bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Regulatory T Cells in the Onset and Progression of Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Blinova Varvara G. , Vasilyev Vladimir I. , Rodionova Ekaterina B. , Zhdanov Dmitry D.
Published: May 2023

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a key role in maintaining immune balance and regulating the loss of self-tolerance mechanisms in various autoimmune diseases, including primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). With the development of pSS primarily in the exocrine glands, lymphocytic infiltration occurs in the early stages, mainly due to activated CD4+ T cells. Subsequently, in the absence of rational therapy, patients develop ectopic lymphoid structures and lymphomas. While the suppression of autoactivated CD4+ T cells is involved in the pathological process, the main role belongs to Tregs, making them a target for research and possible regenerative therapy. However, the available information about their role in the onset and progression of this disease seems unsystematized and, in certain aspects, controversial. In our review, we aimed to organize the data on the role of Tregs in the pathogenesis of pSS, as well as to discuss possible strategies of cell therapy for this disease. This review provides information on the differentiation, activation, and suppressive functions of Tregs and the role of the FoxP3 protein in these processes. It also highlights data on various subpopulations of Tregs in pSS, their proportion in the peripheral blood and minor salivary glands of patients as well as their role in the development of ectopic lymphoid structures. Our data emphasize the need for further research on Tregs and highlight their potential use as a cell-based therapy.
Ketamine Reduces the Surface Density of the Astroglial Kir4.1 Channel and Inhibits Voltage-Activated Currents in a Manner Similar to the Action of Ba2+ on K+ Currents
Authors: Božić Mićo , Pirnat Samo , Fink Katja , Potokar Maja , Kreft Marko , Zorec Robert , Stenovec Matjaž
Published: May 2023

A single sub-anesthetic dose of ketamine evokes rapid and long-lasting beneficial effects in patients with a major depressive disorder. However, the mechanisms underlying this effect are unknown. It has been proposed that astrocyte dysregulation of extracellular K+ concentration ([K+]o) alters neuronal excitability, thus contributing to depression. We examined how ketamine affects inwardly rectifying K+ channel Kir4.1, the principal regulator of K+ buffering and neuronal excitability in the brain. Cultured rat cortical astrocytes were transfected with plasmid-encoding fluorescently tagged Kir4.1 (Kir4.1-EGFP) to monitor the mobility of Kir4.1-EGFP vesicles at rest and after ketamine treatment (2.5 or 25 µM). Short-term (30 min) ketamine treatment reduced the mobility of Kir4.1-EGFP vesicles compared with the vehicle-treated controls (p < 0.05). Astrocyte treatment (24 h) with dbcAMP (dibutyryl cyclic adenosine 5′-monophosphate, 1 mM) or [K+]o (15 mM), which increases intracellular cAMP, mimicked the ketamine-evoked reduction of mobility. Live cell immunolabelling and patch-clamp measurements in cultured mouse astrocytes revealed that short-term ketamine treatment reduced the surface density of Kir4.1 and inhibited voltage-activated currents similar to Ba2+ (300 µM), a Kir4.1 blocker. Thus, ketamine attenuates Kir4.1 vesicle mobility, likely via a cAMP-dependent mechanism, reduces Kir4.1 surface density, and inhibits voltage-activated currents similar to Ba2+, known to block Kir4.1 channels.
A Highly Sensitive and Selective Near-Infrared Fluorescent Probe for Detecting Peroxynitrite in Living Cells and Drosophila Brains
Authors: Wang Wei , Deng Jian-Bin , Jin Long , Guan Bai-Ou
Published: May 2023

Peroxynitrite (ONOO−) is a highly reactive nitrogen species (RNS) that is closely associated with many physiological and pathological processes. In this study, we construct a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe, NAF-BN, that utilizes benzyl boronic acid ester for fluorescence quenching of naphthofluorescein cores. NAF-BN has been thoroughly evaluated for reliable imaging of exogenous ONOO− in living cells. Further, NAF-BN can be applied effectively to visualize ONOO− in Drosophila brains, confirming the hypothesis that neonicotinoid pesticides increase neurological damage and oxidative stress. The probe NAF-BN offers exciting potential to reveal the role of ONOO− in various biological and medical fields.
Application of an Electronic Nose Technology for the Prediction of Chemical Process Contaminants in Roasted Almonds
Authors: Mesías Marta , Barea-Ramos Juan Diego , Lozano Jesús , Morales Francisco J. , Martín-Vertedor Daniel
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of an experimental electronic nose (E-nose) as a predictive tool for detecting the formation of chemical process contaminants in roasted almonds. Whole and ground almonds were subjected to different thermal treatments, and the levels of acrylamide, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and furfural were analysed. Subsequently, the aromas were detected by using the electronic device. Roasted almonds were classified as positive or negative sensory attributes by a tasting panel. Positive aromas were related to the intensity of the almond odour and the roasted aroma, whereas negative ones were linked to a burnt smell resulting from high-intensity thermal treatments. The electronic signals obtained by the E-nose were correlated with the content of acrylamide, HMF, and furfural (RCV2 > 0.83; RP2 > 0.76 in whole roasted almonds; RCV2  > 0.88; RP 2 > 0.95 in ground roasted almonds). This suggest that the E-nose can predict the presence of these contaminants in roasted almonds. In conclusion, the E-nose may be a useful device to evaluate the quality of roasted foods based on their sensory characteristics but also their safety in terms of the content of harmful compounds, making it a useful predictive chemometric tool for assessing the formation of contaminants during almond processing.
Anticorrosion and Antibacterial Properties of Al NP–Epoxy Nanocomposite Coating on Grey Cast Iron
Authors: Samardžija Marina , Kurtela Marin , Vuković Domanovac Marija , Alar Vesna
Published: May 2023

In this study, different concentrations of aluminium nanoparticles (Al NP) were incorporated into epoxy resin and epoxy paint. Here, we present a detailed systematic study of different methods of incorporating inorganic nanoparticles into epoxy coating. This work aims to obtain an epoxy coating with anticorrosion and antibacterial properties. The physical properties of coatings such as thickness, hardness, colour, and adhesion did not change with the addition of nanoparticles. According to the SEM and EDS analyses, the distribution effect of Al NPs in epoxy coating was better with ultrasonic homogenisation than with mechanical stirring. The EIS and SECM measurements were used to investigate corrosion resistance. The coating with 1.0 wt.% Al NP showed the best physical and chemical properties. SECM examination indicated that nanoparticles in epoxy resin increase the protection efficiency by 25.75% and in the epoxy paint by 40.89%. The results also showed the antibacterial activity of aluminium nanoparticles by inhibiting the growth of biofilm-forming bacteria such as P. aeruginosa and B. subtilis.
Capacitive Ferrosoferric Oxide as an Anode to Enhance the Electrical Energy Output and Storage of Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Wang Yuyang , Wang Jing , Dong Jing , Tian Ye
Published: May 2023

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are electrochemical electricity generation devices that use microorganisms to degrade organic matter to produce electrical energy. The anode of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is the carrier to which electrogenic microorganisms attach. However, traditional anodes do not have a storage function, which limits the application scope of microbial fuel cells. Effectively storing and utilizing the energy generated by MFCs is an important focus of ongoing research and is also key to realizing their effective application. A carbon felt film (CF) was used as the substrate, and a carbon felt film/ferrosoferric oxide (CF/Fe3O4) electrode was prepared by a hydrothermal method. In the power density test, the MFC system constructed with the CF/Fe3O4 electrode as a capacitive biological anode had a maximum power density of 5.09 W/m3, which was 4.43 times higher than that of the blank carbon felt film anode. In the charge–discharge test, the stored charge (Qs) released by the CF/Fe3O4 electrode was 157.12 C/m2 higher than that of the CF electrode after 45 min of charging–discharging. The modified ferrosoferric oxide anode was used in a microbial fuel cell to provide a scientific basis to construct microbial electrochemical systems with high power and energy storage functions.
Antifouling Performance and Sustained Release Behavior of Ethanol Extract from the Root of Stellera chamaejasme
Authors: Zhao Wenwen , Li Feixiang , Chang Jianxiu , Shang Yu , Cao Zhongyue , Yang Wufang , Zhou Feng
Published: May 2023

Antifouling substances play a crucial role in inhibiting fouling and adhesion due to their broad-spectrum and non-toxic advantages. Nevertheless, the excessive release of the antifouling agents shortens the service life of the antifouling coating. In this study, we investigated the antifouling performance of an ethanol extract from the root of Stellera chamaejasme (Sc) through algal adhesion experiments. The interaction between Sc and algae (Chlorella and Dunaliella tertiolecta) was further studied by using a UV spectrophotometer. Then, Sc was encapsulated with polydopamine (PDA) microcapsules to prepare Sc@SiO2@PDA microcapsules by the template method. The release behavior of Sc@SiO2@PDA under different pH conditions was investigated. The result demonstrates that the interaction between Sc and algae belongs to single static quenching, and the Sc@SiO2@PDA microcapsules exhibit good antifouling performance against Chlorella and Dunaliella tertiolecta. This work will provide guiding significance for the development of eco-friendly marine antifouling coatings.
The Role of Neurorehabilitation in Post-COVID-19 Syndrome
Authors: Diem Lara , Höfle Oliver , Fregolente Livia , Hoepner Robert
Published: May 2023

Post-COVID-19 syndrome is an ongoing challenge for healthcare systems as well as for society. The clinical picture of post-COVID-19 syndrome is heterogeneous, including fatigue, sleep disturbances, pain, hair loss, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as chronic diarrhea. Neurological complaints such as fatigue, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances are common. Due to the short timeframe of experience and small amount of evidence in this field, the treatment of post-COVID-19 syndrome remains a challenge. Currently, therapeutic options for post-COVID-19 syndrome are limited to non-pharmaceutical interventions and the symptomatic therapy of respective symptoms. In this article, we summarize the current knowledge about therapeutic options for the treatment of neurological symptoms of post-COVID-19 syndrome.
Impact of Cross-Validation on Machine Learning Models for Early Detection of Intrauterine Fetal Demise
Authors: Kaliappan Jayakumar , Bagepalli Apoorva Reddy , Almal Shubh , Mishra Rishabh , Hu Yuh-Chung , Srinivasan Kathiravan
Published: May 2023

Intrauterine fetal demise in women during pregnancy is a major contributing factor in prenatal mortality and is a major global issue in developing and underdeveloped countries. When an unborn fetus passes away in the womb during the 20th week of pregnancy or later, early detection of the fetus can help reduce the chances of intrauterine fetal demise. Machine learning models such as Decision Trees, Random Forest, SVM Classifier, KNN, Gaussian Naïve Bayes, Adaboost, Gradient Boosting, Voting Classifier, and Neural Networks are trained to determine whether the fetal health is Normal, Suspect, or Pathological. This work uses 22 features related to fetal heart rate obtained from the Cardiotocogram (CTG) clinical procedure for 2126 patients. Our paper focuses on applying various cross-validation techniques, namely, K-Fold, Hold-Out, Leave-One-Out, Leave-P-Out, Monte Carlo, Stratified K-fold, and Repeated K-fold, on the above ML algorithms to enhance them and determine the best performing algorithm. We conducted exploratory data analysis to obtain detailed inferences on the features. Gradient Boosting and Voting Classifier achieved 99% accuracy after applying cross-validation techniques. The dataset used has the dimension of 2126 × 22, and the label is multiclass classified as Normal, Suspect, and Pathological condition. Apart from incorporating cross-validation strategies on several machine learning algorithms, the research paper focuses on Blackbox evaluation, which is an Interpretable Machine Learning Technique used to understand the underlying working mechanism of each model and the means by which it picks features to train and predict values.
Application of Deep Learning Methods in a Moroccan Ophthalmic Center: Analysis and Discussion
Authors: Farahat Zineb , Zrira Nabila , Souissi Nissrine , Benamar Safia , Belmekki Mohammed , Ngote Mohamed Nabil , Megdiche Kawtar
Published: May 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains one of the world’s frequent eye illnesses, leading to vision loss among working-aged individuals. Hemorrhages and exudates are examples of signs of DR. However, artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning (DL), is poised to impact nearly every aspect of human life and gradually transform medical practice. Insight into the condition of the retina is becoming more accessible thanks to major advancements in diagnostic technology. AI approaches can be used to assess lots of morphological datasets derived from digital images in a rapid and noninvasive manner. Computer-aided diagnosis tools for automatic detection of DR early-stage signs will ease the pressure on clinicians. In this work, we apply two methods to the color fundus images taken on-site at the Cheikh Zaïd Foundation’s Ophthalmic Center in Rabat to detect both exudates and hemorrhages. First, we apply the U-Net method to segment exudates and hemorrhages into red and green colors, respectively. Second, the You Look Only Once Version 5 (YOLOv5) method identifies the presence of hemorrhages and exudates in an image and predicts a probability for each bounding box. The segmentation proposed method obtained a specificity of 85%, a sensitivity of 85%, and a Dice score of 85%. The detection software successfully detected 100% of diabetic retinopathy signs, the expert doctor detected 99% of DR signs, and the resident doctor detected 84%.
Evaluating the Impact of a Paediatric Burn Club for Children and Families Using Group Concept Mapping
Authors: Hodgkinson Emma L. , McKenzie Alison , Johnson Louise
Published: May 2023

Access to burn camps and clubs is cited as an essential element for children following a burn injury. In the Northern Regional Burns Service, this takes the form of a club run by a multidisciplinary team, offering residential camps and family day trips. In this service evaluation, Group Concept Mapping was used to evaluate the perception of the club by staff, children and families. Opportunistic sampling was used to seek responses to the following prompts: “The challenges for children and families after a burn injury are…” and “The role of The Grafters Club is…”. The results indicate that participants perceived the club to be effective at addressing body image and confidence issues for the children but highlighted an unmet parental expectation that the club would also facilitate the sharing of experiences, normalisation of emotional reactions, and processing of guilt and other psychological distress for parents. When taken concurrently with pre-existing evidence in the literature base, it is proposed that a club model of psychosocial support for children and families could provide an accessible and informal opportunity for parental support that may be less subject to barriers perceived with traditional formal psychological support.
Development and Evaluation of Digital Learning Tools Promoting Applicable Knowledge in Economics and German Teacher Education
Authors: Reichert-Schlax Jasmin , Zlatkin-Troitschanskaia Olga , Frank Katharina , Brückner Sebastian , Schneider Moritz , Müller Anja
Published: May 2023

Digital teaching interventions allow for tailor-made university teaching. This is especially relevant for teacher education, where applicable professional teaching knowledge needs to be promoted for later professional success. Digital teaching tools have been shown to be a promising supplement for this purpose. Even though the corresponding demands in teacher education have been increasing in recent years, the need to develop digital learning tools usable in instruction is still urgent. The TWIND project develops digital learning tools for teacher education and evaluates them in a quasi-experimental design. The present work investigates the usability and application of these newly developed tools. Sixty-three trainee teachers worked independently over four weeks with one of two digital learning tools, focusing on either ‘Multilingualism in Classrooms’ or ‘Professional Communication in Classrooms.’ This study includes a pre-post-test of pedagogical knowledge facets as well as student and instructor ratings on the digital tools. The digital learning tools led to a positive change in the respective target facets of pedagogical knowledge. The student and instructor feedback reflected positively on the usability and usefulness of the new digital tools. Based on these findings, the limitations of the study as well as implications for further research and teacher education practice have been outlined.
Behavior of Science and Engineering Students to Digital Reading: Educational Disruption and Beyond
Authors: Welsen Sherif , Wanatowski Dariusz , Zhao Duo
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates the impact of digital reading during educational disruption on science and engineering students’ learning experience. Before the pandemic, some studies explored whether university students preferred using printed or digital resources for their academic readings. Amidst the pandemic, online learning became essential. Several studies showed students’ preference for printed text. This paper extends a pilot study that was conducted during the first COVID-19 wave in China. A survey consisting of Likert questions and open questions was designed using MS-Forms. The survey was shared with the science and engineering students in Years 2–4 (Levels 1–3) of their study at SWJTU-Leeds Joint School, Southwest Jiaotong University in Chengdu, China. This covered students from four undergraduate programs: Civil Engineering with Transport, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Computer Science. In total, 223 students participated in this study. The survey was anonymous and was made available to students for a month. The participation rate is nearly 27%. Findings indicate that the behavior of science and engineering students toward digital reading was different than other majors, and it is generally favorable. The necessity for online learning during educational disruption has encouraged some students to develop their digital reading skills.
Welcome, How Can I Help You? Design Considerations for a Virtual Reality Environment to Support the Orientation of Online Initial Teacher Education Students
Authors: Walker Rebecca , Morey Valerie , Dinham Judith , Dobson Madeleine , Sims Craig , Bi Mark , Lamont Wesley
Published: May 2023

Alongside the rapid and broad uptake of online learning in higher education, fully online students report feeling isolated and disconnected from their institutions. Although formal course content may be expertly designed to engage online learners, much of the information provided to support higher education students’ orientation to the institution and to study is presented online in a written static form. Such presentations may not be accessible and engaging and may contribute to feelings of disconnection. Technologies such as virtual reality (VR) are being used in higher education to engage, motivate and connect students in their learning. This paper reports on the early design stages for a VR that aims to support initial teacher education students to connect and engage with key orienting information. The design of the VR was achieved by following a user-centred, iterative engineering design process and design principles of spatiality, interaction and narrative. The VR environment emulates the School of Education’s physical, on-campus reception area to provide an immersive experience where students have a choice in the types and format of key study information they receive. This experience was designed to be utilised in online orientation but also throughout students’ first year of study. Future research directions include collecting student responses to the VR to inform how students can be involved in enhancing the VR so that it supports their learning and sense of connection. Furthermore, future research can aim for the expansion of the VR inclusive of additional information, rooms and buildings and increased capabilities such as gamification and mobile access. This will enable the creation of a valuable teaching resource for online programs.
Multi-Channel Virtual Instrument for Measuring Temperature—A Case Study
Authors: Masnicki Romuald , Swisulski Dariusz
Published: May 2023

The article presents the hardware and software configuration of the developed multi-channel temperature measurement system as well as calibration procedures and measurement results verifying the properties of measurement channels. The system has been developed and dedicated primarily for measuring the temperature distribution in a laboratory model simulating underground power lines. With the adopted configuration of the analog part of each measurement channel, the main functions in the system developed as a virtual instrument are performed in its software. The instrument input circuits contain NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistors used as temperature sensors. The resistance of each of the thermistors connected in the voltage divider circuits is converted into a voltage. The obtained voltages in the measurement channels, after analog-to-digital conversion (ADC), are processed in subsequent operations in the instrument’s software. In addition to the basic function of the device, which is the multi-channel temperature measurement, the operations of identifying the characteristics of the thermistors used and calibrating each of the individual measurement channels are performed. The article contains sample results of the calibration of measurement channels and temperature verification measurements used to evaluate the properties of the developed system. The obtained inaccuracy of the temperature measurement in each of the channels is less than 0.4 °C.
Suitability of a Historical, Novel, and Occasional Host for Mountain Pine Beetle (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Bleiker Katherine P. , Ethier Claire A. , Van Hezewijk Brian H.
Published: May 2023

The mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), recently underwent a notable range-expansion event in western Canada, resulting in access to the novel host jack pine, Pinus banksiana Lamb. We assessed the suitability of jack pine for mountain pine beetle, as well as the historic host lodgepole pine, Pinus contorta Dougl. var. latifolia Engelm., and the non-Pinus host white spruce, Picea glauca (Moench) Voss, to help inform an assessment of the risk of future spread into Canada’s boreal forest and to further our understanding of host use in bark beetles. Several performance traits we measured were similar between lodgepole pine and jack pine, but gallery length and productivity indicated that lodgepole pine was the more suitable host. Development appeared to be faster in jack pine; however, in contrast to previous studies, we attribute it to oviposition arresting earlier in the novel host compared to the other hosts and not a difference in development rate. Initial productivity was surprisingly high in spruce, but we found evidence of a delayed negative effect that manifested as reduced cold tolerance, delayed development, and high mortality of late-instar larvae. Although jack pine is a suitable host for the mountain pine beetle, our results indicate that the beetle’s eruptive potential could be lower in jack pine compared to lodgepole pine, given all other factors are equal. Other factors that may also affect mountain pine beetle population dynamics require additional research and include the composition and structure of jack pine forests, environmental conditions, and biotic interactions.
Pretreated Eucalyptus globulus and Pinus radiata Barks: Potential Substrates to Improve Seed Germination for a Sustainable Horticulture
Authors: Escobar-Avello Danilo , Ferrer Víctor , Bravo-Arrepol Gastón , Reyes-Contreras Pablo , Elissetche Juan P. , Santos Jorge , Fuentealba Cecilia , Cabrera-Barjas Gustavo
Published: May 2023

Commercial forest plantations in Chile are dominated by pine (Pinus radiata) and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus). Tree bark is the main by-product of the forestry industry and has low value, but great potential for use as an agricultural substrate. However, the direct use of bark fibers may cause plant phytotoxicity due to the presence of polyphenolic and other compounds. This study aims to evaluate the physicochemical properties of E. globulus and P. radiata bark after water extraction treatments. The phytotoxicity of the resulting extracted bark alone and that mixed with commercial substrates (coconut fiber, moss, peat, and composted pine) at different ratios (25 to 75 wt%) were assessed using the Munoo-Liisa vitality index (MLVI) test. For all treatments, the seed germination and growth of radish (Raphanus sativus) and Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa) species were evaluated and compared to a commercial growing medium (peat) as a control. The optimal mixture for seed growth was determined to be 75% extracted E. globulus bark fiber and 25% commercial substrates such as peat (P), coconut fiber (C), moss (M), and composted pine (CP), as indicated by the MLVI and germination results. Two phytostimulant products, chitosan and alginate-encapsulated fulvic acid, were added to the best substrate mixture, with the purpose of improving their performance. Encapsulated fulvic acid at 0.1% w/v was effective in promoting plant growth, while chitosan at all of the concentrations studied was effective only for mixture 75E-25CP. The mixture of E. globulus fiber and commercial substrates, containing a high proportion of water-extracted fiber (75%), shows the potential to be used in the growth of horticultural crops and in the plant nursery industry.
De Novo Sequencing and Transcriptome Analysis Reveal Genes’ Specific Expression in Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) Callus
Authors: Li Yapeng , Hu Ruiyang , Sun Yuhan , Xu Jinliang , Qiu Yongbin , El-Kassaby Yousry A. , Huang Huahong , Zheng Huiquan , Li Yun
Published: May 2023

While the progress made in vitro culture of Chinese fir has produced satisfactory results, further improvements are warranted. To understand the mechanism of somatic embryogenesis (SE) in Chinese fir, we conducted phenotypic observations, physiological and biochemical measurements, and transcriptome analysis of embryonic (EC) and non-embryogenic callus (NEC) to provide a scientific basis for SE in this species. We found that EC and NEC showed significant morphological and physiological-biochemical indicators differences. Compared with NEC, EC had higher levels of soluble protein and proline and lower levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Callus transcriptome sequencing assembled 152,229 unigenes, and 438 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened, including transcription factor-related (TFs), DNA methylation-related, cell wall component protein, signal transduction-related, and stress response-related. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of DEGs identified starch and sucrose, glutathione, and cysteine and methionine metabolism as the most representative pathways significantly enriched in EC and NEC genes and were associated with cell proliferation and embryogenesis. For the first time, the specific patterns of gene expression in Chinese fir callus were found through transcriptome comparison between callus, 16-year-old Chinese fir cambium, and drought-stressed tissue culture seedlings. In Chinese fir callus, 75.1% of genes were co-expressed in 16-year-old Chinese fir cambium and drought-stressed tissue culture seedlings, and 24.9% were only specifically expressed in callus. DEGs from EC and NEC indicated that 68.2 and 31.8% were co-expressed and specifically expressed, respectively. These results provided a basis for Chinese fir rapid propagation, which is expected to have theoretical and practical significance.
Microbial Community and Fermentation Quality of Alfalfa Silage Stored in Farm Bunker Silos in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Wu Baiyila , Sui Humujile , Qin Weize , Hu Zongfu , Wei Manlin , Yong Mei , Wang Chao , Niu Huaxin
Published: May 2023

Alfalfa is conserved in silo-type bunkers in the cold and humid regions of Inner Mongolia, China. Its quality is essential to ensure a healthy and sustainable dairy production. However, the impact of environmental factors on the microbiota and fermentation products of alfalfa silage remains unclear. The present research examined changes in the microbiota and fermentation products and their association with environmental parameters in 72 samples collected from 12 farms located at 4 different latitudes and longitudes across four regions. The samples were labeled with distinct codes, A, B, and C, from the cold–rainy region, D, E, and F, from the warm–rainy region, G, H, and I from the cold–dry region, and J, K, and L from the warm–dry region. The lactic acid levels ranged from 14.25 to 24.27 g/kg of DM across all samples. The pH and concentrations of NH3-N and butyric acid in samples A, B, and H were higher (p < 0.01) than in the other samples. Samples D and E had higher acetic acid concentrations and 1, 2-propanediol content (p < 0.01). The fresh material was dominated by Pantoea and Pseudomonas, whereas Lactobacillus was the most dominant genus in all silages, except for the B silage. The A, B, and H silages contained more Clostridium but less Lactobacillus than the other silages. The lactic acid levels were strongly associated with Lactobacillus plantarum, Weissella paramesenteroides, Lactobacillus acetotolerans, Pedobacter borvungensis, and Lactobacillus brevis (p < 0.01). In contrast, the pH and the NH3-N and butyric acid concentrations were strongly associated (p < 0.01) with the presence of Clostridium estertheticum. A correlation analysis revealed that precipitation, temperature, longitude, and latitude were the most critical factors influencing epiphytic microbes in the fresh material. After silage fermentation, low-temperature conditions significantly affected the fermentation products and microbial community composition. In conclusion, the microbial community of silages is distinctive in cold and humid regions, and climatic parameters ultimately affect the microbiota and fermentation products. Furthermore, the findings of this study demonstrate that Illumina MiSeq sequencing combined with environmental factor assessment might provide new information about the microbiota composition and fermentation quality of silages, facilitating the achievement of high-quality silage.
Obtaining and Study of Peptide Compositions Based on Hydrolysates of Collagen-Containing Fish Raw Materials
Authors: Kuprina E. E. , Kiprushkina E. I. , Abramzon V. V. , Rogozina E. A. , Romanenko N. Y. , Mezenova O. Y. , Grimm T. , Mörsel T.
Published: May 2023

Experimental studies of fish cutting waste—scales and skin were carried out, their general biochemical composition was studied, a high content of collagen was established, and elastin was noted, which accounted for 76–86% of the protein mass. Processes for the hydrolysis of secondary fish raw materials have been developed: fish scales and skin. Technological schemes have been developed and the influence of the conditions of thermal, enzymatic, enzymatic-thermal, electrochemical hydrolysis on the amino acid composition and molecular weight distribution (MWD) and antioxidant activity of peptides and proteins in the obtained hydrolysates has been studied. It has been established that the enzymatic and enzymatic-thermal method of hydrolysis of fish scales using the enzyme Alcalase 2.5 L and the electrochemical hydrolysis of the skin of cod, trout and herring made it possible to obtain protein hydrolysates with a protein content of 80–90%. At the same time, 91–98% of enzymatic hydrolysates from scales and 62%, 74% and 82.5% of electrochemically obtained hydrolysates from the skin of trout, herring, cod, respectively, account for the share of low-molecular peptides with a molecular weight of less than 10 kDa. The prospects of their use in functional foods and oil-containing products are noted.
An Evaluation of Wildfire Vulnerability in the Wildland–Urban Interfaces of Central Portugal Using the Analytic Network Process
Authors: Nunes Adélia N. , Figueiredo Albano , Pinto Carlos D. , Lourenço Luciano
Published: May 2023

Vulnerability assessment is a vital component of wildfire management. This research focuses on the evaluation of wildfire vulnerability in the Central Region of Portugal, an area historically affected by catastrophic fire events. The overall methodology entailed applying an analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to the relevant spatial variables for evaluating vulnerability associated with exposure, sensitivity, and response capacity at landscape and the wildland–urban interface (WUI) scale. Of the selected criteria, the existence of fuel in direct contact with built-up areas, population density, and firefighters’ travel time were considered the most important criteria for inclusion in the vulnerability map. At landscape scale, 31% of the Central Region presents high and very high classes of vulnerability, while 22% of WUIs are classified as highly vulnerable to fire. Although the inland areas emerge as the most vulnerable, this approach enables scattered vulnerable hotspots to be identified in almost all of the Central Region. The results could be very helpful in terms of developing and enhancing local policies to mitigate human and material damage.
The Role of Climate in Ignition Frequency
Authors: Wilson Nicholas , Yebra Marta
Published: May 2023

Many fire management agencies aim to detect and suppress all ignitions within their jurisdiction and may benefit from understanding the causes of year-to-year variation. Ignition variation is likely to be associated with climatically driven changes in fuel quantity or moisture in landscapes where ignition sources vary little over similar temporal scales. We assessed how monthly ignitions varied in south-eastern Australia in response to climate anomalies over approximately nine years. Once accounting for seasonal effects, ignitions increased with temperature and vapour pressure deficit anomalies and decreased with precipitation anomalies. These findings indicate that climatic conditions play a role in limiting ignition frequency via effects on fuel moisture. Our models predicted that warmer and drier conditions during our study caused considerable increases in ignition frequency compared to the long-term average reference period (1961–1990). Like many fire-prone landscapes around the world, our study area is projected to become hotter and drier because of climate change. Fire management agencies will need to improve fire detection and suppression capabilities under a future climate.
Quantitative Assessment of the Relationship between Land Use/Land Cover Changes and Wildfires in Southern Europe
Authors: Parente Joana , Tonini Marj , Stamou Zoi , Koutsias Nikos , Pereira Mário
Published: May 2023

Wildfires are key drivers of land use/land cover (LULC) dynamics by burning vegetation and affecting human infrastructure. On the contrary, LULC changes (LULCCs) may affect the fire regime by influencing vegetation type, burnable areas, fuel loads and continuity. This study investigates the relationship between LULCC and wildfires. We developed a methodology based on different indicators, which allowed us to quantitatively assess and better understand the transitions between LULC classes and burnt area (BA) in Europe in the last two decades (2000–2019). The assessment was performed for the entire European continent and, independently, for each of the five European countries most affected by wildfires: Portugal, Spain, France, Italy and Greece. The main results are the following: (i) LULCC analysis revealed a net loss in forests and arable land and a net gain in shrubs; (ii) most of the BA occurred in forests (42% for the whole of Europe), especially in coniferous forests; (iii) transitions from BA generally were to transitional woodland/shrub or, again, to BA. Overall, our results confirm the existence of a strong relationship between wildfires and LULCCs in Europe, which was quantified in the present study. These findings are of paramount importance in fire and environmental system management and ecology.
Dual Numerical Solution for 3D Supersonic Laminar Flow Past a Blunt-Fin Junction: Change in Temperature Ratio as a Method of Flow Control
Authors: Kolesnik Elizaveta , Smirnov Evgueni , Babich Elena
Published: May 2023

The results of a numerical solution of the problem of supersonic flow past a blunt fin mounted on a plate with a developing boundary layer are presented. The initial formulation of the problem is based on the presented in the literature computational and experimental investigation, in which the laminar flow regime was studied for the fin perpendicular to the plate at the free-stream Mach number equal to 6.7. Earlier, the authors showed (2020) that under these conditions there exist two stable solutions to the problem. These solutions correspond to the metastable states of flow with different configurations of the vortex structure and different patterns of local heat transfer. In the present study, the influence of a temperature ratio on the vortex structure in the separation region, local heat transfer, and the possibility of obtaining a dual solution are investigated. The ability to switch between solutions of two types using a short-time change in the plate temperature ratio are shown.
Hydroxytyrosol and Arginine as Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Immunostimulant Dietary Supplements for COVID-19 and Long COVID
Authors: Pérez de la Lastra José Manuel , Curieses Andrés Celia María , Andrés Juan Celia , Plou Francisco J. , Pérez-Lebeña Eduardo
Published: May 2023

Phytochemicals from plant extracts are becoming increasingly popular in the world of food science and technology because they have positive effects on human health. In particular, several bioactive foods and dietary supplements are being investigated as potential treatments for chronic COVID. Hydroxytyrosol (HXT) is a natural antioxidant, found in olive oil, with antioxidant anti-inflammatory properties that has been consumed by humans for centuries without reported adverse effects. Its use was approved by the European Food Safety Authority as a protective agent for the cardiovascular system. Similarly, arginine is a natural amino acid with anti-inflammatory properties that can modulate the activity of immune cells, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. The properties of both substances may be particularly beneficial in the context of COVID-19 and long COVID, which are characterised by inflammation and oxidative stress. While l-arginine promotes the formation of •NO, HXT prevents oxidative stress and inflammation in infected cells. This combination could prevent the formation of harmful peroxynitrite, a potent pro-inflammatory substance implicated in pneumonia and COVID-19-associated organ dysfunction, as well as reduce inflammation, improve immune function, protect against free radical damage and prevent blood vessel injury. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of HXT and arginine in the context of COVID-19.
Exploring Consumers’ Preferences and Attitudes to Honey: Generation Approach in Slovakia
Authors: Šedík Peter , Hudecová Martina , Predanócyová Kristína
Published: May 2023

Honey is popular among consumers for its composition and healing properties. The aim of the paper is to study the differences in honey preferences across various age generations in Slovakia. The study is based on primary data obtained by conducting an online questionnaire survey on a sample of 1850 Slovak consumers of honey in 2022. Multiple correspondence analyses and non-parametric tests were applied to study the differences in preferences across selected age cohorts (Generation Z, Generation Y, Generation X and Silver Generation). The results show that Silver Generation tends to consume honey due to its nutritional values and prefers to consume monofloral honey of a dark colour, while Generation Z does not use honey in cosmetics or consume it due to its nutritional values and are inclined to prefer polyfloral honey. The utilisation of honey in cosmetics was associated mostly with Generation X. Younger consumers (Generation Z and Generation Y) have a very low awareness of creamed honey and honey with additions in comparison to Silver Generation or Generation X. In addition, the results reveal that propolis, royal jelly and bee pollen were the most attractive additions for honey across all age cohorts in Slovakia, while spirulina and chilli were the least attractive additions.
Sudachitin and Nobiletin Stimulate Lipolysis via Activation of the cAMP/PKA/HSL Pathway in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Abe Tomoki , Sato Tomoyuki , Murotomi Kazutoshi
Published: May 2023

Polymethoxyflavones are flavonoids that are abundant in citrus fruit peels and have beneficial effects on human health. Previous studies have demonstrated that the polymethoxyflavones, namely sudachitin and nobiletin, ameliorate obesity and diabetes in humans and rodents. Although nobiletin induces lipolysis in adipocytes, lipolytic pathway activation by sudachitin has not been clarified in adipocytes. In this study, the effect of sudachitin on lipolysis was elucidated in murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Glycerol release into the medium and activation of the cyclic AMP (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA)/hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) pathway was evaluated in 3T3-L1-differentiated adipocytes. Treatment with sudachitin and nobiletin for 24 and 48 h did not induce cytotoxicity at concentrations of up to 50 μM. Sudachitin and nobiletin at concentrations of 30 and 50 μM increased intracellular cAMP and medium glycerol levels in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Western blotting revealed that sudachitin and nobiletin dose-dependently increased protein levels of phosphorylated PKA substrates and phosphorylated HSL. Sudachitin- and nobiletin-induced glycerol release, phosphorylation of PKA substrates, and HSL phosphorylation were suppressed by pharmacological inhibition of adenylate cyclase and PKA. These findings indicated that sudachitin, similar to nobiletin, exerts anti-obesogenic effects, at least in part through the induction of lipolysis in adipocytes.
Patterns of Eating Behavior among 13-Year-Old Adolescents and Associated Factors: Findings from the Generation XXI Birth Cohort
Authors: Nakamura Ingrid , Oliveira Andreia , Warkentin Sarah , Oliveira Bruno M. P. M. , Poínhos Rui
Published: May 2023

Eating behavior adopted during adolescence may persist into adulthood. The aims of this study were to identify eating behavior patterns among Portuguese adolescents and to explore whether groups differ in terms of early life and family characteristics, severity of depressive symptoms, and body mass index (BMI) z-score. Participants were 3601 13-year-olds enrolled in the birth cohort Generation XXI. Eating behavior was assessed using the self-reported Adult Eating Behavior Questionnaire (AEBQ), validated in this sample. The severity of depressive symptoms was measured through the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), and data on sociodemographic and anthropometrics were collected at birth and 13-years-old. Latent class analysis was conducted, and associations were estimated using multinomial logistic regression models. Five patterns of individuals were identified: “Picky eating”, “Disinterest towards food”, “Food neophilia”, “Emotional eating”, and “Food attractiveness”. The adolescents’ sex, maternal education, BMI z-score, and severity of depressive symptoms were significantly associated with the identified patterns. In particular, adolescents with a higher BMI z-score were more likely in “Food neophilia” while individuals with more severe depressive symptoms were in the “Picky eating”, “Emotional eating”, and “Food attractiveness” patterns. These findings suggest a starting point for the development and planning of targeted public health interventions.
Effectiveness of an Online Dementia Prevention Program on Cognitive Function and Depression in Community-Dwelling Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Korea
Authors: Min Kyoung-Chul , Kim Eun-Hee , Woo Hee-Soon , Song Chiang-Soon
Published: May 2023

(1) Background: Continuous participation in a comprehensive dementia prevention program is important for community-dwelling older adults during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, as limitations on their communities and social participation have increased and participation in daily tasks has decreased. These factors can negatively affect their cognitive function and symptoms of depression. This study aimed to introduce an evidence-based online dementia prevention program in the South Korean context and to identify its effect on cognitive function and symptoms of depression in community-dwelling older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) Methods: One hundred and one community-dwelling older adults without dementia participated in twelve sessions of an online dementia prevention program designed by occupational therapists. Cognitive function and symptoms of depression were assessed before and after the program. Cognitive function was tested using the Cognitive Impairment Screening Test and symptoms of depression were assessed using the Korean version of the Short Geriatric Depression Scale. The participants’ opinions were gathered using open-ended questions. (3) Results: After the program, according to the raw score, orientation was maintained and attention, visuospatial function, executive function, memory, and language function increased. The memory and total cognitive score was improved significantly. Symptoms of depression significantly decreased. The program’s benefits according to the participants were participation in new activities, boredom reduction, online communication, and reminiscence. (4) Conclusions: An online dementia prevention program is effective in maintaining and increasing cognitive function and preventing depression in community-dwelling older adults. An online dementia prevention program is a useful method in providing opportunities to participate in cognitive training and continuous daily activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.