bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the Dynamic Complexity of Sexual and Gender Minority Healthcare Disparities: A Systems Thinking Approach
Authors: Gillani Braveheart , Prince Dana M. , Ray-Novak Meagan , Feerasta Gulnar , Jones Devinity , Mintz Laura J. , Moore Scott Emory
Published: February 2024

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations experience extensive health disparities compared to their straight and cisgender counterparts. The importance of addressing these disparities is paramount, as SGM groups often encounter significant barriers to accessing comprehensive healthcare, including societal stigma, provider bias, and financial constraints. This study utilizes a community-based system dynamics approach to understand and visualize the barriers to and facilitators of healthcare engagement for SGM groups across their life course. It aims to identify core constructs, relationships, and dynamic feedback mechanisms related to the experiences of connection/disconnection with physical, mental, and dental healthcare of SGM individuals. Barriers to access, such as discriminatory practices and the limited availability of SGM-informed healthcare professionals, exacerbate these disparities, underscoring the urgency of developing targeted interventions. System dynamics, a complex systems science (CSS) methodology, was used for this research. Group model building sessions were conducted with diverse SGM groups, including youth, older adults, and trans and gender-expansive community members. Causal loop diagrams were developed according to an iterative process, and a meta-model of their collective experiences was created. The study revealed extensive, dynamic, and shifting structural barriers for SGM community members accessing healthcare. Societal and structural stigma, provider bias, and pathologization were identified as significant barriers throughout their life course. Community-led interventions and SGM-focused holistic healthcare were identified as critical facilitators of SGM healthcare connection. The findings highlight the need for SGM-affirming and culturally responsive healthcare settings. This paper calls for a concerted effort from SGM health researchers to use CSS in developing interventions to reduce SGM health disparities.
Effects of γ-Irradiation and Sample Aging on the AC-Electrical Properties of Epoxy/ZnO/CB Hybrid Nanocomposites
Authors: Almarahfeh Mohammad younes , Juwhari Hassan K. , Elimat Ziad M. , Alqudah Ziad M.
Published: February 2024

The goal of this paper is to study the effects of gamma irradiation and samples’ aging on the AC-electrical properties of hybrid epoxy resin as a function of frequency, temperature, and (zinc oxide) ZnO content (0, 0.049, 0.099, 0.149, and 0.199 wt) at 0.001 wt of conductive (carbon black) CB nanoparticles. The irradiation processes were administered at room temperature in a gamma chamber utilizing a Cobalt 60 source of average energy = 1.25 MeV with doses = 100, 750, and 1000 Gy. The AC-electrical properties, including the impedance, dielectric constant, dielectric loss, conductivity, and activation energy of the nanocomposites, were initially studied after years of sample preparations. The collected empirical data were later analyzed before and after the gamma irradiation. The results showed that exposing samples to different doses of gamma radiation affects these AC-electrical properties significantly. It was found that the energy gap decreased as the dosage of gamma radiation increased. This could be explained as the gamma-irradiation processes induce changes in the structure of the epoxy hybrid nanocomposites by reinforcing the metal–polymer bonding and hence, causing the release of more free electrons inside the hybrid nanocomposites. Moreover, the sample aging results showed that the AC-electrical conductivity decreased with time for all samples. Hence, this study demonstrated why the γ-irradiation technique can be considered a powerful way to treat, recover, and/or enhance the electrical features of the tested epoxy hybrid nanocomposites.
The Effects of Mycovirus BmPV36 on the Cell Structure and Transcription of Bipolaris maydis
Authors: Wang Yajiao , Li Qiusheng , Wu Yuxing , Han Sen , Xiao Ying , Kong Lingxiao
Published: February 2024

Bipolaris maydis partitivirus 36 (BmPV36) is a mycovirus that can significantly reduce the virulence of the host Bipolaris maydis, but its hypovirulence mechanism is not clear. To investigate the response of B. maydis to BmPV36, the effects of BmPV36 on host cell structure and gene expression were studied via transmission electron microscopy and transcriptome sequencing using BmPV36-carrying and virus-free mycelium on the second and fifth culture. The results of transmission electron microscopy showed that the cell wall microfibrils of B. maydis were shortened, the cell membrane was broken, and membrane-bound vesicles and vacuoles appeared in the cells after carrying BmPV36. Transcriptome sequencing results showed that after carrying BmPV36, B. maydis membrane-related genes were significantly up-regulated, but membrane transport-related genes were significantly down-regulated. Genes related to carbohydrate macromolecule polysaccharide metabolic and catabolic processes were significantly down-regulated, as were genes related to the synthesis of toxins and cell wall degrading enzymes. Therefore, we speculated that BmPV36 reduces the virulence of B. maydis by destroying the host’s cell structure, inhibiting the synthesis of toxins and cell wall degrading enzymes, and reducing cell metabolism. Gaining insights into the hypovirulence mechanism of mycoviruses will provide environmentally friendly strategies for the control of fungal diseases.
Offer Price and Post-IPO Ownership Structure
Authors: Abrahamson Martin
Published: February 2024

In an initial public offering (IPO) the firm can set the offer price of its shares, based on the valuation of the firm, by changing the number of shares. This study uses stock ownership records and hand-collected IPO data to analyze the offer prices, the underpricing of IPO shares (measured as the initial return, IR) and the relationship with the post-IPO ownership structure. Specifically, the paper focuses on individual IPO investors. The results show that for the lowest priced IPOs the IR is significantly higher priced IPOs. Furthermore, for the low-priced IPOs, there is a negative relationship between offer price and breadth of ownership. This implies that stocks with a low price can attract more investors than stocks with higher offer prices. However, for high-priced IPOs the relationship is positive, suggesting that also the IPOs with highest price attract more investors. Overall, this study shows that the offer price of an IPO firm may have a moderate effect on its post-IPO ownership structure.
Aeolian Sand Sorting and Soil Moisture in Arid Namibian Fairy Circles
Authors: Yizhaq Hezi , Rein Constantin , Saban Lior , Cohen Noa , Kroy Klaus , Katra Itzhak
Published: February 2024

We studied fairy circles 20 km west of Sesriem at one of the driest locations of fairy circles in Namibia, at the foot of the popular Sossusvlei dunes. These fairy circles lack the typical hexagonal order of the Namibian fairy circles. After years of drought, their pattern is more similar to that of vegetation rings, due to the sparse vegetation in the area between the circles. Cross-section measurements of the soil water content (SWC) show that the upper layer (12 cm) is very dry (~1%) and much below the wilting point of Stipagrostis ciliata grasses, whereas the deeper soil layer is wetter (4%). The grain size distribution of soil samples taken from inside and outside the fairy circles reveals considerable heterogeneity in the size fractions due to aeolian (wind-driven) sand sorting. The bare soil inside the fairy circles contains coarser grains, and the ground surface is covered by sand megaripples. There is a linear trend between the vertical soil moisture gradient and the median grain diameter. Fine particles trapped on the vegetated edges of the fairy circle result in small nebkhas that increase the soil water retention at the surface. The dry and loose coarser topsoil inside the fairy circles may prevent the recolonization of new seedlings with short root lengths inside the fairy circles. Our results highlight the role of aeolian sand transport and deposition in desert vegetation environments and seem to support the notion that fairy circle formation may be affected by the interplay between sand sorting and soil moisture gradients.
Basic Intonation Patterns of Galician Spanish
Authors: Pérez Castillejo Susana , de la Fuente Iglesias Mónica
Published: February 2024

This paper presents an inventory of pitch accents and boundary tones in Galician Spanish (GS), a variety spoken in Northwestern Spain. Research so far has focused on explaining GS intonation features as transfer phenomena from Galician, the vernacular Romance language in the region. Because of this, previous studies have often included Galician L1 speakers, for whom transfer is expected when speaking Spanish L2. However, GS is the single L1 of half the children in Galicia, and it is spoken almost exclusively by about a quarter of Galicians. Our study focuses on this population and investigates the relative frequency and distribution of tonal units in GS when direct transfer from Galician is unlikely. A corpus of 1706 sentences (statements, questions, imperatives, and vocatives in neutral and biased contexts) was obtained from 28 participants through a discourse completion task. Results showed that patterns previously attributed to direct transfer from Galician L1 (for example, upstepped final accents in neutral declaratives or falling contours in unmarked interrogatives) are widespread in GS as L1. Findings also show commonalities with other L1 Spanish varieties, both in Europe (for example, L* L% as the unmarked declarative ending) and America (for example, the L* + H prenuclear accent of Caribbean varieties).
A Class of Efficient Sixth-Order Iterative Methods for Solving the Nonlinear Shear Model of a Reinforced Concrete Beam
Authors: Padilla José J. , Chicharro Francisco I. , Cordero Alicia , Hernández-Díaz Alejandro M. , Torregrosa Juan R.
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present a three-step sixth-order class of iterative schemes to estimate the solutions of a nonlinear system of equations. This procedure is designed by means of a weight function technique. We apply this procedure for predicting the shear strength of a reinforced concrete beam. The values for the parameters of the nonlinear system describing this problem were randomly selected inside the prescribed ranges by technical standards for structural concrete. Moreover, some of these parameters were fixed taking into consideration the solvability region of the adopted steel constitutive model. The effectiveness of the new class is also compared with other current schemes in terms of the computational efficiency and numerical performance, with very good results. The advantages of this new class come from the low computational cost, due to the existence of an only inverse operator.
Using Simulated Annealing to Solve the Multi-Depot Waste Collection Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Window and Self-Delivery Option
Authors: Yu Vincent F. , Jodiawan Panca , Lin Shih-Wei , Nadira Winy Fara , Asih Anna Maria Sri , Vinh Le Nguyen Hoang
Published: February 2024

This research introduces the Multi-Depot Waste Collection Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows and Self-Delivery Option (MDWCVRPTW-SDO). The problem comes from the waste bank operation implemented in Yogyakarta City, Indonesia. A set of vehicles is dispatched from the waste banks to pick up waste from residents’ locations within the time windows specified by the residents. Residents may be compensated for delivering their waste to a waste bank by themselves. The objective of MDWCVRPTW-SDO is minimizing the sum of investment costs, routing costs, and total compensation paid to the residents. We model this problem as a mixed integer linear programming model and propose Simulated Annealing (SA) as an effective solution approach. Extensive computational experiments confirm that SA is effective to solve MDWCVRPTW-SDO. Moreover, the number of waste banks, compensation paid to residents, and the distribution of residents of each type are crucial for the success of the implementation.
Kropina Metrics with Isotropic Scalar Curvature via Navigation Data
Authors: Ma Yongling , Zhang Xiaoling , Zhang Mengyuan
Published: February 2024

Through an interesting physical perspective and a certain contraction of the Ricci curvature tensor in Finsler geometry, Akbar-Zadeh introduced the concept of scalar curvature for the Finsler metric. In this paper, we show that the Kropina metric is of isotropic scalar curvature if and only if F is an Einstein metric according to the navigation data. Moreover, we obtain the three-dimensional rigidity theorem for an Einstein–Kropina metric.
Finite State Automata on Multi-Word Units for Efficient Text-Mining
Authors: Postiglione Alberto
Published: February 2024

Text mining is crucial for analyzing unstructured and semi-structured textual documents. This paper introduces a fast and precise text mining method based on a finite automaton to extract knowledge domains. Unlike simple words, multi-word units (such as credit card) are emphasized for their efficiency in identifying specific semantic areas due to their predominantly monosemic nature, their limited number and their distinctiveness. The method focuses on identifying multi-word units within terminological ontologies, where each multi-word unit is associated with a sub-domain of ontology knowledge. The algorithm, designed to handle the challenges posed by very long multi-word units composed of a variable number of simple words, integrates user-selected ontologies into a single finite automaton during a fast pre-processing step. At runtime, the automaton reads input text character by character, efficiently locating multi-word units even if they overlap. This approach is efficient for both short and long documents, requiring no prior training. Ontologies can be updated without additional computational costs. An early system prototype, tested on 100 short and medium-length documents, recognized the knowledge domains for the vast majority of texts (over 90%) analyzed. The authors suggest that this method could be a valuable semantic-based knowledge domain extraction technique in unstructured documents.
The Adaptive Optimal Output Feedback Tracking Control of Unknown Discrete-Time Linear Systems Using a Multistep Q-Learning Approach
Authors: Dong Xunde , Lin Yuxin , Suo Xudong , Wang Xihao , Sun Weijie
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the output feedback (OPFB) tracking control problem for discrete-time linear (DTL) systems with unknown dynamics. To solve this problem, we use an augmented system approach, which first transforms the tracking control problem into a regulation problem with a discounted performance function. The solution to this problem is derived using a Bellman equation, based on the Q-function. In order to overcome the challenges of unmeasurable system state variables, we employ a multistep Q-learning algorithm that surpasses the advantages of the policy iteration (PI) and value iteration (VI) techniques and state reconstruction methods for output feedback control. As such, the requirement for an initial stabilizing control policy for the PI method is removed and the convergence speed of the learning algorithm is improved. Finally, we demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme using a simulation example.
Genomic Insights into the Symbiotic and Plant Growth-Promoting Traits of “Candidatus Phyllobacterium onerii” sp. nov. Isolated from Endemic Astragalus flavescens
Authors: Eren Eroğlu Asiye Esra , Eroğlu Volkan , Yaşa İhsan
Published: February 2024

A novel strain of Gram-negative, rod-shaped aerobic bacteria, identified as IY22, was isolated from the root nodules of Astragalus flavescens. The analysis of the 16S rDNA and recA (recombinase A) gene sequences indicated that the strain belongs to the genus Phyllobacterium. During the phylogenetic analysis, it was found that strain IY22 is closely related to P. trifolii strain PETP02T and P. bourgognense strain STM 201T. The genome of IY22 was determined to be 6,010,116 base pairs long with a DNA G+C ratio of 56.37 mol%. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) values showed a range from 91.7% to 93.6% when compared to its close relatives. Moreover, IY22 and related strains had digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values ranging from 16.9% to 54.70%. Multiple genes (including nodACDSNZ, nifH/frxC, nifUS, fixABCJ, and sufABCDES) associated with symbiotic nitrogen fixation have been detected in strain IY22. Furthermore, this strain features genes that contribute to improving plant growth in various demanding environments. This study reports the first evidence of an association between A. flavescens and a rhizobial species. Native high-altitude legumes are a potential source of new rhizobia, and we believe that they act as a form of insurance for biodiversity against the threats of desertification and drought.
An Integrated Investigation of the Relationship between Two Soil Microbial Communities (Bacteria and Fungi) and Chrysanthemum Zawadskii (Herb.) Tzvel. Wilt Disease
Authors: Wu Chao , Peng Juan , Song Tingting
Published: February 2024

Chrysanthemum wilt is a plant disease that exerts a substantial influence on the cultivation of Chrysanthemum zawadskii (Herb.) for tea and beverage production. The rhizosphere microbial population exhibits a direct correlation with the overall health of plants. Therefore, studying the rhizosphere microbial community of Chrysanthemum zawadskii (Herb.) Tzvel. is of great significance for finding methods to control this disease. This study obtained rhizosphere soil samples from both diseased and healthy plant individuals and utilized high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze their microbial composition. The results showed that the rhizosphere microbial diversity decreased significantly, and the microbial community structure changed significantly. In the affected soil, the relative abundance of pathogenic microorganisms such as rhizospora and Phytophthora was greatly increased, while the relative abundance of beneficial microorganisms such as antagonistic fungi and actinomyces was greatly decreased. In addition, this study also found that soil environmental variables have an important impact on plant resistance; the environmental factors mainly include soil properties, content of major microorganisms, and resistance characteristics of samples. Redundancy analysis showed that the drug-resistant population had a greater impact on the 10 species with the highest abundance, and the environmental factors were more closely related to the sensitive population. In the fungal community, the resistant sample group was more sensitive to the influence of environmental factors and high-abundance fungi. These findings provide a theoretical basis for improving microbial community structure by optimizing fertilization structure, thus affecting the distribution of bacteria and fungi, and thus improving the disease resistance of chrysanthemum. In addition, by regulating and optimizing microbial community structure, new ideas and methods can be provided for the prevention and control of chrysanthemum wilt disease.
Prevalence of Infective Endocarditis among Patients with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteraemia and Bone and Joint Infections
Authors: Papadimitriou-Olivgeris Matthaios , Guery Benoit , Monney Pierre , Senn Laurence , Steinmetz Sylvain , Boillat-Blanco Noémie
Published: February 2024

We aimed to evaluate the occurrence of infective endocarditis (IE) among patients with bone and joint infections (BJIs) and Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia. This observational study was conducted at Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland, from 2014 to 2023, and included episodes involving BJI, S. aureus bacteraemia, and cardiac imaging studies. The endocarditis team defined IE. Among the 384 included episodes, 289 (75%) involved native BJI (NBJI; 118 septic arthritis, 105 acute vertebral or non-vertebral osteomyelitis, 101 chronic osteitis), and 112 (29%) involved orthopedic implant-associated infection (OIAI; 78 prosthetic joint infection and 35 osteosynthesis/spondylodesis infection). Fifty-one episodes involved two or more types of BJI, with 17 episodes exhibiting both NBJI and OIAI. IE was diagnosed in 102 (27%) episodes. IE prevalence was 31% among patients with NBJI and 13% among patients with OIAI (p < 0.001). The study revealed a high prevalence of IE among S. aureus bacteraemic patients with NBJI, with notably lower prevalence among those with OIAI.
Proanthocyanidins-Based Synbiotics as a Novel Strategy for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Risk Reduction
Authors: Thilakarathna Wasitha P. D. W. , Rupasinghe H. P. Vasantha
Published: February 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common liver disease worldwide, is a spectrum of liver abnormalities ranging from steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) characterized by excessive lipid accumulation. The prevalence of NAFLD is predicted to increase rapidly, demanding novel approaches to reduce the global NAFLD burden. Flavonoids, the most abundant dietary polyphenols, can reduce the risk of NAFLD. The majority of dietary flavonoids are proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are oligomers and polymers of the flavonoid sub-group flavan-3-ols. The efficacy of PAC in reducing the NAFLD risk can be significantly hindered by low bioavailability. The development of synbiotics by combining PAC with probiotics may increase effectiveness against NAFLD by biotransforming PAC into bioavailable metabolites. PAC and probiotic bacteria are capable of mitigating steatosis primarily through suppressing de novo lipogenesis and promoting fatty acid β-oxidation. PAC and probiotic bacteria can reduce the progression of steatosis to NASH mainly through ameliorating hepatic damage and inflammation induced by hepatic oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Synbiotics of PAC are superior in reducing the risk of NAFLD compared to independent administration of PAC and probiotics. The development of PAC-based synbiotics can be a novel strategy to mitigate the increasing incidence of NAFLD.
Metabolites from Streptomyces aureus (VTCC43181) and Their Inhibition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis ClpC1 Protein
Authors: Tran Thao Thi Phuong , Huynh Ni Ngoc Thi , Pham Ninh Thi , Nguyen Dung Thi , Tran Chien Van , Nguyen Uyen Quynh , Ho Anh Ngoc , Suh Joo-Won , Cheng Jinhua , Nguyen Thao Kim Nu , Tran Sung Van , Nguyen Duc Minh
Published: February 2024

Tuberculosis is one of the most common infectious diseases in the world, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The outbreak of multiple drug-resistant tuberculosis has become a major challenge to prevent this disease worldwide. ClpC1 is a Clp ATPase protein of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, functioning as a chaperon when combined with the Clp complex. ClpC1 has emerged as a new target to discover anti-tuberculosis drugs. This study aimed to explore the ClpC1 inhibitors from actinomycetes, which have been known to provide abundant sources of antibiotics. Two cyclic peptides, including nocardamin (1), halolitoralin A (3), and a lactone pleurone (2), were isolated from the culture of Streptomyces aureus (VTCC43181). The structures of these compounds were determined based on the detailed analysis of their spectral data and comparison with references. This is the first time these compounds have been isolated from S. aureus. Compounds 1–3 were evaluated for their affection of ATPase activity of the recombinant ClpC1 protein. Of these compounds, halolitoralin A (1), a macrocyclic peptide, was effective for the ATPase hydrolysis of the ClpC1 protein.
Aminoquinoline-Based Tridentate (NNN)-Copper Catalyst for C–N Bond-Forming Reactions from Aniline and Diazo Compounds
Authors: Teimouri Mohsen , Raju Selvam , Acheampong Edward , Schmittou Allison N. , Donnadieu Bruno , Wipf David O. , Pierce Brad S. , Stokes Sean L. , Emerson Joseph P.
Published: February 2024

A new tridentate Cu2+ complex based on (E)-1-(pyridin-2-yl)-N-(quinolin-8-yl)methanimine (PQM) was generated and characterized to support the activation of diazo compounds for the formation of new C–N bonds. This neutral Schiff base ligand was structurally characterized to coordinate with copper(II) in an equatorial fashion, yielding a distorted octahedral complex. Upon characterization, this copper(II) complex was used to catalyze an efficient and cost-effective protocol for C–N bond formation between N-nucleophiles and copper carbene complexes arising from the activation of diazo carbonyl compounds. A substrate scope of approximately 15 different amine-based substrates was screened, yielding 2° or 3° amine products with acceptable to good yields under mild reaction conditions. Reactivity towards phenol and thiophenol were also screened, showing relatively weak C–O or C–S bond formation under optimized conditions.
Enhancement of Female Rat Fertility via Ethanolic Extract from Nigella sativa L. (Black Cumin) Seeds Assessed via HPLC-ESI-MS/MS and Molecular Docking
Authors: Nagy Ahmed M. , Abdelhameed Mohamed F. , Elkarim Asmaa S. Abd , Sarker Tushar C. , Abd-ElGawad Ahmed M. , Elshamy Abdelsamed I. , Hammam Abdelmohsen M.
Published: February 2024

The characteristic chemical composition of Nigella seeds is directly linked to their beneficial properties. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition of Nigella sativa seeds using a 100% ethanolic extract using HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Additionally, it explored the potential biological effects of the extract on female rat reproduction. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Estrogen (E2), and Progesterone (P4) hormone levels were also assessed, along with the morphological and histological effects of the extract on ovarian, oviductal, and uterine tissues. Molecular docking was performed to understand the extract’s activity and its role in regulating female reproduction by assessing its binding affinity to hormonal receptors. Twenty metabolites, including alkaloids, saponins, terpenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and fatty acids, were found in the ethanolic extract of N. sativa seeds through the HPLC-ESI-MS/MS study. The N. sativa seed extract exhibited strong estrogenic and LH-like activities (p < 0.05) with weak FSH-like activity. Furthermore, it increased the serum levels of LH (p < 0.05), P4 hormones (p < 0.001), and E2 (p < 0.0001). Molecular docking results displayed a strong interaction with Erβ, LH, GnRH, and P4 receptors, respectively. Based on these findings, N. sativa seeds demonstrated hormone-like activities, suggesting their potential as a treatment for improving female fertility.
Organophosphate Triesters and Their Transformation Products in Sediments of Mangrove Wetlands in the Beibu Gulf, South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Li , Xing Yongze , Zhang Peng , Luo Xin , Niu Zengyuan
Published: February 2024

As emerging pollutants, organophosphate esters (OPEs) have been reported in coastal environments worldwide. Nevertheless, information on the occurrence and ecological risks of OPEs, especially the related transformation products, in mangrove wetlands is scarce. For the first time, the coexistence and distribution of OP triesters and their transformation products in three mangrove wetlands in the Beibu Gulf were investigated using ultrasonication and solid-phase extraction, followed by UHPLC-MS/MS detection. The studied OPEs widely existed in all the sampling sites, with the total concentrations ranging from 6.43 ng/g dry weight (dw) to 39.96 ng/g dw and from 3.33 ng/g dw to 22.50 ng/g dw for the OP triesters and transformation products, respectively. Mangrove wetlands tend to retain more OPEs than the surrounding coastal environment. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the TOC was not the sole factor in determining the OPEs’ distribution, and degradation was not the main source of the transformation products in mangrove sediments in the Beibu Gulf. The ecological risks of selected OPEs for different organisms were also assessed, revealing a medium to high risk posed by OP diesters to organisms. The levels or coexistence of OPEs and their metabolites in mangroves need constant monitoring, and more toxicity data should be further studied to assess the effect on normal aquatic organisms.
Reducing Pharmaceuticals in Water, a New Module Integrated in the Pharmacy Game: Evaluating the Module’s Effects on Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes
Authors: Fens Tanja , Moermond Caroline T. A. , van der Maas Peter , Dantuma-Wering Claudia , Lestestuiver Geke H. , Szperl Agata , Schuiling Lisette C. M. , Hak Eelko , Taxis Katja
Published: February 2024

Pharmaceutical residues end up in surface waters, impacting drinking water sources and contaminating the aquatic ecosystem. Pharmacists can play a role in reducing pharmaceutical residues, yet this is often not addressed in pharmacy undergraduate education. Therefore, we developed the educational module “Reducing Pharmaceuticals in Water” for pharmacy students; this was integrated in our pharmacy simulation game for third year Master of Pharmacy students at the University of Groningen. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effects of the module on students’ knowledge of pharmaceutical residues in water, to describe students’ experiences in taking the module, and to explore their attitudes towards green pharmacy education in general. This mixed-methods study included quantitative measurements, before and after students took the module (intervention group) and in a control group which did not receive the module. Data were collected between February 2023 and June 2023. Overall, 29 students took the module and 36 students were in the control group. The knowledge score of students in the intervention group (N = 29) increased significantly from 9.3 to 12.9 out of 22 (p < 0.001). The knowledge score of the students in the control group was (8.9 out of 22). Students found the e-learning and the patient cases the most exciting part of this module. Students also recognized the need to including environmental issues in pharmacy education. In conclusion, the module contributes towards improved knowledge and increased awareness of the impact of pharmaceuticals found in water. It represents a promising strategy to strengthen pharmacist’s role in mitigating the amount and the effect of pharmaceuticals on water and the environment in the future.
Ionic Liquids as Potential Cleaning and Restoration Agents for Cellulosic Artefacts
Authors: Croitoru Catalin , Roata Ionut Claudiu
Published: February 2024

This study explores the efficacy of 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride as cleaning agents for aged cellulosic artifacts. A 10% v/v acetone solution of these ionic liquids (ILs) effectively removes the brownish-yellow color of aged paper in a 10 min immersion treatment. Colorimetric analysis shows a remarkable increase in lightness (L*) by up to 40% and a decrease in red/brownish tones (b*) after IL treatment. The cleaning process also deacidifies the paper, shifting the pH to neutral-slightly basic levels and enhancing its long-term stability. Optimal pH outcomes are achieved, with ionic liquid consumption values of 0.4–0.6 g/g of paper. The FTIR analysis revealed structural changes in cellulose induced by the washing step, which is mainly due to the reorganization effect imparted by the ionic liquids. Furthermore, ILs mobilized degraded compounds and acidic species, aiding in their extraction during the restoration process. Mechanical testing indicated an enhancement in the overall tensile strength and strain at break values for IL-treated papers by up to 33%. This study demonstrates the multiple benefits of alkylimidazolium ionic liquids for preserving and restoring cultural heritage artifacts made of cellulosic materials.
Enhancing Single- and Two-Stage Anaerobic Digestion of Thickened Waste-Activated Sludge through FNA-Heat Pretreatment
Authors: Chegini Salomeh , Elbeshbishy Elsayed
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of combined Free Nitrous Acid (FNA)-Heat (i.e., FNH) pretreatment on single- and two-stage anaerobic digestion (AD) of thickened waste-activated sludge (TWAS). Single-stage AD was conducted in batches, while two-stage AD involved acidogenic fermentation under semi-continuous flow followed by batch methanogenesis. FNH pretreatment was applied before the acidogenic stage, using 1.4 mg HNO2-N/L FNA concentration at 25 °C, 37 °C, and 60 °C for 24 h. Among the scenarios, the most promising results were observed with two-stage AD fed with FNH-pretreated TWAS at 60 °C, showing higher COD solubilization and a reduction in volatile solids. Combined FNA-Heat pretreatment in two-stage AD yielded elevated methane production (363–415 mL CH4/g VS added) compared to single-stage digestion. Methane yields from FNA-Heat pretreated single-stage ranged from 332 to 347 mL CH4/g VS added, contrasting with 212 mL CH4/g VS added for untreated TWAS. Methane generation commenced early in both untreated and pretreated samples, attributed to soluble substrate abundance.
The Evolution of Physical Performance throughout an Entire Season in Female Football Players
Authors: Reyes-Laredo Francisco , Pareja-Blanco Fernando , López-Lluch Guillermo , Rodríguez-Bies Elisabet
Published: February 2024

Research on the evolution of performance throughout a season in team sports is scarce and mainly focused on men’s teams. Our aim in this study was to examine the seasonal variations in relevant indices of physical performance in female football players. Twenty-seven female football players were assessed at week 2 of the season (preseason, PS), week 7 (end of preseason, EP), week 24 (half-season, HS), and week 38 (end of season, ES). Similar to the most common used conditioning tests in football, testing sessions consisted of (1) vertical countermovement jump (CMJ); (2) 20 m running sprint (T20); (3) 25 m side-step cutting maneuver test (V-CUT); and (4) progressive loading test in the full-squat exercise (V1-LOAD). Participants followed their normal football training procedure, which consisted of three weekly training sessions and an official match, without any type of intervention. No significant time effects were observed for CMJ height (p = 0.29) and T20 (p = 0.11) throughout the season. However, significant time effects were found for V-CUT (p = 0.004) and V1-LOAD (p = 0.001). V-CUT performance significantly improved from HS to ES (p = 0.001). Significant increases were observed for V1-LOAD throughout the season: PS-HS (p = 0.009); PS-ES (p < 0.001); EP-ES (p < 0.001); and HS-ES (p = 0.009). These findings suggest that, over the course of the season, female football players experience an enhancement in muscle strength and change of direction ability. However, no discernible improvements were noted in sprinting and jumping capabilities during the same period.
Selenium Nanoparticles Attenuate Cobalt Nanoparticle-Induced Skeletal Muscle Injury: A Study Based on Myoblasts and Zebrafish
Authors: Tan Zejiu , Deng Linhua , Jiang Zhongjing , Xiang Gang , Zhang Gengming , He Sihan , Zhang Hongqi , Wang Yunjia
Published: February 2024

Cobalt alloys have numerous applications, especially as critical components in orthopedic biomedical implants. However, recent investigations have revealed potential hazards associated with the release of nanoparticles from cobalt-based implants during implantation. This can lead to their accumulation and migration within the body, resulting in adverse reactions such as organ toxicity. Despite being a primary interface for cobalt nanoparticle (CoNP) exposure, skeletal muscle lacks comprehensive long-term impact studies. This study evaluated whether selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) could mitigate CoNP toxicity in muscle cells and zebrafish models. CoNPs dose-dependently reduced C2C12 viability while elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis. However, low-dose SeNPs attenuated these adverse effects. CoNPs downregulated myogenic genes and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in C2C12 cells; this effect was attenuated by SeNP cotreatment. Zebrafish studies confirmed CoNP toxicity, as it decreased locomotor performance while inducing muscle injury, ROS generation, malformations, and mortality. However, SeNPs alleviated these detrimental effects. Overall, SeNPs mitigated CoNP-mediated cytotoxicity in muscle cells and tissue through antioxidative and antiapoptotic mechanisms. This suggests that SeNP-coated implants could be developed to eliminate cobalt nanoparticle toxicity and enhance the safety of metallic implants.
Editorial for the Special Issue: “Feature Papers in Drug Toxicity”
Authors: Sari Youssef
Published: February 2024

This editorial introduces the Special Issue “Feature Papers in Drug Toxicity” [...]
An Isotropic Cosmological Model with Aetherically Active Axionic Dark Matter
Authors: Balakin Alexander , Shakirzyanov Amir
Published: February 2024

Within the framework of the extended Einstein–aether–axion theory, we studied the model of a two-level aetheric control over the evolution of a spatially isotropic homogeneous Universe filled with axionic dark matter. Two guiding functions are introduced, which depend on the expansion scalar of the aether flow being equal to the tripled Hubble function. The guiding function of the first type enters the aetheric effective metric, which modifies the kinetic term of the axionic system; the guiding function of the second type predetermines the structure of the potential axion field. We obtained new exact solutions to the total set of master equations in the model (with and without cosmological constant), and studied four analytically solvable submodels in detail, for which both guiding functions are reconstructed and illustrations of their behavior are presented.
Dendritic Cells as a Therapeutic Strategy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Vaccines
Authors: Palomares Francisca , Pina Alejandra , Dakhaoui Hala , Leiva-Castro Camila , Munera-Rodriguez Ana M. , Cejudo-Guillen Marta , Granados Beatriz , Alba Gonzalo , Santa-Maria Consuelo , Sobrino Francisco , Lopez-Enriquez Soledad
Published: February 2024

Dendritic cells (DCs) serve as professional antigen-presenting cells (APC) bridging innate and adaptive immunity, playing an essential role in triggering specific cellular and humoral responses against tumor and infectious antigens. Consequently, various DC-based antitumor therapeutic strategies have been developed, particularly vaccines, and have been intensively investigated specifically in the context of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This hematological malignancy mainly affects the elderly population (those aged over 65), which usually presents a high rate of therapeutic failure and an unfavorable prognosis. In this review, we examine the current state of development and progress of vaccines in AML. The findings evidence the possible administration of DC-based vaccines as an adjuvant treatment in AML following initial therapy. Furthermore, the therapy demonstrates promising outcomes in preventing or delaying tumor relapse and exhibits synergistic effects when combined with other treatments during relapses or disease progression. On the other hand, the remarkable success observed with RNA vaccines for COVID-19, delivered in lipid nanoparticles, has revealed the efficacy and effectiveness of these types of vectors, prompting further exploration and their potential application in AML, as well as other neoplasms, loading them with tumor RNA.
Community Level Correlates of COVID-19 Booster Vaccine Hesitancy in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Krasner Henry , Harmon Nicolette , Martin Jeffrey , Olaco Crysty-Ann , Netski Dale M. , Batra Kavita
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Evidence exists that individual-level sociodemographic factors contribute to vaccine hesitancy, but it is unknown how community-level factors affect COVID-19 booster dose hesitancy. The current study aims to fill this knowledge gap by comparing data from a nationwide survey on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy with a community-level indicator, i.e., the Distressed Communities Index (DCI). Methods: Attitudes toward vaccinations, vaccine literacy, COVID-19 vaccine confidence index, and trust were measured using a 48-item, psychometrically valid and reliable survey tool. In this study, 2138 survey participants residing in the United States were divided into quintiles of varying community distress levels based on their zip codes using the DCI. Data were analyzed through Chi-square, one-way ANOVA, and post hoc analysis with Tukey’s test. Results: A significantly higher proportion of participants from the distressed communities had lower trust than their prosperous counterparts (26.6% vs. 37.6%, p < 0.001). On the contrary, participants from the prosperous communities had significantly higher vaccine confidence index scores than those in distressed communities (2.22 ± 1.13 vs. 1.70 ± 1.01, p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings affirm the importance of developing community-level interventions to promote trust in COVID-19 vaccinations and increase booster dose uptake. From these results, future studies can examine the efficacy of various community-level interventions.
Respiratory Effects of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Administered during Recovery from General Anesthesia in Brachycephalic Dogs
Authors: Vicenti Caterina , Otero Pablo E. , Briganti Angela , Rondelli Vincenzo , Stabile Marzia , Piemontese Claudia , Crovace Antonio , Lacitignola Luca , Staffieri Francesco
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the benefits of applying 5 cmH2O of CPAP using a pediatric helmet during the recovery phase from general anesthesia in brachycephalic dogs. Brachycephalic dogs undergoing various surgical procedures were included in this study, and a total of 64 subjects were randomly assigned to receive either standard oxygen supplementation (NO-CPAP group) or oxygen supplementation combined with CPAP (CPAP group). This study evaluated arterial blood pH, blood gas partial pressures of O2 and CO2, arterial blood O2 saturation, and related parameters during recovery. The dogs were monitored, and helmet tolerance was assessed using predefined criteria. Of the initially assessed 69 dogs, 64 were enrolled: 32 in the CPAP group and 32 in the NO-CPAP group. Fifteen dogs in the NO-CPAP group were excluded based on predetermined criteria. The CPAP group showed significant improvements in PaO2, PaO2/FiO2, P(A-a)O2, F-Shunt, and respiratory rate compared with the NO-CPAP group (p < 0.001). The incidence of reintubation and helmet intolerance was higher in the NO-CPAP group (18% and 15.6%, respectively) than in the CPAP group (0%). This study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating CPAP, delivered through a pediatric helmet, in the perioperative management of brachycephalic dogs.
Individual career plan: concept, structure, development stages
Authors:   Vladimir State University named after A. G. and N. G. Stoletov, Pogodina I.V. , Kislina A.A. ,   Vladimir State University named after A. G. and N. G. Stoletov
Published: February 2024

Planning is an integral part of building a successful career in modern organizations. Following an individual career plan (ICP) allows employees to focus on self-development and acquiring new knowledge and skills necessary for professional growth. The article analyzes the content of the concepts of career planning, ICP, and career model. Personal qualities that contribute to more effective planned work are identified. The structural elements of the ICP, the stages of its development, and advantages are revealed. When creating career plans, it is proposed to use the following rules: searching for motivation to take action (“career anchors”), correlating the interests of employees with the needs of organizations (“I am the concept”), setting career goals (SMART technique), allocating time to complete tasks (principle 60/ 40), thinking through options for career advancement (“movement matrix”). It is concluded that the achievement of the plan is influenced both by the employee himself, striving to achieve his own career goals, and by management, interested in the professional development of personnel to increase the prestige of the organization.
Electronic logbook of measuring instruments as a lean management technology
Authors:   The First Bit Company, Chelyabinsk, Russia, Samsonova A.V.
Published: February 2024

The competitiveness of a manufacturing company in the market is impossible without monitoring and controlling the parameters of technological processes, equipment operation, the state of the production environment and product quality, which, in turn, is associated with the performance of certain measuring operations. Ensuring the uniformity of measurements and accuracy of measuring equipment is the responsibility of the company’s metrologists. Automatization of their activities is a necessary element of lean and efficient management. Let’s consider its practical advantages on a simple example of digitalization of work on the accounting of measuring instruments.
How to sell parallel imported goods on marketplaces
Authors:   TRTS24 portal, Russia, Ekaterinburg, Lazareva A.M.
Published: February 2024

The article presents the main mechanisms for controlling goods imported into Russia using parallel imports. The author reveals the mechanisms for combating counterfeit products that marketplaces use. In addition, the applied penalties for non-compliance with legal requirements are considered.
Case Study of Continuous Itaconic Acid Fermentation by Aspergillus Terreus in a Bench-Scale Bioreactor
Authors: Hülber-Beyer Éva , Nemestóthy Nándor , Bélafi-Bakó Katalin
Published: February 2024

Itaconic acid (IA) is a highly important bioproduct. The traditional biotechnological production of organic acids generates large quantities of biomass and water streams as waste. Bipolar membrane electrodialysis is a suitable technique for directly recovering IA from clarified fermentation broth whereby itaconic acid is separated without chemical loading. As a result, the remaining diluate stream can be reintroduced into the fermentation process. This membrane operation can be integrated into a continuous fermentation process in order to carry out the process using a high glucose concentration in the effluent, opening up new possibilities for the implementation of continuous itaconic acid fermentation. In this study, a possible highly successful implementation of this technique is presented. The applied gentle stirring technique as well as the low dilution rate of 0.007 s-1 is necessary to be complemented by highly efficient oxygenation, thereby promoting itaconic acid generation. With an inlet supplying pure oxygen gas, the acid accumulated and an average of 30.1 g·L-1 titer of IA was achieved in the effluent. The volumetric oxygen uptake rate was monitored during the fermentation which fluctuated from 40-88% so further investigation of this may be worthwhile in the future.