bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of a mobile health intervention based on multi-theory model of health behavior change on self-management in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer: protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jiang Yang , Sun Xiangju , Jiang Maomin , Min Hewei , Wang Jing , Fu Xinghua , Qi Jiale , Yu Zhenjie , Zhu Xiaomei , Wu Yibo
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Theoretical models of health behavior are important guides for disease prevention and detection, treatment and rehabilitation, and promotion and maintenance of physical and mental health, but there are no intervention studies related to differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) that use theoretical models of health as a guide. In this study, we used a microblogging platform as an intervention vehicle and mobile patient-doctor interactive health education as a means of intervention, with the aim of improving the health behaviors of DTC patients as well as the corresponding clinical outcomes.

Methods

This research project is a quantitative methodological study, and the trial will be a single-blind, single-center randomized controlled trial conducted at the Fourth Hospital of Harbin Medical University in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province. The study subjects are patients over 18 years of age with differentiated thyroid cancer who were given radioactive iodine-131 therapy as well as endocrine therapy after radical surgery for thyroid cancer. The intervention group will receive MTM-mhealth, and the realization of health education will rely on the smart terminal WeChat platform. Routine discharge education will be given to the control group at discharge. The primary outcome will be change in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from baseline and at 3 and 6 months of follow-up, and secondary outcomes will include change in self-management behavior, social cognitive and psychological, and metabolic control.

Discussion

This study will explore a feasible mHealth intervention program applied to a population of DTC patients using the Multi-theory model of health behavior change (MTM) as a guide, with the aim of evaluating the MTM-based intervention program for clinical outcome improvement in DTC patients, as well as determining the effectiveness of the MTM-based intervention program in improving self-management skills in DTC patients. The results of this study will indicate the feasibility as well as the effectiveness of the application of health theoretical modeling combined with mHealth applications in disease prognostic health management models, and provide policy recommendations and technological translations for the development of mobility-based health management applications in the field of health management.
Mechanisms of γδ T cell accumulation in visceral adipose tissue with aging
Authors: Mukherjee Sujata , Bruno Maria E. C. , Oakes Jason , Hawk Gregory S. , Stromberg Arnold J. , Cohen Donald A. , Starr Marlene E.
Published: January 2024

γδ T cells are resident in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) where they show an age-associated increase in numbers and contribute to local and systemic chronic inflammation. However, regulation of this population and mechanisms for the age-dependent accumulation are not known. In this study, we identified a progressive trend of γδ T cell accumulation in VAT over the lifespan in mice and explored physiological mechanisms contributing to accumulation. Using isochronic parabiotic pairs of wild-type (WT) and T cell receptor delta knockout (TCRδ KO) mice at young and old age, we confirmed that VAT γδ T cells are predominately a tissue-resident population which is sustained in aging. Migration of peripheral γδ T cells into VAT was observed at less than 10%, with a decreasing trend by aging, suggesting a minor contribution of recruitment to γδ T cell accumulation with aging. Since tissue-resident T cell numbers are tightly regulated by a balance between proliferation and programmed cell death, we further explored these processes. Using in vivo EdU incorporation and the proliferation marker Ki67, we found that the absolute number of proliferating γδ T cells in VAT is significantly higher in the aged compared to young and middle-aged mice, despite a decline in the proportion of proliferating to non-proliferating cells by age. Analysis of apoptosis via caspase 3/7 activation revealed that VAT γδ T cells show reduced apoptosis starting at middle age and continuing into old age. Further, induction of apoptosis using pharmacological inhibitors of Bcl2 family proteins revealed that VAT γδ T cells at middle age are uniquely protected from apoptosis via a mechanism independent of traditional anti-apoptotic Bcl2-family proteins. Collectively, these data indicate that protection from apoptosis at middle age increases survival of tissue-resident γδ T cells resulting in an increased number of proliferative cells from middle age onward, and leading to the age-associated accumulation of γδ T cells in VAT. These findings are important to better understand how adipose tissue dysfunction and related changes in the immune profile contribute to inflammaging among the elderly.
When, where, and why should we look for vestibular dysfunction in people with diabetes mellitus?
Authors: DiLiberto Frank E. , Kamath Heather E. R. , Olson Maxine L. , Cherchi Marcello , Helminski Janet O. , Schubert Michael C.
Published: January 2024

The biochemistry of diabetes mellitus results in multi-system tissue compromise that reduces functional mobility and interferes with disease management. Sensory system compromise, such as peripheral neuropathy and retinopathy, are specific examples of tissue compromise detrimental to functional mobility. There is lack of clarity regarding if, when, and where parallel changes in the peripheral vestibular system, an additional essential sensory system for functional mobility, occur as a result of diabetes. Given the systemic nature of diabetes and the plasticity of the vestibular system, there is even less clarity regarding if potential vestibular system changes impact functional mobility in a meaningful fashion. This commentary will provide insight as to when we should employ diagnostic vestibular function tests in people with diabetes, where in the periphery we should look, and why testing may or may not matter. The commentary concludes with recommendations for future research and clinical care.
Steroid hormones as a non-lethal assessment of the reproductive biology in male and female blacktip reef sharks
Authors: Mourier Johann , Planes Serge , Mills Suzanne C.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Overexploitation of sharks and the destruction of their habitat has led to severe population declines and the need for conservation and management actions. Effective conservation management requires knowledge of the size at which a shark matures and an understanding of their breeding season, fundamental information to maintain appropriate population levels.

Methods

Here we used reproductive endocrinology, estrogen and androgen steroids, in combination with rare direct observations of mating, visual monitoring of reproductive status such as gestation and mating scars, as well as parentage analysis, to assess reproductive biology in male and female Chondrichthyans from the wild.

Results and discussion

Lengths at sexual maturity of female and male blacktip reef sharks corresponded closely with plasma 17β-estradiol, testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone measures respectively, but we found considerable variation in androgen levels for mature males. Size at sexual maturity of male and female blacktip reef shark deduced from direct or indirect evidence (mating scars or parentage assignment respectively, corresponded closely with plasma 17β-estradiol, testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone measures respectively, but we found considerable variation in androgen levels for mature males. Females attained sexual maturity from around 121 to 123 cm and males from 104 to 111 cm. The mating season extends from September to February but female 17β-estradiol levels are elevated 1 month prior to mating. Endocrinology has brought additional important information to the reproductive biology and ecology of blacktip reef sharks.
Flapping about: trends and drivers of Australian cownose ray (Rhinoptera neglecta) coastal sightings at their southernmost distribution range
Authors: Chan Alysha J. , Jaine Fabrice R. A. , Maron Francisca , Williamson Jane E. , Schilling Hayden. T. , Smoothey Amy F. , Peddemors Victor M.
Published: January 2024

The Australian cownose ray (Rhinoptera neglecta) is an understudied batoid that occurs along Australia's north and east coasts. Currently classified as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, major knowledge gaps exist regarding the species' geographic range, habitat use and the drivers influencing its presence in coastal Australian waters. Sightings of R. neglecta were collected during systematic aerial surveys conducted along 980 km (~47%) of the New South Wales (NSW) coastline between 2017 and 2019. North-bound surveys were flown 500 m offshore, whilst return surveys were flown along the beach/sea interface (inshore or nearshore). Using generalized additive models and a set of nine predictors, we examined the relationship between the spatio-temporal occurrence of R. neglecta, their group size and the biophysical environment at the southernmost extent of their distribution. Results for the presence/absence (44.20% deviance explained) and group size of R. neglecta observed offshore and inshore (42.58 and 41.94% deviance explained, respectively) highlighted latitude, day of year, sea surface temperature, rainfall, wind speed, and wind direction as common influences to the three models. The models indicated R. neglecta were more likely to be present in the northern half of NSW during spring and summer months. However, larger group sizes were more likely to be observed in more southern regions during the same seasons, regardless of whether they were observed offshore or inshore. Group size is also likely influenced by more localized conditions, such as SST and tidal flows. This study represents the largest attempt to date to decipher the spatial ecology of R. neglecta and provides insights into the spatio-temporal distribution and relative abundance of the species along the full extent of the NSW coastline, extending the species' known distribution by over 70 km southward.
Cross-domain interactions confer stability to benthic biofilms in proglacial streams
Authors: Busi Susheel Bhanu , Peter Hannes , Brandani Jade , Kohler Tyler J. , Fodelianakis Stilianos , Pramateftaki Paraskevi , Bourquin Massimo , Michoud Grégoire , Ezzat Leïla , Lane Stuart , Wilmes Paul , Battin Tom J.
Published: January 2024

Cross-domain interactions are an integral part of the success of biofilms in natural environments but remain poorly understood. Here, we describe cross-domain interactions in stream biofilms draining proglacial floodplains in the Swiss Alps. These streams, as a consequence of the retreat of glaciers, are characterised by multiple environmental gradients and perturbations (e.g., changes in channel geomorphology, discharge) that depend on the time since deglaciation. We evaluate co-occurrence of bacteria and eukaryotic communities along streams and show that key community members have disproportionate effects on the stability of community networks. The topology of the networks, here quantified as the arrangement of the constituent nodes formed by specific taxa, was independent of stream type and their apparent environmental stability. However, network stability against fragmentation was higher in the streams draining proglacial terrain that was more recently deglaciated. We find that bacteria, eukaryotic photoautotrophs, and fungi are central to the stability of these networks, which fragment upon the removal of both pro- and eukaryotic taxa. Key taxa are not always abundant, suggesting an underlying functional component to their contributions. Thus, we show that there is a key role played by individual taxa in determining microbial community stability of glacier-fed streams.
A comparison of the effects of sheep's milk and cow's milk on recovery from eccentric exercise
Authors: Ravenwood Ben , Coad Jane , Barnes Matthew J.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

When consumed after eccentric exercise, cow's milk has been shown to improve recovery and alleviate symptoms of exercise induced muscle damage. Although currently less commercially available than cow's milk, sheep's milk may offer similar or greater benefits for recovery as it is higher in protein and energy; however, the effect of sheep's milk in any exercise context has not been explored. This study compared the effects of a sheep's milk beverage and a cow's milk beverage on recovery from strenuous eccentric exercise. Additionally, the effects of each beverage on satiety and gastrointestinal comfort were assessed.

Methods

Ten healthy males completed baseline measures of perceived muscle soreness and maximal voluntary concentric, eccentric, and isometric quadriceps force of one leg before completing 200 maximal eccentric knee extensions on an isokinetic dynamometer. Measures were repeated 0.5, 24, 48 and 72 h post-eccentric exercise. After 0.5 h measures, participants consumed either 450 ml of chocolate flavored sheep's milk or chocolate flavored cow's milk. Following a washout period, participants completed a second trial on the contralateral leg and consumed the other beverage. Additionally, a satiety and gastrointestinal comfort questionnaire was completed before and after each beverage was consumed.

Results

Eccentric exercise brought about a significant decrease in muscle function over time (all P < 0.012). No difference between treatments (all P > 0.097) was found. Measures of muscle soreness increased over time (all P < 0.002), however no difference was observed between treatments (all P > 0.072). Only sheep's milk altered perceived satiety, however, only the response to “How full do you feel” differed between treatments (P = 0.04).

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that consuming sheep's milk may provide similar benefits as cow's milk when recovering from exercise-induced muscle damage. While these findings provide initial support for the use of sheep's milk in a muscle recovery context, further research is warranted to confirm these findings. Given its superior nutritional profile, greater impact on satiety and lower environment impact, sheep's milk may be a more efficient post-exercise recovery beverage, compared to cow's milk.
Assessing the impact of China's agricultural subsidy reform on fertilizer management: a county-level empirical analysis based on difference-in-difference model
Authors: Fan Dongshou , Yang Fuxia
Published: January 2024

Agricultural subsidies are widely acknowledged to be a crucial cause in food security and environmental protection, with a substantial impact on fertilizer consumption. China is also attempting to promote the green transformation of agricultural subsidies and sustainable food production. Existing research has explored the impact of China's agricultural subsidies reform (ASR) on farmers' fertilizer application behavior at household level, but little is known about the overall effect of ASR at the regional level. This paper investigates the effect of on fertilizer inputs using the staggered difference-in-difference (DID) approach, based on county-level panel data for 723 counties in China's Main Grain Producing Area (MPA) from 2013 to 2020. The results show that the ASR obviously increases fertilizer consumption by 5–6% in MPA during the study period. An analysis of mechanism reveals that ASR boosts fertilizer input through increased grain output and on-farm employment, which both play a 13.83% and 6.42% partial mediator role. Conversely, the growth of planting scale is the primary conduit for fertilizer reduction, accounting for 11.78% of the total. Furthermore, this positive effect is significantly lower in counties with low farmer disposable income or high agricultural mechanization than in others. These findings offer valuable insights for other developing countries aiming to promote green transformation of agriculture.
Valorization of the potential use of date press cake (date syrup by-product) in food and non-food applications: a review
Authors: Alqahtani Nashi K.
Published: January 2024

Date palm is the most important fruit crop in the Middle East, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. However, a large amount of waste is generated through various industries related to date processing. Date press cake (DPC) is the main by-product of the date honey or syrup industry, where it gives 17–28 g of DPC /100 g of fruit and is usually discarded as waste. Due to its higher content of nutrients and bioactive compounds, it can be valorized through inclusion in various food and nonfood applications. The potential applications of DPC as a promising ingredient and innovative substrate in different applications were discussed in this review, including chemical composition, nutritional value, functionality, current applications of DPC, limitations, and future trends.
Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic investigation of the genes and metabolites involved in swine follicular cyst formation
Authors: Dai Jiage , Pang Mingyue , Cai Jiabao , Liu Yan , Qin Yusheng
Published: January 2024

Follicular cysts are a common reproductive disorder in mammals that is usually caused by stress. However, the pathogenesis of follicular cysts in sows remains unclear. To provide new insights into the mechanisms of follicular cyst formation in pigs, we conducted a combined transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis on theca interna and mural granulosa cells of follicular cysts and mature follicles. We identified 2,533 up-regulated and 1,355 down-regulated genes in follicular cysts, compared with mature follicles. These differentially expressed genes were mainly found in signaling pathways related to tumor formation and cortisol synthesis and secretion as shown by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, which predicted 4,362 upstream regulatory factors. The combined gene expression and pathway analysis identified the following genes as potential biomarkers for porcine follicular cysts: cytochrome P450 family 2 subfamily C polypeptide 18, L-lactate dehydrogenase, carbamoyl-phosphate synthase, fibroblast growth factor 7, integrin binding sialoprotein, interleukin 23 receptor, prolactin receptor, epiregulin, interleukin 1 receptor type II, arginine vasopressin receptor 1A, fibroblast growth factor 10, claudin 7, G Protein Subunit Gamma 3, cholecystokinin B receptor and cytosolic phospholipase A2. Metabolomics analysis found significant differences in 87 metabolites, which were enriched in unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis, and sphingolipid signaling pathways. These results provide valuable information on the molecular mechanisms of follicular cyst formation, which may facilitate the development of new therapeutics to prevent and treat follicular cysts.
Utilizing productivity and health breeding-to-market information along with disease diagnostic data to identify pig mortality risk factors in a U.S. swine production system
Authors: Magalhães Edison S. , Zimmerman Jeff J. , Thomas Pete , Moura Cesar A. A. , Trevisan Giovani , Schwartz Kent J. , Burrough Eric , Holtkamp Derald J. , Wang Chong , Rademacher Christopher J. , Silva Gustavo S. , Linhares Daniel C. L.
Published: January 2024

Aggregated diagnostic data collected over time from swine production systems is an important data source to investigate swine productivity and health, especially when combined with records concerning the pre-weaning and post-weaning phases of production. The combination of multiple data streams collected over the lifetime of the pigs is the essence of the whole-herd epidemiological investigation. This approach is particularly valuable for investigating the multifaceted and ever-changing factors contributing to wean-to-finish (W2F) swine mortality. The objective of this study was to use a retrospective dataset (“master table”) containing information on 1,742 groups of pigs marketed over time to identify the major risk factors associated with W2F mortality. The master table was built by combining historical breed-to-market performance and health data with disease diagnostic records (Dx Codes) from marketed groups of growing pigs. After building the master table, univariate analyses were conducted to screen for risk factors to be included in the initial multivariable model. After a stepwise backward model selection approach, 5 variables and 2 interactions remained in the final model. Notably, the diagnosis variable significantly associated with W2F mortality was porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). Closeouts with clinical signs suggestive ofSalmonellaspp. orEscherichia coliinfection were also associated with higher W2F mortality. Source sow farm factors that remained significantly associated with W2F mortality were the sow farm PRRS status, average weaning age, and the average pre-weaning mortality. After testing for the possible interactions in the final model, two interactions were significantly associated with wean-to-finish pig mortality: (1) sow farm PRRS status and a laboratory diagnosis of PRRSV and (2) average weaning age and a laboratory diagnosis of PRRS. Closeouts originating from PRRS epidemic or PRRS negative sow farms, when diagnosed with PRRS in the growing phase, had the highest W2F mortality rates. Likewise, PRRS diagnosis in the growing phase was an important factor in mortality, regardless of the average weaning age of the closeouts. Overall, this study demonstrated the utility of a whole-herd approach when analyzing diagnostic information along with breeding-to-market productivity and health information, to measure the major risk factors associated with W2F mortality in specified time frames and pig populations.
Weaning transition, but not the administration of probiotic candidate Kazachstania slooffiae, shaped the gastrointestinal bacterial and fungal communities in nursery piglets
Authors: Harlow KaLynn , Summers Katie Lynn , Oliver William T. , Wells James E. , Crouse Matthew , Neville Bryan W. , Rempel Lea A. , Rivera Israel , Ramsay Timothy G. , Davies Cary Pirone
Published: January 2024

As in-feed antibiotics are phased out of swine production, producers are seeking alternatives to facilitate improvements in growth typically seen from this previously common feed additive. Kazachstania slooffiae is a prominent commensal fungus in the swine gut that peaks in relative abundance shortly after weaning and has beneficial interactions with other bacteriome members important for piglet health. In this study, piglets were supplemented with K. slooffiae to characterize responses in piglet health as well as fungal and bacterial components of the microbiome both spatially (along the entire gastrointestinal tract and feces) and temporally (before, during, and after weaning). Litters were assigned to one of four treatments: no K. slooffiae (CONT); one dose of K. slooffiae 7 days before weaning (day 14; PRE); one dose of K. slooffiae at weaning (day 21; POST); or one dose of K. slooffiae 7 days before weaning and one dose at weaning (PREPOST). The bacteriome and mycobiome were analyzed from fecal samples collected from all piglets at day 14, day 21, and day 49, and from organ samples along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract at day 21 and day 49. Blood samples were taken at day 14 and day 49 for cytokine analysis, and fecal samples were assayed for antimicrobial resistance. While some regional shifts were seen in response to K. slooffiae administration in the mycobiome of the GI tract, no remarkable changes in weight gain or health of the animals were observed, and changes were more likely due to sow and the environment. Ultimately, the combined microbiome changed most considerably following the transition from suckling to nursery diets. This work describes the mycobiome along the piglet GI tract through the weaning transition for the first time. Based on these findings, K. slooffiae administered at this concentration may not be an effective tool to hasten colonization of K. slooffiae in the piglet GI tract around the weaning transition nor support piglet growth, microbial gut health, or immunity. However, diet and environment greatly influence microbial community development.
Sorption of phenols and flavonoids on activated charcoal improves protein metabolism, antioxidant status, immunity, and intestinal morphology in broilers
Authors: Zhang Ying , Fu Xiaoqi , Wang Lixue , Guo Xiangyue , Dong Bing
Published: January 2024

Previous studies have revealed that activated charcoal sorption of Chinese herbal extracts is more effective than activated charcoal. The present study was designed to investigate whether phenols and flavonoids have an effect on nutrient metabolism, antioxidant activity, immunity, and intestinal morphology in broilers. Seven diets [basal diet (CON); CON supplemented with 450 mg/kg of activated charcoal (AC); CON supplemented with 250, 500, 750, 1,000, or 7,500 mg/kg of phenolic acids and flavonoids (PF) to AC (PFAC)]. PFAC was the complex of AC sorption of PF in the ratio of 9:1. These dietary treatments for broilers lasted for 42 days. Results showed that at d 21, all doses of PFAC altered serum levels of total protein, albumin, and creatinine compared to AC (p < 0.05). Both PFAC and AC altered HDL-, LDL-, and VLDL-cholesterol levels compared to CON (p < 0.05). PFAC at 500 mg/kg (450 mg/kg AC+ 50 mg/kg phenolic acids and flavonoids) increased serum IgA and IgM (p < 0.05), but AC at 450 mg/kg did not, compared to CON. At d 42, breast and thigh muscles of PFAC-treated broilers had higher free radical scavenging activities compared to CON (p < 0.05), but AC had no such effect. PFAC at 500 mg/kg increased villus height in the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum compared to CON (p < 0.05), but AC had no such response. PFAC at 500 mg/kg effectively improved protein and lipid metabolism, antioxidant status, and intestinal morphology, but AC had no such effect at a similar dose. Excessive PFAC (7,500 mg/kg) showed no significant side effects on broiler growth, liver damage, or hematology. These results suggest that phenols and flavonoids, in cooperation with activated charcoal, provide the majority of the functions of the herbal extract from multiple Chinese medicinal herbs.
Asociación entre aprendizaje, problemas de concentración, integración escolar, participación negativa y aspiraciones con la deserción escolar en un Colegio Militarizado
Authors: De la O-Cavazos Óscar , Lozano-Treviño David Fernando
Published: January 2024

El objetivo de la presente investigación es asociar el aprendizaje, los problemas de concentración, la integración escolar, la participación negativa y las aspiraciones con la propensión de deserción escolar en los alumnos de un colegio militarizado. El estudio fue no experimental, descriptivo y correlacional con una muestra de 350 estudiantes. Se propone un modelo empírico donde se muestran los resultados obtenidos: las asociaciones negativas del aprendizaje y las aspiraciones del estudiante con la inclinación por desertar y las asociaciones positivas de los problemas de concentración, integración escolar negativa y la participación inadecuada con el abandono escolar.
Cultura Organizacional y su incidencia en la gestión del conocimiento en el Consejo de Gobierno de Régimen Especial de Galápagos
Authors: Zambrano-Cedeño María Fernanda , Zambrano-Guadamud Vania Kaina , Zambrano-Farias José Iván
Published: January 2024

El desarrollo de este trabajo de investigación se realizó con el fin de encontrar la incidencia que existe entre la cultura organizacional y la gestión del conocimiento del Consejo de Gobierno del Régimen Especial de Galápagos, para esto se realizó el levantamiento de información estableciendo una encuesta con preguntas previamente validadas y adaptadas a Rico y Ruiz (2021) y Petrilli et al. (2022). Estos resultados fueron validados, para la cultura organizacional un 0,1910 que representa una fiabilidad inaceptable y muy baja, y para la gestión del conocimiento un 0,529 este valor se interpreta como una fiabilidad pobre. Luego con ayuda del Minitab se llevó a cabo la respectiva tabulación en la que señala que tiene una cultura organización media, es decir en un nivel resolutivo capaz de solventar los pequeños problemas básicos, en cuanto a la gestión del conocimiento se analizó un débil conocimiento en el entorno empresarial. Finalmente se realizó la correlación de Pearson para establecer la correlación entre ambas variables, dando como resultado una correlación mediana de 0,478, es decir una relación directa entre las variables de estudio confirmando la hipótesis planteada.
Evaluación Integral de la Solidez Financiera en el Sector Hotelero Español: Un Enfoque Estructural y Comparativo
Authors: León-Gómez Ana , Gimeno-Arias Fernando , García-Revilla Mercedes Raquel , Mora Forero Jorge Alexander
Published: January 2024

El desarrollo de este trabajo de investigación se realizó con el fin de encontrar la incidencia que España, un actor destacado en el turismo mundial, ha experimentado una notable transformación en su sector turístico, evolucionando de un enfoque centrado en sol y playa hacia una oferta más rica que incluye atractivos culturales y gastronómicos. En este contexto, el sector hotelero se ha consolidado como un elemento crucial de la industria, impulsando la inversión, el empleo y la innovación. Este estudio se enfoca en el análisis del sector hotelero español para proporcionar una comprensión profunda de su impacto económico. Se examina la evolución del sector en términos de capacidad financiera, rentabilidad y generación de empleo, empleando un análisis detallado de indicadores clave y un enfoque económico-financiero. Con este fin, se han implementado dos análisis fundamentales: primero, un estudio longitudinal de las principales ratios financieras, que ofrece una perspectiva de la evolución y tendencias a lo largo del tiempo. Segundo, se realiza un análisis económico-financiero exhaustivo, diseñado para evaluar en profundidad la solidez y estabilidad financiera del sector hotelero.  La investigación contempla una variedad de factores, tanto internos como externos, que influyen en la rentabilidad del sector, incluyendo la situación macroeconómica, las políticas gubernamentales y variables como la ubicación y la innovación. Los resultados muestran que, aunque el sector hotelero español exhibe una fuerte capacidad empresarial, enfrenta retos significativos en términos de solvencia y apalancamiento. El estudio concluye subrayando la importancia de desarrollar estrategias eficientes para mejorar la rentabilidad y la solidez financiera del sector, ofreciendo un análisis detallado de los indicadores económicos.
Design and Validation of a Photoelectric Current Measuring Unit for Lunar Daytime Simulation Chamber
Authors: Park Seungsoo , Chung Taeil , Kim Jihyun , Ryu Byunghyun , Shin Hyusoung
Published: January 2024

Charging of the lunar surface induced by solar radiation can potentially threaten in situ resource utilization. Associated issues include dust adhesion and material degradation. Photoelectric currents are the primary cause of surface charging. This work reports on the development of a unit capable of measuring photoelectric currents in a vacuum chamber, which can simulate surface charging under conditions similar to those on the moon in daytime. The main components of the unit are a mesh grid, a photocathode specimen, and a ring collector. Photoelectric currents from an aluminum sample were measured by adjusting the electric potential of these components, and the impact of the electric potential of each component is discussed. Calculating the expected electric current within the experimental setup allowed validation of the current measurements: the measured and calculated values agreed well with an error of ~5.5%. Finally, the photoelectric currents for various metals (aluminum, nickel, and copper) were measured using the same experimental setup. The results showed consistent measurement of photoelectric current values across all metals. This study offers insights into the development of units for measuring photoelectric current and methodologies to validate their results.
Amino Acid Composition in Different Tissues of Iceland Scallop from the Barents Sea
Authors: Dvoretsky Alexander G. , Obluchinskaya Ekaterina D. , Gorshenina Elena V. , Dvoretsky Vladimir G.
Published: January 2024

The Iceland scallop from the Barents Sea is a commercially important species with promising aquaculture potential, but information on the biochemical properties of its tissues is limited. Our analysis of the adductor muscle, gonad, and mantle of this bivalve mollusk from coastal waters provided insight into its amino acid composition. Biochemical analysis revealed predominant levels of glycine (11.8, 11.5, and 9.6 mg g−1, respectively) and arginine (11.2, 8.3, and 5.8 mg g−1, respectively). While multivariate comparisons did not reveal significant differences in amino acid composition between the tissues, single comparisons showed significantly higher levels of arginine and leucine in the adductor muscle compared to those of the mantle. The abundant presence of glycine and arginine underscores their importance in maintaining basic physiological processes, consistent with other scallop species. Redundancy analysis identified water depth and scallop gonad index as influential factors shaping the amino acid profile in the adductor muscle. In the case of the mantle, water temperature emerged as the main driver of amino acid content. Our results confirm the richness of essential amino acids in scallop by-products and highlight their potential for human consumption, production of feed ingredients for farmed animals, and nutraceuticals.
Response of Siberian Cranes (Grus leucogeranus) to Hydrological Changes and the Availability of Foraging Habitat at Various Water Levels in Poyang Lake
Authors: Shao Mingqin , Wang Jianying , Ding Hongxiu , Yang Fucheng
Published: January 2024

To assess the Siberian crane (Grus leucogeranus)’s response to changing water levels and habitat quality at Poyang Lake, we analyzed the lake’s hydrological trends over the past two decades with the Mann-Kendall and Sen slope methods. Additionally, we explored the link between the crane population size and hydrological conditions at the lake from 2011 to 2019. Meanwhile, five environmental factors, including habitat type, distance from shallow lakes, human footprint index, elevation and normalized vegetation index were selected, and the distribution patterns of suitable habitats for the Siberian crane under 10 water level gradients with intervals of about 1 m (5.3–14.2 m) were simulated by using an improved habitat suitability index model that determines the weights of evaluating factors based on the MaxEnt model. The results showed that the overall trend of the inundated area in Poyang Lake was shrinking in the last 20 years, with a significant increase in the area of exposed floodland during the early wintering period (Z = −2.26). The prolonged drought resulting from this will force vegetation succession, thereby diminishing the food resources for cranes in their natural habitat. The mean inundated area in June demonstrated a significant negative correlation with the population of Siberian cranes in natural habitats (r = −0.75, p = 0.02). Shortage of the Siberian crane-preferred Vallisneria tuber due to June flooding was the primary driver of the crane’s altered foraging strategy and habitat shift. In years with relatively normal June inundation, indicating abundant Vallisneria resources, the relationship between the inundated area during the dry season and the crane population fit well, with a quadratic curve (R2 = 0.92, p = 0.02). The dry season’s inundated area primarily affected the crane population and distribution pattern by influencing the availability of food resources, and both excessive and insufficient inundation areas were unfavorable for crane survival. The modeling results for habitat suitability indicated that as the water level decreased, the trend of the area of good habitat for the Siberian crane showed an inverted bell shape, peaking at a water level of 8.8 m, with optimal conditions occurring between 8 and 10 m. The combined effects of climate and human activities have made the shortage of food resources in Poyang Lake the new normal. The degradation of natural habitats has led to a decline in the quality of Siberian crane habitats, and artificial habitats can only be used as refuges to a certain extent. Thus, formulating strategies to restore natural habitats and enhance the management of artificial habitats is crucial for the conservation efforts of Siberian cranes.
Ethosomes for Curcumin and Piperine Cutaneous Delivery to Prevent Environmental-Stressor-Induced Skin Damage
Authors: Ferrara Francesca , Bondi Agnese , Pula Walter , Contado Catia , Baldisserotto Anna , Manfredini Stefano , Boldrini Paola , Sguizzato Maddalena , Montesi Leda , Benedusi Mascia , Valacchi Giuseppe , Esposito Elisabetta
Published: January 2024

Diesel particulate matter is one of the most dangerous environmental stressors affecting human health. Many plant-derived compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have been proposed to protect the skin from pollution damage. Curcumin (CUR) has a plethora of pharmacological activities, including anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. However, it has low bioavailability due to its difficult absorption and rapid metabolism and elimination. CUR encapsulation in nanotechnological systems and its combination with biopotentiators such as piperine (PIP) can improve its pharmacokinetics, stability and activity. In this study, ethosomes (ETs) were investigated for CUR and PIP delivery to protect the skin from damage induced by diesel particulate matter. ETs were produced by different strategies and characterized for their size distribution by photon correlation spectroscopy, for their morphology by transmission electron microscopy, and for their drug encapsulation efficiency by high-performance liquid chromatography. Franz cells enabled us to evaluate in vitro the drug diffusion from ETs. The results highlighted that ETs can promote the skin permeation of curcumin. The studies carried out on their antioxidant activity demonstrated an increase in the antioxidant power of CUR using a combination of CUR and PIP separately loaded in ETs, suggesting their possible application for the prevention of skin damage due to exogenous stressors. Ex vivo studies on human skin explants have shown the suitability of drug-loaded ETs to prevent the structural damage to the skin induced by diesel engine exhaust exposure.
Synoptic-Scale Wildland Fire Weather Conditions in Mexico
Authors: Hayasaka Hiroshi
Published: January 2024

Future climate change is expected to increase the risk and severity of wildland fires in tropical regions. Synoptic-scale fire weather conditions in Mexico were carefully analyzed using 20 years of satellite hotspot and rainfall data, hourly weather data, and various climate data. Fire analysis results showed that eighty-four percent of all fires in Mexico occurred south of 22° N. Southwest Mexico (SWM, N < 22°, 94–106° W) and Southeast Mexico (SEM, N < 22°, 86–94° W), account for 50% and 34% of all fires in Mexico. Synoptic-scale analysis results using hourly data showed that westerly wind sea breezes from the Pacific Ocean blow toward the coastal land areas of the SWM while easterly wind sea breezes from the Caribbean blow into the SEM. The most sensitive weather parameters were “relative humidity” for the SWM and “temperature” for the SEM. The fire-related indices selected were “precipitable water vapor anomaly” for the SWM and “temperature anomaly” for the SEM. The SWM fire index suggests that future fires will depend on dryness, while the SEM fire index suggests that future fires will depend on temperature trends. I do hope that this paper will improve local fire forecasts and help analyze future fire trends under global warming in Mexico.
Recycling of Valuable Metals from the Priority Lithium Extraction Residue Obtained through Hydrogen Reduction of Spent Lithium Batteries
Authors: Guo Yong , Liu Fupeng , Chen Feixiong , Chen Zaoming , Zeng Hong , Zhang Tao , Shen Changquan
Published: January 2024

The selective separation of lithium from spent ternary positive materials is achieved through hydrogen reduction followed by water leaching. Almost 98% of the Li is transformed into soluble LiOH⋅H2O, while the Ni, Co and Mn species are all transformed into insoluble metals or their oxides, so the recovery of Ni, Co and Mn at this stage is challenging. The traditional acid leaching process has drawbacks such as high oxidant consumption, the low recovery of valuable metals and high production costs. Thus, sulfation roasting followed by water leaching was studied in this project. The leaching levels of Ni, Co, Mn and Al reached 87.13%, 99.87%, 96.21% and 94.95%, respectively, with 1.4 times the theoretical amount of sulfuric acid used at 180 °C for 120 min. To avoid the adverse effects of Mn and Al on the quality of the Ni and Co sulfate products, Mn2+ was first separated and precipitated via the KMnO4 oxidation–precipitation method, and >98% of the Mn was removed and precipitated within 30 min with a Kp/Kt (ratio of actual usage to theoretical usage of KMnO4) of 1.0 at pH = 2.0 and 25 °C. After removal of the Mn, the solvent extraction method was adopted by using P204 as an extractant to separate Al. More than 98% of the Al was extracted in 30 min with 20% (v/v) P204 + 10% (v/v) TBP with an A/O ratio of 1:1 at 30 °C. This optimized process for extracting lithium residues improved the hydrogen reduction process of waste lithium batteries and will enable industrialization of the developed processes.
Effect of UV-C Radiation and Thermal Treatment on Volatile Compounds, Physicochemical, Microbiological and Phytochemical Parameters on Apple Juice (Malus domestica) with Raspberry (Rubus idaleus L.)
Authors: Estrada-Beltrán Aztrid E. , Salas-Salazar Nora A. , Quintero-Ramos Armando , Parra-Quezada Rafael A. , Soto-Caballero Mayra C. , Rodríguez-Roque María J. , Chávez-Martínez América , Flores-Cordova María A.
Published: January 2024

Volatile compounds contribute to aroma and flavor, these being the main sensory attributes in food acceptance. This work addresses the physicochemical, volatile compounds, polyphenols, and flavonoids content and, antioxidant activity of apple-raspberry (90/10%) juice treated by thermal and ultraviolet radiation (UV-C) alone or in combination with moderate heat-treatment. Nineteen volatile compounds were identified which experienced changes depending on the treatment. Compounds such as α-ionone and β-ionone, that contribute to raspberries characteristic aroma, were present in a greater concentration in the UV-C treatment and lower in the thermal treatment. Likewise, 2-methyl butyl acetate, which give a fruity-sweet aroma typical of apples was present in a greater concentration in the UV-C treatment. Regarding polyphenol content, control and combined treatment presented the greater concentrations. However, after twenty days of storage, control and combined treatment presented the lower flavonoid concentration. Nevertheless, at this time, treatments showed no variations in antioxidant activity. Yeast and mold and total aerobic mesophilic and psychrophilic counts were reduced in the heat and combined treatments. In conclusion, UV-C and moderate heat might successfully be used to process a stable apple-raspberry juice while maintaining its quality and safety.
Does 20 Hz Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation over the Human Primary Motor Cortex Modulate Beta Rebound Following Voluntary Movement?
Authors: Akaiwa Mayu , Matsuda Yuya , Kurokawa Ryo , Sugawara Yasushi , Kosuge Rin , Saito Hidekazu , Shibata Eriko , Sasaki Takeshi , Sugawara Kazuhiro , Kozuka Naoki
Published: January 2024

Beta frequency oscillations originating from the primary motor cortex increase in amplitude following the initiation of voluntary movement, a process termed beta rebound. The strength of beta rebound has been reported to predict the recovery of motor function following stroke, suggesting therapeutic applications of beta rebound modulation. The present study examined the effect of 20 Hz transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) on the beta rebound induced by self-paced voluntary movement. Electroencephalograms (EEGs) and electromyograms (EMGs) were recorded from 16 healthy adults during voluntary movements performed before and after active or sham tACS. There was no significant change in average beta rebound after active tACS. However, the beta rebound amplitude was significantly enhanced in a subset of participants, and the magnitude of the increase across all participants was negatively correlated with the difference between individual peak beta frequency and tACS frequency. Thus, matching the stimulus frequency of tACS with individual beta frequency may facilitate therapeutic enhancement for motor rehabilitation.
The Influence of Waste Perlite Powder on Selected Mechanical Properties of Polymer–Cement Composites
Authors: Jaworska Beata , Stańczak Dominika , Łukowski Paweł
Published: January 2024

The subject of this paper is the influence of the partial substitution of cement with mineral additive on the properties of polymer–cement composites (PCCs). Although there is considerable research on the use of perlite in cement concrete, most of the previous studies were conducted with expanded perlite or ground waste perlite, and there is a lack of results evaluating its suitability with polymer–cement composites. To fill this gap, this paper presents the mechanical characteristic of PCC mortars containing waste perlite powder. The modification consisted of replacing part of the cement with waste perlite powder, a byproduct formed during the expansion and fractionation of perlite. The granulometric characteristics of the powder were compiled, and its specific surface area and density were determined. A chemical composition analysis was also carried out. An aqueous dispersion of styrene–acrylic copolymer was used as a polymer modifier. The proportions (by mass) between the contents of the PCC composite components, i.e., cement/polymer (0 to 20%) and cement/mineral powder (0 to 15%), were used as material variables. The technical characteristics tested included the compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths at 28 and 90 days of curing. The compositions of the tested composites were determined using the statistical planning of the experiment. At a low polymer-modifier content in PCC mortars (2.93%), the tested mechanical strengths decreased by five times, with a 6-fold increase in waste content. For mortars containing more than 10% of the polymer modifier, no effect of waste material powder on the flexural strength was observed, while with relatively minor reductions in compressive strength of 2% and 5% and tensile strength of 4% and 2% were observed after 28 and 90 days of curing, respectively. It was shown that it is possible to use waste perlite powder as an ingredient in construction polymer–cement composites, while there is a limiting waste content, above which there is a deterioration in mechanical properties.