bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Gut Microbiota in Heart Failure: Trying to Unmask an Emerging Organ
Authors: Paraskevaidis Ioannis , Xanthopoulos Andrew , Tsougos Elias , Triposkiadis Filippos
Published: September 2023

There is a bidirectional relationship between the heart and the gut. The gut microbiota, the community of gut micro-organisms themselves, is an excellent gut-homeostasis keeper since it controls the growth of potentially harmful bacteria and protects the microbiota environment. There is evidence suggesting that a diet rich in fatty acids can be metabolized and converted by gut microbiota and hepatic enzymes to trimethyl-amine N-oxide (TMAO), a product that is associated with atherogenesis, platelet dysfunction, thrombotic events, coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure (HF), and, ultimately, death. HF, by inducing gut ischemia, congestion, and, consequently, gut barrier dysfunction, promotes the intestinal leaking of micro-organisms and their products, facilitating their entrance into circulation and thus stimulating a low-grade inflammation associated with an immune response. Drugs used for HF may alter the gut microbiota, and, conversely, gut microbiota may modify the pharmacokinetic properties of the drugs. The modification of lifestyle based mainly on exercise and a Mediterranean diet, along with the use of pre- or probiotics, may be beneficial for the gut microbiota environment. The potential role of gut microbiota in HF development and progression is the subject of this review.
Exogenous OCT4 and SOX2 Contribution to In Vitro Reprogramming in Cattle
Authors: Machado Lucas Simões , Borges Camila Martins , de Lima Marina Amaro , Sangalli Juliano Rodrigues , Therrien Jacinthe , Pessôa Laís Vicari de Figueiredo , Fantinato Neto Paulo , Perecin Felipe , Smith Lawrence Charles , Meirelles Flavio Vieira , Bressan Fabiana Fernandes
Published: September 2023

Mechanisms of cell reprogramming by pluripotency-related transcription factors or nuclear transfer seem to be mediated by similar pathways, and the study of the contribution of OCT4 and SOX2 in both processes may help elucidate the mechanisms responsible for pluripotency. Bovine fibroblasts expressing exogenous OCT4 or SOX2, or both, were analyzed regarding the expression of pluripotency factors and imprinted genes H19 and IGF2R, and used for in vitro reprogramming. The expression of the H19 gene was increased in the control sorted group, and putative iPSC-like cells were obtained when cells were not submitted to cell sorting. When sorted cells expressing OCT4, SOX2, or none (control) were used as donor cells for somatic cell nuclear transfer, fusion rates were 60.0% vs. 64.95% and 70.53% vs. 67.24% for SOX2 vs. control and OCT4 vs. control groups, respectively; cleavage rates were 66.66% vs. 81.68% and 86.47% vs. 85.18%, respectively; blastocyst rates were 33.05% vs. 44.15% and 52.06% vs. 44.78%, respectively. These results show that the production of embryos by NT resulted in similar rates of in vitro developmental competence compared to control cells regardless of different profiles of pluripotency-related gene expression presented by donor cells; however, induced reprogramming was compromised after cell sorting.
Effects of Mixture Proportions and Levels of Vibration on the Physical Characteristics and Durability of Concrete Used in Korean Pavements
Authors: Yum Woo Sung , Bae Ha Eun , Park Hae-Won , Jeong Jin Hoon
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the effects of mixture proportions and vibration levels on the physical properties, durability and performance of concrete used in Korean pavements. The strength and durability characteristics varied depending on the mixture proportions and level of vibration, and samples with fly ash (i.e., F-CON) did not meet the strength and durability criteria when low levels of vibration were applied. Therefore, intermediate or higher levels of vibration should be applied to satisfy strength and durability criteria. Meanwhile, there was little difference in the performance tests (i.e., skid resistance, surface abrasion, and IRI) of concrete pavements depending on the mixture proportions and vibration levels. However, the sample with an intermediate level of vibration had a relatively higher performance than the other samples.
How Do Different Methods for Generating Future Weather Data Affect Building Performance Simulations? A Comparative Analysis of Southern Europe
Authors: Escandón Rocío , Calama-González Carmen María , Alonso Alicia , Suárez Rafael , León-Rodríguez Ángel Luis
Published: September 2023

Climate change will have a great impact on the hottest climates of southern Europe and the existing residential stock will be extremely vulnerable to these future climatic conditions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to update this building stock considering imminent global warming by applying climatic files that predict future conditions in building performance simulations. This research makes use of the two most applied tools (Meteonorm and CCWorldWeatherGen) for generating future climate hourly datasets for 2050 and 2080 in southern Spain. The results predicted for outdoor and indoor thermal conditions and cooling and heating demands are evaluated for two different scale simulation models: a test cell and a multi-family building located in southern Spain. The main aim of this work is the development of a comparative analysis of the results to highlight their potential differences and raise awareness of the influence of the climate data projection method on the simulation outcome. The results show that the projection method selected for producing future climatic files has relevant effects on the analysis of thermal comfort and energy demand, but it is considerably reduced when an annual evaluation is developed.
Insights into Photo/Electrocatalysts for the Degradation of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) by Advanced Oxidation Processes
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Yuan Taoyue , Yang Xinyu , Ding Shunke , Ma Mengtao
Published: September 2023

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are an emerging group of persistent organic pollutants in aquatic environments with high levels of toxicity and bioaccumulation. The risks posed by PFASs to the environment and health have attracted increasing attention. To remove them from water, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), with the merits of high efficiency and low cost, are mainly used. Photo/electrocatalytic heterogeneous AOPs, with the assistance of nanostructured catalysts and external energy in the form of light/electricity, have emerged as one of the most powerful techniques, overcoming the difficulty associated with defluorination and achieving the effective and complete degradation of PFASs in water. The structures of photo/electrocatalysts play a critical role in the production of reactive oxygen species, the electron transfer process, and the degradation pathway and its efficiency. Herein, to elucidate the structure–performance relationship, a review of photo/electrocatalysts for the enhanced degradation of PFASs in heterogeneous AOPs, organized according to their composition and nanostructure design, is provided. This review article is mainly focused on (1) the mechanisms and pathways of PFAS degradation by heterogeneous photo/electrocatalytic AOPs, and (2) the structural designs and modifications of photo/electrocatalysts for the enhanced degradation of PFASs by heterogeneous AOPs. Finally, the challenges and prospects for future research into photo/electrocatalysts of heterogeneous AOPs in the field of PFAS remediation are discussed.
A Clinical Approach of Allergic Rhinitis in Children
Authors: Goniotakis Ioannis , Perikleous Evanthia , Fouzas Sotirios , Steiropoulos Paschalis , Paraskakis Emmanouil
Published: September 2023

Allergic rhinitis is an important disease with a global footprint and a growing prevalence, affecting children and adults. Although it is commonly under-diagnosed and under-treated, it causes important social and economic effects (diminished quality of life, poor academic performance, escalated medical visits, heightened medication usage, and effects in other chronic conditions, e.g., asthma). It is characterized by distinctive, easily identifiable symptoms (sneezing, nasal discharge, nasal congestion, nasal–eye–palatal itching) and indirect accompanying indicators (fatigue and decreased school performance). The classification of allergic rhinitis hinges upon its nature and chronic distribution (seasonal or perennial) and its intensity, which spans from mild to moderate and severe. The diagnostic process primarily relies upon recognizing key clinical indicators, evaluating historical records, and considering risk factors. It is supported by abnormal laboratory findings, like in vitro allergen-specific IgE tests (enzyme immunoassay—EIA, chemiluminense immunoassay—CLIA) or in vivo skin prick tests for specific allergens. In the differential diagnosis, other chronic diseases manifesting with chronic rhinitis should be excluded (e.g., rhinosinusitis, chronic non-allergic rhinitis, rhinitis triggered by medications). The treatment of allergic rhinitis in children is mainly chronic and is focused on allergen exposure prevention, drug therapy, and immunotherapy in severe cases. Locally administered intranasal corticosteroids are the cornerstone of therapy. They are safe, effective, and have a favorable safety profile even during long-term use. Choosing a suitable intranasal corticosteroid drug with low systemic bioavailability makes long-term treatment even safer. Combinations of intranasal corticosteroids and H1 antihistamines are available in several countries and are widely used in more severe cases and the presence of year-round symptoms. Adding newer-generation oral H1-antihistamines broadens the available therapeutic inventory without significant effects compared to using previous-generation, once widely available, H1-antihistamines. Treatment of allergic rhinitis is complex and multi-dimensional, requiring an effective approach by a specialized group of specialized pediatricians, and is severely affected by the concurrent presence or development of other diseases in the spectrum of allergic diseases (conjunctivitis, asthma).
Parents’ Knowledge of and Attitude toward Acute Otitis Media and Its Treatment in Children: A Survey at Primary Healthcare Centers in the Aseer Region
Authors: AlHefdhi Hayfa Abdulkhaleq , Al Qout Maraam Mohammed , Alqahtani Alhanouf Yahya , Alqahtani Meshal Mohammed , Asiri Roaa Mohammed , Alshahrani Omair Mohammed , Almoghamer Hanan Delem , Youssef Naglaa , Ghazy Ramy Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Background: Acute otitis media (AOM) in children aged 5 years old and younger poses a critical health concern, affecting both the general health of children and the emotional well-being of parents. The objective of this study was to evaluate parental understanding, attitudes, and experiences related to AOM and its management, including the use of antibiotics without physician prescription. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out during the months of May and June of 2023. To collect data for this study, a validated questionnaire was converted into a Google form and given to parents of children aged 5 years and younger who sought healthcare for their children in primary healthcare centers in Abha city, Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. Results: A total of 406 parents participated in this study, 64.8% of them were women and 45.3% of them were in the age range of 25 to 34 years. The majority (90.1%) resided in urban areas and a significant proportion (72.2%) had a university education. Among the respondents, 22.7% agreed that bacteria are the cause of AOM, while 21.7% agreed that it is caused by viruses. A total of 51.0% acknowledged the need for antibiotics in the management of AOM. In terms of treatment, 84.5% and 83.5% believed that analgesics and antibiotics, respectively, were the most effective for otalgia. A substantial portion, 43.1%, 34.7%, and 37.7%, respectively, believed that antibiotics could reduce pain, relieve fever, and prevent recurrence. Almost three-quarters sought medical advice primarily from paediatricians and 37.7% obtained information about AOM from the Internet. Furthermore, almost a third (28.8%) chose not to wait for the physician’s appointment and immediately administered antibiotics without the physician’s prescription due to concerns about disease progression. Approximately two fifths (38.4%) requested physicians to prescribe antibiotics, a pattern that was in agreement with the actual rate of antibiotic prescriptions (38.4%). Conclusions: A notable deficiency in knowledge and unsafe practices about AOM and its management is evident among parents in the Aseer region. This underscores the pressing need for an educational program aimed at improving parental health literacy regarding otitis media causes and treatments, as well as its preventive measures.
Habit-DisHabit Design with a Quadratic Equation: A Better Model of the Hemodynamic Changes in Preschoolers during the Dimension Change Card Sorting Task
Authors: Wu Dandan , Chang Chunqi , Yang Jinfeng , Luo Jiutong , Xie Sha , Li Hui
Published: September 2023

General linear modeling (GLM) has been widely employed to estimate the hemodynamic changes observed by functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) technology, which are found to be nonlinear rather than linear, however. Therefore, GLM might not be appropriate for modeling the hemodynamic changes evoked by cognitive processing in developmental neurocognitive studies. There is an urgent need to identify a better statistical model to fit into the nonlinear fNIRS data. This study addressed this need by developing a quadratic equation model to reanalyze the existing fNIRS data (N = 38, Mage = 5.0 years, SD = 0.69 years, 17 girls) collected from the mixed-order design Dimensional Change Card Sort (DCCS) task and verified the model with a new set of data with the Habit-DisHabit design. First, comparing the quadratic and cubic modeling results of the mixed-order design data indicated that the proposed quadratic equation was better than GLM and cubic regression to model the oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO) changes in this task. Second, applying this quadratic model with the Habit-DisHabit design data verified its suitability and indicated that the new design was more effective in identifying the neural correlates of cognitive shifting than the mixed-order design. These findings jointly indicate that Habit-DisHabit Design with a quadratic equation might better model the hemodynamic changes in preschoolers during the DCCS task.
Lung Ultrasound Reduces Chest X-rays in Postoperative Care after Thoracic Surgery: Is There a Role for Artificial Intelligence?—Systematic Review
Authors: Malík Marek , Dzian Anton , Števík Martin , Vetešková Štefánia , Al Hakim Abdulla , Hliboký Maroš , Magyar Ján , Kolárik Michal , Bundzel Marek , Babič František
Published: September 2023

Background: Chest X-ray (CXR) remains the standard imaging modality in postoperative care after non-cardiac thoracic surgery. Lung ultrasound (LUS) showed promising results in CXR reduction. The aim of this review was to identify areas where the evaluation of LUS videos by artificial intelligence could improve the implementation of LUS in thoracic surgery. Methods: A literature review of the replacement of the CXR by LUS after thoracic surgery and the evaluation of LUS videos by artificial intelligence after thoracic surgery was conducted in Medline. Results: Here, eight out of 10 reviewed studies evaluating LUS in CXR reduction showed that LUS can reduce CXR without a negative impact on patient outcome after thoracic surgery. No studies on the evaluation of LUS signs by artificial intelligence after thoracic surgery were found. Conclusion: LUS can reduce CXR after thoracic surgery. We presume that artificial intelligence could help increase the LUS accuracy, objectify the LUS findings, shorten the learning curve, and decrease the number of inconclusive results. To confirm this assumption, clinical trials are necessary. This research is funded by the Slovak Research and Development Agency, grant number APVV 20-0232.
Diet, Nutrition, and Oral Health in Older Adults: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Chan Alice Kit Ying , Tsang Yiu Cheung , Jiang Chloe Meng , Leung Katherine Chiu Man , Lo Edward Chin Man , Chu Chun Hung
Published: September 2023

Diet, nutrition, and oral health are closely linked. Malnutrition is a challenging health concern in older adults that is associated with physical decline affecting their daily activities and quality of life. The aim of this review is to provide an evidence-based summary of the relationship between diet and nutrition and oral health in older adults and its implications. The World Health Organization has declared healthy ageing a priority of its work on ageing. The American Dental Association confirmed the bidirectional relationship between diet and nutrition and oral health. The literature shows that diet and nutrition are related to oral diseases, including dental caries, periodontal diseases, tooth wear, and even oral cancer. Insufficient nutritional intake and poor dietary habits increase the risk of oral diseases, such as dental caries, in older adults. On the other hand, in older adults, poor oral conditions such as periodontal disease may induce pain, infection, and tooth loss, affecting nutritional intake. Surveys have shown that older adults, in particular, those in disadvantaged communities, suffered from nutritional deficiencies or imbalances affecting their oral health. In addition, the current literature shows that malnutrition is associated with frailty, hospitalization, mortality, and morbidity. Good oral health and functional dentition are essential to maintain sufficient nutritional intake among older adults and reduce the risk of malnutrition. Therefore, integrating oral health into general health care service in older adults is imperative to improve their nutritional and oral health status to achieve healthy ageing.
A Whole Education Approach to Inclusive Education: An Integrated Model to Guide Planning, Policy, and Provision
Authors: Kenny Neil , McCoy Selina , O’Higgins Norman James
Published: September 2023

Inclusion is an important aspect of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in education. This article will discuss the significance of recent developments in the field of school-based bullying prevention and evaluate their applicability to the policy discourse of inclusive education. Both inclusive education and school-based bullying remain contested phenomena without a clear consensus regarding their definition or how to operationalise them as concepts within school policy or practice effectively. UNESCO’s Scientific Committee has recently proposed the Whole Education Approach, which conceptualises a holistic, socially engaged, and interconnected vision for policy development in addressing school-based bullying prevention. Importantly, the Whole Education Approach conceptualises incidences of bullying as indicative of a deficit of care and support within the surrounding social environment, thus adopting an ecological and relational focus regarding bullying prevention. In addition, bullying prevention is viewed as requiring coherent collaboration between the school, family, and other relevant stakeholders in the local social community surrounding the school. This includes government funding, resource policies and national legal frameworks. This article argues that this approach may also have utility within inclusive education policy in supporting a more integrated and holistic promotion of social inclusion, underpinning equal opportunities in recognition of the diverse needs of all learners in schools. This article discusses the details of the Whole Education Approach and emphasises how this framework can also address educational inclusion by adopting an integrated, multi-elemental focus on supporting collaboration across stakeholders relevant to the lives of pupils within schools.
Supporting Emergent Writing in Preschool Classrooms: Results of a Professional Development Program
Authors: DeBaryshe Barbara D.
Published: September 2023

Emergent writing is a key component of early literacy development and contributes to later school success, yet it receives little attention in most preschool classrooms. This paper presents results of a quasi-experimental study of a teacher professional development package that included writing as one of four focal areas. The study was conducted in 15 Head Start classrooms located in the U.S. state of Hawaiʻi. The participants were 39 lead and assistant teachers and 240 children. Intervention teachers had higher quality writing environments and overall classroom environments, while intervention children showed better outcomes on emergent reading and upper case letter knowledge. Emergent writing was assessed only in the intervention group, where children showed large gains along with changes in code-related skills needed for invented spelling. Results are discussed in terms of recommended practices for early writing instruction and teacher professional development.
A Spatio-Temporal Spotting Network with Sliding Windows for Micro-Expression Detection
Authors: Fu Wenwen , An Zhihong , Huang Wendong , Sun Haoran , Gong Wenjuan , Gonzàlez Jordi
Published: September 2023

Micro-expressions reveal underlying emotions and are widely applied in political psychology, lie detection, law enforcement and medical care. Micro-expression spotting aims to detect the temporal locations of facial expressions from video sequences and is a crucial task in micro-expression recognition. In this study, the problem of micro-expression spotting is formulated as micro-expression classification per frame. We propose an effective spotting model with sliding windows called the spatio-temporal spotting network. The method involves a sliding window detection mechanism, combines the spatial features from the local key frames and the global temporal features and performs micro-expression spotting. The experiments are conducted on the CAS(ME)2 database and the SAMM Long Videos database, and the results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art method by 30.58% for the CAS(ME)2 and 23.98% for the SAMM Long Videos according to overall F-scores.
Learning Analytics on YouTube Educational Videos: Exploring Sentiment Analysis Methods and Topic Clustering
Authors: Chalkias Ilias , Tzafilkou Katerina , Karapiperis Dimitrios , Tjortjis Christos
Published: September 2023

The popularity of social media is continuously growing, as it endeavors to bridge the gap in communication between individuals. YouTube, one of the most well-known social media platforms with millions of users, stands out due to its remarkable ability to facilitate communication through the exchange of video content. Despite its primary purpose being entertainment, YouTube also offers individuals the valuable opportunity to learn from its vast array of educational content. The primary objective of this study is to explore the sentiments of YouTube learners by analyzing their comments on educational YouTube videos. A total of 167,987 comments were extracted and processed from educational YouTube channels through the YouTube Data API and Google Sheets. Lexicon-based sentiment analysis was conducted using two different methods, VADER and TextBlob, with the aim of detecting the prevailing sentiment. The sentiment analysis results revealed that the dominant sentiment expressed in the comments was neutral, followed by positive sentiment, while negative sentiment was the least common. VADER and TextBlob algorithms produced comparable results. Nevertheless, TextBlob yielded higher scores in both positive and negative sentiments, whereas VADER detected a greater number of neutral statements. Furthermore, the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic clustering outcomes shed light on various video attributes that potentially influence viewers’ experiences. These attributes included animation, music, and the conveyed messages within the videos. These findings make a significant contribution to ongoing research efforts aimed at understanding the educational advantages of YouTube and discerning viewers’ preferences regarding video components and educational topics.
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Assessment of the Internal Flue Gases Recirculation (IFGR) Applied to Gas Microturbine in the Context of More Hydrogen-Enriched Fuel Use
Authors: Fąfara Jean-Marc , Modliński Norbert
Published: September 2023

Renewable energy is a promising substitute for fossil fuels when corelated with P2G technology. To optimise P2G efficiency, there is a need to increase hydrogen fraction in the fuel stream. Simultaneously gas microturbines are widely applied in many industry sectors. These devices are often equipped with diffusion combustors. This situation was investigated in this paper. The P2G and gas microturbines may be integrated together in the future leading to the application of hydrogen-enriched fuel. Hydrogen-enriched fuel causes increase in combustion temperature and velocity. In a nonadapted combustor, these phenomena could result in an increase of NOx emissions and risk of material overheating and failure. In order to adapt the combustors for hydrogen-enriched fuel, the concept of autonomous internal flue gases recirculation (IFGR) system was applied to this issue. In this paper, the IFGR system applied to gas microturbine was studied in terms of hydrogen-enriched fuel application. The obtained exhaust gases recirculation ratios were too low to affect the combustion process as it was expected. The observed combustion modifications in the combustor were hardly linked to the air flow modification in the liner, due to IFGR system implementation. After CFD studies, the proposed IFGR system does not seem to provide the expected effects.
The Design, Analysis, and Optimization of a New Pitch Mechanism for Small Wind Turbines
Authors: Wang Peng , Bao Daorina , Zhao Mingzhi , Shi Zhongyu , Gao Fan , Han Feng
Published: September 2023

This article proposes and designs a novel variable pitch adjustment device for small wind turbines. The generator spindle is designed to be hollow so that the drive rod passes through it and connects the pitch drive mechanism to the pitch actuator. The article introduces the basic structure and working principle of the pitch mechanism and verifies the feasibility of the pitch device by using 3D printing technology to produce a small-scale model. The stress analysis of the wind turbine was carried out using the unidirectional fluid–structure coupling method. The results show that the maximum equivalent stress of the pitch mechanism is 27.42 MPa, the maximum tooth surface contact stress of the gear is 38.40 MPa, and the maximum tooth root bending stress is 18.13 MPa. The rack synchronous disk, blade handle, and gear rack mechanism were designed with light weight using various optimization schemes. The results of the optimization showed that the overall mass of the pitch mechanism was reduced by 33.2%, improving the applicability of the new pitch mechanism.
Fibre Bragg Grating Sensors for Condition Monitoring of High-Voltage Assets: A Review
Authors: Ramnarine Veeresh , Peesapati Vidyadhar , Djurović Siniša
Published: September 2023

The high-voltage (HV) assets in the existing power transmission network will experience increased electrical, thermal, environmental and mechanical stresses and, therefore, robust condition monitoring is critical for power system reliability planning. Fibre Bragg grating (FBG) sensors offer a promising technology in HV applications due to their immunity to electromagnetic interference and multiplexing capability. This paper reviews the current technology readiness levels of FBG sensors for condition monitoring of transformers, transmission lines, towers, overhead insulators and power cables, with the aim of stimulating further development and deployment of fibre-based HV asset management systems. Currently, there are several reported cases of FBG sensors used for condition monitoring of HV assets in the field, proving their feasibility for long-term use in the power grid. The review shows that FBG technology is versatile and can facilitate multi-parameter measurements, which will standardise the demodulation equipment and reduce challenges with integrating different sensing technologies.
Strategies for Improving Lignocellulosic Butanol Production and Recovery in ABE Fermentation by Tailoring Clostridia Metabolic Perturbations
Authors: Kang Jin , Dahman Yaser
Published: September 2023

The present study investigates approaches to enhance bio-butanol production using lignocellulosic feedstock via supplements of metabolism perturbation. Traditionally, bio-butanol has been produced through chemical synthesis in a process known as acetone–butanol–ethanol (ABE) fermentation. Today, biochemical techniques involving bacterial strains capable of producing butanol are used with renewable sources of biomass. In this study, a stepwise approach was tailored for metabolic perturbations to maximize butanol production from pure sugar and lignocellulosic feedstock as a reference model fermentation. In preliminary investigations, impacts of CaCO3, furfural and methyl red on cell growth, sugar utilization, acid production and butanol production were evaluated in glucose feedstock and xylose feedstock. Following the preliminary investigation, with supplementation of 4 g/L CaCO3, the concentrations of furan derivatives (75% furfural and 25% HMF) and ZnSO4 were optimized for maximal butanol production from glucose and xylose feedstocks, respectively. A final experiment of butanol production was concluded using lignocellulosic feedstock hydrolysate normally containing 0.5~1.5 g/L furan derivatives under optimized conditions of 2 mg/L ZnSO4 and 4 g/L CaCO3. Under optimized conditions, butanol production exceeded 10 g/L in wheat straw hydrolysate, which was significantly higher than that obtained in the absence of ZnSO4 and CaCO3. As compared to the traditional lignocellulosic feedstock post-treatment method, the metabolic perturbations method shows advantages in terms of productivity and economics.
Diversity of the Microbiota of Traditional Izmir Tulum and Izmir Brined Tulum Cheeses and Selection of Potential Probiotics
Authors: Güley Ziba , Fallico Vincenzo , Cabrera-Rubio Raul , O’Sullivan Daniel , Marotta Mariarosaria , Pennone Vincenzo , Smith Sandra , Beresford Tom
Published: September 2023

High-throughput DNA sequencing (HTS) was used to study the microbial diversity of commercial traditional Izmir Tulum (IT) and Izmir Brined Tulum (IBT) cheeses from Izmir, Türkiye. Simultaneously, cultivation-dependent methods were used to isolate, identify and characterize bacterial strains displaying probiotic potential. At the phylum level, Firmicutes dominated the microbiota of both cheese types comprising >98% of the population. Thirty genera were observed, with Streptococcus being the most abundant genus and with Streptococcus thermophilus and S. infantarius subsp. infantarius being the most abundant species. Genera, including Bifidobacterium and Chryseobacterium, not previously associated with IT and IBT, were detected. IT cheeses displayed higher operational taxonomic units (OTUs; Richness) and diversity index (Simpson) than IBT cheeses; however, the difference between the diversity of the microbiota of IT and IBT cheese samples was not significant. Three Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strains isolated from IBT cheeses exhibited probiotic characteristics, which included capacity to survive under in vitro simulated gastrointestinal conditions, resistance to bile salts and potential to adhere to HT-29 human intestinal cells. These findings demonstrate that Tulum cheeses harbor bacterial genera not previously reported in this cheese and that some strains display probiotic characteristics.
Pea Protein Isolate as a Meat Substitute in Canned Pork Pâté: Nutritional, Technological, Oxidative, and Sensory Properties
Authors: Trindade Pamela Cristiele Oliveira , Santos Bibiana Alves dos , Hollweg Géssica , Correa Leticia Pereira , Pinton Mariana Basso , Padilha Milena , Payeras Rafael Henrique Zanini , Rosa Sarita Correa , Cichoski Alexandre José , Campagnol Paulo Cezar Bastianello
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the feasibility of replacing pork meat with pea protein isolate in canned pâtés at proportions ranging from 12.5% to 50%. The results indicated that protein reformulation did not significantly impact the protein content and lipid oxidation of the pâtés. Reformulated products exhibited a decrease in a∗ values and an increase in b∗ values. These color changes were also sensorially identified in the Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) test, where the reformulated pâtés were associated with attributes such as ‘yellow color’ and ‘unpleasant color’, which were inversely related to product acceptance. The protein reformulation reduced the hardness, gumminess, and chewiness parameters of the pâtés. These textural changes were positively reflected in the CATA test, where the reformulated products were characterized by attributes like ‘soft texture’, ‘pleasant texture’, and ‘good spreadability’, which strongly correlated with higher consumer acceptance. Notably, pâtés with 37.5% and 50% substitutions of pork meat with pea protein showed acceptability levels comparable to the control, and those with up to a 25% substitution exhibited superior sensory acceptability. However, the color alteration suggests the need for future optimization, such as using natural colorants. In summary, the results of this study not only validate the feasibility of replacing pork meat with pea protein in pâtés but also offer valuable insights for future investigations to develop more innovative and sustainable meat products.
Evidence for the Beneficial Effects of Brazilian Native Fruits and Their By-Products on Human Intestinal Microbiota and Repercussions on Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases—A Review
Authors: Lima Maiara da Costa , do Nascimento Heloísa Maria Almeida , da Silva Jaielison Yandro Pereira , de Brito Alves José Luiz , de Souza Evandro Leite
Published: September 2023

Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) are the most widespread cause of mortality worldwide. Intestinal microbiota balance can be altered by changes in the abundance and/or diversity of intestinal microbiota, indicating a role of intestinal microbiota in NCD development. This review discusses the findings of in vitro studies, pre-clinical studies and clinical trials on the effects of Brazilian native fruits, their by-products, as well as their bioactive compounds on human intestinal microbiota and NCD. The major bioactive compounds in Brazilian native fruits and their by-products, and the impacts of their administration on outcomes linked to intestinal microbiota modulation are discussed. Mechanisms of intestinal microbiota affecting NCD could be linked to the modulation of absorption and energy balance, immune and endocrine systems, and inflammatory response. Brazilian native fruits, such as acerola, açaí, baru, buriti, guava, jabuticaba, juçara, and passion fruit, have several bioactive compounds, soluble and insoluble fibers, and a variety of phenolic compounds, which are capable of changing these key mechanisms. Brazilian native fruits and their by-products can help to promote positive intestinal and systemic health benefits by driving alterations in the composition of the human intestinal microbiota, and increasing the production of distinct short-chain fatty acids and phenolic metabolites, thereby enhancing intestinal integrity and homeostasis. Evidence from available literature shows that the modulatory impacts of Brazilian native fruits and their by-products on the composition and metabolic activity of the intestinal microbiota could improve several clinical repercussions associated with NCD, reinforcing the influence of intestinal microbiota in extra-intestinal outcomes.
Unraveling Elusive Boundaries: A Comprehensive Framework for Assessing Local Food Consumption Patterns in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Charlebois Sylvain , Le Bouthillier Marie , Music Janet , Vézeau Janèle
Published: September 2023

Promoting local food consumption for economic growth is a priority; however, defining “local” remains challenging. In Nova Scotia, Canada, this pioneering research establishes a comprehensive framework for assessing local food consumption. Employing three data collection methods, our study reveals that, on average, Nova Scotians allocate 31.2% of their food expenditures to locally sourced products, excluding restaurant and take-out spending, as per the provincial guidelines. The participants estimated that, in the previous year, 37.6% of their spending was on local food; this figure was derived from the most effective method among the three. However, the figure was potentially influenced by participant perspective and was prone to overestimation. To enhance accuracy, we propose methodological enhancements. Despite the limitations, the 31.2% baseline offers a substantial foundation for understanding local food patterns in Nova Scotia. It serves as a replicable benchmark for future investigations and guides researchers with similar objectives, thereby establishing a robust research platform.
A Scattered Star Group in the Orion A Region of the Milky Way
Authors: Vereshchagin Sergei , Chupina Natalya , Lyzenko Kristina , Kalinkin Anatoly , Kondratev Nikolay , Kovaleva Dana , Sapozhnikov Sergei
Published: September 2023

Using Gaia DR3 data, we identified an extended a ~60 pc group of stars sharing common motion but scattered in space, including from 150 to 300 probable members, named Group V. It can be associated with a group identified by Getman et al. (2019) and by Jerabkova et al. (2019) as a relic of a gas filament, traced by the mutual position of stars after the gas is swept out. We estimate its age to be approximately 16 million years. A combination of methods is applied to select probable members of Group V. We discuss the kinematic characteristics of the stars of Group V and the controversial clues they provide for understanding its nature. Due to the vicinity of a number of open clusters in the space, differentiating between members of the group and of the clusters is problematic, and mutual contamination is inevitable. The pair of clusters Gulliver 6 and UBC 17b is wrapped inside Group V but differs from it in kinematics.
Novel Modified Styrene-Based Microspheres for Enhancing the Performance of Drilling Fluids at High Temperatures
Authors: Zhang Xianfa , Liu Jingping , Sun Jinsheng , Lv Kaihe , Wang Zonglun , Xu Zhe , Sun Yuanwei
Published: September 2023

Ensuring wellbore stability is of utmost importance for safety when drilling in deep formations. However, high temperatures severely disrupt the drilling fluid gel system, leading to severe stability issues within ultra-deep formations containing micropores. This study focused on the development of a polymer-based plugging material capable of withstanding high temperatures up to 200 °C. A kind of microsphere, referred to as SST (styrene–sodium styrene sulfonate copolymer), was synthesized with a particle size of 322 nm. Compared to polystyrene, the thermal stability of SST is greatly improved, with a thermal decomposition temperature of 362 °C. Even after subjecting SST to hot rolling at 200 °C for 16 h, the particle size, elemental composition, and zeta potential remained stable within an aqueous dispersion system. The results of core displacement and NMR tests demonstrate that SST considerably reduces the pore diameter with a remarkable plugging efficiency of 78.9%. Additionally, when drilling fluids reach 200 °C, SST still enhances drilling fluid suspension and dispersion, and reduces fluid loss by over 36% by facilitating the dispersion of clay particles, improving the gel structure of the drilling fluid, resisting clay dehydration, and promoting plugging. The development of SST provides valuable insights into the preparation of high-temperature-resistant microspheres and the formulation of effective plugging agents for deep-well drilling fluids.
Reading the “Slash” in Percival Everett’s American Desert
Authors: Weixlmann Joe
Published: September 2023

This article explores Percival Everett’s multi-dimensional use of a concept he has termed the “slash” (i.e., the line that both separates and conjoins signifier/signified) in his novel American Desert. In effect, this slash is a trope Everett deploys to compel readers not to align themselves with what might otherwise be perceived as the author’s message but rather to explore a wide range of the possible ideas and provisional meanings his fiction might generate, challenge these perceived meanings, constructively play with his text, and eventually tease out some (inevitably contingent) concepts that may, upon further consideration, morph into newer, richer sets of understanding. Although Everett’s use of the slash is not unique to American Desert, it is arguably the novel in which he uses the trope most pervasively.
Factors Related to the Implementation of Preconception Care Recommendations in Selected Districts of Limpopo Province: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ndou Ntombizodwa Paulinah , Malwela Thivhulawi , Maputle Maria Sonto , Raliphaswa Ndidzulafhi Selina , Mabasa Lawrence , Samie Amidou , Netshikweta Mutshinyalo Lizzy
Published: September 2023

Preconception care (PCC) is the provision of biomedical, behavioural, and social health interventions to women and couples before they fall pregnant. The World Health Organization (WHO) developed PCC recommendations in 2013, which were included in the South African maternity care guidelines in 2016. The purpose of PCC is to lessen behaviours and environmental factors leading to maternal ill-health, thus reducing maternal and perinatal mortality rates. Objective: To determine the implementation of PCC recommendations at health facilities in the selected districts of Limpopo Province and the associated factors. Methods: A qualitative exploratory design was used. Nonprobability, purposive sampling was used to sample 29 professional nurses (PNs), and 51 women of childbearing age (WCBA) (19–35 years) from clinics and community health centres (CHCs). Data were collected through in-depth interviews with the professional nurses and focus group discussions with the WCBA. Data analysis was performed through open coding. Measures of trustworthiness were adhered to. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from relevant stakeholders, participation was voluntary and participants signed a consent form prior to data collection. Results: The findings of the study revealed that there was partial implementation of the PCC recommendations in the selected districts of Limpopo Province, PCC provision was dependent on clients’ initiation, a knowledge gap regarding PCC recommendations was identified from the professional nurses, and a lack of awareness regarding PCC from the WCBA. Conclusion: The preconception period is an important determinant of the pregnancy outcome; therefore, focus should be redirected to the pre-pregnancy period and not only to when the woman is already pregnant. However, to achieve this, professional nurses and WCBA should be empowered regarding PCC and its benefits.
Effects of a Clinical Simulation-Based Training Program for Nursing Students to Address Social Isolation and Loneliness in the Elderly: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Hernández-López María Jesús , Ruzafa-Martínez María , Leal-Costa César , Ramos-Morcillo Antonio Jesús , Díaz-García Isidora , López-Pérez María Verónica , Hernández-Méndez Solanger , García-González Jessica
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The population of older adults is rapidly increasing worldwide, presenting both prospects and complexities for society and healthcare professionals to maximize the functional capacity of this age group. Social isolation and loneliness significantly affect this population. The objective was to determine the effectiveness, satisfaction, and perceptions of the simulation-based education practices of a training program for nursing students, which was created to palliate the social isolation and loneliness of older adults. Method: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with nursing students who participated in an online training program using teleservice based on high-fidelity clinical simulation. The program included asynchronous theoretical training and synchronous practical training using an online platform. Five scenarios were designed using simulated phone calls to address the social isolation and loneliness of older adults. Results: Twenty-five nursing students participated in the program, and they had a mean age of 27.44, with 76% of them being women. After the training program, the participants showed statistically significant improvements (p < 0.05) with respect to their knowledge and attitudes towards older adults, and the program was adapted to the best educational practices in simulations. Conclusions: Simulation-based online training efficiently improved the knowledge and attitudes of nursing students towards older adults, improving their ability to address social isolation and loneliness. The high satisfaction and adhesion to the best educational practices underline the usefulness of high-fidelity online simulations, especially in situations in which face-to-face training is not feasible, and accessibility and equilibrium could be guaranteed between work and personal life.
Cytogenetic Study of Five Varieties of Callisia repens (Jacq.) L. (Commelinaceae) from Laos
Authors: Sengthong Anousone , Saensouk Surapon , Saensouk Piyaporn , Souladeth Phetlasy
Published: September 2023

Cytogenetical studies were carried out on five varieties of Callisia repens, i.e., turtle vine, green, pink lady, gold, and Bianca. The morphological characteristics of all five varieties differed in leaf shape and color of the plant. All five varieties have the same chromosome number, 2n = 12, and the fundamental number (NF) = 24. The number of metacentric (m), submetacentric (sm), and subtelocentric (st) chromosomes was related to the discrepancies between the various karyotypes that were found. The formula for each of the karyotypes was 2m + 2sm + 8st (turtle vine), 2m + 10st (green), 8m + 4st 14 (pink lady), 2m + 4sm + 6st (gold), and 2m + 2sm + 8st (Bianca). Therefore, all five strains had asymmetrical karyotypes. The chromosome number of C. repens has been reported previously, but this is the first report of karyotype variation among the varieties. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) of the karyotype formula was able to distinguish C. repens ‘pink lady’, C. repens ‘green’, and C. repens ‘gold’, but it was unable to differentiate between C. repens ‘Bianca’ and C. repens ‘turtle vine’. Additionally, PCA conducted on the centromeric index (CI) and the leaf colors of the five varieties of C. repens successfully separated all of them. Therefore, the prominent morphological traits and karyotype information of the five varieties of C. repens from Laos can be used to distinguish between them.