bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neighborhood Tree Position and Size Had Hierarchical Effects on Korean Pine Growth at Different Opening Degree Levels
Authors: Ma Xiao , Lin Cunxue , Luo Ye , Wu Haibo , Zhang Peng , Shen Hailong
Published: January 2024

Certain fluctuations were found when using the opening degree index to evaluate the effects of the adjacent broadleaved trees on the under-canopy target Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis Sieb. et Zucc.) trees in a mixed forest of planted Korean trees and natural broadleaved trees. The fluctuations were probably caused by the different positions and sizes of the adjacent broadleaved trees over the target Korean pine trees. For the purpose of clarifying this issue, the effect of the position and size (marked by height and diameter) of the neighborhood broadleaved trees on the height and diameter growth of Korean pine trees under the canopy in a secondary forest at different opening degree levels was studied. Generally, the mean DBH (diameter at breast height) and mean height of P. koraiensis trees under the canopy were higher when the adjacent broadleaved trees were located on the north or east sides of the target P. koraiensis trees than when they were located on the south or west sides. This was the case at all opening degree levels except the 0.5 opening degree level, where no significant difference was observed among the growth indexes of Korean pine trees based on the different positions of neighborhood trees. The mean DBH and height of P. koraiensis trees under the canopy decreased with the increase in the DBH and height of the adjacent broadleaved trees at all orientations and at all opening degree levels, but only those of the Korean pine trees with adjacent broadleaved trees on the south side in the 12.6–13.5 m height range and those with adjacent broadleaved trees on most sides in the 18.6–21.0 cm and 13.6–14.5 m height ranges at opening degree levels of K = 2.0, 1.5, and 1.0 reached a significant level of difference; whereas those of most Korean pine trees with adjacent broadleaved trees on the south and west sides in the height range of 11.6–12.5 m and DBH ranges of 13.6–16 cm and 16.1–18.5 cm, as well as the ones with adjacent broadleaved trees on most sides in the DBH range of 18.6–21.0 cm and the height range of 13.6–14.5 m at the opening degree level of K = 0.5, reached a significant level of difference, with a few exceptions. In conclusion, the broadleaved trees with a large diameter, great height, and a south or west orientation of the target P. koraiensis trees had a negative impact on their growth, but influence intensities changed at different opening degree levels.
Potential Effects of Dietary Cabanin® CSD on Growth Performance and Biochemical and Antioxidant Responses of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Tuan Vo Van , Binh Vo Thi Thanh , Hung Le Thanh
Published: January 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the potential effects of natural polyphenol antioxidant (Cabanin® CSD provided by R2 Agro, Denmark)-supplemented diets on the growth performance and biochemical and antioxidant responses of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The fish were fed two control diets (low and high levels of vitamin C and vitamin E without added Cabanin® CSD) and two experimental diets with Cabanin® CSD supplementation for 10 weeks. After the trial, the specific growth rate, feed utilization, and survival rate were observed. The blood biochemical parameters, consisting of superoxide dismutase activity, malondialdehyde, cortisol, and glucose, were measured. The presence of malondialdehyde in the flesh meat of the tilapia was also evaluated during refrigerated storage. The fish was then challenged with 60 mg/L ammonia for 168 h. The survival rate and biochemical parameters of the blood (glucose and cortisol) were recorded after exposure to ammonia. The results show that the growth performance of tilapia was significantly improved by Cabanin® CSD supplementation (p < 0.05), while the survival rates were similar between control and Cabanin® CSD-supplemented diet groups. Superoxide dismutase activity and malondialdehyde levels in the blood serum were significantly different between the control and Cabanin® CSD-supplemented diet groups (p < 0.05). The malondialdehyde levels were significantly higher in the control group in comparison with the Cabanin® CSD-supplemented groups at day 1 and day 7 of refrigerated storage (p < 0.05). In the ammonia challenge test, the highest survival rate was observed in the Cabanin® CSD-supplemented diet groups compared to the control group. The fish serum glucose and cortisol levels increased in all the Cabanin® CSD-supplemented diet groups. In general, diets featuring Cabanin® CSD supplementation were found to exert beneficial effects on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and biochemical activity of tilapia under ammonia stress.
Genome-Wide Identification, Expression Analysis, and Subcellular Localization of DET2 Gene Family in Populus yunnanensis
Authors: Qiao Zhensheng , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Xiaolin , Guo Haiyang , He Chengzhong , Zong Dan
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Brassinosteroids (BRs) are important hormones involved in almost all stages of plant growth and development, and sterol dehydrogenase is a key enzyme involved in BRs biosynthesis. However, the sterol dehydrogenase gene family of Populus yunnanensis Dode (P. yunnanensis) has not been studied. (2) Methods: The PyDET2 (DEETIOLATED2) gene family was identified and analyzed. Three genes were screened based on RNA-seq of the stem tips, and the PyDET2e was further investigated via qRT-PCR (quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction) and subcellular localization. (3) Results: The 14 DET2 family genes in P. yunnanensis were categorized into four groups, and 10 conserved protein motifs were identified. The gene structure, chromosome distribution, collinearity, and codon preference of all PyDET2 genes in the P. yunnanensis genome were analyzed. The codon preference of this family is towards the A/U ending, which is strongly influenced by natural selection. The PyDET2e gene was expressed at a higher level in September than in July, and it was significantly expressed in stems, stem tips, and leaves. The PyDET2e protein was localized in chloroplasts. (4) Conclusions: The PyDET2e plays an important role in the rapid growth period of P. yunnanensis. This systematic analysis provides a basis for the genome-wide identification of genes related to the brassinolide biosynthesis process in P. yunnanensis, and lays a foundation for the study of the rapid growth mechanism of P. yunnanensis.
Validation of Endogenous Control Genes by Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction for Acute Leukemia Gene Expression Studies
Authors: Pessoa Flávia Melo Cunha de Pinho , Viana Vitória Beatriz de Jesus , de Oliveira Marcelo Braga , Nogueira Beatriz Maria Dias , Ribeiro Rodrigo Monteiro , Oliveira Deivide de Sousa , Lopes Germison Silva , Vieira Ricardo Parente Garcia , de Moraes Filho Manoel Odorico , de Moraes Maria Elisabete Amaral , Khayat André Salim , Moreira Fabiano Cordeiro , Moreira-Nunes Caroline Aquino
Published: January 2024

Reference genes are used as internal reaction controls for gene expression analysis, and for this reason, they are considered reliable and must meet several important criteria. In view of the absence of studies regarding the best reference gene for the analysis of acute leukemia patients, a panel of genes commonly used as endogenous controls was selected from the literature for stability analysis: Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), Abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene human homolog 1 (ABL), Hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl-transferase 1 (HPRT1), Ribosomal protein lateral stalk subunit P0 (RPLP0), β-actin (ACTB) and TATA box binding protein (TBP). The stability of candidate reference genes was analyzed according to three statistical methods of assessment, namely, NormFinder, GeNorm and R software (version 4.0.3). From this study’s analysis, it was possible to identify that the endogenous set composed of ACTB, ABL, TBP and RPLP0 demonstrated good performances and stable expressions between the analyzed groups. In addition to that, the GAPDH and HPRT genes could not be classified as good reference genes, considering that they presented a high standard deviation and great variability between groups, indicating low stability. Given these findings, this study suggests the main endogenous gene set for use as a control/reference for the gene expression in peripheral blood and bone marrow samples from patients with acute leukemias is composed of the ACTB, ABL, TBP and RPLP0 genes. Researchers may choose two to three of these housekeeping genes to perform data normalization.
Optimizing the Use of Ultrasound in Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition (CPPD): A Review from the Ground Up
Authors: Filippou Georgios , Sirotti Silvia , Cipolletta Edoardo , Filippucci Emilio
Published: January 2024

Ultrasound is a pivotal exam in calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) identification. It has been demonstrated to be feasible, accurate, and reliable for CPPD diagnosis. Even if standardized definitions and a scoring system for CPPD have been established by the OMERACT ultrasound working group, ultrasound is still considered one of the most operator-dependent techniques. This is because in ultrasound, both the acquisition and the interpretation phases of the diagnostic process are in the hands of one operator and are performed simultaneously, in contrast to what happens with other imaging exams, where the acquisition process is standardized and independent from the interpretation process. Therefore, the scanning technique and machine setting acquire a central role, almost as important as the interpretation of the images, as erroneous scanning may lead to interpretative mistakes. In this review, we will delve into the appearance of CPPD on ultrasound, based on the latest research findings, passing through its pathogenesis, and focusing on machine settings and ultrasound scanning techniques, providing some tips and tricks to facilitate accurate CPPD recognition in the most frequently affected sites.
Imaging Follow-Up of MSU Crystal Depletion
Authors: Ottaviani Sébastien
Published: January 2024

Imaging modalities such as ultrasonography (US) and dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) have been recognized for their abilities to detect monosodium urate (MSU) crystals. The main described features of gout detected by DECT (tophus) or US (tophus, double contour [DC] sign and aggregates) are very specific for the diagnosis of gout, but the impact of imaging on the follow-up of MSU deposits is not well known. US and DECT allow for visualization of the disappearance of MSU crystals under adequate urate-lowering therapy (ULT). An OMERACT US score and a DECT urate score have been described. The dissolution of the DC sign is detectable on US after 3 months, whereas a decreased size or volume in tophus can be observed on US or DECT after 6 months of ULT. Serum urate level decrease is associated with a reduction in MSU crystal deposition. Finally, the risk of gout flare is associated with the baseline MSU burden and with the degree of dissolution of crystal deposition. All these data confirm that imaging could be useful in managing gout, even if its exact place in routine practice remains unclear.
Hospitals Should Offer Straws Only on Demand to the Public and Patients—An Environmental and Patient Care Imperative
Authors: Agrawal Deepak , Bashashati Armin
Published: January 2024

Plastic straws have become the poster child of waste associated with unnecessary single-use plastics. The visibility of straws littering the land and marine environments has influenced proposals to decrease the use of plastic straws. These include bans on plastic straws at the city, state, and national levels and by many corporations. However, most hospitals continue to use plastic straws in hospital dining areas and for patients. Hospital dining areas are like other public dining areas, so eliminating plastic straws should be straightforward. Regarding the use of straws by patients, we review evidence and propose that patients should not be routinely given straws. Instead, physicians and nursing staff should request straws depending on the patient’s medical needs. Plastic straws make up only a tiny fraction of hospital waste but can be a catalyst to create awareness and decrease unnecessary plastic use in other areas of the hospital. Mitigating climate change requires a concerted effort from hospital leadership and healthcare providers. Only then will hospitals be able to fulfill their climate pledge of net zero emissions by 2050.
Mucosal Immunity of Major Gastrointestinal Nematode Infections in Small Ruminants Can Be Harnessed to Develop New Prevention Strategies
Authors: Palkumbura P. G. Ashani S. , Mahakapuge Thilini A. N. , Wijesundera R. R. M. K. Kavindra , Wijewardana Viskam , Kangethe Richard Thiga , Rajapakse R. P. V. Jayanthe
Published: January 2024

Gastrointestinal parasitic nematode (GIN) infections are the cause of severe losses to farmers in countries where small ruminants such as sheep and goat are the mainstay of livestock holdings. There is a need to develop effective and easy-to-administer anti-parasite vaccines in areas where anthelmintic resistance is rapidly rising due to the inefficient use of drugs currently available. In this review, we describe the most prevalent and economically significant group of GIN infections that infect small ruminants and the immune responses that occur in the host during infection with an emphasis on mucosal immunity. Furthermore, we outline the different prevention strategies that exist with a focus on whole and purified native parasite antigens as vaccine candidates and their possible oral–nasal administration as a part of an integrated parasite control toolbox in areas where drug resistance is on the rise.
GTP-Bound N-Ras Conformational States and Substates Are Modulated by Membrane and Point Mutation
Authors: Farcas Alexandra , Janosi Lorant
Published: January 2024

Oncogenic Ras proteins are known to present multiple conformational states, as reported by the great variety of crystallographic structures. The GTP-bound states are grouped into two main states: the “inactive” state 1 and the “active” state 2. Recent reports on H-Ras have shown that state 2 exhibits two substates, directly related to the orientation of Tyr32: toward the GTP-bound pocket and outwards. In this paper, we show that N-Ras exhibits another substate of state 2, related to a third orientation of Tyr32, toward Ala18 and parallel to the GTP-bound pocket. We also show that this substate is highly sampled in the G12V mutation of N-Ras and barely present in its wild-type form, and that the G12V mutation prohibits the sampling of the GTPase-activating protein (GAP) binding substate, rendering this mutation oncogenic. Furthermore, using molecular dynamics simulations, we explore the importance of the membrane on N-Ras’ conformational state dynamics and its strong influence on Ras protein stability. Moreover, the membrane has a significant influence on the conformational (sub)states sampling of Ras. This, in turn, is of crucial importance in the activation/deactivation cycle of Ras, due to the binding of guanine nucleotide exchange factor proteins (GEFs)/GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs).
A Fast Intersection of Confidence Intervals Method-Based Adaptive Thresholding for Sparse Image Reconstruction Using the Matrix Form of the Wavelet Transform
Authors: Volaric Ivan , Sucic Victor
Published: January 2024

One of the frequently used classes of sparse reconstruction algorithms is based on the iterative shrinkage/thresholding procedure, in which the thresholding parameter controls a trade-off between the algorithm’s accuracy and execution time. In order to avoid this trade-off, we propose using a fast intersection of confidence intervals method in order to adaptively control the threshold value throughout the iterations of the reconstruction algorithm. We have upgraded the two-step iterative shrinkage thresholding algorithm with a such procedure, improving its performance. The proposed algorithm, denoted as the FICI-TwIST, along with a few selected state-of-the-art sparse reconstruction algorithms, has been tested on the classical problem of image recovery by emphasizing the image sparsity in the discrete cosine and the discrete wavelet domain. Furthermore, we have derived a single wavelet transformation matrix which avoids wrapping effects, thereby achieving significantly faster execution times as compared to a more traditional function-based transformation. The obtained results indicate the competitive performance of the proposed algorithm, even in cases where all algorithm parameters have been individually fine-tuned for best performance.
Intensification with Intravenous Ustekinumab in Refractory Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Suárez Ferrer Cristina , Arroyo Argüelles José , Rueda García Jose Luis , García Ramírez Laura , Martin Arranz Eduardo , Sánchez Azofra María , Poza Cordón Joaquín , Noci Belda Jesús , Martin-Arranz Maria Dolores
Published: January 2024

Background: The rates of clinical and biochemical responses in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients treated with intravenous (IV) ustekinumab (UST) intensification are scarcely described. Methods: Patients with diagnosis of CD who were under intensified IV ustekinumab treatment (130 mg every 4 weeks) were retrospectively included, evaluating the clinical and biochemical response 12 weeks after the change in treatment regimen (switch from SC to IV), as well as the serum levels of the drug. Results: Twenty-seven patients, all of whom had transitioned to intensified intravenous ustekinumab treatment due to a secondary loss of response to the drug, were included in the retrospective analysis. At the baseline visit, prior to changing IV UST, differences in levels were observed between intensified and non-intensified patients (7216 vs. 2842 ng/mL, p = 0.00005). However, no significant differences were found between these two groups 12 weeks after IV intensification (7949 vs. 7937 ng/mL; p = 0.99). In patients with previous intensified UST SC, a decrease in fecal calprotectin was observed 12 weeks after starting IV intensification, going from a mean of 1463 ug/g to 751 ug/g, although the differences were not significant (p = 0.14). Conclusion: In our experience, intensifying treatment with IV UST leads to clinical and biochemical improvements in CD patients with a secondary loss of response to SC maintenance with this drug, and an increase in drug levels was observed 12 weeks after IV UST intensification.
The Association of Tobacco Smoking and Level of Apoptosis in the Long Head of the Biceps Chronic Tendinopathy—An Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Jaworski Łukasz M. , Zabrzyński Jan , Millett Peter J. , Rupp Marco-Christopher , Familiari Filippo , Huri Gazi , Antosik Paulina , Błachowski Michał , Wiciński Michał , Gagat Maciej
Published: January 2024

Background: The substances present in cigarette smoke have a negative impact on cellular integrity and metabolism, can reduce blood flow to tissues, and can disrupt collagen synthesis. Ultimately this can lead to cell death, which clinically may result in impaired tendon healing and the onset of chronic tendinopathy. Within the shoulder, the exact association between the extent of apoptosis in the long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon and harmful factors like cigarette smoke remains unclear. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the connection between smoking, the degree of apoptosis in LHB tendinopathy, and the long-term outcomes of surgical treatment. Design: Observational, retrospective study. Methods: This study included 22 consecutive patients who had undergone arthroscopic biceps tenodesis or tenotomy for symptomatic LHB tendinopathy with or without concomitant rotator cuff tears (RCT). The intra-articular LHB tendon remnants were histologically examined by measuring the level of expression of apoptotic cell markers such as BCL2, cleaved caspase 3, and p53. Pre- and postoperative clinical outcomes were analyzed by collecting patient report outcome measures such as the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain. Results: The smokers group had a mean pack-year history of 13.12 (SD = 9.94), mean number of cigarettes per day of 14.77 (SD = 4.64), and a mean smoking duration of 16.38 (SD = 10.1) years. Among the smoking indexes, the number of cigarettes per day showed a positive correlation with Snyder classification (p = 0.0459, rho = 0.3682). Non-smokers and smokers did not show a statistically significant difference in the expression indexes of BCL2, cleaved caspase 3, or p53 (p = 0.4216, p = 0.5449, p = 0.5613, respectively). However, the cleaved caspase 3 expression index showed a negative correlation with the severity of rotator cuff lesions in the total population (p = 0.0193, rho = −0.4651). Conclusions: While apoptotic processes in the LHB tendon were observed, no significant association was found between tobacco smoking, the extent of apoptosis, and clinical outcomes. However, the expression of the apoptotic marker cleaved caspase 3 correlated with the severity of rotator cuff pathology. Furthermore, active smoker status was associated with worse clinical outcomes in terms of pain following LHB tenodesis or tenotomy.
Composite Remineralization of Bone-Collagen Matrices by Low-Temperature Ceramics and Serum Albumin: A New Approach to the Creation of Highly Effective Osteoplastic Materials
Authors: Minaychev Vladislav V. , Teterina Anastasia Yu. , Smirnova Polina V. , Menshikh Ksenia A. , Senotov Anatoliy S. , Kobyakova Margarita I. , Smirnov Igor V. , Pyatina Kira V. , Krasnov Kirill S. , Fadeev Roman S. , Komlev Vladimir S. , Fadeeva Irina S.
Published: January 2024

This study examined the effectiveness of coating demineralized bone matrix (DBM) with amorphous calcium phosphate (DBM + CaP), as well as a composite of DBM, calcium phosphate, and serum albumin (DBM + CaP + BSA). The intact structure of DBM promotes the transformation of amorphous calcium phosphate (CaP) into dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) with a characteristic plate shape and particle size of 5–35 µm. The inclusion of BSA in the coating resulted in a better and more uniform distribution of CaP on the surface of DBM trabeculae. MG63 cells showed that both the obtained forms of CaP and its complex with BSA did not exhibit cytotoxicity up to a concentration of 10 mg/mL in vitro. Ectopic (subcutaneous) implantation in rats revealed pronounced biocompatibility, as well as strong osteoconductive, osteoinductive, and osteogenic effects for both DBM + CaP and DBM + CaP + BSA, but more pronounced effects for DBM + CaP + BSA. In addition, for the DBM + CaP + BSA samples, there was a pronounced full physiological intrafibrillar biomineralization and proangiogenic effect with the formation of bone-morrow-like niches, accompanied by pronounced processes of intramedullary hematopoiesis, indicating a powerful osteogenic effect of this composite.
Evolution of Men’s Image in Fashion Advertising: Breaking Stereotypes and Embracing Diversity
Authors: Carrasco-Santos María Jesús , Cristófol-Rodríguez Carmen , Begdouri-Rodríguez Ismael
Published: January 2024

This research study explores the representation of men in fashion advertising and investigates whether societal and fashion evolution has contributed to a departure from traditional stereotypes. The research methodology comprised three phases: content analysis, surveys, and in-depth interviews with an expert panel, examining how men’s clothing has been communicated in fashion over a span of 50 years, with a focus on three renowned brands: Lacoste, Burberry, and Hugo Boss. The findings reveal a notable shift in fashion advertising targeting men, characterized by increased racial diversity among models and a more diverse depiction of attitudes and poses. However, homosexual or bisexual couples remain largely unrepresented. The study highlights the influence of advertising on shaping the image of the “new man”, evident through the diminishing gender boundaries in clothing and accessories and the persistent struggle to break free from stereotypes. The study underscores the significance of ongoing efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in fashion advertising.
Nannochloropsis as an Emerging Algal Chassis for Light-Driven Synthesis of Lipids and High-Value Products
Authors: Ye Ying , Liu Meijing , Yu Lihua , Sun Han , Liu Jin
Published: January 2024

In light of the escalating global energy crisis, microalgae have emerged as highly promising producers of biofuel and high-value products. Among these microalgae, Nannochloropsis has received significant attention due to its capacity to generate not only triacylglycerol (TAG) but also eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and valuable carotenoids. Recent advancements in genetic tools and the field of synthetic biology have revolutionized Nannochloropsis into a powerful biofactory. This comprehensive review provides an initial overview of the current state of cultivation and utilization of the Nannochloropsis genus. Subsequently, our review examines the metabolic pathways governing lipids and carotenoids, emphasizing strategies to enhance oil production and optimize carbon flux redirection toward target products. Additionally, we summarize the utilization of advanced genetic manipulation techniques in Nannochloropsis. Together, the insights presented in this review highlight the immense potential of Nannochloropsis as a valuable model for biofuels and synthetic biology. By effectively integrating genetic tools and metabolic engineering, the realization of this potential becomes increasingly feasible.
Enhanced Gypsum Boards with Activated Carbon Composites and Phase Change Materials for Advanced Thermal Energy Storage and Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Properties
Authors: Gioti Christina , Vasilopoulos Konstantinos C. , Baikousi Maria , Salmas Constantinos E. , Ntaflos Angelos , Paipetis Alkiviadis S. , Viskadourakis Zacharias , Ikram Rabia , Agathopoulos Simeon , Kenanakis George , Karakassides Michael A.
Published: January 2024

This work presents the development of novel gypsum board composites for advanced thermal energy storage (TES) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. Activated carbon (AC) derived from spent coffee with a high surface area (SBET = 1372 m2/g) was used as a shape stabilizer, while the commercial paraffin, RT18HC, was used as organic encapsulant phase change material (PCM). The AC showed a remarkable encapsulation efficiency as a shape stabilizer for PCM, with ~120.9 wt% (RT18HC), while the melting enthalpy (ΔHm) of the shape-stabilized PCM was 117.3 J/g. The performance of this PCM/carbon nanocomposite as a thermal energy storage material was examined by incorporating it into building components, such as gypsum wallboards. The microstructure of these advanced panels, their density, and their dispersion of additives were examined using X-ray microtomography. Their thermal-regulated performance was measured through a self-designed room model with a similar homemade environmental chamber that was able to create a uniform temperature environment, surrounding the test room during heating and cooling. The measurements showed that the advanced panels reduce temperature fluctuations and the indoor temperature of the room model, in comparison with normal gypsum panels, by a range of 2–5%. The investigated gypsum board composite samples showed efficient electromagnetic shielding performance in a frequency range of 3.5–7.0 GHz, reaching an EMI value of ~12.5 dB, which is adequate and required for commercial applications, when filled with PCMs.
The Source, Mobility and Fate of Bismuth (Bi) in Legacy Mine Waste, Yxsjöberg, Sweden
Authors: Hällström Lina P. B. , Gustafsson Jon Petter
Published: January 2024

The usage of bismuth (Bi), a critical and strategic raw material, has increased in the last 10 years. At present, the knowledge of Bi geochemistry is too limited to develop accurate mine waste and water management strategies to prevent environmental impact. Therefore, its geochemistry was studied in historical tailings in Yxsjöberg, Sweden. Intact tailings cores and shore samples were geochemically and mineralogically analyzed. Groundwater was sampled between 2016 and 2021 and analyzed for 71 elements and (SO4, F, Cl). The results were correlated with metals and dissolved organic matter (DOC), which have been previously published. The total concentrations, sequential extraction and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS) mapping indicated that Bi had been mobilized from the primary mineral bismuthinite (Bi2S3). In the oxidized tailings from both the cores and shore, Bi was hypothesized to have adsorbed to iron (Fe) (hydr)oxides, which prohibited high concentrations of Bi leaching into the groundwater and surface water. Dissolved Bi in groundwater was significantly correlated with DOC. In surface water, dissolved Bi was transported more than 5 km from the tailings. This study indicates that Bi can become mobile from legacy mine waste due to the oxidation of bismuthinite and either be scavenged by adsorption of Fe (hydr)oxides or kept mobile in groundwater and surface water due to complexation with DOC.
Prevention of Silica Gel Formation for Eudialyte Study Using New Digestion Reactor
Authors: Silin Ivan , Dertmann Christian , Cvetković Vesna S. , Stopic Srecko , Friedrich Bernd
Published: January 2024

This work includes a combined hydrometallurgical treatment of a eudialyte ore sample with a subsequent preparation of leaching residue using mechanical separation methods. Hydrometallurgical treatment contains dry digestion with sulphuric acid at room temperature and filtration of the obtained product. The objectives of adopting these procedures are to test a new digestion reactor in order to prevent silica gel formation from the eudialyte ore. The obtained results revealed that silica gel formation is prevented during dissolution with sulphuric acid. A high leaching efficiency of light rare earth elements (La, Ce, Nd, Y) was reached using the dry digestion process with sulphuric acid, where the starting molarity was 12 mol/L. After the filtration process, magnetic separation is studied as the main method to recover weakly magnetic minerals like amphiboles and pyroxenes from the leaching residue in the magnetic fraction and feldspars in the nonmagnetic fraction. A new combined research strategy was developed for the production of different concentrates such as the one bearing Zr, Hf, and Nb.
Bacteria-Driven Fossil Ecosystems as Paleoindicators of Active Continental Margins and the Role of Carbonate Sediment-Hosted Vents in Geodynamic Reconstructions
Authors: Bujtor László , Gyollai Ildikó , Szabó Máté , Kovács Ivett , Polgári Márta
Published: January 2024

Continental rifting of the Tisza microplate started during the Late Jurassic and resulted in phreatic eruptions, peperite, and the construction of a volcanic edifice in the Early Cretaceous in the Mecsek Mountains (South Hungary). In the SE direction from the volcanic edifice at Zengővárkony, a shallow marine (depth 100–200 m) carbonate sediment hosted a vent environment, and iron ore deposition occurred at the end of the Valanginian to early Hauterivian, hosting a diverse, endemic fauna of approximately 60 species. The detailed mineralogical analysis of the transport conduits included Fe oxides (ferrihydrite, goethite, hematite, and magnetite), quartz, mixed carbonate, pyrite, feldspar, Fe-bearing clay minerals, apatite, sulfates (barite, gypsum, and jarosite), and native sulfur. Filamentous, microbially mediated microtextures with inner sequented, necklace-like spheric forms (diameter of 1 μm) and bacterial laminae are also observed inside decapod crustacean coprolites (Palaxius tetraochetarius) and in the rock matrix. This complex ecological and mineralogical analysis provided direct evidence for the presence of bacteria in fossil sediment-hosted vent (SHV) environments on the one hand and for the intimate connection between bacteria and decapod crustaceans in hydrothermal environments 135 Ma before. This observation completes the fossil food chain of chemosynthesis-based ecosystems, from primary producers to the top carnivores reported for the first time from this locality.
PVA-TiO2 Nanocomposite Hydrogel as Immobilization Carrier for Gas-to-Liquid Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Surkatti Riham , van Loosdrecht Mark C. M. , Hussein Ibnelwaleed A. , El-Naas Muftah H.
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the development of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) gel matrices for biomass immobilization in wastewater treatment. The PVA hydrogels were prepared through a freezing–thawing (F-T) cross-linking process and reinforced with high surface area nanoparticles to improve their mechanical stability and porosity. The PVA/nanocomposite hydrogels were prepared using two different nanoparticle materials: iron oxide (Fe3O2) and titanium oxide (TiO2). The effects of the metal oxide nanoparticle type and content on the pore structure, hydrogel bonding, and mechanical and viscoelastic properties of the cross-linked hydrogel composites were investigated. The most durable PVA/nanoparticles matrix was then tested in the bioreactor for the biological treatment of wastewater. Morphological analysis showed that the reinforcement of PVA gel with Fe2O3 and TiO2 nanoparticles resulted in a compact nanocomposite hydrogel with regular pore distribution. The FTIR analysis highlighted the formation of bonds between nanoparticles and hydrogel, which caused more interaction within the polymeric matrix. Furthermore, the mechanical strength and Young’s modulus of the hydrogel composites were found to depend on the type and content of the nanoparticles. The most remarkable improvement in the mechanical strength of the PVA/nanoparticles composites was obtained by incorporating 0.1 wt% TiO2 and 1.0 wt% Fe2O3 nanoparticles. However, TiO2 showed more influence on the mechanical strength, with more than 900% improvement in Young’s modulus for TiO2-reinforced PVA hydrogel. Furthermore, incorporating TiO2 nanoparticles enhanced hydrogel stability but did not affect the biodegradation of organic pollutants in wastewater. These results suggest that the PVA-TiO2 hydrogel has the potential to be used as an effective carrier for biomass immobilization and wastewater treatment.
Superconductivity in Nb: Impact of Temperature, Dimensionality and Cooper-Pairing
Authors: Aceves Rodriguez Uriel Allan , Guimarães Filipe Souza Mendes , Lounis Samir
Published: January 2024

The ability to realistically simulate the electronic structure of superconducting materials is important to understand and predict various properties emerging in both the superconducting topological and spintronics realms. We introduce a tight-binding implementation of the Bogoliubov–de Gennes method, parameterized from density functional theory, which we utilize to explore the bulk and thin films of Nb, known to host a significant superconducting gap. The latter is useful for various applications such as the exploration of trivial and topological in-gap states. Here, we focus on the simulation’s aspects of superconductivity and study the impact of temperature, Cooper-pair coupling and dimensionality on the value of the superconducting pairing interactions and gaps.
Efficient Charge Separation and Transport in Fullerene-CuPcOC8 Donor–Acceptor Nanorod Enhancing Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Hua Zihui , Wu Bo , Zhang Yuhe , Wang Chong , Dong Tianyang , Song Yupeng , Jiang Ying , Wang Chunru
Published: January 2024

Photocatalytic hydrogen generation via water decomposition is a promising avenue in the pursuit of large-scale, cost-effective renewable hydrogen energy generation. However, the design of an efficient photocatalyst plays a crucial role in achieving high yields in hydrogen generation. Herein, we have engineered a fullerene-2,3,9,10,16,17,23,24-octa(octyloxy)copper phthalocyanine (C60-CuPcOC8) photocatalyst, achieving both efficient hydrogen generation and high stability. The significant donor–acceptor (D–A) interactions facilitate the efficient electron transfer from CuPcOC8 to C60. The rate of photocatalytic hydrogen generation for C60-CuPcOC8 is 8.32 mmol·g−1·h−1, which is two orders of magnitude higher than the individual C60 and CuPcOC8. The remarkable increase in hydrogen generation activity can be attributed to the development of a robust internal electric field within the C60-CuPcOC8 assembly. It is 16.68 times higher than that of the pure CuPcOC8. The strong internal electric field facilitates the rapid separation within 0.6 ps, enabling photogenerated charge transfer efficiently. Notably, the hydrogen generation efficiency of C60-CuPcOC8 remains above 95%, even after 10 h, showing its exceptional photocatalytic stability. This study provides critical insight into advancing the field of photocatalysis.
Silicon Supplementation for Bone Health: An Umbrella Review Attempting to Translate from Animals to Humans
Authors: Pritchard Abby , Nielsen Brian D.
Published: January 2024

Studies have attempted to demonstrate the benefits of silicon on bone health using a wide range of Si amounts—provided in the diet or through supplementation—and several different animal species. Previous studies in humans have also demonstrated a positive correlation between Si intake and bone health measures. The aim of the current review is to determine the effective levels of Si intake or supplementation that influence bone health to better inform future study designs and guidelines. Articles were identified using one of two search terms: “silicon AND bone” or “sodium zeolite A AND bone”. Articles were included if the article was a controlled research study on the effect of Si on bone health and/or mineral metabolism and was in English. Articles were excluded if the article included human subjects, was in vitro, or studied silica grafts for bone injuries. Silicon type, group name, Si intake from diet, Si supplementation amount, animal, and age at the start were extracted when available. Dietary Si intake, Si supplementation amount, and the amount of Si standardized on a kg BW basis were calculated and presented as overall mean ± standard deviations, medians, minimums, and maximums. Studies that left out animal weights, amount of food or water consumed, or nutrient profiles of the basal diet were excluded from these calculations. Standardized Si intakes ranged from 0.003 to 863 mg/kg BW, at times vastly exceeding current human Si intake recommendations (25 mg/d). The lack of data provided by the literature made definitively determining an effective threshold of supplementation for skeletal health difficult. However, it appears that Si consistently positively influences bone and mineral metabolism by around 139 mg Si/kg BW/d, which is likely unfeasible to attain in humans and large animal species. Future studies should examine this proposed threshold more directly and standardize supplemental or dietary Si intakes to kg BW for better study replication and translation.
Oncogenic Potential of Replication Factor C Subunit 4: Correlations with Tumor Progression and Assessment of Potential Inhibitors
Authors: Alaa Eldeen Muhammad , Mamdouh Farag , Abdulsahib Waleed K. , Eid Refaat A. , Alhanshani Ahmad A. , Shati Ayed A. , Alqahtani Youssef A. , Alshehri Mohammed A. , Samir A. Zaki Mohamed , Soltan Mohamed A. , Noreldin Ahmed E.
Published: January 2024

Replication Factor C Subunit 4 (RFC4), an oncogene implicated in many human cancers, has yet to be extensively studied in many cancer types to determine its expression patterns and tumor tissue function. Various bioinformatics tools were used to analyze RFC4 as a potential oncogene and therapeutic target across many cancers. We first examined RFC4 expression levels in several human tumor types to determine relationships with tumor grade, stage, metastasis, and patient survival. We also examined RFC4’s genetic changes, epigenetic methylation, and effect on tumor microenvironment (TME) immune cell infiltration. We also analyzed RFC4’s connections with immunological checkpoints to identify potential molecular pathways involved in carcinogenesis. Our findings show that RFC4 is upregulated in several tumor types and associated with poor prognoses in many human cancers. This study shows that RFC4 significantly affects the tumor immunological microenvironment, specifically immune cell populations. Finally, we screened for RFC4-inhibiting pharmacological compounds with anti-cancer potential. This study fully elucidates RFC4’s carcinogenic activities, emphasizing its potential as a prognostic biomarker and a target for anti-cancer therapy.
Xiao Cheng Qi Decoction, an Ancient Chinese Herbal Mixture, Relieves Loperamide-Induced Slow-Transit Constipation in Mice: An Action Mediated by Gut Microbiota
Authors: Tuohongerbieke Amanguli , Wang Huaiyou , Wu Jiahui , Wang Zhengqi , Dong Tingxia , Huang Yamiao , Zhu Dequan , Sun Dongmei , Tsim Karl Wah Keung
Published: January 2024

Xiao Cheng Qi (XCQ) decoction, an ancient Chinese herbal mixture, has been used in treating slow-transit constipation (STC) for years. The underlying action mechanism in relieving the clinical symptoms is unclear. Several lines of evidence point to a strong link between constipation and gut microbiota. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and microbial metabolites have been shown to affect 5-HT synthesis by activating the GPR43 receptor localized on intestinal enterochromaffin cells, since 5-HT receptors are known to influence colonic peristalsis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of XCQ in alleviating clinical symptoms in a mouse model of STC induced by loperamide. The application of loperamide leads to a decrease in intestinal transport and fecal water, which is used to establish the animal model of STC. In addition, the relationship between constipation and gut microbiota was determined. The herbal materials, composed of Rhei Radix et Rhizoma (Rhizomes of Rheum palmatum L., Polygonaceae) 55.2 g, Magnoliae Officinalis Cortex (Barks of Magnolia officinalis Rehd. et Wils, Magnoliaceae) 27.6 g, and Aurantii Fructus Immaturus (Fruitlet of Citrus aurantium L., Rutaceae) 36.0 g, were extracted with water to prepare the XCQ decoction. The constipated mice were induced with loperamide (10 mg/kg/day), and then treated with an oral dose of XCQ herbal extract (2.0, 4.0, and 8.0 g/kg/day) two times a day. Mosapride was administered as a positive drug. In loperamide-induced STC mice, the therapeutic parameters of XCQ-treated mice were determined, i.e., (i) symptoms of constipation, composition of gut microbiota, and amount of short-chain fatty acids in feces; (ii) plasma level of 5-HT; and (iii) expressions of the GPR43 and 5-HT4 receptor in colon. XCQ ameliorated the constipation symptoms of loperamide-induced STC mice. In gut microbiota, the treatment of XCQ in STC mice increased the relative abundances of Lactobacillus, Prevotellaceae_UCG_001, Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, Muribaculaceae, and Roseburia in feces and decreased the relative abundances of Desulfovibrio, Tuzzerella, and Lachnospiraceae_ NK4A136_group. The levels of SCFAs in stools from the STC group were significantly lower than those the control group, and were greatly elevated via treatment with XCQ. Compared with the STC group, XCQ increased the plasma level of 5-HT and the colonic expressions of the GPR43 and 5-HT4 receptor, significantly. The underlying mechanism of XCQ in anti-constipation could be related to the modulation of gut microbiota, the increase in SCFAs, the increase in plasma 5-HT, and the colonic expressions of the GPR43 and 5-HT4 receptor. Our results indicate that XCQ is a potent natural product that could be a therapeutic strategy for constipation.
The Fabrication of Polymer-Based Curcumin-Loaded Formulation as a Drug Delivery System: An Updated Review from 2017 to the Present
Authors: Azad Abul Kalam , Lai Joanne , Sulaiman Wan Mohd Azizi Wan , Almoustafa Hassan , Alshehade Salah Abdalrazak , Kumarasamy Vinoth , Subramaniyan Vetriselvan
Published: January 2024

Turmeric contains curcumin, a naturally occurring compound with noted anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help fight cancer. Curcumin is readily available, nontoxic, and inexpensive. At high doses, it has minimal side effects, suggesting it is safe for human use. However, curcumin has extremely poor bioavailability and biodistribution, which further hamper its clinical applications. It is commonly administered through oral and transdermal routes in different forms, where the particle size is one of the most common barriers that decreases its absorption through biological membranes on the targeted sites and limits its clinical effectiveness. There are many studies ongoing to overcome this problem. All of this motivated us to conduct this review that discusses the fabrication of polymer-based curcumin-loaded formulation as an advanced drug delivery system and addresses different approaches to overcoming the existing barriers and improving its bioavailability and biodistribution to enhance the therapeutic effects against cancer and other diseases.
Fabrication of Mildew-Resistant Wood with Multi-Functional Properties Based on In Situ Growth of Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Liang Xingyu , Zhang Tao , Li Junting , Wang Wei , Yuan Tiancheng , Li Yanjun
Published: January 2024

Wood is easily affected by decay fungi, mildew fungi, insects, water, UV, and other factors when used outdoors. In particular, mildew on the surface of wood negatively affects the appearance and practical use of wood or wood-based engineered products. In recent years, as a class of popular crystalline materials, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been widely applied in electrochemistry, adsorption, anti-mildew efforts, and other areas. In this study, we first grew a Co-based metal–organic framework (Co-MOF) in situ on a wood surface and subsequently converted the Co-MOF in situ into a cobalt–nickel double hydroxide layer, which formed micro- and nanohierarchical composite structures on the wood surface. The low surface energy of the CoNi-DH@wood was further modified via impregnation with sodium laurate to obtain the superhydrophobic wood (CoNi-DH-La@wood). We characterized the microstructure, chemical composition, water contact angle, and anti-mold properties of the CoNi-DH-La@wood using SEM, XRD, XPS, water contact angle tests, and anti-fungal tests. The SEM, XRD, and XPS results confirmed that the metal–organic framework was coated on the wood surface, with the long-chain sodium laurate grafted onto it. The CoNi-DH-La@wood had a water contact angle of 151°, demonstrating excellent self-cleaning ability. In addition, the fabricated superhydrophobic balsa wood exhibited excellent chemical and environment stability. Lastly, the CoNi-DH-La@wood exhibited excellent anti-mildew properties in a 30-day anti-mildew test because the superhydrophobic coating was successfully coated on the wood surface. In summary, this work presents an attractive strategy for obtaining wood with superhydrophobic properties at room temperature, thereby endowing the wood or wood-based engineered products with excellent anti-mildew properties.