bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) as Emerging Obesogens: Mechanisms, Epidemiological Evidence, and Regulatory Challenges
Authors: Lewis Niya , Abdulkadir Abubakar , Kandel Shila , Rosby Raphyel , Hossain Ekhtear
Published: December 2024

The pervasive presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment and their persistent nature raise significant concerns regarding their impact on human health. This review delves into the obesogenic potential of PFAS, shedding light on their mechanisms of action, epidemiological correlations with obesity and metabolic disorders, and the challenges faced in regulatory frameworks. PFAS, characterized by their carbon-fluorine chains, are ubiquitous in various consumer products, leading to widespread exposure through ingestion of contaminated food and water. Emerging evidence suggests that PFAS may act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, interfering with lipid metabolism and hormone functions related to obesity. We examine in vitro, in vivo, human, and in silico studies that explore the interaction of PFAS with PPARs and other molecular targets, influencing adipogenesis and lipid homeostasis. Furthermore, the review highlights epidemiological studies investigating the association between maternal PFAS exposure and the risk of obesity in offspring, presenting mixed and inconclusive findings that underscore the complexity of PFAS effects on human health. Presently, there are major challenges in studying PFAS toxicity, including their chemical diversity and the limitations of current regulatory guidelines, potential remediation, and detoxification. This review emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach, combining advanced analytical methods, in silico models, and comprehensive epidemiological studies, to unravel the obesogenic effects of PFAS and inform effective public health strategies.
Deepening the Role of Pectin in the Tissue Assembly Process During Tomato Grafting
Authors: Frey Carlos , Saez-Aguayo Susana , Encina Antonio , Acebes José Luis
Published: December 2024

Cell walls play essential roles in cell recognition, tissue adhesion, and wound response. In particular, pectins as cell-adhesive agents are expected to play a key role in the early stages of grafting. To test this premise, this study focused on examining the dynamics of the accumulation and degree of methyl-esterification of pectic polysaccharides at the graft junctions using tomato autografts as an experimental model. Monosaccharide analysis showed a marked increase in homogalacturonan from 25% to 32 or 34% at the junction zones early after grafting. In addition, a decrease in the degree of homogalacturonan methyl-esterification up to 38% in the scion and 64% in the rootstock was observed in the first few days after grafting, accompanied by an increase in pectin methyl-esterase activity of up to 20–30% in the tissues surrounding the graft junction. These results shed light on the role of homogalacturonan in grafting and reinforce the key function of pectin as one of the most relevant cell wall components during the grafting process.
Conflicting Dynamics of Galling and Pollination: Arastichus gallicola (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae), a Specialized Parasitic Galler in Pistillate Flowers of Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum (Araceae)
Authors: Jansen-González Sergio , Teixeira Simone P. , Pereira Rodrigo A. S.
Published: December 2024

In the complex dynamics of plant–insect interactions, the specialized galling of reproductive structures presents unique evolutionary adaptations. This study investigates the parasitic relationship between Arastichus gallicola (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae), an ovary-galling wasp, and the inflorescences of Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum (Araceae). We employed field experiments and histological analyses to investigate the mechanisms driving this interaction. We reveal that ovule fertilization is not required for gall formation; however, pollination substantially enhances gall retention by reducing inflorescence abscission. Inflorescences exposed solely to galling presented a 64% abscission rate, whereas those with both galling and pollination experienced 33% abscission, underscoring pollination’s role in mitigating inflorescence loss. Detailed observations of A. gallicola oviposition and larval development reveal the intricate gall formation process characterized by progressive tissue hypertrophy surrounding the larva. Galling and seed development were mutually exclusive, with only 9% of fruits containing both. This mutual exclusivity suggests a competitive interaction for developmental resources within the ovary. Our findings underscore the specialized larval biology of galling chalcid wasps, illustrating how interactions between gall formation and host reproductive strategies shape the evolution of gall induction in floral tissues. Our study advances the understanding of ovary-galling adaptations and the selective pressures shaping antagonistic and mutualistic interactions in plant reproductive structures.
The Identification of AMT Family Genes and Their Expression, Function, and Regulation in Chenopodium quinoa
Authors: Wang Xiangxiang , Wu He , Manzoor Nazer , Dongcheng Wenhua , Su Youbo , Liu Zhengjie , Lin Chun , Mao Zichao
Published: December 2024

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is an Andean allotetraploid pseudocereal crop with higher protein content and balanced amino acid composition in the seeds. Ammonium (NH4+), a direct source of organic nitrogen assimilation, mainly transported by specific transmembrane ammonium transporters (AMTs), plays important roles in the development, yield, and quality of crops. Many AMTs and their functions have been identified in major crops; however, no systematic analyses of AMTs and their regulatory networks, which is important to increase the yield and protein accumulation in the seeds of quinoa, have been performed to date. In this study, the CqAMTs were identified, followed by the quantification of the gene expression, while the regulatory networks were predicted based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), with the putative transcriptional factors (TFs) having binding sites on the promoters of CqAMTs, nitrate transporters (CqNRTs), and glutamine-synthases (CqGSs), as well as the putative TF expression being correlated with the phenotypes and activities of GSs, glutamate synthase (GOGAT), nitrite reductase (NiR), and nitrate reductase (NR) of quinoa roots. The results showed a total of 12 members of the CqAMT family with varying expressions in different organs and in the same organs at different developmental stages. Complementation expression analyses in the triple mep1/2/3 mutant of yeast showed that except for CqAMT2.2b, 11/12 CqAMTs restored the uptake of NH4+ in the host yeast. CqAMT1.2a was found to mainly locate on the cell membrane, while TFs (e.g., CqNLPs, CqG2Ls, B3 TFs, CqbHLHs, CqZFs, CqMYBs, CqNF-YA/YB/YC, CqNACs, and CqWRKY) were predicted to be predominantly involved in the regulation, transportation, and assimilation of nitrogen. These results provide the functions of CqAMTs and their possible regulatory networks, which will lead to improved nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in quinoa as well as other major crops.
ZmSPL12 Enhances Root Penetration and Elongation in Maize Under Compacted Soil Conditions by Responding to Ethylene Signaling
Authors: Xu Hua , Zheng Zhigang , Ma Lei , Zhang Qingyun , Jin Lian , Zhang Ke , Zou Junjie , Wuriyanghan Hada , Xu Miaoyun
Published: December 2024

Soil compaction poses a significant challenge in modern agriculture, as it constrains root development and hinders crop growth. The increasing evidence indicated that various phytohormones collaborate in distinct root zones to regulate root growth in compacted soils. However, the study of root development in maize under such conditions has been relatively limited. Here, we identified that the ZmSPL12 gene, belonging to the SPL transcription factor family, plays a crucial and positive role in regulating root development in the compacted soil. Specifically, the overexpression of ZmSPL12 resulted in significantly less inhibition of root growth than the wild-type plants when subjected to soil compaction. Histological analysis revealed that the capacity for root growth in compacted soil is closely associated with the development of the root cap. Further exploration demonstrated that ZmSPL12 modulates root growth through regulating ethylene signaling. Our findings underscored that ZmSPL12 expression level is induced by soil compaction and then enhances root penetration by regulating root cap and development, thereby enabling roots to thrive better in the compacted soil environment.
An Overview on Nettle Studies, Compounds, Processing and the Relation with Circular Bioeconomy
Authors: Toplicean Ioana-Maria , Ianuș Rebeca-Didina , Datcu Adina-Daniela
Published: December 2024

This paper provides an interdisciplinary overview of nettle bioactive compounds and processing, and ir also explores its role in the circular bioeconomy. Urtica dioica L. is sometimes referred to as a multipurpose herbaceous species that has been used historically in food, textiles, and medicine owing its rich profile of biological compounds. This study synthesizes the recent literature to examine nettle’s applications across various industries, from nutritional supplements to eco-friendly fiber materials. In addition, it highlights nettle’s potential in sustainable production chains, aligning with the EU’s bioeconomy directives. The methods involve a comprehensive literature review and data analysis, with a focus on bioactive compounds and eco-sustainable applications. The results of this review underscore the plant’s unique adaptability to low-input farming and its contributions to reducing resource dependency. The findings position nettle as a valuable resource for sustainable innovation, emphasizing its relevance within circular economic models.
Relaxation Phenomena in Low-Density and High-Density Polyethylene
Authors: Lomovskoy Viktor A. , Shatokhina Svetlana A.
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted on the internal friction spectra and temperature dependencies of the frequency of free damped oscillatory processes excited in the investigated samples of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) over a temperature range from −150 °C to +150 °C. It was found that the internal friction spectra exhibit several local dissipative processes of varying intensity, which manifest in different temperature intervals. The structure of the internal friction spectra and the peaks of dissipative losses are complex, as evidenced by the occurrence of sharp, locally temperature-dependent jumps in the intensity of dissipative losses observed throughout the entire temperature range. A theoretical analysis was performed to explore the relationship between the anomalous change in the frequency of the oscillatory process and the defect in the shear modulus, as well as the mechanisms of internal friction for the most intense dissipative loss processes identified in the internal friction spectra. A significant difference was revealed in the structure of the internal friction spectra of LDPE and HDPE in the temperature range of −50 °C to +50 °C. A comparison of the LDPE and HDPE samples was conducted based on changes in their strength characteristics, taking into account the locally temperature-dependent changes in the shear modulus caused by local dissipative losses observed in the internal friction spectra.
Solute Energetics in Aqueous Xanthan Gum Solutions: What Can Be Learned from a Fluorescent Probe?
Authors: Heitz Mark P. , Nsengiyumva Emmanuel M. , Alexandridis Paschalis
Published: December 2024

Xanthan gum (XG) is a well-known anionic polysaccharide that finds broad application in the food and petroleum industries because of its ability to enhance solution viscosity at low concentrations and moderate temperatures. The aim of this work was to use the solvation probe coumarin 153 (C153) to characterize changes in the xanthan gum (XG) solution microstructure as a function of XG concentration and temperature from the perspective of a dissolved solute molecule. We established the utility of C153 fluorescence to track solution changes for XG concentrations that span the transition region from a dilute to a semi-dilute solution, defined by the xanthan gum overlap concentration, C*~0.02 g/dL. The temperature was varied from 293 to 353 K to probe solution conditions wherein XG has been reported to undergo a structural change from helix to random coil conformation, the details of which are still under debate. While C153 fluorescence does not elucidate direct structural information, the emission response is a simple means by which changes in aqueous XG solution can be identified. C153 spectroscopy is observed to correlate with XG conformational changes, as reported in the literature.
Research on Support Technology for Unstable Roof Roadway Under Abandoned Roadways in Ultra-Thick Coal Seam
Authors: Yu Xianyang , Lv Siyuan , Luo Yafei , Liu Pengchao , Fu Hao , Zhou Yicai
Published: December 2024

Due to the impact of disordered mining activities in previous years, numerous abandoned roadways exist in the second mining district of the 13# coal seam in Chejiazhuang Coal Mine. The stability of the new roadway roof was analyzed under various distributions of abandoned roadways above. It was determined that the ultimate stable thickness of the coal layer between the new and abandoned roadways is 4.0 m. When the thickness between the two is less than 4.0 m, the roof becomes unstable after excavation, posing a risk of collapse. Advanced grouting reinforcement is required to enhance roof stability before installing U-shaped steel arches. Mechanical experiments were conducted on the polymer grouting consolidation of fractured coal, showing a significant increase in residual strength compared to intact coal. Furthermore, the uniaxial compressive strength of the polymer grouting consolidation partially recovered. On average, the consolidation coefficient and recovery coefficient were 5.28 and 85.51%, respectively. Grouting increased the ductility of the fractured surrounding rock, enhancing its resistance to deformation and plasticity. A polymer grouting consolidation technology for supporting fractured surrounding rock under the unstable roof of abandoned roadways is proposed, along with the design of corresponding support schemes and parameters. Monitoring the results of mine pressure indicated that the surrounding rock remained stable after roadway excavation, validating the effectiveness of the support schemes and parameters.
An In Vitro Study on the Accuracy of a Splint for the Transfer of Dental Implants
Authors: Chalacan Galindo Rommy , Tul Tipantuña Angel , Flores Araque Maria , Poussin Lupe , Velasquez Ron Byron
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to measure the positional accuracy of transfers during the splinting printing process using four biomaterials (two acrylic resins and two bis acrylic resins). Materials and Methods: A master model was constructed for the acrylic simulation of edentulous mandibles with four multiunit analogs (Bioinnovation, Sao Paulo, Brazil) positioned between the lateral incisor and premolar areas. Eighty samples (n = 80) were created in total. Four different dental materials, Duralay (Reliance, Chicago, IL, USA); Pattern Resin LS (GC, Tokyo, Japan) with a ratio of one part liquid and two parts powder; Structur (Vocco, Colonia, Germany); and Protemp (3 M ESPE, Neus, Germany), were used as splints with five samples each. Measurements were obtained for distances between points A, B, C, and D in sequential order through an INSIZE digital calibrator (Inzise, Taiwan, Seng, China). Results: The results were as follows: Distance A: better performance was observed for Pattern Resin (mean = 38.59 mm) and Duralay (mean = 38.58 mm) compared to the base (mean = 38.59 mm); distance B: Pattern Resin (mean = 19.08 mm) and Duralay (mean = 19.07 mm) were compared to the base (mean = 19.08 mm); distance C: no significant differences in relation to the base (prom = 18.85 mm) were shown for the three materials of Pattern Resin (prom = 18.86 mm), Structur (prom = 18.85 mm), and Duralay (mean = 18.85 mm); and distance D: Pattern Resin (mean = 20.46 mm) and Duralay (mean = 20.46 mm) provided lower performance compared to the base (mean = 20.47 mm), ANOVA (Prob = 0.333 > 0.05). Conclusions: Pattern resins and Duralay acrylic resins exhibit better dimensional stability when used as splints for the transfer of multiple dental implants.
Exploration of the Interrelationships Between Personal Resources, Work Motivation, and Work Adaptation
Authors: Ntsame Sima Murielle , Desrumaux Pascale , Tchagnéno Charles L.
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Work adaptation can be seen as a skill to be acquired, allowing employees to acquire new practices, integrate them, and transform themselves until they reach the desired goal. Previous studies show that this is influenced by organizational resources such as optimism, resilience, and proactivity, as well as work motivation, to allow employees to constantly adapt to their environment in order to achieve a better quality of life at work. The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which work motivation plays a mediating role between personal resources (optimism, resilience, and proactivity) and work adaptation. (2) Methods: The sample consists of 273 teachers who responded, on a voluntary basis, to paper questionnaires distributed to schools. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test the above assumptions. (3) Results: The results indicate that self-determined motivation plays a full mediating role in the relationship between the three personal resources and work adaptation. (4) Conclusions: The main conclusions demonstrate the importance of these three personal resources, optimism, resilience, and proactivity, in maintaining work motivation and work adaptation. In addition, in order to promote a positive influence of organizational resources on work adaptation, it is essential to activate motivational factors in the workplace.
Highly Regioselective 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition of Nitrilimines and Thioaurones Towards Spiro-2-Pyrazolines: Synthesis, Characterization, and Mechanistic Study
Authors: Bakhouch Mohamed , Es-Sounni Bouchra , Ouaddi Ayoub , Oudghiri Khaoula , Chalkha Mohammed , Bahsis Lahoucine , Benali Taoufiq , Bourass Mohamed , Fdil Rabiaa , Akhazzane Mohamed , El Yazidi Mohamed
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we report a highly regioselective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition (1,3-DC) reaction of nitrilimines with thioaurone derivatives that afforded the hitherto unreported spiropyrazolines. Spectroscopic and spectrometric data were utilized to confirm the structure of all products and elucidate the reaction’s regiochemistry. A mechanistic study was performed within the Molecular Electron Density Theory (MEDT) at the B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) computational level to explain the regioselectivity observed. The electron localization function (ELF) topological analysis confirms the carbenoid-type (cb-type) mechanism of the cycloaddition reactions between nitrilimines and thioaurones. The intermolecular interactions between reagents in this reaction account for the regioselectivity observed experimentally.
A Facile Synthesis of Some Bioactive Isoxazoline Dicarboxylic Acids via Microwave-Assisted 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Master Jessica , Sydney Shekiel , Rajapaske Harsha , Saffiddine Malek , Reyes Vikiana , Denton Richard W.
Published: December 2024

The microwave-assisted 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of several aldoximes and dimethyl-2-methylene glutarate in the presence of diacetoxyiodobenzene as an oxidant produced four new isoxazoline-derived dimethyl carboxylates. Saponification followed by acidification of the latter yielded novel isoxazoline dicarboxylic acids in reasonable to high yields. The structures of these novel compounds were characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and HRMS spectroscopy. Their biological activities disclosed higher inhibition of the growth of E. coli organisms by the aromatic compounds than by the aliphatic derivatives, demonstrating their potential in antibiotics research.
Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 on Pregnancy and Maternal Outcomes: A Slovak National Study
Authors: Goldbergerová Adriána , Kováč Ladislav , Marčišová Cecília , Borovský Miroslav , Kotríková Dominika , Izáková Ľubomíra , Mikas Ján , Námešná Jana , Krištúfková Zuzana , Krištúfková Alexandra
Published: December 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the global challenge of inadequate data on SARS-CoV-2’s effects on pregnant women and their infants. In response, Slovakia, along with other countries, launched a nationwide study to assess the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy. Methods: We conducted a national observational descriptive study of SARS-CoV-2 positive cases among pregnant women from the pandemic’s onset to its conclusion. In collaboration with the Public Health Office of the Slovak Republic, we identified 1184 pregnant women who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and contacted them for participation. Results: Among the 240 participating SARS-CoV-2-positive pregnant women, 13 required hospitalizations, with an increased need for intensive care and respiratory support. However, the absolute risk of poor outcomes remained low. Higher maternal age and infection during the third trimester emerged as key risk factors for hospitalization. A symptomatic course was dominant, with fatigue (70%), headache (58%), and fever (56%) as the leading symptoms. While maternal and neonatal outcomes were generally favourable, a slight increase in caesarean sections and preterm births suggests an indirect impact on maternity care. Vaccination during pregnancy correlated with reduced symptoms and no hospitalizations. Elevated CRP levels were common among infected women, while ultrasound findings remained normal. Conclusions: This study offers a multi-dimensional view of pregnancy during the pandemic, capturing both the mother’s personal concerns and the objective insights from prenatal and labour care settings. The findings suggest that most pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 experience mild to moderate illness, offering reassurance to clinicians about generally favourable maternal and neonatal outcomes while underscoring the need for vigilance in rare severe cases.
Effects of Aqueous Extracts of Lantana camara L. on Germination of Setaria viridis (L.) P.Beauv. Seeds with Different Degrees of Dormancy
Authors: Lázaro-dos-Santos Marcelly Eduarda da Cunha , Tonelli Cavalari Nadine , Ribeiro Everson dos Santos , da Cunha Henrique Henning Boyd , Casanova Livia Marques , Reinert Fernanda , Ortiz-Silva Bianca , Nascimento Luana Beatriz dos Santos
Published: December 2024

Setaria viridis (green foxtail) is an invasive weed species in various agricultural systems, prompting the search for effective compounds to control its germination. The species has primary and secondary dormancy depending on the time elapsed since post-harvesting, making management strategies more difficult. Several weed plants, such as Lantana camara L., can be a source of allelochemicals with herbicidal effects, being a potential candidate for the control of S. viridis. We investigated the effects of L. camara extracts on the germination and initial growth of S. viridis seeds with different degrees of dormancy and revealed a dose-dependent bioherbicide effect. Aqueous extracts of L. camara were analyzed by HPLC-DAD and applied (0.1 to 5.0 mg/mL) to 12- and 110-day post-harvest S. viridis seeds. Seeds were evaluated daily and germination percentage (GP), speed germination index (SGI), and radicle length (RL) were calculated. Phenolic acids and flavonoids were major components of the extract. Lower concentrations (0.1 and 0.5 mg/mL) stimulated and accelerated the germination of S. viridis, breaking its dormancy. Both 1.0 and 5.0 mg/mL concentrations hindered germination, especially in 12 dph seeds. The 1.0 mg/mL concentration resulted in longer roots, whereas 5.0 mg/mL inhibited root development. Lantana camara extracts potentially stimulate germination and radicle growth of S. viridis at low concentrations while inhibiting these parameters at higher doses. These results may open new possibilities for using L. camara in weed-control strategies.
A Review of Sexual Outcomes in Female XX Patients with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Following Early Surgical Revision
Authors: Klumpp Sonja , Guivatchian Elnaz , Moser Ana M. , Liaw Aron
Published: December 2024

Most genotypically XX females born with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) have undergone feminizing genital reconstructive surgery within their first few years of life or in early childhood. Reconstructive surgery may impact the sexual function of patients later in life, including their satisfaction with sexual activity. A review of the sexual function of CAH patients with previous reconstructive surgery was conducted through PubMed using several search terms, including (((sexual function) AND (female)) AND (congenital adrenal hyperplasia)) AND (reconstruction), and focused on articles published within the past 25 years. Relevant cited references within these articles were reviewed as well. Most studies demonstrated worse sexual function in female CAH patients compared to controls, while some showed comparable sexual function between the two groups. Further research is necessary to clarify these conflicting findings and improve long-term care of these patients, especially as it relates to their sexual health.
Automatic Distraction by Sexual Images: Gender Differences
Authors: Snowden Robert J. , Midgley Poppy , Gray Nicola S.
Published: December 2024

Sexual stimuli are thought to be highly salient and have been shown to automatically attract attention at the cost of processing other stimuli. We examined whether this effect was greater for men and whether men would show a category-specific effect with greater effects due to female images than male images. In two studies, participants performed a simple perceptual task while trying to ignore a distractor stimulus that could have sexual or neutral content. As expected, sexual stimuli produced a slowing of decision times under all conditions. The effect of erotic stimuli was greater for men (Experiment 1) and was category-specific (Experiment 2) while the response of women was not category specific (Experiment 2). However, all indices of distraction showed poor levels of reliability. The results show that early automatic distraction from sexual images show both quantitative and qualitative gender differences.
SoK: A Reality Check for DNP3 Attacks 15 Years Later
Authors: Rodriguez Juan David Parra , Boakye-Boateng Kwasi , Kaur Ratinder , Zhou Allyson , Lu Rongxing , Ghorbani Ali A.
Published: December 2024

OT (operational technology) protocols such as DNP3/TCP, commonly used in the electrical utility sector, have become a focal point for security researchers. We assess the applicability of attacks previously published from theoretical and practical points of view. From the theoretical point of view, previous work strongly focuses on transcribing protocol details (e.g., list fields at the link, transport, and application layer) without providing the rationale behind protocol features or how the features are used. This has led to confusion about the impact of many theoretical DNP3 attacks. After a detailed analysis around which protocol features are used and how, a review of the configuration capabilities for several IEDs (Intelligent Electrical Devices), and some testing with real devices, we conclude that similar results to several complex theoretical attacks can be achieved with considerably less effort. From a more practical point of view, there is existing work on DNP3 man-in-the-middle attacks; however, research still needs to discuss how to overcome a primary hardening effect: IEDs can be configured to allow for communication with specific IP addresses (allow list). For purely scientific purposes, we implemented a DNP3 man-in-the-middle attack capable of overcoming the IP allow-list restriction. We tested the attack using real IEDs and network equipment ruggedized for electrical environments. Even though the man-in-the-middle attack can be successful in a lab environment, we also explain the defense-in-depth mechanisms provided by industry in real life that mitigate the attack. These mechanisms are based on standard specifications, capabilities of the OT hardware, and regulations applicable to some electrical utilities.
Generative AI in Education: Assessing Usability, Ethical Implications, and Communication Effectiveness
Authors: Matsiola Maria , Lappas Georgios , Yannacopoulou Anastasia
Published: December 2024

The rapid expansion of generative artificial intelligence tools for textual production, such as ChatGPT, has been accompanied by a proliferation of similar tools used for creating images, audiovisual content, and motion graphics. These tools, valued for their creativity, are increasingly employed in the fields of art, education, and entertainment to enhance content creation, particularly on social media, while also reducing production costs. However, their use is not without controversy, as they raise significant ethical concerns, including the potential for generating fake news and disinformation. This paper presents an analysis of higher education students’ perspectives on the use of generative artificial intelligence tools within the context of a university course. The research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 10 fourth-year students from the Department of Communication and Digital Media at the University of Western Macedonia. The study aims to provide an initial understanding of the impact of these tools in both education and communication, focusing on students who are future professionals in the communication field. The interviews explored the potential benefits of these technologies, which were valued highly, and the challenges presented such as privacy and credibility issues, which concerned the participants. Misinformation and deception were cited as the most significant risks, while these tools were evaluated positively in terms of communicative purposes, but still maintaining skepticism.
Evaluation of Vermicompost, Seaweed, and Algal Fertilizers on Soil Fertility and Plant Production of Sunn Hemp
Authors: Rey Caroline Stephanie , Oyege Ivan , Shetty Kateel G. , Jayachandran Krishnaswamy , Balaji Bhaskar Maruthi Sridhar
Published: December 2024

Regenerative agriculture increasingly relies on organic soil amendments to improve soil fertility and crop productivity. This study evaluates the effects of dried algae (DA), vermicompost (VC), liquid hydrolyzed fish and seaweed fertilizer (LA), and a control (S0, untreated soil without amendments) on the soil fertility, growth, nutrient uptake, and physiology of sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.), a key cover crop for soil improvement. Treatments were applied at 1 ton/ha (DA), 3 ton/ha (VC), and 8 mL/L (LA). Plants were grown for 10 weeks, during which plant growth, chlorophyll content, and biomass were measured. Soil and plant samples were analyzed for macro- and micronutrients. S0 and DA treatments produced the highest biomass, with S0 showing the highest total carbon and organic matter content. LA-treated soils exhibited elevated phosphorus, potassium, and sodium levels, while DA and S0 shoots had significantly higher sulfur and zinc concentrations. LA treatment notably increased chlorophyll content by the study’s end. Overall, DA demonstrated strong potential as a nutrient-rich organic amendment, while S0 provided a robust baseline for biomass production. VC enriched phosphorus and potassium but resulted in the lowest total biomass. LA promoted shoot growth and chlorophyll content but required root development and sodium management optimization. These findings highlight the need to align the amendment choice with soil characteristics and environmental conditions to optimize crop productivity and soil health in sustainable farming systems.
Raman Spectroscopy of Common Fertilizers in Aqueous Solution and Their Detection
Authors: ONeill Laurel , Weatherington Maxwell , Kane Tim
Published: December 2024

Industrial agriculture, while necessary to meet current food production needs, can have damaging effects on the environment and local water supply. For monitoring purposes, Raman spectra of common fertilizers in solution are measured and presented. Raman spectra of the fertilizer species combined with data from Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES) is used to construct an empirical model of contaminant concentration. This work expands upon the authors’ prior work in Raman Spectroscopy of Common Fertilizers in Bulk and in Aqueous Solution, which was presented during the virtual sessions at OSA Optical Sensors and Sensing Congress in 2021 (AIS, FTS, HISE, SENSORS, ES).
Phytoremediation Potential of Melia azedarach and Ailanthus altissima for Pb, Zn, and Cu from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Oujdi Mohammed , Chafik Yassine , Boukroute Azzouz , Morabito Domenico , Addi Mohamed
Published: December 2024

Growing concerns over metal pollution highlight the need for effective remediation strategies. This study evaluates the accumulation capacity and tolerance of Melia azedarach and Ailanthus altissima for trace elements (Pb, Zn, and Cu), aiming to assess their phytoremediation potential. Three-month-old seedlings of both species, grown from seeds collected at the Touissit mine site, were cultivated in perlite and irrigated with Hoagland nutrient solution. Plants were exposed to various concentrations of metal salts—Pb(NO3)2 (8, 40, and 80 mg.L−1), ZnSO4 (8, 40, and 80 mg.L−1), and CuSO4 (2, 10, and 20 mg.L−1)—over a 90-day period. Growth, biomass, metal accumulation, chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents were measured. Results indicate that M. azedarach exhibited enhanced biomass under Pb exposure, suggesting notable tolerance and potential for phytoremediation. Conversely, A. altissima showed an initial increase in biomass at low Pb levels, followed by a significant reduction at higher concentrations. Both species demonstrated decreased biomass under Zn and Cu treatments, with varying degrees of sensitivity. Notably, A. altissima accumulated significant levels of Pb, Zn, and Cu, particularly in the roots, indicating high phytoremediation potential. While M. azedarach also accumulated metals, levels were comparatively lower. Both species maintained chlorophyll content under metal stress, indicating resilience. Overall, this hydroponic screening highlights the considerable capacities of M. azedarach and A. altissima for Pb, Zn, and Cu tolerance, with A. altissima showing particularly high potential for Pb phytostabilization.
Integrating Business Ecosystems and Social Networks: A Case Study on Sustainable Transitions
Authors: Ribeiro Thiago Felippe , Nogueira Roberto , Chimenti Paula
Published: December 2024

This paper critically reviews the convergence between Business Ecosystem Theory and Social Network Theory in sustainability studies. While both frameworks view organizations as part of larger, interconnected systems, they can be differentiated by six key dimensions: unit of analysis, focus, decomposability, types of relationships, market segment, and worldview. To better reflect real-world phenomena, this paper argues for a new stream of theoretical convergence that is practical, reliable, generalizable, and reproducible. Specifically, it proposes shifting from interorganizational networks to interfunctional networks, offering a clearer theoretical framework, reducing strategic bias and complexity, enhancing stability over time, and providing a more objective foundation for diversification strategies. This is illustrated through a case study of Tesla Inc., built from secondary data, which serves as an example of the emergence of a new strategic construct named the Business Ecosystem Footprint. This construct could assist managers in understanding where their organization stands within the network of functions, guiding them in making informed decisions about resource allocation and diversification aimed at supporting financial goals as well as sustainability and decarbonization objectives. The article concludes by suggesting potential research agendas, such as automating ecosystem mapping, exploring constraints of the new construct, and testing hypotheses related to firm performance.
Fueling the Growth Engines: A Cross-Country Study on Business Accelerators’ Role in Startup Sustainability
Authors: Rata Silviu Florin , Nistor Rozalia , Capatina Alexandru , Empoli Giuseppe , Isai Violeta Maria , Mihai Iuliana Oana
Published: December 2024

This study examines the role of business accelerators in fostering startup performance across diverse entrepreneurial ecosystems, focusing on Romania, the United States, and Italy. Using a cross-country comparative approach, this research investigates how accelerators influence grant utilization efficiency, financial management capabilities, sustainable business practices, and income growth and diversification. The findings reveal that accelerators significantly enhance startups’ financial resource management and revenue growth, with variations across the target countries. In Romania, accelerators address structural barriers and resource constraints, while in the United States, they drive sector-specific innovations within a mature ecosystem. Italy highlights a blend of traditional and emerging industries, with accelerators fostering sustainability initiatives and innovation. This study introduces sustainable business practices and financial management capabilities as mediating factors, developing existing theoretical models. Practical implications for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and investors are outlined, emphasizing personalized business accelerator strategies to address contextual challenges.
Characteristics and Impacts of Pollution and Remediation on Riverine Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Review
Authors: Wang Yizhen , Gu Dungang , Liu Zaiwei , Lu Jiaqi , Hu Tingting , Li Guanghui , Huang Minsheng , He Yan
Published: December 2024

Rivers are not only a vital part of the Earth’s water cycle but also sources and sinks for greenhouse gases (GHGs), exerting a significant influence on the global carbon budget. Rapid urbanization and intense human activities lead to water pollution and river habitat degradation, thereby affecting riverine greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions indirectly. Artificial management and restoration measures taken for rivers further increase the uncertainty of GHG emissions from rivers. In the context of carbon neutrality goals, research on GHG emissions from rivers has gradually become a hot topic. However, there is a scarcity of collective and comparative studies on the spatiotemporal patterns and mechanisms of riverine GHG emissions, especially a lack of summaries exploring the impacts of pollution and restoration on GHG emissions from rivers. This work systematically reviews recent studies concerning the emissions of CO2, CH4, and N2O from rivers, with a particular focus on the characteristics and driving factors. Results have shown that riverine GHG emissions exhibit significant spatiotemporal heterogeneity. Besides hydrological factors such as wind speed, flow velocity, rainfall, and water level, large amounts of pollutants entering rivers strongly affect the production and emission of GHGs, since nutrients, organic matter, heavy metals, microplastics, and antibiotics can alter the biogeochemical processes in river ecosystems. Remediation measures can reduce water pollution levels, but some measures may further increase the emission of GHGs from rivers. This work emphasizes the need for conducting in-depth research on the synergies between treating river pollution and reducing riverine GHG emissions. It also proposes to reinforce the monitoring of GHGs and construct emission databases of rivers for sustainable watershed management.
E-Waste Wars: The Catalyst Awakens
Authors: Paone Emilia , Mauriello Francesco
Published: December 2024

We stand at the crossroads of innovation and crisis [...]
Favorable Symmetric Structures of Radiopharmaceutically Important Neutral Cyclen-Based Ligands
Authors: Kovács Attila
Published: December 2024

Cyclen-based ligands are prominent tools for transferring radioisotopes through the human body. A crucial criterion is the stability of their complexes, which is partly determined by the stabilization of the free ligand in solution. For the assessment of the later property, the favored conformation(s) in the solution must be known. In the present study, the conformational space of four neutral cyclen-based ligands was elucidated by a multi-step procedure: the survey of the conformational space using molecular mechanics (MM) was followed by Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations on the low-energy conformers and evaluation of the solvent effects. The results revealed several low-energy conformers in aqueous solution. In terms of electronic energies, a significant preference of symmetric structures (C4 or C2—similar to the ligand arrangements in their metal complexes) was obtained. The thermal contributions to the Gibbs free energy (mainly the vibrational ones) tend to decrease this preference by several kJ/mol against non-symmetric structures. Nonetheless, the advantage of compact symmetric structures was confirmed in all the four studied cases.
Research on Influence Mechanism of Consumer Satisfaction Evaluation Behavior Based on Grounded Theory in Social E-Commerce
Authors: Wang Ru , Xu Shuhui , Li Shugang , Pang Qiwei
Published: December 2024

For enterprises, exploring the influence mechanism of consumer satisfaction evaluation behavior (CSEB) holds significant research value for the advancement and further development of social e-commerce platforms. The existing literature primarily focuses on quantitative methods in investigating the influence mechanism of CSEB within social e-commerce platforms. This study endeavors to expand the theoretical boundaries of CSEB through qualitative research. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining primary data collected through in-depth interviews with 32 participants and secondary data gathered from 1000 users via web crawlers. Utilizing grounded theory as an analytical framework, the study meticulously summarizes, concludes, and refines the influencing factors of CSEB. Based on these findings, a robust CSEB model is constructed to provide a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. The study reveals that in the decision-making process of consumer evaluation, behavior is primarily driven by evaluation motivations. These motivations are intricately intertwined with product perception, social influence, and perceived behavior control. The interplay among these factors significantly shapes the manner in which consumers engage in satisfaction evaluation on social e-commerce platforms. This study complements existing quantitative research by providing nuanced insights into the complex interplay of factors, which drive consumer evaluation behavior. Furthermore, the study proposes actionable countermeasures and suggestions for businesses and platform managers to effectively promote and enhance consumer satisfaction evaluation activities, thereby contributing to the sustained growth and development of social e-commerce platforms.
Demographic Challenges for the Tourism Industry: The Future of Seniors’ Activities—A Case Study of Poland
Authors: Stanimir Agnieszka , Przybysz Klaudia
Published: December 2024

The increasing number of elderly tourists requires adapting tourism services to address their specific health and comfort needs, which presents a new challenge for the industry. The aim of this study is to check the readiness of the tourism sector for demographic changes, to identify the characteristics of seniors that should be taken into account when constructing tourist offers, and to learn about the reasons for non-participation in tourism by different age groups. The study used data from a survey conducted among Polish companies from the tourism sector and data from Statistics Poland regarding the travelling habits of Polish people. Correspondence analysis and Sequence, Association and Link Analysis (SAL) were used. The surveyed companies from the tourism sector have noticed demographic changes related to the ageing of the population and are actively responding to these changes. The most important factors influencing the construction of offers for seniors are health and mobility issues and problems with modern technology. Seniors give up tourism mainly because they prefer to stay at home followed by health or mobility issues.
A Half-Century of Heterotopic Heart Transplantation in Mice: The Spearhead of Immunology Research
Authors: Yin Decheng , Dewald Oliver , Peng Xiangyu , Nie Wenlong , Rong Song , Dudziak Diana , Lehmann Christian H. K. , Hoerning André , Fu Jian
Published: December 2024

Since the success of solid organ transplants, such as human kidneys, livers and hearts, from the 50s to the 60s in the last century, the field of organ transplantation has progressed rapidly. Mainly due to modifications in surgical operation techniques and improvements in immunosuppressive therapy regimes, organ survival time can now be greatly prolonged. This progress has also been dependent upon the availability of appropriate animal models for organ transplantation. Therefore, the mouse heart transplantation model has developed into an irreplaceable research model for solid organ transplantation, providing indelible contributions to the field. In this review, we will provide an overview of the technical developments in murine heart transplantation, as well as its historical and current role for alloimmune research. Further, we will describe its current fields of application and its scientific achievements before we discuss potential future applications.
Updating the Relationship Between the Threshold Value of Average Nucleotide Identity and Digital DNA–DNA Hybridization for Reliable Taxonomy of Corynebacterium
Authors: Elbir Haitham
Published: December 2024

Currently, bacterial classification at the species level relies on the 95–96% average nucleotide identity (ANI) value that is known to be equivalent to a 70% digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH) value. However, during the routine identification of bacteria in the uteri of camels with a history of conception failure, we found that four out of the seven strains (2298A, 2569A, 2652, 2571B, 1103A, 2571A, and 335C) could not be assigned to any valid Corynebacterium species. Furthermore, a 70% dDDH value did not correspond to a 95–96% ANI value in strain 2569A. Thus, we aimed to classify these strains and explain the mechanisms underlying gene repertoire diversity and the disagreement we found between the ANI and dDDH cutoff values. For this study, we extracted information from the genomes of 150 Corynebacterium-type species and seven sequenced genomes of uterine Corynebacterium isolates. We found that the 96.67% OrthoANI value should be used in place of the generally accepted 95–96% ANI threshold in order to obtain an equivalent 70% dDDH value. Phylogenomic analysis determined the evolutionary position of each uterine strain. Then, strains 2652 and 2571B were classified as C. camporealensis based on the ANI value (98.44% and 98.72%) and dDDH value (85.8% and 88.5%). Strain 2569A had a 96.58% ANI and a 69.4% dDDH value and was classified as C. urogenitale. The strains 335C, 1103A, 2571A, and 2298A were classified as novel Corynebacterium based on the ANI value (77.12, 94.01%, 94.26%, and 94.03%) and dDDH value (21.3%, 54.1%, 54.9%, and 51.3%), respectively. Genes for menaquinone biosynthesis and the saturation of chains were detected in uterine strains and their closely related type strains. Gene gain predominates as a source of variation in the gene repertoire. Most of these genes are gained by horizontal gene transfer, driven by genomic islands and prophage. In summary, we refined the ANI cutoff value for an accurate diagnosis of Corynebacterium. Moreover, we clarified the mechanism underlying the diversity of the gene repertoire and expanded the number of Corynebacterium species isolated from the camel uterus.