bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge about Fertility in Croatia, Measured with the Croatian Version of the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale (Cfks-HR), in Relation to Attitudes toward Having a Child and Associated Factors
Authors: Buljubašić Ante , Švaljug Deana , Jerković Jelena , Mudnić Pulje Martina , Gusar Ivana , Jerončić Tomić Iris
Published: January 2024

Background: Fertility is a crucial component of population maintenance and growth. A declin-ing fertility trend has been observed over the past two decades, and it continues. Objective: The aim of this research was to examine the level of fertility knowledge, factors in-fluencing fertility knowledge, and the relationship between fertility knowledge and the decision to have a child. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of mothers in five hospitals on the Adriatic coast of the Republic of Croatia, involving 1541 mothers from September 2021 to De-cember 2023. The Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale was used for the research. Results: The participants were divided into two groups based on fertility status in women, spe-cifically the period of declining fertility in women. Group 1 included participants aged 18-31 with sustained fertility, and Group 2 included participants aged 32 and older experiencing de-clining fertility. Fertility knowledge was 58.9%. Women with higher educational status showed better results (62.3%). The most common sources of fertility knowledge were the healthcare sys-tem and the internet. Factors associated with the level of fertility knowledge included higher education, marital status, and higher economic status. Conclusion: The research results reveal a lack of fertility knowledge among participants, as well as an intention to have a child in later stages of life. The lack of formal education on this topic leads to information gathering from unreliable sources.
Antibody-Dependent Respiratory Burst against Plasmodium falciparum Merozoites in Individuals Living in an Area with Declining Malaria Transmission
Authors: Mutemi Doreen David , Tuju James , Ogwang Rodney , Nyamako Lydia , Wambui Kennedy Mwai , Cruz Ivette Raices , Villner Pär , Yman Victor , Kinyanjui Samson Muchina , Rooth Ingegerd , Ngasala Billy , Färnert Anna , Osier Faith
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Malaria transmission intensity affects the development of naturally acquired immunity to malaria. An absolute correlate of protection against malaria is lacking. However, anti-body-mediated functions against P. falciparum correlate with protection against malaria. In children, antibody-mediated functions against P. falciparum generally decline with a reduction in exposure; however, it is unclear whether adults maintain antibody-mediated functions in the context of re-duced exposure. This study assessed antibody-dependent respiratory burst (ADRB) in individuals from an area with declining malaria transmission. In an age-matched analysis, we compare ADRB activity during high versus low malaria transmission periods. Age significantly predicted higher ADRB activity in both the high and low malaria transmission periods. Within all age categories, ADRB activity was higher during the high compared to the low malaria transmission period, with only the adults during the high malaria transmission period having their mean ADRB activity above the ADRB cut-off. Interestingly, ongoing P. falciparum infection influenced ADRB activity during the low but not the high malaria transmission period. These findings propose that naturally acquired immunity to P. falciparum is affected in children and adults as malaria transmission declines, im-plying that vaccines will be necessary to induce and maintain protection against malaria.
Exploring Solar Drying of Henna (Lawsonia inermis) and Its Effect on the Bioactivities
Authors: Bennamoun Leila , Djekrif Scheherazed Dakhmouche , Bennaceur Said , Mekki Mancef , Bouldjaj Redouane , Ait-Kaki El Hadef-El Okki Amel , Bennamoun Lyes , Nouadri Tahar
Published: January 2024

This study has two main focuses: the first focus is to explore the design and the behavior of a locally built solar dryer during processing henna leaves. This was performed through the determination of the most important parameters that have effect on the drying process. Appropriately, it was found that the outlet air temperature of the solar collector depends entirely on the solar radiation, Moreover, the inlet temperature of the air to the drying chamber has also an important impact on the moisture content of the product. It was found that most of the studies dealing with solar drying do not take into consideration the quality of the final product. Accordingly, the second objective of this study is to present the effect of drying process on the quality of the drier samples. For this purpose, the bioactivity of the samples, in terms of determination of the total phenol content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activities was performed. Three different samples: fresh sample, samples dried with the presented solar dryer and open solar dried samples are tested. It was found that samples dried with the solar dryer presented the best results.
Development of a Self-Regulating Solar Shading Actuator Based on the Thermal Shape Memory Effect
Authors: Stelzmann Mario , Zakner Felix , Sosa Iñaki Navarro de , Nemati Amir , Kahnt Alexander , Maaß Burkhard , Drossel Welf Guntram
Published: January 2024

In the field of adaptive building technologies, this research introduces the development of a self-regulating solar shading actuator, that utilizes the thermal shape memory effect. The study places its focus on addressing the actuator’s performance under diverse environmental conditions. Thermal simulations were carried out during the development of the individual components of the actuator and for the prediction of specific switching temperatures. The investigation includes an analysis of the sunshade’s response to varying environmental conditions, emphasizing its effectiveness on clear summer days and identifying challenges during overcast periods. The critical coordination between the solar collector and the shape memory alloy (SMA) wire is examined, shedding light on the impact of SMA temperature dynamics on the actuation performance. Through the integration of simulation data and real-world measurements, the study validates the thermal model for the solar collector, establishing the robustness of the system’s operation. This research work contributes significantly to the development of intelligent actuators and outlines the importance of validation of SMA-based applications under real conditions.
Recent Advance Bakuchiol Application as a Potential Alternative to Retinol in Skincare and Cosmetics
Authors: Putriana Norisca Aliza , Husni Patihul , Mita Soraya Ratnawulan
Published: January 2024

Herbal cosmetics are cosmetics derived from plants. One example is bakuchiol. Bakuchiol is a meroterpene phenol from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. Bakuchiol can be derived from Psoralea grandulosa, Pimelea drupaceae, Ulmus davidiana, Otholobium pubescens, and Piper longum. Bakuchiol has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activities such as retinol. Bakuchiol will replace retinol with much better safety. Bakuchiol and retinoids share similar cellular pathways, such as the regulation of retinoic acid, the expression of collagen, and extracellular matrix synthesis enzymes. Bakuchiol has many benefits for the skin, so cosmetics and skin therapy can use bakuchiol. This review aims to provide information about the activity of bakuchiol, which has benefits for facial skin, so that this review can be a reference in making cosmetics containing bakuchiol. Bakuchiol has many benefits for skincare such as anti-aging, anti-hyperpigmentation, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-acne, and anti-melanogenesis. Products containing bakuchiol on the market are cleansers, serum, nanoemulsion, and cream.
Analysis of Losses Associated with Series Resistance (Rs) in Simple-Structured c-Si Solar Cells
Authors: Heredia-Rios Manuel J , Hernandez-Martinez Luis , Linares-Aranda Monico , Flores-Méndez Javier , Moreno-Moreno Mario
Published: January 2024

The assessment of photovoltaic devices, which convert light energy into electricity, becomes significantly relevant due to the aspiration to reduce pollution on a global scale. In this context, the pursuit of optimizing the efficiency in converting light energy into electrical energy involves exhaustive studies and structural analyses of solar cells, all directed toward achieving this goal. This study introduces a research proposal aimed at analyzing the losses associated with series resistance (Rs). The analysis takes into account each component comprising this resistance, pro-posing a network of resistances that precisely models each of these elements. The aforementioned research focused on simple-structured crystalline silicon cells. During this investigation, the junction depth (xj) of n-p materials was varied with the aim of achieving efficiencies in the range of 12%. However, in the pursuit of this desired efficiency, a significant impact on series resistance was observed when analyzing the I-V curves of the cells obtained in each manufacturing process.
Novel Knowledge of Macrolide Resistance in Mycoplasma pneumoniae by Azithromycin Exposure
Authors: Oishi Tomohiro , Hattori Nemu , Yoshioka Daisuke
Published: January 2024

The rise of macrolide-resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MRMP), marked bypoint mutations in the 23S rRNA gene, poses a growing global concern since its initial detection in 2001. The prominence of the A2063G mutation during this emergence remains unexplained. This study aimed to clarify the possibility of detecting MRMP from recent clinical macrolide-susceptible M. pneumoniae by exposure to azithromycin (AZM), which has a long half-life and was launched immediately before the first MRMP detection. Six strains isolated from Japanese children in 2019 and reference strain (FH), all belonging to the recent dominant P1 genotype, two or two subtype, were cultivated in a medium containing slightly higher concentrations than the originated minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AZM and underwent sequencing if they grew. Four out of the seven strains grew after exposure to AZM, and C2617G, C2617A were detected, with no mutation in two strains. After another cultivation and sequencing, two of four strains grew and one was changed from C2617G to A2063G, and the other remained C2617A. The MIC of AZM in A2063G strains was 128 mg/mL; for C2617A, it was 0.0156 mg/mL. This is the first study to detect the strains with A2063G mutation from recent macrolide-susceptible M. pneumoniae using AZM exposure.
Assessing the Impact of Sepiolite-Based Bio-Pigment Infused With Indigo Extract on Appearance and Durability of Water-Based White Primer
Authors: Calovi Massimo , Rossi Stefano
Published: January 2024

The objective of this study is to evaluate how two varying amounts of sepiolite-based powder, infused with indigo extract, affect the appearance and durability of a water-based white primer. To examine the influence of this eco-friendly pigment on the coatings' overall appearance, assessments were performed for color, gloss, and surface roughness. Additionally, the coatings were investigated through optical and electron microscopic observations, to evaluate the distribution of the pigment within the polymer matrix. The effect of the pigment on the coating's durability was assessed through accelerated tests, including exposure in a salt spray chamber and a UV-B chamber. These tests aimed to evaluate the emergence of defects and changes in the appearance of the samples over time. Furthermore, the impact of different quantities of sepiolite-based powder on the coating's ability to act as a barrier was assessed using liquid resistance tests and contact angle measurements. These evaluations aimed to understand how the coating responded to various liquids and its surface properties concerning repellency or absorption. In essence, this study underscores the considerable influence of the eco-friendly pigment, demonstrating its capacity to introduce unique color and texture variations to the paint. Moreover, the inclusion of the pigment has enhanced the coating's color stability, its ability to act as a barrier, and overall durability when exposed to harsh environments.
Phosphorus Solubilization by Lupines (L. angustifolius and L. albus) in Four Contrasting Soils
Authors: Mori Alvez Cristina , Perdomo Varela Carlos , González Barrios Pablo , Bentos Guimaraes Andrea , Del Pino Machado Amabelia
Published: January 2024

A substantial amount of phosphorus (P) in soil is not readily available for plant uptake. Certain species may enhance P availability from poorly soluble P forms. This research aimed to compare the P solubilization capacity of the soil of two Lupine species, L. albus, and L. angustifolius, with a control crop of oats (Avena strigosa L.). Plants were planted in pots in four soils with varying texture, organic matter content, acidity, and P availability. Phosphorus solubilization capacity was assessed on variations of P availability (PBray1) at four points in time, comparing soils with lupine to oat-containing soils and their baseline values. At harvest, measurements of plant shoot biomass included their shoot dry weight and some nutrient concentrations such as P, nitrogen (N), manganese (Mn), and lupine nitrogen fixation. Compared to soils containing oats, lupine soils significantly increased PBray1 concentrations; increments ranged from 0.9 to 5.4 mg kg-1, depending on species, sampling time, and soil type. Lupine-induced soil acidification did not fully explain this P increase., As a proxy measurement of organic acid exudation, Manganese concentration was high in both lupine species' shoot biomass; however, these legumes had divergent Mn accumulation responses to soil acidity and P availability. Nitrogen fixed quantity varied with Lupine species (105-240 mg pot-1) and soil type (60-240 mg pot-1). Lupinus albus had a higher ability to mobilize non-labile P and provide N through biological N fixation (BNF), positioning it as a suitable crop for diversifying Uruguay's agricultural crop rotation systems.
Simultaneous Determination of Pioglitazone and Curcumin from Chitosan-Based Co-delivery Nanosystem for Diabetes Mellitus Therapy
Authors: Sava Alexandru , Lupascu Florentina Geanina , Tătărușanu Simona-Maria , Iacob Andreea-Teodora , Dascălu Andrei , Profire Bianca-Ștefania , Vasincu Ioana-Mirela , Apotrosoaei Maria , Profire Lenuta
Published: January 2024

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is one of the most common metabolic disorders, with a major involvement of oxidative stress in its onset and progression. Pioglitazone (Pio) is an antidiabetic drug which primarily works by reducing insulin resistance while Curcumin (Cur) is powerful antioxidant with o important hypoglycemic effect, also. The both drugs are associated with several drawbacks, such as reduced bioavailability, a short half-life time (Pio) as well as instability and poor water solubility (Cur), which limit their therapeutic use. In order to overcome these disadvantages, a new co-delivery (Pio, Cur) nanosystem based chitosan (CS) (CS-Pio-Cur NPs), was developed, and characterized in reference with simple nanosystems (CS-Pio NPs, CS-Cur NPs). The developed CS-based NPs (CS-Pio-Cur NPs, CS-Pio NPs, CS-Cur NPs) were physico-chemical characterized in terms of particle size (PS), entrapment efficiency (EF%) and loading capacity (LC%). The CS-Pio-Cur NPs proved increased or similar values of EE (88.95% ± 7.79 for Cur; 94.83% ± 9.89 for Pio) and LC% (24.25 % ± 1.62 for Cur; 3.5% ± 0.98 for Pio), in reference with simple nanosystems, CS-Cur NPs (EE = 82.46% ± 1.74; LC = 20.34% ± 0.94) and CS-Pio NPs) (EE = 96.31% ± 0.68; LC = 4.11% ± 0.47), respectively. The identification of APIs (Cur, Pio) loaded into CS matrix was performed using FR-IR spectroscopy and for simultaneously quantification of APIs (Cur, Pio) released from CS-Pio-Cur NPs, a HLPC method was developed and validated. Based on release study performed in different simulated fluids (SGF, SIF, SCF) it can be appreciated that developed CS-APIs NPs have favorable pharmacokinetic profile with good release in gastrointestinal tract.
Investigating the Effectiveness of Brexpiprazole in Schizophrenic Patients with Concurrent Alcohol and Substance Use Disorder: A Prospective, Multicentric, Real-World Study
Authors: Chiappini Stefania , Cavallotto Clara , Mosca Alessio , Di carlo Francesco , Piro Tommaso , Lorenzini Chiara , Di paolo Maria pia , Pepe Maria , Di nicola Marco , Ricci Valerio , Pettorruso Mauro , Martinotti Giovanni
Published: January 2024

Background: Dual disorders (DD) involve the coexistence of substance use disorder (SUD) with another mental illness, often from psychotic and affective categories. This study explores the ef-fectiveness of brexpiprazole, a third-generation antipsychotic, in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorder (DSM-V) and comorbid AUD/SUD (DSM-V).
Methods: Eighteen enrolled patients underwent psychometric assessments at baseline and one month into brexpiprazole treatment administered at a mean dosage of 2 mg/day.
Results: Brexpiprazole demonstrated significant reductions in psychopathological burden (PANSS total score, p=0.004), improved CGI total score (p=0.042), and decreased MOAS total score (p=0.012). Quality of life improved in SF-36 subscales (p<0.05). Substance craving reduction, though observed, did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions: This study provides initial evidence supporting brexpiprazole's efficacy and safety with positive effects on psychopathology and quality of life, emphasizing the need for tailored, comprehensive treatment strategies in this complex patient population.
B Cell Subsets and Immune Checkpoint Expression in Patients With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Ntsethe Aviwe , Mkhwanazi Zekhethelo Alondwe , Dludla Phiwayinkosi Vusi , Nkambule Bongani Brian
Published: January 2024

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by dysfunctional B cells. Immune checkpoint molecules such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), and programmed death-1 (PD-1) are upregulated in patients with CLL and may correlate with prognostic markers such as beta-2 microglobulin (B2M). The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of immune checkpoints on B-cell subsets and to further correlate them with B2M levels in patients with CLL. We recruited 21 patients with CLL and 12 controls. B cell subsets and the levels of immune checkpoint expression were determined using conventional multi-color flowcytometry. Basal levels of B2M in patients with CLL were measured using an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Patients with CLL had increased levels of activated B cells when compared to the control group, p< 0.001. The expression of PD-1 and CTLA-4 were increased on activated B cells and memory B cells, p< 0.05. There were no associations between B2M levels and the measured immune checkpoints on B cell subsets, after adjusting for sex and age. African patients with CLL express elevated levels of PD-1 and CTLA-4 immune checkpoints on activated and memory B cell subsets. However, there is no correlation between these immune checkpoint expressions and B2M levels.
PM2.5 Potential Indoor Exposures and Outdoor Concentrations Related to Smoking Prevalence by Zip Code in Three West Coast States
Authors: Wallace Lance
Published: January 2024

Low-cost monitors have made possible for the first time measurements of long-term (months to years) potential indoor exposures to fine particles. Indoor and outdoor measurements made over nearly 5 years (2017-2021) by the largest network of low-cost monitors in the United States (PurpleAir) are compared to the prevalence of adult smokers in 1650 Zip codes within the three West Coast states of California, Oregon, and Washington. The results show that mean indoor exposures above the 75th percentile of adult smoking prevalence are more than 50% higher than those below the 25th percentile. Mean outdoor concentrations are also elevated, but by a smaller amount (20%). Both comparisons are significant at the p<0.001 level. The elevation of the PM2.5 concentrations with increasing smoking prevalence is evidence of environmental disparities in income, education, and other socioeconomic indices..
Unsteady Subsonic/Supersonic Flow Simulations in 3D Unstructured Grids over an Acoustic Cavity
Authors: Araya Guillermo
Published: January 2024

In this study, the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) equations are employed in conjunction with the Menter Shear Stress Transport (SST)-Scale-Adaptive Simulation (SAS) turbulence model in compressible flow, unstructured mesh and complex geometry. Whereas, other scale-resolving approaches in space and time, such as Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) and Large-Eddy Simulation (LES), supply more comprehensive information about the turbulent energy spectra of the fluctuating component of the flow; however, previously mentioned avenues imply computationally intensive situations, usually performed over structured meshes and relatively simply geometries. In contrast, the SAS approach is designed according to “physically” prescribed length scales of the flow. More precisely, it operates by locally comparing the length scale of the modelled turbulence to the von Karman length scale (which is prescribed according to local fluid velocity derivatives and depends on the grid point distribution in the computational domain). This length scale ratio allows the flow to dynamically adjust the local eddy viscosity in order to better capture the large scale motions (LSM) in unsteady regions of URANS simulations. While SAS may be constrained to model only low flow frequencies or waivenumbers (i.e., LSM), its versatility and computational low-cost make it attractive to obtain a quick first insight of the flow physics; particularly, in those situations dominated by strong flow unsteadiness. The selected numerical application is the well-known M219 three-dimensional rectangular acoustic cavity from the literature at two different freestream Mach numbers, M∞ (0.85 and 1.35) and a length-to-depth ratio of 5:1. Thus, we consider the “deep configuration" in experiments by Henshaw. The SST-SAS model has demonstrated a satisfactory compromise between simplicity, accuracy and flow physics description.
Determinants of Vaccine Hesitancy in African American and Black Individuals in the United States: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: SAVOIA ELENA , Masterson Evelyn , Olander David , Anderson Emma , Mohamed Anisa Farah , PIrrotta Luca
Published: January 2024

Despite the crucial role the COVID-19 vaccine played in curbing the pandemic, a significant portion of Black and African American individuals expressed hesitancy in being vaccinated. This review aimed to identify the determinants of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Black and African American individuals in the USA. The literature search was conducted in December 2022 according to the PRISMA criteria focusing on empirical studies. Data extraction methods, critical appraisal, and secondary thematic analysis were conducted on both quantitative and qualitative studies. Sixteen quantitative studies identified key factors associated with vaccine hesitancy such as confidence in vaccine effectiveness, safety, and trust in the healthcare system. 14 qualitative studies revealed major themes of mistrust, fear, and information needs, including historical mistrust, concerns about the vaccine development process, and contemporary institutional mistrust. The synthesis of quantitative and qualitative findings derived from this review provides a nuanced understanding of determinants of vaccine hesitancy in Black and African American communities in the USA, offering a foundation for the development of evidence-based interventions. Mistrust in the healthcare system, fear, and informational gaps on vaccine safety and effectiveness have been identified as significant barriers to vaccination, demanding targeted interventions.
Ergonomic Evaluation of the Use of force in the training of the Local Police of Cádiz (Spain) by REBA and Marras
Authors: Vera-Jiménez José C. , Villero-Carro Domingo , Pastor-Fernández Andrés , Gonzalez-Herrera Lucas , Vera-Jurado José C. , Moreno-Corbacho Ignacio , Lorente-Sánchez Mauricio , Gamero-Lucas Joaquín , Ayuso Jesus
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: This text emphasizes concerns regarding the safety of Spanish police officers at-tributed to inadequate training, employing biomechanics for the analysis and mitigation of risks during Use of Force training. The elevated global prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders under-scores the imperative for effective occupational health measures. The study concentrates on evalu-ating injury risks in novice police officers during Use of Force training. (2) Research method: The movements of police officers were captured using a Rokoko Smartsuit Pro equipped with 19 sen-sors. The Biomechanics of Bodies software processed the data, providing REBA and Marras risk scores. Statistical tests were conducted, and Operational Tactical Procedures (OTP) were inte-grated into police training. A diverse group of officers participated, categorized by training level and equipped with the Rokoko Smartsuit. (3) Results: The study evaluates police force training us-ing REBA and Marras methods. REBA scores indicate a moderate to high injury risk, suggesting effective technique design. ANOVA reveals no significant differences between training levels. Marras analysis, characterized by non-normal distribution, unveils varied risk perceptions among groups via the Kruskal-Wallis test. (4) Conclusions: The analysis of both the REBA and Marras methods implies the effectiveness of the OTP technique in reducing injury risks across dif-ferent training levels. The ANOVA test indicates no significant differences in REBA Maximum Scores between the groups. However, the Kruskal-Wallis test for Marras Probability of high-risk values suggests distinctions in medians between training levels. The combined analysis visually illustrates variations in membership regions between expert, intermediate, and novice groups.
Fisher Information for a System of a Combination of Similar Potential Models
Authors: Onate Clement Atachegbe , Okon I.B. , Eyube E.S. , Omugbe Ekwevugbe , Emeje K.O , Onyeaju M.C , Ajani Olumide , Akinpelu Jacob
Published: January 2024

The solutions of the radial Schrödinger equation for a pseudoharmonic potential and Kratzer potentials has been studied separately in the past. The Kratzer potential despite different reports, the basic theoretic quantity such as Fisher information has not been reported. In this study, the solution of the radial Schrödinger equation for the combination of the pseudoharmonic and Kratzer potentials in the presence of a constant-dependent potential is obtained using the concepts and formalism of the supersymmetric and shape invariance approach. The position expectation value and momentum expectation value are calculated employing the Hellmann-Feynman Theory. The expectation values are used to calculate the Fisher information for both the position and momentum spaces in both the absence and presence of the constant-dependent potential. The obtained results revealed that the presence of the constant-dependent potential leads to an increase in the energy eigenvalue, as well as in the position and momentum expectation values. The presence of the constant-dependent potential also increases the Fisher information for both position and momentum spaces. Furthermore, the product of the position expectation value and the momentum expectation value along with the product of the Fisher information, satisfies both the Fisher’s inequality and the Cramer-Rao’s inequality.
Explaining the Behaviour of Reinforcement Learning Agents in a Multi-Agent Cooperative Environment Using Policy Graphs
Authors: Domènech i Vila Marc , Gnatyshak Dmitry , Tormos Adrian , Gimenez-Abalos Victor , Alvarez-Napagao Sergio
Published: January 2024

The adoption of algorithms based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been rapidly increasing during the last years. However, some aspects of AI techniques are under heavy scrutiny. For instance, in many use cases, it is not clear whether the decisions of an algorithm are well-informed and conforming to human understanding. Having ways to address these concerns is crucial in many domains, especially whenever humans and intelligent (physical or virtual) agents must cooperate in a shared environment. In this paper, we introduce an application of an explainability method based on the creation of a Policy Graph (PG) based on discrete predicates that represent and explain a trained agent’s behaviour in a multi-agent cooperative environment. We show that from these policy graphs, policies for surrogate interpretable agents can be automatically generated. These policies can be used to measure the reliability of the explanations enabled by the PGs, through a fair behavioural comparison between the original opaque agent and the surrogate one. The contributions of this paper represent the first application of policy graphs in the context of explaining agent behaviour in collaborative multi-agent scenarios and presents experimental results that sets this kind of scenario apart from previous application in single-agent scenarios: when requiring collaborative behaviour, predicates that allow representing observations about the other agents are crucial to replicate the opaque agent’s behaviour and increase the reliability of explanations.
CLPP-Null Eukaryotes with Excess Heme Biosynthesis Show L-arginine Reduction, Probably via CLPX-Mediated OAT Activation
Authors: Key Jana , Gispert Suzana , Heinz Daniela , Hamann Andrea , Osiewacz Heinz D. , Meierhofer David , Auburger Georg
Published: January 2024

Serine peptidase CLPP is conserved among bacteria, chloroplasts, and mitochondria. In humans and mice, its loss causes Perrault syndrome with growth deficit, infertility, deafness, and ataxia. In the filamentous fungus Podospora anserina, CLPP-loss leads to longevity. CLPP substrates are selected by CLPX, an AAA+ unfoldase. CLPX is known to target delta-amino-levulinic-acid synthase (ALAS) to promote pyridoxal-phosphate (PLP) binding. CLPX may influence cofactor association with other enzymes. Here, the evaluation of P. anserina metabolomics highlighted arginine/histidine reduction. In Mus musculus cerebellum, reductions of Arginine/Histidine and Citrulline occurred with concomitant accumulation of heme-precursor protoporphyrin-IX. This suggests that increased biosynthesis of 5-carbon (C5) chain deltaALA consumes not only C4 succinyl-CoA with C1 glycine but also specific C5 delta amino-acids. As responsible enzymes for these converse effects, elevated abundance of CLPX and ALAS is paralleled by elevation of OAT (PLP-dependent, ornithine-delta-aminotransferase). Possibly as consequence of altered C1 metabolism, CLPP-null cells in P. anserina proteome profiles showed strong accumulation of a methyltransferase and two mitoribosomal large subunit factors. Reduced Histidine levels may explain previously observed metal interaction problems. As main nitrogen-storing metabolite, deficient Arginine would affect the urea cycle and polyamine synthesis. Supplementation of Arginine and Histidine might rescue growth deficits of CLPP-mutant patients.
SWOT and Root Cause Analysis of Antimicrobial Resistance to Oral Antimicrobial Treatment of Cystitis
Authors: Tyagi Pradeep , Tyagi Shachi , Stewart Laurence , Glickman Scott
Published: January 2024

Out of a worldwide annual incidence of ~150 million cases for urinary tract infection (UTI), >25% of outpatient prescriptions of oral antimicrobial treatment (OAT) are for cystitis not complicated by sepsis. OAT aids the immune cells infiltrating urothelium to eliminate uropathogens attaching and invading urothelium amidst hyperosmotic urine. This adaptability of uropathogens and the short interval between Penicillin sale and the first antimicrobial resistance (AMR) report suggests that AMR is a 3.8 billion years old evolutionary conserved heritable trait of surviving environmental threats through exponential proliferation of mutant strains selected by Darwinian principle. Therefore, OAT success with minimal AMR can be ensured by antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) following the principle of 5Ds -drug, dose, duration, drug-route, and de-escalation. While convenient to administer, the onset of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for OAT in urine is a window of opportunity for uropathogens to survive the first contact with OAT and the descendant colonies armed with AMR are likely to survive subsequent higher urine OAT levels. Meanwhile, intravesical antimicrobial treatment (IAT) delivers the first strike well above MIC. The root cause analysis of AMR dovetails with the strengths, weaknesses, opportunity, and threat (SWOT) analysis of OAT in this interdisciplinary review.
Applications of Ground-Based Infrared Cameras for Remote Sensing of Volcanic Plumes
Authors: Prata Fred , Corradini Stefano , Biondi Riccardo , Guerrieri Lorenzo , Merucci Luca , Prata Andrew , Stelitano Dario
Published: January 2024

Ground-based infrared cameras can be used effectively and safely to provide quantitative information about small to moderate-sized volcanic eruptions. This study describes an infrared camera that has been used to measure emissions from Mt Etna and Stromboli (Sicily, Italy) volcanoes. The camera provides calibrated brightness temperature images in a broadband (8--14 µm) channel that is used to determine height, plume ascent rate and volcanic cloud/plume temperature and emissivity at temporal sampling rates of up to 1 Hz. The camera can be operated in the field using a portable battery and includes a microprocessor, data-storage and WiFi. The processing and analyses of the data are described with examples from the field experiments. The updraft speeds of the small eruptions at Stromboli are found to decay with a timescale of $\sim$10 min and the volcanic plumes reach thermal equilibrium within $\sim$2 min. A strong eruption of Mt Etna on 1 April 2021 was found to reach $\sim$9 km, with ascent speeds of 10--20 ms$^{-1}$. The plume, mostly composed of water vapour and SO$_2$ gas became bent over by the prevailing winds at high levels.
Degradation Models and Maintenance Strategies for Reinforced Concrete Structures in Coastal Environments under Climate Change: A Review
Authors: Rincon Luis F. , Moscoso Yina M. , Hamami Ameur El Amine , Matos José C. , Bastidas-Arteaga Emilio
Published: January 2024

Modern engineering faces challenges in ensuring technical standards for service, durability, and sustainability. Political, administrative, and budgetary factors, coupled with climate change, pose tasks to structural integrity, affecting industries and economies. Marine infrastructures represent a strategic asset of the country as it handles a large part of the economic exchanges. This article analyzes five essential factors that play a fundamental role in the performance analysis of coastal structures: Chloride-induced corrosion, degradation models, maintenance strategies, monitoring, and climate change. Starting with reinforcement corrosion, considered as the main cause of distress, particularly in coastal zones for the long-term behavior of structures. Additional pressure from the influences of climate change is becoming evident and extreme, leading to reduction in capacity. To guarantee the lifespan, degradation models contribute by estimating the long-term performance of the asset as a strategic piece to the development of effective maintenance solutions. Additionally, quantifying the condition of the structure from monitoring data, plays a crucial part that provides information on the current situation of the structure. Finally, this review summarizes the challenges associated with the maintenance of aging marine structures considering aspects such as corrosion, monitoring, and the future challenges this area will face due to climate change.
High Risk HPV Detection Using Anyplex™ Detection Kit in Paraffin-Embedded Tissue from Cervical Lesions
Authors: Almeida Micaela , Caeiro Vítor , Costa Diana , Silva Lara , Sousa Cíntia , Pestana Paula , Campelos Sofia , Vale João , Ramalhinho Ana , Fonseca-Moutinho José , Breitenfeld Luiza
Published: January 2024

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is diagnosed in most cervical cancers and is the fourth cause of cancer worldwide. Currently, fourteen HPV types are considered carcinogenic (HPV 16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/66/68) with different oncogenicity. Cervical lesions might be due to HR (high risk)-HPV for what is important to identify new methods to genotype cervical lesions. The main goal was to identify, for the first time, HPV-HR in cervical lesions using Anyplex™ Detection kit in paraffin-embedded tissue. (2) Methods: It was performed a retrospective study in 45 women from Academic Hospital of Cova da Beira (CHUCB). DNA extraction was performed and through Anyplex™ II HPV-HR Detection kit HPV-HR were genotyped. (3) Results: HPV-HR were identified in 38 women; HPV-16 (55,26%), HPV-18/39/56/58/59 (5,26%), HPV-31 (21,05%), HPV-35 (7,89%), HPV-51/6 (2,63%) and HPV-52 (10,53%). (4) Conclusions: Our results reflect that Anyplex™ II HPV-HR Detection kit, designed for HR-HPV genotyping of cervical cancer screening, might be properly used to HR-HPV genotyping in histology. The proposed methodology allows an easy and cheaper technique that should be used as a future cervical risk stratification. It is a strong tool to be implemented in clinical practice in order to detect HR-HPV detection in cervical lesions, contributing to a more accurate diagnosis.
Cognitive Impairment and Brain Atrophy in Patients with Non-Dialysis and Dialysis Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Yoshida Hisako
Published: January 2024

In our country, the aging society is rapidly progressing, with an increase in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and those undergoing dialysis, coupled with the aging of the population. As a result, the number of individuals with cognitive impairment (CI) is rising, and addressing this issue has become an urgent problem. One characteristic of dementia in CKD patients is the high frequency of vascular dementia, making the prevention through the management of classical risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking, etc., associated with atherosclerosis and arteriosclerosis. Other effective measures, including the use of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, addressing anemia, exercise therapy, and lifestyle improvements, have been reported. Incidence and progression of CI may also be influenced by the type of dialysis or kidney replacement therapy, with reports suggesting that long-duration dialysis, low-temperature hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation (KTx) can have a possible preferable effect on preserving cognitive function.
A Keratin 12 Expression-Based Analysis of Stem-Precursor Cells and Differentiation in The Limbal-Corneal Epithelium Using Single-Cell RNA-Seq Data
Authors: Wolosin J. Mario
Published: January 2024

The corneal epithelium (CE) is spread between two domains, the outer vascularized limbus and the avascular cornea proper. Epithelial cells undergo constant migration from the limbus to the vision-critical central cornea. Coordinated with this migration the cells undergo differentiation changes where a pool of unique stem/precursor cells at the limbus yields the mature cells that reach the corneal center. Differentiation is heralded by the expression of the corneal-specific Krt12. Processing data acquired by scRNA-Seq we found that the increase of Krt12 expression occurs in four distinct steps within the limbus plus a single continuous increase in the cornea. Differential gene analysis demonstrated that these domains reflect discreet stages of CE differentiation and yielded extensive information of the genes undergoing down or up regulation in the sequential transition from less to more differentiate conditions. The approach allowed the identification of multiple gene cohorts, including a) the genes that have maximal expression in the most primitive, Krt12-negative cell cohort, which is likely to include the stem/precursor cells; b) the sets of genes that undergo continuous increase or decrease along the whole differentiation path, and c) and the genes showing maximal positive or negative correlation with the changes in Krt12.
Global Potential Distribution of Invasive Species Pseudococcus viburni (Signoret) under Climate Change
Authors: Wei Jiufeng , Niu Minmin , Zhang Hanxi , Cai Bo , Ji Wei
Published: January 2024

In the recent past, the number of invasive species around the world has increased significantly due to increased globalization and climate change. Understanding biological invasions under climate change is crucial for sustainable conservation of biodiversity. The insect pest Pseudococcus viburni (Signoret) can cause damages to plants, resulting in leaf yellowing, leaf defoliation, and reduced plant growth. A serious attack by this insect post can even lead to the entire plant withering and dying, bringing huge economic and ecological losses. Despite these damages, the potential distribution range and management strategies for this insect pest are poorly understood. Based on historical distribution data and environmental factors, the present study predicted the potentially suitable areas for P. viburni spread under different climate change scenarios using MaxEnt (maximum entropy). The results showed that precipitation of the coldest quarter (Bio19), precipitation seasonality (Bio15), and mean temperature of the wettest quarter (Bio8) were the most important environmental factors determining the distribution of P. viburni. Under the current climate conditions, its potential suitable areas are southern China, the whole of Japan, North America (especially the eastern part of the United States), the southwestern part of South America, the Mediterranean coast and most of Europe, the central part of Africa i.e., the south of the Sahara Desert and most of the southern coast of Australia. The total area of habitats suitable for this insect pest is predicted to be increased in the future. In order to prevent P. viburni transmission and spread, there is a need to strengthen the monitoring and quarantine measures against this pest at the Southern ports.
Synthesis and Characterization of New Derivatives of (EZ)-N’-Benzylidene-(2RS)-2-(6-Chloro-9H-Carbazol-2-Yl)propanohydrazide as Potential Tuberculostatic Agents
Authors: Vlad Ilinca Margareta , Nuță Diana Camelia , Căproiu Miron Theodor , Dumitrașcu Florea , Kapronczai Eleonóra , Mük Georgiana Ramona , Avram Speranta , Niculescu Adelina Gabriela , Zarafu Irina , Ciorobescu Vanesa Alexandra , Brezeanu Ana Maria , Limban Carmen
Published: January 2024

N-acyl hydrazone (NAH) has been remarked as a promising scaffold in drug design, given its versatility, ease of synthesis, and appealing biological activities (i.e., antimicrobial, antitumoral, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties). In the global context of increasing resistance of pathogenic bacteria to antibiotics, NAHs represent potential solutions for developing improved treatment alternatives. Thus, this study presents 6 new derivatives of (EZ)-N'-benzylidene-(2RS)-2-(6-chloro-9H-carbazol-2-yl)propanohydrazide that were obtained through a microwave-assisted synthesis method. In more detail, we have joined two pharmacophore fragments in a single molecule, represented by an NSAID-type carprofen structure and a hydrazone-type structure, obtaining a new series of NSAID-N-acyl hydrazone derivatives that were further characterized spectrally using FT-IR, NMR, and HRMS investigations. Moreover, the compounds have been evaluated for their tuberculostatic activity, testing their effects on four M. tuberculosis strains (two of them susceptible to rifampicin (RIF) and isoniazid (INH), one susceptible to RIF and resistant to INH and one resistant to both RIF and INH). The results of our research highlight the potential of the prepared compounds in fighting against antibiotic-resistant M. tuberculosis strains.
Environmental Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 Virus by Liquid Hyperoxygen
Authors: Izzotti Alberto , Khalid Zumama , Pulliero Alessandra , Angelinetta Claudio , Prati Ubaldo , Barco Giovanni
Published: January 2024

The possible future emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 virus variants pushes the development of new chemoprophylaxis protocols complementary to the unspecific and specific immune-prophylaxis measures currently used. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is particularly sensitive to oxidation due to the relevant positive electrical charge of its spike protein used as a ligand for target cells. The present study evaluated the safety and efficacy of a new oxidant preparation, liquid hyperoxygen (IOL), to neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 virus. IOL was incubated with throat swabs containing a human wild-type virus. The samples were then incubated with cells expressing the ACE2 receptor and therefore very sensitive to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The ability to neutralize SARS-CoV-2 was determined by assessing the amount of viral nucleic acid inside cells by PCR. The results obtained indicate that IOL, even at considerable dilutions, is capable, after incubation times of less than 30 min and even equal to 5 min, to completely inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection. This inhibitory effect has been shown to be due to the oxidizing capacity of the IOL. This oxidizing capacity is exerted towards the virus but does not damage eukaryotic cells either in the in vitro or in the in vivo skin model. Obtained results indicate that the use of IOL, a hydrophilic liquid mixture saturated with highly reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, is a new powerful, safe, and effective tool for preventing possible future outbreaks of COVID-19 disease.
Epidemiological Profile of Bechcet’s Disease in Hospitalized Patients Infected With SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil: A Serial Case Report and a Literature Review
Authors: Valencise Felipe Eduardo , Filho José Antonio Pignatari Pinheiro , Martins Jéssica Paula , Marson Fernando Augusto Lima
Published: January 2024

The literature is scarce in the evaluation of Behçet’s disease (BD) among individuals during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Then, an epidemiological study was conducted using the data from 46 hospitalized patients with BD and coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 representing a prevalence of 2,11 patients per 100,000 inhabitants. From the study sample, 58.7% (27 patients) were female, and 67.4% (31 patients) were White. The main symptoms were fever (40; 87.0%), cough (38; 82.6%), dyspnea (35; 76.1%), and peripheral saturation below 95% (35%, 76.1%). The need for intensive care unit support occurred for 39.1% (18) patients. Also, 21.7% (10) patients needed invasive ventilatory support and 47.8% (22) needed non-invasive ventilatory support. A total of 73.9% (34) of patients lived, and 26.1% (12) of patients died. Only the presence of respiratory discomfort [37.9% vs. 5.9%] was more common among those who died. Patients with BD were not at an increased risk of worse COVID-19 outcomes in Brazil.
Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea: Insights and Progress on Vaccines
Authors: Park Jung-Eun
Published: January 2024

Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is a swine wasting disease caused by coronavirus infection. It causes great economic damage to the swine industry worldwide. Despite the continued use of vaccines, PED outbreaks continue, highlighting the need to review the effectiveness of current vaccines and develop additional vaccines based on new platforms. Here, we review existing vaccine technologies for preventing PED and highlight promising technologies that may help control PED virus in the future.