bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Framework for Incorporating the “Learning How to Learn” Approach in Teaching STEM Education
Authors: Abu Khurma Othman , Al Darayseh Abdulla , Alramamneh Yahia
Published: December 2022

The importance of STEM subjects for the purposes of scientific and technological development has gained global momentum. Yet, there are various obstacles to applying a STEM education in the context of preparing students for a scientifically and technologically advanced society. There has been little research on how engineering can be incorporated into the elementary school curriculum. This study, thus, provides a systematic review of the learning techniques and structured framework that are used to support learning in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It also aids in identifying students’ shifts in interest toward STEM subjects, as well as their desire to pursue future STEM-based careers. This study makes use of a systematic literature review of high-impact journals with a Q1 or Q2 ranking. It was also found that there are hurdles in regard to the teaching approach that is used for STEM subjects. This suggests that there are numerous opportunities that can be exploited by educators in their hunt for a better STEM teaching approach. Finally, researchers must create features that enable students to gain fundamental competencies within the STEM disciplines. Future applications must include the experimental support for the purposes of inquiry-based learning activities.
Space Discretization-Based Optimal Trajectory Planning for Automated Vehicles in Narrow Corridor Scenes
Authors: Xu Biao , Yuan Shijie , Lin Xuerong , Hu Manjiang , Bian Yougang , Qin Zhaobo
Published: December 2022

The narrow corridor is a common working scene for automated vehicles, where it is pretty challenging to plan a safe, feasible, and smooth trajectory due to the narrow passable area constraints. This paper presents a space discretization-based optimal trajectory planning method for automated vehicles in a narrow corridor scene with the consideration of travel time minimization and boundary collision avoidance. In this method, we first design a mathematically-described driving corridor model. Then, we build a space discretization-based trajectory optimization model in which the objective function is travel efficiency, and the vehicle-kinematics constraints, collision avoidance constraints, and several other constraints are proposed to ensure the feasibility and comfortability of the planned trajectory. Finally, the proposed method is verified with both simulations and field tests. The experimental results demonstrate the trajectory planned by the proposed method is smoother and more computationally efficient compared with the baseline methods while significantly reducing the tracking error indicating the proposed method has huge application potential in trajectory planning in the narrow corridor scenario for automated vehicles.
The Identification Method of the Winding Vibration Faults of Dry-Type Transformers
Authors: Liu Shulian , Zhang Ling , Yang Likang , Gu Cunkai , Wang Zaihua
Published: December 2022

To identify the four typical faults of dry-type transformer winding insulations, looseness, deformation and eccentricity, this study establishes the electric magnetic force multi-physical field simulation model of a dry-type transformer winding under the four typical faults with COMSOL software, based on the vibration mechanism of an SCB10-1000/10 dry-type transformer. Through the multi-physical field coupling calculation, the comparative relationship between the vibration acceleration of the winding under the four kinds of faults and the normal working state is obtained. The results show that the amplitude growth rate of the fundamental frequency or harmonic frequency of the acceleration signal under four kinds of faults is different from that under normal conditions. Therefore, the threshold value of the fundamental frequency or harmonic increment of the acceleration signal is introduced to describe the growth rate of the acceleration signal relative to normal conditions. Finally, four typical faults are identified with different threshold ranges of acceleration increment under faults, laying a foundation for the fault diagnosis of transformer winding vibrations.
Relationship between Photosynthetic Characteristics, Anatomical Structure, and Physiological Indexes of Two Halophytes in Different Habitats
Authors: Chang Yaling , Fan Yuxian , Li Zhoukang , Lv Guanghui
Published: December 2022

Drought and salinity are considered to be the major limiting factors for plant growth in desert areas. Halophytes can maintain their growth in extreme salt environments. However, few studies have linked the photosynthetic characteristics of halophytes with their anatomical structures and leaf water potential to jointly explain the effects of drought and salt on leaf internal water use efficiency (WUEi). For this reason, two different halophytes, Nitraria sibirica and Alhagi sparsifolia, were selected to analyze the leaf physiological traits in response to different water and salt gradients. The analysis further revealed the influence of soil water and salt content and anatomical characteristics on plant photosynthesis. The results showed that the leaf water potential, morphology, anatomical parameters, and photosynthetic parameters of the two plants in different habitats showed significant species-specific physiological responses. The value of WUEi of N. sibirica was negatively correlated with net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), tightness of palisade tissue (CTR), and soil factors, while the WUEi of A. sparsifolia was positively correlated with Pn, Gs, and CTR. The indirect effects of soil salinity and soil moisture on WUEi were also found to be species-specific. This study will help to improve the understanding of the ecological adaptability of plants to water and salt stress and provide a theoretical basis for clarifying the drought tolerance and salt tolerance adaptation strategies of halophytes in arid areas.
The Societal and Economic Impact of Reforestation Strategies and Policies in Southeast Asia—A Review
Authors: Ahmadzai Mujib Rahman , Zaki Pakhriazad Hassan , Ismail Mohd Hasmadi , Bawon Paiman , Karam Daljit Singh
Published: December 2022

This paper assesses the existing reforestation and forest conservation policies and strategies in Southeast Asia and how they have impacted people’s lives. Southeast Asia contains 11 countries and is home to 20% of the world’s species. Unfortunately, the region has been practising deforestation at an alarming rate. The main cause of deforestation in the region is the creation of land for agriculture, with forest fires and the growing demand for timber also contributing. As a result, the region has lost 376,000 km2 of forest in the last 30 years. Parts of the region have been involved in international efforts to protect forests, such as the 2016 Paris Agreement. However, some of these policies have not made much difference because most countries are not willing to support the necessary strategies. From the study findings, the main strength of the existing polices and strategies is that they are being amended to suit different changes in demographics and the practical needs of the sector. The sector has been able to shift from the initial state forestry management to making forests a multi-sectoral economic development agent. On the other hand, there are few polices at the national level that ensure every citizen participates in tree planting and that they understand the need to stop deforestation. In addition, many countries in the region are less willing to join the international communities in fighting climate change; that is, they do not agree with international partnerships like the Pris Climate Change Agreement.
Lutein-Fortified Plant-Based Egg Analogs Designed to Improve Eye Health: Formation, Characterization, In Vitro Digestion, and Bioaccessibility
Authors: Vu Giang , Xiang Xiaoke , Zhou Hualu , McClements David Julian
Published: December 2022

Lutein is a carotenoid found in real eggs that has been reported to have beneficial effects on eye health by reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration. However, lutein is not often included in plant based (PB) egg analogs. It would, therefore, be advantageous to fortify PB eggs with this health-promoting carotenoid. Moreover, lutein is a natural pigment with a bright red to yellowish color depending on its concentration and environment. It can, therefore, also be used as a plant-based pigment to mimic the desirable appearance of egg yolk. Some of the main challenges to using lutein as a nutraceutical and pigment in PB foods are its poor water-solubility, chemical stability, and bioavailability. In this study, we encapsulated lutein in oil-in-water emulsions, which were then utilized to formulate whole egg analogs. Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCO) protein isolated from a sustainable plant-based source (duckweed) was used to mimic the thermally irreversible heat-set gelling properties of globular egg proteins, with the aim of obtaining a similar cookability and texture as real eggs. The lutein content (80 mg/100 g) of the egg analogs was designed to be at a level where there should be health benefits. The protein (12.5 wt.%) and oil (10 wt.%) contents of the egg analogs were selected to match those of real egg. The effects of oil droplet size and oil type on the bioaccessibility of the encapsulated lutein were examined using the INFOGEST in vitro digestion model. For the emulsions formulated with long chain triglycerides (LCTs, corn oil), lutein bioaccessibility significantly increased when the initial droplet diameter decreased from around 10 to 0.3 μm, which was attributed to more rapid and complete digestion of the lipid phase for smaller droplets. For medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), however, no impact of droplet size on lutein bioaccessibility was observed. A high lutein bioaccessibility (around 80%) could be obtained for both LCTs and MCTs emulsions containing small oil droplets. Thus, both types of oil can be good carriers for lutein. In summary, we have shown that lutein-fortified PB eggs with good digestibility and bioaccessibility can be created, which may play an important role in ensuring the health of those adopting a more plant-based diet.
Starmerella bacillaris Released in Vineyards at Different Concentrations Influences Wine Glycerol Content Depending on the Vinification Protocols
Authors: Nadai Chiara , da Silva Duarte Vinícius , Sica Jacopo , Vincenzi Simone , Carlot Milena , Giacomini Alessio , Corich Viviana
Published: December 2022

Starmerella bacillaris is a non-Saccharomyces yeast proposed for must fermentation together with Saccharomyces cerevisiae because of its high glycerol and moderate volatile acidity production. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that the same S. bacillaris strains that possess interesting technological properties exhibited antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea, suggesting the release of this yeast in the vineyard. To obtain a positive effect during the following winemaking process, the maintenance of suitable concentrations of S. bacillaris is essential. Therefore, to obtain information on the survival of S. bacillaris, a small-scale field trial was performed. One week before the harvest, two different concentrations of S. bacillaris (106 and 107 cells/mL) were sprayed on Pinot grigio bunches, and the strain concentration was monitored by means of qPCR during the subsequent fermentation process. In addition, the combined effect of different winemaking techniques was evaluated, i.e., the vinification of juice, juice with marc and cryomaceration treatment. Results demonstrated that, under the tested conditions, S. bacillaris released in the vineyard remained viable for one week on grape bunches and increased glycerol content during the subsequent fermentation process. Different vinification protocols influenced cell concentrations. In particular, the cryomaceration treatment, due to the use of low temperature, supported S. bacillaris growth due to its cryotolerant aptitude. The collected data open new perspectives on the control of alcoholic fermentation, involving both vineyard and cellar management.
Quality Evaluation of Fair-Trade Cocoa Beans from Different Origins Using Portable Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS)
Authors: Forte Matteo , Currò Sarah , Van de Walle Davy , Dewettinck Koen , Mirisola Massimo , Fasolato Luca , Carletti Paolo
Published: December 2022

Determining cocoa bean quality is crucial for many players in the international supply chain. However, actual methods rely on a cut test protocol, which is limited by its subjective nature, or on time-consuming, expensive and destructive wet-chemistry laboratory procedures. In this context, the application of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, particularly with the recent developments of portable NIR spectrometers, may represent a valuable solution for providing a cocoa beans’ quality profile, in a rapid, non-destructive, and reliable way. Monitored parameters in this work were dry matter (DM), ash, shell, fat, protein, total polyphenols, fermentation index (FI), titratable acidity (TA) and pH. Different chemometric analyses were performed on the spectral data and calibration models were developed using modified partial least squares regression. Prediction equations were validated using a fivefold cross-validation and a comparison between the different prediction performances for the portable and benchtop NIR spectrometers was provided. The NIRS benchtop instrument provided better performance of quantification considering the whole than the portable device, showing excellent prediction capability in protein and DM quantification. On the other hand, the NIRS portable device, although showing lower but valuable performance of prediction, can represent an appealing alternative to benchtop instruments for food business operators, being applicable in the field.
Characteristic Analysis and Circuit Implementation of a Novel Fractional-Order Memristor-Based Clamping Voltage Drift
Authors: Tian Huaigu , Liu Jindong , Wang Zhen , Xie Fei , Cao Zelin
Published: December 2022

The ideal magnetic flux-controlled memristor was introduced into a four-dimensional chaotic system and combined with fractional calculus theory, and a novel four-dimensional commensurate fractional-order system was proposed and solved using the Adomian decomposition method. The system orders, parameters, and initial values were studied as independent variables in the bifurcation diagram and Lyapunov exponents spectrum, and it was discovered that changing these variables can cause the system to exhibit more complex and rich dynamical behaviors. The system had an offset boosting, which was discovered by adding a constant term after the decoupled linear term. Finally, the results of the numerical simulation were verified through the use of analog circuits and FPGA designs, and a control scheme for the system circuit was also suggested.
Job Satisfaction of Health Practitioners Providing Outreach Health Services during COVID-19 in Rural New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia
Authors: Islam Md Irteja , Bagnulo Sharif , Wang Yiwen , Ramsden Robyn , Wrightson Trent , Masset Amanda , Colbran Richard , Edwards Mike , Martiniuk Alexandra
Published: December 2022

Background: Outreach health practitioners play a key role in enhancing access to healthcare for remote, rural, regional, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia. Outreach health practitioners are those providing ongoing and integrated health services in communities that would otherwise have limited access. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to understand the job satisfaction of health workers as it correlates with long-term retention of the workforce, as well as effectiveness in the role and clinical outcomes for patients. Method: The study analysed data from 258 outreach health practitioners who responded to two cross-sectional surveys conducted by the NSW Rural Doctors Network during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020/21 and 2021/22 in NSW and the ACT, Australia. Both bivariate and multivariate analyses were employed to assess the associations between the outcome variable (outreach health practitioners’ job satisfaction) and independent variables (sociodemographic factors, motivation, self-confidence, communication, capability). Results: Overall, the study showed that 92.2% of health practitioners were satisfied in their role providing outreach health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the multivariable model, factors significantly associated with higher satisfaction included good communication with other local health practitioners, using telehealth along with in-person care, and having high self-rated capability compared to those health practitioners who said they had lower job satisfaction. Conclusions: Outreach health practitioners’ job satisfaction is important because poor satisfaction may lead to suboptimal healthcare delivery, poor clinical outcomes, and poor retention of staff in rural settings. These findings should be taken into consideration when developing future strategies to improve job satisfaction among rural outreach health practitioners and to enhance attraction, recruitment and retention and may be applicable to the broader health workforce.
Drought Stress in Lentil (Lens culinaris, Medik) and Approaches for Its Management
Authors: Zeroual Abdelmonim , Baidani Aziz , Idrissi Omar
Published: December 2022

Lentil plays an important role for food and nutritional security. It is a sustainable source of protein, zinc, iron, prebiotic carbohydrates, and diverse health-promoting nutrients. This crop is widely cultivated in semi-arid marginal areas and exposed to various environmental stressors. Drought stress is the major abiotic stress that causes serious effects on lentil growth and development. Thus, it is imperative to set up innovative and sustainable solutions to reduce the adverse effects of drought on lentil crop. In this review, the agro-morphological, physiological, and biochemical effects of drought on lentil were highlighted. Furthermore, breeding and agronomic interventions to improve lentil performance in drought-prone environments were also discussed. Overall, drought disturbs lentil germination, photosynthesis, water relations, shoot and root growth, thereby reducing final yield. Conventional breeding programs have identified several sources of drought tolerance; however, modern biotechnological tools could be adopted to decipher the genetic architecture of drought tolerance in lentil to accelerate the genetic progress. Cost-affordable and eco-friendly agronomic practices may also contribute to minimize the negative consequences of drought stress. Smart exploitation of breeding approaches and agronomic practices could help overcome drought, improve lentil productivity, and increase the profitability of farmers in dry areas.
Impact of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Gene NR3C2 on the Prediction of Functional Classification of Left Ventricular Remodeling and Arrhythmia after Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Braukyliene Rima , Aldujeli Ali , Haq Ayman , Maciulevicius Laurynas , Jankauskaite Darija , Jurenas Martynas , Unikas Ramunas , Zabiela Vytautas , Lesauskaite Vaiva , Simonyte Sandrita , Zaliaduonytė Diana
Published: December 2022

Background: The NR3C2 gene encodes the mineralocorticoid receptor, which is present on cardiomyocytes. Prior studies reported an association between the presence of NR3C2 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and an increased cortisol production during a stress response such as acute myocardial infarction (AMI), which may lead to adverse cardiac remodeling. Objective: To study the impact of the NR3C2 rs2070950, rs4635799 and rs5522 gene polymorphisms on left ventricular (LV) remodeling, rhythm and conduction disorders in AMI patients. Methods: A cohort of 301 AMI patients who underwent revascularization was included. SNPs of the NR3C2 gene (rs2070950, rs4635799 and rs5522) were evaluated. A total of 127 AMI patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography follow-up after 72 h and 6 months. Results: The rs2070950 GG genotype and rs4635799 TT genotype were most common in patients who had LV end-diastolic volume increase < 20% and the same or increased LV ejection fraction, indicating a possible protective effect of these SNPs. The rs5522 TT genotype was associated with a higher frequency of arrhythmias, while the presence of at least one rs5522 C allele was associated with a lower risk of arrhythmias. Conclusion: SNPs of the NR3C2 gene appear to correlate with better ventricular remodeling and a reduced rate of arrhythmias post-AMI, possibly by limiting the deleterious effects of cortisol on cardiomyocytes.
Post-Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disease (PTLD) after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Biology and Treatment Options
Authors: Clerico Michele , Dogliotti Irene , Aroldi Andrea , Consoli Chiara , Giaccone Luisa , Bruno Benedetto , Cavallo Federica
Published: December 2022

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is a serious complication occurring as a consequence of immunosuppression in the setting of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) or solid organ transplantation (SOT). The majority of PTLD arises from B-cells, and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection is present in 60–80% of the cases, revealing the central role played by the latent infection in the pathogenesis of the disease. Therefore, EBV serological status is considered the most important risk factor associated with PTLDs, together with the depth of T-cell immunosuppression pre- and post-transplant. However, despite the advances in pathogenesis understanding and the introduction of novel treatment options, PTLD arising after alloHSCT remains a particularly challenging disease, and there is a need for consensus on how to treat rituximab-refractory cases. This review aims to explore the pathogenesis, risk factors, and treatment options of PTLD in the alloHSCT setting, finally focusing on adoptive immunotherapy options, namely EBV-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (EBV-CTL) and chimeric antigen receptor T-cells (CAR T).
Risk Factors for Complications Following Staged Alveolar Ridge Augmentation and Dental Implantation: A Retrospective Evaluation of 151 Cases with Allogeneic and 70 Cases with Autogenous Bone Blocks
Authors: Kloss Frank R. , Kämmerer Peer W. , Kloss-Brandstätter Anita
Published: December 2022

Purpose: the aim of this study was to identify potential risk factors favoring complications by assessing the number and types of complications associated with allogeneic or autogenous bone blocks applied as onlay grafts for alveolar ridge augmentation prior to implantation. Methods: A retrospective chart review on the success of 151 allogeneic and 70 autogenous bone blocks in a cohort of 164 consecutive patients, who were treated over a period of 6 years by the same surgeon, was conducted. Statistical conclusions were based on ROC curves and multiple logistic regression models. Results: Complications were observed more frequently with autogenous bone blocks (14 out of 70 cases; 20%) compared to allogeneic bone blocks (12 out of 151 cases; 7.9%; p = 0.013). However, these complications were minor and did not impact the successful dental rehabilitation. In a multiple logistic regression model, the risk of a complication was increased by the use of an autogenous bone block (OR = 3.2; p = 0.027), smoking (OR = 4.8; p = 0.007), vertical augmentation above a threshold of 2.55 mm (OR = 5.0; p = 0.002), and over-contouring (OR = 15.3; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Overall, the complication rate of ridge augmentations carried out with autogenous or allogeneic bone blocks was low. Despite previous recommendations, over-contouring and a vertical augmentation above a threshold of 2.55 mm should be avoided.
Martensitic Transformation and Magnetic Properties of Ni-Mn Quinary Heusler Alloy
Authors: Nambiar S. Sandeep , B. R. N. Murthy , Sharma Sathyashankara , A. A. Prasanna
Published: December 2022

Ni-Mn-based quinary Heusler alloys have seldom been investigated with respect to their martensitic transformation and mechanical properties for near room temperature transformation. In the current work, we identified and investigated martensitic transformation near room temperature, and the martensitic properties of Ni-Mn-Sn-Fe-In-based quinary Heusler alloys. Alloys prepared in an argon-rich vacuum arc melting furnace. During X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, it was identified that the L21 cubic structure austenite phase of the alloy transforms into L10 orthorhombic martensite phase in the case of alloys with greater Fe substitution. The martensitic transformation zone of the alloy is also shifted to the near-room-temperature range of 15–28 °C by changing the stoichiometry of the alloy composition. Magnetic measurements like field heating (FH), field cooling (FC) and zero field cooling (ZFC) indicate the presence of a dual magnetic phase in the alloy, while magnetic susceptibility testing also helped to establish claims regarding the magnetic measurement results.
A Survey on Deep Learning in COVID-19 Diagnosis
Authors: Han Xue , Hu Zuojin , Wang Shuihua , Zhang Yudong
Published: December 2022

According to the World Health Organization statistics, as of 25 October 2022, there have been 625,248,843 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 65,622,281 deaths worldwide. The spread and severity of COVID-19 are alarming. The economy and life of countries worldwide have been greatly affected. The rapid and accurate diagnosis of COVID-19 directly affects the spread of the virus and the degree of harm. Currently, the classification of chest X-ray or CT images based on artificial intelligence is an important method for COVID-19 diagnosis. It can assist doctors in making judgments and reduce the misdiagnosis rate. The convolutional neural network (CNN) is very popular in computer vision applications, such as applied to biological image segmentation, traffic sign recognition, face recognition, and other fields. It is one of the most widely used machine learning methods. This paper mainly introduces the latest deep learning methods and techniques for diagnosing COVID-19 using chest X-ray or CT images based on the convolutional neural network. It reviews the technology of CNN at various stages, such as rectified linear units, batch normalization, data augmentation, dropout, and so on. Several well-performing network architectures are explained in detail, such as AlexNet, ResNet, DenseNet, VGG, GoogleNet, etc. We analyzed and discussed the existing CNN automatic COVID-19 diagnosis systems from sensitivity, accuracy, precision, specificity, and F1 score. The systems use chest X-ray or CT images as datasets. Overall, CNN has essential value in COVID-19 diagnosis. All of them have good performance in the existing experiments. If expanding the datasets, adding GPU acceleration and data preprocessing techniques, and expanding the types of medical images, the performance of CNN will be further improved. This paper wishes to make contributions to future research.
Comparison of Velocity Obstacle and Artificial Potential Field Methods for Collision Avoidance in Swarm Operation of Unmanned Surface Vehicles
Authors: Jo Hyun-Jae , Kim Su-Rim , Kim Jung-Hyeon , Park Jong-Yong
Published: December 2022

As the research concerning unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) intensifies, research on swarm operations is also being actively conducted. A swarm operation imitates the appearance of nature, such as ants, bees, and birds, in forming swarms, moving, and attacking in the search for food. However, several problems are encountered in the USV swarm operation. One of these is the problem of collisions between USVs. A conflict between agents in a swarm can lead to operational failure and property loss. This study attempted to solve this problem. In this study, a virtual matrix approach was applied as a swarm operation. Velocity obstacle (VO) and artificial potential field (APF) methods were used and compared as algorithms for collision avoidance for USVs in a swarm when the formation is changed. For effective collision avoidance, evasive maneuvers should be performed at an appropriate time and location. Therefore, a closest point of approach (CPA)-based method, which considers both temporal and spatial factors, was used. The swarm operation was verified through a large-scale simulation in which 30 USVs changed their formation seven times in 3400 s. When comparing the averages of the distance, error to waypoint, and battery usage, no significant differences were noticed between the VO and APF methods. However, when comparing the cumulative time using the minimum distance, VO was demonstrably safer than APF, and VO completed the formation faster. In conclusion, both the APF and VO methods can evidently perform swarm operations without collisions.
Key Environmental Impacts along the Mediterranean Coast of Israel in the Last 100 Years
Authors: Spanier Ehud , Zviely Dov
Published: December 2022

In the last 100 years, the population of the land of Israel has increased dramatically, accompanied by a very intense and accelerated economic and industrial growth. The objective of the present review is to reveal how these major changes have affected the Mediterranean marine and coastal environment. The present review analyzes the global, regional, and local factors and processes that cause substantial environmental changes affecting a variety of marine habitats and taxa. During the past century these include: (1) seawater warming that enhances the considerable introduction and establishment of non-indigenous tropical, i.e., Lessepsian, species; (2) overfishing of native biota that seems to contribute to this process; (3) sea-level rise, associated with climate change, which may threaten the sensitive intertidal abrasion platforms; (4) chemical, noise, and light pollution and marine debris; (5) massive sand mining from the beaches, which caused severe erosion in many coastal sections and was banned in Israel in 1964; (6) extensive dredging in the sea, mainly related to the construction and development of large ports, which can be detrimental for the benthic biota, especially in rocky substrates; and (7) marine structures (harbors, marinas, detached breakwaters) that interfere with the natural pattern of sand transport along the coast and cause morphological changes (sand erosion or accumulation) on nearby beaches and the seabed. Israel’s coast is presently characterized by intense anthropogenic activity and many stakeholders with considerable conflicts between them and with the marine ecosystem. A few environmental impacts have ceased, and others have been reduced considerably, but the extent of many additional types have increased significantly, and new impacts have appeared in recent years. Some environmental impacts are beyond our control, and others can be reduced by proper management, but it is predicted that certain major environmental impacts, such as Lessepsian migration, will continue in the future at enhanced rates.
Fungal Secondary Metabolites and Small RNAs Enhance Pathogenicity during Plant-Fungal Pathogen Interactions
Authors: Mapuranga Johannes , Chang Jiaying , Zhang Lirong , Zhang Na , Yang Wenxiang
Published: December 2022

Fungal plant pathogens use proteinaceous effectors as well as newly identified secondary metabolites (SMs) and small non-coding RNA (sRNA) effectors to manipulate the host plant’s defense system via diverse plant cell compartments, distinct organelles, and many host genes. However, most molecular studies of plant–fungal interactions have focused on secreted effector proteins without exploring the possibly equivalent functions performed by fungal (SMs) and sRNAs, which are collectively known as “non-proteinaceous effectors”. Fungal SMs have been shown to be generated throughout the plant colonization process, particularly in the early biotrophic stages of infection. The fungal repertoire of non-proteinaceous effectors has been broadened by the discovery of fungal sRNAs that specifically target plant genes involved in resistance and defense responses. Many RNAs, particularly sRNAs involved in gene silencing, have been shown to transmit bidirectionally between fungal pathogens and their hosts. However, there are no clear functional approaches to study the role of these SM and sRNA effectors. Undoubtedly, fungal SM and sRNA effectors are now a treasured land to seek. Therefore, understanding the role of fungal SM and sRNA effectors may provide insights into the infection process and identification of the interacting host genes that are targeted by these effectors. This review discusses the role of fungal SMs and sRNAs during plant-fungal interactions. It will also focus on the translocation of sRNA effectors across kingdoms, the application of cross-kingdom RNA interference in managing plant diseases and the tools that can be used to predict and study these non-proteinaceous effectors.
Microemulsion of Cinnamon Essential Oil Formulated with Tea Polyphenols, Gallic Acid, and Tween 80: Antimicrobial Properties, Stability and Mechanism of Action
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen Yin-Feng , Wei Ze-Feng , Jiang Jing-Jing , Peng Jia-Qian , He Qi-Tong , Xu Wen-Ying , Liu Hui-Min
Published: December 2022

The objective of this article was to combine tea polyphenols, gallic acid, and cinnamon essential oil to construct a natural extract-complex microemulsion system (NMs) with good antibacterial activity, antioxidant activity, and stability, as well as low irritation. NMs were characterized by particle size distribution, electrical conductivity, and light transmittance. The stability, as well as the antimicrobial, antioxidant, irritation, and antimicrobial mechanisms, of NMs were also studied. The results showed that NMs had a significant antimicrobial function against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans and Aspergillus brasiliensis. The minimum inhibitory concentrations were 156 μg/mL, 62.5 μg/mL, 125 μg/mL, 250 μg/mL, and 125 μg/mL, respectively. Through the cell membrane permeability test and growth curve test of bacteria and fungi, we concluded that the NMs’ mechanism of action on bacteria and fungi could be interpreted as NMs mainly altering the permeability of cell membranes to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. The results of this study have important implications for utilizing plant extracts as natural preservatives for food and cosmetics.
Association between Changes in Protein Intake and Risk of Cognitive Impairment: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Xu Xinyi , Yin Yueheng , Niu Li , Yang Xinxin , Du Xinru , Tian Qingbao
Published: December 2022

Little is known about the role of change in protein intake in affecting cognitive function among older adults. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the associations between the change in protein intake from various food groups and cognitive impairment among older adults in a prospective cohort study. A total of 6951 participants without cognitive impairment or dementia were included in this study. The frequency of protein intake from various food groups was measured by a food frequency questionnaire at baseline and follow-up. Multivariable Cox hazard models with time as the underlying time metric applied to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During the 37,535 person-years of follow-up, 1202 (17.3%) participants developed cognitive impairment. The improvement in overall protein intake was negatively associated with cognitive impairment with multivariable-adjusted HR of 0.98 (95% CI = 0.97–0.99). Compared with participants with stable change, those with an extreme decline in animal-based protein intake had a 48% higher risk of cognitive impairment. The associations of changes in protein from six food groups with cognitive impairment were in a similar direction to the main result. Protective associations between improving protein intake and a reduced risk of cognitive impairment were observed.
Probing Folate-Responsive and Stage-Sensitive Metabolomics and Transcriptional Co-Expression Network Markers to Predict Prognosis of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Lin Yu-Shun , Chen Yen-Chu , Chen Tzu-En , Cheng Mei-Ling , Lynn Ke-Shiuan , Shah Pramod , Chen Jin-Shing , Huang Rwei-Fen S.
Published: December 2022

Tumour metabolomics and transcriptomics co-expression network as related to biological folate alteration and cancer malignancy remains unexplored in human non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). To probe the diagnostic biomarkers, tumour and pair lung tissue samples (n = 56) from 97 NSCLC patients were profiled for ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS/MS)-analysed metabolomics, targeted transcriptionomics, and clinical folate traits. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was performed. Tumour lactate was identified as the top VIP marker to predict advance NSCLC (AUC = 0.765, Sig = 0.017, CI 0.58–0.95). Low folate (LF)-tumours vs. adjacent lungs displayed higher glycolytic index of lactate and glutamine-associated amino acids in enriched biological pathways of amino sugar and glutathione metabolism specific to advance NSCLCs. WGCNA classified the green module for hub serine-navigated glutamine metabolites inversely associated with tumour and RBC folate, which module metabolites co-expressed with a predominant up-regulation of LF-responsive metabolic genes in glucose transport (GLUT1), de no serine synthesis (PHGDH, PSPH, and PSAT1), folate cycle (SHMT1/2 and PCFR), and down-regulation in glutaminolysis (SLC1A5, SLC7A5, GLS, and GLUD1). The LF-responsive WGCNA markers predicted poor survival rates in lung cancer patients, which could aid in optimizing folate intervention for better prognosis of NSCLCs susceptible to folate malnutrition.
The Role of Zinc and NMDA Receptors in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Lee Kevin , Mills Zoe , Cheung Pangying , Cheyne Juliette E. , Montgomery Johanna M.
Published: December 2022

NMDA-type glutamate receptors are critical for synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system. Their unique properties and age-dependent arrangement of subunit types underpin their role as a coincidence detector of pre- and postsynaptic activity during brain development and maturation. NMDAR function is highly modulated by zinc, which is co-released with glutamate and concentrates in postsynaptic spines. Both NMDARs and zinc have been strongly linked to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), suggesting that NMDARs are an important player in the beneficial effects observed with zinc in both animal models and children with ASDs. Significant evidence is emerging that these beneficial effects occur via zinc-dependent regulation of SHANK proteins, which form the backbone of the postsynaptic density. For example, dietary zinc supplementation enhances SHANK2 or SHANK3 synaptic recruitment and rescues NMDAR deficits and hypofunction in Shank3ex13–16−/− and Tbr1+/− ASD mice. Across multiple studies, synaptic changes occur in parallel with a reversal of ASD-associated behaviours, highlighting the zinc-dependent regulation of NMDARs and glutamatergic synapses as therapeutic targets for severe forms of ASDs, either pre- or postnatally. The data from rodent models set a strong foundation for future translational studies in human cells and people affected by ASDs.
Perfect Nonradiating Modes in Dielectric Nanoparticles
Authors: Klimov Vasily
Published: December 2022

A hypothesis of the existence of perfect nonradiating modes in dielectric nanoparticles of an arbitrary shape is put forward. It is strictly mathematically proved that such modes exist in axisymmetric dielectric nanoparticles and have unlimited radiation Q factors. With the smart tuning of the excitation beams, perfect modes appear as deep minima in the scattered radiation spectra (up to complete disappearance), but at the same time, they have a substantial amplification of the fields inside the particle. Such modes have no analogs and can be useful for the realization of nanosensors, low threshold nanolasers, and other strong nonlinear effects in nanoparticles.
Can Essential Oils Be a Natural Alternative for the Control of Spodoptera frugiperda? A Review of Toxicity Methods and Their Modes of Action
Authors: Usseglio Virginia L. , Dambolena José S. , Zunino María P.
Published: December 2022

Spodoptera frugiperda is a major pest of maize crops. The application of synthetic insecticides and the use of Bt maize varieties are the principal strategies used for its control. However, due to the development of pesticide resistance and the negative impact of insecticides on the environment, natural alternatives are constantly being searched for. Accordingly, the objective of this review was to evaluate the use of essential oils (EOs) as natural alternatives for controlling S. frugiperda. This review article covers the composition of EOs, methods used for the evaluation of EO toxicity, EO effects, and their mode of action. Although the EOs of Ocimum basilicum, Piper marginatum, and Lippia alba are the most frequently used, Ageratum conyzoides, P. septuplinervium. O. gratissimum and Siparuna guianensis were shown to be the most effective. As the principal components of these EOs vary, then their mode of action on the pest could be different. The results of our analysis allowed us to evaluate and compare the potential of certain EOs for the control of this insect. In order to obtain comparable results when evaluating the toxicity of EOs on S. frugiperda, it is important that methodological issues are taken into account.
Desiccation Stress Tolerance in Porphyra and Pyropia Species: A Latitudinal Analysis along the Chilean Coast
Authors: Contreras-Porcia Loretto , Meynard Andrés , Piña Florentina , Kumar Manoj , Lovazzano Carlos , Núñez Alejandra , Flores-Molina María Rosa
Published: December 2022

One of the most important factors regulating the distribution and abundance of seaweeds is desiccation, triggered mainly by tidal changes and climatic variation. Porphyra and Pyropia species have evolved multiple strategies to tolerate desiccation stress; however, how these tolerance strategies differ in these species inhabiting different latitudes is still unknown. In this context, we analyzed, in situ, the physiological responses of these species (collected from 18° S to 41° S along the Chilean coast) to desiccation stress using biochemical and molecular analyses. The hyper-arid terrestrial climate of northern Chile, with high evaporation and lack of constant rain determines a very steep increase in desiccation stress in the upper intertidal during low tide for these species. Accordingly, the results showed that, in comparison with the southernmost populations, the Porphyra/Pyropia species from the north zone of Chile (18°–30° S) exhibited higher contents of lipoperoxide and carbonyls (1.6–1.9 fold) together with higher enzymatic activities, including ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, peroxiredoxin, and thioredoxin (2–3-fold). In addition, a substantial expression of cat, prx, and trx transcripts during desiccation was demonstrated, mainly in the northernmost populations. These results provide evidence of (i) significant activation of antioxidant enzymes and transcripts (principally cat and prx); (ii) participation of phenolic antioxidant compounds as a highly plastic physiological strategy to cope with desiccation; and (iii) the activation of the tolerance responses was affected by species latitudinal distribution. Thus, for the first time, this study integrated the biochemical and genetic responses of diverse Porphyra/Pyropia species to better understand their physiological dynamics of tolerance over a wide latitudinal range.
Genetic Diversity, Population Structure and Subset Development in a Sesbania sesban Collection
Authors: Negawo Alemayehu Teressa , Akinmade Habib Olumide , Muktar Meki S. , Habte Ermias , Assefa Yilikal , Muchugi Alice , Sartie Alieu M. , Jones Chris S.
Published: December 2022

Sesbania sesban (L.) Merr. is a multipurpose legume tree grown primarily for fodder and forage in the tropical and subtropical world. In this study, the Sesbania sesban collection maintained in the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) forage Genebank was studied using genome-wide markers generated on the DArTseq platform. Genotyping produced 84,673 and 60,626 SNP and SilicoDArT markers with a mean polymorphic information content of 0.153 and 0.123, respectively. From the generated markers, 7587 and 15,031 highly informative SNP and SilicoDArT markers, respectively, were filtered and used for genetic diversity analysis and subset development. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed higher variability ‘within’ (52.73% for SNP markers and 67.36% for SilicoDArT markers) than ‘between’ accessions. Hierarchical cluster analysis showed the presence of four main clusters in the collection. Mantel correlation analysis showed a lack of relationship between genetic variation of the germplasm and their geographical origin. A representative subset of 34 accessions containing germplasm from diverse origins and agro-ecologies was developed using SNP markers. The genetic diversity information generated in this study could be used for marker-assisted screening for stress tolerance, gap analysis and identification and acquisition of new distinct genotype(s) to broaden the genetic basis of the collection for future improvement programs to develop high-yielding, stress-tolerant varieties for enhancing food and environmental security in crop–livestock-based production systems.
Novel Mesogenic Vinyl Ketone Monomers and Their Based Polymers
Authors: Derikov Yaroslav I. , Belousov Daniil R. , Finko Alexander V. , Shandryuk Georgii A. , Kuz’menok Nina M. , Mikhalyonok Sergei G. , Bezborodov Vladimir S. , Chernikova Elena V. , Talroze Raisa V.
Published: December 2022

In the present research, we have synthesized new vinyl ketone monomers with mesogenic substituents, namely, 8-(3′-chloro-4′-pentyl-[1,1′-biphenyl-4-oxy)oct-1-en-3-one (BVK) and 8-[2′-chloro-4‴-octyl-[1,1′:4′,1″:4″,1‴-quaterphenyl-4-oxy]oct-1-en-3-one (QVK). The comparison of BVK, QVK, and previously synthesized 8-((4″-((1R,4S)-4-butylcyclohexyl)-2′-chloro-[1,1′,4′,1″-terphenyl]-4-yl)oxy)oct-1-en-3-one (TVK) has revealed that all of them are able to form crystals, while their ability to exhibit liquid crystalline behavior depends on the number of phenyl substituents attached to the para-position of the phenoxy group and is observed for TVK and QVK only. All of the monomers are able to achieve self-polymerization upon heating and free radical polymerization in bulk or in solution under the action of the common radical initiator AIBN. We have also succeeded in the RAFT polymerization of the synthesized vinyl ketones BVK and TVK using asymmetrical trithiocarbonates. The synthesized poly(vinyl ketones) exhibit LC behavior and are able to undergo photodegradation upon UV irradiation.