bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Identification of NAC Gene Family and Expression Analysis under Abiotic Stresses in Avena sativa
Authors: Ling Lei , Li Mingjing , Chen Naiyu , Xie Xinying , Han Zihui , Ren Guoling , Yin Yajie , Jiang Huixin
Published: May 2023

In this study, a total of 177 NAC members were identified in Avena sativa, located on 21 chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that AsNAC proteins could be divided into seven subfamilies (I–VII), and that proteins in the same subfamily have similar protein motifs. Gene structure analysis found that NAC introns ranged from 1 to 17. Cis-element analysis of the promoter indicated that the gene family may have stress-related elements and growth regulation elements. Through qRT-PCR experiments, we speculated that AsNACs genes can respond to abiotic stresses such as cold, freezing, salt, and saline alkali. This study provides a theoretical basis for further exploring the function of the NAC gene family in A. sativa.
Ancient Mitogenomes Reveal Stable Genetic Continuity of the Holocene Serows
Authors: Song Shiwen , Xiao Bo , Hu Jiaming , Lin Haifeng , Du Zhicheng , Xiang Kunpeng , Pan Dong , Hou Xindong , Yuan Junxia , Lai Xulong , Sheng Guilian
Published: May 2023

As one of the remaining species of Caprinae only found in Asia, serows (Capricornis) and their classification and conservation have received increasing attention in recent years. However, their evolutionary history and population dynamics are not yet clear. To shed light on these topics, we report the first near-complete ancient mitochondrial genomes from two serow sub-fossils (CADG839 and CADG946) dating to 8860 ± 30 years and 2450 ± 30 years, and incorporate the newly obtained mitogenomes into the dataset of living serows (18 complete mitochondrial genomes drawn from National Center for Biotechnology Information, NCBI) to investigate their relationships and evolution. Phylogenetic results support four clades of serows that can be further divided into five subclades, indicating higher genetic diversity than previously thought. Notably, our two ancient samples do not form a separate branch but belong to Capricornis sumatraensis clade A together with modern individuals, which suggests genetic continuity between ancient and modern serows. Furthermore, our results suggest that the maternal divergences of serows occurred at the beginning of the Pleistocene. Bayesian estimation indicates that the first divergence among all serows happened approximately 2.37 Ma (95% highest posterior density, HPD: 2.74–2.02 Ma) when Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) appeared, while the last divergence occurred within the Sumatran serow (C. sumatraensis clade A and B) around 0.37–0.25 Ma. Additionally, we found the effective maternal population size of C. sumatraensis increased around 225–160 and 90–50 ka, then remained stable since 50 ka. Overall, our study provides new insights into serow phylogeny and evolutionary history.
Envisioning the Future of Heritage Tourism in the Creative Industries in Dubai: An Exploratory Study of Post COVID-19 Strategies for Sustainable Recovery
Authors: Haq Farooq , Yasin Naveed , Nair Gayatri
Published: May 2023

This exploratory study investigates the challenges for the heritage tourism industries in the UAE by focusing on the strategies and policies adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to identify the business strategies, analyze the contextual challenges for service providers, and explore how providers managed these challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. A multi-case study approach is adopted with 12 renowned and leading heritage tourism providers (CEOc, managers, and relationship managers) Additionally, four tourism academics interviewed through qualitative semi-structured interviews. The data were obtained during the post-COVID-19 economic recovery period from January 2022 to November 2022. The protocols of the Delphi technique and the Template Analysis (TA) approach were combined to develop richer insights. Initially, the challenges discovered were thematically categorized under two levels, which were (i) Inconsistencies for Heritage Tourism and (ii) Appreciation for Heritage Tourism. As a result, subsequently, four multi-tiered themes (macro, meso, and micro level) emerged as a response to the current challenges: (i) Repackaging heritage tourism, (ii) Long-term safety measures for tourists, (iii) Organizational adaptation and innovation, and (iv) Creative recommendations. The novelty of this study is inherent in its contextualization of an under-explored area, concurrent analysis of a dynamic and lucrative sector, and methodological advancement through the embellishment of techniques. Based on the findings of this research, a contextualized framework is proposed that complements tourism theory and delivers credible implications for researchers, government planners, and tourism providers.
Training to Teach: Exploring the Feasibility of Service-Learning Projects to Prepare Undergraduate Learners to Be Community Health Educators
Authors: Gerdes Melanie A. , Jones Anna Marie , Fetter Deborah S. , Sklar Emily S. , Stapleton Kristen , Ruiz Lyndsey D. , Scherr Rachel E. , George Gretchen L.
Published: May 2023

Undergraduate learners are ideal candidates for participation in service-learning projects, which allow learners to apply course concepts in a community setting where both the university and community benefit. In pre-health fields, undergraduate students can serve as teachers for concepts such as food literacy. This study examined whether a rigorous virtual professional development model would improve self-efficacy of undergraduate participants to teach food literacy to adolescents. A purposive sampling of participants (n = 12) from two universities participated in a yearlong virtual service-learning project and a community of practice professional development model. Tasks included virtual lesson modeling and virtual development of short, learner-centered activities for an adolescent food literacy curriculum. Informal interviews were conducted at the end of the academic year. Participants reported that the virtual service-learning project connected to their coursework, improved their confidence and professional communication, and was a safe space for growing their teaching practice. Findings were not generalizable due to the small n and purposive sampling, and participants were unable to teach adolescents during the pandemic. The service-learning project may be transferable to local health departments as there is a demonstrated need of alternative implementation models for health education interventions.
UV-A Supplement Improved Growth, Antioxidant Capacity, and Anthocyanin Accumulation in Purple Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Qin Hengshan , Xu Yaliang , Liu Binbin , Gao Yong , Zheng Yinjian , Li Qingming
Published: May 2023

This study investigated the impact of various light qualities on the growth, photosynthesis, antioxidant capacity, anthocyanin accumulation and associated gene expression in purple lettuce. The results showed that stem diameter, leaf number and dry mass of purple leaves lettuce increased significantly under white light plus red and blue light (WRB) plus 10 µmol·m−2·s−1 UV-A (SUV1), plus 20 µmol·m−2·s−1 UV-A (SUV2) and plus 30 µmol·m−2·s−1 UV-A (SUV3) treatments compared to white light plus red and blue light (WRB). Leaf expansion decreased with increasing UV-A doses, while fresh leaf mass was higher under SUV1 and SUV2 treatments. Photosynthesis parameters were improved under WRB, SUV1 and SUV2 treatments, with an increase in net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate (Tr) and a decrease in intercellular carbon dioxide concentration (Ci) under SUV3 treatment. Superoxide radical generation rate, hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde (MDA) content and relative conductivity increased significantly under SUV3 treatment. Anthocyanin content increased significantly with increasing doses of UV-A treatment, while related structural gene expression levels were upregulated more significantly by SUV2 and SUV3 treatments than WRB treatment. In summary, moderate UV-A supplementation can enhance the antioxidant system and promote anthocyanin accumulation in purple lettuce. Specifically, WRB plus 20 µmol·m−2·s−1 UV-A (SUV2) is recommended as an optimal light recipe for cultivating purple lettuce in protected horticulture.
Effectiveness of Natural-Based Coatings on Sweet Oranges Post-Harvest Life and Antioxidant Capacity of Obtained By-Products
Authors: Carvalho Deived Uilian de , Neves Carmen Silvia Vieira Janeiro , Cruz Maria Aparecida da , Colombo Ronan Carlos , Alferez Fernando , Leite Junior Rui Pereira
Published: May 2023

The use of natural-based coatings is an eco-friendly approach that can be applied in citrus postharvest to preserve fruit quality and to prolong shelf life. Additionally, the study of antioxidant capacity of obtained by-products from fruits is of great value to mitigate better practices to manage the residues left from the juice processing industry. Under this context, the aim of this study was to investigate the use of carnauba wax/wood resin-based coating and cold storage on postharvest life of Valencia Late and Natal IAC sweet oranges, as well as the physicochemical quality and antioxidant capacity of its by-products. Mature fruits were harvested in 2019 and 2020 seasons. Initially, fruits were assessed for physicochemical quality and antioxidant capacity. Then, fruits were treated with carnauba wax and wood resin mixture and stored for 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 days in a cold chamber. Fruit color index, weight loss, physicochemical quality and sensory profile of the fruits were monitored at harvest and during each cold storage period. Evaluations were performed in triplicates of 10-fruit. Valencia Late and Natal IAC fruits had proper quality in both years, attending the requirements of the fresh market and processing industry. Flavedo and albedo section displayed the highest concentration of bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activity. The coating treatment associated with cold storage was efficient to preserve fruit color and to retard weight loss for both varieties up to 60 days. The sensory profile and quality of the carnauba wax/wood resin treated fruits were preserved all over the cold storage period, while uncoated fruits ranked low for most of the sensory attributes. Together, Valencia Late and Natal IAC fruits contain a high level of healthy beneficial compounds, which may be exploited as a natural source of low-cost antioxidants. Further, carnauba wax/wood resin coating associated with cold storage effectively reduce weight loss and color progression in sweet orange fruits, in addition to preserving overall physicochemical and sensory quality.
Mesh Crop Cover Optimizes the Microenvironment in a Tropical Region and Modifies the Physiology and Metabolome in Tomato
Authors: Delgado-Vargas Victoria A. , Hernández-Bolio Gloria I. , Hernández-Núñez Emanuel , Gautier Hélène , Ayala-Garay Oscar J. , Garruña René
Published: May 2023

In tropical regions, high light levels can lead to increased photooxidative damage in plants. Thus, reducing solar radiation could have a substantial impact on crop performance. This study aimed to evaluate the physiological responses and metabolic profile of two tomato varieties grown in microenvironments modified with cover meshes under a high light level and a warm climate. The experiment was achieved under high solar irradiance and an unfavorably high temperature. The varieties “Moneymaker” (MM) and “Campeche 40” (C40) were grown from 45 to 130 days after sowing at four solar irradiance levels: 100% (T1), 80% (T2), 75% (T3), and 50% (T4). In both varieties, the plants grown under the lowest irradiances (T3 and T4) were the tallest, with larger leaf areas, and accumulated more aerial and root biomass. Under moderate shading (T2), plants took better advantage of the light and had the highest photochemical quenching coefficient (qP) (C40 = 0.60 and MM = 0.48) and the highest electron transport rate (ETR). However, T3 and T4 plants had the highest net assimilation rate (23.6 and 23.9 µmol m−2 s−1 in C40, and 22.7 and 22.6 µmol m−2 s−1 in MM, respectively) and the highest A/Ci coefficients. Although both tomato varieties accumulate similar metabolites, MM leaves accumulate more glucose and C40 leaves accumulate more proline and valine. Furthermore, MM leaves accumulate more glycine and GABA under high radiation, and C40 leaves accumulate more proline and valine than leaves under 50% shade (T4). We conclude that using meshes in areas with high irradiance could be an alternative to reduce abiotic stress factors in plants.
Preharvest Applications of Oxalic Acid and Salicylic Acid Increase Fruit Firmness and Polyphenolic Content in Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.)
Authors: Retamal-Salgado Jorge , Adaos Geber , Cedeño-García George , Ospino-Olivella Sebastian Camilo , Vergara-Retamales Rosa , Lopéz María Dolores , Olivares Raúl , Hirzel Juan , Olivares-Soto Héctor , Betancur Matías
Published: May 2023

Blueberry exports that imply transport times of more than 25 d deteriorate their quality. The use of elicitors in preharvest has shown positive effects on the quality of berries such as grapes. The objective of this study was to evaluate preharvest applications (21, 14, and 7 d before harvest) of oxalic acid (OA) and salicylic acid (SA) on fruit firmness and phenolic compounds in blueberry. The treatments of 0, 2, and 4 mM OA in ‘Kirra’ and 0, 2, and 4 mM SA are in ‘Stella blue’. With the earlier preharvest application, ‘Kirra’ presented better firmness than ‘Stella blue’; however, 2 mM OA and SA in both cultivars increased fruit firmness, maintaining its weight and diameter with respect to the control. It should be noted that the treatment with 2 mM SA generated a 100% increase in polyphenolic content and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05) in ‘Stella Blue’, with values close to 140 mg gallic acid 100 g−1 and 80 mg 100 g−1 fresh weight (FW), respectively. In Kirra, OA treatments did not have a significant impact on the polyphenol content, but 4 mM OA increased by 100% and 20%, total anthocyanin and antioxidant capacity of blueberry fruit, respectively. Based on our results, three pre-harvest applications of OA and SA during the fruit development until the beginning of ripening improve fruit firmness by up to 20% at different times of harvest.
Educational Strategies to Reduce Physician Shortages in Underserved Areas: A Systematic Review
Authors: Figueiredo Alexandre Medeiros de , Labry Lima Antonio Olry de , Figueiredo Daniela Cristina Moreira Marculino de , Neto Alexandre José de Melo , Rocha Erika Maria Sampaio , Azevedo George Dantas de
Published: May 2023

The shortage of physicians in rural and underserved areas is an obstacle to the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). We carried out a systematic review to analyze the effectiveness of initiatives in medical education aimed to increase the supply of physicians in rural or underserved areas. We searched for studies published between 1999 and 2019 in six databases, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Interventional or observational controlled studies were defined as inclusion criteria. A total of 955 relevant unique records were selected for inclusion, which resulted in the identification of 17 articles for analysis. The admission of students from rural areas associated with a rural curriculum represented 52.95% of the interventions. Medical practice after graduation in rural or underserved areas was the most evaluated outcome, representing 12 publications (70.59%). Participants of these educational initiatives were more likely to work in rural or underserved areas or to choose family medicine, with significant differences between the groups in 82.35% of the studies. Educational strategies in undergraduate and medical residencies are effective. However, it is necessary to expand these interventions to ensure the supply of physicians in rural or urban underserved areas.
DAta Linkage to Enhance Cancer Care (DaLECC): Protocol of a Large Australian Data Linkage Study
Authors: Edney Laura C. , Roseleur Jackie , Bright Tim , Watson David I. , Arnolda Gaston , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Delaney Geoffrey P. , Liauw Winston , Mitchell Rebecca , Karnon Jonathan
Published: May 2023

Cancer is a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, accounting for 250 Disability-Adjusted Life Years and 10 million deaths in 2019. Minimising unwarranted variation and ensuring appropriate cost-effective treatment across primary and tertiary care to improve health outcomes is a key health priority. There are few studies that have used linked data to explore healthcare utilisation prior to diagnosis in addition to post-diagnosis patterns of care. This protocol outlines the aims of the DaLECC project and key methodological features of the linked dataset. The primary aim of this project is to explore predictors of variations in pre- and post-cancer diagnosis care, and to explore the economic and health impact of any variation. The cohort of patients includes all South Australian residents diagnosed with cancer between 2011 and 2020, who were recorded on the South Australian Cancer Registry. These cancer registry records are being linked with state and national healthcare databases to capture health service utilisation and costs for a minimum of one-year prior to diagnosis and to a maximum of 10 years post-diagnosis. Healthcare utilisation includes state databases for inpatient separations and emergency department presentations and national databases for Medicare services and pharmaceuticals. Our results will identify barriers to timely receipt of care, estimate the impact of variations in the use of health care, and provide evidence to support interventions to improve health outcomes to inform national and local decisions to enhance the access and uptake of health care services.
Disparities in Infant Nutrition: WIC Participation and Rates of Breastfeeding in Florida
Authors: Buxbaum Sarah G. , Arigbede Olumide , Mathis Arlesia , Close Fran , Suther Sandra G. , Mazzio Elizabeth , Saunders-Jones Remelda , Soliman Karam F. A. , Darling-Reed Selina F.
Published: May 2023

Being cognizant of the pronounced health advantages of breastfeeding for both the nursing mother and her infant, the breastfeeding dyad, we examined breastfeeding rates among Floridian women who gave birth from 2012 to 2014 (N = 639,052). We investigated the associations between breastfeeding initiation and WIC-based breastfeeding support (the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children), education level, and race and ethnicity. We compared the percentage of breastfeeding mothers between those in the WIC program and those who were not, and we compared breastfeeding rates across racial and ethnic groups. Consistent with previous reports, black newborns in this study were breastfed at lower rates than other racial groups, and WIC program participants were less likely to breastfeed than non-WIC program participants. However, by breaking down the data by education level and race, and ethnicity, we see a significantly increased rate of breastfeeding due to WIC participation for both Hispanic and black women with less than a high school education. Further, we assessed differences by insurance type, race, and WIC participation. In multivariable logistic regression, we showed that the WIC program has a significant positive impact on breastfeeding rates for all but white non-Hispanic mothers, independent of sociodemographic and geographic variables. We also note a trend of increasing breastfeeding rates over the study period (p-value < 0.0001), which has positive public health implications.
The Multifunctional Protein Syntenin-1: Regulator of Exosome Biogenesis, Cellular Function, and Tumor Progression
Authors: Lee Kwang-Min , Seo Eun-Chan , Lee Jeong-Hyung , Kim Hyo-Jin , Hwangbo Cheol
Published: May 2023

Syntenin acts as an adaptor and scaffold protein through its two PSD-95, Dlg, and ZO-1 (PDZ) domains, participating in multiple signaling pathways and modulating cellular physiology. It has been identified as an oncogene, promoting cancer development, metastasis, and angiogenesis in various carcinomas. Syntenin-1 is also associated with the production and release of exosomes, small extracellular vesicles that play a significant role in intercellular communication by containing bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. The trafficking of exosomes involves a complex interplay of various regulatory proteins, including syntenin-1, which interacts with its binding partners, syndecan and activated leukocyte cell adhesion molecule (ALIX). Exosomal transfer of microRNAs, a key cargo, can regulate the expression of various cancer-related genes, including syntenin-1. Targeting the mechanism involving the regulation of exosomes by syntenin-1 and microRNAs may provide a novel treatment strategy for cancer. This review highlights the current understanding of syntenin-1’s role in regulating exosome trafficking and its associated cellular signaling pathways.
A Novel Approach for Screening Sericin-Derived Therapeutic Peptides Using Transcriptomics and Immunoprecipitation
Authors: Wang Riyuan , Wang Yuancheng , Song Jianxin , Tan Huanhuan , Tian Chi , Zhao Dongchao , Xu Sheng , Zhao Ping , Xia Qingyou
Published: May 2023

With the demand for more efficient and safer therapeutic drugs, targeted therapeutic peptides are well received due to their advantages of high targeting (specificity), low immunogenicity, and minimal side effects. However, the conventional methods of screening targeted therapeutic peptides in natural proteins are tedious, time-consuming, less efficient, and require too many validation experiments, which seriously restricts the innovation and clinical development of peptide drugs. In this study, we established a novel method of screening targeted therapeutic peptides in natural proteins. We also provide details for library construction, transcription assays, receptor selection, therapeutic peptide screening, and biological activity analysis of our proposed method. This method allows us to screen the therapeutic peptides TS263 and TS1000, which have the ability to specifically promote the synthesis of the extracellular matrix. We believe that this method provides a reference for screening other drugs in natural resources, including proteins, peptides, fats, nucleic acids, and small molecules.
Metabolic Syndrome as a Factor of Impairment of Antioxidant Defense System in Youth with T1DM
Authors: Grabia Monika , Socha Katarzyna , Bossowski Artur , Markiewicz-Żukowska Renata
Published: May 2023

Research indicates that adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) may develop both metabolic syndrome (MetS) and oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that MetS could potentially affect antioxidant defense parameters. The study recruited adolescents aged 10–17 who had been diagnosed with T1DM, and divided them into two groups: “MetS+” (n = 22), who had been diagnosed with MetS, and “MetS−” (n = 81), who did not have metabolic syndrome. A control group consisting of 60 healthy peers without T1DM was included for comparison. The study examined cardiovascular parameters, such as complete lipid profile and estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), as well as markers of antioxidant defense. The results revealed a statistically significant difference between the MetS+ and the MetS− group in terms of total antioxidant status (TAS) (1.186 mmol/L vs. 1.330 mmol/L), and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels (0.666 vs. 0.533). Furthermore, multivariate correspondence analysis identified individuals with HbA1c < 8%; eGDR > 8 mg/kg/min, using either flash or continuous glucose monitoring systems, as MetS− patients. The study also found that eGDR (AUC 0.85, p < 0.001), OSI and HbA1c (AUC 0.71, p < 0.001) markers may be useful for diagnosing the onset of MetS in adolescents with T1DM.
Targeted Toxicities: Protocols for Monitoring the Adverse Events of Targeted Therapies Used in the Treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hines Jacobi B. , Bowar Benjamin , Levine Emma , Esposito Alessandra , Garassino Marina C. , Bestvina Christine M.
Published: May 2023

Targeted therapies have revolutionized the treatment for many patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Multiple new oral targeted therapies have been approved in the last decade; however, their overall efficacy may be reduced by poor adherence, treatment interruptions, or dose reductions due to adverse events. Most institutions lack standard monitoring protocols for toxicities from these targeted agents. This review describes important adverse events observed in clinical trials and reported by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for both currently approved and upcoming promising therapies in the treatment of NSCLC. These agents cause a range of toxicities, including dermatologic, gastroenteric, pulmonary, and cardiac toxicities. This review proposes protocols for routine monitoring of these adverse events, both prior to initiation of therapy and while on treatment.
The Therapeutic Potential of Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cell—Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Endometrial Regeneration
Authors: Tabeeva Gyuzyal , Silachev Denis , Vishnyakova Polina , Asaturova Alexandra , Fatkhudinov Timur , Smetnik Antonina , Dumanovskaya Madina
Published: May 2023

Disruption of endometrial regeneration, fibrosis formation, and intrauterine adhesions underlie the development of “thin” endometrium and/or Asherman’s syndrome (AS) and are a common cause of infertility and a high risk for adverse obstetric outcomes. The methods used (surgical adhesiolysis, anti-adhesive agents, and hormonal therapy) do not allow restoration of the regenerative properties of the endometrium. The experience gained today with cell therapy using multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MMSCs) proves their high regenerative and proliferative properties in tissue damage. Their contribution to regenerative processes is still poorly understood. One of these mechanisms is based on the paracrine effects of MMSCs associated with the stimulation of cells of the microenvironment by secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs) into the extracellular space. EVs, whose source is MMSCs, are able to stimulate progenitor cells and stem cells in damaged tissues and exert cytoprotective, antiapoptotic, and angiogenic effects. This review described the regulatory mechanisms of endometrial regeneration, pathological conditions associated with a decrease in endometrial regeneration, and it presented the available data from studies on the effect of MMSCs and their EVs on endometrial repair processes, and the involvement of EVs in human reproductive processes at the level of implantation and embryogenesis.
Tetracycline Removal through the Synergy of Catalysis and Photocatalysis by Novel NaYF4:Yb,Tm@TiO2-Acetylacetone Hybrid Core-Shell Structures
Authors: Mančić Lidija , Almeida Lucas A. , Machado Tamires M. , Gil-Londoño Jessica , Dinić Ivana , Tomić Miloš , Marković Smilja , Jardim Paula , Marinkovic Bojan A.
Published: May 2023

Novel hybrid core-shell structures, in which up-converting (UC) NaYF4:Yb,Tm core converts near-infrared (NIR) to visible (Vis) light via multiphoton up-conversion processes, while anatase TiO2-acetylacetonate (TiO2-Acac) shell ensures absorption of the Vis light through direct injection of excited electrons from the highest-occupied-molecular-orbital (HOMO) of Acac into the TiO2 conduction band (CB), were successfully synthesized by a two-step wet chemical route. Synthesized NaYF4:Yb,Tm@TiO2-Acac powders were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, diffuse-reflectance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and photoluminescence emission measurement. Tetracycline, as a model drug, was used to investigate the photocatalytic efficiencies of the core-shell structures under irradiation of reduced power Vis and NIR spectra. It was shown that the removal of tetracycline is accompanied by the formation of intermediates, which formed immediately after bringing the drug into contact with the novel hybrid core-shell structures. As a result, ~80% of tetracycline is removed from the solution after 6 h.
Alpha2 Adrenergic Modulation of Spike-Wave Epilepsy: Experimental Study of Pro-Epileptic and Sedative Effects of Dexmedetomidine
Authors: Sitnikova Evgenia , Pupikina Maria , Rutskova Elizaveta
Published: May 2023

In the present report, we evaluated adrenergic mechanisms of generalized spike-wave epileptic discharges (SWDs), which are the encephalographic hallmarks of idiopathic generalized epilepsies. SWDs link to a hyper-synchronization in the thalamocortical neuronal activity. We unclosed some alpha2-adrenergic mechanisms of sedation and provocation of SWDs in rats with spontaneous spike-wave epilepsy (WAG/Rij and Wistar) and in control non-epileptic rats (NEW) of both sexes. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) was a highly selective alpha-2 agonist (0.003–0.049 mg/kg, i.p.). Injections of Dex did not elicit de novo SWDs in non-epileptic rats. Dex can be used to disclose the latent form of spike-wave epilepsy. Subjects with long-lasting SWDs at baseline were at high risk of absence status after activation of alpha2- adrenergic receptors. We create the concept of alpha1- and alpha2-ARs regulation of SWDs via modulation of thalamocortical network activity. Dex induced the specific abnormal state favorable for SWDs—“alpha2 wakefulness”. Dex is regularly used in clinical practice. EEG examination in patients using low doses of Dex might help to diagnose the latent forms of absence epilepsy (or pathology of cortico-thalamo-cortical circuitry).
Water Extract from Brown Strain of Flammulina velutipes Alleviates Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Attenuating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Autophagy via PI3K/AKT Pathway Regulation
Authors: Chou Ya-Ni , Lee Min-Min , Deng Jeng-Shyan , Jiang Wen-Ping , Lin Jaung-Geng , Huang Guan-Jhong
Published: May 2023

One of the most popular edible mushrooms in the world, Flammulina velutipes, has been shown to possess pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the potential activity of the brown strain of F. velutipes, a hybrid between the white and yellow strains, has not been thoroughly investigated. Numerous studies have been conducted in recent years to determine whether natural products can aid in improving or treating kidney diseases. In this study, we focused on the renoprotective effects of the brown strain of F. velutipes on cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) in mice. Mice were pretreated with water extract from the brown strain of F. velutipes (WFV) from day 1 to day 10, with a single-dose intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin on day 7 to induce AKI. Our results demonstrated that WFV administration resulted in a reduction in weight loss and the amelioration of renal function and renal histological changes in mice with cisplatin-induced AKI. WFV improved antioxidative stress and anti-inflammatory capacity by increasing antioxidant enzymes and decreasing inflammatory factors. The expression of related proteins was determined via Western blot analysis, which showed that WFV could improve the expression of apoptosis and autophagy. We used the PI3K inhibitor Wortmannin and found that WFV achieved a protective effect by modulating the PI3K/AKT pathway and the expression of autophagy. Overall, WFV as a natural substance could be used as a new therapeutic agent for AKI.
Creation of New Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Galzitskaya Oxana V.
Published: May 2023

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are natural compounds that exhibit potent antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses [...]
Exploration of the Native Plants from the Biodiversity of United Arab Emirates for Conservation and Reintroduction Efforts: Collection, Verification, Design, and Implementation of UAE Flora Database
Authors: Alyammahi Naamah Ahmed Salem Aldhabb , Ridouane Fouad Lamghari , Almoalla Aseela Abdulla , Al Dhanhani Aishah Saeed Sulaiman Jemei , Gorashi Ahmed , Mirza Shaher Bano
Published: May 2023

The introduction of exotic plant species in the UAE poses substantial environmental challenges. Both poorly and well-adapted species can be detrimental to the local ecosystem by outcompeting native species and disrupting ecosystems. Native plants play a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of any region. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), native plants face significant threats due to habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species. Despite their ecological importance and potential benefits, a comprehensive and accessible database of native plant species for the UAE is currently lacking. Our review paper aims to address this gap by presenting an in-depth analysis of the native plants in Fujairah and the UAE. Our work covers almost all the native plants reported to date, which have been verified and added to our database. We provide valuable insights into the type, nature, physiology, habitat types, and other key aspects of these native plants. By presenting this information in a comprehensive and accessible manner, we hope to facilitate efforts toward biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management in the UAE. To address this issue, we have developed UAE Flora: The Native Plants Database of Emirates. This Web-based, virtual database contains over 760 plants identified from more than 400 published articles, online resources, and books from national and international authors. Each entry in UAE Flora includes over 50 data fields representing various ecological, biological, and pharmacological properties that have been manually extracted from the literature. This review paper will serve as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and the public interested in promoting the conservation of native plants in the UAE. Flora will serve as a plant data repository that is the first of its kind in the United Arab Emirates.
A Jigsaw Puzzle Solver-Based Attack on Image Encryption Using Vision Transformer for Privacy-Preserving DNNs
Authors: Chuman Tatsuya , Kiya Hitoshi
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we propose a novel attack on image encryption for privacy-preserving deep neural networks (DNNs). Although several encryption schemes have been proposed for privacy-preserving DNNs, existing cipher-text-only attacks (COAs) have succeeded in restoring visual information from encrypted images. Image encryption using the Vision Transformer (ViT) is known to be robust against existing COAs due to the operations of block scrambling and pixel shuffling, which permute divided blocks and pixels in an encrypted image. However, the correlation between blocks in the encrypted image can still be exploited for reconstruction. Therefore, in this paper, a novel jigsaw puzzle solver-based attack that utilizes block correlation is proposed to restore visual information from encrypted images. In the experiments, we evaluated the security of image encryption for privacy-preserving deep neural networks using both conventional and proposed COAs. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed attack is able to restore almost all visual information from images encrypted for being applied to ViTs.
An Edge Device Framework in SEMAR IoT Application Server Platform
Authors: Panduman Yohanes Yohanie Fridelin , Funabiki Nobuo , Ito Sho , Husna Radhiatul , Kuribayashi Minoru , Okayasu Mitsuhiro , Shimazu Junya , Sukaridhoto Sritrusta
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, the Internet of Things (IoT) has become widely used at various places and for various applications. To facilitate this trend, we have developed the IoT application server platform called SEMAR (Smart Environmental Monitoring and Analytical in Real-Time), which offers standard features for collecting, displaying, and analyzing sensor data. An edge device is usually installed to connect sensors with the server, where the interface configuration, the data processing, the communication protocol, and the transmission interval need to be defined by the user. In this paper, we proposed an edge device framework for SEMAR to remotely optimize the edge device utilization with three phases. In the initialization phase, it automatically downloads the configuration file to the device through HTTP communications. In the service phase, it converts data from various sensors into the standard data format and sends it to the server periodically. In the update phase, it remotely updates the configuration through MQTT communications. For evaluations, we applied the proposal to the fingerprint-based indoor localization system (FILS15.4) and the data logging system. The results confirm the effectiveness in utilizing SEMAR to develop IoT application systems.
Matrices Based on Descriptors for Analyzing the Interactions between Agents and Humans
Authors: Adam Emmanuel , Razakatiana Martial , Mandiau René , Kolski Christophe
Published: May 2023

The design of agents interacting with human beings is becoming a crucial problem in many real-life applications. Different methods have been proposed in the research areas of human–computer interaction (HCI) and multi-agent systems (MAS) to model teams of participants (agents and humans). It is then necessary to build models analyzing their decisions when interacting, while taking into account the specificities of these interactions. This paper, therefore, aimed to propose an explicit model of such interactions based on game theory, taking into account, not only environmental characteristics (e.g., criticality), but also human characteristics (e.g., workload and experience level) for the intervention (or not) of agents, to help the latter. Game theory is a well-known approach to studying such social interactions between different participants. Existing works on the construction of game matrices required different ad hoc descriptors, depending on the application studied. Moreover, they generally focused on the interactions between agents, without considering human beings in the analysis. We show that these descriptors can be classified into two categories, related to their effect on the interactions. The set of descriptors to use is thus based on an explicit combination of all interactions between agents and humans (a weighted sum of 2-player matrices). We propose a general model for the construction of game matrices based on any number of participants and descriptors. It is then possible to determine using Nash equilibria whether agents decide (or not) to intervene during the tasks concerned. The model is also evaluated through the determination of the gains obtained by the different participants. Finally, we illustrate and validate the proposed model using a typical scenario (involving two agents and two humans), while describing the corresponding equilibria.
Improved Oxide Ion Conductivity of Hexagonal Perovskite-Related Oxides Ba3W1+xV1−xO8.5+x/2
Authors: Kikuchi Yugo , Yasui Yuta , Hester James R. , Yashima Masatomo
Published: May 2023

Hexagonal perovskite-related oxides such as Ba3WVO8.5 have attracted much attention due to their unique crystal structures and significant oxide ion conduction. However, the oxide ion conductivity of Ba3WVO8.5 is not very high. Herein, we report new hexagonal perovskite-related oxides Ba3W1+xV1−xO8.5+x/2 (x = −0.1, −0.05, 0.05, 0.1, 0.25, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, and 0.75). The bulk conductivity of Ba3W1.6V0.4O8.8 was found to be 21 times higher than that of the mother material Ba3WVO8.5 at 500 °C. Maximum entropy method (MEM) neutron scattering length density (NSLD) analyses of neutron diffraction data at 800 °C experimentally visualized the oxide ion diffusion pathways through the octahedral O2 and tetrahedral O3 sites in intrinsically oxygen-deficient layers. By increasing the excess W content x in Ba3W1+xV1−xO8.5+x/2, the excess oxygen content x/2 increases, which leads to more oxygen atoms at the O2 and O3 oxygen sites, a higher minimum NSLD on the O2–O3 path, and a higher level of conductivity. Another reason for the increased conductivity of Ba3W1.6V0.4O8.8 is the lower activation energy for oxide ion conduction, which can be ascribed to the longer (W/V)–O2 and (W/V)–O3 distances due to the substitution of V atoms with large-sized W species. The present findings open new avenues in the science and technology of oxide ion conductors.
Diagnosis, Classification, and Assessment of the Underlying Etiology of Uveitis by Artificial Intelligence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jacquot Robin , Sève Pascal , Jackson Timothy L. , Wang Tao , Duclos Antoine , Stanescu-Segall Dinu
Published: May 2023

Recent years have seen the emergence and application of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnostic decision support systems. There are approximately 80 etiologies that can underly uveitis, some very rare, and AI may lend itself to their detection. This synthesis of the literature selected articles that focused on the use of AI in determining the diagnosis, classification, and underlying etiology of uveitis. The AI-based systems demonstrated relatively good performance, with a classification accuracy of 93–99% and a sensitivity of at least 80% for identifying the two most probable etiologies underlying uveitis. However, there were limitations to the evidence. Firstly, most data were collected retrospectively with missing data. Secondly, ophthalmic, demographic, clinical, and ancillary tests were not reliably integrated into the algorithms’ dataset. Thirdly, patient numbers were small, which is problematic when aiming to discriminate rare and complex diagnoses. In conclusion, the data indicate that AI has potential as a diagnostic decision support system, but clinical applicability is not yet established. Future studies and technologies need to incorporate more comprehensive clinical data and larger patient populations. In time, these should improve AI-based diagnostic tools and help clinicians diagnose, classify, and manage patients with uveitis.
Efficacy and Safety of Prothrombin Complex Concentrates in Liver Transplantation: Evidence from Observational Studies
Authors: Punzo Giovanni , Di Franco Valeria , Perilli Valter , Sacco Teresa , Sollazzi Liliana , Aceto Paola
Published: May 2023

The risk/benefit ratio of using prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) to correct coagulation defects in patients with end-stage liver disease is still unclear. The primary aim of this review was to assess the clinical effectiveness of PCCs in reducing transfusion requirements in patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT). This systematic review of non-randomized clinical trials was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The protocol was previously registered (PROSPERO:CRD42022357627). The primary outcome was the mean number of transfused units for each blood product, including red blood cells (RBCs), fresh frozen plasma, platelets, and cryoprecipitate. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of arterial thrombosis, acute kidney injury, and haemodialysis, and hospital and intensive care unit length of stay. There were 638 patients from 4 studies considered for meta-analysis. PCC use did not affect blood product transfusions. Sensitivity analysis, including only four-factor PCC, showed a significant reduction of RBC effect size (MD: 2.06; 95%CI: 1.27–2.84) with no true heterogeneity. No significant differences in secondary outcomes were detected. Preliminary evidence indicated a lack of PCC efficacy in reducing blood product transfusions during LT, but further investigation is needed. In particular, future studies should be tailored to establish if LT patients will likely benefit from four-factor PCC therapy.
Design of Experiment to Determine the Effect of the Geometric Variables on Tensile Properties of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Janicki Joseph C. , Egloff Matthew C. , Bajwa Dilpreet S. , Amendola Roberta , Ryan Cecily A. , Cairns Douglas S.
Published: May 2023

Carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) are increasingly used in the aerospace industry because of their robust mechanical properties and strength to weight ratio. A significant drawback of CFRPs is their resistance to formability when drawing continuous CFRPs into complex shapes as it tends to bridge, resulting in various defects in the final product. However, CFRP made from Stretch Broken Carbon Fiber (SBCF) aims to solve this issue by demonstrating superior formability compared to conventional continuous CFRPs. To study and validate the performance of SBCF, a statistical design of the experiment was conducted using three different types of CFRPs in tow/tape form. Hexcel (Stamford, CT, USA) IM7-G continuous carbon fiber impregnated with Huntsman (The Woodlands, TX, USA) RDM 2019-053 resin system, Hexcel SBCF impregnated with RDM2019-053 resin, and Montana State University manufactured SBCF impregnated with Huntsman RDM 2019-053 resin were tested in a multitude of forming trials and the data were analyzed using a statistical model to evaluate the forming behavior of each fiber type. The results show that for continuous fiber CFRP tows forming, Fmax and Δmax do not show statistical significance based on temperature fluctuations; however, in SBCF CFRP tows forming, Fmax and Δmax is dominated by the temperature and geometry has a low statistical influence on the Fmax. The lower dependence on tool geometry at higher temperatures indicates possibly superior formability of MSU SBCF. Overall findings from this research help define practical testing methods to compare different CFRPs and provide a repeatable approach to creating a statistical model for measuring results from the formability trials.
Appendage-Bearing Sordariomycetes from Dipterocarpus alatus Leaf Litter in Thailand
Authors: Samaradiwakara Nethmini P. , de Farias Antonio Roberto Gomes , Tennakoon Danushka S. , Aluthmuhandiram Janith V. S. , Bhunjun Chitrabhanu S. , Chethana K. W. Thilini , Kumla Jaturong , Lumyong Saisamorn
Published: May 2023

Leaf litter is an essential functional aspect of forest ecosystems, acting as a source of organic matter, a protective layer in forest soils, and a nurturing habitat for micro- and macro-organisms. Through their successional occurrence, litter-inhabiting microfungi play a key role in litter decomposition and nutrient recycling. Despite their importance in terrestrial ecosystems and their abundance and diversity, information on the taxonomy, diversity, and host preference of these decomposer taxa is scarce. This study aims to clarify the taxonomy and phylogeny of four saprobic fungal taxa inhabiting Dipterocarpus alatus leaf litter. Leaf litter samples were collected from Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand. Fungal isolates were characterized based on morphology and molecular phylogeny of the nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS, LSU) and protein-coding genes (tub2, tef1-α, rpb2). One novel saprobic species, Ciliochorella dipterocarpi, and two new host records, Pestalotiopsis dracontomelon and Robillarda australiana, are introduced. The newly described taxa are compared with similar species, and comprehensive descriptions, micrographs, and phylogenetic trees are provided.