bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulations of the Characteristics of the Entropy Mode in Dipole-Magnetic-Confined Plasmas
Authors: Qian Liang , Wang Zhibin , Chen Jian , Mao Aohua , Yv Yi , Nie Qiuyue , Wang Xiaogang
Published: October 2023

Plasmas confined in a dipole magnetic field widely exist in both space and laboratories, and this kind of plasma draws much attention from researchers both in plasma physics and in space science. In this paper, the characteristics of the collisionless electrostatic instability of the entropy mode in a dipole-magnetic-confined plasma are simulated with the linear gyrokinetic model. It is found that the entropy mode can be generated in dipole-magnetic-confined plasmas, and there are two typical stages of the entropy mode, with another transitional stage at different values of η. The main instability changes from the ion diamagnetic drift to the electronic diamagnetic drift as η becomes larger. In addition, the MHD mode predicts that the most stable point is at η~2/3 when k⊥ρi << 1. However, we find that η and k⊥ρi are coupled with each other, and the most stable point of the mode moves gradually to η~1 as k⊥ρi increases. There is a peak value for the entropy mode growth rate around k⊥ρi~1.0, and more complicated modes are induced so that the dispersion relation has been changed when the driving force of the plasma pressure gradient effect is obvious. For example, the characteristics of the interchange-like modes gradually emerge when the driving effect of the plasma pressure becomes stronger. Further investigations should be taken to reveal the characteristics of the entropy mode in magnetospheric plasmas.
Almost Surely Exponential Convergence Analysis of Time Delayed Uncertain Cellular Neural Networks Driven by Liu Process via Lyapunov–Krasovskii Functional Approach
Authors: Wang Chengqiang , Jia Zhifu , Zhang Yulin , Zhao Xiangqing
Published: October 2023

As with probability theory, uncertainty theory has been developed, in recent years, to portray indeterminacy phenomena in various application scenarios. We are concerned, in this paper, with the convergence property of state trajectories to equilibrium states (or fixed points) of time delayed uncertain cellular neural networks driven by the Liu process. By applying the classical Banach’s fixed-point theorem, we prove, under certain conditions, that the delayed uncertain cellular neural networks, concerned in this paper, have unique equilibrium states (or fixed points). By carefully designing a certain Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, we provide a convergence criterion, for state trajectories of our concerned uncertain cellular neural networks, based on our developed Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional. We demonstrate under our proposed convergence criterion that the existing equilibrium states (or fixed points) are exponentially stable almost surely, or equivalently that state trajectories converge exponentially to equilibrium states (or fixed points) almost surely. We also provide an example to illustrate graphically and numerically that our theoretical results are all valid. There seem to be rare results concerning the stability of equilibrium states (or fixed points) of neural networks driven by uncertain processes, and our study in this paper would provide some new research clues in this direction. The conservatism of the main criterion obtained in this paper is reduced by introducing quite general positive definite matrices in our designed Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional.
Testing the Sustainability of Fiscal Policy during the Portuguese First Republic Using Stationary and Cointegration Tests
Authors: Ferraz Ricardo
Published: October 2023

The Portuguese First Republic (1910–1926) was marked by significant instability at the most diverse levels. With a special focus on the financial dimension of this period, the objective of this paper is to test the sustainability of the Portuguese fiscal policy, also referred to as the sustainability of public finances itself. The methodology involves testing the stationarity of public debt and budget balance and also the cointegration between state revenue and expenditure. The results obtained shows that the state’s intertemporal budgetary constraint was violated during the First Republic regime, which denotes unsustainability. This conclusion is justified by the existence of a non-stationary budget balance and the absence of cointegration between state revenue and expenditure. These results are manifestly different from those that have already been obtained for other Portuguese regimes, namely for the Estado Novo (1933–1974) and democracy (1974–present), where sustainability existed. This paper is yet another demonstration of how important it is to maintain control of state’s accounts. We hope that this paper can be useful to stimulate new research on Portuguese public finances and also on the important issue of fiscal policy sustainability.
Graphene-Oxide-Coated CoP2@C Anode Enables High Capacity of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xie Hangxuan , Dou Zirui , Hao Zhentao , Huang Qianhui , Guo Ziqi , Wang Chao , Miao Kanghua , Kang Xiongwu
Published: October 2023

Cobalt diphosphides (CoP2) show a high theoretical capacity and hold great promise as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the large variation in the volume and structure of CoP2 caused during lithium-ion insertion and extraction results in electrode fragmentation and a compromised solid electrolyte interface, ultimately leading to poor cycling performance. Herein, a composite of CoP2 nanoparticles encapsulated in carbon matrix has been successfully synthesized by carbonization of Co-MOF-based zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIF-67) and sequential phosphorization and further wrapped in graphene oxide (CoP2@C@GO). The formation of CoP2 was confirmed by X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The morphology of CoP2@C with and without GO wrapping was examined by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron spectroscopy. It was demonstrated that the decoration of GO significantly reduces the polarization of CoP2@C electrodes, enhancing their charge capacity and cycling stability as an anode material for LIBs. After 200 cycles, they deliver a capacity of 450 mAh·g−1.
Exploration of Oil/Water/Gas Occurrence State in Shale Reservoir by Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Sun Linghui , Jia Ninghong , Feng Chun , Wang Lu , Liu Siyuan , Lyu Weifeng
Published: October 2023

The occurrence state of oil, gas, and water plays a crucial role in exploring shale reservoirs. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations were used to investigate the occurrence states of these fluids in shale nanopores. The results showed that when the alkane is light oil, in narrow pores with a width less than 3 nm, oil molecules exist only in an adsorbed state, whereas both adsorbed and free states exist in larger pores. Due to the stronger interaction of water with the rock surface, the adsorption of oil molecules near the rock is severely prohibited. Oil/water/gas occurrence characteristics in the water-containing pore study indicate that CO2 gas can drive free oil molecules out of the pore, break water bridges, and change the occurrence state of water. During displacement, the gas type affects the oil/gas occurrence state. CO2 has strong adsorption capacity, forming a 1.45 g/cm3 adsorption layer on the rock surface, higher than oil’s density peak of 1.29 g/cm3. Octane solubility in injected gases is CO2 (88.1%) > CH4 (76.8%) > N2 (75.4%), with N2 and CH4 having weak competitive adsorption on the rock. The investigation of different shale reservoir conditions suggests that at high temperature or low pressure, oil/gas molecules are more easily displaced, while at low temperature or high pressure, they are tightly adsorbed to the reservoir rock. These findings contribute to the understanding of fundamental mechanisms governing fluid behavior in shale reservoirs, which could help to develop proper hydrocarbon recovery methods from different oil reservoirs.
Research on Pipeline Leakage Calculation and Correction Method Based on Numerical Calculation Method
Authors: Ding Yuqi , Xu Pengchao , Lu Ye , Yang Ming , Zhang Jiahe , Liu Kai
Published: October 2023

The hazard coefficient for leakage diffusion of gas transmission pipeline is extremely high, which can easily lead to explosive accidents. The amount of gas leakage is an important factor in the safety assessment of pipeline leakage. Therefore, this paper considers the influence of gas interactions inside and outside the pipeline on pipeline leakage and establishes a three-dimensional leakage diffusion model that is coupled with the pipeline and air domain. Through the use of theoretical, experimental, and numerical simulation methods, this paper investigates the effects of leak hole diameter, leak hole shape, and changes in transport pressure on pipeline leakage. Finally, based on simulated leakage data, we analyze the sources of error and propose a high-precision formula for calculating leakage from small holes in pipelines. The results show that an increase in the diameter of the leak hole leads to a decrease in the central velocity of the leak hole and a sharp increase in leakage volume. The leakage volume of different leak hole shapes is ranked in the following order: rectangle > diamond > circle. When the leak holes are rectangle and diamond, the leakage velocity distribution range of the leak hole is larger and more regular than that of the circular leak hole. Also, the volume of gas leakage increases with the increase in delivery pressure, while the central velocity of the leak hole remains relatively unchanged. Based on the proposed pipeline leakage correction formula, it is calculated that under the same working condition, the relative error range between the numerical simulated leakage rate and the theoretically corrected leakage rate is significantly reduced from −8.40%~18.03% to −1.58%~2.60%, and the calculation accuracy is significantly improved.
Digital Management of Competencies in Web 3.0: The C-Box® Approach
Authors: Francia Alberto , Mariani Stefano , Adduce Giuseppe , Vecchiarelli Sandro , Zambonelli Franco
Published: October 2023

Management of competencies is a crucial concern for both learners and workers as well as for training institutions and companies. For the former, it allows users to track and certify the acquired skills to apply for positions; for the latter, it enables better organisation of business processes. However, currently, most software systems for competency management adopted by the industry are either organisation-centric or centralised: that is, they either lock-in students and employees wishing to export their competencies elsewhere, or they require users’ trust and for users to give up privacy (to store their personal data) while being prone to faults. In this paper, we propose a user-centric, fully decentralised competency management system enabling verifiable, secure, and robust management of competencies digitalised as Open Badges via notarization on a public blockchain. This way, whoever acquires the competence or achievement retains full control over it and can disclose his/her own digital certifications only when needed and to the extent required, migrate them across storage platforms, and let anyone verify the integrity and validity of such certifications independently of any centralised organisation. The proposed solution is based on C-Box®, an existing application for the management of digital competencies that has been improved to fully support models, standards, and technologies of the so-called Web 3.0 vision—a global effort by major web organisations to “give the web back to the people”, pushing for maximum decentralisation of control and user-centric data ownership.
GM-Ledger: Blockchain-Based Certificate Authentication for International Food Trade
Authors: George William , Al-Ansari Tareq
Published: October 2023

Maritime transportation plays a critical role for many Arab countries and their food security and has evolved into a complex system that involves a plethora of supply chain stakeholders spread around the globe. This inherent complexity brings huge security challenges, including cargo loss and high burdens in cargo document inspection. The emerging blockchain technology provides a promising tool to build a unified maritime cargo tracking system critical for cargo security. This is because blockchains are a tamper-proof distributed ledger technology that can store and track data in a secure and transparent manner. Using the State of Qatar as a case study, this research introduces the Global Maritime Ledger (GM-Ledger), which will aid authorities in verifying, signing and transacting food certificates in an efficient manner. The methodology of this research includes reviewing past publications, identifying the requirements of various players in the Qatari food import–export industry and then creating a smart contract framework that will efficiently manage the work with necessary human intervention as and when required. The result of this work is the formation of a solid framework that can be employed in future works. This work realized that employing web3 solutions for the food import sector is highly viable and that with the right social, economic and policy reforms, it is possible to transform the entire food system to bear healthy transparency and power balance in global supply chains. In conclusion, this study argues that BCT has the ability to assist the government and other players to minimize fraud and maximize food supply chain stakeholder participation.
Are Microplastics a Macro Issue? A Review on the Sources of Contamination, Analytical Challenges and Impact on Human Health of Microplastics in Food
Authors: Di Fiore Cristina , Carriera Fabiana , Russo Mario Vincenzo , Avino Pasquale
Published: October 2023

In recent years, human populations’ exposure to microplastics via foods is becoming a topic of concern. Although microplastics have been defined as “emerging contaminants”, their occurrence in the environment and food is quite dated. This systematic review aims to investigate the discrepancies which are characterizing the research in the microplastics field in foods, with particular regard to sample preparations, microplastics’ concentrations and their effect on humans. For the selection of papers, the PRISMA methodology was followed. Discrepancies in the methodological approaches emerged and in the expression of the results as well, underlying the urgency in the harmonization of the methodological approaches. Uncertainties are still present regarding the adverse effects of microplastics on the human body. The scientific evidence obtained thus far is, in fact, not sufficient to demonstrate a concrete negative effect. This review has clearly underlined the need to standardise laboratory approaches to obtain useful results for better food safety management.
Exploring Sustainable Development Pathways for Agri-Food Supply Chains Empowered by Cross-Border E-Commerce Platforms: A Hybrid Grounded Theory and DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC Approach
Authors: Wang Gaofeng , Hou Yanning , Shin Changhoon
Published: October 2023

As cross-border e-commerce platforms become increasingly integrated into the agricultural supply chain, the establishment of a sustainable supply chain ecosystem is of paramount importance. This study, grounded in the platform theory and the supply chain ecosystem theory, combines the grounded theory and the DEMATEL–ISM–MICMAC model to thoroughly analyze the complex mechanisms driving sustainable development. Utilizing the grounded theory, we construct a system of driving factors comprising five primary indicators and eighteen secondary indicators. The hybrid model reveals the interrelationships, significance, system hierarchy, and dependence-driving relationships among these factors. Notably, the driving factor system is categorized into a six-level hierarchical structure, encompassing profound elements, such as policy optimization and digital empowerment, as well as surface-level factors, such as simplification of customs procedures and consumer demand forecasting. Based on the analysis results, this research proposes a set of pathways to achieve the sustainability of the supply chain. These strategies involve improving cross-border agricultural e-commerce policy frameworks, enhancing digital-driven supply–demand coordination, strengthening logistics infrastructure and transparency, and cultivating brand influence. The study’s findings not only enrich the relevant theories but also provide practical guidance for the coordinated advancement of economic, social, environmental, and resilient development. Furthermore, they are conducive to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Characteristics of Highland Barley-Wheat Composite Flour and Its Effect on the Properties of Coating Batter and Deep-Fried Meat
Authors: Tang Jianhua , Xie Cong , Chang Wenping , Quan Zhenyang , Ding Xiangli
Published: October 2023

Highland barley flour-based coating batter has rarely been reported, although highland barley flour is promising due to its high β-glucan and amylose content. In this study, highland barley flour was used to substitute 40% to 80% of wheat flour to form a highland barely-wheat composite flour used in the coating batter. The characteristics of the highland barley-wheat composite flour and its effect on the properties of coating batter and deep-fried meat were analyzed. Results showed that the composite flour significantly improved water holding capacity, oil absorbing capacity, and water solubility index. In contrast, no significant change was observed in the water absorption index or swelling power. The incorporation of highland barley flour significantly changed the pasting properties of the composite flour. Compared with the wheat flour, the viscosity and the pickup of the coating batter made with composite flour increased from 4905 Pa·s and 0.53% to more than 12,252 Pa·s and 0.63%, respectively, and its water mobility decreased. These changes were closely related to the substitution rate of highland barley flour. The composite flour significantly increased the moisture content from 27.73% to more than 33.03% and decreased the oil content of the crust from 19.15% to lower than 16.44%, respectively. It decreased L* and increased a* of the crust and decreased the hardness, adhesiveness, and springiness of the deep-fried meat. A spongy inner structure with a flatter surface was formed in all composite flour-based crusts, and the substitution rate influenced the flatness of the crust. Thus, highland barley flour could be used for batter preparation with partial substitution, enhancing the quality of deep-fried meat and acting as an oil barrier-forming ingredient for fried batter foods.
Selective Adsorption of Ionic Species Using Macroporous Monodispersed Polyethylene Glycol Diacrylate/Acrylic Acid Microgels with Tunable Negative Charge
Authors: Chen Minjun , Kumrić Ksenija R. , Thacker Conner , Prodanović Radivoje , Bolognesi Guido , Vladisavljević Goran T.
Published: October 2023

Monodispersed polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA)/acrylic acid (AA) microgels with a tuneable negative charge and macroporous internal structure have been produced using a Lego-inspired droplet microfluidic device. The surface charge of microgels was controlled by changing the content of AA in the monomer mixture from zero (for noncharged PEGDA beads) to 4 wt%. The macroporosity of the polymer matrix was introduced by adding 20 wt% of 600-MW polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a porogen material into the monomer mixture. The porogen was successfully leached out with acetone after UV-crosslinking, which resulted in micron-sized cylindrical pores with crater-like morphology, uniformly arranged on the microgel surface. Negatively charged PEGDA/AA beads showed improved adsorption capacity towards positively charged organic dyes (methylene blue and rhodamine B) compared to neutral PEGDA beads and high repulsion of negatively charged dye molecules (methyl orange and congo red). Macroporous microgels showed better adsorption properties than nonporous beads, with a maximum adsorption capacity towards methylene blue of 45 mg/g for macroporous PEGDA/AA microgels at pH 8.6, as compared to 23 mg/g for nonporous PEGDA/AA microgels at the same pH. More than 98% of Cu(II) ions were removed from 50 ppm solution at pH 6.7 using 2.7 mg/mL of macroporous PEGDA/AA microgel. The adsorption of cationic species was significantly improved when pH was increased from 3 to 9 due to a higher degree of ionization of AA monomeric units in the polymer network. The synthesized copolymer beads can be used in drug delivery to achieve improved loading capacity of positively charged therapeutic agents and in tissue engineering, where a negative charge of scaffolds coupled with porous structure can help to achieve improved permeability of high-molecular-weight metabolites and nutrients, and anti-fouling activity against negatively charged species.
Predicting Prognosis and Immunotherapy Response in Multiple Cancers Based on the Association of PANoptosis-Related Genes with Tumor Heterogeneity
Authors: Wang Yunhan , Zhang Boyu , Zhang Zongying , Ge Jia , Xu Lin , Mao Jiawei , Zhou Xiaorong , Mao Liming , Xu Qiuyun , Sang Mengmeng
Published: October 2023

PANoptosis is a newly recognized inflammatory pathway for programmed cell death (PCD). It participates in regulating the internal environment, homeostasis, and disease process in various complex ways and plays a crucial role in tumor development, but its mechanism of action is still unclear. In this study, we comprehensively analyzed the expression of 14 PANoptosis-related genes (PANRGs) in 28 types of tumors. Most PANRGs are upregulated in tumors, including Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1), nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3), caspase (CASP) 1, CASP6, CASP8, PYCARD, FADD, MAP3K7, RNF31, and RBCK1. PANRGs are highly expressed in GBM, LGG, and PAAD, while their levels in ACC are much lower than those in normal tissues. We found that both the CNV and SNV gene sets in BLCA are closely related to survival performance. Subsequently, we conducted clustering and LASSO analysis on each tumor and found that the inhibitory and the stimulating immune checkpoints positively correlate with ZBP1, NLRP3, CASP1, CASP8, and TNFAIP3. The immune infiltration results indicated that KIRC is associated with most infiltrating immune cells. According to the six tumor dryness indicators, PANRGs in LGG show the strongest tumor dryness but have a negative correlation with RNAss. In KIRC, LIHC, and TGCT, most PANRGs play an important role in tumor heterogeneity. Additionally, we analyzed the linear relationship between PANRGs and miRNA and found that MAP3K7 correlates to many miRNAs in most cancers. Finally, we predicted the possible drugs for targeted therapy of the cancers. These data greatly enhance our understanding of the components of cancer and may lead to the discovery of new biomarkers for predicting immunotherapy response and improving the prognosis of cancer patients.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy for the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Pain: A Narrative Review
Authors: De la Corte-Rodríguez Hortensia , Román-Belmonte Juan M. , Rodríguez-Damiani Beatriz A. , Vázquez-Sasot Aránzazu , Rodríguez-Merchán Emérito Carlos
Published: October 2023

Extracorporeal shock waves are high-intensity mechanical waves (500–1000 bar) of a microsecond duration with a morphology characterized by a rapid positive phase followed by a negative phase. Background: Extracorporeal shock waves have been used for pain treatment for various sub-acute and chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) problems since 2000. The aim of this article is to update information on the role of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in the treatment of various pathologies that cause MSK pain. Methods: Given that in the last two years, articles of interest (including systematic reviews and meta-analyses) have been published on less known indications, such as low back pain, nerve entrapments, osteoarthritis and bone vascular diseases, a literature search was conducted in PubMed, the Cochrane Database, EMBASE, CINAHL and PEDro, with the aim of developing a narrative review of the current literature on this topic. The purposes of the review were to review possible new mechanisms of action, update the level of evidence for known indications and assess possible new indications that have emerged in recent years. Results: Although extracorporeal shock waves have mechanical effects, their main mechanism of action is biological, through a phenomenon called mechanotransduction. There is solid evidence that supports their use to improve pain in many MSK pathologies, such as different tendinopathies (epicondylar, trochanteric, patellar, Achilles or calcific shoulder), plantar fasciitis, axial pain (myofascial, lumbar or coccygodynia), osteoarthritis and bone lesions (delayed union, osteonecrosis of the femoral head, Kienbock’s disease, bone marrow edema syndrome of the hip, pubis osteitis or carpal tunnel syndrome). Of the clinical indications mentioned in this review, five have a level of evidence of 1+, eight have a level of evidence of 1−, one indication has a level of evidence of 2− and two indications have a level of evidence of 3. Conclusions: The current literature shows that ESWT is a safe treatment, with hardly any adverse effects reported. Furthermore, it can be used alone or in conjunction with other physical therapies such as eccentric strengthening exercises or static stretching, which can enhance its therapeutic effect.
Distinct Impacts of UV-A Light Wavelengths on Nutraceutical and Mineral Contents in Green and Purple Basil Cultivated in a Controlled Environment
Authors: Viršilė Akvilė , Laužikė Kristina , Sutulienė Rūta , Brazaitytė Aušra , Kudirka Gediminas , Samuolienė Giedrė
Published: October 2023

Controlled environment agricultural (CEA) systems create technological opportunities for the higher nutritional value of vegetables and herbs. It was hypothesized that UV-A light, supplementing basal light emitting diode (LED) illumination in CEA, would enhance growth and nutritional value (nutraceutical compounds and mineral element contents) in purple and green basil in a UV-A wavelength-specific manner. Therefore, blue (452 nm) and red (662 nm) 1:10 basal LED lighting (250 μmol m−2 s−1, 16 h) was supplemented with 1 mW cm−2 of 343, 366, 386, or 402 nm UV-A LED light for green ‘Italiano classico’ and purple ‘Red rubin’ basil cultivation. Different wavelengths have specific impacts for two basil genotypes, and certain light wavelengths should be selected to boost growth or to alter the contents of specific nutraceutical compounds. UV-A/violet 402 nm light enhanced growth, chicoric acid, β carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin contents in green basil, while 343 nm UV-A light increased fresh weight, ascorbic acid, and carotenoid content in purple basil. UV-A light of 386 nm has the most negligible impact on reducing mineral element (P, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, and Zn) contents in basil. Understanding the wavelength dependence of plant responses to UV-A is essential for optimizing quality preservation and improving basil cultivation in controlled environment systems.
Influence of the Phytosanitary Status, Cultivar, and Harvest Time on the Phenolic, Chlorophyll, and Alkaloid Content of Rosa sp. Leaves
Authors: Munteanu Adelina Larisa , Vijan Loredana Elena , Topală Carmen Mihaela , Mitrea Rodi
Published: October 2023

Diplocarpon rosae Wolf is the most common and damaging fungal pathogen in roses. Nationwide, the attack of this pathogenic fungus is very serious in most rose gardens due to rapid disease development that typically leads to leaf yellowing and defoliation. This study aimed to assess the way in which the fungus’s attack affects the chemical composition of Rosa sp. leaves. The research was conducted in the summer of 2023 on ten cultivars of rose grown in the rosary in the ‘Alexandru Buia’ Botanical Garden in Craiova. The influence of the cultivar and harvest time was discussed. Leaf black spot on roses produced by the fungus Diplocarpon rosae Wolf affected plants in all cultivars and the differences between cultivars highlighted the sensitivity of the relationship between plants and pathogens when exposed to some microclimatic environment factors. The correlations of attack degree with tannins, chlorophyll, or alkaloids were significant, negative for tannins (r = −0.189 *) and chlorophyll (r = −0.517 ***) and positive for alkaloids (r = 0.510 ***). Between phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids, and chlorophyll, very significant positive correlations were found. Alkaloids established negative and also very significant correlations with phenolic compounds (r = −0.403 ***), tannins (r = −0.339 ***), flavonoids (r = −0.409 ***), and chlorophyll (r = −0.604 ***).
Maternal Environment and Priming Agents Effect Germination and Seedling Quality in Pitaya under Salt Stress
Authors: Kenanoğlu Burcu Begüm , Mertoğlu Kerem , Sülüşoğlu Durul Melekber , Korkmaz Nazan , Çolak Ayşen Melda
Published: October 2023

Lack of water and salinity are common problems in many parts of the world. Therefore, some types of cacti can present as promising crops. Therefore, the ability of cactus species to survive and adapt under natural stress conditions should be evaluated. The experiment was aimed at evaluating the effect of salt stress on germination and emergence of pitaya seeds obtained from different species (Hyloceresu undatus (Haw.) Britton and Rose and Hylocereus polyrhizus (Lem.) Britton and Rose), priming with plant growth regulators, namely salicylic acid (SA), oxalic acid (OA) and mepiquat chloride (MC). The experiment had a completely randomized design with a 2 × 4 × 3 factorial scheme corresponding to two pitaya cultivars (white- and red-fleshed), four NaCl concentrations (0, 2500, 5000 and 10,000 ppm), and three PGRs (150 ppm/MC, SA, OC). According to the results, the maternal environment of the seed was important in salt stress resistance, while seeds matured in the environment with red fruit flesh were more tolerant to salt stress. Although Pitaya species are relatively salt-tolerant, growth (about 30%) was significantly reduced above 2500 ppm and germination (about 45%) above 5000 ppm. Germination percentage stood out as the most important trait determining seed quality and had positive effects on the germination stress tolerance index (r: 0.63), seedling length (r: 0.74) and fresh seedling weight (r: 0.56). This is the first study of how maternal environment affects germination and seedling quality under saline conditions in Hylocereus. The results obtained may contribute to pitaya cultivation and breeding.
How Can Autonomy Support from a Coach, Basic Psychological Needs, and the Psychological Climate Explain Ego and Task Involvement?
Authors: Jakobsen Arne Martin
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to consider the relationships among the autonomy support an athlete perceives from their coach, the three basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness), the psychological motivational climate of the team (a task or ego climate), and the athlete’s motivational orientation (ego or task involvement). No other studies have investigated this. My three hypotheses were as follows: autonomy support from a coach will have an impact on motivational involvement, all three basic needs will have an impact on motivational involvement, and motivational involvement will be explained by the motivational climate. A total of 175 elite male ice hockey players from Norway, ranging in age from 15 to 18 years old, answered questionnaires about autonomy support, perceived motivational climate, achievement goal orientation, and basic psychological needs. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to predict ego–task involvement using autonomy support from the coach, the need for autonomy, the need for competence, the need for relatedness, the task climate, and the ego climate. The only two variables that statistically significantly predicted ego–task involvement were the autonomy support from the coach (std. beta = 0.28, sign = 0.05) and the ego climate (std. beta = 0.34, sign = 0.01). The analysis revealed that the athletes had a higher score on task (M = 4.85) than ego (M = 3.34) involvement, but when these were transformed into two variables (high and low) for task and ego involvement, we found that most players scored high for both task and ego involvement. We found that autonomy support from the coach had a positive relationship with a high score for players on both task and ego involvement. We also found that the three basic psychological needs had no impact on the motivational involvement of the athletes. Lastly, we found that the ego climate had an impact on motivational involvement. There was a positive relationship between a high score for the ego climate and a high score for both ego and task involvement.
Factors Contributing to Delayed Return to Work among French Healthcare Professionals Afflicted by COVID-19 at a Hospital in the Rhône-Alpes Region, 2021
Authors: Monier David , Bonjean Paul , Carcasset Pierre , Moulin Martine , Pozzetto Bruno , Botelho-Nevers Elisabeth , Fontana Luc , Pelissier Carole
Published: October 2023

COVID-19 is an emerging disease whose impact on the return to work of hospital staff is not yet known. This study was aimed at evaluating the prevalence of delayed return to work associated with medical, personal, and professional factors in hospital staff who tested positive for COVID-19 during the second epidemic wave. A descriptive, analytical observational study was conducted. The source population consisted of all staff of a French University Hospital Center who had an RT-PCR test or an antigenic test positive for SARS-CoV-2 during the period from 6 September to 30 November 2020. A delayed return to work was defined as a return to work after a period of at least 8 days of eviction, whereas before the eviction period decided by the French government was 14 days. Data collection was carried out through an anonymous online self-questionnaire. The participation rate was 43% (216 participants out of 502 eligible subjects). Moreover, 40% of the staff had a delayed return to work, and 24% of them reported a delayed return to work due to persistent asthenia. Delayed return to work was significantly associated with age, fear of returning to work, and persistent asthenia, but the number of symptoms lasting more than 7 days was the only factor that remained significantly associated after multivariate analysis. From this study, it appears that interest in identifying the number of persistent symptoms as a possible indicator of delayed work emerges. Moreover, persistent asthenia should be given special attention by practitioners to detect a possible long COVID.
Systemic Immunomodulatory Effects of Codonopsis pilosula Glucofructan on S180 Solid-Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Fan Yuting , Long Yan , Gong Youshun , Gao Xiaoji , Zheng Guoqiang , Ji Haiyu
Published: October 2023

The immune functions of the body are intricately intertwined with the onset and advancement of tumors, and immunotherapy mediated by bioactive compounds has exhibited initial effectiveness in overcoming chemotherapy resistance and inhibiting tumor growth. However, the comprehensive interpretation of the roles played by immunologic components in the process of combating tumors remains to be elucidated. In this study, the Codonopsis pilosula glucofructan (CPG) prepared in our previous research was employed as an immunopotentiator, and the impacts of CPG on both the humoral and cellular immunity of S180 tumor-bearing mice were investigated. Results showed that CPG administration of 100 mg/kg could effectively inhibit tumor growth in mice with an inhibitory ratio of 45.37% and significantly improve the expression of Interleukin-2 (IL-2), Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α). Additionally, CPG clearly enhanced B-cell-mediated humoral immunity and immune-cell-mediated cellular immunity, and, finally, induced S180 cell apoptosis by arresting cells in the G0/G1 phase, which might result from the IL-17 signaling pathway. These data may help to improve comprehension surrounding the roles of humoral and cellular immunity in anti-tumor immune responses.
Exploring the Potential of Nanoporous Materials for Advancing Ophthalmic Treatments
Authors: Wu Kevin Y. , Brister Danielle , Bélanger Paul , Tran Simon D.
Published: October 2023

The landscape of ophthalmology is undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements and innovations in materials science. One of the advancements in this evolution is the application of nanoporous materials, endowed with unique physicochemical properties ideal for a variety of ophthalmological applications. Characterized by their high surface area, tunable porosity, and functional versatility, these materials have the potential to improve drug delivery systems and ocular devices. This review, anchored by a comprehensive literature focusing on studies published within the last five years, examines the applications of nanoporous materials in ocular drug delivery systems (DDS), contact lenses, and intraocular lenses. By consolidating the most current research, this review aims to serve as a resource for clinicians, researchers, and material scientists engaged in the rapidly evolving field of ophthalmology.
Effects of Exercise Training on Mitochondrial Fatty Acid β-Oxidation in the Kidneys of Dahl Salt-Sensitive Rats
Authors: Namai-Takahashi Asako , Takahashi Junta , Ogawa Yoshiko , Sakuyama Akihiro , Xu Lusi , Miura Takahiro , Kohzuki Masahiro , Ito Osamu
Published: October 2023

Exercise training (Ex) has anti-hypertensive and renal protective effects. In this study, we investigate the effects of Ex on mitochondrial fatty acid metabolism in the kidneys of Dahl salt-sensitive (Dahl-S) rats fed a high-salt (HS) diet. Eight-week-old, male Dahl-S rats were divided into three groups: (1) normal-salt diet, sedentary (NS-Sed), (2) HS diet, sedentary (HS-Sed), and (3) HS-Ex. The NS and HS groups were fed a diet containing 0.6% and 8% NaCl, respectively. The HS-Ex group performed treadmill running for 8 weeks (5 days/week; 60 min/day at 16–20 m/min, 0% gradient). Renal function and the expression of enzymes and regulators of β-oxidation and electron transport chain (ETC) complexes were assessed. HS increased systolic blood pressure and proteinuria, and Ex ameliorated these defects. HS also reduced creatinine clearance, and Ex ameliorated it. HS reduced the renal expression of enzymes of β-oxidation (carnitine palmitoyltransferase type I (CPTI) and acyl-CoA dehydrogenases (CADs)) and the related transcription factors peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) and PPARγ-coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and Ex restored this. HS also reduced the renal expression of enzymes in ETC complexes, and Ex restored this expression. Ex ameliorates HS-induced renal damage by upregulating enzymes involved in fatty acid β-oxidation and ETC complexes via increases in PPAR-α and PGC-1α expressions in the kidneys of Dahl-S rats. These results suggest that Ex may have beneficial effects on HS-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in the kidney.
Transcriptional Regulation of the Human 5-HT1A Receptor Gene by Lithium: Role of Deaf1 and GSK3β
Authors: Harkin Emerson F. , Nasrallah Georges , Le François Brice , Albert Paul R.
Published: October 2023

Serotonin 1A (5-HT1A) autoreceptors located on serotonin neurons inhibit their activity, and their upregulation has been implicated in depression, suicide and resistance to antidepressant treatment. Conversely, post-synaptic 5-HT1A heteroreceptors are important for antidepressant response. The transcription factor deformed epidermal autoregulatory factor 1 (Deaf1) acts as a presynaptic repressor and postsynaptic enhancer of 5-HT1A transcription, but the mechanism is unclear. Because Deaf1 interacts with and is phosphorylated by glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β)—a constitutively active protein kinase that is inhibited by the mood stabilizer lithium at therapeutic concentrations—we investigated the role of GSK3β in Deaf1 regulation of human 5-HT1A transcription. In 5-HT1A promoter-reporter assays, human HEK293 kidney and 5-HT1A-expressing SKN-SH neuroblastoma cells, transfection of Deaf1 reduced 5-HT1A promoter activity by ~45%. To identify potential GSK3β site(s) on Deaf1, point mutations of known and predicted phosphorylation sites on Deaf1 were tested. Deaf1 repressor function was not affected by any of the mutants tested except the Y300F mutant, which augmented Deaf1 repression. Both lithium and the selective GSK3 inhibitors CHIR-99021 and AR-014418 attenuated and reversed Deaf1 repression compared to vector. This inhibition was at concentrations that maximally inhibit GSK3β activity as detected by the GSK3β-sensitive TCF/LEF reporter construct. Our results support the hypothesis that GSK3β regulates the activity of Deaf1 to repress 5-HT1A transcription and provide a potential mechanism for actions of GSK3 inhibitors on behavior.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Non-Isolated-Pentagon-Rule Isomer of Th@C76:Th@C1(17418)-C76
Authors: Xia Yunpeng , Shen Yi , Yao Yang-Rong , Meng Qingyu , Chen Ning
Published: October 2023

A novel Non-Isolated-Pentagon-Rule (non-IPR) isomer of thorium-based endohedral mono-metallofullerenes (mono-EMFs), Th@C1(17418)-C76, was successfully synthesized and characterized using MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The molecular structure of this non-IPR isomer was determined unambiguously as Th@C1(17418)-C76 using a single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The crystallographic results further revealed that the optimal Th site resided at the intersection of two adjacent pentagons, similar to that of U@C1(17418)-C76. Additionally, the UV-vis-NIR spectra of Th@C1(17418)-C76 exhibited distinct differences compared to the previously reported U@C1(17418)-C76, highlighting the distinctive electronic structure of actinium-based endohedral metallofullerenes (EMFs). The Raman spectrum of Th@C1(17418)-C76 exhibited similarities to that previously reported for thorium-based EMFs, indicating the analogous strong metal–cage interactions of thorium-based EMFs.
A Case Series of Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation Nd:YAG Laser in Refractory Glaucoma
Authors: Lo Giudice Gregorio , Miceli Giuseppe , Tumminello Giuseppe , Trapani Alessandro , Pioppo Antonino
Published: October 2023

Purpose: To describe the efficacy and safety of surgical treatment in refractory glaucoma using transscleral cyclophotocoagulation with a diode laser (TSCPC). Cyclo-G6 laser with a G-probe delivery system (Iridex, Silicon Valley, CA, USA). Materials and Methods: 134 patients (134 eyes) with refractory glaucoma were included in this study. Patients received transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) using the IRIDEX Cyclo-G6 diode laser equipped with a G-probe delivery system. The eyes were treated with 1250–1500 mW for 3500–4000 ms depending on the iris colour. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and the count of antiglaucoma medications (AGM) were documented at the initial assessment and again at 3, 6, and 12 months following the treatment. Results: A reduction in IOP was observed in 97.73% of eyes at 12 months. At 12 months, 55.97% of the 134 eyes decreased IOP under 21 mmHg. At the 3-month mark, 96.27% of eyes attained an IOP reduction in 30% or more from their initial baseline levels, 85.61% at 6 months, and 82.17% at 12 months. A reduction in AGM was recorded for 86.07% of patients at 6 months and 87.31% at 12 months. There were no instances of severe complications reported, and minor complications were observed in 3% (4 out of 134) of the treated eyes. Conclusions: IRIDEX Cyclo-G6 laser is a surgical method effective in reducing IOP in patients with refractory glaucoma
Empowering Deaf-Hearing Communication: Exploring Synergies between Predictive and Generative AI-Based Strategies towards (Portuguese) Sign Language Interpretation
Authors: Adão Telmo , Oliveira João , Shahrabadi Somayeh , Jesus Hugo , Fernandes Marco , Costa Ângelo , Ferreira Vânia , Gonçalves Martinho , Lopéz Miguel , Peres Emanuel , Magalhães Luís
Published: October 2023

Communication between Deaf and hearing individuals remains a persistent challenge requiring attention to foster inclusivity. Despite notable efforts in the development of digital solutions for sign language recognition (SLR), several issues persist, such as cross-platform interoperability and strategies for tokenizing signs to enable continuous conversations and coherent sentence construction. To address such issues, this paper proposes a non-invasive Portuguese Sign Language (Língua Gestual Portuguesa or LGP) interpretation system-as-a-service, leveraging skeletal posture sequence inference powered by long-short term memory (LSTM) architectures. To address the scarcity of examples during machine learning (ML) model training, dataset augmentation strategies are explored. Additionally, a buffer-based interaction technique is introduced to facilitate LGP terms tokenization. This technique provides real-time feedback to users, allowing them to gauge the time remaining to complete a sign, which aids in the construction of grammatically coherent sentences based on inferred terms/words. To support human-like conditioning rules for interpretation, a large language model (LLM) service is integrated. Experiments reveal that LSTM-based neural networks, trained with 50 LGP terms and subjected to data augmentation, achieved accuracy levels ranging from 80% to 95.6%. Users unanimously reported a high level of intuition when using the buffer-based interaction strategy for terms/words tokenization. Furthermore, tests with an LLM—specifically ChatGPT—demonstrated promising semantic correlation rates in generated sentences, comparable to expected sentences.
Exploring the Effects of Laser Surface Modification on AISI 301LN Steel: A Micro-Mechanical Study
Authors: Rezayat Mohammad , Mateo Antonio , Roa Joan Josep
Published: October 2023

This article investigates the surface hardening capability of a metastable austenitic TRansformation Induced Plasticity (TRIP) stainless steel, particularly on AISI 301LN, by laser texturing. This technology produces microstructural surface changes in terms of both phase transformation and grain size modification and, as a direct consequence, the laser influences the surface characteristics, mainly hardness and roughness. In this sense, the key parameters (laser power, scanning speed and position of the focal length) were investigated by using a Design of Experiments (DoE) in detail to better understand the correlation between texturing parameters, microstructural and mechanical changes, always at the superficial level. From all the aforementioned information, the results show that the maximum surface hardening is obtained by increasing the laser power and decreasing the scanning speed. Furthermore, by reducing the focal distance, the depth of the microstructural evolution layer is more significant, while the width is less affected. Finally, a suitable model was developed to correlate the processing parameters here investigated with the resulting surface integrity, in terms of mechanical properties, by means of a regression equation.