Isolation and Characterization of Enterocin-Producing Strains from Algerian Traditional Food "Dried Figs Marinated in Olive Oil": Functional and Safety Evaluations.

The increasing consumer demand for natural and sustainable food preservation methods has highlighted the potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and their bioactive metabolites, particularly bacteriocins, as effective antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to isolate and characterize strains from Algerian traditional dried figs marinated in olive oil, a nutrient-dense and underexplored food matrix. Twelve isolates were identified as using MALDI-TOF MS and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, ensuring precise taxonomic classification.

The Effect of Incorporating Fermented Elderberries ( into Bread: Quality, Shelf Life, and Biological Enhancement.

Elderberries, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, have traditionally been used to prevent and treat infections and boost the immune system. By increasing the quantity and quality of certain compounds, fermentation can potentially make them more effective as food additives. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of incorporating fermented elderberries on the bioactivity and shelf life of a traditional bread.

Non-Destructive Ellipsometric Analysis of the Refractive Index of Historical Enamels.

The refractive index is an important parameter for the restoration of historical cultural heritage and for non-destructive optical techniques. In this study, different mathematical models for lead glasses were assessed in order to analyze their feasibility to calculate the theoretical refractive index of the historical enamels in stained-glass windows. The models selected were those specifically developed for lead glasses: the Appen method (1949), the Fanderlik and Skrivan model (1972), and the Bonetti and Salvagno method (1983).

Low-Bandgap Ferroelectric -LuMnO Thin Films for Photovoltaic Applications.

This work explores the deposition of hexagonal (-) LuMnO thin films in the phase and investigates the conditions under which the synergy of ferroelectric and photoactive properties, can be achieved to confirm the potential of this material for applications in the development of next-generation photovoltaic devices. Single-phase -LuMnO was successfully deposited on different substrates, and the thermal stability of the material was confirmed by Micro-Raman spectroscopy analysis from 77 to 850 K, revealing the suitable ferro- to para-electric transition near 760 K. Optical measurements confirm the relatively narrow band gap at 1.

On the Prediction and Optimisation of Processing Parameters in Directed Energy Deposition of SS316L via Finite Element Simulation and Machine Learning.

In the current study, the integration of finite element simulation and machine learning is used to find the optimal combination of processing parameters in the directed energy deposition of SS316L. To achieve this, the FE simulation was validated against previously implemented research, and a series of simulations were conducted. Three inputs, namely laser power, scanning speed, and laser beam radius, and two outputs, namely residual stress and displacement, were considered.

Thermal Stability and Irradiation Resistance of (CrFeTiTa)W and VFeTiTaW High Entropy Alloys.

Nuclear fusion is a promising energy source. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor aims to study the feasibility of tokamak-type reactors and test technologies and materials for commercial use. One major challenge is developing materials for the reactor's divertor, which supports high thermal flux.

Temperature-Dependent Effects on Cyclic Fatigue Resistance in Three Reciprocating Endodontic Systems: An In Vitro Study.

This study aimed to analyze the effect of 1% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solution at different temperatures on endodontic file resistance to cyclic fatigue. A total of 90 files, Reciproc NiTi M-Wire (REC) (n = 30), WaveOne Gold (WOG) (n = 30), and Reciproc Blue (RB) (n = 30) were activated under constant irrigation with 1% NaOCl at 5, 37, and 60 °C in a stainless-steel artificial canal (curvature angle = 60°; radius = 5 mm). The time to the fracture and the maximum and minimum load were recorded for each instrument, and data were subjected to statistical analysis.

Advancing Power Transformer Cooling: The Role of Fluids and Nanofluids-A Comprehensive Review.

The ongoing pursuit of enhanced efficiency and sustainability in power transformer cooling systems has spurred extensive research into the properties and performance of insulating fluids. This review explores the evolution of transformer cooling technologies, focusing on traditional mineral oils and the emerging roles of alternative fluids, such as natural and synthetic esters, and nanofluids. Mineral oils, though widely used, degrade over time, leading to a reduction in breakdown voltage (BDV) from 46 kV to 30 kV, exhibiting low fire resistance.

Meshing Anxiety, Depression, Quality of Life, and Functionality in Chronic Disease.

Background/objectives: Anxiety and depression result in a greater health burden; both can impact functionality and quality of life. This review aims to understand the association between anxiety, depression, functionality, and quality of life. Although three systematic reviews exist, one focuses on quality of life in depression and anxiety, while the others address functionality in depression and anxiety, with the former being more recent and the latter two being older.

Effect of Preventive Exercise Programs for Swimmer's Shoulder Injury on Rotator Cuff Torque and Balance in Competitive Swimmers: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Over the season, competitive swimmers experience a progressive imbalance in rotator cuff strength, predisposing them to a significant risk factor for a swimmer's shoulder injury.

Objectives: Verify the effectiveness of two 12-week preventive programs on the shoulder rotators' peak torque and conventional/functional ratios.

Design: A care provider- and participant-blinded, parallel, randomized controlled trial with three groups.

"I Know What I Have to Do, but I Don't Do It": The Relationship Between Knowledge and Adherence to Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings.

This study aims to analyze the correlation between healthcare professionals' knowledge of hand hygiene protocols and their actual adherence to these practices. Specifically, we investigate whether higher knowledge levels correspond to better compliance, and we examine potential influencing factors such as professional role, gender, and prior training in infection control. A non-probabilistic, convenience sample was composed of 51 healthcare professionals working in patient care.

Effects of a Self-Management Program on Adults with Stroke: A Quasi-Experimental Study.

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, underscoring the importance of effective self-management programs to improve the quality of life for survivors.

Objectives: This study investigates the impact of the ComVida (Bridges-PT) self-management program on self-efficacy, physical function, health-related quality of life, and emotional state of stroke survivors in Portugal.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted with 28 participants from hospital and community settings.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Portuguese Version of the Metacognitive Prospective Memory Inventory-Short Form (MPMI-s) in Non-Central Nervous System Cancer Patients.

: Cancer diagnosis and oncological treatments often lead to cognitive impairments, particularly in prospective memory, which affects the ability to recall future intentions. These difficulties can significantly impact therapeutic adherence, especially in the early stages of treatment, where timely medication and appointment adherence are critical. Despite this, effective measures for assessing prospective memory in cancer survivors remain limited.

The Risk of Pediatric Overweight and Children's Objectively Measured Sedentary Behaviors and Physical Activity by Area of Residence.

: Research considering objectively measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behaviors (SB) and health outcomes among urban children has produced equivocal findings. Therefore, this study was designed (i) to compare MVPA and SB of urban and non-urban children and (ii) to analyze associations between the risk of overweight and MVPA of children by their degree of urbanization. : The sample comprised 389 children (195 girls) aged 6 to 10 years.

Drug-Checking and Monitoring New Psychoactive Substances: Identification of the U-48800 Synthetic Opioid Using Mass Spectrometry, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, and Bioinformatic Tools.

The misuse of opioids and opiates has remained a persistent issue since the 19th century. The recent resurgence of non-fentanyl synthetic opioids, such as U-type opioids and nitazenes, has further exacerbated the ongoing crisis. Identifying these synthetic opioids presents many challenges, including the emergence of new substances, the lack of standards, and the presence of structural isomers.

Systematic Review of Phylogenetic Analysis Techniques for RNA Viruses Using Bioinformatics.

The present paper addresses topics from various fields of biology. Its purpose is to enlarge the understanding of the usage of bioinformatics tools in the phylogenetic analysis of RNA viruses. The paper highlights the benefits of using information technology in virology, bringing the scientific community closer to unraveling the mysteries of RNA virus evolution and their adaptation to different niches and hosts and facilitating the understanding of their rapid mutation processes.

Exploring Nano-Delivery Systems to Enhance the Edaravone Performance in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Treatment.

Edaravone is one of the treatment options for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, but its therapeutic efficacy is limited due to the incapacity to cross the blood-brain barrier, as well as its short life span and poor stability, which is ultimately caused by its tautomerism in physiological condions. This work presents an overview about the use of several nanoformulations based on polymeric, protein, lipidic, or hybrid structure as suitable and stable drug delivery systems for encapsulating edaravone. We also evaluated the functionalization of nanoparticles with pegylated chains using the polyethylene glycol or tocopherol polyethylene glycol succinate and the possibility of preparing polymeric nanoparticles at different pH (7.

Epigenetic Regulation of by miR-142a-3p and DNA Methylation During Osteoblast Differentiation and Mice Bone Development and Aging.

Zinc finger protein 687 (ZNF687), a transcription factor implicated in osteoblast/osteoclast differentiation and linked to Paget's disease of bone, has unclear mechanisms in bone metabolism. Epigenetic disruptions can affect bone cell activity and contribute to bone-related diseases. This work aimed to elucidate the regulatory role of epigenetics in modulating expression throughout osteoblast differentiation and bone growth/aging in mice.

Leptin Levels and Bone Mineral Density: A Friend or a Foe for Bone Loss? A Systematic Review of the Association Between Leptin Levels and Low Bone Mineral Density.

The introduction of CFTR modulators in the clinics has improved body mass index in cystic fibrosis (CF) individuals. Leptin is a major regulator of appetite and energy expenditure but is also involved in bone metabolism. Whether circulating leptin levels are associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk in CF remains unknown.

Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7 Improves Wound Healing in Diabetes by Decreasing Inflammation and Promoting M2 Macrophage Polarization.

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a devastating complication of diabetes, presenting limited treatment success rates due to their complex pathophysiology. Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) confers tissue protective and regenerative functions, but its potential role in diabetic wound healing is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of topical BMP7 treatment in wound healing using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic mouse model.

Salt-Resilient Cowpeas: Early Identification Through Growth Parameters and Gene Expression at Germination Stage.

Soil salinity is one of the most severe impacts of climate change, negatively affecting plant growth and development. Seed germination and seedling emergence are among the most critical stages susceptible to salt stress, making it important to explore them to identify the most resilient accessions for crop yield improvement. Cowpea ( L.

Chemical Characterization and Bioactivities of Sericin Extracted from Silkworm Cocoons from Two Regions of Portugal.

Sericin has been characterized as demonstrating a variety of bioactivities, establishing it as a valuable resource for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. The diverse biological activities of sericin are likely linked to its unique biochemical composition and properties. This study aimed to assess the effect of origin, seasonality, and amino acid composition on the bioactivity of sericin samples from two Portuguese regions compared to commercial sericin.

Electron Scattering Cross Sections from Thiazole for Impact Energies Ranging from 1 to 1000 eV.

Total electron scattering cross sections (TCSs), in the energy range of 1-100 eV, have been measured with a high-resolution magnetically confined electron transmission apparatus, with total uncertainty limits estimated to be within ±5%. No previous experimental TCS data have been found for comparison. Electron attachment resonances, corresponding to transient negative ion formation, have been identified for energies below 20 eV by analyzing their contribution to the measured local maxima of the TCSs.

PLA Reinforced with Limestone Waste: A Way to Sustainable Polymer Composites.

Waste stone sludge generated by the extractive industry has traditionally posed significant disposal challenges. This study redefines stone sludge as a valuable raw material by incorporating it into polylactic acid (PLA) to create sustainable composite materials. Pellets and filaments composed of up to 50% by weight of limestone powder and PLA were successfully produced using melt blending in a twin-screw extruder.

Improving Eco-Friendly Polymer Adhesive Joints: Innovative Toughening Strategies for Consistent Performance Under Various Loading Conditions.

In modern engineering applications, the use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly methods has become increasingly important. Wood joints, especially those strengthened with bio-adhesive, have attracted considerable attention due to their inherent environmental benefits and desirable mechanical properties. Compared to traditional joining methods, adhesive joints offer unique advantages such as improved load distribution, reduced stress concentration, and enhanced aesthetic appeal.