bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A concept in flux and starved of the metaphysical: desecularizing emotion
Authors: Mobayed Tamim
Published: May 2024

Despite being of undisputed importance, there is no consensus on what emotions are, with the majority of research that constructs ideas about them being colored by a particular worldview. This conceptual article examines the case for conducting an Islamic analysis of emotion. It might seem a peculiar area to examine; what would be the need to analyze such a universal psychological concept through the lens of a particular religion? Three points are used to argue for this endeavor. To begin with, this article highlights the relative instability of the term; there is yet no universally agreed upon definition of what emotions are, and which human processes they contribute to. As the concept is still being defined, there is merit in engaging with the discussion, particularly given the relative absence of metaphysics from the debate. Secondly, specificities relating to emotions and how they have conceptualized are considered. This section delves into the way in which variable factors, such as culture, language, and worldview, influence how emotions manifest. The overarching point argued for here is that how emotions are experienced, and even which emotions are experienced, are shaped by factors that are not consistent across time and space. Accordingly, different worldviews will formulate different “emotional palates” and “emotional ideologies”; different groups of people will understand and engage with emotions differently. Thirdly, a broader discussion ensues pertaining to the nature of science, psychology, and their relationship with secularity. This discussion includes critique of the idea that forces such as secularism and scientific materialism have been “discovered” and are therefore value-neutral. Accordingly, understandings of emotions to have emerged from the Academy, and contemporary psychology, are value-laden. This section also looks at the origins of science in order to determine whether it is inherently atheistic or areligious, and therefore antagonistic to a religious worldview. The section also challenges the apparent secularity of psychology and key psychologists. A range of other facets pertaining to how the emotions have been conceptualized, such as their relational core, their interaction with moral faculties, and their enmeshment with what is important to individuals and groups, are also considered.
So cute, I could wait: the effect of cuteness on consumer patience
Authors: Wang Xiaoran , Jiang Jing , Zhang Xiadan
Published: May 2024

While waiting has been a prevalent and mentally taxing experience for consumers in marketing scenarios, little research has explored situational factors that enhance consumer patience. Drawing on the priming theory, attachment theory, and conservation of resources theory, the current research examines how cuteness as a situational factor affects consumer patience. Across five experiments (N = 1030), we demonstrate that exposure to cuteness enhances consumer patience (Study 1). Moreover, we uncover that the effect is driven by perceived social support employing both mediation (Study 2) and moderation approaches (Study 3). Furthermore, we identify time pressure as the moderator, such that the effect of cuteness on consumer patience only exists among individuals under low time pressure and disappears for those under high time pressure (Study 4). Finally, we examine the downstream consequence of consumer patience for word-of-mouth positivity (Study 5). These findings contribute to the literature on cuteness, patience, and perceived social support, while also offering practical implications for companies seeking to enhance consumer patience.
Visual EMDR stimulation mitigates acute varied stress effects on morphology of hippocampal neurons in male Wistar rats
Authors: Ruvalcaba-Delgadillo Yaveth , Martínez-Fernández Diana Emilia , Luquin Sonia , Moreno-Alcázar Ana , Redolar-Ripoll Diego , Jauregui-Huerta Fernando , Fernández-Quezada David
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Stress is a pervasive health concern known to induce physiological changes, particularly impacting the vulnerable hippocampus and the morphological integrity of its main residing cells, the hippocampal neurons. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), initially developed to alleviate emotional distress, has emerged as a potential therapeutic/preventive intervention for other stress-related disorders. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Acute Variable Stress (AVS) on hippocampal neurons and the potential protective effects of EMDR.

Methods

Rats were exposed to diverse stressors for 7 days, followed by dendritic morphology assessment of hippocampal neurons using Golgi-Cox staining.

Results

AVS resulted in significant dendritic atrophy, evidenced by reduced dendritic branches and length. In contrast, rats receiving EMDR treatment alongside stress exposure exhibited preserved dendritic morphology comparable to controls, suggesting EMDR’s protective role against stressinduced dendritic remodeling.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the potential of EMDR as a neuroprotective intervention in mitigating stress-related hippocampal alterations.
Hospitalization of patients with nutritional anemia in the United States in 2020
Authors: Tian Jie , Fan YangYang , Wei Xin , Li Jiangli , Yang ZeLong , Na Xiaolin , Zhang Yunbo
Published: May 2024

Background

Nutritional anemia is highly prevalent and has triggered a globally recognized public health concern worldwide.

Objective

To better understand the prevalence of anemia and the state of nutritional health in developed countries to inform global nutritional health and better manage the disease.

Method

We employed the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP)-2020 National Inpatient Health Care Data (NIS), administered by The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Nutritional anemia was diagnosed according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10). Matching analysis and multivariate regression were used to adjust for patient and hospital characteristics. Controls were obtained by stratifying and matching for age and sex.

Results

The 2020 HCUP-NIS database encompassed a survey over 6.4 million hospitalized patients, among which 1,745,350 patients diagnosed with anemia, representing approximately 26.97% of the hospitalized population, over 310,000 were diagnosed with nutritional anemia, and 13,150 patients were hospitalized for nutritional anemia as primary diagnosis. Hospitalization rate for nutritional anemia exhibited an increased age-dependent increase nationwide, especially among females, who displayed 1.87 times higher than males. Notably, in comparison to the control group, individuals of the Black race exhibit a higher prevalence of nutritional anemia (case group: 21.7%, control group: 13.0%, p < 0.001). In addition, hospitalization rates were higher among low-income populations, with lower rates of private insurance (case group: 18.7%, control group: 23.5%, p < 0.001) and higher rates of Medicaid insurance (case group: 15.4%, control group: 13.9%, p < 0.001). In areas characterized by larger urban centers and advanced economic conditions within the urban–rural distribution, there was an observed increase in the frequency of patient hospitalizations. Iron deficiency anemia emerged as the predominant subtype of nutritional anemia, accounting for 12,214 (92.88%). Secondary diagnosis among patients hospitalized for nutritional anemia revealed that a significant number faced concurrent major conditions like hypertension and renal failure.

Conclusion

In economically prosperous areas, greater attention should be given to the health of low-income individuals and the older adult. Our findings hold valuable insights for shaping targeted public health policies to effectively address the prevalence and consequences of nutritional anemia based on a overall population health.
Health inequality of rural-to-urban migrant workers in eastern China and its decomposition: a comparative cross-sectional study
Authors: Du Sisi , Yang Yufan , Zheng Miaomiao , Zhang Haiyan , Li Tingting , Cai Fuman
Published: May 2024

Objectives

As a specific group with high health inequality, it is crucial to improve the health status and health inequalities of rural-to-urban migrant workers. This study aimed to evaluate the health inequality of migrant and urban workers in China and decompose it.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out, using a standardized questionnaire to obtain basic information, self-rated health to evaluate health status, concentration index to measure health inequalities, and WDW decomposition to analyze the causes of health inequalities.

Results

The concentration index of health for migrants was 0.021 and 0.009 for urban workers. The main factors contributing to health inequality among rural-to-urban migrant workers included income, exercise, and age. In contrast, the main factors of health inequality among urban workers included income, the number of chronic diseases, social support, and education.

Conclusion

There were health inequalities in both rural-to-urban migrant and urban workers. The government and relevant authorities should formulate timely policies and take targeted measures to reduce income disparities among workers, thereby improving health inequality.
A narrative review: predicting liver transplant graft survival using artificial intelligence modeling
Authors: Gulla Aiste , Jakiunaite Ieva , Juchneviciute Ivona , Dzemyda Gintautas
Published: May 2024

Liver transplantation is the only treatment for patients with liver failure. As demand for liver transplantation grows, it remains a challenge to predict the short- and long-term survival of the liver graft. Recently, artificial intelligence models have been used to evaluate the short- and long-term survival of the liver transplant. To make the models more accurate, suitable liver transplantation characteristics must be used as input to train them. In this narrative review, we reviewed studies concerning liver transplantations published in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases between 2017 and 2022. We picked out 17 studies using our selection criteria and analyzed them, evaluating which medical characteristics were used as input for creation of artificial intelligence models. In eight studies, models estimating only short-term liver graft survival were created, while in five of the studies, models for the prediction of only long-term liver graft survival were built. In four of the studies, artificial intelligence algorithms evaluating both the short- and long-term liver graft survival were created. Medical characteristics that were used as input in reviewed studies and had the biggest impact on the accuracy of the model were the recipient's age, recipient's body mass index, creatinine levels in the recipient's serum, recipient's international normalized ratio, diabetes mellitus, and recipient's model of end-stage liver disease score. To conclude, in order to define important liver transplantation characteristics that could be used as an input for artificial intelligence algorithms when predicting liver graft survival, more models need to be created and analyzed, in order to fully support the results of this review.
The Double Benefit of Eating Fewer Animal Products
Authors: Behrens Paul , Sun Zhongxiao , Scherer Laura , Tukker Arnold , Spawn-Lee Seth A. , Bruckner Martin , Gibbs Holly
Published: May 2024

Scientists around the world have been studying how the food we eat impacts the planet. The demand for animal products, especially meat and milk, creates a lot of greenhouse gas emissions that heat our world. In rich countries, people often eat more animal-based foods than needed, which can be bad for people’s health. So, eating more plants can reduce climate change while also making our bodies healthier. Eating more plants would also save huge areas of land, which is another benefit for the climate. This is because 75–80% of all the world’s farming land is used to produce animal products. If we ate more plants, we could give this land back to nature or make new nature parks that would draw greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere. More natural land would also mean more plants and animals could make their homes in these parks, and humans would have more places to play and explore.
“Proud, brave, and tough”: women in the Canadian combat arms
Authors: Hendel Emalie , MacEachern Kate Hill , Haxhiu Alma , Waruszynski Barbara T.
Published: May 2024

Canada’s defence policy, Strong, Secure, Engaged, emphasizes the importance of leveraging Canada’s diversity to strengthen the Canadian Armed Forces. Currently, women in the Canadian military are underrepresented across most elements and occupations, especially in the combat arms occupations, including among officers and non-commissioned personnel in combat units such as infantry, armored corps, artillery, and combat engineering. Research suggests that the benefits associated with the inclusion of women in combat arms occupations include an increase in collective intelligence, operational effectiveness, task cohesion, and diversity. This article explores the gender gap in the Canadian combat arms by examining the findings from two recent qualitative research studies on the perceptions of women in the Regular Force and Primary Reserve. The authors analyze female military personnel’s perceptions of women serving in the combat arms, and the ways to increase their inclusion in the military. The key findings reveal the following themes on women’s perceptions of servicewomen in the combat arms: great job for those who want it; challenging environment (e.g., working within a masculinized culture, necessary toughness, tokenism and the “pink list,” being treated differently, and family loyalty); unique challenges faced by women in combat roles; combat takes a toll on women’s mental and physical health; and benefits of women’s participation in multinational operations. The discussion highlights the need to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion, promote a culture change that fosters greater inclusion of women in the combat arms, and increase operational effectiveness through training and policies.
General ability and specific cognitive functions are lower in children with epilepsy after perinatal ischemic stroke
Authors: Vaher Ulvi , Männamaa Mairi , Laugesaar Rael , Ilves Norman , Ilves Nigul , Loorits Dagmar , Kool Pille , Ilves Pilvi
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Epilepsy develops in one third of children after perinatal stroke. Both epilepsy and stroke may be risk factors for impaired cognitive abilities. How the development of epilepsy is related to the cognitive profile of children with perinatal stroke is still unclear. The aim of the study was to evaluate general and specific cognitive functions in children with epilepsy and children without epilepsy after perinatal ischemic stroke.

Methods

The study group consisted of 51 children with perinatal ischemic stroke confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging: 27 (53%) children with arterial ischemic stroke and 24 (47%) with periventricular venous infarction. Magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography were performed in all patients after the neonatal period. Epilepsy was diagnosed if the child had at least two unprovoked seizures occurring >24 h apart or one unprovoked seizure with a high recurrence risk. Cognitive assessments were performed using the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children, Second Edition, at the age of ≥7 years. General ability (Fluid Crystallized Index, Mental Processing Index, Non-verbal Index) and specific cognitive functions (sequential processing, simultaneous processing, learning, planning, knowledge) were evaluated.

Results

At the median age of 19.3 years (interquartile range 14.0–22) at the time of follow-up for epilepsy, 14 (27.5%) patients had developed epilepsy, and 37 (72.5%) patients were without epilepsy. All general cognitive ability scores were lower in children with epilepsy compared to children without epilepsy. Among specific cognitive functions, simultaneous processing, planning, and knowledge were lower in children with epilepsy compared to children without epilepsy: simultaneous processing mean [78.5, 95% CI: [69.8, 87.2], vs. 96.9, 95% CI [90, 103.9], p = 0.0018]; planning mean [82.5, 95% CI: [73, 92], vs. 96.2, 95% CI: [88.7, 103.6], p = 0.026]; knowledge median (25th, 75th percentile): 80.5 (75, 87) vs. 92 (84, 108), p = 0.023.

Conclusion

Children with epilepsy after perinatal ischemic stroke have lower general cognitive abilities compared to children without epilepsy. The profile of the subscales indicates lower verbal abilities and executive functions in children with epilepsy. Children with post-stroke epilepsy need targeted cognitive monitoring for early aimed rehabilitation and for establishing an adapted learning environment.
Is transanal irrigation the best treatment possibility for low anterior resection syndrome? A multicenter, randomized clinical trial: study protocol
Authors: Klimovskij Michail , Civilka Ignas , Aleinikov Andrej , Aukstikalnis Tomas , Christensen Peter , Dulskas Audrius
Published: May 2024

Background

Up to 50% of patients who undergo rectal resection suffer from various and partly severe functional problems, despite the preservation of the anal sphincter. These complaints are defined as low anterior resection syndrome (LARS). So far, there are no randomized clinical trials regarding the most effective treatment for LARS. Our aim is to evaluate whether transanal irrigation improves bowel function and quality of life in patients following low anterior resection compared to best supportive care.

Methods

Patients who have undergone low anterior resection will be approached for this study. On patient's visit, complaints regarding the defecation as well as any deterioration in their overall quality of life will be assessed using questionnaires such as the Low Anterior Resection Syndromes score, Wexner score, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life (QOL) CR-29, and Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile tool. Few additional target questions will be also asked, such as “Would you recommend the treatment to anybody; did you expect the improvement following the treatment; etc.” Questionnaires and scales will be filled on follow-up visits every 3 months for 1 year.

Discussion

This multicenter, randomized controlled trial will lead to a better understanding of LARS treatment. Moreover, it will be a hypothesis-generating study and will inform areas needing future prospective studies.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier (NCT05920681).
Immunization against nucleus pulposus antigens to accelerate degenerative disc disease in a rabbit model
Authors: Bonilla Andres F. , Sikes Katie J. , Burton Lindsey H. , Chow Lyndah , Kurihara Jade , Santangelo Kelly , Dow Steven W. , Easley Jeremiah T.
Published: May 2024

Low back pain poses a significant societal burden, with progressive intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) emerging as a pivotal contributor to chronic pain. Improved animal models of progressive IDD are needed to comprehensively investigate new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to managing IDD. Recent studies underscore the immune system’s involvement in IDD, particularly with regards to the role of immune privileged tissues such as the nucleus pulposus (NP) becoming an immune targeting following initial disc injury. We therefore hypothesized that generating an active immune response against NP antigens with an NP vaccine could significantly accelerate and refine an IDD animal model triggered by mechanical puncture of the disc. To address this question, rabbits were immunized against NP antigens following disc puncture, and the impact on development of progressive IDD was assessed radiographically, functionally, and histologically compared between vaccinated and non-vaccinated animals over a 12-week period. Immune responses to NP antigens were assessed by ELISA and Western blot. We found that the vaccine elicited strong immune responses against NP antigens, including a dominant ~37 kD antigen. Histologic evaluation revealed increases IDD in animals that received the NP vaccine plus disc puncture, compared to disc puncture and vaccine only animals. Imaging evaluation evidenced a decrease in disc height index and higher scores of disc degeneration in animals after disc punctures and in those animals that received the NP vaccine in addition to disc puncture. These findings therefore indicate that it is possible to elicit immune responses against NP antigens in adult animals, and that these immune responses may contribute to accelerated development of IDD in a novel immune-induced and accelerated IDD model.
Elite Multi-Criteria Decision Making—Pareto Front Optimization in Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Kesireddy Adarsh , Medrano F. Antonio
Published: May 2024

Optimization is a process of minimizing or maximizing a given objective function under specified constraints. In multi-objective optimization (MOO), multiple conflicting functions are optimized within defined criteria. Numerous MOO techniques have been developed utilizing various meta-heuristic methods such as Evolutionary Algorithms (EAs), Genetic Algorithms (GAs), and other biologically inspired processes. In a cooperative environment, a Pareto front is generated, and an MOO technique is applied to solve for the solution set. On other hand, Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) is often used to select a single best solution from a set of provided solution candidates. The Multi-Criteria Decision Making–Pareto Front (M-PF) optimizer combines both of these techniques to find a quality set of heuristic solutions. This paper provides an improved version of the M-PF optimizer, which is called the elite Multi-Criteria Decision Making–Pareto Front (eMPF) optimizer. The eMPF method uses an evolutionary algorithm for the meta-heuristic process and then generates a Pareto front and applies MCDM to the Pareto front to rank the solutions in the set. The main objective of the new optimizer is to exploit the Pareto front while also exploring the solution area. The performance of the developed method is tested against M-PF, Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II), and Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-III (NSGA-III). The test results demonstrate the performance of the new eMPF optimizer over M-PF, NSGA-II, and NSGA-III. eMPF was not only able to exploit the search domain but also was able to find better heuristic solutions for most of the test functions used.
Design and Analysis of a Base Bleed Unit for the Drag Reduction of a High-Power Rocket Operating at Transonic Speeds
Authors: Famellos Petros , Skevas Athanasios , Koutsiadis Asterios , Koutsouras Christos , Panagiotou Pericles
Published: May 2024

In the present study, a passive flow device is considered for drag reduction purposes through implementation in a transonic high-power rocket. The high-power rocket serves as a reference platform that, apart from the operating conditions, enforces several constraints in terms of available volume and placement locations. A step-by-step methodology is suggested, where the unit is initially broken down into an inlet and an outlet component. The flow field is investigated by means of computational modeling (CFD), where the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations are solved coupled with turbulence models that vary depending on the design phase and the individual component. In the first design phase, the best alternative configuration is selected for each component by comparing mass flow rates and discharge coefficients. In the second design phase, each component is analyzed in greater detail based on the first phase results. Indicatively, the protruding inlet diffuser-type channel is converted into a protruding inlet nozzle-type channel to avoid choked flow phenomena, and a nozzle geometry is selected as the outlet amongst the other considered scenarios. The two components are eventually integrated into a common base bleed unit and a final assessment is made. The computational results are used to predict the performance and trajectory of the rocket through a well-established trajectory software. The overall methodology is validated against full-scale test flight data. The results show that the base bleed unit developed in the framework of this study yields a drag reduction of approximately 15% at transonic speeds without impacting the rocket mass and stability.
Effect of Mineral Fertilizers and Pesticides Application on Bacterial Community and Antibiotic-Resistance Genes Distribution in Agricultural Soils
Authors: Khmelevtsova Ludmila , Azhogina Tatiana , Karchava Shorena , Klimova Maria , Polienko Elena , Litsevich Alla , Chernyshenko Elena , Khammami Margarita , Sazykin Ivan , Sazykina Marina
Published: May 2024

Soils are a hotspot for the emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance. The effects of agrochemical treatments on the bacterial community of agricultural soils and the content of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs) were studied. Treatments included the following: control, mineral fertilizers (NPKs), pesticides, and the combined treatment of soils under soya (Glycine max), sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum). Bacterial community taxonomic composition was studied using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The content of 10 ARGs and 3 integron genes (intI1, intI2, intI3) was determined using quantitative real-time PCR. The results showed that the treatments had little effect on the taxonomic composition and diversity of the soil bacterial community. The most significant factors determining differences in the microbial community were sampling time and soil physico-chemical parameters. A significant role of the bacterial community in ARG distribution in soils was demonstrated. Representatives of the Pseudomonas, Bacillus, Sphingomonas, Arthrobacter genera, and the Nocardioidaceae and Micrococcaceae families were likely ARG hosts. The presence of integron genes of all three classes was detected, the most numerous being intI3. This work provides important information on the role of agricultural soils in ARG transfer, and the findings may be useful for sustainable and safe agricultural development.
Impact of the Combination of Chemical and Organic Fertilization on the Growth and Yield of Pineapple under Two Shade Net Conditions
Authors: Martínez-Conde Jonathan , Palacios-Torres Rogelio Enrique , Ramírez-Seañez Ana Rosa , Amador-Mendoza Adolfo , Reyes-Osornio Maribel , Yam-Tzec José Antonio , Gutiérrez-Hernández José Orbelin , Hernández-Hernández Hipólito
Published: May 2024

The use of organic sources presents itself as a viable alternative to mitigate the excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers in agricultural practices. However, in the realm of pineapple cultivation, research exploring the synergy between chemical and organic fertilizers remains scarce. In this context, the objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of the combination of chemical and organic fertilizers on the growth and yield of the MD-2 pineapple cultivar under two shade net conditions (installed 45 and 250 days after planting). The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design, with the main plot being the shade net conditions and the sub-plots the five fertilization treatments, which were applied 18 times via drip irrigation (control, 100% chemical fertilization, 50% reduced chemical fertilization, organic fertilization, and a combination of 50% chemical fertilization with organic fertilization). The results showed that the early installation of shade netting 45 days after planting decreases the growth and yield of pineapple; thus, the use of shade netting at this age is not recommended. Regarding fertilization, the combination of 50% chemical fertilization with organic fertilization showed similar growth and yield values compared to 100% conventional chemical fertilization under both shade net conditions. Furthermore, this combination presented similar nitrate and potassium values in the plant and did not negatively affect malic acid content. Therefore, the use of organic fertilizers in pineapple cultivation is a promising strategy to reduce the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and it could also improve soil fertility.
The Valorization of Spanish Minority Grapevine Varieties—The Volatile Profile of Their Wines as a Characterization Feature
Authors: Díaz-Fernández Ángela , Cortés-Diéguez Sandra , Muñoz-Organero Gregorio , Cabello Félix , Puertas Belén , Puig-Pujol Anna , Domingo Carme , Valdés-Sánchez M. Esperanza , Moreno Cardona Daniel , Cibriain José Félix , Dañobeitia-Artabe Oier , Rubio-Cano José-Antonio , Martínez-Gascueña Jesús , Mena-Morales Adela , Chirivella Camilo , Usón Jesús-Juan , Díaz-Losada Emilia
Published: May 2024

Despite the large number of existing varieties of Vitis vinifera L., only few occupy a large niche in today’s highly globalized wine market. The increasing consumer demand for diversified products, as well as the changing climatic conditions, make establishing a process of varietal diversification essential to achieve both challenges. It is for this reason that the study of minority varieties, which have a higher level of adaptation to each area of origin, is of particular interest. With the main objective of achieving an in-depth knowledge of minority varieties in Spain, the national research project ‘Valorization of Minority Grapevine Varieties for their Potential for Wine Diversification and Resilience to Climate Change’ (MINORVIN), has been proposed. Within this extensive project, the present study describes the aroma profiles of 60 single-variety wines, corresponding with 44 different varieties, with 12 of these varieties being studied at the same time in several Spanish regions. Volatile compounds were determined through three consecutive vintages using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and gas chromatography–flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Compounds were grouped into major compounds, including alcohols, C6 compounds, esters, acetates, acids, carbonyl compounds, and other type of compounds, and minor compounds, including lactones, terpenes, and C13-norisoprenoids, according to their concentration in the wines being analyzed. Among this last group of compounds, lactones were quantitatively the most abundant, followed by terpenes. This study reflects that minority variety wines show distinctive aromatic profiles, supporting the importance of valuing and promoting the autochthonous minority grapevine varieties for the Spanish winemaking industry.
Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the PPPDE Gene Family in Rice
Authors: Lian Wangmin , Zhan Xiaodeng , Chen Daibo , Wu Weixun , Liu Qunen , Zhang Yinxing , Cheng Shihua , Lou Xiangyang , Cao Liyong , Hong Yongbo
Published: May 2024

Protein ubiquitination is common and crucial in cellular functions, however, little is known about how deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) reverse regulate the ubiquitination signaling process. PPPDE family proteins are a novel class of deubiquitinating peptidases with demonstrated deubiquitination/deSUMOylating activities. In this study, we identified 10 PPPDE genes from the rice (Oryza sativa L.) genome unevenly distributed on five chromosomes, where most of these members have not been reported to date. Based on the gene structure, the OsPPPDE family consists of three distinct subgroups within the phylogenetic tree. Cis-element analysis identified light/phytohormone-responsive, development, and abiotic stress-related elements in the promoters of OsPPPDE. Furthermore, we conducted and analyzed the transcript abundance of OsPPPDE under various tissues and stresses using the transcriptome data of 352 samples from the Rice Expression Database and GEO datasets. Moreover, OsPPPDE5 showed differential regulation of its transcript abundance during Cd and drought stress. Collinearity and syntenic analysis of 101 PPPDEs and PPPDE-like proteins in 10 plant genomes indicated that this family is evolutionarily conserved. Domestication analysis suggests that OsPPPDEs may contribute to indica–japonica divergence using the data from the 3K Rice Genome Project. Our study provides a foundation for further study on the function and molecular mechanism of the OsPPPDE gene family.
Evaluating the Use of Chemical Weapons for Capturing Prey by a Venomous Mammal, the Greater Slow Loris (Nycticebus coucang)
Authors: Fuller Grace , Wirdateti  , Nekaris K. A. I.
Published: May 2024

Few mammals are venomous, including one group of primates—slow (Nycticebus spp.) and pygmy (Xanthonycticebus spp.) lorises. Hypotheses for the evolutionary function of venom in these primates include defense from predators or ectoparasites, communication or competition with conspecifics, and the capture of prey. We tested the prey capture hypothesis in 75 trials with 22 wild-caught greater slow lorises (N. coucang) housed in a rescue center in Java, Indonesia. We experimentally offered the slow lorises arthropod prey items varying in size, escape potential, and toxicity and recorded venom-related and predatory behaviors using live and video observations. The slow lorises visually targeted arthropod prey, approached it quickly and efficiently, and captured it with a manual grasping motion. They rarely performed venom-related behaviors and seemed to do so in a defensive context. The slow lorises exhibited little variation in pre-capture behavior as a function of prey size or escape potential. In response to noxious prey, the slow lorises performed tongue-flicking and other investigative behaviors that indicate they are using chemosensory input to assess prey characteristics. These data suggest it is unlikely that slow lorises use chemical weapons to subdue arthropod prey and may support, instead, a defensive function for slow loris venom.
α-Pinene Improves Follicle Morphology and Increases the Expression of mRNA for Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2 and Peroxiredoxin 6 in Bovine Ovarian Tissues Cultured In Vitro
Authors: Azevedo Venância Antonia Nunes , De Assis Ernando Igo Teixeira , Silva Anderson Weiny Barbalho , Costa Francisco Das Chagas , Souza Layana Freitas , Silva José Roberto Viana
Published: May 2024

Oxidative stress during in vitro of ovarian tissues has adverse effects on follicle survival. α-pinene is a monoterpenoid molecule with antioxidant activity that has great potential to maintain cell survival in vitro. This study investigated the effect of α-pinene (1.25, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0, or 20.0 μg/mL) on primordial follicle growth and morphology, as well as on stromal cells and collagen fibers in bovine ovarian slices cultured for six days. The effect of α-pinene on transcripts of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxiredoxin 6 (PRDX6), glutathione peroxidase (GPX1), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) was investigated by real-time PCR. The tissues were processed for histological analysis to evaluate follicular growth, morphology, stromal cell density, and collagen fibers. The results showed that 2.5, 5.0, or 10.0 µg/mL α-pinene increased the percentages of normal follicles but did not influence follicular growth. The α-pinene (10.0 µg/mL) kept the stromal cell density and collagen levels in cultured bovine ovarian tissue like uncultured tissues. Ovarian tissues cultured in control medium had reduced expression of mRNA for NRF2, SOD, CAT, GPX1, and PRDX6, but α-pinene (10.0 µg/mL) increased mRNA levels for NRF2 and PRDX6. In conclusion, 10.0 µg/mL α-pinene improves the follicular survival, preserves stromal cell density and collagen levels, and increases transcripts of NRF2 and PRDX6 after in vitro culture of bovine ovarian tissue.
Growth, Hepatic Enzymatic Activity, and Quality of European Seabass Fed on Hermetia illucens and Poultry By-Product Meal in a Commercial Farm
Authors: Pulido-Rodriguez Lina Fernanda , Bruni Leonardo , Secci Giulia , Moutinho Sara , Peres Helena , Petochi Tommaso , Marino Giovanna , Tibaldi Emilio , Parisi Giuliana
Published: May 2024

Protein meals from insects in combination with poultry by-product meal appear to be promising ingredients for replacing conventional proteins in the diets of carnivorous fish. The present study explored the effects on growth performance, hepatic enzymatic activity, and fillet physical and nutritional characteristics during a 66-day feeding trial performed on European seabass. A total of 3000 fish were distributed into three tanks, where the control group was fed with a commercial diet (CG) and a second group was fed in duplicate with the experimental diet (SSH) containing 10% Hermetia illucens larva meal, 30% poultry by-product meal, and <5.5 g/100 g of feed of marine origin proteins. All fish showed good growth performance. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, and 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase activities were higher in the SSH group than in the CG group. The fillet fatty acid profile was largely unaffected by diet, except for a few fatty acids. Fish fed the SSH diet had a lower C22:1n-11 content than CG, thus suggesting an increased β-oxidation. The oxidative status of muscle lipids was not affected by the diet. In conclusion, the present study showed that European seabass can be successfully fed the SSH diet for two months in a commercial setting.
PyQCAMS: Python Quasi-Classical Atom–Molecule Scattering
Authors: Koots Rian , Pérez-Ríos Jesús
Published: May 2024

We present Python Quasi-classical atom–molecule scattering (PyQCAMS v0.1.0), a new Python package for atom–diatom scattering within the quasi-classical trajectory approach. The input consists of the mass, collision energy, impact parameter, and pair-wise/three-body interactions. As the output, the code provides the vibrational quenching, dissociation, and reactive cross sections along with the rovibrational energy distribution of the reaction products. We benchmark the program for a reaction involving a molecular ion in a high-density ultracold gas, RbBa+ + Rb. Furthermore, we treat H2 + Ca → CaH + H reactions as a prototypical example to illustrate the properties and performance of the software. Finally, we study the parallelization performance of the code by looking into the speedup of the program as a function of the number of CPUs used.
Basic Computational Algorithms for Representing an Aircraft Flight (Calculation of 3D Displacement and Displaying)
Authors: Ramirez-Lopez Adan
Published: May 2024

This manuscript describes the computational process to calculate an airplane path and display it in a 2D and 3D coordinate system on a computer screen. The airplane movement is calculated as a function of its dynamic’s conditions according to physical and logical theory. Here, the flight is divided into maneuvers and the aircraft conditions are defined as boundary conditions. Then the aircraft position is calculated using nested loops, which execute the calculation procedure at every step time (Δt). The calculation of the aircraft displacement is obtained as a function of the aircraft speed and heading angles. The simulator was created using the C++ programming language, and each part of the algorithm was compiled independently to reduce the source code, allow easy modification, and improve the programming efficiency. Aerial navigation involves very complex phenomena to be considered for an appropriate representation; moreover, in this manuscript, the influence of the mathematical approach to properly represent the aircraft flight is described in detail. The flight simulator was successfully tested by simulating some basic theoretical flights with different maneuvers, which include stationary position, running along the way, take off, and some movements in the airspace. The maximum aircraft speed tested was 120 km/h, the maximum maneuver time was 12 min, and the space for simulation was assumed to be without obstacles. Here, the geometrical description of path and speed is analyzed according to the symmetric and asymmetric results. Finally, an analysis was conducted to evaluate the approach of the numerical methods used; after that, it was possible to confirm that precision increased as the step time was reduced. According to this analysis, no more than 500 steps are required for a good approach in the calculation of the aircraft displacement.
Some Results on Zinbiel Algebras and Rota–Baxter Operators
Authors: Gao Jizhong , Ni Junna , Yu Jianhua
Published: May 2024

Rota–Baxter operators (RBOs) play a substantial role in many subfields of mathematics, especially in mathematical physics. In the article, RBOs on Zinbiel algebras (ZAs) and their sub-adjacent algebras are first investigated. Moreover, all the RBOs on two and three-dimensional ZAs are presented. Finally, ZAs are also realized in low dimensions of the RBOs of commutative associative algebras. It was found that not all ZAs can be attained in this way.
Convergence Results for History-Dependent Variational Inequalities
Authors: Sofonea Mircea , Tarzia Domingo A.
Published: May 2024

We consider a history-dependent variational inequality in a real Hilbert space, for which we recall an existence and uniqueness result. We associate this inequality with a gap function, together with two additional problems: a nonlinear equation and a minimization problem. Then, we prove that solving these problems is equivalent to solving the original history-dependent variational inequality. Next, we state and prove a convergence criterion, i.e., we provide necessary and sufficient conditions which guarantee the convergence of a sequence of functions to the solution of the considered inequality. Based on the equivalence above, we deduce various consequences that present some interest on their own, and, moreover, we obtain convergence results for the two additional problems considered. Finally, we apply our abstract results to the study of an inequality problem in solid mechanics. It concerns the study of a viscoelastic constitutive law with long memory and unilateral constraints, for which we deduce a convergence result and provide the corresponding mechanical interpretations.
Spectroscopic Investigation of Tomato Seed Germination Stimulated by Trichoderma spp.
Authors: Vukelić Igor , Radić Danka , Pećinar Ilinka , Lević Steva , Djikanović Daniela , Radotić Ksenija , Panković Dejana
Published: May 2024

Seed germination is a complex process that can be negatively affected by numerous stresses. Trichoderma spp. are known as effective biocontrol agents as well as plant growth and germination stimulators. However, understanding of the early interactions between seeds and Trichoderma spp. remains limited. In the present paper, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy were used to reveal the nature of tomato seed germination as stimulated by Trichoderma. A rapid response of tomato seeds to Trichoderma spp. was observed within 48 h on Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) substrate, preceding any physical contact. Raman analysis indicated that both Trichoderma species stimulated phenolic compound synthesis by triggering plant-specific responses in seed radicles. The impact of T. harzianum and T. brevicompactum on two tomato cultivars resulted in alterations to the middle lamella pectin, cellulose, and xyloglucan in the primary cell wall. The Raman spectra indicated increased xylan content in NA with T9 treatment as well as increased hemicelluloses in GZ with T4 treatment. Moreover, T4 treatment resulted in elevated conjugated aldehydes in lignin in GZ, whereas the trend was reversed in NA. Additionally, FTIR analysis revealed significant changes in total protein levels in Trichoderma spp.-treated tomato seed radicles, with simultaneous decreases in pectin and/or xyloglucan. Our results indicate that two complementary spectroscopic methods, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, can give valuable information on rapid changes in the plant cell wall structure of tomato radicles during germination stimulated by Trichoderma spp.
Structure–Activity Relationships and Therapeutic Applications of Retinoids in View of Potential Benefits from Drug Repurposing Process
Authors: Kawczak Piotr , Feszak Igor , Brzeziński Piotr , Bączek Tomasz
Published: May 2024

Vitamin A, an essential micronutrient, is integral to various biological processes crucial for organismal development and maintenance. Dietary sources of vitamin A encompass preformed retinol, retinyl esters, and provitamin A carotenoids. Retinoic acid (RA), a key component, plays pivotal roles in vision, cell proliferation, apoptosis, immune function, and gene regulation. Drug repurposing, an effective strategy for identifying new therapeutic applications for existing drugs, has gained prominence in recent years. This review seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape surrounding retinoids and drug repurposing. The scope of this review encompasses a comprehensive examination of retinoids and their potential for repurposing in various therapeutic contexts. Despite their efficacy in treating dermatological conditions, concerns about toxicity persist, driving the search for safer and more potent retinoids. The molecular mechanisms underlying retinoid activity involve binding to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) and retinoid X receptors (RXRs), leading to transcriptional regulation of target genes. This review seeks to shed light on the possibilities for repurposing retinoids to cover a wider spectrum of therapeutic uses by exploring recent scientific progress. It also aims to offer a more comprehensive understanding of the therapeutic prospects of retinoids and the broader impact of drug repositioning in contemporary medicine.
Adipose Tissue Segmentation after Lung Slice Localization in Chest CT Images Based on ConvBiGRU and Multi-Module UNet
Authors: Lei Pengyu , Li Jie , Yi Jizheng , Chen Wenjie
Published: May 2024

The distribution of adipose tissue in the lungs is intricately linked to a variety of lung diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. Accurate detection and quantitative analysis of subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue surrounding the lungs are essential for effectively diagnosing and managing these diseases. However, there remains a noticeable scarcity of studies focusing on adipose tissue within the lungs on a global scale. Thus, this paper introduces a ConvBiGRU model for localizing lung slices and a multi-module UNet-based model for segmenting subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT), contributing to the analysis of lung adipose tissue and the auxiliary diagnosis of lung diseases. In this study, we propose a bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) structure for precise lung slice localization and a modified multi-module UNet model for accurate SAT and VAT segmentations, incorporating an additive weight penalty term for model refinement. For segmentation, we integrate attention, competition, and multi-resolution mechanisms within the UNet architecture to optimize performance and conduct a comparative analysis of its impact on SAT and VAT. The proposed model achieves satisfactory results across multiple performance metrics, including the Dice Score (92.0% for SAT and 82.7% for VAT), F1 Score (82.2% for SAT and 78.8% for VAT), Precision (96.7% for SAT and 78.9% for VAT), and Recall (75.8% for SAT and 79.1% for VAT). Overall, the proposed localization and segmentation framework exhibits high accuracy and reliability, validating its potential application in computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) for medical tasks in this domain.
Unraveling the Complexity of Asthma: Insights from Omics Approaches
Authors: Herrera-Luis Esther , Hernandez-Pacheco Natalia
Published: May 2024

Asthma is a heterogeneous respiratory disease that represents a substantial social and economic burden [...]