bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting the Entrepreneurial Behaviour of Starting Up a New Company: A Regional Study Using PLS-SEM and Data from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor
Authors: Martínez-González José Alberto , Álvarez-Albelo Carmen Dolores , Mendoza-Jiménez Javier , Kobylinska Urszula
Published: February 2022

It is essential to understand the variables that explain and predict the behaviour of starting up a new company in a regional context. This study aims to analyse the theoretical basis and predictive potential of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) data, considering the concerns and suggestions of other authors. In addition to an extensive literature review, a PLS-SEM methodology and data on variables and countries from the latest GEM report are used in this study. The results show that GEM reports have a sufficient theoretical foundation for quality studies in this field. In addition, a valid and reliable causal model is designed that includes all personal and contextual GEM variables. The hypotheses of the proposed model are based on the existing causal relationships in the literature, using GEM data in its formulation. The model is comprehensive and practical because it significantly predicts entrepreneurial behaviour, particularly entrepreneurial intention and action. The usefulness of this study is high, both for researchers, practitioners and institutions wishing to understand better and further promote entrepreneurial behaviour at a regional (country) level.
Parameter Identification and the Finite-Time Combination–Combination Synchronization of Fractional-Order Chaotic Systems with Different Structures under Multiple Stochastic Disturbances
Authors: Pan Weiqiu , Li Tianzeng , Sajid Muhammad , Ali Safdar , Pu Lingping
Published: February 2022

This paper researches the issue of the finite-time combination-combination (C-C) synchronization (FTCCS) of fractional order (FO) chaotic systems under multiple stochastic disturbances (SD) utilizing the nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (NTSMC) technique. The systems we considered have different characteristics of the structures and the parameters are unknown. The stochastic disturbances are considered parameter uncertainties, nonlinear uncertainties and external disturbances. The bounds of the uncertainties and disturbances are unknown. Firstly, we are going to put forward a new FO sliding surface in terms of fractional calculus. Secondly, some suitable adaptive control laws (ACL) are found to assess the unknown parameters and examine the upper bound of stochastic disturbances. Finally, combining the finite-time Lyapunov stability theory and the sliding mode control (SMC) technique, we propose a fractional-order adaptive combination controller that can achieve the finite-time synchronization of drive-response (D-R) systems. In this paper, some of the synchronization methods, such as chaos control, complete synchronization, projection synchronization, anti-synchronization, and so forth, have become special cases of combination-combination synchronization. Examples are presented to verify the usefulness and validity of the proposed scheme via MATLAB.
Between the Classes of Soft Open Sets and Soft Omega Open Sets
Authors: Al Ghour Samer
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we define the class of soft ω0-open sets. We show that this class forms a soft topology that is strictly between the classes of soft open sets and soft ω-open sets, and we provide some sufficient conditions for the equality of the three classes. In addition, we show that soft closed soft ω-open sets are soft ω0-open sets in soft Lindelof soft topological spaces. Moreover, we study the correspondence between soft ω0-open sets in soft topological spaces and ω0-open sets in topological spaces. Furthermore, we investigate the relationships between the soft α-open sets (respectively, soft regular open sets, soft β-open sets) of a given soft anti-locally countable soft topological space and the soft α-open sets (respectively, soft regular open sets, soft β-open sets) of the soft topological space of soft ω0-open sets generated by it. Finally, we introduce ω0-regularity in topological spaces via ω0-open sets, which is strictly between regularity and ω-regularity, and we also introduce soft ω0-regularity in soft topological spaces via soft ω0-open sets, which is strictly between soft regularity and soft ω-regularity. We investigate relationships regarding ω0-regularity and soft ω0-regularity. Moreover, we study the correspondence between soft ω0-regularity in soft topological spaces and ω0-regularity in topological spaces.
A Pathological Complete Response to the Combination of Ipilimumab and Nivolumab in a Patient with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Studentova Hana , Zemankova Anezka , Spisarova Martina , Skanderova Daniela , Tudos Zbynek , Melichar Bohuslav , Student Vladimir
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives: Complete pathological response after ipilimumab and nivolumab combination therapy in a patient with intermediate prognosis renal cell carcinoma is an uncommon finding. Case presentation: A 60-year-old man presented with synchronous solitary metastatic bone lesion and renal cell carcinoma and achieved a complete pathological response after surgical resection of the bone lesion, followed by ipilimumab and nivolumab combination therapy and nephrectomy. The treatment was complicated by hypophysitis and oligoarthritis more than a year after the initiation of the therapy. Conclusions: Currently, the combination therapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors represents the treatment of choice in patients with intermediate- and poor-risk prognosis metastatic renal cell carcinoma. In the present case, preoperative therapy with ipilimumab and nivolumab resulted in a complete pathological response in the renal tumor. Vigilance concerning potential immune-related side effects is warranted throughout the course of therapy and the subsequent follow-up.
Prediction and Process Analysis of Tensile Properties of Sinter-Hardened Alloy Steel by Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Tan Zhaoqiang , Qin Zijun , Zhang Qing , Liu Yong , Liu Feng
Published: February 2022

Sinter-hardening is an emerging powder metallurgy process by which the consolidation of powder and the hardening of dense bulk samples are integrated into one step. In this study, to understand the complex effects of sinter-hardening parameters on the properties of the Fe-Cr-Ni (Cu)-C alloy, an artificial neural network (ANN) with the topology of a nonlinear multi-layered perceptron was designed to predict the ultimate tensile strength and elongation, considering parameters including chemical composition, sintering temperature, and cooling rate. The predictability of the ANN was verified by experiments, indicating that this method is adequate to quantitatively ascribe steel properties to powder metallurgy parameters in the view of improving process robustness.
Microstructure and Pitting Corrosion Resistance of AISI 430 Ferritic Stainless Steel Joints Fabricated by Ultrasonic Vibration Assisted Cold Metal Transfer Technique
Authors: Xu Naiqiang , Shen Junqi , Zhou Jie , Hu Shengsun
Published: February 2022

The influences of ultrasonic vibration during cold metal transfer welding process on the microstructure, element distribution and pitting resistance of AISI 430 ferritic stainless steel joints with ER 308L as filler metal were investigated. The combined effects of mechanical vibration, acoustic streaming and cavitation of ultrasonic vibration significantly refined the primary ferrite grain in the weld metal and then impacted the subsequent solid-phase transition process, leading to the ~45% reduction of ferrite content in the weld metal. Moreover, these effects also resulted in the homogenization of alloying elements in the weld metal. The pitting corrosion resistance of the welded joints with ultrasonic vibration was increased compared with that of without ultrasonic vibration, but lower than the base metal. The pitting resistance of the weld metal with ultrasonic vibration was higher than that of the weld metal without ultrasonic vibration and base metal, while that of the one without ultrasonic vibration was lower than the base metal.
Novel Process of Reduction Roasting Manganese Ore with Sulfur Waste and Extraction of Mn by Acid Leaching
Authors: Liu Yongjie , He Fupeng , Ma Donglai , Hu Qingqing , You Zhixiong
Published: February 2022

Manganese dioxide is typically reduced to a bivalent state before being extracted; here, sulfur is considered an efficient reductant and sulfur–based reduction has been industrialized in China. In this study, the reaction mechanism between MnO2 and gaseous sulfur was investigated. Thermodynamically, the reduction of MnO2 by gaseous sulfur is feasible. The predominant phase diagram as functions of temperature and input S2(g) fraction in the S2–MnO2 system was calculated. Experimental validation showed that MnO2 was reduced stepwise to low-valence manganese oxides and manganese sulfate. The phase composition of the roasted products was complex, and MnS was inevitably formed. The valence state as well as microstructure of manganese dioxide during reduction roasting were also investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS). The reaction process could be described by an unreacted nuclear model. Manganese was extracted by sulfuric acid solution after reduction by sulfur waste. In sulfuric acid, 95.2 wt% Mn extraction was achieved, using a roasting temperature of 450 °C, roasting time of 30 min, and S2/MnO2 molar ratio of 0.40. With the same conditions, low Fe extraction was achieved. On the other hand, in deionized water, 24.3 wt% Mn extraction was achieved, confirming the formation of MnSO4.
Effect of Microstructure on High Cycle Fatigue Behavior of 211Z.X-T6 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Zhang Zhong , Huang Chaowen , Chen Sinuo , Wan Mingpan , Yang Ming , Ji Shengli , Zeng Weidong
Published: February 2022

In the present paper, the high cycle fatigue (HCF) of a novel 211Z.X aluminum alloy with high strength was studied under hot-rolling and as-cast states at room temperature. The effects of microstructure and distribution of precipitated phases and impurities on the mechanical properties, HCF performances, fatigue microcrack initiation, and propagation behavior of the 211Z.X alloy were studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The HCF S–N curves, P–S–N curves and Goodman fatigue diagrams of 211Z.X alloy consisting of two microstructures were drawn. The results suggested that the fine and dispersive distribution of the second phases improved the strength of the alloy. The formation of short-bar and spherical precipitates promoted coordinated deformation of the alloy. This promoted higher microcrack initiation resistance of 211Z.X alloy with a hot rolling state than in the cast state. As a result, the HCF properties of the hot-rolling alloy were better than those of the cast alloy. In sum, these results look promising for future reliable design of engineering structures and application of new aluminum alloys.
Interfacial Phenomena and Reaction Kinetics between High Al Molten Steel and CaO-SiO2-Type Flux
Authors: Zhao Bingbing , Zhang Jie , Yan Baijun
Published: February 2022

To understand the reaction mechanism between high Mn-high Al steel and slag, the reaction experiment of Fe-Mn-Al melts with CaO-SiO2-type flux was carried out in MgO crucible at 1873 K. The evolution of the morphology of interface was inspected firstly, and then the global reaction kinetics was modeled in consideration of the effect of dynamic interfacial phenomena. The results show that in the reaction of Fe-5 mass % Al alloy with high SiO2 or low SiO2 protective slag, the strong chemical affinity between the metal and flux leads to strong spontaneous emulsification and attenuated with the progression of the reaction. Combined with the change of interfacial area caused by emulsification, it is found that the global reaction kinetics can be described satisfactorily by the mass transfer model of Al in liquid steel, and the determined mass transfer coefficient was about k[Al]=4.46×10−5 m/s. However, the emulsification phenomenon in the reaction of Fe-13%Mn-5%Al alloy with low SiO2 slag did not disappear with the reaction, which can be attributed to the decreasing of the interfacial tension with Mn addition and the accumulation of C on the interface. This reaction process can be modeled by assuming the mass transfer of SiO2 in the slag as the rate-controlling step with the estimated transfer coefficient of k(SiO2)=5.12×10−6 m/s.
An Accurate Model of the Corrosion Current Density of Coatings Using an Adaptive Network-Based Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Alhumade Hesham , Rezk Hegazy
Published: February 2022

Corrosion resistance coating is fabricated using epoxy/glass flake (E/GF) composites and is utilized to prolong the lifespan of cold-rolled steel (CRS) metal substrates. An in situ synthesis approach was adopted to prepare the composite coating at different levels of synthesis parameters, including a load of filler and coating thickness. In addition, this work shows the effects of the chemical functionalization of the filler on the corrosion protection property of the epoxy/functional glass flake (E/FGF) composite coatings. The effects of the modification of the filler, as well as the other synthesis parameters, on the corrosion resistance property are evaluated using a potentiodynamic polarization technique. Here, the corrosion resistance property is evaluated based on the observed current density. The primary goal of this work is to present an accurate model of corrosion current density (CCD). By using measured data, a precise model, which simulates the corrosion resistance properties of the coatings, has been created by an adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) in terms of glass flake loading, chemical functionalization, and coating thickness. The obtained results revealed good agreement between ANFIS-based modelling and the measured dataset. The root mean square errors of the prediction model were 8.1391 × 10−8 and 0.0104 for training and testing, respectively. The coefficient of determination (R2) values of the ANFIS output were found to be 1.0 and 0.9997 for training and testing, respectively. To prove the superiority of the ANFIS-based model of CCD, the achieved results were compared with an analysis of variance (ANOVA). ANOVA utilizes a linear regression approach to get the model. Thanks to ANFIS, compared with ANOVA, the values of R2 are increased by 10% and 18.6% for the training and testing phases, respectively. Finally, the accuracy of the ANFIS model of corrosion current density is validated experimentally.
Thermal Stability of Microstructure of High-Entropy Alloys Based on Refractory Metals Hf, Nb, Ta, Ti, V, and Zr
Authors: Vlasák Tomáš , Čížek Jakub , Melikhova Oksana , Lukáč František , Preisler Dalibor , Janeček Miloš , Harcuba Petr , Zimina Mariia , Srba Ondřej
Published: February 2022

In the present work, a series of high-entropy alloys based on refractory metals Hf, Nb, Ta, Ti, V, and Zr with various compositions have been systematically investigated. Our study revealed that a bcc single-phase solid solution of a Hf-Nb-Ta-Ti-V-Zr system is thermodynamically stable only at high temperatures above 1000 °C. At lower temperatures, the phase separation into disordered bcc phases with slightly different chemical compositions occurs. Despite the phase separation, a single-phase random solid solution can be saved at room temperature as a metastable phase by rapid cooling of the sample from high temperature. The microstructure of a single-phase metastable random solid solution was characterized and compared with the microstructure of the as-cast state. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of annealed and as-cast alloys were compared. Interestingly, both states exhibit comparable mechanical properties. It indicates that from the point of view of practical applications, a mechanical mixture of disordered bcc solutions is as good as single-phase random solid solution.
Application of Mitochondrial and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in the Evaluation of Neurocognitive Prognosis Following Acute Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Authors: Cha Yong Sung , Chang Jae Seung , Kim Hyun , Park Kyu-Sang
Published: February 2022

Mitochondrial and oxidative stress play critical roles in the pathogenic mechanisms of carbon monoxide (CO)-induced toxicity. This study was designed to evaluate whether the serum levels of specific stress biomarkers might reflect brain injury and act as prognostic markers for the development of neurocognitive sequelae following CO poisoning. We analyzed the data from 51 adult patients admitted with acute CO poisoning and measured the serum level expression of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), indicators of mitochondrial stress, and 8-Oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and malondialdehyde (MDA), indicators of oxidative stress. Serum was collected upon arrival at the hospital, at 24 h post treatment, and within 7 days of HBO2 therapy. Global Deterioration Scale scores were measured 1 month post incident and used to place the patients in either favorable or poor outcome groups. Initial serum GDF15 and 8-OHdG concentrations were significantly increased in the poor-outcome group and all four biomarkers decreased at 24 h post HBO2 therapy, and were then maintained or further decreased at the 1-week mark. Notably, the degree of change in these biomarkers between baseline and 24 h post HBO2 were significantly larger in the poor-outcome group, reflecting greater CO-associated stress, confirming that post-CO poisoning serum biomarker levels and their response to HBO2 were proportional to the initial stress. We suggest that these biomarkers accurately reflect neuronal toxicity in response to CO poisoning, which is consistent with their activity in other pathologies.
Maternal Nutrient Restriction Disrupts Gene Expression and Metabolites Associated with Urea Cycle, Steroid Synthesis, Glucose Homeostasis, and Glucuronidation in Fetal Calf Liver
Authors: Muroya Susumu , Zhang Yi , Otomaru Kounosuke , Oshima Kazunaga , Oshima Ichiro , Sano Mitsue , Roh Sanggun , Ojima Koichi , Gotoh Takafumi
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of maternal undernutrition (MUN) on liver growth and metabolism in Japanese Black fetal calves (8.5 months in utero) using an approach that integrates metabolomics and transcriptomics. Dams were fed 60% (low-nutrition; LN) or 120% (high-nutrition; HN) of their overall nutritional requirements during gestation. We found that MUN markedly decreased the body and liver weights of the fetuses; metabolomic analysis revealed that aspartate, glycerol, alanine, gluconate 6-phosphate, and ophthalmate levels were decreased, whereas UDP-glucose, UDP-glucuronate, octanoate, and 2-hydroxybutyrate levels were decreased in the LN fetal liver (p ≤ 0.05). According to metabolite set enrichment analysis, the highly different metabolites were associated with metabolisms including the arginine and proline metabolism, nucleotide and sugar metabolism, propanoate metabolism, glutamate metabolism, porphyrin metabolism, and urea cycle. Transcriptomic and qPCR analyses revealed that MUN upregulated QRFPR and downregulated genes associated with the glucose homeostasis (G6PC, PCK1, DPP4), ketogenesis (HMGCS2), glucuronidation (UGT1A1, UGT1A6, UGT2A1), lipid metabolism (ANGPTL4, APOA5, FADS2), cholesterol and steroid homeostasis (FDPS, HSD11B1, HSD17B6), and urea cycle (CPS1, ASS1, ASL, ARG2). These metabolic pathways were extracted as relevant terms in subsequent gene ontology/pathway analyses. Collectively, these results indicate that the citrate cycle was maintained at the expense of activities of the energy metabolism, glucuronidation, steroid hormone homeostasis, and urea cycle in the liver of MUN fetuses.
Herpesvirus Infections in KIR2DL2-Positive Multiple Sclerosis Patients: Mechanisms Triggering Autoimmunity
Authors: Bortolotti Daria , Gentili Valentina , Bortoluzzi Alessandra , Govoni Marcello , Schiuma Giovanna , Beltrami Silvia , Rizzo Sabrina , Baldi Eleonora , Caselli Elisabetta , Pugliatti Maura , Castellazzi Massimiliano , Fernández Mercedes , Fainardi Enrico , Rizzo Roberta
Published: February 2022

In multiple sclerosis (MS), there is a possible relationship with viral infection, evidenced by clinical evidence of an implication of infectious events with disease onset and/or relapse. The aim of this research is to study how human herpesvirus (HHVs) infections might dysregulate the innate immune system and impact autoimmune responses in MS. We analyzed 100 MS relapsing remitting patients, in the remission phase, 100 healthy controls and 100 subjects with other inflammatory neurological diseases (OIND) (neuro-lupus) for their immune response to HHV infection. We evaluated NK cell response, levels of HHVs DNA, IgG and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The results demonstrated that the presence of KIR2DL2 expression on NK cells increased the susceptibility of MS patients to HHV infections. We showed an increased susceptibility mainly to EBV and HHV-6 infections in MS patients carrying the KIR2DL2 receptor and HLA-C1 ligand. The highest HHV-6 viral load was observed in MS patients, with an increased percentage of subjects positive for IgG against HHV-6 in KIR2DL2-positive MS and OIND subjects compared to controls. MS and OIND patients showed the highest levels of IL-8, IL-12p70, IL-10 and TNF-alpha in comparison with control subjects. Interestingly, MS and OIND patients showed similar levels of IL-8, while MS patients presented higher IL-12p70, TNF-alpha and IL-10 levels in comparison with OIND patients. We can hypothesize that HHVs’ reactivation, by inducing immune activation via also molecular mimicry, may have the ability to induce autoimmunity and cause tissue damage and consequent MS lesion development.
SARS-CoV-2–Legionella Co-Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2020–2021)
Authors: Riccò Matteo , Ferraro Pietro , Peruzzi Simona , Zaniboni Alessandro , Ranzieri Silvia
Published: February 2022

Legionnaires’ Disease (LD) is a severe, sometimes fatal interstitial pneumonia due to Legionella pneumophila. Since the inception of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, some contradictory reports about the effects of lockdown measures on its epidemiology have been published, but no summary evidence has been collected to date. Therefore, we searched two different databases (PubMed and EMBASE) focusing on studies that reported the occurrence of LD among SARS-CoV-2 cases. Data were extracted using a standardized assessment form, and the results of such analyses were systematically reported, summarized, and compared. We identified a total of 38 articles, including 27 observational studies (either prospective or retrospective ones), 10 case reports, and 1 case series. Overall, data on 10,936 SARS-CoV-2 cases were included in the analyses. Of them, 5035 (46.0%) were tested for Legionella either through urinary antigen test or PCR, with 18 positive cases (0.4%). A pooled prevalence of 0.288% (95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) 0.129–0.641), was eventually calculated. Moreover, detailed data on 19 co-infections LD + SARS-CoV-2 were obtained (males: 84.2%; mean age: 61.9 years, range 35 to 83; 78.9% with 1 or more underlying comorbidities), including 16 (84.2%) admissions to the ICU, with a Case Fatality Ratio of 26.3%. In summary, our analyses suggest that the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2–Legionella infections may represent a relatively rare but not irrelevant event, and incident cases are characterized by a dismal prognosis.
The Phosphorus Bond, or the Phosphorus-Centered Pnictogen Bond: The Covalently Bound Phosphorus Atom in Molecular Entities and Crystals as a Pnictogen Bond Donor
Authors: Varadwaj Pradeep R. , Varadwaj Arpita , Marques Helder M. , Yamashita Koichi
Published: February 2022

The phosphorus bond in chemical systems, which is an inter- or intramolecular noncovalent interaction, occurs when there is evidence of a net attractive interaction between an electrophilic region associated with a covalently or coordinately bonded phosphorus atom in a molecular entity and a nucleophile in another, or the same, molecular entity. It is the second member of the family of pnictogen bonds, formed by the second member of the pnictogen family of the periodic table. In this overview, we provide the reader with a snapshot of the nature, and possible occurrences, of phosphorus-centered pnictogen bonding in illustrative chemical crystal systems drawn from the ICSD (Inorganic Crystal Structure Database) and CSD (Cambridge Structural Database) databases, some of which date back to the latter part of the last century. The illustrative systems discussed are expected to assist as a guide to researchers in rationalizing phosphorus-centered pnictogen bonding in the rational design of molecular complexes, crystals, and materials and their subsequent characterization.
Drug Design—Past, Present, Future
Authors: Doytchinova Irini
Published: February 2022

Drug design is a complex pharmaceutical science with a long history. Many achievements have been made in the field of drug design since the end of 19th century, when Emil Fisher suggested that the drug–receptor interaction resembles the key and lock interplay. Gradually, drug design has been transformed into a coherent and well-organized science with a solid theoretical background and practical applications. Now, drug design is the most advanced approach for drug discovery. It utilizes the innovations in science and technology and includes them in its wide-ranging arsenal of methods and tools in order to achieve the main goal: discovery of effective, specific, non-toxic, safe and well-tolerated drugs. Drug design is one of the most intensively developing modern sciences and its progress is accelerated by the implication of artificial intelligence. The present review aims to capture some of the most important milestones in the development of drug design, to outline some of the most used current methods and to sketch the future perspective according to the author’s point of view. Without pretending to cover fully the wide range of drug design topics, the review introduces the reader to the content of Molecules’ Special Issue “Drug Design—Science and Practice”.
Analysis of Pesticide Residues by QuEChERS Method and LC-MS/MS for a New Extrapolation of Maximum Residue Levels in Persimmon Minor Crop
Authors: Sandín-España Pilar , Mateo-Miranda Miguelina , López-Goti Carmen , Seris-Barrallo Elena , Alonso-Prados José-Luis
Published: February 2022

According to EU guidance SANCO/7525/VI/95 Rev. 10.3, residue data extrapolation from a surrogate major crop to a minor crop can be used for setting maximum residue levels (MRLs) with a reduced number of residue trials and representative selected pesticides. In this work, a QuEChERS method (citrate-buffered version and PSA with MgSO4 clean-up) and LC-ESI-MS/MS for the determination of boscalid, pyraclostrobin, fludioxonil, fluopyram and tebuconazole in persimmon was developed and validated according to EU Commission guidelines and afterwards used for the determination of residues in four field trials. Residue levels at harvest for each pesticide ranged between 0.347 and 0.028 mg/kg. After comparing EFSA residue data on apples, as the surrogate major crop, and conducting a consumer risk assessment, a proposal of residue data extrapolation to set MRLs in persimmons was performed. The results showed that pesticide residues in persimmons at harvest were consistently lower than residues in apples when substances were applied according to the same critical GAP. MRLs were set at 0.5 mg/kg for fludioxonil, 0.6 mg/kg for boscalid, 0.3 mg/kg for tebuconazole, 0.4 mg/kg for fluopyran and 0.3 mg/kg for pyraclostrobin. The ratio of the MRLs for apple/persimmon varied between 2.5 for boscalid and 1.25 for fluopyram, suggesting that residue extrapolation can be feasible, promoting the process of pesticide registration for minor crops and the settlement of MRL.
Sonochemical Preparation of a Magnet-Responsive Fe3O4@ZIF-8 Adsorbent for Efficient Cu2+ Removal
Authors: Bui Trung Tuyen , Nguyen Duc Cuong , Hua Si Hiep , Chun Hyungphil , Kim Yong Shin
Published: February 2022

This work presents a novel approach to synthesizing magnetic core-shell nanocomposites, consisting of magnetic nanoparticles and a metal-organic framework, for environmental applications. The synthesis is based on the encapsulation of magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles with microporous zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanocrystals via ultrasonic activation under a continuous supply of precursor solutions. This sonochemical approach is proven to be a fast, cost-effective, and controllable route for the preparation of magnet-responsive Fe3O4@ZIF-8 nanoparticles with a core-shell structure. The functional nanomaterial possesses a high content of ZIF-8 and combined micro/mesoporosity, and thus can be used as adsorbents that can be easily separated using a magnet. In particular, the sonochemically prepared Fe3O4@ZIF-8 exhibits significant adsorption performance for the removal of copper ions from water: a short adsorption time (10 min), high maximum uptake capacity (345 mg g−1), and excellent removal efficiency (95.3%). These performances are interpreted and discussed based on the materials characteristics of Fe3O4@ZIF-8 established by microscopy, gas sorption, X-ray diffraction, and thermal analysis.
Neurocognitive Profiles of Caucasian Moyamoya Disease Patients in Greece: A Case Series
Authors: Papageorgiou Georgios , Kasselimis Dimitrios , Angelopoulou Georgia , Tsolakopoulos Dimitrios , Laskaris Nikolaos , Tountopoulou Argyro , Korompoki Eleni , Velonakis Georgios , Chatziioannou Achilles , Spengos Konstantinos , Potagas Constantin , Vassilopoulou Sophia
Published: February 2022

The impact of Moyamoya Disease (MMD) on cognition inadult Caucasian patients has not yet been thoroughly investigated. The current study is the first to present detailed neuropsychological data on a series of Greek patients with MMD. A group of eight patients was assessed with an extensive neuropsychological battery, including measures of episodic memory, working memory, executive functions, language, and social cognition. The results indicated that MMD may be characterized by a trichotomous neurocognitive profile, characterized by prominent impairment in working memory, executive functions, and social cognition. Overall, we stress the need for a thorough cognitive evaluation of MMD patients and further highlight the potential importance of social cognition in this particular disease. Possible associations between the three impaired cognitive domains in our group are also discussed.
Protein Quality in Perspective: A Review of Protein Quality Metrics and Their Applications
Authors: Adhikari Shiksha , Schop Marijke , de Boer Imke J. M. , Huppertz Thom
Published: February 2022

For design of healthy and sustainable diets and food systems, it is important to consider not only the quantity but also the quality of nutrients. This is particularly important for proteins, given the large variability in amino acid composition and digestibility between dietary proteins. This article reviews measurements and metrics in relation to protein quality, but also their application. Protein quality methods based on concentrations and digestibility of individual amino acids are preferred, because they do not only allow ranking of proteins, but also assessment of complementarity of protein sources, although this should be considered only at a meal level and not a diet level. Measurements based on ileal digestibility are preferred over those on faecal digestibility to overcome the risk of overestimation of protein quality. Integration of protein quality on a dietary level should also be done based on measurements on an individual amino acid basis. Effects of processing, which is applied to all foods, should be considered as it can also affect protein quality through effects on digestibility and amino acid modification. Overall, protein quality data are crucial for integration into healthy and sustainable diets, but care is needed in data selection, interpretation and integration.
The Serial Mediation of the Association between Breakfast Skipping and Suicidality by Weight Status and Depressive Symptoms: Findings from the National Youth Risk Behavior Surveys of the United States
Authors: Liu Bao-Peng , Fang Hui-Juan , Jia Cun-Xian
Published: February 2022

Background: The evidence is limited for the dose–response association between breakfast skipping and suicidality. The underlying pathway from breakfast skipping to suicidality has also rarely been explored in previous studies. Methods: The data of Youth Risk Behavior Surveys (YRBSs) of the United States from 2011 to 2019 were used with a sample size of 74,074. The male: female ratio was nearly 1:1. Binary logistic regression models with complex sampling design were adopted to show the effect of breakfast skipping on weight status, depressive symptoms, and suicidality. Serial mediation was used to explore the association between breakfast skipping and suicidality by overweight/obesity and depressive symptoms. Findings: The weighted prevalence rates (95% confidence interval) of suicidal ideation, suicide plan, suicide attempt, and medically serious suicide attempt for skipping breakfast totally (0 times/week) were 25.6% (24.4–26.8%), 21.7% (20.5–22.9%), 14.2% (13.0–15.3%), and 5.3% (4.6–5.9%). Breakfast skipping was significantly associated with increased risk of suicidal ideation, suicide plan, suicide attempt, and medically serious suicide attempt. There was statistical significance for the linear dose–response association between breakfast skipping and overweight/obesity, depressive symptoms, and suicidality regardless of sex and age. A serial mediation with effect sizes between 39.68% and 51.30% for the association between breakfast skipping and suicidality by overweight/obesity and depressive symptoms was found in this study. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the hazards of breakfast skipping, which could increase the risk of suicidality among adolescents. Overweight/obesity and depressive symptoms as the mediating factors for the association between breakfast skipping and suicidality should also be with more attention.
Surveillance for Onchocerciasis-Associated Epilepsy and OV16 IgG4 Testing of Children 6–10 Years Old Should Be Used to Identify Areas Where Onchocerciasis Elimination Programs Need Strengthening
Authors: Dusabimana Alfred , Siewe Fodjo Joseph Nelson , Ndahura Michel Mandro , Mmbando Bruno P. , Jada Stephen Raimon , Boven Annelies , De Smet Eric , Ukety Tony , Njamnshi Alfred K. , Laudisoit Anne , Abrams Steven , Colebunders Robert
Published: February 2022

To eliminate onchocerciasis-associated morbidity, it is important to identify areas where there is still high ongoing Onchocerca volvulus transmission. Between 2015 and 2021, door-to-door surveys were conducted in onchocerciasis-endemic villages in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Nigeria, South Sudan, and Tanzania to determine epilepsy prevalence and incidence, type of epilepsy and ivermectin therapeutic coverage. Moreover, children aged between six and 10 years were tested for anti-Onchocerca antibodies using the Ov16 IgG4 rapid diagnostic test (RDT). A mixed-effect binary logistic regression analysis was used to assess significantly associated variables of Ov16 antibody seroprevalence. A high prevalence and incidence of epilepsy was found to be associated with a high Ov16 antibody seroprevalence among 6–10-year-old children, except in the Logo health zone, DRC. The low Ov16 antibody seroprevalence among young children in the Logo health zone, despite a high prevalence of epilepsy, may be explained by a recent decrease in O. volvulus transmission because of a decline in the Simulium vector population as a result of deforestation. In the Central African Republic, a new focus of O. volvulus transmission was detected based on the high Ov16 IgG4 seropositivity among children and the detecting of nodding syndrome cases, a phenotypic form of onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy (OAE). In conclusion, Ov16 IgG4 RDT testing of 6–10-year-old children is a cheap and rapid method to determine the level of ongoing O. volvulus transmission and to assess, together with surveillance for OAE, the performance of onchocerciasis elimination programs.
What Do In Vitro and In Vivo Models Tell Us about Anisakiasis? New Tools Still to Be Explored
Authors: Cavallero Serena , Bellini Ilaria , Pizzarelli Antonella , D’Amelio Stefano
Published: February 2022

Anisakiasis is a zoonosis caused by the ingestion of raw or undercooked seafood infected with third-stage larvae (L3) of the marine nematode Anisakis. Based on L3 localization in human accidental hosts, gastric, intestinal or ectopic (extra-gastrointestinal) anisakiasis can occur, in association with mild to severe symptoms of an allergic nature. Given the increasing consumption of fish worldwide, the European Food Safety Authority declared Anisakis as an emerging pathogen. Despite its importance for public health and economy, the scientific literature is largely characterized by taxonomic, systematic and ecological studies, while investigations on clinical aspects, such as the inflammatory and immune response during anisakiasis, using a proper model that simulates the niche of infection are still very scarce. The aims of this review are to describe the clinical features of anisakiasis, to report the main evidence from the in vivo and in vitro studies carried out to date, highlighting limitations, and to propose future perspectives in the study field of anisakiasis.
Synthesis and Evaluation of a 18F-Labeled Ligand for PET Imaging of Colony-Stimulating Factor 1 Receptor
Authors: Lee Hyeokjin , Park Ji-Hun , Kim Hyunjung , Woo Sang-keun , Choi Joon Young , Lee Kyung-Han , Choe Yearn Seong
Published: February 2022

Neuroinflammation involves activation of glial cells in the brain, and activated microglia play a particularly important role in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study, we developed 5-cyano-N-(4-(4-(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)piperazin-1-yl)-2-(piperidin-1-yl)phenyl)furan-2-carboxamide ([18F]1) for PET imaging of colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R), an emerging target for neuroinflammation imaging. Non-radioactive ligand 1 exhibited binding affinity comparable to that of a known CSF1R inhibitor, 5-cyano-N-(4-(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)-2-(piperidin-1-yl)phenyl)furan-2-carboxamide (CPPC). Therefore, we synthesized radioligand [18F]1 by radiofluorination of chlorine-substituted precursor 7 in 13–15% decay-corrected radiochemical yield. Dynamic PET/CT images showed higher uptake in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated mouse brain than in control mouse brain. Ex vivo biodistribution study conducted at 45 min after radioligand injection showed that the brain uptake in LPS mice increased by 78% compared to that of control mice and was inhibited by 22% in LPS mice pretreated with CPPC, indicating specificity of [18F]1 for CSF1R. A metabolism study demonstrated that the radioligand underwent little metabolism in the mouse brain. Taken together, these results suggest that [18F]1 may hold promise as a radioligand for CSF1R imaging.
Chemical Composition of Kickxia aegyptiaca Essential Oil and Its Potential Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Abd-ElGawad Ahmed M. , El-Amier Yasser A. , Bonanomi Giuliano , Gendy Abd El-Nasser G. El , Elgorban Abdallah M. , Alamery Salman F. , Elshamy Abdelsamed I.
Published: February 2022

The exploration of new bioactive compounds from natural resources as alternatives to synthetic chemicals has recently attracted the attention of scientists and researchers. To our knowledge, the essential oil (EO) of Kickxia aegyptiaca has not yet been explored. Thus, the present study was designed to explore the EO chemical profile of K. aegyptiaca for the first time, as well as evaluate its antioxidant and antibacterial activities, particularly the extracts of this plant that have been reported to possess various biological activities. The EO was extracted from the aerial parts via hydrodistillation and then characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The extracted EO was tested for its antioxidant activity via the reduction in the free radicals, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS). In addition, the EO was tested as an antibacterial mediator against eight Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial isolates. Forty-three compounds were identified in the EO of K. aegyptiaca, with a predominance of terpenoids (75.46%). Oxygenated compounds were the main class, with oxygenated sesquiterpenes attaining 40.42% of the EO total mass, while the oxygenated monoterpenes comprised 29.82%. The major compounds were cuminic aldehyde (21.99%), caryophyllene oxide (17.34%), hexahydrofarnesyl acetone (11.74%), ar-turmerone (8.51%), aromadendrene oxide (3.74%), and humulene epoxide (2.70%). According to the IC50 data, the K. aegyptiaca EO revealed considerable antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 30.48 mg L−1 and 35.01 mg L−1 for DPPH and ABTS, respectively. In addition, the EO of K. aegyptiaca showed more substantial antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacterial isolates compared to Gram-negative. Based on the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the EO showed the highest activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus, with an MIC value of 0.031 mg mL−1. The present study showed, for the first time, that the EO of K. aegyptiaca has more oxygenated compounds with substantial antioxidant and antibacterial activities. This activity could be attributed to the effect of the main compounds, either singular or synergistic. Thus, further studies are recommended to characterize the major compounds, either alone or in combination as antioxidants or antimicrobial agents, and evaluate their biosafety.
LC–DAD–MS Phenolic Characterisation of Six Invasive Plant Species in Croatia and Determination of Their Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Poljuha Danijela , Sladonja Barbara , Šola Ivana , Šenica Mateja , Uzelac Mirela , Veberič Robert , Hudina Metka , Famuyide Ibukun Michael , Eloff Jacobus N. , Mikulic-Petkovsek Maja
Published: February 2022

Invasive plants’ phytochemicals are important for their invasiveness, enabling them to spread in new environments. However, these chemicals could offer many pharmaceutical compounds or active ingredients for herbal preparations. This study provides the first LC–MS phytochemical screening of six invasive alien plant species (IAPS) in the Istria region (Croatia): Ailanthus altissima, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Conyza canadensis, Dittrichia viscosa, Erigeron annuus, and Xanthium strumarium. The study aims to identify and quantify the phenolic content of their leaf extracts and assess their antimicrobial and cytotoxic potential. A total of 32 species-specific compounds were recorded. Neochlorogenic, chlorogenic, and 5-p-coumaroylquinic acids, quercetin-3-glucoside, and kaempferol hexoside were detected in all the tested IAPS. Hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives were the main components in all the tested IAPS, except in E. annuus, where flavanones dominated with a share of 70%. X. strumarium extract had the best activity against the tested bacteria, with an average MIC value of 0.11 mg/mL, while A. altissima and X. strumarium extracts had the best activity against the tested fungi, with an average MIC value of 0.21 mg/mL in both cases. All the plant extracts studied, except X. strumarium, were less cytotoxic than the positive control. The results provided additional information on the phytochemical properties of IAPS and their potential for use as antimicrobial agents.
Genetic Aspects and Molecular Causes of Seed Longevity in Plants—A Review
Authors: Arif Mian Abdur Rehman , Afzal Irfan , Börner Andreas
Published: February 2022

Seed longevity is the most important trait related to the management of gene banks because it governs the regeneration cycle of seeds. Thus, seed longevity is a quantitative trait. Prior to the discovery of molecular markers, classical genetic studies have been performed to identify the genetic determinants of this trait. Post-2000 saw the use of DNA-based molecular markers and modern biotechnological tools, including RNA sequence (RNA-seq) analysis, to understand the genetic factors determining seed longevity. This review summarizes the most important and relevant genetic studies performed in Arabidopsis (24 reports), rice (25 reports), barley (4 reports), wheat (9 reports), maize (8 reports), soybean (10 reports), tobacco (2 reports), lettuce (1 report) and tomato (3 reports), in chronological order, after discussing some classical studies. The major genes identified and their probable roles, where available, are debated in each case. We conclude by providing information about many different collections of various crops available worldwide for advanced research on seed longevity. Finally, the use of new emerging technologies, including RNA-seq, in seed longevity research is emphasized by providing relevant examples.
Carbon-Based Polymer Nanocomposites for High-Performance Applications II
Authors: Díez-Pascual Ana M.
Published: February 2022

In the field of science and technology, carbon-based nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene, graphene oxide, graphene quantum dots (GQDs), fullerenes, and so forth, are becoming very attractive for a wide number of applications [...]
Consideration of Yarn Anisotropy in the Investigation of the Puncture Resistance of Fibrous Materials
Authors: Luo Chao , Sun Ye , Wakatsuki Kaoru , Morikawa Hideaki , Bao Limin
Published: February 2022

High-performance yarns are widely used to produce protective fabrics, including stab-resistant materials. The most common approach to studying the mechanism of puncture prevention is to use simulation to assist analysis. However, the anisotropy of the yarn is often overlooked during simulation owing to various factors. In fact, there is a marked difference between the axial and radial properties of a yarn. This may lead to large errors in research. In the present study, a composite material with a grid structure for puncture analysis was designed to investigate the influence of yarn anisotropy on the accuracy of simulation results. The present study combined an actual experiment with a simulation. In the actual experiment, Kevlar yarn/epoxy resin was used to prepare a mesh composite with a spacing of 1 mm. In the simulation, a 1:1 simulation model of composite material was established using finite element software. A simulated puncture experiment was conducted based on the actual experimental conditions and material parameters. After considering yarn anisotropy, the simulation results were closer to the actual experimental results. The simulation revealed that the main failure modes of the mesh material were the fracture of the resin and the bending deformation of the yarns at the junctions, while the surrounding areas were almost unaffected.