bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological function of key volatiles in Vitex negundo infested by Aphis gossypii
Authors: Xu Qingxuan , Wu Changbing , Xiao Da , Jin Zhenyu , Zhang Changrong , Hatt Séverin , Guo Xiaojun , Wang Su
Published: January 2023

Herbivore induced plant volatiles (HIPVs) are key components of plant-herbivorous-natural enemies communications. Indeed, plants respond to herbivores feeding by releasing HIPVs to attract natural enemies. The present study analyses the effect of HIPVs of Vitex negundo (Lamiaceae), an indigenous plant species in northern China, on the predatory ladybug species Harmonia axyridis. Y-tube olfactometer bioassay showed that H. axyridis adults were significantly attracted by V. negundo infested by the aphid Aphis gossypii. We analyzed and compared volatile profiles between healthy and A. gossypii infested V. negundo, screened out the candidate active HIPVs mediated by A. gossypii which could attract H. axyridis, and tested the olfactory behavior of the candidate active compounds on H. axyridis. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis showed that five volatile compounds were significantly up-regulated after V. negundo infestation by A. gossypii, and five substances were significantly down-regulated in the terpenoid biosynthesis pathway. The olfactory behavior response showed that H. axyridis has significant preference for sclareol, eucalyptol, nonanal and α-terpineol, indicating that this chemical compounds are the important volatiles released by V. negundo to attract H. axyridis. This study preliminarily clarified that V. negundo release HIPVs to attract natural enemies when infected by herbivorous insects. The description of the volatile emission profile enriches the theoretical system of insect-induced volatile-mediated plant defense function of woody plants. Applications in crop protection would lie in designing original strategies to naturally control aphids in orchards.
Phosphate-deprivation and damage signalling by extracellular ATP
Authors: Matthus Elsa , Ning Youzheng , Shafiq Fahad , Davies Julia M.
Published: January 2023

Phosphate deprivation compromises plant productivity and modulates immunity. DAMP signalling by extracellular ATP (eATP) could be compromised under phosphate deprivation by the lowered production of cytosolic ATP and the need to salvage eATP as a nutritional phosphate source. Phosphate-starved roots of Arabidopsis can still sense eATP, indicating robustness in receptor function. However, the resultant cytosolic free Ca2+ signature is impaired, indicating modulation of downstream components. This perspective on DAMP signalling by extracellular ATP (eATP) addresses the salvage of eATP under phosphate deprivation and its promotion of immunity, how Ca2+ signals are generated and how the Ca2+ signalling pathway could be overcome to allow beneficial fungal root colonization to fulfill phosphate demands. Safe passage for an endophytic fungus allowing root colonization could be achieved by its down-regulation of the Ca2+ channels that act downstream of the eATP receptors and by also preventing ROS accumulation, thus further impairing DAMP signalling.
English teachers’ perceptions of emergency remote teaching: Emotional attitudes, professional identity, and coping strategies
Authors: Huang Fang , Zhao Mingyan , Qi Jiafu , Zhang Ruyue
Published: January 2023

While the technology integration has been widely acknowledged, insufficient effort has been made to understand English teachers’ perceptions of emergency remote teaching (ERT). Given English is the primary foreign language in China and English teachers’ perceptions and adoptions of ERT impact the attainment of teaching and learning goals, this study inquired into experienced university English teachers’ emotional attitudes, perceptions of the reconstructed professional identity, and their strategies to cope with difficulties when conducting ERT in the Chinese English teaching context. Semi-structured interviews were conducted both online and face-to-face with five experienced universities English teachers in China. The findings indicated a trajectory of teachers’ attitudes toward ERT, namely, their attitudes were switched from doubt and rejection to fondness and attachment. Experienced English teachers adopted various strategies to cope with the difficulties and challenges they have encountered, including seeking support from their peers, students, and family, as well as self-regulated learning to sustain continuing professional development. During ERT, they have reconstructed their teacher identities. The study enriched peoples’ understandings of English teachers’ perceptions of the ERT by contextualizing the study in the Chinese educational context. Results can provide empirical evidence for policymakers and teacher trainers to make informed decisions regarding technical support and teachers’ continuing professional development.
Modifiable risk factors for dementia, and awareness of brain health behaviors: Results from the Five Lives Brain Health Ireland Survey (FLBHIS)
Authors: Dukelow Tim , Lawrence Erin Grace , Jacobson Liron , Vassilev Philip , Koychev Ivan , Muhammed Kinan , Kennelly Sean P.
Published: January 2023

Up to 40% of dementias globally are attributable to modifiable risk factors. Many existing studies examining attitudes to brain health are limited by a failure to consider a range of pertinent risk factors and associated barriers to protective behaviors. In Ireland, self-reported knowledge of dementia is poor compared to other conditions. In this context, the current study aimed to explore exposure to and awareness of specific modifiable risk factors for dementia. We also aimed to investigate whether exposure to these risk factors is associated with demographic and socioeconomic factors. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 555 voluntary participants in February 2022. The survey captured the following information: (1) Sociodemographic factors; (2) Exposure to, as well as knowledge of modifiable risk factors for dementia, namely diet, social interaction, exercise, hypertension, sleep, depression, smoking, alcohol consumption, cognitive stimulation, hearing impairment, diabetes, air pollution, and head injury. The study population comprised 551 participants (50.3% male; 49.6% female). Mean age was 59.7 years. Modifiable risk factors for dementia were prevalent. Relative to females, male gender was significantly associated with multiple risk factors. Whilst 65.6% of participants believed that lifestyle improvements can decrease a person’s risk of developing dementia, only 31.4% believed that dementia could be prevented. Head injury (90.9%, n = 500), low mental stimulation (85.3%, n = 469), and alcohol consumption (77.8%, n = 428) were the three most commonly recognized risk factors. Awareness was significantly greater in both university groups (undergraduate and postgraduate) for multiple risk factors. Our findings demonstrate that the distribution of exposure to modifiable risk factors for dementia is unequal across gender and age groups, and that awareness levels vary across risk factors. These findings highlight that focus surrounding dementia prevention should shift toward individual risk profiling and should be tailored toward an individual’s specific needs.
MicroRNA–mRNA networks are dysregulated in opioid use disorder postmortem brain: Further evidence for opioid-induced neurovascular alterations
Authors: Grimm Sandra L. , Mendez Emily F. , Stertz Laura , Meyer Thomas D. , Fries Gabriel R. , Gandhi Tanmay , Kanchi Rupa , Selvaraj Sudhakar , Teixeira Antonio L. , Kosten Thomas R. , Gunaratne Preethi , Coarfa Cristian , Walss-Bass Consuelo
Published: January 2023

Introduction

To understand mechanisms and identify potential targets for intervention in the current crisis of opioid use disorder (OUD), postmortem brains represent an under-utilized resource. To refine previously reported gene signatures of neurobiological alterations in OUD from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (Brodmann Area 9, BA9), we explored the role of microRNAs (miRNA) as powerful epigenetic regulators of gene function.

Methods

Building on the growing appreciation that miRNAs can cross the blood-brain barrier, we carried out miRNA profiling in same-subject postmortem samples from BA9 and blood tissues.

Results

miRNA–mRNA network analysis showed that even though miRNAs identified in BA9 and blood were fairly distinct, their target genes and corresponding enriched pathways overlapped strongly. Among the dominant enriched biological processes were tissue development and morphogenesis, and MAPK signaling pathways. These findings point to robust, redundant, and systemic opioid-induced miRNA dysregulation with a potential functional impact on transcriptomic changes. Further, using correlation network analysis, we identified cell-type specific miRNA targets, specifically in astrocytes, neurons, and endothelial cells, associated with OUD transcriptomic dysregulation. Finally, leveraging a collection of control brain transcriptomes from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project, we identified a correlation of OUD miRNA targets with TGF beta, hypoxia, angiogenesis, coagulation, immune system, and inflammatory pathways.

Discussion

These findings support previous reports of neurovascular and immune system alterations as a consequence of opioid abuse and shed new light on miRNA network regulators of cellular response to opioid drugs.
Improving care for SUD patients with complex trauma–relationships between childhood trauma, dissociation, and suicidal behavior in female patients with PTSD and SUD
Authors: Gidzgier Piotr A. , Bari Melav , López-Atanes Mayte , Lotzin Annett , Grundmann Johanna , Hiller Philipp , Schneider Barbara , Schäfer Ingo
Published: January 2023

Background

Posttraumatic disorders are among the most frequent co-occurring diagnoses in patients with substance use disorders (SUD). Individuals with this dual diagnosis often present with special treatment needs, especially after childhood traumatic experiences (CT). Along with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dissociative symptoms, suicidal behaviors belong to the clinical challenges in this group of patients and may influence the course and outcome of SUD treatment. Therefore, a better understanding of the relationships between different forms of CT, psychopathology and suicidal behaviors seems to be important to tailor adequate concepts of care.

Materials and methods

We examined 343 female patients with SUD and Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). All patients completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), the Dissociative Experiences Scale-Taxon (DES-T) and the Structured Clinical Interview Axis I Disorders (SCID-I). To determine relationships between different symptoms with potential importance for concepts of treatment, we conducted analyses of moderated mediation for different models. We examined the direct and indirect effects of associations between the type of CT, dissociation and suicidal behavior, as well as the moderation effect of PTSD.

Results

All participants met DSM-criteria for either full PTSD (75.2%) or subsyndromal PTSD (24.8%). Almost all (94.5%) received at least one substance dependence diagnosis and the remaining 5.5% met substance abuse criteria. Most participants (93.3%) reported at least one type of childhood trauma. In all models, dissociation was a risk factor for suicidal ideation (SI) and for suicide attempts (SA). In both, participants with subsyndromal PTSD and participants with full PTSD, dissociation mediated the relationship between childhood sexual abuse and SI as well as SA. Moreover, we report direct effects between different childhood traumas and SI and SA. Furthermore, emotional abuse was a significant predictor of dissociation.

Discussion

In our sample of female patients with SUD and co-occurring PTSD, dissociation significantly increased suicidal behavior and served as a mediator of the relationship between childhood sexual abuse and suicidal behavior. Our findings underline the need to include interventions to address dissociative symptoms and other more complex consequences of childhood trauma into concepts of care for patients with SUD.
Acute electroencephalography responses during incremental exercise in those with mental illness
Authors: Robertson C. V. , Skein M. , Wingfield G. , Hunter J. R. , Miller T. D. , Hartmann T. E.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Depression is a mental illness (MI) characterized by a process of behavioral withdrawal whereby people experience symptoms including sadness, anhedonia, demotivation, sleep and appetite change, and cognitive disturbances. Frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) differs in depressive populations and may signify affective responses, with left FAA corresponding to such aversive or withdrawal type behavior. On an acute basis, exercise is known to positively alter affect and improve depressive symptoms and this has been measured in conjunction with left FAA as a post-exercise measure. It is not yet known if these affective electroencephalography (EEG) responses to exercise occur during exercise or only after completion of an exercise bout. This study therefore aimed to measure EEG responses during exercise in those with MI.

Materials and methods

Thirty one participants were allocated into one of two groups; those undergoing management of a mental health disorder (MI; N = 19); or reporting as apparently healthy (AH; N = 12). EEG responses at rest and during incremental exercise were measured at the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the motor cortex (MC). EEG data at PFC left side (F3, F7, FP1), PFC right side (F4, F8, FP2), and MC (C3, Cz, and C4) were analyzed in line with oxygen uptake at rest, 50% of ventilatory threshold (VT) (50% VT) and at VT.

Results

EEG responses increased with exercise across intensity from rest to 50% VT and to VT in all bandwidths (P < 0.05) for both groups. There were no significant differences in alpha activity responses between groups. Gamma responses in the PFC were significantly higher in MI on the left side compared to AH (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Alpha activity responses were no different between groups at rest or any exercise intensity. Therefore the alpha activity response previously shown post-exercise was not found during exercise. However, increased PFC gamma activity in the MI group adds to the body of evidence showing increased gamma can differentiate between those with and without MI.
Perspectives on heterogeneity-informed cognitive training for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Zhang Da-Wei
Published: January 2023

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition, posing a severe threat to quality of life. Pharmacological therapies are the front-line treatment; however, their shortages encourage the development of alternative treatments for AD/HD. One promising method of developing alternative treatments is cognitive training (CT). A CT-based therapy was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. However, due to heterogeneity in AD/HD, a CT protocol is unlikely to provide a one-size-fits-all solution for all patients with AD/HD. Therefore, this article highlights key aspects that need to be considered to further develop CT protocols for AD/HD, regarding training content, timing, suitability, and delivery mode. The perspectives presented here contribute to optimizing CT as an alternative option for treating AD/HD.
Altered brain activity and functional connectivity after MDMA-assisted therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Singleton S. Parker , Wang Julie B. , Mithoefer Michael , Hanlon Colleen , George Mark S. , Mithoefer Annie , Mithoefer Oliver , Coker Allison R. , Yazar-Klosinski Berra , Emerson Amy , Doblin Rick , Kuceyeski Amy
Published: January 2023

Introduction

3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy (MDMA-AT) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has demonstrated promise in multiple clinical trials. MDMA is hypothesized to facilitate the therapeutic process, in part, by decreasing fear response during fear memory processing while increasing extinction learning. The acute administration of MDMA in healthy controls modifies recruitment of brain regions involved in the hyperactive fear response in PTSD such as the amygdala, hippocampus, and insula. However, to date there have been no neuroimaging studies aimed at directly elucidating the neural impact of MDMA-AT in PTSD patients.

Methods

We analyzed brain activity and connectivity via functional MRI during both rest and autobiographical memory (trauma and neutral) response before and two-months after MDMA-AT in nine veterans and first-responders with chronic PTSD of 6 months or more.

Results

We hypothesized that MDMA-AT would increase amygdala-hippocampus resting-state functional connectivity, however we only found evidence of a trend in the left amygdala—left hippocampus (t= –2.91, uncorrectedp= 0.0225, correctedp= 0.0901). We also found reduced activation contrast (trauma > neutral) after MDMA-AT in the cuneus. Finally, the amount of recovery from PTSD after MDMA-AT correlated with changes in four functional connections during autobiographical memory recall: the left amygdala—left posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), left amygdala—right PCC, left amygdala—left insula, and left isthmus cingulate—left posterior hippocampus.

Discussion

Amygdala—insular functional connectivity is reliably implicated in PTSD and anxiety, and both regions are impacted by MDMA administration. These findings compliment previous research indicating that amygdala, hippocampus, and insula functional connectivity is a potential target of MDMA-AT, and highlights other regions of interest related to memory processes. More research is necessary to determine if these findings are specific to MDMA-AT compared to other types of treatment for PTSD.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02102802, identifier NCT02102802.
Brief repeated virtual nature contact for three weeks boosts university students' nature connectedness and psychological and physiological health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A pilot study
Authors: Lau Sam S. S. , Leung Sharron S. K. , Wong Jonathan W. C. , Lee Terence C. P. , Cartwright Stephen R. , Wong Janet T. C. , Man Jackie , Cheung Ethan , Choi Regene P. W.
Published: January 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated uncertainties and restrictions have adverse impacts on university students' mental wellbeing. Evidence shows that virtual nature contact has mental health benefits. However, little is known about the potential beneficial health impacts of virtual nature contact during times of social distancing, when access to the natural environment is restricted. This pilot study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a 3-week virtual nature contact in improving nature connectedness and reducing psychophysiological stress. A sample of 56 university students in Hong Kong was randomly assigned to control and nature interventions using 2-D video played for 15 min three times a week for 3 weeks. Nature connectedness, perceived restorativeness and psycho-physiological wellbeing were measured. Our findings show significant changes in psychological stress levels after nature interventions compared with the baseline, including increased happiness and stronger emotions of comfort and relaxation. When compared with the control group, the results show the nature intervention group has significantly higher levels of nature connectedness, happiness, and positive affect, but no significant effects on other psychological and physiological variables (e.g., cardiovascular responses). Our preliminary findings highlight the potential use of virtual nature contacts in bolstering university students' wellbeing at times of pandemic or when in-person visit to the natural environment is not feasible.
Interaction between physicians and the pharmaceutical industry: A scoping review for developing a policy brief
Authors: Zarei Ehsan , Ghaffari Amir , Nikoobar Ali , Bastami Shayan , Hamdghaddari Hasan
Published: January 2023

Background

Payments to physicians by the pharmaceutical industry are common, but recent evidence shows that these payments influence physician prescribing behavior in the form of increased prescription of brand-name drugs, expensive and low-cost drugs, increased prescription of payer company drugs, etc. Considering that these payments increase drug costs for patients and health systems, there is a public interest in controlling them. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and propose policy options for managing physician-pharmaceutical industry interactions in the context of Iran's health system.

Methods

In the first phase, a systematic search was conducted to identify relevant policies and interventions in Web of Science, PubMed, and ProQuest databases from 2000 to 2022. Then, the opinions of the research team and an expert group (physicians, health policy and transparency experts, and industry representatives) were used to categorize the interventions and propose policy options along with their advantages, disadvantages, and implementation considerations.

Results

In the search, 579 articles were retrieved, and 44 articles were found suitable for the final analysis. Twenty-nine interventions and strategies were identified, and based on these; Five policy options were identified: prohibition, restriction, physician self-regulation, voluntary industry disclosure, and mandatory industry disclosure.

Conclusion

The proposed policies in our study include advantages, challenges, and implementation considerations based on up-to-date evidence that can help policymakers use them to manage COI in physician-pharmaceutical industry interactions in Iran's health system. A combination of measures seems to help manage COI: firstly, using self-regulating physicians and industry to institutionalize transparency, and in the next step, implementing mandatory industry disclosure policies and establishing restrictions on some financial interactions.
Workplace ostracism and employee wellbeing: A conservation of resource perspective
Authors: Wang Long-mei , Lu Lei , Wu Wei-lin , Luo Zi-wei
Published: January 2023

Introduction

As a common phenomenon of workplace ostracism in corporate management, it is urgent to clarify how it affects employee well-being.

Methods

Based on Conservation of Resource Theory, this study investigates the mechanisms of workplace ostracism on employee well-being and examines the mediating role of emotional exhaustion and the moderating role of team forgiveness climate by surveying 282 employees from 68 companies in mainland China.

Results

The results show that (1) workplace ostracism negatively affects employee well-being; (2) emotional exhaustion plays a mediating role between workplace ostracism and employee well-being; (3) team forgiveness climate weakens the negative effect of workplace ostracism on emotional exhaustion and negatively moderates the indirect effect of workplace ostracism on employee well-being through emotional exhaustion.

Discussion

It tries to provide theoretical basis and practical guidance for eliminating the negative effects of workplace ostracism and focusing on employee well-being.
Patients with severe mental illness and the ethical challenges related to confidentiality during family involvement: A scoping review
Authors: Hem Marit Helene , Molewijk Bert , Weimand Bente , Pedersen Reidar
Published: January 2023

Background

Despite evidence on the significant potential value of family involvement during the treatment of patients with severe mental illness, research has shown that family involvement is largely underused. The duty of confidentiality is reported to be a key barrier to family involvement. To develop more insight into this barrier, this scoping review focuses on the following question: What are the reported ethical challenges related to confidentiality when involving family in the treatment of patients with severe mental illness?

Methods

A systematic search into primary studies was conducted using the following databases: Medline (Ovid), PsycINFO (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), and Web of Science core collection (Clarivate). The PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) scheme and qualitative content analysis were used to make the ethical challenges more explicit.

Results

Twelve studies—both qualitative and quantitative—were included. We identified the following main categories of ethical challenges: (1) the best interest of family members vs. confidentiality, (2) the patient's best interest vs. the right to confidentiality, (3) patient trust and alliance as a reason not to involve the relatives or not to share information, and (4) using confidentiality as a smokescreen. We also identified several subcategories and illustrative and concrete examples of ethical challenges.

Conclusions

Through a systematic examination, we discovered various types of ethical challenges related to confidentiality when involving the family in the treatment of patients with severe mental illness. However, research on these ethical challenges and the constituents of these challenges remains limited and often implicit. An ethical analysis will create knowledge which may facilitate a more balanced and nuanced approach to respecting the principle of confidentiality while also considering other moral principles. The duty of confidentiality does not always have to be a major barrier to family involvement; this insight and using this ethical analysis in the training of healthcare professionals may benefit the patient, the family, and the services.
Optimal configuration of grid-side energy storage considering static security of power system
Authors: Tian Xin , Zhao Long , Tong Chenjie , Meng Xiangfei , Bo Qibin , Chen Yubing , Liu Nian
Published: January 2023

The large-scale access of distributed sources to the grid has brought great challenges to the safe and stable operation of the grid. At the same time, energy storage equipment is of great importance to effectively enhance the consumption of renewable energy and ensure the safe and stable operation of the grid. This paper proposes a method for optimal allocation of grid-side energy storage considering static security, which is based on stochastic power flow analysis under semi-invariant method. Firstly,according to the load, wind power and photovoltaic probability model, a system stochastic power flow model is constructed. Furthermore, the fault probability and fault severity indicators are established from two dimensions of branch power flow and node voltage. And combine the fault probability and severity indicators to establish a static security assessment indicators system. Then, a grid-side energy storage planning model is constructed from the perspective of energy storage operators. Finally, an improved genetic algorithm is used to solve the two-stage planning and operation problem proposed in this paper, and simulation analysis is conducted based on the IEEE-30 node system. The results show that the energy storage configuration considering static security constraints can effectively reduce the fault probability and the severity of fault overlimit. The simulation and case study verify that the proposed energy storage allocation method can effectively improve the static security of the system.
The influence of vulnerability on depression among Japanese university athletes
Authors: Yamaguchi S. , Kawata Y. , Murofushi Y. , Ota T.
Published: January 2023

Objective

This study examined the estimated causal relationship between vulnerability and depressive symptoms in Japanese university athletes and how the degree of vulnerability affects depressive symptoms.

Materials and methods

In Study 1, 248 Japanese university athletes completed a continual survey from Time 1 to Time 3. In Study 2, 562 Japanese university athletes responded to another survey during the same period. Structural equation modeling was performed to estimate the causal relationship using the cross-lagged effects model for the three waves. Next, a binomial logistic regression analysis was performed to examine the influence of vulnerability on depression.

Results

Results of the cross-lagged effects model showed that all paths from vulnerability to depressive symptoms were significant, and all paths from depressive symptoms to vulnerability were not significant. Thus, vulnerability was the causative variable and depressive symptoms were the outcome variables within the causal relationship. The logistic regression results showed that those with high vulnerability were 1.7 times more likely to have moderate or higher depressive symptoms than those with low vulnerability. Vulnerable individuals are at a higher risk for developing depressive symptoms. By verifying the causal relationship between vulnerability and depressive symptoms, we can contribute to the enhancement of mental health care in accordance with the weakest link model. Appropriate psychological support for athletes can decrease depression and improve their mental health.
Experimental Assessment of Intestinal Damage in Controlled Donation After Circulatory Death for Visceral Transplantation
Authors: Stringa Pablo , Vecchio Dezillio Leandro Emmanuel , Talayero Paloma , Serradilla Javier , Errea Agustina , Machuca Mariana , Papa-Gobbi Rodrigo , Camps Ortega Onys , Pucci Molineris Melisa , Lausada Natalia , Andres Moreno Ane Miren , Rumbo Martin , Hernández Oliveros Francisco
Published: January 2023

There is an urgent need to address the shortage of potential multivisceral grafts in order to reduce the average time in waiting list. Since donation after circulatory death (DCD) has been successfully employed for other solid organs, a thorough evaluation of the use of intestinal grafts from DCD is warranted. Here, we have generated a model of Maastricht III DCD in rodents, focusing on the viability of intestinal and multivisceral grafts at five (DCD5) and twenty (DCD20) minutes of cardiac arrest compared to living and brain death donors. DCD groups exhibited time-dependent damage. DCD20 generated substantial intestinal mucosal injury and decreased number of Goblet cells whereas grafts from DCD5 closely resemble those of brain death and living donors groups in terms intestinal morphology, expression of tight junction proteins and number of Paneth and Globet cells. Upon transplantation, intestines from DCD5 showed increased ischemia/reperfusion damage compared to living donor grafts, however mucosal integrity was recovered 48 h after transplantation. No differences in terms of graft rejection, gene expression and absorptive function between DCD5 and living donor were observed at 7 post-transplant days. Collectively, our results highlight DCD as a possible strategy to increase multivisceral donation and transplantation procedures.
Numerical Study of Viscoplastic Flows Using a Multigrid Initialization Algorithm
Authors: Maazioui Souhail , Kissami Imad , Benkhaldoun Fayssal , Ouazar Driss
Published: January 2023

In this paper, an innovative methodology to handle the numerical simulation of viscoplastic flows is proposed based on a multigrid initialization algorithm in conjunction with the SIMPLE procedure. The governing equations for incompressible flow, which consist of continuity and momentum equations, are solved on a collocated grid by combining the finite volume discretization and Rhie and chow interpolation for pressure–velocity coupling. Using the proposed solver in combination with the regularization scheme of Papanastasiou, we chose the square lid-driven cavity flow and pipe flow as test cases for validation and discussion. In doing so, we study the influence of the Bingham number and the Reynolds number on the development of rigid areas and the features of the vortices within the flow domain. Pipe flow results illustrate the flow’s response to the stress growth parameter values. We show that the representation of the yield surface and the plug zone is influenced by the chosen value. Regarding viscoplastic flows, our experiments demonstrate that our approach based on using the multigrid method as an initialization procedure makes a significant contribution by outperforming the classic single grid method. A computation speed-up ratio of 6.45 was achieved for the finest grid size (320 × 320).
Investigating Novice Developers’ Code Commenting Trends Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Niazi Tahira , Das Teerath , Ahmed Ghufran , Waqas Syed Muhammad , Khan Sumra , Khan Suleman , Abdelatif Ahmed Abdelaziz , Wasi Shaukat
Published: January 2023

Code comments are considered an efficient way to document the functionality of a particular block of code. Code commenting is a common practice among developers to explain the purpose of the code in order to improve code comprehension and readability. Researchers investigated the effect of code comments on software development tasks and demonstrated the use of comments in several ways, including maintenance, reusability, bug detection, etc. Given the importance of code comments, it becomes vital for novice developers to brush up on their code commenting skills. In this study, we initially investigated what types of comments novice students document in their source code and further categorized those comments using a machine learning approach. The work involves the initial manual classification of code comments and then building a machine learning model to classify student code comments automatically. The findings of our study revealed that novice developers/students’ comments are mainly related to Literal (26.66%) and Insufficient (26.66%). Further, we proposed and extended the taxonomy of such source code comments by adding a few more categories, i.e., License (5.18%), Profile (4.80%), Irrelevant (4.80%), Commented Code (4.44%), Autogenerated (1.48%), and Improper (1.10%). Moreover, we assessed our approach with three different machine-learning classifiers. Our implementation of machine learning models found that Decision Tree resulted in the overall highest accuracy, i.e., 85%. This study helps in predicting the type of code comments for a novice developer using a machine learning approach that can be implemented to generate automated feedback for students, thus saving teachers time for manual one-on-one feedback, which is a time-consuming activity.
High-Performance Work System and Innovation Capabilities: The Mediating Role of Intellectual Capital
Authors: Javed Hafiz Ali , Khan Naveed Ahmad , Michalk Silke , Khan Noor Ullah , Kamran Muhammad
Published: January 2023

This study examined the effect of high-performance work systems on developing incremental and radical innovation capabilities. Drawing on resource-based and knowledge-based theories, the mediating effects of human capital, social capital, and organizational capital were tested. Data were collected from 233 middle-to-senior level managers working in the banking sector of Pakistan, and hypotheses were tested through partial least squares structural equation modeling using Smart PLS 4.0. The findings showed that all components of intellectual capital mediated the relationship to develop both types of innovation capabilities. In terms of the strength of the relationship, social capital was found to be a more effective mediator, and next to this were human capital and organizational capital, respectively. Our findings contribute to the existing literature by explaining the relationship between HPWS and innovation capabilities, which is also referred to as the black box through the mediation of intellectual capital. Decision makers should recognize the importance of this relationship because it develops innovation capabilities that enhance organizational performance by giving them a competitive advantage.
Abiotic Stresses, Biostimulants and Plant Activity
Authors: Del Buono Daniele , Regni Luca , Proietti Primo
Published: January 2023

Contemporary agriculture is characterized by a highly intensive nature and productivity [...]
Efficiency of Manchega Sheep Milk Intended for Cheesemaking and Determination of Factors Causing Inefficiency
Authors: Garzón Ana , Perea José M. , Arias Ramón , Angón Elena , Caballero-Villalobos Javier
Published: January 2023

Understanding the factors that determine and regulate cheese yield would allow, through deterministic parametric efficiency models, the determination of the most appropriate milk characteristics for the industry, and the estimation of a technological value for these characteristics. The present study aims to evaluate coagulation performance of Manchega sheep milk intended for cheesemaking and explores two models to determine milk technological efficiency. For this purpose, 1200 Manchega sheep milk samples were collected, and analyses were performed for composition, milk coagulation properties (MCP), somatic cell count (SCC), and milk color values. A first model was built based on curd yield (CE) and a second one based on dry curd yield (DCE). GLM and MANCOVA analyses were used to identify the factors that determine curd yield efficiency, which mainly depended on pH, casein, and lactose content and, to a lesser extent, on the speed of coagulation and curd firmness. When comparing both models, differences were linked to the water retention capacity of the curd. Based on this, the DCE model was considered much more accurate for prediction of coagulation efficiency in a wider variety of cheeses, as it does not seem to be affected by moisture loss.
Lipid Characteristics of the Muscle and Perirenal Fat in Young Tudanca Bulls Fed on Different Levels of Grass Silage
Authors: Mateo Javier , Caro Irma , Soto Sergio , Andrés Sonia , Aláiz-Rodríguez Rocío , Serrano Emma
Published: January 2023

Beef derived from grass-fed cattle is a specific quality criterion. The effect of grass silage intake on quality characteristics, i.e., fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins, and lipid-derived volatile composition of intramuscular and perirenal fat from fattening bull weaners were studied. Visible (VIS) and near-infrared (NIR) spectra were also obtained from perirenal fat. Perirenal fat analysis was performed for feeding differentiation purposes. A total of 22 Tudanca breed 11-month-aged bulls were finished on three different diets: grass silage and a commercial concentrate ad libitum (GS-AC), grass silage ad libitum and the commercial concentrate restricted to half of the intake of the GS-AC group (GS-LC), and barley straw and concentrate ad libitum (Str-AC). Feeding had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on γ-linolenic acid and the ratio n-6/n-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, β-carotene content was greater in beef from silage groups than in the Str-AC group. Feeding also affected the perirenal fat composition. Beef from silage-fed bulls and straw-fed bulls could be differentiated by fatty acid percentages, especially 18:0, t-18:1, and c9-18:1, β-carotene content, b* colour value, and carotenoid colour index. However, the VIS or NIR spectra data showed poor differentiating performance, and the volatile composition did not have appreciable differentiation power.
The Impact of Arp2/3 Complex Inhibition on Cytoskeleton Dynamics and Mitochondrial Function during Goat Oocyte Meiosis
Authors: Pan Meng-Hao , Xu Rui , Zhang Yiqian , Yin Lu , Li Ruoyu , Wen Dongxu , Lu Sihai , Gao Yan , Zhao Xiaoe , Wei Qiang , Han Bin , Ma Baohua
Published: January 2023

F-actin is of critical importance in oocyte meiotic maturation. Actin assembly and its dynamics are mainly regulated by actin nucleation factors. The actin-related protein complex 2/3 (Arp2/3) is responsible for the organization of F-actin filaments. However, the role of Arp2/3 complex in goat oocytes has not been fully elucidated. Our findings demonstrate that Arp2/3 complex activity is necessary for the maturation of goat oocytes. The Arp2/3 complex-specific inhibitor CK666 impairs the maturation of goat oocytes and alters the genes associated with cumulus expansion, both of which suggest that normal meiosis is affected. Arp2, one of the subunits of the Arp2/3 complex, was found to be mainly accumulated at the oocyte cortex and to co-localize with F-actin during goat oocyte maturation in our results. Thus, we further investigated the cytoskeleton dynamics and found that Arp2/3 complex inhibition disrupts the F-actin assembly and spindle organization. Further analysis revealed that, in addition to direct effects on the cytoskeleton, Arp2/3 complex could also induce ROS accumulation and oxidative stress by disrupting mitochondrial distribution and function, ultimately increasing the rate of early apoptosis in goat oocytes. Our study provides evidence that the Arp2/3 complex is a key regulator of goat oocyte maturation through its regulation of the cytoskeleton dynamics and mitochondrial function.
Gene–Gene Interactions Reduce Aminoglycoside Susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa through Efflux Pump-Dependent and -Independent Mechanisms
Authors: Thacharodi Aswin , Lamont Iain L.
Published: January 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes a wide range of acute and chronic infections. Aminoglycosides are a cornerstone of treatment, but isolates are often resistant. The purpose of this research was to better understand the genetic basis of aminoglycoside resistance in P. aeruginosa. Bioinformatic approaches identified mutations in resistance-associated genes in the clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa. The common mutations were then engineered into the genome of P. aeruginosa reference strain PAO1. Mutations in the elongation factor gene fusA1 caused the biggest reduction in aminoglycoside susceptibility, with mutations in the two-component regulator gene amgS and the efflux pump regulator gene mexZ having less impact. This susceptibility was further reduced by combinations of mutations. Mutations in fusA1, amgS and mexZ all increased the expression of the mexXY efflux pump that is strongly associated with aminoglycoside resistance. Furthermore, the fusA1 amgS mexZ triple mutant had the highest efflux pump gene expression. Engineering fusA1 and amgS mutants lacking this efflux pump showed that fusA1 and amgS also reduce aminoglycoside susceptibility through additional mechanisms. The fusA1 and amgS mutations reduced bacterial growth, showing that these mutations have a fitness cost. Our findings demonstrate the complex interplay between mutations, efflux pump expression and other mechanisms for reducing the susceptibility of P. aeruginosa to aminoglycosides.
Lipid Adaptations against Oxidative Challenge in the Healthy Adult Human Brain
Authors: Jové Mariona , Mota-Martorell Natàlia , Obis Èlia , Sol Joaquim , Martín-Garí Meritxell , Ferrer Isidre , Portero-Otín Manuel , Pamplona Reinald
Published: January 2023

It is assumed that the human brain is especially susceptible to oxidative stress, based on specific traits such as a higher rate of mitochondrial free radical production, a high content in peroxidizable fatty acids, and a low antioxidant defense. However, it is also evident that human neurons, although they are post-mitotic cells, survive throughout an entire lifetime. Therefore, to reduce or avoid the impact of oxidative stress on neuron functionality and survival, they must have evolved several adaptive mechanisms to cope with the deleterious effects of oxidative stress. Several of these antioxidant features are derived from lipid adaptations. At least six lipid adaptations against oxidative challenge in the healthy human brain can be discerned. In this work, we explore the idea that neurons and, by extension, the human brain is endowed with an important arsenal of non-pro-oxidant and antioxidant measures to preserve neuronal function, refuting part of the initial premise.
Non-Enzymatic Antioxidants against Alzheimer’s Disease: Prevention, Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Varesi Angelica , Campagnoli Lucrezia Irene Maria , Carrara Adelaide , Pola Ilaria , Floris Elena , Ricevuti Giovanni , Chirumbolo Salvatore , Pascale Alessia
Published: January 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive memory loss and cognitive decline. Although substantial research has been conducted to elucidate the complex pathophysiology of AD, the therapeutic approach still has limited efficacy in clinical practice. Oxidative stress (OS) has been established as an early driver of several age-related diseases, including neurodegeneration. In AD, increased levels of reactive oxygen species mediate neuronal lipid, protein, and nucleic acid peroxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic damage, and inflammation. Thus, the identification of novel antioxidant molecules capable of detecting, preventing, and counteracting AD onset and progression is of the utmost importance. However, although several studies have been published, comprehensive and up-to-date overviews of the principal anti-AD agents harboring antioxidant properties remain scarce. In this narrative review, we summarize the role of vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, non-flavonoids, mitochondria-targeting molecules, organosulfur compounds, and carotenoids as non-enzymatic antioxidants with AD diagnostic, preventative, and therapeutic potential, thereby offering insights into the relationship between OS and neurodegeneration.
Phenolic Compounds Profiling and Their Antioxidant Capacity in the Peel, Pulp, and Seed of Australian Grown Avocado
Authors: Lyu Xiaoyan , Agar Osman Tuncay , Barrow Colin J. , Dunshea Frank R. , Suleria Hafiz A. R.
Published: January 2023

Avocados (Persea americana M.) are highly valued fruits consumed worldwide, and there are numerous commercially available varieties on the market. However, the high demand for fruit also results in increased food waste. Thus, this study was conducted for comprehensive profiling of polyphenols of Hass, Reed, and Wurtz avocados obtained from the Australian local market. Ripe Hass peel recorded the highest TPC (77.85 mg GAE/g), TTC (148.98 mg CE/g), DPPH (71.03 mg AAE/g), FRAP (3.05 mg AAE/g), RPA (24.45 mg AAE/g), and ABTS (75.77 mg AAE/g) values; unripe Hass peel recorded the highest TFC (3.44 mg QE/g); and Wurtz peel recorded the highest TAC (35.02 mg AAE/g). Correlation analysis revealed that TPC and TTC were significantly correlated with the antioxidant capacity of the extracts. A total of 348 polyphenols were screened in the peel. A total of 134 compounds including 36 phenolic acids, 70 flavonoids, 11 lignans, 2 stilbenes, and another 15 polyphenols, were characterised through LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS, where the majority were from peels and seeds of samples extract. Overall, the hierarchical heat map revealed that there were a significant amount of polyphenols in peels and seeds. Epicatechin, kaempferol, and protocatechuic acid showed higher concentrations in Reed pulp. Wurtz peel contains a higher concentration of hydroxybenzoic acid. Our results showed that avocado wastes have a considerable amount of polyphenols, exhibiting antioxidant activities. Each sample has its unique value proposition based on its phenolic profile. This study may increase confidence in utilising by-products and encourage further investigation into avocado by-products as nutraceuticals.
A Design Method and Application of Backfilling Hydraulic Supports in Reforming Top-Coal Caving Hydraulic Supports
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Shi Peitao , Li Meng , Zong Tingcheng , Song Weijian
Published: January 2023

Solid backfilling is an environmentally friendly method of coal mining. Backfilling hydraulic supports are important devices in solid backfill mining. In order to speed up the design and manufacturing process of them, this paper proposes a method of hydraulic support reformation and evaluation. The mechanical models of top-coal caving hydraulic support and backfilling hydraulic support were established to analyze the stress characteristics of the main structure. ABAQUS was used to establish the 3D numerical model to analyze the load-bearing characteristics, as well as verify the strength requirement. In addition, the structural characteristics, compaction characteristics, geological adaptation characteristics, and interference characteristics of the structure were analyzed using motion simulation. After reforming, the ramming force is just above 2.0 MPa, and the utilization ratio of the old parts of the top-coal caving hydraulic support is more than 50%, which saved the costs of the new backfilling hydraulic support and reduced the waste of idle top-coal caving hydraulic support. The successful application of the backfilling hydraulic support in the Tangshan mine showed the rationality of the reform design.