bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Process Hygiene Criterion for Campylobacter and Number of Campylobacter Enteritis Cases in Northwest Germany
Authors: Nolte Tobias , Spieß Fabian , Jacobs Anne-Katrin , Kemper Nicole , Visscher Christian
Published: January 2024

Campylobacteriosis is the most commonly reported bacterial foodborne disease in the European Union. Its transmission is often associated with the consumption of poultry meat. In 2018, Regulation (EC) No. 2017/1495 introduced a process hygiene criterion and with this, the testing requirements for Campylobacter. The results of microbiological testing for Campylobacter of chicken carcass neck skin samples from several slaughter lines in Northwest Germany collected by the food business operators and contamination levels (cfu/g Campylobacter) of these samples were analysed from 2018 to 2021. Classification into three different categories was made based on contamination levels. The proportion of highly contaminated (category three) neck samples (>1000 cfu/g) decreased from 2018 to 2021. Our analysis showed a relationship between the number of neck samples with high Campylobacter contamination levels (>1000 cfu/g) and human cases in Northwest Germany. Spearman’s rank test (p < 0.01) showed a higher correlation in 2018 (0.66) and 2019 (0.58) compared to 2020 and 2021. Campylobacter enteritis cases in Northwest Germany stayed at a low level in 2020 and 2021. It remains unclear whether the decrease in reported Campylobacter enteritis cases is related to a decrease in Campylobacter levels on chicken carcasses or due to other reasons like underreporting during the COVID-19 pandemic, and therefore must be investigated in further analyses.
A Review of the Pro-Health Activity of Asparagus officinalis L. and Its Components
Authors: Olas Beata
Published: January 2024

The genus Asparagus comprises about 300 species, including A. curilus, A. filicinus, A. reacemosus, and A. officinalis L. A particularly well-known member of the genus is Asparagus officinalis L., also known as “the king of vegetables”. Consuming A. officinalis makes an excellent contribution to a healthy diet. Modern studies have shown it to have a diuretic effect and promote defecation; it also demonstrates high levels of basic nutrients, including vitamins, amino acids and mineral salts. Moreover, it is rich in fiber. Asparagus contains large amounts of folic acid (10 cooked shoots provide 225 micrograms, or almost 50% of the daily requirement) and vitamin C (10 cooked shoots provide 25 mg). The present review describes the current literature concerning the pro-health properties of various parts of A. officinalis L., with a particular focus on its spears. It is based on studies identified in electronic databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Knowledge, Sci Finder, Web of Science, and SCOPUS. The data indicate that the various parts of A. officinalis, especially the spears, contain many bioactive compounds. However, although the extracts and chemical compounds isolated from A. officinalis, especially saponins, appear to have various biological properties and pro-health potential, these observations are limited to in vitro and animal in vivo models.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Test Analysis Opens a Pandora’s Box: Identification of Very Rare Cases of SRY-Positive Healthy Females, Segregating for Three Generations Thanks to Preferential Inactivation of the XqYp Translocated Chromosome
Authors: Politi Cristina , Grillone Katia , Nocera Donatella , Colao Emma , Bellisario Michelle , Loddo Sara , Catino Giorgia , Novelli Antonio , Perrotti Nicola , Iuliano Rodolfo , Malatesta Paola
Published: January 2024

The translocation of the testis-determining factor, the SRY gene, from the Y to the X chromosome is a rare event that causes abnormalities in gonadal development. In all cases of males and females carrying this translocation, disorder of sex development is reported. In our study, we described a peculiar pedigree with the first evidence of four healthy females from three generations who are carriers of the newly identified t(X;Y)(q28;p11.2)(SRY+) translocation with no evidence of ambiguous genitalia or other SRY-dependent alterations. Our study was a consequence of a Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) showing a sexual chromosomal abnormality (XXY) followed by a chorionic villus analysis suggesting a normal karyotype 46,XX and t(X;Y) translocation detected by FISH. Here, we (i) demonstrated the inheritance of the translocation in the maternal lineage via karyotyping and FISH analysis; (ii) characterised the structural rearrangement via chromosomal microarray; and (iii) demonstrated, via Click-iT® EdU Imaging assay, that there was an absolute preferential inactivation of the der(X) chromosome responsible for the lack of SRY expression. Overall, our study provides valuable genetic and molecular information that may lead personal and medical decisions.
Genome-Wide Association Analysis Unravels New Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) for Eight Lodging Resistance Constituent Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Sowadan Ognigamal , Xu Shanbin , Li Yulong , Muleke Everlyne Mmbone , Sitoe Hélder Manuel , Dang Xiaojing , Jiang Jianhua , Dong Hui , Hong Delin
Published: January 2024

Lodging poses a significant challenge to rice yield, prompting the need to identify elite alleles for lodging resistance traits to improve cultivated rice varieties. In this study, a natural population of 518 rice accessions was examined to identify elite alleles associated with plant height (PH), stem diameter (SD), stem anti-thrust (AT/S), and various internode lengths (first (FirINL), second (SecINL), third (ThirINL), fourth (ForINL), and fifth (FifINL) internode lengths). A total of 262 SSR markers linked to these traits were uncovered through association mapping in two environmental conditions. Phenotypic evaluations revealed striking differences among cultivars, and genetic diversity assessments showed polymorphisms across the accessions. Favorable alleles were identified for PH, SD, AT/S, and one to five internode lengths, with specific alleles displaying considerable effects. Noteworthy alleles include RM6811-160 bp on chromosome 6 (which reduces PH) and RM161-145 bp on chromosome 5 (which increases SD). The study identified a total of 42 novel QTLs. Specifically, seven QTLs were identified for PH, four for SD, five for AT/S, five for FirINL, six for SecINL, five for ThirINL, six for ForINL, and four for FifINL. QTLs qAT/S-2, qPH2.1, qForINL2.1, and qFifINL exhibited the most significant phenotypic variance (PVE) of 3.99% for the stem lodging trait. AT/S, PH, ForINL, and FifINL had additive effects of 5.31 kPa, 5.42 cm, 4.27 cm, and 4.27 cm, respectively, offering insights into eight distinct cross-combinations for enhancing each trait. This research suggests the potential for crossbreeding superior parents based on stacked alleles, promising improved rice cultivars with enhanced lodging resistance to meet market demands.
“Mortu Nega”: A Decolonial Film or a Film about Decolonization?
Authors: Sousa Sandra
Published: January 2024

While discourse surrounding decolonization is not new, in recent years it has gained significant momentum with many advocating for its implementation as a means to address historical injustices. However, Olúfẹ́mi Táíwò’s thought-provoking book, coupled with the movie “Mortu Nega”, invites us to critically examine the concept of decolonization. This article aims to present an argument that challenges decolonization narratives by exploring the potential limitations and unintended consequences of embracing decolonization as an absolute solution for humanitarian issues in African societies. To accomplish this, I will begin by providing historical context on Guinea-Bissau, the former Portuguese colony that serves as the focal point of the film. Furthermore, this article will provide a comprehensive description of Flora Gomes’ film, followed by a discussion addressing the trope of decolonization theory. I will use the persistent lack of women’s emancipation and their ongoing struggle for genuine liberation and gender justice in Guinea-Bissau as an example of the need, following Táíwò’s thought, to rethink the uses of decolonization as a tool for analyzing Africa’s issues.
Pain Education in the Wellness, Training Performance, and Pain Intensity of Youth Athletes: An Experimental Study
Authors: Sastre-Munar Andreu , Romero-Franco Natalia
Published: January 2024

Background: Although pain management programs reduce pain and improve wellness perception in the general population, few studies have explored these effects in athletes. This study evaluated the effects of an educational program about pain neuroscience on wellness, training performance, and pain in youth athletes. Differences according to sex were also explored. Methods: For 12 weeks, 52 athletes were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG: educational program about healthy sports habits and pain neuroscience) or a control group (CG: education on healthy sports habits only). Before the start of the study and weekly until its end, wellness, training performance, and pain intensity were monitored via a questionnaire. Results: After the intervention, IG decreased stress (p = 0.028) compared to the baseline, and a higher number of training sessions were performed without health problems (76.6%) compared to the number in the CG (63.0%) (χ2 = 8.31, p = 0.004). Regarding pain, the IG perceived lower pain than the CG did (p = 0.028). Females in the IG had lower pain than those in the CG did (p < 0.05), without differences in other variables or in males (p > 0.05). Conclusions: An educational program that includes pain neuroscience may help youth athletes improve their wellness status, pain intensity perception, and training session performance.
Opioid Treatment in Primary Care: Knowledge and Practical Use of Opioid Therapy
Authors: Biesiada Aleksander Michał , Ciałkowska-Rysz Aleksandra , Mastalerz-Migas Agnieszka
Published: January 2024

Background: Primary care physicians play a key role in initiating opioid therapy. However, knowledge gaps in opioid use and pain management are significant barriers to providing optimal care. This research study aims to investigate the educational needs of primary care physicians regarding opioid therapy and opioid use in pain management. Methods: A computer-assisted web interview (CAWI) protocol was used to collect data from primary care physicians. Drug selection criteria, knowledge of opioid substitutes and dosage, and practical use of opioid therapy were evaluated. Results: While 84% of participating physicians (724 respondents) reported initiating opioid treatment, only a minority demonstrated accurate opioid dosage calculations. Significant discrepancies between physicians’ self-perceived knowledge and their clinical skills in opioid prescribing and pain management were observed. In total, 41% of physicians incorrectly indicated dose conversion rates for tramadol (the most frequently used drug according to 65% of responders). Conclusions: Targeted educational programs are essential to bridge the knowledge gap and increase physicians’ competence in pain management. The proper self-assessment of one’s own skills may be the key to improvement. Further research should focus on developing specialized educational courses and decision-support tools for primary care physicians and examining the impact of interprofessional pain management teams on patient outcomes.
Exploration of Evaluation Practices in Social Prescribing Services in Ireland: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Connolly Hayley , Delimata Natalie , Galway Karen , Kiely Bridget , Lawler Margaret , Mulholland Jill , O’Grady Megan , Connolly Deirdre
Published: January 2024

National health services in Ireland and the UK fund the majority of social prescribing services and have issued recommendations for evaluation. However, it is not known what outcomes are prioritised for evaluation within individual services and what evaluation methods are used to capture recommended outcomes. A survey was carried out to examine evaluation practices of social prescribing services on the island of Ireland. This study used a cross-sectional observational design. The sample was all the staff involved in delivering and/or managing SP services on the island of Ireland. Questionnaires were distributed at a national SP conference and online. Closed-response questions were analysed using descriptive statistics. Content analysis was used for open-ended questions. Eighty-four usable surveys were returned (50% from the Republic of Ireland and 50% from Northern Ireland). All respondents (100%) agreed on the importance of measuring SP outcomes. The most frequently measured outcomes were health and well-being (89.2%) and loneliness (84%). The least frequently measured outcome was the satisfaction of healthcare professionals referring to SP: 78.4% of respondents never measured this outcome. The most frequently used measurement tool was the Short Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale, with 38/76 (50%) respondents using this measure. There was a lack of standardised measures identified for some outcomes. For example, 70% of respondents reported always measuring physical activity (PA), but only four respondents identified a specific PA measure. In open-ended questions, respondents recommended flexibility in evaluation methods to reflect the complexity and individualised focus of SP. They also identified the need for protected time to complete evaluations and recommended a national strategy to inform priorities in evaluations. This study demonstrates a wide variation on the island of Ireland on how SP services are measuring outcomes, with many outcomes rarely or never measured using standardised measures. Agreement is needed on a core outcome set for social prescribing in order to guide service delivery and evaluations.
Invertebrate Immunity, Natural Transplantation Immunity, Somatic and Germ Cell Parasitism, and Transposon Defense
Authors: Kloc Malgorzata , Halasa Marta , Kubiak Jacek Z. , Ghobrial Rafik M.
Published: January 2024

While the vertebrate immune system consists of innate and adaptive branches, invertebrates only have innate immunity. This feature makes them an ideal model system for studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms of innate immunity sensu stricto without reciprocal interferences from adaptive immunity. Although invertebrate immunity is evolutionarily older and a precursor of vertebrate immunity, it is far from simple. Despite lacking lymphocytes and functional immunoglobulin, the invertebrate immune system has many sophisticated mechanisms and features, such as long-term immune memory, which, for decades, have been exclusively attributed to adaptive immunity. In this review, we describe the cellular and molecular aspects of invertebrate immunity, including the epigenetic foundation of innate memory, the transgenerational inheritance of immunity, genetic immunity against invading transposons, the mechanisms of self-recognition, natural transplantation, and germ/somatic cell parasitism.
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Delivering a DNA Vaccine Encoding Helicobacter pylori Urease A Subunit: Immune Analyses before and after a Mouse Model of Infection
Authors: Francis Jasmine E. , Skakic Ivana , Majumdar Debolina , Taki Aya C. , Shukla Ravi , Walduck Anna , Smooker Peter M.
Published: January 2024

In this study, novel solid lipid particles containing the adjuvant lipid monophosphoryl lipid A (termed ‘SLN-A’) were synthesised. The SLN-A particles were able to efficiently bind and form complexes with a DNA vaccine encoding the urease alpha subunit of Helicobacter pylori. The resultant nanoparticles were termed lipoplex-A. In a mouse model of H. pylori infection, the lipoplex-A nanoparticles were used to immunise mice, and the resultant immune responses were analysed. It was found that the lipoplex-A vaccine was able to induce high levels of antigen-specific antibodies and an influx of gastric CD4+ T cells in vaccinated mice. In particular, a prime with lipoplex-A and a boost with soluble UreA protein induced significantly high levels of the IgG1 antibody, whereas two doses of lipoplex-A induced high levels of the IgG2c antibody. In this study, lipoplex-A vaccination did not lead to a significant reduction in H. pylori colonisation in a challenge model; however, these results point to the utility of the system for delivering DNA vaccine-encoded antigens to induce immune responses and suggest the ability to tailor those responses.
Transcriptional Inflammatory Signature in Healthy Donors and Different Radiotherapy Cancer Patients
Authors: O’Brien Gráinne , Kamuda Malgorzata , Cruz-Garcia Lourdes , Polozova Mariia , Tichy Ales , Markova Marketa , Sirak Igor , Zahradnicek Oldrich , Widłak Piotr , Ponge Lucyna , Polanska Joanna , Badie Christophe
Published: January 2024

Cancer and ionizing radiation exposure are associated with inflammation. To identify a set of radiation-specific signatures of inflammation-associated genes in the blood of partially exposed radiotherapy patients, differential expression of 249 inflammatory genes was analyzed in blood samples from cancer patients and healthy individuals. The gene expression analysis on a cohort of 63 cancer patients (endometrial, head and neck, and prostate cancer) before and during radiotherapy (24 h, 48 h, ~1 week, ~4–8 weeks, and 1 month after the last fraction) identified 31 genes and 15 up- and 16 down-regulated genes. Transcription variability under normal conditions was determined using blood drawn on three separate occasions from four healthy donors. No difference in inflammatory expression between healthy donors and cancer patients could be detected prior to radiotherapy. Remarkably, repeated sampling of healthy donors revealed an individual endogenous inflammatory signature. Next, the potential confounding effect of concomitant inflammation was studied in the blood of seven healthy donors taken before and 24 h after a flu vaccine or ex vivo LPS (lipopolysaccharide) treatment; flu vaccination was not detected at the transcriptional level and LPS did not have any effect on the radiation-induced signature identified. Finally, we identified a radiation-specific signature of 31 genes in the blood of radiotherapy patients that were common for all cancers, regardless of the immune status of patients. Confirmation via MQRT-PCR was obtained for BCL6, MYD88, MYC, IL7, CCR4 and CCR7. This study offers the foundation for future research on biomarkers of radiation exposure, radiation sensitivity, and radiation toxicity for personalized radiotherapy treatment.
Vapor-Phase-Deposited Ag/Ir and Ag/Au Film Heterostructures for Implant Materials: Cytotoxic, Antibacterial and Histological Studies
Authors: Sergeevichev David S. , Dorovskikh Svetlana I. , Vikulova Evgeniia S. , Chepeleva Elena V. , Vasiliyeva Maria B. , Koretskaya Tatiana P. , Fedorenko Anastasiya D. , Nasimov Dmitriy A. , Guselnikova Tatiana Y. , Popovetsky Pavel S. , Morozova Natalya B. , Basova Tamara V.
Published: January 2024

Using gas-phase deposition (Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) and Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD)) methods, modern implant samples (Ti alloy and CFR-PEEK polymer, 30% carbon fiber) were functionalized with film heterostructures consisting of an iridium or gold sublayer, on the surface of which an antibacterial component (silver) was deposited: Ag/Ir(Au)/Ti(CFR-PEEK). The biocidal effect of the heterostructures was investigated, the effect of the surface relief of the carrier and the metal sublayer on antibacterial activity was established, and the dynamics of silver dissolution was evaluated. It has been shown that the activity of Ag/Ir heterostructures was due to high Ag+ release rates, which led to rapid (2–4 h) inhibition of P. aeruginosa growth. In the case of Ag/Au type heterostructures, the inhibition of the growth of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus occurred more slowly (from 6 h), and the antibacterial activity appeared to be due to the contribution of two agents (Ag+ and Au+ ions). It was found, according to the in vitro cytotoxicity study, that heterostructures did not exhibit toxic effects (cell viability > 95–98%). An in vivo biocompatibility assessment based on the results of a morphohistological study showed that after implantation for a period of 30 days, the samples were characterized by the presence of a thin fibrous capsule without volume thickening and signs of inflammation.
Carvacrol Encapsulation in Chitosan–Carboxymethylcellulose–Alginate Nanocarriers for Postharvest Tomato Protection
Authors: Sánchez-Hernández Eva , Santiago-Aliste Alberto , Correa-Guimarães Adriana , Martín-Gil Jesús , Gavara-Clemente Rafael José , Martín-Ramos Pablo
Published: January 2024

Advancements in polymer science and nanotechnology hold significant potential for addressing the increasing demands of food security, by enhancing the shelf life, barrier properties, and nutritional quality of harvested fruits and vegetables. In this context, biopolymer-based delivery systems present themselves as a promising strategy for encapsulating bioactive compounds, improving their absorption, stability, and functionality. This study provides an exploration of the synthesis, characterization, and postharvest protection applications of nanocarriers formed through the complexation of chitosan oligomers, carboxymethylcellulose, and alginate in a 2:2:1 molar ratio. This complexation process was facilitated by methacrylic anhydride and sodium tripolyphosphate as cross-linking agents. Characterization techniques employed include transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and X-ray powder diffraction. The resulting hollow nanospheres, characterized by a monodisperse distribution and a mean diameter of 114 nm, exhibited efficient encapsulation of carvacrol, with a loading capacity of approximately 20%. Their suitability for phytopathogen control was assessed in vitro against three phytopathogens—Botrytis cinerea, Penicillium expansum, and Colletotrichum coccodes—revealing minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 23.3 to 31.3 μg·mL−1. This indicates a higher activity compared to non-encapsulated conventional fungicides. In ex situ tests for tomato (cv. ‘Daniela’) protection, higher doses (50–100 μg·mL−1, depending on the pathogen) were necessary to achieve high protection. Nevertheless, these doses remained practical for real-world applicability. The advantages of safety, coupled with the potential for a multi-target mode of action, further enhance the appeal of these nanocarriers.
Silica–Cyclodextrin Hybrid Materials: Two Possible Synthesis Processes
Authors: Gallo Marta , Onida Barbara , Manna Luigi , Banchero Mauro
Published: January 2024

Both cyclodextrin (CD) and porous silica possess interesting properties of adsorption and release. A silica–CD hybrid, therefore, could synergically merge the properties of the two components, giving rise to a material with appealing properties for both environmental and pharmaceutical applications. With this aim, in the present study, a first hybrid is obtained through one-pot sol–gel synthesis starting from CD and tetramethyl orthosilicate (TMOS) as a silica precursor. In particular, methyl-β-cyclodextrin (bMCD) is selected for this purpose. The obtained bMCD–silica hybrid is a dense material containing a considerable amount of bMCD (45 wt.%) in amorphous form and therefore represents a promising support. However, since a high specific surface area is desirable to increase the release/adsorption properties, an attempt is made to produce the hybrid material in the form of an aerogel. Both the synthesis of the gel and its drying in supercritical CO2 are optimized in order to reach this goal. All the obtained samples are characterized in terms of their physico-chemical properties (infra-red spectroscopy, thermogravimetry) and structure (X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy) in order to investigate their composition and the interaction between the organic component (bMCD) and the inorganic one (silica).
Organoplatinum Chemistry Related to Alkane Oxidation: The Effect of a Nitro Substituent in Ligands Having an Appended Phenol Group
Authors: Abo-Amer Anwar , Moustafa Mohamed E. , Boyle Paul D. , Puddephatt Richard J.
Published: January 2024

The organoplatinum chemistry of the ligands 2-C5H4N-CH2-NH-C6H3-2-OH-5-X (L1, X = H; L3, X = NO2) and 2-C5H4N-CH=N-C6H3-2-OH-5-X (L2, X = H; L4, X = NO2), which contain an appended phenol substituent, is described. Comparisons are made between the ligands with amine or imine groups (L1, L3 vs. L2, L4) and ligands with X = H or NO2 (L1, L2 vs. L3, L4), and major differences are observed. Thus, on reaction with the cycloneophylplatinum(II) complex [{Pt(CH2CMe2C6H4)(μ-SMe2)}2], ligands L1, L2 and L4 give the corresponding platinum(II) complexes [Pt(CH2CMe2C6H4)(κ2-N,N′-L)], containing a Pt··HO hydrogen bond, whereas L3 gives a mixture of isomeric platinum(IV) hydride complexes [PtH(CH2CMe2C6H4)(κ3-N,N′,O-L3-H)], which are formed by oxidative addition of the phenol O-H bond and which react further with oxygen to give [Pt(OH)(CH2CMe2C6H4)(κ3-N,N′,O-L3-H)]. The differences in reactivity are proposed to be due to the greater acidity of the nitro-substituted phenol groups in L3 and L4 and to the greater ability of the deprotonated amine ligand L3 over L4 to stabilize platinum(IV) by adopting the fac-κ3-N,N′,O-L3-H coordination mode.
Interpretation of LDH Values after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Sándor Zoltán , Katics Dorottya , Varga Ádám , Kalmár Nagy Károly , Szakály Péter
Published: January 2024

Kidney transplantation is the gold-standard therapy for end-stage renal disease. However, in the early postoperative period following allograft kidney transplantation, insufficient graft function presents a diagnostic challenge to clinicians. Ischemic damage to the graft and/or an early autoimmune rejection may cause a decrease in function. Ischemic damage is a benign and transient condition, while acute immune rejection requires immediate therapy. A kidney graft ultrasound may produce a false negative result, and graft biopsy is invasive and slow to return results. Serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is under examination as a possible tool for differential diagnosis between ischemic damage and immune rejection. Herein, we analyze the continuous lab results of four patients in the early post-transplantation period, showing patterns correlating with different clinical outcomes and prognoses. In our experience, a persistent elevated LDH accompanies ischemic damage. Immune rejection was, however, associated with a decrease in LDH. Hemodialysis was not a confounding factor, while packed red blood cell transfusion caused severe diagnostic problems.
Dynamic Tugboat Scheduling for Large Seaports with Multiple Terminals
Authors: Sun Changping , Li Mengxia , Chen Linying , Chen Pengfei
Published: January 2024

Effective utilization of tugboats is the key to safe and efficient transport and service in ports. With the growth of maritime traffic, more and more large seaports show a trend toward becoming super-scale, and are divided into multiple specialized terminals. This paper focuses on the problem of large-scale tugboat scheduling. An optimization problem is formulated considering the cross-region constraints and uncertainties during tugboat operation. An improved genetic algorithm is proposed based on the reversal operation (GA-RE) to solve the formulated Tug-SP. A task-triggered strategy is designed for dynamic scheduling and dealing with uncertainties. Taking Zhoushan Port as a representation of multi-terminal seaports, simulation experiments are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Compared with historical scheduling data and the standard GA, the proposed method shows good performance in solving different scale instances (including a large-scale instance of 191 ships) in terms of solution quality and computational time.
Detecting Floral Resource Availability Using Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Authors: Anderson Nicholas V. , Petersen Steven L. , Johnson Robert L. , Terry Tyson J. , Anderson Val J.
Published: January 2024

Floral resources for native pollinators that live in wildland settings are diverse and vary across and within growing seasons. Understanding floral resource dynamics and management is becoming increasingly important as honeybee farms seek public land for summer pasture. Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUASs) present a viable approach for accurate broad floristic surveys and present an additional solution to more traditional alternative methods of vegetation assessment. This methodology was designed as a simplified approach using tools frequently available to land managers. The images of three subalpine meadows were captured from a DJI Phantom 4 Pro drone platform three times over the growing season in 2019 in Sanpete County, Utah. The images were composited using Pix4D software 4.5.6 and classified using a simple supervised approach in ENVI 4.8 and ArcGIS Pro 2.4.3 These same meadows were assessed using two traditional ocular methods of vegetation cover–meter-squared quadrats and macroplot estimation. The areas assessed with these methods were compared side by side with their classified counterparts from drone imagery. Classified images were not only found to be highly accurate when detecting overall floral cover and floral color groups (76–100%), but they were also strongly correlated with quadrat estimations, suggesting that these methods used in tandem may be a conducive strategy toward increased accuracy and efficiency when determining floral cover at broad spatial scales.
Anthropogenic Impacts Allowed for the Invasion of Understory Species, Affecting the Sustainability of Management Practices in Southern Patagonia
Authors: Rosas Yamina Micaela , Peri Pablo Luis , Cellini Juan Manuel , Lencinas María V. , Kepfer Rojas Sebastian , Schmidt Inger Kappel , Pechar Sebastián , Barrera Marcelo Daniel , Martínez Pastur Guillermo J.
Published: January 2024

Forest management aims to preserve integrity and ecosystem resilience. Conservation and species invasion patterns must be determined in managed landscapes. The objectives of this study were to identify proxies that allowed plant species invasion (natives and exotics) and define thresholds of human impacts to improve management. We also wanted to identify indicator species for different impacts and environments. A total of 165 plots were measured in Nothofagus antarctica forests and associated open lands (dry and wet grasslands) in Tierra del Fuego (Argentina). We found differences in the studied variables across the landscape and among different uses and impacts. Human impacts influence land types, emphasizing the importance of managing intensities. Indicator plant species allowed for the identification of potential ecological thresholds related to human impacts and the establishment of species linked to ecological and economic degradation, e.g., Bolax gummifera and Azorella trifurcata (cushion plants) were associated with high grazing pressure in grasslands and fires in forested areas, while Rumex acetosella and Achillea millefolium (erect herbs), typically associated with forested areas, were related to high harvesting pressures and fire impacts. These findings contribute to our understanding of the long-term effects of some human impacts (e.g., harvesting and ranching) and allow us to define variables of monitoring and indicator species for each impact type.
5-(Benzoyloxymethyl)isoxazole-3-carboxylic Acid Ethyl Ester
Authors: Antonini Cosimo , Cordero Franca M. , Machetti Fabrizio
Published: January 2024

We describe here the palladium hydrogenation of ethyl 5-(benzoyloxymethyl)isoxazole-3-carboxylate. The presence of two reducible sites in the molecule, namely the benzylic-like position and the isoxazole N–O bond, creates a possible competition. The results show that under the applied conditions, ethyl (Z)-2-amino-4-oxo-2-pentanoate is obtained as the only product. Accordingly, a domino process occurs, consisting of deoxygenation to the 5-methylisoxazole derivative followed by reductive opening of the isoxazole ring. The isoxazole substrate was prepared by NaOH-catalyzed cycloaddition-condensation of ethyl nitroacetate and propargyl benzoate in water. Complete characterizations of the isoxazole and Z-enaminone derivatives are reported.
Effect of Milling Time and Reinforcement Volume Fraction on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of SiCp-Reinforced AA2017 Composite Powder Produced by High-Energy Ball Milling
Authors: Gasha Shimelis Bihon , Trautmann Maik , Wagner Guntram
Published: January 2024

The influence of milling time and volume fraction of reinforcement on the morphology, microstructure, and mechanical behaviors of SiCp-reinforced AA2017 composite powder produced by high-energy ball milling (HEBM) was investigated. AA2017 + SiCp composite powder with different amounts of SiC particles (5, 10, and 15 vol%) was successfully prepared from gas-atomized AA2017 aluminum alloy powder with a particle size of <100 μm and silicon carbide (SiC) powder particles with an average particle size of <1 μm. An optical microscope (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were utilized to characterize the microstructure of the milled composite powder at different milling periods. The results indicated that the SiC particles were homogeneously distributed in the AA2017 matrix after 5 h of HEBM time. The morphology of the particles transformed from a laminar to a nearly spherical shape, and the size of the milled powder particles reduced with increasing the content of SiC particles. The XRD analysis was carried out to characterize the phase constituents, crystallite size, and lattice strain of the composite powders at different milling periods. It was found that with increasing milling time and SiC volume fraction, the crystallite size of the aluminum alloy matrix decreased while the lattice strain increased. The average crystallite sizes were reduced from >300 nm to 68 nm, 64 nm, and 64 nm after 5 h of milling, corresponding to SiC contents of 5, 10, and 15 vol%, respectively. As a result, the lattice strain increased from 0.15% to 0.5%, which is due to significant plastic deformation during the ball milling process. XRD results showed a rapid decrease in crystallite size during the early milling phase, and the minimum grain size was achieved at a higher volume fraction of SiC particles. Microhardness tests revealed that the milling time has a greater influence on the hardness than the amount of SiC reinforcements. Therefore, the composite powder milled for 5 h showed an average microhardness three times higher than that of the unmilled powder particles.
Investigation of Phenolic Resin-Modified Asphalt and Its Mixtures
Authors: Wang Lieguang , Wang Lei , Huang Junxian , Wu Mingfei , Yan Kezhen , Zhang Zirui
Published: January 2024

This study comprehensively examines the influence of phenol-formaldehyde resin (PF) on the performance of base asphalt and its mixtures for road applications, emphasizing its innovative use in enhancing pavement quality. Optimal PF content was determined through the evaluation of standard indicators and rotational viscosity. In-depth analyses of PF-modified asphalt’s high- and low-temperature rheological properties and viscoelastic behavior were conducted using dynamic shear rheometers and bending beam rheometers. Aging resistance was assessed through short-term aging and performance grade (PG) grading. Moreover, Marshall and water stability tests were performed on PF-modified asphalt mixtures. Findings indicate that the uniform dispersion of PF particles effectively inhibits asphalt flow at high temperatures, impedes oxygen penetration, and delays the transition from elasticity to viscosity. These unique properties enhance the high-temperature stability, rutting resistance, and aging resistance of PF-modified asphalt. However, under extremely low temperatures, PF’s brittleness may impact asphalt flexibility. Nonetheless, the structural advantages of PF-modified asphalt, such as improved mixture density and stability, contribute to enhanced high-temperature performance, water stability, adhesion, and freeze–thaw cycle stability. This research demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of using PF to enhance the overall performance of base asphalt and asphalt mixtures for road construction.
A Review on Wearable Product Design and Applications
Authors: Minaoglou Prodromos , Efkolidis Nikolaos , Manavis Athanasios , Kyratsis Panagiotis
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the rapid advancement of technology has caused an increase in the development of wearable products. These are portable devices that can be worn by people. The main goal of these products is to improve the quality of life as they focus on the safety, assistance and entertainment of their users. The introduction of many new technologies has allowed these products to evolve into many different fields with multiple uses. The way in which the design of wearable products/devices is approached requires the study and recording of multiple factors so that the final device is functional and efficient for its user. The current research presents an in-depth overview of research studies dealing with the development, design and manufacturing of wearable products/devices and applications/systems in general. More specifically, in this review, a comprehensive classification of wearable products/devices in various sectors and applications was carried out, resulting in the creation of eight different categories. A total of 161 studies from the last 13 years were analyzed and commented on. The findings of this review show that the use of new technologies such as 3D scanning and 3D printing are essential tools for the development of wearable products. In addition, many studies observed the use of various sensors through which multiple signals and data could be recorded. Finally, through the eight categories that the research studies were divided into, two main conclusions emerged. The first conclusion is that 3D printing is a method that was used the most in research. The second conclusion is that most research directions concern the safety of users by using sensors and recording anthropometric dimensions.
Harnessing Cyanobacteria’s Bioactive Potential: A Sustainable Strategy for Antioxidant Production
Authors: De Rosa Teresa , Ponticelli Maria , Teta Roberta , Carlucci Vittorio , Milella Luigi , Esposito Germana , Costantino Valeria
Published: January 2024

Unsaturated diacylglycerols are a class of antioxidant compounds with the potential to positively impact human health. Their ability to combat oxidative stress through radical scavenger activity underscores their significance in the context of preventive and therapeutic strategies. In this paper we highlight the role of Anabaena flos-aquae as a producer of unsaturated mono and diacylglycerols, and then demonstrate the antioxidant activity of its methanolic extract, which has as its main components a variety of acylglycerol analogues. This finding was revealed using a sustainable strategy in which the One Strain Many Compounds (OSMAC) cultivation in microscale was coupled with a bioinformatic approach to analyze a large dataset of mass spectrometry data using the molecular networking analyses. This strategy reduces time and costs, avoiding long and expensive steps of purification and obtaining informative data on the metabolic composition of the extracts. This study highlights the role of Anabaena as a sustainable and green source of novel bioactive compounds.
Clinical Findings of Listeria monocytogenes Infections with a Special Focus on Bone Localizations
Authors: Bongiovanni Marco , Cavallo Claudio , Barda Beatrice , Strulak Lukasz , Bernasconi Enos , Cardia Andrea
Published: January 2024

Listeria monocytogenes is a Gram-positive pathogenic bacterium which can be found in soil or water. Infection with the microorganism can occur after ingestion of contaminated food products. Small and large outbreaks of listeriosis have been described in the past. L. monocytogenes can cause a number of different clinical syndromes, most frequently sepsis, meningitis, and rhombencephalitis, particularly in immunocompromised hosts. L. monocytogenes systemic infections can develop following tissue penetration across the gastrointestinal tract or to hematogenous spread to sterile sites, possibly evolving towards bacteremia. L. monocytogenes only rarely causes bone or joint infections, usually in the context of prosthetic material that can provide a site for bacterial seeding. We describe here the clinical findings of invasive listeriosis, mainly focusing on the diagnosis, clinical management, and treatment of bone and vertebral infections occurring in the context of invasive listeriosis.
Phytochemical Profiles and Antimicrobial Activity of Selected Populus spp. Bud Extracts
Authors: Okińczyc Piotr , Widelski Jarosław , Nowak Kinga , Radwan Sylwia , Włodarczyk Maciej , Kuś Piotr Marek , Susniak Katarzyna , Korona-Głowniak Izabela
Published: January 2024

Buds of poplar trees (Populus species) are often covered with sticky, usually polyphenol-rich, exudates. Moreover, accessible data showed that some Populus bud extracts may be excellent antibacterial agents, especially against Gram-positive bacteria. Due to the fragmentary nature of the data found, we conducted a systematic screening study. The antimicrobial activity of two extract types (semi-polar—ethanolic and polar—ethanolic-water (50/50; V/V)) from 27 bud samples of different poplar taxons were compared. Antimicrobial assays were performed against Gram-positive (five strains) and Gram-negative (six strains) bacteria as well as fungi (three strains) and covered the determination of minimal inhibitory, bactericidal, and fungicidal concentrations. The composition of extracts was later investigated by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with ultraviolet detection (UHPLC-DAD) and with electrospray-quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-qTOF-MS). As a result, most of the extracts exhibited good (MIC ≤ 62.5 µg/mL) or moderate (62.5 < MIC ≤ 500 µg/mL) activity against Gram-positives and Helicobacter pylori, as well as fungi. The most active were ethanolic extracts from P. trichocarpa, P. trichocarpa clone ‘Robusta’, and P. tacamahaca × P. trichocarpa. The strongest activity was observed for P. tacamahaca × P. trichocarpa. Antibacterial activity was supposedly connected with the abundant presence of flavonoids (pinobanksin, pinobanksin 3-acetate, chrysin, pinocembrin, galangin, isosakuranetin dihydrochalcone, pinocembrin dihydrochalcone, and 2′,6′-dihydroxy-4′-methoxydihydrochalcone), hydroxycinnamic acids monoesters (p-methoxycinnamic acid cinnamyl ester, caffeic acid phenethylate and different isomers of prenyl esters), and some minor components (balsacones).
The Potential Role of SCFAs in Modulating Cardiometabolic Risk by Interacting with Adiposity Parameters and Diet
Authors: Ostrowska Joanna , Samborowska Emilia , Jaworski Maciej , Toczyłowska Klaudia , Szostak-Węgierek Dorota
Published: January 2024

The main objective of this cross-sectional study was to analyze the influence of lifestyle factors (diet, physical activity, sleep) that can affect the concentration of fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and SCFAs’ potential role in modulating cardiometabolic disease risk by interacting with biochemical and body composition parameters. The study comprised 77 healthy, non-obese individuals aged 30–45 years who were assessed for the concentration of SCFAs in stool, diet, physical activity level, and sleep duration. Moreover, body composition measurement and patients’ biochemical parameters were included in the analysis. We have indicated a significant negative correlation between several SCFAs (especially acetic acid (AA), isobutyric acid (IBA), butyric acid (BA), propionic acid (PA), isovaleric acid (IVA) and valeric acid (VA)) with BMI, VAT/SAT ratio (visceral to subcutaneous fat ratio), and percentage of fat mass in a group of females enrolled in the study as well as with waist circumference (WC) in case of both sexes included in the study. Moreover, the results of our study acknowledged the importance of a diet in shaping the SCFA profile—we noticed significant negative associations between energy and fat intake and some SCFAs in males (IBA, IVA, VA, isocaproic acid (ICA)). Further, we indicated that a high intake of fiber (insoluble and soluble) in both males and females results in an elevated concentration of the vast majority of SCFAs and the amount of SCFAs in total. This effect was particularly noticeable in the case of the soluble fraction of fiber. These correlations reflect the fact that diet shapes the composition of the gut microbiota and SCFAs (main microbial metabolites) are synthesized from dietary fiber. In addition, we noticed that in a group of women, the concentration of AA, PA, and ICA as well as the total concentration of SCFAs showed a significant positive association with their sleep duration. We concluded that SCFAs can have a potential role in modulating cardiometabolic disease risk by interacting with adiposity parameters and diet. In addition, this potential direct link between diet and SCFAs may at least partly contribute to sleep improvement.
A Novel Hybrid Model Combining Improved VMD and ELM with Extended Maximum Correntropy Criterion for Prediction of Dissolved Gas in Power Transformer Oil
Authors: Du Gang , Sheng Zhenming , Liu Jiaguo , Gao Yiping , Xin Chunqing , Ma Wentao
Published: January 2024

The prediction of dissolved gas change trends in power transformer oil is very important for the diagnosis of transformer faults and ensuring its safe operation. Considering the time series and nonlinear features of the gas change trend, this paper proposes a novel robust extreme learning machine (ELM) model combining an improved data decomposition method for gas content forecasting. Firstly, the original data with nonlinear and sudden change properties will make the forecasting model unstable, and thus an improved variational modal decomposition (IPVMD) method is developed to decompose the original data to obtain the multiple modal dataset, in which the marine predators algorithm (MPA) optimization method is utilized to optimize the free parameters of the VMD. Second, the ELM as an efficient and easily implemented tool is used as the basic model for dissolved gas forecasting. However, the traditional ELM with mean square error (MSE) criterion is sensitive to the non-Gaussian measurement noise (or outliers). In addition, considering the nonlinear non-Gaussian properties of the dissolved gas, a new learning criterion, called extended maximum correntropy criterion (ExMCC), is defined by using an extended kernel function in the correntropy framework, and the ExMCC as a learning criterion is introduced into the ELM to develop a novel robust regression model (called ExMCC-ELM) to improve the ability of ELM to process mutational data. Third, a gas-in-oil prediction scheme is proposed by using the ExMCC-ELM performed on each modal obtained by the proposed IPVMD. Finally, we conducted several simulation studies on the measured data, and the results show that the proposed method has good predictive performance.