bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Drones for Cost-Effective Surveys in Natura 2000 Protected Areas: A Case Study on Monitoring Plant Diversity in Sicily (Italy)
Authors: Tavilla Gianmarco , Crisafulli Alessandro , Minissale Pietro , Tomaselli Valeria , Adamo Maria
Published: June 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, present a cost-effective solution for the swift collection of data from vast and remote areas that are otherwise difficult to access. The Mediterranean Basin, known for being a hotspot for plant biodiversity, hosts several habitats and taxa of significant naturalistic value. However, many of these areas are often inaccessible to botanists, making exploration and research challenging. The aim of this paper is to involve the utilization of drone surveys and open-source software for botanical research. Our primary goal is to show the effectiveness of these tools in the field and demonstrate their practical application in Natura 2000 sites. The protected area chosen for this research is Rocca di Novara, situated in northeastern Sicily. Thanks to our drone investigations, we were able to capture images of a mountainside that is inaccessible to humans. This allowed us to observe the habitat of some species in detail. One of the most fascinating discoveries was the reappearance of Saxifraga callosa subsp. australis, which had not been confirmed in this area for over 140 years. Using drones for botanical research can boost field research, making monitoring easier and more cost-effective over time, especially in Natura 2000 sites.
Quantification and Simulation of the Ecosystem Service Value of Karst Region in Southwest China
Authors: He Suling , Wang Jinliang , Li Jie , Sha Jinming , Zhou Jinchun , Jiao Yuanmei
Published: June 2024

Regional ecosystem service value (ESV) is significantly influenced by factors such as land use/cover change (LUCC). In this study, from the perspective of spatio-temporal heterogeneity, we constructed a dynamic and zonal equivalence table of ecosystem service values using the equivalence factor method and analyzed the spatio-temporal changes in ecosystem service values of different agricultural plantation regions of the karst mountainous areas of southwestern China (Yunnan Province, YP) in the years from 1990 to 2020. Also, the ESV of YP in 2030 was simulated using the Patch-generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model. The results showed the following: (1) land use/land cover (LULC) in YP from 1990 to 2020 was dominated by needle-leaved forestland, broadleaved forestland, grassland, and rainfed cropland. (2) The total ESV in YP fluctuated between CNY 876.74 and 1323.68 B from 1990 to 2020, expanding at a rate of 50.98%. The largest portion of the total ESV comes from climate regulation. The ESV increased from east to west, and the positive spatial correlation of the ESV gradually weakened. (3) The ESV in YP was projected to reach CNY 1320.70 B by 2030, representing a decrease of ~CNY 2.98 B since 2020. The results showed a decline in the ecological environment’s quality in YP.
Biology of Hemiparasitic Rhinanthus Species in the Context of Grassland Biodiversity
Authors: Ievinsh Gederts
Published: June 2024

The aim of the present review is to compile and analyze information on biology of Rhinanthus species in the context of grassland biodiversity. Root hemiparasites have been relatively less studied in comparison to economically important holoparasitic weed species. Rhinanthus species appear to be genetically polymorphic, but also possess high phenotypic plasticity, and ecological factors are important determinants in evolution of specialization to most appropriate hosts. Rhinanthus individuals have a relatively short life span, and flowering is a photoperiod- or host plant-independent phenomenon. Both insect pollination and self-pollination can occur. Seeds do not form a persistent soil seed bank and have physiological dormancy broken by stratification. In general, Rhinanthus species have low host specificity, but there clearly are ‘preferred’ or ‘avoided’ hosts in natural conditions. In controlled conditions, interaction with most grass species result in more prominent parasite growth stimulation in comparison to that of legumes, and, especially, forbs, but there are significant gradations and exceptions. Ecological requirements of Rhinanthus species have been rarely studied, but it can be expected that significant tolerance against mineral nutrient heterogeneity and water shortage can be found. It seems that host plant characteristics are important determinants of the environmental resilience of Rhinanthus. Parasites not only obtain resources (water and minerals) from host plants but also negatively affect their physiological functions. The most intriguing and practically unexplored question is the exchange of chemical signals between the Rhinanthus parasite and the host plant. Extending this idea, it can be predicted that signals will also be exchanged between multiple host plants whose roots are connected through the parasite. It is highly possible that the exchange of small RNAs between plants could influence their environmental tolerance. Host selectivity forms the functional basis of changes in species diversity in grasslands, but the outcome seems to be highly dependent on other conditions, especially, soil edaphic factors. Development of new model systems is necessary to further expand our knowledge about the complex effects of parasitic plants on ecosystems.
Two Languages, One Goal: Code-Switching in Doctor–Patient Communication in the Galician Healthcare System
Authors: Rodríguez Tembrás Vanesa
Published: June 2024

This paper examines bilingual communications between family doctors and patients in Galicia (Spain). The study adopts a sociolinguistic and sociopragmatic approach to analyze how language choice and code-switching (CS) impact their interactions. The main objectives are understanding language dynamics within a speech community and identifying factors influencing language use in healthcare, focusing on language alternation, associated with language choice, and language accommodation. The research utilized a twofold dataset. First, a corpus of 586 audio-recorded medical consultations and eight semi-structured interviews with all participating doctors offered real-life linguistic dynamics between doctors and patients. Additionally, a second dataset with 208 questionnaires and 15 semi-structured interviews provided insights into language preferences and attitudes, inside and outside the doctor’s office. The findings indicate that doctors and patients strategically select and switch between Spanish and Galician to achieve communication goals. Approximately half of the consultations are bilingual, either with or without code-switching, showing that language negotiation is key in the Galician healthcare system. The insights gained can inform healthcare professionals, policymakers, and language planners in developing strategies to improve communication. The study also provides contextual data for understanding the role of language in shaping social dynamics beyond the healthcare setting.
Use of End-to-End Tool for the Analysis of the Digital Governance of Ports
Authors: González-Cancelas Nicoletta , Camarero Orive Alberto , Vilarchao Alberto Rivas , Vaca-Cabrero Javier
Published: June 2024

Background: Digital governance currently presents challenges in the context of ports, where efficiency and transparency are key elements for the success of operations. In ports, the effective adoption of digital governance can have a significant impact on optimizing operational processes and improving coordination between port authorities, logistics operators and customs. Method: In this context, the article proposes the use of an End-to-End Tool to analyze and evaluate digital governance in ports. This tool makes it possible to collect data from various sources, carry out a thorough analysis of the processes involved, and evaluate the satisfaction of end users. In addition, it provides an intuitive and easy-to-use interface to visualize results and make evidence-based decisions. The outcomes revealed areas of improvement in operational processes, identified bottlenecks, and presented proposals to optimize port efficiency. Results: The port currently exhibiting the best digital governance is Valencia, followed by Piraeus, Barcelona, and Algeciras, with very comparable management, and finally, Genoa. Conclusions: Efficient public–private collaboration in digital governance boosts port competitiveness. Regulatory frameworks for data security are crucial, and digital governance emerges as vital for global success.
A Novel Methodology for Simulating Skin Injury Risk on Synthetic Playing Surfaces
Authors: MacFarlane Maxwell , O’Donnell Eric , Harrison Eric , Douglas Marc , Lees Neale , Theobald Peter
Published: June 2024

Artificial turf provides a consistent and durable surface; however, it has historically been associated with a high skin injury risk, or a ‘friction burn’, when a player falls or slides. Second-generation surfaces feature a short carpet pile, whilst third generation (3G) carpet piles are longer, enabling the integration of a performance infill. 3G surfaces provide sufficient energy absorption characteristics to be approved as Rugby Turf; however, such pitches can still cause skin injuries, despite being assessed using a friction-based test. Reducing skin injury risk motivates this study to develop a more sensitive testing methodology. A new test apparatus and impactor are proposed, achieving kinematics representative of an elite male rugby tackle. A commercially available skin simulant is employed to ensure the collection of repeatable and valid data. Photography and thresholding were used to assess surface abrasion and material transfer, whilst a thermal camera captured surface temperature change. Accelerometers quantified the surface resistance during the impact and sliding phases. These metrics were compiled into the Maxwell Tribo Index (MTI), providing a single measure of skin injury risk. The results demonstrated good repeatability and validity when four teams tested four different 3G surfaces. These results compared favourably to an expert panel’s ranked order.
Scalable Microwires through Thermal Drawing of Co-Extruded Liquid Metal and Thermoplastic Elastomer
Authors: Khakse Pranjal , Dangers Falco , Elsersawy Rawan , Khondoker Mohammad Abu Hasan
Published: June 2024

This article demonstrates scalable production of liquid metal (LM)-based microwires through the thermal drawing of extrudates. These extrudates were first co-extruded using a eutectic alloy of gallium and indium (EGaIn) as a core element and a thermoplastic elastomer, styrene–ethylene/butylene–styrene (SEBS), as a shell material. By varying the feed speed of the co-extruded materials and the drawing speed of the extrudate, it was possible to control the dimensions of the microwires, such as core diameter and shell thickness. How the extrusion temperature affects the dimensions of the microwire was also analyzed. The smallest microwire (core diameter: 52 ± 14 μm and shell thickness: 46 ± 10 μm) was produced from a drawing speed of 300.1 mm s−1 (the maximum attainable speed of the apparatus used), SEBS extrusion speed of 1.50 mm3 s−1, and LM injection rate of 5 × 105 μL s−1 at 190 °C extrusion temperature. The same extrusion condition without thermal drawing generated significantly large extrudates with a core diameter of 278 ± 26 μm and shell thickness of 430 ± 51 μm. The electrical properties of the microwires were also characterized under different degrees of stretching and wire kinking deformation which proved that these LM-based microwires change electrical resistance as they are deformed and fully self-heal once the load is removed. Finally, the sewability of these microwires was qualitatively tested by using a manual sewing machine to pattern microwires on a traditional cotton fabric.
Encapsulation of Active Substances in Natural Polymer Coatings
Authors: Akpo Emma , Colin Camille , Perrin Aurélie , Cambedouzou Julien , Cornu David
Published: June 2024

Already used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and agrochemical industries, encapsulation is a strategy used to protect active ingredients from external degradation factors and to control their release kinetics. Various encapsulation techniques have been studied, both to optimise the level of protection with respect to the nature of the aggressor and to favour a release mechanism between diffusion of the active compounds and degradation of the barrier material. Biopolymers are of particular interest as wall materials because of their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and non-toxicity. By forming a stable hydrogel around the drug, they provide a ‘smart’ barrier whose behaviour can change in response to environmental conditions. After a comprehensive description of the concept of encapsulation and the main technologies used to achieve encapsulation, including micro- and nano-gels, the mechanisms of controlled release of active compounds are presented. A panorama of natural polymers as wall materials is then presented, highlighting the main results associated with each polymer and attempting to identify the most cost-effective and suitable methods in terms of the encapsulated drug.
Experimental Analysis of Effect of Machined Material on Cutting Forces during Drilling
Authors: Sklenička Josef , Hnátík Jan , Fulemová Jaroslava , Gombár Miroslav , Vagaská Alena , Jirásko Aneta
Published: June 2024

Current research studies devoted to cutting forces in drilling are oriented toward predictive model development, however, in the case of mechanistic models, the material effect on the drilling process itself is mostly not considered. This research study aims to experimentally analyze how the machined material affects the feed force (Ff) during drilling, alongside developing predictive mathematical–statistical models to understand the main effects and interactions of the considered technological and tool factors on Ff. By conducting experiments involving six factors (feed, cutting speed, drill diameter, point angle, lip relief angle, and helix angle) at five levels, the drilling process of stainless steel AISI1045 and case-hardened steel 16MnCr5 is executed to validate the numerical accuracy of the established prediction models (AdjR = 99.600% for C45 and AdjR = 97.912% for 16MnCr5). The statistical evaluation (ANOVA, RSM, and Lack of Fit) of the data proves that the drilled material affects the Ff value at the level of 17.600% (p < 0.000). The effect of feed represents 44.867% in C45 and 34.087% in 16MnCr5; the cutting speed is significant when machining C45 steel only (9.109%). When machining 16MnCr5 compared to C45 steel, the influence of the point angle (lip relief angle) is lower by 49.198% (by 22.509%). The effect of the helix angle is 163.060% higher when machining 16MnCr5.
Axial Compressive Behaviours of Coal Gangue Concrete-Filled Circular Steel Tubular Stub Columns after Chloride Salt Corrosion
Authors: Zhang Tong , Wang Hongshan , Zheng Xuanhe , Gao Shan
Published: June 2024

The axial compressive behaviours of coal gangue concrete-filled steel tube (GCFST) columns after chloride salt corrosion were investigated numerically. Numerical modelling was conducted through the static analysis method by finite element (FE) analysis. The failure mechanism, residual strength, and axial load–displacement curves were validated against tests of the coal gangue aggregate concrete-filled steel tube (GCFST) columns at room and natural aggregate concrete-filled steel tube (NCFST) columns after salt corrosion circumstance. According to the analysis on the stress distribution of the steel tube, the stress value of the steel tube decreased as the corrosion rate increased at the same characteristic point. A parametric analysis was carried out to determine the effect of crucial variation on residual strength. It indicated that material strength, the steel ratio, and the corrosion rate made a profound impact on the residual strength from the FE. The residual strength of the columns exposed to chloride salt was in negative correlation with the corrosion rate. The impact on the residual strength of the column was little, obvious by the replacement rate of the coal gangue. A simplified design formula for predicting the ultimate strength of GCFST columns after chloride salt corrosion exposure was proposed.
Influence of Heat Treatment Condition on the Microstructure, Microhardness and Corrosion Resistance of Ag-Sn-In-Ni-Te Alloy Wire
Authors: Shao Ling , Zhang Shunle , Hu Liepeng , Wu Yincheng , Huang Yingqi , Le Ping , Dai Sheng , Li Weiwei , Xue Na , Xu Feilong , Zhu Liu
Published: June 2024

Ag-Sn-In-Ni-Te alloy ingots were produced through a heating–cooling combined mold continuous casting technique; they were then drawn into wires. However, during the drawing process, the alloy wires tended to harden, making further diameter reduction challenging. To overcome this, heat treatment was necessary to soften the previously drawn wires. The study investigated how variations in heat treatment temperature and holding time affected the microstructure, microhardness and corrosion resistance of the alloy wires. The results indicate that the alloy wires subjected to heat treatment at 700 °C for 2 h not only exhibited a uniform microstructure distribution, but also demonstrated low microhardness and excellent corrosion resistance.
Bulk MgB2 Superconducting Materials: Technology, Properties, and Applications
Authors: Prikhna Tetiana , Sokolovsky Vladimir , Moshchil Viktor
Published: June 2024

The intensive development of hydrogen technologies has made very promising applications of one of the cheapest and easily produced bulk MgB2-based superconductors. These materials are capable of operating effectively at liquid hydrogen temperatures (around 20 K) and are used as elements in various devices, such as magnets, magnetic bearings, fault current limiters, electrical motors, and generators. These applications require mechanically and chemically stable materials with high superconducting characteristics. This review considers the results of superconducting and structural property studies of MgB2-based bulk materials prepared under different pressure–temperature conditions using different promising methods: hot pressing (30 MPa), spark plasma sintering (16–96 MPa), and high quasi-hydrostatic pressures (2 GPa). Much attention has been paid to the study of the correlation between the manufacturing pressure–temperature conditions and superconducting characteristics. The influence of the amount and distribution of oxygen impurity and an excess of boron on superconducting characteristics is analyzed. The dependence of superconducting characteristics on the various additions and changes in material structure caused by these additions are discussed. It is shown that different production conditions and additions improve the superconducting MgB2 bulk properties for various ranges of temperature and magnetic fields, and the optimal technology may be selected according to the application requirements. We briefly discuss the possible applications of MgB2 superconductors in devices, such as fault current limiters and electric machines.
Fixed Point Theory in Bicomplex Metric Spaces: A New Framework with Applications
Authors: Alamri Badriah
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the existence of common fixed points for mappings satisfying generalized rational type contractive conditions in the framework of bicomplex valued metric spaces. Our findings extend well-established results in the existing literature. As an application of our leading result, we explore the existence and uniqueness of solutions of the Volttera integral equation of the second kind.
An Experimental Study of a Composite Wick Structure for Ultra-Thin Flattened Heat Pipes
Authors: Zhou Wenjie , Yang Yong , He Junfeng , Chen Ri , Jian Yue , Shao Dan , Wu Aihua
Published: June 2024

As the thickness of an ultra-thin flattened heat pipe (UTHP) decreases, the fabrication difficulty increases exponentially, and the thermal performance deteriorates rapidly. In this study, three types of composite wicks were developed for UTHPs with a 0.6 mm thickness: copper foam and mesh wick (CFMW), two layers of different mesh wick (TDMW), and three layers of the same mesh wick (TSMW). The startup and steady-state performances of the UTHPs with liquid filling ratios of 60% to 120% were investigated. The findings indicated that the CFMW UTHP with a filling ratio of 100% exhibited the best startup performance, with the highest equilibrium temperature of 58.37 °C. The maximum heat transport capacities of the CFMW, TDMW, and TSMW UTHP samples were 9, 8, and 8.5 W, respectively, at their corresponding optimum filling ratios of 110%, 90%, and 100%. The CFMW UTHP exhibited the lowest evaporation and condensation thermal resistances of 0.151 and 0.189 K/W, respectively, which were 24.67% and 41.85% lower than those of the TSMW UTHP. CFMW can be used to improve the thermal performance of UTHPs. This study provides important guidelines for the structural design, fabrication technology, and performance improvement of high-performance UTHPs used in portable electronic devices.
Biochemical and Molecular Analysis of Gut Microbial Changes in Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) to Counteract Cry1c Toxicity
Authors: Abd El Aziz Abeer , Moussa Saad , Yassin Mohamed T. , El Husseiny Iman , El Kholy Samar
Published: June 2024

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) represents one of the most economical biopesticides to date. It produces toxins with insecticidal activity against many agricultural pests, including members of the genus Spodoptera. However, Bt tolerance leads to inefficiency in biological control. To overcome this problem, discovering the hidden cause(s) for the evolution of insect tolerance against Bt is of great importance. We hypothesized that changes in the gut microbiota due to the frequent application of Bt is one of those hidden causes. To investigate this hypothesis, we studied the effect of Bt Cry1c application on the Spodoptera littoralis larval gut microbiota in both Bt-susceptible and Bt-tolerant populations. The results revealed changes in the diversity and abundance of gut bacterial composition between the susceptible and tolerant populations. A high abundance of Enterococcaceae was detected in the tolerant population. Interestingly, Cry1c tolerance eliminates the bacterial genera Klebsiella and Serratia from the larval midgut. These changes may confirm the mechanism developed by Spodoptera larvae to counteract Bt Cry1c toxicity. Understanding the B. thuringiensis–gut microbiota interaction may help in improving biocontrol strategies against agricultural pests to overcome the evolution of tolerance.
Microtextural Characteristics of Ultramafic Rock-Forming Minerals and Their Effects on Carbon Sequestration
Authors: Taksavasu Tadsuda , Arin Piyanat , Khatecha Thanakon , Kojinok Suchanya
Published: June 2024

Ultramafic rocks are promising candidates for carbon sequestration by enhanced carbon dioxide (CO2) mineralization strategies due to their highly CO2-reactive mineral composition and their abundant availability. This study reports the mineralogy and microtextures of a representative ultramafic rock from the Ma-Hin Creek in northern Thailand and provides evidence of CO2 mineralization occurring through the interaction between CO2 and the rock in the presence of water under ambient conditions. After sample collection, rock description was determined by optical petrographic analysis. The rock petrography revealed a cumulated wehrlite comprising over 50% olivine and minor amounts of clinopyroxene, plagioclase, and chromian spinel. Approximately 25% of the wehrlite had altered to serpentine and chlorite. A series of CO2 batch experiments were conducted on six different rock sizes at a temperature of 40 °C and pressure of 1 atm over five consecutive days. The post-experimental products were dried, weighed, and geochemically analyzed to detect changes in mineral species. Experimental results showed that product weight and the presence of calcite increased with reducing grain size. Additionally, the modal mineralogy of the wehrlite theoretically suggests potential CO2 uptake of up to 53%, which is higher than the average uptake values of mafic rocks. These findings support the rock investigation approach used and the preliminary assessment of carbon mineralization potential, contributing to enhanced rock weathering techniques for CO2 removal that could be adopted by mining and rock supplier industries.
Field Emission Properties of Cu-Filled Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotubes Grown Directly on Thin Cu Foils
Authors: Nwanno Chinaza E. , Thapa Arun , Watt John , Simkins Bendayan Daniel , Li Wenzhi
Published: June 2024

Copper-filled vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (Cu@VACNTs) were grown directly on Cu foil substrates of 0.1 mm thicknesses at different temperatures via plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). By circumventing the need for additional catalyst layers or intensive substrate treatments, our in-situ technique offers a simplified and potentially scalable route for fabricating Cu@VACNTs with enhanced electrical and thermal properties on thin Cu foils. Comprehensive analysis using field emission scanning microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) mappings, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed uniform Cu filling within the VACNTs across a range of synthesis temperatures (650 °C, 700 °C, and 760 °C). Field emission (FE) measurements of the sample synthesized at 700 °C (S700) showed low turn-on and threshold fields of 2.33 V/μm and 3.29 V/μm, respectively. The findings demonstrate the viability of thin Cu substrates in creating dense and highly conductive Cu-filled VACNT arrays for advanced electronic and nanoelectronics applications.
Beef Consumption Is Associated with Higher Intakes and Adequacy of Key Nutrients in Older Adults Age 60+ Years: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2018 Analysis
Authors: Agarwal Sanjiv , Fulgoni Victor L.
Published: June 2024

Beef is an important source of high-quality protein and several micronutrients, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins. We determined beef intake and its relationship with intakes of nutrients and their adequacy using 24 h dietary recall data from 5868 older adults. Usual intakes from foods were determined using the National Cancer Institute method, and the percent of the population below the estimated average requirement or above adequate intake was estimated. A high percentage of older adults did not meet nutrient recommendations for vitamin D (96%), choline (96%), vitamin E (84%), potassium (70%), calcium (63%), magnesium (60%), vitamin C (46%), vitamin A (39%), zinc (21%), vitamin B6 (19%), and folate (15%). About 68% of older adults were beef consumers with a mean intake of 56 g/day. Beef consumers had higher (p < 0.05) intakes of energy, protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, selenium, sodium, zinc, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B12, and choline, and a higher (p < 0.05) proportion met nutrient recommendations for protein, calcium, copper, zinc, thiamin, folate, and vitamin B12 than non-consumers. Consumers of fresh, ground, and processed beef also had generally higher intakes and lower inadequacies of many nutrients depending on the beef type. In conclusion, older adults generally had poor nutrient adequacy from their diets, while beef consumers had higher nutrient intakes and adequacy for certain key nutrients, which are inherently generally available from beef or from foods consumed with beef.
A Comprehensive Study of Positive Body Image as a Predictor of Psychological Well-Being in Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Torres Sandra , Vieira Ana Isabel , Vieira Filipa Mucha , Miller Kylee M. , Guerra Marina Prista , Lencastre Leonor , Reis Ana Catarina , Timóteo Sertório , Nunes Patrícia , Barbosa Maria Raquel
Published: June 2024

Recent data suggest a close association between positive body image (PBI) and eating disorder recovery. Nevertheless, the specific mechanisms through which PBI may facilitate recovery from anorexia nervosa (AN) remain unknown. To advance understanding of these mechanisms, this study examined core indices of PBI within AN, exploring its association with emotion regulation and well-being outcomes. Data were collected from 159 female participants, 64 with AN diagnosis and 95 healthy controls (HCs), who completed measures of PBI (body appreciation, functionality appreciation, and body responsiveness), emotion regulation, and psychological well-being (depression, anxiety, stress, and psychological quality of life). The AN group reported lower levels of PBI and psychological well-being, along with greater difficulties in regulating emotions, relative to HCs. PBI variables significantly predicted emotion regulation and psychological well-being in AN, accounting for 36% to 72% of the variance, with body appreciation emerging as the strongest predictor. These findings lend credence to the view that PBI can serve as a catalyst for psychological health. We hypothesize that enhancing PBI can improve interoceptive awareness, which is crucial for emotion regulation and reducing maladaptive food-related coping. Emphasizing a mind–body connection in lifestyle could be a relevant element to consider for both treating and preventing AN.
Congenital Syphilis: A Re-Emerging but Preventable Infection
Authors: Salomè Serena , Cambriglia Maria Donata , Montesano Giovanna , Capasso Letizia , Raimondi Francesco
Published: June 2024

Congenital syphilis presents a significant global burden, contributing to fetal loss, stillbirth, neonatal mortality, and congenital infection. Despite the target established in 2007 by the World Health Organization (WHO) of fewer than 50 cases per 100,000 live births, the global incidence is on the rise, particularly in low- and middle-income regions. Recent data indicate a rate of 473 cases per 100,000 live births, resulting in 661,000 total cases of congenital syphilis, including 355,000 adverse birth outcomes such as early fetal deaths, stillbirths, neonatal deaths, preterm or low-birth-weight births, and infants with clinical congenital syphilis. Alarmingly, only 6% of these adverse outcomes occurred in mothers who were enrolled, screened, and treated. Unlike many neonatal infections, congenital syphilis is preventable through effective antenatal screening and treatment of infected pregnant women. However, despite available screening tools, affordable treatment options, and the integration of prevention programs into antenatal care in various countries, congenital syphilis remains a pressing public health concern worldwide. This review aims to summarize the current epidemiology, transmission, and treatment of syphilis in pregnancy, as well as to explore global efforts to reduce vertical transmission and address the reasons for falling short of the WHO elimination target.
Innovative Therapeutic Strategies in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Synergistic Approach to Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Niazi Sarfaraz K. , Magoola Matthias , Mariam Zamara
Published: June 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains a significant challenge in the field of neurodegenerative disorders, even nearly a century after its discovery, due to the elusive nature of its causes. The development of drugs that target multiple aspects of the disease has emerged as a promising strategy to address the complexities of AD and related conditions. The immune system’s role, particularly in AD, has gained considerable interest, with nanobodies representing a new frontier in biomedical research. Advances in targeting antibodies against amyloid-β (Aβ) and using messenger RNA for genetic translation have revolutionized the production of antibodies and drug development, opening new possibilities for treatment. Despite these advancements, conventional therapies for AD, such as Cognex, Exelon, Razadyne, and Aricept, often have limited long-term effectiveness, underscoring the need for innovative solutions. This necessity has led to the incorporation advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning into the drug discovery process for neurodegenerative diseases. These technologies help identify therapeutic targets and optimize lead compounds, offering a more effective approach to addressing the challenges of AD and similar conditions.
Remapping the Chemical Space and the Pharmacological Space of Drugs: What Can We Expect from the Road Ahead?
Authors: Franco Lucas Silva , de Jesus Bárbara da Silva Mascarenhas , Pinheiro Pedro de Sena Murteira , Fraga Carlos Alberto Manssour
Published: June 2024

This work examines the current landscape of drug discovery and development, with a particular focus on the chemical and pharmacological spaces. It emphasizes the importance of understanding these spaces to anticipate future trends in drug discovery. The use of cheminformatics and data analysis enabled in silico exploration of these spaces, allowing a perspective of drugs, approved drugs after 2020, and clinical candidates, which were extracted from the newly released ChEMBL34 (March 2024). This perspective on chemical and pharmacological spaces enables the identification of trends and areas to be occupied, thereby creating opportunities for more effective and targeted drug discovery and development strategies in the future.
Decreased Risk of Osteoporosis Incident in Subjects Receiving Chinese Herbal Medicine for Sjögren syndrome Treatment: A Retrospective Cohort Study with a Nested Case-Control Analysis
Authors: Yen Chieh-Tsung , Livneh Hanoch , Huang Hua-Lung , Lu Ming-Chi , Chen Wei-Jen , Tsai Tzung-Yi
Published: June 2024

Sjögren syndrome (SS) is a long-lasting inflammatory autoimmune disease that may cause diverse manifestations, particularly osteoporosis. Though usage of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) can safely manage autoimmune disease and treatment-related symptoms, the relation between CHM use and osteoporosis risk in SS persons is not yet recognized. With that in mind, this population-level nested case-control study aimed to compare the risk of osteoporosis with and without CHM use. Potential subjects aged 20–70 years, diagnosed with SS between 2001 and 2010, were retrieved from a national health claims database. Those diagnosed with osteoporosis after SS were identified and randomly matched to those without osteoporosis. We capitalize on the conditional logistic regression to estimate osteoporosis risk following CHM use. A total of 1240 osteoporosis cases were detected and randomly matched to 1240 controls at a ratio of 1:1. Those receiving conventional care plus CHM had a substantially lower chance of osteoporosis than those without CHM. Prolonged use of CHM, especially for one year or more, markedly dwindled sequent osteoporosis risk by 71%. Integrating CHM into standard care may favor the improvement of bone function, but further well-designed randomized controlled trials to investigate the possible mechanism are needed.
Serum Concentration–Dose Relationship and Modulation Factors in Children and Adolescents Treated with Fluvoxamine
Authors: Taurines Regina , Kunkel Gesa , Fekete Stefanie , Fegert Jörg M. , Wewetzer Christoph , Correll Christoph U. , Holtkamp Kristian , Böge Isabel , Renner Tobias Johann , Imgart Hartmut , Scherf-Clavel Maike , Heuschmann Peter , Gerlach Manfred , Romanos Marcel , Egberts Karin
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Fluvoxamine is used in children and adolescents (‘youths’) for treating obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) but also off-label for depressive and anxiety disorders. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between fluvoxamine dose and serum concentrations, independent correlates of fluvoxamine concentrations, and a preliminary therapeutic reference range (TRR) for youths with OCD and treatment response. Methods: Multicenter naturalistic data of a therapeutic drug monitoring service, as well as prospective data of the ‘TDM Vigil study’ (EudraCT 2013-004881-33), were analyzed. Patient and treatment characteristics were assessed by standardized measures, including Clinical Global Impressions—Severity (CGI-S) and —Change (CGI-I), with CGI-I of much or very much improved defining treatment response and adverse drug reactions using the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogelser (UKU) Side Effect Rating Scale. Multivariable regression analysis was used to evaluate the influence of sex, age, body weight, body mass index (BMI), and fluvoxamine dose on fluvoxamine serum concentrations. Results: The study included 70 youths (age = 6.7–19.6 years, OCD = 78%, mean fluvoxamine dose = 140.4 (range = 25–300) mg/d). A weak positive correlation between daily dose and steady-state trough serum concentrations was found (rs = 0.34, p = 0.004), with dose variation explaining 16.2% of serum concentration variability. Multivariable correlates explaining 25.3% of the variance of fluvoxamine concentrations included higher fluvoxamine dose and lower BMI. Considering responders with OCD, the estimated TRR for youths was 55–371 ng/mL, exceeding the TRR for adults with depression of 60–230 ng/mL. Discussion: These preliminary data contribute to the definition of a TRR in youth with OCD treated with fluvoxamine and identify higher BMI as a moderator of lower fluvoxamine concentrations.
The Effect of Process Parameters on the Microstructure, Stability, and Sensorial Properties of an Emulsion Cream Formulation
Authors: Chow Pui Shan , Lim Ron Tau Yee , Cyriac Febin , Shah Jaymin C. , Badruddoza Abu Zayed Md , Yeoh Thean , Yagnik Chetan Kantilal , Tee Xin Yi , Wong Annie Bao Hua , Chia Vernissa Dilys , Wang Guan
Published: June 2024

A classical emulsion formulation based on petrolatum and mineral oil as the internal phase with emulsifier wax as a typical topical emulsion cream was investigated for the effect of process parameters on drug product quality and performance attributes. The Initial Design of Experiment (DoE) suggested that an oil phase above 15%, coupled with less than 10% emulsifying wax, resulted in less stable emulsions. Different processing parameters such as homogenization speed, duration, cooling rate, and final temperature showed minimal influence on properties and failed to improve stability. The final DoE suggested that the optimal emulsion stability was achieved by introducing a holding period midway through the cooling stage after solvent addition. Within the studied holding temperature range (25–35 °C), a higher holding temperature correlated with increased emulsion stability. However, the application of shear during the holding period, using a paddle mixer, adversely affected stability by disrupting the emulsion microstructure. IVRT studies revealed that the release of lidocaine was higher in the most stable emulsion produced at a holding temperature of 35 °C compared to the least stable emulsion produced at a holding temperature of 25 °C. This suggests that a holding temperature of 35 °C improves both the stability and active release performance. It appears that a slightly higher holding temperature, 35 °C, allows a more flexible and stable emulsifying agent film around the droplets facilitating stabilization of the emulsion. This study offers valuable insights into the relationship between process parameters at various stages of manufacture, microstructure, and various quality attributes of emulsion cream systems. The knowledge gained will facilitate improved design and optimization of robust manufacturing processes, ensuring the production of the formulations with the desired critical quality attributes.
Meta-Topolin as an Effective Benzyladenine Derivative to Improve the Multiplication Rate and Quality of In Vitro Axillary Shoots of Húsvéti Rozmaring Apple Scion
Authors: Abdalla Neama , Dobránszki Judit
Published: June 2024

In vitro mass propagation of apple plants plays an important role in the rapid multiplication of genetically uniform, disease-free scions and rootstocks with desired traits. Successful micropropagation of apple using axillary shoot cultures is influenced by several factors, the most critical of which is the cytokinin included in the culture medium. The impact of medium composition from single added cytokinins on shoot proliferation of apple scion Húsvéti rozmaring cultured on agar-agar gelled Murashige and Skoog medium fortified with indole butyric acid and gibberellic acid was investigated. The optimum concentration for efficient shoot multiplication differs according to the type of cytokinin. The highest significant multiplication rate (5.40 shoots/explant) was achieved using 2.0 μM thidiazuron while the longest shoots (1.80 cm) were observed on the medium containing benzyladenine at a concentration of 2.0 μM. However, application of either thidiazuron or benzyladenine as cytokinin source in the medium resulted in shoots of low quality, such as stunted and thickened shoots with small leaves. In the case of benzyladenine riboside, the 8 μM concentration was the most effective in increasing the multiplication rate (4.76 shoots/explant) but caused thickened stem development with tiny leaves. In the present study, meta-topolin was shown to be the most effective cytokinin that could be applied to induce sufficient multiplication (3.28 shoots/explant) and high-quality shoots along with shoot lengths of 1.46 cm when it was applied at concentrations of 4 μM. However, kinetin was the least active cytokinin; it practically did not induce the development of new shoots. The superior cytokinin for in vitro axillary shoot development of apple scion Húsvéti rozmaring with high-quality shoots was the meta-topolin, but it may be different depending on the variety/genotype under study.
Intersectional Hybrids between Darrow’s Blueberry (V. darrowii Camp) and Lingonberry (V. vitis-idaea L.)
Authors: Ehlenfeldt Mark K. , Bassil Nahla , King Ryan , Zalapa Juan , de la Torre Fernando , Luteyn James L.
Published: June 2024

An initial cross of V. darrowii ‘Johnblue’ (Darrow’s blueberry) × V. vitis-idaea ‘Red Sunset’ (lingonberry) produced more than 30 true intersectional diploid hybrids as confirmed by molecular markers. The most vigorous of these hybrids was extensively evaluated. This hybrid, US 2535-A, was floriferous and morphologically intermediate to the respective parents. Examination of pollen suggested low male fertility. Numerous crosses using the hybrid as a female reflected similarly low fertility and potential crossing barriers. Stylar examination suggested blockage of pollen tube growth in self-pollinations and significantly retarded growth in backcross pollinations. Nonetheless, two confirmed hybrid offspring were produced using the F1 hybrid as a female in crosses with V. vitis-idaea and V. darrowii, respectively. In a second set of crosses utilizing additional V. darrowii and V. vitis-idaea genotypes, another 23 verified hybrids in seven parental combinations were produced. Hybrids such as the ones presented offer the potential for generating de novo interspecific fruit types in blueberry and/or broadening the adaptation of lingonberry.
Effect of Polyethylene Glycol-Simulated Drought Stress on Stomatal Opening in “Modern” and “Ancient” Wheat Varieties
Authors: Licaj Ilva , Fiorillo Anna , Di Meo Maria Chiara , Varricchio Ettore , Rocco Mariapina
Published: June 2024

Climate change is leading to an increase in the intensity, duration, and frequency of severe droughts, especially in southern and southeastern Europe, thus aggravating water scarcity problems. Water deficit stress harms the growth, physiology, and yield of crops like durum wheat. Hence, studying ancient wheat varieties’ stress responses could help identify genetic traits to enhance crop tolerance to environmental stresses. In this background, this study aimed to investigate the effects of PEG 6000-stimulated drought stress in the ancient wheat variety Saragolla and the modern one Svevo by analyzing various biochemical and molecular parameters that can especially condition the stomatal movement. Our data revealed that drought stress caused a significant increase in the levels of total soluble sugars, ABA, and IAA in both selected cultivars to a greater extent in the Saragolla than in the Svevo. We demonstrated that, under water deficit stress, calcium dynamics as well as the expression of ERF109, MAPK3/6, MYB60, and TaTPC1, involved in the activation of drought-related calcium-sensitive pathways, display significant differences between the two varieties. Therefore, our study provided further evidence regarding the ability of the ancient wheat variety Saragolla to better cope with drought stress compared to the modern variety Svevo.
Genotyping-by-Sequencing Analysis Reveals Associations between Agronomic and Oil Traits in Gamma Ray-Derived Mutant Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Kim Woon Ji , Yang Baul , Kim Dong-Gun , Kim Sang Hoon , Lee Ye-Jin , Kim Juyoung , Baek So Hyeon , Kang Si-Yong , Ahn Joon-Woo , Choi Yu-Jin , Bae Chang-Hyu , Iwar Kanivalan , Kim Seong-Hoon , Ryu Jaihyunk
Published: June 2024

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) holds significant commercial value as one of the leading oil crops, with its agronomic features and oil quality being crucial determinants. In this investigation, 73,226 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 95 rapeseed mutant lines induced by gamma rays, alongside the original cultivar (‘Tamra’), using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) analysis were examined. This study encompassed gene ontology (GO) analysis and a genomewide association study (GWAS), thereby concentrating on agronomic traits (e.g., plant height, ear length, thousand-seed weight, and seed yield) and oil traits (including fatty acid composition and crude fat content). The GO analysis unveiled a multitude of genes with SNP variations associated with cellular processes, intracellular anatomical structures, and organic cyclic compound binding. Through GWAS, we detected 320 significant SNPs linked to both agronomic (104 SNPs) and oil traits (216 SNPs). Notably, two novel candidate genes, Bna.A05p02350D (SFGH) and Bna.C02p22490D (MDN1), are implicated in thousand-seed weight regulation. Additionally, Bna.C03p14350D (EXO70) and Bna.A09p05630D (PI4Kα1) emerged as novel candidate genes associated with erucic acid and crude fat content, respectively. These findings carry implications for identifying superior genotypes for the development of new cultivars. Association studies offer a cost-effective means of screening mutants and selecting elite rapeseed breeding lines, thereby enhancing the commercial viability of this pivotal oil crop.