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Abduction and Analogical Reasoning in Human Cognition and Metaphorical Thought
No full textThis paper explores the inferential processes underlying analogical reasoning, with a focus on its relationship to abduction. Peirce identified abduction as a central element of analogy (CP 1.65), and more specifically, as the cognitive mechanism uniquely responsible for the generation of new knowledge (CP 5.171). From this perspective, in this paper, I propose a typology of analogical reasoning based on the varying roles that abductive inference plays in the formation of analogical thought. To develop this framework, I draw on Peirce’s theory of abduction, as further refined by Eco’s (1981) typology of abductive processes. I argue that different types of abductive inferences give rise to distinct forms of analogy, each producing specific epistemic effects, ranging from quasi-immediate understanding to more elaborate processes that activate creative capacities. The typology of analogical reasoning developed here is then applied to metaphorical cognition in order to account for the different levels of cognitive complexity and the distinct epistemic functions that metaphors by analogy may have
Role of clans in the proximities of Neutrosophic Sets
No full textIn this study, the terms filters, grills, clans, and proximities of neutrophic sets are defined.
Further some of its properties are investigated and the results are provided
Phenotypic and genomic characterization of the Maltese hunting dog (Kelb tal-Kaċċa ta' Malta)
No full textThe traditional Maltese Hunting Dog (Kelb tal-Kaċċa ta’ Malta, KTKM) is deeply rooted in Maltese historical and cultural identity, being valued for its versatility in traditional hunting, where it usually flushes out and retrieves small migratory bird species. This study aims to characterise the KTKM phenotypically and genomically, to support its official recognition as a breed and the drafting of a breed standard. Morphological and visual examination of 36 adult KTKM, underline their similarity to European Braque-type dogs, presenting medium-sized and meso-dolicomorphic body, mesocephalic head, large drop ears, thick hanging lips, and a short haired orange-and-white coat. Genomic data of 33 KTKM were compared with 41 dog breeds, including Italian and European breeds belonging to hunting dogs, primitive dogs, terriers, and shepherds. Genomic structure analyses placed the KTKM within the pointing dog cluster, phenotypically and functionally consistent, but also highlighted possible historical links to the Kelb tal-Fenek (indigenous to Malta and known internationally as the Pharaoh Hound) and spaniels. Admixture analysis showed high genetic uniformity and uniqueness within the KTKM sampled population, while runs of homozygosity indicated a relatively low inbreeding coefficient. In conclusion, the KTKM can be considered as being a distinct, genetically uniform breed that is aligned with pointing dogs, showing moderate levels of inbreeding and good heterozygosity. Breed recognition and conservation strategies are crucial to safeguard its gene pool and cultural significance
Integrating large language models with industrial simulation for multilevel decision support: an innovation management perspective in Industry 5.0
No full textHerpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) infection of monocytic cells induces a strong release of chemokines in a Caspase-8-independent manner
No full textHerpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a widespread human pathogen that can establish lifelong persistence after primary infection. Although antiviral drugs are available, their efficacy is often limited by the emergence of resistant strains, particularly in immunocompromised patients or in those undergoing prolonged treatment. The absence of effective vaccines and the growing problem of resistance underscore the need to better understand the molecular interplay between HSV-1 and host immunity, as well as to explore alternative antiviral strategies. During HSV-1 infection, while epithelial cells can counteract pro-apoptotic signals through the expression of viral proteins, immune cells such as monocytes and dendritic cells (DCs) remain more susceptible to virus-induced apoptosis. In monocytic cells, HSV-1 establishes a low-permissive infection, yet increasing evidence indicates that death-related proteins may exert non-apoptotic functions during infection. Among these, caspase-8, classically known as an initiator of extrinsic apoptosis, has emerged as a versatile regulator implicated in necroptosis, autophagy, inflammatory signaling, and viral replication.
This PhD project primarily investigated the role of caspase-8 in HSV-1 infection of monocytic cells, with a focus on viral immune evasion and modulation of host signaling pathways. Using CRISPR-Cas9-generated caspase-8-knockout THP-1 cells and wild-type or Us11/Us12-deleted HSV-1 strains, this work demonstrates that caspase-8 limits viral gene expression, restrains NF-κB activation, and tempers chemokine production, thereby contributing to the regulation of inflammatory responses. In addition, RIPK1 expression was found to be downregulated in caspase-8-deficient cells, further supporting its involvement in immune modulation. Here, “immunomodulation” refers to cell-intrinsic regulation of innate immune signaling in infected myeloid cells (captured by NF-κB activity, chemokine transcription, and RIPK1 expression) under the influence of viral immune-evasion factors (e.g., Us11) and caspase-8-dependent checkpoints.
The construction of recombinant HSV-1 viruses carrying fluorescent tags enabled preliminary insights into virion trafficking and maturation, suggesting a potential role of caspase-8 in late stages of the viral life cycle. Altogether, these findings highlight caspase-8 as an important regulator of molecular pathways at the interface between HSV-1 and host immunity.
In addition to this central mechanistic investigation, the thesis includes complementary studies exploring the antiviral activity of selected plant-derived products. Hydroethanolic extracts from cultivated wild olive leaves exhibited antiviral activity, with oleuropein identified as a major bioactive compound associated with reduced HSV-1 gene expression and protein synthesis while activating PKR and AP-1 signaling. Similarly, almond by-products, such as blanching skin and blanching water, have been shown to exhibit antiviral properties. These exploratory studies broaden the scope of the thesis by examining alternative antiviral approaches, without extensive mechanistic dissection.
In conclusion, this work primarily advances the understanding of molecular signaling pathways during HSV-1 infection, particularly the role of caspase-8 in modulating viral replication and innate immune responses in monocytic cells, while secondarily highlighting plant-derived compounds as complementary sources of antiviral bioactivity. By combining mechanistic insights into caspase-8, NF-κB, and chemokine regulation with exploratory studies of natural bioactive molecules, this thesis contributes to a more comprehensive view of HSV-1-host interactions
Le piume di pollo idrolizzate: un modello di filiera sostenibile nel mercato del petfood. Formulazione, preparazione e validazione di mangimi innovativi mediante lo studio delle performance, del microbiota fecale e della digeribilità apparente dei nutrienti in cani adulti.
No full textIntroduction: Growing interest in sustainability within the pet food sector has increased the demand for alternative protein sources derived from animal by-products, aligned with circular economy principles. Hydrolysed feather meal (HFM) represents a promising option due to its high availability, though it is characterised by nutritional limitations and moderate biological value. While hydrolysis enhances amino acid availability, the digestibility of HFM remains variable, and its effects on gastrointestinal health and colonic fermentation in dogs are not yet fully understood.
Aim: These studies evaluated the impact of a diet containing HFM compared with a poultry meal (PM)-based diet on dog performances, faecal quality, fermentation metabolites, and, additionally, on the composition and stability of the intestinal microbiota.
Materials and Methods: Two complete extruded diets were tested: a test diet containing 7% HFM and a reference diet based on PM, formulated with similar ingredients, additives, and nutrient profiles. To assess animal performance (BW, BCS, MCS, FCS), digestibility, faecal characteristics (organic acids and biogenic amines), and microbiota composition, two trials were conducted.
Trial 1: A cross-over study was performed on six adult female English setter dogs allocated into two homogeneous groups. The experimental design consisted of two 45-day feeding periods (R1 and R2), separated by a 30-day washout and preceded by a 7-day dietary adaptation.
Trial 2: A second study was carried out on eight adult English setter dogs (four females and four males), divided into two homogeneous groups: treated (TRT) and control (CTR) groups. The experimental design consisted of a 45-day feeding period.
Discussion: The inclusion of 7% HFM was well accepted and did not impair animal performance. Faecal consistency remained within the optimal range, and concentrations of organic acids and biogenic amines indicated the maintenance of gastrointestinal health. Microbiota analysis showed diet-related shifts in specific bacterial taxa; however, overall microbial diversity and composition remained consistent with a healthy intestinal ecosystem.
Conclusions: In conclusion, partial replacement of poultry meal with hydrolysed feather meal did not negatively affect dog performances, faecal quality, microbial metabolites, or gut microbiota balance, supporting the potential of HFM as a sustainable alternative protein source in canine nutrition. Further research is needed to investigate digestibility, the influence of different processing methods, and dose–response effects.
This research was supported by the Project “BIO = C = O”, PON-MISE I&C 2014–2020 FESR, ASSE 6 REACT Priorità di investimento 13.i Azione I, funded as part of the European Union’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Project codex N. F/200078/03/X45, CUP B41B20000280005
Extraction, Identification, and Bioactivity Assessment of Astaxanthin from Red Shrimp (Aristeus antennatus) By-products: A Comprehensive Analysis Using GRAS Solvents
No full textAstaxanthin, a natural red pigment belonging to the xanthophyll class, is widely found in microorganisms, algae, and crustaceans. This study addresses for the first time the challenge of efficiently extracting astaxanthin from shrimp by-products (Aristeus antennatus) using environmentally friendly GRAS solvents (acetone, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and isopropanol). For such a scope, astaxanthin content was identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD-APCI-MS, followed by the evaluation of the seasonal variation and the effect of thermal processing. Additionally, the antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials of the extracted astaxanthin were investigated to determine its functional value. Results demonstrated that acetone at a 1:20 solvent-to-solid ratio for 60 min at 30 °C achieved the highest extraction yield (1346.38 ± 37.31 μg/g). Astaxanthin content peaked in autumn and declined during summer, while cooking led to significant pigment loss. The extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity (EC50 = 25.42 ± 1.43 μg/mL) and moderate antimicrobial effects (MIC range 25–1500 μg/mL). This study highlights the potential application of shrimp by-product-derived astaxanthin as a natural antioxidant and colorant in food industries, offering a sustainable valorization pathway for seafood waste
New frontiers in regenerative medicine: Protocol standardization and morphological assessment of leukocyte-platelet rich fibrin in cows, with a longitudinal study on growth factor release dynamics
No full textLeukocyte-Platelets Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) is a platelet-derived autologous agent. It is a powerful wound-sealing biological scaffold that promotes the healing process through the release of growth factors (GFs) and matrix proteins. To date, the l -PRF in bovines has not yet been investigated and a standardized production protocol has not yet been described. Therefore, the aim of the study was to standardise the l -PRF production protocol and to evaluate macroscopically and histologically the l -PRF membranes obtained and observe the GFs release over time and lactation phases: at 1 h (T0), 4 h (T1), 24 h (T2), and 168 h (T3) after extraction. Eighty cows were divided into four groups of 20 animals, based on their lactation phase. A whole blood sample of 20 ml was taken and divided for l -PRF clot production and haemato-biochemical investigations. The membranes presented the following overall mean characteristics: a length of 34.4 ± 7.3 cm, a width of 12.5 ± 2.6 cm, and a weight of 4.9 ± 0.17 cm. Histological analysis showed a well-defined histoarchitecture consisting of a first layer of erythrocytes, a layer of leukocytes, erythrocytes, and platelets, a layer of leukocytes, a layer of platelets, and finally a layer of slightly eosinophilic fibrin. The GFs significantly increased with upward trends in all phases of lactation and at each time control, overlapping the behavior of GF in other species. Based on the encouraging findings of this study, further clinical trials for applicative potential of the l -PRF membrane in bovine medicine should be assessed
Basic Psychological Needs, Depressive Symptoms, and Parental Self-Efficacy: A Two-Wave Study During the Transition to Motherhood
No full textMaternal well-being during pregnancy is associated with postnatal maternal well-being. Understanding the risk and protective factors that could have positive and negative effects around the event of childbirth is of utmost relevance. Grounded in self-determination theory (SDT), the present study aimed to investigate the link between (a) prenatal need satisfaction and depression symptoms and (b) postnatal need satisfaction, depression symptoms, and parental self-efficacy in a sample of 94 first-time mothers. Results of the cross-lagged-panel model showed significant paths for the stability of each variable (need satisfaction and depressive symptoms) over time. Additionally, a significant cross-lagged effect was observed (a) from prenatal need satisfaction to postnatal depressive symptoms and (b) on parental self-efficacy. Overall, the results show that in the short-term, the prenatal period may be associated with adjustment to motherhood and the mothering experiences in the postnatal period. SDT-based interventions should be implemented by promoting the fulfillment of basic psychological needs during pregnancy
Beyond bacteria: large agents with analogies to Mimiviruses detected in canine cancers: reexamining Gram staining in cancer diagnostics
No full textWhile Gram staining is traditionally used for classifying bacteria based on their
cell wall properties, Mimiviruses and large mammalian agents can also retain the
Gram stain, despite not being typical bacteria. In fact, Mimivirus-like agents that
exhibit Gram-positive staining were first found in human tissues, particularly in
malignant samples, suggesting that these agents may be involved in a unique
carcinogenic process. In order to translate the findings published in human medi-
cine to animal models, we evaluated for the first time the presence of analogous
Gram-positive agents in canine malignancies and differentiate them from tradi-
tional bacteria. Using Gram staining, we analyzed 35 canine tumors across vari-
ous malignancy types, including 7 sarcomas, 15 carcinomas, and 13 round cell
tumors such as mast cell tumors, transmissible venereal tumors and melanomas.
Normal tissues and bacteria were used as controls. We were able to identify
Gram-positive granulations, exhibiting intracytoplasmic, intra-nuclear and peri-
nuclear patterns, measuring 1–2 μm that were distinct from traditional bacteria.
This study, the first of its kind in the veterinary literature, supports comparable
published findings in human research and advances our knowledge of the patho-
physiology of cancer across species