bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Flow-Induced Instabilities in a Francis Turbine Operating in Non-Cavitating and Cavitating Part-Load Conditions
Authors: Arabnejad Mohammad Hossein , Nilsson Håkan , Bensow Rickard E.
Published: February 2023

The integration of intermittent renewable energy resources to the grid system requires that hydro turbines regularly operate at part-load conditions. Reliable operation of hydro turbines at these conditions is typically limited by the formation of a Rotating Vortex Rope (RVR) in the draft tube. In this paper, we investigate the formation of this vortex using the scale-resolving methods SST-SAS, wall-modeled LES (WMLES), and zonal WMLES. The numerical results are first validated against the available experimental data, and then analyzed to explain the effect of using different scale-resolving methods in detail. It is revealed that although all methods can capture the main features of the RVRs, the WMLES method provides the best quantitative agreement between the simulation results and experiment. Furthermore, cavitating simulations are performed using WMLES method to study the effect of cavitation on the flow in the turbine. These effects of cavitation are shown to be highly dependent on the amount of vapor in the RVR. If the amount of vapor is small, cavitation induces broadband high-frequency fluctuations in the pressure and forces exerted on the turbine. As the amount of cavitation increases, these fluctuations tend to have a distinct dominant frequency which is different from the frequency of the RVR.
Physicochemical Characterization and Antioxidant Properties of Essential Oils of M. pulegium (L.), M. suaveolens (Ehrh.) and M. spicata (L.) from Moroccan Middle-Atlas
Authors: Zekri Nadia , Elazzouzi Hanane , Ailli Atika , Gouruch Aman Allah , Radi Fatima Zahrae , El Belghiti Mohammed Alaoui , Zair Touriya , Nieto Gema , Centeno Juan A. , Lorenzo José M.
Published: February 2023

The cosmetics and food fields are based on the use of synthetic substances to protect their products against oxidation. However, synthetic antioxidants were reported to have negative effects on human health. The interest to develop natural antioxidants from plants has been growing in recent decades. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant properties of three essential oils (EOs) of M. pulegium (L.), M. suaveolens (Ehrh.) and M. spicata (L.) from the Azrou and Ifrane regions. The organoleptic characteristics, yields and physical properties were determined for the selected EOs. Their chemical compositions were identified using GC-MS; then, their antioxidant activities were evaluated using the DPPH• free radical scavenging activity and were compared with the ascorbic acid standard. The determined physicochemical parameters of dry matter and EOs demonstrated their good quality. The analysis of the EOs showed the dominance of pulegone (68.86–70.92%) and piperitenone (24.81%), piperitenone oxide (74.69–60.3%), and carvone (71.56–54.79%) and limonene (10.5–9.69%) for M. pulegium, M. suaveolens and M. spicata, respectively, from Azrou and Ifrane. Additionally, the antiradical tests demonstrated the remarkable power of these EOs, especially M. pulegium EO (IC50 = 15.93 mg/mL), which recorded the best activity compared with ascorbic acid (IC50 = 8.849 mg/mL). The obtained results indicated that these EOs could be applied as natural antioxidants in the food industry.
Effect of Liposomal Encapsulation and Ultrasonication on Debittering of Protein Hydrolysate and Plastein from Salmon Frame
Authors: Sharma Kartik , Nilsuwan Krisana , Ma Lukai , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: February 2023

The impacts of liposomal encapsulation on the bitterness of salmon frame protein hydrolysate (SFPH) and salmon frame protein plastein (SFPP) with the aid of ultrasound (20% amplitude, 750 W) for different time intervals (30, 60 and 120 s) were investigated. Liposomes loaded with 1% protein hydrolysate (L-PH1) and 1% plastein (L-PT1) showed the highest encapsulation efficiency and the least bitterness (p < 0.05). Ultrasonication for longer times reduced encapsulation efficiency (EE) and increased bitterness of both L-PH1 and L-PT1 along with a reduction in particle size. When comparing between L-PH1 and L-PT1, the latter showed less bitterness due to the lower bitterness in nature and higher entrapment of plastein in the liposomes. In vitro release studies also showed the delayed release of peptides from L-PT1 in comparison to the control plastein hydrolysate. Therefore, encapsulation of liposomes with 1% plastein could be an efficient delivery system for improving the sensory characteristics by lowering the bitterness of protein hydrolysates.
Analytical Computational Scheme for Multivariate Nonlinear Time-Fractional Generalized Biological Population Model
Authors: Alaroud Mohammad , Alomari Abedel-Karrem , Tahat Nedal , Ishak Anuar
Published: February 2023

This work provides exact and analytical approximate solutions for a non-linear time-fractional generalized biology population model (FGBPM) with suitable initial data under the time-Caputo fractional derivative, in view of a novel effective and applicable scheme, based upon elegant amalgamation between the Laplace transform operator and the generalized power series method. The solution form obtained by the proposed algorithm of considered FGBPM is an infinite multivariable convergent series toward the exact solutions for the integer fractional order. Some applications of the posed model are tested to confirm the theoretical aspects and highlight the superiority of the proposed scheme in predicting the analytical approximate solutions in closed forms compared to other existing analytical methods. Associated figure representations and the results are displayed in different dimensional graphs. Numerical analyses are performed, and discussions regarding the errors and the convergence of the scheme are presented. The simulations and results report that the proposed modern scheme is, indeed, direct, applicable, and effective to deal with a wide range of non-linear time multivariable fractional models.
Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation of Cytotoxicity of Fast Dissolving Hydrogel Based Oral Thin Films Containing Pregabalin and Methylcobalamin
Authors: Özakar Emrah , Sevinç-Özakar Rukiye , Yılmaz Bilal
Published: February 2023

The oral availability of many drugs is problematic due to the pH of the stomach, enzymes, and first-pass effects through the liver. However, especially geriatric, pediatric, bedridden, or mentally handicapped patients and those with dysphagia have difficulty swallowing or chewing solid dosage forms. Oral Thin Films (OTFs) are one of the new drug delivery systems that can solve these problems. Pregabalin (PG) and Methylcobalamin (MC), which are frequently preferred for pain originating in the central nervous system, were brought together for the first time using OTF technology in this study. In this study, a quantification method for PG and MC was developed and validated simultaneously. Optimum formulations were selected with organoleptic and morphological controls, moisture absorption capacity, swelling capacity, percent elongation, foldability, pH, weight variability, thickness, disintegration time, and transparency tests on OTFs prepared by the solvent pouring method. Content uniformity, dissolution rate, determination of release kinetics, SEM, XRD, FT-IR, DSC, long-term stability, and cytotoxicity studies on the tongue epithelial cell line (SCC-9) were performed on selected OTFs. As a result, OTFs containing PG-MC, which are non-toxic, highly flexible, transparent, compatible with intraoral pH, with fast disintegration time (<30 s), and acceptable in taste and appearance, have been developed successfully.
Crosslinking of Bovine Gelatin Gels by Genipin Revisited Using Ferrule-Top Micro-Indentation
Authors: Ball Vincent
Published: February 2023

(1) Background: Gelatin is widely used in food science, bioengineering, and as a sealant. However, for most of those applications, the mechanical properties of gelatin gels need to be improved by means of physical or chemical crosslinking. Among the used chemical agents, genipin allows low cytotoxicity in addition to improved Young’s modulus. However, the mechanical properties of gelatin–genipin gels have only been investigated at the macroscale, and there is no knowledge of the influence of the genipin concentration on the surface homogeneity of Young’s modulus. (2) Methods: To this aim, the influence of genipin concentration on Young’s modulus of gelatin gels was investigated by means of ferrule-top micro-indentation. The data were compared with storage moduli obtained by shear rheology data. (3) Results: Ferrule-top indentation measurements allowed us to show that Young’s moduli of gelatin–genipin gels increase up to a plateau value after approximately 12 mg/mL in genipin and 4 h of crosslinking. Young’s moduli distribute with high homogeneity over 80 µm × 80 µm surface areas and are consistent with the storage moduli obtained by shear rheology. (4) Conclusions: It has been shown that ferrule-top indentation data fitted with the Hertz model yield Young’s moduli of gelatin–genipin gels which are consistent with the storage moduli obtained by characterization at the macroscale using shear rheometry. In addition, Young’s moduli are homogenously distributed (with some irregularities at the highest genipin concentrations) and can be increased by two orders of magnitude with respect to the uncrosslinked gel.
Mutation Analysis of Autosomal-Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Suzuki Yasuo , Katayama Kan , Saiki Ryosuke , Hirabayashi Yosuke , Murata Tomohiro , Ishikawa Eiji , Ito Masaaki , Dohi Kaoru
Published: February 2023

Autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is characterized by bilateral kidney cysts that ultimately lead to end-stage kidney disease. While the major causative genes of ADPKD are PKD1 and PKD2, other genes are also thought to be involved. Fifty ADPKD patients were analyzed by exome sequencing or multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA), followed by long polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing. Variants in PKD1 or PKD2 or GANAB were detected in 35 patients (70%). Exome sequencing identified 24, 7, and 1 variants in PKD1, PKD2, and GANAB, respectively, in 30 patients. MLPA analyses identified large deletions in PKD1 in three patients and PKD2 in two patients. We searched 90 cyst-associated genes in 15 patients who were negative by exome sequencing and MLPA analyses, and identified 17 rare variants. Four of them were considered “likely pathogenic” or “pathogenic” variants according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines. Of the 11 patients without a family history, four, two, and four variants were found in PKD1, PKD2, and other genes, respectively, while no causative gene was identified in one patient. While the pathogenicity of each variant in these genes should be carefully assessed, a comprehensive genetic analysis may be useful in cases of atypical ADPKD.
Pharmacogenetic Analysis of the MIR146A rs2910164 and MIR155 rs767649 Polymorphisms and Response to Anti-TNF Treatment in Patients with Crohn’s Disease and Psoriasis
Authors: Nani Paraskevi , Ladopoulou Melpomeni , Papaioannou Evgenia H. , Papagianni Evangelia D. , Antonatos Charalabos , Xiropotamos Panagiotis , Kapsoritakis Andreas , Potamianos Petros S. , Karmiris Konstantinos , Tzathas Charalambos , Patsatsi Aikaterini , Lazaridou Elisavet , Zafiriou Efterpi , Roussaki-Schulze Angeliki , Georgiou Sophia , Grafanaki Katerina , Georgakilas Georgios K. , Vasilopoulos Yiannis
Published: February 2023

The clinical heterogeneity regarding the response profile of the antitumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and psoriasis (PsO) is attributed, amongst others, to genetic factors that influence the regulatory mechanisms which orchestrate the inflammatory response. Here, we investigated the possible associations between the MIR146A rs2910164 and MIR155 rs767649 variants and the response to anti-TNF therapy in a Greek cohort of 103 CD and 100 PsO patients. We genotyped 103 CD patients and 100 PsO patients via the PCR-RFLP method, utilizing the de novo formation of a restriction site for the SacI enzyme considering the MIR146A rs2910164, while Tsp45I was employed for the MIR155 rs767649 variant. Additionally, we investigated the potential functional role of the rs767649 variant, exploring in silico the alteration of transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) mapped on its genomic location. Our single-SNP analysis displayed a significant association between the rare rs767649 A allele and response to therapy (Bonferroni-corrected p value = 0.012) in patients with PsO, a result further enhanced by the alteration in the IRF2 TFBS caused by the above allele. Our results highlight the protective role of the rare rs767649 A allele in the clinical remission of PsO, implying its utilization as a pharmacogenetic biomarker.
Expression of Connexins 37, 40 and 45, Pannexin 1 and Vimentin in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Mizdrak Ivan , Mizdrak Maja , Racetin Anita , Bošković Braco , Benzon Benjamin , Durdov Merica Glavina , Vukojević Katarina , Filipović Natalija
Published: February 2023

Approximately 60% of patients with squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) have regional occult metastatic disease/distant metastases at the time of diagnosis, putting them at higher risk for disease progression. Therefore, biomarkers are needed for early prognostic purpose. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression pattern of connexins (Cx) 37, 40 and 45, pannexin1 (Panx1) and vimentin in LSCC and correlate with tumor grade (G) and outcome. Methods: Thirty-four patients who underwent (hemi-)laryngectomy and regional lymphadenectomy due to LSCC from 2017 to 2018 in University Hospital Split, Croatia, were studied. Samples of tumor tissue and adjacent normal mucosa embedded in paraffin blocks were stained using the immunofluorescence method and were semi-quantitatively analyzed. Results: The expression of Cx37, Cx40, and Panx1 differed between cancer and adjacent normal mucosa and between histological grades, being the highest in well-differentiated (G1) cancer and low/absent in poorly differentiated (G3) cancer (all p < 0.05). The expression of vimentin was the highest in G3 cancer. Expression of Cx45 was generally weak/absent, with no significant difference between cancer and the controls or between grades. Lower Panx1 and higher vimentin expression were found to be prognostic factors for regional metastatic disease. Lower Cx37 and 40 expressions were present in patients with disease recurrence after the three-year follow-up period. Conclusion: Cx37 and Cx40, Panx1, and vimentin have the potential to be used as prognostic biomarkers for LSCC.
Study on Sperm-Cell Detection Using YOLOv5 Architecture with Labaled Dataset
Authors: Dobrovolny Michal , Benes Jakub , Langer Jaroslav , Krejcar Ondrej , Selamat Ali
Published: February 2023

Infertility has recently emerged as a severe medical problem. The essential elements in male infertility are sperm morphology, sperm motility, and sperm density. In order to analyze sperm motility, density, and morphology, laboratory experts do a semen analysis. However, it is simple to err when using a subjective interpretation based on laboratory observation. In this work, a computer-aided sperm count estimation approach is suggested to lessen the impact of experts in semen analysis. Object detection techniques concentrating on sperm motility estimate the number of active sperm in the semen. This study provides an overview of other techniques that we can compare. The Visem dataset from the Association for Computing Machinery was used to test the proposed strategy. We created a labelled dataset to prove that our network can detect sperms in images. The best not-super tuned result is mAP 72.15.
MIF Variant rs755622 Is Associated with Severe Crohn’s Disease and Better Response to Anti-TNF Adalimumab Therapy
Authors: Jezernik Gregor , Gorenjak Mario , Potočnik Uroš
Published: February 2023

Crohn’s disease (CD), rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and other inflammatory diseases comprise a group of chronic diseases with immune-mediated pathogenesis which share common pathological pathways, as well as treatment strategies including anti-TNF biologic therapy. However, the response rate to anti-TNF therapy among those diseases varies, and approximately one third of patients do not respond. Since pharmacogenetic studies for anti-TNF therapy have been more frequent for other related diseases and are rare in CD, the aim of our study was to further explore markers associated with anti-TNF response in other inflammatory diseases in Slovenian CD patients treated with the anti-TNF drug adalimumab (ADA). We enrolled 102 CD patients on ADA, for which the response was defined after 4, 12, 20 and 30 weeks of treatment, using an IBDQ questionnaire and blood CRP value. We genotyped 41 SNPs significantly associated with response to anti-TNF treatment in other diseases. We found novel pharmacogenetic association between SNP rs755622 in the gene MIF (macrophage migration inhibitory factor) and SNP rs3740691 in the gene ARFGAP2 in CD patients treated with ADA. The strongest and most consistent association with treatment response was found for the variant rs2275913 in gene IL17A (p = 9.73 × 10−3).
Predictive Value of SLCO1B1 c.521T>C Polymorphism on Observed Changes in the Treatment of 1136 Statin-Users
Authors: Jansen Marleen E. , Rigter Tessel , Fleur Thom M. C. , Souverein Patrick C. , Verschuren W. M. Monique , Vijverberg Susanne J. , Swen Jesse J. , Rodenburg Wendy , Cornel Martina C.
Published: February 2023

Pharmacogenomic testing is a method to prevent adverse drug reactions. Pharmacogenomics could be relevant to optimize statin treatment, by identifying patients at high risk for adverse drug reactions. We aim to investigate the clinical validity and utility of pre-emptive pharmacogenomics screening in primary care, with SLCO1B1 c.521T>C as a risk factor for statin-induced adverse drug reactions. The focus was on changes in therapy as a proxy for adverse drug reactions observed in statin-users in a population-based Dutch cohort. In total, 1136 statin users were retrospectively genotyped for the SLCO1B1 c.521T>C polymorphism (rs4149056) and information on their statin dispensing was evaluated as cross-sectional research. Approximately half of the included participants discontinued or switched their statin treatment within three years. In our analyses, we could not confirm an association between the SLCO1B1 c.521T>C genotype and any change in statin therapy or arriving at a stable dose sooner in primary care. To be able to evaluate the predictive values of SLCO1B1 c.521T>C genotype on adverse drug reactions from statins, prospective data collection of actual adverse drug reactions and reasons to change statin treatment should be facilitated.
The Extent of Glaciation in the Pechora Sea, Eurasian Arctic, Based on Submarine Glacial Landforms
Authors: Nikiforov Sergey , Ananiev Roman , Jakobsson Martin , Moroz Evgeny , Sokolov Sergey , Sorokhtin Nikolay , Dmitrevsky Nikolay , Sukhikh Elena , Chickiryov Igor , Zarayskaya Yulia , Razumovskiy Anatoly , Semiletov Igor
Published: February 2023

The Pechora Sea is optimally located for studying the coalescence of a glacial and periglacial continental shelf zone in the high Arctic. Here, we present data acquired during cruises of the RV Akademik Nikolaj Strakhov in 2018–2021, revealing the distribution of submarine glacial landforms in the central part of the Pechora shelf area. Based on moraines and the distribution of glacial lineations, the extent of the ice sheet during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) is proposed. The crests of the moraine ridges and the slopes of their sides express a variation in morphology, and the ridges combine into irregular complexes. The moraines are primarily composed of coarse cobble-sized material with an addition of coarse sand and other sedimentary fractions. The mapped glacial landforms clearly indicate that an ice sheet extended over the area, while the Pechora basin, at the same time, was comprised of lowland characterized by a cryogenic subaerial landscape. Based on the result from this study, the extent and ice-flow pattern of the Barents-Kara Ice Sheet during the LGM were determined.
Sex Differences in Mental Status and Coping Strategies among Adult Mexican Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Brambila-Tapia Aniel Jessica Leticia , Macías-Espinoza Fabiola , González-Cantero Joel Omar , Martínez-Arriaga Reyna Jazmín , Reyes-Domínguez Yesica Arlae , Ramírez-García María Luisa
Published: February 2023

We performed a cross-sectional study in order to determine the association between stress coping strategies and stress, depression, and anxiety, in which the Mexican population was invited to answer these variables by an electronic questionnaire. A total of 1283 people were included, of which 64.8% were women. Women presented higher levels of stress, depression, and anxiety than men; likewise, women showed a higher frequency of some maladaptive coping strategies (behavioral disengagement and denial) and lower levels of some adaptive ones (active coping and planning); additionally, maladaptive coping strategies were positively correlated with stress and depression in both sexes: self-blame, behavioral disengagement, denial, substance use, and self-distraction. Likewise, there were negative correlations between stress and depression and the adaptive strategies: planning, active coping, acceptance, and positive reframing. For women, religion presented negative correlations with stress, depression, and anxiety, and humor showed low positive correlations with stress, anxiety, and depression. In conclusion, most adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies are common in both sexes with the exception of religion, which seems to be adaptive in women and neutral in men, and humor, which seems to be adaptive in men and maladaptive in women. In addition, emotional and instrumental support seem to be neutral in both sexes.
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life from Young Adulthood to Mid-Life
Authors: Hong Chuen Lin , Thomson W. Murray , Broadbent Jonathan M.
Published: February 2023

Quality of life varies with time, often worsening, and is affected by circumstances, events, and exposures at different stages of life. Little is known about how oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) changes during middle age. We investigated OHRQoL changes from age 32 to 45 years among participants in a population-based birth cohort, along with clinical and socio-behavioural associations. Generalised estimating equation models were used to investigate the association between OHRQoL (assessed at ages 32, 38, and 45 years; n = 844), and the socioeconomic position in childhood (up to age 15 years) and adulthood (ages 26 through to 45 years), dental self-care (dental services utilisation and tooth brushing), oral conditions (such as tooth loss), and experiencing a dry mouth. The multivariable analyses were controlled for sex and personality traits. At each stage of life, those of a lower socioeconomic status were at greater risk of experiencing OHRQoL impacts. Those who engaged in favourable dental self-care habits (the regular use of dental services and at least twice daily tooth brushing) experienced fewer impacts. A social disadvantage at any stage of life has enduring deleterious effects on one’s quality of life in middle age. Ensuring access to timely and appropriate dental health services in adulthood may reduce the impacts of oral conditions on one’s quality of life.
Palifermin Compared to Supersaturated Calcium Phosphate Rinse in Prevention of Severe Oral Mucositis after Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients Receiving Radiotherapy-Based Myeloablative Conditioning
Authors: Hadid Tarik , Al-Katib Ayad , Binongo Jose , Berteotti Gina M. , Fazal Salman , Rossetti James M. , Lister John
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Oral mucositis (OM) is a common, debilitating complication of conditioning regimens for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Supersaturated calcium phosphate rinse (SCPR) and palifermin have shown efficacy in preventing severe OM. However, whether their efficacy differs is unknown. We aimed to compare the efficacy of SCPR and palifermin in HSCT patients receiving myeloablative conditioning. Methods: A comprehensive review of our institutional database was performed to identify patients who received myeloablative-conditioning therapy over 5 years. All HSCT patients who received radiotherapy-based myeloablative conditioning and received either palifermin or SCPR within the study period were included. Most patients received Fludarabine, Busulfan, and total body irradiation (FBT). Patients were divided into two groups based on the OM prophylactic agent received. The primary outcome is prevalence of severe OM (WHO Grade 3 and 4). The secondary outcomes are a prevalence of all-grade OM and WHO Grade 4 OM. These outcomes were compared between the two groups. Results: We identified 26 patients who received SCPR and 122 patients who received palifermin for OM prophylaxis. The prevalence of World Health Organization (WHO) Grade 3 or 4 OM was significantly lower in the palifermin group (57% vs. 100%, p = 0.01). In addition, the palifermin group had lower WHO Grade 4 OM (22% vs. 62%, p = 0.0006). The overall prevalence of OM was not significantly different between the two groups (86% for palifermin group vs. 100% for SCPR arm, p = 0.15). Subgroup analyses demonstrated improved outcomes with palifermin, regardless of age, sex, disease status, donor type, and primary diagnosis. Conclusion: When compared to SCPR, the use of palifermin is associated reduced severity of OM in HSCT patients receiving radiotherapy-based myeloablative conditioning.
A Study on the Diagnosis Technology for Conservation Status of Painting Cultural Heritage Using Digital Image Analysis Program
Authors: Eom Tae Ho , Lee Hwa Soo
Published: February 2023

In order to objectively and quantitatively diagnose the conservation status of painting cultural heritages, a digital image analysis program was used for the digital image of a Korean Buddhist painting. A technical method for diagnosing the conservation status by analyzing the color space of the Buddhist painting and calculating the shape information and damage area was suggested. To verify the applicability of the program, a standard color chart on various ground materials was produced. Color difference values of color information obtained using a color meter and a digital image analysis program were compared. Work efficiency, according to image resolution, was evaluated. It was possible to work efficiently with a size similar to that of an FHD image. Through the comparative evaluation of the individual deviation by the user, the accuracy and temporal advantages of the method using the digital image analysis program could be confirmed. As a result of comparing by color region extraction conditions, it was confirmed that the error range of the measured color information decreased as the 25 pixel diameter circle (average of circled regions of interest) size region and the number of measurements increased. Color space information was adjusted according to the characteristics of each damage type, and the shape of the damage was classified. In addition, the conservation status was evaluated by quantitatively calculating the area of damage with the Intensity Mean of the divided shape image.
How to Deal with Adobe Architecture in the Ancient Near East: The Case of Ebla in Syria
Authors: Nadali Davide
Published: February 2023

The paper presents the restoration activities carried out at Tell Mardikh-Ebla (Syria) by the Italian Archaeological Expedition to Syria of the Sapienza University of Rome. In particular, the study focuses on the operations to preserve the mudbrick structures that have specifically suffered from erosion by rain wind which has caused the collapse of sections of walls. The programme of restoration at Ebla sought to clarify and outline a plan of excavated structures with swift, non-invasive, and reversible interventions and reconstructions. The protection of mudbrick buildings is indeed a challenge for archaeologists working in the Near East: mudbricks are extremely fragile both during the excavation and even more so after they have been excavated. Starting from the results at Ebla, the issue of preserving mudbrick structures is far from being completely solved; the lack of any archaeological research at Ebla, because of the political crisis in Syria, heavily affected the site and the restored buildings that have been seriously damaged by illicit digging and the occupation of the archaeological areas. New techniques and solutions are needed to improve the quality of maintenance and the protection of such a fragile heritage.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Regulatory Networks and Hub Genes in the Flavonoid Metabolism of Rosa roxburghii
Authors: Huang Xiaolong , Sun Guilian , Li Qiaohong , Yan Huiqing
Published: February 2023

Rosa roxburghii Tratt, the most popular fruit that blooms in the southwest of China, has high antioxidant properties and is rich in different flavonoids. However, the regulatory network and critical genes that regulate the flavonoid biosynthesis of R. roxburghii are still unknown. In this study, HPLC analysis revealed that total flavonoids, anthocyanins, and catechin were enriched in mature fruits, flowers, and leaves, respectively. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between five organs of R. roxburghii involved in flavonoid metabolism were obtained by transcriptome sequencing. A total of 1130 DEGs were identified, including 166 flavonoid pathway biosynthesis genes, 622 transcription factors (TFs), 301 transporters, and 221 cytochrome P450 proteins. A weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of the DEGs was conducted to construct co-expression networks. Regarding enzymes in the biosynthesis of flavonoids, cytochrome P450 CYP749A22 and CYP72A219 were highlighted in the regulation of total flavonoids of mature fruits. Anthocyanin 3-O-glucosyltransferase and F3′H were the top two critical enzymes for anthocyanin accumulation in flowers. By contrast, caffeic acid 3-O-methyltransferase, 4-coumarate-CoA ligase, and shikimate O-hydroxycinnamoyltransferase were essential for catechin accumulation in leaves. Additionally, we analyzed the eigengene network of the “black” module, which had high correlations with total flavonoids (r = 0.9, p = 5 × 10−6). There were 26 eigengenes in the “black” module, consisting of 6 flavonoid biosynthesis, 14 TFs, and 6 transporters. Among them, the transcription factors RrWRKY45 (DN142829_c1_g5), RrTCP20 (DN146443_c1_g1), and RrERF118 (DN141507_c3_g2) were screened as the hub genes, which significantly correlated with total flavonoids in R. roxburghii. The present biochemical and transcriptomic data provide insights into functional genomics for breeding R. roxburghii with flavonoid accumulation.
Study on the Mechanical Properties and the Way of Breaking the Shell of Fresh Camellia oleifera Fruit
Authors: Wei Xuan , Chen Xuanqi , Liao Peng , Huang Wencheng
Published: February 2023

In this study, based on the physical and mechanical parameters of Camellia oleifera, the mechanical model of Camellia oleifera was rebuilt and analysed to reveal the damage mechanism of fruit shell breakage. The results revealed that under the same conditions (e.g., axial loading form), the stress of the fruit uniformly diffused from the extrusion point to the periphery and depth, and the maximum equivalent stress was 9.4104 Mpa. While under radial loading, the stress of the fruit extended axially along the dorsal line of the tea seed, and the maximum equivalent stress was 6.9467 Mpa. The maximum stress under the two loading modes occurred at the joint between the middle column of the shell and the calyx. The increased loading displacement decreased the stress on the fruit, making it easier to break the shell of Camellia oleifera by radial extrusion. The results can serve as a reference for the development of different equipment to break the shell of the Camellia oleifera fruit.
Exposure to the Endophytic Fungi Regulates the Anthocyanin Profiles in the Post-Veraison Grape Berries of ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’
Authors: Pan Xiao-Xia , Chen Chun-Xiao , Wang Yu-Tao , Zhu You-Yong , Yang Ming-Zhi
Published: February 2023

The potential of endophytes to initiate changes in host secondary metabolism is expected to be applied to improve the biochemical qualities of the crop. Our previous study revealed the significant impacts of fungal endophytes on the biochemical properties and the anthocyanin profiles in grape berries of the local cultivar ‘Rose Honey’ (RH). To validate the effects, our present work further assessed the impacts of the same fungal endophytes on grape berries of the worldwide planted grapevine cultivar ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ (CS). Consistent with the results of RH, exposure to most of the used endophytic fungi shaped the biochemical traits and anthocyanidin profile of the CS grape berries. Among the detected biochemical traits, the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity in berries had the strongest response to endophytic fungal exposure, and the fungal strains RH32, RH36, and MDR1 had the greatest biochemical impacts on the grape berries. Interestingly, the most anthocyanidin species were detected in the two grape berry varieties when exposed to fungal strains MDR36 and RH34. In both varieties, the total anthocyanin concentrations were quantitatively promoted by strains RH36, RH44, MDR1, and MDR36, but suppressed by strain RH7. Malvidin derivatives and delphinidin derivatives accounted for the majority of the relative abundance of the total detected anthocyanins in CS berries. The acylation degree of anthocyanins in grape berries was also significantly promoted by exposure to fungal endophytes. In CS grape berries, a seldom-distributed anthocyanidin, pelargonidin-3-O-glucoside, as well as the diglucoside anthocyanidin were detected when exposed to fungal strains as RH32, RH34, RH36, MDR1, MDR4, and MDR36. Overall, the endophytic fungal strains MDR36, RH36, and RH34 have the ability to promote metabolite profiles in both grape varieties. This work confirms the possibility of using certain endophytic fungal strains as a strategy for shaping grape pigmentation in vinification at the post-veraison or post-harvest stages.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of HSP70 Gene Family in Chrysanthemum lavandulifolium under Heat Stress
Authors: Yin Mengru , Hu Rongqian , Song Aiping , Guan Zhiyong , Chen Fadi , Jiang Jiafu
Published: February 2023

As a molecular chaperone, HSP70 is widely involved in complex activities in plants. Under high temperature, drought, high salt, low temperature, heavy metals, and other stresses, HSP70 is rapidly synthesizes, stabilizes protein and biological macromolecular structures, and improves the stress resistance of plants. In this study, 83 ClHSP70 genes in Chrysanthemum lavandulifolium were identified based on the published Chrysanthemum lavandulifolium genome database. The genes were divided into six clusters based on a phylogenetic analysis, and the gene structures, conserved motifs, and functional domains were relatively conserved. Only two collinear genes were observed, and they formed a pair of duplicating genes. Multiple abiotic stress and phytohormone response elements were observed on the ClHSP70 promoter, such as temperature, drought, methyl jasmonate, abscisic acid, and other stress-related elements, and CpG islands were found on some ClHSP70 promoters, suggesting that they may be related to methylation modifications. Tissue expression analysis showed that the ClHSP70 genes were highly expressed in the roots. In addition, the gene expression changed significantly after 1 h of heat treatment and plays an important role in plant responses to temperature stress. The results of this study provide insights on the ClHSP70 gene family members and a theoretical basis for further research on functional analyses of the ClHSP70 gene family.
The Content of Heavy Metals in Medicinal Plants in Various Environmental Conditions: A Review
Authors: Vinogradova Natalya , Glukhov Alexander , Chaplygin Victor , Kumar Pradeep , Mandzhieva Saglara , Minkina Tatiana , Rajput Vishnu D.
Published: February 2023

Nowadays people are becoming poisoned through the consumption of herbal remedies that comprise heavy metals (HMs) worldwide. It is possible for HMs to be present in pharmaceutical herb materials coming from anthropogenic activities like agriculture, industrial waste, and natural sources. In various ethnic groups, there is evidence that contaminants were purposefully added in the belief that they had some sort of therapeutic benefit. HM toxicity of medicinal plant products has been linked to a wide range of adverse health effects, causing dysfunction of the liver, kidney, and heart, and even death. Natural plant-based products established around the world have progressed to the point that they now combine a variety of synthetic products for their purported medical benefits. This assessment focuses on the impacts of HMs on plants, sources of HMs, herbal sample collection, and identification techniques, especially in medicinal plant samples. At the same time, it focuses on the sociocultural applications of HMs as well as the dangers associated with their usage in conventional therapies. It is necessary to implement appropriate regulation and monitoring systems for natural supplements due to the prevalence of hazardous HMs.
Multiplication, Phenological Period and Growth Vigor of Thirty-One Grapevine Rootstocks and the Role of Parentage in Vigor Heredity
Authors: Yin Yonggang , Han Bin , Li Minmin , Jia Nan , Liu Changjiang , Sun Yan , Wang Yingjie , Gao Qian , Guo Zijuan
Published: February 2023

Knowledge about the growth vigor of grapevine rootstocks is required for scion-based rootstock selection and rootstock breeding. We performed this trial aiming to evaluate the multiplication and growth vigor of several rootstocks. Thirty-one rootstock genotypes were compared on their multiplication characteristics, phenological periods, and growth indicators across three consecutive seasons. The results suggested that the cuttings of most rootstocks had callus-forming indices (CFIs) over 0.5 except for ‘188-08’ (0.28). The rooting rate of ‘420A’ was 5%, while that of the rest of the rootstocks was greater than 48%. The internode lengths of the one-year-old vines were positively correlated with those (as well as cane lengths and pruning weights) of the adult vines. These rootstocks were grouped into three clusters based on the growth measurements across three seasons. Eight combinations of genetic backgrounds showed various effects on the growth indicators. The high-vigor cluster includes ‘1103P’, ‘5BB’, ‘225Ru’, etc.; the medium-vigor cluster includes ‘Dogridge’, ‘101-14M’, ‘Fercal’, etc.; and the low-vigor cluster includes ‘Gloire’, ‘3309C’, ‘Ganzin1’, etc. The Vitis berlandieri parentage showed a higher vigor heredity, while the V. riparia showed a lower vigor heredity. These findings would contribute to rootstock nursery construction and provide references for vigor-based rootstock selection for grafts and parent selection for rootstock breeding.
Diagnostic Performance of Individual Symptoms to Predict SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Positivity and Symptom Persistence among Suspects Presenting in Primary Care during the First Wave of COVID-19
Authors: Savoy Mona , Kopp Benoît , Chaouch Aziz , Cohidon Christine , Gouveia Alexandre , Lombardo Patrick , Maeder Muriel , Payot Sylvie , Perdrix Jean , Schwarz Joëlle , Senn Nicolas , Mueller Yolanda
Published: February 2023

This study aimed to estimate the diagnostic performance of patient symptoms and to describe the clinical course of RT-PCR-positive compared with RT-PCR-negative patients in primary care. Symptomatic COVID-19 suspects were assessed clinically at the initial consultation in primary care between March and May 2020, followed by phone consultations over a span of at least 28 days. Sensitivity and specificity were estimated for each symptom using the initial RT-PCR result as a reference standard. The proportions of symptomatic patients according to the RT-PCR test results were compared over time, and time to recovery was estimated. Out of 883 patients, 13.9% had a positive RT-PCR test, and 17.4% were not tested. Most sensitive symptoms were cough, myalgia, and a history of fever, while most specific symptoms were fever for ≥4 days, hypo/anosmia, and hypo/ageusia. At the final follow up (median time 55 days, range 28–105 days), 44.7% of patients still reported symptoms in the RT-PCR-positive group, compared with 18.3% in the negative group (p < 0.001), mostly with hypo/anosmia (16.3%), dyspnea (12.2%), and fatigue (10.6%). The discriminative value of individual symptoms for diagnosing COVID-19 was limited. Almost half of the SARS-CoV-2-positive patients still reported symptoms at least 28 days after the initial consultation.
Translation, Adaptation and Assessment of the Psychometric Properties of the Mental Health Knowledge Questionnaire in a Sample of Higher Education Students in Portugal
Authors: Chaves Cláudia , Duarte João , Sampaio Francisco , Coelho Joana , Sequeira Carlos
Published: February 2023

A significant part of the worldwide population is affected by some mental disorder. Previous research conducted with the general population has revealed poor knowledge when it comes to mental health. Therefore, it is imperative to assess mental health literacy using robust assessment tools. Thus, this study aimed to translate, adapt and assess the psychometric properties of the Mental Health Knowledge Questionnaire in a sample of higher education students in Portugal. This study used a sample consisting of 2887 participants. Internal consistency for the psychometric study was estimated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Construct validity was tested using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. After data analysis, the final Portuguese version of the Mental Health Knowledge Questionnaire was composed of 14 items. The goodness-of-fit indices were adequate, confirming the quality of the model’s fit to the empirical data (χ²/df = 2.459, GFI = 0.983, CFI = 0.969, RMSEA = 0.032, RMR = 0.023, SRMR = 0.032). This assessment tool is valid and reliable to assess higher education students’ mental health literacy in Portugal. Analyses to confirm the scale’s external validity, measurement equivalence and replicability are still required.
A New Perspective on Supporting Vulnerable Road Users’ Safety, Security and Comfort through Personalized Route Planning
Authors: Abrantes Diogo , Ferreira Marta Campos , Costa Paulo Dias , Hora Joana , Felício Soraia , Dias Teresa Galvão , Coimbra Miguel
Published: February 2023

Due to an increase in population, urban centers are currently seeing an increase in traffic, resulting in negative consequences such as pollution and congestion. Efforts have been made to promote a modal shift towards the use of more sustainable means of transport, such as walking and cycling, but several deterrents influence the citizens’ perceptions of safety, security and comfort, discouraging their choice of active modes of transport. This study focuses on the importance of providing meaningful information to vulnerable road users (VRUs) to support their perceptions and objectives while moving within urban spaces through a novel concept of route planning. A broad survey of the needs and concerns of VRUs through interviews, focus groups and questionnaires, applied to the Portuguese population of the Metropolitan Area of Porto, led to the development of a new concept of route planners that show personalized routes according to the individual perceptions of each user. This concept is materialized in a route planner prototype that has been extensively tested by potential users. Subjective evaluation and feedback showed the usefulness of the concept and added value to a familiar product, leading to a satisfying experience for participants. This study shows that there is an opportunity to improve these tools to provide a higher degree of power and customization to users on route planning, which includes addressing mobility restrictions and personal perceptions of safety, security and comfort. The ultimate goal of this new approach is to persuade citizens to switch to more sustainable means of transport.
Environmental Governance, Public Health Expenditure, and Economic Growth: Analysis in an OLG Model
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Ma Caoyuan , Wang Aiping
Published: February 2023

This article studies the relationship between environmental governance, public health expenditure, and economic growth by introducing human health status into a three-period overlapping generation dynamic general equilibrium (OLG-DGE) model and conducting a policy simulation analysis in a Chinese scenario. The main findings are generalized as follows: (i) The increase in pollution emissions per unit of output will not only lead to the deterioration of public health but also hinder long-term economic growth, while the efficiency of pollution control will improve health and output per labor unit; (ii) Although levying environmental tax will improve health status and life expectancy, it has a non-linear impact on pollution emissions and output per labor unit, which means that there are trade-offs among environmental governance, public health improvement, and economic output; and (iii) Although the increase in the proportion of public health expenditure will improve health status, its impact on life expectancy and economic output is affected by the level of environmental tax. Only when the environmental tax rate is relatively low, will increasing the proportion of public health expenditure extend life expectancy and output per labor unit.
“I Learned More Because I Became More Involved”: Teacher’s and Students’ Voice on Gamification in Physical Education Teacher Education
Authors: Flores-Aguilar Gonzalo , Prat-Grau María , Fernández-Gavira Jesús , Muñoz-Llerena Antonio
Published: February 2023

Higher education plays a critical role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals established in the 2030 Agenda, especially the fourth goal (quality and equality in higher education). Therefore, teacher education must play a central role in providing transformative learning experiences for future teachers that can lead the change to create high quality programs in every school. The purpose of this study was to conduct a gamified experience in Physical Education Teacher Education with two goals: assess the students’ views on the framework and evaluate the teachers’ feelings and thoughts. One teacher-researcher (36 years) and 74 students (19–27 years) enrolled in a Spanish university agreed to participate. A qualitative descriptive method and an action-research design were used. The teacher-researcher completed a personal diary, while the students answered two open-ended questions. From the students’ responses emerged three positive themes (framework, motivation, and transference) and two negatives (boredom and group work); from the teacher-researcher, we received three positive responses (mixed emotions, expectations, and students’ motivation) and one negative (workload). As a conclusion, gamification could be considered a framework that promotes transformative learning.