bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Land use changes result in increased phylogenetic clustering and preferential loss of species-rich sites for Michigan floral assemblages.
Authors: Figueroa Héctor Fox , Grady CJ , Cortez Maria Beatriz de Souza , Beach Jim , Stewart Aimee , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S. , Smith Stephen A.
Published: May 2023

Distribution models are widely used to understand landscape biodiversity patterns, facilitate evolutionary and ecological studies, and for making informed conservation decisions. While it is common to examine consequences of climate change, impacts of land use on distributions, a major factor in limiting ranges and corridors between populations, are less well understood. Here, we use distribution models to quantify changes in biodiversity due to land use for Michigan floral assemblages. We leveraged a distribution model dataset (1930 species) integrated with dated phylogenetic information and USGS land use maps to parse Michigan areas with unsuitable habitat. Additionally, we quantify the degree of high-quality habitat lost for each species, identifying those most strongly impacted by land use changes. Approx. 39% of Michigan terrestrial habitat fell within “unsuitable” land use categories. Sites predicted to harbor the most species based on climatic variables were those sites that lost the greatest proportion due to land use changes. Further, excluded sites were preferentially those composed of more phylogenetically even communities. Overall, the impact of land use changes on community species richness was the preferential loss of sites with the predicted highest biodiversity. For phylodiversity metrics, land use changes increased the degree of community phylogenetic clustering. This results in overall decreased phylodiversity, leading to assemblages less equipped to respond to rapid climatic changes. Our results confirm land use to be a major, but somewhat overlooked, factor impacting local diversity dynamics and illustrate how local-scale land use impacts regional-scale richness and phylodiversity patterns, likely leading to increased community fragility.
Spatial-temporal vector abundance and malaria transmission dynamics in Nchelenge and Lake Mweru islands, a region with high burden of malaria in northern Zambia
Authors: Muleba Mbanga , Mbata Keith J. , Stevenson Jennifer C. , Norris Douglas E.
Published: May 2023

Background Over a decade of vector control by indoor residual spraying (IRS) and long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) distribution on mainland and only LLINs on islands, has had minimal impact on disease burden in Nchelenge district, northern Zambia. Anopheles funestus and An. gambiae are vectors known only from the mainland. Understanding vector bionomics in the district is necessary for planning and targeting effective vector control. This study aimed to provide information on malaria vectors’ abundance, seasonality and Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite infectivity in Nchelenge including islands.Methods Mosquitoes were collected in 192 CDC indoor light traps set in 56 households between January 2015 and January 2016. Morphological and molecular species identifications, and P. falciparum circumsporoites by ELISA were performed. Mosquito counts and relative abundances from the islands and mainland were compared and household factors associated with vector counts determined.Results A total of 5888 anophelines were collected during the study. Of these 5,704 were female An. funestus s.l. and 248 female An. gambiae s.l. The highest proportion of An. funestus (n = 4030) was from Chisenga Island and that of An. gambiae (n = 174) was from Kilwa Island. The dorminance of An. funestus s.l. over An. gambiae s.l. was significant on Chisenga island (z = 6.66, p < 0.001) and mainland (z = 4.83, p < 001) but not on Kilwa island (z = 1.95, p = 0.052). Highest counts of An. funestus were associated with dry season (p < 0.001) whilst abundance of An. gambiae was associated with rainy season (p = 0.404). At household level vector counts were associated with high household occupancy and high bed net use. The highest estimated annual entomological inoculation rate was from Chisenga island with 136.51ib/p/y followed by Kilwa island with 55.05 ib/p/yr then Mainland with 30.31ib/p/yr.Conclusions There was varied species abundance and malaria transmission risk across sites and seasons. Risk for malaria transmission was perennial and higher on the islands. The minimal impact of vector control efforts on mainland was evident but limited overall. Vector control intervention coverage with effective tools need to be extended to the islands to effectively control malaria transmission in Nchelenge district.
Generative AI and Higher Education Assessments: A Competency-Based Analysis
Authors: Tenakwah Emmanuel Senior , Boadu Gideon , Tenakwah Emmanuel Junior , Parzakonis Michael , Brady Mark , Kansiime Penny , Said Shannon , Ayilu Raymond , Radavoi Ciprian , Berman Alan
Published: May 2023

The development and introduction of AI language models have transformed the way humans and institutions interact with technology, enabling natural and intuitive communication between humans and machines. This paper conducts a competence-based analysis of an emerging AI language model’s task response to provide insight into its language proficiency, critical analysis and reasoning ability, and structure and relevance of the response. A multidisciplinary approach is adopted, drawing from fields such as Accounting, Education, Management, Social Work and Law, to evaluate the responses generated by the AI to higher education assignments. This paper offers insights into the strengths and limitations of language-based AI responses and identifies implications for the design and implementation of higher education assessments.
Short-term outcomes of single-incision robotic colectomy versus conventional multiport laparoscopic colectomy for colon cancer
Authors: Kim Ho Seung , Oh Bo-Young , Chung Soon Sup , Lee Ryung-Ah , Noh Gyoung Tae
Published: May 2023

Since the da Vinci SP (dVSP) surgical system was introduced, single-incision robotic surgery (SIRS) for colorectal diseases has gained increasing acceptance. We compared the short-term outcomes of SIRS using dVSP with those of conventional multiport laparoscopic surgery (CMLS) to verify its efficacy and safety in colon cancer. The medical records of 237 patients who underwent curative resection for colon cancer by a single surgeon were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups according to surgical modality: SIRS (RS group) and CMLS (LS group). Intra- and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Of the 237 patients, 140 were included in the analysis. Patients in the RS group (n = 43) were predominantly female, younger, and had better general performance than those in the LS group (n = 97). The total operation time was longer in the RS group than in the LS group (232.8 ± 46.0 vs. 204.1 ± 41.7 min, P < 0.001). The RS group showed faster first flatus passing (2.5 ± 0.9 vs. 3.1 ± 1.2 days, P = 0.003) and less opioid analgesic requirement (analgesic withdrawal within 3 postoperative days: 37.2% vs. 18.6%, P = 0.018) than the LS group. The RS group showed a higher immediate postoperative albumin level (3.9 ± 0.3 vs. 3.6 ± 0.4 g/dL, P < 0.001) and lower C-reactive protein level (6.6 ± 5.2 vs. 9.3 ± 5.5 mg/dL, P = 0.007) than the LS group during the postoperative period. On multivariate analysis after adjusting for deviated patient characteristics, no significant difference was observed in short-term outcomes, except for operation time. SIRS with dVSP showed short-term outcomes comparable with those of CMLS for colon cancer.
Benefits from incorporating virtual reality in pulmonary rehabilitation of COPD patients. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Patsaki Irini , Avgeri Vasiliki , Rigoulia Theodora , Zekis Theodoros , Koumantakis George A. , Grammatopoulou Eirini
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is characterized by irreversible airflow limitation. Patient participation in Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) programs has a beneficial effect on disease management, improving patients' functional capacity and quality of life. As an alternative to traditional programs or as a complementary activity, the inclusion of virtual reality (VR) games is proposed.
Aim: The aim of this research study was to investigate the effectiveness of incorporating VR in the pulmonary rehabilitation program of patients with COPD.
Methods: A systematic literature search was performed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the electronic databases Google Scholar, PubMed and Pedro from January 2014 to March 2022. The search involved screening for studies examining the effectiveness of enhancing PR with VR. The PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database) scale was chosen as the tool to assess the quality of studies. A meta-analysis was performed where possible.
Results: Six studies were included in this systematic review. The PEDro scale showed five studies of good methodological quality and one of fair quality. The variables examined were: aerobic capacity for exercise, lung function, anxiety and depression, with significant improvement regarding 6MWT and FEV1(p<0.05). There was variability noted in the VR applications and the proposed rehabilitation that the experimental groups followed.
Conclusion: The application of VR is recommended in COPD patients, in combination with conventional PR. VR was found effective in increasing therapeutic effect and should be considered as a mean of increasing accessibility to PR. Therefore, further research, as well as additional RCTs regarding the effectiveness of VR in patients with COPD, seem necessary.
The role of renewable energy and artificial intelligence towards environmental sustainability and net zero
Authors: Hassan Qusay , Sameen Aws Zuhair , Salman Hayder M. , Al-Jiboory Ali Khudhair , Jaszczur Marek
Published: May 2023

The challenge of climate change and the need for environmental sustainability necessitate rapid and transformative actions to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This paper examines the role of renewable energy and artificial intelligence (AI) as catalysts in this endeavor, highlighting their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and foster sustainable development. The importance of ambitious renewable energy targets and supportive policies, as well as the application of AI in optimizing energy systems and enabling smart grid management has been discussed. Additionally, outlined a roadmap for success that includes investment in research and development, cross-sector collaboration, education and public awareness, and international cooperation. By implementing these strategies, it can harness the power of renewable energy and AI to drive the transition towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
A new fractional fuzzy dispersion entropy and its application in muscle fatigue detection
Authors: Baohua Hu , Yong Wang , Jingsong Mu
Published: May 2023

Background
The complexity analysis of neuroelectrophysiological signals has been widely applied in the field of biomedical engineering and muscle fatigue detection using the complexity analysis of surface electromyographic (sEMG) signals is one of the hot research topics. Recently, fuzzy dispersion entropy has attracted more and more attention as a new nonlinear dynamics method for complexity analysis which combines the advantages of both dispersion entropy(DispEn) and fuzzy entropy. However, it suffers from limitation of sensitivity to dynamic changes. In this study, fractional fuzzy dispersion entorpy (FFDispEn) is proposed based on DispEn, a new fuzzy membership function and fractional calculus to solve this limitation. Fuzzy membership function is defined based on Euclidean distance between embdding vector and dispersion pattern in this study.
Methods
Simulated signals generated by 1D Logistic map were used to test the sensitivity of the proposed method to dynamic changes. Moreover, ten subjects were recruited for upper limb muscle fatigue exprienment while sEMG signals of the biceps brachii muscle were recorded. Both simulated signals and sEMG signals were processed using sliding window approach. Sample entropy(SampEn), DispEn and FFDispEn were respectively used to calculate the complexity of each frame. The sensitivity of different algorithms to muscle fatigue process was analyzed using fitting parameters through linear fitting of the complexity of each frame signal.
Results
The results show that for simulated signals, the larger the fractional order q, the higher the sensitivity to dynamic changes. Moreover, DispEn performs poorly in the sensitivity to dynamic changes compared with FFDispEn. As for the muscle fatigue detection, FFDispEn value shows a clear declining tendency as muscle fatigue progresses and is more sensitive to muscle fatigue compared with SampEn and DispEn.
Conclusions
This study provides a new useful nonlinear dynamic indicator for sEMG signal preprocessing and muscle fatigue analysis. The proposed method may be useful for physiological and biomedical signal analysis.
Glass - and freezing transition of supercooled water confined in mesoporous materials and biological systems
Authors: Soprunyuk Viktor , Schranz Wilfried
Published: May 2023

The behaviour of water confined e.g. in artificial meso- or nanoporous silica materials is intensively discussed in literature. In this paper, we present the results of Dynamic Mechanical Analysis measurements of water confined in biological systems (foods like e.g. bread, apple, turkey bone, etc.) as a function of temperature and frequency and compare them with results of water confined in artificial mesopores. Two types of cooling/heating protocols were used: slow (2 K/min) cooling/heating runs and quenching the samples from room temperature to 100 K prior to slow heating up to room temperature. We found striking similarities between the behaviour of water confined in mesoporous silica and biological systems, both, in the vicinity of the glass transition as well as in the freezing/melting transition region. The obtained results are discussed, using artificial meso- or nanoporous materials as a model system for advancing our understanding of the freezing and glass transition of water confined in foods and other biological systems.
Analysis and comparison of BRCA1/2 gene mutations in 310 cases of ovarian cancer
Authors: Han Jiangxue , Yang Yue
Published: May 2023

Background
The risk of ovarian cancer is increased in patients with BRCA1/2 gene mutation, and there are racial and regional differences in BRCA1/2 gene mutation. The aim of this study was to investigate the BRCA gene mutation and its clinical characteristics in ovarian cancer patients in Zhejiang Province, China, analyze its difference from other regions of ovarian cancer.
Methods
310 patients with ovarian cancer were enrolled and their BRCA1/2 mutations were detected. Patients' age, clinical diagnosis, histopathological diagnosis, and preoperative serum CA125 and HE4 levels were collected. The mutation rates and common mutants of BRCA1/2 gene in ovarian cancer in several countries were collected.
Results
A total of 310 patients with non-selective ovarian cancer were selected for this study, of whom 87 (28.1%) had BRCA1/2 gene mutations, including 64 (20.1%) BRCA1 mutations and 23 (8%) BRCA2 mutations.There were four main types of BRCA mutations in 87 patients: frame shift mutations (57.5%), nonsense mutations (26.4%), missense mutations (13.8%), and splicing mutations (2.3%). There were 45 mutations in patients with BRCA1 mutations, of which c.5470-5477del and c.981-982del mutations were the most frequent. 22 mutations were found in patients with BRCA2 mutations, of which c.6373-6374insA mutations were the most frequent. preoperative serum levels of CA125 and HE4 in patients with BRCA1/2 mutations were higher than those in patients without BRCA2 mutations. The differences in CA125 and HE4 levels between patients with BRCA1/2 mutations and patients without mutations were statistically significant (P < 0.001). The differences in age and pathology type between patients with BRCA1/2 mutations and those without mutations were not statistically significant (P > 0.005).
Conclusions
Preoperative tumor markers CA125 and HE4 can be used as an aid to assess BRCA gene mutations in ovarian cancer patients. Significant disparities in BRCA1/2 gene mutation rates and variants across countries and regions.
First principle computation of structural, optical and electronic correlation of Mg-doped AlSb for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Nabi Shafqat , Anwar Abdul Waheed , Wazir Zafar , Aslam Muhammad , Haq Najam Ul , Moin Muhammad , Tayyab Muhammad , Ali Anwar , Ghani Muhammad Usman , Nabi Kashif
Published: May 2023

Density functional theory and exchange-correlation approximation are used to determine structural electronic and optical characteristics of Al1-xMgxSb (x =0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75). We employ generalized gradient approximation (GGA-PBE) to calculate structural properties as lattice parameters, bulk moduli, and pressure derivatives are in good agreement with the experimental data. The GGA-PBE algorithm determines the density of states and band structure for electronic characteristics. These calculations show the optical inactivity and indirect (Γ-L) bandgap of the binary compound AlSb. When a variable percentage in AlSb raises Mg concentration, the bandgap decreases and switches from indirect bandgap (Γ-L) to direct bandgap) and the material starts to function optically. The optical properties of Mg-doped AlSb as reflectivity, optical conductivity, reflectivity, refractive index, dielectric constant and energy loss are significantly improved. The designated material is considered a gateway for optoelectronic and photonic applications.
‘eat Five a Day’ Vs ‘eat One More’: Increased Fruit and Vegetable Consumption When Goals Are Provided, and When Goals Are More Achievable or Perceived to Be Easier
Authors: Appleton Katherine M , Borgonha Zara
Published: May 2023

Background
Three studies investigated ‘achievable’ and ‘relevant’ elements of a fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption goal. Study 1 compared more/less achievable goals (Eat 1 more … vs Eat 5 …) and no goal on FV outcomes and potential mechanisms. Study 2 investigated more/less achievable and more/less relevant goals (for current benefit vs future benefit) on FV outcomes and potential mechanisms. Study 3 examined the goals of Study 2 in a real-world setting.
Methods
Studies 1 and 2 used independent-groups designs, involving 92 and 226 participants, respectively. FV outcomes were intentions to consume FV, immediate FV selection and subsequent FV consumption. Variables studied as possible mechanisms, included perceived ease of goal, individual motivations, effort applied, attitudes and self-efficacy. Study 3 used a mixed design involving 10 canteens and 21 4-week FV purchasing assessment periods.
Results
In Study 1, FV consumption was greater after both goals compared to no goal. No differences were found between goals, but FV consumption was positively associated with perceived ease of goal. In Study 2, FV selection and consumption were greater following the more achievable (Eat 1 more …) goals. Several additional variables were also associated with FV outcomes. In Study 3, FV purchasing was greater during goal display, with no differences between goals. No effects of goal relevance were found.
Conclusions
Our findings demonstrate increased FV consumption when goals are provided compared to no goal. When goals were compared, small benefit was also found for goals that were more achievable or perceived to be easy.
Glaucoma progression due to refraining examination amid the pandemic of COVID-19
Authors: Inoue Kenji , Shiokawa Minako , Kunimatsu-Sanuki Shiho , Ishida Kyoko , Tomita Goji
Published: May 2023

Purpose
Some patients refrain from seeking an ophthalmologist due to the anxiety and morbidity associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We investigated progressive visual field defects in patients with glaucoma who refrained from ophthalmological examinations.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed data from 886 patients with glaucoma who visited Inouye Eye Hospital in June 2022 and were followed-up prior to January 2020. We examined the number of times patients canceled visits between January 2020 and May 2022 due to coronavirus concerns. We assessed the mean deviation (MD) values of the Humphrey Visual Field Assessment (HFA) program 30 − 2 SITA Standard values after visit interruptions for worsening beyond the MD values predicted by the MD slope. Factors influencing this difference were analyzed using logistic regression analysis.
Results
The study included 374 men and 512 women. The mean age was 68.7 ± 12.0 years. Visit interruptions occurred in 146 patients (16.5%), with 95 (65.1%) rescheduling once, 27 (18.5%) twice, and 24 (16.4%) three or more times. Among 90 patients who underwent HFA regularly, 50 (55.6%) experienced worse-than-expected MD values and 12 (13.3%) deteriorated by 2 dB or more. Longer interruptions and high intraocular pressure before interruption worsened the MD values by 2 dB or more.
Conclusions
Patients with glaucoma with visit interruptions due to the pandemic should be monitored for the progression of visual field impairment.
RETRACTED: Cultural dynamics influencing decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic: The Italian case
Authors: Costa Sara , Carrus Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square due to participants requesting the removal of their data.
Equation of state and structural evolution of manganese dolomite (kutnohorite) under high pressures
Authors: Xu Liangxu , Gui Weibin , Shen Kewei , Zhang Dongzhou , Xu Jingui , Liu Jin
Published: May 2023

Understanding the structural evolution of carbonate minerals with increasing pressure is essential to decoding the role of Earth’s mantle in the global carbon cycle and long-term climate change. Here, we carried out synchrotron single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements on a natural sample of manganese dolomite [kutnohorite, Ca1.11Mn0.89(CO3)2] in a diamond-anvil cell up to 51.2 GPa at room temperature with neon as the pressure-transmitting medium. The manganese dolomite sample remains stable in the rhombohedral structure from 1 bar to ~13.3 GPa. The equation of state of Ca1.11Mn0.89(CO3)2 was determined: V0 = 334.06 ± 0.29 Å3, K0 = 99.9 ± 4.7 GPa, and K0′ = 4.3 ± 0.9; when K0′ is fixed at 4.0, V0 = 334.04 ± 0.24 Å3, and K0 = 101.4 ± 1.5 GPa. Upon further compression at room temperature, the split and disappearance of diffraction spots were observed. That is, the rhombohedral structure of manganese dolomite becomes highly distorted to lose its long-range order at 13.3–51.2 GPa at room temperature. Moreover, our single-crystal X-ray diffraction results reveal the mechanisms of the reported lattice and internal Raman mode splits of the same manganese dolomite sample approximately at 13 and 24 GPa, respectively. These results suggest manganese-bearing carbonates may play a distinct role in the deep carbon cycle.
Removal of ammonia nitrogen from wastewater using activated carbon prepared from waste tyres
Authors: Kabuba John , Lephallo Joseph
Published: May 2023

In this work, the removal of ammonia nitrogen (NH4-N) on activated carbon prepared from waste tyres was conducted in batch studies as a function of adsorbent dosage, pH, temperature, contact time and initial concentration. The pore structure of activated carbon was characterized by N2 adsorption. The optimal conditions for the efficient adsorption of ammonia nitrogen onto waste tyre-activated carbon were found to be an adsorbent dosage of 0.4 g/L, pH 9.0, temperature of 20 °C, contact time of 90 min and initial ammonium nitrogen concentration of 50 mg/L. The kinetics studies showed that the pseudo-second-order model offered the best connection of the adsorption data. The Langmuir model was found to provide the best fit for the experimental data. The thermodynamic results showed that the adsorption of ammonia onto waste tyre-activated carbon was exothermic, random and spontaneous in nature.
Comparison of hybrid machine learning models to predict short-term meteorological drought in Guanzhong region, China
Authors: Li Shaoxuan , Xie Jiancang , Yang Xue , Jing Xin
Published: May 2023

Reliable drought prediction plays a significant role in drought management. Applying machine learning models in drought prediction is getting popular in recent years, but applying the stand-alone models to capture the feature information is not sufficient enough, even though the general performance is acceptable. Therefore, the scholars tried the signal decomposition algorithm as a data pre-processing tool, and coupled it with the stand-alone model to build ‘decomposition-prediction’ model to improve the performance. Considering the limitations of using the single decomposition algorithm, an ‘integration-prediction’ model construction method is proposed in this study, which deeply combines the results of multiple decomposition algorithms. The model tested three meteorological stations in Guanzhong, Shaanxi Province, China, where the short-term meteorological drought is predicted from 1960 to 2019. The meteorological drought index selects the Standardized Precipitation Index on a 12-month time scale (SPI-12). Compared with stand-alone models and ‘decomposition-prediction’ models, the ‘integration-prediction’ models present higher prediction accuracy, smaller prediction error and better stability in the results. This new ‘integration-prediction’ model provides attractive value for drought risk management in arid regions.
Prediction of calcium phosphate generation and behaviors of metals during phosphorus recovery using a modified thermodynamic model
Authors: Sui Pengzhe , Nishimura Fumitake , Hidaka Taira
Published: May 2023

In this study, behaviors of metals and their effects on phosphorus recovery by calcium phosphate were investigated by the laboratory and pilot experiments as well as by the modified thermodynamic model. Batch experimental results indicated that the efficiency of phosphorus recovery decreased with the increase in metal content and more than 80% phosphorus can be recovered with a Ca/P molar ratio of 3.0 and a pH of 9.0 for the supernatant of an anaerobic tank in the A/O process with the influent containing a high metal level. The mixture of amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) and dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) was assumed to be the precipitated product with an experimental time of 30 min. A modified thermodynamic model was developed using ACP and DCPD as the precipitated products, and the correction equations were incorporated to simulate the short-term precipitation of calcium phosphate based on the experimental results. From the perspective of maximizing both the efficiency of phosphorus recovery and the quality or purity of the recovered product, the simulation results showed that a pH of 9.0 and a Ca/P molar ratio of 3.0 were the optimized operational condition for phosphorus recovery by calcium phosphate when the influent metal content was at the level of actual municipal sewage.
Assessment of health risks caused by overweight in children depending on the FTO gene rs9939609 polymorphism
Authors:   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, 3 12a mikroraion, Angarsk, 665826, Russian Federation, Bogdanova O.G. , Tarmaeva I.Yu. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition and Biotechnology, 2/14 Ust’inskii passage, Moscow, 109240, Russian Federation,   RUDN University, 9 Miklukho-Maklaya Str., Moscow, 117198, Russian Federation, Sorokina E.Yu. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition and Biotechnology, 2/14 Ust’inskii passage, Moscow, 109240, Russian Federation, Efimova N.V. ,   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, 3 12a mikroraion, Angarsk, 665826, Russian Federation, Mylnikova I.V. ,   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, 3 12a mikroraion, Angarsk, 665826, Russian Federation
Published: May 2023

In this study, we aimed to estimate the association between the rs9939609 FTO (fat mass and obesity associated) polymorphism and a risk of overweight in children living in the Baikal region. We performed a case – control study that included 113 schoolchildren living in industrial centers of the Baikal region (Irkutsk, Angarsk, and Ulan-Ude). Anthropometric parameters were measured and body mass index was calculated with its values being ranked in accordance with the WHO BMI curves depending on a sex and age. Genotyping of the rs9939609 FTO polymorphism was performed by allele-specific amplification with real-time results detection. To assess likelihood of an association between the FTO gene allele and overweight and obesity, relative risk (RR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) were calculated. The assessment revealed the A allele of the rs9939609 FTO polymorphism to be by 1.29 times more frequent in the examined children with overweight and obesity (48.44 %) than in the children form the reference group (37.65 %). The FTO rs9939609 polymorphism was authentically associated with likelihood of elevated risks of overweight and obesity in children with the homozygous AA genotype (RR = 2.806, 95 % CI: 1.650–4.772; STD = 0.271). Our study confirms that the rs9939609 polymorphism of the FTO gene is a risk factor of overweight and obesity for children from the Baikal region who have the A allele of the homozygous AA genotype. Prevailing frequency of the TT genotype (29.2 %) as compared with the AA genotype (10.62) is likely due to influence of assimilation processes on urbanized territories in the Baikal region.
Non-coding RNAs in Precursor Lesions of Colorectal Cancer:
Their Role in Cancer Initiation and Formation
Authors: Mohammadpour Somayeh , Noukabadi Fatemeh Naderi , Esfahani Amir Torshizi , Kazemi Fatemeh , Esmaeili Sahar , Zafarjafarzadeh Nikta , Sarpash SeyedKasra , Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad Ehsan
Published: May 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the world's most common types of
malignancy. The proliferation of precancerous lesions causes this type of cancer. Two
distinct pathways for CRC carcinogenesis have been identified: the conventional
adenoma-carcinoma pathway and the serrated neoplasia pathway. Recently, evidence
has demonstrated the regulatory roles of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the initiation and
progression of precancerous lesions, especially in the adenoma-carcinoma pathway and
serrated neoplasia pathway. By expanding the science of molecular genetics and
bioinformatics, several studies have identified dysregulated ncRNAs that function as
oncogenes or tumor suppressors in cancer initiation and formation by diverse
mechanisms via intracellular signaling pathways known to act on tumor cells. However,
many of their roles are still unclear. This review summarizes the functions and
mechanisms of ncRNAs (such as long non-coding RNAs, microRNAs, long intergenic
non-coding RNAs, small interfering RNAs, and circRNAs) in the initiation and formation
of precancerous lesions.
Conditioned Media Therapy in Alzheimer's Disease: Current Findings and
Future Challenges
Authors: Firoozi Amin , Shadi Mehri , Aghaei Zohre , Namavar Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder accompanied by a reduction in cognition
and memory. Till now, there is no definite cure for AD, although, there are treatments available
that may improve some symptoms. Currently, in regenerative medicine stem cells are widely used, mainly
for treating neurodegenerative diseases. There are numerous forms of stem cells to treat AD aiming at the
expansion of the treatment methods for this particular disease. Since 10 years ago, science has gained
abundant knowledge to treat AD by understanding the sorts of stem cells, methods, and phasing of injection.
Besides, due to the side effects of stem cell therapy like the potentiation for cancer, and as it is hard
to follow the cells through the matrix of the brain, researchers have presented a new therapy for AD. They
prefer to use conditioned media (CM) that are full of different growth factors, cytokines, chemokines,
enzymes, etc. without tumorigenicity or immunogenicity such as stem cells. Another benefit of CM is that
CM could be kept in the freezer, easily packaged, and transported, and doesn’t need to fit with the donor.
Due to the beneficial effects of CM, in this paper, we intend to evaluate the effects of various types of CM
of stem cells on AD.
Niosomes: A Smart Drug Delivery System for Brain Targeting
Authors: Varshney Sandesh , Alam Md. Aftab , Kaur Awaneet , Dhoundiyal Shivang
Published: May 2023

Niosomes are lipid-based nanovesicles that have the potential to act as drug-delivery vehicles
for a variety of agents. They are effective drug delivery systems for both ASOs and AAV vectors, with
advantages such as improved stability, bioavailability, and targeted administration. In the context of
brain-targeted drug delivery, niosomes have been investigated as a drug delivery system for brain targeting,
but more research is needed to optimize their formulation to improve their stability and release
profile and address the challenges of scale-up and commercialization. Despite these challenges, several
applications of niosomes have demonstrated the potential of novel nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery
to the brain. This review briefly overviews the current use of niosomes in treating brain disorders
and diseases
Herbal Medicines Genkwadaphnin as Therapeutic Agent for Cancers and
Other Human Disorders: A Review of Pharmacological Activities through
Scientific Evidence
Authors: Patel Dinesh Kumar , Patel Kanika
Published: May 2023

Backgrounds:

Daphnane-type diterpenes are an important class of phytochemicals found
to be present in the family Euphorbiaceae and Thymelaeaceae. It has anti-leukaemic, antihyperglycaemic,
and anti-fertility activities in medicine. Daphne genkwa is indigenous to the
Yangtze River and Yellow River of China. Daphne genkwa contains significant amounts of daphnane-
type diterpenes. Phytochemical analysis of Daphne genkwa led to the isolation of flavonoids,
lignins, coumarins, caffeotannic acids, and genkwadaphnin.

Methods:

Present review highlighted the biological potential of genkwadaphnin in medicine. All
the scientific data of Daphne genkwa, and genkwadaphnin were collected from Google, Google
Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, and PubMed and analyzed in the present work to know the therapeutic
potential of genkwadaphnin in medicine. Detailed pharmacological activities of genkwadaphnin
were analyzed in the present work through scientific data analysis of various research works.

Results:

Genkwadaphnin is a daphnane diterpene ester molecule mainly isolated from the Daphne
genkwa, Dendrostellera lessertii, Daphne odorata, Gnidia latifolia, and Gnidia glaucus.
Genkwadaphnin has been reported to exert therapeutic potential against hepatocellular carcinoma,
human colon cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, and leukemia. Further, it has a significant role in
innate immunity, melanogenesis, skeletal diseases, inflammatory cytokines, and natural killer cell.
However, pharmacokinetics and metabolomics aspects of genkwadaphnin were also discussed in
the present work. Further, more scientific data on human clinical trials is needed to ensure the safety
and efficacy of genkwadaphnin in medicine.

Conclusion:

In the present work, a successful review had been achieved by the above-mentioned
scientific data, which signified the therapeutic potential of genkwadaphnin in medicine.
Using Supply Indicators in the Evaluation of Drug Supply Reduction – Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Singleton Nicola , Cunningham Andrew , Groshkova Teodora , Royuela Luis , Sedefov Roumen , Griffiths Paul
Published: May 2023

Interventions to tackle the supply of drugs, are seen as standard components
of illicit drug policies and drug market-related administrative data, such as seizures,
price, purity and drug-related offending, are widely used for policy monitoring and
evaluation. However, these data are not primarily collected for this purpose, which
makes interpretation and analysis difficult. Examples of limitations of these data
sources include: the extent to which they reflect operational priorities rather than
impact on drug supply; question marks over the robustness of and consistency in data
collection methods; and issues around the timeliness of data availability.
Making sense of such data is therefore challenging and extreme care needs to be taken
when using it. Nevertheless, given the considerable resources invested in drug supply
reduction, understanding the impact of these interventions is essential, so improving the
quality of the data collected and expanding its scope should be a priority for those
seeking to understand or monitor drug markets and supply reduction. In addition to
highlighting some of the potential pitfalls in using supply indicators for policy
evaluation, this chapter presents some options for improvements based on the current
European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction programme of work to
develop their supply-related monitoring and analysis. The conceptual framework
developed to underpin this work may have wider applications and has the potential to
provide a richer picture of drug markets, at both national and international levels, to aid
efforts to evaluate drug supply reduction policies. 
Estimating the Costs of the Criminal Justice System
Authors: Di Censi Luca , Fabi Francesco
Published: May 2023

This chapter looks into the economic costs of drug control to the criminal
justice systems in four European countries, Italy, Poland, Portugal and Spain as a
contribution to the debate on the costs of illicit drugs to society suggesting paths for
investigation.
At the global level, extensive evidence has been collected and research has been carried
out on the importance of estimating the costs of crime to society [1]. However, there is
still little evidence on some aspects of the criminal justice costs considered in relation
to the laws and regulations for which they were incurred. The study of Farrell and
Clark [2] is one example of an empirical estimate of the direct cost of public
expenditure on the global criminal justice system. Using six different regression
models, the study found that there was a direct relationship between the wealth of
nations and the amount spent on criminal justice: richer countries spend more GDP per
capita than less developed countries.
Italy, Poland, Portugal and Spain show both differences and commonalities in terms of
their geographical position, economic development and criminal justice system
organization in relation to drug control. All four countries are based on a civil law
system and have old judicial traditions.
The analysis shows that drug-related costs for the three sectors considered (police,
courts and prisons) as a share of GDP, from 2010 to 2018, have increased only for
Poland, while for Italy, there has been a slight decrease and for Portugal and Spain
drug-related justice expenditure has sharply decreased.
Introduction to Cerium and Cerium-based Materials
Authors: Atri Shalu , Shilpa Bentham Science Publisher , Tomar Ravi
Published: May 2023

The redox behavior of cerium is responsible for its high technological
importance since ceria serves as a potential material in assorted applications. Changes
in the optical, electrical, magnetic, and catalytic behavior of ceria can be brought about
by employing different methodologies and reaction conditions. The high thermal and
structural stability of ceria offers its utilization as a host lattice for various doping
schemes. The incorporation of dopant elements beautifies the lattice by generating
oxygen vacancies and thereby creating various interesting properties. Aiming with the
stabilization of ceria and ceria-based compounds in nano-dimensions also opens up
various new possibilities to explore it further for numerous useful applications.
Hybrid Energy Storage System
Authors: Sharma Rohini , Singh Nitesh , Sharma Aakash , Sharma Naina , Singh Manjeet , Pattnaik Amruta
Published: May 2023

Presently, the role of renewable energy sources (RES) in the energy
continuity of a power system is emphasized. Since renewable energy sources are
unreliable and intermittent, a smart energy management system is recommended for
hybrid energy storage systems (HESS). This study introduces two storage technologies
for RES. a battery and a supercapacitor. The generation process in which solar panels,
also known as PV panels, are integrated into an array in a grid-connected or off-grid
PV system. A dc link is connected to two storage devices and two bidirectional DC/DC
converters in the proposed model. The generation from photovoltaic panels is supplied
to the load via a converter system. Both supercapacitors and batteries are utilized as
storage devices in the proposed system. The voltage of the supercapacitor reached 32V,
whereas the value of the capacitor varied slightly between 25V and 25V. The voltage
of the supercapacitor in the proposed hybrid paradigm is significantly higher than the
voltage of the capacitor.
Biologically Active Peptides from Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) Grain
Authors: Reyes-Bautista Raúl , Jesús Flores-Sierra José de , Hernández-Mendoza Gustavo , Xoca-Orozco Luis Ángel
Published: May 2023

 Dietary proteins and peptides can exert a wide variety of well-studied
bioactivities, some of which are related to human well-being, health maintenance and
disease prevention. These peptides can be generated by enzymatic hydrolysis,
gastrointestinal simulation, or by fermentation with microorganisms. Quinoa is a
pseudo cereal consumed by ancient populations for hundreds of years. It does not
contain gluten, but it does contain proteins with encrypted sequences that can be
released by enzymatic hydrolysis. These sequences contained in quinoa hydrolysates
and peptides can exert beneficial effects on health, as they present antidiabetic,
antihypertensive, antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities, among
others. In addition, quinoa has other nutritional and bioactive compounds such as
flavonoids, phenolic acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. There are many studies
that demonstrate the activities mentioned above, however, the exploration of in vivo
models explaining the associated mechanisms are still needed. This chapter aims to
understand quinoa from a functional point of view, along with presenting the
biotechnological potential of grain proteins, which is currently very poorly exploited.
We aim to promote quinoa cultivation, since its beneficial properties are adequate for
its use in the prevention of chronic-degenerative diseases.
Biologically Active Peptides from Lupin (Lupinus angustifolius L.) Grain
Authors: Montalvo-González Efigenia , Rodríguez-Jiménez Juan Miguel de Jesús , Romero-Garay Martha Guillermina , Montaño-Martínez Emmanuel , Lourdes García-Magaña María de
Published: May 2023

There is a great diversity of lupin grains; however, their varieties share a
high protein content, thus making them an essential ingredient for substituting or
complementing other foods, as well as a source of interest for obtaining hydrolysates
and biologically active peptides. At present, it should be noted that numerous studies
have shown positive effects of these hydrolysates and peptides in the prevention and/or
treatment of diseases, due to their anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, antidiabetic
and hypoglycemic effects; however, it is still necessary to carry out bioavailability and
biodigestibility studies to develop forms of inclusion in foods that allow their greater
absorption, distribution and metabolism.
Biologically Active Peptides from Broad Bean (Vicia faba L.)
Authors: Martínez-Arellano Isadora
Published: May 2023

The broad bean progenitor was a local wild vegetation, which was
discovered in a prehistoric Natufian culture site. It is in symbiosis with Rhizobium
leguminosarum for nitrogen fixation. It has a large genetic diversity and belongs to the
third largest family of angiosperms, with over 16,000-19,000 species. Commonly, the
genotypes are V. faba var. major, minor, equina and paucijuga. Some of its
applications, for example, are as pills for Parkinson´s disease or hypertensive patients
due to its L-Dopa, and high potassium and low sodium contents, respectively.
Likewise, bread, biscuits, pasta, emulsions and beverages can be fortified with broad bean flour, improving the protein content. The majority of proteins contained in the
broad bean are globulins (80%), followed by albumins (20%), and, in a lesser amount,
glutelins (15%) and prolamins (6%). Globulins are composed of legumin and
vicilin/convicilin. Broad bean is a cheap and healthy source of protein. Therefore, it
can produce biologically active peptides; for example, NPN-1 can decrease muscle
wasting; protein hydrolysates are hypocholesterolemic; VFTI-G1 is anticarcinogenic
(IC50=30µM); moreover, a protease inhibitor isolated from a broad bean, is useful in the
treatment of fungal disease in HIV-infected patients (51.2% inhibition at 32 µM). In
addition, fraction F1 has antityrosinase activity IC50=0.140; and fabatins have moderate
activity against E. coli, E. Hirae and P. aeruginosa. The future of product
developments in food and pharmacology lies in a combination of breakthroughs in
genetics, physiology of the gut, hydrolysis, extrusion and purification of BAPs.
Biologically Active Peptides from Cocoa Bean (Theobroma cacao L.)
Authors: Coronado-Cáceres Luis Jorge , Jesus Calva-Estrada Sergio de , Lugo-Cervantes Eugenia
Published: May 2023

Recently, proteins and peptides have become important ingredients in
functional foods due to the emergence of knowledge about their properties and
biological activities. Many biologically active peptides (BAPs) have been studied from
different animal and vegetal origins, principally legumes, such as soybeans and beans.
BAPs have been shown to have anticancer, antitumoral, antioxidant and antimutagenic
activities. Cacao, an ancient crop that originated in the Mesoamerican region, contains
several bioactive compounds, e.g., polyphenols, alkaloids, flavanols, procyanidins and
peptides. Cocoa beans contain 50% lipids and 14% protein, with albumins and
globulins prevailing. The principal amino acids from cocoa protein are lysine, arginine,
serine, proline, alanine, leucine, valine and methionine, and they allow the elucidation
of the peptide’s bioactivity. Cocoa BAPs show antitumoral, antioxidant,
antihypertensive and antidiabetic activities and obesity prevention. This work
demonstrates the potential of all its BAPs.
Biologically Active Peptides from Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) Seed
Authors: Briceño-Islas Gislane , Urías-Silvas Judith E.
Published: May 2023

Chia seed (Salvia hispanica L.) is rich in nutraceutical compounds with
multiple benefits for human health and with great potential for its use in food. Interest
in the study of this seed has been increasing year by year. Currently, studies have been
based on the beneficial potential of chia proteins as a low-cost source of vegetable
protein. Meanwhile, other studies have been based on the residual use of chia cake, a
residue from the extraction of the chia oil industry. Bioactive peptides from chia have
been shown to possess the inhibitory potential of molecular targets of hypertension,
diabetes, adipogenesis, microbial, cancer, and aging. This chapter aims to provide an
overview of chia bioactive peptides and their importance as a seed with high value for
its protein content. 