bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vivo Performance of Visual Criteria, Laser-Induced Fluorescence, and Light-Induced Fluorescence for Early Caries Detection
Authors: Perdiou Antonis , Fratila Aurora Doris , Sava-Rosianu Ruxandra , Alexa Vlad Tiberiu , Lalescu Dacian , Jumanca Daniela , Galuscan Atena
Published: October 2023

This study aims to compare the diagnostic reliability of ICDAS-II visual criteria, light-induced fluorescence (using the VistaCam iX, Dürr Dental, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany), and laser-induced fluorescence (using the DIAGNOdent Pen, KaVo, Biberach, Germany) on occlusal caries. Permanent and temporary molars were selected according to the inclusion criteria. Out of 160 teeth that met the inclusion criteria, 139 were chosen and examined by two previously trained and calibrated examiners. The kappa value was 0.95 for both VistaCam iX and DIAGNOdent Pen. Results from visual examination and the readings of the two fluorescence devices were computed, lesions being divided into non-cavitated, enamel lesions, and lesions extended to dentin. All statistical analyses were performed using R (version 4.2.2). Spearman’s rank correlation was computed to assess the relationship between the scores of diagnostics reliabilities of the three methods mentioned above. There was a positive, statistically significant Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.25, between VistaCam iX and ICDAS II, and a positive, not statistically significant Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.11, between DiagnoDent Pen and ICDAS II. Considering the temporary teeth, there was a positive, statistically significant Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.52, between VistaCam iX and DiagnoDent Pen; a positive, statistically significant Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.35, between VistaCam iX and ICDAS II; and the lowest, not statistically significant Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, ρ = 0.16, between DiagnoDent Pen and ICDAS II. Conclusions: In conclusion, ICDAS II and light-induced fluorescence are better diagnostic methods than the laser-induced fluorescence devices for detecting occlusal caries. Clinical Significance: This study may support clinicians in selecting the most efficient tool for diagnosing carious lesion in the earliest stages possible. Furthermore, such technologies raise the availability for more preventive approaches, as opposed to invasive procedures.
Effect of Age and Gender on Taste Function as Measured by the Waterless Empirical Taste Test
Authors: Jiang Rong-San , Chiang Yi-Fang
Published: October 2023

The effect of age and gender on taste function is rarely investigated. Therefore, we tried to study the effect of age and gender on taste function as evaluated by the Waterless Empirical Taste Test (WETT®). The WETT® consists of 40 strips that are coated with one of five tastants (sucrose, citric acid, sodium chloride, caffeine, or monosodium glutamate). Each tastant is prepared with four different concentrations. These 40 strips are interspersed with an additional 13 tasteless strips. To implement the WETT®, a strip was placed on the middle portion of the tongue. The subjects closed their mouth and tasted the strip. They then chose one of six answers (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, brothy, or no taste at all). If the answer was correct, one score was acquired. One-hundred-and-twenty healthy men and women were collected in this study. Among them, there were 40 subjects in each age group of 20–39 years, 40–59 years, and ≥60 years. The overall taste and individual tastant function decreased with age, particularly between subjects aged 20–39 years and those aged ≥60 years. The overall taste and individual tastant function were better in females than in males, especially for subjects aged older than 59 years. Our results show that taste function is affected by both age and gender.
Procalcitonin and Risk Prediction for Diagnosing Bacteremia in Hospitalized Patients: A Retrospective, National Observational Study
Authors: Timbrook Tristan T. , Garner Cherilyn D. , Hueth Kyle D. , Capraro Gerald A. , Zimmer Louise , Dwivedi Hari P.
Published: October 2023

Bacteremia is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Timely, appropriate therapy may improve clinical outcomes, and therefore, determining which patients benefit from more comprehensive diagnostic strategies (i.e., direct specimen testing) could be of value. We performed an assessment of procalcitonin (PCT) and clinical characteristics in the discrimination of bacteremic hospitalizations. We analyzed 71,105 encounters and 14,846 visits of patients with bacteremia alongside 56,259 without an admission. The area under the receiver—operating characteristic (AUROC) curve for the prediction of bacteremia via procalcitonin was 0.782 (95% CI 0.779–0.787). The prediction modeling of clinical factors with or without PCT resulted in a similar performance to PCT alone. However, the clinically predicted risk of bacteremia stratified by PCT thresholds allowed the targeting of high-incidence bacteremia groups (e.g., ≥50% positivity). The combined use of PCT and clinical characteristics could be useful in diagnostic stewardship by targeting further advanced diagnostic testing in patients with a high predicted probability of bacteremia.
Myxoid Endometriosis: An Entity That Can Cause Confusion with Malignant Entities
Authors: Mendoza-Ramirez Saulo , Hernández-Robles Claudia Mariana , Velasco-Rueda Italú , Romero-Utrilla Alejandra , Arrecillas-Zamora Myrna Doris , Agustín-Godínez Eduardo , Morales-Jáuregui Lourdes Lucía , Ramírez-Balderrama Lázaro Ariel , Olvera-Olvera Marco Antonio , Murguia-Perez Mario
Published: October 2023

Myxoid endometriosis, a rare entity, is part of the histological changes that can occur in endometriosis. Pathologists must know the histological guidelines for the morphological recognition of this entity, as well as the histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques that support diagnosis, and define the morphological characteristics of myxoid endometriosis. In the present work, we propose diagnostic guidelines and primary differential diagnoses using special histochemical techniques and immunohistochemical reactions to recognize this entity.
Correlation between Baseline Conventional Ultrasounds, Shear-Wave Elastography Indicators, and Neoadjuvant Therapy Efficacy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Siyu , Lan Zihan , Wan Xue , Liu Jingyan , Wen Wen , Peng Yulan
Published: October 2023

In patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)—the subtype with the poorest prognosis among breast cancers—it is crucial to assess the response to the currently widely employed neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) approaches. This study investigates the correlation between baseline conventional ultrasound (US) and shear-wave elastography (SWE) indicators and the pathological response of TNBC following NAT, with a specific focus on assessing predictive capability in the baseline state. This retrospective analysis was conducted by extracting baseline US features and SWE parameters, categorizing patients based on postoperative pathological grading. A univariate analysis was employed to determine the relationship between ultrasound indicators and pathological reactions. Additionally, we employed a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and multivariate logistic regression methods to evaluate the predictive potential of the baseline US indicators. This study comprised 106 TNBC patients, with 30 (28.30%) in a nonmajor histological response (NMHR) group and 76 (71.70%) in a major histological response (MHR) group. Following the univariate analysis, we found that T staging, dmax values, volumes, margin changes, skin alterations (i.e., thickening and invasion), retromammary space invasions, and supraclavicular lymph node abnormalities were significantly associated with pathological efficacy (p < 0.05). Combining clinical information with either US or SWE independently yielded baseline predictive abilities, with AUCs of 0.816 and 0.734, respectively. Notably, the combined model demonstrated an improved AUC of 0.827, with an accuracy of 76.41%, a sensitivity of 90.47%, a specificity of 55.81%, and statistical significance (p < 0.01). The baseline US and SWE indicators for TNBC exhibited a strong relationship with NAT response, offering predictive insights before treatment initiation, to a considerable extent.
Current Insights on Fiber Posts: A Narrative Review of Laboratory and Clinical Studies
Authors: de Morais Dayana Campanelli , Butler Sheila , Santos Maria Jacinta Moraes Coelho
Published: October 2023

Purpose: The aim of this study was to review the literature related to the clinical performance and laboratory findings regarding fiber posts, as well as the cementation technique employed with their use. Materials and Methods: A literature search was performed using an electronic database, PubMed/Medline, between 2010 and 2023. The terms used were “intra coronal post, fiber post, post cementation, and post length”. Titles and abstracts were initially screened, and a full-text assessment was conducted for those that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The reference list of the collected papers was also screened for further relevant citations. Results: In this work, 135 potentially eligible studies were analyzed. Titles and abstracts of 90 studies followed the inclusion criteria and were selected for a full-text assessment, resulting in 50 studies selected. Moreover, additional studies from relevant citations were included, totaling 57 studies. Conclusion: According to the laboratory and clinical studies revised, the survival rate between fiber and prefabricated and cast metal posts was similar, and failures were mainly related to the loss of retention. The intra-canal post length of less than two-thirds of the root length presented successful results when ferrule was present. Furthermore, the ferrule increased the longevity of teeth restored with fiber posts. Additionally, the use of a surface treatment protocol for fiber posts and the adhesive cementation technique both contributed to the clinical success and longevity of the intra-canal post.
Study on the Design and Experiment of Trichogramma Ball Delivery System Based on Agricultural Drone
Authors: Song Cancan , Wang Qingyu , Wang Guobin , Liu Lilian , Zhang Tongsheng , Han Jingang , Lan Yubin
Published: October 2023

Trichogramma-based biological control technology is of great significance to the development of green agriculture. Agricultural drones have the advantages of low-altitude and high-speed operations and have been well applied and widely recognized in the field of Trichogramma delivery. Drone-based Trichogramma ball delivery not only utilizes the efficiency and flexibility of drones but also enables remote precision control. However, existing delivery devices are relatively rudimentary, leading to reliability and precision issues. It is necessary to develop an efficient and accurate drone delivery device to improve the effect of drone delivery of Trichogramma. In this study, a device consisting of a rotary storage mechanism and a rotating hammer-type delivery mechanism was developed. The delivery port of the delivery device should be set in the airflow outlet area 50 cm below the drone’s body. The storage mechanism is equipped with eight storage tube units with a diameter of Φ38 mm, capable of delivering a total of 56 balls in a single mission. The reliable delivery speed ranges from 2 to 6 m/s, with the remote position of the lever serving as the optimal starting position. The release test results showed that 3 m/s flight speed and 4 m/s delivery speed resulted in a small coefficient of variation for the delivery deviation (29%), making it the best operating parameter set. The performance of the developed UAV-based Trichogramma delivery device meets the requirements of field delivery when the appropriate operating parameters are optimized. This study provides reference for further optimization and design of this delivery device prototype.
A Heuristic Integrated Scheduling Algorithm Based on Improved Dijkstra Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Pengwei , Xie Zhiqiang , Zhou Wei , Tan Zhenjiang
Published: October 2023

In the process of the integrated scheduling of multi-variety and small-batch complex products, the process structure and attribute characteristics are often ignored, which affects the overall scheduling effect. Aiming at solving this problem, a heuristic integrated scheduling algorithm (HIS-IDA) based on the improved Dijkstra algorithm is proposed. The algorithm takes the processing time of the process itself as the path value of the preceding and the following adjacent processes. Firstly, the improved Dijkstra algorithm prioritized the scheduling of the process sequence with long longitudinal paths and realized the “longitudinal optimization” of the integrated scheduling. Secondly, the layer priority strategy is used to shorten the interval time of process processing and realize the “horizontal optimization” of integrated scheduling. On the basis of “vertical and horizontal optimization”, the idle time of the equipment is further reduced by using the process priority strategy of the leaf node, and the “idle optimization” of the integrated scheduling is realized, so as to optimize the overall effect of the integrated scheduling. The effectiveness and superiority of the algorithm are proved using comparison analysis.
Comparison of Multi-Object Control Methods Using Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Lisowski Józef
Published: October 2023

The aim of this work is to obtain multi-objective linear programming algorithms that can be used to solve the global problem of multi-object safety control processes in order to minimize the risk of collisions. In multi-objective linear optimization models, satisfactory trade-off assesses and resolves the conflict between different control objectives. A comparison of single-, bi-, and tri-objective linear programming algorithms allows us to adapt the appropriate optimization method to the conditions of the control process. An important outcome of the present research is the demonstration of the greater effectiveness of bi- and tri-objective optimization compared to single-objective optimization, reflecting the compromises taken into account when choosing between objects and achieving a minimum risk of collision when passing them.
Tuning the Weights: The Impact of Initial Matrix Configurations on Successor Features’ Learning Efficacy
Authors: Lee Hyunsu
Published: October 2023

The focus of this study is to investigate the impact of different initialization strategies for the weight matrix of Successor Features (SF) on the learning efficiency and convergence in Reinforcement Learning (RL) agents. Using a grid-world paradigm, we compare the performance of RL agents, whose SF weight matrix is initialized with either an identity matrix, zero matrix, or a randomly generated matrix (using the Xavier, He, or uniform distribution method). Our analysis revolves around evaluating metrics such as the value error, step length, PCA of Successor Representation (SR) place field, and the distance of the SR matrices between different agents. The results demonstrate that the RL agents initialized with random matrices reach the optimal SR place field faster and showcase a quicker reduction in value error, pointing to more efficient learning. Furthermore, these random agents also exhibit a faster decrease in step length across larger grid-world environments. The study provides insights into the neurobiological interpretations of these results, their implications for understanding intelligence, and potential future research directions. These findings could have profound implications for the field of artificial intelligence, particularly in the design of learning algorithms.
Risk Assessment of Explosion Accidents in Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Rooms Using Experimental Investigations and Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Park Byoungjik , Kim Yangkyun , Hwang In-Ju
Published: October 2023

For the safe utilization and management of hydrogen energy within a fuel-cell room in a hydrogen-fueled house, an explosion test was conducted to evaluate the potential hazards associated with hydrogen accident scenarios. The overpressure and heat radiation were measured for an explosion accident at distances of 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 m for hydrogen–air mixing ratios of 10%, 25%, 40%, and 60%. When the hydrogen–air mixture ratio was 40%, the greatest overpressure was 24.35 kPa at a distance of 1 m from the fuel-cell room. Additionally, the thermal radiation was more than 1.5 kW/m2, which could cause burns at a distance of 5 m from the hydrogen fuel-cell room. Moreover, a thermal radiation in excess of 1.5 kW/m2 was computed at a distance of 3 m from the hydrogen fuel-cell room when the hydrogen–air mixing ratio was 25% and 60%. Consequently, an explosion in the hydrogen fuel-cell room did not considerably affect fatality levels, but could affect the injury levels and temporary threshold shifts. Furthermore, the degree of physical damage did not reach major structural damage levels, causing only minor structural damage.
Discrimination of Schizothorax grahami (Regan, 1904) Stocks Based on Otolith Morphology
Authors: Zhou Yang , Xu Li , He Zhongtang , Cui Weijie , Lu Qun , Qin Jianguang , Su Shengqi , He Tao
Published: October 2023

Otoliths grow throughout a fish’s life and are important for identifying fish stocks and fish age. This study aims to differentiate different stocks of Schizothorax grahami (Regan, 1904) in the Chishui River, an upper reach of the Yangtze River, by otolith morphology. The otolith morphology of S. grahami from three different river sections was analyzed using the Shape Index, Fourier coefficients, and wavelet coefficients. The composite discrimination success rate of the Shape Index was 59.7%, and it was difficult to distinguish in the scatter plots. In contrast, canonical principal coordinate scatter plots clearly showed three distinguished stocks. The above results indicate that otolith morphology can discriminate between stocks in plateau endemic fish, and several S. grahami stocks may be separately managed in the Chishui River.
How the luxR Gene Affects the Pathogenicity of Pseudomonas plecoglossicida and the Immune Response of Epinephelus coioides
Authors: Zhao Lingmin , Huang Lixing , Qin Yingxue , Yang Dou , Zhang Jiaonan , Zhang Jiaolin , Yan Qingpi
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effect of reduced expression of the luxR gene on the virulence of Pseudomonas plecoglossicida and the immune response of Epinephelus coioides. To achieve this, RNA interference (RNAi) was used to silence the luxR gene, and the pathogenicity of wild-type and luxR-RNAi strains of P. plecoglossicida, as well as the immune response of Epinephelus coioides to the infection of these two strains, were compared. The mutant strain with the highest silencing efficiency of 70.1% was selected for subsequent analysis. Silencing the luxR gene in the mutant strain resulted in a significant 30% reduction in mortality rates in artificially infected Epinephelus coioides compared to the wild-type strain. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the host transcriptome, particularly in the spleens of infected Epinephelus coioides, was markedly altered by the silencing of the luxR gene in the mutant strain. Tilapia infected with the luxR-RNAi strain exhibited altered immune defenses, with changes in gene expression primarily in the NOD-like receptor (NLR) signaling pathway. These results suggest that the luxR gene plays a crucial role in the host’s resistance to pathogen invasion, and reducing its expression could decrease quorum sensing (QS) signals while increasing the expression of the IL-1β gene in the host’s NLR pathway. This effect may lead to a pro-inflammatory response that enhances the immune response to infection. Further investigation of these mechanisms may lead to innovative approaches to treating bacterial infections.
Comparison of Metabolites and Species Classification of Thirteen Zingiberaceae Spices Based on GC–MS and Multi-Spectral Fusion Technology
Authors: Wen Hui , Yang Tianmei , Yang Weize , Yang Meiquan , Wang Yuanzhong , Zhang Jinyu
Published: October 2023

Due to a similar plant morphology in the majority of Zingiberaceae spices, substitution and adulteration frequently take place during the sales process. Therefore, it is important to analyze the metabolites and species classification of different Zingiberaceae spices. This study preliminarily explored the differences in the metabolites in thirteen Zingiberaceae spices through untargeted gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and combined spectroscopy, establishing models for classifying different Zingiberaceae spices. On one hand, a total of 81 metabolites were successfully identified by GC–MS. Thirty-seven differential metabolites were screened using variable important in projection (VIP ≥ 1). However, the orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) model established using GC–MS data only explained about 30% of the variation. On the other hand, the partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) models with three spectral data fusion strategies were compared, and their classification accuracy reached 100%. Among them, the mid-level data fusion model based on latent variables had the best performance. This study provides a powerful tool for distinguishing different Zingiberaceae spices and assists in reducing the occurrence of substitution and adulteration phenomena.
Emulsification Properties of Garlic Aqueous Extract: Effect of Heat Treatment and pH Modification
Authors: Bravo-Núñez Ángela , Golding Matt , Gómez Manuel , Matia-Merino Lara
Published: October 2023

Despite the broad research available in the literature dealing with garlic health benefits, little information is found regarding the functional properties of garlic components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the emulsification properties of garlic water-soluble compounds (GWSC), encompassing proteins, saponins, and carbohydrates, after heat treatment (10 min at 95 °C) or pH adjustments (2.5, 3.5, and 7.8). After the various treatments, the extracts were used as such or filtrated (0.45 µm), and 10% soybean oil-in-water emulsions were prepared using low (0.48%) or high (6.55% wt/wt) extract concentrations. Results showed that whereas at low GWSC concentrations, both heating and acidifying resulted in the formation of bigger oil droplet sizes (i.e., from d32 = 0.36 µm using unmodified extract to d32 = 7–22 µm at pH 2.5 with or without extract filtration), the effects were opposite at the highest GWSC concentration. In the latter, heat treatment clearly reduced the droplet size as observed from the micrographs as well as the degree of creaming, though the occurrence of depletion and/or bridging flocculation was still strong. The acidification of the extract at this high GWSC concentration significantly reduced the droplet size, as observed from the micrographs; however, a strong flocculation was observed. Removal of protein aggregates, and possibly also saponin micelles, from the extract resulted in an obvious increase in emulsion droplet size. This research brings valuable insights on this study and utilisation of novel natural food emulsifiers from plant sources.
Effects of Seven Sterilization Methods on the Functional Characteristics and Color of Yan 73 (Vitis vinifera) Grape Juice
Authors: Zhao Zixian , Wang Jiaqi , Li Caihong , Zhang Yuanke , Sun Xiangyu , Ma Tingting , Ge Qian
Published: October 2023

Yan 73 (Vitis vinifera) is a dyed grape variety cultivated in China. Currently, most studies have focused on the mechanism of anthocyanins or the impact of anthocyanins as auxiliary color varieties on wine color. There is little research on its direct use or direct processing of products such as juice. In order to investigate the effects of different processing methods on the juice of Yan 73 grapes, the physicochemical and functional properties, as well as the sensory indexes of the juice, were analyzed by using thermal pasteurization (TP), thermosonication (TS), TS combined with nisin (TSN), TS combined with ε-Polylysine (TSε), irradiation (IR), and high hydrostatic pressure (HHP). The physicochemical indexes, functional properties, and sensory indexes of Smoke 73 grape juice were determined and analyzed. The results of the study showed that among the seven sterilization methods, total polyphenol content (TPC) in juice was significantly increased in all treatments except HHP. TPC was the highest in TP (3773.33 mg GAE/L). Total anthocyanin content (TAC) was increased except IR5, and TSN (1202.67 mg/L) had the highest TAC. In terms of color, TP (a* = 36.57, b* = 19.70, L* = 14.81, C* = 41.55, h° = 28.30, ΔE = 5.9) promotes the dissolution of anthocyanins because of high temperatures, which basically improves all the color indicators of grape juice and makes the color of grape juice more vivid. After HHP treatment, the color (ΔE = 1.72) and aroma indicators are closer to the grape juice itself. The Entropy weight-TOPSIS, CRITIC-Topsis, and PCA integrated quality evaluation models showed that all selected TP as the best integrated quality.
Effect of Thermosonication on the Nutritional Quality of Lapsi (Choerospondias axillaris) Fruit Juice: Application of Advanced Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Das Puja , Nayak Prakash Kumar , Stephen Inbaraj Baskaran , Sharma Minaxi , Kesavan Radha krishnan , Sridhar Kandi
Published: October 2023

This study explored the effect of thermosonication on the nutritional properties of lapsi (Choerospondias axillaris) fruit juice. The intent of the present investigation was to process lapsi fruit juice using both thermosonication and thermal pasteurisation and to compare the effects of these treatments on the juice’s physicochemical, nutritional, and microbiological qualities. In order to maximise the retention of nutritional properties, enhance juice quality, and boost efficiency, an artificial neural network (ANN) model was also developed to forecast the optimisation of process parameters for the quality of lapsi fruit juice. This study establishes a novel experimental planning method using an ANN to multi-objectively optimise the extraction process and identify the ideal extraction conditions for thermosonication (50, 75, and 100% amplitude at 30, 40, and 50 °C for 15, 30, 45, and 60 min) to augment lapsi juice’s nutritional and microbiological properties by improving certain attributes such as ascorbic acid (AA), antioxidant activity (AOA), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total plate count, and yeast and mould count (YMC). The maximum values for AA (71.80 ± 0.05 mg/100 mL), AOA (74.60 ± 0.28%), TPC (187.33 ± 0.03 mg gallic acid equivalents [GAE]/mL), TFC (127.27 ± 0.05 mg quercetin equivalents [QE]/mL), total plate count (not detected), and YMC were achieved in thermosonicated lapsi juice (TSLJ) under optimal conditions. For AA and TFC, the optimal conditions were 100% amplitude, 40 °C, and 45 min. For AOA and TPC, the optimal conditions were 100% amplitude, 40 °C, and 60 min, and for YMC, the optimal conditions were 100% amplitude, 50 °C, and 60 min. According to the findings, thermosonicated juices have improved nutritional properties, making them an excellent source of bioactive elements for use in both the food and pharmaceutical sectors. According to this study, ANN has been identified as a valuable tool for predicting the effectiveness of lapsi fruit juice extraction, and the application of thermosonication as an approach for lapsi juice preservation could be a potential successor to thermal pasteurisation. This approach can help to minimise or hinder quality degradation while improving the juice’s functionality.
Antioxidant and Anti-Aging Properties of Polyphenol–Polysaccharide Complex Extract from Hizikia fusiforme
Authors: Li Shangkun , He Yunhai , Zhong Saiyi , Li Yutong , Di Yuan , Wang Qiukuan , Ren Dandan , Liu Shu , Li Di , Cao Fangjie
Published: October 2023

Hizikia fusiforme has a long history of consumption and medicinal use in China. It has been found that natural plants containing polyphenol–polysaccharide complexes have better activity compared with polyphenols and polysaccharides. Therefore, in this study on enzymatic hydrolysis and fractional alcohol precipitation, two kinds of polyphenol–polysaccharide complexes (PPC), PPC1 and PPC2, were initially obtained from Hizikia fusiforme, while the dephenolization of PPC1 and PPC2 produced PPC3 and PPC4. Through in vitro assays, PPC2 and PPC4 were found to have higher antioxidant activity, and thus were selected for testing the PPCs’ anti-aging activity in a subsequent in vivo experiment with D-gal-induced aging in mice. The results indicated that PPCs could regulate the expressions of antioxidant enzymes and products of oxidation, elevate the expressions of genes and proteins related to the Nrf2 pathway in the mouse brain, enrich the gut microbiota species and increase the Bacteroidota–Firmicute (B/F) ratio. Above all, the Hizikia fusiforme polyphenol–polysaccharide complex has potential in the development of natural anti-aging drugs.
The Volatile Flavor Substances, Microbial Diversity, and Their Potential Correlations of Inner and Surface Areas within Chinese Qingcheng Mountain Traditional Bacon
Authors: Chen Hongfan , Zhang Yulin , Wang Xinyi , Nie Xin , Liu Dayu , Zhao Zhiping
Published: October 2023

The objective of this study was to explore the microbial diversity, volatile flavor substances, and their potential correlations in inner and surface Chinese Qingcheng Mountain traditional bacon (CQTB). The results showed that there were 39 volatile flavor substances in inner and surface CQTB detected by headspace solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS). Moreover, significant differences in volatile flavor substances between the inner and surface CQTB were observed. Sixteen key volatile flavor substances were screened (OAV > 1), including guaiacol, nonanal, ethyl isovalerate, and others. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) result indicated that Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria were the predominant bacterial phyla, and Ascomycota and Mucoromycota were the predominant fungal phyla. Staphylococcus, Psychrobacter, and Brochothrix were the predominant bacteria, and Debaryomyces, Penicillium, and Mucor were the predominant fungal genera. Spearman correlation coefficient analysis suggested that Apiotrichum and Lactobacillus were closely and positively correlated with the formation of key phenol compounds. The present work demonstrates the microbial diversity and related volatile flavor substances and their potential correlations in CQTB and provides a theoretical basis for the development of microbial starter culture and green processing of CQTB.
Lipid Profile in Multiple Sclerosis: Functional Capacity and Therapeutic Potential of Its Regulation after Intervention with Epigallocatechin Gallate and Coconut Oil
Authors: de la Rubia Ortí Jose Enrique , Platero Armero Jose Luis , Cuerda-Ballester María , Sanchis-Sanchis Claudia Emmanuela , Navarro-Illana Esther , Lajara-Romance Jose María , Benlloch María , Ceron Jose Joaquín , Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Proaño Belén
Published: October 2023

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients present dyslipidemia and functional disability. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and coconut oil have been shown to be effective against dyslipidemia. Objective: To analyze the relationship between lipid profiles, fat consumption, and functional disability in patients with MS after administering EGCG and coconut oil. Methods: A four-month pilot study was conducted on 45 MS patients, divided into an intervention group (IG) and a control group (CG). The IG received 800 mg of EGCG and 60 mL of coconut oil. Lipid profiles were measured before and after the intervention, along with other data such as dietary habits, inflammatory markers, and functional capacity. Results: Dyslipidemia did not correlate with the patients’ fat consumption. After the intervention, triglycerides (TG) levels were lower in IG compared to CG. This decrease was positively correlated with an improvement in functional disability (determined by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS)) and negatively with high-density cholesterol (HDL) and apolipoprotein A1. Significant and positive correlations were observed between EDSS and C-reactive protein (CRP) in the IG. These changes in the IG could be related to body fat decrease, whose percentage shows a positive correlation with CRP and TG levels, and a negative correlation with HDL levels. Conclusions: Patients with MS present a certain type of dyslipemia not associated with their nutritional habits. The administration of EGCG and coconut oil seems to decrease blood TG levels, which could explain the functional improvements.
Dynamic Prediction Model for Initial Apple Damage
Authors: Xu Tao , Zhu Yihang , Zhang Xiaomin , Wu Zheyuan , Rao Xiuqin
Published: October 2023

Prediction models of damage severity are crucial for the damage expression of fruit. In light of issues such as the mismatch of existing models in actual damage scenarios and the failure of static models to meet research needs, this article proposes a dynamic prediction model for damage severity throughout the entire process of apple damage and studies the relationship between the initial bruise form and impact energy distribution of apple damage. From the experiments, it was found that after impact a “cell death zone” appeared in the internal pulp of the damaged part of Red Delicious apples. The reason for the appearance of the cell death zone was that the impact force propagated in the direction of the fruit kernel in the form of stress waves; the continuous action of which continuously compressed the pulp’s cell tissue. When the energy absorbed via elastic deformation reached the limit value, intercellular disadhesion of parenchyma cells at the location of the stress wave peak occurred to form cell rupture. The increase in intercellular space for the parenchyma cells near the rupture site caused a large amount of necrocytosis and, ultimately, formed the cell death zone. The depth of the cell death zone was closely related to the impact energy. The correlation coefficient r between the depth of the cell death zone and the distribution of impact energy was slightly lower at the impact height of 50 mm. As the impact height increased, the correlation coefficient r increased, approaching of value of 1. When the impact height was lower (50 mm), the correlation coefficient r had a large distribution range (from 0.421 to 0.983). As the impact height increased, the distribution range significantly decreased. The width of the cell death zone had a poor correlation with the pressure distribution on the impact surface of the apples that was not related to the impact height. In this article, the corresponding relationship between the form and impact energy distribution of the internal damaged tissues in the initial damage of Red Delicious apples was analyzed. This analysis aimed to provide a research concept and theoretical basis for more reliable research on the morphological changes in the damaged tissues of apples in the future, further improving the prediction accuracy of damage severity.
Yolk Fatty Acid Profile and Amino Acid Composition in Eggs from Hens Supplemented with ß-Hydroxy-ß-Methylbutyrate
Authors: Dajnowska Aleksandra , Tomaszewska Ewa , Świątkiewicz Sylwester , Arczewska-Włosek Anna , Dobrowolski Piotr , Domaradzki Piotr , Rudyk Halyna , Brezvyn Oksana , Muzyka Viktor , Kotsyumbas Ihor , Arciszewski Marcin B. , Muszyński Siemowit
Published: October 2023

In recent years, a supplementation of livestock animals, including poultry, with β-Hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) has gained attention for its effects on protein and fat metabolism. This study investigates the effects of HMB in the laying hen diet on egg quality, focusing on amino acid and fatty acid composition. Laying hens were supplemented with 0.02% HMB, with performance parameters and egg components analyzed. HMB supplementation led to increased albumen weight, influencing egg weight while also reducing feed intake per egg without affecting laying rate, yolk indices, fat, or cholesterol content. Notably, the study revealed significant changes in egg amino acid and fatty acid profiles due to HMB supplementation. Various amino acids, including glycine, serine, and isoleucine, were altered in the yolk, impacting nutritional value and potential health benefits. Regarding fatty acids, the study observed changes in both saturated as well as n-6 and n-3 fatty acids, affecting the overall lipid profile of egg yolks. However, the shifts in fatty acid composition could have implications for cardiovascular health due to altered ratios of n-6/n-3 fatty acids. Further research is required to comprehensively understand the implications of these findings for consumer-oriented egg quality and health benefits.
Common and Coincidence Fixed-Point Theorems for ℑ-Contractions with Existence Results for Nonlinear Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Iqbal Bilal , Saleem Naeem , Iqbal Iram , George Reny
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we derive the coincidence fixed-point and common fixed-point results for ℑ-type mappings satisfying certain contractive conditions and containing fewer conditions imposed on function ℑ with regard to generalized metric spaces (in terms of Jleli Samet). Finally, a fractional boundary value problem is reduced to an equivalent Volterra integral equation, and the existence results of common solutions are obtained with the use of proved fixed-point results.
Conversation with My Classmates: Displacement, War, and Survival
Authors: Mikuska Eva
Published: October 2023

Serbia is a country with a long tradition of emigration. The increase in the number of displaced people sharply rose in 1992 when all the diplomatic options to preserve Yugoslavia had failed. The ensuing ethnic conflict resulted in mass mobilization by young adults who were required to go to war, mainly against their will. The main purpose of the paper is twofold: to draw attention to the key challenges that displacement plays on individuals and to show how traumatic events, such as the war in Ukraine, can mobilize historical traumas. To elicit deeper and new understandings of how displacement impacts people, conversations with my elementary school classmates of Hungarian ethnic origin, including those who were serving the Yugoslav People’s Army (JNA) between 1991 and 1992, were analysed through the lens of the author’s autoethnographic positioning. It shows how life stories are co-produced through narrative inquiry and, by ‘co-reflecting’ on the past, it shows how they are simultaneously positioned within social categories of intersectionality, such as gender, social inequality, stayed and displaced. These reflections offer a broader understanding of how qualitative research can enrich existing knowledge of the effect of this specific conflict, and ethnic conflict in general.
Evaluating Post-Fire Erosion and Flood Protection Techniques: A Narrative Review of Applications
Authors: Papaioannou George , Alamanos Angelos , Maris Fotios
Published: October 2023

Wildfires affect and change the burned sites’ condition, functionality, and ecosystem services. Altered hydrologic processes, such as runoff, increased streamflows, and sediment transport, are only a few examples resulting from burned soils, vegetation, and land cover. Such areas are flood-prone and face risks of extreme peak flows, reduced infiltration, water pollution affecting habitats, and hydromorphological changes. In this study, we present the different post-fire erosion and flood protection treatments that have been developed to avoid and mitigate the consequences and risks mentioned above. We categorize them into Land, Channel, Barrier, and Road treatments and analyze their types, such as cover-based methods, barriers, mulching, in-channel treatments, such as check dams, seeding, or even chemical treatments. Examples of how such treatments were used in real cases are provided, commenting on their results in flood and erosion protection. We found that cover changes were more effective than barriers, as they provided an immediate ground-cover increase in both Mediterranean and US sites. We explore the factors that play a role in their effectiveness, including storm duration and intensity, topography and slopes, land cover and uses, treatment implementation-installation, as well as fire-related factors such as burn severity. These factors have different effects on different treatments, so we further discuss the suitability of each one depending on the site’s and treatment’s characteristics. The outcomes of this work are expected to improve the understanding of the practical aspects of these treatments, providing for the first time a synthesis of the available knowledge on the multiple complex factors that can determine their efficiency.
Soil–Structure Interactions in a Capped CBP Wall System Triggered by Localized Hydrogeological Drawdown in a Complex Geological Setting
Authors: Ong Dominic Ek Leong , Chong Elizabeth Eu Mee
Published: October 2023

Retaining walls are often used to construct basements and underground station boxes. This unique case study compares the field-measured contiguous bored pile (CBP) wall, surrounding geology, and hydrogeology or groundwater responses against the results using 2D and 3D numerical back analyses of a deep excavation project that experienced localized groundwater drawdown through the leaking ground anchor points. Site observations indicated that the ground anchor installation works had caused larger than expected through-the-wall leakages that subsequently triggered nearby ground and building settlements. In order to study the complex soil–structure interaction behavior, back analyses using a hybrid modeling technique of through-the-wall transient hydrogeological seepage and geomaterial stress-strain analyses was implemented. Through these soil-structure interaction back analyses, it was evidently revealed that the presence of the continuous capping beam was key in providing pile head restraints against the active earth pressures when the groundwater was depressed, as well as efficiently distributing the beneficial wall corner effects towards the middle CBP wall, leading to smaller bending moment magnitudes, characterized by their ‘S-shaped’ profiles. This behavior had been correctly diagnosed, as opposed to the ‘D-shaped’ bending moment profile usually only seen in a typical free-head cantilever wall in similar geology. The eventual results show that the wall and ground responses, i.e., deflection, bending moment, and settlement, were reasonably well predicted when compared against the instrumented field data, thus validating the reliability of the geotechnical modeling technique, key geological parameters, and hydrogeological fluctuations adopted in the 2D and 3D numerical models, as well as the beneficial contributions of the continuous capping beam, which tend to be overlooked during routine retaining wall design.
Acupuncture Treatment for Emotional Problems in Women with Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hwang Su-In , Yoon Young-Jin , Sung Soo-Hyun , Cho Su-Jin , Park Jang-Kyung
Published: October 2023

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture in treating emotional problems in women with infertility. We searched for randomized controlled trials using acupuncture treatment for emotional problems in women with infertility using 11 databases from their inception to 30 June 2023. The control intervention included no treatment, sham acupuncture treatment, and conventional treatment. The primary outcome was emotion-related rating scales, and the secondary outcomes were total effectiveness rate, quality of life, clinical pregnancy rate, and adverse events. Twelve randomized controlled trials involving 1930 participants were included. A meta-analysis of these studies indicated that, as compared to the control treatment, acupuncture significantly improved the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, Self-rating Anxiety Scale, Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale, and Self-rating Depression Scale scores, which were the primary emotion-related outcomes. Furthermore, the meta-analysis demonstrated that acupuncture treatment had a significant effect on the clinical pregnancy rate, which was the secondary outcome. No adverse events were reported in any of the studies. Our findings demonstrate the potential of acupuncture for treating emotional problems in women with infertility. However, well-designed and high-quality randomized clinical trials are required to confirm the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture treatment. The protocol of the current study was registered in PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42020166119).
The Development of a Communication Tool to Aid Parent-Centered Communication between Parents and Healthcare Professionals: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Marino Luise V. , Collaḉo Nicole , Coyne Sophie , Leppan Megan , Ridgeway Steve , Bharucha Tara , Cochrane Colette , Fandinga Catarina , Palframan Karla , Rees Leanne , Osman Ahmed , Johnson Mark J. , Hurley-Wallace Anna , Darlington Anne-Sophie E.
Published: October 2023

Good communication is central to good healthcare. As a result of poor communication between parents and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in clinical settings, this study aimed to address this problem by developing a communication tool to empower parents and act as a prompt for HCPs to talk about the child’s care and gather information at the point of admission to hospital about what is important to families, therefore supporting patient-centered communication. A design thinking process was used to develop a physical copy of Chloe’s card and evaluate its use. Design thinking is a problem-solving approach, which uses an empathetic lens to integrate viewpoints of different stakeholders throughout the process of creating solutions. Design thinking involves five processes: (1) empathise—including a literature review and data synthesis, (2) define—by completing semi-structured interviews with parents about their experience of communication and HCPs perceptions of parent’s experience of communication, (3) ideate—iterate the design of Chloe’s card with parents and HCPs, (4) prototype—develop the design of Chloe’s card, and (5) test—pilot test in clinical practice. Results from this initial study suggest that a small hand-held card, with emoticons and a place to write concerns, was acceptable to parents and feasible to use in clinical practice. Parents do not always feel heard by HCPs and a tool such as Chloe’s card may help facilitate sharing of information about matters important to them and their child. However, some HCPs felt the need for a communication tool undermined their clinical skills. Feedback from HCP participants suggests that the idea of Chloe’s card was acceptable and perceived as potentially being useful in clinical practice. Further work is required, as part of a larger study, to further refine this communication tool, identify those parents who would benefit most from Chloe’s card, as well as to further refine the HCP process prior to implementing it into clinical settings. It was noted future iterations would benefit from a digital version linked with a child’s electronic record, as well as multi-language versions and information for parents.