bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Do Support Pressure and Urban Housing Purchase Affect the Homecoming Decisions of Rural Migrant Workers? Evidence from Rural China
Authors: Niu Lei , Yuan Lulu , Ding Zhongmin , Zhao Yifu
Published: July 2023

Talent revitalization is the basis of rural revitalization, and the return of migrant workers to their hometowns is a critical way to improve rural human capital. Based on the perspective of individual–family interaction and collaboration, we constructed a theoretical model for maximizing the net benefits of rural migrant workers. Then, we use it to explore the impact of family support pressure and urban housing purchase on individuals’ homecoming decisions. Firstly, we find the odds ratio of migrant workers with support pressure to return home is 14.013 times higher than those without, and the odds ratio of migrant workers with urban housing is 42.94% lower than those without. Secondly, in the process of supporting, the family, as a link between individuals and rural society, can enhance the connection for migrant workers, thus promoting their return behavior. The mediating effect of hometown connection is 1.342, accounting for 50.83% of the total effect. However, buying a house in the city reduces individuals’ homecoming behaviors by encouraging “trailing spouse”. Thirdly, individuals’ homecoming intention is not consistent with their behavior. The moderating effect of a future house purchase plan changes the influence of support pressure on individuals’ intention to return home to some extent. Finally, we should further strengthen rural infrastructure construction and elderly care service supply to reasonably guide capable and willing talents to return to the township. This study provides some implications for the revitalization of rural talent.
Effects of UV-B Radiation on the Chemical Composition of Azolla and Its Decomposition after Returning to the Field and Nitrogen Transformation in Soil
Authors: Chang Linxi , Li Haitao , Liu Chengqian , Liang Xinran , Xie Chunmei , Li Zuran , Li Yuan , Zhan Fangdong , He Yongmei
Published: July 2023

In the present research, the effects of UV-B radiation (5.00 kJ·m−2) on the chemical composition of Azolla were investigated, and the decomposition of Azolla residues after UV-B radiation, the nitrogen form, enzyme activity, and bacterial community in paddy soil were analyzed. Compared to the natural light treatment, the total nitrogen content of Azolla was significantly increased by 17.0% under UV-B radiation treatment. Compared to returned Azolla grown under natural light, the decomposition rate of cellulose, lignin, and total nitrogen of returned Azolla grown under UV-B radiation significantly increased, which led to an increase in the activities of nitrogen transformation enzymes, including neutral protease, ammonia monooxygenase, nitrogenase, nitrate reductase, and nitrite reductase, and the contents of different nitrogen forms (NH4+-N, NO3−-N, soluble organic nitrogen, and microbial biomass nitrogen) in paddy soil, while N2O emission flux was significantly reduced by 20–30%. The dominant bacteria in soil supplied with Azolla grown under natural light were Firmicutes, Clostridia, Clostridiales, and Lachnospiraceae. However, returning Azolla grown under UV-B radiation to the soil significantly changed the bacterial community structure in soil, resulting in a decrease in the number of ammonifying bacteria, nitrifying bacteria, and nitrogen-fixing bacteria and an increase in the number of denitrifying bacteria, inducing changes in the dominant bacteria to Methanomicrobiales, Methanoregulaceae, and Methanoregula. According to the structural equation model, returning Azolla to the field would reduce N2O emissions by increasing Azolla lignin decomposition and ammonia monooxygenase activity, reducing the number of nitrifying bacteria and reducing nitrite reductase activity in soil. Thus, UV-B radiation can directly change the phytochemical components and their decomposition in soil, thus indirectly affecting the bacterial community structure, enzyme activity, and nitrogen transformation, which play important ecological roles in regulating the nutrient transformation of terrestrial ecosystems.
Analysis of the Influence of Changing and Fixed Temperatures on the Growth and Pteridine Content in the Head of Adults Sarcophaga crassipalpis (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: Ngando Fernand Jocelin , Zhang Xiangyan , Qu Hongke , Zhang Changquan , Yang Fengqin , Feng Yakai , Shang Yanjie , Chen Sile , Ren Lipin , Guo Yadong
Published: July 2023

Flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) are regarded as significant in medical and veterinary entomology, and their development models can be utilized as considerable markers to ascertain the minimum postmortem interval (PMImin). In this research, we explored the growth cycle and larval body length of Sarcophaga crassipalpis Macquart 1839 (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) reared under variable temperatures ranging from 15.7 to 31.1 °C, with an average of 24.55 °C and relative humidity ranges from 31.4 to 82.8% and at six fixed temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30, 32, and then 35 °C. Moreover, pteridine from the head was used to assess adult age grading. Our results allowed us to provide three development models: the isomorphen chart, the isomegalen chart, and the thermal summation models. The time taken for S. crassipalpis to complete its development from larviposition to adult emergence at constant temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30, 32, and 35 °C was 1256.3 ± 124.2, 698.6 ± 15.1, 481.8 ± 35.7, 366.0 ± 13.5, and 295.8 ± 20.5 h, respectively, except 35 °C, where all pupae were unable to attain adulthood. They lasted 485.8 ± 5.4 h under variable temperatures. The minimum developmental limit (D0) temperature and the thermal summation constant (K) of S. crassipalpis were 9.31 ± 0.55 °C and 7290.0 ± 388.4 degree hours, respectively. The increase in pteridine content exhibited variations across different temperatures. There was quite a considerable distinction in the pteridine contents of male and female S. crassipalpis at 15 °C (p = 0.0075) and 25 °C (p = 0.0213). At 32 °C and variable temperatures, the pteridine content between female and male S. crassipalpis was not statistically divergent. However, temperature and gender remain the main factors influencing the pteridine content in the head of S. crassipalpis. We aim to provide detailed developmental data on S. crassipalpis that can be used as a valuable resource for future research and PMI estimation.
Overcoming Drug Resistance in a Clinical C. albicans Strain Using Photoactivated Curcumin as an Adjuvant
Authors: Leferman Carmen-Ecaterina , Stoica Laura , Tiglis Mirela , Stoica Bogdan Alexandru , Hancianu Monica , Ciubotaru Alin Dumitru , Salaru Delia Lidia , Badescu Aida Corina , Bogdanici Camelia-Margareta , Ciureanu Ioan-Adrian , Ghiciuc Cristina-Mihaela
Published: July 2023

The limited antifungal drugs available and the rise of multidrug-resistant Candida species have made the efforts to improve antifungal therapies paramount. To this end, our research focused on the effect of a combined treatment between chemical and photodynamic therapy (PDT) towards a fluconazole-resistant clinical Candida albicans strain. The co-treatment of PDT and curcumin in various doses with fluconazole (FLC) had an inhibitory effect on the growth of the FLC-resistant hospital strain of C. albicans in both difusimetric and broth microdilution methods. The proliferation of the cells was inhibited in the presence of curcumin at 3.125 µM and FLC at 41 µM concentrations. The possible involvement of oxidative stress was analyzed by adding menadione and glutathione as a prooxidant and antioxidant, respectively. In addition, we examined the photoactivated curcumin effect on efflux pumps, a mechanism often linked to drug resistance. Nile Red accumulation assays were used to evaluate efflux pumps activity through fluorescence microscopy and spectrofluorometry. The results showed that photoactivated curcumin at 3.125 µM inhibited the transport of the fluorescent substrate that cells usually expel, indicating its potential in combating drug resistance. Overall, the findings suggest that curcumin, particularly when combined with PDT, can effectively inhibit the growth of FLC-resistant C. albicans, addressing the challenge of yeast resistance to azole antifungals through upregulating multidrug transporters.
Colour Stability, Fatty Acid Profile, and Lipid Oxidation in Meat Stored in Modified Atmosphere Packaging from Light Lambs Fed with Concentrate with Carob Pulp (Ceratonia siliqua L.)
Authors: Bottegal Diego Nicolas , Lobón Sandra , Latorre María Ángeles , Bertolín Juan Ramón , Álvarez-Rodríguez Javier
Published: July 2023

There is a growing interest in using by-products rich in polyphenols, such as carob pulp (Cp, Ceratonia siliqua L.), as a dietary source of antioxidants for animals. This study assesses the effects of including Cp in lambs’ diet and meat display time (0, 7, 9, and 11 days) in modified atmosphere packaging on meat colour, fatty acid (FA) composition, tocopherol levels, and lipid oxidation values in the Semimembranosus muscle of 40 light lambs. The lambs were fed with concentrates supplemented with increasing Cp levels (0, 150, and 300 g/kg) for 45 days before slaughter. Metmyoglobin (MMb) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents increased linearly with display time (p < 0.05), regardless of diet (p > 0.05). At 11 days of display, MMb (28 ± 0.8%) and MDA (0.6 ± 0.1 mg MDA/kg of meat) contents remained within the acceptable limits. The α-tocopherol content was lower in the 30% Cp group and meat (p < 0.05). Total saturated and monounsaturated FA contents (934 ± 64 and 823 ± 65 mg/100 g of meat, respectively) did not differ significantly among the groups. However, the meat from lambs fed with 30% Cp showed reduced levels of branched-chain FAs, while polyunsaturated FAs increased (p < 0.05) compared to the control lambs. The inclusion of Cp in the lamb’s diet, up to 30%, did not lead to meat deterioration and improved certain quality parameters, including a healthier FA profile. These findings highlight Cp’s potential as an alternative antioxidant source in animal diets.
Paraoxonase/Arylesterase Activity of Serum Paraoxonase-1 and Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zinellu Angelo , Sedda Stefania , Mangoni Arduino A.
Published: July 2023

The presence of a pro-oxidant state in patients with schizophrenia may account for the increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease in this group and supports the potential utility of circulating biomarkers of oxidative stress for risk stratification and management. We investigated this issue by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between the circulating concentrations of paraoxonase-1, an antioxidant calcium-dependent high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-associated esterase, with paraoxonase and arylesterase activity in schizophrenia. We searched electronic databases from inception to 31 May 2023 for studies investigating paraoxonase-1 in patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls and assessed the risk of bias and the certainty of evidence (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023435442). Thirteen studies were identified for analysis. There were no significant between-group differences in paraoxonase (standard mean difference, SMD = 0.12, 95% CI −0.23 to 0.48, p = 0.50; extremely low certainty of evidence) or arylesterase activity (SMD = −0.08, 95% CI −0.39 to 0.23, p = 0.61; very low certainty of evidence). However, in meta-regression and subgroup analysis we observed significant associations between the SMD of paraoxonase and age (p = 0.003), HDL–cholesterol (p = 0.029), and study country (p = 0.04), and the SMD of arylesterase and age (p = 0.007), body mass index (p = 0.012), HDL–cholesterol (p = 0.002), and pharmacological treatment for schizophrenia (p < 0.001). In the absence of overall between-group differences, our systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that alterations in paraoxonase-1 may reflect a pro-oxidant state in specific subgroups of patients with schizophrenia that require further assessment in appropriately designed studies.
Physical Activity as a Modern Intervention in the Fight against Obesity-Related Inflammation in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Piotrowska Katarzyna , Zgutka Katarzyna , Tkacz Marta , Tarnowski Maciej
Published: July 2023

Diabetes is one of the greatest healthcare problems; it requires an appropriate approach to the patient, especially when it concerns pregnant women. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic condition in pregnancy that shares many features with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). T2DM and GDM induce oxidative stress, which activates cellular stress signalling. In addition, the risk of diabetes during pregnancy can lead to various complications for the mother and foetus. It has been shown that physical activity is an important tool to not only treat the negative effects of diabetes but also to prevent its progression or even reverse the changes already made by limiting the inflammatory process. Physical activity has a huge impact on the immune status of an individual. Various studies have shown that regular training sessions cause changes in circulating immune cell levels, cytokine activation, production and secretion and changes in microRNA, all of which have a positive effect on the well-being of the diabetic patient, mother and foetus.
Biological Properties in Relation to the Health-Promoting Effects of Independent and Combined Garcinia mangostana Pericarp and Curcuma in Lean Wistar Albino Rats
Authors: Alfawaz Hanan A. , Labban Ranyah Shaker M. , Bhat Ramesa Shafi , El-Ansary Afaf
Published: July 2023

With the increase in verifications and proofs highlighting the association between diet and health, several food products, such as phenolic rich fruits and vegetables, have emerged as possessing potential health benefits. Plants rich with fiber and phenolic content have long been considered as a health-promoting dietary intervention. Therefore, the present work aimed to test the independent and combined potential benefits of mangosteen pericarp extract (MPE) and curcuma rhizome extract (CRE) consumption through an in vivo study on Wister albino rats. The data demonstrated that the three nutritional interventions had no effect on serotonin or glutamate, but dopamine was considerably increased in response to the combined effects of MPE and curcuma (p ˂ 0.025). The anti-inflammatory potency of independent MPE and curcuma, as well as their combined effects, recorded lower levels of IL12 in all groups compared to controls (p ˂ 0.05), and only a considerably lower IL-6 in combination treatment only (p ˂ 0.028). The three dietary interventions dramatically lowered leptin levels, with the combined treatment significantly lower than the healthy control group (p ˂ 0.001). The combined treatment significantly improved levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and GSH as indicators of oxidative stress and antioxidant capability. Our data reported anti-dyslipidemic and anti-hyperglycemic effects of the three studied nutritional interventions, with the independent curcuma being the most effective anti-hyperglycemic compound (p ˂ 0.009). Collectively, the three used nutritional intervention strategies demonstrated promising health-promoting effects with no side effects.
Development of IoT-Based Real-Time Fire Detection System Using Raspberry Pi and Fisheye Camera
Authors: Lee Chung-Hyun , Lee Woo-Hyuk , Kim Sung-Min
Published: July 2023

In this study, an IoT-based fire detection system was developed to detect and prevent damage from forest fires at an early stage. In Korea, forest fires spread quickly due to the dry climate and winds in spring and autumn, so quick detection and prevention is necessary. To quickly detect and prevent forest fires that occur periodically, a real-time fire detection system was developed by combining a Raspberry Pi and a fisheye camera. A lens with a 220° angle of view was installed, and an image analysis algorithm was implemented using the OpenCV library. The location of the fire was estimated by calculating the polar coordinates of the omnidirectional images. Using the Wi-Fi communication function of the Raspberry Pi, the acquired continuous images were transmitted to the Firebase database, and the images were analyzed to identify the movement path of the forest fire. The developed system was applied to a mountainous area near the Samcheok Campus of Kangwon National University. As a result of the experiment, when the location of points about 25.9 m (average) away from the observation point was predicted, the positional error was analyzed to be about 1.1 m. If the system is improved in the future, it is expected that it will be able to contribute to the early prevention of forest fires with fast and accurate responses.
Subjective and Objective Assessment of Recommended Physical Activity in Female Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Niestrój-Jaworska Maria , Polechoński Jacek , Nawrocka Agnieszka
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to compare subjective and objective measures of physical activity (PA) in healthcare professionals and assess their adherence to recommended guidelines. A convenience sample of 153 female healthcare professionals (51 nurses, 50 medical caregivers, and 52 physiotherapists) from 24 h healthcare facilities in Poland participated in the study. Subjective assessment was done using an expanded version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, while objective assessment involved wearing an Actigraph GT3X accelerometer for seven consecutive days. The results showed no significant correlation between subjective and objective measures of moderate-to-vigorous PA in both occupational and non-occupational activities. Objectively measured PA was significantly lower than self-reported PA, with a large effect size observed for both occupational and total PA. Only 44% of participants met the recommended guidelines for aerobic activity based on accelerometer data, while subjective assessment showed a higher percentage (76%) of healthcare professionals meeting the guidelines. These findings highlight the discrepancy between self-reported and objectively measured PA in healthcare professionals. It emphasizes the need for more accurate assessment methods to understand the actual PA levels of this population. Further research should explore factors influencing PA reporting accuracy and develop interventions to promote regular physical activity among healthcare professionals.
New Correlations for the Determination of Undrained Shear, Elastic Modulus, and Bulk Density Based on Dilatometer Tests (DMT) for Organic Soils in the South of Quito, Ecuador
Authors: Mayanquer Jorge , Anaguano-Marcillo Mariela , Játiva Nicolás , Albuja-Sánchez Jorge
Published: July 2023

The Marchetti Dilatometer test is a non-destructive in situ test that can be used to determine the geotechnical properties of soils. This paper presents the results of a study that investigated the correlations between the parameters obtained from the Marchetti Dilatometer test and geomechanical parameters for soft soils, mainly organic soils, obtained in the laboratory. The study was conducted in the El Garrochal sector in Southern Quito, Ecuador. The results of the study showed that there are significant correlations between the Marchetti Dilatometer test and the undrained shear strength, modulus of elasticity, and density of soil. The equations that were developed in this study can be used to estimate these geomechanical parameters from the results of the Marchetti Dilatometer test for the South Quito sector, which are valuable for geotechnical engineers to design structures in these types of soils. The equations that were developed in this study can be used to improve the accuracy of the design of these structures.
Virtually Connected in a Multiverse of Madness?—Perceptions of Gaming, Animation, and Metaverse
Authors: Oliveira Abílio , Cruz Mónica
Published: July 2023

Few studies analyze what are the common representations of the metaverse. Regarding what has been said about this concept, our research aims to verify how adults perceive and represent the metaverse. We carried out a study with focus groups, having as participants Portuguese adults all considered habitual gamers (or users of digital games). The objectives for this study were seven: verify how the metaverse is being represented and characterized; identify which technologies stimulate the immersion experience; identify the main dimensions that influence the acceptance of the metaverse concept; understand the perceptions of the metaverse and virtual reality regarding socialization and wellbeing; verify the perceptions of a gamer’s daily life regarding the metaverse, virtual reality, and gaming concepts; understand the impact of social representations on the gaming concept; and to understand the perceived role of animation regarding the metaverse, virtual reality, and gaming concepts. Our results reveal a common understanding of the metaverse, despite some confusion about this concept. We also verified the high importance of wellbeing and social dimensions in metaverse immersive experiences provided by technology or gaming characteristics. This exploratory study gave us essential findings about the perceptions of the metaverse and a deep understanding of the relations between the metaverse, virtual reality, animation, and gaming.
The Impact of Underlying Opaque White Coating Parameters on Flexographic Print Quality
Authors: Tomerlin Renata , Valdec Dean , Tomiša Mario , Vusić Damir
Published: July 2023

Opaque white ink is highly important when printing on transparent substrates. The purpose of the white ink is to completely or partially cover the content of the packaging as well as to ensure the printing of other colors over it according to the appropriate printing specifications. The main goal of this study was to research the impact of anilox roller volume of opaque white on its opacity, and, consequently, on opacity, as well as the CIELAB values of colors that are printed over it. The research was conducted in three printing stages, during which the volume of the anilox roller was increased in linear steps of 3 cm3/m2 while other parameters remained constant. The analysis of white ink covering properties was carried out on microscopic print images using ImageJ software. The results showed that a linear increase in the anilox roller volume resulted in an exponential change in white ink opacity as well as the opacity of color samples. It was also determined that a volume increase of 6 cm3/m2 was required to visually notice color difference. Namely, medium lightness colors more strongly reacted to changes in white ink opacity compared to light and dark colors.
Experimental Study on the Cracking Resistance of Asphalt Mixture with Different Degrees of Aging
Authors: Yang Shuyao , Zhou Zhigang , Li Kai
Published: July 2023

The cracking resistance of asphalt mixture is a non-negligible issue. However, the cracking resistance evolution law, motivated by two factors (thermos-oxidative aging degree and test temperature), is not yet well understood. The aim of this investigation is to gain more insight into the effect of thermos-oxidative aging and test temperature on the cracking resistance of asphalt mixture. Asphalt mixture (AC-13) and stone mastic asphalt mixture (SMA-13) were selected and exposed to different thermo-oxidative aging degrees (unaging (UA); short-term thermo-oxidative aging (STOA); long-term thermo-oxidative aging for 2/5/8 days (LTOA2d/LTOA5d/LTOA8d)). A direct tension test at different test temperatures (10 °C, 20 °C, 30 °C, 40 °C) was adopted to obtain their stress–strain curves and evaluation indexes (tensile strength, ultimate strain, pre-peak strain energy density, and post-peak strain energy density). The comprehensive index-cracking resistance index (CRI) was established by the entropy weight method combined with the technique to order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method and the corresponding aging coefficient was determined. The results showed that STOA can increase the aging coefficient of asphalt mixture, thereby boosting the cracking resistance. Additionally, the effect can be weakened by elevations in the test temperature. Meanwhile, LTOA can decrease the aging coefficient and thereby weaken the cracking resistance. This effect becomes more prominent with elevations in the test temperature. SMA-13 possesses a superior cracking resistance to AC-13, with a gap in CRI value of 3–69%, regardless of the aging degree and test temperature. A good relationship exists between the aging coefficient and the two factors (aging degree and test temperature).
Creep Characteristics of a Strongly Weathered Argillaceous Sandstone Sliding Zone and the Disaster Evolution Mechanism of the Huaipa Landslide, China
Authors: Dong Jinyu , Zhao Yawen , Liu Handong , Zhao Jiancang , Zhang Zhimin , Chi Qiuhui , Yang Jihong
Published: July 2023

The creep characteristics of sliding zones strongly influence slope deformation and long-term stability, as well as the occurrence of landslide catastrophes. In this paper, large-scale triaxial creep tests were performed on the strongly weathered argillaceous sandstone sliding zone of the Huaipa landslide in the Henan Province, China, to study its creep characteristics and long-term strength in natural and saturated states. Three-dimensional numerical simulations were conducted to analyze the deformation creep law and catastrophic evolution mechanism of the slope after excavation and rainfall. The results show that the sliding zone underwent appreciable creep deformation prior to failure, and that the progression of specimen damage with an increasing stress level followed decay creep → steady creep → accelerated creep. The stress level played a decisive role in the creep deformation, with higher stress levels resulting in higher instantaneous displacement, creep displacement, and longer times required to reach steady creep. The stress level also determined the specimen’s creep stage. When the stress level was low, the adjustment of the specimen’s internal structure was dominated by air space compression and particle movement, whereas particle fragmentation mostly occurred at high stress levels. The long-term rock strength was approximately 62–66% of the instantaneous strength, the internal friction angle decreased by approximately 8° relative to the instantaneous strength, and the cohesion decreased by approximately 30%. The slope foot unloaded and deformed owing to the excavation of a bauxite mine at its front edge, after which the slope deformed via creep. The landslide disaster occurred when the deformation was significantly accelerated and the slope started to slide as a whole once the sliding zone became water saturated owing to continuous rainfall. The simulation results indicate that the landslide can be divided into a front edge bulging zone, central sliding zone, and trailing edge tension zone, which provides valuable insight on the creep deformation evolution process and the disaster mechanism of the landslide under the action of front edge excavation and rainfall.
Impacts of Extreme Weather Event in Southeast Brazilian Mangrove Forest
Authors: Lima Nádia , Cunha-Lignon Marília , Martins Alécio , Armani Gustavo , Galvani Emerson
Published: July 2023

Climate oscillations are becoming more extreme, and mangroves may be more susceptible to changes in physical conditions that can lead to mass diebacks. The current study analysed the impacts of an extreme weather event in the Cananéia-Iguape Coastal System, southeast Brazilian mangroves and the condition of the area over three years. We used a multiproxy approach, including analyses of climatic attributes, structural vegetation, and vegetation indices. Damage caused by a strong storm and hail damage had a severe impact on mangrove areas. A meteorological station installed in the mangrove since 2008 recorded a maximum wind gust of 58 km·h−1 on 30 May 2019. On the Beaufort scale, this speed is classified as strong wind. After the extreme weather event, there were catastrophic impacts on the mangrove, with more than 90% dead trunks. Vegetation indices were reduced, indicating intense changes. The NDVI of the mangroves was reduced from 0.72 to 0.35. The LAI confirmed this premise, with a reduction from 4.25 to 0.63. After three years, natural recovery had not occurred. Extreme weather events have continued to occur along coasts, drastically altering the landscape. Mangroves have been affected by these events, and depending on the state of health of the forests, may have difficulties in recovery.
Atmospheric and Ionospheric Effects of La Palma Volcano 2021 Eruption
Authors: Zhang Hanshuo , Zhu Kaiguang , Cheng Yuqi , Marchetti Dedalo , Chen Wenqi , Fan Mengxuan , Wang Siyu , Wang Ting , Zhang Donghua , Zhang Yiqun
Published: July 2023

On 19 September 2021, La Palma volcano (Canarias Archipelagos) started an eruption that persisted until 13 December 2021. Despite the Volcano Explosive Index (VEI) being estimated equal to 3, corresponding to not so powerful eruption, the long eruption activity posed much scientific interest in this natural hazard event. In this paper, we searched for possible effects of this eruption on the atmosphere and ionosphere, investigating the climatological archive and Swarm magnetic satellite data. In particular, we explored Aerosol, Sulphur Dioxide and Carbon Monoxide concentrations in the atmosphere identifying both the direct emissions from the volcano as well as the plume that drifted toward West-South-West and was reinforced during the eruption period. The vertical profile of temperature from the Saber satellite was analysed to search for the possible presence of acoustic gravity waves induced by volcanic activity. Compared with the year before without eruption in the areas, a lot of Saber profiles present an Energy Potential very much higher than the previous year, proposing the presence of Acoustic Gravity Waves (AGW) induced by volcano eruption activity. We also identified Swarm magnetic disturbances on the day of the eruption and in November. The mechanism of coupling could be different for the latter one, as there is no evidence for AGW. They may be due to a more complex of physical and chemical alterations that propagate from the lower atmosphere to the upper one into the ionosphere.
Model-Free Sliding Mode Enhanced Proportional, Integral, and Derivative (SMPID) Control
Authors: Zhu Quanmin
Published: July 2023

This study proposes a type of Sliding Mode-based Proportional, Integral, and Derivative (SMPID) controllers to establish a model-free (treat dynamic plants as a whole uncertainty) sliding model control (MFSMC) platform for Bounded-Input and Bounded-Output (BIBO) dynamic systems. The SMPID design (1) proposes a sliding mode error (rather than error) as the PID input, (2) directly links to Lyapunov asymptotic stability to provide total robust nonlinear dynamic inversion (NDI), and (3) reduces the chattering effects in terms of Lyapunov definite positive stability. Further, the study proposes a general SMC framework to accommodate asymptotic time stabilisation and finite-time stabilisation for both model-based and model-free designs. A U-control framework is presented to integrate the SMPID control (for NDI) and an invariant control (IC) (for specifying the whole control system’s dynamic and static responses), which significantly relaxes the PID tunings and generates the specified performance. To provide assurance and guidance for applications and expansions, this study presents the relevant fundamental analyses and transparent simulated bench tests. It should be noted that the new SMPID in forms of u=SMPID(σ(e))=PID(sliding-mode) is different from that studied u=sliding-mode(PID(e)) in expression and functionality.
Bayesian and Non-Bayesian Estimation for a New Extension of Power Topp–Leone Distribution under Ranked Set Sampling with Applications
Authors: Alotaibi Naif , Al-Moisheer A. S. , Elbatal Ibrahim , Shrahili Mansour , Elgarhy Mohammed , Almetwally Ehab M.
Published: July 2023

In this article, we intend to introduce and study a new two-parameter distribution as a new extension of the power Topp–Leone (PTL) distribution called the Kavya–Manoharan PTL (KMPTL) distribution. Several mathematical and statistical features of the KMPTL distribution, such as the quantile function, moments, generating function, and incomplete moments, are calculated. Some measures of entropy are investigated. The cumulative residual Rényi entropy (CRRE) is calculated. To estimate the parameters of the KMPTL distribution, both maximum likelihood and Bayesian estimation methods are used under simple random sample (SRS) and ranked set sampling (RSS). The simulation study was performed to be able to verify the model parameters of the KMPTL distribution using SRS and RSS to demonstrate that RSS is more efficient than SRS. We demonstrated that the KMPTL distribution has more flexibility than the PTL distribution and the other nine competitive statistical distributions: PTL, unit-Gompertz, unit-Lindley, Topp–Leone, unit generalized log Burr XII, unit exponential Pareto, Kumaraswamy, beta, Marshall-Olkin Kumaraswamy distributions employing two real-world datasets.
Unbounded Versions of Two Old Summability Theorems
Authors: Connor Jeff
Published: July 2023

In this note, we obtain extensions of a theorem of Meyer-König and Zeller and a theorem of Wilansky in that the given results do not require a summability matrix to be a bounded operator from the convergent sequences into themselves. The culmination of the results in this note is that a triangle matrix method T with null columns maps a bounded divergent sequence to a null sequence if and only if the range of T is not closed in the null sequences.
Prediction of COVID-19 Using a WOA-BILSTM Model
Authors: Yang Xinyue , Li Shuangyin
Published: July 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the world, highlighting the importance of the accurate prediction of infection numbers. Given that the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is influenced by temporal and spatial factors, numerous researchers have employed neural networks to address this issue. Accordingly, we propose a whale optimization algorithm–bidirectional long short-term memory (WOA-BILSTM) model for predicting cumulative confirmed cases. In the model, we initially input regional epidemic data, including cumulative confirmed, cured, and death cases, as well as existing cases and daily confirmed, cured, and death cases. Subsequently, we utilized the BILSTM as the base model and incorporated WOA to optimize the specific parameters. Our experiments employed epidemic data from Beijing, Guangdong, and Chongqing in China. We then compared our model with LSTM, BILSTM, GRU, CNN, CNN-LSTM, RNN-GRU, DES, ARIMA, linear, Lasso, and SVM models. The outcomes demonstrated that our model outperformed these alternatives and retained the highest accuracy in complex scenarios. In addition, we also used Bayesian and grid search algorithms to optimize the BILSTM model. The results showed that the WOA model converged fast and found the optimal solution more easily. Thus, our model can assist governments in developing more effective control measures.
Gaining New Insights into Fundamental Biological Pathways by Bacterial Toxin-Based Genetic Screens
Authors: Tian Songhai , Zhou Nini
Published: July 2023

Genetic screen technology has been applied to study the mechanism of action of bacterial toxins—a special class of virulence factors that contribute to the pathogenesis caused by bacterial infections. These screens aim to identify host factors that directly or indirectly facilitate toxin intoxication. Additionally, specific properties of certain toxins, such as membrane interaction, retrograde trafficking, and carbohydrate binding, provide robust probes to comprehensively investigate the lipid biosynthesis, membrane vesicle transport, and glycosylation pathways, respectively. This review specifically focuses on recent representative toxin-based genetic screens that have identified new players involved in and provided new insights into fundamental biological pathways, such as glycosphingolipid biosynthesis, protein glycosylation, and membrane vesicle trafficking pathways. Functionally characterizing these newly identified factors not only expands our current understanding of toxin biology but also enables a deeper comprehension of fundamental biological questions. Consequently, it stimulates the development of new therapeutic approaches targeting both bacterial infectious diseases and genetic disorders with defects in these factors and pathways.
The Effects of Doxapram Blocking the Response of Gram-Negative Bacterial Toxin (LPS) at Glutamatergic Synapses
Authors: Brock Kaitlyn E. , Cooper Robin L.
Published: July 2023

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) associated with Gram-negative bacteria are one factor responsible for triggering the mammalian immune response. Blocking the action of LPS is key to reducing its downstream effects. However, the direct action of LPS on cells is not yet fully addressed. LPS can have rapid, direct effects on cells in the absence of a systemic immune response. Recent studies have shown that doxapram, a blocker of a subset of K2P channels, also blocks the acute actions of LPS. Doxapram was evaluated to determine if such action also occurs at glutamatergic synapses in which it is known that LPS can increase synaptic transmission. Doxapram at 5 mM first enhanced synaptic transmission, then reduced synaptic response, while 10 mM rapidly blocked transmission. Doxapram at 5 mM blocked the excitatory response induced by LPS. Enhancing synaptic transmission with LPS and then applying LPS combined with doxapram also resulted in retarding the response of LPS. It is possible doxapram and LPS are mediated via a similar receptor or cellular responses. The potential of designing pharmacological compounds with a similar structure to doxapram and determining the binding of such compounds can aid in addressing the acute, direct actions by LPS on cells.
Gestational Age-Dependent Regulation of Transthyretin in Mice during Pregnancy
Authors: Cheng Shibin , Huang Zheping , Nakashima Akitoshi , Sharma Surendra
Published: July 2023

Our prior studies have shown that protein misfolding and aggregation in the placenta are linked to the development of preeclampsia, a severe pregnancy complication. We identified transthyretin (TTR) as a key component of the aggregated protein complex. However, the regulation of native TTR in normal pregnancy remains unclear. In this study, we found that pregnant mice exhibited a remarkable and progressive decline in serum TTR levels through gestational day (gd) 12–14, followed by an increase in late pregnancy and postpartum. Meanwhile, serum albumin levels showed a modest but statistically significant increase throughout gestation. TTR protein and mRNA levels in the liver, a primary source of circulating TTR, mirrored the changes observed in serum TTR levels during gestation. Intriguingly, a similar pattern of TTR alteration was also observed in the serum of pregnant women and pregnant interleukin-10-knockout (IL-10−/−) mice with high inflammation background. In non-pregnant IL-10−/− mice, serum TTR levels were significantly lower than those in age-matched wild-type mice. Administration of IL-10 to non-pregnant IL-10−/− mice restored their serum TTR levels. Notably, dysregulation of TTR resulted in fewer implantation units, lower fetal weight, and smaller litter sizes in human TTR-overexpressing transgenic mice. Thus, TTR may play a pivotal role as a crucial regulator in normal pregnancy, and inflammation during pregnancy may contribute to the downregulation of serum TTR presence.
Central Nervous System Targeted Protein Degraders
Authors: Thomas Bedwyr ab Ion , Lewis H. Lois , Jones D. Heulyn , Ward Simon E.
Published: July 2023

Diseases of the central nervous system, which once occupied a large component of the pharmaceutical industry research and development portfolio, have for many years played a smaller part in major pharma pipelines—primarily due to the well cited challenges in target validation, valid translational models, and clinical trial design. Unfortunately, this decline in research and development interest has occurred in tandem with an increase in the medical need—in part driven by the success in treating other chronic diseases, which then results in a greater overall longevity along with a higher prevalence of diseases associated with ageing. The lead modality for drug agents targeting the brain remains the traditionally small molecule, despite potential in gene-based therapies and antibodies, particularly in the hugely anticipated anti-amyloid field, clearly driven by the additional challenge of effective distribution to the relevant brain compartments. However, in recognition of the growing disease burden, advanced therapies are being developed in tandem with improved delivery options. Hence, methodologies which were initially restricted to systemic indications are now being actively explored for a range of CNS diseases—an important class of which include the protein degradation technologies.
The Impact of Muscarinic Antagonism on Psychosis-Relevant Behaviors and Striatal [11C] Raclopride Binding in Tau Mouse Models of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Jimenez Heidy , Carrion Joseph , Adrien Leslie , Wolin Adam , Eun John , Cinamon Ezra , Chang Eric H. , Davies Peter , Vo An , Koppel Jeremy
Published: July 2023

Psychosis that occurs over the course of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with increased caregiver burden and a more rapid cognitive and functional decline. To find new treatment targets, studies modeling psychotic conditions traditionally employ agents known to induce psychosis, utilizing outcomes with cross-species relevance, such as locomotive activity and sensorimotor gating, in rodents. In AD, increased burdens of tau pathology (a diagnostic hallmark of the disease) and treatment with anticholinergic medications have, separately, been reported to increase the risk of psychosis. Recent evidence suggests that muscarinic antagonists may increase extracellular tau. Preclinical studies in AD models have not previously utilized muscarinic cholinergic antagonists as psychotomimetic agents. In this report, we utilize a human–mutant–tau model (P301L/COMTKO) and an over-expressed non-mutant human tau model (htau) in order to compare the impact of antimuscarinic (scopolamine 10 mg/kg/day) treatment with dopaminergic (reboxetine 20 mg/kg/day) treatment, for 7 days, on locomotion and sensorimotor gating. Scopolamine increased spontaneous locomotion, while reboxetine reduced it; neither treatment impacted sensorimotor gating. In the P301L/COMTKO, scopolamine treatment was associated with decreased muscarinic M4 receptor expression, as quantified with RNA-seq, as well as increased dopamine receptor D2 signaling, as estimated with Micro-PET [11C] raclopride binding. Scopolamine also increased soluble tau in the striatum, an effect that partially mediated the observed increases in locomotion. Studies of muscarinic agonists in preclinical tau models are warranted to determine the impact of treatment—on both tau and behavior—that may have relevance to AD and other tauopathies.
The Expression of Epac2 and GluA3 in an Alzheimer’s Disease Experimental Model and Postmortem Patient Samples
Authors: Zhang Tong , Musheshe Nshunge , van der Veen Christina H. J. T. M. , Kessels Helmut W. , Dolga Amalia , De Deyn Peter , Eisel Ulrich , Schmidt Martina
Published: July 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by amyloid beta (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau accumulation in the brain. Recent studies indicated that memory retrieval, rather than memory formation, was impaired in the early stage of AD. Our previous study reported that pharmacological activation of hippocampal Epac2 promoted memory retrieval in C57BL/6J mice. A recent study suggested that pharmacological inhibition of Epac2 prevented synaptic potentiation mediated by GluA3-containing AMPARs. In this study, we aimed to investigate proteins associated with Epac2-mediated memory in hippocampal postmortem samples of AD patients and healthy controls compared with the experimental AD model J20 and wild-type mice. Epac2 and phospho-Akt were downregulated in AD patients and J20 mice, while Epac1 and phospho-ERK1/2 were not altered. GluA3 was reduced in J20 mice and tended to decrease in AD patients. PSD95 tended to decrease in AD patients and J20. Interestingly, AKAP5 was increased in AD patients but not in J20 mice, implicating its role in tau phosphorylation. Our study points to the downregulation of hippocampal expression of proteins associated with Epac2 in AD.
Combining Radiotherapy and Immunotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Runnels Juliana , Bloom Julie R. , Hsieh Kristin , Dickstein Daniel R. , Shi Yuhao , Jones Brianna M. , Lehrer Eric J. , Bakst Richard L.
Published: July 2023

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Despite significant advances in well-established treatment techniques, prognosis for advanced-stage HNSCC remains poor. Recent, accumulating evidence supports a role for immunotherapy in HNSCC treatment. Radiation therapy (RT), a standard treatment option for HNSCC, has immunomodulatory and immunostimulatory effects that may enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. In several cancer types, combining RT and immunotherapy has been shown to improve tumor response rates, increase survival, and reduce toxicity compared to traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy. This review provides a timely overview of the current knowledge on the use of RT and immunotherapy for treating HNSCC. It highlights the potential advantages of combining these therapies, such as improved tumor response rates, increased survival, and reduced toxicity. The review also discusses the challenges that need to be addressed when redefining the standard of care in HNSCC, and proposes further research to optimize treatment combinations, minimize radiation-induced toxicity, and identify suitable patient populations for treatment.
COVID-19-Related Myocarditis: Are We There Yet? A Case Report of COVID-19-Related Fulminant Myocarditis
Authors: Pierri Alessandro , Gagno Giulia , Fluca Alessandra , Radaelli Davide , Bonuccelli Diana , Giusti Laura , Bulfoni Michela , Beltrami Antonio P. , Aleksova Aneta , D’Errico Stefano
Published: July 2023

There is increasing evidence of cardiac involvement in COVID-19 cases, with a broad range of clinical manifestations spanning from acute life-threatening conditions such as ventricular dysrhythmias, myocarditis, acute myocardial ischemia and pulmonary thromboembolism to long-term cardiovascular sequelae. In particular, acute myocarditis represents an uncommon but frightening complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Even if many reports of SARS CoV-2 myocarditis are present in the literature, the majority of them lacks histological confirmation of cardiac injury. Here, we report a case of a young lady, who died suddenly a few days after testing positive for SARS-CoV-2, whose microscopic and genetics features suggested a direct cardiac involvement compatible with fulminant myocarditis.