bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Somatic Embryogenesis of Representative Medicinal Trees in South America—Current Status
Authors: Mihai Raluca A. , Melo Heras Erly J. , Pinto Valdiviezo Eliza A. , Espinoza Caiza Iván A. , Cubi Insuaste Nelson S. , Mejía Jean Pierre , Catana Rodica D. , Moldoveanu Mirela M. , Florescu Larisa I.
Published: October 2023

Human society is currently facing a growing demand for forest resources, which causes overexploitation and endangers biodiversity. In this regard, it is important to be aware that 10% of trees across the world are used in traditional and modern medicine. South America has the greatest diversity, with 40% of tree species in the world. The aim of our review consists of the assessment of the state of the art of micropropagation through somatic embryogenesis of representative medicinal trees in South America and of targeting the tree species that should be prioritized for conservation plans. From a total of 23,631 tree species from Central and South America, 31 are extinct, 7047 are threatened, and 1434 are possibly threatened. In this sense, in order to conserve them, various strategies are applied both in situ and ex situ. The application of in vitro multiplication protocols represents effective ways both in conservation and in the sustainable use of resources in order to obtain secondary metabolites of interest. Somatic embryogenesis is a well-known method in woody multiplication. According to the VOSviewer analyses, very few studies were available concerning aspects of somatic embryogenesis in medicinal trees. From the 10 representative species selected in our study, somatic embryogenesis protocols were established for 3 species, only for conservation purpose, not for secondary metabolites production. The development of protocols focused on obtaining secondary metabolites of medicinal trees will allow for the obtainment of valuable plant material as a non-invasive alternative.
Comparative Analysis of the Complete Chloroplast Genomes of Six Endangered Cycas Species: Genomic Features, Comparative Analysis, and Phylogenetic Implications
Authors: Tang Jianmin , Zou Rong , Chen Taiguo , Pan Lipo , Zhu Shujing , Ding Tao , Chai Shengfeng , Wei Xiao
Published: October 2023

Cycas (family Cycadaceae), which spread throughout tropical and subtropical regions, is crucial in conservation biology. Due to subtle morphological variations between species, a solid species-level phylogeny for Cycas is lacking. In the present study, we assembled and analyzed the chloroplast genomes of six Cycas plants, including their genome structure, GC content, and nucleotide diversity. The Cycas chloroplast genome spans from 162,038 to 162,159 bp and contains 131 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. Through a comparative analysis, we found that the chloroplast genome of Cycas was highly conserved, as indicated by the contraction and expansion of the inverted repeat (IR) regions and sequence polymorphisms. In addition, several non-coding sites (psbK-psbI, petN-psbM, trnE-UUC-psbD, ndhC-trnM-CAU, and rpl32-trnP-GGG) showed significant variation. The utilization of phylogenetic analysis relying on protein-coding genes has substantiated the division of Cycas primarily into four groups. The application of these findings will prove valuable in evaluating genetic diversity and the phylogenetic connections among closely related species. Moreover, it will provide essential support for the advancement of wild germplasm resources.
Processing Stage-Induced Formation of Advanced Glycation End Products in Cooked Sausages with the Addition of Spices
Authors: Li Yong , Li Hua , Zhu Yinchun , Feng Cuiping , He Zhiyong , Chen Jie , Zeng Maomao
Published: October 2023

This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the four processing stages of cooked sausage preparation (raw, drying, baking, and steaming) and the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), 1,2-dicarbonyl compounds, and lipid and protein oxidation in sausages with spices. Baking and steaming significantly promoted lipid and protein oxidation. The Nε-carboxymethyllysine (CML) content increased from 4.32–4.81 µg/g in raw samples to 10.68–16.20 µg/g in the steamed sausages. Nε-carboxyethyllysine (CEL) concentrations increased by approximately 1.7–3.7 times after steaming. The methylglyoxal concentration increased dramatically after baking and then rapidly decreased in the steaming stage. Chili promoted the formation of CML and CEL. The CEL concentration increased in samples containing garlic, but yellow mustard and garlic slightly reduced CML concentrations in the cooked sausages. The spices decreased the lipid and protein stability of the cooked sausages, increasing malondialdehyde and protein carbonyls. Lipid oxidation and 3-deoxyglucosone positively correlated with CML and CEL levels. Black pepper had no impact on CML when the sausages were baked but remarkably increased the content of both CML and CEL in the steaming stage. Thus, the impact of spices on sausages depends on both the specific spices used and the category of AGEs formed.
Advancing Insights into Probiotics during Vegetable Fermentation
Authors: Yuan Yingzi , Yang Yutong , Xiao Lele , Qu Lingbo , Zhang Xiaoling , Wei Yongjun
Published: October 2023

Fermented vegetables have a long history and are enjoyed worldwide for their unique flavors and health benefits. The process of fermentation improves the nutritional value, taste, and shelf life of foods. Microorganisms play a crucial role in this process through the production of metabolites. The flavors of fermented vegetables are closely related to the evaluation and succession of microbiota. Lactic acid bacteria (LABs) are typically the dominant bacteria in fermented vegetables, and they help inhibit the growth of spoilage bacteria and maintain a healthy gut microbiota in humans. However, homemade and small-scale artisanal products rely on spontaneous fermentation using bacteria naturally present on fresh vegetables or from aged brine, which may introduce external microorganisms and lead to spoilage and substandard products. Hence, understanding the role of LABs and other probiotics in maintaining the quality and safety of fermented vegetables is essential. Additionally, selecting probiotic fermentation microbiota and isolating beneficial probiotics from fermented vegetables can facilitate the use of safe and healthy starter cultures for large-scale industrial production. This review provides insights into the traditional fermentation process of making fermented vegetables, explains the mechanisms involved, and discusses the use of modern microbiome technologies to regulate fermentation microorganisms and create probiotic fermentation microbiota for the production of highly effective, wholesome, safe, and healthy fermented vegetable foods.
FAAH rs324420 Polymorphism: Biological Pathways, Impact on Elite Athletic Performance and Insights for Sport Medicine
Authors: Silva Hugo-Henrique , Tavares Valéria , Neto Beatriz , Cerqueira Fátima , Medeiros Rui , Silva Maria-Raquel
Published: October 2023

Gene variation linked to physiological functions is recognised to affect elite athletic performance by modulating training and competition-enabling behaviour. The fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) has been investigated as a good candidate for drug targeting, and recently, its single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs324420 was reported to be associated with athletic performance. Given the implications, the biological pathways of this genetic polymorphism linked to elite athletic performance, considering sport type, psychological traits and sports injuries, need to be dissected. Thus, a narrative review of the literature concerning the biological mechanisms of this SNP was undertaken. In addition to its role in athletic performance, FAAH rs324420 is also involved in important mechanisms underlying human psychopathologies, including substance abuse and neural dysfunctions. However, cumulative evidence concerning the C385A variant is inconsistent. Therefore, validation studies considering homogeneous sports modalities are required to better define the role of this SNP in elite athletic performance and its impact on stress coping, pain regulation and inflammation control.
Polish Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the PREM-C9 Questionnaire for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Damps-Konstańska Iwona , Ciećko Weronika , Jassem Ewa , Bandurski Tomasz , Bosek Dominika , Olszewska-Karaban Marzena , Bandurska Ewa
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, preventable, and treatable disease. The first PREM (patient-reported outcome measure)-type questionnaire that has been dedicated to assess the experience of care in COPD is the PREM-C9. Aim: The aim of this study was to create a Polish version of the PREM-C9 and determine its psychometric characteristics. Methods: The validation procedure involved forward and back translation. We included 42 patients with COPD. The psychometric properties were assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, Bartlett’s test, the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin test, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient. The validity of the questionnaire was assessed using a principal component analysis for the extracted principal components. The validity of the factor analysis was demonstrated using Bartlett’s sphericity test and the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) test. A factor analysis was performed using the Oblimin and Varimax rotation. The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Results: The Polish version of the analyzed questionnaire met all the validation criteria: face, translation, psychometric, functional, and reconstruction equivalence. Spearman’s correlation results between the Polish PREM-C9 and CAT were as follows: rho = 0.44, p = 0.003539; HADS-Anxiety: rho = 0.370864, p = 0.015612; and HADS-Depression: rho = 0.387405, p = 0.011253. Conclusions: The developed Polish PREM-C9 questionnaire is a reliable and valid tool that assesses Polish COPD patients’ experiences of their disease and the care they receive.
Biostimulants and Nano-Potassium on the Yield and Fruit Quality of Date Palm
Authors: Al-Saif Adel M. , Sas-Paszt Lidia , Saad Ragab. M. , Abada Hesham S. , Ayoub Ahmed , Mosa Walid F. A.
Published: October 2023

Although chemical fertilization has been excessively used for a high yield of fruit trees, it causes many problems such as nitrate accumulation, soil deterioration, and food safety and quality decline; therefore, the dependency on the usage of biostimulants has become paramount when aiming to reduce the usage of chemical fertilizers, improve the fruit quality, and increase the shelf life of the fruits. The present experiment was conducted during the 2021–2022 seasons to study the effect of the foliar of yeast extract (YE), fulvic acid (FA), moringa leaf extract (MLE), seaweed extract (SWE), and nano-potassium (K NPs) alone or after combining each one of them individually with K NPs on the yield and fruit physical and chemical characteristics of date palm cv. Samani. The results show that the application of 0.2% YE + 0.02% K NPs led to the highest results in yield, bunch weight, fruit weight, flesh weight, fruit content from soluble solids, total and reduced sugars, VC, total chlorophyll, and carotene. Additionally, the results also demonstrate that the application of 0.4% SWE + 0.02% K NPs, 0.4% FA + 0.02% K NPs, and 6% MLE positively affected the previously mentioned measurements compared with the control or the other sprayed treatments.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the CmHAK Gene Family in Melon (Cucumis melo L.)
Authors: Fu Lina , Wang Huizhi , Leng Xifang , Zhang Xinsheng , Xiao Baoying , Liu Hui , Xue Dongxu , Wang Yangyang , Wu Chunyan , Wang Wei
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: As the largest family of potassium transporters in plants, KT/HAK/KUP plays an important function in plant growth, development, and stress, especially for potassium-loving plants such as melon. (2) Methods: The members of the KT/HAK/KUP gene family in the melon genome were identified by bioinformatics technology. The gene structure, chromosome location, phylogeny, and expression analysis were comprehensively and systematically analyzed. (3) Results: The results showed that there are 14 members of the KT/HAK/KUP gene family in melon, which are distributed on seven chromosomes. Each member contains 3–11 introns and 4–12 exons, and could be divided into three distinct branches in phylogeny. The number of amino acid residues encoded by each member varies between 610 and 878. In terms of expression, after 12 h of chilling stress, most of the CmHAK genes were expressed in two melon varieties with different chilling resistances. The expression levels of CmHAK6 and CmHAK8 were downregulated in chilling-resistant varieties, but there was no significant change in chilling-sensitive varieties, indicating that CmHAK6 and CmHAK8 genes may play a negative regulatory role in chilling-resistant varieties. (4) Conclusions: The study provides a theoretical basis for in-depth analysis of the functions of KT/HAK/KUP gene family and cultivation of high-potassium stress-resistant melon varieties.
Multi-Omics of Familial Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection: Calcium Transport Impairment Predisposes Aortas to Dissection
Authors: Tomida Shota , Ishima Tamaki , Sawaki Daigo , Imai Yasushi , Nagai Ryozo , Aizawa Kenichi
Published: October 2023

Several genetic defects, including a mutation in myosin heavy chain 11 (Myh11), are reported to cause familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (FTAAD). We recently showed that mice lacking K1256 of Myh11 developed aortic dissection when stimulated with angiotensin II, despite the absence of major pathological phenotypic abnormalities prior to stimulation. In this study, we used a comprehensive, data-driven, unbiased, multi-omics approach to find underlying changes in transcription and metabolism that predispose the aorta to dissection in mice harboring the Myh11 K1256del mutation. Pathway analysis of transcriptomes showed that genes involved in membrane transport were downregulated in homozygous mutant (Myh11ΔK/ΔK) aortas. Furthermore, expanding the analysis with metabolomics showed that two mechanisms that raise the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration—multiple calcium channel expression and ADP–ribose synthesis—were attenuated in Myh11ΔK/ΔK aortas. We suggest that the impairment of the Ca2+ influx attenuates aortic contraction and that suboptimal contraction predisposes the aorta to dissection.
The Role of ncRNAs in the Immune Dysregulation of Preeclampsia
Authors: Mora-Palazuelos Carlos , Villegas-Mercado Carlos Esteban , Avendaño-Félix Mariana , Lizárraga-Verdugo Erik , Romero-Quintana José Geovanni , López-Gutiérrez Jorge , Beltrán-Ontiveros Saúl , Bermúdez Mercedes
Published: October 2023

The main complications causing practically 75% of all maternal deaths are severe bleeding, infections, and high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia (PE) and eclampsia). The usefulness of ncRNAs as clinical biomarkers has been explored in an extensive range of human diseases including pregnancy-related diseases such as PE. Immunological dysregulation show that the Th1/17:Th2/Treg ratio is “central and causal” to PE. However, there is evidence of the involvement of placenta-expressed miRNAs and lncRNAs in the immunological regulation of crucial processes of placenta development and function during pregnancy. Abnormal expression of these molecules is related to immune physiopathological processes that occur in PE. Therefore, this work aims to describe the importance of miRNAs and lncRNAs in immune dysregulation in PE. Interestingly, multiple ncRNAS are involved in the immune dysregulation of PE participating in type 1 immune response regulation, immune microenvironment regulation in placenta promoting inflammatory factors, trophoblast cell invasion in women with Early-Onset PE (EOPE), placental development, and angiogenesis, promotion of population of M1 and M2, proliferation, invasion, and migration of placental trophoblast cells, and promotion of invasion and autophagy through vias such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, VEGF/VEGFR1, and TLR9/STAT3.
Tolfenamic Acid Derivatives: A New Class of Transcriptional Modulators with Potential Therapeutic Applications for Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders
Authors: Hill Jaunetta , Shalaby Karim E. , Bihaqi Syed W. , Alansi Bothaina H. , Barlock Benjamin , Parang Keykavous , Thompson Richard , Ouararhni Khalid , Zawia Nasser H.
Published: October 2023

The field of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has witnessed recent breakthroughs in the development of disease-modifying biologics and diagnostic markers. While immunotherapeutic interventions have provided much-awaited solutions, nucleic acid-based tools represent other avenues of intervention; however, these approaches are costly and invasive, and they have serious side effects. Previously, we have shown in AD animal models that tolfenamic acid (TA) can lower the expression of AD-related genes and their products and subsequently reduce pathological burden and improve cognition. Using TA as a scaffold and the zinc finger domain of SP1 as a pharmacophore, we developed safer and more potent brain-penetrating analogs that interfere with sequence-specific DNA binding at transcription start sites and predominantly modulate the expression of SP1 target genes. More importantly, the proteome of treated cells displayed ~75% of the downregulated products as SP1 targets. Specific levels of SP1-driven genes and AD biomarkers such as amyloid precursor protein (APP) and Tau proteins were also decreased as part of this targeted systemic response. These small molecules, therefore, offer a viable alternative to achieving desired therapeutic outcomes by interfering with both amyloid and Tau pathways with limited off-target systemic changes.
Engineering and Expression Strategies for Optimization of L-Asparaginase Development and Production
Authors: Shishparenok Anastasiya N. , Gladilina Yulia A. , Zhdanov Dmitry D.
Published: October 2023

Genetic engineering for heterologous expression has advanced in recent years. Model systems such as Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis and Pichia pastoris are often used as host microorganisms for the enzymatic production of L-asparaginase, an enzyme widely used in the clinic for the treatment of leukemia and in bakeries for the reduction of acrylamide. Newly developed recombinant L-asparaginase (L-ASNase) may have a low affinity for asparagine, reduced catalytic activity, low stability, and increased glutaminase activity or immunogenicity. Some successful commercial preparations of L-ASNase are now available. Therefore, obtaining novel L-ASNases with improved properties suitable for food or clinical applications remains a challenge. The combination of rational design and/or directed evolution and heterologous expression has been used to create enzymes with desired characteristics. Computer design, combined with other methods, could make it possible to generate mutant libraries of novel L-ASNases without costly and time-consuming efforts. In this review, we summarize the strategies and approaches for obtaining and developing L-ASNase with improved properties.
The Role of Genetics in the Management of Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Palmieri Gianpaolo , D’Ambrosio Maria Francesca , Correale Michele , Brunetti Natale Daniele , Santacroce Rosa , Iacoviello Massimo , Margaglione Maurizio
Published: October 2023

Over the last decades, the relevance of genetics in cardiovascular diseases has expanded, especially in the context of cardiomyopathies. Its relevance extends to the management of patients diagnosed with heart failure (HF), given its capacity to provide invaluable insights into the etiology of cardiomyopathies and identify individuals at a heightened risk of poor outcomes. Notably, the identification of an etiological genetic variant necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the family lineage of the affected patients. In the future, these genetic variants hold potential as therapeutic targets with the capability to modify gene expression. In this complex setting, collaboration among cardiologists, specifically those specializing in cardiomyopathies and HF, and geneticists becomes paramount to improving individual and family health outcomes, as well as therapeutic clinical results. This review is intended to offer geneticists and cardiologists an updated perspective on the value of genetic research in HF and its implications in clinical practice.
Proteome Analysis of Alpine Merino Sheep Skin Reveals New Insights into the Mechanisms Involved in Regulating Wool Fiber Diameter
Authors: Yue Lin , Lu Zengkui , Guo Tingting , Liu Jianbin , Yang Bohui , Yuan Chao
Published: October 2023

Wool fiber is a textile material that is highly valued based on its diameter, which is crucial in determining its economic value. To analyze the molecular mechanisms regulating wool fiber diameter, we used a Data-independent acquisition-based quantitative proteomics approach to analyze the skin proteome of Alpine Merino sheep with four fiber diameter ranges. From three contrasts of defined groups, we identified 275, 229, and 190 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Further analysis using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways revealed that pathways associated with cyclic adenosine monophosphate and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling are relevant to wool fiber diameter. Using the K-means method, we investigated the DEP expression patterns across wool diameter ranges. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis, we identified seven key proteins (CIDEA, CRYM, MLX, TPST2, GPD1, GOPC, and CAMK2G) that may be involved in regulating wool fiber diameter. Our findings provide a theoretical foundation for identifying DEPs and pathways associated with wool fiber diameter in Alpine Merino sheep to enable a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the genetic regulation of wool fiber quality.
Ellagic Acid from Hull Blackberries: Extraction, Purification, and Potential Anticancer Activity
Authors: Wang Jialuan , Zhao Fengyi , Wu Wenlong , Lyu Lianfei , Li Weilin , Zhang Chunhong
Published: October 2023

Ellagic acid (EA) is present at relatively high concentrations in many berries and has many beneficial health effects, including anticancer properties. To improve the development and utilization of blackberry fruit nutrients, we divided Hull blackberry fruits into five growth periods according to color and determined the EA content in the fruits in each period. The EA content in the green fruit stage was the highest at 5.67 mg/g FW. Single-factor tests and response surface methodology were used to optimize the extraction process, while macroporous resin adsorption and alkali dissolution, acid precipitation, and solvent recrystallization were used for purification. The highest purity of the final EA powder was 90%. The anticancer assessment results determined by MTT assay showed that EA inhibited HeLa cells with an IC50 of 35 μg/mL, and the apoptosis rate of the cells increased in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest rate of about 67%. We evaluated the changes in the mRNA levels of genes related to the EA-mediated inhibition of cancer cell growth and initially verified the PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway as the pathway by which EA inhibits HeLa cell growth. We hope to provide a theoretical basis for the deep exploration and utilization of this functional food.
The Molecular Docking of MAX Fungal Effectors with Plant HMA Domain-Binding Proteins
Authors: Rozano Lina , Hane James K. , Mancera Ricardo L.
Published: October 2023

Fungal effector proteins are important in mediating disease infections in agriculturally important crops. These secreted small proteins are known to interact with their respective host receptor binding partners in the host, either inside the cells or in the apoplastic space, depending on the localisation of the effector proteins. Consequently, it is important to understand the interactions between fungal effector proteins and their target host receptor binding partners, particularly since this can be used for the selection of potential plant resistance or susceptibility-related proteins that can be applied to the breeding of new cultivars with disease resistance. In this study, molecular docking simulations were used to characterise protein–protein interactions between effector and plant receptors. Benchmarking was undertaken using available experimental structures of effector–host receptor complexes to optimise simulation parameters, which were then used to predict the structures and mediating interactions of effector proteins with host receptor binding partners that have not yet been characterised experimentally. Rigid docking was applied for both the so-called bound and unbound docking of MAX effectors with plant HMA domain protein partners. All bound complexes used for benchmarking were correctly predicted, with 84% being ranked as the top docking pose using the ZDOCK scoring function. In the case of unbound complexes, a minimum of 95% of known residues were predicted to be part of the interacting interface on the host receptor binding partner, and at least 87% of known residues were predicted to be part of the interacting interface on the effector protein. Hydrophobic interactions were found to dominate the formation of effector–plant protein complexes. An optimised set of docking parameters based on the use of ZDOCK and ZRANK scoring functions were established to enable the prediction of near-native docking poses involving different binding interfaces on plant HMA domain proteins. Whilst this study was limited by the availability of the experimentally determined complexed structures of effectors and host receptor binding partners, we demonstrated the potential of molecular docking simulations to predict the likely interactions between effectors and their respective host receptor binding partners. This computational approach may accelerate the process of the discovery of putative interacting plant partners of effector proteins and contribute to effector-assisted marker discovery, thereby supporting the breeding of disease-resistant crops.
A New Perspective to Understand the Late Season Abundance of Delia antiqua (Diptera: Anthomyiidae): A Modeling Approach for the Hot Summer Effect
Authors: Shin Yong Kyun , Kim Subin , Park Chung Gyoo , Kim Dong-Soon
Published: October 2023

The onion maggot, Delia antiqua (Meigen), is one of the most important insect pests to agricultural crops within Allium genus, such as onions and garlic, worldwide. This study was conducted to understand the seasonal abundance of this pest, with special reference to the hot summer effect (HSE), which was incorporated into the model of summer diapause termination (SDT). We assumed that hot summer temperatures arrested the development of pupae during summer diapause. The estimated SDT curve showed that it occurred below a high-temperature limit of 22.1 °C and peaked at 16 °C. Accordingly, HSE resulted in delaying the late season fly abundance after summer, namely impacting the third generation. In Jinju, South Korea, the activity of D. antiqua was observed to cease for more than two months in the hot summer and this pattern was well described by model outputs. In the warmer Jeju Island region, Korea, the late season emergence was predicted to be greatly delayed, and D. antiqua did not exhibit a specific peak in the late season in the field. The abundance patterns observed in Korea were very different from those in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Germany. These regions are located at a much higher latitude (42° N to 53° N) than Korea (33° N to 35° N), and their HSE was less intense, showing overlapped or slightly separated second and third generation peaks. Consequently, our modeling approach for the summer diapause termination effectively explained the abundance patterns of D. antiqua in the late season. Also, the model will be useful for determining spray timing for emerging adults in late summer as onion and garlic are sown in the autumn in Korea.
Influence of Age and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Vestibular Neuritis: Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Coronel-Touma Guillermo Salib , Monopoli-Roca Chiara , Almeida-Ayerve Cristina Nicole , Marcos-Alonso Susana , Gómez de la Torre-Morales Diana , Serradilla-López José , Cruz-Ruiz Santiago Santa , Batuecas-Caletrío Ángel , Sánchez-Gómez Hortensia
Published: October 2023

To analyze the influence of age and cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) in the evolution of vestibular neuritis (VN). Methods: Retrospective cohort study. VN-diagnosed patients were included and divided into two groups: those with and without CVRFs. We analyzed the mean vestibular-ocular reflex (VOR) gain, measured through the video head impulse test (vHIT) at the diagnosis and one-year follow-up. We conducted a factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) to evaluate the effect of age, sex, and CVRFs in the mean VOR gain. Results: Sixty-three VN-diagnosed patients were included. There were no statistically significant differences in the mean VOR gain between both groups. However, in the subgroup analysis, there were statistically significant differences when comparing the mean VOR gain at the one-year follow-up between the group over 55 years of age 0.77 ± 0.20 and the group under 55 years 0.87 ± 0.15 (p = 0.036). Additionally, the factorial ANOVA demonstrated a significant main effect of age group on the mean VOR gain at the one-year follow-up (p = 0.018), and it also found a significant interaction between the factors of gender, age group, HTN (p = 0.043). Conclusions: CVRFs do not independently affect the mean VOR gain in VN patients’ follow-ups. However, age significantly impacts VOR gain in VN and could be modulated by gender and hypertension.
Enhancing Primary Care for Nursing Home Patients with an Artificial Intelligence-Aided Rational Drug Use Web Assistant
Authors: Yılmaz Tuğba , Ceyhan Şükran , Akyön Şeyma Handan , Yılmaz Tarık Eren
Published: October 2023

Polypharmacy can result in drug–drug interactions, severe side-effects, drug–disease interactions, inappropriate medication use in the elderly, and escalating costs. This study aims to evaluate nursing home residents’ medication regimens using a rational drug use web assistant developed by researchers to mitigate unnecessary medication usage. This analytical, cross-sectional study included data from nursing home residents recently recorded in a training family health center. Sociodemographic information, medical conditions, and prescribed medications of all patients in the nursing home (n = 99) were documented. Medications were assessed using an artificial intelligence-aided rational drug use web assistant. Instances of inappropriate drug use and calculations of contraindicated drug costs were also recorded. The study revealed that 88.9% (n = 88) of patients experienced polypharmacy, with a mean value of 6.96 ± 2.94 drugs per patient. Potential risky drug–drug interactions were present in 89.9% (n = 89) of patients, contraindicated drug–drug interactions in 20.2% (n = 20), and potentially inappropriate drug use in 86.9% (n = 86). Plans to discontinue 83 medications were estimated to reduce total direct medication costs by 9.1% per month. After the assessment with the rational drug use web assistant, the number of drugs that patients needed to use and polypharmacy decreased significantly. This study concludes that the rational drug use web assistant application, which is more cost-effective than the traditional manual method, assisted by artificial intelligence, and integrated into healthcare services, may offer substantial benefits to family physicians and their geriatric patients.
A Highly Promising Flower-Shaped WO2I2/Poly(1H-Pyrrole) Nanocomposite Thin Film as a Potentiometric Sensor for the Detection of Cd2+ Ions in Water
Authors: Alnuwaiser Maha Abdallah , Rabia Mohamed
Published: October 2023

Because of the expensive nature of sensors used to detect heavy metals and the severe health risks associated with certain heavy metals, there is a pressing need to develop cost-effective materials that are highly efficient in detecting these metals. A flower-shaped WO2I2-Poly(1H-pyrrole) (WO2I2/P1HP) nanocomposite thin film is synthesized through the oxidation of 1-H pyrrole using iodine and subsequent reaction with Na2WO4. The nanocomposite exhibits a distinctive flower-like morphology with an average size of 20 nm. Elemental composition and chemical structure are confirmed via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses, while X-Ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses provide further evidence of crystalline peaks and functional groups within the composite. The potential of the nanocomposite as a sensor for Cd2+ ions is determined using two approaches: simple potentiometric (two-electrode cell) and cyclic voltammetric (three-electrode cell) methods, over a concentration range spanning from 10−6 to 10−1 M. From the simple potentiometric method, the sensor showcases strong sensing capabilities in the concentration span of 10−4 to 10−1 M, displaying a Nernstian slope of 29.7 mV/decade. With a detection limit of 5 × 10−5 M, the sensor proves adept at precise and sensitive detection of low Cd2+ ion concentrations. While using the cyclic voltammetric method, the sensor’s selectivity for Cd2+ ions, demonstrated through cyclic voltammetry, reveals a sensitivity of 1.0 × 10−5 A/M and the ability to distinguish Cd2+ ions from other ions like Zn2+, Ni2+, Ca2+, K+, Al3+, and Mg2+. This selectivity underscores its utility in complex sample matrices and diverse environments. Furthermore, the sensor’s successful detection of Cd2+ ions from real samples solidifies its practical viability. Its reliable performance in real-world scenarios positions it as a valuable tool for Cd2+ ion detection across industries and environmental monitoring applications. These findings advocate for its utilization in commercial settings, highlighting its significance in Cd2+ ion detection.
Empirical Fragility Assessment of Three-Waters and Railway Infrastructure Damaged by the 2015 Illapel Tsunami, Chile
Authors: Rodwell Jessica , Williams James H. , Paulik Ryan
Published: October 2023

Despite the importance of critical infrastructure for the effective functioning of communities, their vulnerability to tsunamis remains unstudied. This study addresses this issue by developing empirical fragility curves for infrastructure components currently absent from tsunami vulnerability research. This research applies post-event damage data from the 2015 Illapel tsunami in a cumulative link model (CLM) to form fragility curves for three-waters (manholes, culverts, and drain inlets) and railway infrastructure components. The synthesized fragility curves reveal that in response to the flow depth, culverts exhibit the highest vulnerability of all the infrastructures studied. The curves also suggest that culverts, drain inlets, and railways have higher vulnerability when compared to infrastructure such as roads or utility poles.
Hydrodynamic Response of a Large-Scale Mariculture Ship Based on Potential Flow Theory
Authors: He Chaonan , Zhou Linqing , Ma Xinwei
Published: October 2023

The marine fishery will be the main form of the marine economy in the future. Simulating a hydrodynamic response under normal and extreme working conditions is the main means of structural analysis and design of a mariculture ship. In this paper, a simulation methodology is proposed based on potential flow theory, focusing on a semi-submersible large-scale mariculture ship with a rigid frame. Abaqus/Aqua 2020 software is used to establish a full-scale dynamic analysis model of the fishery. In the simulation, a nonlinear implicit integration method is applied, and the non-deterministic boundary conditions of the floating body are optimized using dynamic equilibrium principles. By varying the wave and flow conditions, the variations in mooring forces, vibration amplitudes, and average vibration values are analyzed. Furthermore, the dynamic changes in the overall spatial displacements of the fishery, characteristics of longitudinal and vertical oscillations, and mid-span deflections are analyzed. It is concluded that the mooring force is linearly correlated with the flow velocity, that a higher wave increases the longitudinal oscillation amplitude, and that a longer wave period leads to higher mooring forces and longitudinal heaving amplitude. These dynamic response and displacement results of the mariculture ship are expected to provide a basis for its design and safety assessment.
Personalized Medicine in Kidney Disease
Authors: Gembillo Guido , Siligato Rossella , Santoro Domenico
Published: October 2023

The Special Issue “Personalized Medicine in Kidney Disease” is focused on the importance of customized medicine in nephrology as it represents one of the main characteristics of successful therapeutic results [...]
Assessing the Impact of Government Behavior on Regional High-Quality Development: A Case of Fiscal Expenditures on People’s Livelihoods in China
Authors: Wang Guowei , Wang Dingqing , Zhang Liang
Published: October 2023

Government fiscal support is an important way to improve social welfare and enhance the protection of people’s livelihood. This paper uses the entropy weight TOPSIS method, fixed effect model, two-stage least squares regression, moderating effect model, and mediating effect model to comparatively analyze the level of high-quality development of the region and explore the impact and mechanism of livelihood expenditures on the high-quality development of the region. The findings show that increasing government expenditures on people’s livelihoods can effectively improve regional high-quality development, but the degree of marginal improvement varies with different periods and locations. People’s livelihood expenditure could promote sustainable regional development by increasing the consumption level of residents. Urbanization could strengthen the positive effect of livelihood expenditure on regional high-quality development. This study enriches the theoretical research on institutional economics and explores the effect and role of government behavior in the process of high-quality development from the perspective of livelihood expenditure.
An Experimental Investigation on the Effects of the Base Fluid of External Fluid and Voltage on the Milling Performance of Nanofluid Composite Electrostatic Spraying
Authors: Su Yu , Yang Qingxiang , Liu Pan , You Jiaxi
Published: October 2023

Nanofluid composite electrostatic spraying (NCES) is a new clean machining technology for minimum quantity lubrication. The base fluid of external fluid and voltage are the two important parameters that affect its performance. This study presented the effect of base fluid of external fluid on milling force and temperature of NCES to determine the suitable base fluid and the best external/internal fluid. Herein, castor oil, castor oil-based nanofluid, sunflower oil, and sunflower oil-based nanofluid were employed as external fluid, and water and water-based nanofluid as internal fluid. Atomization experiments were conducted to determine the common voltage for different external/internal fluids to generate an applicable atomization mode. Under this voltage, morphology of applicable atomization mode, current and standard deviation, droplet speed, and electrowetting contact angle were explored to discuss the effect of base fluid on NCES milling. Next, the best external/internal fluid was used to further investigate the milling force and temperature under various voltages. Sunflower oil was the suitable base fluid for NCES, and sunflower oil-based nanofluid/water-based nanofluid was found to be the best external/internal fluid causing a significant reduction in force and temperature. Compared to castor oil, sunflower oil as the base fluid lowered the milling force and temperature by 5.4–10.8% and 6.3–7.9%, respectively. Within the voltage range of applicable atomization mode, raising the voltage lowered the milling force and temperature by 2.4% and 3.9%, respectively.
Structural Elucidation of the Triethylammonium Betaine of Squaric Acid
Authors: Palme Paul R. , Goddard Richard , Leutzsch Markus , Richter Adrian , Imming Peter , Seidel Rüdiger W.
Published: October 2023

Betaines of squaric acid have gained research interest because of their structural and spectral properties. We elucidated the crystal and molecular structure of the triethylammonium betaine of squaric acid (1) by X-ray crystallography, IR, and NMR spectroscopy augmented by Hirshfeld surface analysis and DFT calculations. The crystal structure determination using Hirshfeld atom refinement reveals that the resonance hybrid structure with partial enolate character of the two lateral squaric acid C=O groups describes 1 best. The solid-state supramolecular structure features weak intermolecular C−H···O hydrogen bonds. The number of C=O bands in the IR spectrum in the solid-state is consistent with local C2v symmetry of the squaric acid residue in 1. The 13C NMR signals of this group in solution were assigned based on 2D NMR experiments and computational prediction using the Gauge-Independent Atom Orbital (GIAO) method. The present study provides the first structural characterization of a betaine of squaric acid containing a four-coordinate nitrogen atom directly attached to the four-membered ring.
Biomimetic Venus Flytrap Structures Using Smart Composites: A Review
Authors: Wang Bing , Hou Yi , Zhong Shuncong , Zhu Juncheng , Guan Chenglong
Published: October 2023

Biomimetic structures are inspired by elegant and complex architectures of natural creatures, drawing inspiration from biological structures to achieve specific functions or improve specific strength and modulus to reduce weight. In particular, the rapid closure of a Venus flytrap leaf is one of the fastest motions in plants, its biomechanics does not rely on muscle tissues to produce rapid shape-changing, which is significant for engineering applications. Composites are ubiquitous in nature and are used for biomimetic design due to their superior overall performance and programmability. Here, we focus on reviewing the most recent progress on biomimetic Venus flytrap structures based on smart composite technology. An overview of the biomechanics of Venus flytrap is first introduced, in order to reveal the underlying mechanisms. The smart composite technology was then discussed by covering mainly the principles and driving mechanics of various types of bistable composite structures, followed by research progress on the smart composite-based biomimetic flytrap structures, with a focus on the bionic strategies in terms of sensing, responding and actuation, as well as the rapid snap-trapping, aiming to enrich the diversities and reveal the fundamentals in order to further advance the multidisciplinary science and technological development into composite bionics.
The Dissolution Behavior of Feldspar Minerals in Various Low-Molecular-Weight Organic Acids
Authors: Lin Shao-Min , Yu Ya-Ling , Zhong Ming-Feng , Yang Huan , Zhang Chen-Yang , Zhang Zhi-Jie , Wu Yun-Ying
Published: October 2023

Feldspar is a high-abundance mineral in the earth’s crust, and its natural weathering and dissolution processes are an important phenomenon on the earth’s surface. This study focused on the dissolution behavior of silicon (Si) and aluminum (Al) in feldspar minerals (microcline and albite) when exposed to low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs). Various analytical techniques, including atomic absorption spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, were employed to investigate these processes. The results revealed that the concentration of Si and Al released from alkali feldspar increased after treatment with LMWOAs, exhibiting non-stoichiometric dissolution. The Si/Al release ratio from feldspar deviated from the expected value of three. Among the LMWOAs tested, oxalic acid was found to be more effective in dissolving aluminum, while citric acid showed greater efficacy in dissolving silicon. Notably, the composite acid demonstrated the highest capacity for feldspar dissolution, with values of 538 μM (Si) and 287 µM (Al) after treatment for 720 h, respectively. The dissolution data for Si and Al in the organic acid solution was fittingly described by a first-order equation, with high correlation coefficients (R2 ≥ 0.992). The characterization of feldspar powders indicated that the (040) crystal plane of feldspar was particularly susceptible to attack by organic acids. In the presence of these acids, the chemical bonds Si (Al)-O, Si-Si(Al), and O-Si(Al)-O shifted to higher wavenumbers. Additionally, the surface corrosion morphology of feldspar exhibited distinct nanostructures, which became more pronounced with increasing exposure time. It was also observed that the reactivity of feldspar increased over time. These findings provide valuable insights into the natural dissolution process of feldspar and offer a new perspective for the study of this phenomenon.
Alternative Solid Activators from Waste Glass for One-Part Alkali-Activated Fly Ash/Red Mud Cements
Authors: Marin Nicolaie , Orbeci Cristina , Bobiricǎ Liliana , Rău Ileana , Deleanu Calin , Bîru Elena Iuliana , Stănescu Paul Octavian , Berbecaru Andrei Constantin , Matei Ecaterina , Bobiricǎ Constantin
Published: October 2023

Solid activators based on waste glass for the manufacture of one-part alkali-activated fly ash/red mud materials were synthesized, characterized, and tested in this work. The synthesis was carried out via alkaline fusion with sodium hydroxide at different reaction temperatures and at different sodium hydroxide/waste glass mass ratios. The results showed that the reaction temperature decisively influences the properties of the obtained solid activators. Thus, the best results regarding the water solubility of solid activators were obtained for the synthesis temperature of 600 °C, regardless of the sodium hydroxide/waste glass mass ratio. Also, the use of these assortments of solid activators led to obtaining the best compressive strength of one-part alkali-activated fly ash/red mud materials. The best results were obtained for the solid activator synthesized at a temperature of 600 °C and a sodium hydroxide/glass waste mass ratio of two.
Reliability Prediction of Near-Isothermal Rolling of TiAl Alloy Based on Five Neural Network Models
Authors: Lian Wei , Du Fengshan
Published: October 2023

The near-isothermal rolling process has the characteristics of multi-variable and strong coupling, and the industrial conditions change constantly during the actual rolling process. It is difficult to consider the influence of various factors in industrial sites using theoretical derivation, and the compensation coefficient is difficult to accurately determine. The neural network model compensates for the difficulty in determining the compensation coefficient of the theoretical model. The neural network can be trained in advance through historical data, the trained network can be applied to industrial sites for prediction, and previous training errors can be compensated for through online learning using real-time data collected on site. But it requires a large amount of effective historical data, so this research uses a combination of production data from a controllable two-roll rolling mill and finite element simulation to provide training data support for the neural network. Five trained neural networks are used for prediction, and the results are compared with industrial site data, verifying the reliability and accuracy of genetic algorithm optimized neural network prediction. We successfully solved the problem of low control accuracy of TiAl alloy outlet thickness during near-isothermal rolling process.