bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achievement motivation and mental health among medical postgraduates: the chain mediating effect of self-esteem and perceived stress
Authors: Ma Mu-yun , Li Yao , Guo Li , Yang Guan-e
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Medical postgraduates generally experience high levels of depression and anxiety. Previous studies have investigated the impact of various achievement motivations on depression/anxiety among medical students.

Methods

This study focused on self-esteem and perceived stress, examining the internal mechanisms through which achievement motivation affects depression/anxiety. 530 medical postgraduate students (66.04% female and 33.96% male) were administered the Achievement Goal Orientation Scale, Self-Esteem Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale.

Results

Results indicated that: (1) mastery-approach goals were negatively correlated with depression/anxiety; mastery-avoidance goals were positively correlated with depression/anxiety; performance-avoidance goals positively predicted depression/anxiety; (2) self-esteem mediated the relationship between achievement motivation and depression/anxiety; (3) perceived stress played a mediating role in the relationship between achievement motivation and depression/anxiety; (4) self-esteem and perceived stress played a chain mediating role in the relationship between achievement motivation and depression/anxiety; (5) there was no significant linear correlation between mastery-approach goals and depression/anxiety.

Discussion

Although this study employed a cross-sectional design and self-report scales, both of which have certain limitations, the findings still hold significant theoretical and practical implications. The research reveals a mediating pathway between achievement goals and mental health, offering new insights into mental health education for medical graduate students.
Unique and cumulative effects of different subtypes of sleep problems on burnout among Chinese nurses
Authors: Lin Ping-Zhen , Lin Yong-Sen , Wang Xu , Chen Lan-Lan , Lin Yan-Yan , Wu Bi-Yu
Published: October 2024

Objective

To investigate the unique and cumulative associations of different sleep problem subtypes with burnout among Chinese nurses.

Methods

A survey was conducted in Quanzhou, China, and a total of 744 nurses were included. Burnout was measured by Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey across three dimensions: emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP) and low personal accomplishment (PA). Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used to measure 15 types of sleep problems. Binary logistic regression was employed to explore the association between sleep problems and burnout.

Results

Prevalence of sleep problems, high EE, high DP and low PA were 43.3, 6.9, 23.4, and 63.2%, respectively. Experience of sleep problems significantly increased risk for EE (OR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.185–1.436), DP (OR = 1.08, 95%CI: 1.023–1.142) and PA (OR = 1.09, 95%CI: 1.036–1.146). Of the 15 sleep problem subtypes, “feel too cold” and “have pain” were significant predictors of high EE (OR = 3.89, 95%CI: 1.629–9.302; OR = 3.00, 95%CI: 1.314–6.827, respectively), and “daytime dysfunction” significantly predicted low PA (OR = 1.68, 95%CI: 1.135–2.491). Around 40.9% of nurses had reported more than three subtypes of sleep problems. Experiencing more than three subtypes of sleep problems were significantly associated with an increased risk of DP and PA (ORs range from 2.07 to 2.71).

Conclusion

These findings suggested that sleep problems was associated with an increased risk of burnout in nurses, with both unique and cumulative risks. Interventions should focus on the prevention and management of the effects of sleep problems among nurses.
An exploratory cross-cultural study of community-based health literacy interventions to promote the mental well-being of disadvantaged and disabled young Africans: a multi-method approach
Authors: Sharpe Darren , Rajabi Mohsen , Mesa Liliana Galicia , Hanafiah Ainul , Obuaku-Igwe Chinwe , Davidson Julia , Chileshe Katongo
Published: October 2024

Background

This study explores the impact of community-based health literacy interventions on the health and mental well-being of disadvantaged young Africans in Zambia, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, and South Africa. The pandemic has exacerbated mental health problems amongst children and young people, underscoring the urgent need for equitable access to mental healthcare resources. Emphasizing the importance of equitable access to mental healthcare resources, the research addresses educational and income disparities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly amongst young Africans with disabilities or vulnerabilities.

Methods

The study comprised 1,624 young Africans, of whom 1,592 were surveyed, while 191 later participated in in-depth interviews and focus groups. Additionally, 32 participants exclusively joined focus groups. Participants were recruited to complete the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (SWEMWBS), WHO-5 Well-being Index, Pandemic Anxiety Scale (PAS), and Self-rating of Happiness, as well as semi-structured interviews or focus groups.

Results

The findings highlight the significance of tailored health literacy interventions in addressing mental health challenges and promoting well-being in marginalized African communities. In the sample, 43.1% (686) reported to have at least a physical disability or serious health condition and 51.4% (818) had special educational needs (SENs). Mental health scores were significantly lower in participants with two or more physical disabilities and pre-existing mental health problems. Factors significantly associated with poor mental health included poor health literacy, physical disabilities, and pre-existing mental health problems. Four main themes were generated from the thematic analysis: early childhood trajectories and mental illness experiences; positionality, open communication, and mental illness experience; mental illness experience, emotional honesty, and social stratification; and spirituality, cultural beliefs, and mental illness experience.

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the need for context-specific, culturally appropriate health literacy interventions to support the mental health and well-being of young Africans in LMICs. By focusing on the lived experiences of disadvantaged groups, the research contributes to a better understanding of effective strategies for promoting health literacy and addressing health inequalities in African communities during and after health emergencies.
Perceived quality of parent-child interaction in parents of autistic children: relationship with parental education level
Authors: Wang Feiying , Du Wenchong , Iao Lai-Sang
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Most autism research was conducted in Western, Educated, Industrialised, Rich and Democratic (WEIRD) countries. This study is the first to examine factors that were associated with perceived quality of parent-child interaction in non-WEIRD parents of autistic children.

Methods

Ninety-one Chinese parents of autistic children (82 females, 9 males) completed an online survey which involved two sections. The first section included demographics questions about the parent and the family, including age, gender, educational level, and household income. It also assessed parents’ perceived quality of parent-child interaction and their autistic traits. The second section included demographics questions about their autistic child, including age and gender, and assessed autistic traits and behavioural problems.

Results

Parent’s education level was associated with and the only predictor of their perceived quality of parent-child interaction. The higher educational level in parents the higher quality of parent-child interaction was perceived by the parents.

Discussion

These findings underscored the significance of parents’ education level as a unique predictor of perceived parent-child interaction quality among Chinese parents of autistic children, providing implications to corresponding education and social policies in China and other non-WEIRD countries.
Investigating the implementation of a novel approach to alcohol screening and brief intervention in Mexico: a mixed-methods study using pseudo-patients
Authors: Fisher Deborah A. , Grube Joel W. , Lilliott-González Liz , Elias Marissa , Sturm Robert , Ringwalt Christopher L. , Miller Ted R. , Cardenas Vargas Elena , Achoki Tom , Rizzo Angela
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Low- and middle-income countries bear disproportionate burdens from excessive alcohol consumption, yet have fewer resources to identify and intervene with risky drinkers. Low-cost screening and brief intervention (SBI) models offer a tool for addressing this health problem and reducing disparities.

Methods

In this mixed-methods study, trained pseudo-patients visited health clinics in Zacatecas, Mexico, where a novel SBI model was used with trained nonmedical health educators (HEs) conducting SBI in waiting areas. Pseudo-patients, who provided responses to the AUDIT-C screening items designed to trigger a brief intervention (BI), waited for HEs to engage them in an SBI encounter. Data on HEs’ behaviors, SBI components provided, and contextual characteristics were coded from audio recordings of the encounters using an SBI checklist and from pseudo-patient interviews.

Results

Quantitative analyses examined the consistency in pseudo-patients’ targeted AUDIT-C scores and those documented by HEs as well as the frequency of delivery of SBI components. Across 71 interactions, kappas between HEs’ scores and the targeted AUDIT-C scores ranged from 0.33 to 0.45 across AUDIT-C items; it was 0.16 for the total AUDIT-C. In 41% of interactions, the HEs recorded total AUDIT-C scores that accurately reflected the targeted scores, 45% were below, and 14% exceeded them. Analyses of checklist items and transcripts showed that HEs demonstrated desired interpersonal skills (attentive, empathetic, professional) and provided general information regarding risks and recommendations about reducing consumption. In contrast, personalized BI components (exploring pseudo-patients’ personal challenges and concerns about reducing drinking; making a plan) occurred much less frequently. Pseudo-patient interviews revealed contextual factors (noise, lack of privacy) that may have negatively affected SBI interactions.

Discussion

Using trained nonmedical persons to administer SBI holds promise to increase its reach. However, ongoing training and monitoring, prioritizing comprehensive BIs, eliminating contextual barriers, and electronic delivery of screening may help ensure high quality delivery.
Examining the measurement of severity of intimate partner violence and its association to mental health outcomes: a narrative synthesis
Authors: White Sarah , Bearne Lindsay , Sweeney Angela , Mantovani Nadia
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The aims of this synthesis were to investigate the relationship between IPV severity and mental health outcomes and shed light to gaps and limitations in existing methodologies used to assess IPV severity and its association with mental health outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a two-stage narrative synthesis of 76 studies. First, we identified IPV measures used in at least five studies, focusing on their variations and severity score calculation. Then, we analyzed findings of studies correlating IPV severity with mental health outcomes, identifying features of measures and statistical methods influencing result consistency.

Results

Measures of intimate partner violence were often modified from their original, potentially impact on the reliability and validity of these measures. The operationalization of violence severity varied across studies, leading to inconsistencies in scoring whereby compromising the consistency of severity levels across studies. We found lack of consistency in applying validated methods for scoring instruments to determine abuse severity. In this review, we consistently found that the severity of IPV and its various subtypes were linked to different mental health outcomes across multiple studies. We discovered evidence suggesting that experiencing more types of IPV was associated with worse mental health outcomes. Generally, higher levels of overall IPV severity and its specific subtypes were correlated with poorer mental health outcomes. However, our analyses did not reveal consistent patterns that would allow for a definitive determination of how individual IPV subtypes differently affect mental health outcomes. Nevertheless, we observed that increasing severity of physical IPV tended to have a notable impact on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Conversely, increasing severity of psychological IPV was consistently associated with depression. While sexual IPV severity was explored in fewer studies, the evidence regarding its impact on various mental health outcomes was less conclusive.

Discussion

To achieve a comprehensive understanding of the mechanism by which IPV severity is related to mental health it may be time to take an alternative approach to measuring IPV severity. No IPV measures assessed the acceptability of the content to people who have experienced IPV. This is an important omission with significant consequences for the validity of the evidence base.
Dengue fever: a decade of burden in Iran
Authors: Heydarifard Zahra , Heydarifard Fatemeh , Mousavi Fatemeh Sadat , Zandi Milad
Published: October 2024

Since the first reported traveler case of Dengue in Tehran in 2008, the virus has gradually spread across Iran, driven by factors including international travel, climate change, and Aedes mosquito vectors. The disease has manifested in various forms, ranging from mild fever to severe dengue, with notable cases identified in Sistan and Baluchistan Province. Despite the increasing prevalence, Iran faces significant challenges in surveillance, diagnosis, and vector control. This perspective comprehensively analyzes dengue virus epidemiology in Iran, emphasizing the need for enhanced public health strategies, including genomic surveillance, targeted interventions, and health education. The findings highlight the critical importance of addressing these challenges to mitigate the potential for large-scale dengue epidemics and protect public health.
The impact of work–family conflict on occupational fatigue among endoscopy nurses in China: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Zeng Zhi , Zhou Sumei , Liu Meng , Xie Guiqiong , He Yazhi , Zhang Jiquan
Published: October 2024

Background

Endoscopy nurses in China face significant work–family conflicts, where the clash between high work demands and family responsibilities markedly increases the risk of occupational fatigue. This not only affects the nurses’ physical and mental health and overall well-being, but also poses a threat to the quality of care and patient safety. This study, grounded in the Conservation of Resources theory, constructs a moderated mediation model to examine the mediating role of positive coping style in the relationship between work–family conflict and occupational fatigue among endoscopy nurses in China, as well as the moderating effect of perceived social support.

Methods

A convenience sampling method was employed to select 315 endoscopy nurses from 25 tertiary hospitals across 14 provinces in China. A questionnaire survey was conducted using the Fatigue Assessment Instrument, the Work–Family Conflict Scale, the Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire, and the Perceived Social Support Scale. The moderated mediation model was validated using Stata16.0.

Results

Our findings reveal that work–family conflict is a significant predictor of occupational fatigue, with a negative impact on positive coping style. Positive coping style, in turn, is negatively associated with occupational fatigue. Furthermore, positive coping style partially mediates the relationship between work–family conflict and occupational fatigue, accounting for 35.52% of the total effect. Additionally, perceived social support mitigates the negative effects of work–family conflict on positive coping style and occupational fatigue.

Conclusion

There exists a moderated mediation effect between work–family conflict and occupational fatigue among endoscopy nurses in China, wherein positive coping style serve as a mediating variable. Perceived social support mitigates the negative impact of work–family conflict on positive coping style, while enhancing the alleviating effect of positive coping style on occupational fatigue. Therefore, improving endoscopy nurses’ levels of perceived social support and coping strategies may help to prevent and alleviate the occurrence of occupational fatigue.
The role of high mobility group proteins in cellular senescence mechanisms
Authors: Chen Jia , Li Hongyu , Huang Yongyin , Tang Qiang
Published: October 2024

Aging is a universal physiological phenomenon, and chronic age-related diseases have become one of the leading causes of human mortality, accounting for nearly half of all deaths. Studies have shown that reducing the incidence of these diseases can not only extend lifespan but also promote healthy aging. In recent years, the potential role of non-histone high-mobility group proteins (HMGs) in the regulation of aging and lifespan has attracted widespread attention. HMGs play critical roles in cellular senescence and associated diseases through various pathways, encompassing multi-layered mechanisms involving protein interactions, molecular regulation, and chromatin dynamics. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the interactions between HMG family proteins and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), chromatin structure, and histone modifications, offering a deeper exploration of the pivotal functions and impacts of HMGs in the aging process. Furthermore, we summarize recent findings on the contributions of HMG proteins to aging and age-related diseases. HMG proteins not only regulate senescence-associated inflammation through modulating the SASP but also influence genomic stability and cell fate decisions via interactions with chromatin and histones. Targeting HMG proteins holds great potential in delaying the progression of aging and its associated diseases. This review aims to provide a systematic overview of HMG proteins’ roles in aging and to lay a solid foundation for future anti-aging drug development and therapeutic strategies. With the advancing understanding of the mechanisms by which HMGs regulate aging, developing therapeutic interventions targeting HMGs may emerge as a promising approach to extending lifespan and enhancing healthspan.
Oral health-related beliefs among a sample of pregnant women in Southwestern Ontario: a descriptive study
Authors: Kamalabadi Yasaman Mohammadi , Campbell M. Karen , Gratton Robert , Athanasakos Alexia , Haddad Myriam , Jessani Abbas
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Unfavorable beliefs about oral health and dental treatment during pregnancy can lead to the avoidance of dental care and the underutilization of dental services, adversely affecting adherence to good oral hygiene practices and, consequently, the health of the fetus. This study investigated the commonly held oral health beliefs among pregnant women in Southwestern Ontario, Canada.

Methods

Participants were recruited from the Family Medicine Obstetrics Clinic in London, Ontario, Canada. Eligible participants were pregnant women aged 18 or older, excluding those unwilling to participate. Participants completed a 33-item self-administered questionnaire, including three open-ended questions about oral health beliefs and their impacts on pregnancy, which were analyzed for this study. Thematic analysis in NVivo identified key patterns, while analysis determined the most common beliefs and the degree of diversity in responses. Responses were categorized into sub-themes, and the frequency and percentage of each category were calculated.

Results

A total of 130 participants met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 40.7% (n = 46) believed that oral health impacts their child's health, 48.2% (n = 53) believed that dental treatment affects fetal health, and 64.4% (n = 76) believed that pregnancy influences their oral health. Many beliefs regarding oral health during pregnancy regarded infection risks. Participants held negative beliefs about the effects of antibiotics, analgesics, and dental x-rays during pregnancy. Common beliefs about the impacts of pregnancy on oral health included developing conditions, such as tooth sensitivity, caries, and gingivitis, as well as a loss of minerals to the fetus.

Conclusion

This study revealed important misconceptions and concerns about oral health and dental treatment among pregnant women in Southwestern Ontario. The findings highlighted the need for enhanced oral health education for pregnant women to address these misconceptions and promote proper care during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to focus on dispelling myths, emphasizing the safety of necessary dental treatments, and reinforcing the significance of maintaining good oral health for maternal and fetal well-being.
Ankle tendon electrical stimulation to enhance sensation of walking on a slope in walking-in-place
Authors: Ota Takashi , Matsumoto Keigo , Aoyama Kazuma , Amemiya Tomohiro , Narumi Takuji , Kuzuoka Hideaki
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to develop an effective VR locomotion technique for walking through virtual environments with sloped ground. Thus, this paper presents a novel method for inducing the sensation of walking on a slope in walking-in-place (WIP) using ankle tendon electrical stimulation (TES), which induces the body tilt sensation. We conducted two experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method. In Experiment 1, we evaluated the sensation of ascending and descending slopes induced by the proposed method in a setup where electricity flows when the feet are grounded by comparing it to the sensation on a real slope. Experiment 1 demonstrated a marginally significant effect of electrical stimulation on the sensation of ascending or descending slopes. We attributed this to the short duration of ankle TES and the influence of the user’s interpretation of the ankle TES. Based on the findings, Experiment 2 was conducted in a setup where ankle TES was constantly applied. The results indicated that participants who focused on the subjective body tilt sensation elicited by TES and those unaware of the TES effect experienced an ascending sensation with an anterior ankle TES and a descending sensation with a posterior ankle TES. Conversely, those who focused on the tactile or force sensation induced by ankle TES experienced the opposite effect. Based on this finding, we have constructed an implementation guide for a WIP system that incorporates ankle TES to present the desired sensation of ascending or descending slopes in virtual environments.
Grapevines grown from canes having spent 10 months in space: study of their downy mildew susceptibility
Authors: Taillis David , Burdziej Aleksandra , Bautista Charlyne , Haag Ferdinand W. M. , Lebert Michael , Cluzet Stéphanie
Published: October 2024

The control of plant diseases represents a significant challenge in agriculture, particularly with the current emphasis on reducing pesticide use, necessitating alternative approaches. Among them, resistant plant breeding programs offer a promising alternative. Considering the stressful conditions in space, space conditions emerge as an innovative method for advancing crop improvement. This study explored the unique potential of the International Space Station (ISS) environment to induce beneficial modifications in grapevine, resulting in plants with reduced susceptibility to diseases. Canes of two Vitis vinifera L. cultivars, Cabernet Sauvignon (CS) and Merlot (Me), have undergone a 10-month space journey on-board the ISS, while others stayed on Earth (Ground Control, GC). We conducted a 2-year analysis of the response to downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) of plants developed from ISS and GC canes, called Mother plants. The disease development of progenies produced from Merlot Mother plants was also evaluated. A higher proportion of individuals with low-susceptibility was noted in the ISS Mother group compared to the controls for both cultivars. This trend was also observed for the Merlot progenies. Finally, 11% of Merlot individuals (Mother and progenies, and for the 2 years of study) were distributed in the low susceptibility class. This study suggests that grapevine canes exposure to ISS conditions resulted in an enhanced percentage of plants showing reduction of susceptibility to downy mildew.
An electrochemical sensor for simultaneous voltammetric detection of ascorbic acid and dopamine enabled by higher electrocatalytic activity of co-modified MCM-41 mesoporous molecular sieve
Authors: Ma Guoxin , Shi Qiang , Hou Xiuli , Peng Yuxin , Liu Qian
Published: October 2024

It is of great value to develop effective methods for accurately and simultaneously detecting ascorbic acid (AA) and dopamine (DA) in the field of biochemistry. This work reports a nonenzymatic electrochemical sensor for the simultaneous detection of AA and DA by employing a Co-modified MCM-41 (CoMCM-41) mesoporous molecular sieve as an efficient electrocatalytic material, which was synthesized by a two-step hydrothermal method. Subsequently, the high structural organization of the CoMCM-41 mesoporous structure was characterized, and the electrocatalytic performance of CoMCM-41 toward AA and DA oxidation was then evidenced by the catalytic effect of different electrodes modified with or without CoMCM-41. By virtue of the superior electrocatalytic activity of the CoMCM-41, a much wider peak potential difference (ΔEpa) of 310 mV was obtained for the oxidation of AA and DA in their mixture solution, and the parameters that influenced the electrochemical signals of the modified electrode were also optimized. Under optimal conditions, a good linear response to AA and DA was observed on the CoMCM-41 modified electrode. For individual detection of AA and DA, the linear ranges were 7 ~ 105 μM and 5 ~ 110 μM respectively, while the linear response range was 20 ~ 100 μM for simultaneous detection of AA and DA. Satisfactory recovery results were obtained when the fabricated sensor was applied to determine AA in orange juice and DA in madopar pill samples.
ACT-FRCNN: Progress Towards Transformer-Based Object Detection
Authors: Zulfqar Sukana , Elgamal Zenab , Zia Muhammad Azam , Razzaq Abdul , Ullah Sami , Dawood Hussain
Published: October 2024

Maintaining a high input resolution is crucial for more complex tasks like detection or segmentation to ensure that models can adequately identify and reflect fine details in the output. This study aims to reduce the computation costs associated with high-resolution input by using a variant of transformer, known as the Adaptive Clustering Transformer (ACT). The proposed model is named ACT-FRCNN. Which integrates ACT with a Faster Region-Based Convolution Neural Network (FRCNN) for a detection task head. In this paper, we proposed a method to improve the detection framework, resulting in better performance for out-of-domain images, improved object identification, and reduced dependence on non-maximum suppression. The ACT-FRCNN represents a significant step in the application of transformer models to challenging visual tasks like object detection, laying the foundation for future work using transformer models. The performance of ACT-FRCNN was evaluated on a variety of well-known datasets including BSDS500, NYUDv2, and COCO. The results indicate that ACT-FRCNN reduces over-detection errors and improves the detection of large objects. The findings from this research have practical implications for object detection and other computer vision tasks.
A Combination of Camera and Pitfall Traps: A Method for Monitoring Ground-Dwelling Invertebrates in Farmlands
Authors: Gao Meixiang , Sun Jiahuan , Jiang Yige , Ye Yanyan , Zheng Ye , Yan Xiujuan , Qi Mengmeng , Li Xin , Liu Jinwen , Li Hong
Published: October 2024

Ground-dwelling invertebrates are crucial for maintaining biodiversity, soil health, and food production in agricultural ecosystems; however, their diversity is declining globally. Despite advancements in data science and modern monitoring technology, conventional methods remain predominant in the current field investigations of ground-dwelling invertebrates in farmlands. This study aimed to develop simple, convenient, and automated methods to assess ground-dwelling invertebrate biodiversity in farmlands. Both camera and pitfall traps were used to monitor ground-dwelling invertebrates in two farmlands in Ningbo City, China. Over four experimental periods, lasting 34 days in the vineyard farmland and 32 days in the watermelon farmland, the camera traps detected a relatively high density of invertebrates, although the relative dominance of ant density was overestimated in both farmlands. Both methods revealed similar temporal dynamics of the ground-dwelling invertebrates during the four periods in the vineyard farmland. However, only camera traps recorded the temporal dynamics of the invertebrates at daily, hourly, and minute resolutions in both farmlands. Conclusively, this study demonstrates that combining camera and pitfall traps provides an effective method for monitoring the temporal dynamics of ground-dwelling invertebrates in farmlands, offering high-quality data useful for ecological research and biodiversity protection in agricultural management.
Factors Driving Soil Respiration Rate After Different Fertilizer Sources Addition
Authors: Zou Yukun , Shan Ying , Yue Zhengfu , Gioacchini Paola , Montecchio Daniela , Gaggia Francesca , Alberoni Daniele , Baffoni Loredana , Zhang Qiaoyan , Xiong Peng , Marzadori Claudio , Di Gioia Diana
Published: October 2024

Soil respiration is a critical process that regulates key ecosystem functions such as climate control, nutrient cycling, and plant productivity. Soil texture, nutrient availability, and microbial communities can all influence soil respiration, yet our understanding of their relative importance remains limited. This study aimed to investigate how different factors—like soil texture, nutrient additions, and microbial communities—contribute to soil respiration and define their specific roles in its variability. Using a microcosm experiment with various fertilizers and two soil types (Navarra, a silty clay soil, and Saponi, a sandy soil), we measured changes in both biotic and abiotic factors. A multiple linear regression analysis revealed that, among other biotic and abiotic factors, soil clay content, soluble nitrogen levels, bacterial abundance, and α-diversity significantly impacted soil respiration, together accounting for over 60% of its total variance. Structural equation modeling indicated that microbial communities made the greatest contribution to respiration at 30.84%, followed by soil texture at 19.63%. Overall, biotic factors were found to play a more significant role in driving soil respiration rates compared to abiotic factors, with edaphic properties having a greater influence than fertilizer additions.
Using Nanomaterials and Arbuscular mycorrhizas to Alleviate Saline–Alkali Stress in Cyperus esculentus (L.)
Authors: Diao Jixing , Tang Yi , Jiang Yu , Sun Hailian , Zhang Chuan-Jie
Published: October 2024

Saline–alkali (SA) stress is an abiotic stress that exists widely in the natural environment, seriously affecting the growth and development of crops. Tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.), a perennial herb of Cyperus in Cyperaceae, is considered a pioneer crop for growing and improving SA land due to its excellent adaptability and SA tolerance. This study is the first to evaluate the SA tolerance of tiger nut and the alleviative effects of nanomaterials (nano-selenium and multi-walled carbon nanotubes) and Arbuscular mycorrhizas (AMs) on SA stress. The results showed that the seedling fresh weight of tiger nut was the most suitable parameter to describe the dose–response effect of plant growth with increased SA concentration. Based on the log-logistic dose–response curve, the GR50 values of NaCl and NaHCO3 (the concentrations causing a 50% reduction in seedling fresh weight) were determined to be 163 mmol L−1 and 63 mmol L−1, respectively. Under these stresses, the exogenous application of MWCNTs at 100 mg L−1 or Nano-Se at 10 mg L−1 showed that the effect of SA on tiger nut was alleviated. Field evaluation further showed that the exogenous application of MWCNTs, Nano-Se, or AMs could effectively alleviate SA stress on tiger nut. Compared to the untreated control, the application of these substances significantly improved the plant photosynthesis-related parameter, antioxidant enzyme activity, plant height (height: 66.0–69.9 cm), tuber yield (yield: 23.4–27.4 g plant−1), and oil quality of tiger nut under SA stress. The results of this study indicate that the application of MWCNTs, Nano-Se, or AMs, to tiger nut can alleviate SA stress and maintain seed yield, providing the possibility of using these nanoparticles to improve the SA tolerance of tiger nut in agricultural practice.
Illumina Sequencing in Conjunction with Propidium Monoazide to Identify Live Bacteria After Antiseptic Treatment in a Complex Oral Biofilm: A Study Using an Ex Vivo Supragingival Biofilm Model
Authors: Sánchez María C. , Hernández Paola , Velapatiño Ángela , Cuba Eber , Ciudad María J. , Collado Luis
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The evaluation of the efficacy of antibacterial treatments in complex oral ecosystems is limited by the inability to differentiate live from dead bacteria using omic techniques. The objective of this study was therefore to assess the ability of the combination of the 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing methodology and the action of propidium monoazide (PMA) to study viable bacterial profiles in oral biofilms after exposure to an antiseptic compound. Methods: Cariogenic supragingival biofilms were developed in an ex vivo model for 96 h, using saliva from healthy volunteers. The biofilms were treated with 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX) combined with 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), for 60 s, using phosphate buffered saline as a control. After exposure, each biofilm was treated or not with PMA to then extract the bacterial DNA, quantify it by Qubit, quantify the bacterial population using qPCR, and perform the metataxonomic study of the samples using Illumina 16S rRNA sequencing. Results: A significantly lower DNA concentration in the PMA-treated biofilms (p < 0.05 compared with those not exposed to PMA) was observed. The viable bacterial count obtained by qPCR differed significantly from the total bacterial count in the biofilm samples exposed to the antiseptic (p < 0.05). The viable microbiome differed significantly from the total bacterial profile of the samples treated with CHX/CPC after exposure to PMA (p < 0.05 at the α- and β-diversity levels). Conclusions: The combination of Illumina 16S rRNA sequencing and PMA helps solve the inability to evaluate the efficacy of antibacterial treatments in the bacterial profile of complex ecosystems such as oral biofilms.
In Silico Analysis of Non-Conventional Oxidative Stress-Related Enzymes and Their Potential Relationship with Carcinogenesis
Authors: Seiva Fábio Rodrigues Ferreira , Agneis Maria Luisa Gonçalves , de Almeida Matheus Ribas , Caputo Wesley Ladeira , de Souza Milena Cremer , das Neves Karoliny Alves , Oliveira Érika Novais , Justulin Luis Antônio , Chuffa Luiz Gustavo de Almeida
Published: October 2024

Carcinogenesis is driven by complex molecular events, often involving key enzymes that regulate oxidative stress (OS). While classical enzymes such as SOD, catalase, and GPx have been extensively studied, other, non-classical oxidative stress-related enzymes (OSRE) may play critical roles in cancer progression. We aimed to explore the role of OSRE involved in an OS scenario and to assess their potential contribution to carcinogenesis in some of the most prevalent cancer types. Through data mining and bioinformatic analysis of gene and protein expression and mutation data, we identified OSRE with altered expression and mutations across cancer types. Functional pathways involving EGFR, MT-ND, GST, PLCG2, PRDX6, SRC, and JAK2 were investigated. Our findings reveal that enzymes traditionally considered peripheral to OS play significant roles in tumor progression. Those OSRE may contribute to cancer initiation and progression, as well as be involved with cancer hallmarks, such as EMT and invasion, proliferation, and ROS production. In addition, enzymes like SRC and JAK2 were found to have dual roles in both promoting ROS generation and being modulated by OS. OSRE also interact with key oncogenic signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin and JAK2/STAT3, linking them to cancer aggressiveness and therapeutic resistance. Future research should focus on translating these findings into clinical applications, including the development of novel inhibitors or drugs targeting these non-classical enzymes.
Curcumin’s Radioprotective Effects on Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Pucci Gaia , Savoca Gaetano , Iacoviello Giuseppina , Russo Giorgio , Forte Giusi I. , Cavalieri Vincenzo
Published: October 2024

Radiation modifiers are largely studied for their contribution to enlarging the treatment window. Curcumin is already known for its antioxidant properties; however, its role as a radioprotector in preclinical studies is affected by the well-known low absorption and bioavailability of curcumin. In this study, curcumin’s radioprotection ability has been evaluated in zebrafish larvae, by taking advantage of quantifying curcumin absorption and evaluating its fluorescence in transparent embryos. A curcumin range of 1–10 μM was tested to select the non-toxic concentrations to be used for a pre-treatment of photon beam irradiation using a 2–15 Gy range of doses. The post-treatment analysis within 120 h post-fertilization (hpf) included an assessment of mortality and malformation rates and behavioral and gene expression analysis. A total of 2.5 and 5 μM of curcumin pre-treatment showed a radioprotective role, significantly reducing the frequency of embryo malformations and damaged entities. This sparing effect disappeared using 15 Gy, showing the radiation effect’s prevalence. Gene expression analysis reconducted this radioprotective ability for antioxidant gene network activation. The curcumin-induced activation of the antioxidant gene network promoted radioprotection in zebrafish.
Enhanced Crystallinity of SrTiO3 Films on a Silicon Carbide Substrate: Structural and Microwave Characterization
Authors: Tumarkin Andrei , Sapego Eugene , Bogdan Alexey , Karamov Artem , Serenkov Igor , Sakharov Vladimir
Published: October 2024

Thin films of strontium titanate, which reveal high structure quality and tunable properties prospective for microwave applications at room temperature, were grown on a semi-insulating silicon carbide substrate using magnetron sputtering for the first time. The films’ growth mechanisms were studied using medium-energy ion scattering, and the films’ structures were investigated using X-ray diffraction. The electrical characteristics of planar capacitors based on strontium titanate films were measured at a frequency of 2 GHz using a high-precision resonance technique. It is shown that the tendency to improve the crystalline structure of strontium titanate film with an increase in the substrate temperature is most pronounced for films deposited at elevated working gas pressure under low supersaturation conditions. Planar capacitors formed on the basis of oriented SrTiO3 films on silicon carbide showed tunability n = 36%, with a loss tangent of 0.008–0.009 at a level of slow relaxation of capacitance, which is significantly lower than the data published currently regarding planar tunable ferroelectric elements. This is the first successful attempt to realize a planar SrTiO3 capacitor on a silicon carbide substrate, which exhibits a commutation quality factor more than 2500 at microwaves.
Reducing Peak Power in a Multiple Load System by Delaying the Activation of Electrical Loads Using a Filter Based on a PI Controller
Authors: Kasprzyk Jerzy , Szulc Michał
Published: October 2024

In a power grid with multiple two-state loads, the total power can vary over a significant range. This results in the inability to supply this system from a low-power source. The solution is an algorithm that shapes energy demand depending on its availability. For this purpose, a new load distribution method is proposed based on introducing a buffer between the temperature controller output and the heater and filtering the load using a master Proportional–Integral (PI) controller. The aim of the work was to evaluate the quality of the developed algorithm for limiting power peaks in the power grid. The research was conducted on a model of the Creep Test Laboratory with 389 heaters simulated in MATLAB Simulink R2023b. The algorithm was tested with various settings of the master controller parameters. By experimentally adjusting these parameters, a ten-fold reduction in peak power was achieved. The standard deviation for the L1 phase was reduced from 7.6 kW to 0.6 kW. Similar results were obtained for phases L2 and L3. The tested control system tracked changes in the average power value by changing the number of loads switched on and by frequency-modulating the signal when the change was less than the power of a single load. It was demonstrated that the controlled delayed switching of electrical loads can modify the shape of the total electric power without affecting their operation. The proposed solution features a low computational complexity, which allows its implementation in various systems.
Incorporation of Chokeberry Pomace into Baked Products: Influence on the Quality of the Dough and the Muffins
Authors: Zbikowska Anna , Lukasiak Piotr , Kowalska Małgorzata , Lukasiak Aleksandra , Kozłowska Mariola , Marciniak-Lukasiak Katarzyna
Published: October 2024

The use of pomace in bakery products opens up new possibilities for the management of waste products from the fruit industry. Such activities are integral to the concept of sustainable development and the circular economy. In this research, the quality of dough and final products was analyzed by replacing 10–50% of the typical flour (wheat, rice, and corn) with chokeberry pomace flour. The instrumental color measurements and the sensory analysis showed that the dough and the muffins made with the fruit flour were significantly different from the control samples. Flour substitutions of over 10%, while enriching muffins with chokeberry flour, led to a decrease in product quality (texture, dough rise, sensory quality), especially for muffins with gluten. The sensory study showed that a substitution of 10% of typical flour resulted in products acceptable to potential consumers, but a higher substitution reduced the overall quality. It was found that the use of chokeberry pomace in making muffins was limited and more feasible for gluten-free products.
Evaluation of Link Overstrength Factor for the Seismic Design of Eccentrically Braced Frames
Authors: Hong Yoonsu , Yu Eunjong
Published: October 2024

In eccentrically braced frames (EBFs), inelastic behavior is only permitted in the links. All members, except for the links, are designed according to the capacity design concept by using the link overstrength factor, Ω, so that they remain elastic even when the links develop their ultimate strength (including the strain-hardening effect). AISC 341 specifies that the Ω factor of link members must be 1.25 for beam and brace design and 1.1 for column design. In this study, the relevance of the current Ω factor was investigated. A total of 471 K-braced EBF systems with various conditions were designed using a multi-objective optimization technique, and nonlinear dynamic analyses were performed to evaluate the Ω factor. The results indicate that it is reasonable to use the current Ω factor for the design of beam outside link and brace; however, it leads to an overestimation of axial force in columns, especially in the lower stories of tall buildings. From the analysis results, a new Ω factor equation for column design was proposed. It was demonstrated that the structural quantities of 15-story frames designed using the proposed equation decreased by an average of 19% compared to those designed using the current Ω factor.
Theoretical Analysis on Active Polarization Control of Fiber Laser Based on Root Mean Square Propagation Algorithm
Authors: Shi Yifei , Qi Yunfeng , Shen Hui , Quan Zhao , Tang Ming
Published: October 2024

High-power linearly polarized fiber lasers are widely used in coherent beam combination, nonlinear frequency conversion, and gravitational wave detection. With the increase in output power, it is challenging for fiber lasers to maintain a high polarization extinction ratio (PER). Combined with intelligent techniques, active polarization control is a prospective method to obtain the laser output with high PER and high stability. We demonstrate a comprehensive model of an active polarization control system. The root mean square propagation (RMS-Prop) algorithm is used to control the non-polarization-maintaining (non-PM) fiber laser to generate linearly polarized laser. The parameters of the RMS-Prop algorithm are theoretically analyzed, including cost function, perturbation amplitude, and global learning rate. The simulation results show that PER is the optimal cost function. When the perturbation amplitude is 0.06 and the global learning rate is 0.6, the system can achieve the optimal control speed and accuracy. By comparison with the stochastic parallel gradient descent (SPGD) algorithm, the RMS-Prop algorithm has an advantage in obtaining higher PER.
Study on Surrounding Rock Control of Withdrawal Space in Fully Mechanized Caving Mining of a 19 m Extra-Thick Coal Seam
Authors: Chen Dongdong , Wang Zhiqiang , Yue Shuaishuai , Xie Shengrong , He Fulian , Tian Chunyang , Jiang Zaisheng , Liang Dawei , Qi Bohao
Published: October 2024

The section span of the withdrawal space of fully mechanized top coal caving in an extra-thick coal seam is large, and with the gradual withdrawal of the hydraulic support, a series of strong dynamic pressure disasters occur in the withdrawal space, and the difficulty of surrounding rock support control increases sharply. In order to study the control mechanism of surrounding rock in the final mining withdrawal space in detail and put forward a reasonable support technology scheme, taking the large-section withdrawal space of an 8309 fully mechanized caving face in an extra-thick coal seam of a mine as the research object—through the theoretical investigation of whether the key blocks of the main roof are stably hinged under varied stopping coal caving distances and fracture locations of the main roof—the reasonable and optimal stopping coal caving distances and roadway formation time are determined. Using numerical simulation and similar simulation methods, the vertical stress and the maximum shear stress research indicators were introduced to verify the accuracy of the theoretical analysis results. The results show the following: (1) The reasonable stopping coal caving span is 1~2 times the cycle weighting interval, the best stopping coal caving distance in this geological condition is 30 m, and the best fracture position of the main roof is located above the goaf. (2) The migration of overlying strata in the withdrawal space has obvious zoning characteristics, and the zoning is as follows: a stopping coal caving area, support area of the hydraulic support, withdrawal channel area, and stopping coal pillar area. (3) According to the zoning characteristics of overlying strata movement, the asymmetric zoning support control scheme of the withdrawal space is proposed. The field monitoring results show that the maximum roof subsidence in the withdrawal space is 151 mm, the maximum internal squeezing amount of the stopping coal pillar is 82 mm, and the supporting and anchoring effect of each partition in the withdrawal space is good. The set of partition asymmetric support control schemes has been successfully applied to field practice.