bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowering Clinical Engineering and Evidence-Based Maintenance with IoT and Indoor Navigation
Authors: Luschi Alessio , Daino Giovanni Luca , Ghisalberti Gianpaolo , Mezzatesta Vincenzo , Iadanza Ernesto
Published: July 2024

The OHIO (Odin Hospital Indoor cOmpass) project received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation action program, via ODIN–Open Call, which is issued and executed under the ODIN project and focuses on enhancing hospital safety, productivity, and quality by introducing digital solutions, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI). OHIO aims to enhance the productivity and quality of medical equipment maintenance activities within the pilot hospital, “Le Scotte” in Siena (Italy), by leveraging internal informational resources. OHIO will also be completely integrated with the ODIN platform, taking advantage of the available services and functionalities. OHIO exploits Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tags and antennas together with the resources provided by the ODIN platform to develop a complex ontology-based IoT framework, which acts as a central cockpit for the maintenance of medical equipment through a central management web application and an indoor real-time location system (RTLS) for mobile devices. The application programmable interfaces (APIs) are based on REST architecture for seamless data exchange and integration with the hospital’s existing computer-aided facility management (CAFM) and computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) software. The outcomes of the project are assessed both with quantitative and qualitative methods, by evaluating key performance indicators (KPIs) extracted from the literature and performing a preliminary usability test on both the whole system and the graphic user interfaces (GUIs) of the developed applications. The test implementation demonstrates improvements in maintenance timings, including a reduction in maintenance operation delays, duration of maintenance tasks, and equipment downtime. Usability post-test questionnaires show positive feedback regarding the usability and effectiveness of the applications. The OHIO framework enhanced the effectiveness of medical equipment maintenance by integrating existing software with newly designed, enhanced interfaces. The research also indicates possibilities for scaling up the developed methods and applications to additional large-scale pilot hospitals within the ODIN network.
Active Queue Management in L4S with Asynchronous Advantage Actor-Critic: A FreeBSD Networking Stack Perspective
Authors: Satish Deol , Kua Jonathan , Pokhrel Shiva Raj
Published: July 2024

Bufferbloat is one of the leading causes of high data transmission latency and jitter on the Internet, which severely impacts the performance of low-latency interactive applications such as online streaming, cloud-based gaming/applications, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, voice over IP (VoIP), real-time video conferencing, and so forth. There is currently a pressing need for developing Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) congestion control algorithms and bottleneck queue management schemes that can collaboratively control/reduce end-to-end latency, thus ensuring optimal quality of service (QoS) and quality of experience (QoE) for users. This paper introduces a novel solution by experimentally integrate the low latency, low loss, and scalable throughput (L4S) architecture (specified by the IETF in RFC 9330) in FreeBSD framework with the asynchronous advantage actor-critic (A3C) reinforcement learning algorithm. The first phase involves incorporating a modified dual-queue coupled active queue management (AQM) system for L4S into the FreeBSD networking stack, enhancing queue management and mitigating latency and packet loss. The second phase employs A3C to adjust and fine-tune the system performance dynamically. Finally, we evaluate the proposed solution’s effectiveness through comprehensive experiments, comparing it with traditional AQM-based systems. This paper contributes to the advancement of machine learning (ML) for transport protocol research in the field. The experimental implementation and results presented in this paper are made available through our GitHub repositories.
The Effect of High-Temperature Heating on Amounts of Bioactive Compounds and Antiradical Properties of Refined Rapeseed Oil Blended with Rapeseed, Coriander and Apricot Cold-Pressed Oils
Authors: Fedko Monika , Siger Aleksander , Szydłowska-Czerniak Aleksandra , Rabiej-Kozioł Dobrochna , Tymczewska Alicja , Włodarczyk Katarzyna , Kmiecik Dominik
Published: July 2024

Cold-pressed oils are rich sources of bioactive substances, which may protect triacylglycerols from degradation during frying. Nevertheless, these substances may decompose under high temperature. This work considers the content of bioactive substances in blends and their changes during high-temperature heating. Blends of refined rapeseed oil with 5% or 25% in one of three cold-pressed oils (rapeseed, coriander and apricot) were heated at 170 or 200 °C in a thin layer on a pan. All non-heated blends and cold-pressed oils were tested for fatty acid profile, content and composition of phytosterols, tocochromanols, chlorophyll and radical scavenging activity (RSA) analyzed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays. Moreover, the stability of phytosterols, tocochromanols, DPPH and ABTS values was determined in heated blends. All tocochromanols were lost during the heating process, in particular, at 200 °C. However, there were some differences between homologues. α-Tocopherol and δ-tocopherol were the most thermolabile and the most stable, respectively. Phytosterols were characterized by very high stability at both temperatures. We observed relationships between ABTS and DPPH values and contents of total tocochromanols and α-tocopherol. The obtained results may be useful in designing a new type of fried food with improved health properties and it may be the basis for further research on this topic.
Determination of Free Glycidol and Total Free Monochloropropanediol in Fish and Krill Oil with Simple Aqueous Derivatization and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Yang Guangxin , Tang Yunyu , Liu Xiaoxia , Wang Longlong , Qin Lixia , Li Dan , Shen Xiaosheng , Kong Cong , Zhai Wenlei , Fodjo Essy Kouadio , Fan Chengqi
Published: July 2024

This study introduces a novel method for detecting free glycidol and total free monochloropropanediol (MCPD) in fish and krill oil. Before analysis on high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS), p-(dimethylamino)phenol was used for derivatization of these compounds, enabling the sensitive determination of these contaminants. The sample preparation procedure includes a simple, efficient pretreatment using NaCl aqueous solution extraction and C18 sorbent cleanup (for demulsification), distinguishing glycidol from MCPD under varied reaction conditions for derivatization (weak acidic and strong alkaline aqueous environments). This approach shows broad linearity from 1 to at least 256 ng·mL−1, improved sensitivity compared to standard GC-MS methods, with the limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for MCPD and glycidol in both oil samples verified at 0.5 ng·mL−1 and 1 ng·mL−1, respectively. Different from previous HPLC-MS methods for direct detection of glycidol esters or MCPD esters, this is the first HPLC-MS method used for the detection of free glycidol and total free MCPD in edible oil. Furthermore, this method can be potentially developed for glycidol or monochloropropane diol esters, which is similar to the current official methods adopted for indirect detection of these contaminants in different food matrices. Application of this detection method to real dietary supplements (fish oil and krill oil) revealed MCPD residues in fish oil (maximum detected: 32.78 ng·mL−1) and both MCPD (maximum detected: 2767.3 ng·mL−1) and glycidol (maximum detected: 22.2 ng·mL−1) in krill oil, emphasizing its effectiveness and accuracy for assessing contamination in these supplements.
Role of Food Texture, Oral Processing Responses, Bolus Properties, and Digestive Conditions on the Nutrient Bioaccessibility of Al Dente and Soft-Cooked Red Lentil Pasta
Authors: Arnal Milagros , Salcedo Lucía , Talens Pau , Ribes Susana
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of food texture, oral processing, bolus characteristics, and in vitro digestive conditions on the starch and protein digestibility of al dente and soft-cooked commercial red lentil pasta. For that, samples were cooked as suggested by the provider and their texture properties were promptly analysed. Then, normal and deficient masticated pasta boluses were produced by four healthy subjects, characterised in terms of their oral processing, bolus granulometry, texture and viscoelastic properties, and finally subjected to static in vitro digestion, according to the INFOGEST consensus for both adults and the older adult population. Normal masticated boluses exhibited greater saliva impregnation and lower proportions of large particles, hardness, and stiffness than deficient masticated boluses. Likewise, insufficiently masticated al dente–cooked pasta boluses caused a delay in oral starch digestion owing to the larger particles attained during food oral processing, while reduced intestinal conditions in the elderly only interfere with the release of total soluble proteins in all samples. This work evidences the importance of considering the initial texture of products, oral capabilities, processing behaviour, and physical and mechanical properties of food boluses in digestion studies, opening new prospects in designing pulse-based foods that meet the nutritional requirements of the world’s population.
Effect of the Structural Modification of Plant Proteins as Microencapsulating Agents of Bioactive Compounds from Annatto Seeds (Bixa orellana L.)
Authors: Quintero Quiroz Julián , Velazquez Víctor , Torres Juan D. , Ciro Gomez Gelmy , Delgado Efren , Rojas John
Published: July 2024

This project studied the use of lentil protein (LP) and quinoa protein (QP) in their native and modified states as carrier material in the encapsulation process by the ionic gelation technique of annatto seed extract. Soy protein (SP) was used as a model of carrier material and encapsulated bioactive compounds, respectively. The plant proteins were modified by enzymatic hydrolysis, N acylation, and N-cationization to improve their encapsulating properties. Additionally, the secondary structure, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), solubility as a function of pH, isoelectric point (pI), molecular weight (MW), the content of free thiol groups (SH), the absorption capacity of water (WHC) and fat (FAC), emulsifier activity (EAI), emulsifier stability (ESI), and gelation temperature (Tg) were assessed on proteins in native and modified states. The results obtained demonstrated that in a native state, LP (80.52% and 63.82%) showed higher encapsulation efficiency than QP (73.63% and 45.77%), both for the hydrophilic dye and for the annatto extract. Structural modifications on proteins improve some functional properties, such as solubility, WHC, FAC, EAI, and ESI. However, enzymatic hydrolysis on the proteins decreased the gels’ formation, the annatto extract’s encapsulated efficiency, and the hydrophilic dye by the ionic gelation method. On the other hand, the modifications of N-acylation and N-cationization increased but did not generate statistically significant differences (p-value > 0.05) in the encapsulation efficiency of both the annatto extract and the hydrophilic dye compared to those obtained with native proteins. This research contributes to understanding how plant proteins (LP and QP) can be modified to enhance their encapsulating and solubility properties. The better encapsulation of bioactive compounds (like annatto extract) can improve product self-life, potentially benefiting the development of functional ingredients for the food industry.
The Potential Correlation between Bacterial Diversity and the Characteristic Volatile Flavor Compounds of Sichuan Sauce-Flavored Sausage
Authors: Ji Lili , Zhou Yanan , Nie Qing , Luo Yi , Yang Rui , Kang Jun , Zhao Yinfeng , Zeng Mengzhao , Jia Yinhua , Dong Shirong , Gan Ling , Zhang Jiamin
Published: July 2024

The distinctive taste of Sichuan sauce-flavored sausage comes from an intricate microbial metabolism. The correlation between microbial composition and distinct flavor components has not been researched. The study used headspace solid-phase microextraction action with gas chromatography mass spectrometry to find flavor components and high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA to look at the diversity and succession of microbial communities. The correlation network model forecasted the connection between essential bacteria and the development of flavors. The study revealed that the primary flavor compounds in Sichuan sauce-flavored sausages were alcohols, aldehydes, and esters. The closely related microbes were Leuconostoc, Pseudomonas, Psychrobacter, Flavobacterium, and Algoriella. The microbes aided in the production of various flavor compounds, such as 1-octen-3-ol, benzeneacetaldehyde, hexanal, (R,R)-2,3-butanediol, and ethyl caprylate. This work has enhanced our comprehension of the diverse functions that bacteria serve in flavor development during the fermentation of Sichuan sauce-flavored sausage.
Contributions to the Palaeobiodiversity of Psocodea (‘Psocoptera’) from Lebanese Amber: A Review
Authors: Hakim Marina , Azar Dany
Published: July 2024

Psocodea has been globally reported in different Mesozoic and Cenozoic amber deposits, one of which is Early Cretaceous Lebanese amber. The latter is one of the oldest ambers, with rich biological inclusions, bringing about the discovery of multiple new taxa of arthropods, some representing the earliest known records of their lineages. A total of fourteen psocodean species (of which one is an unidentified immature species) have been described to date from this material, which we review and discuss in this paper. A key for the identification of psocodean species discovered in Lebanese amber is also provided.
Generalized Quasilinearization Method for Caputo Fractional Differential Equations with Initial Conditions with Applications
Authors: Vatsala Aghalaya S. , Pageni Govinda
Published: July 2024

Computation of the solution of the nonlinear Caputo fractional differential equation is essential for using q, which is the order of the derivative, as a parameter. The value of q can be determined to enhance the mathematical model in question using the data. The numerical methods available in the literature provide only the local existence of the solution. However, the interval of existence is known and guaranteed by the natural upper and lower solutions of the nonlinear differential equations. In this work, we develop monotone iterates, together with lower and upper solutions that converge uniformly, monotonically, and quadratically to the unique solution of the Caputo nonlinear fractional differential equation over its entire interval of existence. The nonlinear function is assumed to be the sum of convex and concave functions. The method is referred to as the generalized quasilinearization method. We provide a Caputo fractional logistic equation as an example whose interval of existence is [0,∞).
Co-Benefits of Eichhornia Crassipes (Water Hyacinth) as Sustainable Biomass for Biofuel Production and Aquatic Ecosystem Phytoremediation
Authors: Nahar Kamrun , Sunny Sanwar Azam
Published: July 2024

The water hyacinth (WH), also known as Eichhornia crassipes, is Bangladesh’s fast-growing and rapidly expanding sustainable aquatic bioenergy feedstock. The WH, as an energy crop, has been harnessed as a phytoremediation agent to purify contaminated water and produce fuel and environmentally friendly products. A country’s economy relies on the availability of raw materials for energy production, cleaning life-supporting abiotic resources for consumption, and the innovation of cost-effective, eco-friendly products. The present study focuses on a three-in-one nexus using the WH to purify polluted water, the (post-purification) biomass to produce clean energy fuels (biogas and bioethanol), and for the manufacture of daily-use products. The ability of the WH, an aquatic macrophyte, to act as a phytoremediator to improve the quality of eutrophic lake water in a laboratory setting was investigated. Water samples were collected from four lakes surrounding the urban community in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The potential to remove salts and solutes and improve the physio-chemical properties of water, including pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDSs), turbidity, and NaCl concentration, were assessed. During the aquatic macrophyte treatment, a 100% WH survival rate was shown, with no visible toxicity symptoms observed in the biomass. The WH improved water quality after one week, as determined by a significant decrease in turbidity, EC, NaCl, and TDSs, and improved pH and DO levels. Here, we establish the WH’s proficiency in removing nutrients/solutes and improving water quality. In addition, we discuss the utilization of this invasive aquatic biomass to produce energy after remediation of water including cost-effective and eco-friendly products to incur daily life with environmental and socioeconomic benefits in Bangladesh.
Energy-Efficient Smart Window Based on a Thermochromic Hydrogel with Adjustable Critical Response Temperature and High Solar Modulation Ability
Authors: Sun Meng , Sun Hui , Wei Ruoyu , Li Wenqing , Lai Jinlai , Tian Ye , Li Miao
Published: July 2024

Thermochromic smart windows realize an intelligent response to changes in environmental temperature through reversible physical phase transitions. They complete a real-time adjustment of solar transmittance, create a livable indoor temperature for humans, and reduce the energy consumption of buildings. Nevertheless, conventional materials that are used to prepare thermochromic smart windows face challenges, including fixed transition temperatures, limited solar modulation capabilities, and inadequate mechanical properties. In this study, a novel thermochromic hydrogel was synthesized from 2-hydroxy-3-butoxypropyl hydroxyethyl celluloses (HBPEC) and poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) by using a simple one-step low-temperature polymerization method. The HBPEC/PNIPAM hydrogel demonstrates a wide response temperature (24.1–33.2 °C), high light transmittance (Tlum = 87.5%), excellent solar modulation (ΔTsol = 71.2%), and robust mechanical properties. HBPEC is a functional material that can be used to adjust the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of the smart window over a wide range by changing the degree of substitution (DS) of the butoxy group in its structure. In addition, the use of HBPEC effectively improves the light transmittance and mechanical properties of the hydrogels. After 100 heating and cooling cycles, the hydrogel still has excellent stability. Furthermore, indoor simulation experiments show that HBPEC/PNIPAM hydrogel smart windows have better indoor temperature regulation capabilities than traditional windows, making these smart windows potential candidates for energy-saving building materials.
The Identification of Flood-Prone Areas in Accra, Ghana Using a Hydrological Screening Method
Authors: Balstrøm Thomas , Hasholt Bent , Allotey Albert N. M. , Gyekye Prince Martin
Published: July 2024

Information about flood-prone areas in Accra, Ghana, acting as obstacles to the main infrastructure was required as input for a transportation study. We successfully identified these areas using the hydrologic screening software Arc-Malstrøm. Earlier studies have used a digital elevation model with a spatial resolution of 30 m, which unfortunately is not a true digital terrain model as it includes elevations from ground surfaces, structures, and vegetation. However, this study shows the benefits of using a hydro-conditioned 10 m resolution digital terrain model from AirbusTM in predicting flood-prone areas. The entire investigation area covers approximately 23% of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA), including the entire Odaw River basin. In this area, 5018 landscape sinks with water depths ≥ 0.1 m and volumes ≥ 5 m3 were identified. From this, 163 flood-induced roadblocks were found with maximum depths ≥ 0.3 m, rendering them impassable to normal vehicles. Beyond the adaptation of infrastructures in the hydro-conditioning process, more steps were necessary along the Odaw River’s southernmost course before its outlet into the Gulf of Guinea due to local trash accumulation reflected in the DTM. To address the unforeseen stochastic flood effects from trash piling up along the river channels, a simulation was conducted showing the upstream consequences caused by a trash barrier at the river’s outlet into the ocean. This leads to a discussion of the hazards posed by improper waste handling, coupled with increasing runoff predictions within the river’s drainage basin. Finally, we discuss local alternatives to the establishment of large central retention and detention basins to reduce flood-prone areas in GAMA during periods when stormwater-induced floods become more frequent, primarily due to uncontrolled urbanization increasing runoff volumes.
The Interaction of Wildfire with Post-Fire Herbivory on Arid and Semi-Arid U.S. Rangelands: A Review
Authors: Kluth Janessa , Wyffels Samuel , Eberly Jed , Vermeire Lance , Marlow Clayton , DelCurto Timothy
Published: July 2024

In the United States, rangelands comprise 30% of the total land cover and serve as a valuable resource for livestock, wildlife, water, and recreation. Rangelands vary in climate and are often subject to disturbances like drought and wildfire. Historic wildfire trends have indicated an increase in wildfire size and frequency, raising societal and ecological concerns about the management of these lands, both pre- and post-wildfire. While there has been investigation into the effects of grazing prior to a wildfire on fire severity and plant mortality, there is limited research related to grazing post-wildfire even though current management paradigms suggest deferring grazing rangeland for two years after a wildfire to avoid additional stress on native plant species. Based on the diversity found across rangeland ecotypes and history with wildfire, the two-year deferment recommendation may need to be reconsidered for some ecosystems. Species found in perennial bunchgrass rangelands like Pseudoroegneria spicata (bluebunch wheatgrass) and Festuca idahoensis (Idaho fescue) may be less susceptible to post-fire grazing than initially thought, necessitating the need for research into different rangeland ecosystems.
“From out the Portals of My Brain”: William Blake’s Partus Mentis and Imaginative Regeneration
Authors: Volpone Annalisa
Published: July 2024

Partus mentis (the parturition of the mind) brings together the following two significant aspects of Romantic culture and ideology: the exploration into human generation, and the process of how imagination forms an idea and makes the mind creatively productive. This article suggests that analyzing William Blake’s portrayal of imagination through the partus mentis trope can enhance our comprehension of how he illustrates and employs this faculty in his works. In Blake’s partus mentis, the analogy between the brain and the womb is pivotal. The brain is seen as a host for ideas that are conceived through imagination, and once they are brought to life, they become art. This is a vital component of Blake’s cosmogony, tying into his personal reinterpretation of biblical Genesis and his concept of the Human Form Divine. It also includes his response to medical theories and practises regarding generation and life. This article pays close attention to the medico-cultural discourse that was contemporary to Blake, and its wide use of the ‘analogy’, which defined the episteme of the long eighteenth century. The analogy approach was later challenged by the ‘epistemology of the visual’, which emphasized the use of anatomical atlases, wax models, and dissections for direct experiential insights into bodily functions and processes, particularly of the brain and the womb. This article argues that Blake is able to transcend these two epistemologies while harnessing specific elements from each.
Formulation of a Commercial Quality Index for Avocado Produced in an Inter-Andean Valley
Authors: Aguirre-Landa John Peter , Agreda-Cerna Henrry Wilfredo , Quispe-Choque David , Prado-Canchari Alfredo , Rodriguez Cardenas Liliana
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to formulate a commercial quality index (CQI) for avocados (Persea americana Mill) produced in an inter-Andean valley in southern Peru. Thirty-eight commercial quality parameters of Hass and Fuerte avocados were evaluated under the marketing and export protocols approved in the Codex Alimentarius CXS 197-1995 issued by FAO and the Peruvian technical standard NTP 011.018. The index was formulated using information gathered from 44 experts in the Apurimac region. To weight the commercial quality parameters, the Delphi method was used, with the cooperation of expert producers and marketers, from which a weighted equation was formulated for the commercial quality index of Hass (CQIh) and Fuerte (CQIf) avocados. Fifteen parameters of interest were found for the formulation of the quality indexes for both varieties, which reported more than 50% coincidence among experts, based on physical and sensory evaluation. The CQI proposal would be a tool to help improve the quality attributes of avocado growers.
A Combined Cleaning and Disinfection Measure to Decontaminate Tire Treads from Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus
Authors: Bandte Martina , Ehlers Jens , Nourinejhad Zarghani Shaheen , Büttner Carmen
Published: July 2024

Mechanically transmissible and stable viruses such as tobamoviruses, which include Tobamovirus fructirugosum (syn. tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), will continue to pose major challenges for farmers. Consequently, holistic hygiene concepts are being implemented to prevent the introduction and spread of these viruses. The decontamination of tires and castors was previously a weak point in many industrial hygiene concepts. For this reason, the ProfilGate clean-off zone was tested in combination with the disinfectant MENNO Florades for the decontamination of ToBRFV-contaminated tires. In total, 478 tire segments were sampled to evaluate the contamination of ToBRFV and the following decontamination of the tires. This treatment reliably removed high (4.5 µg/cm2), medium (0.45 µg/cm2), and low concentrations (0.045 µg/cm2) of ToBRFV from the tires, as shown by a bioassay. The reduction in necrotic local lesions on susceptible indicator plants N. tabacum cv. Xanthi NN was between 91.9 and 97.6%. The reduction in ToBRFV contamination largely depended on the length of the rollover distance, i.e., the number of tire rotations. For transport trolleys with polyamide and rubber tires, depletions of 97.4 and 97.6%, respectively, was determined after 16 rotations. For transport wagons with tires twice the size and polyurethane tread, the depletion was still at least 91% after eight wheel turns. Even in the case of gross soiling of the tires, the mean reduction from the different tread materials was 80.9 to 98.9%. Subsequent analysis of the clean-off zone revealed that ToBRFV did not accumulate, even when the contaminated tires were driven over several times, but was safely inactivated completely in the disinfectant solution. This provides growers with an effective tool for preventing the introduction and spread of ToBRFV.
Characteristics of 15 Subjects Affected by IgD Multiple Myeloma and the Key Role of the Laboratory in Diagnosis: A Retrospective Study Report and Literature Review
Authors: Intra Jari , Pezzatti Sara , Brivio Rinaldo , Carpenedo Monica , Romano Rita , Spinoni Nadia , Casati Marco
Published: July 2024

Immunoglobulin D (IgD) myeloma represents an uncommon subtype of multiple myeloma (MM), accounting for 1–2% of cases. Subjects affected by IgD MM have been demonstrated to have an inferior outcome and survival compared to those with other MM subtypes. A retrospective study was conducted on 15 patients (9 males and 6 females) diagnosed from 2008 to 2022 with IgD MM, in order to investigate the clinical and biochemical features at the moment of diagnosis, cytogenetic alterations, and survival times. The median age was 69 years, and higher frequencies of bone lesions, renal impairments, Bence–Jones proteinuria, and increased serum LDH were observed. Serum calcium levels were in the reference ranges. In the assessment of protein electrophoresis patterns, nine patients had a serum monoclonal protein that was not detectable. A cytogenetic analysis via fluorescence in situ demonstrated that the most common abnormalities were the deletion of 13q and IGH rearrangements. Patients treated with new chemotherapeutic drugs (immunomodulators, proteasome inhibitors), with or without autologous stem cell transplantation presented a higher median survival. The fundamental role of the laboratory in monoclonal IgD detection and the monitoring and studying of IgD MM cases enhances the knowledge of this disease, thus improving patient outcomes.
2,1,3-Benzoselenadiazole as Mono- and Bidentate N-Donor for Heteroleptic Cu(I) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Ferraro Valentina , Hoffmann Fabian , Fuhr Olaf , Luy Burkhard , Bräse Stefan
Published: July 2024

Mono- and binuclear Cu(I) complexes were isolated employing 2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole (BSeD) as the N-donor ligand, and triphenylphosphine or bis[(2-diphenylphosphino)phenyl] ether (DPEphos) as P-donors. Then, 77Se NMR was measured for the free ligand and the corresponding Cu(I) derivatives, and the related signal was downshifted by 12.86 ppm in the case of [Cu(BSeD)(PPh3)2(ClO4)], and around 15 ppm for the binuclear species. The structure of [Cu(BSeD)(PPh3)2(ClO4)] and [Cu2(μ2-BSeD)(DPEphos)2(ClO4)2] was confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The geometry of the Cu(I) complexes was optimized through DFT calculations, and the nature of the Cu···O interaction was investigated through AIM analysis. The three Cu(I) complexes were characterized by intense absorption under 400 nm and, after being excited with blue irradiation, [Cu(BSeD)(PPh3)2(ClO4)] and [Cu2(μ2-BSeD)(PPh3)4(ClO4)2] exhibited weak red emissions centered at 700 nm. The lifetimes comprised between 121 and 159 μs support the involvement of triplet excited states in the emission process. The photoluminescent properties of [Cu(BSeD)(PPh3)2(ClO4)] were supported by TDDFT computations, and the emission was predicted at 710 nm and ascribed to a metal-to-ligand charge transfer (3MLCT) process, in agreement with the experimental data.
Influence of Parental Age on Reproductive Potential and Embryogenesis in the Pepper Weevil, Anthonomus eugenii (Cano) (Col.: Curculionidae)
Authors: Kanchupati Naga Mani , Seal Dakshina R. , Jangra Sumit , Schaffer Bruce , Liburd Oscar E. , Beuzelin Julien
Published: July 2024

The pepper weevil (Anthonomus eugenii Cano) is a devastating pest that inflicts severe damage to pepper crops, leading to substantial economic losses. This study investigated the impact of aging on the reproductive success of the pepper weevil. Pepper weevil-infested fruit were harvested from pepper fields and subsequently transferred into an insect cage to facilitate the emergence of adults. The emerged adults were housed in separate cages and allowed to mature until they reached specified ages: 10 days old (young), 20 days old (middle-aged), and 30 days old (old) individuals. Eggs laid by each age group were carefully collected and incubated under controlled laboratory conditions (28 ± 1.5 °C). Several reproductive variables including the number of eggs laid, the percentage of hatched eggs, and the egg incubation period were recorded for each age group. Embryonic development was also monitored daily using a VHX digital microscope at a magnification of 200×. Differences in developmental stages such as the blastoderm, germ band, gastrulation, segmentation, and appendage formation were observed, and the time span of every stage was recorded. The results show that the 10-day-old weevils laid the most eggs and had the highest hatching rate and the shortest developmental time. The 30-day-old weevils laid the fewest eggs and had the lowest hatching rate and longest developmental time. Thus, the pepper weevil age significantly influenced the fecundity, length of time for each embryonic development stage, hatching rate, and incubation period, and should be considered when studying the reproductive biology of this pest insect. This first report of the effect of aging on the reproductive potential of the pepper weevil should enable pepper growers to adopt cultural practices aimed at reducing the pepper weevil populations, thereby helping to protect their crop from this important pest.
Exploring Biodiversity through the Lens of Knautia arvensis Pollinators: Knautia Pollinator Walks as a Monitoring Method
Authors: Franzén Markus , Stenmark Magnus
Published: July 2024

Declining populations of native pollinators, especially wild bees, underline the urgent need for effective monitoring within agricultural ecosystems. This study aims to (i) establish the ‘Knautia Pollinator Walk’ as an innovative pollinator monitoring method, (ii) examine the link between pollinator richness/density and land cover, and (iii) assess if specialist solitary bees indicate pollinator abundance and morphogroup richness. The approach involves surveying 500 Knautia arvensis inflorescences per site thrice per season. Observations of 11,567 pollinators across 203 taxa showed significant correlations between pollinator diversity and land use. Pollinator populations fluctuated with land cover type, increasing in open areas but decreasing or stabilising in forested and shrubby regions. Noteworthy differences in pollinator types were seen between Russia (solitary bees, small Diptera, Lepidoptera) and Sweden (bumblebees, beetles, furry Diptera). The “Knautia Pollinator Walk” shows promising signs of being an effective tool for monitoring spatiotemporal biodiversity trends. The method offers a scalable approach to pollinator monitoring, which is essential for developing conservation strategies and supporting pollinator populations.
Dysmorphic Uterus: More Questions than Answers
Authors: Selntigia Aikaterini , Pellegrini Livia , Gebbia Francesco , Galliano Daniela
Published: July 2024

A T-shaped uterus is a rare uterine malformation that is classically associated with diethylstilbesterol (DES) exposure. Surprisingly, the prevalence of T- and Y-shaped uterus has increased in recent years despite the absence of a diagnostic consensus and a correlation with the reproductive outcomes has been observed. A systematic electronic database search for all English-language studies published on reproductive outcomes associated with dysmorphic uteri over the past 10 years using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus was performed. This uterine malformation is associated with impaired reproductive outcomes, including primary infertility, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and preterm birth. Hysteroscopic metroplasty is a simple surgical procedure that could potentially improve outcomes in subfertile women, but the data are not robust. Studies reported significant improvements in implantation and pregnancy rates after corrective metroplasty in women undergoing in vitro fertilization. However, multicenter, prospective, randomized, and controlled trials are needed to validate these findings and to help define clear diagnostic criteria, surgical indications, and appropriate follow-up of reproductive outcomes after the procedure.
Assessment of Effectiveness of the Algorithm for Automated Quantitative Analysis of Metallic Strut Tissue Short-Term Coverage with Intravascular Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Fluder-Wlodarczyk Joanna , Schneider Zofia , Pawłowski Tomasz , Wojakowski Wojciech , Gasior Pawel , Pociask Elżbieta
Published: July 2024

Background: Due to its high resolution, optical coherence tomography (OCT) is the most suitable modality for neointimal coverage assessments. Evaluation of stent healing seems crucial to accurately define their safety profile since delayed healing is connected with stent thrombosis. This study aimed to present an algorithm for automated quantitative analysis of stent strut coverage at the early stages of vessel healing in intravascular OCT. Methods: A set of 592 OCT frames from 24 patients one month following drug-eluting stent implantation was used to assess the algorithm’s effectiveness. Struts not covered on any side or covered but only on one side were categorized as uncovered. The algorithm consists of several key steps: preprocessing, vessel lumen segmentation, automatic strut detection, and measurement of neointimal thickness. Results: The proposed algorithm proved its efficiency in lumen and stent area estimation versus manual reference. It showed a high positive predictive value (PPV) (89.7%) and true positive rate (TPR) (91.4%) in detecting struts. A qualitative assessment for covered and uncovered struts was characterized by high TPR (99.1% and 80%, respectively, for uncovered and covered struts) and PPV (77.3% and 87%). Conclusions: The proposed algorithm demonstrated good agreement with manual measurements. Automating the stent coverage assessment might facilitate imaging analysis, which might be beneficial in experimental and clinical settings.
The Usefulness of Coregistration with iFR in Tandem or Long Diffuse Coronary Lesions: The iLARDI Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Hidalgo Francisco , Gonzalez-Manzanares Rafael , Suárez de Lezo Javier , Gallo Ignacio , Alvarado Marco , Perea Jorge , Maestre-Luque Luis Carlos , Resúa Adriana , Romero Miguel , López-Benito María , Pérez de Prado Armando , Ojeda Soledad , Pan Manuel
Published: July 2024

Background. Despite technical advancements, patients with sequential or diffuse coronary lesions undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have an increased risk of cardiovascular events at follow-up. We aimed to analyze the utility of a SyncVision/iFR (S-iFR)-guided PCI strategy versus an angiography-guided strategy in patients with this type of lesions. Methods. Randomized, multicenter, controlled, and open-label trial to compare S-iFR versus angiography-guided PCI in patients with sequential or diffuse angiographic coronary stenosis (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04283734). The primary endpoint was the implanted stent length. The main secondary endpoint was targeting vessel failure (TVF) at one year. Results. A total of 100 patients underwent randomization, with 49 patients assigned to the S-iFR group and 51 to the angiography-guided PCI group. There were no differences between groups regarding clinical and anatomical characteristics. The baseline iFR was 0.71 ± 0.16 vs. 0.67 ± 0.19 (p = 0.279) in the S-iFR and angiography group, respectively. The mean lesion length was 42.3 ± 12 mm and 39.8 ± 12 (p = 0.297). The implanted stent length was 32.7 ± 17.2 mm in the S-iFR group and 43.1 ± 14.9 mm in the angiography group (mean difference, −10.4 mm; 95% confidence interval [CI], −16.9 to −4.0; p = 0.002). At one year, target vessel failure (TVF) occurred in four patients: three (6.1%) in the S-iFR group vs. one (1.9%) in the angiography group (p = 0.319). Conclusions. Among patients with sequential or long diffuse coronary lesions, a S-iFR-guided PCI strategy resulted in a reduction of the total stent length compared to an angiography-guided PCI strategy. A nonsignificant increase in TVF was observed in the S-iFR group.
The Polish Society of Gynecological Oncology Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cervical Cancer (v2024.0)
Authors: Sznurkowski Jacek J. , Bodnar Lubomir , Szylberg Łukasz , Zołciak-Siwinska Agnieszka , Dańska-Bidzińska Anna , Klasa-Mazurkiewicz Dagmara , Rychlik Agnieszka , Kowalik Artur , Streb Joanna , Bidziński Mariusz , Sawicki Włodzimierz
Published: July 2024

Background: Recent publications underscore the need for updated recommendations addressing less radical surgery for <2 cm tumors, induction chemotherapy, or immunotherapy for locally advanced stages of cervical cancer, as well as for the systemic therapy for recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer. Aim: To summarize the current evidence for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of cervical cancer and provide evidence-based clinical practice recommendations. Methods: Developed according to AGREE II standards, the guidelines classify scientific evidence based on the Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Tariff System criteria. Recommendations are graded by evidence strength and consensus level from the development group. Key Results: (1) Early-Stage Cancer: Stromal invasion and lymphovascular space involvement (LVSI) from pretreatment biopsy identify candidates for surgery, particularly for simple hysterectomy. (2) Surgical Approach: Minimally invasive surgery is not recommended, except for T1A, LVSI-negative tumors, due to a reduction in life expectancy. (3) Locally Advanced Cancer: concurrent chemoradiation (CCRT) followed by brachytherapy (BRT) is the cornerstone treatment. Low-risk patients (fewer than two metastatic nodes or FIGO IB2-II) may consider induction chemotherapy (ICT) followed by CCRT and BRT after 7 days. High-risk patients (two or more metastatic nodes or FIGO IIIA, IIIB, and IVA) benefit from pembrolizumab with CCRT and maintenance therapy. (4) Metastatic, Persistent, and Recurrent Cancer: A PD-L1 status from pretreatment biopsy identifies candidates for Pembrolizumab with available systemic treatment, while triplet therapy (Atezolizumab/Bevacizumab/chemotherapy) becomes a PD-L1-independent option. Conclusions: These evidence-based guidelines aim to improve clinical outcomes through precise treatment strategies based on individual risk factors, predictors, and disease stages.
Advancing Personalized Interventions: A Paradigm Shift in Psychological and Health-Related Treatment Strategies
Authors: Cerniglia Luca
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the field of psychological and health-related interventions has seen a paradigm shift towards personalized and tailored approaches [...]
Psoriasis and Lupus Erythematosus—Similarities and Differences between Two Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Fijałkowska Aleksandra , Wojtania Joanna , Woźniacka Anna , Robak Ewa
Published: July 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and psoriasis (Ps) are two clinically distinct diseases with different pathogenesis. However, recent studies indicate some similarities in both clinical presentation and pathogenetic mechanisms. The coexistence of both entities is very uncommon and has not been fully elucidated. Thus, it remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. In fact, drugs used in SLE can induce psoriatic lesions, whereas phototherapy effective in Ps is an important factor provoking skin lesions in patients with SLE. The aim of this work is to discuss in detail the common pathogenetic elements and the therapeutic options effective in both diseases.
Experimental Assessment of Ultraviolet Radiation Impact on the Primary Production of Phytoplankton in the East/Japan Sea
Authors: Yun Misun , Kang Jae-Joong , Jeong Yubeen , Jo Young-Heon , Sun Jun , Lee Sang-Heon
Published: July 2024

Solar radiation, particularly ultraviolet radiation (UVR, 280–400 nm), is known to play a significant role in driving primary production in marine ecosystems. However, our understanding of the specific effects of UVR on the primary production of natural phytoplankton communities is still limited. We utilized the 13C stable isotope to quantify primary production and conducted experiments using different types of incubation bottles (polycarbonate and quartz bottles) to compare the primary production in the absence and presence of UVR. Although we observed a weak inhibitory effect at the surface of the water column, UVR exposure resulted in an approximately 1.5-fold increase in primary production over the euphotic zone. The enhanced primary production during the study period can be attributed to the combined effect of low UVB (280–320 nm) dose and abundant nutrient conditions. Notably, our size-fractionated measurements revealed that UVR exposure led to a two-fold increase in primary production in large cells (>2 μm) compared to the exposure of solely photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). In contrast, there was no significant difference in the primary production of small cells (<2 μm) between the absence and presence of UVR. These findings highlight the advantages of large cells when exposed to UVR, emphasizing the importance of phytoplankton cell size in determining their response to UVR. However, it is important to note that the effects of UVR on phytoplankton are influenced by various environmental factors, which interact with solar radiation, shaping the dynamics of phytoplankton responses to UVR.
The “Wear and Tear” of the Organism in Temporomandibular Disorders: A Pilot Study Investigating the Effects of Allostatic Load on Heart Rate Variability and Inhibitory Control
Authors: Troisi Giovanna , Di Giacomo Paola , Forte Giuseppe , Langher Viviana , Casagrande Maria , Di Paolo Carlo
Published: July 2024

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are the most common cause of non-dental chronic pain in the orofacial region and can chronically increase the activity of the allostatic systems. The allostatic overload related to these conditions causes an autonomic dysregulation, reflected by a reduction in heart rate variability (HRV). Nevertheless, chronic pain in these patients could cause more severe health consequences, such as those related to cognitive functioning. Deficits in executive control have been associated with allostatic overload and could negatively affect pain management strategies. This study aimed to investigate the effects of chronic pain on HRV and both motor and cognitive inhibition (assessed with the Go/No-Go and Stroop tasks, respectively) in a sample of 14 patients with TMD and 15 healthy controls. Consistent with our hypothesis and the previous literature, the group with TMD had a lower resting HRV, but no differences were found between the groups in inhibition. Furthermore, the results showed that the effects of HRV on cognitive inhibition can be mediated by pain intensity. Finally, a correlation between age and HRV emerged in patients with TMD but not in healthy controls.
Fintech Adoption and Banks’ Non-Financial Performance: Do Circular Economy Practices Matter?
Authors: Lamey Ywana Maher , Tawfik Omar Ikbal , Durrah Omar , Elmaasrawy Hamada Elsaid
Published: July 2024

This study draws insights from practice-based view theory (PBV) to investigate the impact of fintech adoption (FA) on the non-financial performance (NFP) of banking institutions in developing countries, considering the mediating role of circular economy practices (CEPs). A structured questionnaire was distributed to collect primary data from banks’ staff in Iraq, Egypt, Oman, and Jordan using a convenience sampling method with a sample size of 397. Subsequently, the structural equation model was utilized to test the research hypotheses of the proposed conceptual model. The study’s findings revealed that FA positively and significantly impacts CEPs and banks’ NFP (customer satisfaction, internal processes, and learning and growth perspectives). Moreover, CEPs mediate the relationship between FA and banks’ NFP in a positive and significant way. Given the dearth of the literature, this is the first study to fill the research gaps by investigating the impact of FA on the NFP of banking institutions in developing countries, considering CEPs as a mediator, and yielding critical theoretical and practical implications. The study’s findings provide banks’ managers with valuable insights about how to enhance their NFP through FA and CEPs during and after crises and support policymakers and regulators in developing a legislative framework that guides banks to invest in CE models and provides reward systems to encourage them.