bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence Applied to Drone Control: A State of the Art
Authors: Caballero-Martin Daniel , Lopez-Guede Jose Manuel , Estevez Julian , Graña Manuel
Published: July 2024

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and techniques has provided a significant advance in drone technology. Besides the military applications, drones are being increasingly used for logistics and cargo transportation, agriculture, construction, security and surveillance, exploration, and mobile wireless communication. The synergy between drones and AI has led to notable progress in the autonomy of drones, which have become capable of completing complex missions without direct human supervision. This study of the state of the art examines the impact of AI on improving drone autonomous behavior, covering from automation to complex real-time decision making. The paper provides detailed examples of the latest developments and applications. Ethical and regulatory challenges are also considered for the future evolution of this field of research, because drones with AI have the potential to greatly change our socioeconomic landscape.
Habitat Characteristics of the Endangered Himalayan Red Panda in Panchthar–Ilam–Taplejung Corridor, Eastern Nepal
Authors: Limbu Anjali , Thapa Arjun , Khanal Laxman , Gurung Sandesh , Cruz Nicolas James , Thapa Tej Bahadur
Published: July 2024

The Panchthar–Ilam–Taplejung Corridor in Eastern Nepal, managed through community forestry, is a crucial habitat for the Himalayan red panda, an endangered carnivore threatened by forest degradation and illegal trade. We deployed the altitude line intercept and ten-tree plotless methods to evaluate the distribution of Himalayan red pandas and the environmental factors affecting them within four community forests, namely Singhadevi, Chitre-Hile, Chhipchhipe, and Kalikhop-Dadehli, of the corridor. We established a total of 23 transects and 92 plots, identifying 41 plots with evidence of the Himalayan red panda’s presence. The sign occurrence revealed a clumped distribution of the species across all four community forests. The Himalayan red panda signs were observed between 2200 m and 2700 m above sea level (asl) and the majority of them were from habitats with a moderate slope within elevations of 2400 m to 2500 m asl. The primary sites for the defecation were large horizontal tree branches (78.12%), followed by forest ground (15.62%) and rocks (6.25%). The dominant tree species in their habitats included Lithocarpus pachyphylla (Importance value index, IVI = 45.05), Symplocus theifolia (IVI = 37.19), Symplocos pyrifolia (IVI = 20.99), Quercus lamellosa (IVI = 19.25), and Magnolia campbellii (IVI = 17.25). Among the thirteen environmental variables examined, proximity to water, distance to road, bamboo density, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index were identified as the major factors influencing the Himalayan red panda’s distribution. This research provides crucial insights to develop site-specific habitat management plans for community forestry.
Dissecting the School Management Rubric in a Japanese Reform-Oriented Municipality
Authors: Yokota Hirokazu
Published: July 2024

In Japan, there is almost no national policy that details the attributes and abilities desirable for school management staff. However, in March 2023, Toda City in Saitama prefecture, a city famous for its aggressive education reforms, published the Toda City School Management Rubric (SMR) as perspectives to be referred to in the daily practice of school management through a time-consuming hearing from principals and vice principals. By categorizing each dimension of the rubric itself as well as the documents relating to the creation process with the four school leadership styles, while making a comparison to school leadership standards in the U.S. and U.K., this paper aims to illuminate how the magic words of “school leadership” were turned into concrete perspectives for school leaders to reflect on. As a result, there are similarities and differences among leadership standards in three countries. Moreover, a transformational leadership style seems to be the most frequently mentioned among the four school leadership styles, and many of the principals and vice principals referred to instructional leadership in a sense that they need to take a lead in transforming traditional teacher-led instruction into student-centered learning. Furthermore, a distributed leadership style is considered to be important by many school leaders, especially because they continue to seek an appropriate balance between top-down and bottom-up approaches, and some principals and vice principals take the issue of work style reform seriously, which assumes an aspect of transactional leadership. As an arguably unprecedented attempt to comprehensively analyze the detailed policy documents on school leadership in Japan, this article will provide cross-cultural implications for school leadership policy and practice.
Effectiveness of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention Program to Improve Communication and Stress Coping Skills in University Students
Authors: Morales-Rodríguez Ana María , Morales-Rodríguez Francisco Manuel
Published: July 2024

Investigating the contribution of mindfulness training to psychological well-being and quality of life in the university setting is of interest. The objective of the study is to present a comparative analysis of the scores in the variables of self-efficacy, resilience, coping strategies, and communication skills before and after the application of an intervention program based on mindfulness. An ex post facto cross-sectional design and a convenience sample of participants were adopted. The participants were students belonging to Education Sciences who benefited from the activities of the program. Instruments were administered to assess mindfulness, self-efficacy, resilience, coping strategies, and communication skills. The correlations of the mindfulness variable with the other psychoeducational variables evaluated were also analyzed. The results indicate an increase in the scores in the selected variables of mindfulness, resilience, communication skills, and some of the coping strategies considered productive or functional such as problem solving, self-criticism, emotional expression, desiderative thinking, social support, and cognitive restructuring. Statistically significant correlations were also observed between the variable mindfulness and those of perceived self-efficacy, resilience, coping strategies, and communication skills. The development of mindfulness training programs in the university setting is necessary to contribute to the improvement of more adaptive coping skills and the promotion of resilience.
FSDC: Flow Samples and Dimensions Compression for Efficient Detection of DNS-over-HTTPS Tunnels
Authors: Mungwarakarama Irénée , Wang Yichuan , Hei Xinhong , Song Xin , Nyesheja Enan Muhire , Turiho Jean Claude
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes an innovative approach capitalized on the distinctive characteristics of command and control (C&C) beacons, namely, time intervals and frequency between consecutive unique connections, to compress the network flow dataset. While previous studies on the same matter used single technique, we propose a multi-technique approach for efficient detection of DoH tunnels. We use a baseline public dataset, CIRA-CIC-DoHBrw-2020, containing over a million network flow properties and statistical features of DoH, tunnels, benign DoH and normal browsing (HTTPS) traffic. Each sample is represented by 33 features with a timestamp. Our methodology combines star graph and bar plot visualizations with supervised and unsupervised learning techniques. The approach underscores the importance of C&C beacon characteristic features in compressing a dataset and reducing a flow dimension while enabling efficient detection of DoH tunnels. Through compression, the original dataset size and dimensions are reduced by approximately 95% and 94% respectively. For supervised learning, RF emerges as the top-performing algorithm, attaining precision and recall scores of 100% each, with speed increase of ≈6796 times faster in training and ≈55 in testing. For anomaly detection models, OCSVM emerges as the most suitable choice for this purpose, with precision (88.89) and recall (100). Star graph and bar graph models also show a clear difference between normal traffic and DoH tunnels. The reduction in flow sample size and dimension, while maintaining accuracy, holds promise for edge networks with constrained resources and aids security analysts in interpreting complex ML models to identify Indicators of Compromise (IoC).
Vertical Switching Algorithm for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle in Power Grid Heterogeneous Communication Networks
Authors: Wang Zhiyi , Lv Zhiyao , Xu Xiaolong , Cong Li , Huang Chengbin
Published: July 2024

The rapid development of wireless network technology has led to the coexistence of various heterogeneous wireless networks (HWNs). To ensure that users enjoy normal and diversified services, research on vertical switching technology has become an inevitable trend. However, most current vertical switching algorithms only consider static situations or single services, which are not suitable for power grid scenarios. This paper studies the vertical switching problem of wireless heterogeneous networks for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) performing inspection tasks in power grid scenarios. In this model, a UAV for power grid inspection needs to plan its flight trajectory, avoid obstacles, and find the optimal trajectory to reach each inspection point. Throughout the UAV inspection process, we must ensure the quality of communication services for the UAV. The UAV dynamically selects different networks for access at different locations, presenting a dynamic network selection and vertical switching problem. This paper proposes a method that combines trajectory planning and network selection, which first utilizes the A-star algorithm to obtain suitable trajectories, and then evaluates and judges networks based on the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) to determine the most appropriate network. It is worth noting that this paper considers three service requirements and seven network attributes under three types of heterogeneous wireless networks. Numerical results show that this method can better meet the requirements of UAV inspection tasks and reduce the number of switches, thus addressing the issue of terminal vertical switches in power grid scenarios.
New Opportunities in Real-Time Diagnostics of Induction Machines
Authors: Baraškova Tatjana , Kudelina Karolina , Shirokova Veroonika
Published: July 2024

This manuscript addresses the critical challenges in achieving high-accuracy remote control of electromechanical systems, given their inherent nonlinearities and dynamic complexities. Traditional diagnostics often suffer from data inaccuracies and limitations in analytical techniques. The focus is on enhancing the dynamic model accuracy for remote induction motor control in both closed- and open-loop speed control systems, which is essential for real-time process monitoring. The proposed solution includes real-time measurements of input and output physical quantities to mitigate inaccuracies in traditional diagnostic methods. The manuscript discusses theoretical aspects of nonlinear torque formation in induction drives and introduces a dynamic model employing vector control and speed control schemes alongside standard frequency control methods. These approaches optimize frequency converter settings to enhance system performance under varying nonlinear conditions. Additionally, the manuscript explores methods to analyze dynamic, systematic errors arising from frequency converter inertial properties, thereby improving electromechanical equipment condition diagnostics. By addressing these challenges, the manuscript significantly advances the field, offering a promising future with enhanced dynamic model accuracy, real-time monitoring techniques, and advanced control methods to optimize system reliability and performance.
Japanese Prefabricated Housing Manufacturers
Authors: Chau Hing-Wah , Jamei Elmira , Muttil Nitin , Noguchi Masa
Published: July 2024

Japanese prefabricated housing manufacturers have gained international recognition for their innovative approaches to the whole design process, ranging from initial design to innovative cutting-edge technologies, state-of-the-art automated production lines, meticulous workmanship, and mass customisation. In this entry, three manufacturers (Daiwa House, Sekisui House, and Misawa Homes) were selected as case studies for close examination. By studying these leading companies, researchers and industry professionals can gain valuable insights into best practices, challenges, and innovations within the Japanese prefabricated housing sector. The research methods involved a desktop study of available information on websites, articles, and reports, as well as undertaking two study tours on residential sustainable design in Japan in 2022 and 2023. These three manufacturers were discussed and compared with respect to their development trajectories, design customisation, research capabilities and technological advancements, sustainable initiatives and procurement, as well as their after-sale services. They have demonstrated their adaptability and flexibility in response to natural disasters and the transformation of the needs in society. They are all keen on reducing the environmental impacts of their work towards zero carbon emissions and a sustainable future.
The Influence of Wildfire Climate on Wildfire Incidence: The Case of Portugal
Authors: Pereira Mário G. , Gonçalves Norberto , Amraoui Malik
Published: July 2024

Although the influence of climate on the fire regime is unanimously recognized, most publications and studies on this influence are on a global scale. Therefore, this study aims to demonstrate the role of climate in wildfire incidence at the country and regional scale using multivariate statistical analysis and machine learning methods (clustering and classification algorithms). Mainland Portugal was chosen as a case study due to its climate and because it is the European region most affected by wildfires. The results demonstrate the climate signature in the spatial and temporal distribution of the wildfire incidence. The conclusions of the study include (i) the existence of two pyro-regions, with different types of climate (Csb and Csa) composed of NUTS II regions: the northern region composed of the Norte and Centro regions and the southern region composed of Alentejo and Algarve; (ii) the intra-annual variability in the wildfire incidence, characterized by two peaks, one in the spring and the other in the summer, are a consequence of the country’s type of climate; and (iii) how the annual cycle of wildfire incidence varies over the years depends on the weather conditions throughout each year. These results are of fundamental importance for wildfire managers, especially in the context of climate change.
How Current Global Aqua-Nutrition Research Matches the New Industry and Market Demands
Authors: Xiong Haiyan , Xu Houguo
Published: July 2024

As a result of decades of rapid development, aquaculture has become the largest contributor to human seafood consumption [...]
Taste Preferences at Different Ambient Temperatures and Associated Changes in Gut Microbiota and Body Weight in Mice
Authors: Zhang Xing , He Hui , Hou Tao
Published: July 2024

Taste, dietary choices, and gut microbiota are often analyzed as major factors of metabolic health. Populations living in cold or hot regions have different dietary habits. This study aims to investigate the potential association among ambient temperature, food taste preferences, and cecal microbiota community profiles in mice. By exposing mice to mixed diets containing sweet, sour, salty, and bitter flavors at low (4 °C) and high (37 °C) ambient temperatures, the taste preferences of mice at both ambient temperatures were in the order of saltiness > sweetness > bitterness > sourness. Exposing mice to sweet, sour, salty, and bitter diets, respectively, revealed that in a low-temperature environment, mice consuming salty (5.00 ± 1.49 g), sweet (4.99 ± 0.35 g), and sour (3.90 ± 0.61 g) diets had significantly higher weight gain compared to those consuming normal feeds (2.34 ± 0.43 g, p < 0.05). Conversely, in a high-temperature environment, no significant changes in body weight were observed among mice consuming different flavored diets (p > 0.05). In a low-temperature environment, mice fed sour and sweet diets showed a significant difference in the gut microbiota composition when compared to those fed a normal diet. A higher abundance of Lachnospiraceae, UBA1819, and Clostridiales was identified as the most significant taxa in the sour group, and a higher abundance of Ruminiclostridium was identified in the sweet group. These differences were associated with microbial pathways involved in carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and energy metabolism. A high-temperature environment exhibited only minor effects on the gut microbiota profile. Overall, our findings provide evidence for temperature-modulated responses to the taste, gut microbiota functions, and body weight changes in mice.
Valorization of Seafood Waste for Food Packaging Development
Authors: Zhan Zhijing , Feng Yiming , Zhao Jikai , Qiao Mingyu , Jin Qing
Published: July 2024

Packaging plays a crucial role in protecting food by providing excellent mechanical properties as well as effectively blocking water vapor, oxygen, oil, and other contaminants. The low degradation of widely used petroleum-based plastics leads to environmental pollution and poses health risks. This has drawn interest in renewable biopolymers as sustainable alternatives. The seafood industry generates significant waste that is rich in bioactive substances like chitin, chitosan, gelatins, and alginate, which can replace synthetic polymers in food packaging. Although biopolymers offer biodegradability, biocompatibility, and non-toxicity, their films often lack mechanical and barrier properties compared with synthetic polymer films. This comprehensive review discusses the chemical structure, characteristics, and extraction methods of biopolymers derived from seafood waste and their usage in the packaging area as reinforcement or base materials to guide researchers toward successful plastics replacement and commercialization. Our review highlights recent advancements in improving the thermal durability, mechanical strength, and barrier properties of seafood waste-derived packaging, explores the mechanisms behind these improvements, and briefly mentions the antimicrobial activities and mechanisms gained from these biopolymers. In addition, the remaining challenges and future directions for using seafood waste-derived biopolymers for packaging are discussed. This review aims to guide ongoing efforts to develop seafood waste-derived biopolymer films that can ultimately replace traditional plastic packaging.
Amino Acid Composition of Thirty Food Fishes of the Ganga Riverine Environment for Addressing Amino Acid Requirement through Fish Supplementation
Authors: Das Basanta Kumar , Ganguly Satabdi , Bayen Supriti , Talukder Anjon Kumar , Ray Archisman , Das Gupta Subhadeep , Kumari Kajal
Published: July 2024

Amino acids are significant biomolecules that govern the major metabolic processes and act as precursors for macromolecules such as proteins that are crucial to life. Fish is an integral component of human nutrition and a dietary source of high-quality animal proteins and amino acids. In this context, the crude protein and amino acid compositions of food fish from different landing stations of the Ganga river have been determined. The Kjeldahl method was utilized to determine the crude protein content and the amino acids were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC); data on 30 food fish were assessed. The study showed that among the fish studied, Eleotris fusca, Macrobrachium malcomsonii, and Mystus cavasius were rich in most of the amino acids important for human nutrition, such as glycine, glutamic acid, cysteine, threonine, phenylalanine, methionine, lysine, leucine, isoleucine, histidine, and valine. Further, it was observed that the daily consumption of these fish (approximately 50 g) can fulfil the daily requirement of these individual amino acids for an adult human with a body weight of 60 kg. Therefore, the amino acid composition analyzed in the present study could be utilized for recommendation by clinicians according to the requirement for specific amino acids, and fish can be prescribed as a natural supplement against the amino acid requirement.
The Potential of Co-Fermentation of Whole-Plant Cassava with Piper sarmentosum: A Comprehensive Study of Fermentation Quality, Antioxidant Activity, Bacterial Community Structure, and Microbial Ecological Networks in Novel Foods
Authors: Li Mao , Lv Renlong , Ou Wenjun , Chen Songbi , Zhou Hanlin , Hou Guanyu , Zi Xuejuan
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study was to explore the preservation of food products through the co-fermentation of whole-plant cassava and Piper sarmentosum (PS) without additives. We assessed fermentation quality, antioxidant activity, bacterial community structure, function profile, and microbial ecological network features. Our results demonstrate that co-fermentation of whole-plant cassava with 10% PS significantly improves food quality. The co-fermented samples exhibited enhanced lactic acid concentrations and increased antioxidant activity, with reduced pH values and concentrations of acetic acid, butyric acid, and ammonia-N(NH3-N) compared to whole-plant cassava fermented alone. In addition, PS addition also optimized microbial community structure by elevating the total abundance of lactic acid bacteria and influenced bacterial predicted functions. Furthermore, our analysis of co-occurrence networks reveals that co-fermentation impacts microbial network features, including module numbers and bacterial relative abundances, leading to altered complexity and stability of the networks. Moreover, out study also highlights the impact of ferment undesirable bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and unclassified_Muribaculaceae playing crucial roles in microbial network complexity and stability. These findings provide valuable insights into the anaerobic fermentation process and offers strategies for regulating food fermentation quality.
Identification and Expression Analysis of UPS Gene Family in Potato
Authors: Huang Wenyue , Lu Yifei , Ren Bi , Zeng Fuchun , Liu Yongjian , Lu Liming , Li Liqin
Published: July 2024

Ureide permeases (UPSs) mediate the transport of ureides, including allantoin and allantoate, which act as nitrogen-transporting compounds in plants and have recently been found to play a role in cellular signaling. To date, UPSs have not been reported in potato, and their identification is important for further function studies and for understanding molecular mechanisms of plant adverse responses. Based on potato genomic data, we identified 10 StUPS genes in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.). Then, we conducted a comprehensive study of the identified StUPS genes using bioinformatics methods. Genome phylogenetic and genomic localization analyses revealed that StUPSs can be classified into four categories, are highly homologous to Arabidopsis thaliana UPS members, and are distributed on three chromosomes. The six StUPS genes were investigated by RT–qPCR, and the findings indicated that all of these genes are involved in the response to several stresses, including low nitrogen, cold, ABA, salt, H2O2, and drought. This study establishes a strong theoretical framework for investigating the function of potato UPS genes, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying the responses of these genes to various environmental stresses.
Isolated Acute Dysphagia as a Probable Rare Presentation of Guillain–Barré Syndrome with Complete Recovery: A Case Report
Authors: Lee Soo Ho , Jung Ji Yoon , Yoon Mi-Jeong , Kim Joon-Sung , Hong Bo Young , Im Sun , Yoo Yeun Jie
Published: July 2024

Dysphagia is prevalent among the elderly and can lead to serious complications, often manifesting as a clinical symptom of various neurological or muscular pathologies, including Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS). GBS is an acute immune-mediated polyradiculoneuropathy, and dysphagia may arise during its course due to cranial nerve involvement. In rare GBS variants, dysphagia may present as the initial or sole clinical manifestation, posing diagnostic challenges. In this study, we present the case of an elderly female patient with dysphagia, eventually diagnosed with an atypical variant of GBS. Initially, the patient required nasogastric tube feeding; however, complete recovery was achieved through immunotherapy. This case underscores the importance of clinicians conducting thorough evaluations of factors influencing the swallowing mechanism and remaining vigilant about identifying uncommon causative factors. Such approaches enable the implementation of effective disease-modifying therapies, potentially leading to the resolution of dysphagic symptoms.
Demographic and Clinical Characteristics Predicting Missed Clinic Visits among Patients Living with HIV on Antiretroviral Treatment in Kinshasa and Haut-Katanga Provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Ikhile Osaremhen , Shah Gulzar H. , Smallwood Stacy , Waterfield Kristie C. , Nazaruk Dziyana
Published: July 2024

Background: Patients living with HIV (PLHIV) often face challenges that contribute to missed clinical care which can impact their health outcomes. Methods: This retrospective quantitative study comprised 5338 adults living with HIV who received antiretroviral treatment (ART) for 12 months, from July 2018 to June 2019 in Kinshasa and Haut-Katanga provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Descriptive statistics were computed to show the level of missed appointments for ART. Multivariable associations of clinical and sociodemographic factors with a tendency to miss scheduled visits after adjusting for the covariates were examined using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: Six percent of PLHIV experienced at least one missed visit while 94% did not miss any visits. A small proportion (20%) of PLHIV had a viral load ≥1000 copies/mL. PLHIV receiving ART from urban clinics showed significantly higher odds of missed visits compared to those from rural areas (AOR = 4.18, 95% CI [1.84–9.511]; p < 0.0001). Similarly, patients from semi-rural/semi-urban clinics showed significantly higher odds of missed visits compared to those from rural areas. (AOR = 2.57, 95% CI [1.08–6.141]; p = 0.03). Additionally, older PLHIV (18–34 years old) demonstrated increased odds of missed visits (AOR= 1.71, 95% CI [1.0078–2.697]; p = 0.02) compared to those under 18 years old. Conclusions: The findings from this study strongly suggest that there is a significant association between certain demographic factors, such as age and rurality-urbanicity, and missed visits. The study findings have implications for policy and interventions targeting PLHIV at higher risk of missed visits.
Correction: Kao et al. Pulmonary Fat Embolism Following Liposuction and Fat Grafting: A Review of Published Cases. Healthcare 2023, 11, 1391
Authors: Kao Yu-Ming , Chen Kuo-Tai , Lee Kuo-Chang , Hsu Chien-Chin , Chien Yeh-Cheng
Published: July 2024

In the original publication [...]
Reliability and Validity of the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile II Spanish Version in University Students
Authors: Zambrano Bermeo Rosa Nury , Estrada Gonzalez Catalina , Herrera Guerra Eugenia del Pilar , Aviles Gonzalez Cesar Ivan
Published: July 2024

Aim: The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the Spanish version of the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP-II) scale in Colombian university students. Methods: This was a methodological study to verify reliability and construct validity. A total of 763 undergraduate university students in Cali, Colombia, agreed to participate in the study by filling out a form that included information on sociodemographic characteristics and the HPLP-II scale Spanish version. Data were collected between February and June 2021. To determine construct validity, a confirmatory factor analysis was performed, and internal consistency was determined through Cronbach’s alpha. Results: The confirmatory factor analysis of the proposed theoretical model showed that the goodness-of-fit indices of the scale demonstrated an acceptable level of validity nearing an excellent level of fit (χ2 = 7168.98; gl = 1268; p < 0.001; root mean square error of approximation = 0.08; normed fit index, adjusted goodness-of-fit index = 0.95). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.94, and the subscales ranged from 0.68 to 0.89. Conclusions: The HPLP-II Spanish version is a valid and reliable instrument to assess the health-promoting lifestyle profile of university students.
Optimization of the Application of Commercial Hydrophobic Coatings for Natural Stone Protection and Preservation
Authors: Hashim Hurraira , Dias Luís , Martins Sérgio , Pires Vera , Costa Mafalda , Barrulas Pedro
Published: July 2024

Natural stone has been used worldwide in the construction of archaeological and historical heritage. However, its preservation continues to be threatened by weathering and degradation phenomena. Water is widely recognized as the most threatening external component that contributes to stone deterioration, increasing the need for the development of protective hydrophobic coatings to eliminate water penetration. This study intends to contribute to the better understanding of natural stone treatment strategies to prevent water penetration and subsequent stone alteration by studying the effect of coating and stone substrate temperatures, and the number of coating applications, on the effectiveness, compatibility, and durability of commercial hydrophobic coatings. The results obtained revealed that while more than one application increases coating hydrophobic effectiveness, it frequently leads to changes in the aesthetic appearance of natural stone, including whitening and darkening of the substrate’s original hues. Improved hydrophobic effectiveness (maximum gain of ≈ 9%) is also achieved when applying the commercial coatings at 4 °C to natural stone substrates maintained at room temperature, conditions that are feasible to be used in real life. Additionally, the commercial coating composed of silane/siloxane with modified fluorinated additives was found to be the most effective and durable hydrophobic solution.
Transitioning to Working from Home Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic Significantly Increased Sedentary Behavior and Decreased Physical Activity: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chaudhary Nicole , Jones Megan , Rice Sean P. M. , Zeigen Laura , Thosar Saurabh Suhas
Published: July 2024

At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many workplaces transitioned to remote work, which altered lifestyle behaviors. We conducted a meta-analysis to understand if the transition to working from home due to the pandemic affected workers’ physical activity and sedentary behavior worldwide. We reviewed articles published between November 2019 and May 2022. Of an initial 3485 articles, a total of 17 were included, 15 of 17 were included for their physical activity (PA) comparisons (n = 36,650), and 12 of 17 (n = 57,254) were included for their sedentary behavior (SB) comparisons (10 studies have data for both PA and SB). This work is registered through PROSPERO (CRD42022356000). Working from home resulted in a significant decrease in PA (Hedge’s g = −0.29, 95% CI [−0.41, −0.18]) and an increase in SB (Hedge’s g = +0.36, 95% CI [0.20, 0.52]). Working from home impaired preventative activity behaviors, and these results are relevant to worker health as the future of work evolves beyond the pandemic.
Funding Health Care for People Experiencing Homelessness: An Examination of Federally Qualified Health Centers’ Funding Streams and Homeless Patients Served (2014–2019)
Authors: Lam Marcus M. , Grasse Nathan J.
Published: July 2024

It is estimated that three million people annually experience homelessness, with about a third of the homeless population being served by Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Thus, FQHCs, dependent on government funding for financial viability, are vital to the infrastructure addressing the complex issues facing people experiencing homelessness. This study examines the relationship between various government funding streams and the number of homeless patients served by FQHCs. Data for this study come from three publicly available databases: the Uniform Data System (UDS), the IRS Core files, and the Area Resource File. Fixed-effects models employed examine changes across six years from 2014 to 2019. The results suggest that, on average, an additional homeless patient served increases the expenses of FQHCs more than other patients and that federal funding, specifically Health Care for the Homeless (HCH) funding, is a vital revenue source for FQHCs. We found that the number of homeless patients served is negatively associated with contemporaneous state and local funding but positively associated with substance use and anxiety disorders. Our findings have important implications for the effective management of FQHCs in the long term and for broader public policy supporting these vital elements of the social safety net.
The Association between the Planetary Health Diet with a Regular Consumption of Breakfast and a Well-Balanced Diet: A Cross-Sectional Analysis Involving Japanese Male Engineering Students at a University in Hyogo Prefecture
Authors: Kibayashi Etsuko , Nakade Makiko
Published: July 2024

Few young Japanese adults regularly consume a well-balanced diet composed of staples, main courses, and sides. We hypothesised that adopting the recommended planetary health diet with regular breakfast consumption would promote well-balanced diets among young Japanese male undergraduates. This study aimed to examine the structural association between the planetary health diet with regular breakfast consumption and a well-balanced diet intake. This cross-sectional study included 142 male engineering undergraduates who completed a 2022 online questionnaire via Google Forms at a public university in Hyogo Prefecture. The planetary health diet comprises the consumption of the recommended eight items. A covariance structure analysis was performed in a hypothetical model with factors (regular breakfast consumption and eight items) potentially associated with the intake of a well-balanced diet at least twice daily. After excluding chicken dishes and nuts from the eight recommended items of the planetary health diet, goodness-of-fit became acceptable. Frequent consumption of the remaining six recommended items (fish, eggs, soybeans/soybean products, dairy foods, vegetables, and fruits) was significantly positively correlated with regular breakfast consumption and a significant positive path to a well-balanced diet. Among male university students, regular breakfast consumption and the planetary health diet may lead to a well-balanced diet.
Identifying Key Genes Involved in Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Cancer Using Advanced RNA-Seq Analysis: A Methodological Approach with GLMQL and MAS
Authors: Rezapour Mostafa , Wesolowski Robert , Gurcan Metin Nafi
Published: July 2024

Our study aims to address the methodological challenges frequently encountered in RNA-Seq data analysis within cancer studies. Specifically, it enhances the identification of key genes involved in axillary lymph node metastasis (ALNM) in breast cancer. We employ Generalized Linear Models with Quasi-Likelihood (GLMQLs) to manage the inherently discrete and overdispersed nature of RNA-Seq data, marking a significant improvement over conventional methods such as the t-test, which assumes a normal distribution and equal variances across samples. We utilize the Trimmed Mean of M-values (TMMs) method for normalization to address library-specific compositional differences effectively. Our study focuses on a distinct cohort of 104 untreated patients from the TCGA Breast Invasive Carcinoma (BRCA) dataset to maintain an untainted genetic profile, thereby providing more accurate insights into the genetic underpinnings of lymph node metastasis. This strategic selection paves the way for developing early intervention strategies and targeted therapies. Our analysis is exclusively dedicated to protein-coding genes, enriched by the Magnitude Altitude Scoring (MAS) system, which rigorously identifies key genes that could serve as predictors in developing an ALNM predictive model. Our novel approach has pinpointed several genes significantly linked to ALNM in breast cancer, offering vital insights into the molecular dynamics of cancer development and metastasis. These genes, including ERBB2, CCNA1, FOXC2, LEFTY2, VTN, ACKR3, and PTGS2, are involved in key processes like apoptosis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, response to hypoxia, and KRAS signaling pathways, which are crucial for tumor virulence and the spread of metastases. Moreover, the approach has also emphasized the importance of the small proline-rich protein family (SPRR), including SPRR2B, SPRR2E, and SPRR2D, recognized for their significant involvement in cancer-related pathways and their potential as therapeutic targets. Important transcripts such as H3C10, H1-2, PADI4, and others have been highlighted as critical in modulating the chromatin structure and gene expression, fundamental for the progression and spread of cancer.
Unlocking Nature’s Rhythms: Insights into Secondary Metabolite Modulation by the Circadian Clock
Authors: Pérez-Llorca Marina , Müller Maren
Published: July 2024

Plants, like many other living organisms, have an internal timekeeper, the circadian clock, which allows them to anticipate photoperiod rhythms and environmental stimuli to optimally adjust plant growth, development, and fitness. These fine-tuned processes depend on the interaction between environmental signals and the internal interactive metabolic network regulated by the circadian clock. Although primary metabolites have received significant attention, the impact of the circadian clock on secondary metabolites remains less explored. Transcriptome analyses revealed that many genes involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis exhibit diurnal expression patterns, potentially enhancing stress tolerance. Understanding the interaction mechanisms between the circadian clock and secondary metabolites, including plant defense mechanisms against stress, may facilitate the development of stress-resilient crops and enhance targeted management practices that integrate circadian agricultural strategies, particularly in the face of climate change. In this review, we will delve into the molecular mechanisms underlying circadian rhythms of phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and N-containing compounds.
Quantity and Distribution of Muscle Spindles in Animal and Human Muscles
Authors: Sun Yunfeng , Fede Caterina , Zhao Xiaoxiao , Del Felice Alessandra , Pirri Carmelo , Stecco Carla
Published: July 2024

Muscle spindles have unique anatomical characteristics that can be directly affected by the surrounding tissues under physiological and pathological conditions. Understanding their spatial distribution and density in different muscles is imperative to unravel the complexity of motor function. In the present study, the distribution and number/density of muscle spindles in human and animal muscles were reviewed. We identified 56 articles focusing on muscle spindle distribution; 13 articles focused on human muscles and 43 focused on animal muscles. The results demonstrate that spindles are located at the nerve entry points and along distributed vessels and they relate to the intramuscular connective tissue. Muscles’ deep layers and middle segments are the main topographic distribution areas. Eleven articles on humans and thirty-three articles on animals (totaling forty-four articles) focusing on muscle spindle quantity and density were identified. Hand and head muscles, such as the pronator teres/medial pterygoid muscle/masseter/flexor digitorum, were most commonly studied in the human studies. For animals, whole-body musculature was studied. The present study summarized the spindle quantity in 77 human and 189 animal muscles. We identified well-studied muscles and any as-yet unfound data. The current data fail to clarify the relationship between quantity/density and muscle characteristics. The intricate distribution of the muscle spindles and their density and quantity throughout the body present some unique patterns or correlations, according to the current data. However, it remains unclear whether muscles with fine motor control have more muscle spindles since the study standards are inconsistent and data on numerous muscles are missing. This study provides a comprehensive and exhaustive approach for clinicians and researchers to determine muscle spindle status.
Inheritance of Mitochondria in Pelargonium Section Ciconium (Sweet) Interspecific Crosses
Authors: Breman Floris C. , Korver Joost , Snijder Ronald , Schranz M. Eric , Bakker Freek T.
Published: July 2024

We have studied the inheritance of mitochondria in Pelargonium section Ciconium using 36 interspecific crosses generated. We designed KASP markers targeting four mitochondrial loci, belonging to the mitomes of four main crossing parents, enabling tracking the transmission of each mitome in the crosses. These markers discriminate between an individual species versus the other section Ciconium species. We found that maternal inheritance of mitochondria is most frequent, with occasional occurrences of paternal inheritance, while biparental inheritance is rare. For a P. multibracteatum crossing series, we found ambiguous results. Our results confirm those of previous studies, namely, that paternal inheritance of mitochondria can occur in P. sect Ciconium but that the instance is rare and much less common than is the case for chloroplasts.
Phytotoxicity of Two Bauhinia Species on Four Triticum aestivum Varieties in Laboratory Bioassay
Authors: Yadav Neeraj , Khanduri Vinod Prasad , Singh Bhupendra , Rawat Deepa , Riyal Manoj Kumar
Published: July 2024

Tree–crop interaction studies help to determine the effects of trees on the production and yield of agricultural crops and could help indecisions on suitable crops and tree combinations to increase the overall production from agroforestry systems. Different varieties of agricultural crops might show different responses against the phytotoxic effects of Bauhinia species. This study was conducted to observe the phytotoxicity of two Bauhinia spp., i.e., Bauhinia retusa and Bauhinia variegata, on some Triticum aestivum varieties, i.e., VL-892, VI-829, VL-616, UP-2572, and UP-1109.The leaves and bark of these two species were harvested from the natural population for these experiments. On average, germination and radicle and plumule length of wheat varieties were significantly (p > 0.05) reduced by the leaf and bark extracts of both Bauhinia species. The effect of leaf and bark extracts of both Bauhinia species on seed germination percent of different wheat varieties revealed that the bark and leaf extracts showed maximum toxicity for germination percentage, and minimum influence was observed in radicle and plumule length. However, bark extracts were more toxic as compared to leaf extracts. Under leaf and bark extract concentrations, the VL 829 wheat variety showed stimulatory effects in germination and radicle and plumule growth under both Bauhinia species. On average, radicle and plumule growth of the test crop was increased with an increasing concentration of leaf and bark extract of B. variegata up to 50%, and thereafter, a decrease in radicle and plumule length was recorded. The VL 829 and UP 1109 varieties showed the lowest allelopathic effects and could be grown under both Bauhinia species with minimum yield loss.
A New Method for the Follow-Up of Patients with Alopecia Areata
Authors: Bortone Giulio , Caro Gemma , Ala Lorenzo , Gargano Luca , Rossi Alfredo
Published: July 2024

Background: Teledermatology is the application of information and telecommunication technologies in the field of dermatology to provide remote care services based on the exchange of clinical information within a network of professionals or between professionals and patients. Tele-trichoscopy is a non-invasive, inexpensive, and easy-to-use method that applies the principle of surface microscopy at different magnifications. Alopecia areata is a non-scarring alopecia with a chronic evolution, which often needs a close follow-up. Objectives: The aim of our work was to analyze the possible benefits of telemedicine for the follow-up of patients with alopecia areata. Materials and Methods: We enrolled patients with alopecia areata, identified during the first trichological evaluation, and we divided the patients into two groups. One group was provided with the devices necessary for a telemedicine follow-up. The other group had a conventional follow-up. The total follow-up time was one year. All of the patients’ photos were blindly evaluated by a team of expert dermatologists who were asked to indicate the quality of the images. The photos were also evaluated to identify disease markers. During the follow-up period, questionnaires were administered to both groups of patients to assess the quality of the visit, the level of patient satisfaction, and to identify any issues encountered by the patients. Results: There was a high degree of concordance between the images obtained by outpatient trichoscopy and those obtained by telemedicine. The satisfaction levels were the same between the patients followed via telemedicine and those seen in the outpatient clinic. Conclusions: Telemedicine applied to trichology using trichoscopy was proven to be a valid system for managing the follow-up of patients suffering from chronic recurrent scalp diseases and, above all, for maintaining continuity of care.
A New Assessment of Two Transferase-Based Liver Enzymes in Low- and High-Fibrosis Patients Chronically Infected with Hepatitis B Virus: A Meta-Analysis and Pilot Study
Authors: Manea Marina , Mărunțelu Ion , Constantinescu Ileana
Published: July 2024

Background: The detection of fibrosis remains a necessity for the evaluation of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-infected patients, but the most accurate technique is invasive. Current studies aim to develop a novel noninvasive biomarker for fibrosis assessment, but no-one has found the ideal candidate. This study is a meta-analysis combined with a pilot study to investigate the connection between two transferase compounds and the levels of fibrosis. Methods: We studied data from PUBMED, Web of Science, and Scopus, retrieving 28,896 articles. Following PRISMA guidelines, we finally analyzed full-text articles written in English. The excluded items were duplicates, non-article entries, and irrelevant papers. We assessed the variations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels between patients with high and low levels of fibrosis. Joanna Briggs Institute tools were used to assess article quality. We used R 4.2.2 for statistics. The pilot study included 14 randomly chosen patients with different fibrosis levels. Results: We found significant differences in ALT and GGT levels between patients with high and low fibrosis. The GGT/ALT ratio correlated with the levels of fibrosis and the fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) score. Conclusions: This meta-analysis assessed ALT and GGT levels in chronic HBV patients with fibrosis. The pilot study identified the first association between fibrosis and the GGT/ALT ratio in a Romanian cohort of chronic patients. This brings new ideas for future research.