bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-Year Outcomes for Patients with Non-ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome Treated with Magmaris and Absorb Bioresorbable Scaffolds in Large-Vessel Lesions
Authors: Włodarczak Adrian , Rola Piotr , Włodarczak Szymon , Szudrowicz Marek , Giniewicz Katarzyna , Łanocha Magdalena , Jaroszewska-Pozorska Joanna , Barycki Mateusz , Furtan Łukasz , Kędzierska Michalina , Włodarczak Piotr , Doroszko Adrian , Lesiak Maciej
Published: May 2024

Background: The acute coronary syndrome (ACS) continues to be a fundamental indication for revascularization by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation remains a part of contemporary practice but permanent caging of the vascular structure with the metallic stent structure may increase the rate of device-related adverse clinical events. As an alternative to classic metallic DESs, the bioresorbable scaffolds (BRSs) have emerged as a temporary vascular support technology. We evaluated the mid-term outcomes of two generations of bioresorbable scaffolds—Absorb (Abbott-Vascular, Chicago, IL, USA) and Magmaris (Biotronik, Germany)—in patients with non-ST-elevation ACS. Methods: The study cohort consisted of 193 subjects after Magmaris implantation and 160 patients following Absorb implantation in large-vessel lesions. Results: At 2 years, a significantly lower rate of a primary outcome (cardiac death, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis) was observed with Magmaris (5.2% vs. 15%; p = 0.002). In addition, we observed a significantly lower rate of MI in the target vessel (2.6% vs. 9.4%; p = 0.009) and a lower rate of scaffold thrombosis (0% vs. 3.7%; p = 0.008). The TLF rate between the two groups was not significantly different. Conclusion: Magmaris demonstrated a good safety profile and more favorable clinical outcomes when compared to Absorb in patients with non-ST-elevation ACS.
Exploring the Nexus of Dividend Policy, Third-Party Funds, Financial Performance, and Company Value: The Role of IT Innovation as a Moderator
Authors: Amimakmur Satria Amiputra , Saifi Muhammad , Damayanti Cacik Rut , Hutahayan Benny
Published: May 2024

This research investigates the connection between dividend policy, third-party funds, financial performance, and company value, with a focus on IT Innovation as a moderating factor. This research was conducted using a quantitative approach, utilizing Commercial Banks listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange categorized as BUKU 4 Banks during the period of 2016–2022. This study employed Partial Least Squares (PLS) analysis with WarpPLS 6.0 software as the tool for data analysis. This research concludes that dividend policy does not significantly impact financial performance and company value, while third-party funds have a significant positive effect on both financial performance and company value. Although dividend policy does not directly affect company value, its impact may occur through the mediation of financial performance. Additionally, IT Innovation serves as a moderating factor that strengthens the positive relationship between third-party funds and financial performance towards company value. The novelty of this research lies in the development of a more comprehensive model or concept regarding dividend policy, third-party funds, financial performance as a mediating variable, and company value when considering IT Innovation as a moderating variable.
The Role of Climate Change Perceptions in Sustainable Agricultural Development: Evidence from Conservation Tillage Technology Adoption in Northern China
Authors: Yu Leshan , Shi Hengtong , Wu Haixia , Hu Xiangmiao , Ge Yan , Yu Leshui , Cao Wenyu
Published: May 2024

Encouraging the use of conservation tillage technology is a highly effective approach to safeguarding soil health, improving the environment, and promoting sustainable agricultural development. With the mounting concerns surrounding climate change, developing conservation tillage methods that facilitate sustainable agricultural growth has become an imperative both in China and around the world. While it is widely recognized that adapting to climate change is crucial in agriculture, there is limited research on evaluating the risks, discovering resilience, measuring farmers’ perceptions on climate change, and exploring how tillage technology can be adjusted in the context of small-scale farming in China to foster sustainable development. Using research data from smallholder farmers in the Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces of China, this paper aims to explore the impact of climate change perceptions on farmers’ adoption of conservation tillage technologies based on an ordered Probit model. We found that farmers tend to refrain from embracing conservation tillage technology due to the presence of unclear and conflicting perceptions regarding climate change. Focus on short-term profitability and inadequate preparation hinder them from prioritizing adaptation. We recognized several measures that could help farmers adapt and thrive within the agricultural sector. Furthermore, we have validated the need for self-system moderation in promoting farmers’ adoption of conservation tillage technology. By utilizing such tools and resources, farmers can comprehend the gravity of climate change’s impact on agricultural productivity and, more importantly, channel their efforts towards fortifying resilience to extreme weather conditions and long-term climate risks, thus fortifying agricultural sustainability.
The Subtitling of Swearing: A Pilot Reception Study
Authors: Moura Willian
Published: May 2024

Reception studies in audiovisual translation seek to explore how translation choices affect the audience’s comprehension, emotional engagement, enjoyment, and overall viewing experience of audiovisual materials. This study focuses on the subtitling product and analyzes the acceptability of swear words translated through different stimuli: subtitles with softened, maintained, and intensified swearing, along with standard Netflix subtitles (control). Employing a multi-method approach, the study collected data through a survey, using questionnaires with a Likert scale and interviews, following the user-centered translation model to understand how participants receive and perceive swear words in subtitling. The results indicate that the control group had the highest acceptability of the participants, while the group with softened swear words presented the lowest acceptability rate. The analysis shows that participants across all groups reported that discomfort does not arise from reading the swear word in the subtitle but from perceiving a deliberate change in its offensive load—usually softened. The findings demonstrate that this change can lead to a breach of the contract of illusion in subtitling, as participants are exposed to the original dialogue and the translated subtitle simultaneously. In conclusion, when perceived, the change in the offensive load can redirect the viewer’s focus from the video to the subtitles, negatively affecting the enjoyment of the audiovisual experience.
The Specificity of Fantasy and the “Affective Novum”: A Theory of a Core Subset of Fantasy Literature
Authors: Boucher Geoff M.
Published: May 2024

This article proposes a new approach to the nature of a core set within fantasy fiction that regards it as a speculative literature of the exploration of subjectivity, one which at its limit conjectures fresh possibilities for the subjective world. To motivate acceptance of this proposed approach, I begin by surveying the existing state of debate in the critical field. I notice the emergence of widening agreement on the idea that fantasy is a literature of the impossible. I then develop the logical implications of this widening agreement in the critical field, arguing that it entails a representational definition of fantasy literature, which implies a modal approach to the core set that defines this literary order. I suggest that the marvellous mode, the kind of writing which represents the impossible, is a broad class that includes other speculative literatures, and that what differentiates these is the referential world within which the impossible happens. The aim here is to break up monolithic conceptions of the impossible, while pointing to a motivation for developing an understanding of the specificity of a core set of fantasy texts that proceeds by way of contrasts. After explaining why I am extremely skeptical about the definition of science fiction as a “literature of the possible”, I probe descriptions of the difference between fantasy and sci-fi. I propose that whereas some science fiction is a literature of conjectural objectivity, guided by the “cognitive novum”, a significant group of fantasy texts is a literature of speculative subjectivity, guided by an “affective novum”.
4-(Tris(4-methyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)methyl)aniline
Authors: Garrison Bradley B. , Duhamel Joseph E. , Antoine Nehemiah , Symes Steven J. K. , Grice Kyle A. , McMillen Colin D. , Pienkos Jared A.
Published: May 2024

4-(tris(4-methyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)methyl)aniline was prepared in a 63% yield utilizing a C–F activation strategy from a mixture of 4-(trifluoromethyl)aniline, 4-methylpyrazole, and KOH in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The identity of the product was confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and single-crystal analysis. An analysis of crystals grown from the layering method (CH2Cl2/acetone/pentane) indicated two distinct polymorphs of the title compound. Moreover, density functional theory calculations utilizing the MN15L density functional and the def2-TZVP basis set indicated that 4-(tris(4-methyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)methyl)aniline forms with similar energetics to the previously reported unmethylated analog.
Correction: Bisighini et al. Fabrication of Compliant and Transparent Hollow Cerebral Vascular Phantoms for In Vitro Studies Using 3D Printing and Spin–Dip Coating. Materials 2023, 16, 166
Authors: Bisighini Beatrice , Di Giovanni Pierluigi , Scerrati Alba , Trovalusci Federica , Vesco Silvia
Published: May 2024

In the original publication [...]
Constitutive Model and Microstructure Evolution of Ti65 Titanium Alloy
Authors: Sun Tao , Sun Lili , Teng Haihao , Liu Wenhao , Wang Ruiqi , Zhao Xuanjie , Zhou Jie
Published: May 2024

The hot deformation behavior and mechanism of Ti65 alloy with a bimodal microstructure were investigated by isothermal compression experiments conducted on the Thermecmastor-Z simulator equipment at temperatures ranging from 950 to 1110 °C and strain rates ranging from 0.01 to 10.0 s−1. The Arrhenius constitutive model, based on strain compensation, and Grey Wolf optimization-neural network with back propagation model (GWO–BP), were both established. The differences between the experimental and predicted value of flow stress were compared and analyzed using the two models. The results show that the prediction accuracy of GWO–BP in the two-phase region is higher than that of Arrhenius model. In the single-phase region, both methods demonstrated high prediction accuracy. Compared to the single-phase region, the flow stress of Ti65 alloy shows a higher degree of softening in the two-phase region. During deformation in the two-phase region, the initial lamellar α phase transformed from a kinked and elongated morphology to a globularized topography as the strain rate decreased. Boundary-splitting was the primary mechanism leading to the spheroidization process. The degree of recrystallization increased with the increase in strain rate during the deformation in the single-phase region, while dynamic recovery and strain-induced grain boundary migration were the main deformation mechanisms at a lower strain rate. Discontinuous dynamic recrystallization may be the dominant recrystallization mechanism under a high strain rate of 10 s−1.
Robust-MBDL: A Robust Multi-Branch Deep-Learning-Based Model for Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Rotating Machines
Authors: Tran Khoa , Vu Hai-Canh , Pham Lam , Boudaoud Nassim , Nguyen Ho-Si-Hung
Published: May 2024

Predictive maintenance (PdM) is one of the most powerful maintenance techniques based on the estimation of the remaining useful life (RUL) of machines. Accurately estimating the RUL is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of PdM. However, current methods have limitations in fully exploring condition monitoring data, particularly vibration signals, for RUL estimation. To address these challenges, this research presents a novel Robust Multi-Branch Deep Learning (Robust-MBDL) model. Robust-MBDL stands out by leveraging diverse data sources, including raw vibration signals, time–frequency representations, and multiple feature domains. To achieve this, it adopts a specialized three-branch architecture inspired by efficient network designs. The model seamlessly integrates information from these branches using an advanced attention-based Bi-LSTM network. Furthermore, recognizing the importance of data quality, Robust-MBDL incorporates an unsupervised LSTM-Autoencoder for noise reduction in raw vibration data. This comprehensive approach not only overcomes the limitations of existing methods but also leads to superior performance. Experimental evaluations on benchmark datasets such as XJTU-SY and PRONOSTIA showcase Robust-MBDL’s efficacy, particularly in rotating machine health prognostics. These results underscore its potential for real-world applications, heralding a new era in predictive maintenance practices.
Incorporating Multi-Source Market Sentiment and Price Data for Stock Price Prediction
Authors: Fu Kui , Zhang Yanbin
Published: May 2024

The problem of stock price prediction has been a hot research issue. Stock price is influenced by various factors at the same time, and market sentiment is one of the most critical factors. Financial texts such as news and investor comments reflect investor sentiment in the stock market and influence market movements. Previous research models have struggled to accurately mine multiple sources of market sentiment information originating from the Internet and traditional sentiment analysis models are challenging to quantify and combine indicator data from market data and multi-source sentiment data. Therefore, we propose a BERT-LLA stock price prediction model incorporating multi-source market sentiment and technical analysis. In the sentiment analysis module, we propose a semantic similarity and sector heat-based model to screen for related sectors and use fine-tuned BERT models to calculate the text sentiment index, transforming the text data into sentiment index time series data. In the technical indicator calculation module, technical indicator time series are calculated using market data. Finally, in the prediction module, we combine the sentiment index time series and technical indicator time series and employ a two-layer LSTM network prediction model with an integrated attention mechanism to predict stock close price. Our experiment results show that the BERT-LLA model can accurately capture market sentiment and has a strong practicality and forecasting ability in analyzing market sentiment and stock price prediction.
Factors Affecting Adherence to Social Distancing among Adults Aged 19–44 Years: Insights from a Nationwide Survey during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kim Eun Jung , Byun Mikyong
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Before COVID-19 vaccinations became available, adhering to non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), like social distancing (SD), wearing masks, and hand hygiene, were crucial to mitigating viral spread. Many studies reported that younger individuals were more reluctant to follow these measures compared with older ones. We hypothesized that it would be worthwhile to find factors that influenced SD compliance among young people during the pre-vaccination phase of a pandemic. Materials and Methods: We analyzed data of adults aged 19–44 from the 2020 South Korean Community Health Survey and compared socio-demographic, health-related behavioral, and psychological factors between compliant and non-compliant cohorts. Results: A total of 59,943 participants were enrolled and we found that older age groups (30–39 and 40–44) and safety concerns (such as viral infection, virus-related death, economic damage, and transmitting virus to vulnerable people) were significantly associated with adherence to SD. Conversely, participants who were not living with a spouse, were unable to stay at home despite symptoms, smoked, drank, and had a negative attitude toward government policy statistically correlated with non-compliance. Conclusions: In times when NPIs were the primary defense against the pandemic, it is essential to identify factors that positively or negatively affect individual compliance with them, especially among young people. Using a large-scale, well-designed national survey, we could gain insights into the early recognition of risk factors for non-compliance and appropriate follow-up interventions (i.e., education campaigns, clear communication of public guidelines, and implementation of guidelines), which will help people to avoid suffering from other waves of future infectious diseases.
The Relationship between the Ewing Test, Sudoscan Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy Score and Cardiovascular Risk Score Calculated with SCORE2-Diabetes
Authors: Nica Andra-Elena , Rusu Emilia , Dobjanschi Carmen , Rusu Florin , Sivu Claudia , Parlițeanu Oana Andreea , Radulian Gabriela
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is a severe complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) strongly linked to a nearly five-fold higher risk of cardiovascular mortality. Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are a significant cohort in which these assessments have particular relevance to the increased cardiovascular risk inherent in the condition. Materials and Methods: This study aimed to explore the subtle correlation between the Ewing test, Sudoscan-cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy score, and cardiovascular risk calculated using SCORE 2 Diabetes in individuals with T2DM. The methodology involved detailed assessments including Sudoscan tests to evaluate sudomotor function and various cardiovascular reflex tests (CART). The cohort consisted of 211 patients diagnosed with T2DM with overweight or obesity without established ASCVD, aged between 40 to 69 years. Results: The prevalence of CAN in our group was 67.2%. In the study group, according SCORE2-Diabetes, four patients (1.9%) were classified with moderate cardiovascular risk, thirty-five (16.6%) with high risk, and one hundred seventy-two (81.5%) with very high cardiovascular risk. Conclusions: On multiple linear regression, the SCORE2-Diabetes algorithm remained significantly associated with Sudoscan CAN-score and Sudoscan Nephro-score and Ewing test score. Testing for the diagnosis of CAN in very high-risk patients should be performed because approximately 70% of them associate CAN. Increased cardiovascular risk is associated with sudomotor damage and that Sudoscan is an effective and non-invasive measure of identifying such risk.
Healing of Periodontal Suprabony Defects following Treatment with Open Flap Debridement with or without Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Application
Authors: Vela Octavia Carolina , Boariu Marius , Rusu Darian , Iorio-Siciliano Vincenzo , Ramaglia Luca , Boia Simina , Radulescu Viorelia , Ilyes Ioana , Stratul Stefan-Ioan
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: This randomized, double-arm, multicentric clinical trial aims to compare the clinical outcomes following the treatment of suprabony periodontal defects using open flap debridement (OFD) with or without the application of hyaluronic acid (HA). Materials and Methods: Sixty systemically healthy patients with at least two teeth presenting suprabony periodontal defects were randomly assigned with a 1:1 allocation ratio using computer-generated tables into a test (OFD + HA) or control group (OFD). The main outcome variable was clinical attachment level (CAL). The secondary outcome variables were changes in mean probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival recession (GR), full-mouth plaque score (FMPS), and full-mouth bleeding score (FMBS). All clinical measurements were carried out at baseline and 12 months. Results: Sixty patients, thirty in each group, were available for statistical analysis. The mean CAL gain was statistically significantly different (p < 0.001) in the test group compared with the control group (3.06 ± 1.13 mm vs. 1.44 ± 1.07 mm). PPD reduction of test group measurements (3.28 ± 1.14 mm) versus the control group measurements (2.61 ± 1.22 mm) were statistically significant (p = 0.032). GR changes were statistically significant only in the test group 0.74 ± 1.03 mm (p < 0.001). FMBS and FMPS revealed a statistically significant improvement mostly in the test group. Conclusions: Suprabony periodontal defects could benefit from the additional application of HA in conjunction with OFD in terms of improvement of the clinical parameters compared with OFD alone.
Solidification Mechanism of Microstructure of Al-Si-Cu-Ni Alloy Manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion and Mechanical Properties Effect
Authors: Shi Zhichao , Yan Pengfei , Yan Biao
Published: May 2024

Based on previous work, where Al-Si-Cu-Ni alloy was successfully manufactured by laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) technology, in this study, we further observe the microstructure of the alloy, analyze the formation mechanism of the microstructure during solidification, and discuss their implications for the mechanical properties. The results indicate that the microstructure comprises multi-level cellular heterogeneous structures, with an α-Al matrix in the interior of the cellular structure and Cu- and Ni-rich phases clustered at the boundaries, intertwined with the silicon network. During solidification, α-Al solidifies first and occupies the core of the cells, while Si phases and Cu- and Ni-rich phases deposit along the cellular boundaries under the influence of surface tension. During the solidification process of cellular boundaries, influenced by spinodal decomposition and lattice spacing, Si phases and Cu- and Ni-rich phases interconnect and distribute crosswise, collectively forming multi-level cellular structures. The refined cellular microstructure of the PBF-LB/M Al-Si-Cu-Ni alloy enhances the mechanical properties of the alloy. The alloy exhibits a bending strength of 766 ± 30 MPa, a tensile strength and yield strength of 437 ± 6 MPa and 344 ± 4 MPa, respectively, with a relatively low fracture elongation of approximately 1.51 ± 0.07%. Subsequent improvement can be achieved through appropriate heat treatment processes.
Effect of Pre-Weld Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Properties of Coarse-Grained Heat-Affected Zone of a Wind Power Steel after Simulated Welding
Authors: Wang Zhixing , Wang Xuelin , Shang Chengjia
Published: May 2024

The effect of pre-weld heat treatment on the microstructure and low-temperature impact toughness of the coarse-grained heat-affected zone (CGHAZ) after simulated welding was systematically investigated through the utilization of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron back-scattering diffraction (EBSD). The Charpy impact test validated the presence of an optimal pre-weld heat treatment condition, resulting in the highest impact toughness observed in the CGHAZ. Three temperatures for pre-weld heat treatment (690, 720 and 750 °C) were used to obtain three different matrices (Steel 1, Steel 2, Steel 3) for simulated welding. The optimal pre-weld heat treatment is 720 °C for 15 min followed by water quench. Microstructure characterization showed that there is an evident microstructure comprising bainite (B) in Steel 1 and Steel 2 after pre-weld heat treatment, while the addition of martensite (M) with the pre-weld heat treatment temperature exceeds Ac1 by almost 60 °C (Steel 3). These differences in microstructures obtained from pre-weld heat treatment influence the refinement of high-temperature austenite during subsequent simulated welding reheating processes, resulting in distinct microstructural characteristics in the CGHAZ. After the optimal pre-weld heat treatment, Steel 2 subjected to single-pass welding thermal simulation demonstrates a refined microstructure characterized by a high density of high-angle grain boundaries (HAGBs) within the CGHAZ, particularly evident in block boundaries. These boundaries effectively prevent the propagation of brittle cracks, thereby enhancing the impact toughness.
Passive Wireless Partial Discharge Sensors with Multiple Resonances
Authors: Xu Zhenheng , Tian Bing , Guo Shiqi , Huang Qingan , Wang Lifeng , Dong Lei
Published: May 2024

Partial discharge (PD) is the dominant insulating defect in Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS). The existing detection methods are mainly divided into built-in wire-connected disk antennas with destructive drilling and external ultra-high frequency antennas with poor anti-interference ability. This research introduces a passive wireless PD sensor implanted inside GIS on the observation window. The sensor is implemented by a sheeting branch-inductor with multiple resonances which is able to enhance detection sensitivity. A coaxially aligned readout circuit, positioned outside the GIS, interrogates the PD sensor to wirelessly obtain the PD signal. The proposed sensing scheme improves signal-to-noise ratio and ensures minimal disruption to the electric field distribution inside GIS. An experimental setup was established in a controlled laboratory environment to benchmark the multi-resonant sensor against the commercial UHF sensor. A 2.5-times enhancement of signal strength was observed. Since our sensor was implanted inside the GIS, a high signal-to-noise ratio (68.82 dB) was obtained. Moreover, we constructed a wireless calibration test to investigate the accuracy of the proposed sensor. The precision of the signal test was as high as 0.72 pC. The pulse phase distribution information was collected to demonstrate a phase-resolved partial discharge (PRPD) pattern. The experiment results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method and demonstrate excellent performance in PD detection.
Design of Miniaturized 90-Degree Hybrid Coupler with Wide Rejection Band Using Neural Network
Authors: Mohamadpour Golshan , Karimi Salman , Roshani Saeed
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a 3 dB 90-degree hybrid coupler with size reduction and harmonics rejection was designed. In the proposed coupler structure, four simple low-pass filters (LPFs) were applied. An artificial neural network (ANN) was used to determine the dimensions of the applied LPFs based on EM simulation data. The applied ANN model could also provide the desired LPF parameters, including the cut-off frequency (fc), bandwidth (BW), and insertion loss (IL). Designing an applied LPF involves complex mathematical calculations and simulations to optimize parameters. However, by utilizing neural networks, the design process can be significantly streamlined and automated. Neural networks have the ability to learn complex patterns and relationships within data, making them well suited for optimizing the performance of applied components. The proposed 90-degree hybrid coupler works correctly at 1800 MHz and has a small size of 16.6 mm × 15.15 mm, which provides a 73% size reduction compared to a normal 1800 MHz coupler. The designed coupler not only decreases the circuit size but also provides a wide rejection band from 4.8 GHz to 11.2 GHz, which suppresses the second to sixth harmonics. The insertion loss parameter of this 90-degree hybrid coupler is less than 0.1 dB at the working frequency, which shows the superior performance of the proposed coupler.
Molecular Analysis of the Microbial Guild Fixing Nitrogen in Ricefield Soils in Missouri
Authors: Sawli Prithi R. , Buchheim Mark A. , Schneegurt Mark A.
Published: May 2024

Non-symbiotic diazotrophic microbes are important contributors to global N budgets in cereal crops. Knowledge of the biogeography of the organisms in this functional guild increases our understanding of biological N fixation in diverse locations and climates. Here, we describe the diazotrophic community in the previously unstudied, extensive ricefields of southeast Missouri, using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis and sequencing of nifH gene clones. While nine RFLP patterns were observed in random nifH clones, these groups were not all supported by gene sequencing, suggesting that the RFLP of nifH genes alone is not suitable for describing diazotrophic guilds. Dozens of nifH clones from Missouri ricefield soils were sequenced and analyzed phylogenetically. The nifH genes detected were predominantly from Geobacteraceae, most closely related to Geobacter and Geomonas species. There were substantial clusters of nifH clones most closely related to Desulfovibrionales and other Proteobacteria. Many of the clones did not closely cluster with nifH sequences from known isolates or clades. No cyanobacterial or archaeal sequences were detected in the Missouri ricefield soils. The microbial guild fixing N appeared to be rich in anaerobes and lithotrophs. Organisms in Geobacter and Geomonas seem to be cosmopolitan, but endemism was evident, since nifH clones were recovered that formed clusters not previously reported from ricefields in other locations.
Urinary Tract Infections in a Single Hospital in Central Portugal, a 5-Year Analysis
Authors: Branco Miguel , Coelho Patrícia , Rodrigues Francisco
Published: May 2024

Urinary tract infections are defined as the presence of microorganisms in any part of the urinary system, with the exception of the distal urethra. A majority of them are uncomplicated infections that are resolved on an outpatient basis, with empirical therapy. The objectives of this work were to study the sociodemographic characteristics of patients, analyze associated strains and examine the response of the main microorganisms to antibiotics. A retrospective observational study of all positive urine cultures between 2018 and 2022 was carried out at an institution (8340 samples). Sociodemographic data were also collected. In total, 61.3% were women, with an average age of 63.4 years, and 43.2% were from the Emergency Department. A total of 13.5% were fitted, 56% of whom were women. Also, 95.9% were not taking any antibiotics, and among the individuals who were taking antibiotics, 50% were injected. Escherichia coli (53.5%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (13.8%) are identified as the most prevalent strains. In the time periods analyzed, Escherichia coli decreased its resistance to 11 antibiotics and increased to 5 antibiotics, while Klebsiella pneumoniae decreased to 7 and increased to 7, with emphasis on the presence of 3 antibiotics with a resistance rate of 100% to all Klebsiella pneumoniae strains identified in 2022.
Abundance, Characterization and Diversity of Culturable Anoxygenic Phototrophic Bacteria in Manitoban Marshlands
Authors: Messner Katia , Yurkov Vladimir
Published: May 2024

Marshes are an important ecosystem, acting as a biodiversity hotspot, a carbon sink and a bioremediation site, breaking down anthropogenic waste such as antibiotics, metals and fertilizers. Due to their participation in these metabolic activities and their capability to contribute to primary productivity, the microorganisms in such habitats have become of interest to investigate. Since Proteobacteria were previously found to be abundant and the waters are well aerated and organic-rich, this study on the presence of anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria, purple non-sulfur bacteria and aerobic anoxygenic phototrophs in marshes was initiated. One sample was collected at each of the seven Manitoban sites, and anoxygenic phototrophs were cultivated and enumerated. A group of 14 strains, which represented the phylogenetic diversity of the isolates, was physiologically investigated further. Aerobic anoxygenic phototrophs and purple non-sulfur bacteria were present at each location, and they belonged to the α- and β-Proteobacteria subphyla. Some were closely related to known heavy metal reducers (Brevundimonas) and xenobiotic decomposers (Novosphingobium and Sphingomonas). All were able to synthesize the photosynthetic complexes aerobically. This research highlights the diversity of and the potential contributions that anoxygenic phototrophs make to the essential functions taking place in wetlands.
Use of Lactoperoxidase Inhibitory Effects to Extend the Shelf Life of Meat and Meat Products
Authors: Beňo Filip , Velková Adéla , Hruška Filip , Ševčík Rudolf
Published: May 2024

Lactoperoxidase (LP) is an important enzyme of the salivary and mammary glands. It has been proven to increase the shelf life of raw milk by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, especially Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas spp. The aim of this work was to verify the use of LP to extend the shelf life of meat products. In vitro experiments showed inhibitory effects on the selected bacteria (Listeria innocua (ATCC 33090), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (CP054440.1), and Pseudomonas fluorescens (ATCC 13525) due to a prolongation of the lag phase of growth curves. A lower increase in viable counts (p < 0.05) was also found by testing pork cubes’ surface treated with LP solution (5%) + L. innocua and stored for 7 days at 15 °C. LP has also been studied at concentrations of 0.25 and 0.50% in meat products (pork ham and pâté) during refrigerated storage (4 °C for 28 days). Lower viable counts were observed throughout the storage experiment, especially for 0.50% LP (p < 0.05). Meat products containing LP also showed lower levels of oxidation (MAD) (p < 0.05). According to these results, LP could extend the shelf life of a wider range of products.
Divergence within the Taxon ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris’ Confirmed by Comparative Genome Analysis of Carrot Strains
Authors: Toth Rafael , Ilic Anna-Marie , Huettel Bruno , Duduk Bojan , Kube Michael
Published: May 2024

Phytoplasmas are linked to diseases in hundreds of economically important crops, including carrots. In carrots, phytoplasmosis is associated with leaf chlorosis and necrosis, coupled with inhibited root system development, ultimately leading to significant economic losses. During a field study conducted in Baden-Württemberg (Germany), two strains of the provisional taxon ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris’ were identified within a carrot plot. For further analysis, strains M8 and M33 underwent shotgun sequencing, utilising single-molecule-real-time (SMRT) long-read sequencing and sequencing-by-synthesis (SBS) paired-end short-read sequencing techniques. Hybrid assemblies resulted in complete de novo assemblies of two genomes harboring circular chromosomes and two plasmids. Analyses, including average nucleotide identity and sequence comparisons of established marker genes, confirmed the phylogenetic divergence of ‘Ca. P. asteris’ and a different assignment of strains to the 16S rRNA subgroup I-A for M33 and I-B for M8. These groups exhibited unique features, encompassing virulence factors and genes, associated with the mobilome. In contrast, pan-genome analysis revealed a highly conserved gene set related to metabolism across these strains. This analysis of the Aster Yellows (AY) group reaffirms the perception of phytoplasmas as bacteria that have undergone extensive genome reduction during their co-evolution with the host and an increase of genome size by mobilome.
Efficiency of Virucidal Disinfectants on Wood Surfaces in Animal Husbandry
Authors: Oettler Martin J. , Conraths Franz J. , Roesler Uwe , Reiche Sven , Homeier-Bachmann Timo , Denzin Nicolai
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to test the inactivation of viruses on germ carriers of different types of wood using a disinfectant in order to assess the biosafety of wood as a building material in animal husbandry. The laboratory disinfectant efficacy tests were based on German testing guidelines and current European standards. Five different types of wood germ carriers, i.e., spruce (Picea abies), pine (Pinus sylvestris), poplar (Populus sp.), beech (Fagus sylvatica) and Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), were inoculated with enveloped or non-enveloped viruses and then treated with one of three different disinfectants. The results revealed that intact, fine-sawn timber with a low roughness depth can be effectively inactivated. Peracetic acid proved to be the most effective disinfectant across all tests. Regardless of the pathogen and the type of wood, a concentration of 0.1% of the pure substance at a temperature of 10 °C and an exposure time of one hour can be recommended. At a temperature of −10 °C, a concentration of 0.75% is recommended. The basic chemicals formic acid and glutaraldehyde demonstrated only limited effectiveness overall. The synergistic effects of various wood components on the inactivation of viruses offer potential for further investigation. Disinfectant tests should also be conclusively verified in field trials to ensure that the results from standardised laboratory tests can be transferred to real stable conditions.
Geochemistry and Geochronology of the Huangcha Pluton and Tectonic Significance
Authors: Cao Shuping , Li Lun , Yang Chonghui , Yang Yongqiang
Published: May 2024

The Zanhuang Complex is situated on the eastern margin of the Trans-North China Orogen, with the Huangcha Pluton being a constituent of this complex. To ascertain the nature of the approximately 2.5-billion-year-old Huangcha Pluton, crucial evidence for understanding its extensional setting was sought through petrogenesis and dating investigations. LA-ICP-MS dating of zircon from the granite yielded an age of (2488 ± 6) Ma. Primarily composed of porphyritic monzonite with sporadic melanocratic enclaves, the Pluton’s phenocrysts are predominantly feldspar with minor quartz. The granite exhibits high SiO2 content (72.64%–74.16%) and alkali levels, with Na2O + K2O ranging from 7.59% to 9.07%, classifying it as a shoshonitic series with a slightly peraluminous feature. Enrichment in large-ion lithophile (LIL) elements (Rb, Th, and U) and depletion in Sr, V, Cr, Co, and Ni were observed, with high Rb/Sr and Ga/Al ratios ranging from 0.73 to 2.72 and 2.75 × 10−4 to 3.11 × 10−4, respectively. The rock exhibits high εNd(t) values, ranging from −0.06 to 0.88, with TDM2 ages falling between 2.79 and 2.87 billion years. Zircon grains display 176Hf/177Hf ratios ranging from 0.281266 to 0.281412 and εHf(t) values spanning from 0.96 to 6.18, calculated using the 207Pb/206Pb age. It is suggested that the Huangcha Pluton represents A-type granite formed via anatexis of the Neoarchean TTG in an extensional setting following orogenic processes. The formation of the Huangcha Pluton further corroborates the stabilization of the North China Craton towards the end of the Neoarchean. This finding supports the hypothesis that the North China Craton may belong to the Rae-family cratons, sharing similar magmatic and tectono-metamorphic records around ~2.5 billion years ago.
Genesis of Rare Metal Granites in the Nubian Shield: Tectonic Control and Magmatic and Metasomatic Processes
Authors: Khedr Mohamed Zaki , Abo Khashaba Saif M. , Takazawa Eiichi , Hassan Safaa M. , Azer Mokhles K. , El-Shibiny N. H. , Abdelrahman Kamal , Ichiyama Yuji
Published: May 2024

The Igla Ahmr region in the Central Eastern Desert (CED) of Egypt comprises mainly syenogranites and alkali feldspar granites, with a few tonalite xenoliths. The mineral potential maps were presented in order to convert the concentrations of total rare earth elements (REEs) and associated elements such as Zr, Nb, Ga, Y, Sc, Ta, Mo, U, and Th into mappable exploration criteria based on the line density, five alteration indices, random forest (RF) machine learning, and the weighted sum model (WSM). According to petrography and geochemical analysis, random forest (RF) gives the best result and represents new locations for rare metal mineralization compared with the WSM. The studied tonalites resemble I-type granites and were crystallized from mantle-derived magmas that were contaminated by crustal materials via assimilation, while the alkali feldspar granites and syenogranites are peraluminous A-type granites. The tonalites are the old phase and are considered a transitional stage from I-type to A-type, whereas the A-type granites have evolved from the I-type ones. Their calculated zircon saturation temperature TZr ranges from 717 °C to 820 °C at pressure < 4 kbar and depth < 14 km in relatively oxidized conditions. The A-type granites have high SiO2 (71.46–77.22 wt.%), high total alkali (up to 9 wt.%), Zr (up to 482 ppm), FeOt/(FeOt + MgO) ratios > 0.86, A/CNK ratios > 1, Al2O3 + CaO < 15 wt.%, and high ΣREEs (230 ppm), but low CaO and MgO and negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.24–0.43). These chemical features resemble those of post-collisional rare metal A-type granites in the Arabian-Nubian Shield (ANS). The parent magma of these A-type granites was possibly derived from the partial melting of the I-type tonalitic protolith during lithospheric delamination, followed by severe fractional crystallization in the upper crust in the post-collisional setting. Their rare metal-bearing minerals, including zircon, apatite, titanite, and rutile, are of magmatic origin, while allanite, xenotime, parisite, and betafite are hydrothermal in origin. The rare metal mineralization in the Igla Ahmr granites is possibly attributed to: (1) essential components of both parental peraluminous melts and magmatic-emanated fluids that have caused metasomatism, leading to rare metal enrichment in the Igla Ahmr granites during the interaction between rocks and fluids, and (2) structural control of rare metals by the major NW–SE structures (Najd trend) and conjugate N–S and NE–SW faults, which all are channels for hydrothermal fluids that in turn have led to hydrothermal alteration. This explains why rare metal mineralization in granites is affected by hydrothermal alteration, including silicification, phyllic alteration, sericitization, kaolinitization, and chloritization.
An Intruder-Free Fock Space Coupled-Cluster Study of the Potential Energy Curves of LiMg+ within the (2,0) Sector
Authors: Skrzyński Grzegorz , Musial Monika
Published: May 2024

The potential energy curves (PECs) and spectroscopic constants of the ground and excited states of a LiMg+ molecular cation were investigated. We obtained accurate results for the fifteen lowest-lying states of the LiMg+ cation using the Intermediate Hamiltonian Fock Space Multireference Coupled Cluster (IH-FS-CC) method applied to the (2,0) sector. Relativistic corrections were accounted for using the third-order Douglas–Kroll method. In each instance, smooth PECs were successfully computed across the entire range of interatomic distances from equilibrium to the dissociation limit. The results are in good accordance with previous studies of this molecular cation. Notably, this study marks the first application of IH-FS-CC in investigating a mixed alkali and alkaline earth molecular cation, proving its usability in determining accurate PECs of such diatomics and their spectroscopic constants.
Effect of Post-Implantation Heat Treatment Conditions on Photoluminescent Properties of Ion-Synthesized Gallium Oxide Nanocrystals
Authors: Korolev Dmitry S. , Matyunina Kristina S. , Nikolskaya Alena A. , Belov Alexey I. , Mikhaylov Alexey N. , Sushkov Artem A. , Pavlov Dmitry A. , Tetelbaum David I.
Published: May 2024

A novel and promising way for creating nanomaterials based on gallium oxide is the ion synthesis of Ga2O3 nanocrystals in a SiO2/Si dielectric matrix. The properties of nanocrystals are determined by the conditions of ion synthesis—the parameters of ion irradiation and post-implantation heat treatment. In this work, the light-emitting properties of Ga2O3 nanocrystals were studied depending on the temperature and annealing atmosphere. It was found that annealing at a temperature of 900 °C leads to the appearance of intense luminescence with a maximum at ~480 nm caused by the recombination of donor–acceptor pairs. An increase in luminescence intensity upon annealing in an oxidizing atmosphere is shown. Based on data from photoluminescence excitation spectroscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, a hypothesis about the possibility of the participation of a quantum-size effect during radiative recombination is proposed. A mechanism for the formation of Ga2O3 nanocrystals during ion synthesis is suggested, which makes it possible to describe the change in the luminescent properties of the synthesized samples with varying conditions of post-implantation heat treatment.
Croatian Action on Salt and Health (CRASH): On the Road to Success—Less Salt, More Health
Authors: Jelaković Bojan , Marinović Glavić Mihaela , Batinić Sermek Marija , Bilajac Lovorka , Bubaš Marija , Buzjak Služek Vlatka , Capak Krunoslav , Drenjančević Ines , Gross Bošković Andrea , Jelaković Ana , Jukić Tomislav , Kolarić Kravar Sanja , Kralj Verica , Pećin Ivan , Pollak Lea , Skoko-Poljak Dunja , Stražanac Danijela , Stupin Ana , Vasiljev Vanja , Vidranski Valentina , Reiner Željko
Published: May 2024

The World Health Organization recommends adjusting salt intake as a part of the nine global targets to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable chronic diseases as a priority and the most cost-effective intervention. In 2006, the main aim of the Croatian Action on Salt and Health was to decrease salt intake by 16% because of its critical intake and consequences on human health. We have organized educative activities to increase awareness on salt harmfulness, define food categories of prime interest, collaborate with industries and determine salt intake (24 h urine sodium excretion). It was determined that the proportion of salt in ready-to-eat baked bread should not exceed 1.4%. In the period 2014–2022, salt in semi-white bread was reduced by 14%, 22% in bakery and 25% in the largest meat industry. Awareness of the harmfulness of salt on health increased from 65.3% in 2008 to 96.9% in 2023 and salt intake was reduced by 15.9–1.8 g/day (22.8% men, 11.7% women). In the last 18 years, a significant decrease in salt intake was achieved in Croatia, awareness of its harmfulness increased, collaboration with the food industry was established and regulatory documents were launched. However, salt intake is still very high, underlying the need for continuation of efforts and even stronger activities.
The Effectiveness of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in Binge Eating Disorder (BED)—Review and Insight into the Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Chmiel James , Kurpas Donata , Rybakowski Filip , Leszek Jerzy
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder among those contributing to the development of obesity, and thus acts as a significant burden on the lives and health of patients. It is characterized by complex neurobiology, which includes changes in brain activity and neurotransmitter secretion. Existing treatments are moderately effective, and so the search for new therapies that are effective and safe is ongoing. Aim and Methods: This review examines the use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the treatment of binge eating disorder. Searches were conducted on the PubMed/Medline, Research Gate, and Cochrane databases. Results: Six studies were found that matched the review topic. All of them used the anodal stimulation of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in BED patients. tDCS proved effective in reducing food cravings, the desire to binge eat, the number of binging episodes, and food intake. It also improved the outcomes of inhibitory control and the treatment of eating disorder psychopathology. The potential mechanisms of action of tDCS in BED are explained, limitations in current research are outlined, and recommendations for future research are provided. Conclusions: Preliminary evidence suggests that the anodal application of tDCS to the right DLPFC reduces the symptoms of BED. However, caution should be exercised in the broader use of tDCS in this context due to the small number of studies performed and the small number of patients included. Future studies should incorporate neuroimaging and neurophysiological measurements to elucidate the potential mechanisms of action of tDCS in BED.