bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation of the Thermal Runaway Propagation Characteristics and Thermal Failure Prediction Parameters of Six-Cell Lithium-Ion Battery Modules
Authors: Li Hongxu , Gao Qing , Wang Yan
Published: July 2023

Efforts to meet regulations ensuring the safety of lithium-ion battery (LIB) modules in electric vehicles are currently limited in their ability to provide sufficient safe escape times in the event of thermal runaway (TR). Thermal runaway occurs when the heat generation of a battery module exceeds its heat removal capacity, leading to a rapid increase in temperature and uncontrolled heat release. To address this issue, this study focuses on evaluating the cascading thermal failure characteristics of six-cell LIB modules under an air environment in an experimental combustion chamber. Sensors are strategically placed at advantageous locations to capture changes in various characteristic parameters, including LIB temperature, module voltage, module mass, and the concentrations of venting gases in the combustion chamber. Analysis of the variations in these characteristic parameters over time aims to identify effective signals that can predict thermal failure conditions with a maximum warning time. The results demonstrate that monitoring LIB temperature provides the shortest advance warning of TR propagation within the module. However, module voltage measurements offer a warning that is approximately 2% earlier on average. On the other hand, measurements of the module mass and concentrations of venting gases in the combustion chamber allow for warnings of thermal failure that are, on average, approximately 2 min earlier than those based solely on LIB temperature. These findings can serve as guidance for improving the safety of LIBs, enhancing the reliability of fault detection systems, and exceeding the safe escape time requirements set by current global regulations.
A Novel Approach for Reducing Feature Space Dimensionality and Developing a Universal Machine Learning Model for Coated Tubes in Cross-Flow Heat Exchangers
Authors: Jahaninasab Mahyar , Taheran Ehsan , Zarabadi S. Alireza , Aghaei Mohammadreza , Rajabpour Ali
Published: July 2023

In the thermal industry, one common way to transfer heat between hot tubes and cooling fluid is using cross-flow heat exchangers. For heat exchangers, microscale coatings are conventional safeguards for tubes from corrosion and dust accumulation. This study presents the hypothesis that incorporating domain knowledge based on governing equations can be beneficial for developing machine learning models for CFD results, given the available data. Additionally, this work proposes a novel approach for combining variables in heat exchangers and building machine learning models to forecast heat transfer in heat exchangers for turbulent flow. To develop these models, a dataset consisting of nearly 1000 cases was generated by varying different variables. The simulation results obtained from our study confirm that the proposed method would improve the coefficient of determination (R-squared) for trained models in unseen datasets. For the unseen data, the R-squared values for random forest, K-Nearest Neighbors, and support vector regression were determined to be 0.9810, 0.9037, and 0.9754, respectively. These results indicate the effectiveness and utility of our proposed model in predicting heat transfer in various types of heat exchangers.
The Use of Nature-Based Solutions in the Adaptation of Large Polish Cities to Climate Change and Energy Transformation: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Pancewicz Alina , Bednarz Dominika , Drożdż Dawid , Marszoł Monika , Suchy Natalia
Published: July 2023

Cities have always been places that generate problems, but also places where solutions are born. In recent years, cities have become a testing ground for finding and testing solutions to overcome the climate crisis. The subject of the paper is Nature-based Solutions (NbSs) that strengthen the resilience to climate change, influence urban spaces, and improve the quality of life of residents. The study focusses on the identification of NbSs, the diagnosis of its participation in local adaptation activities, and a comparative analysis of the activities planned and implemented in 44 large Polish cities in 2017–2023. The authors analyse data from 44 Polish cities, based on the types of NbSs implemented in European cities that carried out the URBAN GreenUP project. The results of the study show that Polish cities, while introducing sustainable urban lifestyles through NbSs, do not take advantage of all the opportunities inherent in these solutions. They focus on greening urban spaces and implement water interventions and singular green infrastructure measures to a lesser extent. There is negligible use of innovative and energy-using activities. The quantitative data obtained can be used to identify the gaps and potentials in the use of nature-based solutions in the adaptation of Polish cities to climate change and energy transformation. The aim of this work is also to identify recommendations to incorporate NbSs into urban adaptation policies in Poland. The authors conclude that the research conducted can serve to improve the knowledge on the links between NbS planning in adaptation activities and their implementation in urban spaces. An awareness of NbS gaps can influence the intensification of research on the implementation of innovative adaptation solutions, including energy-based solutions. The results obtained can also contribute to a better organisation of urban policies that aim to increase the resilience of cities to climate change.
Enhancing Collaborative Filtering-Based Recommender System Using Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Karabila Ikram , Darraz Nossayba , El-Ansari Anas , Alami Nabil , El Mallahi Mostafa
Published: July 2023

Recommendation systems (RSs) are widely used in e-commerce to improve conversion rates by aligning product offerings with customer preferences and interests. While traditional RSs rely solely on numerical ratings to generate recommendations, these ratings alone may not be sufficient to offer personalized and accurate suggestions. To overcome this limitation, additional sources of information, such as reviews, can be utilized. However, analyzing and understanding the information contained within reviews, which are often unstructured data, is a challenging task. To address this issue, sentiment analysis (SA) has attracted considerable attention as a tool to better comprehend a user’s opinions, emotions, and attitudes. In this study, we propose a novel RS that leverages ensemble learning by integrating sentiment analysis of textual data with collaborative filtering techniques to provide users with more precise and individualized recommendations. Our system was developed in three main steps. Firstly, we used unsupervised “GloVe” vectorization for better classification performance and built a sentiment model based on Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM). Secondly, we developed a recommendation model based on collaborative filtering techniques. Lastly, we integrated our sentiment analysis model into the RS. Our proposed model of SA achieved an accuracy score of 93%, which is superior to other models. The results of our study indicate that our approach enhances the accuracy of the recommendation system. Overall, our proposed system offers customers a more reliable and personalized recommendation service in e-commerce.
RNA-Seq Reveals Differential Gene Expression Patterns Related to Reproduction in the Golden Mahseer
Authors: Shahi Neetu , Singh Bhupendra , Mallik Sumanta Kumar , Sarma Debajit , Surachetpong Win
Published: July 2023

Golden mahseer (Tor putitora) is a critically endangered fish with significant economic importance. However, its reproductive challenges in a captive environment pose a limitation to the successful domestication and aquaculture potential of this species. To understand the role of various genes in gonad maturation and reproduction in golden mahseer, we conducted an RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) study on the brains of mature male and female specimens. Altogether, 20.6 and 21.5 million reads were generated from the brains of the male and female fish, respectively. A total of 26,989 and 55,600 cDNA coding sequences (CDS) were identified from the male and female brains, respectively, among which 26,258 CDS from the male brain and 53,446 CDS from the female brain demonstrated homology to known protein database sequences. A comprehensive analysis revealed a total of 1187 distinct differentially expressed upregulated genes (DEGs), encompassing 953 DEGs anticipated to exhibit upregulation in the female brain and 234 DEGs in the male brain. Furthermore, in the brain of female and male golden mahseer, a significant downregulation was observed in 492 and 744 genes, respectively, resulting in a cumulative count of 1236 downregulated genes. Validation of the RNA-Seq results was performed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) using 24 genes. Sixteen candidate genes with differential expression levels between the male and female fish were then selected and analyzed via qPCR. The results confirmed that amh, foxl3, dax1, kif20, and tkt were upregulated in the male golden mahseer brain, while cyp19a1a, dmrt2a, gdf9, sox9b, wt-1a, and aqp1 were upregulated in the female golden mahseer brain. Our study elucidates the distinct gene expression profiles in male and female golden mahseer brains and thus offers valuable insights for potential reproductive manipulation strategies in this fish species.
Dynamics of the Reproductive Cycle of Two Cerastoderma edule Populations (Óbidos and Ria Formosa Lagoons) along with Their Nutrient Storage and Utilization Strategy
Authors: Joaquim Sandra , Matias Ana Margarete , Moura Paula , Trindade Beatriz , Gaspar Miguel B. , Baptista Teresa , Matias Domitília
Published: July 2023

The reproductive performance knowledge of economically important bivalves is essential to establish better shellfishery management measures and aquaculture programs. The reproductive cycle, as well as the nutrient storage and utilization of two Portuguese Cerastoderma edule populations from Óbidos and Ria Formosa lagoons were characterized by evaluating gonadal development stages, gonadal and condition indexes, as well as glycogen and total lipid content, over several consecutive years. The relationship between reproduction and environmental parameters (sea surface temperature and chlorophyll a) was assessed. The reproductive cycle of both populations of C. edule followed a clear seasonal pattern. The onset of gametogenesis took place in early autumn for both populations, and its evolution coincided with a temperature decrease which progressed throughout the winter. The mature stage was reached in spring, followed by a spawning period during spring and summer, triggered by a rise in temperature. After spawning, both populations progressed to a prolonged inactive stage. The condition index reflected the accumulation and utilization of glycogen, which was considerably higher in the Óbidos population. However, no relationships were found in the reproductive cycle of the species. Total lipids remained similar not only during the gametogenesis period, but also during the spawning period, which may be related to successive and simultaneous gamete production and release.
Moderate Reduction in Nitrogen Fertilizer Results in Improved Rice Quality by Affecting Starch Properties without Causing Yield Loss
Authors: Li Yimeng , Liang Chao , Liu Junfeng , Zhou Chanchan , Wu Zhouzhou , Guo Shimeng , Liu Jiaxin , A Na , Wang Shu , Xin Guang , Henry Robert J.
Published: July 2023

The quality and starch properties of rice are significantly affected by nitrogen. The effect of the nitrogen application rate (0, 180, and 230 kg ha−1) on the texture of cooked rice and the hierarchical structure and physicochemical properties of starch was investigated over two years using two japonica cultivars, Bengal and Shendao505. Nitrogen application contributed to the hardness and stickiness of cooked rice, reducing the texture quality. The amylose content and pasting properties decreased significantly, while the relative crystallinity increased with the increasing nitrogen rates, and the starch granules became smaller with an increase in uneven and pitted surfaces. The proportion of short-chain amylopectin rose, and long-chain amylopectin declined, which increased the external short-range order by 1045/1022 cm−1. These changes in hierarchical structure and grain size, regulated by nitrogen rates, synergistically increased the setback viscosity, gelatinization enthalpy and temperature and reduced the overall viscosity and breakdown viscosity, indicating that gelatinization and pasting properties were the result of the joint action of several factors. All results showed that increasing nitrogen altered the structure and properties of starch, eventually resulting in a deterioration in eating quality and starch functional properties. A moderate reduction in nitrogen application could improve the texture and starch quality of rice while not impacting on the grain yield.
Facile Fabrication of Anthocyanin-Nanocellulose Hydrogel Indicator Label for Intelligent Evaluation of Minced Pork Freshness
Authors: Meng Xiangyong , Shen Qinqin , Song Teng , Zhao Honglei , Zhang Yong , Ren Aiqing , Yang Wenbin
Published: July 2023

In order to develop a reliable and rapid method for meat freshness detection, nanocellulose (TOCNF) prepared via the TEMPO (2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine oxidation) oxidation method was used as raw material to prepare hydrogels using Zn2+ coordination and binding. Physicochemical properties such as water absorption and porosity were analyzed. It was further used to select suitable hydrogels for the preparation of indication labels after anthocyanin adsorption, and it was applied in the freshness detection of fresh minced pork. Five percent TOCNF (w/w) aqueous solution was homogenized by high shear for 4 min, and 20% (w/w) zinc chloride solution was added to it, so that the concentration of zinc ions could reach 0.25 mol/L. After standing for 24 h, the hydrogel was obtained with good water absorption and a porous three-dimensional network structure. The activation energies of volatile base nitrogen (TVBN) and anthocyanin indicating label color changes were 59.231 kJ/mol and 69.453 kJ/mol, respectively. The difference between the two is within 25 kJ/mol, so the prepared indicator label can accurately visualize the shelf life of fresh pork.
Exploring the Successions in Microbial Community and Flavor of Daqu during Fermentation Produced by Different Pressing Patterns
Authors: Huang Ping , Jin Yao , Liu Mingming , Peng Liqun , Yang Guanrong , Luo Zhi , Jiang Dongcai , Zhao Jinsong , Zhou Rongqing , Wu Chongde
Published: July 2023

Daqu can be divided into artificially pressed daqu (A-Daqu) and mechanically pressed daqu (M-Daqu) based on pressing patterns. Here, we compared the discrepancies in physicochemical properties, volatile metabolites, and microbiota features between A-Daqu and M-Daqu during fermentation and further investigated the factors causing those differences. A-Daqu microbiota was characterized by six genera (e.g., Bacillus and Thermoactinomyces), while five genera (e.g., Bacillus and Thermomyces) dominated in M-Daqu. The flavor compounds analysis revealed that no obvious difference was observed in the type of esters between the two types of daqu, and M-Daqu was enriched with more alcohols. The factors related to differences between the two types of daqu were five genera (e.g., Hyphopichia). The functional prediction of microbial communities revealed that the functional discrepancies between the two types of daqu were mainly related to ethanol metabolism and 2,3-butanediol metabolism. This study provided a theoretical basis for understanding the heterogeneity of daqu due to the different pressing patterns.
The Comparison of the Effect of Flour Particle Size and Content of Damaged Starch on Rice and Buckwheat Slurry, Dough, and Bread Characteristics
Authors: Burešová Iva , Lullien-Pellerin Valérie , Červenka Libor , Mlček Jiří , Šebestíková Romana , Masaříková Lucie
Published: July 2023

The effect of botanical origin, the flour particle size, and the content of damaged starch on flour pasting properties, dough behavior during a uniaxial deformation test, and bread characteristics were evaluated on rice and buckwheat flours. The rice flour with a median particle size D(0.5) of 60.2, 70.6, 106.8, and 189.4 μm, and buckwheat flour with a D(0.5) of 56.4, 68.4, and 95.8 μm were prepared using the same milling technology. The botanical origin of the flours was the strongest factor influencing the flour pasting properties, stress accumulated in dough during the uniaxial deformation test, loaf characteristics, texture, and sensory characteristics of breads. The flour particle size significantly influenced mainly the flour pasting properties. The effect of the content of damaged starch was the weakest among the studied factors. The flour particle size and the content of damaged starch were closely related. The flour botanical origin was the strongest factor; therefore, it seems not to be possible to predict the bread-baking potential of gluten-free flours based on the results obtained for flour of a different botanical origin. More research on flours from different plants prepared by the same milling process is required to support this hypothesis.
Design of a Novel Auxiliary Diagnostic Test for the Determination of Authenticity of Tequila 100% Agave Silver Class Based on Chemometrics Analysis of the Isotopic Fingerprint of the Beverage
Authors: Fonseca-Aguiñaga Rocío , Navarro-Arteaga Uriel E. , Muñoz-Sánchez Martin , Gómez-Ruiz Humberto , Warren-Vega Walter M. , Romero-Cano Luis A.
Published: July 2023

The present research shows a robust isotopic ratio characterization of Carbon-13 (δ13CVPDB) in congeneric compounds such as methanol, n-propanol, isoamyl alcohol, ethyl lactate, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and acetaldehyde in representative samples (n = 69) of Tequila 100% agave silver class (TSC), employing gas chromatography/combustion/isotope-ratio mass spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS). From the information obtained, the construction of a radial plot attributable to the isotopic fingerprint of TSC was achieved. With this information, a diagnostic test was designed to determine the authenticity of TSC, comparing alcoholic beverages from other agave species as non-authentic samples. The sensitivity of the test was 94.2%; the specificity was 83.3%. Additionally, non-authentic samples were analyzed that meet all the criteria established in the regulations. The results obtained show that the GC/C/IRMS analytical technique and designed diagnostic test are useful as auxiliary parameters to determine the authenticity of the beverage, thus managing to determine the adulteration or falsification of the product.
The Slow Refugee: Transit as Stasis, Narrative Ethics, and Level Telling Fields
Authors: Sommer Roy
Published: July 2023

The slow humanities, this article argues, can make valuable contributions to the study of migration narratives. A slow take on literary representations of refugees and migrants has two distinct but related dimensions. On the one hand, the figure of the slow refugee introduced here challenges theories of migration which emphasize movement. On the other hand, the slow approach to literary representations of forced migration focuses on various forms of narrative empowerment. My readings of the novel What is the What (2008) by Dave Eggers and Parwana Amiri’s work My Pen Won’t Break But Borders Will: Letter to the World from Moria (2020) demonstrate how collaborative and allied forms of storytelling help restore narrative agency and authority, moving beyond the exemplary, documentary, and ambassadorial functions of vicarious storytelling. Instead of speaking on behalf of others, or even worse, for others—the default case in many conversations on migration—the literary representations of refugees discussed in this article emphasize the need to tell and share stories with others, for the benefit of everyone. In this sense, they help establish a level telling field, initiating a debate on the terms and conditions of fair conversation on forced migration.
Investigating the Association between Sociodemographic Factors and Chronic Disease Risk in Adults Aged 50 and above in the Hungarian Population
Authors: Ghanem Amr Sayed , Nguyen Chau Minh , Mansour Yara , Fábián Gergely , Rusinné Fedor Anita , Nagy Attila , Móré Marianna
Published: July 2023

Chronic diseases are a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally, with non-communicable diseases being responsible for most deaths. Older adults are at a higher risk of developing chronic diseases due to various sociodemographic and lifestyle factors such as age, sex, income, education, employment, place of residence, dietary supplementation, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption. Understanding the relationship between these factors and chronic diseases is crucial for identifying vulnerable populations and improving healthcare delivery. Through both an online and an interview-based survey, this cross-sectional study aimed to examine these associations, focusing on adults aged 50 and above, with the goal of identifying potential areas for intervention and prevention. The study found that gender, area of residence, education status, employment status, nutritional supplementation, body mass index (BMI), alcohol usage, and age are associated with the risk of chronic disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Female gender, higher educational level, employment, normal BMI, and younger age were found to be protective factors, while living in rural areas, alcohol consumption, and older age were identified as risk factors. The study recommends targeted interventions and improved access to healthcare to reduce risk factors and enhance healthcare delivery for better health outcomes.
Digital Online Patient Informed Consent for Anesthesia before Elective Surgery—Recent Practice in Europe
Authors: Neumann Claudia , Straßberger-Nerschbach Nadine , Delis Achilles , Kamp Johannes , Görtzen-Patin Alexandra , Cudian Dishalen , Fleischer Andreas , Wietasch Götz , Coburn Mark , Schindler Ehrenfried , Schleifer Grigorij , Wittmann Maria
Published: July 2023

Background: Digitalization in the health system is a topic that is rapidly gaining popularity, and not only because of the current pandemic. As in many areas of daily life, digitalization is becoming increasingly important in the medical field amid the exponential rise in the use of computers and smartphones. This opens up new possibilities for optimizing patient education in the context of anesthesia. The main aim of this study was to assess the implementation of remote consent in Europe. Methods: An online survey entitled “Digital online Patient Informed Consent for Anesthesia before Elective Surgery. Recent practice in Europe,” with a total of 27 questions, was sent by the European Society of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC) to their members in 47 European countries. To assess the effect of the economy on digitalization and legal status with regard to anesthesia consent, data were stratified based on gross domestic product per capita (GDPPC). Results: In total, 23.1% and 37.2% of the 930 participants indicated that it was possible to obtain consent online or via telephone, respectively. This observation was more often reported in countries with high GDPPC levels than in countries with low GDPPC levels. Furthermore, 27.3% of the responses for simple anesthesia, 18.7% of the responses for complex anesthesia, and 32.2% of the responses for repeated anesthesia indicated that remote consent was in accordance with the law, and this was especially prevalent in countries with high GDPPC. Concerning the timing of consent, patients were informed at least one day before in 67.1% of cases for simple procedures and in 85.2% of cases for complex procedures. Conclusion: Even European countries with high GDPPC use remote informed consent only in a minority of cases, and most of the time for repeated anesthetic procedures. This might reflect the inconsistent legal situation and inhomogeneous medical technical structures across Europe.
Features of ENT Cases in the Emergency Department of a Tertiary Hospital in Greece: A Prospectively Driven Data Collection Study
Authors: Papadopoulos Nikolaos , Prokopakis Emmanuel P. , Karatzanis Alexander D. , Linardakis Manolis , Mourellou Evangelia , Symvoulakis Emmanouil K.
Published: July 2023

Primary healthcare is the pillar of a well-functioning healthcare system. General practitioners (GPs) should have a broad skillset to cope with the various conditions they encounter in everyday practice. Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) cases are some of the most common reasons for seeking care. The study aimed to define the frequency and type of ENT disorders seen in the emergency department of a tertiary hospital in Greece. All patients examined by an ENT specialist in the emergency department setting, within a year, were recorded, as well as all referrals from private practice or primary care facilities. From September to December 2021, data were collected from patients who agreed to complete a two-minute survey, namely, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-2) questionnaire. During the study year, 4542 cases were documented, from which the most common conditions listed were external otitis (6.9%/314), epistaxis (6.7%/305), and impacted earwax (5.7%/261). The diagnoses that led to hospitalization were 336 and the most common were peritonsillar abscess (16.4%/55), epistaxis (8.0%/27), and facial nerve paralysis (7.4%/25). Referrals from GPs working in the public sector represented more than the half of the total. There was a significant correlation between an increased number of hospital visits and an increased GAD-2 score, in the semester before the current visit (p < 0.001). Referrals to ENT specialists represent around 5% of all cases examined, and about 8% of all visits required hospitalization. Interdisciplinary clinical and research investment into GP training is compulsory to regulate ENT referrals by GPs.
Blood Service in a Region of China’s Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Sun Pan , Zhu Liyuan , Ma Li , Li Changqing , Wang Zongkui , Zhang Rong , Ye Shengliang , Wang Ya
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this paper is to describe blood services in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Regions, (hereinafter referred to as Aba Prefecture), a region of China’s Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, the third largest area of Tibet and the main inhabited area of the Qiang people. Design: We present a comprehensive investigation into blood donations, donors, screening and supply in the 13 counties of Aba Prefecture based on data from 2013 to 2018. Geography and population were also used to analyze the differences in blood services among different regions. Participants: The number of blood donors totaled 19,047. Results: Over the past 6 years, blood donations have increased by 29 and clinical blood usage by 45%. The blood donation rate was 3.4‰ and per capita blood use was 1.04 mL, both of which were significantly lower than the national average, and blood donation decreased with altitude. It should be noted that the donation rate of the Tibetan and Qiang peoples is much lower than that of the Han population. Moreover, the rejection rate of blood in laboratory testing was found to be higher than the national average, especially in counties located at higher altitudes. Conclusions: Blood donations and usage increased every year in Aba Prefecture, but blood shortage is still an important issue. In addition, the prevalence of transfusion–transmitted diseases is relatively high, which may be linked to lower-education and unfavorable geographical and medical conditions.
Antimicrobial Resistance: A Growing Serious Threat for Global Public Health
Authors: Salam Md. Abdus , Al-Amin Md. Yusuf , Salam Moushumi Tabassoom , Pawar Jogendra Singh , Akhter Naseem , Rabaan Ali A. , Alqumber Mohammed A. A.
Published: July 2023

Antibiotics are among the most important discoveries of the 20th century, having saved millions of lives from infectious diseases. Microbes have developed acquired antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to many drugs due to high selection pressure from increasing use and misuse of antibiotics over the years. The transmission and acquisition of AMR occur primarily via a human–human interface both within and outside of healthcare facilities. A huge number of interdependent factors related to healthcare and agriculture govern the development of AMR through various drug-resistance mechanisms. The emergence and spread of AMR from the unrestricted use of antimicrobials in livestock feed has been a major contributing factor. The prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria has attained an incongruous level worldwide and threatens global public health as a silent pandemic, necessitating urgent intervention. Therapeutic options of infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria are limited, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality with high financial impact. The paucity in discovery and supply of new novel antimicrobials to treat life-threatening infections by resistant pathogens stands in sharp contrast to demand. Immediate interventions to contain AMR include surveillance and monitoring, minimizing over-the-counter antibiotics and antibiotics in food animals, access to quality and affordable medicines, vaccines and diagnostics, and enforcement of legislation. An orchestrated collaborative action within and between multiple national and international organizations is required urgently, otherwise, a postantibiotic era can be a more real possibility than an apocalyptic fantasy for the 21st century. This narrative review highlights on this basis, mechanisms and factors in microbial resistance, and key strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance.
How Much Is an Abortion Worth? Was a Human “Not Formed”? An Italian Proposal
Authors: Marrone Maricla , De Luca Benedetta Pia , Pititto Fortunato , Grattagliano Ignazio , Laforgia Nicola , Vimercati Antonella , Dell’Erba Alessandro
Published: July 2023

Introduction: “Human capital” is defined as an integration of innate skills and knowledge acquired by investing in the formation of an individual; it is a real “capital” that pays off in the long term. In the Italian legal system, a human being is recognised as a “person” from the moment of birth. This determines the acquisition of the personal rights of an individual. Necessarily, therefore, by law, a fetus does not own such rights; nevertheless, it has an innate “potential” to acquire such rights after birth. Objective: In Italian jurisprudence, in general, the damage from a loss of a parental relationship is justified by the condition of existential emptiness caused in the family by the loss of a child. Compensation for this damage in the event of abortion due to third-party responsibility presents a non-uniform recognition in the judgements of the Italian courts, but in any case, it is almost always recognised with limitations since the emotional relationship with the lost individual is defined only in terms of “potential”. Consequently, in this matter, at least two questions can be raised: (i) Is the economic estimate of abortion based on objective and standardised criteria, or is it heavily influenced by subjective evaluation? (ii) Is it possible to find standard criteria that may act as guidelines to quantify the loss of that human capital “in progress”? Methodology: The authors try to answer these questions by analysing the different approaches to this issue adopted at an international level. Conclusions: In conclusion, the authors propose homogeneous criteria to quantify the damage caused by abortion.
Seasonal Influence on Volatile Composition of Psidium friedrichsthalianum Leaves, Sampled in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Santos Paulo Vinicius L. , da Cruz Ellen de Nazaré Santos , Nunes Jennifer de Andrade , Mourão Rosa Helena V. , do Nascimento Walnice Maria O. , Maia José Guilherme S. , Figueiredo Pablo Luis B.
Published: July 2023

Psidium friedrichsthalianum (Myrtaceae) is a small tree with antioxidant activity in its fruits and antimicrobial activity in its leaves and thin branches. The present study analyzed the seasonal variability in the yield and essential oil composition of a P. friedrichsthalianum population in Belém, Brazil. Essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) coupled to mass spectrometer (MS) and flame ionization detector (FID). Chemometric analyses were carried out to verify the climatic influence on the production and composition of the essential oil. The average oil yield in the dry season (August–February) was 0.5 ± 0.0%, and in the rainy season (March–May), it was 0.8 ± 0.0%, with statistical differentiation. There was a moderate correlation between oil yield and the collection area’s relative humidity (r = 0.63). The PCA and HCA analyses did not show differentiation between the P. friedrichsthalianum oil samples during the dry and rainy seasons. However, the class of monoterpene hydrocarbons presented a negative correlation with temperature (r = −0.81) and humidity (−0.80) of the sampled area. In the PCA and HCA studies, the samples were classified into three groups: Group I (leaf oils) was characterized by a higher content of α-pinene (6.3–18.0%), β-elemene (9.9–14.8%), caryophyllene oxide (4.3–16.3%), and β-pinene (4.8–13.4%). Group II (leaf oils) was defined by a higher content of selin-11-en-4-α-ol (4.6–15.6%), β-elemene (9.9–14.8%), α-pinene (6.3–18.0%), and E-caryophyllene (3.1–8.7%). Group III (fruits volatile concentrate) was characterized by a higher content of α-pinene (17.6%), α-terpineol (13.7%), and selin-11-en-4-α-ol (10.0%). There was significant seasonal variability in P. friedrichsthalianum, whose responses are directly linked to abiotic factors such as precipitation, insolation, humidity, and temperature.
The Association of Moral Injury and Healthcare Clinicians’ Wellbeing: A Systematic Review
Authors: Thibodeau Pari Shah , Nash Aela , Greenfield Jennifer C. , Bellamy Jennifer L.
Published: July 2023

Research focused on elucidating moral injury amongst healthcare workers (HCWs) is essential due to the deep connection with morality and individuals’ overall wellbeing. Examining moral injury provides an avenue through which researchers can connect individual experiences with systemic level causes (i.e., structural power imbalances between clinicians and health systems) to better study workplace wellbeing. The omnipresence of the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the need to study moral injury. This paper describes a systematic review conducted using PRISMA-P guidelines to answer the question, “what is the association between moral injury and professional wellbeing and mental health amongst healthcare workers.” Twelve databases were searched to identify specified studies. This study’s criteria included: (1) articles published through December 2022; (2) qualitative and quantitative empirical studies; (3) articles written in English; (4) articles including moral injury; and (5) articles including at minimum one other measure of professional or personal wellbeing. The initial search produced 248 articles, and 18 articles were ultimately included in the final review. To confirm that no articles were left out of this study, the first author of each included article was contacted to inquire about any additional works that met the inclusion criteria of this study. The elements of the 18 included articles described in this review are discussed. The results indicate that moral injury is associated with both professional wellbeing factors and mental health outcomes. Further theoretical development, including (professional- and identity-based) exploratory research on moral injury, and evidenced-based interventions for moral injury are needed.
Disability-Related Costs of Children with Disabilities in the Philippines
Authors: Carraro Ludovico , Robinson Alex , Hakeem Bilal , Manlapaz Abner , Agcaoili Rosela
Published: July 2023

The assessment of disability-related costs among children remains a largely under-researched subject with related questions rarely included in surveys. This paper addresses this issue through a unique mixed methods study conducted in the Philippines combining a nationally representative survey and in-depth interviews with families and health professionals. To quantify the extra costs associated with disabilities, the research used the standard of living approach, whereby expenditure levels of families with children with and without disabilities were compared in relation to different measures of living standards. The results find consistent evidence of high extra costs among households that have children with disabilities and point to health expenses as the leading source. Using an asset index as the indicator of living standards, a child with a disability is estimated to require between 40% and 80% extra expenditure to reach the same living standard of other children. However, the size of extra costs is substantially higher when the measure of the standard of living relies on a broader set of deprivations. In such cases, higher estimates of extra costs are likely to be the result of the lack of an inclusive environment. Critically, this points to the need to provide not only financial support but also inclusive services, especially in health and education.
The Complex Relationship between Hypoxia Signaling, Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Inflammation in Calcific Aortic Valve Disease: Insights from the Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Bouhamida Esmaa , Morciano Giampaolo , Pedriali Gaia , Ramaccini Daniela , Tremoli Elena , Giorgi Carlotta , Pinton Paolo , Patergnani Simone
Published: July 2023

Calcific aortic valve stenosis (CAVS) is among the most common causes of cardiovascular mortality in an aging population worldwide. The pathomechanisms of CAVS are such a complex and multifactorial process that researchers are still making progress to understand its physiopathology as well as the complex players involved in CAVS pathogenesis. Currently, there is no successful and effective treatment to prevent or slow down the disease. Surgical and transcatheter valve replacement represents the only option available for treating CAVS. Insufficient oxygen availability (hypoxia) has a critical role in the pathogenesis of almost all CVDs. This process is orchestrated by the hallmark transcription factor, hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha subunit (HIF-1α), which plays a pivotal role in regulating various target hypoxic genes and metabolic adaptations. Recent studies have shown a great deal of interest in understanding the contribution of HIF-1α in the pathogenesis of CAVS. However, it is deeply intertwined with other major contributors, including sustained inflammation and mitochondrial impairments, which are attributed primarily to CAVS. The present review aims to cover the latest understanding of the complex interplay effect of hypoxia signaling pathways, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammation in CAVS. We propose further hypotheses and interconnections on the complexity of these impacts in a perspective of better understanding the pathophysiology. These interplays will be examined considering recent studies that shall help us better dissect the molecular mechanism to enable the design and development of potential future therapeutic approaches that can prevent or slow down CAVS processes.
Design, Synthesis and Anti-Melanoma Activity of Novel Annexin V Derivative with β3-Integrin Affinity
Authors: Zhu Jingyi , Li Wenjuan , Jing Jian
Published: July 2023

Tumor tissues often exhibit unique integrin receptor presentation during development, such as high exposures of αvβ3 and αIIbβ3 integrins. These features are not present in normal tissues. The induction of selective thrombosis and infarction in the tumor-feeding vessels, as well as specific antagonism of αvβ3 integrin on the surface of tumor endothelial cells, is a potential novel antitumor strategy. The Echistatin–Annexin V (EAV) fusion protein is a novel Annexin V (ANV) derivative that possesses a high degree of αvβ3 and αIIbβ3 integrin receptor recognition and binding characteristics while retaining the specific binding ability of the natural ANV molecule for phosphatidylserine (PS). We systematically investigated the biological effects of this novel molecule with superimposed functions on mouse melanoma. We found that EAV inhibited the viability and migration of B16F10 murine melanoma cells in a dose-dependent manner, exhibited good tumor suppressive effects in a xenograft mouse melanoma model, strongly induced tumor tissue necrosis in mice, and targeted the inhibition of angiogenesis in mouse melanoma tumor tissue. EAV exhibited stronger biological effects than natural ANV molecules in inhibiting melanoma in mice. The unique biological effects of EAV are based on its high β3-type integrin receptor-specific recognition and binding ability, as well as its highly selective binding to PS molecules. Based on these findings, we propose that EAV-mediated tumor suppression is a novel and promising antitumor strategy that targets both PS- and integrin β3-positive tumor neovascularization and the tumor cells themselves, thus providing a possible mechanism for the treatment of melanoma.
An Overview of EGFR Mechanisms and Their Implications in Targeted Therapies for Glioblastoma
Authors: Rodriguez Silvia Mara Baez , Kamel Amira , Ciubotaru Gheorghe Vasile , Onose Gelu , Sevastre Ani-Simona , Sfredel Veronica , Danoiu Suzana , Dricu Anica , Tataranu Ligia Gabriela
Published: July 2023

Despite all of the progress in understanding its molecular biology and pathogenesis, glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive types of cancers, and without an efficient treatment modality at the moment, it remains largely incurable. Nowadays, one of the most frequently studied molecules with important implications in the pathogenesis of the classical subtype of GBM is the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Although many clinical trials aiming to study EGFR targeted therapies have been performed, none of them have reported promising clinical results when used in glioma patients. The resistance of GBM to these therapies was proven to be both acquired and innate, and it seems to be influenced by a cumulus of factors such as ineffective blood–brain barrier penetration, mutations, heterogeneity and compensatory signaling pathways. Recently, it was shown that EGFR possesses kinase-independent (KID) pro-survival functions in cancer cells. It seems imperative to understand how the EGFR signaling pathways function and how they interconnect with other pathways. Furthermore, it is important to identify the mechanisms of drug resistance and to develop better tailored therapeutic agents.
Influence of Inflammatory Pain and Dopamine on Synaptic Transmission in the Mouse ACC
Authors: Darvish-Ghane Soroush , Baumbach Jennet , Martin Loren J.
Published: July 2023

Dopamine (DA) inhibits excitatory synaptic transmission in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a brain region involved in the sensory and affective processing of pain. However, the DA modulation of inhibitory synaptic transmission in the ACC and its alteration of the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance remains relatively understudied. Using patch-clamp recordings, we demonstrate that neither DA applied directly to the tissue slice nor complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) injected into the hind paw significantly impacted excitatory currents (eEPSCs) in the ACC, when recorded without pharmacological isolation. However, individual neurons exhibited varied responses to DA, with some showing inhibition, potentiation, or no response. The degree of eEPSC inhibition by DA was higher in naïve slices compared to that in the CFA condition. The baseline inhibitory currents (eIPSCs) were greater in the CFA-treated slices, and DA specifically inhibited eIPSCs in the CFA-treated, but not naïve group. DA and CFA treatment did not alter the balance between excitatory and inhibitory currents. Spontaneous synaptic activity revealed that DA reduced the frequency of the excitatory currents in CFA-treated mice and decreased the amplitude of the inhibitory currents, specifically in CFA-treated mice. However, the overall synaptic drive remained similar between the naïve and CFA-treated mice. Additionally, GABAergic currents were pharmacologically isolated and found to be robustly inhibited by DA through postsynaptic D2 receptors and G-protein activity. Overall, the study suggests that CFA-induced inflammation and DA do not significantly affect the balance between excitatory and inhibitory currents in ACC neurons, but activity-dependent changes may be observed in the DA modulation of presynaptic glutamate release in the presence of inflammation.
Triple-Isotope Tracing for Pathway Discernment of NMN-Induced NAD+ Biosynthesis in Whole Mice
Authors: Sauve Anthony A. , Wang Qinghui , Zhang Ning , Kang Seolhee , Rathmann Abigail , Yang Yue
Published: July 2023

Numerous efforts in basic and clinical studies have explored the potential anti-aging and health-promoting effects of NAD+-boosting compounds such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN). Despite these extensive efforts, our understanding and characterization of their whole-body pharmacodynamics, impact on NAD+ tissue distribution, and mechanism of action in various tissues remain incomplete. In this study, we administered NMN via intraperitoneal injection or oral gavage and conducted a rigorous evaluation of NMN’s pharmacodynamic effects on whole-body NAD+ homeostasis in mice. To provide more confident insights into NMN metabolism and NAD+ biosynthesis across different tissues and organs, we employed a novel approach using triple-isotopically labeled [18O-phosphoryl-18O-carbonyl-13C-1-ribosyl] NMN. Our results provide a more comprehensive characterization of the NMN impact on NAD+ concentrations and absolute amounts in various tissues and the whole body. We also demonstrate that mice primarily rely on the nicotinamide and NR salvage pathways to generate NAD+ from NMN, while the uptake of intact NMN plays a minimal role. Overall, the tissue-specific pharmacodynamic effects of NMN administration through different routes offer novel insights into whole-body NAD+ homeostasis, laying a crucial foundation for the development of NMN as a therapeutic supplement in humans.