bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Propagation of Philodendron erubescens ‘Pink Princess’ and Ex Vitro Acclimatization of the Plantlets
Authors: Klanrit Preekamol , Kitwetcharoen Haruthairat , Thanonkeo Pornthap , Thanonkeo Sudarat
Published: June 2023

This study describes the in vitro propagation and ex vitro acclimatization of Philodendron erubescens pink princess, one of the most popular ornamental variegated foliage plants. For shoot proliferation, the protocorm-like bodies of the Philodendron pink princess were cultured on solid Murashige and Skoog (MS) media supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) at different concentrations. The results revealed that supplementation with BAP alone at a concentration of 1.0 mg/L yielded the maximum number of shoots and leaves. Furthermore, the application of BAP at 1.0 mg/L significantly enhanced the shoot proliferation of Philodendron pink princess when grown in liquid MS medium, yielding 11.2 shoots/explant and 4.7 leaves/explant. When the established microshoots were subjected to root induction using solid MS media supplemented with different kinds and concentrations of auxins, indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at 3 mg/L resulted in the highest number of roots (3.2 roots/explant) and longest root length (1.9 cm). Three supporting materials, i.e., peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite, were used as planting media for the ex vitro acclimatization of the Philodendron pink princess plantlets. The results demonstrated that the in vitro plantlets acclimatized and exhibited a relatively high survival frequency in all planting media without morphological abnormalities. Peat moss outperformed all other types of planting media in terms of sustaining the vegetative growth of the plantlets. In the future, the approach established in this study could be employed for the extensive production of Philodendron pink princess.
The Complex but Fascinating Relationship between Sport and Atrial Fibrillation: From Pathophysiology to the Clinical Scenario
Authors: Tatangelo Mario , Rebecchi Marco , Sgueglia Marianna , Colella Alessandra , Crescenzi Cinzia , Panattoni Germana , Ciampi Pellegrino , Lanza Oreste , Canali Emanuele , Calò Leonardo
Published: June 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cause of hospital admission among all arrhythmias in the general population. Moreover, AF represents the most common arrhythmia in the athletic population as well. The complex but fascinating relationship between sport and atrial fibrillation has not yet been fully clarified. Although the benefits of moderate physical activity in controlling cardiovascular risk factors and in reducing the risk of atrial fibrillation have been widely demonstrated, some concerns have been raised about the potential adverse effects of physical activity. Endurance activity in middle-aged men athletes appears to increase the risk of AF. Several different physiopathological mechanisms may explain the increased risk of AF in endurance athletes, including the imbalance of the autonomic nervous system, changes in left atrial size and function and presence of atrial fibrosis. The goal of this article is to review the epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical management for AF in athletes, including pharmacological and electrophysiological strategies.
Invasive and Non-Invasive Diagnostic Pathways in the Diagnosis of Cardiac Amyloidosis
Authors: Briasoulis Alexandros , Bampatsias Dimitrios , Papamichail Adamantia , Kuno Toshiki , Skoularigis John , Xanthopoulos Andrew , Triposkiadis Filippos
Published: June 2023

The appropriate diagnosis and subtyping of cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is frequently missed or delayed due to its vague presentation, clinical overlapping, and diagnostic pitfalls. Recent developments in both invasive and non-invasive diagnostic techniques have significantly changed the diagnostic approach of CA. With the present review, we aim to summarize the current diagnostic approach of CA and to underline the indications of tissue biopsy, either surrogate site or myocardial. The most important factor for timely diagnosis is increased clinical suspicion, especially in certain clinical scenarios. Appropriate imaging with echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) can provide significant evidence for the diagnosis of CA. Importantly, all patients should undergo monoclonal proteins assessment, with these results significantly determining the steps to follow. A negative monoclonal protein assessment will lead to a non-invasive algorithm which, in combination with positive cardiac scintigraphy, can establish the diagnosis of ATTR-CA. The latter is the only clinical scenario in which the diagnosis can be established without the need of biopsy. However, if the imaging results are negative but the clinical suspicion remains high, a myocardial biopsy should be performed. In the case of the presence of monoclonal protein, an invasive algorithm follows, first by surrogate site sampling and then by myocardial biopsy if the results are inconclusive or prompt diagnosis is needed. The role of endomyocardial biopsy, even though limited by current advances in other techniques, is highly valuable in selected patients and is the only method to reliably establish a diagnosis in challenging cases.
Cemented versus Cementless Femoral Fixation for Elective Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Nationwide Analysis of Short-Term Complication and Readmission Rates
Authors: Chen Xiao T. , Christ Alexander B. , Chung Brian C. , Ton Andy , Ballatori Alexander M. , Shahrestani Shane , Gettleman Brandon S. , Heckmann Nathanael D.
Published: June 2023

Cementless fixation during total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the predominant mode of fixation utilized for both acetabular and femoral components during elective primary THAs performed in the United States. This study aims to compare early complication and readmission rates between primary THA patients receiving cemented versus cementless femoral fixation. The 2016–2017 National Readmissions Database was queried to identify patients undergoing elective primary THA. Postoperative complication and readmission rates at 30, 90, and 180 days were compared between cemented and cementless cohorts. Univariate analysis was conducted to compare differences between cohorts. Multivariate analysis was performed to account for confounding variables. Of 447,902 patients, 35,226 (7.9%) received cemented femoral fixation, while 412,676 (92.1%) did not. The cemented group was older (70.0 vs. 64.8, p < 0.001), more female (65.0% vs. 54.3%, p < 0.001), and more comorbid (CCI 3.65 vs. 3.22, p < 0.001) compared to the cementless group. On univariate analysis, the cemented cohort had decreased odds of periprosthetic fracture at 30 days postoperatively (OR: 0.556, 95%-CI 0.424–0.729, p < 0.0001), but higher odds of hip dislocation, periprosthetic joint infection, aseptic loosening, wound dehiscence, readmission, medical complications, and death at all timepoints. On multivariate analysis, the cemented fixation cohort demonstrated reduced odds of periprosthetic fracture at all postoperative timepoints: 30 (OR: 0.350, 95%-CI 0.233–0.506, p < 0.0001), 90 (OR: 0.544, 95%-CI 0.400–0.725, p < 0.0001), and 180 days (OR: 0.573, 95%-CI 0.396–0.803, p = 0.002). Cemented femoral fixation was associated with significantly fewer short-term periprosthetic fractures, but more unplanned readmissions, deaths, and postoperative complications compared to cementless femoral fixation in patients undergoing elective THA.
Aortopathies: From Etiology to the Role of Arterial Stiffness
Authors: Bonfioli Giovanni Battista , Rodella Luca , Rosati Roberta , Carrozza Alberto , Metra Marco , Vizzardi Enrico
Published: June 2023

The aorta and aortic wall have a complex biological system of structural, biochemical, biomolecular, and hemodynamic elements. Arterial stiffness could be considered a manifestation of wall structural and functional variations, and it has been revealed to have a strong connection with aortopathies and be a predictor of cardiovascular risk, especially in patients affected by hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and nephropathy. Stiffness affects the function of different organs, especially the brain, kidneys, and heart, promoting remodeling of small arteries and endothelial dysfunction. This parameter could be easily evaluated using different methods, but pulse-wave velocity (PWV), the speed of transmission of arterial pressure waves, is considered the gold standard for a good and precise assessment. An increased PWV value indicates an elevated level of aortic stiffness because of the decline in elastin synthesis and activation of proteolysis and the increase in fibrosis that contributes to parietal rigidity. Higher values of PWV could also be found in some genetic diseases, such as Marfan syndrome (MFS) or Loeys-Dietz syndrome (LDS). Aortic stiffness has emerged as a major new cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor, and its evaluation using PWV could be very useful to identify patients with a high cardiovascular risk, giving some important prognostic information but also being used to value the benefits of therapeutic strategies.
Benralizumab Effectiveness in Severe Eosinophilic Asthma with Co-Presence of Bronchiectasis: A Real-World Multicentre Observational Study
Authors: Campisi Raffaele , Nolasco Santi , Pelaia Corrado , Impellizzeri Pietro , D’Amato Maria , Portacci Andrea , Ricciardi Luisa , Scioscia Giulia , Crimi Nunzio , Scichilone Nicola , Foschino Barbaro Maria Pia , Pelaia Girolamo , Carpagnano Giovanna Elisiana , Vatrella Alessandro , Crimi Claudia
Published: June 2023

Introduction: The co-presence of bronchiectasis (BE) in severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA) is common. Data about the effectiveness of benralizumab in patients with SEA and BE (SEA + BE) are lacking. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of benralizumab and remission rates in patients with SEA compared to SEA + BE, also according to BE severity. Methods: We conducted a multicentre observational study, including patients with SEA who underwent chest high-resolution computed tomography at baseline. The Bronchiectasis Severity Index (BSI) was used to assess BE severity. Clinical and functional characteristics were collected at baseline and after 6 and 12 months of treatment. Results: We included 74 patients with SEA treated with benralizumab, of which 35 (47.2%) showed the co-presence of bronchiectasis (SEA + BE) with a median BSI of 9 (7–11). Overall, benralizumab significantly improved the annual exacerbation rate (p < 0.0001), oral corticosteroids (OCS) consumption (p < 0.0001) and lung function (p < 0.01). After 12 months, significant differences were found between SEA and SEA + BE cohorts in the number of exacerbation-free patients [64.1% vs. 20%, OR 0.14 (95% CI 0.05–0.40), p < 0.0001], the proportion of OCS withdrawal [−92.6% vs. −48.6, p = 0.0003], and the daily dose of OCS [−5 mg (0 to −12.5) vs. −12.5 mg (−7.5 to −20), p = 0.0112]. Remission (zero exacerbations + zero OCS) was achieved more frequently in the SEA cohort [66.7% vs. 14.3%, OR 0.08 (95% CI 0.03–0.27), p < 0.0001]. Changes in FEV1% and FEF25–75% were inversely correlated with BSI (r = −0.36, p = 0.0448 and r = −0.41, p = 0.0191, respectively). Conclusions: These data suggest that benralizumab exerts beneficial effects in SEA with or without BE, although the former achieved less OCS sparing and fewer respiratory-function improvements.
Electroretinographic and Optical Coherence Tomographic Evaluations of Eyes with Vitreoretinal Lymphoma
Authors: Makita Jun , Yoshikawa Yuji , Kanno Junji , Igawa Yuro , Kumagai Tomoyuki , Takano Shunichiro , Katsumoto Takeshi , Shoji Takuhei , Shibuya Masayuki , Shinoda Kei
Published: June 2023

Vitreoretinal lymphomas (VRLs) present with different clinical characteristics. However, only a few case reports have been published that evaluated the retinal function and the retinal morphology. The relationship between retinal morphology and function of eyes with a vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) was investigated via optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electroretinography (ERG). The ERG and OCT findings in 11 eyes of 11 patients (69.4 ± 11.5 years old) who were diagnosed with VRL at the Saitama Medical University Hospital between December 2016 to May 2022 were studied. The decimal best-corrected visual acuity ranged from hand movements to 1.2 (median 0.2). Histopathological studies of the vitreous specimens showed class II VRL in one eye, class III VRL in seven eyes, class IV VRL in two eyes, and class V VRL in one eye. The IgH gene rearrangement was positive in three of the six eyes tested. The OCT images showed morphological abnormalities in 10 of the 11 (90.9%) eyes. Severe attenuation was found for the amplitudes of the b-wave of the DA 0.01 ERG in 6 of 11 eyes (54.5%), the DA 3.0 a-wave in 5 of 11 eyes (45.5%), the DA 3.0 b-wave in 36.4%, the LA 3.0 a-wave in 36.4%, the LA 3.0 b-wave in 18.2%, and flicker responses in 36.4% of the eyes. None of the DA 3.0 ERGs had a negative shape (b/a < 1.0). In the five eyes in which the a-wave was severely attenuated, hyperreflective dots were observed subretinally. The ERG analysis in eyes with a VRL indicates a relatively severe dysfunction of the outer retinal layer and was helpful in determining the site of the morphological changes in eyes with VRL.
Association of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors with Osteomyelitis and Other Lower Limb Safety Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Nani Alessandro , Carrara Federica , Paulesu Chiara Maria Eleonora , Dalle Fratte Chiara , Padroni Matteo , Enisci Silvia , Bilancio Maria Concetta , Romio Maria Silvia , Bertuzzi Federico , Pintaudi Basilio
Published: June 2023

Our aim was to evaluate osteomyelitis and other major lower limb safety outcomes (i.e., peripheral artery disease or PAD, ulcers, atraumatic fractures, amputations, symmetric polyneuropathy, and infections) in patients affected by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and treated with sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2-is). We thus performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing SGLT2-is at approved doses for T2DM with a placebo or standard of care. MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched through August 2022. Separate intention-to-treat analyses were implemented for each molecule to calculate Mantel-Haenszel risk ratios (RRMH) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) through a random-effects model. We processed data from 42 RCTs for a total of 29,491 and 23,052 patients, respectively assigned to SGLT2-i and comparator groups. SGLT2-is showed a pooled neutral effect on osteomyelitis, PAD, fractures, and symmetric polyneuropathy, whereas slightly deleterious sway on ulcers (RRMH 1.39 [1.01–1.91]), amputations (RRMH 1.27 [1.04–1.55]), and infections (RRMH 1.20 [1.02–1.40]). In conclusion, SGLT2-is appear to not significantly interfere with the onset of osteomyelitis, PAD, lower limb fractures, or symmetric polyneuropathy, even though the number of these events proved consistently higher in the investigational groups; otherwise, local ulcers, amputations, and overall infections may be favoured by their employment. This study is registered with the Open Science Framework (OSF).
Deciphering the Effect of Light Wavelengths in Monilinia spp. DHN-Melanin Production and Their Interplay with ROS Metabolism in M. fructicola
Authors: Verde-Yáñez Lucía , Usall Josep , Teixidó Neus , Vall-llaura Núria , Torres Rosario
Published: June 2023

Pathogenic fungi are influenced by many biotic and abiotic factors. Among them, light is a source of information for fungi and also a stress factor that triggers multiple biological responses, including the activation of secondary metabolites, such as the production of melanin pigments. In this study, we analyzed the melanin-like production in in vitro conditions, as well as the expression of all biosynthetic and regulatory genes of the DHN–melanin pathway in the three main Monilinia species upon exposure to light conditions (white, black, blue, red, and far-red wavelengths). On the other hand, we analyzed, for the first time, the metabolism related to ROS in M. fructicola, through the production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and the expression of stress-related genes under different light conditions. In general, the results indicated a clear importance of black light on melanin production and expression in M. laxa and M. fructicola, but not in M. fructigena. Regarding ROS-related metabolism in M. fructicola, blue light highlighted by inhibiting the expression of many antioxidant genes. Overall, it represents a global description of the effect of light on the regulation of two important secondary mechanisms, essential for the adaptation of the fungus to the environment and its survival.
Trichoderma harzianum Volatile Organic Compounds Regulated by the THCTF1 Transcription Factor Are Involved in Antifungal Activity and Beneficial Plant Responses
Authors: Rubio María Belén , Monti Maurilia Maria , Gualtieri Liberata , Ruocco Michelina , Hermosa Rosa , Monte Enrique
Published: June 2023

The transcription factor THCTF1 from Trichoderma harzianum, previously linked to the production of 6-pentyl-2H-pyran-2-one (6-PP) derivatives and antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum, has been related in this study to conidiation, production of an array of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and expression of methyltransferase genes. VOCs emitted by three T. harzianum strains (wild type T34, transformant ΔD1-38 that is disrupted in the Thctf1 gene encoding the transcription factor THCTF1, and ectopic integration transformant ΔJ3-16) were characterized by Proton Transfer Reaction-Quadrupole interface-Time-Of-Flight-Mass Spectrometry (PTR-Qi-TOF-MS). Thctf1 disruption affected the production of numerous VOCs such as the antifungal volatiles 2-pentyl furan and benzaldehyde which were under-emitted, and acetoine, a plant systemic defense inductor, which was over-emitted. Biological assays show that VOCs regulated by THCTF1 are involved in the T. harzianum antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea and in the beneficial effects leading to Arabidopsis plant development. The VOC blend from the disruptant ΔD1-38: (i) inhibited Arabidopsis seed germination for at least 26 days and (ii) when applied to Arabidopsis seedlings resulted in increased jasmonic acid- and salicylic acid-dependent defenses.
Taxonomy and Phylogenetic Relationships of Clavulinopsis (Clavariaceae, Agaricales): Description of Six New Species and One Newly Recorded Species from China
Authors: Yan Jun , Wen Jing , Li Gui-Wu , Wu Shao-Wu , Zhang Ping
Published: June 2023

Specimens of Clavulinopsis (Clavariaceae, Agaricales) collected in China were studied using morphological and molecular methods. Six species—C. aspersa, C. bicolor, C. bispora, C. erubescens, C. incarnata, and C. tropicalis—are described as new to science, and C. trigonospora is a newly recorded species in China. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted based on a combined dataset of internal transcribed spacer and nuclear ribosomal RNA large subunit sequences. The phylogenetic reconstruction revealed that the six new species each formed an independent lineage, and the samples of C. trigonospora from China were nested with accessions of C. trigonospora collected from Italy. The morphology of the seven Chinese species is described in detail, and is illustrated with line drawings and photographs. A key to the known Clavulinopsis species in China is provided.
Gully Head-Cuts Inventory and Semi-Automatic Gully Extraction Using LiDAR and Topographic Openness—Case Study: Covurlui Plateau, Eastern Romania
Authors: Codru Ionut-Costel , Niacsu Lilian , Enea Andrei , Bou-imajjane Latifa
Published: June 2023

The Covurlui Plateau, a subunit of the Moldavian Plateau located in eastern Romania, possesses a high natural agricultural potential, significantly impacted by soil erosion, particularly gully erosion. The only inventory in the Moldavian Plateau that comprises approximately 9000 gullies extracted from topographical maps was conducted during the 90s. Nowadays, with the advent of advanced techniques and geodata, such as GIS software, aerial photograms, high-resolution satellite images, and high-resolution digital elevation models, we aim to achieve an (1) up-to-date comprehensive inventory of gully head-cuts and (2) a very detailed mapping of the spatial distribution of gullied lands. Firstly, the gully head-cuts were inventoried for the entire region using platforms such as Google, Esri, and Bing, through the QuickMapService plugin within QGIS 3.16 software, with the assistance of Landsat and Sentinel satellite images. Secondly, the automatic mapping of gullies was carried out using a 5 m high-resolution Digital Elevation Model and the Topographic Openness module offered by SAGA GIS software through QGIS software. As a result, we identified 5868 gully head-cuts for the Covurlui Plateau, with an average density of 2.57 gully head-cuts per square kilometer. Additionally, the identified gullies occupy over 3570 hectares, representing 1.57% of the total area. Overall, the topographic openness index proves to be an efficient tool for the semi-automatic extraction of gullies from high-resolution digital elevation models.
A Landscape-Led Multidisciplinary Residential Plan for the London Green Belt
Authors: Li Sha , Yang Xin , Zhu Jianning , Huang Tingting , Bramston David
Published: June 2023

Landscape architects have a responsibility to society, the environment, the client, and other professional organizations. Professionals that undertake landscape-led planning projects need to adopt a comprehensive approach in all the associated aspects. This article summarizes a unique experience in landscape-led planning practice in the UK where most projects are either town planning or architect-led: (1) the housing scarcity problem in towns and villages, land within the Green Belt in the UK is in strict governance by planning policies. In this article, a case study of exceptional infilling villages in East Hertfordshire is used to drive a landscape-led, multi-disciplinary planning process and to analyze all expertise assignments involved; (2) materials were sought from a variety of sources including council official online guidance, public open access materials, project team communication, and consultation results which covered local residents engagement and anonymous comments during the publicity period of the planning decision. Desktop studies, site visits, and the expertise of the multi-disciplinary team were applied throughout the case; (3) with a year of planning teamwork, the proposed development of the study site met the local sustainable growth that planning permission for high-quality residential dwellings was granted by the Local Planning Authority; (4) since known landscape-led planning examples are limited in the UK, the case study formed a good example for scholars and researchers who are interested in planning in the Green Belt.
Comparison of Soil Taxonomy (2022) and WRB (2022) Systems for Classifying Paddy Soils with Different Drainage Grades in South Korea
Authors: Lee Dan-Bi , Kim Young-Nam , Sonn Yeon-Kyu , Kim Kye-Hoon
Published: June 2023

Soil classification is the systematic classification of soils based on distinguishing the characteristics of soil, aiding in understanding the properties of soils through soil survey and establishing appropriate strategies for effective soil utilization and management. Globally, the Soil Taxonomy (ST) and the World Reference Base for soil resources (WRB) are widely used for soil classification. However, the two classification systems have differences in criteria, thus exhibiting difficulties in exchanging classification results. In South Korea, soil classification has been steadily implemented to provide useful soil information to farmers for efficient soil management, contributing to the sustainability of paddy lands, but it has not been easy to establish an accurate classification system due to intensive soil management and variation in soil redox conditions. In this study, two paddy soils with different drainage grades, pedon 1 and pedon 2, were classified using the ST and WRB, and based on the comparative results, a classification criterion for paddy soil in Korea was recommended. According to ST, pedon 1 was classified as a coarse loamy, mesic family (the mean annual soil temperature, 11–14 °C) of Anthroaquic Eutrudepts (artificially irrigated, base saturation > 60%), whereas pedon 2 was a coarse loamy, mesic family of Fluvaquentic Endoaquepts (organic carbon content > 0.2%, water-saturated across the soil profile). Based on the WRB, the two soils were categorized as follows: Stagnic Hydragric Anthrosols (Eutric, Loamic, Oxyaquic) (saturated with surface water, subsurface horizon that is wet-field and human-affected) for pedon 1 and Stagnic Gleyic Hydragric Anthrosols (Eutric, Loamic, Oxyaquic) (saturated with surface and ground water, subsurface horizon that is wet-field and human-affected) for pedon 2. Overall, the two classification systems categorized these pedons consistently by judging the soil properties according to depth, but there was a difference in layer classification upon saturation by water across the soil horizons. Poor soil drainage hinders rice growth in paddies due to lowering soil and water temperature and the occurrence of harmful reduction products. In this regard, we proposed a draft of the classification criteria specialized for paddy soils in Korea based on drainage grades. This will contribute to sustainable paddy soil management by accurately classifying paddy soils and providing better soil information to farmers.
Detection and Molecular Characterization of Canine Babesiosis Causative Agent Babesia canis in Naturally Infected Dogs in the Dobrogea Area (Southeastern Romania)
Authors: Ionita Mariana , Leica Laurentiu , Wassermann Marion , Mitrea Emanuel , Nicorescu Isabela Madalina , Mitrea Ioan Liviu
Published: June 2023

Canine babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease of major veterinary concern in Europe. Its prevalence has increased in the last two decades and is spreading rapidly toward the north. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of Babesia spp. strains isolated from naturally infected dogs in a tick-endemic area (Dobrogea) in southeastern Romania. For this purpose, a total of twenty-three samples from dogs diagnosed with various clinical forms of babesiosis, evaluated by means of clinical history, physical examination, and hematological tests, were subjected to a molecular investigation using PCR, sequencing analysis, and genetic characterization. A microscopic examination of thin Diff-quick-stained blood smears revealed large intra-erythrocytic Babesia piroplasms in all dogs. The PCR and sequencing analysis results indicated the presence of Babesia canis in 22 dogs (95.7%) and Babesia vogeli in 1 dog (4.3%). Among the B. canis isolates, two genotypes were distinguished based on two nucleotide substitutions (GA→AG) observed in the 18S rRNA gene sequences (at positions 609 and 610), with the AG genotype predominating (54.5% of samples), while the GA variant was identified in 9.1% of samples. In the remaining isolates (36.4%), both variants were identified. The B. vogeli-positive dog also tested positive for antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and displayed severe disease. This study reports, for the first time, the presence of genetically heterogenic B. canis strains in dogs with clinical babesiosis in Romania. These findings provide a basis for future studies on the relationship between the genetic structure of the causative agents of canine babesiosis in Romania and the course of the disease.
Analyzing the Implementation of Digital Twins in the Agri-Food Supply Chain
Authors: Melesse Tsega Y. , Franciosi Chiara , Di Pasquale Valentina , Riemma Stefano
Published: June 2023

Background: Digital twins have the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of the agri-food supply chain by providing visibility, reducing bottlenecks, planning for contingencies, and improving existing processes and resources. Additionally, they can add value to businesses by lowering costs and boosting customer satisfaction. This study is aimed at responding to common scientific questions on the application of digital twins in the agri-food supply chain, focusing on the benefits, types, integration levels, key elements, implementation steps, and challenges. Methods: This article conducts a systematic literature review of recent works on agri-food supply chain digital twins, using a list of peer-reviewed studies to analyze concepts using precise and well-defined criteria. Thus, 50 papers were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and descriptive and content-wise analysis was conducted to answer the research questions. Conclusions: The implementation of digital twins has shown promising advancements in addressing global challenges in the agri-food supply chain. Despite encouraging signs of progress in the sector, the real-world application of this solution is still in its early stages. This article intends to provide firms, experts, and researchers with insights into future research directions, implications, and challenges on the topic.
Review of the Modeling Methods of Bucket Tooth Wear for Construction Machinery
Authors: Dong Zhengxing , Jiang Feng , Tan Yuanqiang , Wang Fuzeng , Ma Rong , Liu Jiawen
Published: June 2023

Construction machinery, which is widely used in infrastructure construction, is growing rapidly all over the word. However, the complex working conditions of construction machinery lead to serious wear, particularly the wear of the bucket teeth on construction machinery. To control the wear procedure, it is essential to understand the wear mechanism and identify the wear form under variable working conditions. The modeling methods of bucket tooth wear with different wear mechanisms were reviewed. The modeling methods were divided into the analytical method and the numerical simulation method. The numerical simulation method included the discrete element method, finite element method, SPH method, and so on, which were used to simulate the bucket digging process and analyze the interaction between the material and bucket teeth during the working process. This enabled a force analysis of the bucket digging process and the identification of the location of maximum wear. By establishing a wear model, it is possible to better understand and address the wear problem in construction machinery. This article aims to summarize research methods concerning the wear of wear parts in construction machinery. It provides a theoretical foundation for future investigations in this area and aims to address challenges such as lengthy wear life testing, numerous interfering factors, and the difficulty of data collection pertaining to wear parts.
Mylar Balloon and Associated Geometro-Mechanical Moments
Authors: Kovalchuk Vasyl , Pulov Vladimir I. , Mladenov Ivaïlo M.
Published: June 2023

Starting with identifications of the very fundamental geometric characteristics of a Mylar balloon such as the profile curve, height, volume, arclength, surface area, crimping factor, etc., using the geometrical moments In(x) and In, we present explicit formulas for them and those of the mechanical moments of both solid and hollow balloons of arbitrary order. This is achieved by relying on the recursive relationships among elliptic integrals and the final results are expressed via the fundamental mathematical constants such as π, lemniscate constant ω˜, and Gauss’s constant G. An interesting periodicity modulo 4 was detected and accounted for in the final formulas for the moments. The principal results are illustrated by two tables, a few graphics, and some direct relationships with other fundamental areas in mathematics, physics and geometry are pointed out.
Temperature Compensation Algorithm of Air Quality Monitoring Equipment Based on TDLAS
Authors: Wang Yue , Wang Xiaoli
Published: June 2023

When tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy is used to measure the concentration of gas, the second harmonic signal of demodulation is changed due to the influence of temperature change, and the error in concentration measurement is great. In order to solve the problem of large errors in atmospheric quality monitoring equipment due to the change in gas temperature, this paper, based on the tunable semiconductor laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) theory, measured methane gas with 1000 ppm standard gas as the target and selected the central absorption wavelength of 1650 nm. The influence of temperature change on gas injection and the laser absorption spectrometer is studied. A temperature compensation algorithm based on an empirical formula is designed. Firstly, by analyzing the variable temperature test data of the detection module, it is proposed to divide the influence factors of temperature into two parts and study the influence of injection gas temperature and detector temperature, respectively. Secondly, the temperature compensation is carried out by polynomial fitting the concentration inversion results. Finally, according to the compensation effect, a scheme was proposed to compensate the measured gas by applying a constant temperature treatment to the detector at 313 K. After compensation, the average error of the system measurement is reduced from 8.4% to 1.08% when the gas temperature changes from 233 K to 343 K, which effectively reduces the deviation of the measured value caused by the abrupt temperature change. It further improves the accuracy and reliability of measuring gas concentration when gas inspection equipment is working outdoors and has strong practicability.
Modelling Fractional Advection–Diffusion Processes via the Adomian Decomposition
Authors: Antonini Alberto , Salomoni Valentina Anna Lia
Published: June 2023

When treating geomaterials, fractional derivatives are used to model anomalous dispersion or diffusion phenomena that occur when the mass transport media are anisotropic, which is generally the case. Taking into account anomalous diffusion processes, a revised Fick’s diffusion law is to be considered, where the fractional derivative order physically reflects the heterogeneity of the soil medium in which the diffusion phenomena take place. The solutions of fractional partial differential equations can be computed by using the so-called semi-analytical methods that do not require any discretization and linearization in order to obtain accurate results, e.g., the Adomian Decomposition Method (ADM). Such a method is innovatively applied for overcoming the critical issue of geometric nonlinearities in coupled saturated porous media and the potentialities of the approach are studied, as well as findings discussed.
Isogeometric Analysis for Free Vibration of Functionally Graded Plates Using a New Quasi-3D Spectral Displacement Formulation
Authors: Yang Shaowei , Sun Xianbo , Cai Zhiqin
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a novel quasi-three-dimensional shear deformation theory called the spectral displacement formulation (SDF) for analyzing the free vibration of functionally graded plates. The SDF expresses the unknown displacement field as a unique form of the Chebyshev series in the thickness direction. By increasing the truncation number in the Chebyshev series, the bending analysis results can approach the three-dimensional elasticity solution and satisfy the traction-free boundary conditions without requiring a shear correction factor. The SDF is an extension of the classical plate theory, thereby naturally avoiding the shear-locking phenomenon. These characteristics enable the SDF to apply to plates of arbitrary thickness while maintaining accuracy. The nonuniform rational B-spline-based isogeometric approach is employed to enhance the applicability of this theory to free vibration analysis of functionally graded plates with complex geometries and different boundary conditions. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and reliability of the proposed method in analyzing the free vibration of functionally graded plates.
Gender, Obesity, Fat Distribution and 25-Hydroxyvitamin D
Authors: Guagnano Maria Teresa , D’Ardes Damiano , Di Giovanni Pamela , Rossi Ilaria , Boccatonda Andrea , Bucci Marco , Cipollone Francesco
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives: Obesity is a worldwide disease associated with systemic complications. In recent years, there has been growing interest in studying vitamin D but data related to obese subjects are still poor. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between obesity degree and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels. Materials and Methods: We recruited 147 Caucasian adult obese patients (BMI > 30 Kg/m2; 49 male; median age 53 years), and 20 overweight subjects as control group (median age 57 years), who had been referred to our Obesity Center of Chieti (Italy) between May 2020 and September 2021. Results: The median BMI was 38 (33–42) kg/m2 for obese patients and 27 (26–28) kg/m2 for overweight patients. 25(OH)D concentrations were lower in the obese population compared to the overweight population (19 ng/mL vs. 36 ng/mL; p < 0.001). Considering all obese subjects, a negative correlation was observed between 25(OH)D concentrations and obesity-related parameters (weight, BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, visceral fat, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol) and glucose metabolism-related parameters. 25(OH)D was also negatively correlated with blood pressure. Conclusions: Our data confirmed the inverse relationship between obesity and blood concentration of 25(OH)D and highlighted how 25(OH)D levels decrease in the presence of glucose and lipid metabolism alterations.
Influence of a Protective Coating on the Crystallization of an Amorphous Fe78Si13B9 Alloy
Authors: Abrosimova Galina , Chirkova Valentina , Matveev Danila , Pershina Elena , Volkov Nikita , Aronin Alexandr
Published: June 2023

The effect of free volume on the crystallization of amorphous Fe78Si13B9 ribbons was studied using ultrasonic and thermal treatments. To maintain free volume under heating, amorphous samples were coated with a special protective Ta coating. It has been shown via X-ray diffraction that the fraction of the crystalline phase in the annealed coated amorphous ribbons is higher than in the corresponding uncoated samples. The use of ultrasonic treatment and the application of a protective coating lead to the formation of a larger proportion of the crystalline phase during annealing. Differences in crystallization kinetics are discussed under the assumption that the concentration of free volume in amorphous samples affects their crystallization, as well as the role of the Ta coating preventing the release of free volume to the surface during heat treatment.
Optical Control of the Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance in a Heterotype and Hollow Gold Nanosheet
Authors: Chen Yu , Yin Kai , Xu Yuxuan , Liu Min , Huang Han , Ouyang Fangping
Published: June 2023

The remote excitation and remote-controlling of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in a heterotype and hollow gold nanosheet (HGNS) is studied using FDTD simulations. The heterotype HGNS contains an equilateral and hollow triangle in the center of a special hexagon, which forms a so-called hexagon–triangle (H–T) heterotype HGNS. If we focus the incident-exciting laser on one of the vertexes of the center triangle, the LSPR could be achieved among other remote vertexes of the outer hexagon. The LSPR wavelength and peak intensity depend sensitively on factors such as the polarization of the incident light, the size and symmetry of the H–T heterotype structure, etc. Several groups of the optimized parameters were screened out from numerous FDTD calculations, which help to further obtain some significant polar plots of the polarization-dependent LSPR peak intensity with two-petal, four-petal or six-petal patterns. Remarkably, based on these polar plots, the on-off switching of the LSPR coupled among four HGNS hotspots could be remote-controlled simply via only one polarized light, which shows promise for its potential application in remote-controllable surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), optical interconnects and multi-channel waveguide switches.
Latent Tuberculosis Patients Have an Increased Frequency of IFN-γ-Producing CD5+ B Cells, Which Respond Efficiently to Mycobacterial Proteins
Authors: Flores-Gonzalez Julio , Ramón-Luing Lucero A. , Romero-Tendilla Jesus , Urbán-Solano Alexia , Cruz-Lagunas Alfredo , Chavez-Galan Leslie
Published: June 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health problem worldwide and is one of the deadliest infectious diseases, only after the current COVID-19 pandemic. Despite significant advances in the TB field, there needs to be more immune response comprehension; for instance, the role played by humoral immunity is still controversial. This study aimed to identify the frequency and function of B1 and immature/transitional B cells in patients with active and latent TB (ATB and LTB, respectively). Here we show that LTB patients have an increased frequency of CD5+ B cells and decreased CD10+ B cells. Furthermore, LTB patients stimulated with mycobacteria’s antigens increase the frequency of IFN-γ-producing B cells, whereas cells from ATB do not respond. Moreover, under the mycobacterial protein stimulus, LTB promotes a pro-inflammatory environment characterized by a high level of IFN-γ but also can produce IL-10. Regarding the ATB group, they cannot produce IFN-γ, and mycobacterial lipids and proteins stimulate only the IL-10 production. Finally, our data showed that in ATB, but not in LTB, B cell subsets correlate with clinical and laboratory parameters, suggesting that these CD5+ and CD10+ B cell subpopulations have the potential to be biomarkers to differentiate between LTB and ATB. In conclusion, LTB has increased CD5+ B cells, and these cells can maintain a rich microenvironment of IFN-γ, IL-10, and IL-4. In contrast, ATB only maintains an anti-inflammatory environment when stimulated with mycobacterial proteins or lipids.
Resistance of Primary Photosynthesis to Photoinhibition in Antarctic Lichen Xanthoria elegans: Photoprotective Mechanisms Activated during a Short Period of High Light Stress
Authors: Barták Miloš , Hájek Josef , Halıcı Mehmet Gökhan , Bednaříková Michaela , Casanova-Katny Angelica , Váczi Peter , Puhovkin Anton , Mishra Kumud Bandhu , Giordano Davide
Published: June 2023

The Antarctic lichen, Xanthoria elegans, in its hydrated state has several physiological mechanisms to cope with high light effects on the photosynthetic processes of its photobionts. We aim to investigate the changes in primary photochemical processes of photosystem II in response to a short-term photoinhibitory treatment. Several chlorophyll a fluorescence techniques: (1) slow Kautsky kinetics supplemented with quenching mechanism analysis; (2) light response curves of photosynthetic electron transport (ETR); and (3) response curves of non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) were used in order to evaluate the phenomenon of photoinhibition of photosynthesis and its consequent recovery. Our findings suggest that X. elegans copes well with short-term high light (HL) stress due to effective photoprotective mechanisms that are activated during the photoinhibitory treatment. The investigations of quenching mechanisms revealed that photoinhibitory quenching (qIt) was a major non-photochemical quenching in HL-treated X. elegans; qIt relaxed rapidly and returned to pre-photoinhibition levels after a 120 min recovery. We conclude that the Antarctic lichen species X. elegans exhibits a high degree of photoinhibition resistance and effective non-photochemical quenching mechanisms. This photoprotective mechanism may help it survive even repeated periods of high light during the early austral summer season, when lichens are moist and physiologically active.
Investigation of the Copper Requirements of the Metallophyte Liverworts Cephaloziella nicholsonii Douin and C. massalongoi (Spruce) Müll.Frib
Authors: Campbell Christina , Kelly Daniel L. , Smyth Noeleen , Lockhart Neil , Holyoak David T. , Long David
Published: June 2023

Former mine sites can provide habitat for many rare specialised bryophyte species that have adapted to metal-rich soil conditions that are toxic to most other plant species. Some of the bryophyte species found in this habitat are facultative metallophytes, and others are regarded as strict metallophytes, the so-called ‘copper mosses’. It is a general assumption in the literature that Cephaloziella nicholsonii and C. massalongoi, both categorised as Endangered in the IUCN Red List for Europe, are also strict metallophytes and obligate copper bryophytes. This in vitro experiment investigated the growth and gemma production of these two species from different sites in Ireland and Britain on treatment plates of 0 ppm, 3 ppm, 6 ppm, 12 ppm, 24 ppm, 48 ppm and 96 ppm copper. Results show that elevated copper is not an obligate requirement for optimum growth. Differences in response to the copper treatment levels among populations evident within both species could possibly be due to ecotypic variation. A case is also made for the taxonomic revision of the Cephaloziella genus. Implications for the species’ conservation are discussed.
Chemical and Biological Characterisation of Orange (Citrus sinensis) Peel Extracts Obtained by Subcritical Water
Authors: Brezo-Borjan Tanja , Švarc-Gajić Jaroslava , Morais Simone , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Rodrigues Francisca , Lončarević Ivana , Pajin Biljana
Published: June 2023

Orange peels, generally considered as waste, were treated with subcritical water (SWE)—a green technology and environmentally friendly extraction process—at different temperatures (120–200 °C) and extraction times (5–60 min). The extracts which were obtained were chemically and biologically characterised to evaluate this potential source of bioactive compounds. The extracts total phenolics content (TPC) and total flavonoids contents (TFC), as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC), DPPH radical scavenging activity, and total carbohydrate content, were determined by UV spectrophotometry. The pectin content was quantified by a gravimetric method. The dietary fibre content was investigated, and a phytochemical screening assay was performed. The extract obtained at 120 °C for 5 min displayed the highest TPC (45.45 mg GAE/g DW), TFC (9.29 mg RE/g DW), and TAC (130.47 mg AAE/g DW), indicating that relatively low temperatures and extremely short extraction times can be used in SWE to obtain orange peel extracts that are rich in bioactive compounds. The results of this study demonstrate the exceptional potential of orange peel extracts obtained with SWE. As shown, this biowaste represents a promising source of health-promoting compounds that could be used in pharmaceutical and dietary products.
Data-Driven Synthesis of a Geometallurgical Model for a Copper Deposit
Authors: Mu Yuyang , Salas Juan Carlos
Published: June 2023

Geometallurgy integrates aspects of geology, metallurgy, and mine planning in order to improve decision making in mining schedules. A geometallurgical model is a 3D space that is typically synthesized from early-stage small-scale samples and is composed of several metallurgical units, or domains. This work explores the synthesis of a geometallurgical model for a copper deposit using a purely data-driven unsupervised approach. To this end, a dataset of 1112 drill samples is used, which are clustered using different methods, namely, k-means, hierarchical clustering (AGG), self-organizing maps (SOM), and DBSCAN. Two cluster validity indices (Silhouette and Calinski–Harabasz) are used to select the final model. To validate the potential of the proposed approach, a simulated economic evaluation is conducted. Results demonstrate that k-means exhibits a better performance in terms of modeling and that using the obtained geometallurgical model for mining scheduling increases the project’s Net Present Value (NPV) by as much as 4%. Based on these results, the proposed methodology is an appealing alternative for generating geometallurgical models within greenfield, brownfield and ongoing operations.