bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
miRNA-Mediated Fine Regulation of TLR-Induced M1 Polarization
Authors: Rumpel Noah , Riechert Georg , Schumann Julia
Published: April 2024

Macrophage polarization to the M1 spectrum is induced by bacterial cell wall components through stimulation of Toll-like family (TLR) receptors. By orchestrating the expression of relevant mediators of the TLR cascade, as well as associated pathways and feedback loops, macrophage polarization is coordinated to ensure an appropriate immune response. This is central to the successful control of pathogens and the maintenance of health. Macrophage polarization is known to be modulated at both the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. In recent years, the miRNA-based post-transcriptional regulation of M1 polarization has received increasing attention from the scientific community. Comparative studies have shown that TLR stimulation alters the miRNA profile of macrophages and that macrophages from the M1 or the M2 spectrum differ in terms of miRNAs expressed. Simultaneously, miRNAs are considered critical post-transcriptional regulators of macrophage polarization. In particular, miRNAs are thought to play a regulatory role in the switch between the early proinflammatory response and the resolution phase. In this review, we will discuss the current state of knowledge on the complex interaction of transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms that ultimately determine the functionality of macrophages.
CCN1-Mediated Signaling in Placental Villous Tissues after SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Term Pregnant Women: Implications for Dysregulated Angiogenesis
Authors: Ma Yuyang , Duan Liyan , Reisch Beatrix , Kimmig Rainer , Iannaccone Antonella , Gellhaus Alexandra
Published: April 2024

The global spread of SARS-CoV-2 has increased infections among pregnant women. This study aimed to explore placental pathology alterations and angiogenic factor levels in term pregnant women after SARS-CoV-2 infection in a retrospective single-center study. Additionally, we investigated the role and underlying mechanism of the vascular inflammation-promoting, cysteine-rich protein 61 (CYR61/CCN1) in this context. All analyses were performed in term pregnant women infected with or without SARS-CoV-2. The sFlt-1, PlGF, and sEng serum levels were quantified using ELISA. Placental protein expressions were examined by immunoblot and immunostaining. Additionally, the effect of CCN1 protein on SGHPL-5 trophoblast cells was examined. We found that SARS-CoV-2 activated the inflammatory response in pregnant women, leading to pronounced vascular alterations in placental villous tissues. Elevated serum anti-angiogenic factors (sFlt-1, sEng) upon SARS-CoV-2 infection may directly contribute to these pathological changes. Upregulated CCN1 and pNF-κB in placental villous tissues of infected patients are identified as crucial factors in placental alterations. As a conclusion, CCN1 was significantly elevated in the placentas of term pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2. By activating a cascade of inflammatory responses, CCN1 induced the production of the anti-angiogenic factors sFlt-1 and sEng, which may lead to abnormal placental vascular architecture.
Synthesis of an Epoxy Toughening Curing Agent through Modification of Terephthalic Acid Sludge Waste
Authors: Fu Jinhui , Kong Huixian , Yu Rentong , Tu Jinchun , Wu Qiang , Wang Mingyu , Niu Lina , Zhang Kexi
Published: April 2024

Purified terephthalic acid (PTA) is widely used as a chemical raw material, with its production process resulting in significant compounds that generate a substantial amount of sludge waste annually. These compounds are known to possess active hydrogen. Utilizing this property, a novel approach for the treatment of PTA sludge waste was developed for its modification and re-use. This study focuses on the preparation of epoxy curing agents using PTA sludge-tank material. The modification of PTA sludge-tank material is achieved by using the one-pot method to investigate the toughening effect of home-made curing agents on epoxy resins and compare them with commercially available curing agents, and to analyze the mechanism of the structure of the curing agent on the material. The results showed that while the tensile strength of the experimental group was generally lower than that of the control group, the impact strength was significantly higher. Additionally, the hardness and tensile strength of the materials gradually decreased with an increase of the amount of hardener, while the elongation at break and impact strength increased. Notably, at a hardener amount of 35%, the elongation at break increased by 3.89%, and the tensile strength and impact strength reached 10.13 MPa and 42.86 kJ m−2, respectively, demonstrating excellent toughness and strength characteristics. These findings testified the feasibility of modifying PTA sludge waste to prepare an epoxy toughening curing agent is not only feasible, but also significantly enhances the material’s toughness.
Belief in Conspiracy Theories about COVID-19 Vaccines among Brazilians: A National Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Camargo Emerson Lucas Silva , Ribeiro Caíque Jordan Nunes , Santos Guilherme Reis de Santana , Almeida Valdemar Silva , Carvalho Herica Emilia Félix de , Schneider Guilherme , Vieira Leticia Genova , Alvim André Luiz Silva , Pimenta Fabiana Guerra , Carneiro Liliane Moretti , Batista Odinéa Maria Amorim , Sousa Anderson Reis de , Sousa Álvaro Francisco Lopes de , Ventura Carla Aparecida Arena
Published: April 2024

Background: Vaccine hesitancy is a complex challenge that demands a comprehensive approach, one that not only acknowledges legitimate concerns within communities but also actively confronts misinformation. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of belief in conspiracy theories about COVID-19 vaccines among Brazilians, seeking to understand the factors associated with this behavior. Method: Utilizing a national online survey conducted between May and August 2020, with a sample of 4247 participants, we conducted multivariate analysis to identify the independent determinants of this adherence, calculating adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) and their 95% confidence intervals. Results: It was revealed that 27.7% of participants believed in at least one conspiracy theory. Factors associated with a higher level of adherence included agreement with at least one piece of COVID-19 misinformation on social media (APR: 3.65; 95% CI: 3.07–4.34), lack of difficulty accessing leisure activities during the pandemic (APR: 3.11; 95% CI: 1.85–5.24), age 50 years or older (APR: 1.70; 95% CI: 1.49–1.94), absence of difficulty accessing protective measures (APR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.26–1.72), use of face masks (APR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.33–1.97), non-use of at least one traditional media source for information (APR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.26–1.72), female gender (APR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.25–1.60), and age between 30 and 49 years (APR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.19–1.52). Conclusions: Our findings highlight that it is crucial to recognize that vaccine hesitancy is not merely an isolated phenomenon but often rooted in a complex interplay of social, cultural, psychological, and political factors. There is a need for multifaceted strategies to combat vaccine hesitancy, effectively address conspiracy theories, and consider the various factors associated with their prevalence.
A Sequential Explanatory Study Examining the Buffering Effects of Human–Animal Interaction on Stress and Quality of Life among Work-from-Home Employees during the COVID-19 Pandemic in the Philippines
Authors: Quing Karen Anne C. , Baudin Jomar Saif P. , Maaliw Renato R.
Published: April 2024

The sudden lockdown and social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic substantially affected the physical and psychological aspects of our lives. This study used a sequential explanatory research design to explore how human–animal interactions (HAI) can reduce stress and improve quality of life (QOL) for employees working from home during the period. A total of 770 respondents took part in the quantitative portion of this study, comprised of 385 pet owners and 385 non-pet owners, with ten individuals randomly selected for the qualitative phase. The pet owners group was predominantly female, with 28.57% of the total sample with a mean age of 33.67 and a standard deviation (SD) of 9.46. In contrast, the majority of non-pet owners were male, making up 32.46% of the group with an average age of 29.57 and SD of 6.42. The HAI scale, work stress questionnaire, and the WHOQOL-BREF tests were utilized to evaluate the variables of this research. The results indicated significant differences in stress levels between the two independent groups. However, there were no significant differences in the overall QOL within the groups, except in the social domain. More importantly, our research showed that HAI had a buffering effect on stress and QOL among pet owners. Our research has important implications for understanding the importance of owning pets in enhancing personal welfare. These results are helpful for public health policies and endeavors to aid individuals and communities during periods of crises such as a pandemic.
Building the Resilience of Marginal Rural Areas Using a Complementary Characterization Approach: Possible Beneficial Health Effects and Stress Tolerance of Italian Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Landraces
Authors: Falcione Martina , Renella Alessandra , Samukha Vadym , Colardo Mayra , Simiele Melissa , Scippa Gabriella Stefania , Segatto Marco , Trupiano Dalila
Published: April 2024

Common bean landraces, besides contributing to the preservation of the social and cultural identity of the local communities of the production area, typically display adaptability to adverse agro-climatic conditions. This adapted germplasm is a repository of the gene pool and also shows typical phytochemical profiles, representing an essential source of bioactive components. However, genetic erosion is progressively affecting this genetic material, creating serious threats to its cultivation in marginal rural areas and use as a source of biodiversity and bioproducts. In the present work, a comprehensive approach was used to characterize the seed morpho-colorimetric traits, genetic diversity, and NMR metabolomic profiles of three Italian common bean landraces. Specific physiological and biochemical features (antioxidant molecules, osmolytes, structural reorganization of photosynthetic pigment, etc.), together with the accumulation of distinctive metabolites, contribute to the description of the observed diversity among the landraces in terms of the salt stress response and antiproliferative abilities on intestinal human cancer cells. This information could be useful in establishing their value in terms of environmental and/or human health “service”, both essential to translating landraces into competitive products, a prerequisite for envisioning appropriate strategies for their conservation and a driving force for the revitalization of marginal rural areas.
Abundant Species Govern the Altitude Patterns of Bacterial Community in Natural and Disturbed Subalpine Forest Soils
Authors: Li Chaonan , Liao Haijun , Li Dehui , Jing Yanli
Published: April 2024

Abundant and rare bacteria exhibit unequal responses to environmental changes and disturbances, potentially resulting in differential contributions to the altitudinal characteristics of total community in natural and disturbed soils. Although the altitude patterns of soil bacteria have been widely studied, it remains unclear whether these patterns are consistent among bacteria with varying predominance levels, and which subpopulation contributes more to maintaining these patterns in natural and disturbed subalpine forest soils. In this study, we collected 18 natural subalpine forest soil samples and 18 disturbed ones from three altitudes (2900 m a.s.l., 3102 m a.s.l., and 3194 m a.s.l.) along the Wenma highway in Miyaluo, Lixian, Sichuan, Southwest China. By partitioning total bacterial communities based on species predominance, we found that bacteria with higher predominance levels tended to exhibit altitude patterns (α-diversity, community structure, and functional redundancy) similar to those of total bacteria in both natural and disturbed subalpine forest soils, although they only occupied a small portion of the community. Abundant bacteria might play critical roles in maintaining the regional ecological characteristics of total community across the altitude gradient, while the rare and hyper-rare ones might contribute more to local diversity and functional redundancy. In natural soils, the altitude patterns of α-diversity inferred from total, abundant, and rare bacteria were mainly shaped by NO3−-N, while soil conductivity mainly drove the altitude patterns of α-diversity inferred from hyper-rare bacteria. Additionally, the community structures of total, abundant, rare, and hyper-rare bacteria were mainly shaped by NO3−-N, while the altitude patterns of functional redundancy inferred from total, abundant, and rare bacteria were mainly shaped by soil conductivity in natural soils. In disturbed subalpine forest soils, the influences of NO3−-N for the altitude patterns of α-diversity and community structure, and those of soil conductivity for functional redundancy, were relatively weak in total, abundant, rare, and hyper-rare bacteria. This study examined the roles of bacteria with varying predominance levels in maintaining the altitude pattern of bacteria in both natural and disturbed subalpine forest soils, providing novel insights for devising strategies to conserve biodiversity and ecologically restore disturbed soils in subalpine ecosystems.
A Cooperative Decision-Making Approach Based on a Soar Cognitive Architecture for Multi-Unmanned Vehicles
Authors: Ding Lin , Tang Yong , Wang Tao , Xie Tianle , Huang Peihao , Yang Bingsan
Published: April 2024

Multi-unmanned systems have demonstrated significant applications across various fields under complex or extreme operating environments. In order to make such systems highly efficient and reliable, cooperative decision-making methods have been utilized as a critical technology for successful future applications. However, current multi-agent decision-making algorithms pose many challenges, including difficulties understanding human decision processes, poor time efficiency, and reduced interpretability. Thus, a real-time online collaborative decision-making model simulating human cognition is presented in this paper to solve those problems under unknown, complex, and dynamic environments. The provided model based on the Soar cognitive architecture aims to establish domain knowledge and simulate the process of human cooperation and adversarial cognition, fostering an understanding of the environment and tasks to generate real-time adversarial decisions for multi-unmanned systems. This paper devised intricate forest environments to evaluate the collaborative capabilities of agents and their proficiency in implementing various tactical strategies while assessing the effectiveness, reliability, and real-time action of the proposed model. The results reveal significant advantages for the agents in adversarial experiments, demonstrating strong capabilities in understanding the environment and collaborating effectively. Additionally, decision-making occurs in milliseconds, with time consumption decreasing as experience accumulates, mirroring the growth pattern of human decision-making.
Joint Resource Allocation Optimization in Space–Air–Ground Integrated Networks
Authors: Xu Zhan , Yu Qiangwei , Yang Xiaolong
Published: April 2024

A UAV-assisted space–air–ground integrated network (SAGIN) can provide communication services for remote areas and disaster-stricken regions. However, the increasing types and numbers of ground terminals (GTs) have led to the explosive growth of communication data volume, which is far from meeting the communication needs of ground users. We propose a mobile edge network model that consists of three tiers: satellites, UAVs, and GTs. In this model, UAVs and satellites deploy edge servers to deliver services to GTs. GTs with limited computing capabilities can upload computation tasks to UAVs or satellites for processing. Specifically, we optimize association control, bandwidth allocation, computation task allocation, caching decisions, and the UAV’s position to minimize task latency. However, the proposed joint optimization problem is complex, and it is difficult to solve. Hence, we utilize Block Coordinate Descent (BCD) and introduce auxiliary variables to decompose the original problem into different subproblems. These subproblems are then solved using the McCormick envelope theory, the Successive Convex Approximation (SCA) method, and convex optimization techniques. The simulation results extensively illustrate that the proposed solution dramatically decreases the overall latency when compared with alternative benchmark schemes.
Energy Management Strategy Based on Reinforcement Learning and Frequency Decoupling for Fuel Cell Hybrid Powertrain
Authors: Li Hongzhe , Kang Jinsong , Li Cheng
Published: April 2024

This study presents a Two-Layer Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (TL-DDPG) energy management strategy for Hydrogen fuel cell hybrid train, that aims to solve the problem that traditional reinforcement learning strategies require high initial values and are difficult to optimize global variables. Augmenting the optimization capabilities of the inner layer, a frequency decoupling algorithm integrates into the outer layer, furnishing a fitting initial value for strategy optimization. This addition aims to bolster the stability of fuel cell output, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of the hybrid power system. In comparison with the traditional reinforcement learning algorithm, the proposed approach demonstrates notable improvements: a reduction in hydrogen consumption per 100 km by 16.3 kg, a 9.7% increase in the output power stability of the fuel cell, and a 1.8% enhancement in its efficiency.
Direct Numerical Simulation Analysis of the Closure of Turbulent Scalar Flux during Flame–Wall Interaction of Premixed Flames within Turbulent Boundary Layers
Authors: Ahmed Umair , Ghai Sanjeev Kumar , Chakraborty Nilanjan
Published: April 2024

The statistical behaviour and modelling of turbulent fluxes of the reaction progress variable and non-dimensional temperature in the context of Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) simulations have been analysed for flame–wall interactions within turbulent boundary layers. Three-dimensional Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) databases of two different flame–wall interaction configurations—(i) statistically stationary oblique wall quenching (OWQ) of a V-flame in a turbulent channel flow and (ii) unsteady head-on quenching (HOQ) of a statistically planar flame propagating across a turbulent boundary layer—have been considered for this analysis. Scalar fluxes of both the temperature and reaction progress variable exhibit counter-gradient behaviour at all times during unsteady HOQ of statistically planar turbulent premixed flames considered here. In the case of statistically stationary V-flame OWQ, the scalar fluxes of both reaction progress variable and temperature exhibit counter-gradient behaviour before quenching, but gradient behaviour has been observed close to the wall once the flame begins to quench. The weakening of the effects of thermal expansion close to the wall as a result of flame quenching gives rise to a gradient type of transport for the streamwise component in the oblique quenching of the V-flame. It has been found that the relative orientation of the flame normal vector with respect to the wall normal vector needs to be accounted for in the algebraic scalar flux closure, which can be applied to different flame/flow configurations. An existing algebraic scalar flux model has been modified in this analysis for flame–wall interaction within turbulent boundary layers, and it has been demonstrated to capture the turbulent fluxes of the reaction progress variable and non-dimensional temperature reasonably accurately for both configurations considered here based on a priori DNS analysis.
Energy Efficiency Assessment and Prediction Based on Indicator System, PSO + AHP − FCE Model and Regression Algorithm
Authors: Bai Yan , Ma Xingyi , Zhang Jing , Zhang Lei , Bai Jing
Published: April 2024

Energy-intensive enterprises lack a scientific and effective energy efficiency assessment framework and methodology. This lack leads to an inaccurate understanding of energy usage and its benefits. As a result, there is energy wastage and loss. This wastage and loss negatively affect product costs. They also present a challenge to effective energy management. To address these issues, this paper introduces a novel, comprehensive energy efficiency evaluation system. This system integrates both qualitative and quantitative measures. It proposes an evaluation model based on the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) combined with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation (FCE), wherein PSO is employed to optimize the weights determined by AHP, ensuring that the significance attributed to various indicators is scientific, objective, and rational. The FCE method is utilized to convert diverse factors affecting corporate energy efficiency, across different types and scales, into standardized 0–1 values, enabling a comparative analysis of the impact of each process and indicator on energy efficiency. Furthermore, the paper introduces an energy efficiency prediction model employing a multivariate linear regression algorithm, which demonstrates a good fit, facilitating the transition from retrospective energy efficiency evaluation to proactive improvements. Utilizing data on actual consumption of water, electricity, and steam from an enterprise, along with expert assessments on the implementation levels of new processes, technologies, equipment, personnel scheduling proficiency, steam recovery rates, and adherence to policies and assessments, a simulation experiment of the proposed model was conducted using Python. The evaluation yielded an energy efficiency score of 0.68; this is consistent with the real-world scenario of the studied enterprise. The predicted mean square error of 9.035416039503998 × 10−9 indicates a high model accuracy, validating the practical applicability and effectiveness of the proposed approach.
The Relationships between Biomass and Soil Respiration across Different Forest Management Practices
Authors: Hu Chen , Lei Jing-Pin , Wan Ji-Zhong
Published: April 2024

Soil respiration (Rs) is a widely monitored parameter in global forest management that results in activities that contribute to ecosystem functions. Rs can vary depending on different disturbance levels and ecosystem types as a result of changes in forest management practices. Understanding the mechanisms through which different forest management practices affect Rs can provide a general reference for ecological management and restoration practices. However, the global drivers of Rs across different forest management practices have not been sufficiently studied in the literature. In this study, we investigated the changing trends in Rs based on the relationships evident between biomass and Rs across different forest management practices. We used simple linear models to explore the relationships between biomass (aboveground and belowground biomasses) and Rs at a global scale based on different types of forest management practices and biomes. We observed significant differences in the mean values of Rs among various forest management practices. Furthermore, significant positive relationships between forest biomass and Rs were evident globally. Soil temperature had a significant effect on Rs, but the influences of soil temperature and moisture on Rs changed with the variations in forest management practices. Biome type can regulate the relationships between forest biomass and Rs across different forest management practices. We observed that the relationships between forest biomass and Rs were the strongest for naturally regenerating forests, both with and without signs of management, in tropical and subtropical coniferous and temperate broadleaf and mixed forests. Forest plantations and agroforestry can favor the establishment of similar positive relationships in temperate forest biomes (i.e., temperate conifer forests and boreal forests/taiga). Our results show that aboveground and belowground biomasses can be applied as effective ecological indicators for monitoring Rs levels, depending on different forest management practices and biomes. In this study, we provide evidence for monitoring Rs levels under different forest management practices globally.
Changes in Potentially Suitable Areas for Fruit Utilization of Acer truncatum in China under Climate Change
Authors: Liu Yitong , Wang Yuqing , Guo Hui , Wu Di , Wu Sha , Xin Xuebin , Pei Shunxiang
Published: April 2024

Acer truncatum is a unique multipurpose woody oil species in China. It is crucial to study the geographical distribution patterns of fruit utilization of A. truncatum under climate change scenarios to ensure the rational site selection and germplasm resource protection of this tree. In this study, the Maxent model and Geographic Information System (GIS) spatial analysis technology were used to construct a suitable area model for the plant under current climate conditions by selecting 138 sample points and 15 ecological factors, and to predict the potentially suitable areas under four climate scenarios in 2050 and 2070. The results showed that under current conditions, the main suitable areas were concentrated in China, such as Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi and Hebei, with an area of 1.64 × 106 km2. Under future conditions, the suitable area in 2050 and 2070 showed an expanding trend compared with that in the current period, and the expansion ratios were as high as 36.52% and 45.80% under the RCP2.6-2050 and RCP8.5-2070 scenarios, respectively. The expansion area is concentrated in the middle latitudes of China (38° N~52° N), basically covering the middle and northeast of Inner Mongolia and the middle and north of Heilongjiang, while the loss area is mainly located in northern Sichuan, northern Hubei and eastern Henan. The center of the suitable area is expected to migrate to the northeast in 2050 and 2070, with a maximum migration distance of 355.46 km. Under future conditions, the suitable area shrinks in low-latitude regions and expands in high-latitude regions, and the expanded area becomes larger than the contracted area. This conclusion provides important guidelines for the directional cultivation of A. truncatum for utilization of its fruit.
Confocal Microscopy and Molecular Analyses Reveal Anal Secretory Apparatus in Immatures and Recover Transcontinental Clade of Gall Mites (Eriophyoidea) from Tamarisks
Authors: Chetverikov Philipp E. , Ngubane-Ndhlovu Nompumelelo P. , Situngu Sivu , Elhalawany Ashraf , Amrine James
Published: April 2024

Tamarisk is an invasive evergreen shrub native to arid regions of Africa and Eurasia and is considered a weed in some countries with dry climates. The complex of gall mites from tamarisks includes fourteen species from four genera of the family Eriophyidae. We reinvestigated the type species of the genus Dicruvasates, D. tamaricis from Egypt, described D. ngubani n. sp. from Tamarix usneoides from South Africa, and revised the generic concept of Dicruvasates. This genus possesses cuticular plates marking longitudinal opisthosomal ridges typical of various phyllocoptine genera, e.g., Echinacrus. We sequenced three genes of Dicruvasates and Phyllocoptes mites from Tamarix and Echinacrus from Frangula, combined our sequences with the data from GenBank, and performed single-gene phylogenetic analyses. All analyses inferred the following: (1) a transcontinental clade Tam comprising Dicruvasates + Aceria + Phyllocoptes from Tamarix; (2) Echinacrus distantly related to Dicruvasates, suggesting the homoplastic nature of the cuticular plates on the opisthosomal ridges, and (3) polyphyly of the genera Aceria and Phyllocoptes. We also investigated partially cleared specimens of Dicruvasates under CLSM and, for the first time, visualized a well-developed anal secretory apparatus (ASA) in the immatures of gall mites, which was previously shown to be a specialized system evolved in Eriophyoidea for silk production. We hypothesize that the ASA contributes to finding nymphs by conspecific males and advocate for the importance of the future molecular biology studies of gall mite silk for developing new methods for controlling mites based on the knowledge of their ecology, behavior, and silk gene genetics.
Effect of Vegetation Structure on Lift-Off and Dispersal Velocities of Diaspores with Different Morphological Characteristics in Secondary Wind Dispersal
Authors: Li Xiangrong , Zhou Quanlai , Liu Zhimin , Che Shimin , Jiang Yan , Zhang Jiaqi , Yu Hang , Zong Lu , Tian Liang , Wang Yongcui
Published: April 2024

Diaspore dispersal is crucial in shaping plant population dynamics, biodiversity, and ecosystem functions. The effect of the vegetation structure on the secondary wind dispersal of diaspores with different appendage types is not well understood. Using a wind tunnel and a high-definition video camera, we accurately measured the lift-off and dispersal velocities of diaspores from sixteen plant species across six wind velocities (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 m s−1) under six simulated vegetation structures. Vegetation structure and appendage type were pivotal factors, explaining 41.1% and 42.3% of the variance in lift-off velocity and accounting for 12.0% and 25.3% of the variability in diaspore dispersal velocity, respectively. Vegetation coverage was the main factor influencing near-surface wind velocity, and the lift-off and dispersal velocities of diaspores changed significantly when vegetation coverage exceeded 40%. Diaspores with one wing, having high lift-off velocities and low dispersal velocities, adopt the anti-long-distance wind dispersal strategy, whereas diaspores with pappus, having low lift-off velocities and high dispersal velocities, adopt the long-distance wind dispersal strategy. In contrast, diaspores with thorn, discoid, balloon, and four wings adopt the non-long-distance wind dispersal strategy, suitable for environments such as low-coverage deserts and desert steppes but not high-coverage typical steppes. This study could help comprehend the effect of the vegetation structure on the dispersal process of diaspores, which facilitate habitat restoration and biodiversity conservation of grassland and forest ecosystems.
Photoautotrophic Production of Docosahexaenoic Acid- and Eicosapentaenoic Acid-Enriched Biomass by Co-Culturing Golden-Brown and Green Microalgae
Authors: Thurn Anna-Lena , Schobel Josef , Weuster-Botz Dirk
Published: April 2024

Marine microalgae offer a sustainable alternative source for the human diet’s essential omega-3-fatty acids, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5). However, none of them can produce DHA and EPA in a nutritionally balanced ratio of 1:1. As shown recently, the phototrophic co-cultivation of the golden-brown microalgae Tisochrysis lutea (DHA producer) with the green microalgae Microchloropsis salina (EPA producer) can provide microalgae biomass with a balanced DHA-to-EPA ratio with increased productivity compared to monocultures. This study evaluates whether other golden-brown (Isochrysis galbana) and green microalgae (Nannochloropsis oceanica, Microchloropsis gaditana) can enable the phototrophic batch production of omega-3 fatty acids in a nutritionally balanced ratio in co-culture. All co-cultivations applying a physically dynamic climate simulation of a repeated sunny summer day in Australia in LED-illuminated flat-plate gas lift photobioreactors resulted in increased biomass concentrations compared to their respective monocultures, achieving balanced DHA-to-EPA ratios of almost 1:1. Using urea instead of nitrate as a nitrogen source increased the EPA content by up to 80% in all co-cultures. Light spectra measurements on the light-adverted side of the photobioreactor showed that increased biomass concentrations in co-cultures could have been related to enhanced light use due to the utilization of different wavelengths of the two microalgae strains, especially with the use of green light (500–580 nm) primarily by golden-brown microalgae (I. galbana) and orange light (600–620 nm) predominantly used by green microalgae (N. oceanica). Phototrophic co-cultivation processes thus promise higher areal biomass yields if microalgae are combined with complimentary light-harvesting features.
COVID-19 Diagnosis by Extracting New Features from Lung CT Images Using Fractional Fourier Transform
Authors: Nokhostin Ali , Rashidi Saeid
Published: April 2024

COVID-19 is a lung disease caused by a coronavirus family virus. Due to its extraordinary prevalence and associated death rates, it has spread quickly to every country in the world. Thus, achieving peaks and outlines and curing different types of relapses is extremely important. Given the worldwide prevalence of coronavirus and the participation of physicians in all countries, information has been gathered regarding the properties of the virus, its diverse types, and the means of analyzing it. Numerous approaches have been used to identify this evolving virus. It is generally considered the most accurate and acceptable method of examining the patient’s lungs and chest through a CT scan. As part of the feature extraction process, a method known as fractional Fourier transform (FrFT) has been applied as one of the time-frequency domain transformations. The proposed method was applied to a database consisting of 2481 CT images. Following the transformation of all images into equal sizes and the removal of non-lung areas, multiple combination windows are used to reduce the number of features extracted from the images. In this paper, the results obtained for KNN and SVM classification have been obtained with accuracy values of 99.84% and 99.90%, respectively.
Effect of Callus Cell Immobilization on the Textural and Rheological Properties, Loading, and Releasing of Grape Seed Extract from Pectin Hydrogels
Authors: Günter Elena , Popeyko Oxana , Vityazev Fedor , Popov Sergey
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the present study was to prepare pectin hydrogels with immobilized Lemna minor callus cells and to identify the effect of cell immobilization on the textural, rheological, and swelling properties; loading; and releasing of grape seed extract (GSE) from the hydrogels. Hardness, adhesiveness, elasticity, the strength of linkage, and complex viscosity decreased with increasing cell content in the hydrogels based on pectin with a degree of methyl esterification (DM) of 5.7% (TVC) and during incubation in gastrointestinal fluids. An increase in the rheological properties and fragility of pectin/callus hydrogels based on pectin with a DM of 33.0% (CP) was observed at a cell content of 0.4 g/mL. TVC-based pectin/callus beads increased their swelling in gastrointestinal fluids as cell content increased. TVC-based beads released GSE very slowly into simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, indicating controlled release. The GSE release rate in colonic fluid decreased with increasing cell content, which was associated with the accumulation of GSE in cells. CP-based beads released GSE completely in the intestinal fluid due to weak textural characteristics and rapid degradation within 10 min. Pectin/callus hydrogels have the ability to preserve GSE for a long time and may have great potential for the development of proanthocyanidin delivery systems due to their novel beneficial physicochemical and textural properties.
Dried Porous Biomaterials from Mealworm Protein Gels: Proof of Concept and Impact of Drying Method on Structural Properties and Zinc Retention
Authors: Klost Martina , Keil Claudia , Gurikov Pavel
Published: April 2024

Dried porous materials can be found in a wide range of applications. So far, they are mostly prepared from inorganic or indigestible raw materials. The aim of the presented study was to provide a proof of concept for (a) the suitability of mealworm protein gels to be turned into dried porous biomaterials by either a combination of solvent exchange and supercritical drying to obtain aerogels or by lyophilization to obtain lyophilized hydrogels and (b) the suitability of either drying method to retain trace elements such as zinc in the gels throughout the drying process. Hydrogels were prepared from mealworm protein, subsequently dried using either method, and characterized via FT-IR, BET volume, and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy. Retention of zinc was evaluated via energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Results showed that both drying methods were suitable for obtaining dried porous biomaterials and that the drying method mainly influenced the overall surface area and pore hydrophobicity but not the secondary structure of the proteins in the gels or their zinc content after drying. Therefore, a first proof of concept for utilizing mealworm protein hydrogels as a base for dried porous biomaterials was successful and elucidated the potential of these materials as future sustainable alternatives to more conventional dried porous materials.
Complete Mitochondrial Genome for Lucilia cuprina dorsalis (Diptera: Calliphoridae) from the Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: Kapoor Shilpa , Yang Ying Ting , Hall Robyn N. , Gasser Robin B. , Bowles Vernon M. , Perry Trent , Anstead Clare A.
Published: April 2024

The Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina dorsalis, is a major sheep ectoparasite causing subcutaneous myiasis (flystrike), which can lead to reduced livestock productivity and, in severe instances, death of the affected animals. It is also a primary colonizer of carrion, an efficient pollinator, and used in maggot debridement therapy and forensic investigations. In this study, we report the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of L. c. dorsalis from the Northern Territory (NT), Australia, where sheep are prohibited animals, unlike the rest of Australia. The mt genome is 15,943 bp in length, comprising 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), 22 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), and a non-coding control region. The gene order of the current mt genome is consistent with the previously published L. cuprina mt genomes. Nucleotide composition revealed an AT bias, accounting for 77.5% of total mt genome nucleotides. Phylogenetic analyses of 56 species/taxa of dipterans indicated that L. c. dorsalis and L. sericata are the closest among all sibling species of the genus Lucilia, which helps to explain species evolution within the family Luciliinae. This study provides the first complete mt genome sequence for L. c. dorsalis derived from the NT, Australia to facilitate species identification and the examination of the evolutionary history of these blowflies.
Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Dementia among the Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Vu Huong Thu , Nguyen Hung Trong , Nguyen Anh Trung
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: Up until now, there is still no medicine that can cure dementia, but there are some that can only help slow down the progression of the disease and reduce some symptoms. Pharmacological interventions for dementia have many side effects and are expensive, so non-pharmacological treatments for dementia become more urgent. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of multifactorial non-pharmacological interventions in dementia patients; (2) Methods: This is a randomized controlled trial conducted in Hai Duong from July 2021 to December 2022. Selected subjects included 88 patients diagnosed with very mild, mild, and moderate dementia, of whom 44 patients were assigned to the intervention group and 44 patients to the control group; (3) Results: For the effectiveness of the non-pharmacological multifactorial intervention on depression severity: in the intervention group, the GDS 15 depression score decreased from 4.8 to 2.9, while, in the control group, the GDS 15 depression score increased by 1.3 points after six months of no intervention. For the effect of the non-pharmacological multifactorial intervention on the level of sleep disturbance, in the intervention group, the PSQI sleep disturbance score decreased by nearly half (from 10.2 to 5.6), while, in the control group, this trend was not clear. For the effect of the non-pharmacological multifactorial intervention on daily functioning: in the intervention group, the ADL and IADL scores improved (1.02 ± 1.32 and 1.23 ± 1.75), while, in the control group, the ADL and IADL scores decreased (0.93 ± 1.2 and 0.98 ± 2.19). For the effect of the non-pharmacological multifactorial intervention on quality of life: in the intervention group, the EQ-5D-5L scores improved (0.17 ± 0.19), while, in the control group, the EQ-5D-5L scores decreased (0.20 ± 0.30); (4) Conclusions: Non-pharmacological multifactorial interventions, including physical activity, cognitive training, listening to educational lectures, and organizing miniature social models, have been shown to improve mental health, self-control, and quality of life.
Lasiodiplodia iraniensis and Diaporthe spp. Are Associated with Twig Dieback and Fruit Stem-End Rot of Sweet Orange, Citrus sinensis, in Florida
Authors: Piattino Valeria , Aiello Dalia , Dardani Greta , Martino Ilaria , Flores Mauricio , Aćimović Srđan G. , Spadaro Davide , Polizzi Giancarlo , Guarnaccia Vladimiro
Published: April 2024

Florida ranks among the most important citrus growing regions in the USA. The present study investigates the occurrence, diversity, and pathogenicity of fungal species associated with symptomatic sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) cv. Valencia plants and fruit. The survey was conducted on twigs and fruit collected in Southwest Florida during 2022. Based on morphological and molecular characteristics, the identified isolates belonged to the species Lasiodiplodia iraniensis, Diaporthe pseudomangiferae, and Diaporthe ueckerae. The pathogenicity of representative isolates was evaluated on citrus fruit and plants. Lasiodiplodia iraniensis was the most virulent on fruit and plants, followed by Diaporthe pseudomangiferae. Diaporthe ueckerae had the lowest virulence on fruit, and it was not pathogenic to plants. In vitro tests were performed to assess the effect of temperature on mycelial radial growth. The optimum temperature of growth ranged from 26.0 to 28.4 °C for all the evaluated species, and L. iraniensis showed the fastest mycelial growth. This study represents the first report of L. iraniensis as a causal agent of tree dieback and fruit stem-end rot on C. sinensis worldwide. Moreover, D. pseudomangiferae and D. ueckerae are reported here for the first time in association with citrus diseases worldwide.
World Trends in Dental Ergonomics Research: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Anggraini Wita , Ranggaini Dewi , Ariyani Annisaa Putri , Sulistyowati Indrani
Published: April 2024

Dental ergonomics provides an overview of dentists’ work efficiency. The objective of this study was to obtain quantitative information and produce a visualization of the network of scientific publications on the topic of ergonomics and dentistry using bibliometric analysis. Data mining was conducted using the Scopus database and Boolean expressions (ergonom* AND dentist*) on 14 April 2023. Data extraction and analysis were performed using Open Refine version 3.5.2., VOSviewer version 1.6.17., VOSviewer thesaurus, Microsoft Excel, and Tableau Professional version 2020.1.2. A total of 682 documents were identified, with the United States having the largest number of documents and citations (89 documents, 1321 citations). Work, Dentistry Today, and the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health were the top three sources. Ergonomics and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are two of the very prominent keywords, with research topics covering prevalence, causes, factors related to causes, prevention, assessment, rehabilitation, evaluation, and intervention. There was no research on ergonomic interventions that collaborated with human factors and ergonomics (HFE). We conclude that the trending topic of dental ergonomics research topics around the world is centered on MSDs. The future research challenge is to apply HFE science to improve the health, safety, efficiency, and quality of dentists’ work.
Medical Advocacy among Latina Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
Authors: Torres Paola , Guitelman Judith , Lucio Araceli , Rini Christine , Molina Yamilé
Published: April 2024

Medical advocacy has continued to significantly impact quality of life and survivorship outcomes among Latina breast cancer survivors in the United States. However, little is known about the unique experiences of Latina survivors, including the perceived value, process, and context in which they practice medical advocacy. To help address this gap, we conducted a qualitative, secondary analysis of semi-structured focus groups with 18 Latina breast cancer survivors from Chicago, Illinois. Eligible women had to self-identify as (1) female, (2) Latina, (3) 18 years or older, and (4) having a breast cancer diagnosis 5 years ago or more. In total, 61% of participants were 50–59 years old, 83% were born in Mexico, and 100% spoke Spanish. The three emergent themes from the focus groups were (1) the cultural need for Latina advocates and support groups; (2) the process and experiences of becoming a community advocate within Latine culture; and (3) the cultural contexts for advocacy by Latina breast cancer survivors. Latina survivor advocates share strengths of receiving ongoing health education, peer support, and access to resources when being linked to a support group furthering their exposure to role models, increasing their awareness of opportunities in medical advocacy, and providing an entry to participate in medical advocacy.
The Relationship between All-Cause Dementia and Acute Diabetes Complications among American Indian and Alaska Native Peoples
Authors: Niu Xiaoyi , Chang Jenny , Corrada Maria M. , Bullock Ann , Winchester Blythe , Manson Spero M. , O’Connell Joan , Jiang Luohua
Published: April 2024

Background: American Indian and Alaska Native people (AI/AN) bear a disproportionate burden of diabetes. Growing evidence shows significant associations between several acute diabetes complications and dementia among diabetes patients. However, little is known about these relationships among AI/AN adults. Here, we aim to investigate these associations among AI/AN adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study extracted data from the Indian Health Service’s (IHS) National Data Warehouse and related administrative databases. A total of 29,337 IHS actual users with diabetes who were 45+ years old during fiscal year 2013 were included. All-cause dementia and diabetes complications were identified using ICD-9 diagnostic codes. Negative binomial regression models were used to evaluate the associations of interest. Results: Nearly 3% of AI/AN diabetes patients had a dementia diagnosis. After controlling for covariates, dementia was associated with a 94% higher rate of severe hypoglycemia (Incidence Rate Ratio [IRR = 1.94, 95% CI:1.50–2.51), 52% higher rate of severe hyperglycemia (IRR = 1.52, 95% CI, 1.11–2.08), and 92% higher rate of any acute complication (IRR = 1.92, 95% CI:1.53–2.41). Conclusions: AI/AN diabetes patients with dementia suffered from considerably higher rates of acute diabetes complications than their counterparts without dementia. The clinical management of patients with comorbid diabetes and dementia is particularly challenging and may require individualized treatment approaches.