bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of microcosms models for ecologically based selection of biofuel crops
Authors: Mudrak O. , Morozova T.
Published: March 2024

One of the possible ways to solve the problem of shortage and rise in price of energy resources can be the development of the biofuel industry in Ukraine, the basis of which is the scientifically reasoned selection of plants (resistant to regional pollutants), taking into account the specifics of the regions. The article summarizes scientific data on the peculiarities of germination of some energy crops, considers the possibility of using microcosms for the reasoned selection of biofuel crops. The study was carried out in microcosmic models, seed germination and biometric parameters of seedlings Brassica napus L. and Zea mays L. were studied. Based on the application of the method of microcosmic models, the resistance of B. napus to lead acetate and sensitivity to the fungicide «Raxil ultra» were proven. To protect rapeseed from pests, systemic preparations with the active ingredients dimethoate, gamma-cyhalothrin, alphacypermethrin, thiamethoxam, fludioxanil, metalaxyl, imidocloprid, etc., are used. The insecticide is used for seed treatment before sowing (in combination with a fungicide), as well as for the treatment of crops when the economic threshold of harmfulness is reached. It was found that pre-sowing treatment of rapeseed should be carried out with lower concentrations of fungicide compared to Z. mays seeds. It was found that the Galitsky variety is characterized by the highest laboratory germination of seeds and the best morpho-physiological parameters of seedlings. It was found that the fungicide «Raksil ultra» in high concentration inhibits seed germination (at the late stages of germination), stem growth, cheese and dry biomass of corn seedlings, at a low concentration an increase in the dry weight of the aerial part was detected. Laboratory germination of rapeseed was inhibited at all stages of germination. None of the studied concentrations of the fungicide affect the raw and dry biomass of rapeseed seedlings, all the studied concentrations of the fungicide inhibit the root growth of rapeseed seedlings, and the largest inhibit the growth of the stem.
The impact of climate change on agricultural land use in Ukraine
Authors: Shevchenko О.
Published: March 2024

The article analyses the impact of climate change on agricultural land use in Ukraine. Given the growing global consumption of food and a growing population, agriculture is becoming a key element of the country’s stability and development. However, climate change, such as rising temperatures, changes in precipitation distribution, and the frequency of extreme weather events, can significantly affect the yields and efficiency of agricultural activities. Global trends in climate change, which is one of the most pressing threats with a long-term negative impact on the population, environment and economy, are investigated. The article highlights the positive (changes in the conditions and timing of harvesting, increased efficiency of fertiliser application, etc.) and negative (deterioration of grain quality, increased number of droughts, etc.) consequences of climate change on agricultural land use. The study includes an analysis of long-term climate data in Ukraine, as well as an assessment of changes in land cover, crop distribution and crop production. The study aims to determine the impact of climate change, in particular temperature rise, changes in precipitation and extreme weather events, on agricultural production and land use in Ukraine. The article analyses data from various sources, including meteorological observations and statistical data using modern geoinformation technologies. Changes in the distribution of crops, crop yields and yields depending on climate change are investigated. The study also assesses the possible consequences of these changes for Ukraine’s food security, economy and environment. The results of the study are important for decision-making in the field of agricultural policy and development of the agricultural sector, ensuring the sustainability of agricultural products and reducing the vulnerability of agriculture to climate change. They can serve as a basis for developing climate change adaptation strategies and maintaining the sustainability of the country’s food security in the face of climate change.
Perkembangan Pranata Pertanahan dalam Pengembangan Kota Baru Padang
Authors: Evelina Diana Rahayu , Barus Lita Sari
Published: March 2024

After the earthquake that hit Padang City in 2009, the city development has been changed its direction. The city development which previously centered on the coast has turn to the east of the city, which was an agriculture area. Development of Eastern Area carry out a fairly large function as the central government area and residential development area. The emergence of The New City of Padang development policy is expected to become a policy in city management as a mandate from National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN). The problem in developing this function is the lands in this area are customary lands/land controlled by the tribes in the eastern region of Padang. Therefore, it is necessary to know how the development of land regulation in Padang City in the management of the city. According to Tjuk Kuswartojo’s Human Habitat Development, land regulations in Padang City can be described in responding to the challenges of developing new cities in this region. The land institutions in Padang City is heavily influenced by customary system, therefore collaboration between the local government and customary authorities in Padang City is needed to create a new city.
Modal Sosial Kelompok dalam Pengembangan Ekowisata Mangrove di Desa Kayu Ara Permai Kecamatan Sungai Apit Kabupaten Siak
Authors: Alfiah Fifi , Susanti Rina
Published: March 2024

Social capital that has roles and responsibilities in determining ecotourism development. This study aims to look at the elements of social capital of the Konservasi Laskar Mandiri Group in the Development of Mangrove Sungai Bersejarah Ecotourism. The research was conducted using qualitative research methods and the data research techniques used included in-depth interview, observation and documentation. The subjects of study were selected using a purposive sampling technique with a total of 5 group members who were active and had joined the group for more than 2 years and 1 key informant, namely the village apparatus of Kayu Ara Permai. The research found some social capital elements in groups: networks, beliefs, norms and pro-active actions that are intertwined between group memberships, communities and partners. Social Capital contained in the group plays a role as an adhesive (Bonding) among members to foster high awareness, a sense of comfort, safety, shared responsibility, and gain good knowledge on how to increase group capacity, develop ecotourism and process the mangrove derivative products. The role of bridging (Bridging) encourages positive behavior, increases community participation, as well as funding and makes Ecotourism a village development priority. Finally, the role of liaison (Linking) is the establishment of cooperation with different strata to obtain funds from partners to build ecotourism facilities, increase group knowledge and promote ecotourism and process the mangrove derivative products produced by the group.
Unveiling new insights: taming complex local fractional Burger equations with the local fractional Elzaki transform decomposition method
Authors: Alhamzi Ghaliah , Prasad J. G. , Alkahtani B. S. T. , Dubey R. S.
Published: March 2024

This study aims to address the difficulties in solving coupled generalized non-linear Burger equations using local fractional calculus as a framework. The methodology used in this work, particularly in the area of local fractional calculus, combines the Elzaki transform with the Adomian decomposition method. This combination has proven to be a highly effective strategy for addressing non-linear partial differential equations within the local fractional context, which finds numerous practical applications. The proposed method offers a systematic and easily understandable procedure for tackling both linear and non-linear partial differential equations (PDEs). It provides an easy-to-follow path to solve these problems. We offer a real-world example that exhibits the method's successful use in resolving issues to corroborate its efficacy. The obtained solution is visually represented to illustrate the practical utility of this approach.

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification

34A34, 65M06, 26A33.
The effects of positive visualization with and without sound on sleep actigraphy measures in a small sample of tinnitus patients
Authors: Spittal Jackie , Warman Guy , Durai Mithila , Searchfield Grant D.
Published: March 2024

Background

Tinnitus is a common oto-neurological disorder associated with sleep disturbances. This research explored visualization and visualization reinforced with nature sounds as an acute therapy for sleep disturbance in people with tinnitus.

Methods

Twelve adults with bothersome tinnitus and sleep disturbances participated in a randomized cross-over design in which measurements of tinnitus perception (rating scales), anxiety/depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), attention (Attention and Performance Self-Assessment), and sleep quality (sleep diary and actigraphy—automated estimates of total sleep time, sleep onset latency, sleep fragmentation, and wake after sleep onset) were undertaken at baseline and repeated with therapy. The visualization task was 30 min in duration and was performed every night before sleep. The visualization with sound reinforcement task added nature sounds played overnight.

Results

Sleep onset latency analyzed using the sleep diary normalized actigraphy was significantly reduced with both interventions (visualization reduced by 60 min and visualization with sound reinforcement reduced by 70 min). None of the other sleep quality markers demonstrated a statistically significant change. Self-reported attention ability significantly improved with visualization. Of the participants, 90% were able to consistently complete actigraphy measures over the 3 weeks of the study, and 75% kept sleep diaries.

Conclusion

Sleep onset time was reduced with visualization.
The ratio of systolic and diastolic pressure is associated with carotid and femoral atherosclerosis
Authors: Wang Yuanping , Chen Cheng , Lin Qiaofen , Su Qingling , Dai Yiquan , Chen Hongyu , He Tianmin , Li Xiantao , Feng Ruimei , Huang Wuqing , Hu Zhijian , Chen Jun , Du Shanshan , Guo Pingfan , Ye Weimin
Published: March 2024

Background

Although the impact of hypertension on carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaques has been well established, its association with femoral IMT and plaques has not been extensively examined. In addition, the role of the ratio of systolic and diastolic pressure (SDR) in the subclinical atherosclerosis (AS) risk remains unknown. We assessed the relationship between SDR and carotid and femoral AS in a general population.

Methods

A total of 7,263 participants aged 35–74 years enrolled from January 2019 to June 2021 in a southeast region of China were included in a cross-sectional study. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) were used to define SDR. Ultrasonography was applied to assess the AS, including thickened IMT (TIMT) and plaque in the carotid and femoral arteries. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were the main approaches.

Results

The prevalence of TIMT, plaque, and AS were 17.3%, 12.4%, and 22.7% in the carotid artery; 15.2%, 10.7%, and 19.5% in the femoral artery; and 23.8%, 17.9% and 30.0% in either the carotid or femoral artery, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis found a significant positive association between high-tertile SDR and the higher risk of overall TIMT (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.10–1.49), plaques (OR = 1.36, 95%CI = 1.16–1.61), or AS (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.17–1.57), especially in the carotid artery. RCS analysis further revealed the observed positive associations were linear. Further analyses showed that as compared to the low-tertile SDR and non-hypertension group, high-tertile SDR was associated with increased risks of overall and carotid TIMT, plaques, or AS in both groups with or without hypertension.

Conclusions

SDR is related to a higher risk of subclinical AS, regardless of hypertension or not, suggesting that as a readily obtainable index, SDR can contribute to providing additional predictive value for AS.
Becoming an inventor: a young Latina’s narrative
Authors: Sáenz Cristina , Skukauskaitė Audra , Sullivan Michelle
Published: March 2024

Latinas, along with many other minoritized groups, are underrepresented as inventors in the United States. Despite accounting for over 9% of the population, <1% of U.S. patent holders are Latina. In an effort to increase diversity among inventors and patent holders, a number of K-12 programs have been created to provide opportunities for students to participate in the iterative and recursive processes of inventing. One example is the emerging field of invention education. Invention education is an educational approach which teaches students how to identify and solve problems within their communities. Little is known about the experiences of Latina students who have participated in invention education and have begun developing identities as inventors. Through narrative methodology, we analyzed how the life experiences of one Latina student contributed to her identity development as an inventor. Four themes were developed through the analysis of the Latina student’s narrative. The first was the early and consistent support of her family members. The second theme was the student’s understanding of the importance of Latinx representation in STEM. The student’s participation in extracurricular STEM activities was the third theme that contributed to the development of her identity as an inventor. The final theme was her continued involvement in engineering at the university level. While early, consistent, and continued identity work in extracurricular invention and STEM activities contributed to the development of an inventor’s identity, literature has shown that opportunities such as these are not available to all students, especially those who have been historically underrepresented as inventors. We argue for making access to invention education more equitable by embedding it within the school day.
Comparison of seven anthropometric indexes to predict hypertension plus hyperuricemia among U.S. adults
Authors: Li Ye , Zeng Ling
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to compare the association of hypertension plus hyperuricemia (HTN-HUA) with seven anthropometric indexes. These include the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), lipid accumulation product (LAP), visceral adiposity index (VAI), triglyceride-glucose index (TyG), body roundness index (BRI), a body shape index (ABSI), and the cardiometabolic index (CMI).

Methods

Data was procured from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which recruited a representative population aged 18 years and above to calculate these seven indexes. Logistic regression analysis was employed to delineate their correlation and to compute the odds ratios (OR). Concurrently, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were utilized to evaluate the predictive power of the seven indexes.

Results

A total of 23,478 subjects were included in the study. Among these, 6,537 (27.84%) were patients with HUA alone, 2,015 (8.58%) had HTN alone, and 2,836 (12.08%) had HTN-HUA. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the AIP, LAP, VAI, TyG, BRI, ABSI, and CMI were all significantly associated with concurrent HTN-HUA. The OR for the highest quartile of the seven indexes for HTN-HUA were as follows: AIP was 4.45 (95% CI 3.82-5.18), LAP was 9.52 (95% CI 7.82-11.59), VAI was 4.53 (95% CI 38.9-5.28), TyG was 4.91 (95% CI 4.15-5.80), BRI was 9.08 (95% CI 7.45-11.07), ABSI was 1.71 (95% CI 1.45 -2.02), and CMI was 6.57 (95% CI 5.56-7.76). Notably, LAP and BRI demonstrated significant discriminatory abilities for HTN-HUA, with area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.72 (95% CI 0.71 - 0.73) and 0.73 (95% CI 0.72 - 0.74) respectively.

Conclusion

The AIP, LAP, VAI, TyG, BRI, ABSI, and CMI all show significant correlation with HTN-HUA. Notably, both LAP and BRI demonstrate the capability to differentiate cases of HTN-HUA. Among these, BRI is underscored for its effective, non-invasive nature in predicting HTN-HUA, making it a superior choice for early detection and management strategies.
Vericiguat in patients with heart failure across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fraction: a patient-level, pooled meta-analysis of VITALITY-HFpEF and VICTORIA
Authors: Chen Chao , Lv Jin , Liu Changzhao
Published: March 2024

Vericiguat, the newest soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) drug, is potentially beneficial in treating heart failure (HF). However, most studies have only confirmed the significant impact of sGC in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Therefore, the main objective of this meta-analysis was to comparatively analyze the effects of Vericiguat in the entire LVEF range based on previous studies. According to PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase databases, randomized controlled studies in the full LVEF stage range were screened, and two extensive clinical studies on Vericiguat, namely VICTORIA (LVEF<45%) and VITALITY-HFpEF (LVEF≥45%) were identified for analysis and systematic evaluation. We separately assessed the rates of primary outcomes, cardiovascular death, and serious adverse events in both studies. The results of our research confirmed that although the criteria for the primary outcome were not the same in the two extensive studies, it was evident that there was no difference in the primary outcome between the experimental Vericiguat group and the placebo group in the VITALITY-HFpEF (LVEF≥45%) (P=0.45), whereas the primary outcome of VICTORIA (LVEF<45%) was significantly improved with the administration of Vericiguat showing a significant improvement (RR 0.93; 95% CI 0.87 to 1.00), but the effect of Vericiguat on cardiovascular mortality was not significant across the full range of LVEF (RR 0.97; 95% CI 0.86 to 1.09), and the incidence of total serious adverse events did not differ significantly between the two studies (RR 0.96; 95% CI 0.89 to 1.03). Surprisingly, partial subgroups analysis of serious adverse events found that vericiguat treatment reduced the incidence of all-cause death, Cardiac disorders, Hypotension, and Hypertension in patients with LVEF<45%, with a particular effect on the incidence of Cardiac disorders. Taken together, Vericiguat had a significant benefit in HF patients with LVEF<45%, especially in patients with LVEF<24%; it had a less pronounced effect in HF patients with LVEF ≥45%, but no adverse effects were observed.
Research and analysis of electromagnetic interference of a motor drive control system based on PMSM with SiC MOSFET for new energy electric vehicles
Authors: Zhang Chi , Jasni Jasronita , Mohd Radzi Mohd Amran , Azis Norhafiz , He Xiangming
Published: March 2024

Sustainable development in the 21st century faces significant challenges due to finite reserves of fossil fuels and environmental pollution. In the context of new energy electric vehicles (NEEVs), the wide-bandgap semiconductor known as the silicon carbide–metal oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor (SiC MOSFET) and the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) have emerged as advantageous sources. However, the use of these components gives rise to electromagnetic interference (EMI) issues, which impede the achievement of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards in the motor drive control system. This paper aims to elucidate the generation mechanism, propagation path, and test infrastructure of EMI. Furthermore, it proposes a system-level conducted EMI equivalent circuit model for the motor drive control system, encompassing the power battery pack, busbar cable, LISN, three-phase inverter, and PMSM. Building upon this foundation, the principles for suppressing and optimizing EMI noise are discussed. The paper concludes with the validation of simulations and experimental results, which demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. It is anticipated that professionals with an interest in the field of EMI/EMC will find this paper to be of both theoretical and practical importance.
Critical review of the role of ash content and composition in biomass pyrolysis
Authors: Puri Lokeshwar , Hu Yulin , Naterer Greg
Published: March 2024

In the face of environmental challenges (e.g., dramatically increasing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change), it is utmost of importance to sustainable energy systems. Biomass consisting of agricultural and forest waste, municipal solid waste, and aquatics, has been identified as alternative and promising fuel sources. Thermochemical conversion approaches like pyrolysis can turn various types of biomass into three valuable product streams, namely, bio-oil, biochar, and syngas. To date, past review articles have considered the major operating parameters of kinetics, chemistry, and the application of pyrolysis products. However, ash content is one of the key biomass components that lacks investigation on its influence during biomass pyrolysis with respect to products yield and properties. This review article examines: i) the ash content and composition in different types of biomass; ii) effects of ash content on catalytic pathway and biomass thermal degradation; iii) ash related problems in the thermal degradation of biomass; and iv) available deashing techniques for biomass. The review aims to provide new understandings and insights regarding the effects of ash content and composition on biomass pyrolysis.
Dual-transgenic BiFC vector systems for protein-protein interaction analysis in plants
Authors: Chen Piaojuan , Ye Meiling , Chen Yadi , Wang Qin , Wang Qiongli , Zhong Ming
Published: March 2024

Protein-protein interaction (PPI) play a pivotal role in cellular signal transduction. The bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assay offers a rapid and intuitive means to ascertain the localization and interactions of target proteins within living cells. BiFC is based on fluorescence complementation by reconstitution of a functional fluorescent protein by co-expression of N- and C-terminal fragments of this protein. When fusion proteins interact, the N- and C-terminal fragments come into close proximity, leading to the reconstitution of the fluorescent protein. In the conventional approach, the N-terminal and C-terminal fragments of the fluorescent protein are typically expressed using two separate vectors, which largely relies on the efficiency of the transformation of the two vectors in the same cells. Furthermore, issues of vector incompatibility can often result in loss of one plasmid. To address these challenges, we have developed novel dual-transgenic BiFC vectors, designed as pDTQs, derived from the previously published pDT1 vector. This set of BiFC vectors offers the following advantages: 1) Both fluorescent fusion proteins are expressed sequentially within a single vector, enhancing expression efficiency; 2) Independent promoters and terminators regulate the expression of the two proteins potentially mitigating vector compatibility issues; 3) A long linker is inserted between the fluorescent protein fragment and the gene of interest, facilitating the recombination of the fused fluorescent protein into an active form; 4) Four distinct types of fluorescent proteins, namely, EYFP, mVenus, mRFP1Q66T and mCherry are available for BiFC analysis. We assessed the efficiency of the pDTQs system by investigating the oligomerization of Arabidopsis CRY2 and CRY2-BIC2 interactions in N. benthamiana. Notably, the pDTQs were found to be applicable in rice, underscoring their potential utility across various plant species.
An overview of case reports and case series of pulmonary actinomycosis mimicking lung cancer: a scoping review
Authors: Khoshbayan Amin , Amirmozafari Nour , Mirkalantari Shiva
Published: March 2024

Background

Pulmonary actinomycosis (PA) is a rare type of Actinomyces infection that can be challenging to diagnose since it often mimics lung cancer.

Methods

Published case reports and case series of PA in patients with suspicion of lung cancer were considered, and data were extracted by a structured search through PubMed/Medline.

Results

After analyzing Medline, 31 studies were reviewed, from which 48 cases were extracted. Europe had the highest prevalence of reported cases with 45.1%, followed by Asia (32.2%), America (19.3%), and Africa (3.2%). The average age of patients was 58.9 years, and 75% of all patients were above 50 years old. Male patients (70%) were predominantly affected by PA. The overall mortality rate was 6.25%. In only eight cases, the causative agent was reported, and Actinomyces odontolyticus was the most common isolated pathogen with three cases. Based on histopathological examination, 75% of the cases were diagnosed, and the lobectomy was performed in 10 cases, the most common surgical intervention. In 50% of the cases, the selective antibiotics were intravenous and oral penicillin, followed by amoxicillin (29.1%), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, ampicillin, levofloxacin, and doxycycline.

Conclusion

The non-specific symptoms resemble lung cancer, leading to confusion between PA and cancer in imaging scans. Radiological techniques are helpful but have limitations that can lead to unnecessary surgeries when confusing PA with lung cancer. Therefore, it is important to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of PA and lung cancer to prevent undesirable complications and ensure appropriate treatment measures are taken.
Effect of chemotherapy on hippocampal volume and shape in older long-term breast cancer survivors
Authors: Daniel Ebenezer , Deng Frank , Patel Sunita K. , Sedrak Mina S. , Young Jonathan , Kim Heeyoung , Razavi Marianne , Sun Can-Lan , Root James C. , Ahles Tim A. , Dale William , Chen Bihong T.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study was to assess changes in hippocampal volume and shape in older long-term breast cancer survivors who were exposed to chemotherapy 5–15 years prior.

Methods

This study recruited female long-term breast cancer survivors aged 65 years or older with a history of chemotherapy (C+), age-matched breast cancer survivors who did not receive chemotherapy (C−), and healthy controls (HC). The participants were recruited 5–15 years after chemotherapy at time point 1 (TP1) and were followed up for 2 years at time point 2 (TP2). Assessments included hippocampal volume and shape from brain MRI scans and neuropsychological (NP) tests.

Results

At TP1, each of the three groups was comprised of 20 participants. The C+ group exhibited a hippocampal volume loss estimated in proportion with total intracranial volume (ICV) in both the left and right hemispheres from TP1 to TP2. Regarding the hippocampal shape at TP1, the C+ group displayed inward changes compared to the control groups. Within the C+ group, changes in right hippocampal volume adjusted with ICV were positively correlated with crystalized composite scores (R = 0.450, p = 0.044). Additionally, in C+ groups, chronological age was negatively correlated with right hippocampal volume adjusted with ICV (R = −0.585, p = 0.007).

Conclusion

The observed hippocampal volume reduction and inward shape deformation within the C+ group may serve as neural basis for cognitive changes in older long-term breast cancer survivors with history of chemotherapy treatment.
Physical exercise frequency and cognition: a multicenter cross-sectional cohort study
Authors: Wen Chen , Gan Jing-Huan , Huang Guo-Wei , Wang Xiao-Dan , Lü Yang , Niu Jian-Ping , Meng Xin-Ling , Cai Pan , Li Yang , Gang Bao-Zhi , You Yong , Lv Yan , Ren Zhi-Hong , Liu Shuai , Zeng Yan , Ji Yong
Published: March 2024

Background and aims

Dementia imposes a heavy burden on society and families, therefore, effective drug treatments, exploring and preventing factors associated with dementia, are paramount. To provide reference points for the best frequency of physical exercise (physical exercise), we investigated the association between frequency of PE and cognition in Chinese old adults.

Methods

16,181 Chinese participants aged 65 years or older were included in this study. Associations between PE and cognition were estimated multivariate logistic and linear regression analyses. Associations were further investigated across dementia subtypes (Alzheimer dementia, vascular dementia, and other types of dementia). Subgroup analyses were performed in different age groups, in populations with and without stroke, and those with and without hypertension.

Results

PE associated with dementia after adjusting for full covariates (OR: 0.5414, 95% CI: 0.4536–0.6491, p < 0.001). Exercise performed at ≥3 times/week associated with lower risk of dementia (OR: 0.4794–0.6619, all p value <0.001). PE was associated with improved cognition (β: 12851, p < 0.001), and any PE frequency contributed to cognitive improvement (p values for exercise performed ≥1 time/week were <0.001). Similar conclusions were identified when we repeated analyses in different dementia subtypes and age groups. Subgroup analyses suggested that the cognition of individuals without hypertension also benefitted from exercising 1–2 times/week (OR: 0.6168, 95% CI: 0.4379–0.8668, p = 0.005).

Conclusion

The best exercise frequency is exercising ≥3 times/week for individuals from different dementia subtypes and age groups. While for those without hypertension, PE at 1–2 times /week is also beneficial.
Analyzing the causal relationship between lipid-lowering drug target genes and epilepsy: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Huang Shicun , Liu Yuan , Zhang Yi , Wang Yiqing , Gao Ya , Li Runnan , Yu Lidong , Hu Xiaowei , Fang Qi
Published: March 2024

Background

Previous research has yielded conflicting results on the link between epilepsy risk and lipid-lowering medications. The aim of this study is to determine whether the risk of epilepsy outcomes is causally related to lipid-lowering medications predicted by genetics.

Methods

We used genetic instruments as proxies to the exposure of lipid-lowering drugs, employing variants within or near genes targeted by these drugs and associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) from a genome-wide association study. These variants served as controlling factors. Through drug target Mendelian randomization, we systematically assessed the impact of lipid-lowering medications, including HMG-CoA reductase (HMGCR) inhibitors, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors, and Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) inhibitors, on epilepsy.

Results

The analysis demonstrated that a higher expression of HMGCR was associated with an elevated risk of various types of epilepsy, including all types (OR = 1.17, 95% CI:1.03 to 1.32, p = 0.01), focal epilepsy (OR = 1.24, 95% CI:1.08 to 1.43, p = 0.003), and focal epilepsy documented with lesions other than hippocampal sclerosis (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.10, p = 0.02). The risk of juvenile absence epilepsy (JAE) was also associated with higher expression of PCSK9 (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.09, p = 0.002). For other relationships, there was no reliable supporting data available.

Conclusion

The drug target MR investigation suggests a possible link between reduced epilepsy vulnerability and HMGCR and PCSK9 inhibition.
Dietary habits, depression and obesity: an intricate relationship to explore in pediatric preventive strategies
Authors: Calcaterra Valeria , Rossi Virginia , Magenes Vittoria Carlotta , Baldassarre Paola , Grazi Roberta , Loiodice Martina , Fabiano Valentina , Zuccotti Gianvincenzo
Published: March 2024

Obesity and depression represent major health problems due to their high prevalence and morbidity rates. Numerous evidences elucidated the connections between dietary habits and the incidence or severity of depression. This overview aims to investigate the intricate relationship between dietary patterns and depression with the objective of elaborating preventive strategies for childhood obesity. Literature data recognized that there is a link between mood and food choices, with certain foods selected for their impact on the brain's reward centers. This behavior parallels the one observed in substance addiction, suggesting a specific neural mechanism for food addiction that contributes to overeating and obesity. It is important to note the significant correlation between obesity and depression, indicating a shared biological pathway influencing these conditions. Stress substantially affects also eating behaviors, often leading to increased consumption of pleasurable and rewarding foods. This can trigger a cycle of overeating, weight gain, and psychological distress, exacerbating mood disorders and obesity. In addition, consumption of certain types of foods, especially “comfort foods” high in fat and calories, may provide temporary relief from symptoms of depression, but can lead to long-term obesity and further mental health problems. Understanding these complex interactions is critical to developing preventive strategies focusing on dietary, emotional, and environmental factors, thereby reducing the risk of obesity and mood disorders.
Anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory bioactive hits from Coriaria intermedia Matsum. stem and Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe bark through bioassay-guided fractionation and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Fabian Mavis Colleen Porciuncula , Astorga Rezzaira Marie Neduelan , Atis Arnelson Arwin Gray , Pilapil Luis Agustin Elido , Hernandez Christine Chichioco
Published: March 2024

Women have been found to be at a higher risk of morbidity and mortality from type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and asthma. α-Glucosidase inhibitors have been used to treat T2DM, and arachidonic acid 15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) inhibitors have been suggested to be used as treatments for asthma and T2DM. Compounds that inhibit both enzymes may be studied as potential treatments for people with both T2DM and asthma. This study aimed to determine potential anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory bioactive hits from Coriaria intermedia Matsum. stem and Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe bark. A bioassay-guided fractionation framework was used to generate bioactive fractions from C. intermedia stem and D. dao bark. Subsequently, dereplication through ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) and database searching was performed to putatively identify the components of one bioactive fraction from each plant. Seven compounds were putatively identified from the C. intermedia stem active fraction, and six of these compounds were putatively identified from this plant for the first time. Nine compounds were putatively identified from the D. dao bark active fraction, and seven of these compounds were putatively identified from this plant for the first time. One putative compound from the C. intermedia stem active fraction (corilagin) has been previously reported to have inhibitory activity against both α-glucosidase and 15-lipoxygenase-1. It is suggested that further studies on the potential of corilagin as an anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory treatment should be pursued based on its several beneficial pharmacological activities and its low reported toxicity.
The anti-cholestatic effects of Coptis chinensis Franch. alone and combined with Tetradium ruticarpum (A. Jussieu) T. G. Hartley: dual effects on fecal metabolism and microbial diversity
Authors: Han Jun , Wu Peijie , Xu Zongying , Liu Chao , Chen Qian , Zhang Fenghua , Tao Huan , Luo Dan , Zhou Li , Wang Bo , Gao Zhe , Shen Tao , Wen Yueqiang , Yu Han
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Drug dosages and combinations are the main factors that affect the efficacy of pleiotropic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Coptis chinensis Franch. (CF) is a representative TCM with multiple effects and is often combined with Tetradium ruticarpum (A. Jussieu) T. G. Hartley (TR) to treat cholestasis. The present study assessed the influence of CF dose and its combination with TR on the efficacy of CF in cholestasis treatment, including their effects on fecal metabolism and fecal microorganisms.

Methods: Rats with α-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT, 50 mg/kg)-induced cholestasis were administered low (0.3 g/kg) and high (0.6 g/kg) doses of CF, as well as CF combined with TR at doses of 0.6 g/kg and 0.9 g/kg, respectively. The anti-cholestatic effects of these treatments were assessed by determining their anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and anti-oxidative stress properties. Additionally, fecal metabolomics and fecal microorganisms were analyzed.

Results: Low dose CF had a more potent hypolipidemic effect than high dose CF, whereas high dose CF had more potent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects. Combination with TR enhanced the hypolipidemic effect, but antagonized the anti-inflammatory effect, of CF. Analyses of fecal metabolomics and fecal microorganisms showed differences in the regulation of lipid- and amino acid metabolism-related pathways, including pathways of linoleic acid, tyrosine, and arachidonic acid metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis between different doses of CF as well as between different doses of CF in combination with TR. These differences may contribute to differences in the anti-cholestatic effects of these preparations.

Conclusion: CF dose influences its anti-cholestatic efficacy. The combination with TR had synergistic or antagonistic effects on the properties of CF, perhaps by altering fecal metabolism and fecal microbial homeostasis.
Numerical study of the effects of hydrodynamic interactions among cells for microfluidic holographic cyto-tomography
Authors: Vitolo Angela , Villone Massimiliano M. , Maffettone Pier Luca
Published: March 2024

When cells in a suspension flow through a microfluidic channel and rotate within the field of view (FOV) of a holographic microscope, they become accessible to a light beam from various angles. This allows the retrieval of a three-dimensional refractive index map for each flowing cell, essentially a 3D phase-contrast tomogram. Understanding the effects of hydrodynamic interactions among cells on their rotational behaviour during flow is crucial for designing microfluidic devices for holographic imaging. In this study, we employ direct numerical simulations to investigate the dynamics of cell clusters suspended in a Newtonian liquid under pressure-driven flow within a microfluidic channel, with the aim of clarifying the influence of hydrodynamic interactions on cell rotation.
Aphid gene expression following polerovirus acquisition is host species dependent
Authors: Pandey Sudeep , Catto Michael , Roberts Phillip , Bag Sudeep , Jacobson Alana L. , Srinivasan Rajagopalbabu
Published: March 2024

Upon acquisition of persistent circulative viruses such as poleroviruses, the virus particles transcytose through membrane barriers of aphids at the midgut and salivary glands via hemolymph. Such intricate interactions can influence aphid behavior and fitness and induce associated gene expression in viruliferous aphids. Differential gene expression can be evaluated by omics approaches such as transcriptomics. Previously conducted aphid transcriptome studies used only one host species as the source of virus inoculum. Viruses typically have alternate hosts. Hence, it is not clear how alternate hosts infected with the same virus isolate alter gene expression in viruliferous vectors. To address the question, this study conducted a transcriptome analysis of viruliferous aphids that acquired the virus from different host species. A polerovirus, cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV), which induced gene expression in the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii Glover, was assessed using four alternate hosts, viz., cotton, hibiscus, okra, and prickly sida. Among a total of 2,942 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 750, 310, 1,193, and 689 genes were identified in A. gossypii that acquired CLRDV from infected cotton, hibiscus, okra, and prickly sida, respectively, compared with non-viruliferous aphids that developed on non-infected hosts. A higher proportion of aphid genes were overexpressed than underexpressed following CLRDV acquisition from cotton, hibiscus, and prickly sida. In contrast, more aphid genes were underexpressed than overexpressed following CLRDV acquisition from okra plants. Only four common DEGs (heat shock protein, juvenile hormone acid O-methyltransferase, and two unannotated genes) were identified among viruliferous aphids from four alternate hosts. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) annotations indicated that the acquisition of CLRDV induced DEGs in aphids associated with virus infection, signal transduction, immune systems, and fitness. However, these induced changes were not consistent across four alternate hosts. These data indicate that alternate hosts could differentially influence gene expression in aphids and presumably aphid behavior and fitness despite being infected with the same virus isolate.
Biofilm containing the Thymus serpyllum essential oil for rice and cherry tomato conservation
Authors: Roselló Josefa , Llorens-Molina Juan Antonio , Larran Silvina , Sempere-Ferre Francisca , Santamarina M. Pilar
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Fungal pathogens cause major yield losses in agriculture and reduce food quality and production worldwide.

Purpose

To evaluate new safer alternatives to chemicals for disease management and preserve the shelf life of food, this research was conducted to: determine the chemical composition of the essential oils (EOs) of Thymus serpyllum and Thymus piperella chemotypes 1 and 2; investigate the antifungal potential of EOs in vitro against: Alternaria alternata, Bipolaris spicifera, Curvularia hawaiiensis, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, Penicillium italicum, Botryotinia fuckeliana; evaluate a natural T. serpyllum extract biofilm to conserve rice grain and cherry tomatoes.

Method

EOs were analyzed by GC-MS+GC-FID. EOs’ antifungal activity was evaluated by dissolving Thymus extracts in PDA. Petri dishes were inoculated with disks of each fungus and incubated at 25°C for 7 days.

Results

The T. serpyllum EO displayed the best Mycelial Growth Inhibition. The antifungal effect of the T. serpyllum EO biofilm was evaluated on rice caryopsis. Disinfected grains were dipped in a conidial suspension of each fungus and sprayed with EO (300 and 600 μg/mL) prepared in Tween 20. Grains were stored. The percentage of infected grains was recorded for 30 days. The T. serpyllum EO effect on cherry tomato conservation was evaluated in vivo. Wounded fruit were immersed in the T. serpyllum EO (300 and 400 μg/mL) and inoculated with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici. Fruit were evaluated for 7 and 14 days. Chemical profiles thymol/carvacrol for T. serpyllum, carvacrol for T. piperella Tp1 and thymol for T. piperella Tp2 were defined. The three evaluated EOs reduced all the studied phytopathogens’ fungal growth. The T. serpyllum biofilm was effective with rice storage and against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici for extending the shelf life of tomatoes in warehouses and storing postharvest cherry tomatoes.

Conclusion

We suggest applying these EOs as biofilms for safe food conservation to replace synthetic products.
Classic and modern models of self-regulated learning: integrative and componential analysis
Authors: Tinajero Carolina , Mayo Mª Emma , Villar Eva , Martínez-López Zeltia
Published: March 2024

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is considered a construct of great heuristic value and has attracted the attention of numerous researchers and inspired influential theoretical models. The objective of the present study was to provide an up-to-date, comparative and integrated description of the theoretical models of SRL used in current empirical research. For this purpose, we conducted a critical review of the scientific literature referring explicitly to any SRL model and we described, compared and integrated the processes and personal and situational dimensions considered in each model. The models have clearly evolved from focusing on cold self-regulation, conscious activity and individual functioning, to emphasising hot self-regulation and considering implicit activity and interindividual functioning. Among empirical research lines based on the most recent models, the following stand out: detailed analysis of SRL during its progress, the manifestation of SRL in diverse instructional formats and the role of affective/motivational self-regulation.
Early national trends in non-abortion reproductive care access after Roe
Authors: Zhao Junying , Zahn Aaron , Pang Samuel C. , Quang Tony S. , Campbell Janis , Halkitis Perry N.
Published: March 2024

Background

Roe was overturned in 2022. No peer-reviewed evidence exists for the indirect spillover effects of overturning Roe on non-abortion reproductive care access for diverse patient populations.

Methods

National data were from 2013–2023 HHS Title X Directory, 2013–2020 CDC Artificial Reproductive Technologies (ART) Surveillance and 2021–2023 manual collection, and Guttmacher Institute. Outcome measures included numbers of ART clinics and Title X entities. Title X entities are those that receive federal funds to establish and operate voluntary family planning projects, especially for low-income patients. We reported pre-and post-Roe changes, associations between changes in measures and abortions, and characteristics of changed measures by region and political geography.

Results

Post-Roe America witnessed national declines of 1.03% in ART clinics and 18.34% in Title X entities, and average state decreases of 0.08 ART clinics (p < 0.05) and 18 Title X entities (p < 0.001). State-level ART clinic closures and abortion reductions had little association except for Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, New York, and California. Plummets in Title X entities and abortions were positively associated: Reducing 100 abortions was associated with defunding two Title X entities (p < 0.05). The South experienced the largest losses of both, while 83.39% of lost Title X entities were in states that voted Republican in the 2020 presidential election, disproportionate to the 49.02% of states that voted Republican and the 42.52% of US population residing in these states.

Conclusion

We provide one of the first few evidence of spillover impacts of overturning Roe on non-abortion care access for diverse populations: low-income men and women, single parents by choice, and biologically and socially infertile patients. Early evidence warns of worsening challenges of inequities and calls for immediate policy actions.