bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Modeling Assessment of CO2 Capture Process Using Aqueous Ammonia
Authors: Dragan Simion , Lisei Hannelore , Ilea Flavia-Maria , Bozonc Alexandru-Constantin , Cormos Ana-Maria
Published: May 2023

In the pursuit of addressing climate change and achieving sustainable development, this study presents a comprehensive and intricate mathematical model that provides valuable insights into the process of carbon dioxide capture using ammonia aqueous solutions as solvents. The ability of the model to accurately describe the process under consideration is supported by the validation results. Specifically, the validation process involves the examination of four parameters over the height of the absorption column. The results demonstrate a strong correlation as the model predicted profiles are in close agreement with experimental values, with an error coefficient exceeding R = 0.91. When subjecting the system to a 25% variation in flue gas inflow, the carbon capture rate exhibits a significant fluctuation (7–10%) for both increasing and decreasing cases. In addition, the validated model is scaled-up to simulate the industrial-scale ammonia-based absorption process of carbon dioxide. The simulation incorporates a column with intercooling after each layer of packing. The results indicate that by minimizing the temperature within the column, the concentration of ammonia in the clean gases obtained at the top remains below 10 ppm, while the capture rate increases up to 94%. Furthermore, the analysis of a predetermined scenario reveals that the model can effectively replicate the behavior of the system under various conditions. This finding highlights its potential utility for future applications, including process optimization and the implementation of control techniques aimed at mitigating the above-mentioned drawbacks, such as solvent loss due to vaporization.
Genetic Species Identification Using ycf1b, rbcL, and trnH-psbA in the Genus Pinus as a Complementary Method for Anatomical Wood Species Identification
Authors: Kim Minjun , Kim Tae-Jong
Published: May 2023

This study proposes the use of genetic analysis as a complementary method for species identification in the genus Pinus, particularly in cases where anatomical identification is challenging. Pinus species were grouped based on anatomical similarities, and the efficacy of using ycf1b, which is the most variable for Pinus species identification, and rbcL, which is a suggested DNA barcode for land plants, was evaluated within each group. Sequences for each species were obtained from the National Center for Biotechnology Information database and were used to perform phylogenetic analysis. Among the species in Group 1 (P. echinata, P. elliottii, P. ponderosa, P. radiata, P. rigida, P. taeda, and P. virginiana), rbcL was only effective in identifying P. radiata and P. ponderosa, while ycf1b classified five species. An additional DNA barcode, trnH-psbA, was needed to identify P. radiata and P. taeda. In Group 2 (P. densiflora, P. sylvestris, and P. thunbergii), most species were identified using both rbcL and ycf1b, with the exception of possible hybrids of P. densiflora and P. sylvestris. In Group 3 (P. koraiensis and P. strobus), two species were identified using rbcL and ycf1b. Combining genetic species identification with anatomical identification can accurately identify species of the genus Pinus.
Predicting Soil Saturated Water Conductivity Using Pedo-Transfer Functions for Rocky Mountain Forests in Northern China
Authors: Wang Di , Niu Jianzhi , Miao Yubo , Yang Tao , Berndtsson Ronny
Published: May 2023

Soil physicochemical properties and macropore spatial structure affect saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks). However, due to regional differences and long measurement time, Ks is tedious to quantify. Therefore, it is of great importance to find simplified but robust methods to predict Ks. One possibility is to use pedo-transfer functions (PTFs). Along this line, stratified sampling was carried out in six typical forestlands in the rocky mountain area of Northern China. Penetration experiments and industrial CT scanning were combined to explore the distribution characteristics of regional Ks and its influencing factors. Based on this, we compared three Ks PTF models by multiple linear regression for Ks prediction. The results indicated that: (1) Ks decreased with increasing soil depth, which followed the order coniferous forest < broad-leaved forest < mixed forest, and the change range of mixed forest was greater than that of homogeneous forest. (2) Soil bulk density, water content, sand, silt, organic matter, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and total potassium were significantly correlated with Ks (p < 0.05). In addition, stand type and soil depth had a certain impact on soil physicochemical properties that affected Ks. (3) Soil macropore structure, such as number density, length density, surface area density, and volume density, all decreased with increasing soil depth. They were all significantly positively correlated with Ks (p < 0.001). (4) The best predictability and universality for PTFs was achieved for PTFs containing bulk density, organic matter content, and total phosphorus. Only PTFs containing parameters of macropore spatial structure did not yield high predictability of Ks. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of forest hydrological infiltration processes in rocky mountain forests in Northern China, and provide theoretical support for the prediction and management of water loss and soil erosion and the enhancement of water conservation functions.
Growth Performance, Physiological Responses, and Histoarchitectural Changes in Juvenile Pangasianodon hypophthalmus under Different Environmental Salinities
Authors: Abdel-Latif Hany M. R. , Ahmed Hamada A. , Shukry Mustafa , Khafaga Asmaa F. , Elkhayat Bassem Khalil , Abdel-Tawwab Mohsen , Abd-elaziz Rehab A.
Published: May 2023

Environmental salinity is an important abiotic factor that directly affects the growth, metabolism, osmoregulatory processes, and physiological performance of fish. Herein, the effects of long-term salinity stress on juvenile Pangasianodon hypophthalmus have been evaluated. Fish were allotted in five triplicate groups and exposed to five different salinities (0.0, 4.0, 8.0, 12.0, and 16.0‰) for 56 days. After exposure, the final weight, weight gain percent, and specific growth rate were significantly decreased in groups reared in 8‰, 12‰, and 16‰ salinities. The feed intake was also significantly reduced in groups raised in water salinities of 12‰ and 16‰ compared with other groups. Conversely, the feed conversion ratio values were significantly increased in groups reared in water salinities between 8‰ and 16‰ compared with other groups. The lowest survival rates were observed in groups reared at salinities of 12‰ and 16‰ (91.1% and 77.8%, respectively). Body moisture (%) was significantly decreased, while crude protein and crude lipids (%) were significantly increased in groups exposed to salinities ranging from 8.0‰ to 16.0‰. Stress biomarkers (such as blood glucose, lactate, and cortisol levels) and oxidative stress indicators (such as carbonyl proteins, malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX)) were significantly increased in groups exposed to different salinities compared with the control group, and their highest levels were in the group exposed to 16‰ salinity. The histoarchitectural changes were different among groups in relation to the salinity level. Moreover, the scored histopathological lesions showed a significant increase in groups exposed to different salinities compared with the control, and the highest scores were reported in groups exposed to the highest salinities (12‰ and 16‰). Based on the fitting curves, the present study suggests that P. hypophthalmus could tolerate salinities up to 8.0‰ with no mortalities; however, 4‰ salinity was more suitable with no effects on the growth and little impact on histology and physiological responses.
Sugar Kelp (Saccharina latissima) Seaweed Added to a Growing-Finishing Lamb Diet Has a Positive Effect on Quality Traits and on Mineral Content of Meat
Authors: Grabež Vladana , Devle Hanne , Kidane Alemayehu , Mydland Liv Torunn , Øverland Margareth , Ottestad Silje , Berg Per , Kåsin Karoline , Ruud Lene , Karlsen Victoria , Živanović Valentina , Egelandsdal Bjørg
Published: May 2023

Supplementing ruminants’ diet with seaweed has shown positive effect on meat quality and micronutrients important for human health. The objective of the present study was to investigate the use of Saccharina latissima in a lamb diet to improve the eating quality and nutritional value of meat. Six-month-old female Norwegian White lambs (n = 24) were fed, 35 days pre-slaughter, three different diets: a control (CON) and two seaweed diets (SW); supplemented with either 2.5% (SW1) or 5% (SW2). The quality properties of longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and semimembranosus with adductor (SM+ADD) muscles were examined. The dietary inclusion of seaweed reduced cooking loss and shear force of lamb meat, although the effect was not significant at both supplementation levels. SW1 fed lambs showed a significantly (p < 0.05) improved meat color stability and antioxidant potential. Seaweed also reduced lipid oxidation (TBARS) and the warm-over flavor in SM+ADD compared to the CON lamb. Seaweed fed lambs showed an increased content of selenium and iodine in LTL, thereby fulfilling the requirements for the label “source of nutrient” and “significant source of nutrient”, respectively. An increased arsenic content in LTL was, however, also observed with seaweed inclusion (to 1.54 and 3.09 μg/100 g in SW1 and SW2 group, respectively). While relevant positive effects were found in meat using seaweed in lamb feed, some optimization of this feed approach will be desirable.
Structure Characterization, In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Tumor Activity of Sulfated Polysaccharide from Siraitia grosvenorii
Authors: Gong Pin , Wang Mengrao , Guo Yuxi , Long Hui , Wang Zhineng , Cui Dandan , Yao Wenbo , Yang Wenjuan , Chen Fuxin , Xie Jianwu
Published: May 2023

From Siraitia grosvenorii, a natural polysaccharide named SGP-1 was discovered, and its purity was determined to be 96.83%. Its structure is a glucan with 4-, 6- and 4,6-linked glucose units. In this paper, the sulfated derivative S-SGP of SGP-1 was prepared by the chlorosulfonic acid method. The sulfated derivatives were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The degree of substitution (DS) of the polysaccharide is 0.62, and the weight average molecular weight (Mw) is 1.34 × 104 Da. While retaining the morphological characteristics of polysaccharides, S-SGP appeared a large number of spherical structures and strong intermolecular forces. The in vitro activity study of S-SGP showed that the sulfated derivatives had the ability to scavenge DPPH radicals, hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions, and the scavenging power tended to increase with the increase in polysaccharide concentration. It can inhibit the growth of human hepatoma cells (HepG2), human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231) and human non-small cell lung cancer cells (A549) in vitro. In addition, the treatment of A549 cells with sulfuric acid derivatives can decrease the mitochondrial membrane potential, induce apoptosis, and alter the expression of apoptosis-related mRNA and protein.
Botanical Origin Influence on Some Honey Physicochemical Characteristics and Antioxidant Properties
Authors: Vîjan Loredana Elena , Mazilu Ivona Cristina , Enache Carmen , Enache Sebastian , Topală Carmen Mihaela
Published: May 2023

Five types of honey (multifloral, sunflower, linden, rapeseed, and acacia), from Southern Romania, were classified using chemometrics methods coupled with IR spectroscopy. The botanical origin’s effect on the physicochemical characteristics of honey was studied to highlight the most valuable plant source of honey. Except for antioxidant activity, the moisture, ash, electrical conductivity (EC), pH, free acidity (FA), total sugar content (TSC), hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), total phenolic (TPC), tannin (TTC), and flavonoid content (TFC) were significantly influenced by the botanical origin of the honey. The results showed that sunflower honey had the highest moisture (15.53%), free acidity (16.67 mEq kg−1), electrical conductivity (483.92 µS cm−1), phenolics (167.59 mg GAE 100 g−1), and flavonoids (19.00 mg CE 100 g−1), whereas multifloral honey presented the highest total sugar content (69.64 g Glu 100 g−1). The highest HMF content was found in linden honey (33.94 mg kg−1). The HMF contents of all tested honey were within the standard recommended limit, and they confirmed that the tested honey was free of any heat treatment. All five types of tested honey presented a safe moisture content for storage and consumption (12.21–18.74%). The honey′s free acidity was in the range of 4.00 to 25.00 mEq kg−1; this indicated the freshness of the samples and the absence of any fermentation processes in the tested honey. Honey with a total sugar content over 60% (except for linden honey, with 58.05 g glucose 100 g−1) showed the characteristic of nectar-derived honey. The elevated antioxidant activity of honey was correlated with its high moisture, flavonoids, and HMF, whereas the tannins and HMF were positively correlated with ash and electrical conductivity. The higher content of phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins was correlated with higher free acidity. The chemometric method, coupled with ATR-FTIR spectra, revealed a clear separation between linden honey from acacia, multifloral, and sunflower honey.
Tenebrio molitor (Linnaeus, 1758): Microbiological Screening of Feed for a Safe Food Choice
Authors: Pöllinger-Zierler Barbara , Lienhard Andrea , Mayer Chiara , Berner Simon , Rehorska René , Schöpfer Angela , Grasser Monika
Published: May 2023

As a result of the increasing focus on alternative protein sources which are ideally still sustainable, the yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, has come into focus. To verify its suitability as a food source in relation to human health, an analysis of the microbiome of larvae of T. molitor is pertinent. Subsequently, the focus of this study was, on the one hand, to analyze the influence of the substrate on the microbial load of the larvae microbiome, and, on the other hand, to determine which processing methods ensure the risk-free consumption of mealworms. For this purpose, mealworms were grown on 10 different substrates derived from by-products of food production (malt residual pellets, corn germ meal, chestnut breakage and meal, wheat bran, bread remains, draff, nettle, hemp seed oil cake, oyster mushrooms with coffee grounds, pumpkin seed oil cake) and microbial loads were analyzed using different selective media. Further starvation/defecation and heating (850 W for 10 min) methods were used to investigate how the reduction of microorganisms is enabled by these methods. The results showed that there was no significant relationship between the microbial load of the substrate and the mealworm. Starvation and defecation led to a lower stock of microorganisms. Heating led to a significant microbial reduction in non-defecated mealworms. The group of defecated and heated mealworms showed no detectable microbial load. In conclusion, firstly, the choice of substrate showed no effect on the microbial load of larvae of Tenebrio molitor and secondly, heating and starvation allow risk-free consumption. This study makes an important contribution for evaluating the safety of mealworms as a sustainable protein source in human nutrition.
Training, Abilities and the Structure of Teams
Authors: Hiller Tobias
Published: May 2023

Training in firms has an effect on the productivity of employees who receive the training, and depending on the production technology, on the other employees as well. Meanwhile, changing the remuneration structure within a team can change the stability of a team. In this paper, we apply the production games approach of cooperative game theory to analyze how training employees affects the stability of team structures and employee wages. Concretely, we apply coalition structures and the χ value. Our results are in line with the literature and numerous further research questions can be addressed based on our approach.
Chitosan Hydrogel-Delivered ABE8e Corrects PAX9 Mutant in Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Authors: Liu Bowen , Zhang Chenjiao , Zhao Han , Gao Jian , Hu Jingchao
Published: May 2023

Hypodontia (dental agenesis) is a genetic disorder, and it has been identified that the mutation C175T in PAX9 could lead to hypodontia. Cas9 nickase (nCas9)-mediated homology-directed repair (HDR) and base editing were used for the correction of this mutated point. This study aimed to investigate the effect of HDR and the base editor ABE8e in editing PAX9 mutant. It was found that the chitosan hydrogel was efficient in delivering naked DNA into dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). To explore the influence of the C175T mutation in PAX9 on the proliferation of DPSCs, hydrogel was employed to deliver PAX9 mutant vector into DPSCs, finding that the PAX9-containing C175T mutation failed to promote the proliferation of DPSCs. Firstly, DPSCs stably carrying PAX9 mutant were constructed. Either an HDR or ABE8e system was delivered into the above-mentioned stable DPSCs, and then the correction efficiency using Sanger sequencing and Western blotting was determined. Meanwhile, the ABE8e presented significantly higher efficiency in correcting C175T compared with HDR. Furthermore, the corrected PAX9 presented enhanced viability and differentiation capacity for osteogenic and neurogenic lineages; the corrected PAX9 even possessed extremely enhanced transcriptional activation ability. In summary, this study has powerful implications for studies into base editors, chitosan hydrogel, and DPSCs in treating hypodontia.
Nanomaterial-Doped Xerogels for Biosensing Measurements of Xanthine in Clinical and Industrial Applications
Authors: Dang Quang Minh , Wemple Ann H. , Leopold Michael C.
Published: May 2023

First-generation amperometric xanthine (XAN) biosensors, assembled via layer-by-layer methodology and featuring xerogels doped with gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs), were the focus of this study and involved both fundamental exploration of the materials as well as demonstrated usage of the biosensor in both clinical (disease diagnosis) and industrial (meat freshness) applications. Voltammetry and amperometry were used to characterize and optimize the functional layers of the biosensor design including a xerogel with and without embedded xanthine oxidase enzyme (XOx) and an outer, semi-permeable blended polyurethane (PU) layer. Specifically, the porosity/hydrophobicity of xerogels formed from silane precursors and different compositions of PU were examined for their impact on the XAN biosensing mechanism. Doping the xerogel layer with different alkanethiol protected Au-NPs was demonstrated as an effective means for enhancing biosensor performance including improved sensitivity, linear range, and response time, as well as stabilizing XAN sensitivity and discrimination against common interferent species (selectivity) over time—all attributes matching or exceeding most other reported XAN sensors. Part of the study focuses on deconvoluting the amperometric signal generated by the biosensor and determining the contribution from all of the possible electroactive species involved in natural purine metabolism (e.g., uric acid, hypoxanthine) as an important part of designing XAN sensors (schemes amenable to miniaturization, portability, or low production cost). Effective XAN sensors remain relevant as potential tools for both early diagnosis of diseases as well as for industrial food monitoring.
Potential Prognostic Value of GATA4 Depends on the p53 Expression in Primary Glioblastoma Patients
Authors: Trąbska-Kluch Berenika , Braun Marcin , Orzechowska Magdalena , Paszek Sylwia , Zuchowska Alina , Sołek Julia , Kluska Adam , Fijuth Jacek , Jesionek-Kupnicka Dorota , Zawlik Izabela
Published: May 2023

Background: Primary glioblastoma is characterized by an extremely poor prognosis. The promoter methylation of GATA4 leads to the loss of its expression in many cancer types. The formation of high-grade astrocytomas can be promoted by the concurrent loss of TP53 and GATA4 in normal human astrocytes. Nevertheless, the impact of GATA4 alterations with linkage to TP53 changes in gliomagenesis is poorly understood. This study aimed to evaluate GATA4 protein expression, GATA4 promoter methylation, p53 expression, TP53 promoter methylation, and mutation status in patients with primary glioblastoma and to assess the possible prognostic impact of these alterations on overall survival. Materials and Methods: Thirty-one patients with primary glioblastoma were included. GATA4 and p53 expressions were determined immunohistochemically, and GATA4 and TP53 promoter methylations were analyzed via methylation-specific PCR. TP53 mutations were investigated via Sanger sequencing. Results: The prognostic value of GATA4 depends on p53 expression. Patients without GATA4 protein expression were more frequently negative for TP53 mutations and had better prognoses than the GATA4 positive patients. In patients positive for GATA4 protein expression, p53 expression was associated with the worst outcome. However, in patients positive for p53 expression, the loss of GATA4 protein expression seemed to be associated with improved prognosis. GATA4 promoter methylation was not associated with a lack of GATA4 protein expression. Conclusions: Our data indicate that there is a possibility that GATA4 could function as a prognostic factor in glioblastoma patients, but in connection with p53 expression. A lack of GATA4 expression is not dependent on GATA4 promoter methylation. GATA4 alone has no influence on survival time in glioblastoma patients.
Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization and Expression Analysis of Plant Nuclear Factor (NF-Y) Gene Family Transcription Factors in Saccharum spp.
Authors: Swathik Clarancia Peter , Naveenarani Murugan , Ashwin Narayan Jayanarayanan , Krishna Sakthivel Surya , Thirugnanasambandam Prathima Perumal , Valarmathi Ramanathan , Suresha Giriyapur Shivalingamurthy , Gomathi Raju , Kumar Raja Arun , Manickavasagam Markandan , Jegadeesan Ramalingam , Arun Muthukrishnan , Hemaprabha Govindakurup , Appunu Chinnaswamy
Published: May 2023

Plant nuclear factor (NF-Y) is a transcriptional activating factor composed of three subfamilies: NF-YA, NF-YB, and NF-YC. These transcriptional factors are reported to function as activators, suppressors, and regulators under different developmental and stress conditions in plants. However, there is a lack of systematic research on the NF-Y gene subfamily in sugarcane. In this study, 51 NF-Y genes (ShNF-Y), composed of 9 NF-YA, 18 NF-YB, and 24 NF-YC genes, were identified in sugarcane (Saccharum spp.). Chromosomal distribution analysis of ShNF-Ys in a Saccharum hybrid located the NF-Y genes on all 10 chromosomes. Multiple sequence alignment (MSA) of ShNF-Y proteins revealed conservation of core functional domains. Sixteen orthologous gene pairs were identified between sugarcane and sorghum. Phylogenetic analysis of NF-Y subunits of sugarcane, sorghum, and Arabidopsis showed that ShNF-YA subunits were equidistant while ShNF-YB and ShNF-YC subunits clustered distinctly, forming closely related and divergent groups. Expression profiling under drought treatment showed that NF-Y gene members were involved in drought tolerance in a Saccharum hybrid and its drought-tolerant wild relative, Erianthus arundinaceus. ShNF-YA5 and ShNF-YB2 genes had significantly higher expression in the root and leaf tissues of both plant species. Similarly, ShNF-YC9 had elevated expression in the leaf and root of E. arundinaceus and in the leaf of a Saccharum hybrid. These results provide valuable genetic resources for further sugarcane crop improvement programs.
Integration of Phosphoproteomics and Transcriptome Studies Reveals ABA Signaling Pathways Regulate UV-B Tolerance in Rhododendron chrysanthum Leaves
Authors: Sun Qi , Zhou Xiangru , Yang Liping , Xu Hongwei , Zhou Xiaofu
Published: May 2023

The influence of UV-B stress on the growth, development, and metabolism of alpine plants, such as the damage to DNA macromolecules, the decline in photosynthetic rate, and changes in growth, development, and morphology cannot be ignored. As an endogenous signal molecule, ABA demonstrates a wide range of responses to UV-B radiation, low temperature, drought, and other stresses. The typical effect of ABA on leaves is to reduce the loss of transpiration by closing the stomata, which helps plants resist abiotic and biological stress. The Changbai Mountains have a harsh environment, with low temperatures and thin air, so Rhododendron chrysanthum (R. chrysanthum) seedlings growing in the Changbai Mountains can be an important research object. In this study, a combination of physiological, phosphorylated proteomic, and transcriptomic approaches was used to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which abiotic stress leads to the phosphorylation of proteins in the ABA signaling pathway, and thereby mitigates UV-B radiation to R. chrysanthum. The experimental results show that a total of 12,289 differentially expressed genes and 109 differentially phosphorylated proteins were detected after UV-B stress in R. chrysanthum, mainly concentrated in plant hormone signaling pathways. Plants were treated with ABA prior to exposure to UV-B stress, and the results showed that ABA mitigated stomatal changes in plants, thus confirming the key role of endogenous ABA in plant adaptation to UV-B. We present a model that suggests a multifaceted R. chrysanthum response to UV-B stress, providing a theoretical basis for further elaboration of the mechanism of ABA signal transduction regulating stomata to resist UV-B radiation.
Genetic Diversity of Durum Wheat (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum, Desf) Germplasm as Revealed by Morphological and SSR Markers
Authors: Dagnaw Temesgen , Mulugeta Behailu , Haileselassie Teklehaimanot , Geleta Mulatu , Ortiz Rodomiro , Tesfaye Kassahun
Published: May 2023

Ethiopia is considered a center of origin and diversity for durum wheat and is endowed with many diverse landraces. This research aimed to estimate the extent and pattern of genetic diversity in Ethiopian durum wheat germplasm. Thus, 104 durum wheat genotypes representing thirteen populations, three regions, and four altitudinal classes were investigated for their genetic diversity, using 10 grain quality- and grain yield-related phenotypic traits and 14 simple sequence repeat (SSR) makers. The analysis of the phenotypic traits revealed a high mean Shannon diversity index (H′ = 0.78) among the genotypes and indicated a high level of phenotypic variation. The principal component analysis (PCA) classified the genotypes into three groups. The SSR markers showed a high mean value of polymorphic information content (PIC = 0.50) and gene diversity (h = 0.56), and a moderate number of alleles per locus (Na = 4). Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed a high level of variation within populations, regions, and altitudinal classes, accounting for 88%, 97%, and 97% of the total variation, respectively. Pairwise genetic differentiation and Nei’s genetic distance analyses identified that the cultivars are distinct from the landrace populations. The distance-based (Discriminant Analysis of Principal Component (DAPC) and Minimum Spanning Network (MSN)) and model-based population stratification (STRUCTURE) methods of clustering grouped the genotypes into two clusters. Both the phenotypic data-based PCA and the molecular data-based DAPC and MSN analyses defined distinct groupings of cultivars and landraces. The phenotypic and molecular diversity analyses highlighted the high genetic variation in the Ethiopian durum wheat gene pool. The investigated SSRs showed significant associations with one or more target phenotypic traits. The markers identify landraces with high grain yield and quality traits. This study highlights the usefulness of Ethiopian landraces for cultivar development, contributing to food security in the region and beyond.
Modeling Consumer Acceptance and Usage Behaviors of m-Health: An Integrated Model of Self-Determination Theory, Task–Technology Fit, and the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Tao Da , Chen Zhixi , Qin Mingfu , Cheng Miaoting
Published: May 2023

Although mobile health (m-health) has great potential to reduce the cost of medical care and improve its quality and efficiency, it is not widely accepted by consumers. In addition, there is still a lack of comprehensive insight into m-health acceptance, especially among consumers with different demographic characteristics. This study aimed to explore the factors affecting consumers’ acceptance and usage behaviors of m-health and to examine whether their roles differ by demographic characteristics. A comprehensive m-health acceptance model was proposed by integrating factors from the Self-Determination Theory, Task–Technology Fit, and Technology Acceptance Model. Survey data were collected from 623 Chinese adults with at least 6 months of m-health usage experience and analyzed using structural equation modeling techniques. Multi-group analyses were performed to assess whether the model relationships were different across gender, age, and usage experience. The results indicated that relatedness and competence were significant motivational antecedents of perceived ease of use. Task–technology fit and the perceived ease of use significantly affected the perceived usefulness. The perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness were significant determinants of consumer usage behaviors of m-health and together explained 81% of its variance. Moreover, the relationships among autonomy, perceived usefulness, and usage behaviors of m-health were moderated by gender. Consumer usage behaviors of m-health were affected by factors such as self-motivation (i.e., relatedness and competence), technology perceptions (i.e., perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness), and task–technology fit. These findings provide a theoretical underpinning for future research on m-health acceptance and provide empirical evidence for practitioners to promote the better design and use of m-health for healthcare activities.
Healthcare Professionals’ Specialists’ Perception of Telemedicine in Romania—A Quantitative Study of Beliefs, Practices, and Expectations
Authors: Andronic Octavian , Petrescu George E. D. , Artamonov Andrada Raluca , Bolocan Alexandra , Rădăvoi Daniel , Bran Mihai , Stănescu Ana Maria Alexandra , Jinga Viorel , Busnatu Ștefan
Published: May 2023

Background: Telemedicine is the service of delivering medical care from a distance through the means of modern technology. It has many advantages, including improved access, decreased costs for both patients and clinics, more flexibility and availability, as well as more precise and individualized therapies. However, it is equally important to take into consideration all the challenges associated with this innovative way of providing care. This virtual technology has had an exponential growth, especially since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, because it delivers great outcomes and suggests exciting future promises. Methods: The study involved the collection of responses from an online questionnaire comprising 26 questions that was distributed to healthcare professionals in Romania. Results: The questionnaire was completed by a number of 1017 healthcare professionals. We investigated and analyzed whether telehealth is seen as an important constituent of the healthcare system, if it is perceived as necessary, safe, well-managed by lawmakers, and easy to use, what advantages it has, what common practices specialists already employ and, additionally, the openness toward becoming more digitally educated for the purpose of streamlining the use of telemedicine. Conclusions: This paper reports on the perception of telemedicine among healthcare professionals in Romania, as constructive feedback represents an essential piece of the puzzle in assuring the smooth transition toward this facet of modern healthcare.
Mental Health Status of Indian Migrant Workers in the United Arab Emirates during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Khan Md Imran , Khan Mohammed Arshad , Sherfudeen Noorjahan , Illiyan Asheref , Ali Mohammad Athar
Published: May 2023

Migration has become a de facto phenomenon in the contemporary globalized world and India is not untouched. Indian labourers from the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh migrated to the UAE in search of better jobs and prospects. They migrated alone and left behind their families. The distance between them and their family can also create mental disorders; therefore, it becomes necessary to analyze the mental health of the migrant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study is quantitative and based on a sample survey approach. The researchers collected 416 samples through a structured questionnaire and used the snowball sampling technique. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, chi-square test and logistic regression were utilized to analyze and interpret the results. The outbreak of coronavirus disturbed their livelihood resulting in a cut to their salary or earnings; in total, 83% of migrants were affected by the COVID-19 outbreak in terms of loss of their income, out of which 76% were affected by less than AED 1000. The respondents’ mental health was worrisome, but they were hopeful for the future. In total, 73.5% of respondents felt nervous, 62% felt depressed, 77% felt lonely, 63.4% had a hard time sleeping, and 63% had difficulties concentrating. The findings of the study draw attention to the policymakers to carry out necessary provisions to the targeted psychologically affected community. The findings also suggest creating awareness among the people by using social networking sites and diagnosing mental disorders on an urgent basis.
Happiness and Socio-Demographic Factors in an Italian Sample: A Propensity-Matched Study
Authors: Rizzato Matteo , Antonelli Michele , Sam Carlo , Di Dio Cinzia , Lazzeroni Davide , Donelli Davide
Published: May 2023

Happiness is receiving more and more interest both as a determinant of health and a measure of outcome in biomedical and psychological sciences. The main objective of this study was to assess how the levels of happiness vary in a large sample of Italian adults and to identify the socio-demographic conditions which impair happiness domains the most. The participants of this survey consisted of 1695 Italian adults (85.9% women; 14.1% men) who completed the Measure of Happiness (MH) questionnaire online. In this study, the differences between groups in total and single domain (life perspective, psychophysical status, socio-relational sphere, relational private sphere, and financial status) happiness levels were examined through a propensity score matching analysis with respect to socio-demographic conditions, including gender, age, annual income, relationship status, having children, and education level. The results show that low income has a negative impact on happiness levels, whereas being in a relationship has a positive effect. Having children appears to have a negative impact on male happiness. Males appear to be happier than females, especially with regard to the psychophysics status. This evidence emphasizes the urgency for Italian policymakers to take actions on removing obstacles to people’s happiness, especially with regard to financial distress, parenthood, and gender gaps.
Reviewing Publicly Available Reports on Child Health Disparities in Indigenous and Remote Communities of Australia
Authors: Ahmed Kedir Y. , Allan Julaine , Dalton Hazel , Sleigh Adrian , Seubsman Sam-ang , Ross Allen G.
Published: May 2023

Developing programs that ensure a safe start to life for Indigenous children can lead to better health outcomes. To create effective strategies, governments must have accurate and up-to-date information. Accordingly, we reviewed the health disparities of Australian children in Indigenous and remote communities using publicly available reports. A thorough search was performed on Australian government and other organisational websites (including the Australian Bureau of Statistics [ABS] and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare [AIHW]), electronic databases [MEDLINE] and grey literature sites for articles, documents and project reports related to Indigenous child health outcomes. The study showed Indigenous dwellings had higher rates of crowding when compared to non-Indigenous dwellings. Smoking during pregnancy, teenage motherhood, low birth weight and infant and child mortality were higher among Indigenous and remote communities. Childhood obesity (including central obesity) and inadequate fruit consumption rates were also higher in Indigenous children, but Indigenous children from remote and very remote areas had a lower rate of obesity. Indigenous children performed better in physical activity compared to non-Indigenous children. No difference was observed in vegetable consumption rates, substance-use disorders or mental health conditions between Indigenous and non-Indigenous children. Future interventions for Indigenous children should focus on modifiable risk factors, including unhealthy housing, perinatal adverse health outcomes, childhood obesity, poor dietary intake, physical inactivity and sedentary behaviours.
A Decade of Cryptocurrency Investment Literature: A Cluster-Based Systematic Analysis
Authors: Almeida José , Gonçalves Tiago Cruz
Published: May 2023

This study aims to systematically analyze and synthesize the literature produced thus far on cryptocurrency investment. We use a systematic review process supported by VOSviewer bibliographic coupling to review 482 papers published in the ABS 2021 journal list, considering all different areas of knowledge. This paper contributes an in-depth systematic analysis on the unconsolidated topic of cryptocurrency investment through the use of a cluster-based approach grounded in a bibliographic coupling analysis, revealing complex network associations within each cluster. Four literature clusters emerge from the cryptocurrency investment literature, namely, investigating investor behavior, portfolio diversification, cryptocurrency market microstructure, and risk management in cryptocurrency investment. Additionally, the study delivers a qualitative analysis that reveals the main conclusions and future research venues by cluster. The findings provide researchers with cluster-based information and structured networking for research outlets and literature strands.
Exploring the Functional Roles of Telomere Maintenance 2 in the Tumorigenesis of Glioblastoma Multiforme and Drug Responsiveness to Temozolomide
Authors: Feng Shao-Wei , Wu Zih-Syuan , Chiu Yi-Lin , Huang Shih-Ming
Published: May 2023

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a grade IV human glioma. It is the most malignant primary central nervous system tumor in adults, accounting for around 15% of intracranial neoplasms and 40–50% of all primary malignant brain tumors. However, the median survival time of GBM patients is still less than 15 months, even after treatment with surgical resection, concurrent chemoradiotherapy, and adjuvant chemotherapy with temozolomide (TMZ). Telomere maintenance 2 (TELO2) mRNA is highly expressed in high-grade glioma patients, and its expression correlates with shorter survival outcomes. Hence, it is urgent to address the functional role of TELO2 in the tumorigenesis and TMZ treatment of GBM. In this study, we knocked down TELO2 mRNA in GBM8401 cells, a grade IV GBM, compared with TELO2 mRNA overexpression in human embryonic glial SVG p12 cells and normal human astrocyte (NHA) cells. We first analyzed the effect of TELO2 on the Elsevier pathway and Hallmark gene sets in GBM8401, SVG p12, and NHA via an mRNA array analysis. Later, we further examined and analyzed the relationship between TELO2 and fibroblast growth factor receptor 3, cell cycle progression, epithelial–mesenchymal transient (EMT), reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis, and telomerase activity. Our data showed that TELO2 is involved in several functions of GBM cells, including cell cycle progression, EMT, ROS, apoptosis, and telomerase activity. Finally, we examined the crosstalk between TELO2 and the responsiveness of TMZ or curcumin mediated through the TELO2–TTI1–TTI2 complex, the p53-dependent complex, the mitochondrial-related complex, and signaling pathways in GBM8401 cells. In summary, our work provides new insight that TELO2 might modulate target proteins mediated through the complex of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-related kinases in its involvement in cell cycle progression, EMT, and drug response in GBM patients.
Broadly Applicable Control Approaches Improve Accuracy of ChIP-Seq Data
Authors: Petrie Meghan V. , He Yiwei , Gan Yan , Ostrow Andrew Zachary , Aparicio Oscar M.
Published: May 2023

Chromatin ImmunoPrecipitation (ChIP) is a widely used method for the analysis of protein–DNA interactions in vivo; however, ChIP has pitfalls, particularly false-positive signal enrichment that permeates the data. We have developed a new approach to control for non-specific enrichment in ChIP that involves the expression of a non-genome-binding protein targeted in the IP alongside the experimental target protein due to the sharing of epitope tags. ChIP of the protein provides a “sensor” for non-specific enrichment that can be used for the normalization of the experimental data, thereby correcting for non-specific signals and improving data quality as validated against known binding sites for several proteins that we tested, including Fkh1, Orc1, Mcm4, and Sir2. We also tested a DNA-binding mutant approach and showed that, when feasible, ChIP of a site-specific DNA-binding mutant of the target protein is likely an ideal control. These methods vastly improve our ChIP-seq results in S. cerevisiae and should be applicable in other systems.
Pyroptosis: A Promising Mechanism Linking SARS-CoV-2 Infection to Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Monti Paola , Solazzo Giulia , Accurti Veronica , Gambitta Bianca , Iodice Simona , Boito Simona , Cantone Laura , Manenti Alessandro , Dioni Laura , Montomoli Emanuele , Persico Nicola , Bollati Valentina
Published: May 2023

Pregnancy is characterized by a delicate immune balance; therefore, infectious diseases might increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). Here, we hypothesize that pyroptosis, a unique cell death pathway mediated by the NLRP3 inflammasome, could link SARS-CoV-2 infection, inflammation, and APOs. Two blood samples were collected from 231 pregnant women at 11–13 weeks of gestation and in the perinatal period. At each time point, SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and neutralizing antibody titers were measured by ELISA and microneutralization (MN) assays, respectively. Plasmatic NLRP3 was determined by ELISA. Fourteen miRNAs selected for their role in inflammation and/or pregnancy were quantified by qPCR and further investigated by miRNA-gene target analysis. NLRP3 levels were positively associated with nine circulating miRNAs, of which miR-195-5p was increased only in MN+ women (p-value = 0.017). Pre-eclampsia was associated with a decrease in miR-106a-5p (p-value = 0.050). miR-106a-5p (p-value = 0.026) and miR-210-3p (p-value = 0.035) were increased in women with gestational diabetes. Women giving birth to small for gestational age babies had lower miR-106a-5p and miR-21-5p (p-values = 0.001 and 0.036, respectively), and higher miR-155-5p levels (p-value = 0.008). We also observed that neutralizing antibodies and NLRP3 concentrations could affect the association between APOs and miRNAs. Our findings suggest for the first time a possible link between COVID-19, NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis, inflammation, and APOs. Circulating miRNAs might be suitable candidates to gain a comprehensive view of this complex interplay.
MoCbp7, a Novel Calcineurin B Subunit-Binding Protein, Is Involved in the Calcium Signaling Pathway and Regulates Fungal Development, Virulence, and ER Homeostasis in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Wang Zi-He , Shen Zi-Fang , Wang Jing-Yi , Cai Ying-Ying , Li Lin , Liao Jian , Lu Jian-Ping , Zhu Xue-Ming , Lin Fu-Cheng , Liu Xiao-Hong
Published: May 2023

Calcineurin, a key regulator of the calcium signaling pathway, is involved in calcium signal transduction and calcium ion homeostasis. Magnaporthe oryzae is a devastating filamentous phytopathogenic fungus in rice, yet little is known about the function of the calcium signaling system. Here, we identified a novel calcineurin regulatory-subunit-binding protein, MoCbp7, which is highly conserved in filamentous fungi and was found to localize in the cytoplasm. Phenotypic analysis of the MoCBP7 gene deletion mutant (ΔMocbp7) showed that MoCbp7 influenced the growth, conidiation, appressorium formation, invasive growth, and virulence of M. oryzae. Some calcium-signaling-related genes, such as YVC1, VCX1, and RCN1, are expressed in a calcineurin/MoCbp7-dependent manner. Furthermore, MoCbp7 synergizes with calcineurin to regulate endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis. Our research indicated that M. oryzae may have evolved a new calcium signaling regulatory network to adapt to its environment compared to the fungal model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Ligand Tuning in Cu(pyalk)2 Water Oxidation Electrocatalysis
Authors: Cody Claire C. , Caes Zofia N. , Capobianco Matt D. , Mercado Brandon Q. , Crabtree Robert H. , Brudvig Gary W.
Published: May 2023

Molecular copper water oxidation electrocatalysts have been extensively studied in recent years for their potential use in artificial photosynthetic systems for solar energy conversion. Although ligand modification and its ability to influence catalytic properties is a key advantage of molecular systems, there are, as yet, few examples of systematic studies of these effects. Our oxidatively resistant pyalk (2-pyridyl-2-propanoate) ligand forms a complex with copper(II) that catalyzes water oxidation and provides an attractive scaffold for systematic ligand tuning. Here, we report a series of analogous copper complexes with electron-donating (methoxy-) and -withdrawing (methoxycarbonyl-) groups at the para-position of the pyalk ligand. Trends in the pKa and redox potential align with first-principles predictions for the electron-withdrawing and electron-donating groups. While the modified complexes show good activity for water oxidation, lowered faradaic efficiency in comparison to the parent complex highlights the importance of stability considerations for catalyst tuning.