bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intervention Programme Based on Self-Determination Theory to Promote Extracurricular Physical Activity through Physical Education in Primary School: A Study Protocol
Authors: Llanos-Muñoz Rubén , Vaquero-Solís Mikel , López-Gajardo Miguel Ángel , Sánchez-Miguel Pedro Antonio , Tapia-Serrano Miguel Ángel , Leo Francisco Miguel
Published: March 2023

Low levels of physical activity (PA) are a concern among students, producing negative physical, health and mental consequences. This study aims to present a protocol intervention in physical education (PE) based on self-determination theory (SDT) to enhance students’ motivation towards performing PA and increasing their PA levels in their leisure time. This protocol is a convenience study with two allocation arms (intervention group versus control group). SDT-based motivational strategies will be carried out and co-created with PE teachers to increase motivation and out-of-school PA levels. Data collection will be conducted three times: before the intervention, after the intervention (four months after baseline) and at the end of the intervention (retention measurement, seven months after baseline). The measures will assess perceived teacher support for PA, motivation towards PA, intention to be physically active, PA levels, engagement in PE and academic performance. Overall, this intervention programme is expected to increase students’ autonomous motivation for PA and their PA levels in their free time. This intervention might encourage teachers to establish strategies and resources to increase their students’ adaptive outcomes.
A Fatal Case of Neuroblastoma Complicated by Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy with Rapidly Evolving Transplantation-Associated Thrombotic Microangiopathy
Authors: Matsui Motohiro , Makimoto Atsushi , Saito Yuya , Enokizono Mikako , Matsuoka Kentaro , Yuza Yuki
Published: March 2023

Background: Transplantation-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA) is a severe complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and is sometimes fatal. Observations: A 4-year-old, male patient with stage M neuroblastoma (NBL) who had received an allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from his sibling five months previously presented with rapidly progressive posterior reversible encephalopathy (PRES) complicated with TA-TMA. Although the patient was transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit, he died within one week after the onset of the latest symptoms. Conclusions: This is the first description of a fatal case of NBL complicated by PRES with rapidly evolving TA-TMA after an allogenic BMT.
Do Spinal Needle Sizes Affect the Development of Traumatic CSF in Neonatal LP Procedures?
Authors: Orman Aysen , Aydın Hilal
Published: March 2023

Lumbar puncture (LP) is widely employed to evaluate infectious, neurological and metabolic diseases in the newborn. Neonatal LP is a difficult procedure with 45–54% success rates. Although there are studies examining traumatic LP failure, studies on the effects of needle sizes are limited. This study was intended to investigate the effect of needle sizes on LP traumatization. Term and premature babies who underwent LP in the neonatal intensive care unit between 30 November 2017 and 30 July 2019 were included in the study by retrospective file scanning. LP was performed by a pediatric or neonatal specialist using a 22 Gauge pen (G) or 25 G pen spinal needle in all cases, with all patients being placed in the lateral decubitus position. The primary outcome was to evaluate the effect of needle sizes used in LP on traumatization. The secondary outcome was to evaluate traumatization rates and complications. A statistically significant difference was determined in the rate of traumatized LP and desaturation development between needle sizes and CSF microscopic findings (p = 0.031, p = 0.005, and p = 0.006, respectively). The study data show that 25 G pen-tip spinal needles cause less traumatic LP in neonates than 22 G pen-tip spinal needles.
Correlation of Fall Height, Fracture Severity and Clinical Outcome in Pediatric Supracondylar Fractures—A Retrospective Analysis with an Observation Period of 20 Years
Authors: Schuller Andrea , Hahn Sebastian , Pichler Lorenz , Hohensteiner Anna , Sator Thomas , Jaindl Manuela , Schwendenwein Elisabeth , Tiefenboeck Thomas , Payr Stephan
Published: March 2023

The most common cause leading to supracondylar humerus fractures in children is falling onto an outstretched arm. A correlation between fall height and fracture severity may be assumed but has not yet been described. The aim of this study was to show that fracture severity increases with fall height. Furthermore, the correlation between fracture severity and outcome was examined. A total of 971 children with supracondylar humerus fractures between January 2000 and December 2019 were included in this study. The correlations between fall height and fracture severity and between fracture severity and outcome were assessed. Increasing fall height correlates with fracture severity (p < 0.001; r = 0.24). Furthermore, the incidence of complications increases with fracture severity and a correlation was present accordingly (p < 0.001; r = 0.28). A total of 30 (3.1%) patients showed limitations in range of motion and/or persistent neurologic deficits at the latest follow-up. Type I fractures rarely lead to subsequent limitations. The correlation between increasing fall height and fracture severity was significant. Furthermore, children with type III and IV supracondylar fractures are more likely to develop complications or restrictions in movement than children with type I and II fractures. Hence, the initial fall height may be an indirect indicator of a more or less favorable outcome.
The Effect of Accentuation of Curve of Spee on Masticatory Efficiency—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alkhalaf Zainab A. , Sghaireen Mohammed Ghazi , Issrani Rakhi , Ganji Kiran Kumar , Alruwaili Norah Nasser , Alsaleh Raghad Mohammed , Alruwaili Musab Redha S. , Alabdali Meshari Farhan , Alsirhani Munahi Abdullah Rushdallah , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: March 2023

Background: The appropriate alignment of the lower teeth is indicated by the Curve of Spee (COS), which can be observed in the sagittal profile view of human skulls. Graf Von Spee made the initial observation on this occlusal curvature. Through this systematic review and meta-analysis, we evaluated studies that looked at how COS affected masticatory activities. Methods: The databases PubMed-MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Scopus were all searched. A total of 12 documents were ultimately picked because they met the necessary inclusion and exclusion requirements. The data was then loaded into the RevMan 5 programme for meta-analysis after being chosen for information on the sample size, variables analyzed, and various aspects of the research. Results: The Curve of Spee was found to have a noticeable impact on both the masticatory efficiency as well as dentofacial alignment in the 12 studies that we selected for the review and meta-analysis. In addition, other occlusal curvatures such as the Curve of Monson and the Curve of Wilson were found to be of vital importance on a similar level to the COS. The meta-analysis further revealed that seven of the included clinical trials had mentioned the noticeable impact on masticatory efficiency. Conclusions: This study focused on the significance of the COS on force distribution in the oral cavity as well as the necessity of COS corrections after receiving full orthodontic care. Following orthodontic treatment, the COS, along with other occlusal curves such as the Curve of Wilson and the Curve of Monson, is essential in removing strains from the condyle, as well as the maxilla and mandible, which enhances masticatory effectiveness and lessens the overall strain on a patient’s oral cavity.
Epidemiological Analysis of the Emergency Vascular Access in Pediatric Trauma Patients: Single-Center Experience of Intravenous, Intraosseous, Central Venous, and Arterial Line Placements
Authors: Struck Manuel Florian , Rost Franziska , Schwarz Thomas , Zimmermann Peter , Siekmeyer Manuela , Gräfe Daniel , Ebel Sebastian , Kirsten Holger , Kleber Christian , Lacher Martin , Donaubauer Bernd
Published: March 2023

Vascular access in severely injured pediatric trauma patients is associated with time-critical circumstances and low incidences, whereas only scarce literature on procedure performance is available. The purpose of this study was to analyze the performance of different vascular access procedures from the first contact at the scene until three hours after admission. Intubated pediatric trauma patients admitted from the scene to a single Level I trauma center between 2008 and 2019 were analyzed regarding intravenous (IV) and intraosseous (IO) accesses, central venous catheterization (CVC) and arterial line placement. Sixty-five children with a median age of 14 years and median injury severity score of 29 points were included, of which 62 (96.6%) underwent successful prehospital IV or IO access by emergency medical service (EMS) physicians, while it failed in two children (3.1%). On emergency department (ED) admission, IV cannulas of prehospital EMS had malfunctions or were dislodged in seven of 55 children (12.7%). IO access was performed in 17 children without complications, and was associated with younger age, higher injury severity and higher mortality. Fifty-two CVC placements (58 attempts) and 55 arterial line placements (59 attempts) were performed in 45 and 52 children, respectively. All CVC and arterial line placements were performed in the ED, operating room (OR) and intensive care unit (ICU). Ten mechanical complications related to CVC placement (17.8%) and seven related to arterial line placement (10.2%) were observed, none of which had outcome-relevant consequences. This case series suggests that mechanical issues of vascular access may frequently occur, underlining the need for special preparedness in prehospital, ED, ICU and OR environments.
From Metabolic Syndrome to Type 2 Diabetes in Youth
Authors: Iafusco Dario , Franceschi Roberto , Maguolo Alice , Guercio Nuzio Salvatore , Crinò Antonino , Delvecchio Maurizio , Iughetti Lorenzo , Maffeis Claudio , Calcaterra Valeria , Manco Melania
Published: March 2023

In the frame of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes emerges along a continuum of the risk from the clustering of all its components, namely visceral obesity, high blood pressure and lipids, and impaired glucose homeostasis. Insulin resistance is the hallmark common to all the components and, in theory, is a reversible condition. Nevertheless, the load that this condition can exert on the β-cell function at the pubertal transition is such as to determine its rapid and irreversible deterioration leading to plain diabetes. The aim of this review is to highlight, in the context of metabolic syndrome, age-specific risk factors that lead to type 2 diabetes onset in youth; resume age specific screening and diagnostic criteria; and anticipate potential for treatment. Visceral obesity and altered lipid metabolism are robust grounds for the development of the disease. Genetic differences in susceptibility to hampered β-cell function in the setting of obesity and insulin resistance largely explain why some adolescents with obesity do develop diabetes at a young age and some others do not. Lifestyle intervention with a healthy diet and physical activity remains the pillar of the type 2 diabetes treatment in youth. As to the pharmacological management, metformin and insulin have failed to rescue β-cell function and to ensure long-lasting glycemic control in youth. A new era might start with the approval for use in pediatric age of drugs largely prescribed in adults, such as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 and sodium-dependent glucose transport inhibitors, and of new weight-lowering drugs in the pipeline such as single and multiple agonists of the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor. The latter drugs can have tremendous impact on the natural history of the disease. By treating diabetes, they will reduce the burden of all the metabolic abnormalities belonging to the syndrome while causing a tremendous weight loss hitherto never seen before.
The Skin-Whitening and Antioxidant Effects of Protocatechuic Acid (PCA) Derivatives in Melanoma and Fibroblast Cell Lines
Authors: Cho Jaehoon , Jung Hyeonbi , Kang Dong Young , Sp Nipin , Shin Wooshik , Lee Junhak , Park Byung Gyu , Kang Yoon A , Jang Kyoung-Jin , Bae Se Won
Published: March 2023

The skin is the most voluminous organ of the human body and is exposed to the outer environment. Such exposed skin suffers from the effects of various intrinsic and extrinsic aging factors. Skin aging is characterized by features such as wrinkling, loss of elasticity, and skin pigmentation. Skin pigmentation occurs in skin aging and is caused by hyper-melanogenesis and oxidative stress. Protocatechuic acid (PCA) is a natural secondary metabolite from a plant-based source widely used as a cosmetic ingredient. We chemically designed and synthesized PCA derivatives conjugated with alkyl esters to develop effective chemicals that have skin-whitening and antioxidant effects and enhance the pharmacological activities of PCA. We identified that melanin biosynthesis in B16 melanoma cells treated with alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is decreased by PCA derivatives. We also found that PCA derivatives effectively have antioxidant effects in HS68 fibroblast cells. In this study, we suggest that our PCA derivatives are potent ingredients for developing cosmetics with skin-whitening and antioxidant effects.
Slot-Die-Coated Active Layer for Printed Flexible Back-Contact Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Parkhomenko Hryhorii P. , Mangrulkar Mayuribala , Jumabekov Askhat N.
Published: March 2023

Perovskites have already shown potential as active layers in photovoltaic applications. Furthermore, a low-cost and simple solution processing technology allows perovskites to be used in flexible and printed electronics. Perovskite solar cells (PSC) with a back-contact (BC) structure, in which the electrode system is based on a quasi-interdigitated back-contact (QIBC) design, promise to increase the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of devices beyond those that can be obtained using PSCs with a traditional sandwich structure. While the spin-coating technique is used to deposit the perovskite layer of lab-scale BC PSCs, the application of large-area printing techniques to deposit the perovskite layer of such devices is yet to be explored. Therefore, this work demonstrates an application of the slot-die coating technique to print the perovskite active layer of BC PSCs with QIBC electrodes on flexible polymer substrates. The morphology of the obtained perovskite films on QIBC electrodes are investigated and the primary photoelectric parameters of the resulting BC PSCs are measured. The charge carrier recombination processes in the fabricated BC PSCs are investigated and the dominant mechanism for carrier loss in the devices is determined. The findings of the work give an insight into the properties of the slot-die-coated perovskite active layer of BC PSCs and points to exciting new research opportunities in this direction.
Three-Dimensional MoS2 Nanosheet Structures: CVD Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrical Properties
Authors: Mathew Sobin , Reiprich Johannes , Narasimha Shilpashree , Abedin Saadman , Kurtash Vladislav , Thiele Sebastian , Hähnlein Bernd , Scheler Theresa , Flock Dominik , Jacobs Heiko O. , Pezoldt Jörg
Published: March 2023

The proposed study demonstrates a single-step CVD method for synthesizing three-dimensional vertical MoS2 nanosheets. The postulated synthesizing approach employs a temperature ramp with a continuous N2 gas flow during the deposition process. The distinctive signals of MoS2 were revealed via Raman spectroscopy study, and the substantial frequency difference in the characteristic signals supported the bulk nature of the synthesized material. Additionally, XRD measurements sustained the material’s crystallinity and its 2H-MoS2 nature. The FIB cross-sectional analysis provided information on the origin and evolution of the vertical MoS2 structures and their growth mechanisms. The strain energy produced by the compression between MoS2 islands is assumed to primarily drive the formation of vertical MoS2 nanosheets. In addition, vertical MoS2 structures that emerge from micro fissures (cracks) on individual MoS2 islands were observed and examined. For the evaluation of electrical properties, field-effect transistor structures were fabricated on the synthesized material employing standard semiconductor technology. The lateral back-gated field-effect transistors fabricated on the synthesized material showed an n-type behavior with field-effect mobility of 1.46 cm2 V−1 s−1 and an estimated carrier concentration of 4.5 × 1012 cm−2. Furthermore, the effects of a back-gate voltage bias and channel dimensions on the hysteresis effect of FET devices were investigated and quantified.
Plasma Fibrinogen as a Predictor of Perioperative-Blood-Component Transfusion in Major-Nontraumatic-Orthopedic-Surgery Patients: A Cohort Study
Authors: Pagnussatt Neto Eugenio , Lopes da Costa Paula Daniele , Gurgel Sanderland J. Tavares , Schmidt Azevedo Paula , Modolo Norma S. Pinheiro , do Nascimento Junior Paulo
Published: March 2023

There is a trend towards increased perioperative bleeding in patients with plasma fibrinogen levels < 200 mg/dL−1. This study aimed to assess whether there is an association between preoperative fibrinogen levels and perioperative blood-product transfusion up to 48 h after major orthopedic surgery. This cohort study included 195 patients who underwent primary or revision hip arthroplasty for nontraumatic etiologies. Plasma fibrinogen, blood count, coagulation tests, and platelet count were measured preoperatively. A plasma fibrinogen level of 200 mg/dL−1 was the cutoff value used to predict blood transfusion. The mean (SD) plasma fibrinogen level was 325 (83) mg/dL−1. Only thirteen patients had levels < 200 mg/dL−1, and only one of them received a blood transfusion, with an absolute risk of 7.69% (1/13; 95%CI: 1.37–33.31%). Preoperative plasma fibrinogen levels were not associated with the need for blood transfusion (p = 0.745). The sensitivity and the positive predictive value of plasma fibrinogen < 200 mg/dL−1 as a predictor of blood transfusion were 4.17% (95%CI: 0.11–21.12%) and 7.69% (95%CI: 1.12–37.99%), respectively. Test accuracy was 82.05% (95%CI: 75.93–87.17%), but positive and negative likelihood ratios were poor. Therefore, preoperative plasma fibrinogen level in hip-arthroplasty patients was not associated with the need for blood-product transfusion.
More than Just Skin-Deep: A Review of Imaging’s Role in Guiding CAR T-Cell Therapy for Advanced Melanoma
Authors: Prendergast Conor M. , Capaccione Kathleen M. , Lopci Egesta , Das Jeeban P. , Shoushtari Alexander N. , Yeh Randy , Amin Daniel , Dercle Laurent , De Jong Dorine
Published: March 2023

Advanced melanoma is one of the deadliest cancers, owing to its invasiveness and its propensity to develop resistance to therapy. Surgery remains the first-line treatment for early-stage tumors but is often not an option for advanced-stage melanoma. Chemotherapy carries a poor prognosis, and despite advances in targeted therapy, the cancer can develop resistance. CAR T-cell therapy has demonstrated great success against hematological cancers, and clinical trials are deploying it against advanced melanoma. Though melanoma remains a challenging disease to treat, radiology will play an increasing role in monitoring both the CAR T-cells and response to therapy. We review the current imaging techniques for advanced melanoma, as well as novel PET tracers and radiomics, in order to guide CAR T-cell therapy and manage potential adverse events.
Technology Tools in Hospitality: Mapping the Landscape through Bibliometric Analysis and Presentation of a New Software Solution
Authors: Krabokoukis Thomas
Published: March 2023

This study offers a comprehensive examination of the literature surrounding technology and tools in the hospitality industry. A bibliometric analysis was performed on 709 Scopus-indexed publications from 2000 to January 2023, with a focus on identifying key players, institutions, research trends, and the co-occurrence of keywords. The results shed light on the scientific landscape of technology and tools in the hospitality sector, emphasizing the significance of big data and the customer experience in the sharing economy. The study also presents the architecture of new software that offers guests the ability to customize their hotel stay, classified as part of the first cluster in the co-occurrence of keywords analysis. This approach highlights the growing importance of big data and customer experience and makes a valuable contribution to the field by offering a tool for hotel booking customization. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and private companies in providing a mutually beneficial platform that exceeds the expectations of both hotels and guests.
Lipoprotein(a) and Its Autoantibodies in Association with Calcific Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Burdeynaya Anna L. , Afanasieva Olga I. , Ezhov Marat V. , Klesareva Elena A. , Saidova Marina A. , Pokrovsky Sergey N.
Published: March 2023

Aortic valve stenosis is the most common valvular heart disease in the Western world. Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is an independent risk factor of coronary heart disease (CHD) and calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS). The aim of this study was to assess the role of Lp(a) and its autoantibodies [autoAbs] in CAVS in patients with and without CHD. We included 250 patients (mean age 69 ± 3 years, males 42%) and divided them into three groups. There were two groups of patients with CAVS depending on the presence (group 1) or absence of CHD (group 2). The control group included the patients without CHD or CAVS. According to logistic regression analysis, levels of Lp(a), IgM autoAbs to oxidized Lp(a) (oxLp(a)), and age were independent predictors of CAVS. A concomitant increase in Lp(a) level (≥30 mg/dL) and a decrease in IgM autoAbs concentration (<9.9 lab. Units) are associated with CAVS with an odds ratio (OR) of 6.4, p < 0.01, and with CAVS and CHD with an OR of 17.3, p < 0.001. IgM autoantibodies to oxLp(a) are associated with calcific aortic valve stenosis regardless of Lp(a) concentration and other risk factors. Higher Lp(a) and lower IgM autoantibodies to oxLp(a) levels are associated with a much higher risk of calcific aortic valve stenosis.
Contextual Changes and Shifts in Pedagogical Paradigms: Post-COVID-19 Blended Learning as a Negotiation Space in Teacher Education
Authors: Biberman-Shalev Liat , Broza Orit , Chamo Nurit
Published: March 2023

This study investigates a post-COVID-19 curricular change in the blended learning (BL) academic timetable of a teacher education college where, pre-COVID-19, most academic courses were taught face-to-face (F2F) on campus. At present, the meetings are F2F for three weeks, followed by a week of remote learning, combining synchronous and asynchronous pedagogies. This study explores these two aspects of the online component and the considerations for their implementation. In a mixed-method approach, the data were collected using a closed questionnaire and two focus groups involving 76 lecturers and 553 students altogether. Of the wide range of pedagogies identified, the highest success rating was accorded to synchronous frontal lectures via Zoom by the students and to integrating MOOCs, YouTube, and Podcasts by the lecturers. Moreover, compared to the lecturers, the students rated the success of asynchronous self-directed learning considerably higher. Qualitative analysis revealed that pedagogies slated for the online module were frequently negotiated between students and teachers. Findings suggest that a structural change in the curriculum could be a first step in rethinking pedagogies in the post-COVID-19 education arena. The next step should focus on narrowing the gap between lecturers’ and students’ perceptions regarding the success of the various pedagogies.
Student Teachers’ Classroom Impact during Their Practicum in the Times of the Pandemic
Authors: Alonso-Díaz Laura , Delicado-Puerto Gemma , Ramos Francisco , Manchado-Nieto Cristina
Published: March 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted societal structures worldwide. In the educational realm, the forced closure, and subsequent reopening of school settings disrupted the personal and professional lives of administrators, teachers, parents, and students. Two groups of Spanish stakeholders affected by the return to face-to-face instruction during the pandemic were the University of Extremadura’s student teachers and their mentors during the practicum, as student teaching is known in Spain. This study investigated 28 student teachers’ and 26 mentors’ responses to a questionnaire enquiring on the main challenges resulting from the pandemic, as well as student teachers’ contributions to the classroom during this difficult time. Cualitative software was used to analyze participants’ responses allowed us to identify four main themes: attitudes; classroom management issues; adaptations and restrictions; and academic–experiential modifications. Overall, the findings revealed student teachers’ and mentors’ positive opinions about their joint work experience and about student teachers’ logistical and technological support.
Investigating Teachers’ Beliefs in Inclusive Education and Their Levels of Teacher Self-Efficacy: Are Teachers Constrained in Their Capacity to Implement Inclusive Teaching Practices?
Authors: Woodcock Stuart , Gibbs Kathy , Hitches Elizabeth , Regan Chloe
Published: March 2023

Inclusive education caters for all students and embraces their unique characteristics, backgrounds, and abilities. While many challenges persist that prevent inclusion from being fully embraced and implemented, such as varying definitions of what inclusion is at an international, national, and intra-national level, teachers’ attitudes towards inclusion and their belief in their capabilities may play an important role. This paper examined the relationship between 208 Australian primary and secondary teachers’ beliefs in inclusive education and their levels of teacher self-efficacy using t-tests. The relationship between these factors and teachers’ years of teaching experience, age, and qualifications were also investigated. The findings show that teachers who believe inclusive education is an effective way to teach all students reported higher levels of teacher self-efficacy than those who did not. Differences across teacher demographics raised a number of questions, including the role of additional qualifications and the potential influence of social attitudes towards inclusion over time on teachers’ own beliefs, each of which warrants investigation. Recommendations from the findings suggest that professional learning which supports teachers to successfully implement inclusive teaching strategies, may assist to bolster their belief in their capabilities in inclusive classrooms and in the effectiveness of inclusive education for all.
Energy Consumption in Water/Wastewater Treatment Industry—Optimisation Potentials
Authors: Hamawand Ihsan
Published: March 2023

It is predicted that, by 2050, about 64% of the developing world and 86% of the developed world will be urbanized [...]
Microscopic Study of Shale Anisotropy with SEM In Situ Compression and Three-Point Bending Experiments
Authors: Sui Weibo , Wang Yulong , Li Junwei
Published: March 2023

The microscopic anisotropy of shale has an important impact on its mechanical properties and crack behavior, so it is essential to understand the microscopic origin of anisotropic growth with a more effective laboratory work scheme. Uniaxial compression test and three-point bending test are considered to be efficient means to study the elastic properties and crack behavior of rocks. In this paper, uniaxial compression experiments and three-point bending experiments were conducted on shale outcrops in the Changqing area using field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and in situ tensile testing, and the microscopic deformation and crack processes were quantitatively characterized by the digital image correlation (DIC) method. For the compression experiments, the observation of the first principal strain fields indicated that the microscopic anisotropy of shale was related to the bedding planes, and the microscopic deformations were mainly concentrated in the clay mineral accumulation area and at the microcracks. Elastic moduli and compressive strengths of specimens with different bedding angles were affected by the strong shear stress effects. The specimens with a bedding angle of 30° showed lower peak loads and compressive strengths, and the specimens with a bedding angle of 60° had lower elastic moduli. Three-point bending experiments were conducted for studying the effects of crack-bedding orientation relationships on cracking processes, and four critical fracturing mechanical properties were calculated. The short transverse-type cases were prone to break and had a lower peak load, tensile strength, fracture toughness and elastic-bending modulus. The divider-type cases were more difficult to break, formed a more tortuous crack and had a higher tensile strength, fracture toughness and elastic-bending modulus. The arrester-type cases had a middle range of mechanical parameters but developed the longest cracks. This study provides a feasible experimental and analysis method for understanding the microscopic anisotropy of shale samples. The small specimen size also makes the requirements of core samples easier to be satisfied considering the field application. Furthermore, the anisotropy of cracking processes can be understood better by building the connections between microstructural characteristics and mechanical performances.
Investigation of a Cup-Rotor Permanent-Magnet Doubly Fed Machine for Extended-Range Electric Vehicles
Authors: Xia Chaoying , Bi Jiaxiang , Shi Jianning
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates a cup-rotor permanent-magnet doubly fed machine (CRPM-DFM) for extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). The topology and operating principle of the powertrain system based on CRPM-DFM are introduced. Then, the mathematical model of CRPM-DFM is established and the feedback linearization control of CRPM-DFM is given to realize the decoupling control of flux and torque. Moreover, the torque characteristic of CRPM-DFM is analyzed and the load torque boundaries with sinusoidal steady-state solution of CRPM-DFM is deduced. In addition, the MTPA control is derived to improve the efficiency of CRPM-DFM, and the efficiency of CRPM-DFM regarding various operating modes is investigated. Furthermore, the speed optimization strategy of ICE is proposed to reduce fuel consumption. Finally, the driving performance and fuel economy of the powertrain system are verified by simulation.
Fragmented or Unified? The State of China’s Carbon Emission Trading Market
Authors: Wu Liangzheng , Huang Yan , Gu Yimiao
Published: March 2023

China has adopted a gradualism principle in establishing its carbon emission trading system from the regional pilot markets to a national one. In view of the huge market potential and large differences across China, this paper applies the cointegration test and VECM (Vector Error Correction Model) to investigate the long-run trends and the price dynamics of regional pilot markets. The results show that the prices of the regional pilot markets form three long-run trends exhibit mean-reversion patterns. The launch of the national market marks the different performance of regional pilot markets. After the launch of the national market, the number of long-run trends reduces from three to one and the severity of the mean-reversion patterns is eased, indicating the efficiency improvement in China’s carbon market from a fragmented toward a unified market. The policy implication is that China should further develop its national market by incorporating the regional markets into the national one and encouraging more market participants for market transaction.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the HSF Gene Family in Poplar
Authors: Zhao Kai , Dang Hui , Zhou Lieding , Hu Jia , Jin Xia , Han Youzhi , Wang Shengji
Published: March 2023

The Heat Shock Factor (HSF) transcription factor family plays crucial roles in plant growth and development, as well as in protecting against adverse stresses. However, studies on the functions and regulatory mechanisms of the HSF genes are limited in poplar. Here, we identified and classified 30 HSF transcription factors in Populus trichocarpa based on recent genomic data and annotation information and conducted a comprehensive analysis of these proteins, including phylogenetic and physicochemical properties analysis, domain characterization, subcellular localization prediction, cis-acting elements analysis, sequence structure analysis, and chromosomal distribution. Our analysis revealed that segmental duplication events may be the main driving force behind the expansion of the poplar HSF gene family, and we explored the collinearity between poplar HSF genes and those of six other representative species. We also analyzed the tissue-specific and hormonal responses of the HSF genes in poplar and conducted gene co-expression network analysis, which revealed important molecular functions and biological processes related to growth and development, biotic and abiotic stress response, and epigenetic modification. These results provide significant insights into the functions and regulatory mechanisms of the HSF genes in poplar.
Nitrate and Ammonium Deposition in the Midwestern Fragmented Forest
Authors: Rivera-Cubero Luis D. , Dowtin Asia L. , Rothstein David E.
Published: March 2023

Whereas the impacts of N deposition on forest ecosystems have been well studied in remote areas in predominantly forested landscapes, we know relatively less about the impacts of N deposition on forests in heavily human-modified landscapes. We studied the influence of adjacent land use, local point sources, and woodlot stand structure on subcanopy N transport and enrichment via throughfall in three woodlot fragments in southern Lower Michigan, USA. We found that one site had markedly higher TF N concentrations compared to the other two; however, our data indicate that elevated TF concentrations resulted from differences in tree species composition, rather than differences in surrounding land use. Specifically, we observed that the local abundance of basswood (Tilia americana) was positively associated and the local abundance of northern red oak (Quercus rubra) was negatively associated with TF N concentrations. One site had markedly greater TF N fluxes compared to the other two, which was driven by a lack of understory vegetation, possibly due to higher deer browsing at this site. Together, the results of this study demonstrated that TF N concentrations and fluxes were more strongly influenced by the internal characteristics of fragmented woodlots, such as forest structure and species composition, than by the surrounding land use.
In Vitro Characterization of Limosilactobacillus reuteri Lac Ib01 (OL468126.1) Isolated from Traditional Sheep Dry Sausage and Evaluation of the Activity of Arthrospira platensis or Phycocyanin on Its Growth-Promoting Ability
Authors: Chakroun Ibtissem , Haddaji Najla , Fedhila Kais , Maatallah Makaoui , Mzoughi Ridha , Chaabouni Yassine , Krichen Youssef , Bakhrouf Amina
Published: March 2023

The positive impact of probiotic strains on human health is more evident than ever. To achieve the beneficial health effects and desirable functional properties of probiotics, sufficient numbers of these microorganisms must reach the intestinal tract with high survival rates. The purpose of this study was to identify and characterize a novel strain of Limosilactobacillus reuteri isolated from traditional sheep dry sausage and evaluate its growth-promoting ability with the addition of Arthrospira platensis or phycocyanin extract. In vitro experimental approaches were conducted to determine the physiological features of the candidate probiotic isolate, including biochemical identification, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, tolerance assays to acid and bile salts, antimicrobial activities, adherence ability, and antiproliferative assays. The effects of A. platensis or phycocyanin (0, 1, 5, and 8 mg/mL) on the growth of probiotic cultures were studied after 0, 24, 48, and 72 h. Our results showed that the isolated Limosilactobacillus reuteri (OL468126.1) possesses desirable characteristics as a probiotic candidate and can, therefore, be used as an ingredient in functional foods. Furthermore, A. platensis and phycocyanin extract have great potential for enhancing the growth and prolonging the stationary phase of isolated probiotics. Our findings showed that phycocyanin extract not only plays the role of a natural pigment but also acts as a growth promoter of probiotics.
Glucoregulatory Properties of Fermented Soybean Products
Authors: Yu Songfeng , Wang Wenjun , Li Shanshan , Li Jiaheng , Zhao Runan , Liu Donghong , Wu Jianping
Published: March 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease, characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, the prevalence of which is on the rise worldwide. Fermented soybean products (FSP) are rich in diverse functional ingredients which have been shown to exhibit therapeutic properties in alleviating hyperglycemia. This review summarizes the hypoglycemic actions of FSP from the perspective of different target-related molecular signaling mechanisms in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials. FSP can ameliorate glucose metabolism disorder by functioning as carbohydrate digestive enzyme inhibitors, facilitating glucose transporter 4 translocation, accelerating muscular glucose utilization, inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis, ameliorating pancreatic dysfunction, relieving adipose tissue inflammation, and improving gut microbiota disorder. Sufficiently recognizing and exploiting the hypoglycemic activity of traditional fermented soybean foods could provide a new strategy in the development of the food fermentation industry.
Antibacterial and Immunostimulatory Activity of Potential Probiotic Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Ethiopian Fermented Dairy Products
Authors: Gizachew Seyoum , Van Beeck Wannes , Spacova Irina , Dekeukeleire Max , Alemu Ashenafi , Woldemedhin Wude Mihret , Mariam Solomon H. , Lebeer Sarah , Engidawork Ephrem
Published: March 2023

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) form a group of bacteria to which most probiotics belong and are commonly found in fermented dairy products. Fermented foods and beverages are foods made through desired microbial growth and enzymatic conversions of food components. In this study, 43 LAB were isolated from Ethiopian traditional cottage cheese, cheese, and yogurt and evaluated for their functional and safety properties as candidate probiotics. Twenty-seven isolates, representative of each fermented food type, were selected and identified to the species level. Limosilactobacillus fermentum was found to be the predominant species in all samples studied (70.4%), while 11.1% of isolates were identified as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. All 27 isolates tested showed resistance to 0.5% bile salt, while 26 strains were resistant to pH 3. The LAB isolates were also evaluated for antagonistic properties against key pathogens, with strain-specific features observed for their antimicrobial activity. Five strains from cottage cheese (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 54B, 54C, and 55A, Lactiplantibacillus pentosus 55B, and Pediococcus pentosaceus 95E) showed inhibitory activity against indicator pathogens that are key causes of gastrointestinal infections in Ethiopia, i.e., Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica var. Typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella flexneri, and Listeria monocytogenes. Strain-specific immunomodulatory activity monitored as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and interferon regulatory factor (IRF) activation was documented for Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 54B, 55A and P. pentosaceus 95E. Antibiotic susceptibility testing confirmed that all LAB isolates were safe concerning their antibiotic resistance profiles. Five isolates (especially Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 54B, 54C, and 55A, Lactiplantibacillus pentosus 55B, and P. pentosaceus 95E) showed promising results in all assays and are novel probiotic candidates of interest for clinical trial follow-up.
Succinic Production from Source-Separated Kitchen Biowaste in a Biorefinery Concept: Focusing on Alternative Carbon Dioxide Source for Fermentation Processes
Authors: Kuglarz Mariusz , Angelidaki Irini
Published: March 2023

This study presents sustainable succinic acid production from the organic fraction of household kitchen wastes, i.e., the organic fraction of household kitchen waste (OFHKW), pretreated with enzymatic hydrolysis (100% cocktail dosage: 62.5% Cellic® CTec2, 31%% β-Glucanase and 6.5% Cellic ® HTec2, cellulase activity of 12.5 FPU/g-glucan). For fermentation, A. succinogenes was used, which consumes CO2 during the process. OFHKW at biomass loading > 20% (dry matter) resulted in a final concentration of fermentable sugars 81–85 g/L and can be treated as a promising feedstock for succinic production. Obtained results state that simultaneous addition of gaseous CO2 and MgCO3 (>20 g/dm3) resulted in the highest sugar conversion (79–81%) and succinic yields (74–75%). Additionally, CH4 content in biogas, used as a CO2 source, increased by 21–22% and reached 91–92% vol. Liquid fraction of source-separated kitchen biowaste and the residue after succinic fermentation were successfully converted into biogas. Results obtained in this study clearly document the possibility of integrated valuable compounds (succinic acid) and energy (biogas) production from the organic fraction of household kitchen wastes (OFHKW).
Analysis of Bacterial Diversity in Fermented Grains of Baijiu Based on Culturomics and Amplicon Sequencing
Authors: Wang Jiaxuan , Hao Shuyue , Ren Qing
Published: March 2023

Baijiu is a traditional distilled liquor in China. The unique flavor developed during the fermentation process of Baijiu is closely related to the microorganisms in the fermented grains of the Baijiu. Fermented grain is a solid material that has not been distilled after the fermentation of Baijiu. It is of great significance to study the bacterial diversity in fermented grains and to isolate and culture them to reveal the formation mechanism of the flavor substances in Baijiu. In this study, the diversity of bacteria in fermented grains was studied by the combination of amplicon sequencing and culturomics, and a pure culture of culturable strains was obtained. The results of amplicon sequencing showed that the bacteria detected in the fermented grains were classified into 5 phyla, 8 classes, 24 orders, 34 families, and 45 genera, of which Lactobacillus (66.95%) and Acetobacter (32.36%) were the dominant genera. By using the method of culturomics, five pH gradients (pH = 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7) of enrichment culture medium and solid medium with different components were designed to enrich and isolate the culturable bacteria in the fermented grains. A total of 323 strains of bacteria were obtained, belonging to 53 genera and 118 species, and 14 suspected new species were obtained. Among the bacteria isolated by the culturomics, 14 genera were detected by amplicon sequencing, and 39 genera were not detected, indicating that the culturomics method can isolate and culture bacteria with low abundance in fermented grains. Compared with the traditional culture method, culturomics expanded the culturable bacteria in the fermented grains to 188%. The diversity of the bacteria in the fermented grains of Baijiu was analyzed by amplicon sequencing and culturomics, and the microbial community composition and relative abundance of fermented grains were comprehensively revealed. At the same time, the acquisition of more pure cultures of culturable bacteria provides more choices for the liquor-making microbial resource library.
Integrative Analysis to Manage Aquatic Resources Based on Fish Feeding Patterns in Neotropical Rivers
Authors: da Silveira Estevan Luiz , Semmar Nabil , Ballester Eduardo Luis Cupertino , Vaz-dos-Santos André Martins
Published: March 2023

Feeding ecology is an integrative procedure to highlight different diets, associating feeding trends with governing and regulation factors characterizing foraging species and their environments, respectively. The diet variability of seven fish species forming a community in a Neotropical riverine system was analyzed to characterize the resource and consumer linkages, providing a detailed assessment of adaptive feeding behaviors of fishes living in different ecological states transiting from natural/resilient spaces to anthropic pressions-linked disturbed ones. Fishes were sampled along four sites during a year, and their stomach contents were analyzed. Feeding data were analyzed by applying quali- and quantitative methods with multi-levels and multifactor aspects to determine target food categories (percentage of occurrence) and identify feeding patterns (correspondence and cluster analyses, CA-HCA). Factors and scales governing target food categories were also tested. A total of 483 stomachs were dissected, and 30 food categories were identified. CA-HCA highlighted 10 feeding trends (FTs) combining several foods co-occurring at distinct levels. These FTs indicated characteristic diets and high diversity of feeding behaviors concerning multiple and narrow diets, different alimentary needs related to ecomorphological features, different plasticity ranges (adaptability, tolerance) and a spatial governing effect (headwater to river mouth environmental quality loss). These multiple factors provided essential information on overcoming ways of environmental constraints and optimization ways of food balances helping to better manage the richness and working of neotropical river systems.
Influences of Ultrasonic Treatments on the Structure and Antioxidant Properties of Sugar Beet Pectin
Authors: Xu Yingjie , Zhang Jian , He Jinmeng , Liu Ting , Guo Xiaobing
Published: March 2023

The objective of this study was to explore the structural changes and oxidation resistance of ultrasonic degradation products of sugar beet pectin (SBP). The changes in the structures and antioxidant activity between SBP and its degradation products were compared. As the ultrasonic treatment time increased, the content of α-D-1,4-galacturonic acid (GalA) also increased, to 68.28%. In addition, the neutral sugar (NS) content, esterification degree (DE), particle size, intrinsic viscosity and viscosity-average molecular weight (MV) of the modified SBP decreased. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to study the degradation of the SBP structure after ultrasonication. After ultrasonic treatment, the DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activities of the modified SBP reached 67.84% and 54.67% at the concentration of 4 mg/mL, respectively, and the thermal stability of modified SBP was also improved. All of the results indicate that the ultrasonic technology is an environmentally friendly, simple, and effective strategy to improve the antioxidant capacity of SBP.