bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concept of the Intelligent Support of Decision Making for Manufacturing a 3D-Printed Hand Exoskeleton within Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 Paradigms
Authors: Rojek Izabela , Kopowski Jakub , Kotlarz Piotr , Dorożyński Janusz , Mikołajewski Dariusz
Published: May 2024

Supporting the decision-making process for the production of a 3D-printed hand exoskeleton within the Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 paradigms brings new concepts of manufacturing procedures for 3D-printed medical devices, including hand exoskeletons for clinical applications. The article focuses on current developments in the design and manufacturing of hand exoskeletons and their future directions from the point of view of implementation within the Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 paradigms and applications in practice. Despite numerous publications on the subject of hand exoskeletons, many have not yet entered production and clinical application. The results of research on hand exoskeletons to date indicate that they achieve good therapeutic effects not only in terms of motor control, but also in a broader context: ensuring independence and preventing secondary motor changes. This makes interdisciplinary research on hand exoskeletons a key study influencing the future lives of patients with hand function deficits and the further work of physiotherapists. The main aim of this article is to check in what direction hand exoskeletons can be developed from a modern economic perspective and how decision support systems can accelerate these processes based on a literature review, expert opinions, and a case study.
ICC-BiFormer: A Deep-Learning Model for Near-Earth Asteroid Detection via Image Compression and Local Feature Extraction
Authors: Guo Yiyang , Liu Yuan , Yang Ru
Published: May 2024

Detecting near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) is crucial for research in solar system and planetary science. In recent year, deep-learning methods have almost dominated the task. Since NEAs represent only one-thousandth of the pixels in images, we proposed an ICC-BiFormer model that includes an image compression and contrast enhancement block and a BiFormer model to capture local features in input images, which is different from previous models based on Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). Furthermore, we utilize a larger input size of the model, which corresponds to the side length of the input image matrix, and design a cropping algorithm to prevent NEAs from being truncated and better divide NEAs and satellites. We apply our ICC-BiFormer model into a dataset of approximately 20,000 streak and 40,000 non-streak images to train a binary classification model. The ICC-BiFormer achieves 99.88% accuracy, which is superior to existing models. Focusing on local features has been proven effective in detecting NEAs.
An Integrated DQN and RF Packet Routing Framework for the V2X Network
Authors: Yen Chin-En , Jhang Yu-Siang , Hsieh Yu-Hsuan , Chen Yu-Cheng , Kuo Chunghui , Chang Ing-Chau
Published: May 2024

With the development of artificial intelligence technology, deep reinforcement learning (DRL) has become a major approach to the design of intelligent vehicle-to-everything (V2X) routing protocols for vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs). However, if the V2X routing protocol does not consider both real-time traffic conditions and historical vehicle trajectory information, the source vehicle may not transfer its packet to the correct relay vehicles and, finally, to the destination. Thus, this kind of routing protocol fails to guarantee successful packet delivery. Using the greater network flexibility and scalability of the software-defined network (SDN) architecture, this study designs a two-phase integrated DQN and RF Packet Routing Framework (IDRF) that combines the deep Q-learning network (DQN) and random forest (RF) approaches. First, the IDRF offline phase corrects the vehicle’s historical trajectory information using the vehicle trajectory continuity algorithm and trains the DQN model. Then, the IDRF real-time phase judges whether vehicles can meet each other and makes a real-time routing decision to select the most appropriate relay vehicle after adding real-time vehicles to the VANET. In this way, the IDRF can obtain the packet transfer path with the shortest end-to-end delay. Compared to two DQN-based approaches, i.e., TDRL-RP and VRDRT, and traditional VANET routing algorithms, the IDRF exhibits significant performance improvements for both sparse and congested periods during intensive simulations of the historical GPS trajectories of 10,357 taxis within Beijing city. Performance improvements in the average packet delivery ratio, end-to-end delay, and overhead ratio of the IDRF over TDRL-RP and VRDRT under different numbers of pairs and transmission ranges are at least 3.56%, 12.73%, and 5.14% and 6.06%, 11.84%, and 7.08%, respectively.
Outlier Detection by Energy Minimization in Quantized Residual Preference Space for Geometric Model Fitting
Authors: Zhang Yun , Yang Bin , Zhao Xi , Wu Shiqian , Luo Bin , Zhang Liangpei
Published: May 2024

Outliers significantly impact the accuracy of geometric model fitting. Previous approaches to handling outliers have involved threshold selection and scale estimation. However, many scale estimators assume that the inlier distribution follows a Gaussian model, which often does not accurately represent cases in geometric model fitting. Outliers, defined as points with large residuals to all true models, exhibit similar characteristics to high values in quantized residual preferences, thus causing outliers to cluster away from inliers in quantized residual preference space. In this paper, we leverage this consensus among outliers in quantized residual preference space by extending energy minimization to combine model error and spatial smoothness for outlier detection. The outlier detection process based on energy minimization follows an alternate sampling and labeling framework. Subsequently, an ordinary energy minimization method is employed to optimize inlier labels, thereby following the alternate sampling and labeling framework. Experimental results demonstrate that the energy minimization-based outlier detection method effectively identifies most outliers in the data. Additionally, the proposed energy minimization-based inlier segmentation accurately segments inliers into different models. Overall, the performance of the proposed method surpasses that of most state-of-the-art methods.
Appropriateness of Questionnaires for the Diagnosis and Monitoring Treatment of Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Wolffsohn James S. , Travé-Huarte Sònia , Craig Jennifer P. , Muntz Alex , Stapleton Fiona J.
Published: May 2024

Objectives: If questionnaires contributing to the diagnosis of dry eye disease are to be recommended as alternatives to existing questionnaires, they must be comparable, with similar repeatability and treatment sensitivity. Comparability was thus examined for three common dry eye questionnaires along with identifying the individual questions that most strongly predicted overall scores. Methods: Anonymised data (n = 329) collected via the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), 5-item Dry Eye Questionnaire (DEQ-5) and Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye (SANDE) questionnaires (including responses to individual questions) from consenting patients were drawn from real-world dry eye clinics/registries in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand; at follow-up, normalised changes were evaluated in 54 of these patients. Treatment data were also analysed from a 6-month, randomised controlled trial assessing artificial tear supplement treatments with 43 responders and 13 non-responders to treatment identified. The questions extracted from the OSDI which form the abbreviated 6-item OSDI were also analysed. Results: The agreement between the questionnaires ranged from r = 0.577 to 0.754 (all p < 0.001). For the OSDI, three questions accounted for 89.1% of the variability in the total score. The correlation between the OSDI and OSDI-6 was r = 0.939, p < 0.001. For the DEQ-5, two questions accounted for 88.5% of the variance in the total score. Normalised treatment changes were also only moderately correlated between the questionnaires (r = 0.441 to 0.595, p < 0.01). For non-responders, variability was 7.4% with both OSDI and OSDI-6, 9.7% with DEQ-5, 12.1% with SANDE-frequency and 11.9% with SANDE-severity scale. For responders, improvement with drops was detected with a 19.1% change in OSDI, 20.2% in OSDI-6, 20.9% in DEQ-5, and 27.5%/23.6% in SANDE-frequency/severity scales. Conclusions: Existing commonly used dry eye questionnaire scores do not show high levels of correlation. The OSDI was the least variable of the questionnaires and while displaying a slightly lower treatment effect than either the DEQ or SANDE, it was more sensitive to detection of a treatment effect. The quicker-to-complete OSDI-6 exhibited essentially the same outcome as the OSDI, with similar variability and treatment sensitivity.
Pre-Pandemic Predictivity of Anxious-Depressive Symptoms in Post-Surgical Traumatic Distress in Hysterectomy for Benign Disease and COVID-19 Outbreak: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Ielmini Marta , Casarin Jvan , Callegari Camilla , Bellini Alessandro , Favata Manuela Giada , Giudici Anna , Ghezzi Fabio , Cromi Antonella , Caselli Ivano
Published: May 2024

Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic led to several needed containment measures that conditioned the onset of depressive, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress symptoms in the population. These symptoms, especially if not diagnosed and treated, can also occur in patients undergoing medical care or surgery, with a high impact on people’s lives and causing low adherence to treatment. The study evaluates whether the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worsened the onset of post-surgical distress and symptoms of anxiety and depression in a population undergoing hysterectomy for benign disease during the pandemic era, comparing it with a population with the same characteristics but recruited before COVID-19. Methods: The sample was evaluated before surgery (T1), post-operatively (T2), and 3 months after surgery (T3) through a sociodemographic questionnaire and through the HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) to evaluate anxious-depressive symptoms and the PCL-5 (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5) to assess the onset of post-surgical distress. Results: Patients treated after the COVID-19 pandemic showed a higher depressive symptoms rate compared with those treated before (p-value = 0.02); conversely, pre-COVID-19 patients were more prone to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (p-value = 0.04). A significant association between the occurrence of PTSD and anxiety-depressive symptoms registered at T2 (p-value = 0.007) and T3 (p-value < 0.0001) emerged. In the end, the COVID-19 pandemic has exerted a detrimental influence on the mental well-being of the patients under investigation, with a notable exacerbation of their mood disturbances. Conclusions: The findings advocate for the implementation of psychometric and psychodiagnostic assessments to promptly detect high-risk scenarios that could lead to PTSD, compromising treatment compliance and exacerbating the overall outcome, resulting in substantial direct and indirect burdens.
Effects of Adding Four Sessions of Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation to an Exercise Program in Patients with Shoulder Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Valenzuela-Rios Claudia , Arias-Buría José L. , Rodríguez-Jiménez Jorge , Palacios-Ceña María , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César
Published: May 2024

Objective: Percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) appears to be effective for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain. The aim of this trial was to investigate the effects on disability and pain, as well as on the psychological aspects of adding PENS into an exercise program in patients with subacromial pain syndrome. Methods: A randomized, parallel-group clinical trial was conducted. Sixty patients with subacromial pain were allocated into exercise alone (n = 20), exercise plus PENS (n = 20), or exercise plus placebo PENS (n = 20) groups. Patients in all groups performed an exercise program twice daily for 3 weeks. Patients allocated to the PENS group also received four sessions of ultrasound-guided PENS targeting the axillar and suprascapular nerves. Patients allocated to the exercise plus placebo PENS received a sham PENS application. The primary outcome was related disability (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, DASH). Secondary outcomes included mean pain, anxiety levels, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality. They were assessed at baseline, one week after, and one and three months after. An analysis was performed using intention-to-treat with mixed-models ANCOVAs. Results: The results revealed no between-group differences for most outcomes (related disability: F = 0.292, p = 0.748, n2p = 0.011; anxiety: F = 0.780, p = 0.463, n2p = 0.027; depressive symptoms: F = 0.559, p = 0.575, n2p = 0.02; or sleep quality: F = 0.294, p = 0.747, n2p = 0.01); both groups experienced similar changes throughout the course of this study. Patients receiving exercise plus PENS exhibited greater improvement in shoulder pain at one month than those in the exercise (Δ −1.2, 95%CI −2.3 to −0.1) or the placebo (Δ −1.3, 95%CI −2.5 to −0.1) groups. Conclusions: The inclusion of four sessions of ultrasound-guided PENS targeting the axillar and suprascapular nerves into an exercise program did not result in better outcomes in our sample of patients with subacromial pain syndrome at one and three months after treatment.
Consecutive Dual-Session Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Chronic Subjective Severe to Catastrophic Tinnitus with Normal Hearing
Authors: Han Sung Jun , Lee Ji Hye , Choi Yeso , Hong Seok Min , Kim Jun Hee , Kim Sung Kyun
Published: May 2024

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is emerging as a promising non-invasive intervention for tinnitus by aiming to modulate abnormal brain activity. This study investigated the efficacy of dual-session tDCS for the relief of perception, distress, and loudness in patients with severe chronic subjective tinnitus and assessed the duration of tinnitus suppression effects compared to single-session and control groups over a 2-month follow-up. In a prospective, randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 30 participants with severe chronic subjective tinnitus underwent bifrontal tDCS. The control group (n = 9), single-session group (n = 10), and dual-session group (n = 11) received 2 mA stimulation for 20 min per session, twice a week for one month. The treatment response was monitored weekly using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), with additional assessments using the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) at the fourth and eighth weeks. The single- and dual-session groups showed statistically significant improvements in VAS, THI, and BDI scores compared to the control group. THI and BDI scores showed a significant difference between the single- and dual-session groups. The dual-session group demonstrated a more sustained tinnitus suppression effect than the single-session group. tDCS has been validated as an effective intervention for the suppression of tinnitus, with the dual-session protocol showing longer-term benefits. These findings support the potential of tDCS as a treatment for tinnitus, particularly in dual-session applications.
Self-Reported Sleep Duration Is a Useful Tool to Predict Sarcopenia in Chilean Older Adults: Evidence from the ALEXANDROS Longitudinal Study
Authors: Gutiérrez Myriam , Márquez Carlos , Lera Lydia , Peirano Patricio , Salech Felipe , Albala Cecilia
Published: May 2024

Age-related sleep disorders share common pathways with sarcopenia. Prospective data from Latin American populations are scarce, and the association between sleep disorders and sarcopenia in Chileans remains unknown. Thus, we aimed to study the longitudinal association between sleep disorders and sarcopenia in a cohort study of 1116 community-dwelling Chilean older people ≥60 years old from the ALEXANDROS cohorts. After the exclusion criteria, 318 subjects were followed. Sociodemographic data, self-reported chronic diseases, sedentarism, sleep characteristics, anthropometric measurements, handgrip strength, and muscle performance were assessed. Results indicated that at baseline, the prevalence of sarcopenia was 24.10% without gender differences, and the prevalence of self-reported sleep problems was 23.3%, higher in women (26.46% versus 17.15% in men). The adjusted Cox regression models for sarcopenia showed an association between sarcopenia, sleep disorders (HR = 2.08, 95% IC 1.14–3.80), and long sleep duration (HR = 2.42, 95% IC 1.20–4.91). After 8.24 years of follow-up, there were 2.2 cases of sarcopenia per 100 person-years. This study demonstrates that sleep disorders are an independent risk factor for sarcopenia in Chilean older people. The identification of sleep disorders through self-reported data provides an opportunity for early identification of risk and cost-effective sarcopenia prevention.
Effects of Winery Wastewater to Soils on Mineral Properties and Soil Carbon
Authors: Nightingale-McMahon Max , Robinson Brett , Malcolm Brendon , Clough Tim , Whitehead David
Published: May 2024

Winery wastewater (WW) is a high-volume biowaste and, in the context of Marlborough and New Zealand wineries, there is a growing recognition of the need to improve current WW disposal systems to mitigate negative environmental impacts. The application of WW to land is a low-cost method of disposal, that could significantly reduce the environmental risk associated with WW directly entering surface and groundwater bodies. This study analysed elemental concentrations in WW and soils from three Marlborough vineyards across their annual vintage to determine the loading rates of nutrients into WW and the subsequent accumulation effects of WW irrigation on receiving soils. The findings showed loading rates of approximately 1.8 t ha−1 yr−1 of sodium within WW and a significant increase in soil sodium concentration and pH, attributed to sodium-based cleaning products. A loading rate of approximately 4 t ha−1 yr−1 of total organic carbon was also identified within WW, however, significant losses in soil carbon, nitrogen, magnesium and calcium concentrations were identified. Focusing efforts to retain key nutrients from WW within soils could provide benefits to New Zealand’s wine industry, facilitating increased biomass production in irrigation plots, thereby increasing biodiversity and potentially generating incentives for vineyard owners to contribute to increasing biomass carbon stocks and offset agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.
Exploring Drivers of Wildfires in Spain
Authors: Hammed Rasheed Akinleye , Alawode Gbenga Lawrence , Montoya Laura E. , Krasovskiy Andrey , Kraxner Florian
Published: May 2024

Wildfires play a dual role in ecosystems by providing ecological benefits while posing catastrophic events; they also inflict non-catastrophic damage and yield long-term effects on biodiversity, soil quality, and air quality, among other factors, including public health. This study analysed the key determinants of wildland fires in Spain using openly available spatial data from 2008 to 2021, including fire perimeters, bioclimatic variables, topography, and socioeconomic datasets, at a resolution of 1 km2. Our methodology combined principal component analysis (PCA), linear regression analysis, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Our findings show that scrub/herbaceous vegetation (average 63 ± 1.45% SE) and forests (average 19 ± 0.76% SE) have been highly susceptible to wildfires. The population density exhibited a robust positive correlation with wildfire frequency (R2 = 0.88, p < 0.0001). Although the study provides insights into some fire-related climatic drivers over Spain, it includes only temperature- and precipitation-based variables and does not explicitly consider fuel dynamics. Therefore, a more advanced methodology should be applied in the future to understand the local specifics of regional wildfire dynamics. Our study identified that scrub/herbaceous areas and forests near densely populated regions should be prioritised for wildfire management in Spain, particularly under changing climate conditions.
Viscoelastic Hertzian Impact
Authors: Argatov Ivan
Published: May 2024

The problem of normal impact of a rigid sphere on a Maxwell viscoelastic solid half-space is considered. The first-order asymptotic solution is constructed in the framework of Hunter’s model of viscoelastic impact. In particular, simple analytical approximations have been derived for the maximum contact force and the time to achieve it. A linear regression method is suggested for evaluating the instantaneous elastic modulus and the mean relaxation time from a set of experimental data collected for different spherical impactors and impact velocities.
Strains and Stresses in Multilayered Materials Determined Using High-Energy X-ray Diffraction
Authors: Geandier Guillaume , Adenis Patrick , Selezneff Serge , Pujol d’Andredo Quentin , Malard Benoît
Published: May 2024

This work explores the advantages and disadvantages of a methodology using high-energy X-ray diffraction to determine residual stresses in multilayer structures produced by atmospheric plasma spraying. These structures comprise a titanium alloy substrate (Ti64), a bonding layer (Ni-Al), and an abrasive coating (Al2O3). This study focuses on analyzing the residual stress gradients within these layers. The presented method is used to determine stresses across the entire thickness of multilayer structures. Experiments were carried out using a high-energy rectangular beam, operating in transmission mode, on the cross-section of the sample. The results indicate variable stresses throughout the depth of the sample, particularly near the layer interfaces. The semi-automatic methodology presented here enables us to follow stress evolution within the different layers, providing indications of the load transfer between them and at their interfaces. The sin2ψ method was used to analyze the diffraction data and to determine the stresses in each phase along the sample depth. However, interpreting results near the interfaces is complex due to the geometric and chemical effects. We present a discussion of the main advantages and disadvantages of the methodology for this kind of industrial sample.
A Review of Fatigue Limit Assessment Using the Thermography-Based Method
Authors: Wei Wei , He Lei , Sun Yang , Yang Xinhua
Published: May 2024

Fatigue limit assessment methodologies based on the thermography technique are comprehensively studied in this work. Three fundamental indicators pertaining to temperature increase, intrinsic energy dissipation, and thermodynamic entropy are discussed in sequence. The main train of thought of thermo-based research is outlined. The main objective of this paper is, on the one hand, to describe some works that have been accomplished in this field and, on the other hand, to present further potential for future studies involving fatigue behaviors and thermography approaches.
Superelastic Properties of Aged FeNiCoAlTaB Cold-Rolled Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Tseng Li-Wei , Song Miao , Chen Wei-Cheng , Hsu Yi-Ting , Chen Chih-Hsuan
Published: May 2024

In the present study, microstructure and cyclic tensile tests were used to measure the superelastic responses of Fe40.95Ni28Co17Al11.5Ta2.5B0.05 (at.%) shape memory alloys after 97% cold rolling. Cold-rolled samples underwent annealing heat treatment (1250 °C/1 h) followed by quenching in water or aging heat treatment (700 °C/6 h and 700 °C/12 h) followed by quenching in water. The microstructure results showed that the average grain size increased from 210 μm to 1570 μm as annealing times increased from 0.5 h to 1 h. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra for FeNiCoAlTaB (NCATB) showed that in cold-rolled alloys after solution, the strong peak was in the face-centered cubic (γ, FCC) <111> structure. In aged samples, a new peak (γ’, FCC) emerged, the intensity of which increased as aging times rose from 6 to 12 h. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images showed that the average precipitate size was around 10 nm in 700 °C/6 h specimens and 18 nm in 700 °C/12 h specimens. The precipitate was enriched in Ni, Al, and Ta elements and exhibited an L12 crystal structure. Tensile samples aged at 700 °C for 6 and 12 h exhibited recoverable strains of 1% and 2.6%, respectively, at room temperature. Digital image correlation (DIC) results for the sample aged at 700 °C for 12 h showed that two martensite variants were activated during the superelastic test. Such variants can form corresponding variant pairs (CVPs), which promote tensile deformation. The tensile sample exhibited a gradual cyclic degradation, and a large irrecoverable strain was observed after the test. This irrecoverable strain was the result of residual martensite, which was pinned by dislocations.
Prognostic Impact of Metabolic Syndrome and Steatotic Liver Disease in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Gil-Rojas Sergio , Suárez Miguel , Martínez-Blanco Pablo , Torres Ana M. , Martínez-García Natalia , Blasco Pilar , Torralba Miguel , Mateo Jorge
Published: May 2024

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) currently represents the predominant cause of chronic liver disease and is closely linked to a significant increase in the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), even in the absence of liver cirrhosis. In this retrospective multicenter study, machine learning (ML) methods were employed to investigate the relationship between metabolic profile and prognosis at diagnosis in a total of 219 HCC patients. The eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB) method demonstrated superiority in identifying mortality predictors in our patients. Etiology was the most determining prognostic factor followed by Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) classifications. Variables related to the development of hepatic steatosis and metabolic syndrome, such as elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), uric acid, obesity, alcohol consumption, and high blood pressure (HBP), had a significant impact on mortality prediction. This study underscores the importance of metabolic syndrome as a determining factor in the progression of HCC secondary to MASLD. The use of ML techniques provides an effective tool to improve risk stratification and individualized therapeutic management in these patients.
Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Activity against Moko Disease as a Defense Mechanism of Musa spp. from the Ecuadorian Coast Area
Authors: Mihai Raluca A. , Terán-Maza Vanessa A. , Portilla-Benalcazar Karen A. , Ramos-Guaytarilla Lissette E. , Vizuete-Cabezas María J. , Melo-Heras Erly J. , Cubi-Insuaste Nelson S. , Catana Rodica D.
Published: May 2024

The Musa spp. represents the most commonly produced, transitioned, and consumed fruit around the globe, with several important applications in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Moko disease is produced by Ralstonia solanacearum—a factor with a high impact on all crops in Ecuador, representing one of the biggest phytosanitary problems. Four of the most common varieties of Musa spp. were tested to identify the metabolic reaction of plants facing Moko disease. The phenolic and flavonoid content has been evaluated as a defense system, and the α-diphenyl-α-picrylhydrazyl free-radical-scavenging method (DPPH), free-radical-scavenging activity (ABTS), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, and liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (LC-MS) have been adapted to analyze the active compounds with the antioxidant capacity necessary to counteract the pathogenic attack. Our results indicate that all the studied varieties of Musa spp. react in the same way, such that the diseased samples showed a higher accumulation of secondary metabolites with antioxidant capacity compared with the healthy ones, with high active compound synthesis identified during the appearance of Moko disease symptoms. More than 40 compounds and their derivatives (from kaempferol and quercetin glycosides) with protective roles demonstrate the implication of the Musa spp. defense system against R. solanacearum infection.
Elucidating the Role of Lipid-Metabolism-Related Signal Transduction and Inhibitors in Skin Cancer
Authors: Kook Eunjin , Kim Do-Hee
Published: May 2024

Lipids, as multifunctional molecules, play a crucial role in a variety of cellular processes. These include regulating membrane glycoprotein functions, controlling membrane trafficking, influencing apoptotic pathways, and affecting drug transport. In addition, lipid metabolites can alter the surrounding microenvironment in ways that might encourage tumor progression. The reprogramming of lipid metabolism is pivotal in promoting tumorigenesis and cancer progression, with tumors often displaying significant changes in lipid profiles. This review concentrates on the essential factors that drive lipid metabolic reprogramming, which contributes to the advancement and drug resistance in melanoma. Moreover, we discuss recent advances and current therapeutic strategies that employ small-molecule inhibitors to target lipid metabolism in skin cancers, particularly those associated with inflammation and melanoma.
Antibiotic Resistance in Enterococci and Enterobacteriaceae from Laboratory-Reared Fresh Mealworm Larvae (Tenebrio molitor L.) and Their Frass
Authors: Turchi Barbara , Mancini Simone , Pedonese Francesca , Resci Ilaria , Torracca Beatrice , Marconi Francesca , Barone Chiara , Nuvoloni Roberta , Fratini Filippo
Published: May 2024

The occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in foodstuff involves a human health risk. Edible insects are a precious resource; however, their consumption raises food safety issues. In this study, the occurrence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in laboratory-reared fresh mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor L.) and frass was assessed. Antibiotics were not used during the rearing. Enterobacteriaceae and enterococci were isolated from 17 larvae and eight frass samples. In total, 62 and 69 isolates presumed to belong to Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcus spp., respectively, were obtained and tested for antibiotic susceptibility via disk diffusion. Based on the results, isolates were grouped, and representative resistant isolates were identified at species level through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. For enterococci resistance, percentages higher than 15% were observed for vancomycin and quinupristin–dalfopristin, whereas Enterobacteriaceae resistance higher than 25% was found against cefoxitin, ampicillin, and amoxicillin–clavulanic acid. Based on the species identification, the observed resistances seemed to be intrinsic both for enterococci and Enterobacteriaceae, except for some β-lactams resistance in Shigella boydii (cefoxitin and aztreonam). These could be due to transferable genetic elements. This study suggests the need for further investigations to clarify the role of edible insects in the spreading of antibiotic resistance determinants through the food chain.
Culm Morphological Analysis in Moso Bamboo Reveals the Negative Regulation of Internode Diameter and Thickness by Monthly Precipitation
Authors: Zhang Qianwen , Chu Xue , Gao Zhipeng , Ding Yulong , Que Feng , Ahmad Zishan , Yu Fen , Ramakrishnan Muthusamy , Wei Qiang
Published: May 2024

The neglect of Moso bamboo’s phenotype variations hinders its broader utilization, despite its high economic value globally. Thus, this study investigated the morphological variations of 16 Moso bamboo populations. The analysis revealed the culm heights ranging from 9.67 m to 17.5 m, with average heights under the first branch ranging from 4.91 m to 7.67 m. The total internode numbers under the first branch varied from 17 to 36, with internode lengths spanning 2.9 cm to 46.4 cm, diameters ranging from 5.10 cm to 17.2 cm, and wall thicknesses from 3.20 mm to 33.3 mm, indicating distinct attributes among the populations. Furthermore, strong positive correlations were observed between the internode diameter, thickness, length, and volume. The coefficient of variation of height under the first branch showed strong positive correlations with several parameters, indicating variability in their contribution to the total culm height. A regression analysis revealed patterns of covariation among the culm parameters, highlighting their influence on the culm height and structural characteristics. Both the diameter and thickness significantly contribute to the internode volume and culm height, and the culm parameters tend to either increase or decrease together, influencing the culm height. Moreover, this study also identified a significant negative correlation between monthly precipitation and the internode diameter and thickness, especially during December and January, impacting the primary thickening growth and, consequently, the internode size.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the PHD Finger Gene Family in Pea (Pisum sativum)
Authors: Liu Mingli , Li Wenju , Zheng Xiaoling , Yuan Zhuo , Zhou Yueqiong , Yang Jing , Mao Yawen , Wang Dongfa , Wu Qing , He Yexin , He Liangliang , Zong Dan , Chen Jianghua
Published: May 2024

The plant homeodomain finger (PHD finger) protein, a type of zinc finger protein extensively distributed in eukaryotes, plays diverse roles in regulating plant growth and development. While PHD finger proteins have been identified in various species, their functions remain largely unexplored in pea (Pisum sativum). In this study, we identified 84 members of the PHD finger gene family in pea, which displayed an uneven distribution across seven chromosomes. Through a comprehensive analysis using data from Arabidopsis thaliana and Medicago truncatula, we categorized the PHD finger proteins into 20 subfamilies via phylogenetic tree analysis. Each subfamily exhibited distinct variations in terms of quantity, genetic structure, conserved domains, and physical and chemical properties. Collinearity analysis revealed conserved evolutionary relationships among the PHD finger genes across the three different species. Furthermore, we identified the conserved and important roles of the subfamily M members in anther development. RT-qPCR and in situ hybridization revealed high expression of the pea subfamily M members PsPHD11 and PsPHD16 in microspores and the tapetum layer. In conclusion, this analysis of the PHD finger family in pea provides valuable guidance for future research on the biological roles of PHD finger proteins in pea and other leguminous plants.
Enhancing Wheat Growth, Physiology, Yield, and Water Use Efficiency under Deficit Irrigation by Integrating Foliar Application of Salicylic Acid and Nutrients at Critical Growth Stages
Authors: El-Hendawy Salah , Mohammed Nabil , Al-Suhaibani Nasser
Published: May 2024

Transitioning from full to deficit irrigation (DI) has become a key strategy in arid regions to combat water scarcity and enhance irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE). However, implementing DI requires additional approaches to counter its negative effects on wheat production. One effective approach is the foliar application of salicylic acid (SA), micronutrients (Mic; zinc and manganese), and macronutrients (Mac; nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium). However, there is a lack of knowledge on the optimal combinations and timing of foliar application for these components to maximize their benefits under arid conditions, which is the primary focus of this study. A two-year field study was conducted to assess the impact of the foliar application of SA alone and in combination with Mic (SA + Mic) or Mic and Mac (SA + Mic + Mac) at various critical growth stages on wheat growth, physiology, productivity, and IWUE under DI conditions. Our result demonstrated that the foliar application of different components, the timing of application, and their interaction had significant effects on all investigated wheat parameters with few exceptions. Applying different components through foliar application at multiple growth stages, such as tillering and heading or tillering, heading, and grain filling, led to significant enhancements in various wheat parameters. The improvements ranged from 7.7% to 23.2% for growth parameters, 8.7% to 24.0% for physiological traits, 1.4% to 21.0% for yield and yield components, and 14.8% to 19.0% for IWUE compared to applying the components only at the tillering stage. Plants treated with different components (SA, Mic, Mac) exhibited enhanced growth, production, and IWUE in wheat compared to untreated plants. The most effective treatment was SA + Mic, followed by SA alone and SA + Mic + Mac. The foliar application of SA, SA + Mic, and SA + Mic + Mac improved growth parameters by 1.2–50.8%, 2.7–54.6%, and 2.5–43.9%, respectively. Yield parameters were also enhanced by 1.3–33.0%, 2.4–37.2%, and 3.0–26.6% while IWUE increased by 28.6%, 33.0%, and 18.5% compared to untreated plants. A heatmap analysis revealed that the foliar application of SA + Mic at multiple growth stages resulted in the highest values for all parameters, followed by SA alone and SA + Mic + Mac applications at multiple growth stages. The lowest values were observed in untreated plants and with the foliar application of different components only at the tillering stage. Thus, this study suggested that the foliar application of SA + Mic at various growth stages can help sustain wheat production in arid regions with limited water resources.
Unsolicited Sexting and Help-Seeking Behaviours among Australian Adults: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Howard Dominika , Ryter Sonia , Hu Yunhao , Clancy Elizabeth Mary , Klettke Bianca , Klas Anna
Published: May 2024

Sending unsolicited sexts is increasingly recognised as harmful and, in some countries, constitutes a criminal offence. Recipients of unwanted/unexpected sexts often report compromised mental health, yet it is currently unknown how people deal with these sexting experiences. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study explored help-seeking behaviours following the receipt of unwanted sexts and barriers to reaching out for support in Australia, where the law currently does not recognise unsolicited sexting as a criminal offence. In total, 883 participants, Mage = 22.52 years (SD = 3.09), were recruited comprising 539 (61.2%) women, 325 (36.9%) men, and 17 (1.9%) other/non-binary. Overall, women were more likely to receive unsolicited sexts (389, 81%) than men (66, 26.2%), and ≥97.7% of respondents across genders never sought support in response to these experiences. Template thematic analysis revealed the receipt of unwanted sexts was often regarded “too trivial” to seek support for, which was captured under the theme of it’s just an image. Regarding barriers to help-seeking, three themes were generated: it’s an awkward experience to talk about, I did not realise it was a violation, I didn’t know where to go. Young Australian adults often did not seek support due to feelings of awkwardness and shame associated with receiving unwanted sexts, a lack of understanding of the violating nature of these experiences and young age, and minimal knowledge of supports. This study illustrates that community attitudes and the legal framework in Australia towards unsolicited sexting need to change to recognise this sexting variant as harmful and illegal.
An Interface Heterogeneity Study on Carbon-based Materials using Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy and Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy Techniques
Authors: Al-Lolage Firas A. , Shafiee Saiful Arifin
Published: May 2024

Carbon materials, such as the boron-doped diamond (BDD), are commonly used in the field of electroanalytical sensors and chemical generators. This study focuses on using the scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and the scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) techniques for probing the surface heterogeneity of the carbon-based materials of interest. Three BDD electrodes with high concentrations of boron doping, were investigated in this study. The GC and HOPG electrodes were used as standards for their behaviour. The SECM results on the lowest doped BDD electrode (2.94×1020 cm−3; 2000 ppm) in this study imply that the BDD electrode behaves similar to a gold substrate: The feedback kinetic rate constant, kfeedback, obtained, was 0.009–0.013 cm s−1 (the gold substrate’s value: 0.014 cm s−1). The Raman spectra show that all the BDD electrodes exhibit metallic conductivity and also that the non-diamond carbon (NDC) cannot be removed from the BDD films. The presence of graphite, buckminsterfullerene, and fullerite were detected in the BDD films based on the X-Ray diffraction (XRD) spectra. A background current and a potential window study were performed, using the SECCM technique; the BDD electrode with the lowest boron doping shows the widest potential window among the electrodes of interest. This potential window decreases as the boron concentration increases. The results of the standard electrodes show that they share the same and narrowest potential windows among the carbon electrodes. The HOPG electrode has the smallest double layer capacitance while the GC electrode has a relatively large background current. As the boron concentration increases, the background currents for the BDD electrodes increase. The same carbon-based electrodes were also investigated in dissolved ferrocyanide using the SECCM technique. The results show that the GC electrode has the fastest kinetic transfer in comparison to the HOPG electrode. As the boron concentration increases, the kinetic transfer of the BDD electrodes increases.
How patients experience discussing couple relationship problems with GPs: an interview study
Authors: Berge Siri Dalsmo , Brekke Mette , Meland Eivind , Mildestvedt Thomas
Published: May 2024

Background

Couple relationship satisfaction is related to good physical health, good mental health, and longevity. Many patients have discussed or wish to discuss their couple relationship with their GP and look for personalised care and support when discussing topics they perceive as sensitive.

Aim

To explore patient experiences of discussing couple relationship problems in GP consultations.

Design & setting

Qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with patients from general practice in Norway.

Method

Individual interviews with 18 patients who had discussed their couple relationship with their GP. Participants were recruited through both social media and traditional media, and all interviews were digitally recorded. The purposive sample comprised 13 women and five men, representing diverse age groups, backgrounds, and relationship problems. All participants identified as heterosexual. We analysed interview data thematically using systematic text condensation.

Results

Three main themes emerged: 1) GPs in a facilitating role, not on an assembly line; 2) navigating the 'elephant in the room'; and 3) GPs as biomedically competent life witnesses. GP continuity was vital in fostering the trust required to discuss sensitive topics, such as relationship issues. Participants valued a biopsychosocial approach that incorporated knowledge of close relationships into medical consultations. They appreciated both GP support and constructive challenges that prompted them to take responsibility for relationship improvements.

Conclusion

Patients value their GPs’ holistic, supportive, and direct approach in addressing couple relationship problems, although they perceive that GPs do not always have sufficient time. They welcome relevant challenges that can drive positive change.
Análise de danos e impactos ambientais por meio de rede de interação em colheita florestal / Analysis of environmental damage and impacts through forest harvest interaction network
Authors: Albuquerque Ferraz Camila Porfirio , Ribeiro Admilson Írio , Da Silva Manoel Marcia Pereira , Sperandio Fabricio Camillo , Fengler Felipe Hashimoto
Published: May 2024

O aumento na produtividade do setor florestal, bem como maior demanda por produtos e mão de obra, contribuiu de maneira significativa para o desenvolvimento e a necessidade da mecanização na silvicultura. Nesse processo, a colheita florestal foi modificada devido a inserção de máquinas florestais como tratores para corte e extração de madeira. A escolha do sistema de colheita deve levar em consideração diferentes fatores para sucesso e equilíbrio na produtividade. A falta de consideração de alguma das variáveis em problemas operacionais e ineficiência do processo, como por exemplo, a fragilização de ecossistemas bem com os danos e impactos ambientais adversos podem comprometer a sustentabilidade da atividade. O presente estudo teve como objetivo, avaliar impactos e danos ambientais em operações de colheita florestal (em plantios comerciais com interface de áreas de conservação - Mata Atlântica e Cerrado). Para tanto, foi aplicada a metodologia redes de interações. O método utilizado demonstrou interação de parâmetros em diferentes desdobramentos interativos que possibilitaram a análise de critérios qualitativos e a visualização geométrica dos danos e impactos envolvidos. Desta forma, tornou-se possível avaliar quais destes parâmetros necessitam destaque para a priorização na gestão ambiental da atividade. Palavras-chave: avaliação de impacto ambiental, colheita florestal, silvicultura, impactos ambientais da colheita florestal. ABSTRACTIncreased productivity in the forest sector, as well as increased demand for products and labor, have significantly contributed to the development and need for mechanization in forestry. In this process, the forest harvest was modified due to the insertion of forest machines as tractors for logging. The choice of harvesting system must take into account different factors for success and balance in productivity. The lack of consideration of any of the variables in operational problems and process inefficiencies, such as the fragility of ecosystems as well as the damage and adverse environmental impacts may compromise the sustainability of the activity. This study aimed to evaluate environmental impacts and damages in forest harvesting operations (in commercial plantations with interface of conservation areas - Atlantic Forest and Cerrado). To this end, the interaction networks methodology was applied. The method used demonstrated interaction of parameters in different interactive developments that allowed the analysis of qualitative criteria and the geometric visualization of the damages and impacts involved. Thus, it became possible to evaluate which of these parameters need to be emphasized for prioritizing the environmental management of the activity.
SIMPLE EXPRESS ANALYSIS OF FERMENTED BEVERAGES QUALITY
Authors: Levashov P.A. , Smirnov S.A.
Published: May 2024

A simple and rapid method for testing the quality of fermented beverages is demonstrated, based on the determination of total protein using Coomassie dye and comparison of the absorption spectra of the samples. The applicability of the approach for the analysis of red and white wine, beer, cider and kvass is shown. In addition to accurate instrumental characterization of samples, this approach can be adapted for qualitative testing in the field or at home.