bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Evaluation of a Spoke-Based Double-Lumen Pediatric Gastrostomy Tube
Authors: Aedla Mihika , Cheng Charlotte J. , Zhou Anson Y. , Zhang Siya , Hsu Jocelyn , Hu Katherine , Qian Jason C. , Sompel Kevin Van de , Ho Anthony , Sharma Karun V. , Logsdon Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2024

Gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are the gold standard for feeding assistance for children with feeding dysfunction. Current G-tubes pose complications that interrupt the delivery of feed, including tube displacement and difficulty of at-home use. This study details an alternative, spoke-based, double-lumen G-tube design and preliminary validation of its function and usability. Pull force testing was performed on spoke G-tube models across three sizes and two classifications (hard/soft). Preliminary models were evaluated against market standards. Though the pull force of the spoke model was found to be lower than that of both market standards, hard modifications to the spoke model improved retentive force. Ease of use was tested amongst users unfamiliar with G-tube placement. The spoke design required 12.3 ± 4.7 s to deploy, less than half the time required for market standards. However, balloon G-tubes were still perceived to be easiest to use by 70% of participants, with indications that a spoke design may be easier to use if sized similarly to current G-tubes, with auxiliary improvements to factors such as grip. While there is a need for improvements in the material properties and manufacturing of the proposed design, this study provides early validation of the potential to address complications of existing G-tubes.
Splitting Tensile Test of ECC Functional Gradient Concrete with PVA Fiber Admixture
Authors: Xu Yin , Liu Qiang , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Xu Xiaofeng , Liu Peng
Published: February 2024

Engineered cementitious composite (ECC) functional gradient concrete has a promising application future, and its mechanical features are piquing the interest of researchers. The impacts of this strength class of concrete, interface reinforcement technique, ECC thickness (i.e., fiber dosage), and other factors on the splitting tensile strength qualities are explored using an experimental investigation of functional gradient concrete. The splitting tensile tests of 150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm functional gradient concrete specimens were used to explore the link between concrete strength grade, interface reinforcing technique, and ECC thickness with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber additive and functional gradient concrete. The test results show that the splitting tensile strength of functional gradient concrete increases as the concrete strength grade increases; different interfacial treatments have a significant effect on the splitting tensile strength of functional gradient concrete; and the effect of ECC thickness change on the splitting tensile strength of functional gradient concrete shows different trends, which research can be used as an experimental reference for functional gradient concrete engineering applications.
Polarization-Angle-Insensitive Dual-Band Perfect Metamaterial Absorbers in the Visible Region: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Xiong Zhihui , Li Zhixi , He Guangqiang , Su Kecheng , Huang Yien , Deng Guowei
Published: February 2024

Metamaterial absorbers have been studied extensively due to their potential applications in the field of photonics. In this paper, we propose a simulation study of a polarization-angle-insensitive dual-band perfect metamaterial absorber with absorption peaks at 654 and 781 nm, respectively. By adjusting the structure parameters, dielectric thickness, and refractive index, the obtained absorber has high scalability in the visible wavelength region. To further understand the performance of the cross-structure absorber, analysis of its electric and magnetic field distribution shows that it produces two resonance modes leading to different absorption properties. In addition, the position and intensity of the absorption peaks were found to be unchanged with increasing incident polarization angle, indicating that the absorber is insensitive to the polarization of the incident light. The absorber has great flexibility and has good application potential in sensing and detection.
Failure Mechanism and Residual Stress Analysis of Crystal Materials for the Thermal Battery
Authors: Su Wei , Chen Ming , Wang Zhizhe , Zhong Butian , Nie Zhenhua
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the thermal battery as a research topic. We conducted an in-depth analysis of various thermal battery aspects, such as the cathode material CoS2 and electrolyte material morphology, crystal type, and interface state changes before and after service. The aim was to explore the core reaction and main failure mechanisms of the thermal battery. Prior to the reaction, the thermal battery cathode and electrolyte material consisted of pure-phase CoS2 and a composition of MgO-LiF/LiBr/LiCl. After service, the cathode and electrolyte of the single thermal battery exhibited significant morphological alterations caused by the presence of a molten state. The cathode transformed from CoS2 to Co3S4 and Co9S8 together with the presence of a marginal quantity of Co monomers visible throughout the discharge process, which was confirmed by means of XRD and XPS analyses. After the reaction, the electrolyte material was primarily made up of LiF, LiBr, and LiCl while the crystal components remained largely unaltered, albeit with apparent morphological variations. As was deduced from the thermodynamic analysis, the cathode material’s decomposition temperature stood at 655 °C, exceeding the working temperature of the thermal battery (500 °C) by a considerable margin, which is indicative of outstanding thermal durability within the thermal battery’s operational temperature range. Furthermore, the discharge reaction of the positive electrode was incomplete, resulting in reduced CoS2 residue in the thermal battery monomer after service. The reaction yielded a combination of Co3S4, Co9S8, and small amounts of Co monomers, indicating possible inconsistencies in the phase composition of the pole piece during the reaction process. In this study, we examine the distribution of residual stress in the thermal battery under various operating conditions. The simulation results indicate that exposure to a 70 °C environment for 2 h causes the maximum residual stress of the battery, which had an initial temperature of 25 °C, to reach 0.26 GPa. The thermal battery subjected to an initial temperature of 25 °C exhibited a maximum residual stress of 0.42 GPa subsequent to a 2-hour exposure to a temperature of −50 °C.
Wind Farms and Power Lines Reduced the Territory Status and Probability of Fledgling Production in the Eurasian Goshawk Accipiter gentilis
Authors: Husby Magne
Published: February 2024

Wind power is commonly used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but often has negative effects on biodiversity. In this study, I investigated the effects of wind farm and power line construction on the territory status of the Eurasian goshawk Accipiter gentilis, whether fledglings were produced or not, and the number of fledglings. Included were 55 goshawk territories investigated before and after the construction period. I found that the territory status declined significantly in the influence area within 3 km from the disturbance compared to the control area more than 7 km away. Interestingly, the decline in territory status was similar in the distance categories 0–1 km, 1–2 km, and 2–3 km, while there was nearly no change in territory status in the control area, thus indicating that the influence area from this kind of disturbance was minimum 3 km from the nest. The number of breeding pairs declined significantly during the construction period only in the influence area. Possible reasons might be higher mortality caused by collisions with power lines, desertion, avoidance of the areas with noise and disturbance from the constructions, and possible indirect effects caused by reductions in prey species. I found no effects of the construction on the number of fledglings.
Retreatment Strategies for Cases Containing Calcium Silicate-Based Root Canal Sealers: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Al akam Hussain , Kim Hyeon-Cheol , Jeong Ji
Published: February 2024

This review explores the field of retreatment strategies for cases filled with calcium silicate-based root canal sealers. Since the introduction of calcium silicate-based materials in dentistry, calcium silicate-based root canal sealers have become popular among dentists because of their biocompatibility, bioactivity, and sealing ability. Therefore, effective retreatment strategies are indispensable. This article aims to identify the challenges associated with the removal of calcium silicate-based sealers themselves and removal of gutta-percha with the sealers during retreatment, evaluate current techniques and materials, and provide future directions for research in this field. Regarding the strategies of removal of root canal sealers, calcium silicate-based sealers are still relatively new materials for clinicians compared with traditional sealers such as epoxy- or eugenol-based sealers. First, no clinically established solvents have been reported. Second, calcium silicate-based sealers are currently utilized by clinicians in either the cold sealer-based technique or the warm vertical condensation technique. Third, the setting process of calcium silicate-based sealers generates byproducts, primarily calcium hydroxide and secondarily hydroxyapatite, that could interact with dentine. Lastly, there is a lack of clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of retreatment protocols for teeth filled with calcium silicate-based sealers. Therefore, it is important to investigate the chemo-mechanical properties of calcium silicate-based sealers themselves and their reactions to solvents and/or mechanical instruments and identify the interfacial properties of calcium silicate-based sealers with respect to dentine and gutta-percha. In addition, researchers in the clinical field need to actively gather and report data on retreatments of teeth filled with calcium silicate-based sealers.
Wetting and Spreading Behavior of Axisymmetric Compound Droplets on Curved Solid Walls Using Conservative Phase Field Lattice Boltzmann Method
Authors: Wang Yue , Huang Jun-Jie
Published: February 2024

Compound droplets have received increasing attention due to their applications in many several areas, including medicine and materials. Previous works mostly focused on compound droplets on planar surfaces and, as such, the effects of curved walls have not been studied thoroughly. In this paper, the influence of the properties of curved solid wall (including the shape, curvature, and contact angle) on the wetting behavior of compound droplets is explored. The axisymmetric lattice Boltzmann method, based on the conservative phase field formulation for ternary fluids, was used to numerically study the wetting and spreading of a compound droplet of the Janus type on various curved solid walls at large density ratios, focusing on whether the separation of compound droplets occurs. Several types of wall geometries were considered, including a planar wall, a concave wall with constant curvature, and a convex wall with fixed or variable curvature (specifically, a prolate or oblate spheroid). The effects of surface wettability, interfacial angles, and the density ratio (of droplet to ambient fluid) on the wetting process were also explored. In general, it was found that, under otherwise identical conditions, droplet separation tends to happen more likely on more hydrophilic walls, under larger interfacial angles (measured inside the droplet), and at larger density ratios. On convex walls, a larger radius of curvature of the surface near the droplet was found to be helpful to split the Janus droplet. On concave walls, as the radius of curvature increases from a small value, the possibility to observe droplet separation first increases and then decreases. Several phase diagrams on whether droplet separation occurs during the spreading process were produced for different kinds of walls to illustrate the influences of various factors.
Empowering Vocational Students: A Research-Based Framework for Computational Thinking Integration
Authors: Hermans Seppe , Neutens Tom , wyffels Francis , Van Petegem Peter
Published: February 2024

Vocational Education and Training (VET) faces significant challenges in equipping individuals for modern workplaces, which increasingly require digital literacy and Computational Thinking (CT) skills. This paper addresses the imperative of integrating CT into VET programs and outlines key research questions. Our methodology primarily involves a systematic literature review, resulting in the identification of 29 relevant papers. Through qualitative content analysis, we develop a CT integration framework that connects CT practices and integration elements to the engineering design process, while highlighting the VET context. Arguably, the innovative aspect of this framework lies in its core dimensions of harnessing computational power for enhanced efficiency. Raising the question of whether computers can optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of specific tasks is paramount for addressing challenges in technology-rich environments. Therefore, this inquiry merits unwavering attention at every stage of the process. The proposed framework provides educators with a structured approach to identify integration opportunities and help prepare students for multifaceted vocational careers. Furthermore, other key findings underscore the inherently interdisciplinary nature of VET, the growing demand for STEM competencies, and the transformative potential of CT integration. Implications emphasize the need for further research, supportive policies, and practical CT integration. Despite limitations, this study strongly advocates for CT integration, empowering VET students for success in the contemporary workforce.
Value Co-Creation: A Strategy for Enhancing Inclusiveness in Special Education
Authors: Narot Pennee , Kiettikunwong Narong
Published: February 2024

This qualitative study examines the educational management practices of a municipality in Thailand by evaluating the current delivery of special educational services with underlying principles rooted in value co-creation (VCC)—a business concept often employed to enhance engagement and participation with the aim of creating mutual value. The study’s objective is to identify gaps in real-life practices. The research methodology encompasses in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, focus group discussions involving school board members and parents, and content analysis to extract core concepts for policy recommendations. The study’s findings reveal that the municipality is increasingly recognizing the potential of VCC in enhancing student outcomes, particularly for those with special educational needs. However, challenges stemming from schools’ financial constraints and the influx of students from lower socio-economic backgrounds impede the full realization of VCC principles. Consequently, it is crucial for the government to prioritize the alignment of VCC strategies with special education. This can be achieved by considering reengineering the education budget allocation and making investments, whether direct or indirect, to support the VCC process. These measures are essential to promote the evolution of VCC and sustain special educational service operations effectively.
Statistical Characterization of Full-Scale Thermophilic Biological Systems to Inform Process Optimization
Authors: Collivignarelli Maria Cristina , Bellazzi Stefano , Caccamo Francesca Maria , Sordi Marco , Crotti Barbara , Abbà Alessandro , Baldi Marco
Published: February 2024

This paper focuses on using a novel approach to assess the statistical variability of management data from an aerobic thermophilic biological plant (AWTP) utilizing a fluidized bed biological reactor. A proper statistical characterization of full-scale thermophilic biological systems, in fact, may inform process optimization in the light of a future automation of treatment plants. We present a case study that spans the period from 2018 to 2023 and encompasses various high-strength aqueous waste (AW) in continuous mode. Key aspects of the proposed analytical approach include: (i) utilizing advanced descriptive statistics, such as violin graphs, to depict the variability of monitored parameters over five years; (ii) conducting correlation analyses (Spearman and Pearson correlation matrices) specifically focusing on nitrogenous forms within the AW; (iii) applying multivariate statistical analysis to assess the correlation between pollutants released and the plant’s energy and oxygen consumption; and (iv) reconstructing parameter trends by considering periodic and random components, thus enhancing the understanding of the system’s behavior over time. The findings presented in this paper offer valuable insights into the performance and optimization of AWTPs, potentially leading to a proper planning of the loads and consequent feeding of the plants. If properly enacted, our approach may provide a significant contribution to the field of aqueous waste management.
Development of a Real-Time PCR Assay for the Early Detection of the Eucalyptus Pathogen Quambalaria eucalypti
Authors: Faedda Roberto , Silva Gabriela B.
Published: February 2024

Quambalaria eucalypti is a fungal pathogen that causes leaf spot, shoot blight, and stem canker on Eucalyptus spp. Early diagnosis of the disease is difficult, although the symptoms are clear in its advanced phase. To enable a rapid and sensitive screening of asymptomatic or latently infected plant material for Q. eucalypti, a SYBR green-based real-time PCR assay targeting the partial histone-H3 region was developed. The assay demonstrated specificity for Q. eucalypti, not showing cross-reactivity with other Quambalaria species or the other eucalyptus fungal pathogens tested. The primers developed in this study ensured high analytical sensitivity, allowing the detection of Q. eucalypti DNA concentrations as low as 10 fg DNA from asymptomatic plants. The robustness and efficacy of the assay was demonstrated by interlaboratory comparisons with similar results. This newly developed quantitative PCR assay can be used for more comprehensive epidemiological investigations, testing the plant material in known Q. eucalypti distribution areas for early management strategies, or collecting data for resistance breeding programs.
Robots for Forest Maintenance
Authors: Gameiro Tiago , Pereira Tiago , Viegas Carlos , Di Giorgio Francesco , Ferreira NM Fonseca
Published: February 2024

Forest fires are becoming increasingly common, and they are devastating, fueled by the effects of global warming, such as a dryer climate, dryer vegetation, and higher temperatures. Vegetation management through selective removal is a preventive measure which creates discontinuities that will facilitate fire containment and reduce its intensity and rate of spread. However, such a method requires vast amounts of biomass fuels to be removed, over large areas, which can only be achieved through mechanized means, such as through using forestry mulching machines. This dangerous job is also highly dependent on skilled workers, making it an ideal case for novel autonomous robotic systems. This article presents the development of a universal perception, control, and navigation system for forestry machines. The selection of hardware (sensors and controllers) and data-integration and -navigation algorithms are central components of this integrated system development. Sensor fusion methods, operating using ROS, allow the distributed interconnection of all sensors and actuators. The results highlight the system’s robustness when applied to the mulching machine, ensuring navigational and operational accuracy in forestry operations. This novel technological solution enhances the efficiency of forest maintenance while reducing the risk exposure to forestry workers.
Design and Implementation of an Intelligent Log Diameter Grading and Sorting Line Based on Machine Vision
Authors: Ding Zhigang , Gong Yangyang , Kong Linghua , Zheng Jishi
Published: February 2024

In order to address the challenges posed by elevated manual labor costs and limited automation in traditional log diameter grading and sorting processes, this paper centers on the design and research of an intelligent log diameter grading and sorting line utilizing machine vision. The study focuses on logs with smaller diameters located in Fujian province, China. By analyzing production requirements, the study formulates the structure of the feeding, alignment, detection, and sorting zones to fulfill sorting functions. Using the YOLOv5 model, the system achieves accurate log end face positioning, and the diameter is computed through a designated algorithm. The operational process of the system is examined, and the control logic governing the production line is elucidated. Evaluating the practical performance of the production line, the study assesses the accuracy of diameter recognition, precision in grading, and operational efficiency. The results reveal that the absolute error in diameter detection for the sorting line averages 1.12 mm, with sorting accuracy exceeding 95%. The sorting line can automatically categorize logs with diameters ranging from 60 mm to 300 mm and lengths ranging from 2 m to 6 m, achieving an annual sorting capacity of 120,000 to 130,000 cubic meters. The research findings illustrate that the system fulfills the industry’s demands for log diameter grading and sorting, thereby enhancing economic efficiency for enterprises.
Improving Pinus densata Carbon Stock Estimations through Remote Sensing in Shangri-La: A Nonlinear Mixed-Effects Model Integrating Soil Thickness and Topographic Variables
Authors: Han Dongyang , Zhang Jialong , Xu Dongfan , Liao Yi , Bao Rui , Wang Shuxian , Chen Shaozhi
Published: February 2024

Forest carbon sinks are vital in mitigating climate change, making it crucial to have highly accurate estimates of forest carbon stocks. A method that accounts for the spatial characteristics of inventory samples is necessary for the long-term estimation of above-ground forest carbon stocks due to the spatial heterogeneity of bottom-up methods. In this study, we developed a method for analyzing space-sensing data that estimates and predicts long time series of forest carbon stock changes in an alpine region by considering the sample’s spatial characteristics. We employed a nonlinear mixed-effects model and improved the model’s accuracy by considering both static and dynamic aspects. We utilized ground sample point data from the National Forest Inventory (NFI) taken every five years, including tree and soil information. Additionally, we extracted spectral and texture information from Landsat and combined it with DEM data to obtain topographic information for the sample plots. Using static data and change data at various annual intervals, we built estimation models. We tested three non-parametric models (Random Forest, Gradient-Boosted Regression Tree, and K-Nearest Neighbor) and two parametric models (linear mixed-effects and non-linear mixed-effects) and selected the most accurate model to estimate Pinus densata’s above-ground carbon stock. The results showed the following: (1) The texture information had a significant correlation with static and dynamic above-ground carbon stock changes. The highest correlation was for large-window mean, entropy, and variance. (2) The dynamic above-ground carbon stock model outperformed the static model. Additionally, the dynamic non-parametric models and parametric models experienced improvements in prediction accuracy. (3) In the multilevel nonlinear mixed-effects models, the highest accuracy was achieved with fixed effects for aspect and two-level nested random effects for the soil and elevation categories. (4) This study found that Pinus densata’s above-ground carbon stock in Shangri-La followed a decreasing, and then, increasing trend from 1987 to 2017. The mean carbon density increased overall, from 19.575 t·hm−2 to 25.313 t·hm−2. We concluded that a dynamic model based on variability accurately reflects Pinus densata’s above-ground carbon stock changes over time. Our approach can enhance time-series estimates of above-ground carbon stocks, particularly in complex topographies, by incorporating topographic factors and soil thickness into mixed-effects models.
Discrete Element Method Analyses of Bond Degradation Evolutions for Cemented Soils
Authors: He Jie , Li Tao , Rui Yi
Published: February 2024

The degradation of soil bonding, which can be described by the evolution of bond degradation variables, is essential in the constitutive modeling of cemented soils. A degradation variable with a value of 0/1.0 indicates that the applied stress is completely sustained by bonded particles/unbounded grains. The discrete element method (DEM) was used for cemented soils to analyze the bond degradation evolution and to evaluate the degradation variables at the contact scale. Numerical cemented soil samples with different bonding strengths were first prepared using an advanced contact model (CM). Constant stress ratio compression, one-dimensional compression, conventional triaxial tests (CTTs), and true triaxial tests (TTTs) were then implemented for the numerical samples. After that, the numerical results were adopted to investigate the evolution of the bond degradation variables BN and B0. In the triaxial tests, B0 evolves to be near to or larger than BN due to shearing, which indicates that shearing increases the bearing rate of bond contacts. Finally, an approximate stress-path-independent bond degradation variable Bσ was developed. The evolution of Bσ with the equivalent plastic strain can be effectively described by an exponential function and a hyperbolic function.
Topological Properties of Polymeric Networks Modelled by Generalized Sierpiński Graphs
Authors: Altassan Alaa , Imran Muhammad
Published: February 2024

In this article, we compute the irregularity measures of generalized Sierpiński graphs and obtain some bounds on these irregularities. Moreover, we discuss some bounds on connectivity indices for generalized Sierpiński graphs of any arbitrary graph H along with classification of the extremal graphs used to attain them.
Seedling Growth Stress Quantification Based on Environmental Factors Using Sensor Fusion and Image Processing
Authors: Islam Sumaiya , Reza Md Nasim , Ahmed Shahriar , Samsuzzaman  , Cho Yeon Jin , Noh Dong Hee , Chung Sun-Ok
Published: February 2024

Understanding the diverse environmental influences on seedling growth is critical for maximizing yields. The need for a more comprehensive understanding of how various environmental factors affect seedling growth is required. Integrating sensor data and image processing techniques offers a promising approach to accurately detect stress symptoms and uncover hidden patterns, enhancing the comprehension of seedling responses to environmental factors. The objective of this study was to quantify environmental stress symptoms for six seedling varieties using image-extracted feature characteristics. Three sensors were used: an RGB camera for color, shape, and size information; a thermal camera for measuring canopy temperature; and a depth camera for providing seedling height from the image-extracted features. Six seedling varieties were grown under controlled conditions, with variations in temperature, light intensity, nutrients, and water supply, while daily automated imaging was conducted for two weeks. Key seedling features, including leaf area, leaf color, seedling height, and canopy temperature, were derived through image processing techniques. These features were then employed to quantify stress symptoms for each seedling type. The analysis of stress effects on the six seedling varieties revealed distinct responses to environmental stressors. Integration of color, size, and shape parameters established a visual hierarchy: pepper and pak choi seedlings showed a good response, cucumber seedlings showed a milder response, and lettuce and tomato seedlings displayed an intermediate response. Pepper and tomato seedlings exhibited a wide range of growth stress symptoms, at 13.00% to 83.33% and 2.96% to 70.01%, respectively, indicating considerable variability in their reactions to environmental stressors. The suggested classification approach provides valuable groundwork for advancing stress monitoring and enabling growers to optimize environmental conditions.
Localization of S-Locus-Related Self-Incompatibility in Lycium barbarum Based on BSA Analysis
Authors: Wang Cuiping , Wu Jiali , Gao Yan , Dai Guoli , Shang Xiaohui , Ma Haijun , Zhang Xin , Xu Wendi , Qin Ken
Published: February 2024

The recognition of pollen and pistil in the self-incompatibility process is generally determined by the interaction between the pollen S gene and pistil S gene located at the S locus. However, the regulatory mechanism of self-incompatibility in goji remains unknown. In this study, we used the self-compatible strain ‘13–19’ and self-incompatible strain ‘xin9’ from Ningxia as parents to create an F1 hybrid population. Reciprocal cross-pollination was performed within the same plant to evaluate the self-compatibility of the parents and F1 progeny. The parents and progeny were subjected to whole-genome resequencing, and mixed pools of DNA were constructed using 30 self-compatible and 30 self-incompatible individuals. Association analysis using the SNP-index method and Euclidean distance was employed to identify the key candidate region of the S locus. The candidate region was further annotated using the Swiss-Prot database to identify genes within the region. Additionally, transcriptome sequencing data from different organs/tissues, as well as from pistils of self-compatible and self-incompatible strains at control (0 h), short (0.5 h), medium (8 h), and long (48 h) time points after self-pollination and cross-pollination, were analyzed to assess differential gene expression and screen for self-compatibility-related loci. Specific primers were designed for PCR amplification to determine the S-RNase genotypes of the extreme parents. The results revealed that the S locus in goji is located within a 32.2 Mb region on chromosome 2 that contains a total of 108 annotated genes. Differential expression analysis showed that ten genes, including Lba02g01064, were specifically expressed in stamens, with four of them annotated as F-box genes, potentially serving as determinants of self-compatibility in stamens. Lba02g01102 was exclusively expressed in pistils and annotated as an S-RNase gene, likely involved in self-compatibility. The expression of Lba02g01102 in pistils decreased after self-pollination and cross-pollination. Six candidate genes exhibited significant changes after self-pollination and cross-pollination. Both parents and progeny carried two S-RNase alleles, and the S-RNase genotypes showed a significant correlation with self-compatibility, with the self-compatible progeny containing the S8-RNase allele. The identification of the S locus in goji provides molecular markers for future marker-assisted breeding and offers genetic resources for studying the mechanism of self-incompatibility in goji, thus contributing to the improvement of goji varieties.
Exogenous Abscisic Acid Regulates Anthocyanin Biosynthesis and Gene Expression in Blueberry Leaves
Authors: Ma Bin , Song Yan , Feng Xinghua , Guo Qingxun , Zhou Lianxia , Zhang Xinsheng , Zhang Chunyu
Published: February 2024

Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) leaves have a positive influence on health because of their phenolic contents, including anthocyanins. Phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) promotes anthocyanin accumulation, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear in blueberry leaves. In this study, we found that exogenous ABA promotes anthocyanin accumulation in blueberry leaves and we explored the global molecular events involved in these physiological changes by treating in vitro-grown blueberry seedlings with ABA and performing transcriptome deep sequencing (RNA-seq). We identified 6390 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with 2893 DEGs at 6 h and 4789 at 12 h of ABA treatment compared to the control. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways related to plant hormone signal transduction and phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis were significantly enriched at both stages of the ABA treatment. Analysis of DEGs in plant hormone signal transduction pathways revealed that exogenous ABA affected the expression of genes from other plant hormone signaling pathways, especially brassinosteroid, auxin, and gibberellin signaling. To elucidate the mechanism driving anthocyanin biosynthesis in blueberry in response to ABA treatment, we screened anthocyanin biosynthesis structural genes (ASG) from the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways, MYB transcription factor genes from R2R3-MYB subgroups 5, 6, and 7 and ABRE-binding factor (ABF) genes from the ABA signal transduction pathway. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) analysis indicated that the ABFs, MYBs, and structural genes form a network to regulate ABA-induced anthocyanin biosynthesis and MYBA1 is likely to play an important role in this regulatory network. These findings lay the foundation for improving anthocyanin biosynthesis in blueberry leaves.
Transcriptome Analysis of the Preservation Effect of Three Essential Oil Microcapsules on Okra
Authors: Jia Sitong , Zhang Hongyan , Qi Qiushuang , Yan Shijie , Chen Cunkun , Liang Liya
Published: February 2024

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum sp.) essential oil microcapsules, oregano (Origanum sp.) essential oil microcapsules, and oregano–thyme (Thymus sp.) essential oil microcapsules are rarely used in the postharvest preservation treatment of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). The mechanism of these three essential oil microcapsules on the postharvest preservation of okra is also not yet well understood. In this study, fresh okra was preserved by three kinds of essential oil microcapsules (cinnamon essential oil microcapsules, oregano essential oil microcapsules, and oregano–thyme essential oil microcapsules). The effect of essential oil microcapsules on the postharvest storage quality of okra was discussed. We also used RNA-Seq to preliminarily explore the mechanism of oregano–thyme essential oil microcapsules on the pre-harvest storage quality of okra. The results showed that the three kinds of essential oil microcapsules could maintain the high sensory evaluation quality and firmness of okra, slow down the increase in respiratory intensity, slow down the total number of colonies on the fruit surface, and slow down weight loss. Through analysis, it was found that the effect of oregano–thyme essential oil microcapsules was remarkably better than that of cinnamon essential oil microcapsules and oregano essential oil microcapsules. The preservation mechanism of oregano–thyme essential oil microcapsules on postharvest okra was preliminarily elucidated by RNA-Seq. This study provides a certain basis for a follow-up study of essential oil microcapsules in the preservation of okra.
Growing Salicornia europaea L. with Saline Hydroponic or Aquaculture Wastewater
Authors: Puccinelli Martina , Marchioni Ilaria , Botrini Luca , Carmassi Giulia , Pardossi Alberto , Pistelli Laura
Published: February 2024

Among halophyte plants, Salicornia species (also known as glasswort or sea asparagus) are increasingly grown in open fields and greenhouses for edible or non-edible purposes. Their salinity tolerance makes it possible to irrigate Salicornia plants with saline waters and even seawater, which cannot be used by other crop species. In this work, S. europaea (L.) was cultivated in pots under the typical climatic conditions of the fall season in the Mediterranean region and irrigated with non-saline standard nutrient solution (SNS) or saline wastewater discharged from a greenhouse semi-closed hydroponic (substrate) culture of tomato or a saltwater recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) with Gilthead sea bream (Spaurus aurata L., which was used as such or after dilution (50:50) with SNS. Plant growth was not significantly affected by the composition of irrigation water, while higher antioxidant capacity (measured using the DPPH assay) and concentration of photosynthetic pigments, phenols, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid were found in the shoots of SNS plants than in those of plants irrigated with wastewater. The level of lipid peroxidation and H2O2 production significantly increased in the SNS plants, which also showed higher activity of superoxide dismutase and lower activity of catalase. These results suggest that S. europaea can be cultivated using wastewater with moderate to high salinity discharged from greenhouse hydroponic crops or RASs, and that salt is not strictly required for the growth of this species. Using non-saline nutrient solution can result in moderate oxidative stress that improves the shoot quality of S. europaea.
Attention Deficits in Healthcare Workers with Non-Clinical Burnout: An Exploratory Investigation
Authors: Schmidt Sergio L. , da Silva Cunha Bruno , Tolentino Julio Cesar , Schmidt Marcela J. , Schmidt Guilherme J. , Marinho Alice D. , van Duinkerken Eelco , Gjorup Ana Lucia Taboada , Landeira-Fernandez Jesus , Mello Carolina Ribeiro , de Souza Sarah Pini
Published: February 2024

Burnout syndrome is characterized by exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced effectiveness. Workers with high burnout scores who continue their professional activities are identified as experiencing non-clinical burnout (NCB), which includes early stages where burnout symptoms (BNS) are present but not yet severe enough to necessitate work leave. This study aimed to investigate the impact of BNS on attention performance among healthcare workers (HCWs) at a COVID-19 reference hospital during the pandemic. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was applied to assess the three burnout dimensions. The Continuous Visual Attention Test (CVAT) evaluated four different attention subdomains. Participants were divided into two groups based on their scores on the MBI: controls and NCB. Thirteen controls were matched with 13 NCB subjects based on age, sex, and HCW category. This sample (n = 26, 65% male) consisted of 11 physicians and 15 nursing professionals with a mean age of 35.3 years (standard deviation = 5.47). NCB subjects had higher impulsivity than controls. There were not any significant group differences in the other attention subdomains. We found significant correlations between impulsivity and all burnout dimensions: higher absolute scores in BNS are associated with higher impulsivity. We concluded that NCB leads to executive attention deficits
An Introduction to Health Literacy and Social Contexts with Recommendations for Health Professionals and Researchers
Authors: Agner Joy , Bau Katharine Elizabeth , Bruland Dirk
Published: February 2024

Rarely do individuals seek, obtain, and understand health information in a solitary void [...]
Gender Differences in Psychological Outcomes Following Surf versus Hike Therapy among U.S. Service Members
Authors: Glassman Lisa H. , Otis Nicholas P. , Kobayashi Elliott Kim T. , Michalewicz-Kragh Betty , Walter Kristen H.
Published: February 2024

Background: Surf and hike therapies have demonstrated effectiveness as adjunct interventions for service members with major depressive disorder (MDD). This study explores gender differences in intervention outcomes following a pragmatic, randomized controlled trial of Surf and Hike Therapy for service members with MDD (N = 96; men, n = 46; women, n = 50). Methods: Clinician-administered and self-report measures (depression, anxiety, positive affect, negative affect, resilience, and pain) were completed at preprogram, postprogram, and 3-month follow-up; brief measures (depression/anxiety and positive affect) were completed before and after each session. Results: Multilevel modeling results showed that anxiety decreased from pre- to postprogram and significantly differed by gender (B = −2.26, p = 0.029), with women reporting greater reductions. The remaining outcomes from pre- to postprogram demonstrated significant improvements that did not differ by gender (ps = 0.218–0.733). There were no gender differences through follow-up (ps = 0.119–0.780). However, within sessions, women reported greater improvements in depression/anxiety (B = −0.93, p = 0.005) and positive affect (B = 3.73, p = 0.001). The change in positive affect scores within sessions was greater for women in Hike Therapy compared to men (p = 0.016). Conclusions: Overall, results demonstrate that both genders benefit from adjunctive Surf and Hike Therapies, but women exhibit a better response in terms of longer-term anxiety and immediate psychological outcomes.
Safety and Efficacy of Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Long COVID Patients Experiencing Long-Lasting Symptoms
Authors: Moine Espérance , Molinier Virginie , Castanyer Adriana , Calvat Amandine , Coste Guillaume , Vernet Antonin , Faugé Audrey , Magrina Perrine , Aliaga-Parera Joan Lluis , Oliver Nicolas , Alexandre François , Heraud Nelly
Published: February 2024

Due to the high prevalence and persistence of long COVID, it is important to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) for patients who experience long-lasting symptoms more than six months after initial COVID-19 onset. Enrolled patients were admitted for a four-week in-patient-PR due to long COVID symptoms (n = 47). The safety of PR was confirmed by the absence of adverse events. Symptom-related outcomes were evaluated pre- and post-PR with significant score changes for: 6 min walking distance (61 [28 to 103] m), quality of life (mental Short Form-12: 10 [6 to 13], and physical: 9 [6 to 12]), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (1 [0 to 3]), fatigue (MFI-20: −19 [−28 to −8]), dyspnea (DYSPNEA-12: −7 [−9 to −2] and mMRC; −1 [−1 to 0]), Nijmegen questionnaire (−8 [−11 to −5]), anxiety and depression (HADS:−4 [−5 to −2] and −2 [−4 to −1], respectively) and posttraumatic stress disorder checklist scale (−8 [−12 to −4]). At the individual level, the percentage of symptomatic patients for each outcome decreased, with a high response rate, and the number of persistent symptoms per patient was reduced from six at PR initiation to three at the end of the program. Our results show that in-PR is safe and efficient at decreasing long-lasting symptoms experienced by long COVID patients at more than six months after initial disease onset.
YTHDF2 as a Mediator in BDNF-Induced Proliferation of Porcine Follicular Granulosa Cells
Authors: Liu Kening , Zhou Xu , Li Chunjin , Shen Caomeihui , He Guitian , Chen Tong , Cao Maosheng , Chen Xue , Zhang Boqi , Chen Lu
Published: February 2024

In female mammals, the proliferation and apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) are critical in determining the fate of follicles and are influenced by various factors, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Previous research has shown that BDNF primarily regulates GC proliferation through the PI3K/AKT, NF-kB, and CREB tumour pathways; however, the role of other molecular mechanisms in mediating BDNF-induced GC proliferation remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the involvement of the m6A reader YTH domain-containing family member 2 (YTHDF2) in BDNF-stimulated GC proliferation and its underlying mechanism. GCs were cultured in DMEM medium supplemented with varying BDNF concentrations (0, 10, 30, 75, and 150 ng/mL) for 24 h. The viability, number, and cell cycle of GCs were assessed using the CCK-8 assay, cell counting, and flow cytometry, respectively. Further exploration into YTHDF2’s role in BDNF-stimulated GC proliferation was conducted using RT-qPCR, Western blotting, and sequencing. Our findings indicate that YTHDF2 mediates the effect of BDNF on GC proliferation. Additionally, this study suggests for the first time that BDNF promotes YTHDF2 expression by increasing the phosphorylation level of the ERK1/2 signalling pathway. This study offers a new perspective and foundation for further elucidating the mechanism by which BDNF regulates GC proliferation.
Decrease in Mycophenolate Mofetil Plasma Concentration in the Presence of Antibiotics: A Case Report in a Cystic Fibrosis Patient with Lung Transplant
Authors: Ponis Giuliano , Decorti Giuliana , Barbi Egidio , Stocco Gabriele , Maschio Massimo
Published: February 2024

Immunosuppression management in transplant recipients is a critical component of pharmacotherapy. This becomes particularly crucial when patients are exposed to multiple medications that may lead to pharmacological interactions, potentially compromising the effectiveness of immunosuppression. We present the case of a 46-year-old patient diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in childhood at our hospital, who underwent bilateral lung transplantation and is undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. The patient was hospitalized due to an acute pulmonary exacerbation. During the hospitalization, the patient was administered various classes of antibiotics while continuing the standard antirejection regimen of everolimus and mycophenolate. Plasma concentrations of immunosuppressants, measured after antibiotic therapy, revealed significantly lower levels than the therapeutic thresholds, providing the basis for formulating the hypothesis of a drug–drug interaction phenomenon. This hypothesis is supported by the rationale of antibiotic-induced disruption of the intestinal flora, which directly affects the kinetics of mycophenolate. These levels increased after discontinuation of the antimicrobials. Patients with CF undergoing lung transplantation, especially prone to pulmonary infections due to their medical condition, considering the enterohepatic circulation of mycophenolate mediated by intestinal bacteria, necessitate routine monitoring of mycophenolate concentrations during and immediately following the cessation of antibiotic therapies, that could potentially result in insufficient immunosuppression.
Elevated Plasma Concentration of 4-Pyridone-3-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribonucleoside (4PYR) Highlights Malignancy of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Jedrzejewska Agata , Jablonska Patrycja , Gawlik-Jakubczak Teresa , Czajkowski Mateusz , Maszka Patrycja , Mierzejewska Paulina , Smolenski Ryszard T. , Slominska Ewa M.
Published: February 2024

Nicotinamide (NA) derivatives play crucial roles in various biological processes, such as inflammation, regulation of the cell cycle, and DNA repair. Recently, we proposed that 4-pyridone-3-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribonucleoside (4PYR), an unusual derivative of NA, could be classified as an oncometabolite in bladder, breast, and lung cancer. In this study, we investigated the relations between NA metabolism and the progression, recurrence, metastasis, and survival of patients diagnosed with different histological subtypes of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We identified alterations in plasma NA metabolism, particularly in the clear cell RCC (ccRCC) subtype, compared to papillary RCC, chromophobe RCC, and oncocytoma. Patients with ccRCC also exhibited larger tumor sizes and elevated levels of diagnostic serum biomarkers, such as hsCRP concentration and ALP activity, which were positively correlated with the plasma 4PYR. Notably, 4PYR levels were elevated in advanced stages of ccRCC cancer and were associated with a highly aggressive phenotype of ccRCC. Additionally, elevated concentrations of 4PYR were related to a higher likelihood of mortality, recurrence, and particularly metastasis in ccRCC. These findings are consistent with other studies, suggesting that NA metabolism is accelerated in RCC, leading to abnormal concentrations of 4PYR. This supports the concept of 4PYR as an oncometabolite and a potential prognostic factor in the ccRCC subtype.