bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electromobility with Photovoltaic Generation in an Andean City
Authors: Lojano-Riera Bryam Paúl , Flores-Vázquez Carlos , Cobos-Torres Juan-Carlos , Vallejo-Ramírez David , Icaza Daniel
Published: July 2023

This research focuses on the measurement of the solar generation potential on the roads of the Andean city of Cuenca, Ecuador, and its application in electric vehicles. The tests were conducted in real environments, whereby natural and artificial structures obstruct direct radiation to the panel during the trajectory. An initial study is presented with daily operating conditions, using an urban bus route as a case study. The methodology used consists of taking measurements on different days and weather conditions to evaluate the photovoltaic generation and its contribution to the energy autonomy of the electric vehicle. Additionally, the energy autonomy between the electric vehicle with its factory configuration versus the one equipped with the solar panel is compared. For this purpose, a photovoltaic panel is installed on the roof of the vehicle, connected to a control system that monitors the radiation and current data, regulating the charging and discharging of the batteries. The aim is to demonstrate that the installation of solar panels on electric vehicles can significantly increase their energy autonomy. The contribution of this research could serve as an initial guide for governments and private companies to make decisions on the deployment of electric buses, electric vehicles and other vehicles integrated with solar photovoltaic energy, taking into account their routes. The findings of the study reveal that the implementation of the mobile charging system improves the range of the electric vehicle used in this study. In detail, an average increase of 40% in range was achieved in favorable environmental conditions and an increase of 14% in unfavorable environmental conditions. It is important to highlight that Cuenca has favorable conditions for solar systems due to its geographical location: altitude, hours of radiation and angle of incidence.
On the Potential of District-Scale Life Cycle Assessments of Buildings
Authors: Schildt Maximilian , Cuypers Johannes , Shamovich Maxim , Herzogenrath Sonja , Malhotra Avichal , van Treeck Christoph , Frisch Jérôme
Published: July 2023

Climate neutrality goals in the building sector require a large-scale estimation of environmental impacts for various stakeholders. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a viable method for this purpose. However, its high granularity, and subsequent data requirements and effort, hinder its propagation, and potential employment of Machine Learning (ML) applications on a larger scale. The presented paper outlines the current state of research and practice on district-scale building LCA in terms of standards, software and certifications, and data availability. For this matter, the authors present the development and application of two district-scale LCA tools, Teco and DisteLCA, to determine the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of three different residential districts. Both tools employ data based on (including, but not limited to) CityGML, TABULA, and ÖKOBAUDAT. The results indicate that DisteLCA’s granular approach leads to an overestimation of environmental impacts, which can be derived from the statistical approach to operational energy use and related emissions. While both tools lead to substantial time savings, Teco requires less manual effort. The linkage of the aforementioned data sources has proven laborious and could be alleviated with a common data framework. Furthermore, large-scale data analysis could substantially increase the viability of the presented approach.
Novel Approaches to Electrical Machine Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Vaimann Toomas , Antonino-Daviu Jose Alfonso , Rassõlkin Anton
Published: July 2023

The increasing demand for intelligent machines, coupled with the drive for the more efficient utilization of these machines in various industries, and the emergence of Industry 4 [...]
How Are Pine Species Responding to Soil Drought and Climate Change in the Iberian Peninsula?
Authors: González-Zamora Ángel , Almendra-Martín Laura , de Luis Martín , Gaona Jaime , Martínez-Fernández José
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the relationship between soil moisture and the growth of Pinus halepensis, P. nigra, P. sylvestris and P. uncinata, which are some of the main pine species of the Iberian Peninsula, and the response of these species to soil drought. The role played by climatic and geographic factors in the resilience of these species to drought events is also evaluated. A total of 110 locations of the four species studied were selected, with data ranging from 1950 to 2007. The results show that the species that are less dependent on soil moisture best withstood droughts, while those more dependent on it showed better adaptability. Additionally, climatic and geographic factors had a stronger influence on the species’ resilience to soil drought at higher altitudes. The results of this study can help us to better understand forest ecosystem dynamics and their reaction to droughts in Mediterranean areas, where this phenomenon will be much more severe in the future due to climate change.
Effect of Potato Vine and Leaf Mixed Silage to Whole Corn Crops on Rumen Fermentation and the Microbe of Fatten Angus Bulls
Authors: Zhang Siyu , Deng Jiajie , Cui Yafang , Wang Lina , Li Yingqi , Wang Xianli , Min Shengnan , Wang Huili , Zhang Qianzi , Li Peiqi , Luo Yawen , Qiu Xinjun , He Yang , Cao Binghai , Su Huawei
Published: July 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of potato vine and leaf mixed silage (PVS) on rumen fermentation and the microbe in ruminants and to improve the utilization of PVS resources in ruminants through in vitro gas production and feeding trials. The experiment was divided into three groups: PVS1 (50% corn + 50% potato vine and leaf silage), PVS2 (75% potato vine and leaf + 15% rice straw + 10% cornmeal silage) and whole-plant corn silage (CS). The in vitro gas production results showed that there was a significant reduction in PVS groups in the indexes of total gas (p < 0.05) and CH4 production (p < 0.05). The digestibility of dry matter (p < 0.05), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (p < 0.05), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) (p < 0.05) at 48 h were decreased in the PVS group. For the rumen fermentation indexes, the pH (p < 0.05), microbial crude protein (MCP) (p < 0.05), and acetate to propionate (p < 0.05) showed an increase in the PVS group, but a decrease in the total volatile fatty acid concentration (p < 0.05). In the feeding trial, different silages in diets had no significant effect on the rumen fermentation indexes (p > 0.05). In the rumen microbe composition, the PVS diet significantly reduced the abundance of Prevotella (p < 0.05) compared with the CS diet group. The PVS2 diet significantly increased the abundance of the Lachnospiraceae_XPB1014_group (p < 0.05) and Bacteroidales_bacterium_Bact_22 (p < 0.05) compared with the CS diet group. In conclusion, PVS had no negative effect on rumen fermentation characteristics and rumen microbial flora and could significantly reduce rumen gas production compared to CS, positively mitigating animal husbandry CH4 emissions and environmental protection.
Enterococcus faecalis-Aided Fermentation to Facilitate Edible Properties and Bioactive Transformation of Underutilized Cyathea dregei Leaves
Authors: Afolabi Israel Sunmola , Adigun Aderinsola Jumai , Garuba Precious Amaneshi , Ahuekwe Eze Frank , Odutayo Oluwatofunmi E. , Adeyemi Alaba Oladipupo
Published: July 2023

Cyathea dregei (CD) is a weed plant that is rarely consumed. This study investigated the impact of Enterococcus faecalis as an agent of 3–5-day fermentation, thus stimulating the edible properties of the leaves from CD using Talinum fruticosum as the control. The proximate content, biochemical, antioxidant properties, and phytochemical constituents of the unfermented and fermented leaves were examined. The lactate dehydrogenase activity (LDH) activity significantly increased (p < 0.05) due to the fermentation, which peaked on the third day. The fat, ash, and crude fiber constituents of the fermented CD leaves were significantly higher (p < 0.05), especially on day 3, compared to the unfermented leaves of CD. The leaves of CD naturally possess significantly higher (p < 0.05) values of calcium, selenium, magnesium potassium, sodium, zinc, and vitamin C but significantly lower (p < 0.05) values of vitamins A and E compared to those of water leaf. The fermentation aided the synthesis of caffeic acid (61.71 mg/10 g extract), eleven other bioactive phytochemicals (0.14–60.24 mg/10 g extract), two unexplored saponins (P-Scd, 52.05 mg/10 g extract), and a phenolic compound (P-Pcd, 0.23 mg/10 g extract). Four novel intermediary compounds and six other established compounds were freshly identified with fermentation. The leaves of C. dregei are naturally rich in bioactive nutrients and phytochemicals that trigger their strong antioxidant qualities, which were improved by this fermentation technique. E. faecalis is most likely to engage LDH in driving the fermentation transforming the C. dregei into a potential edible vegetable.
The Effects of L-Lysine-α-oxidase Enzyme and Trichoderma harzianum Rifai Culture Liquid on the Formation of Biofilms by Uropathogenic Multiresistant E. coli
Authors: Senyagin Alexander , Sachivkina Nadezhda , Das Milana , Semenova Valentina , Kuznetsova Olga , Ibragimova Alfia
Published: July 2023

In this study, the data of the antagonistic action of the enzyme L-lysine-α-oxidase in relation to clinical isolates of multiresistant uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from patients aged 2 to 17 years of various genders with an established diagnosis of infectious urethritis and/or cystitis are presented. According to the results obtained, the top priority drugs for the treatment of infectious urethritis and/or cystitis are FO (Fosfomycin, 200 µg/disc), IMP (Imipenem, 10 mg/disc), and CIP (Ciprofloxacin, 30 µg/disc). It was found that out of 70 clinical isolates, only 36 of them formed biofilms using the plate method, which is equal to 51.4% of the total number of isolates studied. Despite polyresistance, clinical isolates of E. coli have moderate sensitivity to both the homogeneous enzyme and the culture fluid of the producer. The introduction of an enzyme or culture liquid at an early stage of strain cultivation significantly inhibits the formation of biofilms (91–100%). When introduced at later stages of the experiment—24 h and 48 h—inhibition is less pronounced—20–36% and 5–22%, respectively.
Intelligent Caching with Graph Neural Network-Based Deep Reinforcement Learning on SDN-Based ICN
Authors: Hou Jiacheng , Tao Tianhao , Lu Haoye , Nayak Amiya
Published: July 2023

Information-centric networking (ICN) has gained significant attention due to its in-network caching and named-based routing capabilities. Caching plays a crucial role in managing the increasing network traffic and improving the content delivery efficiency. However, caching faces challenges as routers have limited cache space while the network hosts tens of thousands of items. This paper focuses on enhancing the cache performance by maximizing the cache hit ratio in the context of software-defined networking–ICN (SDN-ICN). We propose a statistical model that generates users’ content preferences, incorporating key elements observed in real-world scenarios. Furthermore, we introduce a graph neural network–double deep Q-network (GNN-DDQN) agent to make caching decisions for each node based on the user request history. Simulation results demonstrate that our caching strategy achieves a cache hit ratio 34.42% higher than the state-of-the-art policy. We also establish the robustness of our approach, consistently outperforming various benchmark strategies.
Diet and Feeding Ecology of the Whitespotted Eagle Ray (Aetobatus narinari) from Florida Coastal Waters Revealed via DNA Barcoding
Authors: Cahill Brianna V. , Eckert Ryan J. , Bassos-Hull Kim , Ostendorf Thomas J. , Voss Joshua D. , DeGroot Breanna C. , Ajemian Matthew J.
Published: July 2023

The whitespotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari) is a highly mobile, predatory batoid distributed throughout shallow, warm–temperate to tropical Atlantic Basin waters from North Carolina to Brazil. The species’ strong, plate-like dentition facilitates the consumption of hard-shelled prey, and due to effective winnowing behavior, it is a significant challenge to identify prey based on soft tissues alone. Here, we report on the first analysis of whitespotted eagle ray diet in Florida waters using visual-based gut content analysis complemented with DNA barcoding. Gut contents were obtained via gastric lavage from 50 individuals collected in the Indian River Lagoon and off Sarasota, Florida. Of the 211 unique prey samples collected, 167 were deemed suitable for sequencing. Approximately 56.3% of samples yielded positive species matches in genetic databases. Results from the sequenced data indicate that the whitespotted eagle ray diet in Florida is mainly comprised of bivalves and gastropods, with variable inclusion of crustaceans. Despite positive identification of venerid clams, there was no evidence for the consumption of hard clams (Mercenaria spp.), a major shellfish aquaculture and restoration species in Florida. Such wide-ranging prey species from various trophic guilds and locations highlight the whitespotted eagle ray’s diverse role in the top-down regulation of coastal benthic communities.
Positioning System for Fishing Fleets’ Tracking and Assistance
Authors: Herrero-Martínez Álvaro , Gutiérrez Miguel A. , Ortega-Piris Andrés , Diaz-Ruiz-Navamuel Emma , Martín-Parra Andrea , Lopez-Diaz Alfonso-Isidro
Published: July 2023

The safety of people working at sea is a subject on which many studies have been carried out. One of the current improvements that has been implemented is the possibility of assigning medical support assistance vessels during specific periods of time, whilst undergoing certain activities or peak seasons in the industry such as fishing seasons. This article proposes an aid system that will support decision making when determining the positioning of such vessels at configurable time intervals, thus shortening the emergency response time. Real data from the vessels, such as coordinates, number of crew, type of fishing gear, etc., are used to carry this out. With the scope of testing the system out, real data from the Spanish fishing fleet in the Bay of Biscay and the medical support assistance vessels available to the Spanish State have been used throughout different seasons. The results obtained convey the “standby” positions for these vessels. The following study of this comparative positioning enables us to calculate the differences between the coordinates calculated by the system and the real positions specified throughout the fishing season. The study also reviews the possibility of improving the emergency response time that would be gained, by increasing the number of medical support assistance vessels for the same area, during the same period.
Techno-Functional and In Vitro Digestibility Properties of Gluten-Free Cookies Made from Raw, Pre-Cooked, and Germinated Chickpea Flours
Authors: Dogruer Ilgin , Coban Basak , Baser Filiz , Gulec Sukru , Ozen Banu
Published: July 2023

Chickpea flour, which is produced in various forms, has high protein and fiber content; therefore, it can be a good ingredient for gluten-free cookies. The objective of this study was to investigate and compare the properties of cookies formulated using raw (RCF), cooked (CCF), and germinated (GCF) chickpea flours. The techno-functional properties of these flours were determined, and scanning electron microscope images and mid-infrared spectra were obtained. The rheological properties of cookie doughs were measured along with their mid-infrared spectra. Baked cookies were analyzed for their technological properties as well as their in vitro digestion properties. Sensory analysis was also performed for all the cookies. The most significant difference among the flours was observed in their water retention capacity, and CCF had 119.7% higher water retention capacity compared to RCF. The dough made with CCF had quite different rheological properties from the others. The cookies baked with GCF had the highest baking loss and spread ratio. The CCF-containing cookies had the hardest structure. The cookies made from RCF had a higher resistant starch content followed by the cookies with GCF. All the cookies had similar scores in all aspects tested in the sensory analysis. The use of three different forms of chickpea flour in cookie formulations resulted in products with very different properties; however, their overall acceptability levels were close.
Exploring the Potential of 87Sr/86Sr Isotope Ratio with Strontium and Rubidium Levels to Assess the Geographic Origin of Saffron
Authors: Horacek Micha , Lage Mounira , Vakhlu Jyoti
Published: July 2023

Saffron is regarded as the most expensive spice, mainly because of its laborious harvest. Only a few countries dominate the global saffron market, with Iran producing by far the most saffron, and the saffron production of all other countries thus being much smaller. However, the respective national production (not only of saffron) is usually preferred by local consumers with respect to foreign products and often has a higher price. Cases of saffron with mislabeled geographic origin have repeatedly occurred. Thus, to protect local saffron production, control of the declared geographic origin is required. In the present case, differentiation of the geographic origin by 87Sr/86Sr is performed. The results show the saffron of several countries of origin to vary within the range of marine carbonates; however, saffron samples of Moroccan and Indian origin mainly show elevated 87Sr/86Sr values. Within the Indian saffron samples, one sample from Kishtwar Valley can be differentiated from the Kashmir saffron samples. The results are thus promising, especially when using the combination of Sr and Rb concentrations to differentiate geographic origin whenever the regions are of homogenous bedrock geology within and of different geology between the regions. However, the reported findings need to be checked and confirmed by further and additional saffron samples.
Special Issue “Advanced Spectroscopy Techniques in Food Analysis: Qualitative and Quantitative Chemometric Approaches”
Authors: Kharbach Mourad , Urpelainen Samuli
Published: July 2023

The globalization of the food market has created a pressing need for food producers to meet the ever-increasing demands of consumers while ensuring adherence to stringent food safety and quality standards [...]
The Effects of Sheep Tail Fat, Fat Level, and Cooking Time on the Formation of Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine and Volatile Compounds in Beef Meatballs
Authors: Öztürk Kübra , Yılmaz Oral Zeynep Feyza , Kaya Mükerrem , Kaban Güzin
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to determine the effects of fat type (sheep tail fat (STF) and beef fat (BF)), fat levels (10, 20, or 30%), and cooking time (0, 2, 4, and 6 min, dry heat cooking at 180 °C) on the carboxymethyl lysine (CML) content in meatballs. pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), and volatile compound analyses were also performed on the samples. The use of STF and the fat level had no significant effect on the pH value. The highest TBARS value was observed with the combination of a 30% fat level and STF. CML was not affected by the fat level. The highest CML content was determined in meatballs with STF at a cooking time of 6 min. In the samples cooked for 2 min, no significant difference was observed between STF and BF in terms of the CML content. STF generally increased the abundance of aldehydes. Aldehydes were also affected by the fat level and cooking time. A PCA provided a good distinction between groups containing STF and BF regardless of the fat level or cooking time. Pentanal, octanal, 2,4-decadienal, hexanal, and heptanal were positively correlated with CML.
Coffee Silverskin Cellulose-Based Composite Film with Natural Pigments for Food Packaging: Physicochemical and Sensory Abilities
Authors: Liu Xinnan , Sun Hongbo , Leng Xiaojing
Published: July 2023

To promote a circular economy, the use of agricultural by-products as food packaging material has steadily increased. However, designing food packaging films that meet consumers' preferences and requirements is still a challenge. In this work, cellulose extracted from coffee silverskin (a by-product of coffee roasting) and chitosan were combined with different natural pigments (curcumin, phycocyanin, and lycopene) to generate a variety of composite films with different colors for food packaging. The physicochemical and sensory properties of the films were evaluated. The cellulose/chitosan film showed favorable mechanical properties and water sensitivity. Addition of natural pigments resulted in different film colors, and significantly affected the optical properties and improved the UV-barrier, swelling degree, and water vapor permeability (WVP), but there were also slight decreases in the mechanical properties. The various colored films can influence the perceived features and evoke different emotions from consumers, resulting in films receiving different attraction and liking scores. This work provides a comprehensive evaluation strategy for coffee silverskin cellulose-based composite films with incorporated pigments, and a new perspective on the consideration of the hedonic ratings of consumers regarding bio-based films when designing food packaging.
Xanthoceras sorbifolia Husk Extract Incorporation for the Improvement in Physical and Antioxidant Properties of Soy Protein Isolate Films
Authors: Han Yingying , Yan Wentao , Hou Yuping , Wang Dongmei , Yu Miao
Published: July 2023

With the increasing awareness of ecological and environmental protection, the research on eco-friendly materials has experienced a considerable increase. The objective of our study was to explore a novel soy protein isolate (SPI) film functionalized with antioxidants extracted from Xanthoceras sorbifolia husk (XSHE) as bio-based active packaging films. The films were evaluated in light of their structure, physical machinery, and antioxidant performance using advanced characterization techniques. The FTIR and microscopy results revealed the hydrogen-bond interaction between the SPI and XSHE and their good compatibility, which contributed to the improvement in various properties of the composite films, such as tensile strength (TS), UV blocking, and the water barrier property. As the XSHE content increased to 5%, the TS of the films dramatically increased up to 7.37 MPa with 47.7% and the water vapor permeability decreased to 1.13 × 10−10 g m m−2 s−1 Pa−1 with 22.1%. Meanwhile, the introduction of XSHE caused further improvement in the antioxidant capacity of films, and the release of active agents from films was faster and higher in 10% ethanol than it was in a 50% ethanol food simulant. Overall, SPI-based films functionalized with XSHE demonstrated promising potential applications in food packaging.
Fixed Point Results for Generalized
Authors: Ishtiaq Umar , Din Fahim , Ahmad Khaleel , Kattan Doha , Argyros Ioannis
Published: July 2023

Any two points are close together in a
Reinforcement of Acrylamide Hydrogels with Cellulose Nanocrystals Using Gamma Radiation for Antibiotic Drug Delivery
Authors: Ortega Alejandra , Valencia Silvia , Rivera Ernesto , Segura Tania , Burillo Guillermina
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we report the synthesis of acrylamide hydrogels (net-AAm) reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) using gamma radiation, a powerful tool to obtain crosslinked polymers without the use of chemical initiators and crosslinking agents. Some slight changes in the chemical structure and crystallinity of CNCs took place during gamma irradiation without affecting the nanofiller function. In fact, cellulose nanocrystals had a notable influence over the swelling and mechanical properties on the reinforced hydrogels (net-AAm/CNC), obtaining more rigid material since the Young compression modulus increased from 11 kPa for unreinforced net-AAm to 30 kPa for net-AAm/CNC (4% w/w). Moreover, the studies of retention and release of ciprofloxacin (Cx), a quinolone antibiotic drug, showed that reinforced hydrogels were able to load large amounts of ciprofloxacin (1.2–2.8 mg g−1) but they distributed 100% of the drug very quickly (<100 min). Despite this, they exhibited better mechanical properties than the control sample, allowing their handling, and could be used as wound dressings of first response because they can absorb the exudate and at the same time deliver an antibiotic drug directly over the injury.
GastroPlus- and HSPiP-Oriented Predictive Parameters as the Basis of Valproic Acid-Loaded Mucoadhesive Cationic Nanoemulsion Gel for Improved Nose-to-Brain Delivery to Control Convulsion in Humans
Authors: Hussain Afzal , Altamimi Mohammad A. , Ramzan Mohhammad , Mirza Mohd Aamir , Khuroo Tahir
Published: July 2023

Oral and parenteral delivery routes of valproic acid (VA) are associated with serious adverse effects, high hepatic metabolism, high clearance, and low bioavailability in the brain. A GastroPlus program was used to predict in vivo performance of immediate (IR) and sustained release (SR) products in humans. HSPiP software 5.4.08 predicted excipients with maximum possible miscibility of the drug. Based on the GastroPlus and HSPiP program, various excipients were screened for experimental solubility, nanoemulsions, and respective gel studies intended for nasal-to-brain delivery. These were characterized by size, size distribution, polydispersity index, zeta potential, morphology, pH, % transmittance, drug content, and viscosity. In vitro drug release, ex vivo permeation profile (goat nasal mucosa), and penetration studies were conducted. Results showed that in vivo oral drug dissolution and absorption were predicted as 98.6 mg and 18.8 mg, respectively, from both tablets (IR and SR) at 8 h using GastroPlus. The predicted drug access to the portal vein was substantially higher in IR (115 mg) compared to SR (82.6 mg). The plasma drug concentration–time profile predicted was in good agreement with published reports. The program predicted duodenum and jejunum as the prime sites of the drug absorption and no effect of nanonization on Tmax for sustained release formulation. Hansen parameters suggested a suitable selection of excipients. The program recommended nasal-to-brain delivery of the drug using a cationic mucoadhesive nanoemulsion. The optimized CVE6 was associated with the optimal size (113 nm), low PDI (polydispersity index) (0.26), high zeta potential (+34.7 mV), high transmittance (97.8%), and high strength (0.7% w/w). In vitro release and ex vivo permeation of CVE6 were found to be substantially high as compared to anionic AVE6 and respective gels. A penetration study using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) executed high fluorescence intensity with CVE6 and CVE6-gel as compared to suspension and ANE6. This might be attributed to the electrostatic interaction existing between the mucosal membrane and nanoglobules. Thus, cationic nanoemulsions and respective mucoadhesive gels are promising strategies for the delivery of VA to the brain through intransal administration for the treatment of seizures and convulsions.
Red Light and 5% Aminolaevulinic Acid (5%) Inhibit Proliferation and Migration of Dysplastic Oral Keratinocytes via ROS Production: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Pierfelice Tania Vanessa , Lazarevic Milos , Mitic Dijana , Nikolic Nadja , Radunovic Milena , Iezzi Giovanna , Piattelli Adriano , Milasin Jelena
Published: July 2023

Undiagnosed and untreated oral precancerous lesions often progress into malignancies. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) might be a minimally invasive alternative to conventional treatments. 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is one of the most commonly used photosensitizers in PDT, and it is effective on many cancer types. However, its hydrophilic characteristic limits cell membrane crossing. In the present study, the effect of a newly formulated gel containing 5% 5-ALA in combination with red light (ALAD-PDT) on a premalignant oral mucosa cell line was investigated. The dysplastic oral keratinocyte (DOK) cells were incubated with ALAD at different concentrations (0.1, 0.5, 1, and 2 mM) at two different times, 45 min or 4 h, and then irradiated for 7 min with a 630 nm LED (25 J/cm2). MTT assay, flow cytometry, wound healing assay, and quantitative PCR (qPCR) were performed. ALAD-PDT exerted inhibitory effects on the proliferation and migration of DOK cells by inducing ROS and necrosis. mRNA analysis showed modulation of apoptosis-related genes’ expression (TP53, Bcl-2, survivin, caspase-3, and caspase-9). Furthermore, there was no difference between the shorter and longer incubation times. In conclusion, the inhibitory effect of the ALAD-PDT protocol observed in this study suggests that ALAD-PDT could be a promising novel treatment for oral precancerous lesions.
Faith-Based Spiritual Intervention for Persons with Depression: Preliminary Evidence from a Pilot Study
Authors: Leung Judy , Li Kin-Kit
Published: July 2023

Depression is a common, depleting, and potentially life-threatening disorder. This pilot study examined the feasibility and applicability, reported preliminary evidence for effectiveness, and explored the potential healing mechanisms of a faith-based spiritual intervention for people with depression. The intervention consisted of six weekly sessions focused on restoring a connection with the divine, forgiveness and freedom, suffering and transcendence, hope, gratitude, and relapse prevention. Seven adults with mild or moderate depressive symptoms were recruited. A qualitative evaluation was conducted via focus group discussions, and rating scales were administered at baseline, after the intervention, and at the 3-month follow-up. The mean difference scores of the treatment’s effect over time were analyzed using Friedman’s ANOVA. The themes identified by the focus group included the meaning of the spiritual intervention, the effect of involvement in a spiritual group, and the therapeutic components. The results indicated a significant decrease in the mean scores for depression (PHQ-9) after intervention and at the 3-month follow-up. Participants expressed their improvement in terms of increased knowledge about depression, enhanced coping mechanisms, and improved self-esteem. The preliminary evidence suggested that the faith-based spiritual intervention was effective in reducing depressive symptoms and also helped participants develop a greater sense of connection with themselves, others, and their environment.
Prognostic Value of Routine Biomarkers in the Early Stage of COVID-19
Authors: Mihajlović Andrea , Ivanov David , Tapavički Borislav , Marković Milica , Vukas Dragana , Miljković Ana , Bajić Dejana , Semnic Isidora , Bogdan Maja , Karaba Jakovljević Dea , Nikolić Stanislava , Slavić Danijel , Lendak Dajana
Published: July 2023

Various biomarkers like certain complete blood cell count parameters and the derived ratios including neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio are commonly used to evaluate disease severity. Our study aimed to establish if baseline levels of complete blood cell count-derived biomarkers and CRP, measured before any treatment which can interfere with their values, could serve as a predictor of development of pneumonia and the need for hospitalization requiring oxygen therapy. We retrospectively analyzed the laboratory data of 200 consecutive patients without comorbidities, who denied usage of medications prior to blood analysis and visited a COVID-19 ambulance between October and December 2021. Multivariate regression analysis extracted older age, elevated CRP and lower eosinophil count as significant independent predictors of pneumonia (p = 0.003, p = 0.000, p = 0.046, respectively). Independent predictors of hospitalization were higher CRP (p = 0.000) and lower platelet count (p = 0.005). There was no significant difference in the neutrophil–lymphocyte and platelet–lymphocyte ratios between examined groups. Individual biomarkers such as platelet and eosinophil count might be better in predicting the severity of COVID-19 than the neutrophil–lymphocyte and platelet–lymphocyte ratios.
Correction: Goto, Y.; Miura, H. Evaluation of an Advanced Care Planning Training Program Incorporating Online Skills in Shared Decision Making: A Preintervention and Postintervention Comparative Study. Healthcare 2023, 11, 1356
Authors: Goto Yuko , Miura Hisayuki
Published: July 2023

In the original publication [...]
Impact of COVID-19 on Fracture Incidence in Germany: A Comparative Age and Gender Analysis of Pre- and Post-Outbreak Periods
Authors: Heinz Tizian , Wild Moritz , Eidmann Annette , Weißenberger Manuel , Rak Dominik , Nedopil Alexander Johannes , Rudert Maximilian , Stratos Ioannis
Published: July 2023

In March 2020, Germany imposed a nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19, prompting questions about the impact on the incidence of common fractures. This study examined 15 fracture types in pre-outbreak (2010–2019) and post-outbreak (2020–2021) periods, using data categorized by age (18–64 years, >65 years) and sex (male, female). Linear regression assessed annual growth rates, and mean fracture numbers were compared across periods for significant differences. Results indicated a positive correlation between fracture incidence rates and time for various types, such as cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic spine fractures, rib fractures, femoral neck, pertrochanteric femur, femoral shaft, and ankle fractures. Frequencies of proximal humerus, distal radius, femoral neck, pertrochanteric femur, femoral shaft, and ankle fractures in 2020 and 2021 were within predicted ranges from previous years. However, rib fractures and spinal fractures (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic spine) occurred less frequently during this time. Notably, this study found a consistent decline in most fracture types for individuals aged 18–64 after the pandemic’s onset, while the fracture incidence of hip fractures, often referred to as fragility fractures, for those over 65 remained unchanged. Fibula fractures showed the most considerable decrease in both age groups. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic substantially impacted fracture incidence, with lower rates among individuals under 65 and unchanged fragility fractures in the elderly population.
Hydroclimatic Trends and Drought Risk Assessment in the Ceyhan River Basin: Insights from SPI and STI Indices
Authors: Darabi Hamid , Danandeh Mehr Ali , Kum Gülşen , Sönmez Mehmet Emin , Dumitrache Cristina Alina , Diani Khadija , Celebi Ahmet , Torabi Haghighi Ali
Published: July 2023

This study examined the spatiotemporal climate variability over the Ceyhan River basin in Southern Anatolia, Türkiye using historical rainfall and temperature observations recorded at 15 meteorology stations. Various statistical and geostatistical techniques were employed to determine the significance of trends for each climatic variable in the whole basin and its three sub-regions (northern, central, and southern regions). The results revealed that the recent years in the basin were generally warmer compared with previous years, with a temperature increase of approximately 4 °C. The standardized temperature index analysis indicated a shift towards hotter periods after 2005, while the coldest periods were observed in the early 1990s. The spatial distribution of temperature showed non-uniform patterns throughout the basin. The first decade of the study period (1975–1984) was characterized by relatively cold temperatures, followed by a transition period from cold to hot between 1985 and 2004, and a hotter period in the last decade (2005–2014). The rainfall analysis indicated a decreasing trend in annual rainfall, particularly in the northern and central regions of the basin. However, the southern region showed an increasing trend in annual rainfall during the study period. The spatial distribution of rainfall exhibited considerable variability across the basin, with different regions experiencing distinct patterns. The standardized precipitation index analysis revealed the occurrence of multiple drought events throughout the study period. The most severe and prolonged droughts were observed in the years 1992–1996 and 2007–2010. These drought events had significant impacts on water availability and agricultural productivity in the basin.
“Do Not Mix Apples with Oranges” to Avoid Misinterpretation of Placebo Effects in Manual Therapy: The Risk Is Resulting in a Fruit Basket. Comment on Molina-Àlvarez et al. Manual Therapy Effect in Placebo-Controlled Trials: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19, 14021
Authors: Rossettini Giacomo , Pellicciari Leonardo , Turolla Andrea
Published: July 2023

We read with interest the systematic review with the meta-analysis by Miguel Molina-Álvarez et al. [...]
Understanding the Impact of Social Networks on the Spread of Obesity
Authors: Tuson Mark , Harper Paul , Gartner Daniel , Behrens Doris
Published: July 2023

Previous research has highlighted the significant role social networks play in the spread of non-communicable chronic diseases. In our research, we seek to explore the impact of these networks in more detail and gain insight into the mechanisms that drive this. We use obesity as a case study. To achieve this, we develop a generalisable hybrid simulation and optimisation approach aimed at gaining qualitative and quantitative insights into the effect of social networks on the spread of obesity. Our simulation model has two components. Firstly, an agent-based component mimics the dynamic structure of the social network within which individuals are situated. Secondly, a system dynamics component replicates the relevant behaviours of those individuals. The parameters from the combined model are refined and optimised using longitudinal data from the United Kingdom. The simulation produces projections of Body Mass Index broken down by different age groups and gender over a 10-year period. These projections are used to explore a range of scenarios in a computational study designed to address our research aims. The study reveals that, for the youngest population sub-groups, the network acts to magnify the impact of external and social factors on changes in obesity, whereas, for older sub-groups, the network mitigates the impact of these factors. The magnitude of that impact is inversely correlated with age. Our approach can be used by public health decision makers as well as managers in adult weight management services to enhance initiatives and strategies intended to reduce obesity. Our approach is generalisable to understand the impact of social networks on similar non-communicable diseases.
Effects of Modified Tobacco Risk Products with Claims and Nicotine Features on Perceptions among Racial and Ethnic Groups
Authors: DeAtley Teresa , Johnson Andrea C. , Stone Matthew D. , Audrain-McGovern Janet , Mercincavage Melissa , Strasser Andrew A.
Published: July 2023

Research suggests consumers may misunderstand modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) claims. We examined the effects of nicotine content across four tobacco products with and without MRTP claims among a racially and ethnically diverse sample of adults who do and do not smoke. Adults (n = 1484) aged 21–65 completed an online experiment using a 2 × 2 × 4 mixed factorial design to examine the effects of tobacco product (Classic White Snus, IQOS, JUUL e-cigarette, and VLN cigarette) and nicotine content (high vs. low) stratified by MRTP claim (present vs. absent) across four outcomes: (1) likely to try (2) serious disease if used regularly, (3) least addictive, and (4) ease of quitting smoking. Not including an MRTP claim resulted in an increased likelihood of trying a product, decreased concern of serious disease, lower perceived addictiveness, and increased ease of quitting smoking. Participants selected low nicotine IQOS without a claim as the least likely to cause serious disease. Low nicotine JUUL, without a claim, was selected as least addictive and most likely to facilitate quitting. Intentions to try were highest for low nicotine JUUL. Participants selected low-nicotine products as less addictive than high nicotine products. Regulatory efforts should consider how MRTP claims interact with different product characteristics. Subtle differences exist across outcomes between racial and ethnic groups, which indicates that further research is warranted.
Repressive Control of Keratinocyte Cytoplasmic Inflammatory Signaling
Authors: Carman Liam E. , Samulevich Michael L. , Aneskievich Brian J.
Published: July 2023

The overactivity of keratinocyte cytoplasmic signaling contributes to several cutaneous inflammatory and immune pathologies. An important emerging complement to proteins responsible for this overactivity is signal repression brought about by several proteins and protein complexes with the native role of limiting inflammation. The signaling repression by these proteins distinguishes them from transmembrane receptors, kinases, and inflammasomes, which drive inflammation. For these proteins, defects or deficiencies, whether naturally arising or in experimentally engineered skin inflammation models, have clearly linked them to maintaining keratinocytes in a non-activated state or returning cells to a post-inflamed state after a signaling event. Thus, together, these proteins help to resolve acute inflammatory responses or limit the development of chronic cutaneous inflammatory disease. We present here an integrated set of demonstrated or potentially inflammation-repressive proteins or protein complexes (linear ubiquitin chain assembly complex [LUBAC], cylindromatosis lysine 63 deubiquitinase [CYLD], tumor necrosis factor alpha-induced protein 3-interacting protein 1 [TNIP1], A20, and OTULIN) for a comprehensive view of cytoplasmic signaling highlighting protein players repressing inflammation as the needed counterpoints to signal activators and amplifiers. Ebb and flow of players on both sides of this inflammation equation would be of physiological advantage to allow acute response to damage or pathogens and yet guard against chronic inflammatory disease. Further investigation of the players responsible for repressing cytoplasmic signaling would be foundational to developing new chemical-entity pharmacologics to stabilize or enhance their function when clinical intervention is needed to restore balance.
Hmgb1 Silencing in the Amygdala Inhibits Pain-Related Behaviors in a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Presto Peyton , Ji Guangchen , Ponomareva Olga , Ponomarev Igor , Neugebauer Volker
Published: July 2023

Chronic pain presents a therapeutic challenge due to the highly complex interplay of sensory, emotional-affective and cognitive factors. The mechanisms of the transition from acute to chronic pain are not well understood. We hypothesized that neuroimmune mechanisms in the amygdala, a brain region involved in the emotional-affective component of pain and pain modulation, play an important role through high motility group box 1 (Hmgb1), a pro-inflammatory molecule that has been linked to neuroimmune signaling in spinal nociception. Transcriptomic analysis revealed an upregulation of Hmgb1 mRNA in the right but not left central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) at the chronic stage of a spinal nerve ligation (SNL) rat model of neuropathic pain. Hmgb1 silencing with a stereotaxic injection of siRNA for Hmgb1 into the right CeA of adult male and female rats 1 week after (post-treatment), but not 2 weeks before (pre-treatment) SNL induction decreased mechanical hypersensitivity and emotional-affective responses, but not anxiety-like behaviors, measured 4 weeks after SNL. Immunohistochemical data suggest that neurons are a major source of Hmgb1 in the CeA. Therefore, Hmgb1 in the amygdala may contribute to the transition from acute to chronic neuropathic pain, and the inhibition of Hmgb1 at a subacute time point can mitigate neuropathic pain.
Mesodermal Derivatives of Pluripotent Stem Cells Route to Scarless Healing
Authors: Suzdaltseva Yulia , Kiselev Sergey L.
Published: July 2023

Scar formation during normal tissue regeneration in adults may result in noticeable cosmetic and functional defects and have a significant impact on the quality of life. In contrast, fetal tissues in the mid-gestation period are known to be capable of complete regeneration with the restitution of the initial architecture, organization, and functional activity. Successful treatments that are targeted to minimize scarring can be realized by understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of fetal wound regeneration. However, such experiments are limited by the inaccessibility of fetal material for comparable studies. For this reason, the molecular mechanisms of fetal regeneration remain unknown. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are central to tissue repair because the molecules they secrete are involved in the regulation of inflammation, angiogenesis, and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. The mesodermal differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) recapitulates the sequential steps of embryogenesis in vitro and provides the opportunity to generate the isogenic cell models of MSCs corresponding to different stages of human development. Further investigation of the functional activity of cells from stromal differon in a pro-inflammatory microenvironment will procure the molecular tools to better understand the fundamental mechanisms of fetal tissue regeneration. Herein, we review recent advances in the generation of clonal precursors of primitive mesoderm cells and MSCs from hPSCs and discuss critical factors that determine the functional activity of MSCs-like cells in a pro-inflammatory microenvironment in order to identify therapeutic targets for minimizing scarring.
Standardization of a Sex-Sorting Protocol for Stallion Spermatozoa by Means of Absolute RT-qPCR
Authors: Muñoz Erwin , Castro Macarena , Aguila Luis , Contreras María José , Fuentes Fernanda , Arias María Elena , Felmer Ricardo
Published: July 2023

Sperm sexing is a technology that can generate great economic benefits in the animal production sector. Techniques such as sex-sorting promise over 90% accuracy in sperm sexing. However, for the correct standardization of the technique, some laboratory methodologies are required. The present manuscript describes in detail a standardized equine sperm sex-sorting protocol using an absolute qPCR-based methodology. Furthermore, the results of absolute qPCR were implemented and validated by generating equine/bovine heterologous embryos by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) of presumably sexed equine spermatozoa into bovine oocytes using a piezoelectric system (Piezo-ICSI). Our results indicated that equine sex-sorting spermatozoa had a 97% and 94% certainty for X and Y sperm, respectively, while presumptive female and male equine/bovine hybrid embryos, generated by Piezo-ICSI, had an accuracy of 92% with respect to the desired sex. Therefore, it is concluded that the presented methodology is a reliable, cost-effective, and relatively simple option for standardizing sex-sorting of equine spermatozoa. This is supported by the results of the correct sexing of Piezo-ICSI heterologous embryos generated with the sexed spermatozoa, validating the correct sexing and viability of these gametes.