bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pleasantness makes a good time: musical consonance shapes interpersonal synchronization in dyadic joint action
Authors: Lazzari Giorgio , Sacheli Lucia Maria , Benoit Charles-Etienne , Lega Carlotta , van Vugt Floris T.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Music making is a process by which humans across cultures come together to create patterns of sounds that are aesthetically pleasing. What remains unclear is how this aesthetic outcome affects the sensorimotor interaction between participants.

Method

Here we approach this question using an interpersonal sensorimotor synchronization paradigm to test whether the quality of a jointly created chord (consonant vs. dissonant) affects movement coordination. We recruited non-musician participants in dyads to perform a dyadic synchronization-continuation task (dSCT): on each trial, participants first synchronized their movements to a metronome (synchronization phase) and then continued tapping together at the same tempo without the metronome (continuation phase). Each tap yielded a note and participants heard both their own and that of their partner, thus creating a chord that was varied to be either consonant (Perf5 or Maj6) or dissonant (Min2 or Maj2). For each trial, participants also rated the pleasure they felt in creating the sounds together. Additionally, they completed questionnaires about social closeness to the other participant, musical reward sensitivity and musical training.

Results

Results showed that participants' taps were closer in time when they jointly created consonant (high pleasure) vs. dissonant (low pleasure) chords, and that pleasure experienced by the dyad in each trial predicted interpersonal synchronization. However, consonance did not affect individual synchronization with the metronome or individual tapping when the metronome was discontinued. The effect of consonance on synchronization was greater in dyads who reported feeling less close prior to the task.

Discussion

Together, these results highlight the role of consonance in shaping the temporal coordination of our actions with others. More broadly, this work shows that the aesthetic outcome of what we create together affects joint behaviors.
Shuxuening injection for treating acute ischemic stroke: a PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhan Jie , Xu Xiaowen , Zhu Yanzhen , Liu Lin , Chen Hongxia , Zhan Lechang
Published: October 2024

Background: Using Shuxuening injection (SXNI) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is popular in China, but its efficacy and safety remain controversial.

Purpose: This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of SXNI as an add-on therapy for AIS.

Study design: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods: We searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on SXNI for AIS in seven databases and two clinical trial registration platforms from their inception to January 2023. We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool to assess the methodological quality of the included studies and performed the meta-analysis with R software. The primary outcome was clinical efficacy, assessed by the clinical effective rate (CER). The secondary outcomes were neurological function, activities of daily living (ADL), and adverse events (AEs).

Results: In total, 116 studies with 12,401 participants were included in this review. Fifteen (12.9%) studies were judged to be of moderate to high quality. SXNI plus conventional treatments (CTs) improved the CER compared with CTs alone (risk ratio [RR]: 1.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17–1.25, p < 0.0001) or CTs plus other injections (RR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.15–1.21, p < 0.0001). SXNI plus CTs reduced the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score compared with CTs alone (mean difference [MD]: −4.00, 95% CI: −5.22 to −2.78, p < 0.0001) or CTs plus other injections (MD: −2.28, 95% CI: −3.41 to −1.16, p < 0.0001). SXNI plus CTs also decreased the Chinese Stroke Scale score compared with CTs alone (MD:

−5.01, 95% CI: −7.38 to −2.65, p < 0.0001) or CTs plus other injections (MD: −4.31, 95% CI: −5.75 to −2.88, p < 0.0001). SXNI plus CTs was superior for increasing the Barthel index score compared with CTs alone (MD: 11.58, 95% CI: 8.27–14.90, p < 0.0001) or CTs plus other injections (MD: 5.43, 95% CI: 0.48–10.39, p = 0.0317). The level of evidence for each outcome was assessed as low to very low. The most common AEs of SXNI were cardiovascular system events, and all these AEs were mild.

Conclusion: SXNI combined with CTs maybe better than CTs alone or CTs plus other injections for improving the clinical efficacy, neurological function, and ADL of AIS patients, with relatively reliable safety. However, due to the low quality of the included studies, more rigorously designed RCTs with large sample sizes should be conducted in the future.

Systematic Review Registration:

www.crd.york.ac.uk, identifier (CRD42023418565).
MKAN-MMI: empowering traditional medicine-microbe interaction prediction with masked graph autoencoders and KANs
Authors: Ye Sheng , Wang Jue , Zhu Mingmin , Yuan Sisi , Zhuo Linlin , Chen Tiancong , Gao Jinjian
Published: October 2024

The growing microbial resistance to traditional medicines necessitates in-depth analysis of medicine-microbe interactions (MMIs) to develop new therapeutic strategies. Widely used artificial intelligence models are limited by sparse observational data and prevalent noise, leading to over-reliance on specific data for feature extraction and reduced generalization ability. To address these limitations, we integrate Kolmogorov-Arnold Networks (KANs), independent subspaces, and collaborative decoding techniques into the masked graph autoencoder (Mask GAE) framework, creating an innovative MMI prediction model with enhanced accuracy, generalization, and interpretability. First, we apply Bernoulli distribution to randomly mask parts of the medicine-microbe graph, advancing self-supervised training and reducing noise impact. Additionally, the independent subspace technique enables graph neural networks (GNNs) to learn weights independently across different feature subspaces, enhancing feature expression. Fusing the multi-layer outputs of GNNs effectively reduces information loss caused by masking. Moreover, using KANs for advanced nonlinear mapping enhances the learnability and interpretability of weights, deepening the understanding of complex MMIs. These measures significantly enhanced the accuracy, generalization, and interpretability of our model in MMI prediction tasks. We validated our model on three public datasets with results showing that our model outperformed existing leading models. The relevant data and code are publicly accessible at: https://github.com/zhuoninnin1992/MKAN-MMI.
Nervonic acid as novel therapeutics initiates both neurogenesis and angiogenesis for comprehensive wound repair and healing
Authors: Liu Yu-Da , Peng Xiao , Chen Hao-Ran , Liu Xue-Song , Peng Li-Hua
Published: October 2024

Rapid tissue reconstruction in acute and chronic injuries are challengeable, the inefficient repair mainly due to the difficulty in simultaneous promoting the regeneration of peripheral nerves and vascular, which are closely related. Main clinical medication strategy of tissue repair depends on different cytokines to achieve nerves, blood vessels or granulation tissue regeneration, respectively. However, their effect is still limited to single aspect with biorisk exists upon long-time use. Herein, for the first time, we have demonstrated that NA isolated from Malania oleifera has potential to simultaneously promote both neurogenesis and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo. First, NA was identified by NMR and FTIR structural characterization analysis. In a model of oxidative stress in neural cells induced by hydrogen peroxide, the cells viability of RSC96 and PC12 were protected from oxidative stress injury by NA. Similarly, based on the rat wound healing model, effective blood vessel formation and wound healing can be observed in tissue staining under NA treatment. In addition, according to the identification of nerve and vascular related markers in the wound tissue, the mechanism of NA promoting nerve regeneration lies in the upregulation of the secretion NGF, NF-200 and S100 protein, and NA treatment was also able to up-regulate VEGF and CD31 to directly promote angiogenesis during wound healing. This study provides an important candidate drug molecules for acute or chronic wound healing and nerve vascular synchronous regeneration.
Green rush and red warnings: Retrospective chart review of adverse events of interactions between cannabinoids and psychotropic drugs
Authors: Chrobak Adrian Andrzej , Woroń Jarosław , Siwek Marcin
Published: October 2024

Aim

Our objective was to systematically assess the prevalence and clinical features of adverse events related to interactions between cannabinoids and psychotropic drugs through a retrospective chart review.

Methodology

1586 adverse event reports were assessed. Cases included in the analysis showed a high probability of a causal relationships between cannabinoid-psychotropic drug interactions and adverse events. Data extracted included age, sex, psychotropic drug, cannabinoid products, other medications, and the clinical outcomes and mechanisms of these interactions.

Results

Cannabinoids were involved in 8% of adverse events associated with the concomitant use of psychotropic drugs and other preparations. We identified 20 reports in which side effects presented a causal relationship with the use of psychotropic drugs and cannabinoids. Preparations containing 18% or more tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), presented significant side effects with the following antidepressants: mianserine (restless legs syndrome, urogenital pain, ventricular tachycardia), mirtazapine (pancreatitis, hyperhidrosis, arthralgia), quetiapine (myocarditis, renal failure, bradycardia, sialorrhea), haloperidol (ventricular arrhythmia, prolonged QTc), aripiprazole (prolonged QTc), ventricular tachycardia) and cariprazine (stomach pain, hepatotoxicity), sertraline (ataxia, hyperactivity, coma, hallucinations, anxiety, agitation, tachycardia, panic attacks, disorientation, headache, dizziness, blurry vision, severe emesis, xerostomia, dry eyes), trazodone (disorientation, memory impairment, sedation), fluvoxamine (tachycardia, tachypnoea, dysarthria, auditory hallucinations). Two out of 20 reports (10%) analyzed in our study was related with the simultaneous use of cannabidiol (CBD) oil and sertraline. Concomitant use of those substances was associated with the adverse events in form of diarrhea, emesis, fever and severe fatigue.

Conclusion

Clinicians need to closely monitor adverse events resulting from the combined use of cannabinoids and psychotropic medications. The accumulation of side effects and pharmacokinetic interactions (including CYP and p-glycoprotein inhibition) between these drugs can lead to clinically significant adverse outcomes.
Effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on recovery after a football match in young players: a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gušić Marko , Stantić Tomislav , Lazić Anja , Andrašić Slobodan , Roelands Bart , Bogataj Špela
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Football is a physically demanding sport that requires effective recovery strategies to maintain performance level and prevent injuries. This study investigated if a single 1-h hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) session affects recovery and performance after a football match in elite youth players.

Methods

Twenty elite youth football players (age 17.3 ± 0.5 years) were randomly assigned to a HBOT group or a control group (CON). They played a 90-min football game and underwent either a 60-min HBOT or placebo intervention. Before (T1), at the end of the match (T2), 1 h after HBOT or CON session (T3), and 12 h after HBOT session (T4), subjects underwent biochemical (serum samples (myoglobin (MB), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)) and performance measurements (linear speed at 5 m, 10 m and 20 m, squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ) and countermovement jump with arm swing (CMJa)). The Hooper Index (HI) was collected and heart rate was measured during the game.

Results

The football match induced significant increases in all biochemical markers, but no significant differences were found between the HBOT and control group in biochemical or performance parameters at any time point. However, there was a significant interaction effect between time and group for HI (p = 0.012, η2 = 0.124), with the HBOT group showing significantly lower HI values (8.6 ± 2.41) than the control group (11.0 ± 3.23) at 1 h post-HBOT.

Discussion

A single 1-h session of HBOT did not significantly affect recovery or performance parameters in elite youth football players, though it did show a moderate positive affect on the HI at 1 h post-HBOT. Further studies should explore the impact of either longer or sequential HBOT sessions on recovery.
Analyzing the distribution patterns and dynamic niche of Magnolia grandiflora L. in the United States and China in response to climate change
Authors: Zhang Wenqian , Wang Xinshuai , Shen Shouyun , Zhao Yanghui , Hao Siwen , Jiang Jinghuan , Zhang Donglin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Magnolia grandiflora L. (southern magnolia) is native to the southeastern coastal areas of the United States, from North Carolina to eastern Texas (USDA Cold Hardiness Zone 8). It is currently widely cultivated in Zones 5-10 in the U.S. and in southern Yangtze River regions in China. Limited studies have examined the effects of climate change and human activities on the geographical distribution and adaptability of M. grandiflora during its introduction to China.

Methods

We selected 127 occurrence points in the U.S. and 87 occurrence points in China, along with 43 environmental variables, to predict suitable habitat areas for M. grandiflora using present climate data (1970-2000) and projected future climate data (2050-2070) based on a complete niche ensemble model (EM) using the Biomod2 package. We also predicted the niche change of M. grandiflora in both countries using the 'ecospat' package in R.

Results

The ensemble models demonstrated high reliability, with an AUC of 0.993 and TSS of 0.932. Solar radiation in July, human impact index, and precipitation of the wettest month were identified as the most critical variables influencing M. grandiflora distribution. The species shows a similar trend of distribution expansion under climate change scenarios in both countries, with predicted expansions towards the northwest and northeast, and contractions in southern regions.

Discussion

Our study emphasizes a practical framework for predicting suitable habitats and migration of Magnoliaceae species under climate change scenarios. These findings provide valuable insights. for species conservation, introduction, management strategies, and sustainable utilization of M. grandiflora.
Sulfated peptides: key players in plant development, growth, and stress responses
Authors: Zhang Penghong , Zhao Jiangzhe , Zhang Wei , Guo Yongfeng , Zhang Kewei
Published: October 2024

Peptide hormones regulate plant development, growth, and stress responses. Sulfated peptides represent a class of proteins that undergo posttranslational modification by tyrosylprotein sulfotransferase (TPST), followed by specific enzymatic cleavage to generate mature peptides. This process contributes to the formation of various bioactive peptides, including PSKs (PHYTOSULFOKINEs), PSYs (PLANT PEPTIDE CONTAINING SULFATED TYROSINE), CIFs (CASPARIAN STRIP INTEGRITY FACTOR), and RGFs (ROOT MERISTEM GROWTH FACTOR). In the past three decades, significant progress has been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms of sulfated peptides that regulate plant development, growth, and stress responses. In this review, we explore the sequence properties of precursors, posttranslational modifications, peptide receptors, and signal transduction pathways of the sulfated peptides, analyzing their functions in plants. The cross-talk between PSK/RGF peptides and other phytohormones, such as brassinosteroids, auxin, salicylic acid, abscisic acid, gibberellins, ethylene, and jasmonic acid, is also described. The significance of sulfated peptides in crops and their potential application for enhancing crop productivity are discussed, along with future research directions in the study of sulfated peptides.
Adaptation to reductions in chilling availability using variation in PLANT HOMOLOGOUS TO PARAFIBROMIN in Brassica napus
Authors: Warner Samuel , O’Neill Carmel M. , Doherty Rebecca , Wells Rachel , Penfield Steven
Published: October 2024

Winter annual crops are sown in late summer or autumn and require chilling to promote flowering the following spring. Floral initiation begins in autumn and winter, and in winter oilseed rape (OSR), continued chilling during flower development is necessary for high yield potential. This can be a problem in areas where chilling is not guaranteed, or as a result of changing climates. Here, we used chilling disruption and low chilling to identify loci with the potential to increase chilling efficiency in winter OSR. We report that time to flowering and yield potential under low chill conditions are affected by variation at the PLANT HOMOLOGOUS TO PARAFIBROMIN gene, a component of the plant PAF1c complex. We show that increases in winter chilling given to developing flowers can improve seed yields and that loss of function of BnaPHP.A05 leads to early flowering in B. rapa and B. napus and an increase in seed set where chilling is limited. Because PHP is known to specifically target the FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) gene in Arabidopsis, we propose that variation at PHP is useful for breeding modifications to chilling responses in polyploid crops with multiple copies of the FLC gene.
Factors affecting occupational burnout in medical staff: a path analysis based on the job demands-resources perspective
Authors: Wei Zuolin , Xia Bocheng , Jiang Lingli , Zhu Huaiyi , Li Lingyan , Wang Lin , Zhao Jun , Fan Ruoxin , Wang Peng , Huang Mingjin
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess occupational burnout conditions and work-related factors among frontline medical staff during the COVID-19 pandemic and analyse the relationships among these factors utilizing the job demands–resources (JD-R) model as a theoretical framework.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to medical staff in one city via convenience sampling during 12/29/2022–1/10/2023. Path analysis was utilized to explore the relationship between work-related factors and occupational burnout among frontline medical staff during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Results

Among 474 respondents, 455 frontline medical staff (female=79.56%) were included in the final analysis. Medical staff aged <35 exhibited higher levels of occupational burnout than did older staff. Depression/anxiety and workload were positively correlated with occupational burnout and negatively correlated with self-compassion, workplace health/safety, and workplace support. Path analysis indicated the direct effects of workplace support, depression/anxiety, workplace health/safety, self-compassion, and workload on occupational burnout. There were also partial mediating effects of workplace support, depression/anxiety, workplace health/safety, and self-compassion on occupational burnout. The model demonstrated good fit.

Conclusion

Workplace support, a crucial job resource, can improve occupational burnout among frontline medical staff in various ways. Reducing anxiety, depression, and workload and improving workplace support, health/safety, and self-compassion are practical and effective measures for mitigating occupational burnout.
Canadian perspectives on loneliness; digital communication as meaningful connection
Authors: Dwyer Lauren
Published: October 2024

This perspective piece considers loneliness and its relationship to communication, connection, and technology by reviewing the origins and lessons from the field. It begins with a search for an operational definition, then examines the differences between experiential (situational/isolation-based) and existential (continuous, non-situational) loneliness. Technology is addressed as both a hindrance and a tool for alleviating loneliness with the example of companion robots as an emerging technology for loneliness mitigation. Cultural differences in experiences of loneliness, specifically as a public health issue, are in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Concepts of social and emotional loneliness, individualism and collectivism, socioeconomic status, vulnerability, and lived experience are explored and provide an emphasis on ‘meaningful connection’ in the study of loneliness.
Validation of a brief image elicitation task as an indicator of subjective wellbeing in the general population
Authors: Pincus J. David
Published: October 2024

Background

A novel image-based method (AgileBrain) demonstrates construct validity as a measure of wellbeing in the general working adult population.

Method

Analysis of data from four large nationally representative samples of American full-time workers employed by mid-to-large size companies conducted in November 2021 (n = 812), May 2022 (n = 810), June 2023 (n = 986), and January 2024 (n = 1,179).

Results

Across all four studies, AgileBrain demonstrates convergent validity across multiple established indicators of subjective wellbeing including the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Neuroticism (BFI-S), UCLA Loneliness Scale, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Coping Styles (Brief COPE-28), self-reported diagnosed neurodiversity conditions and symptoms, and trauma history.

Conclusion

Results across these studies suggest that AgileBrain is useful as a screening tool for detecting compromised wellbeing in terms of construct validity. Given strong preferences for brief, gamified assessments, the validity advantages stemming from less consciously controllable responses, and the statistical advantages of measures associated with high response rates and normal distributions, AgileBrain emerges as strong tool for assessing subjective wellbeing at the population level and offers a promising approach to monitoring treatment effectiveness.
Cybernic robot hand-arm that realizes cooperative work as a new hand-arm for people with a single upper-limb dysfunction
Authors: Toyama Hiroaki , Kawamoto Hiroaki , Sankai Yoshiyuki
Published: October 2024

A robot hand-arm that can perform various tasks with the unaffected arm could ease the daily lives of patients with a single upper-limb dysfunction. A smooth interaction between robot and patient is desirable since their other arm functions normally. If the robot can move in response to the user’s intentions and cooperate with the unaffected arm, even without detailed operation, it can effectively assist with daily tasks. This study aims to propose and develop a cybernic robot hand-arm with the following features: 1) input of user intention via bioelectrical signals from the paralyzed arm, the unaffected arm’s motion, and voice; 2) autonomous control of support movements; 3) a control system that integrates voluntary and autonomous control by combining 1) and 2) to thus allow smooth work support in cooperation with the unaffected arm, reflecting intention as a part of the body; and 4) a learning function to provide work support across various tasks in daily use. We confirmed the feasibility and usefulness of the proposed system through a pilot study involving three patients. The system learned to support new tasks by working with the user through an operating function that does not require the involvement of the unaffected arm. The system divides the support actions into movement phases and learns the phase-shift conditions from the sensor information about the user’s intention. After learning, the system autonomously performs learned support actions through voluntary phase shifts based on input about the user’s intention via bioelectrical signals, the unaffected arm’s motion, and by voice, enabling smooth collaborative movement with the unaffected arm. Experiments with patients demonstrated that the system could learn and provide smooth work support in cooperation with the unaffected arm to successfully complete tasks they find difficult. Additionally, the questionnaire subjectively confirmed that cooperative work according to the user’s intention was achieved and that work time was within a feasible range for daily life. Furthermore, it was observed that participants who used bioelectrical signals from their paralyzed arm perceived the system as part of their body. We thus confirmed the feasibility and usefulness of various cooperative task supports using the proposed method.
Navigating Communication in Nursing Homes During COVID-19: Perspectives From Families, Healthcare Professionals, and Managers in Southern Switzerland—A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bernardi Sheila , Fiordelli Maddalena , Rubinelli Sara , Spagnoli Viviana , Malacrida Roberto , Martignoni Graziano
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aims to understand the effectiveness and challenges of communication strategies implemented to maintain contact between nursing home (NH) residents and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic, by considering the perspectives of families, healthcare professionals, and NH managers.

Methods

Using a qualitative research design, the study analyzed in-depth semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders (N = 34), including family members, NH staff, and managers.

Results

The study found that communication strategies like video calls, telephone calls, and window visits were generally appreciated and facilitated contact between residents and their families. However, challenges emerged around technical and organizational issues. Both internal and external stakeholders concurred that an increase in technological and human resources was necessary to alleviate these challenges.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of innovative and flexible communication strategies to sustain connections between NH residents and their families in crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Future readiness calls for increased investment in human and technical resources, and a commitment to understanding and addressing the diverse communication needs of NH residents.
The Business Angel, Being Both Skilled and Decent
Authors: Pascucci Tancredi , Hernàndez Sànchez Brizeida Raquel , Sànchez Garcìa Josè Carlos
Published: October 2024

In this review, we explore the scientific landscape regarding Business Angels (BAs), a person who decides to offer their skills to improve the community where they live, distinguishing the different ways in which it is possible to contribute. This systematic review starts with a precise definition of what a BA is in terms of goals, strategies, and intervention area, which could be in social, environmental, technological, or educational areas, differentiating a BA from other kinds of stakeholders, revealing some precise influences due to different cultures or entrepreneurial ecosystems. We are talking about a person who is authoritative not only in terms of competence, knowledge, and skills but who is also noteworthy in terms of moral stature and accountability. We used three databases, SCOPUS, WOS, and EBSCO, using VosViewer to create cluster mapping to differentiate the various areas of research on this topic. We revealed three clusters, namely Business Angel, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, that clarify different facets of the construct. BA activities are very different from conventional strategies and protocols. BAs can operate in innovative areas, bring their own technologies to improve capabilities, handle projects related to sustainability and innovation, and even address social functions and social cohesion.
Boosting Engagement: Effects of Wellness Programs in Hospitality Workplaces
Authors: Yu Hongxuan , Zhang Tingting , Zhang Pei
Published: October 2024

The objective of the study is twofold: to investigate the direct effect of employee wellness programs on employee engagement in the hospitality industry, and to examine the mediating role of corporate social responsibility as well as the moderating role of employees’ health conditions in these relationships. This study adopted a cross-sectional survey method on a sample of 347 U.S. hotel employees to evaluate the proposed conceptual model. With a series of data analyses, including analysis of variance and mediation and moderation analysis, the study results validated the mediator role of corporate social responsibility, the moderator role of employees’ health conditions, and the direct effect of employee wellness programs on employee engagement at hotels. Specifically, wellness programs, perceived positively as CSR by hotel employees, significantly influenced employee engagement, with the impact moderated by employees’ health conditions. The study findings contribute to the theory in the fields of employee wellness and engagement in the hospitality fields and provide valuable implications for practitioners who intend to adopt corporate social responsibility strategies in promoting employee engagement at hotels.
Validating Flow-Based Arrival Management for En Route Airspace: Human-In-The-Loop Simulation Experiment with ESCAPE Light Simulator
Authors: Sekine Katsuhiro , Iwata Daiki , Bouchaudon Philippe , Tatsukawa Tomoaki , Fujii Kozo , Tominaga Koji , Itoh Eri
Published: October 2024

The advancement of Arrival MANager (AMAN) is crucial for addressing the increasing complexity and demand of modern airspace. This study evaluates the operational feasibility and effectiveness of an innovative AMAN designed for en route airspace, the so-called En Route AMAN. The En Route AMAN functions as a controller support system, facilitating the sharing of information between en route air traffic controllers (ATCos), approach controllers (current AMAN), and airport controllers (Departure Managers) in airports with multiple runways. The En Route AMAN aims to support upstream ATCos by sequencing and spacing of incoming streams via speed control and runway assignment, thereby enhancing overall air traffic efficiency. Human-In-The-Loop simulations involving rated ATCos are performed under scenarios that replicate real-world traffic and weather conditions. These simulations focus on upstream airspace to assess the impact of En Route AMAN on delay mitigation and ATCos’ performance. Unlike previous studies that solely relied on theoretical models and fast-time simulation for operational feasibility evaluation, this approach incorporates ATCos’ real-time decision-making, situational awareness, and task management, addressing critical operationalization challenges. The results demonstrated that the En Route AMAN could reduce the average flight duration by up to 25.6 s and decrease the total number of ATCo instructions by up to 20% during peak traffic volume. These findings support that the En Route AMAN is both operationally viable and effective in mitigating arrival delays, highlighting the importance of Human-In-The-Loop for practical validation.
Mechanism of Centrifugal Force Amplitude–Frequency Decoupling Exciters for Fruit Tree Vibration Harvest
Authors: Jiao Haobo , Luo Juming , Wang Lihong , Tang Aifei , Li Chengsong
Published: October 2024

Centrifugal force is often used as an exciting force for fruit vibration harvest. However, the magnitude of centrifugal force varies quadratically with angular velocity. When the frequency of excitation force remains constant, the amplitude of vibration force cannot be freely adjusted. This study achieves decoupling of the amplitude and frequency of centrifugal force by varying the eccentricity of the eccentric block. Different combinations of eccentric blocks with varying quantities and parameters enable the creation of different types of centrifugal force amplitude–frequency decoupling exciters. Both the amplitude and frequency of excitation force produced by these exciters can be freely adjusted. Furthermore, a physical prototype of a symmetrical dual eccentric block exciter with centrifugal force amplitude–frequency decoupling is developed and tested. It is found that when the exciter frequency or excitation force amplitude remains constant, the vibration acceleration amplitude generated by the exciter changes by adjusting the eccentricity of the eccentric blocks. As the eccentricity of the eccentric blocks decreases, their moment of inertia and kinetic energy decrease. Utilizing mechanisms to adjust the eccentricity of the eccentric block’s center of mass to the rotation axis achieves the dynamic adjustment of the size and frequency of centrifugal force.
Irrigation Water Salinity Affects Solute Transport and Its Potential Factors Influencing Salt Distribution in Unsaturated Homogenous Red Soil
Authors: Zhang Zhuoqi , Yao Wangxing , Huang Yukun , Jiang Xi , Gao Zhentao , Chen Shaomin , Tan Shuai
Published: October 2024

As a promising alternative water source to alleviate irrigation water scarcity in red soil regions in southern China, low-quality water could enhance regional water resource utilization and promote sustainable agriculture. However, its soluble salt and ions could affect soil solute distribution and transport, potentially hindering crop growth. Undoubtedly, it is necessary to understand the mechanism of solute transport in red soil under low-quality water irrigation with different water salinity levels. Therefore, a one-dimensional vertical water infiltration experiment and a solute breakthrough experiment were conducted to evaluate the solute transport (soluble salt, Na+, and Cl−) in unsaturated and saturated homogenous red soil at different salinity levels [1 (S1), 2 (S2), 3 (S3), 5 (S5), and 10 (S10) g/L] when irrigated with simulated low-quality water using analytical-grade NaCl. Moreover, the potential factors affecting salt distribution in unsaturated red soil were determined. The findings indicate positive linear relationships between accumulations of three solutes and irrigation water salinity. Generally, the depth of maximum solute concentration increased with the increase in irrigation water salinity. Soluble salt, Na+, and Cl− exhibited early breakthrough and trailing in red soil, but higher irrigation water salinity could reduce PV and retardation. A mobile and immobile water model (MIM) showed that convection was dominant in solute transport in red soil under low-quality water irrigation. D decreased as a power function with increasing irrigation water salinity, while v and R decreased linearly. Furthermore, the red soil can adsorb Cl− resulting from its special charge characteristics under low-quality water irrigation, which may be the main source of salt adsorption. Additionally, v > soil pH > βsalt primarily influenced salt distribution in the 0–40 cm soil profile. This study can provide insights into solute transport in red soil under low-quality water irrigation, facilitating soil fertility and structure, as well as low-quality water irrigation strategy optimization.
Improving Yield and Quality of ‘Balady’ Mandarin Trees by Using Shading Techniques and Reflective Materials in Response to Climate Change Under Flood Irrigation Conditions
Authors: El-Zawily Hesham M. A. , Abo El-Enin Mohammed M. S. , Elmenofy Hayam M. , Hassan Islam F. , Manolikaki Ioanna , Koubouris Georgios , Alam-Eldein Shamel M.
Published: October 2024

Considering climate change predictions, it is logical to anticipate detrimental effects on the mandarin tree, an essential citrus crop. Therefore, scientists should promptly focus on developing methods to enhance its resistance to climatic stress effects such as sunscald. This study assesses the strategies employed in ‘Balady’ mandarin trees when covered by shading nets of varying colors and percentages (white 50%, green 50% or 63%, black 50% or 63%), as well as the application of reflective materials (kaolin at 4% and CaCO3 at 3%) on the micro-climate of orchards, leaf, and fruit surface temperatures, fruit sunburn%, productivity, and fruit quality. The results indicated that shade nets effectively reduced temperature and enhanced humidity, especially during the period from June to September, when compared to open-field treatments. Black shade nets, particularly those with a shading level of 63%, demonstrated the most notable decrease in canopy temperature and an elevation in humidity, surpassing the performance of green and white shade nets. The present study found that shade nets and reflecting materials like kaolin and calcium carbonate significantly reduced fruit sunburn. Trees without shade had a sunburn rate of 8.74%, while those with shade treatments suffered no sunburn. Kaolin foliar spray at a concentration of 4% and calcium carbonate at a concentration of 3% reduced sunburn incidence to 3.64% and 7.32%, respectively. These treatments also reduced the intensity of sunburn. All treatments increased fruit yield % compared to the control and yield efficiency (kg/m2), especially the trees covered with white shade net of a 50% shading rate provided the highest values (43.70 and 40.17%) and (5.24 and 5.47 kg/m2) compared to other treatments in both seasons, respectively. Trees covered with a white shade net of a 50% shading rate, followed by a green shade net of 50% and a 63% shading rate, as well as a black shade net of 50% and a 63% shading rate, tended to improve the physical and chemical fruit properties. Therefore, it could be recommended that trees be covered with a white shade net of a 50% shading rate or a green shade net of a 50 and 63% shading rate in summer months due to its beneficial impact on mitigating fruit sunburn damage and enhancing the productivity and quality of ‘‘Balady’’ mandarin trees. Hence, shade nets can be a beneficial technology to protect citrus fruits from sunburn without affecting fruit quality in commercial citrus farms.
Identification of Candidate Genes for Soybean Storability via GWAS and WGCNA Approaches
Authors: Wu Xu , Wang Yuhe , Xie Jiapei , Yang Zhenhong , Li Haiyan , Li Yongguang , Teng Weili , Zhao Xue , Zhan Yuhang , Han Yingpeng
Published: October 2024

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is an important crop for both food and feed, playing a significant role in agricultural production and the human diet. During long-term storage, soybean seeds often exhibit reduced quality, decreased germination, and lower seedling vigor, ultimately leading to significant yield reductions in soybean crops. Seed storage tolerance is a complex quantitative trait controlled by multiple genes and is also influenced by environmental factors during seed formation, harvest, and storage. This study aimed to evaluate soybean germplasms for their storage tolerance, identify quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) associated with seed storage tolerance traits, and screen for candidate genes. The storage tolerance of 168 soybean germplasms was evaluated, and 23,156 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were screened and analyzed through a genome-wide association study (GWAS). Ultimately, 14 QTNs were identified as being associated with seed storage tolerance and were distributed across the eight chromosomes of soybean, with five QTNs (rs25887810, rs27941858, rs33981296, rs44713950, and rs18610980) being newly reported loci in this study. In the linkage disequilibrium regions of these SNPs, 256 genes were identified. By combining GWAS and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), eight hub genes (Glyma.03G058300, Glyma.04G1921100, Glyma.04G192600, Glyma.04G192900, Glyma.07G002000, Glyma.08G329400, Glyma.16G074600, Glyma.16G091400) were jointly identified. Through the analysis of expression patterns, two candidate genes (Glyma.03G058300, Glyma.16G074600) potentially involved in seed storage tolerance were ultimately identified. Additionally, haplotype analysis revealed that natural variations in Glyma.03G058300 could affect seed storage tolerance. The findings of this research provide a theoretical foundation for understanding the regulatory mechanism underlying soybean storage.
Roles of Exogenous 5-Aminolevulinic Acid and Dihydroporphyrin Iron in Chlorophyll Precursor Synthesis and Chlorophyll-Related Enzyme Activities in Wheat Under Different Light Intensities
Authors: Hu Genhai , Zhou Xiuren , Chao Maoni , Hu Haiyan
Published: October 2024

Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) and dihydroporphyrin iron chelates (DHFe) play roles in plant growth regulation under normal and stressful conditions. However, definitive data on their roles in regulating chlorophyll synthesis in wheat are lacking. In this study, the optimal concentrations for foliar-spray application of 5-ALA and DHFe to promote wheat seedling growth and leaf chlorophyll content were assessed. The optimal concentrations of 5-ALA or DHFe (50 mg/L and 0.01 mg/L, respectively) were applied as foliar sprays to seedlings of wheat ‘Bainong 4199’ (high light efficient) and ‘Zhoumai No. 18’ (average light efficient) under different light intensities. Chlorophyll precursor contents and activities of three chlorophyll synthesis-related enzymes were altered, and the combined application of 5-ALA and DHFe more strongly increased the leaf chlorophyll content. 5-ALA significantly increased the contents of the chlorophyll precursors porphobilinogen, uroporphyrinogen III, protoporphyrin IX, and magnesium-protoporphyrin IX, and the activities of 5-amino-ketovalerate dehydratase and uroporphyrinogen III synthase. DHFe resulted in an increase in chlorophyll content but a significant decrease in chlorophyllase activity and protochlorophyllide content. 5-ALA promoted the synthesis of chlorophyll precursors by regulating the activities of 5-amino-ketovalerate dehydratase and uroporphyrinogen III synthase. DHFe decreased chlorophyllase activity, thereby slowing chlorophyll degradation and increasing the chlorophyll content.
Physiological Responses of the Green Shore Crab, Carcinus maenas, During Acute and Chronic Low Temperature Exposure
Authors: Rivers Molly L. , McKenzie Cynthia H. , McGaw Iain J.
Published: October 2024

The green shore crab (Carcinus maenas) is native to Western Europe but has spread around the globe and is described as one of the top 100 worst invasive species. On the east coast of North America, their northern-most limit is the island of Newfoundland, Canada, where they can experience water temperatures as low as −1 °C. We investigated the physiological responses of C. maenas to a temperature reduction regime as well as to long-term acclimation to temperatures representative of winter (2 °C) and summer (12 °C) in Newfoundland. Heart rate, oxygen consumption and estimated energy expenditure declined steadily with decreasing temperature, but a marked change was observed between 6 and 4 °C, with lowest levels recorded in 2 °C. After long-term acclimation to 2 °C there was a sustained reduction in physiological parameters. Even though these physiological parameters were very low in 2 °C, the crabs still exhibited intermittent activity. This supports the presence of a dormancy, rather than true torpor/hibernation below 5 °C, in which crabs will continue to actively move and feed, albeit much more slowly. The population in Newfoundland contains haplotypes from both the invasive northern and southern lineages, and they appear to retain a similar low temperature response compared with most other populations of green crab from both their native and expanded range.
Environmental Conditions Associated with Four Index Cases of Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS) in Crassostrea gigas in Australia Between 2010 and 2024: Emergence or Introduction of Ostreid herpesvirus-1?
Authors: Whittington Richard J. , Ingram Lachlan , Rubio Ana
Published: October 2024

Warm water temperature is a risk factor for recurrent mass mortality in farmed Pacific oysters Crassostrea gigas caused by Ostreid herpesvirus-1, but there is little information on environmental conditions when the disease first appears in a region—the index case. Environmental conditions between four index cases in Australia (2010, 2013, 2016 and 2024) were compared to provide insight into possible origins of the virus. Each index case was preceded by unusually low rainfall and higher rates of temperature change that could increase oyster susceptibility through thermal flux stress. Water temperature alone did not explain the index cases, there being no consistency in sea surface, estuary or air temperatures between them. Tidal cycles and chlorophyll-a levels were unremarkable, harmful algae were present in all index cases and anthropogenic environmental contamination was unlikely. The lack of an interpretable change in the estuarine environment suggests the recent introduction of OsHV-1; however, viral emergence from a local reservoir cannot be excluded. Future events will be difficult to predict. Temperature flux and rainfall are likely important, but they are proxies for a range of undetermined factors and to identify these, it will be necessary to develop comprehensive protocols for data acquisition during future index cases.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Treatment for Cardiac Device Infections
Authors: Pandozi Claudio , Matteucci Andrea , Pignalberi Carlo , Sgarra Luca , Bonanni Michela , Mariani Marco Valerio , La Fazia Vincenzo Mirco , Nesti Lorenzo , Di Fusco Stefania Angela , Nardi Federico , Colivicchi Furio
Published: October 2024

Cardiac device infections (CDIs) are a serious complication in patients with implanted devices, resulting in increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stay, and increased healthcare costs. The effective management of these infections involves a combination of appropriate antibiotic therapy and preventive strategies aimed at reducing the risk of infection. The role of antibiotic prophylaxis in infection prevention is crucial, including the emerging use of antibiotic-supported tools and other local antibiotic delivery systems, which may reduce the risk of infection at the device implant site. In this contemporary review, we provide an overview of the prophylactic treatment and different antibiotic regimens for the treatment of CDIs, emphasizing early diagnosis, appropriate choice of antibiotics, and individualized treatment.
Isatin Bis-Imidathiazole Hybrids Identified as FtsZ Inhibitors with On-Target Activity Against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Morigi Rita , Esposito Daniele , Calvaresi Matteo , Marforio Tainah Dorina , Gentilomi Giovanna Angela , Bonvicini Francesca , Locatelli Alessandra
Published: October 2024

In the present study, a series of isatin bis-imidathiazole hybrids was designed and synthesized to develop a new class of heterocyclic compounds with improved antimicrobial activity against pathogens responsible for hospital- and community-acquired infections. A remarkable inhibitory activity against Staphylococcus aureus was demonstrated for a subset of compounds (range: 13.8–90.1 µM) in the absence of toxicity towards epithelial cells and human red blood cells. The best performing derivative was further investigated to measure its anti-biofilm potential and its effectiveness against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains. A structure–activity relationship study of the synthesized molecules led to the recognition of some important structural requirements for the observed antibacterial activity. Molecular docking followed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations identified the binding site of the active compound FtsZ, a key protein in bacterial cell division, and the mechanism of action, i.e., the inhibition of its polymerization. The overall results may pave the way for a further rational development of isatin hybrids as FtsZ inhibitors, with a broader spectrum of activity against human pathogens and higher potency.