bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of root canal preparation using two single-file systems on the intra-radicular microbiome of teeth with primary apical periodontitis
Authors: Amaral Rodrigo Rodrigues , Love Robert M. , Braga Tiago , Souza Côrtes Maria I. , Rachid Caio T. C. C. , Rôças Isabela N. , Siqueira José F.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to describe the effects of two single-file systems on the diversity of the endodontic microbiome of teeth with primary asymptomatic apical periodontitis.

Materials and methods

The root canals from single-rooted teeth with apical periodontitis were prepared using either the Reciproc Blue (RB) or the XP-endo Shaper (XPS) instrument system. The latter was followed by a supplementary step with the XP-endo Finisher (XPF) instrument. For irrigation, 5.25% sodium hypochlorite was used. Root canal samples were taken at the baseline (S1), after preparation (S2), and after the supplementary step (S3). DNA was extracted and subjected to high-throughput sequencing using the MiSeq Illumina platform.

Results

Samples from 10 teeth from the RB and 7 from the XPS group were subjected to DNA sequencing. Initial samples differed significantly from post-preparation samples in bacterial diversity, with no significant difference when comparing the two instrument systems. The most dominant phyla in S2 were Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, and Actinobacteria. The same phyla were found to dominate baseline samples and samples taken after using XPF, but with differences in the ranking of the most dominant ones. At the genus level, the most dominant genera identified after RB instrumentation were Bacteroidaceae [G-1], Fusobacterium, and Staphylococcus, while the most dominant genera after XPS instrumentation were Fusobacterium and Porphyromonas. These genera were also dominant in the initial samples.

Conclusions

Both treatment protocols had measurable effects on the root canal microbial diversity, with no significant differences between them. Most of the dominant taxa involved in the primary infection and probably in the aetiology of apical periodontitis were eliminated or substantially reduced.

Clinical relevance

The most dominant taxa that persisted after instrumentation were Fusobacterium, Porphyromonas, Staphylococcus, and Bacteroidaceae [G-1].
Including the perspective of stakeholders in landscape planning through the Ecosystem Services co-production framework: an empirical exploration in Le Marche, Italy
Authors: Giacomelli Matteo , Sargolini Massimo , Felipe-Lucia María R.
Published: February 2024

Research on Ecosystem Services (ES) has become dominant in landscape planning to frame the relationship between people and nature. Increasingly, studies are stressing that most ES do not flow from nature alone but require a significant human contribution, known as ES co-production. However, there is a lack of understanding on how different stakeholders contribute to ES co-production. Here, we integrated stakeholders’ perspectives in landscape planning using questionnaires and focus groups in a case study in Le Marche, Italy. We found that respondents acknowledge co-production in a wide range of ES with a major share of cultural ES. Mostly self-perceived as users and managers, local stakeholders invest in their activities mainly human and social capitals, while physical and financial capitals gain importance in the case of provisioning services. Our findings embraced the multiple aspects of human-nature interactions, offering the opportunity to bridge different sectors, such as agriculture, eco-tourism, and resilience against extreme events, toward a multifunctional vision of landscapes. The integration of the ES co-production framework proved useful in fostering the access of stakeholders to decision-making.
The clinical outcomes of haploidentical stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) for patients with therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome: comparable to de novo myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Tang Feifei , Wang Yunqi , Wang Yu , Jin Jian , Han Wei , Chen Yuhong , Yan Chenhua , Xu Lanping , Zhang Xiaohui , Huang Xiaojun
Published: February 2024

Therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome (t-MDS) is defined as a complication in patients with cancer following exposure to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and has an inferior outcome compared with de novo myelodysplastic syndrome (de novo MDS). This study aimed to estimate and compare the clinical outcomes of haploidentical stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT) for t-MDS and de novo MDS. We retrospectively analyzed 96 patients with MDS who received haplo-HSCT between January 2015 and December 2021. Eleven patients with t-MDS and 85 patients with de novo MDS were matched using the case-pair method in a 1:8 ratio with the following pairing criteria: (1) sex, (2) age (± 5 years), (3) year of haplo-HSCT (± 2 years), and (4) blast cell counts (≥ 5% or not). The 3-year overall survival and disease-free survival after haplo-HSCT for t-MDS versus de novo MDS patients were 72.7% versus 75.1% (P = 0.99) and 54.5% versus 67.0% (P = 0.50), respectively. The 3-year cumulative incidence of relapse was 36.4% versus 15.5% (P = 0.08), respectively. In multivariate analysis, there was no difference in relapse between t-MDS and de novo MDS. The 3-year cumulative non-relapse mortality rates were 9.1% versus 17.6% (P = 0.45), respectively. This study confirmed the comparable clinical outcomes of haplo-HSCT on the prognosis of t-MDS and de novo MDS.
Idempotent Completions of n-Exangulated Categories
Authors: Klapproth Carlo , Msapato Dixy , Shah Amit
Published: February 2024

Suppose $$(\mathcal {C},\mathbb {E},\mathfrak {s})$$

(
C
,
E
,
s
)

is an n-exangulated category. We show that the idempotent completion and the weak idempotent completion of $$\mathcal {C}$$
C
are again n-exangulated categories. Furthermore, we also show that the canonical inclusion functor of $$\mathcal {C}$$
C
into its (resp. weak) idempotent completion is n-exangulated and 2-universal among n-exangulated functors from $$(\mathcal {C},\mathbb {E},\mathfrak {s})$$

(
C
,
E
,
s
)

to (resp. weakly) idempotent complete n-exangulated categories. Furthermore, we prove that if $$(\mathcal {C},\mathbb {E},\mathfrak {s})$$

(
C
,
E
,
s
)

is n-exact, then so too is its (resp. weak) idempotent completion. We note that our methods of proof differ substantially from the extriangulated and $$(n+2)$$

(
n
+
2
)

-angulated cases. However, our constructions recover the known structures in the established cases up to n-exangulated isomorphism of n-exangulated categories.
Carrier-Phase DNS of Ignition and Combustion of Iron Particles in a Turbulent Mixing Layer
Authors: Luu Tien Duc , Shamooni Ali , Kronenburg Andreas , Braig Daniel , Mich Johannes , Nguyen Bich-Diep , Scholtissek Arne , Hasse Christian , Thäter Gabriel , Carbone Maurizio , Frohnapfel Bettina , Stein Oliver Thomas
Published: February 2024

Three-dimensional carrier-phase direct numerical simulations (CP-DNS) of reacting iron particle dust clouds in a turbulent mixing layer are conducted. The simulation approach considers the Eulerian transport equations for the reacting gas phase and resolves all scales of turbulence, whereas the particle boundary layers are modelled employing the Lagrangian point-particle framework for the dispersed phase. The CP-DNS employs an existing sub-model for iron particle combustion that considers the oxidation of iron to FeO and that accounts for both diffusion- and kinetically-limited combustion. At first, the particle sub-model is validated against experimental results for single iron particle combustion considering various particle diameters and ambient oxygen concentrations. Subsequently, the CP-DNS approach is employed to predict iron particle cloud ignition and combustion in a turbulent mixing layer. The upper stream of the mixing layer is initialised with cold particles in air, while the lower stream consists of hot air flowing in the opposite direction. Simulation results show that turbulent mixing induces heating, ignition and combustion of the iron particles. Significant increases in gas temperature and oxygen consumption occur mainly in regions where clusters of iron particles are formed. Over the course of the oxidation, the particles are subjected to different rate-limiting processes. While initially particle oxidation is kinetically-limited it becomes diffusion-limited for higher particle temperatures and peak particle temperatures are observed near the fully-oxidised particle state. Comparing the present non-volatile iron dust flames to general trends in volatile-containing solid fuel flames, non-vanishing particles at late simulation times and a stronger limiting effect of the local oxygen concentration on particle conversion is found for the present iron dust flames in shear-driven turbulence.
Analysis of Coordination Mechanisms during Collaborative Problem-Solving on an Interactive Tabletop Display
Authors: Maquil Valérie , Afkari Hoorieh , Arend Béatrice , Heuser Svenja , Sunnen Patrick
Published: February 2024

Coordination is an important aspect of group work. Previous studies have shown how collocated multi-user interfaces, such as interactive tabletops, support coordination by providing a shared space that enhances workspace awareness. However, only little is known about the coordination processes that occur during problem-solving on such shared devices and how the design of features and interaction techniques can impact coordination behaviour. In this paper we analyse users’ coordination mechanisms during joint manipulation tasks in Orbitia, an interactive tabletop-based problem-solving activity. The proposed design integrates a series of “breaches” seeking to challenge participants’ collaboration by confronting them to different limitations. We report on a case study with five groups of three users (N = 15), jointly solving tasks while facing different challenges related to the activity interface and the environment. By analysing 135 min of video material along with their transcripts, we identified nine different coordination mechanisms that relate to either coordination of information or coordination of actions. By exploring the occurrences of these mechanisms, we found that sharing unsolicited task-relevant information is a common coordination behaviour that can be observed at interactive tabletops, and that with breaches, more explicit coordination in the form of direct requests, orders, or shadowing is used.
Left out and invisible? : exploring social media representation of ‘left behind places’
Authors: Sanderson Rachael , Franklin Rachel , MacKinnon Danny , Matthews Joe
Published: February 2024

‘Left behind places’ and regional inequalities have garnered increasing attention from policy makers, with new data needed to support further analysis. Social media data has the potential to act as a real-time barometer of local opinions, supplementing traditional time-intensive public opinion surveys to inform public policy insights. This study evaluates the scope of potential use of social media data to investigate left behind places. Twitter is used as a case study, with the volume of tweets measured across England and Wales. Linear regression is employed to identify under-represented places in the data. The residuals of the model are then compared across classifications of left behind places, to explore whether left behind places are more likely to post fewer tweets, rendering them ‘invisible’ in the data. This study provides a valuable foundational assessment of the potential suitability of Twitter data for this purpose, engaging with concepts relating to spatial bias and social inequalities.
Association between advanced glycation end products and uveitis/scleritis activity in patients with active immune-mediated ocular inflammatory diseases
Authors: Sukon Nutchaya , Choopong Pitipol , Tungsattayathitthan Usanee , Tesavibul Nattaporn , Sanpan Wilawan , Boonsopon Sutasinee
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To investigate for association between skin autofluorescence (SAF) advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and uveitis/scleritis activity in systemic inflammatory disease-related active non-infectious uveitis/scleritis patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at Siriraj Hospital during October 2019 to March 2020. AGEs were measured by SAF method in systemic immune-related disease patients with active uveitis/scleritis, and those results were compared with those of healthy age-matched controls.

Results

Thirty-one active non-infectious uveitis/scleritis patients and 31 age-matched controls were enrolled. The mean age of patients was 40.0 ± 12.8 years, and most were female (55.0%). The most common associated systemic immune-related disease was Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada disease (n = 14). Mean SAF AGE level in the study group compared to the control group was 2.38 ± 0.66 arbitrary units (AU) versus 2.58 ± 0.56 AU, respectively (p = 0.20). Multivariate analysis showed decreased SAF AGE level to be significantly associated with active ocular inflammation, (odds ratio: 0.01, 95% confidence interval: 0.00004–0.81; p = 0.04).

Conclusions

SAF AGE level was not so far found to be a reliable biomarker for indicating uveitis/scleritis activity in systemic immune-related disease patients with active ocular inflammation.

Clinical trial registration

Thai Clinical Trials Registry, https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/. (Reg. No. TCTR20200114004, registered date 01/01/2020, beginning date of the trial 10/01/2019).
Academic Integrity Strategies: Student Insights
Authors: Campbell Caroline , Waddington Lorna
Published: February 2024

This paper reports the key findings from two student surveys undertaken at our institution in the academic years 2020-21 and 2021-22. The research was based on the Bretag et al. (2018) student survey undertaken in various Australian universities. After discussions with both Bretag and Harper, we adapted the questions to our context – a Russell Group university in the UK – but included similar questions to enable a comparison, and to find out if there were common themes. The main aim of the surveys was to understand our students’ awareness of what is meant by the term ‘academic integrity’, defined as ‘being honest in your work, acknowledging the work of others and giving credit where you have used other people’s ideas/data’ https://secretariat.leeds.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/109/2022/12/academic_integrity.pdf. The responses provided an important insight into student attitudes to academic integrity, their understanding of academic malpractice, and their awareness of the penalties if found to have plagiarised, and if found guilty of contract cheating (Medway et al., 2018; Morris, 2018; Harper et al., 2019). The surveys also identified what students would find useful in developing their understanding of academic integrity, and this underlines the importance of consulting our students. Key findings include gaps in the information provided to students, the need for regular and timely reminders of the principles of academic integrity, and the need for guidance to be written using student-friendly language. The findings informed our recommendations in terms of teaching and learning at School/Faculty level and to policy at University level, to further support student success. In the context of the key issues raised by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) Academic Integrity Charter (2020), we discuss examples of best practice currently undertaken at the University of Leeds, on-going discussions regarding developments, and our recommendations for further embedding a culture of academic integrity. We argue that all students should have the same baseline experience and therefore promoting this ethos is the responsibility of all staff who teach and support students.
Aggregation/disaggregation of microalgal-bacterial flocs in high-rate oxidation ponds is a response to biotic/abiotic-induced changes in microbial community structure
Authors: Keshinro Taobat A. , Keshinro Olajide M. , Titilawo Yinka , Cowan A. Keith
Published: February 2024

During wastewater treatment by integrated algal pond systems (IAPS), microalgal-bacterial flocs (MaB-flocs) form naturally but periodically disaggregate, resulting in poor settling, low biomass recovery, and reduced effluent quality. This study investigates biotic/abiotic-induced changes in microbial community structure in high-rate algal oxidation ponds (HRAOP) of an IAPS on MaB-floc formation and stability during sewage treatment. Results show that dominance by Pseudopediastrum, Desmodesmus and Micractinium species in spring and summer and the chytrids, Paraphysoderma sp. in spring and Sanchytrium sp. in summer, occurred coincident with enhanced MaB-floc formation and biomass recovery (≥90%). In winter, poor floc formation and low biomass recovery were associated with dominance by Desmodesmus, Chlorella, and the Chlorella-like genus Micractinium. A principal components analysis (PCA) confirmed that combinations of colonial microalgae and associated parasitic chytrids underpin MaB-floc formation and stability in spring and summer and that unicells dominated in winter. Dominance by Thiothrix sp. coincided with floc disaggregation. Thus, changes in season, composition and abundance of colonial microalgae and associated parasitic fungi appeared to impact MaB-floc formation, whereas species composition of the bacterial population and emergence of Thiothrix coincided with floc instability and disaggregation.
Magnetic Microcalorimeters for Primary Activity Standardization Within the EMPIR Project PrimA-LTD
Authors: Müller Michael , Rodrigues Matias , Beyer Jörn , Loidl Martin , Kempf Sebastian
Published: February 2024

The precision of existing decay data of radionuclides for activity determination is often a limitation for actual applications in science, society and industry. For this reason, the EMPIR project PrimA-LTD aims to introduce an advanced primary activity standardization technique that is based on magnetic microcalorimeters (MMCs) and that will offer very low energy threshold of few eV and a decay scheme-independent detection efficiency close to $$100\,\%$$

100

%

. As a proof of concept, we developed two MMC-based detector types in order to standardize an $$\alpha$$
α
-decaying, a $$\beta$$
β
-decaying and an electron capture decaying isotope. One detector type aims to introduce a reusable detector setup, while the other aims to provide highly accurate decay spectra by high-resolution measurements with high statistics. We present the designs, fabrication status and first characterization measurements of both detectors types and outline next steps.
ON A SPECIAL CLASS OF LOGHARMONIC MAPPINGS
Authors: Abdulhadi Zayid , Hajj Layan El
Published: February 2024

This paper considers a special class $$S_{L}(h)$$

S
L

(
h
)

of logharmonic mappings of the form $$f(z)=h(z)\overline{h^{\prime }(z)},$$

f

(
z
)

=
h

(
z
)

h
′

(
z
)

¯

,

where h is analytic in the unit disk U, normalized by $$h(0)=0$$

h
(
0
)
=
0

, $$h^{\prime }(0)=1$$

h
′

(
0
)

=
1

, and h(U) is starlike. For this class of functions, a distortion theorem is proved, and Bohr’s inequality along with some improvements and refinements is investigated. In addition, the radius of starlikeness and an estimate for arclength are obtained.
Language revitalization through a social movement lens: grassroots Galician language activism
Authors: O’Rourke Bernadette , Dayán-Fernández Alejandro
Published: February 2024

In this article, a social movement lens is applied to examine the dynamics of an urbanbased language revitalization movement in the Autonomous Community of Galicia (North-western Spain). The potential of Resource Management Theory is explored as a way of systematically analysing the dynamics of urban-based language revitalization movements. It does this by identifying factors which both helped fuel the emergence and growth of this Galician grassroots movement as well as those constraining its potential development. Drawing on in-depth interviews and observations collected over six months of ethnographic fieldwork in one of Galicia’s main cities, social movement theory is used to analyse the role of Galician social movement activists as social agents in shaping the success of their language revitalization initiative. We argue that a social movement lens provides a useful analytical toolkit to focus on the grassroots efforts of social agents involved in peripheral ethnolinguistic mobilization in minority language contexts such as Galicia. Ultimately, we aim to show that these social movement revitalization initiatives go beyond language as an object and are centred around language-based struggles which not only address strategy dilemmas but also scaffold social relations and ties among speakers as they mobilize within particular institutional fields.
MiR129-5p-loaded exosomes suppress seizure-associated neurodegeneration in status epilepticus model mice by inhibiting HMGB1/TLR4-mediated neuroinflammation
Authors: Liu Tengfei , Liu Haiyan , Xue Siyi , Xiao Lijie , Xu Jing , Tong Shuyan , Wei Xiu’e
Published: February 2024

Background

Neuroinflammation contributes to both epileptogenesis and the associated neurodegeneration, so regulation of inflammatory signaling is a potential strategy for suppressing epilepsy development and pathological progression. Exosomes are enriched in microRNAs (miRNAs), considered as vital communication tools between cells, which have been proven as potential therapeutic method for neurological disease. Here, we investigated the role of miR129-5p-loaded mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes in status epilepticus (SE) mice model.

Methods

Mice were divided into four groups: untreated control (CON group), kainic acid (KA)-induced SE groups (KA group), control exosome injection (KA + Exo-con group), miR129-5p-loaded exosome injection (KA + Exo-miR129-5p group). Hippocampal expression levels of miR129-5p, HMGB1, and TLR4 were compared among groups. Nissl and Fluoro-jade B staining were conducted to evaluate neuronal damage. In addition, immunofluorescence staining for IBA-1 and GFAP was performed to assess glial cell activation, and inflammatory factor content was determined by ELISA. Hippocampal neurogenesis was assessed by BrdU staining.

Results

The expression of HMGB1 was increased after KA-induced SE and peaking at 48 h, while hippocampal miR129-5p expression decreased in SE mice. Exo-miR129-5p injection reversed KA-induced upregulation of hippocampal HMGB1 and TLR4, alleviated neuronal damage in the hippocampal CA3, reduced IBA-1 + and GFAP + staining intensity, suppressed SE-associated increases in inflammatory factors, and decreased BrdU + cell number in dentate gyrus.

Conclusions

Exosomes loaded with miR129-5p can protect neurons against SE-mediated degeneration by inhibiting the pro-inflammatory HMGB1/TLR4 signaling axis.

Graphical Abstract
Hierarchical multi-head attention LSTM for polyphonic symbolic melody generation
Authors: Kasif Ahmet , Sevgen Selcuk , Ozcan Alper , Catal Cagatay
Published: February 2024

Creating symbolic melodies with machine learning is challenging because it requires an understanding of musical structure and the handling of inter-dependencies and long-term dependencies. Learning the relationship between events that occur far apart in time in music poses a considerable challenge for machine learning models. Another notable feature of music is that notes must account for several inter-dependencies, including melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic aspects. Baseline methods, such as RNNs, LSTMs, and GRUs, often struggle to capture these dependencies, resulting in the generation of musically incoherent or repetitive melodies. As such, in this study, a hierarchical multi-head attention LSTM model is proposed for creating polyphonic symbolic melodies. This enables our model to generate more complex and expressive melodies than previous methods, while still being musically coherent. The model allows learning of long-term dependencies at different levels of abstraction, while retaining the ability to form inter-dependencies. The study has been conducted on two major symbolic music datasets, MAESTRO and Classical-Music MIDI, which feature musical content encoded on MIDI. The artistic nature of music poses a challenge to evaluating the generated content and qualitative analysis are often not enough. Thus, human listening tests are conducted to strengthen the evaluation. Qualitative analysis conducted on the generated melodies shows significantly improved loss scores on MSE over baseline methods, and is able to generate melodies that were both musically coherent and expressive. The listening tests conducted using Likert-scale support the qualitative results and provide better statistical scores over baseline methods.
Intradermal Vaccination with PLGA Nanoparticles via Dissolving Microneedles and Classical Injection Needles
Authors: Lee Jihui , Neustrup Malene A. , Slütter Bram , O’Mahony Conor , Bouwstra Joke A. , van der Maaden Koen
Published: February 2024

Purpose

A dissolving microneedle array (dMNA) is a vaccine delivery device with several advantages over conventional needles. By incorporating particulate adjuvants in the form of poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) into the dMNA, the immune response against the antigen might be enhanced. This study aimed to prepare PLGA-NP-loaded dMNA and to compare T-cell responses induced by either intradermally injected aqueous-PLGA-NP formulation or PLGA-NP-loaded dMNA in mice.

Methods

PLGA NPs were prepared with microfluidics, and their physicochemical characteristics with regard to encapsulation efficiencies of ovalbumin (OVA) and CpG oligonucleotide (CpG), zeta potentials, polydispersity indexes, and sizes were analysed. PLGA NPs incorporated dMNA was produced with three different dMNA formulations by using the centrifugation method, and the integrity of PLGA NPs in dMNAs was evaluated. The immunogenicity was evaluated in mice by comparing the T-cell responses induced by dMNA and aqueous formulations containing ovalbumin and CpG (OVA/CpG) with and without PLGA NP.

Results

Prepared PLGA NPs had a size of around 100 nm. The dMNA formulations affected the particle integrity, and the dMNA with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) showed almost no aggregation of PLGA NPs. The PLGA:PVA weight ratio of 1:9 resulted in 100% of penetration efficiency and the fastest dissolution in ex-vivo human skin (< 30 min). The aqueous formulation with soluble OVA/CpG and the aqueous-PLGA-NP formulation with OVA/CpG induced the highest CD4 + T-cell responses in blood and spleen cells.

Conclusions

PLGA NPs incorporated dMNA was successfully fabricated and the aqueous formulation containing PLGA NPs induce superior CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses.
Vegetation establishment in soils polluted by heavy metal(loid)s after assisted natural remediation
Authors: Paniagua-López Mario , García-Robles Helena , Aguilar-Garrido Antonio , Romero-Freire Ana , Lorite Juan , Sierra-Aragón Manuel
Published: February 2024

Background and aims

This field-base study evaluates the long-term effectiveness of in-situ remediation measures applied to soils residually polluted by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in an area affected by a mining spill in SW Spain.

Methods

To evaluate the remediation treatments success, their influence on key soil properties and on the development of spontaneous vegetation in the treated soils was investigated. The treatments were based on human derived by-products valorization, and consisted of: biopiles, marble sludge and gypsum mining spoil addition, and their combination with an organic amendment (vermicompost).

Results

Amendments application improved the soil properties and reduced PTEs availability. As a result, an enhancement in spontaneous development of vegetation cover and diversity of plant species in the treated soils was followed. Spergularia rubra and Lamarckia aurea, two primary plant species growing in the studied area and that exhibit strong association to soils with the highest levels of pollution, showed high Pb and As accumulation in shoots ande in roots. Exceptionally, accumulation of these pollutants occurred in L. aurea roots, which can explain its high presence in soils with more limited vegetation development and in which no additional plant species can thrive.

Conclusions

The occurrence of S. rubra and L. aurea in the amended soils may be indicative of improved soil conditions and reduced toxicity induced by the remediation measures implemented. They may also be considered key species in the area since their presence can promote the recolonization of the degraded soils by species less tolerant to their residual pollution.
Mixed-Mode Solar Drying and its Effect on Physicochemical and Colorimetric Properties of Zompantle (Erythrina Americana)
Authors: García-Valladares Octavio , Domínguez-Niño Alfredo , Lucho-Gómez Ana María , Jiménez-Montiel Andrea Gail , Rodríguez-Mendoza Arcel Siareth , Castillo-Téllez Beatriz , Luna-Flores Mario , Castillo-Téllez Margarita
Published: February 2024

A mixed-mode solar drying was developed to evaluate the physicochemical and colorimetric properties of Zompantle (Erythrina americana). A 22-factorial design was used; the operation mode (mesh shade and direct) and airflow (natural convection and forced convection) were established as factors in this design. The initial moisture content in the Zompantle flower was reduced from 89.03% (w.b) to values that ranged from 3.84% to 5.84%; depending on the operation mode of the dryer, the final water activity ranged from 0.25 to 0.33. The Zompantle’s components as proteins (4.28%), antioxidant activity (18.8%), carbohydrates (4.83%), fat (0.92%), fiber (3.71%), ash (0.94%), and total soluble solids (3°Brix) increased as the water was evaporated during the drying. The increment in the Zompantle’s components depends on the operation mode; in direct mode and natural convection, the proteins, antioxidant activity, carbohydrates, fat, fiber, ash, and total soluble solids were 6.99%, 61.69%, 79.05%, 1.20%, 3.84%, 8.70%, and 45 °Brix, respectively. The total drying efficiency was 14.84% with the direct mode and natural convection (DM-NC) and 17.10% with the mesh shade and natural convection (MS-NC). The Hue angle measures the property of the color; the indirect mode and natural convection keep the hue angle close to the initial value (29.2 °). The initial chroma value of the Zompantle flower was 55.07; the indirect mode and natural convection kept high saturation (37.58); these dry conditions ensured a red color in the dehydrated Zompantle. Dehydrated Zompantle’s flowers could have several practical applications, such as an additive in traditional Mexican cuisine.
Pesticides in soil, groundwater and food in Latin America as part of one health
Authors: Hilber Isabel , Bahena-Juárez Fernando , Chiaia-Hernández Aurea C. , Elgueta Sebastián , Escobar-Medina Arturo , Friedrich Karen , González-Curbelo Miguel Ángel , Grob Yael , Martín-Fleitas Marisleydis , Miglioranza Karina S. B. , Peña-Suárez Brizeidi , Pérez-Consuegra Nilda , Ramírez-Muñoz Fernando , Sosa-Pacheco Dayana , Bucheli Thomas D.
Published: February 2024

We here report of a conference about “Pesticides in Soil, Groundwater and Food in Latin America as part of One Health” that took place at the “IV Seminario Internacional de Sanidad Agropecuaria (SISA)” in Varadero, Cuba, 8–12 May 2023. Researchers of Latin America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico) and Switzerland (workshop initiator) held presentations about occurrence and effects of pesticides on the environment, human health, the replacement of highly hazardous pesticides (HHP) by agroecological alternatives and the agri-food value chain. In a subsequent round table discussion, the presenters identified deficits, needs, interests and opportunities. According to them, the lack of awareness of pesticide use affects the health and safety of workers applying the chemicals. Despite Latin America representing the main agricultural area in the world with a very intense pesticide use, monitoring data of pesticides in soil, surface and groundwaters, food, as well as in humans are missing. Risks of pesticides to humans should be assessed so that authorities can withdraw or limit within “short time” the access to corresponding formulations on the market. Also, communication is not state of the art and should be improved as, e.g. the teaching of workers and farmers, how to correctly use and apply pesticides or the briefing of decision makers. Pollinators suffer from multiple stressors not the least due to pesticides, and alternatives are badly needed. On the technical side, the different analytical methods to determine residues of active ingredients and transformation products in matrices of concern should be harmonized among laboratories.

Seven future actions and goals were identified to overcome the above deficits. Next steps after the publishing of this conference report are to harmonize and complete the information status of the presenters by exchanging the results/data already present. Therefore, a platform of interaction to address issues described above and to enhance collaboration shall be created. Samples of different matrices shall be exchanged to harmonize the chemical analysis and establish interlaboratory comparisons. Such activities might be facilitated by joining international associations or organizations, where researchers can offer their expertise, or by forming a new pesticide network for Central and South America that could present tailored projects to national and international organizations and funding agencies.
Numerical investigation of the instability of dry granular bed induced by water leakage
Authors: Nguyen Nhu H. T. , Nguyen Thanh T.
Published: February 2024

Underground pipe defects or cracks under transport infrastructure can cause water leakage to upper soil layers (e.g. subgrade and capping), inducing local cavities or even failure of overlying road/railway formation. Although numerous studies on the instability of granular beds induced by injected water have been conducted, most of them focused on the behaviour of saturated granular beds, while research on dry granular beds is still limited. This paper aims to address this gap using a numerical model coupling volume of fluid method with discrete element method. We observed that dry granular beds go through three distinct regimes as water jet velocity increases including stationary, stable deformation with heave and fluidisation. However, the flow velocities required to deform and fluidise dry granular beds are significantly higher than those required for saturated beds. Increasing granular bed thickness can alter its failure mechanism from full depth to localised erosion, leading to cavity formation around pipe cracks prior to the bed fluidisation. The gravitational and frictional components of granular mass are identified as two main resisting forces of dry granular beds against water jet force, evidenced by the increase of critical jet velocities as particle density and friction coefficient increase. Nevertheless, the moblised zone of granular mass is practically independent of both the buried depth of dry granular beds.
Genus Plasma-Based Self-Complementary Reconfigurable Intelligent Metasurfaces
Authors: Zainud-Deen Saber Helmy , Malhat Hend Abd El-Azem , El-Refaey Esraa Ahmed , Badawy Mona Magdy
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the radiation properties of plasma-based intelligent reflectarray surface (IRS) that utilizes self-complementary elements. The elements of the surface employ reconfigurable plasma conductivity to manipulate the polarization of electromagnetic waves in various Ka-band applications. The unit-cell of the IRS is composed of 2 × 2 sub-cells of 0.5 λo × 0.5 λo × 0.078 λo mm3. Each sub-cell contains three glass containers arranged in a triangle-rectangular-triangle configuration and filled with ionized plasma gas. When the IRS illuminated by a linearly polarized (LP) plane wave, the surface converts it into circularly polarized (CP) waves based on the plasma ionization state. It achieves dual-band polarization conversion at 7.3 GHz with bandwidth of 200 MHz and at 8.6 GHz with a bandwidth of 1.15 GHz. To enhance the polarization conversion bandwidth, a sequential arrangement of self-complementary unit-cell elements with different sizes is employed. An 8 × 8 genus reconfigurable IRS is utilized to generate both left-hand circularly polarized (LHCP) and right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP) waves from the upper and lower sides of the structure. The axial ratio (AR) bandwidth is maintained at 2.1 Hz for both surfaces. An LP horn antenna is used with the 8 × 8 genus reconfigurable IRS, resulting in a peak gain of 13.2 dBi, a side lobe level (SLL) of 6 dBi, and an AR bandwidth of 500 MHz. To further enhance the radiated gain, the ionized plasma within the self-complementary elements is controlled to focus the radiated power into a directive beam, resulting in an increased gain of 19.4 dBi.
The Role of Gastric Lipase and Pepsin in Lipid Digestion of a Powder Infant Formula Using a Simulated Neonatal Gastric System
Authors: Deng Le , Golding Matt , Lentle Roger , MacGibbon Alastair , Matia-Merino Lara
Published: February 2024

This study has sought to determine the impact of interfacial dynamics on the in vitro lipid digestion of a commercial infant formula; in particular, the specific role of interfacial proteolysis on the subsequent rates of reaction of droplet lipolysis. A powder infant formula was used as the as a protein-stabilised emulsion substrate during simulated infant gastric digestion at different pH level 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5. The digestate was treated with a fungal lipase and porcine pepsin (used to analogue human gastric lipase and pepsin) respectively and in a combined action. The study found that for fungal lipase treated digestate, the rate and extent of lipolysis were observed to be maxim at pH 5.5, in accordance with the optimal pH activity of the lipase. Findings also indicated that the proteinaceous interface did not appear to act as a barrier to lipolysis, since treatment with lipase and pepsin did not result in any significant increase in extent of lipolysis. However, it was observed that surface proteolysis did lead to alteration of the structural fate of the enzyme during digestion when compared to when the emulsion was digested solely by lipase. Findings suggest that lipolysis under these conditions may be independent of the structural dynamics of the emulsion during digestion, as observed within the context of this study design.
For the Good of the Globe: Moral Reasons for States to Mitigate Global Catastrophic Biological Risks
Authors: Johnson Tess F.
Published: February 2024

Actions to prepare for and prevent pandemics are a common topic for bioethical analysis. However, little attention has been paid to global catastrophic biological risks more broadly, including pandemics with artificial origins, the creation of agents for biological warfare, and harmful outcomes of human genome editing. What’s more, international policy discussions often focus on economic arguments for state action, ignoring a key potential set of reasons for states to mitigate global catastrophic biological risks: moral reasons. In this paper, I frame the mitigation of such risks as a global public good, and I explore three possible categories of moral reasons that might motivate states to provide this global public good: nationalism, cosmopolitanism, and interstate obligations. Whilst there are strong objections to moral nationalism as a reason for states to act, moral cosmopolitanism may provide a broad reason which is further supplemented for individual states through the elaboration of interstate moral obligations. The obligations I consider are moral leadership, fairness, and reciprocity. Moral reasons for individual states action may more effectively or more appropriately motivate states to mitigate global catastrophic biological risks.
Surgical Aspects of Sleeve Gastrectomy Are Related to Weight Loss and Gastro-esophageal Reflux Symptoms
Authors: Lyyjynen Hannu S. , Andersen John R. , Liem Ronald S. L. , Mala Tom , Nienhuijs Simon W. , Ottosson Johan , Sundbom Magnus , Thorell Anders , Våge Villy
Published: February 2024

Introduction

A large variation in outcome has been reported after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) across countries and institutions. We aimed to evaluate the effect of surgical technique on total weight loss (TWL) and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Methods

Observational cohort study based on data from the national registries for bariatric surgery in the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden. A retrospective analysis of prospectively obtained data from surgeries during 2015–2017 was performed based on 2-year follow-up. GERD was defined as continuous use of acid-reducing medication. The relationship between TWL, de novo GERD and operation technical variables were analyzed with regression methods.

Results

A total of 5927 patients were included. The average TWL was 25.6% in Sweden, 28.6% in the Netherlands, and 30.6% in Norway (p < 0.001 pairwise). Bougie size, distance from the resection line to the pylorus and the angle of His differed between hospitals. A minimized sleeve increased the expected total weight loss by 5–10 percentage points. Reducing the distance to the angle of His from 3 to just above 0 cm increased the risk of de novo GERD five-fold (from 3.5 to 17.8%).

Conclusion

Smaller bougie size, a shorter distance to pylorus and to the angle of His were all associated with greater weight loss, whereas a shorter distance to angle of His was associated with more de novo reflux.

Graphical Abstract
Impact of Trace Mineral Source and Phytase Supplementation on Prececal Phytate Degradation and Mineral Digestibility, Bone Mineralization, and Tissue Gene Expression in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Philippi Hanna , Sommerfeld Vera , Monteiro Alessandra , Rodehutscord Markus , Olukosi Oluyinka A.
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to determine how different sources of Zn, Mn, and Cu in the feed without and with phytase affect prececal myo-inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP6) breakdown to myo-inositol (MI), prececal P digestibility, bone mineralization, and expression of mineral transporters in the jejunum of broiler chickens. A total of 896 male broiler chicks (Cobb 500) were distributed to 7 diets with 8 replicate pens (16 birds per floor pen). Experimental diets were fed from day 0 to 28. Diets were without or with phytase supplementation (0 or 750 FTU/kg) and were supplemented with three different trace mineral sources (TMS: sulfates, oxides, or chelates) containing 100 mg/kg Zn, 100 mg/kg Mn, and 125 mg/kg Cu. Prececal InsP6 disappearance and P digestibility were affected by interaction (phytase × TMS: P ≤ 0.010). In diets without phytase supplementation, prececal InsP6 disappearance and P digestibility were greater (P ≤ 0.001) in birds fed chelated minerals than in birds fed sulfates or oxides. However, no differences were observed between TMS in diets with phytase supplementation. Ileal MI concentration was increased by exogenous phytase but differed depending on TMS (phytase × TMS: P ≤ 0.050). Tibia ash concentration as well as Zn and Mn concentration in tibia ash were increased by phytase supplementation (P < 0.010), but the Cu concentration in tibia ash was not (P > 0.050). Gene expression of the assayed mineral transporters in the jejunum was not affected by diet (P > 0.050), except for Zn transporter 5 (phytase × TMS: P = 0.024). In conclusion, the tested TMS had minor effects on endogenous phytate degradation in the digestive tract of broiler chickens. However, in phytase-supplemented diets, the choice of TMS was not relevant to phytate degradation under the conditions of this study.
Prevalence and impact on the outcome of myosteatosis in patients with cirrhosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kamiliou Aikaterini , Lekakis Vasileios , Chrysavgis Lampros , Cholongitas Evangelos
Published: February 2024

Background

Myosteatosis in cirrhotic patients has been evaluated in limited studies with conflicting results and no systematic review or meta-analysis have been performed in this setting.

Methods

We searched for all articles published until June 2023 to evaluate the prevalence of myosteatosis in cirrhosis and chronic liver disease.

Results

Seventeen studies focused on cirrhosis and five studies in patients with chronic liver disease were included: the overall pooled prevalence of myosteatosis was 46% [95% Confidence Interval (CI) 36–57%] and 33% (95% CI 15–59%), respectively (p = 0.35). Among the studies with cirrhosis, the prevalence of myosteatosis was higher in those using the body mass index-based definition of myosteatosis (56%), than gender-based (36%) or other criteria (21%) (p < 0.01); was higher in women than in men (61% vs 45%), in Child–Pugh class C than A or B (57% vs 49% vs 50%), in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)- than viral-associated cirrhosis (57% vs 43%), but these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Cirrhotic patients with myosteatosis, compared to those without myosteatosis, had more frequently a previous history of hepatic encephalopathy (32% vs 15%, p = 0.04), less frequently a previous history of variceal bleeding (46% vs 65%, p < 0.01), were more likely to suffer from diabetes mellitus (27% vs 18%, p < 0.01), while they had higher mortality rates (40% vs 14%, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Myosteatosis is highly prevalent in patients with cirrhosis, particularly in those with NAFLD-associated cirrhosis. Myosteatosis is associated with hepatic encephalopathy, while it seems to have a negative impact on the outcome.
Roadmap to Achieve Green Project Performance: The Role of Knowledge Co-creation
Authors: Mubarak Namra , Khan Jabran , Ali Mudassar , Pesämaa Ossi
Published: February 2024

The current study has attempted to identify the factors that can contribute toward green project performance. Based on the social exchange theory, the current study highlights that green leadership directs and promotes green vision, bringing everyone on the same page to improve the green performance of the project. The mediating and moderating mechanisms of green creativity and co-creation have also been discussed. Utilizing the data from the development projects, the study tested the antecedents of green project performance by collecting data from 231 project employees in three waves. The study’s findings confirm the importance of green leadership to achieve green project performance. Green co-creation does not moderate the relationship between green leadership and green creativity. It is essential to identify the factors that can help us deal with the energy crises. Roadmap to achieve green project performance through green leadership is highlighted in this study along with the intervening mechanisms. This study provides guidelines to practitioners that green competitive advantage can be achieved by empowering employees under green leaders through motivation and inspiration.
Zero volume boundary for extension domains from Sobolev to BV
Authors: Rajala Tapio , Zhu Zheng
Published: February 2024

In this note, we prove that the boundary of a $$(W^{1, p}, BV)$$

(

W

1
,
p

,
B
V
)

-extension domain is of volume zero under the assumption that the domain $${\Omega }$$
Ω
is 1-fat at almost every $$x\in \partial {\Omega }$$

x
∈
∂
Ω

. Especially, the boundary of any planar $$(W^{1, p}, BV)$$

(

W

1
,
p

,
B
V
)

-extension domain is of volume zero.