , Bacher Sven , Griesser Michaela , Querner Pascal , Winter Silvia
Published: November 2023

Viticulture is a perennial cropping system that provides large inter-row space as a non-crop habitat for a range of different taxa. Extensive vegetation management has been shown to increase biodiversity and ecosystem service provision in vineyards. Important soil ecosystem services are decomposition, nutrient cycling, and pest regulation provided by the mesofauna (e.g., Acari and Collembola). However, studies investigating the effects of inter-row management on soil mesofauna are scarce. We studied the effect of inter-row management intensity (complete vegetation cover, alternating vegetation cover, and bare ground) and local pedoclimatic conditions on Acari and Collembola in nine Austrian vineyards. Our results showed that the clay content of the soil was the most important factor and increased the abundances of both analyzed taxa. Complete and alternating vegetation cover increased their abundance in comparison to bare ground management. Higher soil respiration slightly contributed to higher abundances of those two taxa in both years. In conclusion, besides the positive effects of the clay content in the soil, complete and alternating vegetation cover are feasible management practices for increasing soil mesofauna in vineyards.
Correction: Liu et al. The Genome-Wide Identification of Stable Internal Reference Genes Related to Delayed Spoilage for Accurate qRT-PCR Normalization in Ethephon-Treated Pueraria thomsonii Benth. Horticulturae 2023, 9, 1014
Authors: Liu Yujia , Li Ya , He Binrong , Yu Baiyin , Liu Boting , Ma Chongjian , Chen Jie , Zhang Tianhua , Zhang Hongrui , Liu Yuanlong , Li Xiang
Published: November 2023

In the original publication [...]
Comparing Macroscale and Microscale Walkability Indicators to Establish Pick-Up/Drop-Off Locations for a Microtransit Service in a Suburban Area
Authors: D’Orso Gabriele , Minaudo Leonardo , Migliore Marco
Published: November 2023

Microtransit is a shared mobility service that operates between fixed-route transit and ride-hailing. It operates with a fleet of vans or minibuses within a service zone that is usually located in a rural or suburban car-oriented area with a transport demand that is temporally and spatially dispersed. Microtransit often expects customers to walk a short distance to pick-up/drop-off (PUDO) locations. The PUDO points need to be quickly, easily, and safely reachable by pedestrians. Thus, PUDO locations must be chosen after analyzing the walkability of the suburban area served by microtransit. This paper presents a comparison of macroscale and microscale indicators to assess the walkability of suburban neighborhoods where microtransit has to be introduced. We chose three suburban neighborhoods (Partanna Mondello, Tommaso Natale, and Mondello) in Palermo, Italy, as a study area, aiming to identify the best places to locate PUDO stops for a microtransit service. A GIS database has been built associating each link with a series of qualitative and quantitative attributes. Finally, we developed a walkability index that indicates the attractiveness of specific locations in terms of intermodal walkability. We also identified the critical pedestrian links that need actions to improve their walkability.
Ytterbium (III) Fluoride in Dental Materials
Authors: Nicholson John W.
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: The compound ytterbium trifluoride is used as a component of several dental materials, and this is reviewed in the current article. (2) Methods: Published articles on this substance were identified initially from PubMed, and then from Science Direct and Google Scholar. The publications identified in this way showed that ytterbium trifluoride has been included in a variety of dental restorative materials, including composite resins, glass polyalkenoate cements, and calcium trisilicate cements. (3) Results: Ytterbium trifluoride is reported to be insoluble in water. Despite this, its presence is associated with fluoride release from dental materials. There is evidence that it reacts with the components of calcium trisilicate cements to form small amounts of a variety of compounds, including ytterbium oxide, Yb2O3, and calcium–ytterbium fluoride, CaYbF5. In nanoparticulate form, it has been shown to reinforce glass polyalkenoates and it also provides high contrast in X-ray images. (4) Conclusions: Ytterbium trifluoride is a useful component of dental materials, though some of the published findings suggest that there are aspects of its chemistry which are poorly understood.
Kernel Density Estimators for Axisymmetric Particle Beams
Authors: Pierce Christopher M. , Kim Young-Kee
Published: November 2023

Bright beams are commonly represented by sampled data in the numerical algorithms used to simulate their properties. However, in these calculations and the analyses of their outputs, the beam’s density is sometimes required and must be calculated from the samples. Axisymmetric beams, which possess a rotational symmetry and are naturally expressed in polar coordinates, pose a particular challenge to density estimators. The area element in polar coordinates shrinks as the radius becomes small, and weighting the samples to account for their reduced frequency may cause unwelcome artifacts. In this work, we derive analytical expressions for two kernel density estimators, which solve these problems in the spatial coordinates and in the transverse phase space. We show how the kernels can be found by averaging the Gaussian kernel in Cartesian coordinates over the polar angle and demonstrate their use on test problems. These results show that particle beam symmetries can be taken advantage of in density estimation while avoiding artifacts.
Nonwoven Electrospun Membranes as Tissue Scaffolds: Practices, Problems, and Future Directions
Authors: Shah Dinesh , Bhatta Lok Ranjan , Sharma Ram Kumar , Pant Bishweshwar , Park Mira , Ojha Gunendra Prasad , Pant Hem Raj
Published: November 2023

A flexible and dependable method that has been extensively employed to construct nanofibrous scaffolds that resemble the extracellular matrix made from polymeric materials is electrospinning (ES). ES is superior to other techniques because of its unique capacity to create nanofibers with a high surface-to-volume ratio, low cost, simplicity of setup, freedom in material choice, and ability to alter the surface attributes and usefulness of the nanofibers. However, the low productivity of nanofibrous membrane from conventional ES with the generation of tightly packed nanofibrous sheet-like two-dimensional membranes impedes cellular infiltration into scaffolds during tissue regeneration. Moreover, toxic organic solvents are desired for polymer dissolution for ES. Such solvents produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during electrospinning, which can degrade the indoor air quality of working place. Furthermore, when electrospun membranes containing traces of such VOCs are employed as tissue scaffolds, it may cause serious effect to cells and tissue. This justifies the need for alternative green solvents which are not only environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and low-cost but also biocompatible with medicinal values. Therefore, this review mainly focuses on summarizing the recent advances in ES machines, fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) spongy nanofibrous membrane, and introducing green solvent for polymer processing. Finally, based on the findings of the existing literature and our experience, this review mainly focuses on essential oils as future “greener” alternatives to current toxic solvents used in ES process.
Isolation, Identification, and Evaluation of the Predatory Activity of Chinese Arthrobotrys Species towards Economically Important Plant-Parasitic Nematodes
Authors: Wu Yan , Yang Zaifu , Jiang Zhaochun , Nizamani Mir Muhammad , Zhang Hui , Liu Mingrui , Wei Shan , Wang Yong , Li Kaihuai
Published: November 2023

The current investigation aimed to isolate and identify predatory fungal strains and evaluate their efficacy in mitigating the effects of plant-parasitic nematodes. We successfully isolated three distinct nematophagous fungal strains from soil samples, identified as Arthrobotrys megalosporus, A. oligospora, and A. sinensis, using conventional and molecular identification methodologies. In vitro trials illustrated the high capture efficiency of these fungi against plant-parasitic nematodes. Over an exposure period of 48 h to Aphelenchoides besseyi, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, and Ditylenchus destructor, A. megalosporus (GUCC220044) displayed predation rates of 99.7%, 83.0%, and 21.1%, respectively. A. oligospora (GUCC220045) demonstrated predation rates of 97.3%, 97.3%, and 54.6%, and A. sinensis (GUCC220046) showed rates of 85.1%, 68.3%, and 19.0% against the same cohort of nematodes. The experimental outcomes substantiate that all three identified fungal strains demonstrate predatory activity against the tested nematodes, albeit with varying efficiencies.
Tourism Forecasting of “Unpredictable” Future Shocks: A Literature Review by the PRISMA Model
Authors: Gricar Sergej
Published: November 2023

This study delves into the intricate process of predicting tourism demand, explicitly focusing on econometric and quantitative time series analysis. A meticulous review of the existing literature is carried out to comprehensively understand the various methods for forecasting “unpredictable” shocks of tourism demand on an ex-ante basis. The PRISMA method has been implemented. Drawing on scholarly research, this study pinpoints the critical challenges in accurately predicting tourism demand, making it a valuable resource for tourism professionals and researchers seeking to stay on top of the latest forecasting techniques. Moreover, the study includes an overview of published manuscripts from the current decade, with mixed results from the 32 manuscripts reviewed. The study concludes that virtual tourism, augmented reality, virtual reality, big data, and artificial intelligence all have the potential to enhance demand forecasting in time series econometrics.
The Birth of the Copenhagen School: Personal Recollections at the EMBO Workshop on Bacterial Growth Physiology, 2022
Authors: Schaechter Moselio
Published: November 2023

The future of bacterial growth physiology is shining more brightly than ever [...]
Optimizing Mixed Group Train Operation for Heavy-Haul Railway Transportation: A Case Study in China
Authors: Zhuo Qinyu , Chen Weiya , Yuan Ziyue
Published: November 2023

Group train operation (GTO) applications have reduced the tracking intervals for overloaded trains, and can affect the efficiency of rail transport. In this paper, we first analyze the differences between GTO and traditional operation (TO). A new mathematical model and simulated annealing algorithm are then used to study the problem of mixed group train operation. The optimization objective of this model is to maximize the transportation volume of special heavy-haul railway lines within the optimization period. The main constraint conditions are extracted from the maintenance time, the minimum ratio of freight volume, and the committed arrival time at each station. A simulated annealing algorithm is constructed to generate the mixed GTO plan. Through numerical experiments conducted on actual heavy-haul railway structures, we validate the effectiveness of the proposed model and meta-heuristic algorithm. The results of the first contrastive experiment show that the freight volume for group trains is 37.5% higher than that of traditional trains, and the second experiment shows a 30.6% reduction in the time during which the line is occupied by trains in GTO. These findings provide compelling evidence that GTO can effectively enhance the capacity and reduce the transportation time cost of special heavy-haul railway lines.
Well-Posedness of a Class of Radial Inhomogeneous Hartree Equations
Authors: Almuthaybiri Saleh , Ghanmi Radhia , Saanouni Tarek
Published: November 2023

The present paper investigates the following inhomogeneous generalized Hartree equation iu˙+Δu=±|u|p−2|x|b(Iα∗|u|p|·|b)u, where the wave function is u:=u(t,x):R×RN→C, with N≥2. In addition, the exponent b>0 gives an unbounded inhomogeneous term |x|b and Iα≈|·|−(N−α) denotes the Riesz-potential for certain 0<α<N. In this work, our aim is to establish the local existence of solutions in some radial Sobolev spaces, as well as the global existence for small data and the decay of energy sub-critical defocusing global solutions. Our results complement the recent work (Sharp threshold of global well-posedness versus finite time blow-up for a class of inhomogeneous Choquard equations, J. Math. Phys. 60 (2019), 081514). The main challenge in this work is to overcome the singularity of the unbounded inhomogeneous term |x|b for certain b>0.
Bounds for Eigenvalues of q-Laplacian on Contact Submanifolds of Sasakian Space Forms
Authors: Li Yanlin , Mofarreh Fatemah , Abolarinwa Abimbola , Alshehri Norah , Ali Akram
Published: November 2023

This study establishes new upper bounds for the mean curvature and constant sectional curvature on Riemannian manifolds for the first positive eigenvalue of the q-Laplacian. In particular, various estimates are provided for the first eigenvalue of the q-Laplace operator on closed orientated (l+1)-dimensional special contact slant submanifolds in a Sasakian space form, M˜2k+1(ϵ), with a constant ψ1-sectional curvature, ϵ. From our main results, we recovered the Reilly-type inequalities, which were proven before this study.
An Invariant of Riemannian Type for Legendrian Warped Product Submanifolds of Sasakian Space Forms
Authors: Alghamdi Fatemah , Alqahtani Lamia , Alkhaldi Ali , Ali Akram
Published: November 2023

In the present paper, we investigate the geometry and topology of warped product Legendrian submanifolds in Sasakian space forms D2n+1(ϵ) and obtain the first Chen inequality that involves extrinsic invariants like the mean curvature and the length of the warping functions. This inequality also involves intrinsic invariants (δ-invariant and sectional curvature). In addition, an integral bound is provided for the Bochner operator formula of compact warped product submanifolds in terms of the gradient Ricci curvature. Some new results on mean curvature vanishing are presented as a partial solution to the well-known problem given by S.S. Chern.