bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Introduction to the Special Issue: “The Animals Will Play While the Visitors Are Away: What Happens When Zoos and Aquariums Are Closed to Visitors?”
Authors: Powell David M. , Edes Ashley N.
Published: January 2023

Zoos and aquariums are cultural institutions that rely on a steady stream of paying visitors, whose patronage comes in the form of admission fees or product sales, for their financial health, a condition that is vital to their continued delivery on the modern zoological mission, one that includes not only recreation but also conservation, education, and research [...]
Associations between Oral Human Herpesvirus-6 and -7 and Periodontal Conditions in Older Adults
Authors: Hamada Natsuki , Shigeishi Hideo , Oka Iori , Sasaki Mio , Kitasaki Honami , Nakamura Mariko , Yano Kanako , Wu Chia-Hsin , Kaneyasu Yoshino , Maehara Tomoko , Sugiyama Masaru , Ohta Kouji
Published: January 2023

Background: The associations between oral human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) and HHV-7, periodontal conditions, and lifestyle-related diseases, such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, have not been fully investigated in older adults. Methods: Seventy-four older patients who visited Hiroshima University Hospital were enrolled. Tongue swab samples were employed, and a real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect HHV-6 and HHV-7 DNA. Dental plaque accumulation, probing pocket depth, and bleeding on probing (BOP) (i.e., a sign of periodontal inflammation) were examined. The periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) value (i.e., an indicator of the severity of periodontitis) was also examined. Results: Of the 74 participants, one participant (1.4%) was HHV-6 DNA-positive and 36 participants (48.6%) were HHV-7 DNA-positive. A significant association between HHV-7 DNA and probing depth was found (p = 0.04). The HHV-7 DNA-positive participants had a higher positive rate of a ≥6-mm periodontal pocket with BOP (25.0%) than the HHV-7 DNA-negative participants (7.9%). Additionally, the HHV-7 DNA-positive participants had a higher PISA value than the HHV-7 DNA-negative participants. However, there was no significant association between HHV-7 and the PISA value (p = 0.82). No significant association was found between HHV-7 and lifestyle-related diseases (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Oral HHV-7 infection is associated with a deep periodontal pocket.
Synthesis of Pentacycloundecane (PCUD) Based Spiro-Pyrano-Cage Framework via Ring-Closing Metathesis
Authors: Kotha Sambasivarao , Salman Mohammad , Cheekatla Subba Rao
Published: January 2023

Here, we demonstrate a short synthetic route to pyrano cage systems containing pentacycloundecane units by employing ring-closing metathesis (RCM) as a key step. These cage systems were constructed starting with readily available starting materials by adopting atomic economic processes such as cycloadditions (Diels-Alder reaction and [2+2] cycloaddition), Grignard addition, and olefin metathesis. The key building block, such as hexacyclic cage dione, was prepared from 1,4-naphthoquinone derivative and freshly cracked 1,3-cyclopentadiene. Some of these heterocyclic motifs are useful in biological chemistry and valuable as key synthons for high-energy-density materials.
Mechanical Properties of AISI 316L Lattice Structures via Laser Powder Bed Fusion as a Function of Unit Cell Features
Authors: Olivas-Alanis Luis H. , Fraga-Martínez Antonio Abraham , García-López Erika , Lopez-Botello Omar , Vazquez-Lepe Elisa , Cuan-Urquizo Enrique , Rodriguez Ciro A.
Published: January 2023

The growth of additive manufacturing processes has enabled the production of complex and smart structures. These fabrication techniques have led research efforts to focus on the application of cellular materials, which are known for their thermal and mechanical benefits. Herein, we studied the mechanical behavior of stainless-steel (AISI 316L) lattice structures both experimentally and computationally. The lattice architectures were body-centered cubic, hexagonal vertex centroid, and tetrahedron in two cell sizes and at two different rotation angles. A preliminary computational study assessed the deformation behavior of porous cylindrical samples under compression. After the simulation results, selected samples were manufactured via laser powder bed fusion. The results showed the effects of the pore architecture, unit cell size, and orientation on the reduction in the mechanical properties. The relative densities between 23% and 69% showed a decrease in the bulk material stiffness up to 93%. Furthermore, the different rotation angles resulted in a similar porosity level but different stiffnesses. The simulation analysis and experimental results indicate that the variation in the strut position with respect to the force affected the deformation mechanism. The tetrahedron unit cell showed the smallest variation in the elastic modulus and off-axis displacements due to the cell orientation. This study collected computational and experimental data for tuning the mechanical properties of lattice structures by changing the geometry, size, and orientation of the unit cell.
Static Globularization Behavior and Artificial Neural Network Modeling during Post-Annealing of Wedge-Shaped Hot-Rolled Ti-55511 Alloy
Authors: Xu Liguo , Shi Shuangxi , Kong Bin , Luo Deng , Zhang Xiaoyong , Zhou Kechao
Published: January 2023

The globularization of the lamellar α phase by thermomechanical processing and subsequent annealing contributes to achieving the well-balanced strength and plasticity of titanium alloys. A high-throughput experimental method, wedge-shaped hot-rolling, was designed to obtain samples with gradient true strain distribution of 0~1.10. The samples with gradient strain distribution were annealed to obtain the gradient distribution of globularized α phase, which could rapidly assess the globularization fraction of α phase under different conditions. The static globularization behavior under various parameters was systematically studied. The applied prestrain provided the necessary driving force for static globularization during annealing. The substructure evolution and the boundary splitting occurred mainly at the early stage of annealing. The termination migration and the Ostwald ripening were dominant in the prolonged annealing. A backpropagation artificial neural network (BP-ANN) model for static globularization was developed, which coupled the factors of prestrain, annealing temperature, and annealing time. The average absolute relative errors (AARE) for the training and validation set are 3.17% and 3.22%, respectively. Further sensitivity analysis of the factors shows that the order of relative importance for static globularization is annealing temperature, prestrain and annealing time. The developed BP-ANN can precisely predict the static globularization kinetic curves without overfitting.
Posture and Dynamics Analysis of Hydraulic Support with Joint Clearance under Impact Load
Authors: Zeng Qingliang , Xu Penghui , Meng Zhaosheng , Ma Chen , Lei Xiaowan
Published: January 2023

A hydraulic support is one of the key pieces of equipment in a fully mechanized coal-mining face. The shaft is seriously worn due to repeated support shifting in coal-mining operations, and the hydraulic support bears a large amount of impact load in the support process, leading to a threat to its dynamic stability. In order to study the impact load on the posture and dynamics of a hydraulic support, and considering the joint clearance of the hydraulic-support hinge point, based on the dynamics software Adams, the equivalent variable-stiffness damping system is used to replace the column, and the impact analysis model of the hydraulic support with joint clearance is established. The roof pressure is vertically applied to the load balance area of the top beam by static load, and the impact load is vertically applied to the top beam downward. Based on the above model, considering the different distributions of joint clearance, research about the influence of joint clearance on the posture and dynamic characteristics of the hydraulic support is carried out. The results show that when there is joint clearance on both sides of the hydraulic support, when the top beam bears the impact load, the X-axis PMR (position movement ratio) at different positions of the top beam is more than 80%, and the forward-tilt posture is obvious. When the hydraulic support has only unilateral clearance, the front end of the top beam bears the impact load, and the front end of the top beam moves laterally, while the rear end of the top beam mainly moves longitudinally. When the end of the top beam bears the impact load, the vertical PMR of the top beam is less than 1%. When the impact load acts on the side with joint clearance, the top beam has a certain degree of lateral offset, and the offset directions on both sides of the top beam are inconsistent. At this time, the top beam presents a torsional-bearing posture. When the front end of the top beam is loaded, the mechanical curve of each hinge point is higher than the rear-end load. For the hinge point on the side without clearance, the maximum load-fluctuation coefficient reaches 1.04, while for the hinge point on the side with clearance, the minimum load is 0 kN, which will mean some hinge points cannot to play a supporting role. The analysis results will be helpful to research hydraulic supports considering joint clearance.
Simple and Safe: Inverse Plication of the Posterior Mitral Leaflet in Everyday Mitral Valve Reconstruction with and without Concomitant Procedures
Authors: Ostovar Roya , Motazedian Farnoosh , Hartrumpf Martin , Schröter Filip , Albes Johannes Maximilian
Published: January 2023

Objective: Cardiosurgical mitral valve repair (MVR) cannot be easily replaced by other interventional procedures due to the complexity of mitral valve regurgitation as well as physiologic and anatomic repair techniques. A wide variety of techniques have been adopted for proper reconstruction of posterior leaflet prolapse. We investigated the long-term results of quadrangular resections and compared them with a simplified reconstruction maneuver, the inverse plication. Methods: We retrospectively collected data from 1977 patients after mitral valve repair between 2004 and 2022. After considering inclusion and exclusion criteria, we analyzed data from 180 patients after MVR with and without concomitant procedures such as CABG and/or aortic valve replacement (AVR). All MVRs were performed with a semi-rigid annuloplasty ring. A total of 180 patients received quadrangular resection (QuadRes, N = 120)) or inverse plication (InvPlic, N = 60) of the posterior leaflet, among other measures. Demographic data, risk factors, procedure times, hospitalization time, early and long-term mortality as well as Kaplan–Meier survival were analyzed. Results: Age (65.3 vs. 63.1 years) and sex (28.8% female vs. 337.5% female) did not differ significantly, and the EuroSCORE was significantly higher in the InvPlic group (6.46 ± 2.75) than in the QuadRes group (5.68 ± 3.1). Procedural times did not differ for cardiopulmonary bypass, and were as follows: InvPlic 136 ± 44 min; QuadRes 140 ± 48 min; X-Clamp: InvPlic 91 ± 31 min; QuadRes 90 ± 32 min. Hospitalization time was slightly but insignificantly lower in the InvPlic group (15.5 days) than in the QuadRes group (16.1 days). Early mortality (5.08% vs. 8.33%) and re-do procedures (1.69% InvPlic; 6.67% QuadRes) did not differ significantly. However, long-term mortality was significantly lower in the InvPlic group (15.25% vs. 32.32%, p = 0.029). Conclusions: Among the surgical measures for the posterior leaflet, inverse plication appears to be non-inferior to quadrangular resection in unselected all-comer patients. Long-term results and absence of re-do procedures indicate very good stability. Thus, inverse plication not only allows correction of PML, but is also completely safe in the long term and can replace quadrangular resection, especially in patients where a reduction in technical challenges and procedure duration is desired.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Liver Transplantation Recipients after Tranexamic Acid Treatment and Platelet Transfusion: A Retrospective Single-Centre Experience
Authors: Alsabani Mohmad H. , Sibai Abdulrazak , Alharbi Saja F. , Olayan Lafi H. , Samman Abeer A. , Al Harbi Mohammed K.
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: Patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT) often require increased blood product transfusion due to pre-existing coagulopathy and intraoperative fibrinolysis. Strategies to minimise intraoperative bleeding and subsequent blood product requirements include platelet transfusion and tranexamic acid (TXA). Prophylactic TXA administration has been shown to reduce bleeding and blood product requirements intraoperatively. However, its clinical use is still debated. The aim of this study was to report on a single-centre practice and analyse clinical characteristics and outcomes of LT recipients according to intraoperative treatment of TXA or platelet transfusion. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective observational cohort study in which we reviewed 162 patients’ records. Characteristics, intraoperative requirement of blood products, postoperative development of thrombosis and outcomes were compared between patients without or with intraoperative TXA treatment and without or with platelet transfusion. Results: Intraoperative treatment of TXA and platelets was 53% and 57.40%, respectively. Patients who required intraoperative administration of TXA or platelet transfusion also required more transfusion of blood products. Neither TXA nor platelet transfusion were associated with increased postoperative development of hepatic artery and portal vein thrombosis, 90-day mortality or graft loss. There was a significant increase in the median length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay in those who received platelet transfusion only (2.00 vs. 3.00 days; p = 0.021). Time to extubate was significantly different in both those who required TXA and platelet transfusion intraoperatively. Conclusions: Our analysis indicates that LT recipients still required copious intraoperative transfusion of blood products, despite the use of intraoperative TXA and platelets. Our findings have important implications for current transfusion practice in LT recipients and may guide clinicians to act upon these findings, which will support global efforts to encourage a wider use of TXA to reduce transfusion requirements, including platelets.
The Prevalence and Treatment Costs of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer in Cluj-Napoca Maxillofacial Center
Authors: Faur Cosmin Ioan , Moldovan Mădălina Anca , Văleanu Mădălina , Rotar Horațiu , Filip Laura , Roman Rareș Călin
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: An increasing incidence of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is noted, as well as an increasing cost of the treatment, with NMSC becoming a public health problem. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and treatment costs of surgically treated NMSC from the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of Cluj-Napoca County Hospital. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data and the charge data of hospitalization from the informatic system of Cluj-Napoca County Hospital. All patients benefited from standard surgical excision with the reconstruction of the post-excisional defect. A statistical analysis of the costs related to the patients’ features, period and conditions of hospitalization, materials, medication, and paraclinical investigations was performed. Results: Between 2015 and 2019, 133 patients with NMSC were addressed to our department, with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) being four-fold higher than squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Most NMSC cases were diagnosed in stage I or II, and they benefited from local reconstruction. The treatment costs progressively increased in the last five years, reaching a total cost of EUR ~13.000 in 2019. The treatment cost per episode was higher for SCC compared to BCC, while the total cost of treatment in 5 years was higher for BCC. Low income, immunosuppression, comorbidities, flap reconstruction option, long-lasting surgery, and prolonged hospitalization were associated with an increased cost of the treatment. Conclusion: The prevalence and treatment cost of surgically treated NMSC of the head and neck region increased in the last five years, with high-cost drivers being related to patients and treatment options.
Influence of Vitamin D Status and Supplementation on Metabolomic Profiles of Older Adults
Authors: McCourt Aislinn F. , O’Sullivan Aifric M.
Published: January 2023

Metabolomics can identify metabolite patterns associated with different nutrition phenotypes and determine changes in metabolism in response to nutrition interventions. Vitamin D insufficiency is associated with increased metabolic disease risk; however, the role of vitamin D in metabolic health is not fully understood. This randomised, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) examined the influence of vitamin D status and the effect of vitamin D supplementation on metabolomic profiles in older adults. Healthy adults aged 50+ were randomly assigned to consume 20 µg vitamin D3 or a placebo daily for 4 weeks. Serum samples were collected at baseline and post-intervention for 25(OH)D and metabolomics analysis via liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Pearson’s correlation examined relationships between 25(OH)D and metabolite concentrations. GLM ANCOVA compared metabolite concentrations between vitamin D-insufficient (<50 nmol/L) and -sufficient (>50 nmol/L) participants. The repeated-measures general linear model of covariance (RM GLM ANCOVA) examined changes in metabolites over time. Out of 132 metabolites, 2 short chain fatty acid concentrations were higher in the insufficient participants compared to sufficient participants, and 11 glycerophospholipid concentrations were lower in insufficient participants compared to sufficient participants at baseline. Three acylcarnitine concentrations decreased with vitamin D supplementation in vitamin D-insufficient participants. Our findings suggest that vitamin D status influences lipid metabolism in healthy older adults and supports the use of metabolomics in vitamin D research.
Effect of Methionine Hydroxy Analog on Hu Sheep Digestibility, Rumen Fermentation, and Rumen Microbial Community In Vitro
Authors: Li Shujie , Zeng Hanfang , Wang Changjian , Han Zhaoyu
Published: January 2023

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of a methionine hydroxy analog (MHA) on in vitro gas production, rumen fermentation parameters, and rumen microbiota. Two different MHA, 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid isopropyl ester (HMBi) and the calcium salt of the hydroxy analog of methionine (MHA-Ca), were selected for in vitro experiments. The treatments were the Control group (0% of MHA), HMBi group (2%HMBi), and MHA-Ca group (2%MHA-Ca). Dry matter digestibility was measured after 12 h and 24 h of fermentation, and fermentation parameters and microbial composition were analyzed after 24 h. HMBi and MHA-Ca showed increased (p = 0.001) cumulative gas production in 3 h. The total volatile fatty acids, microbial protein (MCP) concentration, acetate, and acetate to propionate ratio in the HMBi and MHA-Ca groups were significantly higher than those in the Control group (p = 0.006, p = 0.002, p = 0.001, p = 0.004), and the NH3-N concentrations in the HMBi and MHA-Ca groups were significantly lower than those in the Control group (p = 0.004). The 16S rRNA sequencing revealed that the HMBi group had a higher (p = 0.039, p = 0.001, p = 0.027) relative abundance of Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, and Synergistetes and a lower relative abundance of Proteobacteria (p = 0.001) than the Control group. At the genus level, Prevotella abundance was higher (p = 0.001), while Ruminobacter abundance was lower (p = 0.001), in the HMBi and MHA-Ca groups than in the Control group. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed that the relative abundance of Prevotella_1, Streptococcus, and Desulfovibrio was positively correlated with dry matter digestibility, MCP, and fermentation parameters. MHA, thus, significantly increased gas production and altered the rumen fermentation parameters and microbiota composition of sheep.
High-Performance Flexible Energy Storage Devices Based on Graphene Decorated with Flower-Shaped MoS2 Heterostructures
Authors: Qian Yongteng , Lyu Zhiyi , Zhang Qianwen , Lee Tae Hyeong , Kang Tae Kyu , Sohn Minkyun , Shen Lin , Kim Dong Hwan , Kang Dae Joon
Published: January 2023

MoS2, owing to its advantages of having a sheet-like structure, high electrical conductivity, and benign environmental nature, has emerged as a candidate of choice for electrodes of next-generation supercapacitors. Its widespread use is offset, however, by its low energy density and poor durability. In this study, to overcome these limitations, flower-shaped MoS2/graphene heterostructures have been deployed as electrode materials on flexible substrates. Three-electrode measurements yielded an exceptional capacitance of 853 F g−1 at 1.0 A g−1, while device measurements on an asymmetric supercapacitor yielded 208 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and long-term cyclic durability. Nearly 86.5% of the electrochemical capacitance was retained after 10,000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1. Moreover, a remarkable energy density of 65 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 0.33 kW kg−1 was obtained. Our MoS2/Gr heterostructure composites have great potential for the development of advanced energy storage devices.
The Effect of Cooling Layer Thickness and Coolant Velocity on Crystal Thermodynamic Properties in a Laser Amplifier
Authors: Nie Shuzhen , Zhao Tianzhuo , Liu Xiaolong , Qu Pubo , Yang Yuchuan , Wang Yuheng
Published: January 2023

Laser diode pumped solid-state lasers (DPSSLs) have been widely used in many fields, and their thermal effects have attracted more and more attention. The laser diode (LD) side-pumped amplifier, as a key component of DPSSLs, is necessary for effective heat dissipation. In this paper, instead of the common thermal analysis based only on a crystal rod model, a fluid–structure interaction model including a glass tube, cooling channel, coolant and crystal rod is established in numerical simulation using ANSYS FLUENT for the configuration of an LD array side-pumped laser amplifier. The relationships between cooling layer thickness, coolant velocity and maximum temperature, maximum equivalent stress, inlet pressure and the convective heat transfer coefficient are analyzed. The results show that the maximum temperature (or maximum equivalent stress) decreases with the increase in the coolant velocity; at low velocity, a larger cooling layer thickness with more coolant is not conductive enough for improved heat dissipation of the crystal rod; at high velocity, when the cooling layer thickness is above or below 1.5 mm, the influence of the cooling layer thickness on the maximum temperature can be ignored; and the effect of the cooling layer thickness on the maximum equivalent stress at high velocity is not very significant. The comprehensive influence of various factors should be fully considered in the design process, and this study provides an important reference for the design and optimization of a laser amplifier and DPSSL system.
Signal-Independent Background Calibration with Fast Convergence Speed in Pipeline-SAR ADC
Authors: Wang Yu-Jun , Wang Peng , Wan Li-Xi , Jin Zhi
Published: January 2023

This brief proposes a signal-independent background calibration in pipeline-SAR analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) with a convergence-accelerated technique. To achieve signal independence, an auxiliary capacitor array CA is introduced to pre-inject a pseudo-random noise (PN) in the sampling phase to cancel out the opposite PN injection of the calibrated capacitor in the conversion phase, and CA is also used to realize the D/A function of the calibrated capacitor in the conversion phase. In this way, no matter what the signal is, the residue headroom remains unchanged even with PN injection. Moreover, the first sub-ADC is designed with extended conversion bits to quantize its own residue after delivering the conversion bits required by the first stage. Afterwards, this result is provided to the calibration algorithm to reduce the signal component and accelerate the convergence. Based on the simulation, the signal-to-noise and distortion ratio (SNDR) and spur-free dynamic range (SFDR) improve from 45.3 dB and 56.4 dB to 68.2 dB and 88.4 dB, respectively, after calibration. In addition, with the acceleration technique, convergence cycles decrease from 1.7 × 108 to 5.8 × 106. Moreover, no matter whether the input signal is DC, sine wave or band-limited white noise, the calibration all works normally.
Difunctionalization of Dienes, Enynes and Related Compounds via Sequential Radical Addition and Cyclization Reactions
Authors: Zhi Sanjun , Yao Hongjun , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2023

Radical reactions are powerful in creating carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bonds. Designing one-pot radical reactions with cascade transformations to assemble the cyclic skeletons with two new functional groups is both synthetically and operationally efficient. Summarized in this paper is the recent development of reactions involving radical addition and cyclization of dienes, diynes, enynes, as well as arene-bridged and arene-terminated compounds for the preparation of difunctionalization cyclic compounds. Reactions carried out with radical initiators, transition metal-catalysis, photoredox, and electrochemical conditions are included.
Protocol for a Randomized Control Trial for Tungiasis Treatment in Homa Bay County, Kenya: Dimeticone versus Sodium Carbonate
Authors: Suzuki Kana , Kamiya Yasuhiko , Smith Chris , Kaneko Satoshi , Ongaya Asiko , Amukoye Evans
Published: January 2023

Tungiasis, a World Health Organization neglected tropical disease, is caused by the female sand flea. Most clinical trials for tungiasis use expensive or impractical drugs, which are difficult for residents to use. However, in western Kenya, communities successfully treat tungiasis with sodium carbonate. We hypothesise that the topical risk-difference of 5% sodium carbonate is no more than 10% non-inferior to dimeticone (NYDA®) for tungiasis treatment. This is a protocol for a non-inferiority study, which will be randomised and with an observer-blinded control. The study will have two arms: 5% sodium carbonate and NYDA®, one on each foot, and will take place at state primary schools in Homa Bay County, Kenya. Fleas identified among school children aged 8–14 years with sand-flea lesions will be enrolled in the study. For each participant, the viability of the embedded fleas, clinical signs including inflammation, and symptoms will be monitored for seven days after treatment. The proportion of dead fleas will be compared in the primary analysis. All adverse events will be monitored throughout the study period. We expect to identify the most effective treatment between sodium carbonate and NYDA® for tungiasis, which can be adopted in the community.
Nutation Excitations in the Gyrotropic Vortex Dynamics in a Circular Magnetic Nanodot
Authors: Gareeva Zukhra , Guslienko Konstantin
Published: January 2023

A significant activity is devoted to the investigation of the ultrafast spin dynamic processes, holding a great potential for science and applications. However, a challenge of the understanding of the mechanisms of underlying spin dynamics in nanomaterials at pico- and femtosecond timescales remains under discussion. In this article, we explore the gyrotropic vortex dynamics in a circular soft magnetic nanodot, highlighting the impacts given by nutations in the high-frequency part of the dot spin excitation spectrum. Using a modified Thiele equation of the vortex core motion with a nutation term, we analyze the dynamic response of the vortex to an oscillating magnetic field applied in the dot plane. It is found that nutations affect the trajectory of the vortex core. Namely, we show that the directions of the vortex core motion in the low-frequency gyrotropic mode and the high-frequency nutation mode are opposite. The resonant frequencies of gyrotropic and nutational vortex core motions reveal themselves on different scales: gigahertz for the gyrotropic motion and terahertz for the nutations. We argue that the nutations induce a dynamic vortex mass, present estimates of the nutational mass, and conduct comparison with the mass appearing due to moving vortex interactions with spin waves and Doering domain wall mass.
Lactose and Galactose Content in Spanish Cheeses: Usefulness in the Dietary Treatment of Patients with Galactosaemia
Authors: Vitoria Isidro , Melendreras Fuensanta , Vázquez-Palazón Antonio , Rausell Dolores , Correcher Patricia , González-Lamuño Domingo , García-Peris Mónica
Published: January 2023

In galactosaemia, a strict galactose-free diet is necessary to prevent or resolve acute symptoms in infants. However, because the body produces up to 10 times more galactose than is found in a galactose-restricted diet, excessively restrictive diets should be avoided in children and adults to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Since cheese is a nutritional source of the calcium necessary for bone health, the latest international guidelines on the management of classical galactosaemia (2017) allow the consumption of cured cheeses with less than 25 mg of galactose/100 g and recommend that each country verifies the adequacy of the cheeses, since most mature cheeses do not always have a lower galactose content. In total, 32 cheese samples were purchased (19 Spanish and 13 international cheeses), and their lactose and galactose contents were analysed using ion chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection (IC-PAD). Five Spanish cheeses contained less than 25 mg of galactose/100 g: García Baquero semi-cured cheese; Hacendado, Gran Reserva and Mahón cured cheeses; and García Baquero Reserva 12-month cured cheese. In addition, eight international cheeses were confirmed as suitable: Comté, Gouda, Gruyere, Maasdam, Parmigiano, Edam, Emmental, and some samples of Cheddar. In addition to the well-known low-galactose Swiss and Dutch cheeses, according to the current results, five Spanish cheeses can be safely consumed. The greater availability of types of cheese favours better bone health in patients with galactosaemia.
Effects of Nut Consumption on Blood Lipids and Lipoproteins: A Comprehensive Literature Update
Authors: Guasch-Ferré Marta , Tessier Anne-Julie , Petersen Kristina S. , Sapp Philip A. , Tapsell Linda C. , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Ros Emilio , Kris-Etherton Penny M.
Published: January 2023

In the present review, we provide a comprehensive narrative overview of the current knowledge on the effects of total and specific types of nut consumption (excluding nut oil) on blood lipids and lipoproteins. We identified a total of 19 systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that were available in PubMed from the inception date to November 2022. A consistent beneficial effect of most nuts, namely total nuts and tree nuts, including walnuts, almonds, cashews, peanuts, and pistachios, has been reported across meta-analyses in decreasing total cholesterol (mean difference, MD, −0.09 to −0.28 mmol/L), LDL-cholesterol (MD, −0.09 to −0.26 mmol/L), and triglycerides (MD, −0.05 to −0.17 mmol/L). However, no effects on HDL-cholesterol have been uncovered. Preliminary evidence indicates that adding nuts into the regular diet reduces blood levels of apolipoprotein B and improves HDL function. There is also evidence that nuts dose-dependently improve lipids and lipoproteins. Sex, age, or nut processing are not effect modifiers, while a lower BMI and higher baseline lipid concentrations enhance blood lipid/lipoprotein responses. While research is still emerging, the evidence thus far indicates that nut-enriched diets are associated with a reduced number of total LDL particles and small, dense LDL particles. In conclusion, evidence from clinical trials has shown that the consumption of total and specific nuts improves blood lipid profiles by multiple mechanisms. Future directions in this field should include more lipoprotein particle, apolipoprotein B, and HDL function studies.
Effectiveness of a Lifestyle Change Program on Insulin Resistance in Yaquis Indigenous Populations in Sonora, Mexico: PREVISY
Authors: Castro-Juarez Alejandro Arturo , Serna-Gutiérrez Araceli , Alemán-Mateo Heliodoro , Gallegos-Aguilar Ana Cristina , Dórame-López Norma Alicia , Valenzuela-Sánchez Abraham , Valenzuela-Guzmán Diana Marcela , Díaz-Zavala Rolando Giovanni , Urquidez-Romero Rene , Esparza-Romero Julián
Published: January 2023

To evaluate the effectiveness of the healthy lifestyle promotion program for Yaquis (PREVISY) on insulin resistance in the short- and medium-term periods in adults who are overweight/obese and have an increased risk for diabetes. Using a translational research design, an intervention program was implemented in a sample of 93 Yaqui adult subjects. The effectiveness of PREVISY was evaluated by comparing the levels of Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and the Triglycerides-Glucose Index (TyG index) at 6 and 12 months using a paired t-test. Results: In the subjects who completed the program, a decrease in the HOMA-IR index (∆ = −0.91 and ∆ = −1.29, p ≤ 0.05) and the TyG index (∆ = −0.24 y ∆ = −0.20, p ≤ 0.05) was observed in the short- and medium-term period, respectively. Subjects with body weight loss ≥ 10% showed decreased levels of HOMA-IR (∆ = −3.32 and ∆ = −4.89, p ≤ 0.05) and the TyG index (∆ = −0.80 and ∆ = −0.60, p ≤ 0.05) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. A stronger benefit of the program was found in subjects with obesity (vs. overweight) and with high and very high risk of diabetes (vs. moderate risk) in IR markers (p ≤ 0.05). The PREVISY program demonstrated its effectiveness in the improvement of some markers of insulin resistance in Yaqui adults at risk of diabetes.
Empagliflozin Protects against Haloperidol Experimentally-Induced Ovarian Toxicity
Authors: Abdelzaher Walaa Yehia , De Waard Michel , Abdelmonaem Alyaa Abdelfattah , Ali Dalia Mohamed , El-Tahawy Nashwa Fathy Gamal , Rifaai Rehab Ahmed , Mohamed Hatem A. , Shaheen Kareem , Zeen El-Din Mohamed Ahmed , Welson Nermeen N. , Tawfeek Shereen ELsayed , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Abdel-Aziz Asmaa Mohamed
Published: January 2023

The present experiment aimed to identify the potential protective role of empagliflozin (EMPA) on haloperidol (HAL)-induced ovarian damage in female rats because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic effects. EMPA was administered in the presence and absence of HAL. Thirty-two adult female albino rats were divided into four groups. Control group, EMPA group: received EMPA (10 mg/kg/day) p.o., HAL group: received HAL (2 mg/kg/day) p.o., HAL + EMPA group: HAL (2 mg/kg/day) combined with EMPA for 28 days. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) levels were measured. Ovarian oxidative stress parameters, besides inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers, and ovarian Sirtuin-1 (Sirt-1) were evaluated. Ovarian histopathological examination and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) immunohistochemical study were performed. HAL significantly increased serum levels of FSH, LH, and ovarian inflammatory, apoptotic, and oxidative stress biomarkers and decreased serum AMH levels and Sirt-1 expression. Histopathological findings of ovarian damage and high Hsp70 immunoexpression were detected. EMPA significantly normalized the distributed hormonal levels, oxidative stress, inflammatory, and apoptotic biomarkers with a prompt improvement in the histopathological picture and a decrease in Hsp70 immunoexpression. Accordingly, EMPA protected against HAL-induced ovarian toxicity by modulating the Sirt-1/Hsp70/TNF-α/caspase-3 signaling pathway.
Modified Potato Starch as a Potential Retardant for Prolonged Release of Lidocaine Hydrochloride from Methylcellulose Hydrophilic Gel
Authors: Kobryń Justyna , Raszewski Bartosz , Zięba Tomasz , Musiał Witold
Published: January 2023

The problem of drug delivery often concentrates on the prolongation of drug activity. Application of natural polymers which are biodegradable and inexpensive is in the interest of many researchers. The aim of this study was the application of newly synthesized starch derivatives as potential functional excipients proposed for hydrophilic gel with lidocaine hydrochloride (LH) to prolong drug release from the hydrogel matrix. In our study, we investigated the effect of starch modified with citric acid on the release kinetics of LH using UV-VIS and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), as well as viscosity and pH measurements. We demonstrated the effectiveness of citric-acid-modified starch in prolonging the release of LH from methylcellulose gel.
Do Tree Size and Tree Shade Tolerance Affect the Photosynthetic Capacity of Broad-Leaved Tree Species?
Authors: Song Yuhan , Jin Guangze
Published: January 2023

(1) Background: leaf structure traits are closely related to leaf photosynthesis, reflecting the ability of trees to obtain external resources in the process of growth. (2) Methods: We studied the morphological, chemical, anatomical, stomatal traits and maximum net photosynthetic rate of six broad-leaf species in northern temperate mixed broad-leaved Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) forest. (3) Aim: To investigate whether there are differences in leaf structural traits of trees with different shade tolerances and different sizes and the effects of these differences on leaf photosynthetic capacity. (4) Results: the effects of leaf structure traits on leaf photosynthesis were different among trees with different shade tolerances or different sizes. Under the condition of light saturation, the net photosynthetic rate, nitrogen use efficiency, phosphorus use efficiency and stomatal conductance of shade-intolerant trees or small trees were higher than those of shade-tolerant trees or large trees. (5) Conclusions: the shade tolerance of tree species or the size of trees affect the traits of leaf structure and indirectly affect the photosynthetic ability of plants. When constructing the leaf trait–photosynthesis model, the shade tolerance and tree size of tree species should be taken into account.
Cultivation Using Coir Substrate and P or K Enriched Fertilizer Provides Higher Resistance to Drought in Ecologically Diverse Quercus Species
Authors: Mariotti Barbara , Martini Sofia , Raddi Sabrina , Ugolini Francesca , Oliet Juan A. , Jacobs Douglass F. , Maltoni Alberto
Published: January 2023

Nursery cultivation practices can be modified to increase resistance to water stress in forest seedlings following field establishment, which may be increasingly important under climate change. We evaluated the morphological (survival, growth) and physiological (chlorophyll fluorescence, leaf water potential) responses to water stress for three ecologically diverse Quercus species (Q. robur, Q. pubescens, and Q. ilex) with varying traits resulting from the combination of growing media (peat, coir) and fertilization (standard, P-enriched, K-enriched). For all species under water stress, seedlings grown in coir had generally higher growth than those grown in peat. Seedlings fertilized with P performed better, particularly for survival; conversely, K fertilization resulted in inconsistent findings. Such results could be explained by a combination of factors. P fertilization resulted in higher P accumulation in seedlings, while no K accumulation was observed in K fertilized seedlings. As expected, the more drought-sensitive species, Q. robur, showed the worst response, while Q. pubescens had a drought resistance equal or better to Q. ilex despite being classified as intermediate in drought resistance in Mediterranean environments.
Habitat Characteristics and Mineral Nutrition Status of Rubus chamaemorus L. in Latvia
Authors: Āboliņa Laura , Osvalde Anita , Karlsons Andis
Published: January 2023

In Latvia, cloudberries are considered a valuable delicacy and have aroused interest in the possibility of commercial cultivation, as currently, they are collected only in the wild. A complex study was carried out to provide insight into the growth conditions of wild cloudberry in Latvia. The knowledge gained would provide a basis for the development of cloudberry cultivation technologies in the hemiboreal zone. Habitat characteristics, composition of surrounding vegetation, and plant mineral nutrition status were investigated in 18 study sites. Overall, the species composition of cloudberry study sites corresponded to two plant community classes: Cl. Vaccinio-Piceetea and Cl. Oxycocco-Sphagnetea. The most common species were Sphagnum magellanicum, Vaccinium myrtillus, and Oxycoccus palustris. The results clearly indicated acidic peat soils with high organic matter content and low degree of decomposition as being most suitable for cloudberry cultivation. High nutrient uptake capacity was found for wild cloudberry growing in nutrient-poor environments, as most of the leaf nutrients corresponded to the optimal levels determined for different cultivated berries. However, balanced fertilization to ensure successful plant vegetative and root growth would be recommended. The first results on wild cloudberry in Latvia indicated that optimization of P, S, B, and Mo should be the main focus.
Treatment Wetlands in Mexico for Control of Wastewater Contaminants: A Review of Experiences during the Last Twenty-Two Years
Authors: Marín-Muñiz José Luis , Sandoval Herazo Luis Carlos , López-Méndez María Cristina , Sandoval-Herazo Mayerlin , Meléndez-Armenta Roberto Ángel , González-Moreno Humberto Raymundo , Zamora Sergio
Published: January 2023

Constructed or treatment wetlands (CWs) are a sustainable option to clean wastewater in the face of water pollution problems. Consequently, this study was aimed at reviewing and analyzing the use of CWs in Mexico. This involved types, sizes, and functionality in the removal of pollutants, as well as the main plant species that are used. Furthermore, 67 studies regarding CWs were found, which were classified according to the treatment area as microcosms, mesocosms, pilot scale, and full-scale at 18, 30, 25, and 27%, respectively. The most used types of CWs are those of subsurface flow (87%) versus free-water surface (13%), of which horizontal flow direction (58%) are the most common. Considering Full-Scale CWs, the pollutant removal reported for COD, BOD5, TN, and TP oscillated between 50–90%, 60–90%, 30–90%, and 30–70%, respectively. Among the vegetation that is more used for Mexican CWs, 78 different species were detected; Typha and Cyperus hydrophytes species and ornamental flowering plants as Zantedeschia aethiopica., Canna genus., Heliconia genus, Hedychium coronarium, and Anturium andreanum species (plants with commercial value) were the most used plants. It was concluded that although there is an important advance in the use of ecotechnology as it is an attractive answer for decentralized wastewater treatment in Mexico, results revealed the need to migrate towards the use of CWs in full-scale size, in order to address real pollution problems. Thus, the further implementation of CWs in rural and urban regions with similar tropical and subtropical characteristics as in Mexico is suggested by the authors.
Recent Progress of Non-Pt Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Fuel Cells
Authors: Chen Qing , Zhang Zhou , Zhang Ruiquan , Hu Maocong , Shi Ling , Yao Zhenhua
Published: January 2023

In recent years, non-Pt-based ORR catalysts have been developing rapidly and have achieved performance comparable to or even surpassing Pt precious metal catalysts in specific reactions, offering new possibilities for Pt-based catalyst replacement and showing great promise for application. This paper reviews the recent research progress of non-Pt-based fuel cell ORR catalysts. The latest research progress of non-Pt-based ORR SACs (including single metal active site ORR SACs, multi-metal active site ORR SACs, and non-Pt-based noble metal catalyst ORR SACs), non-metallic ORR catalysts, alloy-based ORR catalysts, high-entropy alloy ORR catalysts, and other non-Pt-based fuel cell ORR catalysts are presented in detail. This paper discusses in detail the synthesis methods, characterization means, optimization of performance, and application prospects of these non-Pt-based ORR catalysts. In addition, this review details the excellent performance of these catalysts in terms of compositional and structural controllability, electrical conductivity, and chemical stability, as well as their ability to exhibit ORR activity comparable to that of commercial Pt/C catalysts. This field is full of opportunities and challenges. In summary, non-Pt-based fuel cells show great potential in ORR. With the continuous improvement of preparation and characterization technologies, catalysts have broad application and market prospects. In addition, the development trend of non-precious metal fuel cell catalysts is reviewed.
Biogas Production from Residues of Industrial Insect Protein Production from Black Soldier Fly Larvae Hermetia illucens (L.): An Evaluation of Different Insect Frass Samples
Authors: Wedwitschka Harald , Gallegos Ibanez Daniela , Jáquez Damián Reyes
Published: January 2023

Insect biomass shows promise as an alternative animal feedstuff with a low climate effect. Industrial insect rearing generates residual materials, such as feed remains and insect excrements, so-called insect frass, which exhibits a high organic content. Commonly, these residues are utilized as soil amendment. Information on the suitability of these residues for biogas production is rather scarce. The energetic utilization of insect frass as feedstock for anaerobic digestion (AD) would allow for the simultaneous residue material reduction and bioenergy production. Additionally, synergies in heat management could arise using the exhaust heat of the biogas plant in the insect farming process. In laboratory-scale anaerobic digestion trials, the specific methane yield (SMY) of six different insect frass samples from black soldier fly (Hermetia) rearing were tested in batch biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests. Further, semi continuous anaerobic digestion trials on a lab scale using continuously stirred tank reactors (CSTRs) were carried out with Hermetia insect frass from a pilot plant operation in order to determine the digestibility and process stability of the AD process. The BMP results showed SMY values of the different insect frass samples ranging from 201 ± 9 to 287 ± 37 mL/gVS that are similar to those of other animal excrements, such as cow or pig manure already been used as feedstock in agricultural biogas plants. Results of the semi-continuous digestion of insect frass from the pilot plant operation showed a SMY value of 167 ± 15 mL/gVS, suggesting no process-inhibiting effect caused by the feed material. Although, the high nitrogen content must be taken into account for stable AD performance.