bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Geographical Conditioning of Regional Differentiation Characterising the COVID-19 Pandemic in European Countries
Authors: Mazur Marcin , Bański Jerzy , Kamińska Wioletta
Published: October 2024

The aim of this paper is to assess the influence of selected geographical factors on the diversity of the development of the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe’s regions, and on its dynamics across the continent. The work took into account 250 of NUTS-2 regions. The datasets included the course of the COVID-19 pandemic (two dependent variables), intervening actions (four variables of the research background), and potential environmental and socio-economic conditioning (twelve independent variables). The dependent variables’ set was composed of two indexes: morbidity and temporal inertia. The temporal scope of the research was 23 March 2020–15 May 2022, with weekly resolution. By means of multiple linear regression model, the influence of the administrative actions and of the selected natural and socio-economic factors was assessed. Finally, a synthetic Regional Epidemic Vulnerability Index (REVI) for each individual region was calculated. It allowed us to classify the regions into three categories: resistant, neutral, or sensitive. REVI’s spatial distribution indicates that the zone of above-average vulnerability occurred in the western part of Europe and around the Alps. Therefore, focus ought to extend beyond regional statistics, towards spatial relationships, like contiguous or transit position. This research also validated the strong impact of national borders.
Targeting Hypoglycemic Natural Products from the Cloud Forest Plants Using Chemotaxonomic Computer-Assisted Selection
Authors: Mayo-Montor Cecilia I. , Vidal-Limon Abraham , Loyola-Vargas Víctor Manuel , Carmona-Hernández Oscar , Barreda-Castillo José Martín , Monribot-Villanueva Juan L. , Guerrero-Analco José A.
Published: October 2024

The cloud forest (CF), a hugely biodiverse ecosystem, is a hotspot of unexplored plants with potential for discovering pharmacologically active compounds. Without sufficient ethnopharmacological information, developing strategies for rationally selecting plants for experimental studies is crucial. With this goal, a CF metabolites library was created, and a ligand-based virtual screening was conducted to identify molecules with potential hypoglycemic activity. From the most promising botanical families, plants were collected, methanolic extracts were prepared, and hypoglycemic activity was evaluated through in vitro enzyme inhibition assays on α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV). Metabolomic analyses were performed to identify the dominant metabolites in the species with the best inhibitory activity profile, and their affinity for the molecular targets was evaluated using ensemble molecular docking. This strategy led to the identification of twelve plants (in four botanical families) with hypoglycemic activity. Sida rhombifolia (Malvaceae) stood out for its DPP-IV selective inhibition versus S. glabra. A comparison of chemical profiles led to the annotation of twenty-seven metabolites over-accumulated in S. rhombifolia compared to S. glabra, among which acanthoside D and cis-tiliroside were noteworthy for their potential selective inhibition due to their specific intermolecular interactions with relevant amino acids of DPP-IV. The workflow used in this study presents a novel targeting strategy for identifying novel bioactive natural sources, which can complement the conventional selection criteria used in Natural Product Chemistry.
Epidermal Growth Factor Intralesional Delivery in Chronic Wounds: The Pioneer and Standalone Technique for Reversing Wound Chronicity and Promoting Sustainable Healing
Authors: Berlanga-Acosta Jorge , Garcia-Ojalvo Ariana , Fernández-Montequin Jose , Falcon-Cama Viviana , Acosta-Rivero Nelson , Guillen-Nieto Gerardo , Pujol-Ferrer Merardo , Limonta-Fernandez Miladys , Ayala-Avila Marta , Eriksson Elof
Published: October 2024

The early expectations about growth factors’ (GFs’) discovery as an undisputed therapeutic solution for chronic wounds progressively eclipsed when they failed to accelerate acute wound closure and restore the healing trajectory of stagnant ulcers. Critical knowledge about chronic wound biology and GF pharmacology was a conundrum at that time. Diabetes undermines keratinocytes’ and fibroblasts’ physiology, impairing skin healing abilities. Diabetic ulcers, as other chronic wounds, are characterized by hyperinflammation, unbalanced proteolytic activity, catabolism, and free radical cytotoxicity. This hostile scenario for the chemical stability, integrity, and functionality of GFs led to the conclusion that topical administration may jeopardize GFs’ clinical effectiveness. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) has a proximal position in tissues homeostasis by activating survival and mitogenic pathways from embryonic life to adulthood. Seminal experiments disclosed unprecedented pharmacological bounties of parenterally administered EGF. Accordingly, the experience accumulated for more than 20 years of EGF intralesional infiltration of diabetic wound bottoms and edges has translated into sustained healing responses, such as low recurrences and amputation rates. This delivery route, in addition to being safe and tolerated, has shown to restore a variety of circulating biochemical markers ordinarily disturbed in diabetic conditions. EGF infiltration triggers a cascade of local fibroblast reactions, supporting its molecular integrity, prolonged mean residence time, and ultimately eliciting its receptor trafficking and nuclear translocation. The intralesional delivery route seems to warrant that EGF reaches wound fibroblasts’ epigenetic core, mitigating the consequences of metabolic memory imprinting.
The Crucial Triad: Endothelial Glycocalyx, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Cardiac Surgery—Exploring the Molecular Connections
Authors: Ćurko-Cofek Božena , Jenko Matej , Taleska Stupica Gordana , Batičić Lara , Krsek Antea , Batinac Tanja , Ljubačev Aleksandra , Zdravković Marko , Knežević Danijel , Šoštarič Maja , Sotošek Vlatka
Published: October 2024

Since its introduction, the number of heart surgeries has risen continuously. It is a high-risk procedure, usually involving cardiopulmonary bypass, which is associated with an inflammatory reaction that can lead to perioperative and postoperative organ dysfunction. The extent of complications following cardiac surgery has been the focus of interest for several years because of their impact on patient outcomes. Recently, numerous scientific efforts have been made to uncover the complex mechanisms of interaction between inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction that occur after cardiac surgery. Numerous factors, such as surgical and anesthetic techniques, hypervolemia and hypovolemia, hypothermia, and various drugs used during cardiac surgery trigger the development of systemic inflammatory response and the release of oxidative species. They affect the endothelium, especially endothelial glycocalyx (EG), a thin surface endothelial layer responsible for vascular hemostasis, its permeability and the interaction between leukocytes and endothelium. This review highlights the current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in endothelial dysfunction, particularly in the degradation of EG. In addition, the major inflammatory events and oxidative stress responses that occur in cardiac surgery, their interaction with EG, and the clinical implications of these events have been summarized and discussed in detail. A better understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac surgery, leading to endothelial dysfunction, is needed to improve patient management during and after surgery and to develop effective strategies to prevent adverse outcomes that complicate recovery.
Lymphocytes Change Their Phenotype and Function in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Moysidou Eleni , Christodoulou Michalis , Lioulios Georgios , Stai Stamatia , Karamitsos Theodoros , Dimitroulas Theodoros , Fylaktou Asimina , Stangou Maria
Published: October 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease, characterized by considerable changes in peripheral lymphocyte structure and function, that plays a critical role in commencing and reviving the inflammatory and immune signaling pathways. In healthy individuals, B lymphocytes have a major role in guiding and directing defense mechanisms against pathogens. Certain changes in B lymphocyte phenotype, including alterations in surface and endosomal receptors, occur in the presence of SLE and lead to dysregulation of peripheral B lymphocyte subpopulations. Functional changes are characterized by loss of self-tolerance, intra- and extrafollicular activation, and increased cytokine and autoantibody production. T lymphocytes seem to have a supporting, rather than a leading, role in the disease pathogenesis. Substantial aberrations in peripheral T lymphocyte subsets are evident, and include a reduction of cytotoxic, regulatory, and advanced differentiated subtypes, together with an increase of activated and autoreactive forms and abnormalities in follicular T cells. Up-regulated subpopulations, such as central and effector memory T cells, produce pre-inflammatory cytokines, activate B lymphocytes, and stimulate cell signaling pathways. This review explores the pivotal roles of B and T lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of SLE and Lupus Nephritis, emphasizing the multifaceted mechanisms and interactions and their phenotypic and functional dysregulations.
Marker-Assisted Selection of Jacalin-Related Lectin Genes OsJRL45 and OsJRL40 Derived from Sea Rice 86 Enhances Salt Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Yin Xiaolin , Gao Qinmei , Wang Feng , Liu Weihao , Luo Yiting , Zhong Shuixiu , Feng Jiahui , Bai Rui , Chen Liangbi , Dai Xiaojun , Liang Manzhong
Published: October 2024

Soil salinization limits rice growth and is an important restriction on grain yield. Jacalin-related lectins are involved in multiple stress responses, but their role in salt stress responses and use as molecular markers for salt tolerance remain poorly understood. Salt stress treatments and RT-qPCR analyses of Sea Rice 86 (SR86), 9311, and Nipponbare (Nip) showed that OsJRL45 and OsJRL40 enhanced tolerance of salt stress in SR86. Molecular markers based on sequence differences in SR86 and the salt-sensitive variety, 9311, in the intergenic region between OsJRL45 and OsJRL40 were validated in recombinant inbred lines derived from SR86 and 9311, hybrid populations, and common rice varieties. Yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation demonstrated that OsJRL45 and OsJRL40 interacted. Co-transformation of Nip with OsJRL45 and OsJRL40 derived from SR86 had no effect on the mature phenotype in T2 plants; however, salt stress at the three-leaf stage led to significant increases in CAT, POD, SOD, and Pro contents, but reduced MDA content in transgenic plants. Transcriptomic analysis identified 834 differentially expressed genes in transgenic plants under salt stress. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that metabolic pathways related to antioxidant responses and osmotic balance were crucial for salt-stress tolerance. Thus, molecular markers based on nucleotide differences in OsJRL45 and OsJRL40 provide a novel method for identifying salt-tolerant rice varieties.
A Novel Trichinella spiralis Galectin Strengthens the Macrophage ADCC Killing of Larvae via Driving M1 Polarization
Authors: Weng Minmin , Zhang Ru , Zhang Zhaoyu , Wu Jinyi , Zheng Wenwen , Lu Qiqi , Long Shaorong , Liu Ruodan , Wang Zhongquan , Cui Jing
Published: October 2024

Galectin recognizes β-galactosides through its carbohydrate recognition domains (CRDs). This study aimed to determine the biological features of a novel Trichinella spiralis galectin (galactoside-binding lectin family protein, TsGLFP) and its role in driving macrophage M1 polarization and enhancing ADCC killing of larvae. TsGLFP belongs to the galectin family and has two CRDs. The complete TsGLFP cDNA sequence was cloned and then expressed in Escherichia coli BL21. The results of qPCR, Western blot, and indirect immunofluorescence tests (IIFTs) revealed that TsGLFP was expressed in various stages of T. spiralis worms and principally localized at the cuticle and around the female embryos of the nematode. rTsGLFP had the function of agglutinating mouse erythrocytes, and this agglutination activity could be inhibited by lactose. After the mouse macrophage RAW264.7 was incubated with rTsGLFP, the expression level of the M1 genes (iNOS, IL-6, and TNF-α) and NO production were obviously increased. After incubating macrophages with rTsGLFP, there was a noticeable rise in the expression levels of p-IκB-α and p-NF-κB p65. Additionally, rTsGLFP enhanced the macrophage’s ability to kill newborn larvae by ADCC cytotoxicity. When the macrophages were pretreated with the specific p-NF-κB p65 inhibitor PDTC, and then stimulated with rTsGLFP, the expression levels of iNOS, NO, and p-NF-κB p65 and the macrophages’ ADCC cytotoxicity were distinctly decreased. These findings indicated that rTsGLFP enhanced the macrophage ADCC killing of larvae by driving M1 polarization through activating the NF-κB pathway.
AI-Based Digital Therapeutics for Adolescent Mental Health Management and Disaster Response
Authors: Yoon Sungwook
Published: October 2024

This study focuses on the development and evaluation of an AI-based digital therapeutic prototype for adolescent mental health management and disaster response. The system integrates real-time monitoring, AI-driven conversation analysis, personalized psychological treatment programs, and multimodal data analysis. An algorithm was developed to detect gaslighting and verbal abuse using a BERT-based classification model, achieving 85% accuracy in gaslighting detection and 87% accuracy in verbal abuse detection. Additionally, a psychological disaster-recovery support module was included, which demonstrated a 30% improvement in users’ stress reduction rates during simulated disaster scenarios. This study demonstrates that digital therapeutic approaches can significantly contribute to early intervention in adolescent mental health issues. Additionally, these approaches provide effective support during disasters. The developed prototype demonstrates the potential of AI and digital technology to innovate mental health management and disaster response strategies.
The Diversity of Arachnid Assemblages on the Endemic Tree Zelkova abelicea (Ulmaceae): An Evaluation of Fragmentation and Connectivity in Crete (Greece)
Authors: Gwiazdowicz Dariusz , Fazan Laurence , Gardini Giulio , Ghosn Dany , Kaczmarek Sławomir , Nemati Alireza , Remoundou Ilektra , Rutkowski Tomasz , Skubała Piotr , Zawieja Bogna , Kozlowski Gregor
Published: October 2024

Zelkova abelicea is an endemic tree growing only on eight mountain stands on the Greek island of Crete. The aim of this study was to determine the structure of the assemblages and analyze the diversity of the arachnid assemblages living on Zelkova abelicea, an endemic tree species in Crete. Material for the analyses was collected from tree trunks, oftentimes covered by bryophytes or lichens. In the examined material, 85 taxa were recorded. The most numerous groups represented in the analyzed material were Acari, including representatives of the orders Mesostigmata (78 ind. of 18 spp.) and Oribatida (1056 ind. of 51 spp.). In the order Mesostigmata the species represented by the highest numbers of specimens were Onchodellus karawaiewi (15 individuals) and Hypoaspisella sp. (13), which is probably a species new to science. In turn, representatives of the order Oribatida were much more numerous, with Zygoribatula exilis (284) and Eremaeus tuberosus (210) being identified in the largest numbers. Among the eight sampled localities, Gerakari (646 ind. and 50 spp.) and Omalos (409 ind. and 43 spp., respectively) had by far the richest assemblages. Statistical analyses confirmed the highly diverse character of the arachnid assemblages at the individual sites, which is a consequence not only of the varied numbers of arachnids found, but also of the presence of very rare species, such as Androlaelaps shealsi, Cosmolaelaps lutegiensis or Hoploseius oblongus. These results highlight the high species diversity of the arachnids found on Z. abelicea but also suggest the lack of connectivity between the isolated and fragmented forest stands on Crete.
Lipid Accumulation Product Is Predictive of Cardiovascular Hospitalizations among Patients with Stable Ischemic Heart Disease: Long-Term Follow-Up of the LAERTES Study
Authors: Papathanasiou Konstantinos A. , Roussos Christos Eleftherios , Armylagos Stylianos , Rallidis Stylianos L. , Rallidis Loukianos S.
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: Lipid accumulation product (LAP) is an anthropometric index of abdominal adiposity that has been associated with increased cardiovascular risk. We aimed to explore the association of LAP with cardiovascular hospitalizations and compare its predictive accuracy with other indices such as body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. (2) Methods: LAERTES was a prospective, population-based cohort that recruited consecutive patients with stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD) from two Greek hospitals in Athens. Data from 770 participants (13% women, median age 62 years) with a median follow-up of 4.3 years were analyzed in relation to the occurrence of adverse cardiovascular events mandating hospital admission (non-fatal myocardial infarction [MI], non-fatal ischemic stroke and malignant ventricular arrhythmias). (3) Results: A total of 127 (16.5%) of the participants were admitted to cardiology clinics over the follow-up period; 12.4% of them developed MI, 2.6% ventricular arrhythmia and 1.5% ischemic stroke. Patients with cardiovascular hospitalization had higher BMI, larger waist circumference, higher LAP and triglycerides and lower HDL-cholesterol than patients without hospitalization. Upper LAP quartile and hypertension were independent predictors for cardiovascular hospitalization (HR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.12–4.34, p = 0.02 and HR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.03–2.39, p = 0.03, respectively). (4) Conclusions: Higher LAP quartiles are predictive of adverse cardiovascular events leading to hospital admission and deserve further evaluation in dedicated studies.
Abdominal Hollowing vs. Abdominal Bracing: A Scoping Review of Clinical Trials on Effectiveness for Trunk Stability and Rehabilitation
Authors: Golob Iva , Opara Zupančič Manca , Kozinc Žiga
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This scoping review explores the effectiveness of abdominal hollowing (AH) and abdominal bracing (AB) techniques in enhancing trunk stability and facilitating rehabilitation, particularly for individuals with lower back pain (LBP). Methods: The review synthesizes findings from 22 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed these techniques’ impacts on muscle activation, pain reduction, and functional outcomes. Results: The results demonstrate that both techniques can significantly improve trunk stability, muscle thickness, balance, and gait. However, a notable gap exists in studies directly comparing AH and AB, raising questions about whether they are equally effective. While AH is often associated with selective activation of the transversus abdominis, AB promotes a broader co-contraction of trunk muscles, contributing to robust spinal stability. Conclusions: This review underscores the need for further research to directly compare these techniques and refine their application in clinical practice. The findings suggest that personalized rehabilitation programs incorporating both AH and AB, tailored to individual patient needs and rehabilitation goals, can be effective in managing and preventing LBP.
Salmon Salar Optimization: A Novel Natural Inspired Metaheuristic Method for Deep-Sea Probe Design for Unconventional Subsea Oil Wells
Authors: Guo Jia , Yan Zhou , Sato Yuji , Zuo Qiankun
Published: October 2024

As global energy demands continue to rise, the development of unconventional oil resources has become a critical priority. However, the complexity and high dimensionality of these problems often cause existing optimization methods to get trapped in local optima when designing key tools, such as deep-sea probes. To address this challenge, this study proposes a novel meta-heuristic approach—the Salmon Salar Optimization algorithm, which simulates the social structure and collective behavior of salmon to perform high-precision searches in high-dimensional spaces. The Salmon Salar Optimization algorithm demonstrated superior performance across two benchmark function sets and successfully solved the constrained optimization problem in deep-sea probe design. These results indicate that the proposed method is highly effective in meeting the optimization needs of complex engineering systems, particularly in the design optimization of deep-sea probes for unconventional oil exploration.
ESG in Business Research: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Chytis Evangelos , Eriotis Nikolaos , Mitroulia Maria
Published: October 2024

A company’s “value” is increasingly influenced by three criteria: the way it acts to protect the environment, its attitude towards society and the principles of corporate governance it has adopted. That is the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) acronym, and it has substantial impact on company value. To further understand the ESG landscape in business research, this article aims to analyze the existing literature and present the current state of knowledge, main trends, and future perspectives. Through the Scopus database, the authors examine a sample of 1034 articles spanning from 2006 to 2022. VOSviewer and Biblioshiny packages are used for performance analysis and visualization of the publication trends, the conceptual structure of the field and the research collaborations. The results suggest that the publication and citation trends of ESG register an upward trend over time. In terms of research institutions, most of the influential ones emanate from the US, while a significant percentage of articles were published in top-tier financial journals. Science mapping via co-authorship analysis bifurcates the sample into six clusters and reveals the major themes and their evolution. Keyword analysis unfolds emerging trends that could be further explored. Given the breadth of the sustainability field and the ever-changing business environment, this paper is of great practical importance in motivating companies to engage in ESG activities. To the authors’ knowledge, no other study has attempted a comprehensive and detailed BA covering multiple aspects and dimensions of ESG in the corporate research field. The theoretical framework of this paper fills this gap and offers an in-depth synthesis of all published papers, providing invaluable insights to scholars, the business community and regulatory authorities, and creating alternative research paths for aspiring researchers.
Distortion Risk Measures of Increasing Rearrangement
Authors: Paulusch Joachim , Moser Thorsten , Sulima Anna
Published: October 2024

Increasing rearrangement is a rewarding instrument in financial risk management. In practice, risks must be managed from different perspectives. A common example is the portfolio risk, which often can be seen from at least two perspectives: market value and book value. Different perspectives with different distributions can be coupled by increasing rearrangement. One distribution is regarded as underlying, and the other distribution can be expressed as an increasing rearrangement of the underlying distribution. Then, the risk measure for the latter can be expressed in terms of the underlying distribution. Our first objective is to introduce increasing rearrangement for application in financial risk management and to apply increasing rearrangement to the class of distortion risk measures. We derive formulae to compute risk measures in terms of the underlying distribution. Afterwards, we apply our results to a series of special distortion risk measures, namely the value at risk, expected shortfall, range value at risk, conditional value at risk, and Wang’s risk measure. Finally, we present the connection of increasing rearrangement with inverse transform sampling, Monte Carlo simulation, and cost-efficient strategies. Butterfly options serve as an illustrative example of the method.
Regeneration and Single Stage Batch Adsorber Design for Efficient Basic Blue-41 Dye Removal by Porous Clay Heterostructures Prepared from Al13 Montmorillonite and Pillared Derivatives
Authors: Popoola Saheed A. , Al Dmour Hmoud , Al-Faze Rawan , Alam Mohd Gulfam , Rakass Souad , Oudghiri Hassani Hicham , Kooli Fethi
Published: October 2024

Porous clay heterostructures are a hybrid precursor between the pillaring process and organoclays. In this study, the organoclay was substituted by an aluminium intercalated species clay or pillared alumina clays. A porous clay heterostructure was successfully achieved from an aluminium intercalated species clay, due to the easy exchange of the aluminium species by the cosurfactant and silica species. However, using alumina pillared clays, the porous clay heterostructures were not formed; the alumina species were strongly attached to clay sheets which made difficult their exchange with cosurfactant molecules. In this case, the silica species were polymerized and decorated the surface of the used materials as indicated by different characterization techniques. The specific surface area of the porous clay heterostructure material reached 880 m2/g, and total pore volume of 0.258 cc/g, while the decorated silica alumina pillared clays exhibited lower specific surface area values of 244–440 m2/g and total pore volume of 0.315 to 0.157 cc/g. The potential of the synthesized materials was evaluated as a basic blue-41 dye removal agent. Porous clay heterostructure material has a removal capacity of 279 mg/g; while the other materials exhibited lower removal capacities between 75 mg/g and 165 mg/g. The used regeneration method was related to the acidity of the studied materials. The acidity of the materials possessed an impact on the adopted regeneration procedure in this study, the removal efficiency was maintained at 80% of the original performance after three successive regeneration cycles for the porous clay heterostructure. The Langmuir isotherm characteristics were used to propose a single-stage batch design. Porous clay heterostructures with a higher removal capacity resulted in a decrease in the quantities needed to achieve the target removal percentage of the BB-41 dye from an aqueous solution.
The Effects of Ester and Ether Polycarboxylate Superplasticizers on the Fluidity and Setting Behavior of Alkali-Activated Slag Paste
Authors: Kim Yong Jic , Choi Sung , Oh Sung Rok
Published: October 2024

This study aims to investigate the comparative performance of ester- and ether-based polycarboxylate superplasticizers in maintaining the fluidity and controlling the setting time of alkali-activated slag (AAS) paste. The experiments employed rheological tests, mini-slump tests, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) measurements, and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) analysis. The results indicate that ether-based superplasticizers maintain fluidity approximately 25% longer than their ester-based counterparts and extend the setting time by about 30%. The enhanced performance of ether-based superplasticizers is attributed to their superior molecular stability in highly alkaline environments, which mitigates early polymer degradation. Additionally, the Na2O/SiO2 ratio was maintained at 1:1 throughout the experiments to ensure consistency in the activation process. The relationship between fluidity loss and the onset of setting occurs more rapidly in AAS paste than in conventional cement-based systems. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of environmentally friendly construction materials by optimizing the use of superplasticizers in alkali-activated systems.
Advancing Sustainability: Geraniol-Enhanced Waterborne Acrylic Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives without Chemical Modification
Authors: Di Lorenzo Ludovica , Bordignon Simone , Chierotti Michele R. , Alfeo Ignazio Andrea , Antosik Adrian Krzysztof , Brunella Valentina
Published: October 2024

The escalating global emphasis on sustainability, coupled with stringent regulatory frameworks, has spurred the quest for environmentally viable alternatives to petroleum-derived materials. Within this context, the adhesives industry has been actively seeking renewable options and eco-friendly synthesis pathways. This study introduces geraniol, a monoterpenoid alcohol, in its unmodified form, as a key component in the production of waterborne pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs) based on acrylic latex through emulsion polymerization. Multiple formulations were developed at varying reaction times. The adhesives underwent comprehensive chemical characterization employing techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The viscosities of the formulations were measured between 4000 and 5000 cP. Adhesion tests showed peel strength values of 0.52 N/mm on cardboard and 0.32 N/mm on painted steel for the geraniol-based formulations. The results demonstrate the potential for geraniol-based PSAs to offer a sustainable alternative to petroleum-derived adhesives, with promising thermal and adhesive properties.
Characterizations of Spheres and Euclidean Spaces by Conformal Vector Fields
Authors: Deshmukh Sharief , Bin Turki Nasser , Sharma Ramesh
Published: October 2024

A nontrivial conformal vector field ω on an m-dimensional connected Riemannian manifold Mm,g has naturally associated with it the conformal potential θ, a smooth function on Mm, and a skew-symmetric tensor T of type (1,1) called the associated tensor. There is a third entity, namely the vector field Tω, called the orthogonal reflection field, and in this article, we study the impact of the condition that commutator ω,Tω=0; this condition that we refer to as the orthogonal reflection field is commutative. As a natural impact of this condition, we see the existence of a smooth function ρ on Mm such that ∇θ=ρω; this function ρ is called the proportionality function. First, we show that an m-dimensional compact and connected Riemannian manifold Mm,g admits a nontrivial conformal vector field ω with a commuting orthogonal reflection Tω and constant proportionality function ρ if and only if Mm,g is isometric to the sphere Sm(c) of constant curvature c. Secondly, we find three more characterizations of the sphere and two characterizations of a Euclidean space using these ideas. Finally, we provide a condition for a conformal vector field on a compact Riemannian manifold to be closed.
Elevating Wafer Defect Inspection with Denoising Diffusion Probabilistic Model
Authors: Wu Ping-Hung , Hoang Thi Phuong , Chou Yen-Ting , Mayol Andres Philip , Lai Yu-Wei , Kang Chih-Hsiang , Chan Yu-Cheng , Lin Siou-Zih , Chen Ssu-Han
Published: October 2024

Integrated circuits (ICs) are critical components in the semiconductor industry, and precise wafer defect inspection is essential for maintaining product quality and yield. This study addresses the challenge of insufficient sample patterns in wafer defect datasets by using the denoising diffusion probabilistic model (DDPM) to produce generated defects that elevate the performance of wafer defect inspection. The quality of the generated defects was evaluated using the Fréchet Inception Distance (FID) score, which was then synthesized with real defect-free backgrounds to create an augmented defect dataset. Experimental results demonstrated that the augmented defect dataset significantly boosted performance, achieving 98.7% accuracy for YOLOv8-cls, 95.8% box mAP for YOLOv8-det, and 95.7% mask mAP for YOLOv8-seg. These results indicate that the generated defects produced by the DDPM can effectively enrich wafer defect datasets and enhance wafer defect inspection performance in real-world applications.
Novel Insights into Ethanol-Soluble Oyster Peptide–Zinc-Chelating Agents: Structural Characterization, Chelation Mechanism, and Potential Protection on MEHP-Induced Leydig Cells
Authors: Lu Zhen , Huang Qianqian , Qin Xiaoming , Chen Fujia , Li Enzhong , Lin Haisheng
Published: October 2024

Numerous studies have reported that mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) (bioactive metabolite of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) has inhibitory effects on Leydig cells. This study aims to prepare an oyster peptide–zinc complex (PEP-Zn) to alleviate MEHP-induced damage in Leydig cells. Zinc-binding peptides were obtained through the following processes: zinc-immobilized affinity chromatography (IMAC-Zn2+), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry technology (LC-MS/MS) analysis, molecular docking, molecular dynamic simulation, and structural characterization. Then, the Zn-binding peptide (PEP) named Glu—His—Ala—Pro—Asn—His—Asp—Asn—Pro—Gly—Asp—Leu (EHAPNHDNPGDL) was identified. EHAPNHDNPGDL showed the highest zinc-chelating ability of 49.74 ± 1.44%, which was higher than that of the ethanol-soluble oyster peptides (27.50 ± 0.41%). In the EHAPNHDNPGDL-Zn complex, Asn-5, Asp-7, Asn-8, His-2, and Asp-11 played an important role in binding to the zinc ion. Additionally, EHAPNHDNPGDL-Zn was found to increase the cell viability, significantly increase the relative activity of antioxidant enzymes and testosterone content, and decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) content in MEHP-induced TM3 cells. The results also indicated that EHAPNHDNPGDL-Zn could alleviate MEHP-induced apoptosis by reducing the protein level of p53, p21, and Bax, and increasing the protein level of Bcl-2. These results indicate that the zinc-chelating peptides derived from oyster peptides could be used as a potential dietary zinc supplement.
Performance Evaluation of NovaplexTM Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for Detection of Streptococcus agalactiae Serotypes
Authors: Handigund Mallikarjun , Lee Jaehyeon
Published: October 2024

Streptococcus agalactiae, or group B streptococcus (GBS), is a Gram-positive pathogen with an extended track record of colonization in the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. GBS can induce disease in individuals across all age demographics, yet it predominantly triggers infections in neonates and the elderly. Identification of the serotype is vital for effective management of the disease as it provides critical information for clinicians on the cause of the disease. In this study, we evaluated the rapid, simple, and easy-to-adopt multiplex real-time PCR technique, NovaplexTM (NovaPCR). A total of 131 clinical isolates of different serotypes were tested using NovaPCR. Observations revealed that 129 isolates showed the same observations as LA and conventional mPCR. NovaPCR accurately identified serotypes IV and V, which were first classified as serotype Ia in the LA test and mPCR, and the difference between the traditional (LA test and mPCR) and NovaPCR methods is only 1.52%. Accurate serotype identification is helpful for monitoring the epidemics and achieving optimal clinical outcomes, and NovaPCR showed a reliable, fast, easy-to-interpret, and cost-efficient performance in GBS serotyping.
Insights into Porphyromonas somerae in Bladder Cancer Patients: Urinary Detection by ddPCR
Authors: Russo Filippo , Esposito Speranza , Tripodi Lorella , Pandolfo Savio Domenico , Aveta Achille , Amato Felice , Nardelli Carmela , Imbimbo Ciro , Pastore Lucio , Castaldo Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

To date, the increased awareness of the impact of microbes on human health has promoted scientific interest in microbiome studies for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, revealing correlations between specific taxa and cancer. In particular, numerous species of Porphyromonas have been associated with several types of tumors. Previously, we studied the urobiome using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and found an increase in Porphyromonas somerae in first morning urine of subjects affected by bladder cancer (BCa). Here, we aimed to confirm the presence of P. somerae in BCa patients by using droplet digital Polymerase Chain Reaction (ddPCR), testing a cohort of 102 male subjects over 50 years. Our findings showed a significant increase in P. somerae in the urine of the BCa group within both ddPCR and NGS, and a correlation between the two methods was observed at a statistical level. Moreover, P. somerae’s identification with ddPCR confirmed a significant association between this bacterium and the presence of BCa, highlighting its potential role as a biomarker. This allows us to propose the ddPCR as a suitable method for first-stage BCa screening and follow-up.
Deciphering Nano-Resolution Petrological Characteristics of the Siliceous Shale at the Bottom of the Longmaxi Formation in the Zigong Area, Sichuan Basin, China: Deep-Water Microbialites
Authors: Zhou Xiaofeng , Guo Wei , Li Xizhe , Liang Pingping , Yu Junmin , Zhang Chenglin
Published: October 2024

Three nano-resolution petrological microtextures were discovered in the siliceous shale at the bottom of the Longmaxi Formation in the Zigong area, Sichuan Basin. Based on observations of the occurrences of the minerals, organic matter, and organic matter pores in the different microtextures and analysis of their relationships by means of nano-resolution petrological image datasets obtained using the Modular Automated Processing System (MAPS 3.18), the formation mechanism of the siliceous shale was studied. The results show that the strong modification of clay-rich sediments by a deep-water traction current was the basis for the formation of the siliceous shale. The clay-rich sediments were converted into flocculent sediments rich in oxygen and nutrients via agitation and transport by the deep-water traction current, providing space and a material basis for microbes to flourish. Under the continuous activity of the deep-water traction current, the clay-rich sediments were transformed into microbial mats, in which in situ terrigenous detrital quartz and feldspar, endogenous detrital calcite, authigenic dolomite, and dolomite ringed by ferrodolomite were scattered. During the burial stage, the microbial mats were lithified into the siliceous shale composed of three petrological microtextures. Microtexture I was mainly transformed by microbes. Microtexture II was formed via lithification of the residual clay-rich sediments. Microtexture III was composed of migratory organic matter filling hydrocarbon-generating pressurized fractures. Due to the universality of deep-water traction flow and the diversity of microbes in deep-water sediments, we firmly believe that more and more deep-water microbialites will be discovered worldwide through systematic characterization of nano-resolution petrology with the booming development of the shale gas industry.
Large-Scale Green Method for Synthesizing Ultralong Uniform Tellurium Nanowires for Semiconductor Devices
Authors: Lyu Zhiyi , Park Mose , Tang Yanjin , Choi Hoon , Song Seung Hyun , Lee Hoo-Jeong
Published: October 2024

This study presents a large-scale green approach for synthesizing ultralong tellurium nanowires with diameters around 13 nm using a solution-based method. By adjusting key synthesis parameters such as the surfactant concentration, temperature, and reaction duration, we achieved high-quality, ultralong Te NWs. These nanowires exhibit properties suitable for use in semiconductor applications, particularly when employed as channel materials in thin-film transistors, displaying a pronounced gate effect with a high switch of up to 104 and a mobility of 0.9 cm2 V−1s−1. This study underscores the potential of solvent-based methods in synthesizing large-scale ultralong Te NWs as a critical resource for future sustainable nanoelectronic devices.
Measuring Physical and Chemical Properties of Single Nanofibers for Energy Applications—Possibilities and Limits
Authors: Blachowicz Tomasz , Mpofu Nonsikelelo Sheron , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: October 2024

Nanofibers can be produced by various techniques, such as a broad range of electrospinning techniques to produce nanofiber mats from different polymers or polymer blends, often filled with metallic or semiconducting nanoparticles or by different nanotechnological bottom-up or top-down methods. They are important parts of a wide variety of energy applications, such as batteries, fuel cells, photovoltaics, or hydrogen storage materials. Usually, their physical or chemical parameters are measured by averaging over a fiber bundle or a part of a nanofiber mat. Here, we report the possibility of measuring the different physical and chemical properties of single nanofibers and nanowires. Such measurements of single nanofiber properties are more complicated than investigations of fiber bundles or whole nanofiber mats and, thus, are less often found in the literature. After a fast increase in such investigations between 2001 and 2009, the numbers of respective studies are now stagnating. This review thus aims to make the different possibilities more visible to a broader scientific audience by providing several examples based on atomic force microscopy (AFM) and other broadly available techniques. The focus of this review is on technologies that reveal more information than the pure surface morphology of nanofibers or nanowires, such as mechanical properties or wettability, porosity, or electrical conductivity.
A Retrospective Study of Lateral Antebrachial Cutaneous Nerve Neuropathy: Electrodiagnostic Findings and Etiologies in 49 Cases
Authors: Iyer Vasudeva G. , Shields Lisa B. E. , Daniels Michael W. , Zhang Yi Ping , Shields Christopher B.
Published: October 2024

Background: The lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve (LACN) is the terminal sensory branch of the musculocutaneous nerve and is rarely entrapped or injured. This study describes the electrodiagnostic (EDX) findings and etiologies of LACN neuropathy. Methods: This is a review of 49 patients with pain and/or paresthesia of the forearm who underwent EDX studies. The diagnosis of LACN neuropathy was based on clinical and sensory conduction abnormalities. Results: The most common etiology of LACN neuropathy was iatrogenic injury in 30 (61.2%) patients, primarily due to biceps tendon repair at the elbow (11 [36.7%]) and phlebotomy (5 [16.7%]). Fifteen (30.6%) patients sustained a non-iatrogenic injury at the proximal forearm/elbow, consisting of six (60%) laceration injuries and five (33.3%) stretch injuries. Four (8.2%) patients comprised the “other” etiology category, including two mass lesions causing LACN compression. Pain, paresthesia, and/or numbness in the LACN distribution were reported in 33 (67.3%), 27 (55.1%), and 23 (46.9%) patients, respectively. Hypoesthesia was detected in 45 (91.8%) patients, and dysesthesia in 7 (14.3%). The sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) of the LACN on the symptomatic side were absent in 44 (89.8%) patients. Of the five patients whose SNAPs of the LACN were detected, all had a decreased amplitude, and two had increased sensory latency. Conclusions: The most common etiology for LACN neuropathy in this series was iatrogenic injury; repair of biceps tendon at the elbow was the most frequent provoking cause. Protection of the LACN during surgical procedures at the elbow and forearm is vital to prevent iatrogenic injury.
Enhanced Effect of β-Lactoglobulin Immunization in Mice with Mild Intestinal Deterioration Caused by Low-Dose Dextran Sulphate Sodium: A New Experimental Approach to Allergy Studies
Authors: Złotkowska Dagmara , Markiewicz Lidia Hanna , Ogrodowczyk Anna Maria , Wróblewska Barbara , Wasilewska Ewa
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Cow’s milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies in children, and its pathomechanism is still under investigation. Recently, an increasing number of studies have linked food allergy to intestinal barrier dysfunction. The present study aimed to investigate changes in the intestinal microenvironment during the development of β-lactoglobulin (β-lg) allergy under conditions of early intestinal dysfunction. Methods: BALB/c mice received intraperitoneal β-lg with Freund’s adjuvant, followed by oral β-lg while receiving dextran sulphate sodium salt (DSS) in their drinking water (0.2% w/v). The immunized group without DSS and the groups receiving saline, oral β-lg, or DSS served as controls. Results: The study showed that the immunization effect was greater in mice with mild intestinal barrier dysfunction. Although DSS did not affect the mice’s humoral response to β-lg, in combination with β-lg, it significantly altered their cellular response, affecting the induction and distribution of T cells in the inductive and peripheral tissues and the activation of immune mediators. Administration of β-lg to sensitized mice receiving DSS increased disease activity index (DAI) scores and pro-inflammatory cytokine activity, altered the distribution of claudins and zonulin 1 (ZO-1) in the colonic tissue, and negatively affected the balance and activity of the gut microbiota. Conclusions: The research model used appears attractive for studying food allergen sensitization, particularly in relation to the initial events leading to mucosal inflammation and the development of food hypersensitivity.
Quality of Life Factors in Adults with Eosinophilic Oesophagitis in New Zealand
Authors: McGarrigle Vicki , Swaminathan Akhilesh , Inns Stephen James
Published: October 2024

Background: Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is an immune-mediated oesophageal disorder causing dysphagia. Patients with EoE experience reduced QoL due to symptoms; however, this has not been assessed in the New Zealand population. The aim of this study was to assess QoL in patients with EoE in New Zealand. Methods: This observational study recruited participants from two New Zealand hospitals. Records were reviewed to confirm diagnoses, and consenting participants completed an electronic survey, consisting of the Dysphagia Symptom Questionnaire (DSQ) score and the QoL-specific EoE (EoE-QoL-A) questionnaire score. Correlation analysis examined the relationship between the DSQ and EoE-QoL-A scores. Differences in baseline variables were assessed. Univariate logistic regression assessed the association of variables with disease activity and QoL. Results: Fifty-four participants responded, and four were excluded due to incomplete surveys. The majority (76%) were male, and the median age was 47 years (IQR 42–58). The median DSQ was 49 (IQR 0–60), and the median EoE-QoL-A score was 68 (IQR 48–80). A reduced EoE-QoL-A score was associated with active disease (OR = 0.96,95% CI 0.926–0.995). Significant associations were found between disease activity and overall EoE-QoL-A score (r = −0.37, p < 0.01) as well as the sub-categories eating and diet (r = −0.54, p < 0.001), social (r = 0.30, p < 0.05), and emotional impact (r = −0.44, p < 0.01). The EOE-QoL-A score was higher in those on PPI (75 vs. 60, p = 0.02). Conclusion: This study identified a decreased quality of life (QoL) in individuals with EoE in New Zealand, aligning with international literature. The increased DSQ scores suggest a possible gap in current management approaches. The correlation between the DSQ and QoL highlights the need for improved care models of care for EoE.