bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between Nocturnal Enuresis and Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children
Authors: Andreu-Codina María , Nikolic-Jovanovic Danica , Esteller Eduard , Clusellas Núria , Artés Montserrat , Moyano Javier , Puigdollers Andreu
Published: September 2024

Background: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of nocturnal enuresis (NE) in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the effect of adenotonsillectomy (AT) and the width of the arches, and to compare them with control children without respiratory problems. Methods: Children from 2 to 12 years old were divided into three groups: children with OSA and NE (n = 51), children with OSA without NE (n = 79), and the control group (n = 168). NE was defined as at least one bedwetting incident per month. Arch widths were measured at the baseline and one year after. OSA was diagnosed by means of polysomnography, and the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was obtained. Parents completed the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) to classify their children into those with and without NE. Results: NE was present in 39.2% of children with OSA compared to 28% in the control group (p = 0.04). After AT, 49% of the children with OSA and NE significantly improved. Both OSA groups had narrower arch widths than the control group (p = 0.012), with the NE group having the narrowest widths. NE is more prevalent in children with OSA and should be considered one of the first signs of breathing disorders. Adenotonsillectomy reduces NE in about half of the affected children. Both arch widths are narrower in children with OSA, particularly in those with NE.
Community-Led Climate Preparedness and Resilience in Boston: New Evidence from Communities of Color
Authors: Rivera-Kientz Katsyris , Negrón Rosalyn , Estrada-Martínez Lorena M. , Brown Nyingilanyeofori Hannah , Ozor Commer Chidimma , Admankar Mahesh , Lillquist Jessica , Johnson Nicholas , Inegbedion Racheal , Watanabe Paul
Published: September 2024

Communities of color have been historically excluded and marginalized in the ongoing conversations about climate preparedness and resilience at local, national, and global levels. Using focus groups composed of Boston communities of color (Asian American, Black, Latino, and Native American), this study aimed to understand their perspectives on climate change, providing in-depth knowledge of its impact and their views on preparedness and resilience. Research shows that these communities have long been concerned about climate change and emphasize the urgent need to improve climate preparedness. A multi-pronged approach is crucial: listening to communities of color to leverage local knowledge and leadership, engaging in community organizing, advocating for policy change, redirecting attention to institutional resources, and addressing systemic inequalities that exacerbate vulnerabilities. The findings of this study highlight the need for policy changes driven by collaboration and collective action, which can benefit those most negatively impacted by climate change and the lack of preparedness and resilience in Boston and beyond.
Efficient and Controllable Preparation of Super-Hydrophobic Alumina-Based Ceramics Coating on Aviation Al-Li Alloy Surface for Corrosion Resistance and Anti-Icing Behavior
Authors: Li Ben , Li Xuewu
Published: September 2024

Al-Li alloys have been widely applied in aircraft structural component and shell material. However, Al-Li alloys are prone to corrosion failure, which leads to a considerable safety risk in the aerospace field and greatly limits their industrial application. Herein, a simple, low-cost, and large-scale air-spraying technique is developed for the preparation of an alumina-based ceramics coating with enhanced corrosion resistance and anti-icing behavior. The results show that the static contact angle of the as-prepared coating is 157.2 ± 0.4°, and the rolling angle is only 9.8°, suggesting a super-hydrophobic surface. Meanwhile, the electrochemical corrosion potential of the coating is 70 mV higher than that of the substrate, and the corrosion current density of the coating also decreases by 1 order of magnitude, indicating a significantly improved corrosion resistance. In addition, the fabricated super-hydrophobic coating also shows excellent anti-pollution and anti-icing characteristics. This work provides positive guidance for expanding the application of hydrophobic coating in the aerospace industry, especially in some complex corrosion, icing, and pollution environments.
An Improved Model for Prediction of Critical Velocity of Cold-Spray by First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Zhang Chengsong , Zhan Haoting , Zhou Xiaolong , Ma Ninshu
Published: September 2024

The first-principles calculation was applied to predict the critical velocity of Cu/Al cold-spray bonding for the first time. The bonding mechanism of cold-spray was clarified by analyzing the energy variation and atomic interaction during the cold-spray impact process. Our results showed that the shear deformation played a key role in the cold-spray bonding. The atomic interaction determined the effective absorption of impact kinetic energy and finally determined the successful bonding of the cold-spray. The heterogeneous atoms absorbed the impact kinetic energy by interatomic attraction to achieve cold-spray bonding, while the homogeneous atoms absorbed the impact kinetic energy by the deformation of interface layers. An excellent agreement between the predicted critical velocity and the experimental one could be obtained, especially for the heterogeneous material cold-spray. Our present method proved to be a simple and highly efficient computing method in critical velocity prediction. Most importantly, the critical velocity for cold-spray could be predicted without using any empirical or experimental parameters.
Computational Analysis of a Novel Iterative Scheme with an Application
Authors: Ahmad Fayyaz , Ullah Kifayat , Ahmad Junaid , Aloqaily Ahmad , Mlaiki Nabil
Published: September 2024

The computational study of fixed-point problems in distance spaces is an active and important research area. The purpose of this paper is to construct a new iterative scheme in the setting of Banach space for approximating solutions of fixed-point problems. We first prove the strong convergence of the scheme for a general class of contractions under some appropriate assumptions on the domain and a parameter involved in our scheme. We then study the qualitative aspects of our scheme, such as the stability and order of convergence for the scheme. Some nonlinear problems are then considered and solved numerically by our new iterative scheme. The numerical simulations and graphical visualizations prove the high accuracy and stability of the new fixed-point scheme. Eventually, we solve a 2D nonlinear Volterra Integral Equation (VIE) via the application of our main outcome. Our results improve many related results in fixed-point iteration theory.
A Secure and Verifiable Blockchain-Based Framework for Personal Data Validation
Authors: Yu Junyan , Li Ximing , Guo Yubin
Published: September 2024

The online services provided by the Service Provider (SP) have brought significant convenience to people’s lives. Nowadays, people have grown accustomed to obtaining diverse services via the Internet. However, some SP utilize or even tamper with personal data without the awareness or authorization of the Data Provider (DP), a practice that seriously undermines the authenticity of the DP’s authorization and the integrity of personal data. To address this issue, we propose a Verifiable Authorization Information Management Scheme (VAIMS). During the authorization process, the authorization information and personal data fingerprints will be uploaded to the blockchain for permanent record, and then the SP will store such authorization information and personal data. The DP generates corresponding authorization fingerprints based on the authorization information and stores them independently. Through the authorization information and authorization fingerprints on the chain, the DP can verify the authenticity of the authorization information stored by the SP at any time. Meanwhile, by leveraging the personal data fingerprint on the blockchain, the DP can check whether the personal data stored by the SP has been tampered with. Additionally, the scheme incorporates database technology to accelerate data query. We implemented a VAIMS prototype on Etherum, and experiments demonstrate that the scheme is effective.
Educational Resource Private Cloud Platform Based on OpenStack
Authors: Zhao Linchang , Hu Guoqing , Xu Yongchi
Published: September 2024

With the rapid development of the education industry and the expansion of university enrollment scale, it is difficult for the original teaching resource operation and maintenance management mode and utilization efficiency to meet the demands of teachers and students for high-quality teaching resources. OpenStack and Ceph technologies provide a new solution for optimizing the utilization and management of educational resources. The educational resource private cloud platform built by them can achieve the unified management and self-service use of the computing resources, storage resources, and network resources required for student learning and teacher instruction. It meets the flexible and efficient use requirements of high-quality teaching resources for student learning and teacher instruction, reduces the construction cost of informationization investment in universities, and improves the efficiency of teaching resource utilization.
Cleft Sign in MRI May Represent the Disruption of Cartilage Structure within Pubic Symphysis and Pubic Plate: A Cadaver Case Report
Authors: Nishimura Haruki , Gao Xueqin , Niga Sadao , Fukase Naomasa , Murata Yoichi , Quinn Patrick M. , Saito Masayoshi , Utsunomiya Hajime , Uchida Soshi , Huard Johnny , Philippon Marc J.
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Long-standing groin pain is a severe issue for athletes, often associated with the cleft sign on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, yet its underlying causes are poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to histologically examine the pubic plate structure in cadavers with and without the cleft sign on MRI, shedding light on the pathology behind the cleft sign. Methods: Three fresh human pelvic cadavers underwent 3.0T MRI to detect the cleft sign before histological dissection of pubic plates. Pubic plate tissues were fixed in formalin, decalcified, and processed. Of the two cleft sign-negative specimens, one was cut into sagittal sections, and the other was cut into coronal sections for histology. For the cleft sign positive specimen, a sagittal section was cut. Moreover, 5 µm thick sections were cut at different axial levels for each orientation. Sections were subjected to Safranin O, Alcian blue, and Herovici’s staining or hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results: MRI confirmed that one specimen had a cleft sign in the inferior region on both sides of the pubis and that two specimens had no cleft sign. Both sagittal and coronal sections showed the presence of a cartilage structure continuing from the pubic symphysis to 3 mm laterally within the pubic plate. In the specimen with a positive cleft sign, cartilage damage within the pubic symphysis and pubic plate was identified as revealed by Safranin O staining, Herovici’s staining, and H&E staining. Conclusions: This study elucidated the existence of a cartilage component extending from the pubic symphysis to the pubic plate. The cleft sign in MRI correlated with a disruption in the cartilage component in histology within this specific area.
Insights into the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and the Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as Predictors for the Length of Stay and Readmission in Chronic Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Cristescu Liviu , Tilea Ioan , Iancu Dragos-Gabriel , Stoica Florin , Moldovan Diana-Andreea , Capriglione Vincenzo , Varga Andreea
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is characterized by complex pathophysiology, leading to increased hospitalizations and mortality. Inflammatory biomarkers such as the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) provide valuable diagnostic insights. Methods: This study evaluates the prognostic relationship between NLR, PLR, and, in a specific subcohort, N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), alongside length of stay (LOS) and 90-day readmission rates in CHF patients, irrespective of heart failure phenotype. A retrospective analysis of 427 CHF admissions (males = 57.84%) was conducted. Results: The mean age of the entire population was 68.48 ± 11.53 years. The average LOS was 8.33 ± 5.26 days, with a readmission rate of 73 visits (17.09%) for 56 patients. The NLR (3.79 ± 3.32) showed a low but positive correlation with the LOS (r = 0.222, p < 0.001). Conversely, the PLR (144.84 ± 83.08) did not demonstrate a significant association with the LOS. The NLR presented a low negative correlation for days until the next admission (r = −0.023, p = 0.048). In a prespecified subanalysis of 323 admissions, the NT-proBNP exhibited a low positive Pearson correlation with the NLR (r = 0.241, p < 0.001) and PLR (r = 0.151, p = 0.006). Conclusions: The impact of the NLR across heart failure phenotypes may suggest the role of systemic inflammation in understanding and managing CHF.
Therapeutic Potential of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Management: A Narrative Review
Authors: Dragonieri Silvano , Portacci Andrea , Quaranta Vitaliano Nicola , Carratu Pierluigi , Lazar Zsofia , Carpagnano Giovanna Elisiana , Bikov Andras
Published: September 2024

Background: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a prevalent disorder characterized by repetitive upper airway obstructions during sleep, leading to intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation. Current treatments, particularly Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), face adherence challenges, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches. Methods: This review explores the potential of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), commonly used for type 2 diabetes and obesity, in managing OSA. GLP-1RA promotes weight loss, enhances insulin sensitivity, and exhibits anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, potentially addressing key pathophysiological aspects of OSA. Results: Emerging evidence suggests that these agents may reduce OSA severity by decreasing upper airway fat deposition and improving respiratory control. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant reductions in the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) and improvements in sleep quality with GLP-1 therapy. Conclusions: Future research should focus on elucidating the mechanisms underlying GLP-1 effects on OSAS, optimizing combination therapies, and identifying patient subgroups that may benefit the most. Integrating GLP-1RA into OSAS management could revolutionize treatment by addressing both the metabolic and respiratory components of the disorder, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Whole Exome Sequencing of Adult Indians with Apparently Acquired Aplastic Anaemia: Initial Experience at Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Mehta Sudhir , Medicherla Krishna Mohan , Gulati Sandhya , Sharma Nidhi , Parveen Rabia , Mishra Ashwani Kumar , Gupta Sonal , Suravajhala Prashanth
Published: September 2024

Aplastic anaemia (AA) is a rare hypocellular bone marrow disease with a large number of mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (TERT), leading to bone marrow failure. We used our benchmarked whole exome sequencing (WES) pipeline to identify variants in adult Indian subjects with apparently acquired AA. For 36 affected individuals, we sequenced coding regions to a mean coverage of 100× and a sufficient depth was achieved. Downstream validation and filtering to call mutations in patients treated with Cyclosporin A (CsA) identified variants associated with AA. We report four mutations across the genes associated with the AA, TERT and CYP3A5, in addition to other genes, viz., IFNG, PIGA, NBS/NBN, and MPL. We demonstrate the application of WES to discover the variants associated with CsA responders and non-responders in an Indian cohort.
Technological Innovation and Agricultural Productivity in Nigeria Amidst Oil Transition: ARDL Analysis
Authors: Adeyemo Joel T. , Ahmed Adel , Abaver Dominic T. , Riyadh Hosam Alden , Tabash Mosab I. , Lawal Adedoyin Isola
Published: September 2024

In contemporary discourse, Nigeria’s reliance on its oil sector is proving insufficient for sustained economic growth. The volatility of oil prices, geopolitical tensions, technological advancements, and environmental sustainability concerns have exposed the vulnerabilities of an oil-dependent economy, emphasizing the need for diversification and a renewed focus on agriculture. This study investigates the relationship between technological innovation and agricultural productivity in Nigeria, contrasting it with the oil sector. Using the ARDL estimation technique, our findings reveal a significant negative influence of immediate lagged agricultural productivity (AGTFP(−1)), indicating technological constraints. Technological innovation, proxied by TFP, shows a substantial impact on agricultural productivity, with a negative long-term effect (−90.71) but a positive, though insignificant, impact on agricultural output (0.0034). The comparative analysis underscores that the agricultural sector tends to benefit more from technological innovation than the oil sector. This highlights the critical need to prioritize technological advancements in agriculture to drive sustainable growth and economic resilience in Nigeria.
Macrophytes as Key Element to Determine Ecological Quality Changes in Transitional Water Systems: The Venice Lagoon as Study Case
Authors: Sfriso Adriano , Buosi Alessandro , Tomio Yari , Silan Giulia , Wolf Marion Adelheid , Sciuto Katia , Sfriso Andrea Augusto
Published: September 2024

According to European Union guidelines, the assessment of the ecological status of Transitional Water Systems (TWSs) should be based on the monitoring of biological communities rather than physico-chemical parameters and pollutants. Macrophytes, including aquatic angiosperms and macroalgae, are organisms that respond more quickly to environmental changes by varying the structure and biomass of their assemblages. There are several ecological indices based on macrophytes, among them the Macrophyte Quality Index (MaQI), which has been intercalibrated with water and sediment parameters, nutrient concentrations, and pollutants and is used to determine the ecological status of Italian TWSs. In the Venice Lagoon, it was applied to 87 stations, showing a significant score increase over the last ten years of monitoring (2011–2021) due to progressive lagoon environmental recovery. The dominant taxa assemblages, previously dominated by Ulvaceae, were replaced by species of higher ecological value, with an increase in the number and distribution of sensitive species, as well as the spread and cover of aquatic angiosperms. The rise in the Ecological Quality Ratio (EQR) determined by the MaQI confirms the key role of macrophyte monitoring in detecting environmental changes in TWSs. In fact, a simple check of the presence or absence of aquatic angiosperms and sensitive species is sufficient for an initial rapid assessment of the ecological status of these environments.
Construction of the First High-Density Genetic Linkage Map and QTL Mapping of Shikimic Acid Content in Liquidambar
Authors: Fan Yingming , Li Hongxuan , Li Ying , Bao Fen , Zhan Dingju , Pang Zhenwu , Zhao Jian , Zhang Jinfeng
Published: September 2024

High-quality genetic maps are effective tools for elucidating the genetic mechanisms of complex quantitative traits and facilitating marker-assisted breeding. Species within the genus Liquidambar (commonly called sweetgum), particularly Liquidambar styraciflua and Liquidambar formosana, are significant forest resources worldwide. These sweetgum trees have been extensively utilized in medical and cosmetic applications for centuries as they contain large amounts of valuable secondary metabolites. Among these, shikimic acid is a notable metabolite with significant pharmaceutical applications. Despite advances in conventional breeding and propagation techniques for sweetgum, the genetic basis and regulatory mechanisms of valuable traits remain largely unexplored. In this study, we constructed the first high-density genetic map for sweetgum using whole-genome resequencing (WGR) of 220 progeny individuals derived from a cross of L. styraciflua × L. formosana. The genetic map spanned a total distance of 1428.51 centimorgans (cM) with an average inter-marker distance of 0.33 cM, incorporating 4268 bin markers across 16 linkage groups. To identify the genetic loci controlling the shikimic acid content, quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping was carried out based on the genetic map. Two QTLs located on linkage group (LG) 12 were detected, encompassing a total of 213 genes within the QTL interval. Some of these genes are closely related to secondary metabolism in plants, including YUCCA and DXS genes. This study presents the first high-quality genetic map of sweetgum and provides a preliminary QTL analysis for shikimic acid content. Our findings establish a foundational framework for the genetic improvement of sweetgum through marker-assisted breeding and offer valuable insights for further research in sweetgum genetics.
Weed Control and Physiological Responses in Poplar Plantations: Assessing Glyphosate’s Impact
Authors: Dudić Milica , Meseldžija Maja , Vasić Verica , Vranešević Milica , Kesić Lazar , Orlović Saša
Published: September 2024

The presence of weeds and changes in temperature and precipitation due to global climate change can negatively affect the growth, development, and adaptation of poplars to new places. Experiments were conducted at the Experimental Estate of the Institute of Lowland Forestry and Environment to test glyphosate’s efficacy and phytotoxicity and to assess the impact of glyphosate on physiological parameters in different stages of poplar plantations. A test with glyphosate was set up by a random block system with four replications at three localities, each characterized by different physical soil properties. Glyphosate efficacy was evaluated after 15 and 30 days, while phytotoxicity was evaluated according to the EWRC scale. Net photosynthesis (A), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration rate (E), and intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) were measured, and water use efficiency (WUE) was computed. Annual and perennial broadleaf weeds, grasses, and woody shrubs and bushes were identified. The dominant weed species across all poplar plantations were Solidago gigantea L., Solidago speciosa L., and Poa pratensis L. Glyphosate was highly effective against the major weed species, with the total efficacy ranging from 94.29 to 97.67%. The results showed significant differences in all observed gas exchange parameters, except for transpiration rate (E), between the different-aged poplar plantations. The younger poplars showed lower gas exchange rates in the treatment under the environmental conditions of the studied sites. Weed suppression resulted in altered microhabitats for poplar development at various ages, causing variation in the physiological parameters compared to the control.
Static Resilience Evolution of the Global Wood Forest Products Trade Network: A Complex Directed Weighted Network Analysis
Authors: Huang Xiangyu , Wang Zhongwei , Pang Yan , Tian Wujun , Zhang Ming
Published: September 2024

This paper analyzes the static resilience of global wood forest products trade networks across upstream, midstream, downstream, and recycling sectors using a complex directed weighted network approach. By examining topological features and resilience from 2002 to 2021, this study reveals significant structural evolution and scale expansion in these networks. It finds improvements in network efficiency and resilience, alongside an increase in weighted hierarchy highlighting the prominent roles of core countries like China, the US, and Germany. While these countries bolster network resilience, they also introduce certain vulnerabilities. This study finds notable disassortative mixing without trade volume weights and diversified trends with weights, offering new insights into network dynamics. Core nodes must address disruption risks, enhance diversity, and establish emergency response mechanisms. In the recycling sector, this paper highlights weak trade connections and low resilience, with the US maintaining dominance, China’s influence waning, and India’s rapid ascent. This paper concludes by emphasizing the need for refined indicator systems and deeper explorations into resilience enhancement strategies for operational and targeted suggestions.
Exacerbated Tree Growth Decline of an Old Platycladus orientalis Forest after Rapid Warming at the Northern Edge of the Taihang Mountain of China
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Tongxin , Dong Yantao , Han Xinxin , Liu Yang , Mu Yumei , Ma Xiaoyan , Leng Pingsheng , Hu Zenghui
Published: September 2024

Old trees are irreplaceable conservation resources with numerous ecological and socio-cultural values. While many forests have experienced significant declines under recent climate warming, the risk of growth declines in old trees remains unknown. Here, we tackle this problem by dendrochronological studies of 30 old trees in a Platycladus orientalis forest at the northern boundary of the Taihang Mountain of China. We examined annual growth trajectories of trees at individual level and discovered four severe growth decline events over the last 150 years, including the periods of 1894–1899, 1913–1919, 1964–1967 and 2004–2018. The most recent growth decline event lasted for 15-year and involced 50% to 75% of the old trees. This decline was unprecedented in both its extent and duration. Furthermore, the growth–climate relationship of these old trees has changed since 1990. Before 1990, tree growth was significantly correlated with minimum winter; after 1990, tree growth became significantly correlated with the self-calibrating Palmer Drought Index. These results suggest that warming-induced droughts after 1990 could be the primary driver of the recent growth decline. If climate warming continues and drought stresses intensify, the old trees may face an increased risk of growth decline and even mortality.
Response of Fuel Characteristics, Potential Fire Behavior, and Understory Vegetation Diversity to Thinning in Platycladus orientalis Forest in Beijing, China
Authors: Gao Min , Chen Sifan , Suo Aoli , Chen Feng , Liu Xiaodong
Published: September 2024

Objective: Active fuel management operations, such as thinning, can minimize extreme wildfire conditions while preserving ecosystem services, including maintaining understory vegetation diversity. However, the appropriate thinning intensity for balancing the above two objectives has not been sufficiently studied. Methods: This study was conducted to assess the impact of various thinning intensities (light thinning, LT, 15%; moderate thinning, MT, 35%; heavy thinning, HT, 50%; and control treatment, CK) on fuel characteristics, potential fire behavior, and understory vegetation biodiversity in Platycladus orientalis forest in Beijing using a combination of field measurements and fire behavior simulations (BehavePlus 6.0.0). Results: A significant reduction in surface and canopy fuel loads with increasing thinning intensity, notably reducing CBD to below 0.1 kg/m3 under moderate thinning, effectively prevented the occurrence of active crown fires, even under extreme weather conditions. Additionally, moderate thinning enhanced understory species diversity, yielding the highest species diversity index compared to other treatments. Conclusions: These findings suggest that moderate thinning (35%) offers an optimal balance, substantially reducing the occurrence of active crown fires while promoting biodiversity. Therefore, it is recommended to carry out moderate thinning in the study area. Forest managers can leverage this information to devise technical strategies that simultaneously meet fire prevention objectives and enhance understory vegetation species diversity in areas suitable for thinning-only treatments.
Identification of a Fomitopsis pinicola from Xiaoxing’an Mountains and Optimization of Cellulase Activity
Authors: Sun Jing , Yang Hong , Ge-Zhang Shangjie , Chi Yujie , Qi Dawei
Published: September 2024

Brown-rot fungi are large fungi that can decompose the cell walls of wood; they are notable for their secretion of diverse and complex enzymes that synergistically hydrolyze natural wood cellulose molecules. Fomitopsis pinicola (F. pinicola) is a brown-rot fungus of interest for its ability to break down the cellulose in wood efficiently. In this study, through a combination of rDNA-ITS analysis and morphological observation, the wood decay pathogen infecting Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis Siebold and Zucc.) was identified. Endoglucanase (CMCase) and β-glucosidase were quantified using the DNS (3,5-Dinitrosalicylic acid) method, and the cellulase activity was optimized using a single-factor method and orthogonal test. The results revealed that the wood-decaying fungus NE1 identified was Fomitopsis pinicola with the ITS accession number OQ880566.1. The highest cellulase activity of the strain reached 116.94 U/mL under the condition of an initial pH of 6.0, lactose 15 g·L−1, KH2PO4 0.5 g·L−1, NH4NO3 15 g·L−1, MgSO4 0.5 g·L−1, VB1 0.4 g·L−1, inoculated two 5 mm fungal cakes in 80 mL medium volume cultured 28 °C for 5 days. This laid a foundation for improving the degradation rate of cellulose and biotransformation research, as well as exploring the degradation of cellulose by brown rot fungi.
Reliability Analysis of Normal, Lognormal, and Weibull Distributions on Mechanical Behavior of Wood Scrimber
Authors: Qi Yue , Jiang Boyan , Lei Wencheng , Zhang Yahui , Yu Wenji
Published: September 2024

Reliability analysis of mechanical strength could be used for evaluation of wood scrimber properties in this study. Normal, lognormal, and Weibull distributions were used to determine and selected the optimal model for wood scrimber for the first time. The results of reliability analysis indicated that the bending and tensile strength were well fit for normal distribution. Weibull distribution could describe the probability distribution law of compression strength, and lognormal distribution could reflect the probability distribution law of shear strength, respectively. The standard value of each mechanical strength was determined and compared in accordance with two methods. This illustrated that a significant difference between these two methods is evident in the case of modulus of elasticity (MOE), compression strength (CS), and shear strength (SS), while modulus of rupture (MOR) and tensile strength (TS) yielded similar data. The improvement in mechanical strengths was remarkably affected by the increase in density. Moreover, the microstructure of wood scrimber has a good ratio of deformation with respect to density, which can be significantly explained by compressive densification. The results suggest that the deformation ratio increased from 49.75% to 78.67%, which might reflect the variation in macroscopic mechanical strength of wood scrimber.
Effect of Different-Diameter Wooden Pins on Mechanical Properties of Triangular Girder Trusses
Authors: Yue Yanming , Wang Shuo , Chang Cheng , Ma Panpan , Wang Feibin , Wang Zhenlu , Que Zeli
Published: September 2024

With the expanding application of lightweight wooden structures in modern construction, the load-bearing capacity of ordinary triangular single-span wooden trusses limits the applicability of lightweight wooden structures. As a result, triangular multi-span wooden trusses have emerged to replace single-span wooden trusses. In practice, multi-span wooden trusses are composed of multiple single-span lightweight wooden trusses, with connections between members using metal plates, a field that has been relatively well researched. However, connections between spans are primarily made with nails in actual engineering, and there has been little research on the use of wooden pins to connect multi-span wooden trusses. To study the mechanical performance of multi-span wooden trusses connected by wooden pins, this paper innovatively combines existing equipment with a self-designed pulley assembly device to conduct a continuous static full-scale loading test on double-span wooden trusses connected by wooden pins of three different diameters. We comprehensively evaluate which type of wooden pin is more suitable for triangular multi-span wooden trusses. The results indicate that the 16 mm diameter wooden pin provides the best energy dissipation performance for connected beam trusses. The 20 mm diameter wooden pin offers the best performance stability. The 20 mm diameter wooden pin also demonstrates a good load-bearing capacity and resistance to deformation. Overall, the 20 mm diameter wooden pin exhibits the best connection performance in triangular beam trusses.
Research on Wildfires, Soil Erosion and Land Degradation in the XXI Century
Authors: Bento-Gonçalves António , Vieira António , Santos Sarah Moura dos
Published: September 2024

This study carries out a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of scientific production on wildfires, soil erosion and land degradation, with the aim of understanding trends, critical gaps in scientific knowledge and research patterns. A total of 1400 articles published between 2001 and 2023 were analyzed with bibliometric tools (Bibliometrix and VOSviewer), revealing a steady growth in the number of publications over time. International collaboration between countries such as the United States, Spain, China and Portugal is evident, highlighting the global approach to tackling these issues, as well as the mobility and collaboration between scientists. Analyzing the conceptual structure through the co-occurrence of keywords reveals central themes such as “soil erosion” and “wildfire”, indicating areas of primary focus in research. This study highlights the continuing importance of these themes and the need for global collaboration to tackle the environmental challenges affecting forest ecosystems, and particularly the soil layer, caused by wildfires, which affect wildlands all over the world.
Wheat Germ Agglutinin (WGA): Its Nature, Biological Role, Significance in Human Nutrition, and Possibility to Be Used as Marker of Whole-Grain Status in Wheat-Based Foods
Authors: Carcea Marina , Melloni Sahara , Narducci Valentina , Turfani Valeria
Published: September 2024

The growing scientific evidence on the health benefits of whole-grain food consumption has promoted the manufacturing of a great number of products differing in quality and content of whole-grain components. This is particularly true for commercial wheat-based products where it is not always clear how much whole wheat is present considering that in many cases, they are manufactured from reconstituted mill streams and that there is not a standardised globally accepted definition and metrics to objectively evaluate whole-grain status. Attempts have been made to assess the level of “wholegraininess” in wheat products by measuring specific constituents that correlate with different wheat tissues, especially those that are expected to be found in a true whole-grain wheat product. Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), a small lectin protein present exclusively in the wheat-germ tissues, has been indicated by several scientists as one of these constituents and after founding that its level changes depending on the amount of germ found in a wheat flour, it has been indicated as a biomarker of whole-grain status for wheat products. In this review, the biochemistry of WGA, its methods of detection, and current knowledge on its possibility to be practically utilized as a reliable marker are critically discussed.
Bioengineered Anthocyanin-Enriched Tomatoes: A Novel Approach to Colorectal Cancer Prevention
Authors: Suzauddula Md , Kobayashi Kaori , Park Sunghun , Sun Xiuzhi Susan , Wang Weiqun
Published: September 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant global health challenge, with barriers to effective prevention and treatment including tumor recurrence, chemoresistance, and limited overall survival rates. Anthocyanins, known for their strong anti-cancer properties, have shown promise in preventing and suppressing various cancers, including CRC. However, natural sources of anthocyanins often fail to provide sufficient quantities needed for therapeutic effects. Bioengineered crops, particularly anthocyanin-enriched tomatoes, offer a viable solution to enhance anthocyanin content. Given its large-scale production and consumption, tomatoes present an ideal target for bioengineering efforts aimed at increasing dietary anthocyanin intake. This review provides an overview of anthocyanins and their health benefits, elucidating the mechanisms by which anthocyanins modulate the transcription factors involved in CRC development. It also examines case studies demonstrating the successful bioengineering of tomatoes to boost anthocyanin levels. Furthermore, the review discusses the effects of anthocyanin extracts from bioengineered tomatoes on CRC prevention, highlighting their role in altering metabolic pathways and reducing tumor-related inflammation. Finally, this review addresses the challenges associated with bioengineering tomatoes and proposes future research directions to optimize anthocyanin enrichment in tomatoes.
Probiotics and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Unveiling the Mechanisms of Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium bifidum in Modulating Lipid Metabolism, Inflammation, and Intestinal Barrier Integrity
Authors: Lu Jing , Shataer Dilireba , Yan Huizhen , Dong Xiaoxiao , Zhang Minwei , Qin Yanan , Cui Jie , Wang Liang
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has risen annually, yet due to the intricacies of its pathogenesis and therapeutic challenges, there remains no definitive medication for this condition. This review explores the intricate relationship between the intestinal microbiome and the pathogenesis of NAFLD, emphasizing the substantial roles played by Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium bifidum. These probiotics manipulate lipid synthesis genes and phosphorylated proteins through pathways such as the AMPK/Nrf2, LPS-TLR4-NF-κB, AMPKα/PGC-1α, SREBP-1/FAS, and SREBP-1/ACC signaling pathways to reduce hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress, key components of NAFLD progression. By modifying the intestinal microbial composition and abundance, they combat the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, alleviating the inflammatory response precipitated by dysbiosis and bolstering the intestinal mucosal barrier. Furthermore, they participate in cellular immune regulation, including CD4+ T cells and Treg cells, to suppress systemic inflammation. L. plantarum and B. bifidum also modulate lipid metabolism and immune reactions by adjusting gut metabolites, including propionic and butyric acids, which inhibit liver inflammation and fat deposition. The capacity of probiotics to modulate lipid metabolism, immune responses, and gut microbiota presents an innovative therapeutic strategy. With a global increase in NAFLD prevalence, these insights propose a promising natural method to decelerate disease progression, avert liver damage, and tackle associated metabolic issues, significantly advancing microbiome-focused treatments for NAFLD.
Qualitative Profiling, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Polar and Nonpolar Basil Extracts
Authors: Vidaković Vera , Vujić Bojan , Jadranin Milka , Novaković Irena , Trifunović Snežana , Tešević Vele , Mandić Boris
Published: September 2024

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is a widely used culinary herb. In this study, ethanol, dichloromethane, and sunflower oil were used separately as solvents with distinct polarities for the extraction of basil aerial parts to simulate the different polarity conditions in domestic food processing. The oil extract (OE) was re-extracted with acetonitrile, and the chemical composition, antioxidant potential, and antimicrobial activities of the ethanol (EE), dichloromethane (DCME), and acetonitrile (ACNE) extracts were determined. A total of 109 compounds were tentatively identified in EE, DCME, and ACNE by HPLC–DAD/ESI-ToF-MS. Fatty acids were present in all extracts. Phenolic acids and flavonoids dominated in EE. DCME was characterised by triterpenoid acids, while diterpenoids were mainly found in ACNE. The extracts were analysed for their antioxidant capacity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) assay. EE and DCME showed significant radical scavenging potential. Antimicrobial activity was explored in eight bacterial, two yeast, and one fungal species. All extracts exhibited high antifungal activity, comparable to or better than that of the commercial drug nistatin. Antibacterial activities were notable for EE and ACNE, while DCME showed no activity against bacteria in the applied concentration ranges. The different polarities of the solvents led to distinctive phytochemical compositions and bioactivities in the extracts.
Variation and Abundance of Resistant Starch in Selected Banana Cultivars in Uganda
Authors: Kajubi Ali , Baingana Rhona , Matovu Moses , Katwaza Ronald , Kubiriba Jerome , Namanya Priver
Published: September 2024

The physiochemical, structural, and molecular characteristics of starch influence its functional properties, thereby dictating its utilization. The study aimed to profile the properties and quantity of resistant starch (RS) from 15 different banana varieties, extracted using a combination of alkaline and enzyme treatments. Granular structure and molecular organization were analyzed using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The physiochemical and functional properties were also investigated. RS content ranged from 49% to 80% without significant relationship to amylose (AM) (r = −0.1062). SEM revealed significant microarchitectural differences on the granules potentially affecting granule digestibility. FTIR and chemometrics identified differences in the crystalline peaks, yielding varying degrees of the molecular order of the RS polymers that aid in differentiating the RS sources. Despite similar solubility and swelling profiles, the pasting profiles varied across varieties, indicating high paste stability in hydrothermal processing. Clarity ranged from 43% to 93%, attributed to amylose leaching. This study highlights that RS from bananas varies in quantity, structure, and functionality, necessitating individualized approaches for processing and utilization.
Standardized Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) Extract Improves Short- and Long-Term Cognitive Performances in Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Amone Fabio , Spina Amelia , Perri Anna , Lofaro Danilo , Zaccaria Vincenzo , Insolia Violetta , Lirangi Chiara , Puoci Francesco , Nobile Vincenzo
Published: September 2024

Cognitive decline, a common consequence of aging, detrimentally affects independence, physical activity, and social interactions. This decline encompasses various cognitive functions, including processing speed, memory, language, and executive functioning. This trial aimed to investigate, with a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on 96 healthy older adults, the efficacy of once-daily 250 mg of a standardized grape (Vitis vinifera L.) juice extract (Cognigrape®) in improving short- and long-term cognitive functions. The results revealed significant improvements across multiple cognitive domains, notably immediate and delayed memory, visuospatial abilities, language, and attention, with improvements occurring within just 14 days, which continued to improve after 84 days of supplementation. The extract exhibited statistically significant enhancements in the Mini-Mental State Evaluation (MMSE), assessment of neuropsychological status (RBANS), “Esame Neuropsicologico Breve 2 (ENB-2), and Modified Bells Test (MBT) scores, with the latter test revealing a significant improvement in selective attention within just 90 min of the first dose. These positive results highlight the potential this natural grape extract has on improving cognitive function both acutely and chronically in a healthy aging population, which in turn supports a longer health span, at least cognitively.
Effect of Physical Separation with Ultrasound Application on Brewers’ Spent Grain to Obtain Powders for Potential Application in Foodstuffs
Authors: Ruíz Suarez Camila Belén , Schalchli Sáez Heidi Laura , Melo Priscilla Siqueira , Moreira Carolina de Souza , Sartori Alan Giovanini de Oliveira , de Alencar Severino Matias , Scheuermann Salinas Erick Sigisfredo
Published: September 2024

Brewers’ spent grain (BSG) is the primary by-product of beer production, and its potential use in food products is largely dependent on its processing, given its moisture content of up to 80%. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of physical separation with ultrasound application on the color, total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, proximate composition, total dietary fibers, and particle size distribution of BSG powders. Wet BSG (W) was subjected to two processes: one without ultrasound (A) and one with ultrasound (B). Both processes included pressing, convective air-drying, sieving, fraction separation (A1 and B1 as coarse with particles ≥ 2.36 mm; A2 and B2 as fine with particles < 2.36 mm), and milling. The total color difference compared to W increased through both processes, ranging from 1.1 (B1 vs. A1) to 5.7 (B1 vs. A2). There was no significant difference in TPC, but process B powders, particularly B2, showed lower antioxidant activity against ABTS•+, likely due to the release of antioxidant compounds into the liquid fraction during pressing after ultrasound treatment. Nonetheless, process B powders exhibited a higher content of soluble dietary fibers. In conclusion, ultrasound application shows potential for further extraction of soluble fibers. However, process A might be more practical for industrial and craft brewers. Further studies on the use of the resulting BSG powders as food ingredients are recommended.
Psychological Changes in Green Food Consumption in the Digital Context: Exploring the Role of Green Online Interactions from a Comprehensive Perspective
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Xu Shiwei , Ren Yilei , Wang Jing
Published: September 2024

The advent of the digital economy has brought new opportunities to food marketing. In China, many food businesses have begun to use interactions under specific social media topics to open up new sales channels. Green food, as a representative of environmentally related topics, is increasingly influencing consumer choices through online interactions. In light of this, this study collected data from a large group of participants engaged in online green interactions to explore the psychological mechanisms behind consumers’ choices of green food in an online context. The findings indicate that online green interactions positively influence the willingness to purchase green food, with environmental self-efficacy and flow experience serving as mediators in this relationship. Information trust and consumer traits act as boundary conditions. This study not only deepens the understanding of food consumer behavior in the digital context, but also provides important references for food companies on how to more effectively utilize online interaction to promote the market expansion of green food.