bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Hypotensive and Vasodilatory Effects Observed in Rats Exposed to Chiranthodendron pentadactylon Larreat Flowers Can Be Attributed to Cyanidin 3-O-Glucoside
Authors: Escobar-Ramírez Juan Luis , Santiago-Mejía Jacinto , Soto-Núñez Maribel , Barrera-Vázquez Oscar Salvador , Vargas-Querea Roberto , Magos-Guerrero Gil Alfonso
Published: November 2023

Chiranthodendron pentadactylon Larreat is a tree native to southeastern Mexico and Guatemala. Its flower is used in Mexican folk medicine to treat a variety of diseases, including conditions of blood pressure. However, scientific information on its usefulness in this pathology is lacking. The present study evaluates the effect of a methanolic extract (ME) from the flower and its active constituents on heart rate (HR) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in anesthetized rats (MAPHR). The study also analyzed the effects on rat-isolated aortic rings (RIAR) and the rat mesenteric arterial bed (MABR). Active fractions were chromatographed, which led to the isolation of cyanidin 3-O-glucoside (C3G) identified through HPLC. The Chiranthodendron pentadactylon flowers produced hypotensive and vasorelaxant effects associated with C3G. The vasorelaxant effect is a mechanism underlying the synthesis and release of nitric oxide (NO). Neither cholinergic receptors nor prostaglandins are involved. ME and C3G cause cardiovascular depression in anesthetized rats via cholinergic and prostanoid mechanisms. Our research expands the scientific understanding of the flowers on the rat cardiovascular system. This amplifies the appreciation of the flower’s ethnomedicine employed to control blood pressure. However, researchers need to conduct toxicity studies to determine the safety of this plant.
One-Pot Preparation of HCPT@IRMOF-3 Nanoparticles for pH-Responsive Anticancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Cheng Hongda
Published: November 2023

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are considered to be promising materials for drug delivery. In this work, a Zinc-based MOF nanocomposite IRMOF-3 was introduced as a drug carrier for 10-hydroxycamptothecine (HCPT). Without an extra drug-loading process, a nanoscale drug delivery material HCPT@IRMOF-3 was prepared via one-pot synthesis. The composition and structure of the material were investigated, and the drug release character was measured. Compared with preparing IRMOF-3 first and loading the drug, the one-pot-prepared HCPT@IRMOF-3 exhibited a higher drug-loading capacity. The material presented pH-responsive release. The HCPT release rate at pH 5.0 was significantly higher than that at pH 7.4. The cytotoxicity experiments showed that IRMOF-3 was non-toxic, and HCPT@IRMOF-3 exhibited notable cytotoxicity to Hela and SH-SY5Y cells. One-pot synthesis is a simple and rapid method for the preparation of an MOF drug delivery system, and IRMOF-3 can be potentially used in pH-responsive drug delivery systems.
New Perspectives on Circulating Ferritin: Its Role in Health and Disease
Authors: Fonseca Óscar , Ramos Ana S. , Gomes Leonor T. S. , Gomes Maria Salomé , Moreira Ana C.
Published: November 2023

The diagnosis of iron disturbances usually includes the evaluation of serum parameters. Serum iron is assumed to be entirely bound to transferrin, and transferrin saturation—the ratio between the serum iron concentration and serum transferrin—usually reflects iron availability. Additionally, serum ferritin is commonly used as a surrogate of tissue iron levels. Low serum ferritin values are interpreted as a sign of iron deficiency, and high values are the main indicator of pathological iron overload. However, in situations of inflammation, serum ferritin levels may be very high, independently of tissue iron levels. This presents a particularly puzzling challenge for the clinician evaluating the overall iron status of the patient in the presence of an inflammatory condition. The increase in serum ferritin during inflammation is one of the enigmas regarding iron metabolism. Neither the origin, the mechanism of release, nor the effects of serum ferritin are known. The use of serum ferritin as a biomarker of disease has been rising, and it has become increasingly diverse, but whether or not it contributes to controlling the disease or host pathology, and how it would do it, are important, open questions. These will be discussed here, where we spotlight circulating ferritin and revise the recent clinical and preclinical data regarding its role in health and disease.
Enhanced Adsorption of Textile Dyes by a Novel Sulfonated Activated Carbon Derived from Pomegranate Peel Waste: Isotherm, Kinetic and Thermodynamic Study
Authors: Thamer Badr M. , Al-aizari Faiz A. , Abdo Hany S.
Published: November 2023

The rapid growth of the dye and textile industry has raised significant public concerns regarding the pollution caused by dye wastewater, which poses potential risks to human health. In this study, we successfully improved the adsorption efficiency of activated carbon derived from pomegranate peel waste (PPAC) through a single-step and surface modification approach using 5-sulfonate-salicylaldehyde sodium salt. This innovative and effective sulfonation approach to produce sulfonated activated carbon (S-PPAC) proved to be highly effective in removing crystal violet dye (CV) from polluted water. The prepared PPAC and S-PPAC were characterized via FESEM, EDS, FTIR and BET surface area. Characterization studies confirmed the highly porous structure of the PPAC and its successful surface modification, with surface areas reaching 1180.63 m2/g and 740.75 m2/g for the PPAC and S-PPAC, respectively. The maximum adsorption capacity was achieved at 785.53 mg/g with the S-PPAC, an increase of 22.76% compared to the PPAC at 45 °C. The isothermic adsorption and kinetic studies demonstrated that the adsorption process aligned well with the Freundlich isotherm model and followed the Elovich kinetic model, respectively. The thermodynamic study confirmed that the adsorption of CV dye was endothermic, spontaneous and thermodynamically favorable onto PPAC and S-PPAC.
Fractional Factorial Design to Evaluate the Synthesis and Electrochemical Transfer Parameters of h-BN Coatings
Authors: Figueroa Helen , Aristizabal Juliet , Reinoso-Guerra Elías , Arce Bárbara , Vargas-Straube María José , Gentil Dana , Ramírez Cristian , Cordero José , Barrera Nelson P. , Parra Carolina
Published: November 2023

In this study, we present a fractional factorial design approach for exploring the effects and interactions of key synthesis and electrochemical transfer parameters on the roughness and wettability of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) coatings, due to their essential role in biofilm formation. The studied parameters for the synthesis process include precursor mass, growth time, and substrate conditioning, whereas for the transfer process, applied voltage and aqueous medium concentration were studied. Through this polynomial model, we confirmed the strong influence of precursor mass and medium concentration parameters on h-BN surface roughness and its resulting antibiofilm properties.
Dynamical Sensitivity of Three-Layer Micro Electromechanical Systems to the Optical Properties of the Intervening Liquid Layer
Authors: Tajik Fatemeh , Palasantzas George
Published: November 2023

Here, we investigate the actuation dynamics of a micro device with different intervening liquids between the actuating components under the influence of Casimir and dissipative hydrodynamic forces. This is enabled via phase space portraits, which demonstrate that by increasing the dielectric response of the intervening layer the autonomous device may not come into stiction due to the decreasing in magnitude Casmir force. Unlike the micro devices that are placed in vacuum with an intervening liquid, the phase portraits show only a spiral trajectory which eventually stops at a rest position due to the strong energy dissipation by the position dependent hydrodynamic drag forces, even when considering sufficiently strong restoring forces. Moreover, it is feasible to expand the area of motion using intervening liquids with lower dynamic viscosity or increasing the slip length of the intervening fluid. Finally, under the influence of an external driven force, which is the realistic case for possible applications, the system can reach stable oscillation at larger separations with an amplitude higher for the liquid that led to lower Casimir and hydrodynamic forces. Hence, the results presented in this study are essential for studying the dynamical behavior of MEMS and their design in liquid environments.
Climate Factors Affect Above–Belowground Biomass Allocation in Broad-Leaved and Coniferous Forests by Regulating Soil Nutrients
Authors: Zhang Xing , Zhou Yongzhi , Ji Yuhui , Yu Mengyao , Li Xinyi , Duan Jie , Wang Yun , Gao Jie , Guo Xiali
Published: November 2023

The allocation of plant biomass above and below ground reflects their strategic resource utilization, crucial for understanding terrestrial carbon flux dynamics. In our comprehensive study, we analyzed biomass distribution patterns in 580 broadleaved and 345 coniferous forests across China from 2005 to 2020, aiming to discern spatial patterns and key drivers of belowground biomass proportion (BGBP) in these ecosystems. Our research revealed a consistent trend: BGBP decreases from northwest to southeast in both forest types. Importantly, coniferous forests exhibited significantly higher BGBP compared to broadleaved forests (p < 0.001). While precipitation and soil nutrients primarily influenced biomass allocation in broadleaved forests, temperature and soil composition played a pivotal role in coniferous forests. Surprisingly, leaf traits had a negligible impact on BGBP (p > 0.05). Climatic factors, such as temperature and rainfall, influenced biomass partitioning in both strata by altering soil nutrients, particularly soil pH. These findings provide valuable insights into understanding carbon sequestration dynamics in forest ecosystems and improving predictions of the future trajectory of this critical carbon cycle component.
In Vitro Conservation of Mexican Garlic Varieties by Minimal Growth
Authors: Tirado Bibiana , Gómez-Rodríguez Víctor Manuel , Cruz-Cárdenas Carlos Iván , Zelaya-Molina Lily Xochilt , Ramírez-Vega Humberto , Sandoval-Cancino Gabriela
Published: November 2023

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the 30 crops that are essential for world food; therefore, its conservation should be considered a priority. There are two main plant conservation strategies: in situ and ex situ conservation. Both strategies are important; nevertheless, ex situ field conservation is affected by biotic and abiotic factors. A complementary strategy to preserve garlic germplasm in the medium term is through in vitro culture by minimal growth. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro conservation of three Mexican garlic varieties by minimal growth. Garlic plants obtained from in vitro garlic bulbs were preserved in six culture media at 25, 18, and 5 °C. A randomized design was used and an analysis of the variance of the survival, contamination, and shoot height of the explants was performed at 30, 60, 90, 180, 270, and 365 days of culture. The results showed that the in vitro conservation of Pebeco, Tacátzcuaro Especial, and Huerteño garlic varieties was optimally obtained for one year at 5 °C in a basal Murashige and Skoog (MS) culture medium with 68.46 g L−1 sucrose and 36.43 g L−1 sorbitol. Thus, the achieved protocol can be adapted to other varieties of garlic for medium-term storage in germplasm banks.
Responses of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) to Single and Consortium Bio-Fertilizers in Clay and Newly Reclaimed Soils
Authors: Mahmoud Ghada Abd-Elmonsef , Abeed Amany H. A. , Mostafa Hassan H. A. , Abdel Monsef Omaima
Published: November 2023

The huge development of climatic change highly affects our crop production and soil fertility. Also, the rise in the uncontrolled, excessive use of chemical fertilizers diminishes the soil prosperity and generates pollutants, threatening all environmental life forms, including us. Replacement of these chemical fertilizers with natural ones is becoming an inevitable environmental strategy. In our study, we evaluated the responses of Pisum sativum L. to the action of single species and consortiums of plant growth-promoting bacteria (Azotobacter chroococcum, Bacillus megaterium, and Bacillus cerkularice) in clay and new reclaimed soil types in terms of phenotype, yield components, and physiological and biochemical responses. Data analysis showed single or consortium microbial inoculation significantly increased the measured traits under clay and calcareous sandy soils compared to the control. Shoot physiological and biochemical activities, and seed biochemical activities were significantly enhanced with the inoculation of pea seeds with three types of bacteria in both soil types. The bud numbers, fresh weight, and seeds’ dry weight increased in seeds treated with A. chroococcum and B. megaterium in the sandy soil. Taken together, these findings suggested that the inoculation of plants with PGP bacteria could be used to diminish the implementation of chemical fertilizer and improve the goodness of agricultural products. These findings expand the understanding of the responsive mechanism of microbial inoculation under different soil types, especially at physiological and biochemical levels.
Micropropagation and Acclimatization of Gymnocalycium cv. Fancy (Cactaceae): Developmental Responses to Different Explant Types and Hormone Conditions
Authors: Cortés-Olmos Carles , Guerra-Sandoval Vladimir , Blanca-Giménez Vicente , Rodríguez-Burruezo Adrián
Published: November 2023

The Gymnocalycium genus includes numerous highly valued species in the ornamental plant market and their propagation is usually carried out using traditional methods. However, there is a lack of information regarding the efficiency of micropropagation through in vitro tissue culture techniques on these species. So, with the objective of establishing an efficient micropropagation protocol that allows for optimizing the plant obtaining processes, the morphogenic potential of Gymnocalycium cv. Fancy has been studied in this work. For this purpose, plants of two different sizes (medium and large) were used as the starting material, from which three types of explants were obtained (apex, central discs and bases). The effect of three plant growth regulators (6-Benzylaminopurine, BAP; Kinetin, KIN; and Thidiazuron, TDZ) at three different concentrations each were studied, and the number of generated shoots, the frequency of appearance of callogenesis and rhizogenesis by explant and condition were assessed. An efficient protocol based on the use of KIN at 4 µM and central discs as a starting explant was developed. Moreover, the obtained sprouts rooted successfully (especially using BAP at 2 µM), and their subsequent acclimatization was very effective. Furthermore, emergence of a new morphotype is presented, that has not previously been described.
Spatial and Temporal Characteristics of Phytoplankton Communities in Drinking Water Source Reservoirs in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Liang Qiting , Jin Xingliang , Feng Jie , Wu Shenhao , Wu Jiajia , Liu Ying , Xie Zixin , Li Zhi , Chen Chunxing
Published: November 2023

Phytoplankton diversity and community characteristics are closely associated with aquatic environmental factors. Understanding these dynamics can provide insights into the ecological health of water bodies. We investigate the spatial and temporal characteristics of phytoplankton communities in 27 drinking water source reservoirs in Shenzhen, China. As a method, we collected samples during the dry season in 2021 and the wet season in 2022, analyzed the alpha and beta diversities of phytoplankton communities, and correlated these with the environmental factors. The results reveal that Cyanobacteria dominate the phytoplankton communities in the Shenzhen reservoirs. Phytoplankton diversity is greater during the dry season. The algal composition varies spatially, and the phytoplankton diversity tends to decrease with increasing eutrophication. A co-occurrence network analysis indicates denser and stronger correlations among phytoplankton nodes during the wet season than dry season. Reservoirs with moderate eutrophication levels exhibit denser nodes and stronger correlations compared to those with low or high eutrophication levels. The chemical oxygen demand, water temperature, pH, and total nitrogen are identified as key influencers of the phytoplankton community structure. Our results contribute to the enhanced understanding of the spatial and temporal dynamics of phytoplankton communities in reservoirs in South China and provides insights into the management and conservation of these drinking water reservoirs.
The Fungus Beauveria bassiana Alters Amounts of Sterols, Fatty Acids, and Hydroxycinnamic Acids in Potato Solanum tuberosum
Authors: Tyurin Maksim , Chernyak Elena , Tomilova Oksana , Tolokonnikova Khristina , Malysh Svetlana M. , Khramova Elena , Morozov Sergey , Kryukov Vadim
Published: November 2023

The entomopathogenic endophytic fungus Beauveria bassiana can colonize plants resulting in growth promotion and protection against phytopathogenic microorganisms. However, physiological changes in potato plants (Solanum tuberosum) during this interaction are poorly understood. In the present work, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography were used to analyze sterol, fatty acid, and phenolic acid concentrations in potato plants inoculated with B. bassiana conidia in soil. We showed an increase in amounts of stigmasterol, minor sterol compounds, and some hydroxy fatty acids in leaves after the fungal treatment. Moreover, levels of hydroxycinnamic acids, especially chlorogenic acid, were elevated in roots following the B. bassiana inoculation. We propose that these changes could have been caused by oxidative reactions, and the alterations may have resulted in growth-stimulatory and protective effects of B. bassiana on the plants.
The Chemical Characterisation of the Maritime Pine Bark Cultivated in Northern Portugal
Authors: Barros Diana , Fernandes Élia , Jesus Meirielly , Barros Lillian , Alonso-Esteban José Ignacio , Pires Preciosa , Vaz Velho Manuela
Published: November 2023

Maritime pine, scientifically known as Pinus pinaster, holds a vital role in Iberian Peninsula forests, primarily as a source of wood for panels, paper, and cellulose production. Recently, there has been a growing interest in utilising agroforestry by-products to yield valuable chemicals for applications in various sectors, including the food, pharmaceutical, and bioenergy industries. This study aimed to assess the value of the primary by-product of Pinus pinaster from the Minho region of northwestern Portugal, i.e., the bark. The research extensively examined the bark’s chemical and thermal characteristics, including ash content, extractives, lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose, fatty acids, and mineral composition. Additionally, various analytical techniques like FTIR, SEM, DSC, DTG, and XRD were used to observe chemical structure differences. The results reveal that the Pinus pinaster bark primarily consists of lignin (51.15%) and holocellulose (46.09%), with extractives mainly soluble in toluene–ethanol, followed by water, and a small amount of them are soluble in ethanol. The bark contained around 0.44% ash, and heavy metals such as Cd and Pb were not found. During degradation, Pinus pinaster experienced a 10% mass loss at 140 °C. In terms of crystallinity, holocellulose and cellulose showed similar percentages at approximately 25.5%, while α-cellulose displayed the highest crystallinity index at 41%.
On the Mechanism of the Ionizing Radiation-Induced Degradation and Recycling of Cellulose
Authors: List Richard , Gonzalez-Lopez Lorelis , Ashfaq Aiysha , Zaouak Amira , Driscoll Mark , Al-Sheikhly Mohamad
Published: November 2023

The use of ionizing radiation offers a boundless range of applications for polymer scientists, from inducing crosslinking and/or degradation to grafting a wide variety of monomers onto polymeric chains. This review in particular aims to introduce the field of ionizing radiation as it relates to the degradation and recycling of cellulose and its derivatives. The review discusses the main mechanisms of the radiolytic sessions of the cellulose molecules in the presence and absence of water. During the radiolysis of cellulose, in the absence of water, the primary and secondary electrons from the electron beam, and the photoelectric, Compton effect electrons from gamma radiolysis attack the glycosidic bonds (C-O-C) on the backbone of the cellulose chains. This radiation-induced session results in the formation of alkoxyl radicals and C-centered radicals. In the presence of water, the radiolytically produced hydroxyl radicals (●OH) will abstract hydrogen atoms, leading to the formation of C-centered radicals, which undergo various reactions leading to the backbone session of the cellulose. Based on the structures of the radiolytically produced free radicals in presence and absence of water, covalent grafting of vinyl monomers on the cellulose backbone is inconceivable.
Path Planning and Bending Behaviors of 3D Printed Continuous Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Honeycomb Structures
Authors: Wang Kui , Wang Depeng , Liu Yisen , Gao Huijing , Yang Chengxing , Peng Yong
Published: November 2023

Continuous fiber reinforced polymer composites are widely used in load-bearing components and energy absorbers owing to their high specific strength and high specific modulus. The path planning of continuous fiber is closely related to its structural defects and mechanical properties. In this work, continuous fiber reinforced polymer honeycomb structures (CFRPHSs) with different printing paths were designed and fabricated via the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique. The investigation of fiber dislocation at path corners was utilized to analyze the structural defects of nodes caused by printing paths. The lower stiffness nodes filled with pure polymer due to fiber dislocation result in uneven stiffness distribution. The bending performance and deformation modes of CFRPHSs with different printing paths and corresponding pure polymer honeycomb structures were investigated by three-point bending tests. The results showed that the enhancement effect of continuous fibers on the bending performance of honeycomb structures was significantly affected by the printing paths. The CFRPHSs with a staggered trapezoidal path exhibited the highest specific load capacity (68.33 ± 2.25 N/g) and flexural stiffness (627.70 ± 38.78 N/mm). In addition, the fiber distributions and structural defects caused by the printing paths determine the stiffness distribution of the loading region, thereby affecting the stress distribution and failure modes of CFRPHSs.
Medial Ball-in-Socket Posterior Cruciate-Sacrificing Total Knee Arthroplasty: Clinical, Functional and Radiographic Evaluation of 100 Consecutive Implants
Authors: Giannotti Stefano , Crippa Orlandi Nicholas , Troiano Elisa , Cacioppo Matteo , Giacché Tiziano , Greco Tommaso , Perisano Carlo , Mondanelli Nicola
Published: November 2023

The number of performed total knee arthroplasty (TKA) operations is constantly growing. This study proposes an evaluation of a series of patients undergoing medial pivot (MP) TKA surgery from a subjective, clinical and biomechanical point of view. A consecutive series of 100 TKAs implanted in a single centre, by the same surgeon, with a medial parapatellar approach with the sacrifice of the posterior cruciate ligament and cemented components were evaluated. All patients underwent standardized radiographic and functional clinical evaluation, with standing antero-posterior, lateral and patellar axial views; pre-operatively and post-operatively at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months; and then annually. Results were evaluated using three different patient-related outcome measurement scores (PROMs): the Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), the new Knee Society Score (nKSS) and the Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36). Excellent results in all treated knees were documented using the PROMs: the mean nKSS was 199.8, the mean KOOS was good to excellent in every subscale, and the mean was SF-36 82%. There were no cases of septic or aseptic loosening, vascular damage, neurological damage, or revision surgery for any reason. According to the experience gained, MP implants demonstrated excellent results, being clinically functional in both objective and subjective terms as well as radiographic evaluations, thus resulting in a winning strategy for obtaining a TKA that makes the patient satisfied and able to perform their daily life activities.
Decolonising Classroom Management and Its Political Hegemony in Universities
Authors: Omodan Bunmi Isaiah
Published: November 2023

This theoretical opinion paper responds to the existing colonial hegemony in university classrooms. The study is underpinned by decoloniality with objectives to conceptualise decoloniality as a theoretical lens for classroom management and to present the assumptions of decoloniality as an effective classroom management system in universities. The study is located within a transformative worldview, and the argument was analysed using conceptual analysis as a tool to make sense of the argument deductively. The study argued that knowledge production through dialogue, advocating for the weaker voices in the classroom, and challenging power structures are dimensions needed to decolonise classroom management in the university system. The study concludes with the need to promote an atmosphere that encourages discussion, provides opportunities for underrepresented groups to take centre stage, and facilitates bravery from its members towards oppressive systems within the classroom.
Description of a Highly Modified Endemic Ground Beetle (Coleoptera, Carabidae) from the Oceanic Island of Malpelo, Colombia
Authors: Moret Pierre , Arenas-Clavijo Anderson , López-Victoria Mateo
Published: November 2023

The oceanic island of Malpelo, 380 km west of the Colombian mainland, stands out from other islands of the Tropical Eastern Pacific by its harsh environment and depauperate flora and fauna, thus imposing strong selective pressure on the small number of invertebrates that inhabit it. The endemic taxon described here, Dyscolus (Cacothrix) malpelensis, n. subgen., n. sp. (Carabidae, Platynini), is a remarkable example of adaptation to this unique ecosystem. The modifications of its body shape, including a tight coaptation of elytra and pronotum, might be a response to strong environmental constraints, from predation by lizards and land crabs to the absence of deep soil that forces the beetle to seek shelter in caves and rock crevices.
Two Decades of Architects’ and Urban Planners’ Contribution to Urban Agriculture and Health Research in Africa
Authors: Konou Akuto Akpedze , Kemajou Mbianda Armel Firmin , Munyaka Baraka Jean-Claude , Chenal Jérôme
Published: November 2023

Urban agriculture (UA) is an ancient practice in Africa that meets social- and health-related needs. However, it is unclear whether architects and urban planners have incorporated the topic into their research and practices. This study aimed to assess the scientific contributions of these fields to UA and their relevance compared to other disciplines. The research objectives were to evaluate the trends in the subject, architects’ and planners’ involvement, and the effects of UA on health in Africa. As a method, a review was conducted using Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The research query was (“urban agriculture” OR “urban farming”) AND Africa AND (“health” OR “global health” OR “urban health”), and the time frame considered was January 2000 to December 2020. Zotero, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Excel, and VOSviewer were used to collect and analyze metadata. After excluding duplicates, a total of n = 390 articles were involved. The results displayed the mixed health effects of UA, a growing interest in the topic with prominence on food security, and evidence from public health, not architecture and planning. The study recommends more theoretical research on UA by architects, which should be translated into policies and implementation.
Employment Trends in Northern Italy’s Medium-Sized Cities from 2012 to the Shock of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Group of Cities in Distress?
Authors: Clerici Maria Antonietta
Published: November 2023

In a globalised economy, metropolises seem to have an ‘extra gear’ compared to smaller urban centres: they attract the most skilled businesses, drive innovation in many fields and can count on material and immaterial assets that foster greater resilience to adverse events of various kinds. Against the dynamism of metropolises, which evolutionary paths do medium-sized cities (MSCs) follow? This paper focuses on the case of Northern Italy and explores employment trends between 2012 and 2020 in 189 MSCs with a population of between 20,000 and 200,000 inhabitants. The evolutionary trajectories of these cities and their varying specialisations are investigated over a period marked by a moderate recovery of the Italian economy following the Great Recession and by a further setback caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In general, in terms of employment performance, the 189 cities in question were less dynamic than the metropolises, but it is nevertheless necessary to look at their individual circumstances in detail. Furthermore, this work shows significant differences between the MSCs of the Northwest and Northeast in terms of evolutionary trajectories and specialisation profiles. The most problematic situations also relate to cities with a hub status in the wider context and do not only concentrate where a production structure is present that is linked to industry.
Comparison of the Immunogenicity and Efficacy of rBCG-EPCP009, BCG Prime-EPCP009 Booster, and EPCP009 Protein Regimens as Tuberculosis Vaccine Candidates
Authors: Wang Ruihuan , Fan Xueting , Xu Da , Li Machao , Zhao Xiuqin , Cao Bin , Qian Chengyu , Yu Jinjie , Fang Dan’ang , Gu Yujie , Wan Kanglin , Liu Haican
Published: November 2023

Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) is the only widely used prophylactic tuberculosis (TB) vaccine that can prevent severe TB in infants. However, it provides poor protection in adults, and therefore, there is ongoing research into new TB vaccines and immunization strategies with more durable immune effects. The recombinant BCG and BCG prime-protein booster are two important vaccine strategies that have recently been developed based on BCG and could improve immune responses. In this study, three immune strategies based on four protective antigens, namely, ESAT-6, CFP-10, nPPE18, and nPstS1, were applied to construct recombinant rBCG-EPCP009, EPCP009 subunit protein, and BCG prime-EPCP009 booster vaccine candidates. The short- and long-term immune effects after vaccination in Balb/c mice were evaluated based on humoral immunity, cellular immunity, and the ability of spleen cells to inhibit in vitro mycobacterial growth. At 8 and 12 weeks after the initial immunization, splenocytes from mice inoculated with the BCG prime-EPCP009 protein booster secreted higher levels of PPD- and EPCP009-specific IFN-γ, IL-2, TNF-α, IL-17, GM-CSF, and IL-12 and had a higher IFN-γ+CD4+ TEM:IL-2+CD8+ TCM cell ratio than splenocytes from mice inoculated with the rBCG-EPCP009 and EPCP009 proteins. In addition, the EPCPE009-specific IgG2a/IgG1 ratio was slightly higher in the BCG prime-EPCP009 protein booster group than in the other two groups. The in vitro mycobacterial inhibition assay showed that the splenocytes of mice from the BCG prime-EPCP009 protein booster group exhibited stronger inhibition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) growth than the splenocytes of mice from the other two groups. These results indicate that the BCG prime-EPCP009 protein booster exhibited superior immunogenicity and M. tuberculosis growth inhibition to the parental BCG, rBCG-EPCP009, and EPCP009 proteins under in vitro conditions. Thus, the BCG prime-EPCP009 protein booster may be important for the development of a more effective adult TB vaccine.
Evaluation of Smallpox Vaccination Coverage and Attitude towards Monkeypox Vaccination among Healthcare Workers in an Italian University Hospital
Authors: Scarinci Sergio , Padovan Martina , Cosci Bianca , Petillo Armando , Gattini Vittorio , Cosentino Francesca , Mignani Aldo , Foddis Rudy , Guglielmi Giovanni
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: In 2022, monkeypox (Mpox) was declared a public health emergency. The European Medicines Agency has authorized the use of Imvanex/Jynneos, a smallpox vaccine, for coverage against pox. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are all considered by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control to be at risk, but in Italy, vaccination was offered only to laboratory personnel. The present study aims to investigate smallpox vaccination coverage (VC) that provides protection against Mpox among HCWs in an Italian university hospital and to assess HCWs’ attitudes towards the possibility of getting vaccinated against Mpox. (2) Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey. 336 HCWs from selected wards were asked to fill out a self-declaration to collect their sex, profession, ward, vaccination status, and attitude toward Mpox vaccination. (3) Results: 60.71% of HCWs involved provided the requested data; 38.7% of them were previously vaccinated against smallpox, which corresponds to 23.5% of the total HCWs in the wards considered. Considering those born before 1979 as vaccinated, VC increases from 23.5% to 41.7%; the percentage of HCWs who adhered to vaccination is 23%; laboratory technicians showed a lower willingness to be vaccinated. The ward with the highest willingness to vaccinate is proctological surgery. (4) Conclusions: Based on our experience, a variability in smallpox VC and in willingness to vaccination has emerged both among different job titles and age categories and across the wards analyzed. Additionally, our survey reveals that vaccination attitudes are higher among HCWs from wards that currently do not have free access to such vaccinations.
Uneventful COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination in a Cohort of Patients with Prior Myocarditis
Authors: Baritussio Anna , Giordani Andrea Silvio , Basso Cristina , Vicenzetto Cristina , Lorenzoni Giulia , Gasparin Matteo , Iliceto Sabino , Scarpa Bruno , Gregori Dario , Marcolongo Renzo , Caforio Alida Linda Patrizia
Published: November 2023

Myocarditis has in rare cases been associated with COVID-19 infection and has emerged as a possible rare side effect of vaccination with anti-COVID-19 messenger RNA vaccines. However, little is known about possible COVID-19 infection- and/or vaccination-related myocarditis relapse in patients with previous clinically suspected or biopsy-proven myocarditis. Myocarditis may relapse, particularly in females with immune-mediated/autoimmune features and a predisposing immunogenetic background. We aimed to assess the prevalence of myocarditis relapse during the COVID-19 outbreak and following COVID-19 vaccination in a cohort of patients with prior myocarditis. We included in the analysis myocarditis patients on active follow-up, for whom COVID-19 infection and vaccination statuses were known, and collected data on clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic findings, and myocarditis relapse. We enrolled 409 patients, of whom 114 (28%) reported COVID-19 infection and 347 (85%) completed the vaccination scheme. Only one patient, having COVID-19 infection before the vaccination campaign started, was admitted to hospital because of pneumonia; the remaining patients had an uneventful COVID-19 infection course, with only mild symptoms. No myocarditis relapse was recorded following COVID-19 infection or vaccination. Moreover, the frequency of new myocarditis cases following the COVID-19 outbreak was not different compared to the three-year period preceding the COVID-19 era. In conclusion, in our cohort of patients with prior myocarditis, both COVID-19 infection and vaccination were uneventful.
Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strains Thrive in Dairy and Beef Production, Processing, and Supply Lines in Five Geographical Areas in Ethiopia
Authors: Gizaw Fikru , Kekeba Tolera , Teshome Fikadu , Kebede Matewos , Abreham Tekeste , Berhe Halefom Hishe , Ayana Dinka , Edao Bedaso Mammo , Waktole Hika , Tufa Takele Beyene , Abunna Fufa , Beyi Ashenafi Feyisa , Abdi Reta Duguma
Published: November 2023

Livestock, farms, abattoirs, and food supply systems can become the source of foodborne pathogens, including S. aureus, in the absence of monitoring, general hygienic practices, and control. Studies are scarce on reservoirs (hiding places) and routes of entry of S. aureus into the food supply chain in Ethiopia. To fill these gaps, we evaluated the role of cows (milk), meat, equipment, and food handlers on the abundance and AMR of S. aureus in five geographical areas in central Oromia, Ethiopia. We isolated S. aureus from 10 different ecologies per area in 5 areas and tested their sensitivity to 14 antimicrobials of 9 different classes. We ranked the 5 areas and 10 ecologies by computing their multiple AMR index (MARI) at a cut-off value of 0.2 to determine ‘high-risk’ ecologies for AMR. We recorded as MDR if an isolate had resistance to ≥3 antimicrobial classes. We used a circos diagram to analyze if isolates with identical AMR patterns were shared between different ecologies. S. aureus is prevalent in central Oromia (16.1–18.3%), higher in dairy farms than in abattoirs, and varied among 10 ecologies (p < 0.001) but not among 5 areas (p > 0.05). Of the 92 isolates, 94.6% were penicillin-resistant. Their AMR prevalence was above 40% for 9 of 14 antimicrobials. All isolates (100%) had AMR in at least one antimicrobial class (range = 1–9; median = 5), indicating MDR was prevalent. The prevalence of MDR S. aureus varied (p < 0.05) among areas and 10 ecologies; the highest was in slaughter lines. All isolates had a MARI of >0.2, indicating drug overuse, and S. aureus’s AMR burden is high in central Oromia. Dairy farms had higher MARI values (0.44) than abattoirs (0.39). Of 10 ecologies, the highest and lowest MARI values were in the beef supply chain, i.e., slaughter line (0.67) and butcher’s hand (0.25). Of the 68 different AMR patterns by 92 isolates against 14 antimicrobials, 53 patterns (77.9%) were unique to individual isolates, indicating they were phenotypically dissimilar. MDR S. aureus was widespread in central Oromia in dairy and meat supply chains, contaminating milk, meat, equipment, and workers in farm and abattoir settings. In the absence of strict regulations and interventions, MDR S. aureus can be disseminated from these epicenters to the public.
Layout Optimization and Performance Analysis of Vehicle Suspension System Using an Electromagnetic Inerter
Authors: Luo Chen , Yang Xiaofeng , Jia Zhihong , Liu Changning
Published: November 2023

The inerter is a vibration isolation device used to replace the mass element in classical vibration isolation theory. The introduction of an inerter into a vehicle suspension system can greatly improve the performance of the system. An electromagnetic inerter is a kind of device that can realize a complex suspension structure without an additional energy supply and a complicated control system. It not only utilizes hydraulic systems to attain various suspension mechanical structures but also incorporates linear generators to form more intricate electrical networks. In this paper, an approach is proposed to achieve an optimized vehicle suspension layout using an electromagnetic inerter, which promotes the practical application of the device. First, seven suspension layouts are presented based on this device and relevant models are established to optimize the performance of these seven layouts under certain objectives. Then, the influence of three factors of the electrical network, namely linear generator internal resistance, inductance, and linear generator coefficient, on suspension performance is analyzed. At the same time, to ensure the suspension performance of this device is closer to that required for actual engineering applications, the improvement in the vibration isolation performance of the device compared with traditional passive suspension is discussed considering these three factors. The final results show that when considering the real-world situation, the L1 and L4 layouts can achieve excellent performance improvement, with RMS(BA) values of only 85.73% and 84.66% of the traditional passive suspension.
The Effect of Climate Change on the Hydropower Potential in the Kunhar River Watershed, Pakistan
Authors: Akbar Haseeb , Nilsalab Pariyapat , Silalertruksa Thapat , Gheewala Shabbir H.
Published: November 2023

Climate change plays a vital role in the hydrology of any river basin, which may have multidimensional consequences. There is a need to conduct climate change impact assessment studies with updated models and scenarios. This study aimed to assess the impact of climate change on the streamflow and hydropower in Pakistan’s Kunhar River basin. Three general circulation models (GCMs), under two Shared Socioeconomic Pathway scenarios (SSPs 2–45 and 5–85), the Soil and Water Assessment Tool, and the flow duration curve were used to project the change in climatic parameters, streamflow, and hydropower potential, respectively. The findings indicated that in the 2080s, the precipitation, maximum, and minimum temperatures are projected to increase by 10%, 2.0 °C, and 3.0 °C under the SSP 2–45 scenario and are projected to increase by 8%, 3.7 °C, and 4.4 °C under the SSP 5–85 scenario, respectively. The annual streamflow may increase by 15 to 11%, and the seasonal fluctuations are more likely to be dominant compared with the annual fluctuations. The hydropower potential will probably increase by 24 to 16% under the SSP 2–45 and 5–85 scenarios in the 2080s. However, seasonal changes in streamflow and hydropower may impact the hydropower plant operation in the basin. The Kunhar River’s hydrology may change from snow-fed to a rainfall–runoff river.
Estilos de aprendizaje y rendimiento académico en estudiantes de una universidad nacional peruana
Authors: Orosco Toribio Eduardo Gottardo , Orosco León Omar Eduardo , Salguero Alcala Ginger Kimberly , Vega Vilca Carlos Sixto
Published: November 2023

El rendimiento académico es una preocupación constante, tanto de los maestros como de los estudiantes, debido a que es el resultado de las enseñanzas que se dan en clase; es por ello, que últimamente se ha considerado de suma importancia los diferentes estilos de aprendizaje que desarrollan los estudiantes. El objetivo fue establecer la relación entre los estilos de aprendizaje y el desempeño académico en discentes de enfermería. La metodología fue por medio de la investigación descriptiva, correlacional y no experimental. El instrumento fue un cuestionario de estilos de aprendizaje de Alonso et al. (CHAEA) y las actas promocionales para el rendimiento académico. Como resultados se mostró una correlación positiva fuerte con un p=0.856 entre el logro académico y los estilos de aprendizaje. Concluyéndose que el desempeño académico tiene relación directa con el estilo reflexivo y teórico; y, presenta una relación directa moderada con el estilo activo y estilo pragmático.
Plataformas educativas virtuales en el desempeño profesional de docentes de educación básica regular
Authors: Raggio Ramírez Giuliana Del Socorro , Grados Zavala Elizabeth , Tang Almeida Ana Esther , Carpio Valencia Fortunato Edmundo
Published: November 2023

La pandemia por la COVID-19, generó que las instituciones educativas tuviesen que adaptar sus métodos de enseñanzas tradicionales a sesiones online, los cual representó reto a los profesionales de la docencia. Por ello, el propósito de este estudio analizar la incidencia de la gestión de plataformas educativas virtuales en el desempeño profesional en docentes de educación básica regular. Se utilizó un enfoque cuantitativo con diseño no experimental de corte transversal-correlacional causal. Se aplicaron dos cuestionarios con escala tipo Likert a una muestra de 50 docentes. Los resultados indican que la gestión de plataformas educativas virtuales influye significativamente en el desempeño profesional de los docentes, lo que tiene implicaciones importantes para mejorar el aprendizaje de los estudiantes. Se obtuvo un valor de Wald de 19,005 y p: ,016 < ,050, lo que indica que la influencia de las plataformas educativas virtuales es estadísticamente significativa. En conclusión, el uso de plataformas educativas virtuales es un factor clave en el desempeño profesional docente en educación básica regular.
Reservatório para armazenamento e reaproveitamento de águas pluviais: uma possibilidade para redução do consumo de água no município de Jutaí-AM
Authors: De Oliveira Júnior Mário Jorge Ramos , Pinheiro Érika Cristina Nogueira Marques , Coelho Ilsa Maria Honório de Valois
Published: November 2023

Este artigo tem como objetivo mostrar a necessidade de se maximizar a eficiência do uso dos recursos naturais e o reaproveitamento das águas pluviais no município de Jutaí-Amazonas. Neste sentido, a proposta de instalar um sistema para captação de águas pluviais numa escola pública do município suscitará reflexões na comunidade sobre a redução do desperdício de água, promovendo a conscientização sobre o uso sustentável desse recurso natural. Trata-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica, qualitativa e exploratória, que investe no conhecimento técnico sobre os Sistemas de Armazenamento de Águas Pluviais (SAAP) e na disseminação da ideia de viabilidade desses sistemas no município de Jutaí. Foi considerada a falta de infraestrutura adequada nas escolas da rede de ensino público o que torna inviável, no momento, o aproveitamento das águas pluviais no município. No entanto a proposta se justifica principalmente porque a precipitação de chuvas é acentuada naquele município e o abastecimento é feito via poço artesiano, para cujo funcionamento necessita de energia elétrica. Como resultado adicional espera-se um crescimento da consciência sobre a importância do uso sustentável dos recursos disponíveis com base no tripé sociedade, ambiente e economia,  possibilitando uma nova relação mais equilibrada entre o homem e o meio.
Avaliação das manifestações patológicas encontradas durante reforma de um templo religioso na cidade de Manaus-AM: estudo de caso
Authors: Oliveira Edgar Felipe Pereira , Miranda Walzenira Parente , Pinheiro Érika Cristina Nogueira Marques
Published: November 2023

As manifestações patológicas em edificações são problemas que podem surgir em qualquer etapa do processo construtivo e podem se manifestar de diversas maneiras, como fissuras, manchas, eflorescências, corrosão de armadura e deterioração da estrutura de concreto armado. Essas manifestações podem ocorrer muito antes do previsto em projeto, fazendo com que a estrutura tenha a sua durabilidade reduzida, afetam os parâmetros de segurança da construção, demandando recursos monetários consideráveis para recuperar tais estruturas enfermas. Às causas dessas manifestações patológicas podem ser variadas, incluindo problemas de projeto e execução, bem como a falta de manutenção. Antes de se corrigir uma patologia, é necessário saber sobre sua origem e o que pode ter causado tal patologia. Às soluções para essas manifestações patológicas envolvem uma série de medidas preventivas e corretivas. Entre as medidas preventivas estão o controle tecnológico dos materiais empregados, uma padronização e qualidade na execução dos projetos e a realização de manutenções preventivas. Já as medidas corretivas podem incluir a limpeza de superfícies afetadas, impermeabilização das áreas afetadas pela infiltração, recomposição de concreto e armadura e dedetização da estrutura. O presente trabalho apresenta a avaliação das manifestações patológicas encontradas durante a reforma de um templo religioso de 1 pavimento em concreto armado localizado na cidade de Manaus/Am, passando pelas fases de análise estrutural, dimensionamento e detalhamento para por fim, analisar os resultados gerados. Demonstrando assim segurança e conforto para seus possíveis frequentadores.