Search Results (158,208)

The prospects for long-distance space flights are becoming increasingly realistic, and one of the key factors for their implementation is the creation of sustainable systems for producing food on site. Therefore, the aim of our work is to assess the prospects for using millet in biological life support systems and to create predictive models of yield components for automating plant cultivation control. The study found that stress from hypergravity (800 g, 1200 g, 2000 g, and 3000 g) in the early stages of millet germination does not affect seedlings or yield. In a closed system, millet yield reached 0.31 kg/m², the weight of 1000 seeds was 8.61 g, and the yield index was 0.06. The paper describes 40 quantitative traits, including six leaf and trichome traits and nine grain traits from the lower, middle and upper parts of the inflorescence. The compiled predictive regression equations allow predicting the accumulation of biomass in seedlings on the 10th and 20th days of cultivation, as well as the weight of 1000 seeds, the number of productive inflorescences, the total above-ground mass, and the number and weight of grains per plant. These equations open up opportunities for the development of computer vision and high-speed plant phenotyping programs that will allow automatic correction of the plant cultivation process and modeling of the required yield. Predicting biomass yield will also be useful in assessing the load on the waste-free processing system for plant waste at planetary stations. Full article

This article presents a case of strategic and participatory institutional innovation in higher education, focused on developing teacher digital competence (TDC) as a key enabler of sustainable digital transformation. In response to the post-pandemic challenges faced by the National University of Cuyo (UNCuyo), a large and multi-campus public university in Argentina, the European CUTE methodology was adapted and implemented to align professional development with institutional planning. Grounded in the DigCompEdu framework, this action-oriented process moved beyond individual initiatives to create a coordinated, multi-level strategy involving educators, department leaders, and university authorities. Through a research-based design that included context analysis, participatory diagnosis, and co-designed interventions, the project built a shared understanding of digital teaching needs and institutional readiness. The implementation highlights how locally adapted frameworks, collaborative structures, and iterative decision-making can drive meaningful change across a complex university system. This case contributes to the international conversation on how higher education institutions can operationalize innovation at scale by investing in teacher competence, inclusive processes, and strategic alignment. Lessons learned from this experience are relevant for universities seeking to build institutional capacity for digital transformation in diverse educational contexts with potential downstream benefits for student learning and inclusion. Full article

Superhydrophobic magnetic nanomaterials (SHMNMs) are emerging as multifunctional platforms for efficient oil–water separation due to their combination of extreme water repellency, strong oil affinity, and external magnetic responsiveness. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of recent advances in the design, synthesis, and environmental application of SHMNMs. The theoretical foundations of superhydrophobicity and the physicochemical behavior of magnetic nanoparticles are first outlined, followed by discussion of their synergistic integration. Key fabrication techniques—such as sol–gel synthesis, electrospinning, dip-coating, laser-assisted processing, and the use of biomass-derived precursors—are critically assessed in terms of their ability to tailor surface morphology, chemical functionality, and long-term durability. The review further explores the mechanisms of oil adsorption, magnetic separation, and material reusability under realistic environmental conditions. Special attention is paid to the scalability, mechanical resilience, and environmental compatibility of SHMNMs in the context of water treatment technologies. Current limitations, including reduced efficiency in harsh media, potential environmental risks, and challenges in material regeneration, are discussed. This work provides a structured overview that could support the rational development of next-generation superhydrophobic materials tailored for sustainable and high-performance separation of oil and organic pollutants from water. Full article

(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) in Oman, necessitating targeted healthcare planning and patient support. This study aimed to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on MS management and disease course, incidence, and outcomes of COVID-19, psychosocial and mental health effects of the pandemic, and demographic and clinical predictors of the effects related to COVID-19 among Omani PwMS. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to April 2021. Adult (18–60 years) Omani PwMS completed a structured interview along with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and World Health Organization Well-being Index (WHO-5). Clinical data on relapses and disease-modifying therapies and adherence were analyzed. The data was statistically analyzed. (3) Results: Of 104 PwMS (73.1% female), 22.1% contracted COVID-19, with fatigue being the most reported symptom (87%). Female sex (p = 0.042), younger age (18–34 vs. 35–45 years; p = 0.014), diagnosis of COVID-19 (p = 0.037), and low current mental well-being scores (p = 0.021) predicted greater COVID-19-related effects. (4) Conclusion: These findings highlight the need to study the mental resilience of this subgroup of PwMS and provide them with targeted support during crises. Full article

Deer tick virus (DTV) is a Tick-Borne Orthoflavivirus endemic to the United States, transmitted to humans through bites from the deer tick, Ixodes scapularis, which is also the primary vector of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., the causative agent of Lyme disease. Human infection with DTV can result in acute febrile illness followed by central nervous system complications, such as encephalitis and meningoencephalitis. Currently, there are mouse models established for investigating the pathogenesis and clinical outcomes of DTV that mimic human infections, but the strains of mice utilized are refractory to infection with B. burgdorferi s.l. Here, we describe the pathogenesis and clinical outcomes of DTV infection in C3H/HeJ mice. Neurological clinical signs, mortality, and weight loss were observed in all DTV-infected mice during the investigation. Infected animals demonstrated consistent viral infection in their organs. Additionally, neuropathology of brain sections indicated the presence of meningoencephalitis throughout the brain. This data, along with the clinical outcomes for the mice, indicates successful infection and showcases the neuroinvasive nature of the virus. This is the first study to identify C3H/HeJ mice as an appropriate model for DTV infection. As C3H/HeJ mice are already an established model for B. burgdorferi s.l. infection, this model could serve as an ideal system for investigating disease progression and pathogenesis of co-infections. Full article

Medieval Islamic bustān gardens in the western Mediterranean played a crucial role in preserving and enriching rose diversity through the cultivation of species from the eastern Mediterranean and western Asia. These gardens, particularly in Al-Andalus, maintained distinctive rose varieties characterized by diverse flower morphology—ranging from white to deep crimson and near-black hues, including various yellow shades—and complex fragrance profiles with multiple olfactory nuances. The botanical heritage from these medieval Islamic gardens demonstrates remarkable persistence, with several of these cultivated rose species still found today in abandoned cortijos and aldeas throughout the mountains of eastern Spain. This study examines the transmission of rose culture through medieval Islamic bustān gardens, analyzing how these gardens served as repositories for ancient cultivars while introducing new varieties from eastern regions. Through examination of historical texts, iconographic evidence, and field documentation of surviving populations, we trace the continuity of medieval Islamic rose cultivation practices and their lasting impact on the rural landscape of eastern Spain. Flower scent is prominent as the leading factor determining preferences for medieval heritage rose cultivars, together with color and shape. The survival of these roses in abandoned settlements provides unique insight into the durability of medieval horticultural systems and the adaptation of cultivated species to semi-wild conditions over centuries. Full article

The precipitation of minerals, in particular carbonates, is a widespread phenomenon in all ecosystems, where it assumes a high relevance both from a geological and biogeochemical standpoint. Most carbonate rocks are of biological origin and made in an aquatic environment. In particular, bioprecipitation of carbonates is believed to have started in the Mesoproterozoic Era, thanks to a process often driven by photosynthetic microorganisms. Nevertheless, an important contribution to carbonate precipitation is also due to the metabolic activity of heterotrophic bacteria, which is not restricted to specific taxonomic groups or to specific environments, making this process a ubiquitous phenomenon. In this framework, the relationship between carbonatogenic microorganisms and other living organisms assumes a particular interest. This study aims to isolate and identify the culturable heterotrophic bacterial component associated with the coenosarc of Corallium rubrum in order to evaluate the occurrence of strains able to precipitate carbonates. In particular, the study was focused on the identification and characterisation of bacterial strains isolated from a coral coenosarc showing a high carbonatogenic capacity under laboratory conditions. Samples of C. rubrum were taken in the coastal waters of three Italian regions. The concentration of the aerobic heterotrophic microflora colonising C. rubrum coenosarc samples spanned from 3 to 6∙10⁶ CFU/cm². This variation in microbial populations colonising the C. rubrum coenosarc, spanning over 6 orders of magnitude, is not mirrored by a corresponding variability in the colony morphotypes recorded, with the mean being 5.1 (±2.1 sd). Among these bacteria, the carbonatogenic predominant species was Staphylococcus equorum (93% of the isolates), whereas Staphylococcus xylosus and Shewanella sp. accounted only for 3% of isolates each. All these strains showed a remarkable capacity of precipitating calcium carbonate, in the form of calcite crystals organised radially as well crystalised spherulites (S. equorum) or coalescing spherulites (Shewanella sp.). S. xylosus only produced amorphous precipitates of calcium carbonate. All bacterial strains identified were positive both for the production of urease and carbon anhydrase in vitro at 30 °C. It seems that they potentially possess the major biochemical abilities conducive to Ca²⁺ precipitation, as they showed in vitro. In addition, all our carbonatogenic isolates were able to hydrolyse the phytic acid calcium salt and then were potentially able to induce precipitation of calcium phosphates also through such a mechanism. Full article

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by intermittent hypoxia (IH), is strongly associated with metabolic syndrome and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). IH exacerbates MASLD progression through oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid accumulation. This study aims to investigate the impact of oxygen normalization on metabolic dysfunction in OSA patients using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, and in mice exposed to IH followed by a reoxygenation period. In the clinical study, 76 participants (44 OSA patients and 32 controls) were analyzed. OSA patients had higher insulin resistance, triglycerides, very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) content, and liver enzyme levels, along with a higher prevalence of liver steatosis. After 18 months of CPAP therapy, OSA patients showed significant improvements in insulin resistance, lipid profiles (total cholesterol and VLDL), liver function markers (AST and albumin), and steatosis risk scores (Fatty Liver Index and OWLiver test). In the experimental study, IH induced hepatic lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation, and reoxygenation reversed these deleterious effects in mice. At the molecular level, IH downregulated fatty acid oxidation (FAO)-related genes, thus impairing the FAO process. Reoxygenation maintained elevated levels of lipogenic genes but restored FAO gene expression and activity, suggesting enhanced lipid clearance despite ongoing lipogenesis. Indeed, serum β hydroxybutyrate, a key marker of hepatic FAO in patients, was impaired in OSA patients but normalized after CPAP therapy, supporting improved FAO function. CPAP therapy improves lipid profiles, liver function, and MASLD progression in OSA patients. Experimental findings highlight the therapeutic potential of oxygen normalization in reversing IH-induced liver damage by FAO pathway restoration, indicating a metabolic reprogramming in the liver. Full article

The rising computational and energy demands of artificial intelligence systems urge the exploration of alternative software and hardware solutions that exploit physical effects for computation. According to machine learning theory, a neural network-based computational system must exhibit nonlinearity to effectively model complex patterns and relationships. This requirement has driven extensive research into various nonlinear physical systems to enhance the performance of neural networks. In this paper, we propose and theoretically validate a reservoir-computing system based on a single bubble trapped within a bulk of liquid. By applying an external acoustic pressure wave to both encode input information and excite the complex nonlinear dynamics, we showcase the ability of this single-bubble reservoir-computing system to forecast a Hénon benchmarking time series and undertake classification tasks with high accuracy. Specifically, we demonstrate that a chaotic physical regime of bubble oscillation—where tiny differences in initial conditions lead to wildly different outcomes, making the system unpredictable despite following clear rules, yet still suitable for accurate computations—proves to be the most effective for such tasks. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the potential of Anisakis sp. as a novel source of α-Gal (Galα1-3Galβ1-4GlcNAc-R) epitopes capable of inducing allergic sensitization in humans. While α-Gal is classically associated with delayed IgE-mediated hypersensitivity following tick bites, emerging evidence suggests that parasitic helminths such as Anisakis sp. may also express α-Gal-containing glycoconjugates, offering an alternative sensitization pathway. Methods: Protein extracts from Anisakis sp. third-stage larvae and mammalian tissues (beef, pork) were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot using a monoclonal anti-α-Gal antibody (clone M86), and α-Gal epitopes were detected by ELISA. Sera from urticaria patients, stratified by Anisakis sp. sensitization status, were evaluated for anti-α-Gal IgG, IgE, and IgG4 antibodies. Inhibition assays assessed cross-reactivity. Results: Results confirmed the presence of α-Gal epitopes on Anisakis sp. proteins, with prominent bands at ~250 kDa and 65 kDa. Urticaria patients sensitized to Anisakis sp. exhibited significantly elevated anti-α-Gal antibody levels compared to controls. Inhibition ELISA demonstrated substantial reduction in antibody binding with Anisakis sp. extracts, indicating shared antigenic determinants with mammalian α-Gal. Conclusions: These findings establish Anisakis sp. as a source of α-Gal-containing glycoproteins capable of eliciting specific antibody responses in humans, highlighting a potential parasitic route for α-Gal sensitization. Full article

Concrete cracks and sulfate degradation severely compromise structural durability, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions to enhance longevity and minimize environmental impact. This study assesses the efficacy of bacterial self-healing technology utilizing Bacillus megaterium (BM) and Bacillus sphaericus (BS) in enhancing the resistance of concrete to sulfate attacks and improving its mechanical properties. Bacterial suspensions (1% and 2.5% of cement weight) were mixed with concrete containing silica fume or fly ash (10% of cement weight) and cured in freshwater or sulfate solutions (2%, 5%, and 10% concentrations). Specimens were tested for compressive strength, flexural strength, and microstructure using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) at various ages. The results indicate that a 2.5% bacterial content yielded the best performance, with BM surpassing BS, enhancing compressive strength by up to 41.3% and flexural strength by 52.3% in freshwater-cured samples. Although sulfate exposure initially improved early-age strength by 1.97% at 7 days, it led to an 8.5% loss at 120 days. Bacterial inclusion mitigated sulfate damage through microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP), sealing cracks, and bolstering durability. Cracked specimens treated with BM recovered up to 93.1% of their original compressive strength, promoting sustainable, sulfate-resistant, self-healing concrete for more resilient infrastructure. Full article

Active learning strategies and methodologies place the students at the core of the learning process. The objective is to engage students in their own learning through significant activities that involve active participation. These activities are designed to promote collaboration, reflection, and practical application of the knowledge acquired to develop cognitive, social, and emotional competences. These methodologies are of particular interest in STEM disciplines and vocational education, where practice is a key element in the assimilation of theoretical concepts. In this line, a case study is presented where active methodologies have been applied to two groups of Vocational Education and Training in the area of Computer Science to improve interest and commitment. The present study focuses on two groups of first-year students enrolled in the Web Application Design course, one in the Programming subject and the other in the Markup Language subject. Both groups are heterogeneous, composed of young adults with significantly different backgrounds, skills, and motivation. The teaching–learning process is based on active methodologies, such as Project-Based Learning, Design Thinking, Flipped Classroom, or gamification, which are adapted for different subjects in the field of Computer Science. These methodologies facilitate the experimental design and testing of diverse solutions for programming problems, thereby enhancing students’ motivation and interest, while promoting creativity and reflection. The results show an improvement in the interest and commitment of the students in both groups. Despite the fact that less than 50% of students successfully passed in the initial examination, more than 75% students passed after the second-chance examination. The findings have consistently suggested that the implementation of active methodologies leads to significant enhancements in the proficiency, development, motivation, and self-learning capabilities of students, and that these methodologies make students more aware of their learning process. Full article

Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have transformed the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. However, their sustained effect on delaying gastric emptying raises new challenges in gastrointestinal endoscopy performed under sedation. This narrative review aims to summarize current evidence on the impact of GLP-1 RAs on gastric motility and to propose clinical strategies to mitigate associated procedural risks. Methods: A narrative review was conducted integrating findings from scintigraphy, capsule endoscopy, gastric ultrasound, and existing clinical guidelines. Emphasis was placed on studies reporting residual gastric content (RGC), anesthetic safety outcomes, and procedural feasibility in patients undergoing endoscopy while treated with GLP-1 RAs. Results: GLP-1 RAs significantly increase the prevalence of clinically relevant RGC, despite prolonged fasting, with potential implications for airway protection and sedation safety. Although the risk of pulmonary aspiration remains low (≤0.15%), procedural delays, modifications, or cancellations can occur in up to 30% of cases without adapted protocols. Several professional societies (AGA, ASGE, AASLD) advocate for individualized management based on procedure type, symptomatology, treatment phase, and point-of-care gastric ultrasound (POCUS), in contrast to the systematic discontinuation recommended by the ASA. Conclusions: Effective management requires personalized fasting protocols, risk-based stratification, tailored anesthetic approaches, and interprofessional coordination. We propose a clinical decision algorithm and highlight the need for training in gastrointestinal pharmacology, POCUS, and airway management for endoscopists. Future priorities include prospective validation of clinical algorithms, safety outcome studies, and the development of intersocietal consensus guidelines. Full article

Background/Objectives: The pain associated with invasive procedures is one of the most common experiences in the pediatric population. Its management remains insufficient due to gaps in healthcare training and knowledge. The aim of this study was to analyze the attitudes, beliefs, care practices, and training of healthcare professionals in relation to pediatric pain, through the development and application of the questionnaire ‘Humanisation of Pediatric Care in Pain Management with a Non-Pharmacological Approach (HUPEDCARE-Q)’. Methods: A cross-sectional, observational, and descriptive study with a quantitative approach was conducted to validate a questionnaire. The process was carried out in three phases: (1) design and initial development of the instrument; (2) evaluation of content validity through expert judgment, using the Content Validity Coefficient (CVC); (3) administration of the questionnaire to a large sample of healthcare professionals to assess its internal consistency and psychometric structure. Results: The evaluation involved five experts, and the items were assessed using the Content Validity Coefficient (CVC), with the overall CVC of the questionnaire exceeding 0.80. The average item scores given by the experts ranged from 0.88 to 0.95, indicating a high level of agreement in their evaluations. The results showed statistically significant positive correlations among most items (p < 0.001), indicating adequate internal consistency. Conclusions: The content validation and pilot study confirmed the theoretical relevance and appropriateness of the HUPEDCARE-Q questionnaire items in the Spanish context. The results support its usefulness as a valid and reliable tool to identify attitudes, beliefs, knowledge, and training needs in the humanized management of pediatric pain. Full article

The Florida softshell turtle, Apalone ferox, is considered common and found in many different types of freshwater habitats throughout its range. However, despite its prevalence where it occurs, little is understood about the species’ life history and population dynamics due to difficulties with capture and long-term marking. Building on a foundational study of the Florida softshell turtle at Wekiwa Springs State Park (WSSP) from 2007 to 2012, we present findings from an extended 16-year mark–recapture study spanning from 2007 to 2023. A total of 31 sampling events were conducted with a median of two capture events per year. Sampling events were spread over a median of 5 days each year (range, 2–11 days), with a total of 88 capture days. One hundred and twenty individual A. ferox were captured over 225 encounters. We estimated an average population size of 135.6 individuals using an annual Schumacher–Eschmeyer ratio estimator. Using a state-space Jolly–Seber model, we estimated that 204 individuals entered the population over the 16 years (the superpopulation), while the average current population size was 40 individuals. The median survival probability was 0.884 but the median detection probability was 0.10, reinforcing the perceived difficulty with capturing A. ferox. The continued influx of new juveniles, recapture of these individuals as adults, and strong female bias support the possibility that the WSSP and Rock Springs greater ecosystem functions as a potential nursery habitat for the Florida softshell. Though population estimates dropped 20% following a two-year sampling gap owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, the population is currently growing slowly and highlights the value of continued, long-term monitoring of elusive freshwater turtle species. Full article