bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative Carbon Mitigation Techniques to Achieve Environmental Sustainability Agenda: Evidence from a Panel of 21 Selected R&D Economies
Authors: Anser Muhammad Khalid , Abbas Shujaat , Nassani Abdelmohsen A. , Haffar Mohamed , Zaman Khalid , Abro Muhammad Moinuddin Qazi
Published: November 2021

Technological innovation in the energy sector is highly needed to reduce carbon emission costs, which requires knowledge spillovers, financial development, and carbon pricing to achieve a green developmental agenda. The current study examines the role of knowledge innovations in achieving the environmental sustainability agenda under financial development and carbon pricing in a panel of 21 selected R&D economies from 1990 to 2018. The study constructed a composite index of financial development and knowledge innovation in the carbon pricing model. The results show that carbon pricing, a financial development index, innovation index, and energy demand fail to achieve stringent carbon reduction targets. A U-shaped relationship is found between carbon emissions and per capita income in the absence of a financial development index and trade openness. At the same time, this study shows the monotonic decreasing function in the presence of all factors. The causality estimates confirmed the feedback relationship between carbon pricing and carbon emissions, carbon pricing and the financial index, and the financial development index and innovation index. Further, the causality results established the carbon-led financial development and innovation, growth-led carbon emissions, and trade-led emissions, pricing, and financial development in a panel of selected countries. The estimates of the innovation accounting matrix (forecasting mechanism) confirmed the viability of the environmental sustainability agenda through carbon pricing, knowledge innovation, and financial development over a time horizon. However, these factors are not achievable carbon reduction targets in a given period. The study concludes that carbon pricing may provide a basis for achieving an environmental sustainability agenda through market-based innovations, green financing options, and improved energy resources. This would ultimately help desensitize carbon emissions across countries.
An Overall Uniformity Optimization Method of the Spherical Icosahedral Grid Based on the Optimal Transformation Theory
Authors: Luo Fuli , Zhao Xuesheng , Sun Wenbin , Li Yalu , Duan Yuanzheng
Published: November 2021

The improvement of overall uniformity and smoothness of spherical icosahedral grids, the basic framework of atmospheric models, is a key to reducing simulation errors. However, most of the existing grid optimization methods have optimized grid from different aspects and not improved overall uniformity and smoothness of grid at the same time, directly affecting the accuracy and stability of numerical simulation. Although a well-defined grid with more than 12 points cannot be constructed on a sphere, the area uniformity and the interval uniformity of the spherical grid can be traded off to enhance extremely the overall grid uniformity and smoothness. To solve this problem, an overall uniformity and smoothness optimization method of the spherical icosahedral grid is proposed based on the optimal transformation theory. The spherical cell decomposition method has been introduced to iteratively update the grid to minimize the spherical transportation cost, achieving an overall optimization of the spherical icosahedral grid. Experiments on the four optimized grids (the spring dynamics optimized grid, the Heikes and Randall optimized grid, the spherical centroidal Voronoi tessellations optimized grid and XU optimized grid) demonstrate that the grid area uniformity of our method has been raised by 22.60% of SPRG grid, −1.30% of HR grid, 38.30% of SCVT grid and 38.20% of XU grid, and the grid interval uniformity has been improved by 2.50% of SPRG grid, 2.80% of HR grid, 11.10% of SCVT grid and 11.00% of XU grid. Although the grid uniformity of the proposed method is similar with the HR grid, the smoothness of grid deformation has been enhanced by 79.32% of grid area and 24.07% of grid length. To some extent, the proposed method may be viewed as a novel optimization approach of the spherical icosahedral grid which can improve grid overall uniformity and smoothness of grid deformation.
Genetics & Epigenetics of Hereditary Deafness: An Historical Overview
Authors: Martini Alessandro , Sorrentino Flavia , Sorrentino Ugo , Cassina Matteo
Published: November 2021

Hearing loss (HL) is one of the most common sensory impairments worldwide and represents a critical medical and public health issue. Since the mid-1900s, great efforts have been aimed at understanding the etiology of both syndromic and non-syndromic HL and identifying correlations with specific audiological phenotypes. The extraordinary discoveries in the field of molecular genetics during the last three decades have contributed substantially to the current knowledge. Next-generation sequencing technologies have dramatically increased the diagnostic rate for genetic HL, enabling the detection of novel variants in known deafness-related genes and the discovery of new genes implicated in hearing disease. Overall, genetic factors account for at least 40% of the cases with HL, but a portion of affected patients still lack a definite molecular diagnosis. Important steps forward have been made, but many aspects still have to be clarified. In particular, the role of epigenetics in the development, function and pathology of hearing is a research field that still needs to be explored. This research is extremely challenging due to the time- and tissue-dependent variability of the epigenetic changes. Multisystem diseases are expected to be investigated at first: specific epi-signatures have been identified for several syndromic disorders and represent potential markers for molecular diagnostics.
Influence of Three Probiotics Strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis BB-12 and Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 on the Biochemical and Haematological Profiles and Body Weight of Healthy Rabbits
Authors: Kadja Louiza , Dib Amira Leila , Lakhdara Nedjoua , Bouaziz Assia , Espigares Elena , Gagaoua Mohammed
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to investigate the effects of three strains of probiotics, these being Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis BB-12 and Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745, on the body weight, animal performances and blood parameters of rabbits (male and female) of the ITELV2006 strain. The supplementation of the feed of the rabbits with the three probiotic strains allowed observing positive effects on most of the biochemical and haematological parameters investigated during a period of 60 days (30 days of supplementation and 30 days without treatment). Further, there was a significant improvement in the body weight of the rabbits at the end of the experiment. The effect of the three probiotics investigated in this trial was found to be related to the sex of the rabbits and to the intake period (duration). Ultimately, these findings raise the possibility of using probiotics to investigate in an in-depth and specific manner based on fixed factors such as the strain, the gender and age of the animals, the main underlying mechanisms and effects, which would allow achieving optimal and adapted health benefits and sustainable production. In the context of animal production, it is worth investigating in a targeted study the effect of the three strains on muscle growth and development and finding evidence of the possible consequences on meat quality traits of the rabbits supplemented with probiotics.
Late-Stage Functionalisation of Polycyclic (N-Hetero-) Aromatic Hydrocarbons by Detoxifying CYP5035S7 Monooxygenase of the White-Rot Fungus Polyporus arcularius
Authors: Fessner Nico D. , Grimm Christopher , Kroutil Wolfgang , Glieder Anton
Published: November 2021

Functionalisation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their N-heteroarene analogues (NPAHs) is a tedious synthetic endeavour that requires diverse bottom-up approaches. Cytochrome P450 enzymes of white-rot fungi were shown to participate in the fungal detoxification of xenobiotics and environmental hazards via hydroxylation of PAH compounds. In this paper, the recently discovered activity of the monooxygenase CYP5035S7 towards (N)PAHs was investigated in detail, and products formed from the substrates azulene, acenaphthene, fluorene, anthracene, and phenanthrene by whole-cell biocatalysis were isolated and characterised. The observed regioselectivity of CYP5035S7 could be explained by a combination of the substrate’s electron density and steric factors influencing the substrate orientation giving insight into the active-site geometry of the enzyme.
Functional Role of AKNA: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ramírez-González Abrahán , Manzo-Merino Joaquín , Contreras-Ochoa Carla Olbia , Bahena-Román Margarita , Aguilar-Villaseñor José Manasés , Lagunas-Martínez Alfredo , Rosenstein Yvonne , Madrid Marina Vicente , Torres-Poveda Kirvis
Published: November 2021

Human akna encodes an AT-hook transcription factor whose expression participates in various cellular processes. We conducted a scoping review on the literature regarding the functional role of AKNA according to the evidence found in human and in vivo and in vitro models, stringently following the “PRISMA-ScR” statement recommendations. Methods: We undertook an independent PubMed literature search using the following search terms, AKNA OR AKNA ADJ gene OR AKNA protein, human OR AKNA ADJ functions. Observational and experimental articles were considered. The selected studies were categorized using a pre-determined data extraction form. A narrative summary of the evidence was produced. Results: AKNA modulates the expression of CD40 and CD40L genes in immune system cells. It is a negative regulator of inflammatory processes as evidenced by knockout mouse models and observational studies for several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, AKNA contributes to the de-regulation of the immune system in cancer, and it has been proposed as a susceptibility genetic factor and biomarker in CC, GC, and HNSCC. Finally, AKNA regulates neurogenesis by destabilizing the microtubules dynamics. Conclusion: Our results provide evidence for the role of AKNA in various cellular processes, including immune response, inflammation, development, cancer, autoimmunity, and neurogenesis.
Beta-Caryophyllene Exhibits Anti-Proliferative Effects through Apoptosis Induction and Cell Cycle Modulation in Multiple Myeloma Cells
Authors: Mannino Federica , Pallio Giovanni , Corsaro Roberta , Minutoli Letteria , Altavilla Domenica , Vermiglio Giovanna , Allegra Alessandro , Eid Ali , Bitto Alessandra , Squadrito Francesco , Irrera Natasha
Published: November 2021

Cannabinoid receptors, which are widely distributed in the body, have been considered as possible pharmacological targets for the management of several tumors. Cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2Rs) belong to the G protein-coupled receptor family and are mainly expressed in hematopoietic and immune cells, such as B-cells, T-cells, and macrophages; thus, CB2R activation might be useful for treating cancers affecting plasma cells, such as multiple myeloma (MM). Previous studies have shown that CB2R stimulation may have anti-proliferative effects; therefore, the purpose of the present study was to explore the antitumor effect of beta-caryophyllene (BCP), a CB2R agonist, in an in vitro model of MM. Dexamethasone-resistant (MM.1R) and sensitive (MM.1S) human multiple myeloma cell lines were used in this study. Cells were treated with different concentrations of BCP for 24 h, and a group of cells was pre-incubated with AM630, a specific CB2R antagonist. BCP treatment reduced cell proliferation through CB2R stimulation; notably, BCP considerably increased the pro-apoptotic protein Bax and decreased the anti-apoptotic molecule Bcl-2. Furthermore, an increase in caspase 3 protein levels was detected following BCP incubation, thus demonstrating its anti-proliferative effect through apoptosis activation. In addition, BCP regulated AKT, Wnt1, and beta-catenin expression, showing that CB2R stimulation may decrease cancer cell proliferation by modulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. These effects were counteracted by AM630 co-incubation, thus confirming that BCP’s mechanism of action is mainly related to CB2R modulation. A decrease in β-catenin regulated the impaired cell cycle and especially promoted cyclin D1 and CDK 4/6 reduction. Taken together, these data revealed that BCP might have significant and effective anti-cancer and anti-proliferative effects in MM cells by activating apoptosis, modulating different molecular pathways, and downregulating the cell cycle.
Modeling the Tumor Microenvironment of Ovarian Cancer: The Application of Self-Assembling Biomaterials
Authors: Mendoza-Martinez Ana Karen , Loessner Daniela , Mata Alvaro , Azevedo Helena S.
Published: November 2021

Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is one of the leading causes of gynecologic malignancies. Despite treatment with surgery and chemotherapy, OvCa disseminates and recurs frequently, reducing the survival rate for patients. There is an urgent need to develop more effective treatment options for women diagnosed with OvCa. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a key driver of disease progression, metastasis and resistance to treatment. For this reason, 3D models have been designed to represent this specific niche and allow more realistic cell behaviors compared to conventional 2D approaches. In particular, self-assembling peptides represent a promising biomaterial platform to study tumor biology. They form nanofiber networks that resemble the architecture of the extracellular matrix and can be designed to display mechanical properties and biochemical motifs representative of the TME. In this review, we highlight the properties and benefits of emerging 3D platforms used to model the ovarian TME. We also outline the challenges associated with using these 3D systems and provide suggestions for future studies and developments. We conclude that our understanding of OvCa and advances in materials science will progress the engineering of novel 3D approaches, which will enable the development of more effective therapies.
The Radiotherapy Role in the Multidisciplinary Management of Locally Advanced Vulvar Cancer: A Multidisciplinary VulCan Team Review
Authors: Tagliaferri Luca , Lancellotta Valentina , Casà Calogero , Fragomeni Simona Maria , Ferioli Martina , Gentileschi Stefano , Caretto Anna Amelia , Corrado Giacomo , Gui Benedetta , Colloca Giuseppe Ferdinando , Gambacorta Maria Antonietta , Morganti Alessio Giuseppe , Garganese Giorgia , Macchia Gabriella
Published: November 2021

Locally advanced vulvar cancer (LAVC) is a challenging disease, requiring multidisciplinary management. The aim of this review is to propose an integrated clinical approach including radiotherapy (RT) in the multidisciplinary management of LAVC to customize the treatment. A review of the literature was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane library to acquire all relevant studies on RT in LAVC. Based on the available evidence, RT, with or without concurrent chemotherapy, has a relevant role as adjuvant and exclusive treatment or in the neoadjuvant setting. However, multicentric prospective trials are needed to define the best treatment options based on tumor and patient characteristics. A multidisciplinary and multidimensional assessment can also be useful to identify the most suitable approach, considering patients’ age and comorbidities, in view of a better treatment personalization.
Mutagenesis of the l-Amino Acid Ligase RizA Increased the Production of Bioactive Dipeptides
Authors: Bordewick Sven , Berger Ralf G. , Ersoy Franziska
Published: November 2021

The l-amino acid ligase RizA from B. subtilis selectively synthesizes dipeptides containing an N-terminal arginine. Many arginyl dipeptides have salt-taste enhancing properties while Arg-Phe has been found to have an antihypertensive effect. A total of 21 RizA variants were created by site-directed mutagenesis of eight amino acids in the substrate binding pocket. The variants were recombinantly produced in E. coli and purified by affinity chromatography. Biocatalytic reactions were set up with arginine and four amino acids differing in size and polarity (aspartic acid, serine, alanine, and phenylalanine) and were analyzed by RP-HPLC with fluorescence detection. Variant T81F significantly improved the yield in comparison to wild type RizA for aspartic acid (7 to 17%), serine (33 to 47%) and alanine (12 to 17%). S84F increased product yield similarly for aspartic acid (7 to 17%) and serine (33 to 42%). D376E increased the yield with alanine (12 to 19%) and phenylalanine (11 to 26%). The largest change was observed for S156A, which showed a yield for Arg-Phe of 40% corresponding to a 270% increase in product concentration. This study expands the knowledge about positions governing the substrate specificity of RizA and may help to inform future protein engineering endeavors.
α-Diimine Ni-Catalyzed Ethylene Polymerizations: On the Role of Nickel(I) Intermediates
Authors: Soshnikov Igor E. , Semikolenova Nina V. , Bryliakov Konstantin P. , Talsi Evgenii P.
Published: November 2021

Nickel(II) complexes with bidentate N,N-α-diimine ligands constitute a broad class of promising catalysts for the synthesis of branched polyethylenes via ethylene homopolymerization. Despite extensive studies devoted to the rational design of new Ni(II) α-diimines with desired catalytic properties, the polymerization mechanism has not been fully rationalized. In contrast to the well-characterized cationic Ni(II) active sites of ethylene polymerization and their precursors, the structure and role of Ni(I) species in the polymerization process continues to be a “black box”. This perspective discusses recent advances in the understanding of the nature and role of monovalent nickel complexes formed in Ni(II) α-diimine-based ethylene polymerization catalyst systems.
A Comprehensive Review on the Interplay between Neisseria spp. and Host Sphingolipid Metabolites
Authors: Peters Simon , Fohmann Ingo , Rudel Thomas , Schubert-Unkmeir Alexandra
Published: November 2021

Sphingolipids represent a class of structural related lipids involved in membrane biology and various cellular processes including cell growth, apoptosis, inflammation and migration. Over the past decade, sphingolipids have become the focus of intensive studies regarding their involvement in infectious diseases. Pathogens can manipulate the sphingolipid metabolism resulting in cell membrane reorganization and receptor recruitment to facilitate their entry. They may recruit specific host sphingolipid metabolites to establish a favorable niche for intracellular survival and proliferation. In contrast, some sphingolipid metabolites can also act as a first line defense against bacteria based on their antimicrobial activity. In this review, we will focus on the strategies employed by pathogenic Neisseria spp. to modulate the sphingolipid metabolism and hijack the sphingolipid balance in the host to promote cellular colonization, invasion and intracellular survival. Novel techniques and innovative approaches will be highlighted that allow imaging of sphingolipid derivatives in the host cell as well as in the pathogen.
Automated Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in CT Scans under Clinical Conditions Using Deep Learning
Authors: Golla Alena-K. , Tönnes Christian , Russ Tom , Bauer Dominik F. , Froelich Matthias F. , Diehl Steffen J. , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Keese Michael , Schad Lothar R. , Zöllner Frank G. , Rink Johann S.
Published: November 2021

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) may remain clinically silent until they enlarge and patients present with a potentially lethal rupture. This necessitates early detection and elective treatment. The goal of this study was to develop an easy-to-train algorithm which is capable of automated AAA screening in CT scans and can be applied to an intra-hospital environment. Three deep convolutional neural networks (ResNet, VGG-16 and AlexNet) were adapted for 3D classification and applied to a dataset consisting of 187 heterogenous CT scans. The 3D ResNet outperformed both other networks. Across the five folds of the first training dataset it achieved an accuracy of 0.856 and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.926. Subsequently, the algorithms performance was verified on a second data set containing 106 scans, where it ran fully automated and resulted in an accuracy of 0.953 and an AUC of 0.971. A layer-wise relevance propagation (LRP) made the decision process interpretable and showed that the network correctly focused on the aortic lumen. In conclusion, the deep learning-based screening proved to be robust and showed high performance even on a heterogeneous multi-center data set. Integration into hospital workflow and its effect on aneurysm management would be an exciting topic of future research.
The Role of STEM Program Directors in Broadening the Impact of STEM Interventions
Authors: Gomez Ana Karen , Cobian Krystle Palma , Hurtado Sylvia
Published: November 2021

STEM transformation has been a longstanding goal for higher education institutions who not only wish to maintain global economic competitiveness but most recently have also aimed efforts at achieving STEM equity. While researchers have typically looked to students’ and faculty’s experiences for answers, STEM program directors possess great insight from working closely with students in both faculty and administrative roles. This study explores the views of 45 STEM program directors at 10 institutions across the U.S. that had high STEM bachelor’s degree-completion rates relative to similarly resourced institutions. We document the lessons and strategies that STEM program directors have used to broaden institutional impact, including demonstrating their program’s efficacy through assessments and evaluations, coordinating, and streamlining efforts to ensure program efficiency and longevity, incentivizing support for labor, and consolidating support from institutional leaders. We also disentangle the roles STEM program directors play as grassroots leaders or institutional agents, distinguishing them by their authority and decision-making power and by whether they work to transform the institution to better serve students or to transform students’ behaviors to adapt to the institution. Our findings provide avenues to leverage STEM program directors’ efforts in order to move toward STEM education transformation in higher education.
A SPICE Model for IGBTs and Power MOSFETs Focusing on EMI/EMC in High-Voltage Systems
Authors: Khvitia Badri , Gheonjian Anna , Kutchadze Zviadi , Jobava Roman
Published: November 2021

We describe two models of Power Transistors (IGBT, MOSFET); both were successfully used for the analysis of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) while modeling high-voltage systems (PFC, DC/DC, inverter, etc.). The first semi-mathematical–behavioral insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) model introduces nonlinear negative feedback generated in the semiconductor’s p+ and n+ layers, which are located near the metal contact of the IGBT emitter, to better describe the dynamic characteristics of the transistor. A simplified model of the metal–oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) in the IGBT is used to simplify this IGBT model. The second simpler behavioral model could be used to model both IGBTs and MOSFETs. Model parameters are obtained from datasheets and then adjusted using results from a single measurement test. Modeling results are compared with measured turn-on and turn-off waveforms for different types of IGBTs. To check the validation of the models, a brushless DC electric motor test setup with an inverter was created. Despite the simplicity of the presented models, a comparison of model predictions with hardware measurements revealed that the model accurately forecasted switch transients and aided EMI–EMC investigations.
Integer-Only CNNs with 4 Bit Weights and Bit-Shift Quantization Scales at Full-Precision Accuracy
Authors: Vandersteegen Maarten , Van Beeck Kristof , Goedemé Toon
Published: November 2021

Quantization of neural networks has been one of the most popular techniques to compress models for embedded (IoT) hardware platforms with highly constrained latency, storage, memory-bandwidth, and energy specifications. Limiting the number of bits per weight and activation has been the main focus in the literature. To avoid major degradation of accuracy, common quantization methods introduce additional scale factors to adapt the quantized values to the diverse data ranges, present in full-precision (floating-point) neural networks. These scales are usually kept in high precision, requiring the target compute engine to support a few high-precision multiplications, which is not desirable due to the larger hardware cost. Little effort has yet been invested in trying to avoid high-precision multipliers altogether, especially in combination with 4 bit weights. This work proposes a new quantization scheme, based on power-of-two quantization scales, that works on-par compared to uniform per-channel quantization with full-precision 32 bit quantization scales when using only 4 bit weights. This is done through the addition of a low-precision lookup-table that translates stored 4 bit weights into nonuniformly distributed 8 bit weights for internal computation. All our quantized ImageNet CNNs achieved or even exceeded the Top-1 accuracy of their full-precision counterparts, with ResNet18 exceeding its full-precision model by 0.35%. Our MobileNetV2 model achieved state-of-the-art performance with only a slight drop in accuracy of 0.51%.
Road Dynamic Object Mapping System Based on Edge-Fog-Cloud Computing
Authors: Shin Sooyeon , Kim Jungseok , Moon Changjoo
Published: November 2021

Dynamic objects appearing on the road without notice can cause serious accidents. However, the detection ranges of roadside unit and CCTV that collect current road information are very limited. Moreover, there are a lack of systems for managing the collected information. In this study, a dynamic mapping system was implemented using a connected car that collected road environments data continuously. Additionally, edge-fog-cloud computing was applied to efficiently process large amounts of road data. For accurate dynamic mapping, the following steps are proposed: first, the classification and 3D position of road objects are estimated through a stereo camera and GPS data processing, and the coordinates of objects are mapped to a preset grid cell. Second, object information is transmitted in real time to a constructed big data processing platform. Subsequently, the collected information is compared with the grid information of an existing map, and the map is updated. As a result, an accurate dynamic map is created and maintained. In addition, this study verifies that maps can be shared in real time with IoT devices in various network environments, and this can support a safe driving milieu.
Nationwide Assessment of Population Structure, Stability and Plant Morphology of Two Mimusops Species along a Social-Ecological Gradient in Benin, West Africa
Authors: Sinasson S. Gisèle K. , Shackleton Charlie M. , Sinsin Brice
Published: November 2021

Understanding tree species autecology and population structure supports effective conservation actions. Of particular importance are multipurpose trees that provide non-timber forest products (NTFPs). We assessed the population structures and morphologies of two species of NTFP trees in the genus Mimusops across bioclimatic zones in Benin by sampling 288 plots within 11 forests. Structural characteristics were compared between species, forests and zones. Correlations were also observed between Mimusops tree regeneration density, tree features and ecological characteristics. The density of trees ≥5 cm and of regeneration and mean tree height were higher for M. andongensis (within more protected forest) than M. kummel (in forests with access to people), while the highest mean diameter was observed for M. kummel. Tree and regeneration densities and mean height were greatest in the humid zone of Benin, whilst the largest mean diameter was obtained in the sub-humid zone. The results showed significant correlations between regeneration density and soil properties for M. andongensis but not for M. kummel. The correlations between tree morphology and soil characteristics were weak for both species. Ecological characteristics, along with the species’ functional traits and pressures, are important factors related to the observed differences between the species. All diameter classes were represented, and the population seemed more stable in the more protected forest relative to other forests. Mimusops trees with a diameter of 5–15 cm represented more than 30% of this species in most forests; this suggests, for M. kummel, whose trees flower when quite small (≥6 cm dbh), that there are sufficient reproductive trees. Thus, as a long-lived species, its populations could be maintained even with low/episodic recruitment. However, we found no regeneration in many forests and climate change could threaten populations. Therefore, it is important to investigate regeneration growth and dynamics, seed production and germination of the species in relation to the biophysical conditions and disturbances experienced by Mimusops stands.
Influence of Drying Techniques on the Physicochemical, Nutritional, and Morphological Properties of Bighead Carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) Fillets
Authors: Alahmad Kamal , Xia Wenshui , Jiang Qixing , Xu Yanshun
Published: November 2021

Different experiment analyses were performed to evaluate the influence of two drying techniques (oven drying and microwave drying) on the fillets of bighead carp fish (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis). The processed and fresh samples were subjected to the chemical analysis of (amino acids, minerals, volatile compounds, fatty acids, and vitamins) as well as scanning electron microscopy, thermal analysis, and color measurement, in order to identify nutritional components that can be additives or supplementary in food industries. The drying techniques increased the protein content significantly. Amino acids were identified, and the level of essential amino acid (EAA) was higher under the microwave treatment compared with the oven drying process. The Ca+2 and K+1 were presented in high values, followed by Na+1 and Mg+2. In addition, the drying techniques showed and released more volatile compounds in the processed samples compared with the unprocessed samples. Under the drying process, polyunsaturated fatty acids were increased in the processed fillets, whereas the level of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids reduced. Thermal degradation occurred from 100 to 150 °C. However, the processed samples were subjected to an intensive endothermic response, but remained stable until 100 °C. Therefore, the microwave technique showed some enhancements in the nutritional value and has the potential to be applied as an effective preservation method of bighead carp fish. Furthermore, dried fillets could be an alternative source of bighead carp fish for the food industry.
Do Parental and Peer Support Protect Adjustment in the Face of Ethnic Discrimination? A Comparison between Refugee Youth and Youth of Immigrant Descent
Authors: Wenzing Julia Marie Christina , Gharaei Nadya , Demir Zeynep , Schachner Maja Katharina
Published: November 2021

Applying a risk and protection perspective, this study paid special attention to the protective roles of parental and peer support in the face of perceived ethnic discrimination (PED) at school. Responding to the inconsistent findings of previous research, the survey study provides greater clarity regarding the interactions between PED at school, social support and positive adjustment (self-esteem, self-efficacy, optimism and school integration). The sample comprised 104 ethnic-minority youth (Mage = 17.73, SD = 3.29, 61% female), including refugee youth (n = 55) and second- and third-generation youth of immigrant descent (n = 49). Structural equation models across the whole sample confirmed peer support as a significant moderator, indicating that ethnic-minority youth who received low peer support were less optimistic when facing PED. In multi-group models, we tested whether results differ across refugee youth and youth of immigrant descent. Results revealed between-group differences concerning the moderating roles of parental and peer support: For youth of immigrant descent, while more PED was associated with lower self-esteem when receiving low parental support, we found a positive association between PED and optimism when receiving high parental support. Based on the findings that refugee youth were shown to be less optimistic when obtaining low peer support, the main interaction effect for peer support on optimism seemed to be driven by refugee youth. The results of our cross-sectional study highlight the importance of identifying specific social support factors for specific adjustment outcomes and also the importance of differentiating between minority groups. Further, the findings offer practical implications for the educational sector in terms of programs focusing on the development of peer-support networks to especially promote refugee youth resilience and resettlement in Germany.
Will the Volume-Based Procurement Policy Promote Pharmaceutical Firms’ R&D Investment in China? An Event Study Approach
Authors: Hu Yuanyuan , Chen Shouming , Qiu Fangjun , Chen Peien , Chen Shaoxiong
Published: November 2021

Innovation is the key to the development of the pharmaceutical industry. The pilot program of China’s “4 + 7” volume-based procurement policy (“4 + 7” procurement policy) brings the drug price back to a reasonable level through trading procurement quantities for lower drug prices. The policy manages to reduce the burden of the health care system, improve efficiency, and push the pharmaceutical industry to transform and update from the era of high gross profit of generic drugs to innovative drugs. So far, few studies have investigated the influence of the volume-based procurement policy on the innovation of pharmaceutical firms. By combining the event study and Difference-in-Difference (DiD) methodology, this study finds that the abnormal return (AR) of firms with high R&D intensity is lower than that of firms with low R&D intensity during the event window period. Moreover, further analysis identifies the moderating effect of firm size and firm type. Specifically, the results show that the negative influence of high R&D intensity on abnormal return (AR) during the announcement of the “4 + 7” procurement policy is stronger in large firms and innovative pharmaceutical firms. Finally, we discuss the policy implications of our study.
Can Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Kinematic Analysis Predict Recovery of Oral Intake in Postoperative Oral Cancer Patients Requiring Nasogastric Tube Feeding?
Authors: Okumura Takuma , Hara Koji , Nakane Ayako , Namiki Chizuru , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Yamaguchi Kohei , Yoshimi Kanako , Toyoshima Mizue , Sasaki Yoshiyuki , Tohara Haruka
Published: November 2021

This retrospective study determined the significant predictive factors for the number of days required to remove nasogastric tubes (NGTs) after surgery in patients with oral cancer (OC). In this study, patients underwent a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) approximately 2 weeks after surgery. Videofluoroscopic images were analyzed, and variables such as swallowing and swallowing kinematics were measured. Patient characteristics, swallowing kinematics, and swallowing results were assessed using a Cox proportional hazards model. This study assessed 129 participants (66 men, 63 women, mean age: 69.0 ± 14.1 years) with nine types of cancer. The Cox proportional hazard ratio revealed that sex, body mass index before surgery, radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy, dysphagia before surgery, normalized pharyngeal constriction ratio, upper esophageal sphincter (UES) opening, and laryngeal vestibule disclosure (LVC) disorder were predictive factors for the removal of NGTs when adjusted for age. The study identified several predictive factors for the removal of NGTs and oral intake recovery in patients with OC. Regarding swallowing kinematics, UES opening is the most significant predictive factor. After surgery for OC, VFSS should be performed to assess safe eating methods and predict the recovery of oral intake and removal of the NGT.
Health Patterns among Migrant and Non-Migrant Middle- and Older-Aged Individuals in Europe—Analyses Based on Share 2004–2017
Authors: Vonneilich Nico , Bremer Daniel , von dem Knesebeck Olaf , Lüdecke Daniel
Published: November 2021

Introduction: European populations are becoming older and more diverse. Little is known about the health differences between the migrant and non-migrant elderly in Europe. The aim of this paper was to analyse changes in the health patterns of middle- and older-aged migrant and non-migrant populations in Europe from 2004 to 2017, with a specific focus on differences in age and gender. We analysed changes in the health patterns of older migrants and non-migrants in European countries from 2004 to 2017. Method: Based on data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (6 waves; 2004–2017; n = 233,117) we analysed three health indicators (physical functioning, depressive symptoms, and self-rated health). Logistic regression models for complex samples were calculated. Interaction terms (wave * migrant * gender * age) were used to analyse gender and age differences and the change over time. Results: Middle- and older-aged migrants in Europe showed significantly higher rates of depressive symptoms, lower self-rated health, and a higher proportion of limitations on general activities compared to non-migrants. However, different time trends were observed. An increasing health gap was identified in the physical functioning of older males. Narrowing health gaps over time were observed in women. Discussion: An increasing health gap in physical functioning in men is evidence of cumulative disadvantage. In women, evidence points towards the hypothesis of aging-as-leveler. These different results highlight the need for specific interventions focused on healthy ageing in elderly migrant men.
Reporting of Concussion Symptoms by a Nationwide Survey of United States Parents of Middle School Children
Authors: Kerr Zachary Y. , Ingram Brittany M. , Callahan Christine E. , Nedimyer Aliza K. , Chandran Avinash , Kossman Melissa K. , Hoang Julia , Gildner Paula , Register-Mihalik Johna K.
Published: November 2021

This cross-sectional study assessed concussion symptom knowledge of parents of middle school (MS) children (aged 10–15 years) through a free-response item that solicited concussion symptoms and compared findings to a pre-validated scale-based measure. A self-administered online questionnaire was sent to a panel of randomly selected United States residents who were recruited by a third-party company, aged ≥ 18 years, and identified as parents of MS children. Via a free-response item, parents listed what they believed were concussion symptoms. Multiple sections later, parents identified potential concussion symptoms via a scale measure, which featured 25 items (22 actual symptoms, three distractor symptoms) with three response options: yes, no, maybe. Free-response item responses were coded into specific symptoms. The 1062 eligible parents that provided complete data commonly identified the symptoms of dizziness (90.2%), blurred vision (87.4%), and balance problems (86.4%) on the scale-based measure. However, these and other symptoms were less commonly identified via the free-response item (dizziness: 44.4%; blurred vision: 16.5%; balance problems: 3.5%). Concussion symptoms commonly reported via the scale-based measure were reported less frequently within the free-response item. Future research must explore strategies to help clinicians working with parents and their children to measure and assess concussion symptom reporting and knowledge.
Spatial Variation of the Effect of Multidimensional Urbanization on PM2.5 Concentration in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) Urban Agglomeration
Authors: Huang Qianyuan , Chen Guangdong , Xu Chao , Jiang Weiyu , Su Meirong
Published: November 2021

Atmospheric PM2.5 pollution has become a prominent environmental problem in China, posing considerable threat to sustainable development. The primary driver of PM2.5 pollution in China is urbanization, and its relationship with PM2.5 concentration has attracted considerable recent academic interest. However, the spatial heterogeneity of the effect of urbanization on PM2.5 concentration has not been fully explored. This study sought to fill this knowledge gap by focusing on the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (BTH) urban agglomeration. Urbanization was decomposed into economic urbanization, population urbanization, and land urbanization, and four corresponding indicators were selected. A geographically weighted regression model revealed that the impact of multidimensional urbanization on PM2.5 concentration varies significantly. Economically, urbanization is correlated positively and negatively with PM2.5 concentration in northern and southern areas, respectively. Population size showed a positive correlation with PM2.5 concentration in northwestern and northeastern areas. A negative correlation was found between urban land size and PM2.5 concentration from central to southern regions. Urban compactness is the dominant influencing factor that is correlated positively with PM2.5 concentration in a major part of the BTH urban agglomeration. On the basis of these findings, BTH counties were categorized with regard to local policy recommendations intended to reduce PM2.5 concentrations.
Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Family Mental Health in Canada: Findings from a Multi-Round Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Thomson Kimberly C. , Jenkins Emily , Gill Randip , Richardson Chris G. , Gagné Petteni Monique , McAuliffe Corey , Gadermann Anne M.
Published: November 2021

Pandemic-related disruptions, including school, child care, and workplace closures, financial stressors, and relationship challenges, present unique risks to families’ mental health. We examined the mental health impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic among parents with children <18 years old living at home over three study rounds in May 2020 (n = 618), September 2020 (n = 804), and January 2021 (n = 602). Data were collected using a cross-sectional online survey of adults living in Canada, nationally representative by age, gender, household income, and region. Chi-square tests and logistic regression compared outcomes between parents and the rest of the sample, among parent subgroups, and over time. Parents reported worsened mental health compared with before the pandemic, as well as not coping well, increased alcohol use, increased suicidal thoughts/feelings, worsened mental health among their children, and increases in both negative and positive parent–child interactions. Mental health challenges were more frequently reported among parents with pre-existing mental health conditions, disabilities, and financial/relationship stressors. Increased alcohol use was more frequently reported among younger parents and men. Sustained mental health challenges of parents throughout nearly a year of the pandemic suggest that intervention efforts to support family mental health may not be adequately meeting families’ needs. Addressing family stressors through financial benefit programs and virtual mental health supports should be further explored.
COX Inhibitory and Cytotoxic Naphthoketal-Bearing Polyketides from Sparticola junci
Authors: Garcia Katherine Yasmin M. , Quimque Mark Tristan J. , Primahana Gian , Ratzenböck Andreas , Cano Mark Joseph B. , Llaguno Jeremiah Francis A. , Dahse Hans-Martin , Phukhamsakda Chayanard , Surup Frank , Stadler Marc , Macabeo Allan Patrick G.
Published: November 2021

Axenic fermentation on solid rice of the saprobic fungus Sparticola junci afforded two new highly oxidized naphthalenoid polyketide derivatives, sparticatechol A (1) and sparticolin H (2) along with sparticolin A (3). The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated on the basis of their NMR and HR-ESIMS spectroscopic data. Assignment of absolute configurations was performed using electronic circular dichroism (ECD) experiments and Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TDDFT) calculations. Compounds 1–3 were evaluated for COX inhibitory, antiproliferative, cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited strong inhibitory activities against COX-1 and COX-2. Molecular docking analysis of 1 conferred favorable binding against COX-2. Sparticolin H (2) and A (3) showed a moderate antiproliferative effect against myelogenous leukemia K-562 cells and weak cytotoxicity against HeLa and mouse fibroblast cells.
Regulation of Key Antiplatelet Pathways by Bioactive Compounds with Minimal Bleeding Risk
Authors: Fuentes Eduardo , Wehinger Sergio , Trostchansky Andrés
Published: November 2021

Cardiovascular disease is strongly influenced by platelet activation. Platelet activation and thrombus formation at atherosclerotic plaque rupture sites is a dynamic process regulated by different signaling networks. Therefore, there are now focused efforts to search for novel bioactive compounds which target receptors and pathways in the platelet activation process while preserving normal hemostatic function. The antiplatelet activity of numerous fruits and vegetables and their multiple mechanisms of action have recently been highlighted. In this review, we review the antiplatelet actions of bioactive compounds via key pathways (protein disulfide isomerase, mitogen-activated protein kinases, mitochondrial function, cyclic adenosine monophosphate, Akt, and shear stress-induced platelet aggregation) with no effects on bleeding time. Therefore, targeting these pathways might lead to the development of effective antiplatelet strategies that do not increase the risk of bleeding.
Polymorphism of Alpha-Synuclein Amyloid Fibrils Depends on Ionic Strength and Protein Concentration
Authors: Ziaunys Mantas , Sakalauskas Andrius , Mikalauskaite Kamile , Smirnovas Vytautas
Published: November 2021

Protein aggregate formation is linked with multiple amyloidoses, including Alzheimer‘s and Parkinson‘s diseases. Currently, the understanding of such fibrillar structure formation and propagation is still not sufficient, the outcome of which is a lack of potent, anti-amyloid drugs. The environmental conditions used during in vitro protein aggregation assays play an important role in determining both the aggregation kinetic parameters, as well as resulting fibril structure. In the case of alpha-synuclein, ionic strength has been shown as a crucial factor in its amyloid aggregation. In this work, we examine a large sample size of alpha-synuclein aggregation reactions under thirty different ionic strength and protein concentration combinations and determine the resulting fibril structural variations using their dye-binding properties, secondary structure and morphology. We show that both ionic strength and protein concentration determine the structural variability of alpha-synuclein amyloid fibrils and that sometimes even identical conditions can result in up to four distinct types of aggregates.