bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Pediatric Emergency Department Attendance in a Tertiary Center in South Italy: An Interrupted Time-Series Analysis
Authors: Alongi Alessandra , D’Aiuto Francesca , Montomoli Cristina , Borrelli Paola
Published: June 2023

Background: The evidence shows a reduction in pediatric emergency department (PED) flows during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using interrupted time-series analysis, we evaluated the impact of different stages of the pandemic response on overall and cause-specific PED attendance at a tertiary hospital in south Italy. Our methods included evaluations of total visits, hospitalizations, accesses for critical illnesses and four etiological categories (transmissible and non-transmissible infectious diseases, trauma and mental-health) during March–December 2020, which were compared with analogous intervals from 2016 to 2019; the pandemic period was divided into three segments: the “first lockdown” (FL, 9 March–3 May), the “post-lockdown” (PL, 4 May–6 November) and the “second lockdown” (SL, 7 November–31 December). Our results showed that attendance dropped by a mean of 50.09% during the pandemic stages, while hospitalizations increased. Critical illnesses decreased during FL (incidence rate ratio -IRR- 0.37, 95% CI 0.13, 0.88) e SL (IRR 0.09, 95% CI 0.01, 0.74) and transmissible disease related visits reduced more markedly and persistently (FL: IRR 0.18, 95% CI 0.14, 0.24; PL: IRR 0.20, 95% CI 0.13, 0.31, SL: IRR 0.17, 95% CI 0.10, 0.29). Non-infectious diseases returned to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels by PL. We concluded that that the results highlight the specific effect of the late 2020 containment measures on transmissible infectious diseases and their burden on pediatric emergency resources. This evidence can inform resource allocation and interventions to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases on pediatric populations and the health-care system.
Avermectin Trunk Injections: A Promising Approach for Managing the Walnut Husk Fly (Rhagoletis completa)
Authors: Kiss Máté , Sörös Csilla , Gutermuth Ádám , Ittzés András , Szabó Árpád
Published: June 2023

This study examined the larvicidal effect of trunk-injected abamectin and emamectin benzoate against the walnut husk fly (Rhagoletis completa Cresson, 1929). Walnut trees in two locations in two years were injected with the pesticides at different concentrations. For the toxicokinetic studies, the active ingredient content was measured in the leaves, flowers, husks, and kernels, using a UHPLC-MS/MS analytical method. The walnut husk fly infestation rates were between 3 and 70% and 10 and 34% for abamectin and emamectin benzoate, respectively, and were much lower compared to those measured for the control. The active ingredient content in the walnut husk showed a positive correlation with the larvicidal effect. The injections had a measurable but unsatisfactory insecticidal effect in the second year, when the economic threshold was exceeded. Trace amounts of the active ingredients were detected in the flowers. The residue analysis showed a declining concentration trend in the leaves over time. The largest quantities were detected in the leaves (≤439 ng/g of abamectin; ≤19,079 ng/g of emamectin benzoate), with concentrations in the husks of orders of magnitude lower (≤5.86 ng/g; ≤50.19 ng/g). The measurements showed no active ingredient residue above the MRLs in either fresh or dried kernels. The results indicate that trunk injections of abamectin, as well as trunk injections of emamectin benzoate, have the potential to suppress walnut husk fly populations.
Root Growth and Defense Response of Seedlings against Fusarium oxysporum in Sand Culture and In Vitro—A Comparison of Two Screening Approaches for Asparagus Cultivars
Authors: Djalali Farahani-Kofoet Roxana , Graefe Jan , Zrenner Rita
Published: June 2023

Two rapid asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) screening methods, in sand culture and in vitro, were tested to evaluate the response of young seedlings against F. oxysporum f. sp. asparagi (isolate Foa1). Root morphological parameters were evaluated and correlated with the symptomatology and expression of the defense-related genes at 5 and 7 dpi. In sand cultivation, the Foa1-inoculated cultivars showed no visible disease symptoms on their roots until 7 dpi. Two-factorial ANOVA statistics found no significant interaction between the cultivars and treatments for most root parameters but some differences between the cultivars. The in vitro Foa1-inoculated cultivars showed high susceptibility according to their symptomatology and differed greatly in the length of the primary root at 5 dpi. In some cultivars, the primary root length and root surface area were higher upon Foa1 inoculation. The expression changes were very different among the cultivars, with significant induction of PR1, POX, and PAL at 5 dpi in all cultivars in vitro but only in two cultivars in sand cultivation. The in vitro screening method, although more artificial, seemed to be more reliable than sand cultivation since the fungus was able to develop well in the culture medium. In sand-filled pots, the fungus may have been hindered in its development, even though a considerable higher amount of Foa1 was inoculated. In addition, the fungal growth was easily trackable in tubes, while in sand cultivation, the results were only visible after pulling the seedlings out of the pots 12 dpi.
Is the Nectar Sugar Content the Key to Improving Onion and Bunching Onion Seed Yield?
Authors: Soto Verónica C. , González Roxana E. , Caselles Cristian A. , Galmarini Claudio R.
Published: June 2023

Bunching onion as well as onion show great variability in seed yield among cultivars. Understanding the role of floral rewards and attractants to pollinator species is crucial to improving crop seed yield. Nectar sugar concentration is one of the most important factors affecting bee–flower interaction. The objective of this work was to determine the differences in nectar sugar composition between onion and bunching onion lines grown in the same location during two consecutive cultivation cycles and in two different productive areas under open field conditions, and the relationship of these sugars with seed yield. The results obtained showed that, regardless of the season and the location, bunching onion produced higher seed yields than onion, and the sugar content was always higher than in onion. Fructose represented on average 56% of the total sugars, glucose 34% and, sucrose 9% of the total amount of sugars in nectar. There were differences between the two locations studied. Fructose content had a significant correlation with seed yield. The amount of sugars in bunching onion could be the reason why this species does not have pollination problems in contrast to onion plants. In addition, the differences found in seed yield between locations could provide options for seed companies to make production decisions.
Bioresources in Organic Farming: Implications for Sustainable Agricultural Systems
Authors: Akanmu Akinlolu Olalekan , Olowe Olumayowa Mary , Phiri Austin Tenthani , Nirere Drocelle , Odebode Adeyinka John , Karemera Umuhoza Noëlla Josiane , Asemoloye Michael Dare , Babalola Olubukola Oluranti
Published: June 2023

Over the years, the practice of agriculture has transformed from the era of traditional to that of intensive agriculture in the bid to boost the production index that will satisfy the food needs of the globally growing population. However, the continuous and exaggerated use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides has resulted in major adverse impacts on food and environmental safety, whereas most traditional techniques for reclamation of natural soil nutrients, including shifting cultivation and polyculture, are no longer attractive measures of land rejuvenation. There is, therefore, the need for urgent evaluation and adoption of innovative methods of replenishing the agricultural soils that conform to the current agricultural systems without exerting undesirable effects on the ecosystem. In this review, we elucidated the use of key bioresources, such as organic fertilizers, biofertilizers, and biopesticides, as alternatives to chemical-based products in attaining a safe and sustainable agricultural system. Bioresources are naturally available, safe, and easily accessible products. The potential of these biological products in fostering soil microbial growth, plants’ productivity, and induced host immunity to diseases, alongside the promotion of healthy soil–microbe–plant relationships and preservation of the ecosystem processes without disruption, are aspects that were also explored. Therefore, the productive use of bioresources is considered strategic as it pertains to attaining safe and sustainable food production.
Yield, Quality, and Resources Use Efficiency of Wild Rocket Baby Leaves Grown under Different Controlled Environment Systems and Various Growing Seasons
Authors: Mainos Dimitrios , Bantis Filippos , Ntinas Georgios K. , Koukounaras Athanasios
Published: June 2023

Wild rocket is a leafy vegetable with economic interest as a consequence of baby leaf ready-to-eat salads. The climate crisis is expected to influence wild rocket production, but these effects could be confronted with cultivation in greenhouses and plant factories with artificial lighting (PFALs). Climate responses are related to growing seasons. Our objective was to test the impact of two growing seasons, winter and summer, on the growth and physiology of wild rocket baby leaves in different controlled environment systems (greenhouse and PFAL). The growth cycle was reduced by 27% in the PFAL compared to the greenhouse during winter. Summer yield was greater in the greenhouse, but leaf number and area were greater in the PFAL. The lowest water use efficiency was recorded in the greenhouse during summer. Energy use efficiency was lower in PFAL compared to the greenhouse. Land use efficiency was not affected by the growing system, but in PFALs it is able to increase it by growing in vertical layers. Relative chlorophyll content and total soluble solids were enhanced in the greenhouse. The photosynthetic efficiency evaluation showed considerable stress in summer-grown plants in the greenhouse, as shown by PIABS and φP0. In general, the production was similar in the PFAL regardless of seasons.
Vulnerabilities for Marginalized Groups in the United States Forensic Anthropology Education System: Paths to Engagement and Belonging
Authors: Goliath Jesse R. , Waxenbaum Erin B. , Borgelt Taylor S.
Published: June 2023

Implicit and explicit barriers to building a culture of belonging persist in U.S. forensic anthropology. These barriers create and exacerbate vulnerabilities, especially among marginalized groups, that need to be addressed. The lack of diversity in U.S. forensic anthropology is well documented. At the same time, there has been a significant upswing in academic programs focusing on forensic anthropology at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. However, to be successful and promote retention, these programs must address the pervasive structural barriers that continue to impede diversity. Major impediments include the hierarchical structure, illusion of objectivity, racial and cis-gender-biased methodologies, and belonging uncertainty. At all levels, peer engagement and active, constructive mentorship may both semantically and structurally allow for a bridge between the past and the future. Pedagogy and professional practices in forensic anthropology must be modernized and restructured to promote learning environments that foster belonging and engagement.
Special Issue: Stormwater/Drainage Systems and Wastewater Management
Authors: Gato-Trinidad Shirley
Published: June 2023

For the purposes of this Special Issue of Hydrology, “Stormwater/Drainage Systems and Wastewater Management”, it is worth noting that hydrology, as defined by the US National Research Council [...]
Parents’ Perceptions of Changes in Sleep Duration, Physical Activity, and Sedentary Behavior in Arab Israeli Children during the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Ghanamah Rafat , Eghbaria-Ghanamah Hazar , Abu-Saleh Nabil , Kitany Sujood
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic led many countries to apply lockdown measures that could prevent children from achieving the physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep levels suggested for their psychophysical health. The current study tested changes in physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep length of children and the incidence of achieving the 24 h movement standards through the limitations of COVID-19. A total of 490 Arab Israeli parents were surveyed. An electronic cross-sectional survey was performed, including questions addressing engagement in physical activities, use of screens, and sleep duration. Throughout the COVID-19 outbreak, time spent participating in physical activity was reduced, sedentary behavior and sleep duration were increased, and the percentage of the sample who met the physical activity and sedentary behavior suggestions lessened. The percentage of participants who attained the overall 24 h movement recommendations was very low during the pandemic; school children met the guideline recommendations for physical activity and sleep duration more than preschool children, and girls spent more time in physical activity. These findings highlight the need for strategies to enhance physical activity and decrease sedentary behavior in children to prevent long-term effects of limitations imposed by COVID-19. Efforts to perceive and encourage healthy routines in Arab Israeli children in the case of pandemic limitations are expected to serve as a precedence.
Detection of Antibiotic Resistance in Feline-Origin ESBL Escherichia coli from Different Areas of China and the Resistance Elimination of Garlic Oil to Cefquinome on ESBL E. coli
Authors: Tong Yin-Chao , Li Peng-Cheng , Yang Yang , Lin Qing-Yi , Liu Jin-Tong , Gao Yi-Nuo , Zhang Yi-Ning , Jin Shuo , Qing Su-Zhu , Xing Fu-Shan , Fan Yun-Peng , Liu Ying-Qiu , Wang Wei-Ling , Zhang Wei-Min , Ma Wu-Ren
Published: June 2023

The development of drug-resistance in the opportunistic pathogen Escherichia coli has become a global public health concern. Due to the share of similar flora between pets and their owners, the detection of pet-origin antibiotic-resistant E. coli is necessary. This study aimed to detect the prevalence of feline-origin ESBL E. coli in China and to explore the resistance elimination effect of garlic oil to cefquinome on ESBL E. coli. Cat fecal samples were collected from animal hospitals. The E. coli isolates were separated and purified by indicator media and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). ESBL genes were detected by PCR and Sanger sequencing. The MICs were determined. The synergistic effect of garlic oil and cefquinome against ESBL E. coli was investigated by checkerboard assays, time-kill and growth curves, drug-resistance curves, PI and NPN staining, and a scanning electronic microscope. A total of 80 E. coli strains were isolated from 101 fecal samples. The rate of ESBL E. coli was 52.5% (42/80). The prevailing ESBL genotypes in China were CTX-M-1, CTX-M-14, and TEM-116. In ESBL E. coli, garlic oil increased the susceptibility to cefquinome with FICIs from 0.2 to 0.7 and enhanced the killing effect of cefquinome with membrane destruction. Resistance to cefquinome decreased with treatment of garlic oil after 15 generations. Our study indicates that ESBL E. coli has been detected in cats kept as pets. The sensitivity of ESBL E. coli to cefquinome was enhanced by garlic oil, indicating that garlic oil may be a potential antibiotic enhancer.
Deficiency of Fam20b-Catalyzed Glycosaminoglycan Chain Synthesis in Neural Crest Leads to Cleft Palate
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Li Nan , Hu Ping , Li Leilei , Li Danya , Liu Han , Zhu Lei , Xiao Jing , Liu Chao
Published: June 2023

Cleft palate is one of the most common birth defects. Previous studies revealed that multiple factors, including impaired intracellular or intercellular signals, and incoordination of oral organs led to cleft palate, but were little concerned about the contribution of the extracellular matrix (ECM) during palatogenesis. Proteoglycans (PGs) are one of the important macromolecules in the ECM. They exert biological functions through one or more glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains attached to core proteins. The family with sequence similarity 20 member b (Fam20b) are newly identified kinase-phosphorylating xylose residues that promote the correct assembly of the tetrasaccharide linkage region by creating a premise for GAG chain elongation. In this study, we explored the function of GAG chains in palate development through Wnt1-Cre; Fam20bf/f mice, which exhibited complete cleft palate, malformed tongue, and micrognathia. In contrast, Osr2-Cre; Fam20bf/f mice, in which Fam20b was deleted only in palatal mesenchyme, showed no abnormality, suggesting that failed palatal elevation in Wnt1-Cre; Fam20bf/f mice was secondary to micrognathia. In addition, the reduced GAG chains promoted the apoptosis of palatal cells, primarily resulting in reduced cell density and decreased palatal volume. The suppressed BMP signaling and reduced mineralization indicated an impaired osteogenesis of palatine, which could be rescued partially by constitutively active Bmpr1a. Together, our study highlighted the key role of GAG chains in palate morphogenesis.
Energetic Polymer Possessing Furazan, 1,2,3-Triazole, and Nitramine Subunits
Authors: Gribov Pavel S. , Kondakova Natalia N. , Il’icheva Natalia N. , Stepanova Evgenia R. , Denisyuk Anatoly P. , Sizov Vladimir A. , Dotsenko Varvara D. , Vinogradov Dmitry B. , Bulatov Pavel V. , Sinditskii Valery P. , Suponitsky Kyrill Yu. , Il’in Mikhail M. , Keshtov Mukhamed L. , Sheremetev Aleksei B.
Published: June 2023

A [3 + 2] cycloaddition reaction using dialkyne and diazide comonomers, both bearing explosophoric groups, to synthesize energetic polymers containing furazan and 1,2,3-triazole ring as well as nitramine group in the polymer chain have been described. The developed solvent- and catalyst-free approach is methodologically simple and effective, the comonomers used are easily available, and the resulting polymer does not need any purification. All this makes it a promising tool for the synthesis of energetic polymers. The protocol was utilized to generate multigram quantities of the target polymer, which has been comprehensively investigated. The resulting polymer was fully characterized by spectral and physico-chemical methods. Compatibility with energetic plasticizers, thermochemical characteristics, and combustion features indicate the prospects of this polymer as a binder base for energetic materials. The polymer of this study surpasses the benchmark energetic polymer, nitrocellulose (NC), in a number of properties.
Inhibition of Gap Junction Formation Prior to Implantation of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Cells Improves Function in the Ischemic Myocardium
Authors: Chatchavalvanich Santipongse , Boomsma Robert A. , Tietema Jack M. , Geenen David L.
Published: June 2023

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSC) are reported to induce beneficial effects in the heart following ischemia, but a loss of these cells within hours of implantation could significantly diminish their long-term effect. We hypothesized that early coupling between BM-MSC and ischemic cardiomyocytes through gap junctions (GJ) may play an important role in stem cell survival and retention in the acute phase of myocardial ischemia. To determine the effect of GJ inhibition on murine BM-MSC in vivo, we induced ischemia in mice using 90 min left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion followed by BM-MSC implantation and reperfusion. The inhibition of GJ coupling prior to BM-MSC implantation led to early improvement in cardiac function compared to mice in which GJ coupling was not inhibited. Our results with in vitro studies also demonstrated increased survival in BM-MSCs subjected to hypoxia after inhibition of GJ. While functional GJ are critical for the long-term integration of stem cells within the myocardium, early GJ communication may represent a novel paradigm whereby ischemic cardiomyocytes induce a “bystander effect” when coupled to newly transplanted BM-MSC and thus impair cell retention and survival.
Meeting Ourselves or Other Sides of Us?—Meta-Analysis of the Metaverse
Authors: Cruz Mónica , Oliveira Abílio , Pinheiro Alessandro
Published: June 2023

We were promised that the Metaverse would revolutionize our lives, social interactions, work, and business. However, how and when will this happen? We have seen the growth and development of technology, but there is no agreement or prediction about a specific time, and we can only follow the how question. To investigate more leads about this concept, we considered a main research question: How is the Metaverse actually being perceived? This question is connected with three objectives: to verify how the Metaverse is being represented and characterized, identify the main dimensions that facilitate or influence the acceptance of the Metaverse, and identify the leading technologies that suit the Metaverse concept. This study consisted of a documental analysis—or meta-analysis—of fifty of the most relevant scientific papers (taking into account some inclusion criteria) published in the last three years, using the Leximancer software to create concept maps to illustrate the main concepts and themes extracted from the articles to understand their associations or relations with the Metaverse concept. This study provided us with essential findings about how this concept has been perceived and allowed us to answer our objectives, contributing to a scientific discussion on the topic, and provided some valid suggestions for future research, which is already in progress. It also provided new leads on approaching this concept in development.
Seasonal Colony Loss Rates and Honey Bee Management in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Results of a Survey of Beekeepers
Authors: Albarrak Abdulmajeed Barrak , Gray Alison
Published: June 2023

There is high demand for honey in Saudi Arabia, honey bees make a valuable contribution to agriculture and the economy, and therefore it is important to know levels of colony loss and potential reasons for losses. While there is much research into honey bee colony losses worldwide, little is known about colony losses in Saudi Arabia, management practices or beekeeping experience there. The aims of this work were to address this knowledge gap. Results of a survey of beekeepers in southwest Saudi Arabia conducted in summer 2018 are presented, including colony losses in five different seasons. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews, supplemented by an online survey, using a purpose-designed questionnaire. Responses were obtained from 109 beekeepers, all male, managing 135 to 1700 colonies, with 2 to 45 years of beekeeping experience. Most (73.1%) respondents mainly kept local hybrid bees, while 25.9% mainly kept Apis mellifera jemenitica. Honey yields per colony varied much more between beekeepers than between bee races. A high proportion (83.5%) of beekeepers reported losing colonies over the period studied. The reported colony loss rate was significantly higher in summer than in other seasons, but still low. The overall proportion of colonies lost was 11.4% in summer 2017 and was lowest in spring 2018 (6.6%). The main reported causes of loss were Varroa destructor and disease. Most beekeepers (88.0%) treated against the Varroa mite, although only one method was reported, tau-fluvalinate as Apistan strips, and only 41.7% used a screened bottom board. The results establish a benchmark for future beekeeper surveys in Saudi Arabia and other environmentally similar countries where colony losses are of interest in all seasons of the year. Informing and supporting Saudi beekeepers concerning Varroa monitoring and treatment and optimal hive management could result in fewer losses, higher honey yields, potential to market organic honey and a greater share of the domestic honey market.
Engineered Human Tissue as A New Platform for Mosquito Bite-Site Biology Investigations
Authors: Seavey Corey E. , Doshi Mona , Panarello Andrew P. , Felice Michael A. , Dickerson Andrew K. , Jewett Mollie W. , Willenberg Bradley J.
Published: June 2023

Vector-borne diseases transmitted through the bites of hematophagous arthropods, such as mosquitoes, continue to be a significant threat to human health globally. Transmission of disease by biting arthropod vectors includes interactions between (1) saliva expectorated by a vector during blood meal acquisition from a human host, (2) the transmitted vector-borne pathogens, and (3) host cells present at the skin bite site. Currently, the investigation of bite-site biology is challenged by the lack of model 3D human skin tissues for in vitro analyses. To help fill this gap, we have used a tissue engineering approach to develop new stylized human dermal microvascular bed tissue approximates—complete with warm blood—built with 3D capillary alginate gel (Capgel) biomaterial scaffolds. These engineered tissues, termed a Biologic Interfacial Tissue-Engineered System (BITES), were cellularized with either human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) or human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Both cell types formed tubular microvessel-like tissue structures of oriented cells (82% and 54% for HDFs and HUVECs, respectively) lining the unique Capgel parallel capillary microstructures. Female Aedes (Ae.) aegypti mosquitoes, a prototypic hematophagous biting vector arthropod, swarmed, bit, and probed blood-loaded HDF BITES microvessel bed tissues that were warmed (34–37 °C), acquiring blood meals in 151 ± 46 s on average, with some ingesting ≳4 µL or more of blood. Further, these tissue-engineered constructs could be cultured for at least three (3) days following blood meal acquisitions. Altogether, these studies serve as a powerful proof-of-concept demonstration of the innovative BITES platform and indicate its potential for the future investigation of arthropod bite-site cellular and molecular biology.
TGF-β Type II Receptor Punt Suppresses Antimicrobial Peptide Expression and Influences Development in Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Li Jingjing , Lyu Bo , Song Qisheng
Published: June 2023

The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily in insects regulated various physiological events, including immune response, growth and development, and metamorphosis. This complex network of signaling pathways involves conserved cell-surface receptors and signaling co-receptors that allow for precisely coordinated cellular events. However, the roles of TGF-β receptors, particularly the type II receptor Punt, in mediating the innate immunity in insects remains unclear. In this study, we used the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, as a model species to investigate the role of TGF-β type II receptor Punt in mediating antimicrobial peptide (AMP) expression. Developmental and tissue-specific transcript profiles revealed Punt was constitutively expressed throughout development, with the highest transcript level in 1-day female pupae and the lowest transcript level in 18-day larvae. Tissue specific expression profiles showed the highest transcript level of Punt was observed in the Malpighian tubule and ovary in 18-day larvae and 1-day female adults, respectively, suggesting Punt might have distinct functions in larvae and adults. Further results indicated that Punt RNAi in the 18-day larvae led to increased transcript level of AMP genes through transcription factor Relish, leading to inhibition of Escherichia coli proliferation. Knockdown of Punt in larvae also led to splitting of adult elytra and abnormal compound eyes. Furthermore, knockdown of Punt during the female pupal stage resulted in increased transcript levels of AMP genes, as well as abnormal ovary, reduced fecundity, and failure of eggs to hatch. This study deepens our understanding of the biological significance of Punt in insect TGF-β signaling and lays the groundwork for further research of its role in insect immune response, development, and reproduction.
Virus-like Particles from Wolbachia-Infected Cells May Include a Gene Transfer Agent
Authors: Fallon Ann M. , Carroll Elissa M.
Published: June 2023

Wolbachia are obligate intracellular bacteria that occur in insects and filarial worms. Strains that infect insects have genomes that encode mobile genetic elements, including diverse lambda-like prophages called Phage WO. Phage WO packages an approximately 65 kb viral genome that includes a unique eukaryotic association module, or EAM, that encodes unusually large proteins thought to mediate interactions between the bacterium, its virus, and the eukaryotic host cell. The Wolbachia supergroup B strain, wStri from the planthopper Laodelphax striatellus, produces phage-like particles that can be recovered from persistently infected mosquito cells by ultracentrifugation. Illumina sequencing, assembly, and manual curation of DNA from two independent preparations converged on an identical 15,638 bp sequence that encoded packaging, assembly, and structural proteins. The absence of an EAM and regulatory genes defined for Phage WO from the wasp, Nasonia vitripennis, was consistent with the possibility that the 15,638 bp sequence represents an element related to a gene transfer agent (GTA), characterized by a signature head–tail region encoding structural proteins that package host chromosomal DNA. Future investigation of GTA function will be supported by the improved recovery of physical particles, electron microscopic examination of potential diversity among particles, and rigorous examination of DNA content by methods independent of sequence assembly.
Comparative Mitogenomics of Jumping Spiders with First Complete Mitochondrial Genomes of Euophryini (Araneae: Salticidae)
Authors: Zhang Wenqiang , Lin Long , Ding Yuhui , Zhang Feng , Zhang Junxia
Published: June 2023

Salticidae is the most species-rich family of spiders with diverse morphology, ecology and behavior. However, the characteristics of the mitogenomes within this group are poorly understood with relatively few well-characterized complete mitochondrial genomes. In this study, we provide completely annotated mitogenomes for Corythalia opima and Parabathippus shelfordi, which represent the first complete mitogenomes of the tribe Euophryini of Salticidae. The features and characteristics of the mitochondrial genomes are elucidated for Salticidae by thoroughly comparing the known well-characterized mitogenomes. The gene rearrangement between trnL2 and trnN was found in two jumping spider species, Corythalia opima and Heliophanus lineiventris Simon, 1868. Additionally, the rearrangement of nad1 to between trnE and trnF found in Asemonea sichuanensis Song & Chai, 1992 is the first protein-coding gene rearrangement in Salticidae, which may have an important phylogenetic implication for the family. Tandem repeats of various copy numbers and lengths were discovered in three jumping spider species. The codon usage analyses showed that the evolution of codon usage bias in salticid mitogenomes was affected by both selection and mutational pressure, but selection may have played a more important role. The phylogenetic analyses provided insight into the taxonomy of Colopsus longipalpis (Żabka, 1985). The data presented in this study will improve our understanding of the evolution of mitochondrial genomes within Salticidae.
A 0.18 μm CMOS Millimeter Wave Antenna-on-Chip with Artificial Magnetic Conductor Design
Authors: Chung Ming-An , Hsu Chia-Chun , Huang Siao-Rong , Huang Pin-Rui
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a small-size broadband slot monopole chip antenna for millimeter wave application. Using a 0.18 μm CMOS process, through metal_1, the artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) of the metal layer increased the impedance bandwidth of the chip antenna. The additional inverted C branch was used to achieve a better reflection coefficient. By adding an AMC and inverted C branch, the operating frequency of the chip antenna went to 33.8–110 GHz below the reflection coefficient of −10 dB, and its fractional bandwidth was 103.4%. The maximum gain was −6.3 dBi at 72 GHz. The overall chip size was 1.2 × 1.2 (mm2). Through measurement and verification, the proposed antenna reflection coefficient was close to the simulation trend and had better resonance. The frequency range of the chip antenna proposed in this paper covered the 5G NR FR2 band (24.2 GHz–52.6 GHz) and W-band (75 GHz–110 GHz). The proposed chip antenna can be applied to the Internet of Things, Industry 4.0, biomedical electronics, near field sensing and other related fields.
Employing Indirect Adenosine 2A Receptors (A2AR) to Enhance Osseointegration of Titanium Devices: A Pre-Clinical Study
Authors: Pacheco-Vergara Maria Jesus , Benalcázar-Jalkh Ernesto Byron , Nayak Vasudev V. , Bergamo Edmara T. P. , Cronstein Bruce , Zétola André Luis , Weiss Fernando Pessoa , Grossi João Ricardo Almeida , Deliberador Tatiana Miranda , Coelho Paulo G. , Witek Lukasz
Published: June 2023

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of dipyridamole, an indirect adenosine 2A receptors (A2AR), on the osseointegration of titanium implants in a large, translational pre-clinical model. Sixty tapered, acid-etched titanium implants, treated with four different coatings ((i) Type I Bovine Collagen (control), (ii) 10 μM dipyridamole (DIPY), (iii) 100 μM DIPY, and (iv) 1000 μM DIPY), were inserted in the vertebral bodies of 15 female sheep (weight ~65 kg). Qualitative and quantitative analysis were performed after 3, 6, and 12 weeks in vivo to assess histological features, and percentages of bone-to-implant contact (%BIC) and bone area fraction occupancy (%BAFO). Data was analyzed using a general linear mixed model analysis with time in vivo and coating as fixed factors. Histomorphometric analysis after 3 weeks in vivo revealed higher BIC for DIPY coated implant groups (10 μM (30.42% ± 10.62), 100 μM (36.41% ± 10.62), and 1000 μM (32.46% ± 10.62)) in comparison to the control group (17.99% ± 5.82). Further, significantly higher BAFO was observed for implants augmented with 1000 μM of DIPY (43.84% ± 9.97) compared to the control group (31.89% ± 5.46). At 6 and 12 weeks, no significant differences were observed among groups. Histological analysis evidenced similar osseointegration features and an intramembranous-type healing pattern for all groups. Qualitative observation corroborated the increased presence of woven bone formation in intimate contact with the surface of the implant and within the threads at 3 weeks with increased concentrations of DIPY. Coating the implant surface with dipyridamole yielded a favorable effect with regard to BIC and BAFO at 3 weeks in vivo. These findings suggest a positive effect of DIPY on the early stages of osseointegration.
Analysis of the Effect of Thickness on the Performance of Polymeric Heart Valves
Authors: Zhou Jingyuan , Li Yijing , Li Tao , Tian Xiaobao , Xiong Yan , Chen Yu
Published: June 2023

Polymeric heart valves (PHVs) are a promising and more affordable alternative to mechanical heart valves (MHVs) and bioprosthetic heart valves (BHVs). Materials with good durability and biocompatibility used for PHVs have always been the research focus in the field of prosthetic heart valves for many years, and leaflet thickness is a major design parameter for PHVs. The study aims to discuss the relationship between material properties and valve thickness, provided that the basic functions of PHVs are qualified. The fluid−structure interaction (FSI) approach was employed to obtain a more reliable solution of the effective orifice area (EOA), regurgitant fraction (RF), and stress and strain distribution of the valves with different thicknesses under three materials: Carbothane PC−3585A, xSIBS and SIBS−CNTs. This study demonstrates that the smaller elastic modulus of Carbothane PC−3585A allowed for a thicker valve (>0.3 mm) to be produced, while for materials with an elastic modulus higher than that of xSIBS (2.8 MPa), a thickness less than 0.2 mm would be a good attempt to meet the RF standard. What is more, when the elastic modulus is higher than 23.9 MPa, the thickness of the PHV is recommended to be 0.l–0.15 mm. Reducing the RF is one of the directions of PHV optimization in the future. Reducing the thickness and improving other design parameters are reliable means to reduce the RF for materials with high and low elastic modulus, respectively.
Bactericidal Activity of Silver Nanoparticles on Oral Biofilms Related to Patients with and without Periodontal Disease
Authors: Hernández-Venegas Perla Alejandra , Martínez-Martínez Rita Elizabeth , Zaragoza-Contreras Erasto Armando , Domínguez-Pérez Rubén Abraham , Reyes-López Simón Yobanny , Donohue-Cornejo Alejandro , Cuevas-González Juan Carlos , Molina-Frechero Nelly , Espinosa-Cristóbal León Francisco
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives: Periodontal disease (PD) is a multifactorial oral disease regularly caused by bacterial biofilms. Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) have offered good antimicrobial activity; moreover, there is no available scientific information related to their antimicrobial effects in biofilms from patients with PD. This study reports the bactericidal activity of AgNP against oral biofilms related to PD. Materials and Methods: AgNP of two average particle sizes were prepared and characterized. Sixty biofilms were collected from patients with (30 subjects) and without PD (30 subjects). Minimal inhibitory concentrations of AgNP were calculated and the distribution of bacterial species was defined by polymerase chain reaction. Results: Well-dispersed sizes of AgNP were obtained (5.4 ± 1.3 and 17.5 ± 3.4 nm) with an adequate electrical stability (−38.2 ± 5.8 and −32.6 ± 5.4 mV, respectively). AgNP showed antimicrobial activities for all oral samples; however, the smaller AgNP had significantly the most increased bactericidal effects (71.7 ± 39.1 µg/mL). The most resistant bacteria were found in biofilms from PD subjects (p < 0.05). P. gingivalis, T. denticola, and T. forsythia were present in all PD biofilms (100%). Conclusions: The AgNP showed efficient bactericidal properties as an alternative therapy for the control or progression of PD.
Are STEM Students Creative Thinkers?
Authors: Borg Preca Christabel , Baldacchino Leonie , Briguglio Marie , Mangion Margaret
Published: June 2023

Scholarly research has increasingly examined the role of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, and that of creativity as a transversal skill. However, far fewer studies have investigated the relationship between the two, particularly in secondary-school contexts, and they have obtained inconsistent results. This paper contributes to the literature by asking: To what extent is studying STEM associated with higher levels of creativity in a secondary-school context? The study utilises a pre-existing dataset gathered in Malta (EU) from some 400 students aged between 11 and 16 years old. It yields information on both the engagement in STEM (measured by exposure to STEM chosen by students as optional subjects, and the enjoyment of STEM considered by students to be their favourite subjects), as well as creativity levels (measured by Divergent Thinking performance on Alternate Uses Tests). Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive link between the two phenomena, lending support to the notion that STEM students tend to be more creative than other students. Using regression analysis, a model is estimated to identify the possible effects of engaging in STEM subjects on creativity, once the other co-determinants of creativity are controlled. The results indicate that both the exposure to STEM subject/s and enjoyment thereof significantly and positively predict creativity, even after controlling for the other possible determinants of creativity (such as age, gender, parental education, and participation in creative activities). These findings offer encouraging insights into 21st century education and for curriculum development as they suggest that, in addition to having value in their own right, STEM subjects can contribute to the development of creativity in young people.
Reconciling Hard Skills and Soft Skills in a Common Framework: The Generic Skills Component Approach
Authors: Lamri Jeremy , Lubart Todd
Published: June 2023

The distinction between hard and soft skills has long been a topic of debate in the field of psychology, with hard skills referring to technical or practical abilities, and soft skills relating to interpersonal capabilities. This paper explores the generic composition of any skill, proposing a unified framework that consists of five distinct components: knowledge, active cognition, conation, affection, and sensory-motor abilities. Building upon previous research and theories, such as Hilgard’s “Trilogy of Mind”, the generic skill components approach aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure and composition of any skill, whether hard or soft. By examining these components and their interactions, we can gain a more in-depth understanding of the nature of skills and their development. This approach has several potential applications and implications for various fields, including education, training, and workplace productivity. Further research is needed to refine and expand upon the generic skill components theory, exploring the interactions between the different components, as well as the impact of contextual factors on skill development and use.
Communication of Design Data in Manufacturing Democratization
Authors: Ghorpade Bhairavsingh , Raman Shivakumar
Published: June 2023

Part design is the principal source of communicating design intent to manufacturing and inspection. Design data are often communicated through computer-aided design (CAD) systems. Modern analytics tools and artificial intelligence integration into manufacturing have significantly advanced machine recognition of design specification and manufacturing constraints. These algorithms require data to be uniformly structured and easily consumable; however, the design data are represented in a graphical structure and contain a nonuniform structure, which limits the use of machine learning algorithms for a variety of tasks. This paper proposes an algorithm for extracting dimensional data from three-dimensional (3D) part designs in a structured manner. The algorithm extracts face dimensions and their relationships with other faces, enabling the recognition of underlying patterns and expanding the applicability of machine learning for various tasks. The extracted part dimensions can be stored in a dimension-based numeric extensible markup language (XML) file, allowing for easy storage and use in machine-readable formats. The resulting XML file provides a dimensional representation of the part data based on their features. The proposed algorithm reads and extracts dimensions with respect to each face of the part design, preserving the dimensional and face relevance. The uniform structure of the design data facilitates the processing of data by machine learning algorithms, enabling the detection of hidden patterns and the development of pattern-based predictive algorithms.
Increasing Maritime Safety and Security in the Off-Shore Activities with HFSWRs as Primary Sensors for Risk Assessment
Authors: Nikolic Dejan , Stojkovic Nikola , Puzovic Snezana , Popovic Zdravko , Stojiljkovic Nikola , Grbic Nemanja , Orlic Vladimir D.
Published: June 2023

This paper demonstrates the benefits that high-frequency surface wave radars (HFSWR) are bringing to maritime safety and security in off-shore activities at over the horizon distances. As a primary means for remote sensing of marine and maritime environment, a network of HFSWRs is deployed in the western part of the Gulf of Guinea and covers an area of over 100 km2. Alongside HFSWRs, usual maritime sensors are utilized for vessel tracking as well, however, only satellite automatic identification systems (SAIS) and land automatic identification systems (LAIS) are capable of covering over the horizon distances. Unfortunately, both LAIS and SAIS require vessel cooperation in order to provide any data, which is often abused by vessels conducting illegal activities. Here, analysis is done in which AIS and HFSWR data are compared in order to identify a pattern of behavior of non–cooperative vessels (vessels with onboard AIS devices turned off) so a proper risk assessment may be achieved. It is shown that typical patterns can be easily recognized for two illegal activities which plague the waters where this study is conducted. Those illegal activities are oil bunkering and piracy, both conducted off-shore and out of the reach of the usual coastal sensors such as X or S band radars. Furthermore, tracks created whilst conducting illegal activities are easily distinguishable from others in the overall operational picture. Additionally, it should be pointed out that numerous vessels are switching off their AIS devices when they leave the coastal regions in order to avoid detection by pirate vessels. This behavior can also be easily recognized and must not be mixed with the illegal activities mentioned above.
Numerical Simulation of Electrical Properties for Pore-Scale Hydrate-Bearing Sediments with Different Occurrence Patterns and Distribution Morphologies
Authors: Lan Xixi , Zou Changchun , Peng Cheng , Wu Caowei , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wang Shengyi
Published: June 2023

Characterizing the electrical properties of hydrate-bearing sediments, especially resistivity, is essential for reservoir identification and saturation evaluation. The variation in electrical properties depends on the evolution of pore habits, which in turn are influenced by the hydrate growth pattern. To analyze the relationship between hydrate morphology and resistivity quantitatively, different micromorphologies of hydrates were simulated at the pore scale. This study was also conducted based on Maxwell’s equations for a constant current field. During numerical simulation, three types of hydrate occurrence patterns (grain-cementing, pore-filling and load-bearing) and five types of distribution morphologies (circle, square, square rotated by 45°, ellipse and ellipse rotated by 90°) in the pore-filling mode were considered. Moreover, the effects of porosity, the conductivity of seawater, the size of the pore-throat and other factors on resistivity are also discussed. The results show that the variation in resistivity with hydrate saturation can be broadly divided into three stages (basically no effect, slow change and rapid growth). Compared with the grain-cementing and pore-filling modes, the resistivity of the load-bearing mode was relatively high even when hydrate saturation was low. For high hydrate-saturated sediments (Sh > 0.4), the saturation exponent n in Archie equation was taken as 2.42 ± 0.2. The size of the throat is furthermore the most critical factor affecting resistivity. This work shows the potential application prospects of the fine reservoir characterization and evaluation of hydrate-bearing sediments.