Search Results (261,207)

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiological quality of coconut water sold from street carts equipped with cooling coils or refrigerated at bakeries in the Grande Vitória Region, Brazil. Additionally, it assessed the phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles of isolated enterobacteria. The results indicated that coconut water sold at street carts had lower microbiological quality compared to refrigerated samples, as evidenced by significantly higher counts of mesophilic microorganisms. Using MALDI-TOF, the following opportunistic pathogens were identified: Citrobacter freundii, Enterobacter bugandensis, E. kobei, E. roggenkampii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Kluyvera ascorbata. Three isolates—E. bugandensis, K. pneumoniae, and K. ascorbata—were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR). Widespread resistance to β-lactams and cephalosporins was detected, and some isolates were resistant to quinolones, nitrofurans, and phosphonic acids. The gene bla_CTX-M-2 was detected in C. freundii, E. bugandensis, E. kobei, and K. ascorbata. However, genes bla_NDM, bla_KPC, bla_CMY-1, and bla_CMY-2 were not detected in any isolate. The findings underscore the need to enhance good manufacturing practices in this sector to control the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). To our knowledge, this is the first study documenting the presence of potentially pathogenic enterobacteria in coconut water samples and their associated phenotypic and genotypic AMR profiles. Full article

This study examined the correlation of titin (TTN) polymorphisms with the sensitivity of oral squamous cell cancer (OSCC) and clinical characteristics. Six TTN SNPs, including rs10497520, rs12463674, rs12465459, rs2042996, rs2244492, and rs2303838, were evaluated in 322 control groups and 606 patients with oral cancer. We then investigated whether the SNP genotypes rs10497520 had associations with clinical pathological categories. Our data showed that the TC + CC genotype of rs10497520 was associated with moderate/poor tumor cell differentiation. The carriers of TTN rs10497520 polymorphic variant “TC + CC” in OSCC patients with cigarette smoking were linked with poor tumor differentiation (p = 0.008). Our results suggest that the TTN SNP rs10497520 is a possible genetic marker for oral cancer patients in the cigarette-smoking population. The TTN rs10497520 polymorphisms may be essential biomarkers to predict the onset and prognosis of oral cancer disease. Full article

The evaluation and prediction of reliability and testability of mining machinery and equipment are crucial, as advancements in mining technology have increased the importance of ensuring the safety of both the technological process and human life. This study focuses on developing a reliability model to analyze the controllability of mining equipment. The model, which examines the reliability of a mine cargo-passenger hoist, utilizes statistical methods to assess failures and diagnostic controlled parameters. It is represented as a transition graph and is supported by a system of equations. This model enables the estimation of the reliability of equipment components and the equipment as a whole through a diagnostic system designed for monitoring and controlling mining equipment. A mathematical and logical model is proposed to calculate availability and downtime coefficients for different structures within the mining equipment system. This analysis considers the probability of failure-free operation of the lifting unit based on the structural scheme, with additional redundancy for elements with lower reliability. The availability factor of the equipment for monitoring and controlling the mine hoisting plant is studied for various placements of diagnostic systems. Additionally, a logistic concept is introduced for organizing preventive maintenance systems and reducing equipment recovery time by optimizing spare parts, integrating them into strategies aimed at enhancing the reliability of mine hoisting plants. Full article

Turbulent political and economic changes in 1989 caused the gradual decline of the mining industry in the Slovak Republic. Abandoned territorial localities were created, affected by mining activity, without any use with devastated mining objects, or even a certain form of environmental burden. These territorial locations used for mining in the past, unused currently, in varying degrees of devastation, are referred to as mining brownfields. This issue is topical, as there is constant urbanization of new territories. Mining brownfields often represent a certain form of territorial reserve to support tourism development. The present study deals with identifying the tourist potential of the Fedö shaft mining brownfield in the Červenica—Dubník area (Slovakia), which is included in the list of national cultural monuments. The study points out the need for reclamation from the point of view of supporting the development of a tourist destination based on the accessible mining brownfield—the Jozef tunnel—making it possible to use the interaction links of both mining brownfields in the investigated area of tourism. Based on the results of the conducted SWOT analysis, the study presents the quantification of the tourism development support potential of the analyzed mining brownfield. It also includes selected environmental, social, and economic aspects of the reclamation, and the definition of an effective strategy for usage of the examined mining brownfield as a tool to support tourism development. The article concludes a model of effective management of the use of mining brownfields in the field of tourism in Slovakia, which is constructed as open and modifiable in its interaction with the specification of diverse conditions of tourist destinations with integrated mining brownfields, which include old mine works. Full article

This study investigated the impact of tea polyphenols on serum indices, rumen microorganisms, rumen metabolism, and liver metabolism in Hu sheep. Sixty healthy lambs, aged three months and with similar average weights, were chosen and randomly assigned to control (CON), TP400, TP800, and TP1200 groups, each consisting of fifteen lambs. The control group received a basal diet, while the experimental groups were provided with basal diet supplemented with 400 mg/kg, 800 mg/kg, and 1200 mg/kg of tea polyphenols, respectively. Compared with the CON group, the addition of tea polyphenols to the diet significantly increased serum IgA, GSH−Px, and TSOD. In addition, tea polyphenols were able to increase rumen pH but had no significant effect on the rumen NH₃−N, VFA molar content, and the microbial top 10 phylum and genus levels. Moreover, Firmicutes predominated in the network map of the top 80 abundant microorganisms at the genus level, identifying 13 biomarkers at the genus level. In addition, strong correlations were observed between liver and rumen metabolites, particularly between rumen succinic acid and liver alanyl−serine and methylmalonic acid. Furthermore, tea polyphenol additions changed the enrichment of liver and rumen metabolites in the top five KEGG metabolic pathways, but 400−1200 mg/kg additions had no negative impact on the liver and rumen. In summary, TP significantly influences rumen and liver metabolites in Hu sheep, enhancing lamb immunity and antioxidant capacity, with 400 mg/kg being the most effective dosage. Full article

Reinforcement learning (RL) has been shown to be effective in path planning. However, it usually requires exploring a sufficient number of state–action pairs, some of which may be unsafe when deployed in practical obstacle environments. To this end, this paper proposes an end-to-end planning method based model-free RL framework with optimization, which can achieve better learning performance with a safety guarantee. Firstly, for second-order drone systems, a differentiable high-order control barrier function (HOCBF) is introduced to ensure the output of the planning algorithm falls in a safe range. Then, a safety layer based on the HOCBF is proposed, which projects RL actions into a feasible solution set to guarantee safe exploration. Finally, we conducted a simulation for drone obstacle avoidance and validated the proposed method in the simulation environment. The experimental results demonstrate a significant enhancement over the baseline approach. Specifically, the proposed method achieved a substantial reduction in the average cumulative number of collisions per drone during training compared to the baseline. Additionally, in the testing phase, the proposed method realized a 43% improvement in the task success rate relative to the MADDPG. Full article

Polar auxin transport (PAT) is a known component controlling leaf complexity and venation patterns in some model plant species. Evidence indicates that PAT generates auxin converge points (CPs) that in turn lead to local leaf formation and internally into major vein formation. However, the role of PAT in more diverse leaf arrangements and vein patterns is largely unknown. We used the pharmacological inhibition of PAT in developing pinnate tomato, trifoliate clover, palmate lupin, and bipinnate carrot leaves and observed dosage-dependent reduction to simple leaves in these eudicots. Leaf venation patterns changed from craspedodromous (clover, carrot), semi-craspedodromous (tomato), and brochidodromous (lupin) to more parallel patterning with PAT inhibition. The visualization of auxin responses in transgenic tomato plants showed that discrete and separate CPs in control plants were replaced by diffuse convergence areas near the margin. These effects indicate that PAT plays a universal role in the formation of different leaf and vein patterns in eudicot species via a mechanism that depends on the generation as well as the separation of auxin CPs. Computer simulations indicate that variations in PAT can alter the number of CPs, corresponding leaf lobe formation, and the position of major leaf veins along the leaf margin in support of experimental results. Full article

In this paper, we make use of an inverse formula that relates the blossom of a NURBS curve, surface or Bézier triangle with its parametrisation, with no explicit reference to the control points and weights of the parametrisation. We make use of this inverse formula to raise and lower the degree elevation and reduction. Full article

To explore the control technology on surrounding rock of gob-side entry retaining (GSER) below a goaf in a near distance coal seam (NDCS), research was conducted on the floor ruin range, the floor stress distribution features, the layout of the GSER below near distance goaf, the width of the roadside filling wall (RFW), and the control technology of the GSER surrounding rock below the near distance goaf after upper coal seam (UCS) mining. The results show that (1) the stress of the goaf floor has obvious regional features, being divided into stress high value zone (Zone A), stress extremely low zone (Zone B), stress rebound zone (Zone C), stress transition zone (Zone D), and stress recovery zone (Zone E) according to different stress states. The stress distribution features at different depths below the goaf floor in each zone also have differences. (2) Arranging the roadway in Zone A below a coal pillar, the roadway is at high stress levels, which is not conducive to the stability of the surrounding rock. Arranging the roadway in Zone B below the goaf floor, the bearing capacity of the surrounding rock itself is weak, making it difficult to control the surrounding rock. Arranging the roadway in Zone C, the mechanical properties of the surrounding rock are good, and the difficulty of controlling the surrounding rock is relatively low. Arranging the roadway in Zone D and Zone E, there is a relatively small degree of stress concentration in the roadway rib. (3) When the RFW width is 0.5–1.5 m, stress concentration is more pronounced on the solid coal rib, and the overlying rock pressure is mainly borne by the solid coal rib, with less stress on the RFW. When the RFW width is 2~3 m, the stress on the RFW is enhanced, and the bearing capacity is significantly increased compared to RFW of 0.5–1.5 m width. The RFW contributes to supporting the overlying rock layers. (4) A comprehensive control technology for GSER surrounding rock in lower coal seam (LCS) has been proposed, which includes the grouting modification of coal and rock mass on the GSER roof, establishing a composite anchoring structure formed by utilizing bolts (cables); the strong support roof and control floor by one beam + three columns, reinforcing the RFW utilizing tie rods pre-tightening; and the hydraulic prop protection RFW and bolts (cables) protection roof at roadside. This technology has been successfully applied in field practice. Full article

The appropriate preservation and color rendering of paintings and art pieces are a pending subject in architectural heritage, since, in most of the cases, lighting systems are not really focused on the conservation and suitable perception of these heritage resources, due to the limitations of standard LED lamps and lighting configurations. In this context, a multichannel luminaire system is proposed in the case study of the Cathedral of Seville, providing a variable and rich spectral distribution, which allows an excellent color perception linked to the daylight conditions, while the short-wavelength light is minimized in order to reduce photodegradation. Two scenarios are addressed: Museum of the Cathedral and Evangelist Chapel. The multichannel luminaire system is tested by means of subjective surveys and objective procedures (Farnswoth-Munsell and Natural Color System tests). The results show that the proposed spectral distribution of the multichannel system provides a better color discrimination in comparison with typical lighting systems, as well as a better preservation, defining a suitable lighting technology for architectural heritage. The novelty of this study lies in the multi-parameter approach, taking care of color rendering while photodegradation is minimized. Full article

Background: Managing metabolism for optimal training, performance, and recovery in medium-to-high-level endurance runners involves enhancing energy systems through strategic nutrient intake. Optimal carbohydrate intake before, during, and after endurance running can enhance glycogen stores and maintain optimal blood glucose levels, influencing various physiological responses and adaptations, including transitory post-endurance inflammation. This randomized trial investigates the impact of a high-dose 2:1 maltodextrin–fructose supplementation to medium-to-high-level endurance runners immediately before, during, and after a 15 km run at 90% VO_2max intensity on post-exercise inflammatory stress. Methods: We evaluated inflammatory biomarkers and lipidomic profiles before the endurance tests and up to 24 h after. We focused on the effects of high-dose 2:1 maltodextrin–fructose supplementation on white blood cell count, neutrophil number, IL-6, cortisol, and CRP levels, as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids, ω-3 index, and AA/EPA ratio. Results: This supplementation significantly reduced inflammatory markers and metabolic stress. Additionally, it may enhance the post-activity increase in blood ω-3 fatty acid levels and reduce the increase in ω-6 levels, resulting in a lower trend of AA/EPA ratio at 24 h in the treated arm. Conclusions: Adequate carbohydrate supplementation may acutely mitigate inflammation during a one-hour endurance activity of moderate-to-high intensity. These effects could be beneficial for athletes engaging in frequent, high-intensity activities. Full article

Autism Spectrum disorders (ASD) are diagnosed more often in males than in females, by a ratio of about 3:1; this is likely to be due to a difference in risk burden between the sexes and/or to “compensatory skills” in females, that may delay the diagnosis of ASD. Identifying specific risk factors for ASD in females may be important in facilitating early diagnosis. We investigated whether HLA- class I: -A, -B, -C and class II -DRB1 alleles, which have been suggested to play a role in the development of ASD, can be considered as sex-related risk/protective markers towards the ASD. We performed HLA allele genotyping in 178 Italian children with ASD, 94 healthy siblings, and their parents. HLA allele distribution was compared between children with ASD, sex-matched healthy siblings, and a cohort of healthy controls (HC) enrolled in the Italian bone marrow donor registry. Allele transmission from parents to children with ASD and their siblings was also assessed. Our findings suggest that HLA-A*02, B*38, and C*12 alleles are more frequently carried by females with ASD compared to both HC and healthy female siblings, indicating these alleles as potential risk factors for ASD in females. Conversely, the HLA-A*03 allele was more commonly transmitted to healthy female siblings, suggesting it might have a protective effect. Additionally, the HLA-B*44 allele was found to be more prevalent in boys with ASD, indicating it is a potential risk factor for male patients. This is the first Italian study of sex-related HLA association with ASD. If confirmed, these results could facilitate early ASD diagnosis in female patients, allowing earlier interventions, which are crucial in the management of neurodevelopmental disorders. Full article

The rise of antibiotic resistance and the dwindling antimicrobial pipeline have emerged as significant threats to public health. The emergence of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) poses a global threat, with limited options available for targeted therapy. The CRKP has experienced various changes and discoveries in recent years regarding its frequency, transmission traits, and mechanisms of resistance. In this comprehensive review, we present an in-depth analysis of the global epidemiology of K. pneumoniae, elucidate resistance mechanisms underlying its spread, explore evolutionary dynamics concerning carbapenem-resistant hypervirulent strains as well as KL64 strains of K. pneumoniae, and discuss recent therapeutic advancements and effective control strategies while providing insights into future directions. By going through up-to-date reports, we found that the ST11 KL64 CRKP subclone with high risk demonstrated significant potential for expansion and survival benefits, likely due to genetic influences. In addition, it should be noted that phage and nanoparticle treatments still pose significant risks for resistance development; hence, innovative infection prevention and control initiatives rooted in One Health principles are advocated as effective measures against K. pneumoniae transmission. In the future, further imperative research is warranted to comprehend bacterial resistance mechanisms by focusing particularly on microbiome studies’ application and implementation of the One Health strategy. Full article

Background: The aim is to investigate induced higher-order aberrations (HOA)s and astigmatism as a result of non-toric ortho-k lens decentration and utilise artificial intelligence (AI) to predict its magnitude and direction. Methods: Medmont E300 Video topographer was used to scan 249 corneas before and after ortho-k wear. Custom-built MATLAB codes extracted topography data and determined lens decentration from the boundary and midpoint of the central flattened treatment zone (TZ). An evaluation was carried out by conducting Zernike polynomial fittings via a computer-coded digital signal processing procedure. Finally, an AI-based machine learning neural network algorithm was developed to predict the direction and magnitude of TZ decentration. Results: Analysis of the first 21 Zernike polynomial coefficients indicate that the four low-order and four higher-order aberration terms were changed significantly by ortho-k wear. While baseline astigmatism was not correlated with lens decentration (R = 0.09), post-ortho-k astigmatism was moderately correlated with decentration (R = 0.38) and the difference in astigmatism (R = 0.3). Decentration was classified into three groups: ≤0.50 mm, reduced astigmatism by −0.9 ± 1 D; 0.5~1 mm, increased astigmatism by 0.8 ± 0.1 D; >1 mm, increased astigmatism by 2.7 ± 1.6 D and over 50% of lenses were decentred >0.5 mm. For lenses decentred >1 mm, 29.8% of right and 42.7% of left lenses decentred temporal-inferiorly and 13.7% of right and 9.4% of left lenses decentred temporal-superiorly. AI-based prediction successfully identified the decentration direction with accuracies of 70.2% for right and 71.8% for left lenses and predicted the magnitude of decentration with root-mean-square (RMS) of 0.31 mm and 0.25 mm for right and left eyes, respectively. Conclusions: Ortho-k lens decentration is common when fitting non-toric ortho-k lenses, resulting in induced HOAs and astigmatism, with the magnitude being related to the amount of decentration. AI-based algorithms can effectively predict decentration, potentially allowing for better control over ortho-k fitting and, thus, preferred clinical outcomes. Full article

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) represent a clinical and epidemiological problem of worldwide impact that affects the economy and the emotional state of the patient. Control of the condition is complicated due to multidrug resistance of pathogens associated with the disease. Considering the difficulty in carrying out effective treatment with antimicrobials, it is necessary to propose alternatives that improve the clinical status of the patients. With this purpose, in a previous study, the safety and immunostimulant capacity of a polyvalent lysate designated UNAM-HIMFG prepared with different bacteria isolated during a prospective study of chronic urinary tract infection (CUTI) was evaluated. In this work, using an animal model, results are presented on the immunostimulant and protective activity of the polyvalent UNAM-HIMFG lysate to define its potential use in the control and treatment of CUTI. Female Balb/c mice were infected through the urethra with Escherichia coli CFT073 (UPEC O6:K2:H1) strain; urine samples were collected before the infection and every week for up to 60 days. Once the animals were colonized, sublingual doses of UNAM-HIMFG lysate were administrated. The colonization of the bladder and kidneys was evaluated by culture, and their alterations were assessed using histopathological analysis. On the other hand, the immunostimulant activity of the compound was analyzed by qPCR of spleen mRNA. Uninfected animals receiving UNAM-HIMFG lysate and infected animals administered with the physiological saline solution were used as controls. During this study, the clinical status and evolution of the animals were evaluated. At ninety-six hours after infection, the presence of CFT073 was identified in the urine of infected animals, and then, sublingual administration of UNAM-HIMFG lysate was started every week for 60 days. The urine culture of mice treated with UNAM-HIMFG lysate showed the presence of bacteria for three weeks post-treatment; in contrast, in the untreated animals, positive cultures were observed until the 60th day of this study. The histological analysis of bladder samples from untreated animals showed the presence of chronic inflammation and bacteria in the submucosa, while tissues from mice treated with UNAM-HIMFG lysate did not show alterations. The same analysis of kidney samples of the two groups (treated and untreated) did not present alterations. Immunostimulant activity assays of UNAM-HIMFG lysate showed overexpression of TNF-α and IL-10. Results suggest that the lysate activates the expression of cytokines that inhibit the growth of inoculated bacteria and control the inflammation responsible for tissue damage. In conclusion, UNAM-HIMFG lysate is effective for the treatment and control of CUTIs without the use of antimicrobials. Full article