bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration Targeting in the Shadan Porphyry Gold–Copper Deposit, Lut Block, Iran: Analysis of Spatial Distribution of Sheeted Veins and Lithogeochemical Data
Authors: Raeisi Davood , Hajsadeghi Saeid , Hosseinzadehsabeti Elham , Babazadeh Shahrouz , Lentz David R. , Santosh M.
Published: March 2023

The Lut Block is a potential porphyry-style mineralized region in Iran including the well-explored Shadan porphyry gold-copper deposit, which has an extensive zone of gold- and copper-bearing stockwork-like sheeted veins. The structural setting of this deposit is a key to understanding the genesis of the mineralization. Our field studies show that the mineralization occurs as steeply dipping ore bodies along NW–SE transpressional faults. The zones with a high frequency of veins and volume of veins have a NW–SE trend, which is closely related to transpressional faults. We propose that such a compressional regime inhibits focused ore-forming fluid flow to higher levels in the crust. After a local change in stress field, fluid depressurization and channeling along transpressional faults generated the sheeted veins. This indicates an important role of these transpressional faults in focusing and controlling mineralization within this porphyry deposit, which has important implications for the exploration of porphyry deposits on a regional scale. The spatial distribution of sheeted veins is used to examine gold anomalies from lithogeochemical data extracted by fractal models. The results show that a combination of high vein density and high vein volume areas with gold anomalies could result in identifying areas with greater potential at the deposit to regional scale.
Deciphering the Evolution of Adjacent Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) Systems Based on Radiogenic and Stable Isotopes, the Case of Ermioni, Argolis Peninsula, Ne Peloponnese, Greece
Authors: Triantafyllidis Stavros Savvas , Tombros Stylianos Fotios
Published: March 2023

The study follows previous work on Ermioni VMS and addresses in detail the formation and evolution of two adjacent VMS systems, Karakasi and Roro. It is based on a stable and radiogenic isotopic composition of sulfides and ganguefrom stringer (Karakasi) and massive (Roro) VMS ore. The isotopic geochemistry of Pb and noble gases (Ar-He) of pyrite from both sites indicates the development of a deep and evolved heat and possibly metal source attributed to subduction of radiogenic material (Pindos oceanic crust). The differences in the stable (Fe, S) and radiogenic (Sr, Ar) isotopic compositions between the two sites depict variation in the geologic environment of VMS formation, and in particular the effect of seawater. The higher δ57Fe and δ34S values of Roro massive pyrite are attributed to direct interaction of hot, ascending metal-bearing hydrothermal fluids with cold seawater. Karakasi stringer oreis characterized by higher 87Sr/86Sr ratios and radiogenic Ar values (as 40Ar/36Ar), indicating interaction of ore-bearing, hydrothermal fluids with crustal material (hanging-wall turbidites). During the approximate 0.5 Ma period separating the two systems, the hydrothermal system migrated from east to west, and at the same time evolved from free discharge on the seafloor (Roro—easterly), resembling contemporary seafloor style and mound-shaped massive sulfides, to a sediment-confined, subseafloor system (Karakasi—westerly).
Research on Reducing Shrinkage Behavior of Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag Geopolymers Using Polymer Materials
Authors: Kuo Wen-Ten , Juang Chuen-Ul , Shiu Yu-Wei
Published: March 2023

Geopolymers are a new type of environmentally friendly cement-based material with serious drying shrinkage problems. In order to overcome this problem and improve the engineering performance and durability of geopolymers, in this study we added 0%, 0.3%, 0.5%, 0.7%, and 0.9% polymer materials, namely, polyacrylamide, sodium polyacrylate, and sodium tetraborate, respectively, to geopolymers to reduce their degree of shrinkage. We also assessed changes in their length and durability to determine how the addition of polymer materials could reduce their degree of shrinkage. The results indicate that 0.7% sodium tetraborate yielded the most favored shrinkage, and, through imaging technology, the crack change at the age of 0–3 days was measured, during which polyacrylamide (PAM) effectively slowed down the dimensions of crack propagation by 0.47% compared with the control group.
The Application of Hyperspectral Imaging Technologies for the Prediction and Measurement of the Moisture Content of Various Agricultural Crops during the Drying Process
Authors: Taghinezhad Ebrahim , Szumny Antoni , Figiel Adam
Published: March 2023

Drying is one of the common procedures in the food processing steps. The moisture content (MC) is also of crucial significance in the evaluation of the drying technique and quality of the final product. However, conventional MC evaluation methods suffer from several drawbacks, such as long processing time, destruction of the sample and the inability to determine the moisture of single grain samples. In this regard, the technology and knowledge of hyperspectral imaging (HSI) were addressed first. Then, the reports on the use of this technology as a rapid, non-destructive, and precise method were explored for the prediction and detection of the MC of crops during their drying process. After spectrometry, researchers have employed various pre-processing and merging data techniques to decrease and eliminate spectral noise. Then, diverse methods such as linear and multiple regressions and machine learning were used to model and predict the MC. Finally, the best wavelength capable of precise estimation of the MC was reported. Investigation of the previous studies revealed that HSI technology could be employed as a valuable technique to precisely control the drying process. Smart dryers are expected to be commercialised and industrialised soon by the development of portable systems capable of an online MC measurement.
About the Formation of NH2OH+ from Gas Phase Reactions under Astrochemical Conditions
Authors: Dilena Gabriele , Pistillo Simone , Bodo Enrico
Published: March 2023

We present here an analysis of several possible reactive pathways toward the formation of hydroxylamine under astrochemical conditions. The analysis is based on ab initio quantum chemistry calculations. Twenty-one bimolecular ion–molecule reactions have been studied and their thermodynamics presented. Only one of these reactions is a viable direct route to hydroxylamine. We conclude that the contribution of gas-phase chemistry to hydroxylamine formation is probably negligible when compared to its formation via surface grain chemistry. However, we have found several plausible gas-phase reactions whose outcome is the hydroxylamine cation.
Discovery of N,4-Di(1H-pyrazol-4-yl)pyrimidin-2-amine-Derived CDK2 Inhibitors as Potential Anticancer Agents: Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation
Authors: Fanta Biruk Sintayehu , Lenjisa Jimma , Teo Theodosia , Kou Lianmeng , Mekonnen Laychiluh , Yang Yuchao , Basnet Sunita K. C. , Hassankhani Ramin , Sykes Matthew J. , Yu Mingfeng , Wang Shudong
Published: March 2023

Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) has been garnering considerable interest as a target to develop new cancer treatments and to ameliorate resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors. However, a selective CDK2 inhibitor has yet to be clinically approved. With the desire to discover novel, potent, and selective CDK2 inhibitors, the phenylsulfonamide moiety of our previous lead compound 1 was bioisosterically replaced with pyrazole derivatives, affording a novel series of N,4-di(1H-pyrazol-4-yl)pyrimidin-2-amines that exhibited potent CDK2 inhibitory activity. Among them, 15 was the most potent CDK2 inhibitor (Ki = 0.005 µM) with a degree of selectivity over other CDKs tested. Meanwhile, this compound displayed sub-micromolar antiproliferative activity against a panel of 13 cancer cell lines (GI50 = 0.127–0.560 μM). Mechanistic studies in ovarian cancer cells revealed that 15 reduced the phosphorylation of retinoblastoma at Thr821, arrested cells at the S and G2/M phases, and induced apoptosis. These results accentuate the potential of the N,4-di(1H-pyrazol-4-yl)pyrimidin-2-amine scaffold to be developed into potent and selective CDK2 inhibitors for the treatment of cancer.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Clathrate-like Ordering of Water in Supersaturated Methane Solution at Low Pressure
Authors: Belosludov Rodion V. , Gets Kirill V. , Zhdanov Ravil K. , Bozhko Yulia Y. , Belosludov Vladimir R. , Chen Li-Jen , Kawazoe Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2023

Using molecular dynamics, the evolution of a metastable solution for “methane + water” was studied for concentrations of 3.36, 6.5, 9.45, 12.2, and 14.8 mol% methane at 270 K and 1 bar during 100 ns. We have found the intriguing behavior of the system containing over 10,000 water molecules: the formation of hydrate-like structures is observed at 6.5 and 9.45 mol% concentrations throughout the entire solution volume. This formation of “blobs” and the following amorphous hydrate were studied. The creation of a metastable methane solution through supersaturation is the key to triggering the collective process of hydrate formation under low pressure. Even the first stage (0–1 ns), before the first fluctuating cavities appear, is a collective process of H-bond network reorganization. The formation of fluctuation cavities appears before steady hydrate growth begins and is associated with a preceding uniform increase in the water molecule’s tetrahedrality. Later, the constantly presented hydrate cavities become the foundation for a few independent hydrate nucleation centers, this evolution is consistent with the labile cluster and local structure hypotheses. This new mechanism of hydrogen-bond network reorganization depends on the entropy of the cavity arrangement of the guest molecules in the hydrate lattice and leads to hydrate growth.
Structural Characterization, In Vitro Digestion Property, and Biological Activity of Sweet Corn Cob Polysaccharide Iron (III) Complexes
Authors: Xiu Weiye , Wang Xin , Yu Shiyou , Na Zhiguo , Li Chenchen , Yang Mengyuan , Ma Yongqiang
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to enhance the utilization value of sweet corn cob, an agricultural cereal byproduct. Sweet corn cob polysaccharide-ron (III) complexes were prepared at four different temperatures (40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C, and 70 °C). It was demonstrated that the complexes prepared at different temperatures were successfully bound to iron (III), and there was no significant difference in chemical composition; and SCCP-Fe-C demonstrated the highest iron content. The structural characterization suggested that sweet corn cob polysaccharide (SCCP) formed stable β-FeOOH iron nuclei with −OH and −OOH. All the four complexes’ thermal stability was enhanced, especially in SCCP-Fe-C. In vitro iron (III) release experiments revealed that all four complexes were rapidly released and acted as iron (III) supplements. Moreover, in vitro antioxidant, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase inhibition studies revealed that the biological activities of all four complexes were enhanced compared with those of SCCP. SCCP-Fe-B and SCCP-Fe-C exhibited the highest in vitro antioxidant, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase inhibition abilities. This study will suggest using sweet corn cobs, a natural agricultural cereal byproduct, in functional foods. Furthermore, we proposed that the complexes prepared from agricultural byproducts can be used as a potential iron supplement.
Hytrel-like Copolymers Based on Furan Polyester: The Effect of Poly(Butylene Furanoate) Segment on Microstructure and Mechanical/Elastic Performance
Authors: Kwiatkowska Magdalena , Kowalczyk Inez , Rozwadowski Zbigniew , Piesowicz Elżbieta , Szymczyk Anna
Published: March 2023

This paper aims to compare the performance of two Hytrel-like segmented copolymers: “classic” PBT-b-PTMG and fully bio-based PBF-b-PTMG, containing poly(butylene furanoate) as the rigid segment. The idea behind this research is to assess whether the sustainable copolymers can successfully replace those “classic” once at the thermoplastic elastomers’ market. Two series of copolymers were synthesized under the same process parameters, had the same compositions, but differed in aromatic ring structure in terephthalate/furanoate unit. Furthermore, the materials were processed by injection moulding as typical Hytrel products. Then, the samples were subjected to extensive characterisation including NMR, GPC, FTIR, DSC, WAXS, DMTA, TGA techniques and mechanical tests with particular interest in the microstructure formed during processing and its effect on the copolymers’ mechanical and elastic behaviour. The detailed analysis proved that PBF-b-PTMG and PBT-b-PTMG copolymers represent two kinds of materials with similar chemical structure, some features of thermoplastic elastomers, but evident differences in their physical properties.
Fabrication and Properties of the Multifunctional Rapid Wound Healing Panax notoginseng@Ag Electrospun Fiber Membrane
Authors: Gao Zhaoju , Liu Songlin , Li Shangfei , Shao Xinzhe , Zhang Pingping , Yao Qingqiang
Published: March 2023

The Panax notoginseng@Ag core/shell electrospun fiber membrane was prepared by coaxial electrospinning combined with the UV reduction method (254 nm). The prepared Panax notoginseng@Ag core/shell nanofiber membrane has a three-dimensional structure, and its swelling ratio could reach as high as 199.87%. Traditional Chinese medicine Panax notoginseng can reduce inflammation, and the silver nanoparticles have antibacterial effects, which synergistically promote rapid wound healing. The developed Panax notoginseng@Ag core/shell nanofiber membrane can effectively inhibit the growth of the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli and the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. The wound healing experiments in Sprague Dawley mice showed that the wound residual area rate of the Panax notoginseng@Ag core/shell electrospun nanofiber membrane group was only 1.52% on day 9, and the wound of this group basically healed on day 12, while the wound residual area rate of the gauze treatment group (control group) was 16.3% and 10.80% on day 9 and day 12, respectively. The wound of the Panax notoginseng@Ag core/shell electrospun nanofiber membrane group healed faster, which contributed to the application of the nanofiber as Chinese medicine rapid wound healing dressings.
Study of MDM2 as Prognostic Biomarker in Brain-LGG Cancer and Bioactive Phytochemicals Inhibit the p53-MDM2 Pathway: A Computational Drug Development Approach
Authors: Biswas Partha , Bibi Shabana , Yousafi Qudsia , Mehmood Asim , Saleem Shahzad , Ihsan Awais , Dey Dipta , Hasan Zilani Md. Nazmul , Hasan Md. Nazmul , Saleem Rasha , Awaji Aeshah A. , Fahmy Usama A. , Abdel-Daim Mohamed M.
Published: March 2023

An evaluation of the expression and predictive significance of the MDM2 gene in brain lower-grade glioma (LGG) cancer was carried out using onco-informatics pipelines. Several transcriptome servers were used to measure the differential expression of the targeted MDM2 gene and search mutations and copy number variations. GENT2, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, Onco-Lnc, and PrognoScan were used to figure out the survival rate of LGG cancer patients. The protein–protein interaction networks between MDM2 gene and its co-expressed genes were constructed by Gene-MANIA tool. Identified bioactive phytochemicals were evaluated through molecular docking using Schrödinger Suite Software, with the MDM2 (PDB ID: 1RV1) target. Protein–ligand interactions were observed with key residues of the macromolecular target. A molecular dynamics simulation of the novel bioactive compounds with the targeted protein was performed. Phytochemicals targeting MDM2 protein, such as Taxifolin and (-)-Epicatechin, have been shown with more highly stable results as compared to the control drug, and hence, concluded that phytochemicals with bioactive potential might be alternative therapeutic options for the management of LGG patients. Our once informatics-based designed pipeline has indicated that the MDM2 gene may have been a predictive biomarker for LGG cancer and selected phytochemicals possessed outstanding interaction results within the macromolecular target’s active site after utilizing in silico approaches. In vitro and in vivo experiments are recommended to confirm these outcomes.
Fermented Aronia melanocarpa Inhibits Melanogenesis through Dual Mechanisms of the PI3K/AKT/GSK-3β and PKA/CREB Pathways
Authors: Kim Da Hee , Shin Dong Wook , Lim Beong Ou
Published: March 2023

UV light causes excessive oxidative stress and abnormal melanin synthesis, which results in skin hyperpigmentation disorders such as freckles, sunspots, and age spots. Much research has been carried out to discover natural plants for ameliorating these disorders. Aronia melanocarpa contains various polyphenolic compounds with antioxidative activities, but its effects on melanogenesis have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of fermented Aronia melanocarpa (FA) fermented with Monascus purpureus on melanogenesis and its underlying mechanism in the B16F10 melanoma cell line. Our results indicate that FA inhibited tyrosinase activity and melanogenesis in alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced B16F10 cells. FA significantly downregulated the PKA/CREB pathway, resulting in decreased protein levels of tyrosinase, TRP-1, and MITF. FA also inhibited the transcription of MITF by increasing the phosphorylation levels of both GSK3β and AKT. Interestingly, we demonstrated that these results were owing to the significant increase in gallic acid, a phenolic compound of Aronia melanocarpa produced after the fermentation of Monascus purpureus. Taken together, our research suggests that Aronia melanocarpa fermented with Monascus purpureus acts as a melanin inhibitor and can be used as a potential cosmetic or therapeutic for improving hyperpigmentation disorders.
Divergence of Liver Lipidomes in Tibetan and Yorkshire Pigs Living at Different Altitudes
Authors: Luo Wei , Xu Yisha , Gu Xuedong , Zhang Jiamin , Wang Jinqiu , Geng Fang
Published: March 2023

The Tibetan pig is a characteristic breed of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau with distinct physiological and meat quality attributes. The liver lipid profile can offer an important perspective to explore the uniqueness of Tibetan pigs. A quantitative comparison of liver lipidomes revealed significant differences in the lipid profiles between Tibetan and Yorkshire pigs raised at different altitudes. The abundance of lipids in the livers of pigs raised at a high altitude was higher than that of pigs raised at a lower altitude, whereas the abundance of lipids in the livers of Yorkshire pigs was higher than that of Tibetan pigs raised at the same altitude. Of the 1101 lipids identified, 323 and 193 differentially abundant lipids (DALs) were identified in the pairwise comparisons of Tibetan and Yorkshire pigs raised at different altitudes, respectively. The DALs of Tibetan pigs consisted mainly of 161 triglycerides, along with several acylcarnitines, represented by carnitine C2:0, and significant changes in the abundance of some phospholipids. The DALs of Yorkshire pigs were more complex, with significant increases in the abundance of triglycerides, cholesteryl esters, and free fatty acids, and decreases in the abundance of some phospholipids. This research provides strong theoretical and data support for the high-quality development of the highland livestock industry.
Design and Synthesis of 3-(β-d-Glucopyranosyl)-4-amino/4-guanidino Pyrazole Derivatives and Analysis of Their Glycogen Phosphorylase Inhibitory Potential
Authors: Kun Sándor , Mathomes Rachel T. , Docsa Tibor , Somsák László , Hayes Joseph M.
Published: March 2023

Glycogen phosphorylase (GP) is a key regulator of glucose levels and, with that, an important target for the discovery of novel treatments against type 2 diabetes. β-d-Glucopyranosyl derivatives have provided some of the most potent GP inhibitors discovered to date. In this regard, C-β-d-glucopyranosyl azole type inhibitors proved to be particularly effective, with 2- and 4-β-d-glucopyranosyl imidazoles among the most potent designed to date. His377 backbone C=O hydrogen bonding and ion–ion interactions of the protonated imidazole with Asp283 from the 280s loop, stabilizing the inactive state, were proposed as crucial to the observed potencies. Towards further exploring these features, 4-amino-3-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-5-phenyl-1H-pyrazole (3) and 3-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-4-guanidino-5-phenyl-1H-pyrazole (4) were designed and synthesized with the potential to exploit similar interactions. Binding assay experiments against rabbit muscle GPb revealed 3 as a moderate inhibitor (IC50 = 565 µM), but 4 displayed no inhibition at 625 µM concentration. Towards understanding the observed inhibitions, docking and post-docking molecular mechanics—generalized Born surface area (MM-GBSA) binding free energy calculations were performed, together with Monte Carlo and density functional theory (DFT) calculations on the free unbound ligands. The computations revealed that while 3 was predicted to hydrogen bond with His377 C=O in its favoured tautomeric state, the interactions with Asp283 were not direct and there were no ion–ion interactions; for 4, the most stable tautomer did not have the His377 backbone C=O interaction and while ion–ion interactions and direct hydrogen bonding with Asp283 were predicted, the conformational strain and entropy loss of the ligand in the bound state was significant. The importance of consideration of tautomeric states and ligand strain for glucose analogues in the confined space of the catalytic site with the 280s loop in the closed position was highlighted.
Naphth[1,2-d]imidazoles Bioactive from β-Lapachone: Fluorescent Probes and Cytotoxic Agents to Cancer Cells
Authors: Santos Victória Laysna dos Anjos , Gonsalves Arlan de Assis , Guimarães Délis Galvão , Simplicio Sidney Silva , Oliveira Helinando Pequeno de , Ramos Lara Polyana Silva , Costa Marcília Pinheiro da , Oliveira Fátima de Cássia Evangelista de , Pessoa Claudia , Araújo Cleônia Roberta Melo
Published: March 2023

Theranostics combines therapeutic and imaging diagnostic techniques that are extremely dependent on the action of imaging agent, transporter of therapeutic molecules, and specific target ligand, in which fluorescent probes can act as diagnostic agents. In particular, naphthoimidazoles are potential bioactive heterocycle compounds to be used in several biomedical applications. With this aim, a group of seven naphth[1,2-d]imidazole compounds were synthesized from β-lapachone. Their optical properties and their cytotoxic activity against cancer cells and their compounds were evaluated and confirmed promising values for molar absorptivity coefficients (on the order of 103 to 104), intense fluorescence emissions in the blue region, and large Stokes shifts (20–103 nm). Furthermore, the probes were also selective for analyzed cancer cells (leukemic cells (HL-60). The naphth[1,2-d]imidazoles showed IC50 between 8.71 and 29.92 μM against HL-60 cells. For HCT-116 cells, values for IC50 between 21.12 and 62.11 μM were observed. The selective cytotoxicity towards cancer cells and the fluorescence of the synthesized naphth[1,2-d]imidazoles are promising responses that make possible the application of these components in antitumor theranostic systems.
Ideal Adsorbed Solution Theory (IAST) of Carbon Dioxide and Methane Adsorption Using Magnesium Gallate Metal-Organic Framework (Mg-gallate)
Authors: Ismail Marhaina , Bustam Mohamad Azmi , Kari Nor Ernie Fatriyah , Yeong Yin Fong
Published: March 2023

Ideal Adsorbed Solution Theory (IAST) is a predictive model that does not require any mixture data. In gas purification and separation processes, IAST is used to predict multicomponent adsorption equilibrium and selectivity based solely on experimental single-component adsorption isotherms. In this work, the mixed gas adsorption isotherms were predicted using IAST calculations with the Python package (pyIAST). The experimental CO2 and CH4 single-component adsorption isotherms of Mg-gallate were first fitted to isotherm models in which the experimental data best fit the Langmuir model. The presence of CH4 in the gas mixture contributed to a lower predicted amount of adsorbed CO2 due to the competitive adsorption among the different components. Nevertheless, CO2 adsorption was more favorable and resulted in a higher predicted adsorbed amount than CH4. Mg-gallate showed a stronger affinity for CO2 molecules and hence contributed to a higher CO2 adsorption capacity even with the coexistence of a CO2/CH4 mixture. Very high IAST selectivity values for CO2/CH4 were obtained which increased as the gas phase mole fraction of CO2 approached unity. Therefore, IAST calculations suggest that Mg-gallate can act as a potential adsorbent for the separation of CO2/CH4 mixed gas.
Nanomaterial with Core–Shell Structure Composed of {P2W18O62} and Cobalt Homobenzotrizoate for Supercapacitors and H2O2-Sensing Applications
Authors: Zhang Lanyue , Di Shan , Lin Hong , Wang Chunmei , Yu Kai , Lv Jinghua , Wang Chunxiao , Zhou Baibin
Published: March 2023

Designing and preparing dual-functional Dawson-type polyoxometalate-based metal–organic framework (POMOF) energy storage materials is challenging. Here, the Dawson-type POMOF nanomaterial with the molecular formula CoK4[P2W18O62]@Co3(btc)2 (abbreviated as {P2W18}@Co-BTC, H3btc = 1,3,5-benzylcarboxylic acid) was prepared using a solid-phase grinding method. XRD, SEM, TEM et al. analyses prove that this nanomaterial has a core–shell structure of Co-BTC wrapping around the {P2W18}. In the three-electrode system, it was found that {P2W18}@Co-BTC has the best supercapacitance performance, with a specific capacitance of 490.7 F g−1 (1 A g−1) and good stability, compared to nanomaterials synthesized with different feedstock ratios and two precursors. In the symmetrical double-electrode system, both the power density (800.00 W kg−1) and the energy density (11.36 Wh kg−1) are greater. In addition, as the electrode material for the H2O2 sensor, {P2W18}@Co-BTC also exhibits a better H2O2-sensing performance, such as a wide linear range (1.9 μM–1.67 mM), low detection limit (0.633 μM), high selectivity, stability (92.4%) and high recovery for the detection of H2O2 in human serum samples. This study provides a new strategy for the development of Dawson-type POMOF nanomaterial compounds.
Silver Nanoclusters Tunable Visible Emission and Energy Transfer to Yb3+ Ions in Co-Doped GeO2-PbO Glasses for Photonic Applications
Authors: Amaro Augusto Anselmo , Mattos Guilherme Rodrigues da Silva , Nishimura Marcos Vinicius de Morais , Dipold Jessica , Wetter Niklaus Ursus , Kassab Luciana Reyes Pires
Published: March 2023

This work investigates the optical properties of Yb3+ ions doped GeO2-PbO glasses containing Ag nanoclusters (NCs), produced by the melt-quenching technique. The lack in the literature regarding the energy transfer (ET) between these species in these glasses motivated the present work. Tunable visible emission occurs from blue to orange depending on the Yb3+ concentration which affects the size of the Ag NCs, as observed by transmission electron microscopy. The ET mechanism from Ag NCs to Yb3+ ions (2F7/2 → 2F5/2) was attributed to the S1→T1 decay (spin-forbidden electronic transition between singlet–triplet states) and was corroborated by fast and slow lifetime decrease (at 550 nm) of Ag NCs and photoluminescence (PL) growth at 980 nm, for excitations at 355 and 405 nm. The sample with the highest Yb3+ concentration exhibits the highest PL growth under 355 nm excitation, whereas at 410 nm it is the sample with the lowest concentration. The restriction of Yb3+ ions to the growth of NCs is responsible for these effects. Thus, higher Yb3+ concentration forms smaller Ag NCs, whose excitation at 355 nm leads to more efficient ET to Yb3+ ions compared to 410 nm. These findings have potential applications in the visible to near-infrared regions, such as tunable CW laser sources and photovoltaic devices.
Correlation Analysis between Strength and Defect of Nano-Cementitious Composites using Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity
Authors: Shin Yangsub , Cho Sanghyeon , Yun Hyojeong , Chung Wonseok
Published: March 2023

Recently, researchers are conducting studies to improve the mechanical and chemical properties of cementitious composites mixed with nanomaterials. Defects may occur inside nano-cementitious composites due to nanomaterial agglomeration in the manufacturing process. These defects can degrade the mechanical performance of the nano-cementitious composite. This study performs ultrasonic non-destructive and compressive strength tests according to the size of defects in nano-cementitious composites. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used for the nanomaterial, and internal defects of various sizes were considered in the center of the specimens. Ultrasonic pulse velocity was measured according to the defect size until 30 curing days, after which the compressive strength was measured. The ultrasonic pulse velocity of the nano-cementitious composites decreased by up to 9.6% in relation to that of the specimens without defects as the defect size increased, and the compressive strength decreased by up to 35.7%. This study’s findings revealed a correlation between ultrasonic pulse velocity and compressive strength according to defect size. Future ultrasonic non-destructive tests will allow for the prediction of mechanical performance and the detection of defects within nano-cementitious composites.
Promotion of the Efficient Electrocatalytic Production of H2O2 by N,O- Co-Doped Porous Carbon
Authors: Sun Lina , Sun Liping , Huo Lihua , Zhao Hui
Published: March 2023

H2O2 generation via an electrochemical two-electron oxygen reduction (2e− ORR) is a potential candidate to replace the industrial anthraquinone process. In this study, porous carbon catalysts co-doped by nitrogen and oxygen are successfully synthesized by the pyrolysis and oxidation of a ZIF-67 precursor. The catalyst exhibits a selectivity of ~83.1% for 2e− ORR, with the electron-transferring number approaching 2.33, and generation rate of 2909.79 mmol g−1 h−1 at 0.36 V (vs. RHE) in KOH solution (0.1 M). The results prove that graphitic N and –COOH functional groups act as the catalytic centers for this reaction, and the two functional groups work together to greatly enhance the performance of 2e− ORR. In addition, the introduction of the –COOH functional group increases the hydrophilicity and the zeta potential of the carbon materials, which also promotes the 2e− ORR. The study provides a new understanding of the production of H2O2 by electrocatalytic oxygen reduction with MOF-derived carbon catalysts.
Silicate Dissolution Mechanism from Metakaolinite Using Density Functional Theory
Authors: Izadifar Mohammadreza , Ukrainczyk Neven , Koenders Eduardus
Published: March 2023

Metakaolin (MK) is a high-quality, reactive nanomaterial that holds promising potential for large-scale use in improving the sustainability of cement and concrete production. It can replace cement due to its pozzolanic reaction with calcium hydroxide and water to form cementitious compounds. Therefore, understanding the dissolution mechanism is crucial to fully comprehending its pozzolanic reactivity. In this study, we present an approach for computing the activation energies required for the dissolution of metakaolin (MK) silicate units at far-from-equilibrium conditions using the improved dimer method (IDM) and the transition-state theory (TST) within density functional theory (DFT). Four different models were prepared to calculate the activation energies required for breaking oxo-bridging bonds between silicate or aluminate units. Our results showed that the activation energy for breaking the oxo-bridging bond to a silicate neighbor is higher than that to an aluminate neighbor due to the ionic interaction. However, for complete silicate tetrahedra dissolution, a higher activation energy is required for breaking the oxo-bridging bond to the aluminate neighbor compared to the silicate neighbor. The findings provide methodology for missing input data to predict the mesoscopic dissolution rate, e.g., by the atomistic kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) upscaling approach.
A Dose-Dependent Association between Alcohol Consumption and Incidence of Proteinuria and Low Glomerular Filtration Rate: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Yamamoto Ryohei , Li Qinyan , Otsuki Naoko , Shinzawa Maki , Yamaguchi Makoto , Wakasugi Minako , Nagasawa Yasuyuki , Isaka Yoshitaka
Published: March 2023

Previous cohort studies have reported conflicting associations between alcohol consumption and chronic kidney disease, characterized by proteinuria and low glomerular filtration rate (GFR). This systematic review, which included 14,634,940 participants from 11 cohort studies, assessed a dose-dependent association of alcohol consumption and incidence of proteinuria and low estimated GFR (eGFR) of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Compared with non-drinkers, the incidence of proteinuria was lower in drinkers with alcohol consumption of ≤12.0 g/day (relative risk 0.87 [95% confidence interval 0.83, 0.92]), but higher in drinkers with alcohol consumption of 36.1–60.0 g/day (1.09 [1.03, 1.15]), suggesting a J-shaped association between alcohol consumption and the incidence of proteinuria. Incidence of low eGFR was lower in drinkers with alcohol consumption of ≤12.0 and 12.1–36.0 than in non-drinkers (≤12.0, 12.1–36.0, and 36.1–60.0 g/day: 0.93 [0.90, 0.95], 0.82 [0.78, 0.86], and 0.89 [0.77, 1.03], respectively), suggesting that drinkers were at lower risk of low eGFR. In conclusion, compared with non-drinkers, mild drinkers were at lower risk of proteinuria and low eGFR, whereas heavy drinkers had a higher risk of proteinuria but a lower risk of low eGFR. The clinical impact of high alcohol consumption should be assessed in well-designed studies.
Consumption of Nutritionally Enriched Hen Eggs Enhances Endothelium-Dependent Vasodilation via Cyclooxygenase Metabolites in Healthy Young People—A Randomized Study
Authors: Šušnjara Petar , Mihaljević Zrinka , Stupin Ana , Kolobarić Nikolina , Matić Anita , Jukić Ivana , Kralik Zlata , Kralik Gordana , Miloloža Anđelina , Pavošević Tihana , Šerić Vatroslav , Lončarić Zdenko , Kerovec Darko , Galović Olivera , Drenjančević Ines
Published: March 2023

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of enriched hen egg consumption on endothelium-dependent vasodilation (EDV) and the role of cyclooxygenases in EDV in the microcirculation of young healthy individuals. This study hypothesizes that Nutri4 eggs will improve endothelial function, which will be manifested by changes in microcirculatory flow measured by a laser Doppler flowmeter (LDF) during reactive hyperemia in response to vascular occlusion, in which n-3 PUFA plays an important role as well as its degradation pathway by cyclooxygenases. Materials and Methods: Participants consumed three eggs per day for three weeks: The control group (CTRL, n = 14) consumed regular hen eggs (approximately 0.330 mg of lutein, 1.785 mg of vitamin E, 0.054 mg of selenium and 438 mg of n-3 PUFAs daily) and Nutri4 group (n = 20) consumed enriched eggs (approximately 1.85 mg of lutein, 0.06 mg of selenium, 3.29 mg of vitamin E, and 1026 mg of n-3 PUFAs daily). Skin microvascular blood flow in response to EDV (post-occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) and iontophoresis of acetylcholine (AChID)) and sodium nitroprusside (SNPID; endothelium-independent) was assessed by laser Doppler flowmetry before and after dietary protocol and in a separate group of participants who were administered perorally 100 mg of indomethacin before microvascular response assessment. Arterial blood pressure, heart rate, serum lipid, and liver enzymes, anthropometric measurements, protein expression of cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), neuronal nitric oxide synthases (nNOS), inducible nitric oxide synthases (iNOS), and endothelial nitric oxide synthases (eNOS) were measured before and after dietary protocol. Results: PORH and AChID were significantly enhanced, and SNPID remained unchanged in the Nutri4 group, while none was changed in the CTRL following a respective diet. PORH decreased after administration of indomethacin in Nutri4 after dietary protocol. Protein expression of COX-2 was significantly higher in the Nutri4 group compared to the CTRL after the dietary protocol. Conclusion: Consumption of enriched eggs improves microvascular EDV in healthy young subjects. Results suggest an element of n-3 PUFAs metabolites via the cyclooxygenases pathway in enhanced reactive hyperemia.
Twelve-Week Safety and Potential Lipid Control Efficacy of Coffee Cherry Pulp Juice Concentrate in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Rungraung Numphung , Muangpracha Niramol , Trachootham Dunyaporn
Published: March 2023

Coffee cherry pulp, a major waste product from coffee manufacturing, contains polyphenols with antioxidant activity. However, its clinical safety and health benefits are unclear. This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the safety and potential efficacy of coffee cherry pulp juice concentrate. A total of 61 participants were randomly divided into a study group (n = 30), receiving the juice, and a control group (n = 31), receiving a placebo drink of 14 g twice daily for 12 weeks. Adverse symptoms, changes in body weight, hematological and biochemical parameters, vital signs, and heart function were evaluated using subject diaries, interviews, blood and urine tests, and electrocardiograms. The results showed no intervention-related adverse events. Body weight, liver, renal function, complete blood counts, blood glucose, urinalysis, and electrocardiograms were not significantly altered throughout the study. Consuming the juice for at least 8 weeks significantly decreased cholesterol and LDL levels. The glucose levels were maintained significantly better than those of the placebo group. The findings suggest that continuously consuming 28 g/day of coffee pulp juice concentrate for 12 weeks is safe in healthy volunteers. Future studies could employ a dose of ≤28 g/day to investigate the efficacy of this novel food, especially for preventing dyslipidemia and diabetes.
Bioimpedance Patterns and Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA) of Body Builders
Authors: Petri Cristian , Micheli Matteo Levi , Izzicupo Pascal , Timperanza Niccolò , Lastrucci Tommaso , Vanni Daniele , Gulisano Massimo , Mascherini Gabriele
Published: March 2023

Bodybuilders are athletes characterized by high muscle mass. During competitions, the evaluation is performed based on aesthetic parameters. The study aims to provide normative references of body composition with the vector bioimpedance methodology (BIVA). A second aim is to compare BIVA assessments performed on both sides and the upper and lower body. A group of 68 elite bodybuilders (41 males aged 30.1 ± 9.2 years and 27 females aged 32.1 ± 8.0 years) was enrolled. A BIVA assessment was performed the day before the 2021 World Natural Bodybuilding Federation Italian Championships. As a result, male and female bodybuilders ranked to the left in the BIVA ellipse relative to the general population. Furthermore, unlike females, males also ranked lower than the general athletic population. In addition, in the symmetry assessment, males show a significantly greater upper body than the lower, right, and left parts, while in women, this is observed for the lower part of the body. The differences in the results obtained between males and females can be attributed to the different patterns of endocrine production between the sexes and the different criteria used by the juries to attribute the final score during the competitions. Therefore, BIVA references in bodybuilders could help adjust the training and nutritional program during the peak week before a competition.
Longevity-Associated Core Gut Microbiota Mining and Effect of Mediated Probiotic Combinations on Aging Mice: Case Study of a Long-Lived Population in Guangxi, China
Authors: Li Rui-Ding , Zheng Wen-Xuan , Zhang Qin-Ren , Song Yao , Liao Yan-Ting , Shi Feng-Cui , Wei Xiao-Hui , Zhou Fan , Zheng Xiao-Hua , Tan Kai-Yan , Li Quan-Yang
Published: March 2023

With an ageing population, healthy longevity is becoming an important scientific concern. The longevity phenomenon is closely related to the intestinal microflora and is highly complicated; it is challenging to identify and define the core gut microbiota associated with longevity. Therefore, in this study, 16S rRNA sequencing data were obtained from a total of 135 faecal samples collected as part of the latest sampling and pre-collection initiative in the Guangxi longevity area, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to find a mediumpurple3 network module significantly associated with the Guangxi longevity phenomenon. Five core genera, namely, Alistipes, Bacteroides, Blautia, Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group, and Lactobacillus, were identified via network analysis and random forest (RF) in this module. Two potential probiotic strains, Lactobacillus fermentum and Bacteroides fragilis, were further isolated and screened from the above five core genera, and then combined and used as an intervention in naturally ageing mice. The results show a change in the key longevity gut microbiota in mice toward a healthy longevity state after the intervention. In addition, the results show that the probiotic combination effectively ameliorated anxiety and necrosis of hippocampal neuronal cells in senescent mice, improving their antioxidant capacity and reducing their inflammation levels. In conclusion, this longer-term study provides a new approach to the search for longevity hub microbiota. These results may also provide an important theoretical reference for the healthification of the intestinal microflora in the general population, and even the remodelling of the structure of the longevity-state intestinal microflora.
An Update of Evidence for Pathogen Transmission by Ticks of the Genus Hyalomma
Authors: Bonnet Sarah I. , Bertagnoli Stéphane , Falchi Alessandra , Figoni Julie , Fite Johanna , Hoch Thierry , Quillery Elsa , Moutailler Sara , Raffetin Alice , René-Martellet Magalie , Vourc’h Gwenaël , Vial Laurence
Published: March 2023

Current and likely future changes in the geographic distribution of ticks belonging to the genus Hyalomma are of concern, as these ticks are believed to be vectors of many pathogens responsible for human and animal diseases. However, we have observed that for many pathogens there are no vector competence experiments, and that the level of evidence provided by the scientific literature is often not sufficient to validate the transmission of a specific pathogen by a specific Hyalomma species. We therefore carried out a bibliographical study to collate the validation evidence for the transmission of parasitic, viral, or bacterial pathogens by Hyalomma spp. ticks. Our results show that there are very few validated cases of pathogen transmission by Hyalomma tick species.
Small Ruminant Piroplasmosis: High Prevalence of Babesia aktasi n. sp. in Goats in Türkiye
Authors: Ulucesme Mehmet Can , Ozubek Sezayi , Karoglu Aleyna , Turk Zeliha Irem , Olmus Irem , Irehan Bunyamin , Aktas Munir
Published: March 2023

Small ruminant piroplasmosis is the hemoparasitic infection of sheep and goats caused by Babesia and Theileria species responsible for clinical infections with high mortality outcomes. The disease is transmitted by ixodid ticks and prevalent in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including Türkiye. A prevalence survey, using molecular methods, is conducted in this study to determine the frequency of newly defined Babesia aktasi n. sp. and other tick-borne piroplasm species in small ruminants in Turkiye. A total of 640 blood samples from sheep (n = 137) and goats (n = 503) were analyzed by nested PCR-based reverse line blot (RLB) hybridization. The results show that 32.3% (207/640) of apparently healthy, small ruminants are infected with three Theileria and two Babesia species. Babesia aktasi n. sp. was the most prevalent species in goats, with 22.5% of samples being positive, followed by B. ovis (4%), T. ovis (2.8%), T. annulata (2.6%), and Theileria sp. (0.6%). None of the sheep samples were positive for Babesia aktasi n. sp.; however, 51.8% were infected with T. ovis. In conclusion, the findings reveal that B. aktasi n. sp. is highly prevalent in goats, but absent in sheep. In future studies, experimental infections will determine whether B. aktasi n. sp. is infectious to sheep, as well as its pathogenicity in small ruminants.
Risk Factors for Cytomegalovirus Infection and Its Impact on Survival after Living Donor Liver Transplantation in South Korea: A Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Yim Seung Hyuk , Choi Mun Chae , Kim Deok-Gie , Min Eun-Ki , Lee Jae Geun , Joo Dong Jin , Kim Myoung Soo
Published: March 2023

Cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common pathogen, causes infectious complications and affects long-term survival after transplantation. Studies examining living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) are limited. This study analyzed the risk factors for CMV infection and its impact on the survival of LDLT patients. A nested case–control design retrospectively analyzed data from 952 patients who underwent LDLT from 2005–2021. The incidence of CMV infection for the study cohort was 15.2% at 3 months for LDLT patients managed preemptively. Patients with CMV infections were matched with those without the infection at corresponding time points (index postoperative day) in a 1:2 ratio. Graft survival was significantly lower in the CMV infection group than in the control group. CMV infection was an independent risk factor for graft survival in the matched cohort (HR 1.93, p = 0.012). Independent risk factors for CMV infection were female sex (HR 2.4, p = 0.003), pretransplant MELD (HR 1.06, p = 0.004), pretransplant in-hospital stay (HR 1.83, p = 0.030), ABO incompatibility (HR 2.10, p = 0.009), donor macrovesicular steatosis ≥10% (HR 2.01, p = 0.030), and re-operation before index POD (HR 2.51, p = 0.035). CMV infection is an independent survival risk factor, and its risk factors should be included in the surveillance and treatment of CMV infections after LDLT.
Azithromycin and Sildenafil May Have Protective Effects on Retinal Ganglion Cells via Different Pathways: Study in a Rodent Microbead Model
Authors: Sela Tal Corina , Zahavi Alon , Friedman-Gohas Moran , Weiss Shirel , Sternfeld Amir , Ilguisonis Astrid , Badash Danielle , Geffen Noa , Ofri Ron , BarKana Yaniv , Goldenberg-Cohen Nitza
Published: March 2023

Decreased blood flow to the optic nerve (ON) and neuroinflammation are suggested to play an important role in the pathophysiology of glaucoma. This study investigated the potential neuroprotective effect of azithromycin, an anti-inflammatory macrolide, and sildenafil, a selective phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, on retinal ganglion cell survival in a glaucoma model, which was induced by microbead injection into the right anterior chamber of 50 wild-type (WT) and 30 transgenic toll-like receptor 4 knockout (TLR4KO) mice. Treatment groups included intraperitoneal azithromycin 0.1 mL (1 mg/0.1 mL), intravitreal sildenafil 3 µL, or intraperitoneal sildenafil 0.1 mL (0.24 μg/3 µL). Left eyes served as controls. Microbead injection increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which peaked on day 7 in all groups and on day 14 in azithromycin-treated mice. Furthermore, the retinas and ON of microbead-injected eyes showed a trend of increased expression of inflammatory- and apoptosis-related genes, mainly in WT and to a lesser extent in TLR4KO mice. Azithromycin reduced the BAX/BCL2 ratio, TGFβ, and TNFα levels in the ON and CD45 expression in WT retina. Sildenafil activated TNFα-mediated pathways. Both azithromycin and sildenafil exerted a neuroprotective effect in WT and TLR4KO mice with microbead-induced glaucoma, albeit via different pathways, without affecting IOP. The relatively low apoptotic effect observed in microbead-injected TLR4KO mice suggests a role of inflammation in glaucomatous damage.