bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Green, Quick, and Efficient Method Based on Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Followed by HPLC-DAD for the Analysis of Bioactive Glycoalkaloids in Potato Peel Waste
Authors: Martínez-García Isabel , Gaona-Scheytt Carlos , Morante-Zarcero Sonia , Sierra Isabel
Published: February 2024

α-Solanine and α-chaconine are the two most predominant glycoalkaloids (GAs) present in potato. Potato peel contains a high concentration of GAs, which are especially interesting for application in the pharmaceutical industry due to their different beneficial properties (such as anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, antipyretic, antiviral, fungicide, and antibiotic activities, among others); so, potato peel waste can be valorized by extracting these biologically active compounds. For this, a green, quick, and efficient miniaturized analytical approach based on ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) combined with HPLC-DAD was developed to quantify α-solanine and α-chaconine in potato peel. Some parameters of the extraction were optimized, including the extraction method, the type of solvent, and the sample/solvent ratio, by a three-factor, three-level (33) full factorial experimental design. The optimal extraction conditions were obtained with UAE using methanol as a solvent and a sample/solvent ratio of 1:10 (w/v, g/mL). The analytical greenness metric for sample preparation (AGREEprep) tool was used to assess the greenness of the methods used. The tool revealed an acceptable green analysis, with 0.61 points. The method was validated and applied to the evaluation of GAs in the peel of 15 commercial varieties of potato. The amount of glycoalkaloids found in the samples evaluated ranged from 143 to 1273 mg/kg and from 117 to 1742 mg/kg dry weight for α-solanine and α-chaconine, respectively. These results reveal the important variability that exists between potato varieties; so, their analysis is of great importance to select the most suitable ones for biovalorization (e.g., the Amandine and Rudolph varieties, with around 3000 mg/kg, in total, of both GAs). To provide higher stability to the peel during storage, freeze-drying or a medium-temperature drying process resulted preferable to avoid GA degradation. Overall, this study will contribute to the expansion of the future biovalorization of potato peel waste as well as provide a powerful analytical tool for GA analysis.
Assessment of the Effect of the Main Grain-Producing Areas Policy on China’s Food Security
Authors: Wang Shaohua , Wu Haixia , Li Junjie , Xiao Qin , Li Jianping
Published: February 2024

Food provided a material foundation for the development of human society and was an important cornerstone for ensuring national security. The Chinese government has always attached great importance to food security, which is not only related to economic development and social stability but also to national security and self-reliance. As the core region for grain production and the supply of staple food in China, the major grain-producing areas account for 78.25% of the total national grain output, truly earning the title of China’s “granary”. Considering the establishment of 13 major grain-producing regions across the country in 2004 as a quasi-natural experiment, the impact of policies in major grain-producing regions on ensuring national food security is examined using a difference-in-differences method based on inter-provincial panel data for 30 provinces across the country from 1997 to 2020, and the mechanisms of their effects are further analyzed. The findings show that (1) the main producing-areas policy has a significant driving effect on China’s food security, with an average annual increase of 0.0351 units in the food-security index, and the impact is expanding year by year. (2) The policy of the main grain-producing provinces mainly plays a role in guaranteeing food security by expanding the scale of grain cultivation and the scale of family land management in the main grain-producing provinces, and the scale effect of grain cultivation has a more significant impact. Further adjusting and improving the policy of the main grain-producing areas and expanding the scale-driven effect of this policy are of great significance for transforming agricultural production methods and realizing a strong agricultural country.
A Comprehensive Study from Cradle-to-Grave on the Environmental Profile of Malted Legumes
Authors: Moresi Mauro , Cimini Alessio
Published: February 2024

Three representative pulses from the Latium region of Italy (namely, Solco Dritto chickpeas, SDC, Gradoli Purgatory beans, GPB, and Onano lentils, OL) underwent malting to reduce their anti-nutrient content, such as phytic acid and flatulence-inducing oligosaccharides. This initiative targets the current low per capita consumption of pulses. Employing Life Cycle Analysis, their environmental impact was assessed, revealing an overall carbon footprint of 2.8 or 3.0 kg CO2e per kg of malted (M) and decorticated (D) SDCs or GPBs and OLs, respectively. The Overall Weighted Sustainability scores (OWSS) complying with the Product Environmental Footprint method ranged from 298 ± 30 to 410 ± 40 or 731 ± 113 µPt/kg for malted and decorticated SDCs, OLs, or GPBs, indicating an increase from 13% to 17% compared to untreated dry seeds. Land use impact (LU) was a dominant factor, contributing 31% or 42% to the OWSS for MDSDCs or MDOLs, respectively. In MDGPBs, LU constituted 18% of the OWSS, but it was overshadowed by the impact of water use arising from bean irrigation, accounting for approximately 52% of the OWSS. This underscores the agricultural phase’s pivotal role in evaluating environmental impact. The climate change impact category (CC) was the second-largest contributor, ranging from 28% (MDSDCs) to 22% (MDOLs), and ranking as the third contributor with 12% of the OWSS for MDGPBs. Mitigation should prioritize the primary impact from the agricultural phase, emphasizing land and water utilization. Selecting drought-tolerant bean varieties could significantly reduce OWSSs. To mitigate climate change impact, actions include optimizing electricity consumption during malting, transitioning to photovoltaic electricity, upgrading transport vehicles, and optimizing pulse cooking with energy-efficient appliances. These efforts, aligning with sustainability goals, may encourage the use of malted and decorticated pulses in gluten-free, low fat, α-oligosaccharide, and phytate-specific food products for celiac, diabetic, and hyperlipidemic patients. Overall, this comprehensive approach addresses environmental concerns, supports sustainable practices, and fosters innovation in pulse utilization for improved dietary choices.
GLP-1RA Essentials in Gastroenterology: Side Effect Management, Precautions for Endoscopy and Applications for Gastrointestinal Disease Treatment
Authors: Wan Justin , Ferrari Caesar , Tadros Micheal
Published: February 2024

Amidst the obesity and type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) epidemics, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) stand out as a promising therapeutic ally, achieving notable success in glycemic control and weight management. While GLP-1RAs’ positive clinical outcomes are commendable, they introduce significant gastrointestinal (GI) challenges, emphasizing the pivotal role of gastroenterologists in understanding and managing these implications. Physicians should be vigilant of potential complications if endoscopy is indicated and considered. A protocol coined “The Three E’s: Education, Escalation, and Effective Management” is essential as the first defense against GLP-1RA-induced dyspepsia, necessitating routine GI consultations. Awareness and intervention of potential aspiration due to GLP-1RA-induced gastroparesis are vital in clinical management. Furthermore, the evolving recognition of GLP-1RAs’ beneficial effects on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) suggests gastroenterologists will increasingly prescribe them. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of pharmacological properties and potential GI complications, including the undetermined cancer risk landscape, becomes paramount. This review accentuates the nuances of GLP-1RA therapy from a gastroenterological lens, juxtaposing the therapeutic potential, manageable side effects, and circumstantial challenges, ensuring that GI specialists remain at the forefront of holistic care in obesity and T2DM management.
Evaluation of the Dye Extraction Using Designed Hydrogels for Further Applications towards Water Treatment
Authors: Blachnio Magdalena , Zienkiewicz-Strzalka Malgorzata
Published: February 2024

In this work, novel chitosan–silica hydrogels were synthesized and investigated by various complementary techniques. The hydrogels were obtained via the immobilization of chitosan (Ch) on the surface of mesoporous cellular foams (MCFs). The latter silica materials were obtained by a sol–gel process, varying the composition of the reaction mixture (copolymer Pluronic 9400 or Pluronic 10500) and the ageing temperature conditions (80 °C or 100 °C). The role of the silica phase in the hydrogels was the formation of a scaffold for the biopolymeric chitosan component and providing chemical, mechanical, and thermal stability. In turn, the chitosan phase enabled the binding of anionic pollutions from aqueous solutions based on electrostatic interaction mechanisms and hydrogen bonds. To provide information on structural, morphological, and surface properties of the chitosan–silica hydrogels, analyses such as the low-temperature adsorption/desorption of nitrogen, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were performed. Moreover, the verification of the utility of the chitosan–silica hydrogels as adsorbents for water and wastewater treatment was carried out based on kinetic and equilibrium studies of the Acid Red 88 (AR88) adsorption. Adsorption data were analyzed by applying various equations and discussed in terms of the adsorption on heterogeneous solid-surfaces theory. The adsorption mechanism for the AR88 dye–chitosan–silica hydrogel systems was proposed.
A Novel Strategy for Topical Administration by Combining Chitosan Hydrogel Beads with Nanostructured Lipid Carriers: Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation
Authors: Sun Rui , Xia Qiang , Sun Yufeng
Published: February 2024

The objective of the present study was to develop and evaluate NLC–chitosan hydrogel beads for topical administration. The feasibility of the preparation technology was verified by investigating various formulation factors and the impact of chitosan hydrogel beads on the NLC. The encapsulation efficiency of NLC–chitosan hydrogel beads was above 95% in optimized process conditions. The physical characterization of the NLC–chitosan hydrogel beads showed that the NLC was distributed within the network of the chitosan hydrogel beads. Furthermore, the incorporation of NLC into the chitosan hydrogel beads was related to the electrostatic interaction between the surface of the NLC and chitosan, which influenced the lipid ordering degree of the NLC and contributed to the stability. The stability studies showed that the retention rate of quercetin in the NLC–chitosan hydrogel beads was 88.63 ± 2.57% after 10 months of storage under natural daylight. An in vitro permeation study showed that NLC–chitosan hydrogel beads exhibited superior ability in enhancing skin permeation by hydrophobic active ingredients compared to the NLC and significantly increased skin accumulation. These studies demonstrated that the use of NLC–chitosan hydrogel beads might be a promising strategy for the delivery of hydrophobic active ingredients in topical administration.
Beyond Traditional Medicine: EVs-Loaded Hydrogels as a Game Changer in Disease Therapeutics
Authors: Du Shutong , Zhou Xiaohu , Zheng Bo
Published: February 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), especially exosomes, have shown great therapeutic potential in the treatment of diseases, as they can target cells or tissues. However, the therapeutic effect of EVs is limited due to the susceptibility of EVs to immune system clearance during transport in vivo. Hydrogels have become an ideal delivery platform for EVs due to their good biocompatibility and porous structure. This article reviews the preparation and application of EVs-loaded hydrogels as a cell-free therapy strategy in the treatment of diseases. The article also discusses the challenges and future outlook of EVs-loaded hydrogels.
Genetic Advancements in Infantile Epileptic Spasms Syndrome and Opportunities for Precision Medicine
Authors: Snyder Hannah , Jain Puneet , RamachandranNair Rajesh , Jones Kevin , Whitney Robyn
Published: February 2024

Infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) is a devastating developmental epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) consisting of epileptic spasms, as well as one or both of developmental regression or stagnation and hypsarrhythmia on EEG. A myriad of aetiologies are associated with the development of IESS; broadly, 60% of cases are thought to be structural, metabolic or infectious in nature, with the remainder genetic or of unknown cause. Epilepsy genetics is a growing field, and over 28 copy number variants and 70 single gene pathogenic variants related to IESS have been discovered to date. While not exhaustive, some of the most commonly reported genetic aetiologies include trisomy 21 and pathogenic variants in genes such as TSC1, TSC2, CDKL5, ARX, KCNQ2, STXBP1 and SCN2A. Understanding the genetic mechanisms of IESS may provide the opportunity to better discern IESS pathophysiology and improve treatments for this condition. This narrative review presents an overview of our current understanding of IESS genetics, with an emphasis on animal models of IESS pathogenesis, the spectrum of genetic aetiologies of IESS (i.e., chromosomal disorders, single-gene disorders, trinucleotide repeat disorders and mitochondrial disorders), as well as available genetic testing methods and their respective diagnostic yields. Future opportunities as they relate to precision medicine and epilepsy genetics in the treatment of IESS are also explored.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of APC E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Genes Family in Triticum aestivum
Authors: Wang Jinnan , Zhang Tianye , Tu Aizhu , Xie Haoxin , Hu Haichao , Chen Jianping , Yang Jian
Published: February 2024

E3 ubiquitin ligases play a pivotal role in ubiquitination, a crucial post-translational modification process. Anaphase-promoting complex (APC), a large cullin-RING E3 ubiquitin ligase, regulates the unidirectional progression of the cell cycle by ubiquitinating specific target proteins and triggering plant immune responses. Several E3 ubiquitin ligases have been identified owing to advancements in sequencing and annotation of the wheat genome. However, the types and functions of APC E3 ubiquitin ligases in wheat have not been reported. This study identified 14 members of the APC gene family in the wheat genome and divided them into three subgroups (CCS52B, CCS52A, and CDC20) to better understand their functions. Promoter sequence analysis revealed the presence of several cis-acting elements related to hormone and stress responses in the APC E3 ubiquitin ligases in wheat. All identified APC E3 ubiquitin ligase family members were highly expressed in the leaves, and the expression of most genes was induced by the application of methyl jasmonate (MeJA). In addition, the APC gene family in wheat may play a role in plant defense mechanisms. This study comprehensively analyzes APC genes in wheat, laying the groundwork for future research on the function of APC genes in response to viral infections and expanding our understanding of wheat immunity mechanisms.
Laboratory Assessment of the Effects of AGA@4life Multidisciplinary Intervention on the Inflammatory Profile, MMPs, and TIMPs in a Geriatric Population
Authors: Lourenço Ana Patrícia , Freitas Catarina , Timóteo Maria Helena , Soares Maria , Figueiredo João Paulo , Osório Nádia , Valado Ana , Trapali Maria , Pereira Telmo , Caseiro Armando
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the world’s aging population has increased, contributing to the development of age-related pathologies, which have been aggravated by physical inactivity and excessive fat intake. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of implementing a nutritional program (control group—CG) combined with exercise (intervention group—IG) on the inflammatory profile, MMPs, and TIMPs in a group of 34 elderly participants (IG, n = 18; CG, n = 16). Participants underwent a full multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluation (T0), with the gathering of clinical information and biochemical and hematological determinations being re-evaluated eight weeks later (T1). A diet manual was made, which provided a selection of different types of diets resulting from the nutritional needs of the different users at the center. The aerobic exercise consisted of two sessions per week with a total duration of 1 h. The laboratory evaluation was performed by slot blot. Statistical analysis included a paired sample t-test and Spearman’s correlation coefficient. We observed that in the IG, there was a significant increase at T1 of TNF-α (p < 0.05) and MMP-2 (p < 0.05), without changes in IL-6 and MMP-9, showing that the intervention did not cause an exacerbated inflammatory response in exercised elderly people. The intervention program implemented showed potential to contribute to better active aging strategies, taking advantage of the known benefits of exercise without inducing a harmful inflammatory response in elderly participants.
Degree of Uncertainty in Reporting Imaging Findings for Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Secondary Analysis from a Pilot Randomized Diagnostic Trial
Authors: Cuna Alain , Rathore Disa , Bourret Kira , Opfer Erin , Chan Sherwin
Published: February 2024

Diagnosis of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) relies heavily on imaging, but uncertainty in the language used in imaging reports can result in ambiguity, miscommunication, and potential diagnostic errors. To determine the degree of uncertainty in reporting imaging findings for NEC, we conducted a secondary analysis of the data from a previously completed pilot diagnostic randomized controlled trial (2019–2020). The study population comprised sixteen preterm infants with suspected NEC randomized to abdominal radiographs (AXRs) or AXR + bowel ultrasound (BUS). The level of uncertainty was determined using a four-point Likert scale. Overall, we reviewed radiology reports of 113 AXR and 24 BUS from sixteen preterm infants with NEC concern. The BUS reports showed less uncertainty for reporting pneumatosis, portal venous gas, and free air compared to AXR reports (pneumatosis: 1 [1–1.75) vs. 3 [2–3], p < 0.0001; portal venous gas: 1 [1–1] vs. 1 [1–1], p = 0.02; free air: 1 [1–1] vs. 2 [1–3], p < 0.0001). In conclusion, we found that BUS reports have a lower degree of uncertainty in reporting imaging findings of NEC compared to AXR reports. Whether the lower degree of uncertainty of BUS reports positively impacts clinical decision making in infants with possible NEC remains unknown.
Trunk Muscle Activity and Ratio of Local Muscle to Global Muscle Activity during Supine Bridge Exercises under Unstable Conditions in Young Participants with and without Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Nakata Akimi , Osuka Satoshi , Ishida Tomoya , Saito Yuki , Samukawa Mina , Kasahara Satoshi , Koshino Yuta , Oikawa Naoki , Tohyama Harukazu
Published: February 2024

Core exercises on an unstable surface increase trunk muscle activity, especially for local muscle groups. Therefore, there is a possibility that exercises on an unstable surface would be effective in the rehabilitation of non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP). The present study assessed trunk muscle activities during bridge exercise on the floor and two kinds of unstable surfaces, i.e., a balance ball and the BOSU, for individuals with and without NSCLBP. This study enrolled 17 and 18 young participants with and without NSCLBP, respectively. In the balance ball condition, both groups showed a significant increase in erector spinae activity compared to the floor condition, and the increase in activity was significantly greater in the NSCLBP group than in the control group (p = 0.038). On the other hand, neither group showed significant changes in trunk muscle activities in the BOSU condition compared to those in the floor condition. The control group showed a significant increase in internal oblique/transversus abdominis activity under the balance ball condition (p = 0.020), whereas there were no significant changes in these muscle activities between the balance ball and floor conditions in the NSCLBP group. The present study showed that participants with NSCLBP significantly increased muscle activity of the erector spinae, one of the global back muscles, on the balance ball in spite of small effects on muscle activity of the internal oblique/transversus abdominis, which is one of the local abdominal muscles. Therefore, attention should be paid to the application of bridge exercises on the balance ball for individuals with NSCLBP.
Family Nursing Care during the Transition to Parenthood: A Scoping Review
Authors: César-Santos Bruna , Bastos Fernanda , Dias António , Campos Maria Joana
Published: February 2024

Background: Family-centered care places the family at the core of care, with family nurses playing a pivotal role in supporting and guiding members through pregnancy and the transition to parenthood and acknowledging the significant adjustments during these phases. Aim: To map the evidence concerning family nurses’ care for families during the transition to parenthood. Method: The scoping review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, focusing on family-centered care during pregnancy adaptation and the initial months of parenthood. Using a PCC (population, concept, and context) strategy, the research covered various databases: Scopus; Web of Science; and CINAHL Complete, MedLine Complete, and MedicLatina by EBSCOhost. Results: A Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) flow diagram was used to present the results. Eighteen articles were included, mainly from the Middle East and Europe, including cross-sectional studies and reviews. Key findings addressed the transitioning process to parenthood, the impact of family characteristics, and the role of family nurses in enhancing these processes. Conclusion: Home care is considered vital during this transition. Family nursing should concentrate on both individuals and the parental subsystem, addressing social determinants equitably. Through these efforts, they empower families to establish an optimal environment for children’s development.
Advance Monitoring of COVID-19 Incidence Based on Taxi Mobility: The Infection Ratio Measure
Authors: Aguilar-Ruiz Jesus S. , Ruiz Roberto , Giráldez Raúl
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on various aspects of our lives, affecting personal, occupational, economic, and social spheres. Much has been learned since the early 2020s, which will be very useful when the next pandemic emerges. In general, mobility and virus spread are strongly related. However, most studies analyze the impact of COVID-19 on mobility, but not much research has focused on analyzing the impact of mobility on virus transmission, especially from the point of view of monitoring virus incidence, which is extremely important for making sound decisions to control any epidemiological threat to public health. As a result of a thorough analysis of COVID-19 and mobility data, this work introduces a novel measure, the Infection Ratio (IR), which is not sensitive to underestimation of positive cases and is very effective in monitoring the pandemic’s upward or downward evolution when it appears to be more stable, thus anticipating possible risk situations. For a bounded spatial context, we can infer that there is a significant threshold in the restriction of mobility that determines a change of trend in the number of infections that, if maintained for a minimum period, would notably increase the chances of keeping the spread of disease under control. Results show that IR is a reliable indicator of the intensity of infection, and an effective measure for early monitoring and decision making in smart cities.
Tokophobia: Psychopathology and Diagnostic Consideration of Ten Cases
Authors: Kitamura Toshinori , Takegata Mizuki , Usui Yuriko , Ohashi Yukiko , Sohda Satoshi , Takeda Jun , Saito Tomomi , Kasai Yasuyo , Watanabe Hideki , Haruna Megumi , Takeda Satoru
Published: February 2024

Tokophobia is regarded as the intensive fear of childbirth that some pregnant women have. However, little is known about the psychopathological details of tokophobia (fear of childbirth). Between 2020 and 2021, a total of 10 pregnant women (nine nulliparae and one multipara) with a strong fear of childbirth were referred by obstetricians. Semi-structured psychopathological interviews were conducted, and two cases were judged to have obsession, three an overvalued idea, and one secondary delusion. Three were characterised by both obsession and overvalued idea and one by both obsession and secondary delusion. In total, six cases had features of an overvalued idea. All of the participants except one had a lifetime history of a specific phobia. In addition, their history included social phobia in two cases, panic disorder in one case, obsessive–compulsive disorder (other than tokophobia) in two cases, depressive disorder in two cases, bipolar disorder in two cases, and PTSD in six cases. To conclude, this study showed that tokophobia was not a phobic disorder but a kind of overvalued idea that requires specific assessment and treatment.
Archeometrical Characterization of Rock Art Pigments from Puerto Roque Open-Air Rock Art Shelter (Valencia De Alcantara, Extremadura, Spain)
Authors: Gomes Hugo , Collado Hipólito , Garcês Sara , Lattao Virginia , Nicoli Maria , Eftekhari Negar , Marrocchino Elena , Rosina Pierluigi
Published: February 2024

The study seeks to unravel the intricate operational sequence involved in preparing prehistoric pigments for rock art within the Puerto Roque rock art shelter. Sixteen pigment samples were meticulously collected from specific figurative representations. Additionally, three ochre samples were sourced from the shelter’s soil. Employing a comprehensive multi-analytical approach, including Raman microspectroscopy, X-ray microfluorescence (EDxrf), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS), all nineteen samples underwent thorough analysis. Notably, darker pigments revealed a composition of hematite with the added presence of carbon. Meanwhile, one sample exhibited an orange hue primarily composed of goethite and bright red pigments predominantly characterised by hematite, as confirmed by Raman analysis. EDxrf analysis demonstrated an elemental composition akin to the three ochre pieces examined. Furthermore, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy suggested the potential influence of a heating process in enhancing red coloration, corroborated by spectral results from specific samples. This finding aligns with prior research, underscoring the technological sophistication embedded in early artistic endeavours.
Adrijo: A Digital Platform for Adriatic Port Heritage—Good Practices for Virtual Museums and Touristic Experiences
Authors: Clini Paolo , Quattrini Ramona , Nespeca Romina , De Luca Daniele A. , La Porta Salvatore
Published: February 2024

Over the past decade, virtual museums have rapidly evolved due to technological advancements, and after the COVID-19 disruption grew in importance, this sustained the innovation of storytelling and the digital transformation of touristic practices. This paper presents the outcomes of a cooperation project: a virtual museum for eight ports in the Adriatic area, constituting notable examples of widespread heritage. The platform Adrijo is a multi-scalar, multilayer virtual museum that leverages the concept of geo-storytelling and e-tourism, also applying two augmented reality technologies for site-specific installations. In addition to the project results, an assessment of the different levels and experiences is provided, based on qualitative and qualitative analysis. As a re-usable resource, the technical tender specification from the methodological work package is presented, encompassing details of the technology, structure, functionalities, costs, timing for realization, and accessibility for disabled people. This paper proposes, through the critical analysis of the VM, a methodology that can be reused in other contexts, also providing toolkits for both its implementation and user satisfaction surveys, as well as for analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of some specific examples. The goal of the present research is thus to establish a consolidated methodological framework for designing, developing, implementing, and assessing a virtual museum, fully featured with 3D models and augmented reality technologies.
Effect of Cr/Mn Addition in TiVNb on Hydrogen Sorption Properties: Thermodynamics and Phase Transition Study
Authors: Bouzidi Anis , Elkaim Erik , Nassif Vivian , Zlotea Claudia
Published: February 2024

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) are a promising class of materials that can grant remarkable functional performances for a large range of applications due to their highly tunable composition. Among these applications, recently, bcc HEAs capable of forming fcc hydrides have been proposed as high-capacity hydrogen storage materials with improved thermodynamics compared to classical metal hydrides. In this context, a single-phase bcc (TiVNb)0.90Cr0.05Mn0.05 HEA was prepared by arc melting to evaluate the effect of combined Cr/Mn addition in the ternary TiVNb. A thermodynamic destabilization of the fcc hydride phase was found in the HEA compared to the initial TiVNb. In situ neutron and synchrotron X-ray diffraction experiments put forward a fcc → bcc phase transition of the metallic subnetwork in the temperature range of 260–350 °C, whereas the H/D subnetwork underwent an order → disorder transition at 180 °C. The absorption/desorption cycling demonstrated very fast absorption kinetics at room temperature in less than 1 min with a remarkable total capacity (2.8 wt.%) without phase segregation. Therefore, the design strategy consisting of small additions of non-hydride-forming elements into refractory HEAs allows for materials with promising properties for solid-state hydrogen storage to be obtained.
Supporting Asset Management with GIS and Business Intelligence Technologies: The Case Study of the University of Turin
Authors: Gasbarri Paola , Accardo Daniele , Cacciaguerra Elisa , Meschini Silvia , Tagliabue Lavinia Chiara
Published: February 2024

Despite the promising outcomes achieved over time in Asset Management, data accessibility, correlation, analysis, and visualization still represent challenges. The integration, readability, and interpretation of heterogeneous information by different stakeholders is a further concern, especially at the urban scale, where spatial data integration is required to correlate virtual information with the real world. The Geographic Information System (GIS) allows these connections, representing and digitizing extensive areas with significant benefits for asset analysis, management, and decision-making processes. Such benefits are central for managing large and widespread university campuses as they are comparable to small cities, covering a wide urban region and including resources highly integrated into the urban context. The paper presents how GIS integrated into Business Intelligence (BI) tools can support university Asset Management System (AMS) creation for the optimal use of resources, illustrating the University of Turin case study. The results discussion considers the relationship between the different elements of the assets and their synergy with the city. It focuses on four themes, dealing with the asset identification of buildings and resources, especially the educational ones, asset spatiotemporal evolution, and buildings’ distances for proximity analysis. The benefits achievable through the AMS, related challenges, and possible future developments are highlighted.
Improvement of Osteogenic Differentiation of Mouse Pre-Osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 Cells on Core–Shell Polylactic Acid/Chitosan Electrospun Scaffolds for Bone Defect Repair
Authors: Lopresti Francesco , Campora Simona , Rigogliuso Salvatrice , Nicosia Aldo , Lo Cicero Alessandra , Di Marco Chiara , Tornabene Salvatore , Ghersi Giulio , La Carrubba Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Electrospun hybrid scaffolds composed of synthetic and natural polymers have gained increasing interest in tissue engineering applications over the last decade. In this work, scaffolds composed of polylactic acid electrospun fibers, either treated (P-PLA) or non-treated (PLA) with air-plasma, were coated with high molecular weight chitosan to create a core–shell microfibrous structure. The effective thickness control of the chitosan layer was confirmed by gravimetric, spectroscopic (FTIR-ATR) and morphological (SEM) investigations. The chitosan coating increased the fiber diameter of the microfibrous scaffolds while the tensile mechanical tests, conducted in dry and wet environments, showed a reinforcing action of the coating layer on the scaffolds, in particular when deposited on P-PLA samples. The stability of the Chi coating on both PLA and P-PLA substrates was confirmed by gravimetric analysis, while their mineralization capacity was evaluated though scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) after immersing the scaffolds in simulated body fluids (SBF) at 37 °C for 1 week. Sample biocompatibility was investigated through cell viability assay and SEM analysis on mouse pre-osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells grown on scaffolds at different times (1, 7, 14 and 21 days). Finally, Alizarin Red assay and qPCR analysis suggested that the combination of plasma treatment and chitosan coating on PLA electrospun scaffolds influences the osteoblastic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells, thus demonstrating the great potential of P-PLA/chitosan hybrid scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications.
Deep Flow Cytometry Unveils Distinct Immune Cell Subsets in Inducible T Cell Co-Stimulator Ligand (ICOSL)- and ICOS-Knockout Mice during Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Raineri Davide , Abreu Hugo , Vilardo Beatrice , Kustrimovic Natasa , Venegoni Chiara , Cappellano Giuseppe , Chiocchetti Annalisa
Published: February 2024

The inducible T cell co-stimulator ligand (ICOSL), expressed by antigen presenting cells, binds to the inducible T cell co-stimulator (ICOS) on activated T cells. Improper function of the ICOS/ICOSL pathway has been implicated in several autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS). Previous studies showed that ICOS-knockout (KO) mice exhibit severe experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the animal model of MS, but data on ICOSL deficiency are not available. In our study, we explored the impact of both ICOS and ICOSL deficiencies on MOG35-55 -induced EAE and its associated immune cell dynamics by employing ICOSL-KO and ICOS-KO mice with a C57BL/6J background. During EAE resolution, MOG-driven cytokine levels and the immunophenotype of splenocytes were evaluated by ELISA and multiparametric flow cytometry, respectively. We found that both KO mice exhibited an overlapping and more severe EAE compared to C57BL/6J mice, corroborated by a reduction in memory/regulatory T cell subsets and interleukin (IL-)17 levels. It is noteworthy that an unsupervised analysis showed that ICOSL deficiency modifies the immune response in an original way, by affecting T central and effector memory (TCM, TEM), long-lived CD4+ TEM cells, and macrophages, compared to ICOS-KO and C57BL/6J mice, suggesting a role for other binding partners to ICOSL in EAE development, which deserves further study.
Advantages of Using 3D Spheroid Culture Systems in Toxicological and Pharmacological Assessment for Osteogenesis Research
Authors: Yun Chawon , Kim Sou Hyun , Kim Kyung Mok , Yang Min Hye , Byun Mi Ran , Kim Joung-Hee , Kwon Doyoung , Pham Huyen T. M. , Kim Hyo-Sop , Kim Jae-Ho , Jung Young-Suk
Published: February 2024

Bone differentiation is crucial for skeletal development and maintenance. Its dysfunction can cause various pathological conditions such as rickets, osteoporosis, osteogenesis imperfecta, or Paget’s disease. Although traditional two-dimensional cell culture systems have contributed significantly to our understanding of bone biology, they fail to replicate the intricate biotic environment of bone tissue. Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid cell cultures have gained widespread popularity for addressing bone defects. This review highlights the advantages of employing 3D culture systems to investigate bone differentiation. It highlights their capacity to mimic the complex in vivo environment and crucial cellular interactions pivotal to bone homeostasis. The exploration of 3D culture models in bone research offers enhanced physiological relevance, improved predictive capabilities, and reduced reliance on animal models, which have contributed to the advancement of safer and more effective strategies for drug development. Studies have highlighted the transformative potential of 3D culture systems for expanding our understanding of bone biology and developing targeted therapeutic interventions for bone-related disorders. This review explores how 3D culture systems have demonstrated promise in unraveling the intricate mechanisms governing bone homeostasis and responses to pharmacological agents.
The Power of Context: A Novel Hybrid Context-Aware Fake News Detection Approach
Authors: Alghamdi Jawaher , Lin Yuqing , Luo Suhuai
Published: February 2024

The detection of fake news has emerged as a crucial area of research due to its potential impact on society. In this study, we propose a robust methodology for identifying fake news by leveraging diverse aspects of language representation and incorporating auxiliary information. Our approach is based on the utilisation of Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) to capture contextualised semantic knowledge. Additionally, we employ a multichannel Convolutional Neural Network (mCNN) integrated with stacked Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Units (sBiGRU) to jointly learn multi-aspect language representations. This enables our model to effectively identify valuable clues from news content while simultaneously incorporating content- and context-based cues, such as user posting behaviour, to enhance the detection of fake news. Through extensive experimentation on four widely used real-world datasets, our proposed framework demonstrates superior performance (↑3.59% (PolitiFact), ↑6.8% (GossipCop), ↑2.96% (FA-KES), and ↑12.51% (LIAR), considering both content-based features and additional auxiliary information) compared to existing state-of-the-art approaches, establishing its effectiveness in the challenging task of fake news detection.
A New Water Film Depth Prediction Model for Pavement Surface Drainage
Authors: Zhao Kang , Zhou Qiong , Zhao Enqiang , Li Guofen , Dou Yanan
Published: February 2024

The prediction of the water film depth (WFD) on the road surface can help with road skid resistance research and reduce the risk associated with driving on rainy days. At present, there are many empirical and analytical models based on drainage length, slope, rainfall intensity and other parameters. Considering the influence of road surface runoff and starting from the Reynolds number formula of road surface water flow, a new road surface WFD calculation formula that considers the movement state of laminar water flow is derived. The results show that the changing trends of various parameters in the prediction model (drainage length, rainfall intensity, road slope) affecting WFD are consistent with those of the existing model. It is also found that the initial water film depth, initial speed of rainwater, and rainfall angle have little impact on WFD. The predicted value of the model has a suitable matching degree compared with the classical empirical model, which provides a new approach to the prediction of road water film depth.
A Computational Characterization of CH4@C60
Authors: Slanina Zdeněk , Uhlík Filip , Akasaka Takeshi , Lu Xing , Adamowicz Ludwik
Published: February 2024

The recently synthetically prepared endohedral CH4@C60 was characterized here using calculations—namely its structure, energetics, thermodynamics, and vibrational spectrum. The calculations were carried out with DFT (density-functional theory) methods, namely by the DFT M06-2X functional and MP2, as well as B2PLYPD advanced correlated, treatments with the standard 6-31++G** and 6-311++G** basis sets, corrected for the basis set superposition error evaluated using the approximative Boys–Bernardi counterpoise method. The symmetry of the endohedral obtained in the geometry optimizations was tetrahedral T. The energetics of CH4 encapsulation into C60 was attractive (i.e., with a negative encapsulation-energy term), producing a substantial energy gain of −13.94 kcal/mol at the most advanced computational level, B2PLYPD/6-311++G**. The encapsulation equilibrium constants for CH4@C60 were somewhat higher than previously found with the CO@C60 system. For example at 500 K, the encapsulation equilibrium constant for CH4@C60 had a value one order of magnitude larger than for CO@C60. The encapsulation thermodynamic characteristics suggest that high-pressure and high-temperature synthesis could in principle also be possible for CH4@C60.
Introductory Overview of Layer Formation Techniques of Ag Nanowires on Flexible Polymeric Substrates
Authors: Ha Heebo , Qaiser Nadeem , Hwang Byungil
Published: February 2024

Ag nanowire electrodes are promising substitutes for traditional indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes in optoelectronic applications owing to their impressive conductivity, flexibility, and transparency. This review provides an overview of recent trends in Ag nanowire electrode layer formation, including key developments, challenges, and future prospects. It addresses several challenges in integrating Ag nanowires into practical applications, such as scalability, cost-effectiveness, substrate compatibility, and environmental considerations. Additionally, drawing from current trends and emerging technologies, this review explores potential avenues for improving Ag nanowire layer-forming technologies, such as material advancements, manufacturing scalability, and adaptability to evolving electronic device architectures. This review serves as a resource for researchers, engineers, and stakeholders in nanotechnology and optoelectronics, and underscores the relationship between advancements in patterning and the application of Ag nanowire electrodes. Through an examination of key developments, challenges, and future prospects, this review contributes to the collective knowledge base and encourages continued innovation in the ever-evolving realm of Ag nanowire-based optoelectronics.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) and Atherosclerosis: Does Hypolipidemic Treatment Have an Effect?
Authors: Adamidis Petros , Pantazi Despoina , Moschonas Iraklis , Liberopoulos Evangelos , Tselepis Alexandros
Published: February 2024

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have attracted much attention recently, beyond elemental host immunity, due to their fundamental implication in a variety of pathologic conditions and widespread impactful diseases. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is one of them, and a major cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Consequently, years of basic and clinical research were dedicated to shedding light on every possible pathophysiologic mechanism that could be used as an effective prevention and treatment tool to ameliorate its burden. This led to the development of complex and prevention protocols and regimens that are now widely used, with lipid-lowering treatment being the current cornerstone; however, this is not adequate to alleviate the residual cardiovascular risk, which remains prominent. Despite the demonstrated pathogenic role of NETs in the progression and complications of ASCVD, little is known about their potential as a therapeutic target and the effects hypolipidemics exert on them.
Interventricular Septal Involvement Is Associated with More Impaired Ventricular Function and Mechanics in Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Mihos Christos G. , Elajami Tarec K. , Misra Deepika , Venkataraman Pranav , Gosdenovich Nicholas , Fernandez Rafle
Published: February 2024

Background: The interventricular septum has an important role in bi-ventricular performance. We hypothesized that septal involvement in apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ApHCM-Mixed) adversely impacts ventricular structure and function when compared with isolated apical hypertrophy (ApHCM-Pure). Methods: A total of 72 patients (ApHCM-Mixed = 36, ApHCM-Pure = 36) with serial 2D and speckle-tracking echocardiographic analyses were identified. Ventricular function and mechanics were characterized by left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS), RV free wall strain, and LV myocardial work indices, and clinical events were adjudicated. Results: Clinical characteristics were similar between groups (mean age, 66 ± 15 years; 49% female; LV ejection fraction, 68 ± 11%). The ApHCM-Mixed group had larger LV mass indexes (141 ± 39 vs. 111 ± 30 g/m2, p < 0.001), worse LV (−9.6 ± 3.1 vs. −14.4 ± 3.4%, p < 0.001) and RV GLS (−14.3 ± 6.7 vs. −19.2 ± 5.2%, p = 0.001), impaired RV free wall strain (−18.5 ± 7.4 vs. −22.4 ± 6.3%, p = 0.02), and lower LV myocardial work indices including global work index (938 ± 306 vs. 1272 ± 339 mmHg%, p < 0.001), when compared with the ApHCM-Pure group. At a mean follow-up of 3.9 years, these differences all persisted. Five deaths were observed, all occurring in the ApHCM-Mixed group (14% vs. 0, p = 0.05), and with four being cardiac-related. This subgroup had a mean LV ejection fraction of 63%, LV GLS of −8.7%, an LV global work index of 875 mmHg%, and RV free wall strain of −15.9%, indicating significant subclinical bi-ventricular dysfunction. Conclusions: ApHCM-Mixed represents a distinct morphology in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy associated with more impaired ventricular function and mechanics when compared with ApHCM-Pure.
Analysis of Clinical Characteristics of Tuberculosis Patients with Dementia in Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim YouKyoung , Yoo Seok-Ju , Hong NaYoung , Lee Kwan
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Among Korean research papers there have been studies on the correlation between tuberculosis-hypertension and diabetes and the correlation between dementia-hypertension and diabetes, but there were no analysis data specifically on tuberculosis and dementia. (2) Methods: A total of 2992 tuberculosis patients in the Gyeongbuk region were analyzed through a final analysis of integrated disease and health management system data collected from 2021 to 2022. In this selection, patients with tuberculosis under 50 years of age and 368 people diagnosed with tuberculosis were excluded. (3) Results: From 2021 to 2022, among the 2992 tuberculosis patients in Gyeongsangbuk-do aged 50 or older, 2722 (91.0%) belonged to the general tuberculosis patient group, while 270 (9.0%) belonged to the dementia–tuberculosis patient group. The average age in the dementia–tuberculosis group was 81.4 years, significantly higher than the general group’s average of 75.7 years. Within the dementia–tuberculosis patient group, 235 patients (87.0%) had underlying medical conditions in addition to dementia and tuberculosis. The tuberculosis treatment cure rate was 56.3% (1477 patients) in the general group and 38.9% (105 patients) in the dementia–tuberculosis patient group. (4) Conclusions: The cure rate was notably higher in the general group. Similarly, the mortality rate (deaths due to tuberculosis) was significantly higher in the dementia–tuberculosis patient group (7.0%, 19 patients) compared to the normal group (3.0%, 81 patients). The mortality rate in the dementia group was more than twice that of the general group.