bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Dung Beetle Optimization Algorithm for Practical Engineering Optimization
Authors: Li Qinghua , Shi Hu , Zhao Wanting , Ma Chunlu
Published: April 2024

An enhanced dung beetle optimization algorithm (EDBO) is proposed for nonlinear optimization problems with multiple constraints in manufacturing. Firstly, the dung beetle rolling phase is improved by removing the worst value interference and coupling the current solution with the optimal solution to each other, while retaining the advantages of the original formulation. Subsequently, to address the problem that the dung beetle dancing phase focuses only on the information of the current solution, which leads to the overly stochastic and inefficient exploration of the problem space, the globally optimal solution is introduced to steer the dung beetle, and a stochastic factor is added to the optimal solution. Finally, the dung beetle foraging phase introduces the Jacobi curve to further enhance the algorithm’s ability to jump out of the local optimum and avoid the phenomenon of premature convergence. The performance of EDBO in optimization is tested using the CEC2017 function set, and the significance of the algorithm is verified by the Wilcoxon rank-sum test and the Friedman test. The experimental results show that EDBO has strong optimization-seeking accuracy and optimization-seeking stability. By solving four engineering optimization problems of varying degrees, EDBO has proven to have good adaptability and robustness.
Tunable Oxidized-Chitin Hydrogels with Customizable Mechanical Properties by Metal or Hydrogen Ion Exposure
Authors: Mucaria Angelica , Giuri Demetra , Tomasini Claudia , Falini Giuseppe , Montroni Devis
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on the optimization of chitin oxidation in C6 to carboxylic acid and its use to obtain a hydrogel with tunable resistance. After the optimization, water-soluble crystalline β-chitin fibrils (β-chitOx) with a degree of functionalization of 10% were obtained. Diverse reaction conditions were also tested for α-chitin, which showed a lower reactivity and a slower reaction kinetic. After that, a set of hydrogels was synthesized from β-chitOx 1 wt.% at pH 9, inducing the gelation by sonication. These hydrogels were exposed to different environments, such as different amounts of Ca2+, Na+ or Mg2+ solutions, buffered environments such as pH 9, PBS, pH 5, and pH 1, and pure water. These hydrogels were characterized using rheology, XRPD, SEM, and FT-IR. The notable feature of these hydrogels is their ability to be strengthened through cation chelation, being metal cations or hydrogen ions, with a five- to tenfold increase in their storage modulus (G’). The ions were theorized to alter the hydrogen-bonding network of the polymer and intercalate in chitin’s crystal structure along the a-axis. On the other hand, the hydrogel dissolved at pH 9 and pure water. These bio-based tunable hydrogels represent an intriguing material suitable for biomedical applications.
Microbial Dynamics in Ophthalmic Health: Exploring the Interplay between Human Microbiota and Glaucoma Pathogenesis
Authors: Hernández-Zulueta Joicye , Bolaños-Chang Andres , Santa Cruz-Pavlovich Francisco , Valero Rodríguez América , Lizárraga Madrigal Alejandro , Del Rio-Murillo Ximena , Navarro-Partida José , Gonzalez-De la Rosa Alejandro
Published: April 2024

The human microbiome has a crucial role in the homeostasis and health of the host. These microorganisms along with their genes are involved in various processes, among these are neurological signaling, the maturation of the immune system, and the inhibition of opportunistic pathogens. In this sense, it has been shown that a healthy ocular microbiota acts as a barrier against the entry of pathogens, contributing to the prevention of infections. In recent years, a relationship has been suggested between microbiota dysbiosis and the development of neurodegenerative diseases. In patients with glaucoma, it has been observed that the microbiota of the ocular surface, intraocular cavity, oral cavity, stomach, and gut differ from those observed in healthy patients, which may suggest a role in pathology development, although the evidence remains limited. The mechanisms involved in the relationship of the human microbiome and this neurodegenerative disease remain largely unknown. For this reason, the present review aims to show a broad overview of the influence of the structure and composition of the human oral and gut microbiota and relate its dysbiosis to neurodegenerative diseases, especially glaucoma.
Hydrophilic Modification of Dialysis Membranes Sustains Middle Molecule Removal and Filtration Characteristics
Authors: Zawada Adam M. , Emal Karlee , Förster Eva , Saremi Saeedeh , Delinski Dirk , Theis Lukas , Küng Florian , Xie Wenhao , Werner Joanie , Stauss-Grabo Manuela , Faust Matthias , Boyington Skyler , Kennedy James P.
Published: April 2024

While efficient removal of uremic toxins and accumulated water is pivotal for the well-being of dialysis patients, protein adsorption to the dialyzer membrane reduces the performance of a dialyzer. Hydrophilic membrane modification with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) has been shown to reduce protein adsorption and to stabilize membrane permeability. In this study we compared middle molecule clearance and filtration performance of nine polysulfone-, polyethersulfone-, and cellulose-based dialyzers over time. Protein adsorption was simulated in recirculation experiments, while β2-microglobulin clearance as well as transmembrane pressure (TMP) and filtrate flow were determined over time. The results of this study showed that β2-microglobulin clearance (−7.2 mL/min/m2) and filtrate flow (−54.4 mL/min) decreased strongly during the first 30 min and slowly afterwards (−0.7 mL/min/m2 and −6.8 mL/min, respectively, for the next 30 min); the TMP increase (+37.2 mmHg and +8.6 mmHg, respectively) showed comparable kinetics. Across all tested dialyzers, the dialyzer with a hydrophilic modified membrane (FX CorAL) had the highest β2-microglobulin clearance after protein fouling and the most stable filtration characteristics. In conclusion, hydrophilic membrane modification with PVP stabilizes the removal capacity of middle molecules and filtration performance over time. Such dialyzers may have benefits during hemodiafiltration treatments which aim to achieve high exchange volumes.
Optimization of the Circular Channel Size and the A.C. Magnetic Field Parameters for Application in a Channel-Type Induction-Heating Tundish
Authors: Zhang Qi , Xu Guangye , Iwai Kazuhiko
Published: April 2024

In this paper, the appropriate channel design and operating conditions for the simultaneous operation of the inclusion removal and the induction heating of the molten steel by imposing the A.C. magnetic field around the circular channel have been studied. (1) The effect of the lift force and the turbulence force on the inclusion in the transition zone of the channel has been computed; the results show that when the diameter of the inclusion is not less than 0.1 mm, both forces can be neglected because they are less than the electromagnetic pinch force, especially when the shielding parameter is not less than 5.0. (2) The minimal channel length to remove the inclusions out of the dead zone was computed without the lift force and the turbulence force; the shielding parameter of 10.0~15.9 is optimal to obtain the shortest channel length. Furthermore, the slow velocity of the molten steel is desirable. (3) The molten steel temperature increase per unit channel length by the induction heating can be controlled by the A.C. magnetic field frequency; a high frequency condition is better for the efficient thermal supply in this calculation condition. (4) When the flow velocity of the molten steel in the channel with a length of 1 m and a radius of 0.075 m is 0.1 m/s, the shielding parameter of 15.9 is the optimal parameter to simultaneously remove the inclusions and heat up the molten steel in the circular channel. And when the non-dimensional magnetic field intensity of the A.C. magnetic field is 31.7, the removal rate of the 0.1 mm inclusion in the channel can reach more than 95% and the molten steel temperature can be heated over 10 K.
Change in Superparamagnetic State Induced by Swift Heavy Ion Irradiation in Nano-Maghemite
Authors: Stichleutner Sándor , Herczeg Bence , Pechoušek Jiří , Machala Libor , Homonnay Zoltán , Smrčka David , Kouřil Lukáš , Vondrášek René , Kudor Mátyás , Skuratov Vladimir A. , Krupa Luboš , Kubuki Shiro , Kuzmann Ernő
Published: April 2024

The effect of swift heavy ion irradiation on sol–gel-prepared maghemite nanoparticles was studied by 57Fe transmission Mössbauer spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometry (XRD). The room temperature Mössbauer spectra of the non-irradiated nano-maghemite showed poorly resolved magnetically split, typical relaxation spectra due to the superparamagnetic state of the nanoparticles. Significant changes in the line shape, indicating changes in the superparamagnetic state, were found in the Mössbauer spectra upon irradiation by 160 MeV and 155 MeV 132Xe26+ ions with fluences of 5 × 1013 ion cm−2 and 1 × 1014 ion cm−2. XRD of the irradiated maghemite nanoparticles showed a significant broadening of the corresponding lines, indicating a decrease in the crystallite size, compared to those of the non-irradiated ones. The results are discussed in terms of the defects induced by irradiation and the corresponding changes related to the change in particle size and consequently in the superparamagnetic state caused by irradiation.
Challenges in the Metabolomics-Based Biomarker Validation Pipeline
Authors: Li Shenghan , Looby Nikita , Chandran Vinod , Kulasingam Vathany
Published: April 2024

As end-products of the intersection between the genome and environmental influences, metabolites represent a promising approach to the discovery of novel biomarkers for diseases. However, many potential biomarker candidates identified by metabolomics studies fail to progress beyond analytical validation for routine implementation in clinics. Awareness of the challenges present can facilitate the development and advancement of innovative strategies that allow improved and more efficient applications of metabolite-based markers in clinical settings. This minireview provides a comprehensive summary of the pre-analytical factors, required analytical validation studies, and kit development challenges that must be resolved before the successful translation of novel metabolite biomarkers originating from research. We discuss the necessity for strict protocols for sample collection, storage, and the regulatory requirements to be fulfilled for a bioanalytical method to be considered as analytically validated. We focus especially on the blood as a biological matrix and liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry as the analytical platform for biomarker validation. Furthermore, we examine the challenges of developing a commercially viable metabolomics kit for distribution. To bridge the gap between the research lab and clinical implementation and utility of relevant metabolites, the understanding of the translational challenges for a biomarker panel is crucial for more efficient development of metabolomics-based precision medicine.
Time-Course Metabolomic Analysis: Production of Betaine Structural Analogs by Fungal Fermentation of Seaweed
Authors: Inoue Nao , Tsuge Keisuke , Yanagita Teruyoshi , Oikawa Akira , Nagao Koji
Published: April 2024

Betaine structural analogs are compounds characterized by the presence of positive and negative charges in a single molecule and have been reported to have physiological properties, such as anti-inflammatory activities. In this study, we performed a metabolomic analysis of metabolite composition changes during the fermentation of Neopyropia yezoensis, an edible red alga, with Aspergillus oryzae for 72 h. The results indicated that three specific betaine structural analogs (betaine, stachydrine, and carnitine) exhibited significant changes in production by the end of the 72 h fermentation period. Time-course analysis suggested that betaine was generated from the precursor choline at 12–24 h during the late stage of fungal growth, while stachydrine was generated from the precursor-related compound glutamic acid at 48–72 h during the sporulation stage. However, the contribution of the precursor lysine to the increased production of carnitine during the 12–72 h period was unclear. This study provides useful information on the efficient production of betaine structural analogs by the fungal fermentation of seaweed as well as various other food materials.
Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Rock Phosphate on Growth, Physiology, and Biochemistry of Carob under Water Stress and after Rehydration in Vermicompost-Amended Soil
Authors: Boutasknit Abderrahim , Ait-El-Mokhtar Mohamed , Fassih Boujemaa , Ben-Laouane Raja , Wahbi Said , Meddich Abdelilah
Published: April 2024

In the Mediterranean region, reforestation programs record failures following successive drought periods. The use of different plant-growth-promoting amendments and the understanding of drought-induced physiological and biochemical responses of carob will contribute to the reforestation program’s success. In this study, the effects of arbuscular-mycorrhizal-fungi (AMF), vermicompost (VC), and rock phosphate (RP) on carob seedlings under drought stress (DS) and recovery (REC) conditions were evaluated. A greenhouse experiment was conducted with carob seedlings grown in the presence of AMF, VC, and RP, applied alone or in combination under well-watered (WW), DS (by stopping irrigation for 12 days), and recovery (REC) conditions. The obtained results indicated that the triple combination (AMF + VC + RP) presented the highest improvement in water potential, photosynthetic pigment content, stomatal conductance, and chlorophyll fluorescence compared to the controls under DS and after REC. In addition, this combination resulted in improved tolerance of carob seedlings to DS and a high potential for rapid recovery after rehydration due to a high accumulation of sugars, proteins, and antioxidant enzymes. In summary, the results underline the importance of inoculating carob with AMF in combination with (in)-organic amendments in improving its tolerance to DS and its recovery performances.
Machine Learning Classification of Self-Organized Surface Structures in Ultrashort-Pulse Laser Processing Based on Light Microscopic Images
Authors: Thomas Robert , Westphal Erik , Schnell Georg , Seitz Hermann
Published: April 2024

In ultrashort-pulsed laser processing, surface modification is subject to complex laser and scanning parameter studies. In addition, quality assurance systems for monitoring surface modification are still lacking. Automated laser processing routines featuring machine learning (ML) can help overcome these limitations, but they are largely absent in the literature and still lack practical applications. This paper presents a new methodology for machine learning classification of self-organized surface structures based on light microscopic images. For this purpose, three application-relevant types of self-organized surface structures are fabricated using a 300 fs laser system on hot working tool steel and stainless-steel substrates. Optical images of the hot working tool steel substrates were used to learn a classification algorithm based on the open-source tool Teachable Machine from Google. The trained classification algorithm achieved very high accuracy in distinguishing the surface types for the hot working steel substrate learned on, as well as for surface structures on the stainless-steel substrate. In addition, the algorithm also achieved very high accuracy in classifying the images of a specific structure class captured at different optical magnifications. Thus, the methodology proposed represents a simple and robust automated classification of surface structures that can be used as a basis for further development of quality assurance systems, automated process parameter recommendation, and inline laser parameter control.
Electric-Field-Assisted Synthesis of Cu/MoS2 Nanostructures for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Yonas Surra , Gicha Birhanu Bayissa , Adhikari Samir , Sabir Fedlu Kedir , Tran Van Tan , Nwaji Njemuwa , Gonfa Bedasa Abdisa , Tufa Lemma Teshome
Published: April 2024

Molybdenum sulfide–oxide (MoS2, MS) emerges as the prime electrocatalyst candidate demonstrating hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity comparable to platinum (Pt). This study presents a facile electrochemical approach for fabricating a hybrid copper (Cu)/MoS2 (CMS) nanostructure thin-film electrocatalyst directly onto nickel foam (NF) without a binder or template. The synthesized CMS nanostructures were characterized utilizing energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electrochemical methods. The XRD result revealed that the Cu metal coating on MS results in the creation of an extremely crystalline CMS nanostructure with a well-defined interface. The hybrid nanostructures demonstrated higher hydrogen production, attributed to the synergistic interplay of morphology and electron distribution at the interface. The nanostructures displayed a significantly low overpotential of −149 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 117 mV dec−1, indicating enhanced catalytic activity compared to pristine MoS2.This research underscores the significant enhancement of the HER performance and conductivity achieved by CMS, showcasing its potential applications in renewable energy.
Prevalence of Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases (ESBLs) Producing Aeromonas spp. Isolated from Lamellidens marginalis (Lamark, 1819) of Sewage-Fed Wetland: A Phenotypic and Genotypic Approach
Authors: Mohanty Debasmita , Das Basanta Kumar , Kumari Punam , Dey Saikat , Bera Asit Kumar , Sahoo Amiya Kumar , Dasgupta Shubhankhi , Roy Shreya
Published: April 2024

The global rise of zoonotic bacteria resistant to multiple antimicrobial classes and the growing occurrence of infections caused by Aeromonas spp. resistant to β-lactam antibiotics pose a severe threat to animal and human health. However, the contribution of natural environments, particularly aquatic ecosystems, as ideal settings for the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a key concern. Investigating the phenotypic antibiotic resistance and detection of β-lactamase producing Aeromonas spp. in Lamellidens marginalis, which inhabit all freshwater ecosystems of the Indian subcontinent, is essential for implications in monitoring food safety and drug resistance. In the present investigation, 92 isolates of Aeromonas spp. were recovered from 105 bivalves and screened for their antimicrobial resistance patterns. In vitro antibiotic resistance profiling showed a higher Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index of 0.8 with the highest resistance against ampicillin/sulbactam (82%), while 58, 44, 39 and 38% of the isolates were resistant to cephalothin, erythromycin, cefoxitin and imipenem, respectively. PCR results revealed that these isolates carried the blaTEM gene (94%), which was followed by the blaCTX-M gene (51%) and the blaSHV gene (45%). A combination of blaSHV, blaCTX-M, and blaTEM genes was found in 17% of the isolates, indicating the presence of all three resistance genes. This is the first investigation which highlights the importance of multidrug-resistant Aeromonas spp. in L. marginalis. The identification of extended-spectrum-β-lactamases (ESBLs) genes demand the necessity of continuous surveillance and systematic monitoring, considering its potential health risks for both animals and human beings.
Characterization by MALDI-TOF MS and 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing of Aerobic Endospore-Forming Bacteria Isolated from Pharmaceutical Facility in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Caldeira Nathalia Gonçalves Santos , de Souza Maria Luiza Soares , de Miranda Rebeca Vitória da Silva Lage , da Costa Luciana Veloso , Forsythe Stephen James , Zahner Viviane , Brandão Marcelo Luiz Lima
Published: April 2024

Bacillus and related genera are among the most important contaminants in the pharmaceutical production environment, and the identification of these microorganisms at the species level assists in the investigation of sources of contamination and in preventive and corrective decision making. The aim of this study was to evaluate three methodologies for the characterization of endospore-forming aerobic bacterial strains isolated from a pharmaceutical unit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. MALDI-TOF MS was performed using MALDI Biotyper® and VITEK® MS RUO systems, and complete 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed using the Sanger methodology. The results showed the prevalence of the genera Bacillus (n = 9; 36.0%), Priestia (n = 5; 20.0%), and Paenibacillus (n = 4; 16.0%). Three (20.0%) strains showed <98.7% of DNA sequencing similarity on the EzBioCloud Database, indicating possible new species. In addition, the reclassification of Bacillus pseudoflexus to the genus Priestia as Priestia pseudoflexus sp. nov. is proposed. In conclusion, 16S rRNA and MALDI TOF/MS were not sufficient to identify all strains at the species level, and complementary analyses were necessary.
Association between Soil Physicochemical Properties and Bacterial Community Structure in Diverse Forest Ecosystems
Authors: Yang Bing , Feng Wanju , Zhou Wenjia , He Ke , Yang Zhisong
Published: April 2024

Although the importance of the soil bacterial community for ecosystem functions has long been recognized, there is still a limited understanding of the associations between its community composition, structure, co-occurrence patterns, and soil physicochemical properties. The objectives of the present study were to explore the association between soil physicochemical properties and the composition, diversity, co-occurrence network topological features, and assembly mechanisms of the soil bacterial community. Four typical forest types from Liziping Nature Reserve, representing evergreen coniferous forest, deciduous coniferous forest, mixed conifer-broadleaf forest, and its secondary forest, were selected for this study. The soil bacterial community was analyzed using Illumina MiSeq sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling was used to illustrate the clustering of different samples based on Bray–Curtis distances. The associations between soil physicochemical properties and bacterial community structure were analyzed using the Mantel test. The interactions among bacterial taxa were visualized with a co-occurrence network, and the community assembly processes were quantified using the Beta Nearest Taxon Index (Beta-NTI). The dominant bacterial phyla across all forest soils were Proteobacteria (45.17%), Acidobacteria (21.73%), Actinobacteria (8.75%), and Chloroflexi (5.06%). Chao1 estimator of richness, observed ASVs, faith-phylogenetic diversity (faith-PD) index, and community composition were distinguishing features of the examined four forest types. The first two principal components of redundancy analysis explained 41.33% of the variation in the soil bacterial community, with total soil organic carbon, soil moisture, pH, total nitrogen, carbon/nitrogen (C/N), carbon/phosphorous (C/P), and nitrogen/phosphorous (N/P) being the main soil physicochemical properties shaping soil bacterial communities. The co-occurrence network structure in the mixed forest was more complex compared to that in pure forests. The Beta-NTI indicated that the bacterial community assembly of the four examined forest types was collaboratively influenced by deterministic and stochastic ecological processes.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Food and Microbial Bioprocesses”
Authors: Hernández-Sánchez Humberto , Gutiérrez-López Gustavo F.
Published: April 2024

The aim of this Special Issue was to provide readers with a holistic, systematic, and integrative approach to microbial processes involved in the production of selected foods, nutraceuticals, and bioactive materials by using modern biotechnological tools [...]
Enrichment Characteristics and Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in a Farmland System with High Geochemical Background in the Black Shale Region of Zhejiang, China
Authors: Wu Chao , Sun Binbin , Tian Mi , Cheng Xiaomeng , Liu Dong , Zhou Yining
Published: April 2024

Soils derived from black shale enriched in heavy metals pose risks to the environment and human health. Eighty sets of soil–rice samples were collected in northwest Zhejiang, China. The results showed significant enrichment of As, Cd, Pb, and Zn in the studied soil. Sequential extraction data indicated that Cd had relatively high bioavailability. Thirty-four percent of the rice samples exceeded the heavy metal pollution thresholds of national food safety standards. A comprehensive evaluation of soil heavy metals using the potential ecological risk index (RI) revealed low-to-moderate-grade risk. Risk assessment code (RAC) levels decreased as follows: Cd > Ni > Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb > As > Hg. The RAC of Cd was high and very high risk, whereas those of others were no or low risk. Cd was the major contributor to the environmental risk based on the total heavy metal concentration, toxicity, and chemical fractions. The health risk to the local populace was assessed using the method recommended by the USEPA. Local people may experience both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks, and children face greater health risks than adults. As, Cd, and Pb are the most significant contributors to non-carcinogenic health risks, and Cd is the main carcinogenic risk. In conclusion, special attention should be given to heavy metal pollution in black shale-derived soils.
Effects of Coping Strategies on Health-Related Quality of Life of People with Neuromuscular Diseases
Authors: García Irune , Rodríguez Alicia Aurora , Angelini Corrado , García-Sanchoyerto Maddalen , Espinosa-Blanco Patricia , Martínez Oscar
Published: April 2024

Neuromuscular diseases (NMD) cover a broad spectrum of different rare diagnoses in which the primary lesion is in the peripheral nervous system. The impairment caused by an NMD does not only interfere with physical status but also has a clear impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). It is therefore essential to know the coping style used by these patients. This study aims to analyze the coping strategies in a sample of people with NMD and how their coping style affects their HRQoL. This cross-sectional study included 61 adult patients diagnosed with a rare NMD. WHO-DAS II, SIP, SF-36, and COPE-60 instruments were administered. The results showed that people affected by NMDs tend to use more frequent coping strategies such as active planning, personal growth, and acceptance. In contrast, the least-used strategies were restraint, mental disengagement, venting, humor, and religion, which affected HRQoL negatively. Moreover, the degree of disability was a relevant variable, with an impact on HRQoL. Social support can be considered the main coping strategy that leads to an improvement in the psychosocial HRQoL (β = 503, p < 0.001). These findings are relevant to clinical practice, given the need to understand the coping variable to improve HRQoL.
Synthesis and Characterization of Titanium Nitride–Carbon Composites and Their Use in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Morales Helia Magali , Vieyra Horacio , Sanchez David A. , Fletes Elizabeth M. , Odlyzko Michael , Lodge Timothy P. , Padilla-Gainza Victoria , Alcoutlabi Mataz , Parsons Jason G.
Published: April 2024

This work focuses on the synthesis of titanium nitride–carbon (TiN–carbon) composites by the thermal decomposition of a titanyl phthalocyanine (TiN(TD)) precursor into TiN. The synthesis of TiN was also performed using the sol-gel method (TiN(SG)) of an alkoxide/urea. The structure and morphology of the TiN–carbon and its precursors were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, TEM, EDS, and XPS. The FTIR results confirmed the presence of the titanium phthalocyanine (TiOPC) complex, while the XRD data corroborated the decomposition of TiOPC into TiN. The resultant TiN exhibited a cubic structure with the FM3-M lattice, aligning with the crystal system of the synthesized TiN via the alkoxide route. The XPS results indicated that the particles synthesized from the thermal decomposition of TiOPC resulted in the formation of TiN–carbon composites. The TiN particles were present as clusters of small spherical particles within the carbon matrix, displaying a porous sponge-like morphology. The proposed thermal decomposition method resulted in the formation of metal nitride composites with high carbon content, which were used as anodes for Li-ion half cells. The TiN–carbon composite anode showed a good specific capacity after 100 cycles at a current density of 100 mAg−1.
Reutilization of Silicon-Cutting Waste via Constructing Multilayer Si@SiO2@C Composites as Anode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Yi , Wu Jingyi , Chen Xingjie , Lai Chunyan
Published: April 2024

The rapid development of the photovoltaic industry has also brought some economic losses and environmental problems due to the waste generated during silicon ingot cutting. This study introduces an effective and facile method to reutilize silicon-cutting waste by constructing a multilayer Si@SiO2@C composite for Li-ion batteries via two-step annealing. The double-layer structure of the resultant composite alleviates the severe volume changes of silicon effectively, and the surrounding slightly graphitic carbon, known for its high conductivity and mechanical strength, tightly envelops the silicon nanoflakes, facilitates ion and electron transport and maintains electrode structural integrity throughout repeated charge/discharge cycles. With an optimization of the carbon content, the initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) was improved from 53% to 84%. The refined Si@SiO2@C anode exhibits outstanding cycling stability (711.4 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles) and rate performance (973.5 mAh g−1 at 2 C). This research presents a direct and cost-efficient strategy for transforming photovoltaic silicon-cutting waste into high-energy-density lithium-ion battery (LIB) anode materials.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Nanoribbon Formation by Encapsulating Cyclic Hydrocarbon Molecules inside Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube
Authors: Eskandari Somayeh , Koltai János , László István , Kürti Jenő
Published: April 2024

Carbon nanotubes filled with organic molecules can serve as chemical nanoreactors. Recent experimental results show that, by introducing cyclic hydrocarbon molecules inside carbon nanotubes, they can be transformed into nanoribbons or inner tubes, depending on the experimental conditions. In this paper, we present our results obtained as a continuation of our previous molecular dynamics simulation work. In our previous work, the initial geometry consisted of independent carbon atoms. Now, as an initial condition, we have placed different molecules inside a carbon nanotube (18,0): C5H5 (fragment of ferrocene), C5, C5+H2; C6H6 (benzene), C6, C6+H2; C20H12 (perylene); and C24H12 (coronene). The simulations were performed using the REBO-II potential of the LAMMPS software package, supplemented with a Lennard-Jones potential between the nanotube wall atoms and the inner atoms. The simulation proved difficult due to the slow dynamics of the H abstraction. However, with a slight modification of the parameterization, it was possible to model the formation of carbon nanoribbons inside the carbon nanotube.
The Association between Lifestyle Factors and COVID-19: Findings from Qatar Biobank
Authors: Akbar Zoha , Kunhipurayil Hasna H. , Saliba Jessica , Ahmad Jamil , Al-Mansoori Layla , Al-Khatib Hebah A. , Al Thani Asmaa A. , Shi Zumin , Shaito Abdullah A.
Published: April 2024

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) manifestations range from mild to severe life-threatening symptoms, including death. COVID-19 susceptibility has been associated with various factors, but studies in Qatar are limited. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between COVID-19 susceptibility and various sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, including age, gender, body mass index, smoking status, education level, dietary patterns, supplement usage, physical activity, a history of bariatric surgery, diabetes, and hypertension. We utilized logistic regression to analyze these associations, using the data of 10,000 adult participants, aged from 18 to 79, from Qatar Biobank. In total, 10.5% (n = 1045) of the participants had COVID-19. Compared to non-smokers, current and ex-smokers had lower odds of having COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR] = 0.55; 95% CI: 0.44–0.68 and OR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.57–0.86, respectively). Vitamin D supplement use was associated with an 18% reduction in the likelihood of contracting COVID-19 (OR = 0.82; 95% CI: 0.69–0.97). Obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), a history of bariatric surgery, and higher adherence to the modern dietary pattern—characterized by the consumption of foods high in saturated fat and refined carbohydrates—were positively associated with COVID-19. Our findings indicate that adopting a healthy lifestyle may be helpful in the prevention of COVID-19 infection.
A Free Amino Acid Diet Alleviates Colorectal Tumorigenesis through Modulating Gut Microbiota and Metabolites
Authors: Yu Yang-Meng , Li Gui-Fang , Ren Yi-Lin , Xu Xin-Yi , Xu Zheng-Hong , Geng Yan , Mao Yong
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC), a major global health concern, may be influenced by dietary protein digestibility impacting gut microbiota and metabolites, which is crucial for cancer therapy effectiveness. This study explored the effects of a casein protein diet (CTL) versus a free amino acid (FAA)-based diet on CRC progression, gut microbiota, and metabolites using carcinogen-induced (AOM/DSS) and spontaneous genetically induced (ApcMin/+ mice) CRC mouse models. Comprehensive approaches including 16s rRNA gene sequencing, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and immunohistochemistry were utilized. We found that the FAA significantly attenuated CRC progression, evidenced by reduced colonic shortening and histopathological alterations compared to the CTL diet. Notably, the FAA enriched beneficial gut bacteria like Akkermansia and Bacteroides and reversed CRC-associated dysbiosis. Metabolomic analysis highlighted an increase in ornithine cycle metabolites and specific fatty acids, such as Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), in FAA-fed mice. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that FAA up-regulated Egl-9 family hypoxia inducible factor 3 (Egln 3) and downregulated several cancer-associated pathways including Hippo, mTOR, and Wnt signaling. Additionally, DPA was found to significantly induce EGLN 3 expression in CRC cell lines. These results suggest that FAA modulate gut microbial composition, enhance protective metabolites, improve gut barrier functions, and inhibit carcinogenic pathways.
Vitamin D and Insulin-Dependent Diabetes: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
Authors: Dadon Yuval , Hecht Sagie Lior , Mimouni Francis B. , Arad Iris , Mendlovic Joseph
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: Vitamin D supplementation after type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) onset has led to conflicting results on beta-cell preservation. Aim: This paper presents a systematic review to verify whether randomized prospective controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrate that improved vitamin D status confers protection on T1DM. (2) Methods: A systematic review was conducted up until 18 January 2024 according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, searching MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, using keywords “vitamin D”, “type 1 diabetes”, and “children”. (3) Results: Following the above-mentioned search process, 408 articles in PubMed and 791 in Embase met inclusion criteria. After removing duplicates, 471 articles remained. After exclusion criteria, 11 RCTs remained. Because of major heterogeneity in design and outcomes, no meta-analyses were conducted, allowing only for qualitative analyses. There was no strong evidence that vitamin D supplementation has lasting effects on beta-cell preservation or glycemic control in new-onset T1DM. (4) Conclusions: More rigorous, larger studies are needed to demonstrate whether vitamin D improves beta-cell preservation or glycemic control in new-onset T1DM. Because T1DM may cause osteopenia, it is advisable that patients with new onset T1DM have adequate vitamin D stores.
The Development and Evaluation of a Literature-Based Dietary Index for Gut Microbiota
Authors: Kase Bezawit E. , Liese Angela D. , Zhang Jiajia , Murphy Elizabeth Angela , Zhao Longgang , Steck Susan E.
Published: April 2024

The aim of the study was to develop and evaluate a novel dietary index for gut microbiota (DI-GM) that captures dietary composition related to gut microbiota profiles. We conducted a literature review of longitudinal studies on the association of diet with gut microbiota in adult populations and extracted those dietary components with evidence of beneficial or unfavorable effects. Dietary recall data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2005–2010, n = 3812) were used to compute the DI-GM, and associations with biomarkers of gut microbiota diversity (urinary enterodiol and enterolactone) were examined using linear regression. From a review of 106 articles, 14 foods or nutrients were identified as components of the DI-GM, including fermented dairy, chickpeas, soybean, whole grains, fiber, cranberries, avocados, broccoli, coffee, and green tea as beneficial components, and red meat, processed meat, refined grains, and high-fat diet (≥40% of energy from fat) as unfavorable components. Each component was scored 0 or 1 based on sex-specific median intakes, and scores were summed to develop the overall DI-GM score. In the NHANES, DI-GM scores ranged from 0–13 with a mean of 4.8 (SE = 0.04). Positive associations between DI-GM and urinary enterodiol and enterolactone were observed. The association of the novel DI-GM with markers of gut microbiota diversity demonstrates the potential utility of this index for gut health-related studies.
Composition of Whole Grain Dietary Fiber and Phenolics and Their Impact on Markers of Inflammation
Authors: Khan Jabir , Gul Palwasha , Rashid Muhammad Tayyab , Li Qingyun , Liu Kunlun
Published: April 2024

Inflammation is an important biological response to any tissue injury. The immune system responds to any stimulus, such as irritation, damage, or infection, by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. The overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines can lead to several diseases, e.g., cardiovascular diseases, joint disorders, cancer, and allergies. Emerging science suggests that whole grains may lower the markers of inflammation. Whole grains are a significant source of dietary fiber and phenolic acids, which have an inverse association with the risk of inflammation. Both cereals and pseudo-cereals are rich in dietary fiber, e.g., arabinoxylan and β-glucan, and phenolic acids, e.g., hydroxycinnamic acids and hydroxybenzoic acids, which are predominantly present in the bran layer. However, the biological mechanisms underlying the widely reported association between whole grain consumption and a lower risk of disease are not fully understood. The modulatory effects of whole grains on inflammation are likely to be influenced by several mechanisms including the effect of dietary fiber and phenolic acids. While some of these effects are direct, others involve the gut microbiota, which transforms important bioactive substances into more beneficial metabolites that modulate the inflammatory signaling pathways. Therefore, the purpose of this review is twofold: first, it discusses whole grain dietary fiber and phenolic acids and highlights their potential; second, it examines the health benefits of these components and their impacts on subclinical inflammation markers, including the role of the gut microbiota. Overall, while there is promising evidence for the anti-inflammatory properties of whole grains, further research is needed to understand their effects fully.
Mentoring Support Quality in Group and Individual Mentoring Approaches during Nursing Clinical Training: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Gusar Ivana , Tokić Andrea , Lovrić Robert
Published: April 2024

Clinical training is an essential element in nursing education, the outcomes of which are directly related to the quality of mentoring support. This quasi-experimental study aimed to examine whether the group or individual form of the mentoring approach used and the order of application of the mentoring approach contribute to the quality of mentoring support provided to students. The study comprised two measurement points with 130 nursing students, divided into two groups with different orders of application of the mentoring approach. The validated Mentoring Support Quality Evaluation Questionnaire (MSEQ) was used. Students in both groups rated the quality of mentoring support as higher following an individual mentoring approach. A significant interaction was found between the mentoring approach used and the order in which the mentoring approaches were applied (p = 0.002). The individual mentoring approach contributed significantly to a higher quality of mentoring support after the second round of clinical training (p = 0.021), while after the first round, the difference between the group and individual approaches was not as clear. The results suggest that not only the form of the mentoring approach but also the sequence of changes in the mentoring approach should be planned when implementing clinical training.
Determining the Innovativeness of Nurses Who Engage in Activities That Encourage Innovative Behaviors
Authors: Leary Marion , Demiris George , Brooks Carthon J. Margo , Cacchione Pamela Z. , Aryal Subhash , Bauermeister Jose A.
Published: April 2024

Background: We sought to understand the innovativeness of nurses engaging in innovative behaviors and quantify the associated characteristics that make nurses more able to innovate in practice. We first compared the innovativeness scores of our population; then we examined those who self-identified as an innovator versus those who did not to explore differences associated with innovativeness between these groups. Methods: A cross-sectional survey study of nurses in the US engaging in innovative behaviors was performed. We performed an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to determine the correlates of innovative behavior. Results: Three-hundred and twenty-nine respondents completed the survey. Respondents who viewed themselves as innovators had greater exposure to HCD/DT workshops in the past year (55.8% vs. 36.6%, p = 0.02). The mean innovativeness score of our sample was 120.3 ± 11.2 out of a score of 140. The mean innovativeness score was higher for those who self-identified as an innovator compared with those who did not (121.3 ± 10.2 vs. 112.9 ± 14.8, p =< 0.001). The EFA created four factor groups: Factor 1 (risk aversion), Factor 2 (willingness to try new things), Factor 3 (creativity and originality) and Factor 4 (being challenged). Conclusion: Nurses who view themselves as innovators have higher innovativeness scores compared with those who do not. Multiple individual and organizational characteristics are associated with the innovativeness of nurses.
An Exploration of Resilience and Positive Affect among Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: Mayor-Silva L. Iván , Meneses-Monroy Alfonso , Rodriguez-Leal Leyre , Moreno Guillermo
Published: April 2024

Background: The purpose of this study is to analyze the variation in resilience and emotional state scores in nursing students throughout the four years of training for the nursing degree. Methods: This is a longitudinal observational study of a paired and prospective cohort of 176 nursing students who enrolled in the first year of a bachelor’s degree in 2019. The study followed up with the students in 2022 and examined several sociodemographic factors, including sex, marital status, date of birth, living arrangements and occupation. Additionally, the study investigated changes in negative affect, positive affect, and resilience. Results: A total of 176 students participated in the study. The study found that resilience increased from 68.24 ± 10.59 to 70.87 ± 9.06 (p < 0.001), positive affect increased from 28.16 ± 4.59 to 33.08 ± 8.00 (p < 0.001), and the negative affect score decreased from 25.27 ± 5.12 to 21.81 ± 7.85 (p < 0.001). The study also found that married individuals experienced an increase in negative affect (p = 0.03) compared to singles or those in open relationships. Furthermore, the change in resilience was greater in men than in women (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Throughout their four-year training, nursing students experience an increase in resilience and positive affect, as well as a decrease in negative affect.
The Effects of Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) on the Mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis: A Multi-Biomarker Approach
Authors: Copeto Sandra , Ganço Sara , Ferreira Inês João , Silva Marco , Motta Carla , Diniz Mário
Published: April 2024

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is a fire-retardant containing bromine, produced in large quantities worldwide and extensively used in several industrial products. This compound was identified as a potential contaminant of the environment, causing toxicity to organisms. However, its toxicity remains poorly understood in marine bivalves. The first objective of this work was to evaluate the impact of TBBPA on mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) exposed for 28 days to various concentrations of TBBPA (0, 1, 10, and 100 µg·L−1), by assessing stress biomarkers’ responses (Glutathione S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant capacity, total ubiquitin, caspase-3 and acetylcholinesterase). The results showed that lower concentrations (1 and 10 µg·L−1) were efficiently detoxified, as suggested by GST activities, which were supported by the responses of the other biomarkers. The most pronounced effects were observed in animals exposed to the highest concentration of TBBPA (100 µg·L−1), suggesting oxidative stress. Additionally, significant strong correlations were found between total antioxidant capacity and some biomarkers (superoxide dismutase and lipid peroxidation), showing that processes involved in oxidative stress fighting are working to avoid cell injury. In brief, mussels’ defense mechanisms were capable of dealing with exposure to the lower concentrations tested. Despite this, the risk of consuming shellfish or other fishery products contaminated with TBBPA should be a cause for concern.
Wavelet-Based Machine Learning Algorithms for Photoacoustic Gas Sensing
Authors: Kozmin Artem , Erushin Evgenii , Miroshnichenko Ilya , Kostyukova Nadezhda , Boyko Andrey , Redyuk Alexey
Published: April 2024

The significance of intelligent sensor systems has grown across diverse sectors, including healthcare, environmental surveillance, industrial automation, and security. Photoacoustic gas sensors are a promising type of optical gas sensor due to their high sensitivity, enhanced frequency selectivity, and fast response time. However, they have limitations such as dependence on a high-power light source, a requirement for a high-quality acoustic signal detector, and sensitivity to environmental factors, affecting their accuracy and reliability. Machine learning has great potential in the analysis and interpretation of sensor data as it can identify complex patterns and make accurate predictions based on the available data. We propose a novel approach that utilizes wavelet analysis and neural networks with enhanced architectures to improve the accuracy and sensitivity of photoacoustic gas sensors. Our proposed approach was experimentally tested for methane concentration measurements, showcasing its potential to significantly advance the field of gas detection and analysis, providing more accurate and reliable results.