bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Price Delay and Market Efficiency of Cryptocurrencies: The Impact of Liquidity and Volatility during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Abou Tanos Barbara , Badr Georges
Published: May 2024

The rise of cryptocurrencies as alternative financial investments, with potential safe-haven and hedging properties, highlights the need to examine their market efficiency. This study is the first to investigate the combined impact of liquidity and volatility features of cryptocurrencies on their price delays. Using a wide spectrum of cryptocurrencies, we investigate whether the COVID-19 outbreak has affected market efficiency by studying price delays to market information. We find that as liquidity increases and volatility decreases, cryptocurrencies demonstrate stronger market efficiency. Additionally, we show that price delay differences during the COVID-19 outbreak increase with higher levels of illiquidity, particularly for highly volatile quintiles. We suggest that perceived risks and high transaction costs in illiquid and highly volatile cryptocurrencies reduce active traders’ willingness to engage in arbitrage trading, leading to increased market inefficiencies. Our findings are relevant to investors, aiding in improving their decision-making processes and enhancing their investment efficiency. Our paper also presents significant implications for policymakers, emphasizing the need for reforms aimed at enhancing the speed at which information is incorporated into cryptocurrency returns. These reforms would help mitigate market distortions and increase the sustainability of cryptocurrency markets.
Decision-Making Mechanism of Farmers in Land Transfer Processes Based on Sustainable Livelihood Analysis Framework: A Study in Rural China
Authors: Liu Hongbin , Zhang Hebin , Xu Yuxuan , Xue Ying
Published: May 2024

The act of land transfer in rural areas is an important decision-making mechanism for farmers, to enhance resource allocation efficiency and promote capital mobility, and this act is of strategic importance in promoting the level of agricultural scale and mechanization, land system change, and, thus, the sustainable development of livelihoods and production in China. This study aims to explore farmers’ decision-making mechanisms in the process of land transfer in rural areas, by constructing a theoretical framework. Structural equation modeling was used, based on data from a survey of rural families in the Liaoning Province area of Northeastern China. The main findings are as follows: (1) The seven types of exogenous latent variables, including environmental vulnerability, policy, and five main livelihood assets (natural capital, physical capital, financial capital, human capital, and social capital), are intermediary in farmers’ land transfer behavior, which then positively affect farmers’ livelihood outcomes. (2) Among the exogenous latent variables affecting farmers’ land transfer, human assets have the most significant positive effect, followed by social assets and physical assets, family labor force share, frequency of work information exchange, and number of production tools, greatly affect the corresponding variable. (3) Natural assets play the most important role and have a negative effect on farmers’ land transfer decision; contracted area of land per family is the greatest impacted measurable variable of this. The results of the study suggest that the government should strengthen skills training for farmers, improve the land transfer policy system, and provide appropriate subsidies in a regionally targeted manner. Thus, it can promote the transformation of Chinese-style agricultural modernization and achieve rural revitalization.
New Estimates of Nitrogen Fixation on Early Earth
Authors: Christensen Madeline , Adams Danica , Wong Michael L. , Dunn Patrick , Yung Yuk L.
Published: May 2024

Fixed nitrogen species generated by the early Earth’s atmosphere are thought to be critical to the emergence of life and the sustenance of early metabolisms. A previous study estimated nitrogen fixation in the Hadean Earth’s N2/CO2-dominated atmosphere; however, that previous study only considered a limited chemical network that produces NOx species (i.e., no HCN formation) via the thermochemical dissociation of N2 and CO2 in lightning flashes, followed by photochemistry. Here, we present an updated model of nitrogen fixation on Hadean Earth. We use the Chemical Equilibrium with Applications (CEA) thermochemical model to estimate lightning-induced NO and HCN formation and an updated version of KINETICS, the 1-D Caltech/JPL photochemical model, to assess the photochemical production of fixed nitrogen species that rain out into the Earth’s early ocean. Our updated photochemical model contains hydrocarbon and nitrile chemistry, and we use a Geant4 simulation platform to consider nitrogen fixation stimulated by solar energetic particle deposition throughout the atmosphere. We study the impact of a novel reaction pathway for generating HCN via HCN2, inspired by the experimental results which suggest that reactions with CH radicals (from CH4 photolysis) may facilitate the incorporation of N into the molecular structure of aerosols. When the HCN2 reactions are added, we find that the HCN rainout rate rises by a factor of five in our 1-bar case and is about the same in our 2- and 12-bar cases. Finally, we estimate the equilibrium concentration of fixed nitrogen species under a kinetic steady state in the Hadean ocean, considering loss by hydrothermal vent circulation, photoreduction, and hydrolysis. These results inform our understanding of environments that may have been relevant to the formation of life on Earth, as well as processes that could lead to the emergence of life elsewhere in the universe.
Structural Optimization of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle as Part of a Robotic Grazing System Design
Authors: Korunović Nikola , Banić Milan , Pavlović Vukašin , Nestorović Tamara
Published: May 2024

Unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) have gained increased attention in different fields of application; therefore, their optimization requires special attention. Lowering the mass of a UGV is especially important to increase its autonomy, agility, and payload capacity and to reduce dynamic forces. This contribution deals with optimizing a UGV unit prototype that, when connected with similar units, forms a moving electric fence for animal grazing. Together, these units form a robotic system that is intended to solve the critical problem of lack of human capacity in herding and grazing. This approach employs topology optimization (TO) and finite element analysis (FEA) to lower the mass of a UGV unit and validate the design of its structural components. To our knowledge, no optimization of this type of UGV has been reported in the literature. Here, we present the results of a case study in which a set of four load cases served as a basis for the optimization of the UGV frame. Response surface analysis (RSA) was used to identify the worst load cases, while substructuring was used to allow for more detailed meshing of the frame portion that was subjected to TO. Thereby, we demonstrate that the prototype of the UGV unit can be built using standard parts and that TO and FEA can be efficiently used to optimize the load-carrying structure of such a specific vehicle.
Self-Diagnostic Opportunities for Battery Systems in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Authors: Szürke Szabolcs Kocsis , Sütheö Gergő , Őri Péter , Lakatos István
Published: May 2024

The number of battery systems is also growing significantly along with the rise in electric and hybrid car sales. Different vehicles use different types and numbers of batteries. Furthermore, the layout and operation of the control and protection electronics units may also differ. The research aims to develop an approach that can autonomously detect and localize the weakest cells. The method was validated by testing the battery systems of three different VW e-Golf electric vehicles. A wide-range discharge test was performed to examine the condition assessment and select the appropriate state of charge (SoC) for all three vehicles. On the one hand, the analysis investigated the cell voltage deviations from the average; the tests cover deviations of 0 mV, 12 mV, 60 mV, 120 mV, and 240 mV. On the other hand, the mean value calculation was used to filter out possible erroneous values. Another important aspect was examining the relationship between the state of charges (SoC) and the deviations. Therefore, the 10% step changes were tested to see which SoC level exhibited more significant voltage deviations. Based on the results, it was observed that there are differences between the cases, and the critical range is not necessarily at the lowest SoC level. Furthermore, the load rate (current) and time of its occurrence play an important role in the search for a faulty cell. An additional advantage of this approach is that the process currently being tested on the VW e-Golf can be relatively simply transferred to other types of vehicles. It can also be a very useful addition for autonomous vehicles, as it can self-test the cells in the system at low power consumption.
On Aspects of Continuous Approximation of Diatomic Lattice
Authors: Andrianov Igor V. , Khajiyeva Lelya A. , Kudaibergenov Askar K. , Starushenko Galina A.
Published: May 2024

This paper is devoted to the continualization of a diatomic lattice, taking into account natural intervals of wavenumber changes. Continualization refers to the replacement of the original pseudo-differential equations by a system of PDEs that provides a good approximation of the dispersion relations. In this regard, the Padé approximants based on the conditions for matching the values of the dispersion relations of the discrete and continuous models at several characteristic points are utilized. As a result, a sixth-order unconditionally stable system with modified inertia is obtained. Appropriate boundary conditions are formulated. The obtained continuous approximation accurately describes the amplitude ratios of neighboring masses. It is also shown that the resulting continuous system provides a good approximation for the natural frequencies.
Fixed Point Results for Compatible Mappings in Extended Parametric Sb-Metric Spaces
Authors: Beniwal Sunil , Mani Naveen , Shukla Rahul , Sharma Amit
Published: May 2024

This study aims to establish common fixed point theorems for a pair of compatible self-mappings within the framework of extended parametric Sb-metric spaces. To support our assertions, we provide corollaries and examples accompanied with graphical representations. Moreover, we leverage our principal outcome to guarantee the existence of a common solution to a system of integral equations.
Bone Age Determination of Epiphyseal Fusion at Knee Joint and Its Correlation with Chronological Age
Authors: Alzyoud Jihad A. M. , Rababah Eman , Almuhaisen Mohammad H. O. , Al-Qtaitat Aiman I.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Bone age determination is a valuable method for forensic and disaster identifications of unknown human remains, as well as for medical and surgical procedural purposes. This retrospective research study aimed to determine the age based on epiphyseal fusion stages and investigate differences related to gender. Materials and Methods: X-rays of the knee were collected from medical imaging centers in hospitals in the south of Jordan and examined by two observers who determined the bone epiphyseal phase of closure for the femur, tibia, and fibula bone ends close to the knee based on a three-stage classification. Results: The main results revealed that females showed earlier epiphyseal union (Stage II) at the lower end of the femur and the upper ends of the tibia and fibula compared to males. In males, the start of complete union (Stage III) at knee bones was seen at the age of 17–18 years, while in females, it was seen at the age of 16–17 years. Additionally, knee bones showed complete union in 100% of males and females in the age groups 21–22 years and 20–21 years, respectively. Although females showed an earlier start and end of epiphyseal complete union than males, analysis of collected data showed no significant age differences between males and females at the three stages of epiphyseal union of the knee bones. Conclusions: Findings of the radiographic analysis of bone epiphyseal fusion at the knee joint are a helpful method for chronological age determination. This study supports the gender and ethnicity variation among different geographical locations. Studies with a high sample number would be needed to validate our findings.
Multifunctional Eco-Friendly Adsorbent Cryogels Based on Xylan Derived from Coffee Residues
Authors: Quintero Valentina , Osma Johann F. , Azimov Ulugbek , Nabarlatz Debora
Published: May 2024

Agricultural and animal farming practices contribute significantly to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions such as NH3, CH4, CO2, and NOx, causing local environmental concerns involving health risks and water/air pollution. A growing need to capture these pollutants is leading to the development of new strategies, including the use of solid adsorbents. However, commonly used adsorbent materials often pose toxicity and negative long-term environmental effects. This study aimed to develop responsive eco-friendly cryogels using xylan extracted from coffee parchment, a typical residue from coffee production. The crosslinking in cryogels was accomplished by “freeze-thawing” and subsequent freeze-drying. Cryogels were characterized in terms of morphology by using scanning electron microscopy, porosity, and density by the liquid saturation method and also moisture adsorption and ammonia adsorption capacity. The analysis showed that the porosity in the cryogels remained around 0.62–0.42, while the apparent densities varied from 0.14 g/cm3 to 0.25 g/cm3. The moisture adsorption capacity was the highest at the highest relative humidity level (80%), reaching 0.25–0.43 g of water per gram of sample; the amount of water adsorbed increased when the xylan content in the cryogel increased up to 10% w/v, which was consistent with the hygroscopic nature of xylan. The ammonia adsorption process was modeled accurately by a pseudo-second-order equation, where the maximum adsorption capacity in equilibrium reached 0.047 mg NH3/g when xylan reached 10% w/v in cryogels, indicating a chemisorption process. The cryogels under investigation hold promise for ammonia adsorption applications and GHG separation, offering a sustainable alternative for gas-capturing processes.
Environmental and Metabolic Risk Factors Linked to Gallbladder Dysplasia
Authors: Bojan Andrei , Pricop Catalin , Ciocoiu Manuela , Vladeanu Maria Cristina , Bararu Bojan Iris , Badulescu Oana Viola , Badescu Minerva Codruta , Plesoianu Carmen Elena , Halitchi Dan Iliescu , Foia Liliana Georgeta
Published: May 2024

Gallbladder disorders encompass a spectrum from congenital anomalies to inflammatory and neoplastic conditions, frequently requiring surgical intervention. Epithelial abnormalities like adenoma and metaplasia have the potential to progress to carcinoma, emphasizing the importance of histopathological assessment for early detection of malignancy. Gallbladder cancer (GBC) may be incidentally discovered during cholecystectomy for presumed benign conditions, underscoring the need for a thorough examination. However, the lack of clarity regarding the molecular mechanisms of GBC has impeded diagnostic and therapeutic advancements. Timely detection is crucial due to GBC’s aggressive nature and poor prognosis. Chronic inflammation plays a central role in carcinogenesis, causing DNA damage and oncogenic alterations due to persistent insults. Inflammatory cytokines and microRNAs are among the various mediators contributing to this process. Gallbladder calcifications, particularly stippled ones, may signal malignancy and warrant preemptive removal. Molecular pathways involving mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes drive GBC pathogenesis, with proposed sequences such as gallstone-induced inflammation leading to carcinoma formation. Understanding these mechanisms, alongside evaluating mucin characteristics and gene mutations, can deepen comprehension of GBC’s pathophysiology. This, in turn, facilitates the identification of high-risk individuals and the development of improved treatment strategies, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. Thus, in this review, our aim has been to underscore the primary mechanisms underlying the development of gallbladder dysplasia and neoplasia.
Enhanced Production of Erythritol from Glucose by the Newly Obtained UV Mutant Yarrowia lipolytica K1UV15
Authors: Rywińska Anita , Tomaszewska-Hetman Ludwika , Juszczyk Piotr , Rakicka-Pustułka Magdalena , Bogusz Adam , Rymowicz Waldemar
Published: May 2024

Erythritol is a polyol with a sweet taste but low energy value. Thanks to its valuable properties, as well as growing social awareness and nutritional trends, its popularity is growing rapidly. The aim of this study was to increase the effectiveness of erythritol production from glucose using new UV mutants of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica obtained in the Wratislavia K1 strain. The ability of the new strains to biosynthesize erythritol and utilize this polyol was examined in shake-flask cultures and fed-batch processes conducted in a stirred tank reactor with a total glucose concentration of 300 and 400 g/L. The Wratislavia K1 strain produced erythritol most efficiently (97.5 g/L; 192 h) at an initial glucose concentration of 250 g/L (total: 300 g/L). New strains were assessed under such conditions, and it was noted that the highest erythritol concentration (145 g/L; 183 h) was produced by the K1UV15 strain. A significant improvement in the erythritol biosynthesis efficiency (148 g/L; 150 h) was achieved upon the increase in (NH4)2SO4 to 3.6 g/L. Further, in the culture with such a concentration of the nitrogen source and increased total glucose level (400 g/L), the K1UV15 strain produced 226 g/L of erythritol within 281 h.
Quality and Flavor Difference in Dry-Cured Meat Treated with Low-Sodium Salts: An Emphasis on Magnesium
Authors: Xiang Jun , Wang Xuejiao , Guo Chaofan , Zang Liping , He Houde , Yin Xiaoyu , Wei Jianping , Cao Jianxin
Published: May 2024

The present study aimed to develop low-sodium curing agents for dry-cured meat products. Four low-sodium formulations (SPMA, SPM, SP, and SM) were used for dry-curing meat. The physicochemical properties and flavor of the dry-cured meat were investigated. The presence of Mg2+ ions hindered the penetration of Na+ into the meat. The weight loss, moisture content, and pH of all low-sodium salt groups were lower than those of S. Mg2+ addition increased the water activity (Aw) of SPMA, SPM, and SM. Dry-curing meat with low-sodium salts promoted the production of volatile flavor compounds, with Mg2+ playing a more prominent role. Furthermore, low-sodium salts also promoted protein degradation and increased the content of free amino acids in dry-cured meat, especially in SM. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the low-sodium salts containing Mg2+ were conducive to improving the quality of dry-cured meat products. Therefore, low-sodium salts enriched with Mg2+ become a desirable low-sodium curing agent for achieving salt reduction in dry-cured meat products.
The Role of the Unbinding Cycle on the Coordination Abilities of the Bi-Cyclopeptides toward Cu(II) Ions
Authors: Lisowska Alicja , Świątek Paulina , Dębicki Filip , Lewińska Agnieszka , Marciniak Aleksandra , Pacini Lorenzo , Papini Anna Maria , Brasuń Justyna
Published: May 2024

Bicyclic peptides have attracted the interest of pharmaceutical companies because of their remarkable properties, putting them on a new path in medicine. Their conformational rigidity improves proteolytic stability and leads to rapid penetration into tissues via any possible route of administration. Moreover, elimination of renal metabolism is of great importance, for example, for people with a history of liver diseases. In addition, each ring can function independently, making bicyclic peptides extremely versatile molecules for further optimization. In this paper, we compared the potentiometric and spectroscopic properties studied by UV–vis, MCD, and EPR of four synthetic analogues of the bi-cyclic peptide c(PKKHP-c(CFWKTC)-PKKH) (BCL). In particular, we correlated the structural and spectral properties of complexes with coordinating abilities toward Cu(II) ions of MCL1 (Ac-PKKHPc(CFWKTC)PKKH-NH2) that contains the unbinding cycle and N- and C-terminal linear parts with two histidine residues, one per part; two monocyclic ligands containing one histidine residue, both in the N-terminal position, i.e., MCL2 (Ac-PKKHPc(CFWKTC)PKKS-NH2) and in the C-terminal position, i.e., MCL3 (Ac-PKKSPc(CFWKTC)PKKH-NH2), respectively; and the linear structure LNL (Ac-PKKHPSFWKTSPKKH-NH2). Potentiometric results have shown that the bicyclic structure promotes the involvement of the side chain imidazole donors in Cu(II) binding. On the other hand, the results obtained for the mono-cyclic analogues lead to the conclusion that the coordination of the histidine moiety as an anchoring group is promoted by its location in the peptide sequence further from the nonbinding cycle, strongly influencing the involvement of the amide donors in Cu(II) coordination.
Supramolecular Annihilator with DPA Parallelly Arranged by Multiple Hydrogen-Bonding Interactions for Enhanced Triplet–Triplet Annihilation Upconversion
Authors: He Qiuhui , Wei Lingling , He Cheng , Yang Cheng , Wu Wanhua
Published: May 2024

The triplet annihilator is a critical component for triplet–triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC); both the photophysical properties of the annihilator and the intermolecular orientation have pivotal effects on the overall efficiency of TTA-UC. Herein, we synthesized two supramolecular annihilators A-1 and A-2 by grafting 9,10-diphenylanthracene (DPA) fragments, which have been widely used as triplet annihilators for TTA-UC, on a macrocyclic host—pillar[5]arenes. In A-1, the orientation of the two DPA units was random, while, in A-2, the two DPA units were pushed to a parallel arrangement by intramolecular hydrogen-bonding interactions. The two compounds showed very similar photophysical properties and host–guest binding affinities toward electron-deficient guests, but showed totally different TTA-UC emissions. The UC quantum yield of A-2 could be optimized to 13.7% when an alkyl ammonia chain-attaching sensitizer S-2 was used, while, for A-1, only 5.1% was achieved. Destroying the hydrogen-bonding interactions by adding MeOH to A-2 significantly decreased the UC emissions, demonstrating that the parallel orientations of the two DPA units contributed greatly to the TTA-UC emissions. These results should be beneficial for annihilator designs and provide a new promising strategy for enhancing TTA-UC emissions.
Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of the Quorum-Sensing Inhibitors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Yan Xinlin , Hou Shi , Xing Cheng , Zhang Yuanyuan , Chang Jiajia , Xiao Junhai , Lin Feng
Published: May 2024

Due to the resistance of Gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 to most clinically relevant antimicrobials, the use of traditional antibiotic treatments in hospitals is challenging. The formation of biofilms, which is regulated by the quorum-sensing (QS) system of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), is an important cause of drug resistance. There are three main QS systems in P. aeruginosa: the las system, the rhl system, and the pqs system. The inhibitors of the las system are the most studied. Previously, the compound AOZ-1 was found to have a certain inhibitory effect on the las system when screened. In this study, twenty-four compounds were designed and synthesized by modifying the Linker and Rings of AOZ-1. Using C. violaceum CV026 as a reporter strain, this study first assessed the inhibitory effects of new compounds against QS, and their SAR was investigated. Then, based on the SAR analysis of compound AOZ-1 derivatives, the parent core of AOZ-1 was replaced to explore the structural diversity. Then, nine new compounds were designed and synthesized with a new nucleus core component of 3-amino-tetrahydro-l,3-oxazin-2-one. The compound Y-31 (IC50 = 91.55 ± 3.35 µM) was found to inhibit the QS of C. violaceum CV026. Its inhibitory effect on C. violaceum CV026 was better than that of compound AOZ-1 (IC50 > 200 µM). Furthermore, biofilm formation is one of the important causes of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 resistance. In this study, it was found that compound Y-31, with a new nucleus core component of 3-amino-tetrahydro-l,3-oxazin-2-one, had the highest biofilm inhibition rate (40.44%). The compound Y-31 has a certain inhibitory effect on the production of PAO1 virulence factors (pyocyanin, rhamnolipid, and elastase) and swarming. When the concentration of compound Y-31 was 162.5 µM, the inhibition rates of pyocyanin, rhamnolipid, and elastase were 22.48%, 6.13%, and 22.67%, respectively. In vivo, the lifetime of wildtype Caenorhabditis elegans N2 infected with P. aeruginosa PAO1 was markedly extended by the new parent nucleus Y-31. This study also performed cytotoxicity experiments and in vivo pharmacokinetics experiments on the compound Y-31. In conclusion, this study identified a compound, Y-31, with a new nucleus core component of 3-amino-tetrahydro-l,3-oxazin-2-one, which is a potential agent for treating P. aeruginosa PAO1 that is resistant to antibiotics and offers a way to discover novel antibacterial medications.
4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid-Based Hydrazide–Hydrazones as Potent Growth Inhibition Agents of Laccase-Producing Phytopathogenic Fungi That Are Useful in the Protection of Oilseed Crops
Authors: Maniak Halina , Matyja Konrad , Pląskowska Elżbieta , Jarosz Joanna , Majewska Paulina , Wietrzyk Joanna , Gołębiowska Hanna , Trusek Anna , Giurg Mirosław
Published: May 2024

The research on new compounds against plant pathogens is still socially and economically important. It results from the increasing resistance of pests to plant protection products and the need to maintain high yields of crops, particularly oilseed crops used to manufacture edible and industrial oils and biofuels. We tested thirty-five semi-synthetic hydrazide–hydrazones with aromatic fragments of natural origin against phytopathogenic laccase-producing fungi such as Botrytis cinerea, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and Cerrena unicolor. Among the investigated molecules previously identified as potent laccase inhibitors were also strong antifungal agents against the fungal species tested. The highest antifungal activity showed derivatives of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and salicylic aldehydes with 3-tert-butyl, phenyl, or isopropyl substituents. S. sclerotiorum appeared to be the most susceptible to the tested compounds, with the lowest IC50 values between 0.5 and 1.8 µg/mL. We applied two variants of phytotoxicity tests for representative crop seeds and selected hydrazide–hydrazones. Most tested molecules show no or low phytotoxic effect for flax and sunflower seeds. Moreover, a positive impact on seed germination infected with fungi was observed. With the potential for application, the cytotoxicity of the hydrazide–hydrazones of choice toward MCF-10A and BALB/3T3 cell lines was lower than that of the azoxystrobin fungicide tested.
The Potential Role of Viral Persistence in the Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection (PASC)
Authors: Lupi Lorenzo , Vitiello Adriana , Parolin Cristina , Calistri Arianna , Garzino-Demo Alfredo
Published: May 2024

The infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is associated not only with the development of acute disease but also with long-term symptoms or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Multiple lines of evidence support that some viral antigens and RNA can persist for up to 15 months in multiple organs in the body, often after apparent clearance from the upper respiratory system, possibly leading to the persistence of symptoms. Activation of the immune system to viral antigens is observed for a prolonged time, providing indirect evidence of the persistence of viral elements after acute infection. In the gastrointestinal tract, the persistence of some antigens could stimulate the immune system, shaping the local microbiota with potential systemic effects. All of these interactions need to be investigated, taking into account predisposing factors, multiplicity of pathogenic mechanisms, and stratifying populations of vulnerable individuals, particularly women, children, and immunocompromised individuals, where SARS-CoV-2 may present additional challenges.
Retrospective Genotyping of Enteroviruses Using a Diagnostic Nanopore Sequencing Workflow
Authors: van Ackeren Vanessa , Schmutz Stefan , Pichler Ian , Ziltener Gabriela , Zaheri Maryam , Kufner Verena , Huber Michael
Published: May 2024

Enteroviruses are among the most common viruses pathogenic to humans. They are associated with various forms of disease, ranging from mild respiratory illness to severe neurological diseases. In recent years, an increasing number of isolated cases of children developing meningitis or encephalitis as a result of enterovirus infection have been reported, as well as discrete enterovirus D68 outbreaks in North America in 2014 and 2016. We developed an assay to rapidly genotype enteroviruses by sequencing a region within the VP1 gene using nanopore Flongles. We retrospectively analyzed enterovirus-/rhinovirus-positive clinical samples from the Zurich, Switzerland area mainly collected during two seasons in 2019/2020 and 2021/2022. Respiratory, cerebrospinal fluid, and stool samples were analyzed. Whole-genome sequencing was performed on samples with ambiguous genotyping results and enterovirus D68-positive samples. Out of 255 isolates, a total of 95 different genotypes were found. A difference in the prevalence of enterovirus and rhinovirus infections was observed for both sample type and age group. In particular, children aged 0–4 years showed a higher frequency of enterovirus infections. Comparing the respiratory seasons, a higher prevalence was found, especially for enterovirus A and rhinovirus A after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The enterovirus genotyping workflow provides a rapid diagnostic tool for individual analysis and continuous enterovirus surveillance.
Peer Ambassador Perspectives in a Culturally Tailored Self-Management Intervention for African Americans with Type 2 Diabetes: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Wen Meng-Jung , Salihu Ejura Y. , Yang Choua , Maurer Martha , Shiyanbola Olayinka O.
Published: May 2024

Objective: Diabetes disproportionately affects African Americans, leading to higher morbidity and mortality. This study explores the experiences of African American adults who successfully self-manage their type 2 diabetes (called Peer Ambassadors) and provided phone-based peer support in a 6-month culturally tailored diabetes self-management program for African Americans guided by the information–motivation–behavioral skills model. Design: A group discussion using a semi-structured discussion guide was conducted. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify the facilitators and barriers to completing the role of a Peer Ambassador and to develop strategies for overcoming possible challenges in the future. Setting: Key informant discussions were conducted in a community location to gain insights into Ambassadors’ motivations and challenges in delivering peer support. Participants: Three Peer Ambassadors completed ethics training and peer mentor training and received a phone call guide before providing support to their peers. Results: There were four core themes related to Peer Ambassador experiences: (1) Motivation to be a Peer Ambassador, (2) program elements that supported Peer Ambassador role, (3) key elements of achieving engagement, and (4) challenges related to being a Peer Ambassador. Conclusions: This study showed Peer Ambassadors in a culturally tailored peer supported self-management program found fulfillment in sharing experiences and supporting peers. They highly valued educational group sessions for knowledge updates and sustaining their health-related goals, suggesting the potential benefits of recognizing milestones or providing advanced training for future program sustainability. Findings suggest the importance of recruiting motivated patients and providing effective facilitation for peer support roles, including addressing barriers such as time commitment and lack of socialization opportunities.
Wavelength-Tunable Chirped Pulse Amplification System (1720 nm–1800 nm) Based on Thulium-Doped Fiber
Authors: Liu Xinyang , Gumenyuk Regina
Published: May 2024

Chirped pulse amplification (CPA) has been a commonly used methodology to obtain powerful ultrashort laser pulses ever since its first demonstration. However, wavelength-tunable CPA systems are much less common. Wavelength-tunable ultrashort and intense laser pulses are desirable in various fields such as nonlinear spectroscopy and optical parametric amplification. In this work, we report a 1720 nm–1800 nm tunable CPA system based on Tm-doped fiber. The tunable CPA system contains a seed laser, a pulse stretcher, two cascaded amplifiers and a pulse compressor. The dispersion-managed seed laser cavity emits wavelength-tunable laser pulses with pulse durations of several ps and spectral widths from 25 nm to 34 nm. After being stretched temporally to tens of ps, the laser pulses are then amplified in two-stage amplifiers and compressed in a Treacy-type compressor. At 1720 nm, the maximum average power of 126 mW is obtained with a pulse duration of 507 fs; at 1800 nm, the maximum average power of 264 mW is obtained with a pulse duration of 294 fs. The pulse repetition rates are around 22.7 MHz. We perform an analysis of the system design based on numerical simulations and go on to suggest further steps for improvement. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of a tunable CPA system beyond 1.1 μm. Considering the specific wavelength range, this wavelength-tunable CPA system is highly desirable for biomedical imaging, sensing, and parametric amplifiers.
Effects of Aviation Mutagenesis on Soil Chemical Indexes, Enzyme Activities, and Metabolites of Dahongpao (Camellia sinensis) Tea Trees
Authors: Jia Miao , Cheng Pengyuan , Wang Yuhua , Pang Xiaomin , Li Mingzhe , Hong Lei , Zhang Qi , Chen Yiling , Jia Xiaoli , Ye Jianghua , Wang Haibin
Published: May 2024

Aviation mutagenesis is a breeding method for the rapid selection of superior plant varieties. In this study, rhizosphere soil chemical indexes, soil enzyme activities, and soil metabolites were measured in Dahongpao tea trees with aviation mutagenesis (TM) and without aviation mutagenesis (CK). The main soil metabolites distinguishing TM and CK and their relationships with soil chemical indexes and soil enzyme activities were analyzed and obtained. The results showed that there was no significant change in the rhizosphere soils’ pH of TM tea trees compared to CK (p = 0.91), while all other chemical indexes of TM were significantly higher than CK (p < 0.05). In addition, the activities of enzymes related to soil nutrient cycling such as urease, protease, sucrase, acid phosphatase and cellulase, and enzymes related to soil antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the rhizosphere soils of TM tea trees compared to CK. Soil metabolite analysis showed that the main soil metabolites distinguishing CK from TM were carbohydrates, nitrogen compounds, and amines. Of these, carbohydrates and nitrogen compounds were significantly positively correlated with soil chemical indexes and soil enzymes, whereas amine was significantly negatively correlated with soil chemical indexes such as organic matter, total nitrogen, total potassium, available nitrogen, available phosphorus; amine showed significant negative correlation with soil enzymes such as catalase, peroxidase, polyphenol oxidase, and urease. It can be seen that aviation mutagenesis is conducive to improving the ability of tea tree rhizosphere aggregation and transformation of soil nutrients, increasing the total amount of soil nutrients and the content of available nutrients, which is more conducive to promoting the uptake of nutrients by the tea tree, and thus promoting the growth of the tea tree.
A Diverging Species within the Stewartia gemmata (Theaceae) Complex Revealed by RAD-Seq Data
Authors: Lin Hanyang , Li Wenhao , Zhao Yunpeng
Published: May 2024

Informed species delimitation is crucial in diverse biological fields; however, it can be problematic for species complexes. Showing a peripatric distribution pattern, Stewartia gemmata and S. acutisepala (the S. gemmata complex) provide us with an opportunity to study species boundaries among taxa undergoing nascent speciation. Here, we generated genomic data from representative individuals across the natural distribution ranges of the S. gemmata complex using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq). Based on the DNA sequence of assembled loci containing 41,436 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and invariant sites, the phylogenetic analysis suggested strong monophyly of both the S. gemmata complex and S. acutisepala, and the latter was nested within the former. Among S. gemmata individuals, the one sampled from Mt. Tianmu (Zhejiang) showed the closest evolutionary affinity with S. acutisepala (which is endemic to southern Zhejiang). Estimated from 2996 high-quality SNPs, the genetic divergence between S. gemmata and S. acutisepala was relatively low (an Fst of 0.073 on a per-site basis). Nevertheless, we observed a proportion of genomic regions showing relatively high genetic differentiation on a windowed basis. Up to 1037 genomic bins showed an Fst value greater than 0.25, accounting for 8.31% of the total. After SNPs subject to linkage disequilibrium were pruned, the principal component analysis (PCA) showed that S. acutisepala diverged from S. gemmata along the first and the second PCs to some extent. By applying phylogenomic analysis, the present study determines that S. acutisepala is a variety of S. gemmata and is diverging from S. gemmata, providing empirical insights into the nascent speciation within a species complex.
The Taxonomic Circumscription and Nomenclatural History of Pilosella suecica (Asteraceae): A Special Case of Grey Literature in Taxonomic Botany
Authors: Sennikov Alexander N.
Published: May 2024

The taxonomic history, nomenclature and application of the oldest species names available for the common hybrids between Pilosella caespitosa and P. lactucella are reviewed. Elias Fries created a nomenclatural and bibliographical collision when he replaced a printed label of his exsiccata Herbarium normale with its second version, distributed at a later date, in which the protologue of Hieracium suecicum had appeared. In this protologue, the new species name was validly published with a mere reference to the original description of H. auricula var. majus, thus being based on the type of the latter. In a later fascicle of the same exsiccata, Fries excluded this synonym and distributed a different morphotype of H. suecicum, which caused taxonomic confusion and re-description of the same taxon under the name H. fennicum. The surviving original material of H. auricula var. majus is rejected, and its neotype is designated, making H. suecicum the correct name for the hybrids strictly intermediate between P. lactucella and P. caespitosa. Such hybrids constitute the most common hybridogenous taxon of Pilosella in Scandinavia, Finland and neighbouring Russia, with many synonyms described from this area and partly typified here. Another hybridogenous taxon of the same origin, more similar to P. lactucella and previously known as P. cochlearis, is correctly named P. stipitiflora comb. nov. The nomenclatural value and bibliographic complexity of exsiccata, a commonly underestimated kind of grey literature in taxonomic botany, are further highlighted.
Impact of PCBM as a Third Component on Optical and Electrical Properties in Ternary Organic Blends
Authors: Hrostea Laura , Oajdea Anda , Leontie Liviu
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the influence of constituent weight ratios on optical and electrical properties, with a particular focus on the intrinsic properties (such as electrical mobility) of ternary organic blends, highlighting the role of a third component. The study explores novel donor:acceptor1:acceptor2 (D:A1:A2) matrix blends with photovoltaic potential, systematically adjusting the ratio of the two acceptors in the mixtures, while keeping constant the donor:acceptor weight ratio (D:A = 1:1.4). Herein, depending on this adjustment, six different samples of 100–400 nm thickness are methodically characterized. Optical analysis demonstrates the spectral complementarity of the component materials and exposes the optimal weight ratio (D:A1:A2 = 1:1:0.4) for the highest optical absorption coefficient. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis reveals improved and superior morphological attributes with the addition of the third component (fullerene). In terms of the electrical mobility of charge carriers, this study finds that the sample in which A1 = A2 has the greatest recorded value [μmax=1.41×10−4cm2/(Vs)]. This thorough study on ternary organic blends reveals the crucial relationship between acceptor ratios and the properties of the final blend, highlighting the critical function of the third component in influencing the intrinsic factors such as electrical mobility, offering valuable insights for the optimization of ternary organic solar cells.
Utilization of Silica Filler as Reinforcement Material of Polylactic Acid (PLA) in 3D Printing Applications: Thermal, Rheological, and Mechanical Performance
Authors: Stratiotou Efstratiadis Vasileios , Argyros Apostolos , Efthymiopoulos Pavlos , Maliaris Georgios , Nasikas Nektarios K. , Michailidis Nikolaos
Published: May 2024

Glass was introduced as an additive to filaments used for the manufacturing of composite materials, employed by Additive Manufacturing applications. Glass accounts for a large waste electric and electronic equipment (WEEE) percentage, and its recovery and recycling can lead to the production of sustainable composite materials. In this work, poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/commercially available silicon oxide composite filaments were manufactured and their structural, thermal, rheological, and mechanical properties were assessed. Scanning Electron Microscopy confirmed the 1:2 ratio of silicon: oxygen, along with the relatively low adhesion between the filler and the matrix. Differential Scanning Calorimetry presented steady glass transition and melting temperatures of composites, whereas a crystallization temperature of 10% wt. and a crystallinity of 15% wt. composite slightly increased. Rheological analysis showcased that the viscosity of the composite filaments decreased compared to PLA (10–100 compared to 300–400 Pa·s), with a more shear-thinning behavior. Dynamic mechanical analysis exhibited increased elastic, flexural moduli, and flexural strength of composites (up to 16, 23, and 11%, respectively), whereas tensile strength and elongation decreased. The affordability of raw materials (with the future introduction of recycled ones) and the minimal processing steps can lead to the potential scaling up of the study.
Study and Application of Rock Drilling Resistance Characteristics in the Jiyang Depression Formation
Authors: Ma Xiaoyong , Cheng Wei , Zhu Liang
Published: May 2024

In response to the unclear drilling resistance characteristics of rocks in the Ji’yang Depression, low drilling efficiency of PDC drill bits, and difficulties in drill bit selection, this study selected rock samples from different depths in the area for indoor drilling resistance analysis testing. Based on logging data, a prediction model was established for drilling resistance characteristics parameters of the strata in the area, and a graph of drilling resistance characteristic parameters of the rocks in the area was drawn. The study showed that the uniaxial compressive strength of the strata rocks was 50–110 MPa, with a hardness of 500–1300 MPa, a plasticity coefficient ranging from 1 to 2, a rock drillability grade of 8–20, and an abrasiveness index of 5–20. Combining the analysis of on-site drilling bit failures, PDC drill bits adapted to the strata in the area were selected, and the mechanical drilling speed of the selected bits reached 12.58 m/h, successfully drilling through the target layer. The above research results are of guiding significance for understanding the reasons for the difficulty of drilling into the Jiyang Depression strata and for improving mechanical drilling speed and drill bit selection in this area.
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Flavonoids from Fagopyrum tataricum Bran
Authors: Xu Zhou , Da Xiaomei , Qu Jipeng , Xiao Shiming
Published: May 2024

In this study, eleven kinds of flavonoids were identified from F. tataricum bran (FTB) by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, and HPLC-DAD analysis revealed that four compounds, including rutin, quercetin, kaempferol, and nicotiflorin, were the most significant components. Subsequently, natural deep eutectic solvent-based ultrasound-assisted extraction (NADES-UAE) was employed to extract flavonoids from FTB. Among the six kinds of NADES prepared, choline chloride–ethylene glycol (ChCl-EG) was identified as a promising candidate for extracting flavonoids due to its superior extraction performance. The extraction conditions were statistically investigated using response surface methodology conducted by Box-Behnken design (BBD). The optimal operational conditions were as follows: ultrasonic time 268 s, ultrasonic temperature 76 °C, and liquid–solid ratio 43 mL/g, which resulted in a high total flavonoid yield of 40.29 mg/g. Afterwards, the efficient extraction mechanism of NADES-UAE was comprehensively explored through FT-IR spectra, COSMO model, and microstructural analysis. In conclusion, NADES-UAE extraction is considered a green, efficient, and sustainable method for FTB flavonoids.
The Impact of Biases on Health Disinformation Research
Authors: Peñafiel-Saiz Carmen , Echegaray-Eizaguirre Lázaro , Perez-de-Arriluzea-Madariaga Amaia
Published: May 2024

This work analyses the treatment of elements such as biases and their relationship with disinformation in international academic production. The first step in this process was to carry out a search for papers published in academic journals indexed in the main indexing platforms. This was followed by a bibliometric analysis involving an analysis of the production and impact of the selected publications, using social media techniques and a semantic content analysis based on abstracts. The data obtained from Web of Science, Scopus, and Dimensions, relating to health, biases, and fake news as well as post-truth, show how these works have multiplied in the last decade. The question relating to this research is as follows: How have cognitive biases been treated in national and international academic journals? This question is answered with respect to the scientific or research method. The results, which date from 2000 to 2024, show a considerable academic dedication to exploring the relationship between biases and health disinformation. In all these communities we have observed a relationship between production with the field of medicine as a general theme and social media. Furthermore, this connection is always tied to other subjects, such as an aversion to vaccines in Community 10; disinformation about COVID-19 on social media in Community 5; COVID-19 and conspiracy theories in Community 6; and content for the dissemination of health-related subjects on YouTube and the disinformation spread about them. The community analysis carried out shows a common factor in all the analysed communities—that of cognitive bias.