bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Effects of Fire Severity and Climatic Factors on Post-Forest-Fire Vegetation Recovery
Authors: Hao Bin , Xu Xu , Wu Fei , Tan Lei
Published: June 2022

As a major disturbance to forest ecosystems, wildfires pose a serious threat to the ecological environment. Monitoring post-fire vegetation recovery is critical to quantifying the effects of wildfire on ecosystems and conducting forest resource management. Most previous studies have analyzed short-term (less than five years) post-fire recovery and limited the driving factors to temperature and precipitation. The lack of long-term and multi-faceted observational analyses has limited our understanding of the long-term effects of fire on vegetation recovery. This study utilized multi-source remote sensing data for a long time series analysis of post-fire vegetation recovery in China based on Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud computing platform. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), Normalized Burn Ratio (NBR), and Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI) were selected to quantify the low, moderate, and high severity of burned areas. Ridge Regression Model (RRM) was used to analyze the relationship between 15 driving factors and the vegetation regeneration process. The results show that it took at least 7–10 years for the vegetation index to recover to the pre-fire level after a forest fire. The recovery rate of high severity combustion areas was the fastest within the first two years. From the results of Ridge Regression, it came out that the overall fitting degree of the model with NDVI as the dependent variable was superior than that with EVI. The four variables of temperature, precipitation, soil temperature, and soil moisture were able to explain the change in more detail in vegetation indices. Our study enriches the research cases of global forest fires and vegetation recovery, provides a scientific basis for the sustainable development of forest ecosystems in China, and provides insight into environmental issues and resource management.
Inactivation of Endogenous Pectin Methylesterases by Radio Frequency Heating during the Fermentation of Fruit Wines
Authors: Zhao Yan , Yu Xiaobin , Zhao Wei , Li Gen , Liu Guangpeng , Ma Yanrui , Chu Le , Ma Yinfei , Zhang Ying , Lu Yao , He Fatao , Liu Xiaobo
Published: June 2022

Pectin methylesterase (PME) is a methyl ester group hydrolytic enzyme of either plant or microbial origin. Importantly, endogenous PMEs in fruits can catalyze the demethoxylation of pectin with a bulk release of methanol, largely impacting the fruit juice and wine industries. Here, we demonstrated radio frequency (RF) heating for inactivation of endogenous PMEs and investigated the relevant mechanisms underpinning enzymatic inactivation. The RF heating curve indicated that the optimal heating rate was achieved at an electrode gap of 90 mm (compared to 100 mm and 110 mm) and that the inactivation rate of the enzyme increases with heating time. RF heating exhibited better effects on enzymatic inactivation than traditional water heating, mainly by changing the secondary structures of PMEs, including α-helix, β-sheet, β-turn, and random coil. Moreover, fluorescence spectroscopy indicated changes in the tertiary structure with a significant increase in fluorescence intensity. Significantly, application of RF heating for inactivation of PMEs resulted in a 1.5-fold decrease in methanol during the fermentation of jujube wine. Collectively, our findings demonstrated an effective approach for inactivating endogenous PMEs during the bioprocesses of fruits.
The Characteristic of Insect Oil for a Potential Component of Oleogel and Its Application as a Solid Fat Replacer in Cookies
Authors: Kim Doyoung , Oh Imkyung
Published: June 2022

The larvae of Tenebrio molitor, an edible insect, have recently attracted attention in the food industry as a protein supplement or future food material. However, despite more than 30% of the total weight being fat content, few studies have been conducted on the fat (oil) derived from Tenebrio molitor larvae (TM oil) and its food utilization. In this study, TM oil was extracted and its fatty acid composition and antioxidant activity were investigated. Then, the oleogels were prepared with TM oil and oleogelators (candelilla wax, carnauba wax, and beeswax) and their rheological and thermal properties were evaluated to elucidate their utilization as a solid fat replacer in cookies. In the results, TM oil contained 73.6% unsaturated fatty acids and showed a lower antioxidant activity than olive oil. Although the highest hardness was shown in oleogel with candelilla wax, the highest viscoelasticity above 50 °C was observed for oleogel with carnauba wax. The highest melting point was observed in carnauba oleogel. Lower peroxide values were observed in the oleogel samples than for TM oil, indicating that oleogelation of structuring oil improved the oxidative stability of TM oil. In addition, the shortening replacement with carnauba wax oleogel showed a desirable cookie quality in terms of spreadability and texture properties.
WGCNA Analysis Identifies the Hub Genes Related to Heat Stress in Seedling of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Wang Yubo , Wang Yingfeng , Liu Xiong , Zhou Jieqiang , Deng Huabing , Zhang Guilian , Xiao Yunhua , Tang Wenbang
Published: June 2022

Frequent high temperature weather affects the growth and development of rice, resulting in the decline of seed–setting rate, deterioration of rice quality and reduction of yield. Although some high temperature tolerance genes have been cloned, there is still little success in solving the effects of high temperature stress in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Based on the transcriptional data of seven time points, the weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) method was used to construct a co–expression network of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the rice genotypes IR64 (tolerant to heat stress) and Koshihikari (susceptible to heat stress). There were four modules in both genotypes that were highly correlated with the time points after heat stress in the seedling. We further identified candidate hub genes through clustering and analysis of protein interaction network with known–core genes. The results showed that the ribosome and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum were the common pathways in response to heat stress between the two genotypes. The changes of starch and sucrose metabolism and the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites pathways are possible reasons for the sensitivity to heat stress for Koshihikari. Our findings provide an important reference for the understanding of high temperature response mechanisms and the cultivation of high temperature resistant materials.
NUMTs Can Imitate Biparental Transmission of mtDNA—A Case in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Parakatselaki Maria-Eleni , Zhu Chen-Tseh , Rand David , Ladoukakis Emmanuel D.
Published: June 2022

mtDNA sequences can be incorporated into the nuclear genome and produce nuclear mitochondrial fragments (NUMTs), which resemble mtDNA in their sequence but are transmitted biparentally, like the nuclear genome. NUMTs can be mistaken as real mtDNA and may lead to the erroneous impression that mtDNA is biparentally transmitted. Here, we report a case of mtDNA heteroplasmy in a Drosophila melanogaster DGRP line, in which the one haplotype was biparentally transmitted in an autosomal manner. Given the sequence identity of this haplotype with the mtDNA, the crossing experiments led to uncertainty about whether heteroplasmy was real or an artifact due to a NUMT. More specific experiments revealed that there is a large NUMT insertion in the X chromosome of a specific DGRP line, imitating biparental inheritance of mtDNA. Our result suggests that studies on mtDNA heteroplasmy and on mtDNA inheritance should first exclude the possibility of NUMT interference in their data.
Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Uptake in a Transborder Population at the Mexico–Guatemala Border, September–November 2021
Authors: Bojorquez Ietza , Leyva-Flores René , Rodríguez-Chávez César , Hernández-Campos Carlos , Arévalo Marcel , Cortés-Alcalá Ricardo , Rodríguez-Elizondo Georgina , Ward Sarah , Merrill Rebecca , Rodriguez-Lainz Alfonso , Escotto Dianne , Bustamante Nirma
Published: June 2022

Assessing COVID-19 vaccination uptake of transborder populations is critical for informing public health policies. We conducted a probability (time-venue) survey of adults crossing from Mexico into Guatemala from September to November 2021, with the objective of describing COVID-19 vaccination status, willingness to get vaccinated, and associated factors. The main outcomes were receipt of ≥1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, being fully vaccinated, and willingness to get vaccinated. We assessed the association of outcomes with sociodemographic characteristics using logistic regressions. Of 6518 participants, 50.6% (95%CI 48.3,53.0) were vaccinated (at least one dose); 23.3% (95%CI 21.4,25.2) were unvaccinated but willing to get vaccinated, and 26.1% (95%CI 24.1,28.3) were unvaccinated and unwilling to get vaccinated. Those living in Mexico, independent of country of birth, had the highest proportion vaccinated. The main reason for unwillingness was fear of side effects of COVID-19 vaccines (47.7%, 95%CI 43.6,51.9). Education level was positively associated with the odds of partial and full vaccination as well as willingness to get vaccinated. People identified as Catholic had higher odds of getting vaccinated and being fully vaccinated than members of other religious groups or the non-religious. Further studies should explore barriers to vaccination among those willing to get vaccinated and the motives of the unwilling.
Health Literacy, Socioeconomic Status and Vaccination Uptake: A Study on Influenza Vaccination in a Population-Based Sample
Authors: Zanobini Patrizio , Lorini Chiara , Caini Saverio , Lastrucci Vieri , Masocco Maria , Minardi Valentina , Possenti Valentina , Mereu Giovanna , Cecconi Rossella , Bonaccorsi Guglielmo
Published: June 2022

Background: Health Literacy (HL) has been recently hypothesized to affect the relationship between socio-economic status (SES) and health conditions. However, to date no study has yet assessed the potential contribution of HL in the pathway through which SES affects influenza vaccination status. We aim to examine the relationships among HL, SES factors, and influenza vaccination uptake in Tuscan (Italy) residents belonging to different high-risk groups (HRGs) for influenza. Methods: The study was performed within the Tuscan population sample selected in the Italian Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System in 2017–2018. HL was assessed using the Italian version of the 6-items European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire (HLS-EU-Q6). Mediation analyses were conducted using SES variables as independent variables, influenza vaccination status as dependent variable and HL as mediator variable. Results: A total of 3278 people belonged to HRGs for influenza. In the whole sample, 19.4% of the participants were vaccinated against influenza. Participants who were not employed or had a poor financial status were more likely to be vaccinated against influenza (OR 1.56, 95%CI 1.26–1.94, p < 0.001, and OR 1.21, 95%CI 1.00–1.48, p = 0.047 respectively). HL did not mediate the relationship of any of the independent variables with influenza vaccination status. Conclusions: Some SES determinants resulted to influence influenza vaccination uptake, while HL did not affect the likelihood of influenza vaccination uptake among HRGs. Universal health care systems, as in the case of Italy, offering influenza vaccination free of charge to HRGs help in reducing inequalities and mitigating HL demands.
Machine Learning and Meteorological Normalization for Assessment of Particulate Matter Changes during the COVID-19 Lockdown in Zagreb, Croatia
Authors: Lovrić Mario , Antunović Mario , Šunić Iva , Vuković Matej , Kecorius Simonas , Kröll Mark , Bešlić Ivan , Godec Ranka , Pehnec Gordana , Geiger Bernhard C. , Grange Stuart K. , Šimić Iva
Published: June 2022

In this paper, the authors investigated changes in mass concentrations of particulate matter (PM) during the Coronavirus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown. Daily samples of PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 fractions were measured at an urban background sampling site in Zagreb, Croatia from 2009 to late 2020. For the purpose of meteorological normalization, the mass concentrations were fed alongside meteorological and temporal data to Random Forest (RF) and LightGBM (LGB) models tuned by Bayesian optimization. The models’ predictions were subsequently de-weathered by meteorological normalization using repeated random resampling of all predictive variables except the trend variable. Three pollution periods in 2020 were examined in detail: January and February, as pre-lockdown, the month of April as the lockdown period, as well as June and July as the “new normal”. An evaluation using normalized mass concentrations of particulate matter and Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted. The results showed that no significant differences were observed for PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 in April 2020—compared to the same period in 2018 and 2019. No significant changes were observed for the “new normal” as well. The results thus indicate that a reduction in mobility during COVID-19 lockdown in Zagreb, Croatia, did not significantly affect particulate matter concentration in the long-term..
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bullying and Sexual and Racial Harassment in Healthcare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Italy
Authors: La Torre Giuseppe , Firenze Alberto , Colaprico Corrado , Ricci Eleonora , Di Gioia Luciano Pio , Serò Dorotea , Perri Giuseppe , Soncin Manuela , Cremonesi Dario , De Camillis Nadia , Guidolin Sara , Evangelista Giulia , Marte Mattia , Fedele Nicola Giovanni , De Sio Simone , Mannocci Alice , Sernia Sabina , Brusaferro Silvio
Published: June 2022

Background: This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the prevalence and socio-demographic factors associated with workplace bullying, sexual harassment and racial harassment among Italian health workers. Methods: We recruited 3129 participants using an online Italian translation of the ‘Workplace Violence in the Health Sector Country Case Studies Research Instruments Survey’ (WVHS) questionnaire. Data were analyzed with univariate (chi-square) and multivariate (multiple logistic regression) analysis. Results: Univariate analysis shows that females are significantly more affected by bullying (16.4% vs. 12.3%) and sexual harassment (2.4% vs. 1.3%). On the other hand, males are significantly more affected by racial harassment (3.1% vs. 2.0%). Multivariate analysis shows higher odds of being affected by bullying (OR = 1.30; 95% CI (1.03, 1.64)) and sexual harassment (OR = 2.08; 95% CI (1.04, 4.00)) for females, and higher odds of undergoing racial harassment (OR = 1.55; 95% CI (0.95, 2.53)) for males. Conclusion: This analysis of work situations looks to identify those risk factors, existing or potential, that increase the probability of episodes of violence. A group of work or other subjects identified by direction will have to evaluate the vulnerability of workplaces and establish more effective preventive actions to be adopted.
Assessing the Level of Knowledge, Beliefs and Acceptance of HPV Vaccine: A Cross-Sectional Study in Romania
Authors: Voidăzan Toader Septimiu , Budianu Mihaela Alexandra , Rozsnyai Florin Francisc , Kovacs Zsolt , Uzun Cosmina Cristina , Neagu Nicoleta
Published: June 2022

(1) Background: The infection with Human papilloma virus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection and it has been associated with cervical cancer (CC) in 99.7% of the cases. In Romania, CC is the second most common, with incidence (22.6%000) and mortality rates (9.6%000) three times higher than any other European country. Our aim was to assess the level of knowledge regarding HPV infection among parents, highschool students, medical students and doctors, with an emphasis on their main source of information—the Internet. (2) Methods: We applied five questionnaires to six categories of respondents: parents of pupils in the 6th–8th grades, medical students, doctors, boys in the 11th–12th grades, girls in the 11th–12th grades and their mothers. (3) Results: We included a total of 3108 respondents. 83.83% of all respondents had known about HPV infection. The level of information about HPV infection and vaccination was either satisfactory, poor or very poor. Their main source of information varied depending on the respondent profile and professional activity. Medical students were informed by doctors and healthcare professionals (53.0%), doctors gathered their information from books, journals and specialized brochures (61.6%). For the other categories of respondents, the Internet was the main source of information. Most respondents answered that doctors and healthcare professionals should provide information on HPV infection and vaccination, but very few of them actually seeked information from their general practitioner. (4) Conclusions: Population adherence to the appropriate preventative programs, as well as relevant information disseminated by the medical staff are key elements towards reducing the risk of HPV-associated cancers. An important role could also be played by schools, where teachers and school doctors could provide relevant information on the general aspects of HPV infection. Additionally, sex education classes and parent-teacher meetings should cover the main characteristics of HPV infection and what preventative measures can be employed against it.
Risk and Protective Factors Experienced by Fathers of Refugee Background during the Early Years of Parenting: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bulford Eleanor , Fogarty Alison , Giallo Rebecca , Brown Stephanie , Szwarc Josef , Riggs Elisha
Published: June 2022

Fathers of refugee background with young children can experience significant mental health difficulties, with the potential for intergenerational impacts. This study aimed to explore how fathers of refugee background experience risk and protective factors for their own health and wellbeing during the early years of parenting. Semi-structured interviews and one semi-structured focus group were conducted with fathers of refugee background, with young children (0–5 years), who had settled in Australia. Transcribed interviews were analysed using thematic analysis, informed by the socioecological model of health. A total of 21 fathers participated in the study. Risk factors experienced included: prior experiences of trauma, reduced access to family support in Australia, adjustments in parenting roles, and the challenges of learning a new language and securing employment. Fathers drew on a number of sources of strength, including a sense of joy from fatherhood and support from partners, families, and communities. While most fathers regularly accompanied their partners and children to healthcare appointments, they were rarely asked by healthcare professionals about their own needs. Our findings support the idea that there is a need for greater assistance for fathers, particularly for navigating issues arising from the settlement process. Healthcare services working with families of refugee background must adopt a father-inclusive, trauma-informed approach that is responsive to fathers’ needs.
Human Mobility and Droplet-Transmissible Pediatric Infectious Diseases during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ae Ryusuke , Shibata Yoshihide , Furuno Toshiki , Sasahara Teppei , Nakamura Yosikazu , Hamada Hiromichi
Published: June 2022

The study tested the hypothesis that human mobility may be a potential factor affecting reductions in droplet-transmissible pediatric infectious diseases (PIDs) during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic mitigation period in 2020. An ecological study was conducted using two publicly available datasets: surveillance on infectious diseases collected by the Japanese government and COVID-19 community mobility reports presented by Google. The COVID-19 community mobility reports demonstrated percentage reductions in the movement of people over time in groceries and pharmacies, parks, and transit stations. We compared the weekly trends in the number of patients with droplet-transmissible PIDs identified in 2020 with those identified in the previous years (2015–2019) and assessed the correlations between the numbers of patients and percentage decreases in human mobility during 2020. Despite experiencing their peak seasons, dramatic reductions were found in the numbers of patients with pharyngoconjunctival fever (PCF) and group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis after the tenth week of 2020. Beyond the 20th week, no seasonal peaks were observed in the number of patients with all PIDs identified in 2020. Significant correlations were found between the percentage decreases in human mobility in transit stations and the number of patients with hand-foot-and-mouth disease (Pearson correlation coefficient [95% confidence interval]: 0.65 [0.44–0.79]), PCF (0.47 [0.21–0.67]), respiratory syncytial virus infection (0.45 [0.19–0.66]), and GAS pharyngitis (0.34 [0.06–0.58]). The highest correlations were found in places underlying potential human-to-human contacts among adults. These findings suggest that reductions in human mobility for adults might contribute to decreases in the number of children with droplet-transmissible PIDs by the potential prevention of adult-to-child transmission.
Israeli Medical Experts’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preferences in Allocating Donor Organs for Transplantation
Authors: Elalouf Amir
Published: June 2022

Medical advancement has increased the confidence in successful organ transplants in end-stage patients. As the waitlist of organ demand is multiplying, the organ allocation process is becoming more crucial. In this situation, a transparent and efficient organ allocation policy is required. This study evaluates the preferences of medical experts to substantial factors for allocating organs in different hypothetical scenarios. Twenty-five medical professionals with a significant role in organ allocation were interviewed individually. The interview questionnaire comprised demographic information, organ donation status, important organ allocation factors, public preference knowledge, and experts’ preferences in different hypothetical scenarios. Most medical experts rated the waiting time and prognosis as the most important, while the next of kin donor status and care and contribution to the well-being of others were the least important factors for organ allocation. In expert opinion, medical experts significantly considered public preferences for organ allocation in making their decisions. Altogether, experts prioritized waiting time over successful transplant, age, and donor status in the hypothetical scenarios. In parallel, less chance of finding another organ, donor status, and successful transplant were prioritized over age. Medical experts are the key stakeholders; therefore, their opinions are substantial in formulating an organ allocation policy.
Effect of Strength vs. Plyometric Training upon Change of Direction Performance in Young Female Handball Players
Authors: Falch Hallvard Nygaard , Haugen Markus Estifanos , Kristiansen Eirik Lindset , van den Tillaar Roland
Published: June 2022

The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of six weeks of strength vs. plyometric training upon change of direction (COD) performance. A total of 21 young female handball players were randomly assigned to either a strength group: (n = 11, age: 17.5 ± 2.3 years, height: 1.69 ± 0.05 m, weight: 65.8 ± 5.9 kg) training bilateral, unilateral and later squats; or a plyometric training group (n = 10, age: 17.1 ± 2.4 years, height: 1.73 ± 0.07 m, weight: 67.1 ± 9.3 kg) training drop jumps, unilateral countermovement jumps and skate-jumps. Groups were assigned after being pair-matched based upon baseline COD performance. The training modalities were matched in training impulse. A force- (180°) and velocity-oriented (45°) COD of 20 m was used to measure changes in COD performance (10 m + COD + 10 m). Total time (s) to complete the COD test was defined as the performance variable. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. The two-way ANOVA showed no group effect upon COD performance. A significant effect was only observed for the strength training group in the last 10 m and total 20 m of the force-oriented COD (F ≥ 5.51; p ≤ 0.04; η2 ≥ 0.36). Both groups improved performance in other strength- and power-related tests. It was concluded that only the strength training program was effective in developing force-oriented COD performance in the studied population, while the plyometric training program was not sufficient. Both training modalities are useful for improving performance in different strength and power tests in young female handball players.
The Kinematic and Kinetic Responses of the Trunk and Lower Extremity Joints during Walking with and without the Spinal Orthosis
Authors: Wang Chenyan , Li Xiaona , Guo Yuan , Du Weijin , Guo Hongmei , Chen Weiyi
Published: June 2022

Spinal orthoses are an effective option for restoring the spine to its original position and controlling poor posture. However, the effects of poor posture and spinal orthoses on the kinematics and kinetics of trunk and lower extremity joints remain unclear. A six-camera Vicon motion capture system and two AMTI force plates were employed to collect gait parameters, including joint angle (spine, thorax, hip, knee, and ankle), range of motion (ROM), and ground reaction forces (GRFs). Furthermore, joint moments and joint reaction forces (JRFs) were calculated using a full-body musculoskeletal model in OpenSim. One-way repeated-measures ANOVA (p < 0.05) was used to compare significant differences among three trial conditions. These three conditions were walking in a normal posture, poor posture, and spinal orthosis. The results showed that spine ROM in the coronal and transverse plane was significantly lower when walking with a spinal orthosis compared to walking in normal and poor posture (p < 0.05). Compared to normal posture, the lumbar moments and back compressive forces were significantly increased when walking in poor posture (p < 0.05). However, when walking with a spinal orthosis, there was a significant decrease in trunk moments and reaction forces compared to walking in poor posture (p < 0.05). Individuals with poor posture could potentially induce instability and disorders, as evidenced by an increase in trunk moments and JRF compared to the normal posture. Spinal orthosis not only restricts spine ROM but also reduces the load on the spine and thus increases balance and stability.
Politically Connected Independent Commissioners and Independent Directors on the Cost of Debt
Authors: Junus Onong , Harymawan Iman , Nasih Mohammad , Anshori Muslich
Published: June 2022

This study examines the relationship between politically connected independent commissioners and independent directors regarding the cost of debt. The sample is all companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2010–2017 period, totaling 327 companies with a total data value of 1722 firm-year observations. We used the ordinary least squares regression model (OLS) and the Heckman 2SLS method to solve the endogeneity problem. We found that politically connected independent commissioners and politically connected independent directors negatively correlate with the cost of debt. These results indicate the importance of politically connected independent commissioners and independent directors in managing companies, especially in obtaining loans with low interest rates. In addition, our results are robust due to the use of the Heckman 2SLS test. Therefore, this research can contribute to the development of the literature related to corporate governance and political connections in public companies, so that politically connected independent commissioners and independent directors have an essential role in decision-making in companies.
Uncommon Polyketides from Penicillium steckii AS-324, a Marine Endozoic Fungus Isolated from Deep-Sea Coral in the Magellan Seamount
Authors: Hu Xue-Yi , Li Xiao-Ming , Wang Bin-Gui , Meng Ling-Hong
Published: June 2022

Four unusual steckwaic acids E–H (1–4), possessing a rarely described acrylic acid unit at C-4 (1–3) or a double bond between C-12 and C-13 (4) are reported for the first time, along with four new analogues (5–8) and two known congeners (9 and 10). They were purified from the organic extract of Penicillium steckii AS-324, an endozoic fungus obtained from a deep-sea coral Acanthogorgiidae sp., which was collected from the Magellan Seamount at a depth of 1458 m. Their structures were determined by the interpretation of NMR and mass spectroscopic data. The relative and absolute configurations were determined by NOESY correlations, X-ray crystallographic analysis, and ECD calculations. All compounds were tested for their antimicrobial activities against human- and aquatic-pathogenic bacteria and plant-related pathogenic fungi.
A Comprehensive Identification and Expression Analysis of VQ Motif-Containing Proteins in Sugarcane (Saccharum spontaneum L.) under Phytohormone Treatment and Cold Stress
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Xiaolan , Yang Dandan , Yin Ze , Jiang Yaolan , Ling Hui , Huang Ning , Zhang Dawei , Wu Jinfeng , Liu Lili , Xu Liping , Yan Mingli , Que Youxiong , Zhou Dinggang
Published: June 2022

The VQ motif-containing proteins play a vital role in various processes such as growth, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and development. However, there is currently no report on the VQ genes in sugarcane (Saccharum spp.). Herein, 78 VQ genes in Saccharum spontaneum were identified and classified into nine subgroups (I-IX) by comparative genomic analyses. Each subgroup had a similar structural and conservative motif. These VQ genes expanded mainly through whole-genome segmental duplication. The cis-regulatory elements (CREs) of the VQ genes were widely involved in stress responses, phytohormone responses and physiological regulation. The RNA-seq data showed that SsVQ gene expression patterns in 10 different samples, including different developmental stages, revealed distinct temporal and spatial patterns. A total of 23 SsVQ genes were expressed in all tissues, whereas 13 SsVQ genes were not expressed in any tissues. Sequence Read Archive (SRA) data showed that the majority of SsVQs responded to cold and drought stress. In addition, quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that the SsVQs were variously expressed under salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid (JA), abscisic acid (ABA) and cold treatment. This study conducted a full-scale analysis of the VQ gene family in sugarcane, which could be beneficial for the functional characterization of sugarcane VQ genes and provide candidate genes for molecular resistance breeding in cultivated sugarcane in the future.
The Primary Microglial Leukodystrophies: A Review
Authors: Ferrer Isidro
Published: June 2022

Primary microglial leukodystrophy or leukoencephalopathy are disorders in which a genetic defect linked to microglia causes cerebral white matter damage. Pigmented orthochromatic leukodystrophy, adult-onset orthochromatic leukodystrophy associated with pigmented macrophages, hereditary diffuse leukoencephalopathy with (axonal) spheroids, and adult-onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP) are different terms apparently used to designate the same disease. However, ALSP linked to dominantly inherited mutations in CSF1R (colony stimulating factor receptor 1) cause CSF-1R-related leukoencephalopathy (CRP). Yet, recessive ALSP with ovarian failure linked to AARS2 (alanyl-transfer (t)RNA synthase 2) mutations (LKENP) is a mitochondrial disease and not a primary microglial leukoencephalopathy. Polycystic membranous lipomembranous osteodysplasia with sclerosing leukoencephalopathy (PLOSL; Nasu–Hakola disease: NHD) is a systemic disease affecting bones, cerebral white matter, selected grey nuclei, and adipose tissue The disease is caused by mutations of one of the two genes TYROBP or TREM2, identified as PLOSL1 and PLOSL2, respectively. TYROBP associates with receptors expressed in NK cells, B and T lymphocytes, dendritic cells, monocytes, macrophages, and microglia. TREM2 encodes the protein TREM2 (triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2), which forms a receptor signalling complex with TYROBP in macrophages and dendritic cells. Rather than pure microglial leukoencephalopathy, NHD can be considered a multisystemic “immunological” disease.
Travelers’ Perceptions on Significance of Travel Time Saving Attributes in Travel Behavior: A Case Study in Oman
Authors: Javid Muhammad Ashraf , Saif Al-Khatri Hanan , Said Al-Abri Sawsan , Ali Nazam , Chaiyasarn Krisada , Joyklad Panuwat
Published: June 2022

As everyone spends much time traveling, engaged in leisure or work activities, travel time represents one of the largest costs to transportation. The main objective of the study is to investigate travelers’ perceptions related to value of travel time saving with the help of a questionnaire survey. The survey was conducted online with the help of Google forms. The required data were collected through a self-reported questionnaire that consisted of five parts. A total of 312 useable sample responses were collected. The collected data were analyzed using conventional and statistical methods. In conventional methods, frequency distribution was carried out, and bar and pie charts were prepared. In the statistical methods, the exploratory factor analysis method (EFA) was conducted to extract useful factors affecting the travelers’ perceptions about travel time saving attitude. The survey results showed that more than 73% of people use a car for transport, which implies that most of them do not like to wait for public transport modes. It means that their travel attitudes are more inclined towards private transport seeking travel time saving. Most people do not like to share space with others while traveling, amounting to 44% of respondents using private cars alone, and placing high importance on flexibility, reliability, and time and cost saving in traveling, which implies that they are more likely to travel alone to save travel time. In addition, most of the respondents use short routes; this propensity is positively related to time and cost saving factors. Similarly, the time and cost savings and car-oriented attitudes are positively associated with the choice of a short route to save travel time. They also believe that the service quality level of transportation facilities affects the travel time saving and its value. This study proposes to improve travel time and cost in Oman.
Enhancing the Quality of Spray Application in IRS: Evaluation of the Micron Track Sprayer
Authors: Snetselaar Janneke , Lees Rosemary S. , Foster Geraldine M. , Walker Kyle J. , Manunda Baltazari J. , Malone David J. , Mosha Franklin W. , Rowland Mark W. , Kirby Matthew J.
Published: June 2022

Indoor residual spraying (IRS) has changed little since its introduction in the 1940s. Manual spraying is still prone to variation in insecticide dose. To improve the application of IRS in experimental hut trials, an automated track sprayer was developed, which regulates the speed of application and the distance of the nozzle from the wall, two key sources of variation. The automated track sprayer was compared to manual spraying, firstly using fluorescein solution in controlled indoor settings, and secondly in experimental huts in Tanzania using several IRS products. Manual spraying produced greater variation with both fluorescein and insecticide applications. Both manual and automated spray methods under-dosed the actual dose sprayed compared to the target dose. Overall, the track sprayer treats surfaces more consistently, offering a potential improvement over manual spraying for experimental hut evaluation of new IRS formulations.
Assessment of Non-Consumptive Predation Risk of Coccinella septempunctata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on the Population Growth of Sitobion miscanthi (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Wang Liping , Atlihan Remzi , Chai Ruirui , Dong Yao , Luo Chen , Hu Zuqing
Published: June 2022

How the non-consumptive effects (NCEs) of predators influence the development, survival, fecundity, and population growth of prey has not been well documented, which is the primary consideration for the compatibility of prey with its natural enemies in agricultural ecosystems. We herein employed the age-stage, two-sex life table to examine the NCEs of the predator Coccinella septempunctata on the life-history traits and population growth of prey Sitobion miscanthi via caged predator (prey co-existing with caged predator) and caged prey (predator co-existing with caged prey) treatments with daily different exposure times (i.e., 0 h (control), 12 h, and 24 h). The results indicated that the predation risk of a caged predator could reduce the first nymphal duration and net reproductive rate (R0) of S. miscanthi at 12 h, and the first nymphal duration, preadult duration, and mean generation time (T) at 24 h. However, the predation risk of the caged prey resulted in the prolongation of the pre-adult development time and total pre-reproductive period (TPRP) as well as lowered the intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (𝜆), R0, life expectancy, and reproductive value of S. miscanthi after both 12 h and 24 h. Furthermore, the predation risk of both the caged predator and caged prey could increase the percent of winged morph at 24 h. These findings indicate that S. miscanthi could respond to the predation risk of the caged predator by either accelerating the developmental rate or reducing the net reproductive rate, while S. miscanthi might reduce their fitness in response to the predation risk of caged prey. Furthermore, S. miscanthi might also alter to winged morphs for dispersal under both of the above treatments. The findings obtained have practical ramifications for managing this economically important pest in wheat production with reduced insecticide applications.
Effects of Acibenzolar-S-methyl on the Probing Behaviour and Mortality of Cacopsylla pyri on Pear Plants
Authors: Civolani Stefano , Mirandola Daniele , Benetti Lorenzo , Finetti Luca , Pezzi Marco , Bernacchia Giovanni
Published: June 2022

European pear psylla, Cacopsylla pyri, is one of the worst pests of pear in Europe. We investigated whether acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) application on pear plants might affect the behaviour in C. pyri. The elicitor was applied on pear potted plants, and after 48 h, we confirmed the ASM-mediated induction of several Pathogenesis-Related protein (PR) coding genes. At the same time, an in-depth analysis was performed on the probing behaviour of adults and nymphs of C. pyri on ASM-treated pear plants by the EPG-DC system, as well as the assessment of young nymphs’ survival 7 days after the ASM application. The elicitor application weakly interfered with C. pyri nymphs probing behaviour and survival, while it did not affect adult stages. These data confirm previous observations obtained on C. pyricola and suggest that the elicitor does not represent a viable tool in the control of pear psylla species, especially if used alone, but it might be used in integrated management strategies focused on other plant pathogens such as Erwinia amylovora.
Composite Contracts for Dual-Channel Supply Chain Coordination with the Existence of Service Free Riding
Authors: Liu Can , Dan Bin , Zhang Xumei , Zhang Haiyue
Published: June 2022

This paper aims to investigate how to coordinate a dual-channel supply chain composing of a manufacturer and a retailer when customers utilize the retailer’s service to conduct free-riding behavior. Specially, we consider the crucial role of service in affecting customers’ valuation for a kind of experience product and establish a channel choice model by employing utility theory. Then, we analyze the optimal pricing and service decisions under decentralized and centralized scenarios. To achieve overall optimization, we propose three contract mechanisms, namely price hike (Mechanism 1), price hike with service cost sharing (Mechanism 2) and price hike with service cost sharing and surplus compensation (Mechanism 3). We reveal the way of price difference and service provision in affecting customer free-riding behavior. Besides, we find that the three mechanisms can reduce free-riding behavior to some extent. However, the extent varies under different mechanisms and is related to the cost-sharing fraction and the degree by which the manufacturer increases his online price. Further, we find that Mechanism 3 can realize overall optimization and members’ win–win situations. Finally, we conduct numerical examples to explore how different mechanisms affect supply chain efficiency. The results also provide managerial insights for dual-channel firms in practice.
Synthesis of a Superhydrophobic Fluorinated Nano-Emulsion and Its Modification on the Wettability of Tight Sandstone
Authors: Li Qiang , Fan Zhenzhong , Liu Qingwang , Ma Wenhai , Li Junliang , Li Nan , Ma Pingang , Zhang Hongtao
Published: June 2022

The water-blocking effect is a serious problem when developing tight sandstone gas reservoirs, which can cause a sharp reduction in gas production. Wettability alteration of near-wellbore sand rock surface from superhydrophilicity to superhydrophobicity is an effective method to decrease capillary pressure. In this study, a superhydrophobic fluorinated nano-emulsion was synthesized via a soap-free emulsion polymerization process using methacryloxyethyl trimethyl ammonium chloride, trifluoctyl methacrylate, and styrene as monomers. The effect of the fluorinated monomer concentration on wettability alteration was evaluated by measuring the contact angle of the formation water droplet on the modified glass slides using nano-emulsions with different fluorinated monomer concentrations. The results showed that the nano-emulsion had a good dispersibility and homogeneous particle size of around 90 nm, and with the increase in fluorinated monomer concentration, the contact angle increased. The contact angle was the largest when the fluorinated monomer mass rate concentration reached 50%. The adsorption of nanoparticles could alter the rock wettability from a super hydrophilic state (θ = 7°) to a superhydrophobic state (θ = 150°). The spontaneous imbibition experiments showed that the formation water adsorption quality of the core decreased by 49.7% after being modified by the nano-emulsion. The nano-emulsion showed a good superhydrophobicity and had the potential to be used to reduce the water-blocking damage in the tight gas reservoirs.
Influence of Fiber Type and Length on Mechanical Properties of MICP-Treated Sand
Authors: Liang Shihua , Xiao Xueli , Wang Jie , Wang Yuxing , Feng Deluan , Zhu Chengyuan
Published: June 2022

Fibers are applied in construction work to improve the strength and avoid brittle failure of soil. In this paper, we analyze the impact mechanism of fiber type and length on the immobilization of microorganisms from macroscopic and microscopic perspectives with fibers of 0.2% volume fraction added to microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP)-treated sand. Results show the following: (1) The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of MICP-treated sand first increases and then decreases with increasing fiber length because short fiber reinforcement can promote the precipitation of calcium carbonate, and the network formed between the fibers limits the movement of sand particles and enhances the strength of the microbial solidified sand. However, the agglomeration caused by overlong fibers leads to uneven distribution of calcium carbonate and a reduction in strength. The optimal fiber length of polypropylene, glass, and polyvinyl alcohol fiber is 9 mm, and that of basalt fiber is 12 mm. (2) The UCS of the different fiber types, from small to large, is basalt fiber < polypropylene fiber < glass fiber < polyvinyl alcohol fiber because the quality of the fiber monofilament differs. More fibers result in more a evident effect of interlacing and bending on sand and higher strength in consolidated sand.
Study on Simulation and Experiment of Cu, C-Doped Ag/Ni Contact Materials
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Jingqin , Zhu Yancai , Cui Defeng , Lu Ningyi
Published: June 2022

Ag/Ni contact material with greenery and good performance is a cadmium-free silver-based contact material that has been vigorously developed in recent years. However, Ag/Ni contact material has poor welding resistance. Based on the first principles of density functional theory, the interface model of Cu, C-doped Ag/Ni was established. The work of separation and interfacial energy of interface models showed that doping can improve the interfacial bonding strength and interfacial stability, with C-doped Ag/Ni having the strongest stability and interfacial bonding strength. It can be seen from the population and density of state that covalent bonds exist between Ag and Ni atoms of the Ag/Ni phase interface at the electronic structure level. Finally, the doped Ag/Ni contact material was prepared by the powder metallurgy method. Through the arc energy and welding force in the electrical contact experiment, it was obtained that the welding resistance of C-doped Ag/Ni was better than Cu-doped Ag/Ni contact material, which verified the correctness of the simulation results. Overall, the present study provides a theoretical method for the screening of doping elements to improve the performance of Ag/Ni contact material.
Mechanical Properties Analysis of Explosive Welded Sheet of AA2519-Ti6Al4V with Interlayer of AA1050 Subjected to Heat-Treatment
Authors: Szachogłuchowicz Ireneusz , Śnieżek Lucjan , Ślęzak Tomasz
Published: June 2022

The paper presents results of investigations of welding sheets of AA2519-Ti6Al4V, a difficult-to-joint components materials, produced by explosive welding with a thin technological interlayer of AA1050. The joining process leads to the formation of intermetalics in the vicinity of joint and generates significant residual stresses. In the next step the laminate was subjected to a heat treatment process in order to improve the mechanical properties by precipitation hardening. This treatment should not be carried out before welding because of negative influence on a ductility of the aluminum alloy. Material in this state was subjected to the tests of chemical composition, microstructure, and microhardness. A tensile test was carried out with accompanying strain analysis by the digital image correlation (DIC) method. Moreover, the residual stresses were determined which were measured by using two methods, the X-ray diffraction and the hole drilling. This approach made it possible to measure the residual stresses both in the plane parallel to the surface and in the cross section of the laminate.
Numerical Simulation Study of Gas-Solid Heat Transfer and Decomposition Processes of Limestone Calcined with Blast Furnace Gas in a Parallel Flow Regenerative Lime Kiln
Authors: Duan Shaopei , Li Baokuan , Rong Wenjie
Published: June 2022

Quicklime is an essential reducing agent in the steel smelting process and its calcination from limestone is accompanied by considerable energy consumption. As a relatively economical lime kiln, the Parallel Flow Regenerative (PFR) lime kiln is used as the main equipment for the production of quicklime by various steel industries. PFR lime kilns generally use natural gas as the fuel gas. Although natural gas has a high calorific value and is effective in calcination, with the increasing price of natural gas and the pressure saves energy and protect the environment, it makes sense of exploring the use of cleaner energy sources or other sub-products as fuel gas. The use of blast furnace gas (BFG) as a low calorific value fuel gas produced in the steel smelting process has been of interest. This paper therefore develops a set of mathematical models for gas-solid heat transfer and limestone decomposition based on a Porous Medium Model (PMM) and a Shrinking Core Model (SCM) to numerically simulate a PFR lime kiln using BFG in order to investigate the feasibility of calcining limestone with low calorific fuel gas and to provide a valuable reference for future development of such processes and the kiln structure improvement.