bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunosensing for Early Detection of Rheumatoid Arthritis Biomarkers: Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies Based on Tilted-Fiber Bragg Grating Biosensor
Authors: Wen Hsin-Yi , Chiang Chia-Chin , Chen Rou-Yu , Ni Wei-Zhi , Weng Yu-Qiao , Yeh Yao-Tsung , Hsu Hsiang-Cheng
Published: February 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is regarded as a chronic, immune-mediated disease that leads to the damage of various types of immune cells and signal networks, followed by inappropriate tissue repair and organ damage. RA is primarily manifested in the joints, but also manifests in the lungs and the vascular system. This study developed a method for the in vitro detection of RA through cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies and antigens. The diameter of a tilted-fiber Bragg grating (TFBG) biosensor was etched to 50 μm and then bonded with CCP antigens and antibodies. The small variations in the external refractive index and the optical fiber cladding were measured. The results indicated that the self-assembled layer of the TFBG biosensor was capable of detecting pre- and post-immune CCP antigen and CCP peptide concentrations within four minutes. A minimum CCP concentration of 1 ng/mL was detected with this method. This method is characterized by the sensor’s specificity, ability to detect CCP reactions, user-friendliness, and lack of requirement for professional analytical skills, as the detections are carried out by simply loading and releasing the test samples onto the platform. This study provides a novel approach to medical immunosensing analysis and detection. Although the results for the detection of different concentrations of CCP antigen are not yet clear, it was possible to prove the concept that the biosensor is feasible even if the measurement is not easy and accurate at this stage. Further study and improvement are required.
N-Glycoprofiling of SLC35A2-CDG: Patient with a Novel Hemizygous Variant
Authors: Kodríková Rebeka , Pakanová Zuzana , Krchňák Maroš , Šedivá Mária , Šesták Sergej , Květoň Filip , Beke Gábor , Šalingová Anna , Skalická Katarína , Brennerová Katarína , Jančová Emília , Baráth Peter , Mucha Ján , Nemčovič Marek
Published: February 2023

Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are a group of rare inherited metabolic disorders caused by a defect in the process of protein glycosylation. In this work, we present a comprehensive glycoprofile analysis of a male patient with a novel missense variant in the SLC35A2 gene, coding a galactose transporter that translocates UDP-galactose from the cytosol to the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Isoelectric focusing of serum transferrin, which resulted in a CDG type II pattern, was followed by structural analysis of transferrin and serum N-glycans, as well as the analysis of apolipoprotein CIII O-glycans by mass spectrometry. An abnormal serum N-glycoprofile with significantly increased levels of agalactosylated (Hex3HexNAc4-5 and Hex3HexNAc5Fuc1) and monogalactosylated (Hex4HexNAc4 ± NeuAc1) N-glycans was observed. Additionally, whole exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing revealed de novo hemizygous c.461T > C (p.Leu154Pro) mutation in the SLC35A2 gene. Based on the combination of biochemical, analytical, and genomic approaches, the set of distinctive N-glycan biomarkers was characterized. Potentially, the set of identified aberrant N-glycans can be specific for other variants causing SLC35A2-CDG and can distinguish this disorder from the other CDGs or other defects in the galactose metabolism.
An Overview of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance Focusing on Non-Cirrhotic NAFLD Patients: A Challenge for Physicians
Authors: Cespiati Annalisa , Cinque Felice , Meroni Marica , Lombardi Rosa , Dongiovanni Paola , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica
Published: February 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of liver disease worldwide and it ranges from simple steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC represents the first liver tumor and the third source of cancer death. In the next few years, the prevalence of NAFLD and consequently of HCC is estimated to increase, becoming a major public health problem. The NAFLD-HCC shows several differences compared to other causes of chronic liver disease (CLD), including the higher percentage of patients that develop HCC in the absence of liver cirrhosis. In HCC surveillance, the international guidelines suggest a six months abdominal ultrasound (US), with or without alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) evaluation, in patients with cirrhosis and in a subgroup of patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. However, this screening program reveals several limitations, especially in NAFLD patients. Thus, new biomarkers and scores have been proposed to overcome the limits of HCC surveillance. In this narrative review we aimed to explore the differences in the HCC features between NAFLD and non-NAFLD patients, and those between NAFLD-HCC developed in the cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic liver. Finally, we focused on the limits of tumor surveillance in NAFLD patients, and we explored the new biomarkers for the early diagnosis of HCC.
A Multiple-Array SPRi Biosensor as a Tool for Detection of Gynecological–Oncological Diseases
Authors: Szymanska Beata , Lukaszewski Zenon , Hermanowicz-Szamatowicz Kinga , Gorodkiewicz Ewa
Published: February 2023

Diagnostics based on the determination of biomarkers in body fluids will be more successful when several biomarkers are determined. A multiple-array SPRi biosensor for the simultaneous determination of CA125, HE4, CEA, IL-6 and aromatase has been developed. Five individual biosensors were placed on the same chip. Each of them consisted of a suitable antibody covalently immobilized onto a gold chip surface via a cysteamine linker by means of the NHS/EDC protocol. The biosensor for IL-6 works in the pg mL−1 range, that for CA125 in the µg mL−1 range, and the other three within the ng mL−1 range; these are ranges suitable for the determination of biomarkers in real samples. The results obtained with the multiple-array biosensor are very similar to those obtained with a single biosensor. The applicability of the multiple biosensor was demonstrated using several examples of plasma from patients suffering from ovarian cancer and endometrial cyst. The average precision was 3.4% for the determination of CA125, 3.5% for HE4, 5.0% for CEA and IL-6, and 7.6% for aromatase. The simultaneous determination of several biomarkers may be an excellent tool for the screening of the population for earlier detection of diseases.
Proof of Concept for Sustainable Manufacturing of Neural Electrode Array for In Vivo Recording
Authors: Li Szu-Ying , Tseng Hsin-Yi , Chen Bo-Wei , Lo Yu-Chun , Shao Huai-Hsuan , Wu Yen-Ting , Li Ssu-Ju , Chang Ching-Wen , Liu Ta-Chung , Hsieh Fu-Yu , Yang Yi , Lai Yan-Bo , Chen Po-Chun , Chen You-Yin
Published: February 2023

Increasing requirements for neural implantation are helping to expand our understanding of nervous systems and generate new developmental approaches. It is thanks to advanced semiconductor technologies that we can achieve the high-density complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor electrode array for the improvement of the quantity and quality of neural recordings. Although the microfabricated neural implantable device holds much promise in the biosensing field, there are some significant technological challenges. The most advanced neural implantable device relies on complex semiconductor manufacturing processes, which are required for the use of expensive masks and specific clean room facilities. In addition, these processes based on a conventional photolithography technique are suitable for mass production, which is not applicable for custom-made manufacturing in response to individual experimental requirements. The microfabricated complexity of the implantable neural device is increasing, as is the associated energy consumption, and corresponding emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, resulting in environmental deterioration. Herein, we developed a fabless fabricated process for a neural electrode array that was simple, fast, sustainable, and customizable. An effective strategy to produce conductive patterns as the redistribution layers (RDLs) includes implementing microelectrodes, traces, and bonding pads onto the polyimide (PI) substrate by laser micromachining techniques combined with the drop coating of the silver glue to stack the laser grooving lines. The process of electroplating platinum on the RDLs was performed to increase corresponding conductivity. Sequentially, Parylene C was deposited onto the PI substrate to form the insulation layer for the protection of inner RDLs. Following the deposition of Parylene C, the via holes over microelectrodes and the corresponding probe shape of the neural electrode array was also etched by laser micromachining. To increase the neural recording capability, three-dimensional microelectrodes with a high surface area were formed by electroplating gold. Our eco-electrode array showed reliable electrical characteristics of impedance under harsh cyclic bending conditions of over 90 degrees. For in vivo application, our flexible neural electrode array demonstrated more stable and higher neural recording quality and better biocompatibility as well during the 2-week implantation compared with those of the silicon-based neural electrode array. In this study, our proposed eco-manufacturing process for fabricating the neural electrode array reduced 63 times of carbon emissions compared to the traditional semiconductor manufacturing process and provided freedom in the customized design of the implantable electronic devices as well.
Stroke-Related Alterations in the Brain’s Functional Connectivity Response Associated with Upper Limb Multi-Joint Linkage Movement
Authors: Chu Qitong , Guo Xin , Zhang Tengyu , Huo Congcong , Zhang Xuemin , Xu Gongcheng , Lun Zhaoxin , Cheng Shengcui , Xie Ping
Published: February 2023

Stroke is one of the primary causes of motor disorders, which can seriously affect the patient’s quality of life. However, the assessment of the upper limb affected by stroke is commonly based on scales, and the characteristics of brain reorganization induced by limb movement are not clear. Thus, this study aimed to investigate stroke-related cortical reorganization based on functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during upper limb multi-joint linkage movement with reference to the Fugl–Meyer Assessment of the upper extremities (FMA-UE). In total, 15 stroke patients and 15 healthy subjects participated in this study. The functional connectivity (FC) between channels and the regions of interest (ROI) was calculated by Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The results showed that compared with the control group, the FC between the prefrontal cortex and the motor cortex was significantly increased in the resting state and the affected upper limb’s multi-joint linkage movements, while the FC between the motor cortex was significantly decreased during the unaffected upper limb’s multi-joint linkage movements. Moreover, the significantly increased ROI FC in the resting state showed a significantly positive correlation with FMA-UE in stroke patients (p < 0.05). This study highlights a new biomarker for evaluating the function of movement in stroke patients and provides guidance for rehabilitation training.
Analysis of Pedestrian Behaviors in Subway Station Using Agent-Based Model: Case of Gangnam Station, Seoul, Korea
Authors: Kim Joo Young , Kim Young Ook
Published: February 2023

Numerous pedestrians interact with the subway station space by finding entrances into this closed area to use the subway system; further, they may use transfer transportation facilities or the complex functions nearby, such as commercial. Many studies examine pedestrian behaviors in subway stations, but most focus on special situations such as disasters and evacuation. Because it is important to analyze gait patterns in everyday situations, this study aims to verify the explanatory power of actual gait behavior by using space syntax theory in constructing an optimal agent-based model. To this end, first, pedestrian characteristics and space types are classified using pedestrian data from Gangnam Station. Second, the depthmapX program is used to develop an appropriate agent-based model for stations. Third, a simulation is run to calculate the frequency of the agent movement at each gate, which is matched with the observed pedestrian volume. Fourth, the relationship between the frequency of the agent movement and pedestrian volume is analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. The results show that although agent-based models have limitations in explaining pedestrian patterns in the entire subway station, they are capable of explaining these patterns along the shortest paths between ticket gates and station entrances.
Experimental and Analytical Modeling of Ground Displacement Induced by Dynamic Compaction in Granular Soils
Authors: Du Jifang , Zhang Yinqiu , Wu Shuaifeng , Dong Yu , Shi Junwei
Published: February 2023

Dynamic compaction (DC) is a ground treatment method that achieves soil densification effects using impact forces. The ground displacement of a crater induced by a hammer is often used for the determination of densification, but less attention has been paid to internal displacement in the ground. To establish an overall understanding of the displacements caused by DC, a laboratory experiment was conducted with sand. The experiment included four energy levels by changing the falling height of the hammer. Meanwhile, a calculation model based on stochastic media theory was proposed to calculate the displacement in the soil. The relationship between the geometric characteristics of the crater and the internal displacement of the soil was established in the model based on the experimental results. The ranges of the relevant parameters were determined, and the feasibility of the calculation model was verified. The model showed good consistency with the experimental data. By selecting the critical settlement, the model could be used to estimate the specific densification scope, including the reinforcement depth and radius. This method can provide a reference for the calculation and optimization of DC.
Differentiated Improvement Path of Carbon Emission Efficiency of China’s Provincial Construction Industry: A Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis Approach
Authors: Liu Hua , Yang Chengjian , Chen Zhaorong
Published: February 2023

Promoting carbon reduction in the construction sector is crucial to achieving China’s ‘double carbon’ target. However, due to the interaction of multiple factors, the carbon emission efficiency of Chinese construction industry (CEECI) varies from province to province, and the path to efficient CEECI is not uniform. This study aims to analyze the combined effects of multiple factors on CEECI and to explore the underlying logic behind the formation of efficient CEECI in the province, which measures the CEECI for 2018 and 2019 for 30 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities directly under the Central Government of China using the super-slack-based measure (Super-SBM), which includes non-desired outputs. From a group perspective, the qualitative comparative analysis method is applied to analyze the common mechanism of the regional economic development level, energy consumption structure, business management level, market openness, science, and technology innovation level on CEECI. The results show that the regional construction industry has three equivalent low-carbon development paths: “low energy management”, “scale management”, and “scale market opening”. Finally, according to the differences in regional resource endowments, differentiated paths suitable for the low-carbon development of the construction industry in different regions are proposed.
Analysis of Bearing Safety and Influencing Factors of Supporting Structures of Hydraulic Tunnels in Cold Regions Based on Frost Heave
Authors: Jiang Haibo , Zhai Dongsen , Shi Kebin , Xiang Pengfei
Published: February 2023

In order to study the bearing safety and influencing factors of the support structures of hydraulic tunnels in cold regions under the action of low-temperature frost heave, a mechanical model of the support structure and surrounding rock was established. Taking a hydraulic tunnel of a hydropower station in Xinjiang as the research object, a combination of field measurement and a numerical simulation method was adopted to study the bearing safety of the support structure during a period of freezing weather. Based on this model, the effects of different thermal expansion coefficients, temperature differences, and surrounding rock porosity on the bearing safety of the support structure in the low-temperature region were studied. From the calculation results, it was concluded that the simulation results of the numerical model established by using the mechanical model in this paper were in good agreement with the actual measurement results of the project. The circumferential freezing and compressive stresses at the arch waist of the supporting structure of the project were the largest, and significant plastic strain was generated near the arch waist. The displacement at the arch of the supporting structure was the largest, while the weak points were at the arch waist and arch top of the supporting structure. The coefficient of thermal expansion, greater temperature difference, and increased porosity of the surrounding rock all led to an increase in the rock freezing and swelling force to varying degrees, thus reducing the load-bearing safety of the supporting structure. The research results could provide a theoretical basis and a reliable mechanical and numerical simulation model for establishing the bearing safety of tunnels in the cold region.
Numerical Study on the Effect of Interface Dynamic Damage of Steel–Concrete Composite Beam Bridge Caused by High–Frequency Impact Load
Authors: Zhao Guan-Yuan , Zhu Li , Liu Wei , Zhao Jia-Cheng , Huo Jin-Xin
Published: February 2023

The group studs arrangement is applied to prefabricated composite beams to significantly improve construction speed. However, contact vibration exists in the unconstrained interface area of the high-speed railway composite beam during the operation period, which degrades the connecting performance of the composite beam and adversely affects the overall structure. In this study, finite element simulations of the vibration of concrete slabs and steel beams in the unconstrained interface area were carried out to obtain finite element models with damage. The effects of vibration damage on the degradation of the studs were investigated by push-out and pull-out tests using finite element simulation of the local specimen model. The macroscopic ontological models of the undamaged and previously damaged group studs were obtained. Compared with the specimen without damage, the ultimate bearing capacity of the pushed-out specimen with damage decreased by 24.8%; the ultimate slip decreased by 15%; and the stiffness decreased by 12.8%. The behavior of the pulled-out specimen with damage was almost the same as that of the specimen without damage. On this basis, a finite element model of the train–track–composite beam coupling system was established. The influence of the degradation of the connection on the coupling system with 300 km/h, 330 km/h, and 360 km/h train speeds was analyzed under the conditions of single-train driving and a two-train rendezvous. In the case of single-train travel, compared with the undamaged composite beam, the mid-span vertical displacements of the composite beams with damage increased by 13%, 8.38%, and 6.2% for train speeds of 360 km/h, 330 km/h, and 300 km/h, respectively; the transverse displacements increased by 24.2%, 15%, and 9.2%, respectively. In the case of a two-train rendezvous, the mid-span vertical displacements increased by 8.8%, 13.7%, and 12.8%, respectively; the transverse displacements increased by 26.4%, 53%, and 24.8%, respectively.
A Review of Coal and Biomass Hydrogasification: Process Layouts, Hydrogasifiers, and Catalysts
Authors: Saraceno Emilia , Ruocco Concetta , Palma Vincenzo
Published: February 2023

Despite the increasing need for chemicals and energy, the scenario in which fossil feedstocks can be completely replaced by renewables is currently unrealistic. Thus, the combination of biomass and non-renewable matrix-based (i.e., coal) technologies could provide a greener way toward the partial substitution of traditional fuels. The hydrogasification of carbonaceous feedstocks (coal and biomass) for the main production of CH4 offers a promising alternative to this end. However, hydrogasification has received very little attention, and the present review seeks to shed light on the process, reactor, and catalytic advances in the field. Independent of the selected matrices, various efforts have been devoted to the identification of efficient methods for the production of hydrogen feed to the gasifier and energy as well as the reduction in pollutant emissions from the plants. Moreover, the reactor configurations proposed are focused on the intensification of gas-solid contact to reduce by-product formation. The co-hydrogasification of both renewable and non-renewable feedstock is also reviewed, paying attention to the synergistic effect between the two matrices. In addition, due to the slow rates of hydrogasification reaction, the key role of catalysts and feedstock impurities on the reaction kinetics is discussed.
Targeting the ‘Undruggable’ Driver Protein, KRAS, in Epithelial Cancers: Current Perspective
Authors: Lam Kuen Kuen , Wong Siew Heng , Cheah Peh Yean
Published: February 2023

This review summarizes recent development in synthetic drugs and biologics targeting intracellular driver genes in epithelial cancers, focusing on KRAS, and provides a current perspective and potential leads for the field. Compared to biologics, small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) readily penetrate cells, thus being able to target intracellular proteins. However, SMIs frequently suffer from pleiotropic effects, off-target cytotoxicity and invariably elicit resistance. In contrast, biologics are much larger molecules limited by cellular entry, but if this is surmounted, they may have more specific effects and less therapy-induced resistance. Exciting breakthroughs in the past two years include engineering of non-covalent KRAS G12D-specific inhibitor, probody bispecific antibodies, drug–peptide conjugate as MHC-restricted neoantigen to prompt immune response by T-cells, and success in the adoptive cell therapy front in both breast and pancreatic cancers.
A Killer Disarmed: Natural Killer Cell Impairment in Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Arellano-Ballestero Helena , Sabry May , Lowdell Mark W.
Published: February 2023

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) treatment remains a big challenge due to the heterogeneous nature of the disease and its ability to progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The only curative option is allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), but most patients are unfit for this procedure and are left with only palliative treatment options, causing a big unmet need in the context of this disease. Natural killer (NK) cells are attractive candidates for MDS immunotherapy due to their ability to target myeloid leukemic cells without prior sensitization, and in recent years we have seen an arising number of clinical trials in AML and, recently, MDS. NK cells are reported to be highly dysfunctional in MDS patients, which can be overcome by adoptive NK cell immunotherapy or activation of endogenous NK cells. Here, we review the role of NK cells in MDS, the contribution of the tumor microenvironment (TME) to NK cell impairment, and the most recent data from NK cell-based clinical trials in MDS.
Thyroid Disorders Spectrum in Pediatric Endocrine Clinic; Seven-Year Experience of a Teaching Hospital in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Qahtani Mohammad H. , ElYahia Sufian A. , AlQahtani Abdulaziz S. , AlQahtani Abdulrahman J. , Alamer Abdulaziz A. , AlQahtani Sultan M. , Yousef Abdullah A. , Albuali Waleed H. , Awary Bassam H. , Aldajani Ala’a A. , Al Ghamdi Mohammed A.
Published: February 2023

Thyroid disorders constitute one of the major endocrine disorders in pediatric service. It includes a range of congenital versus acquired anatomic and/or functional thyroid diseases in growing children that has a spectrum of severity from severe intellectual disability effect to subclinical mild pathologies. This study was designed to analyze the demographic characteristics, clinical pattern, and severity of thyroid disorders in the pediatric endocrine clinic patients at the teaching hospital of the university over a 7-year duration. A total number of 148 patients with thyroid disorders were seen in pediatric Endocrine clinic during the time between January 2015 and December 2021. Female patients constitute 64% of them. Acquired Hypothyroidism was the commonest disorder; 34% of the cases followed by the congenital hypothyroidism (CH), then Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and 5.8% for others. While a very small percentage was acquired hyperthyroidism. The majority of referrals were from dermatology and other service for the screening of thyroid disease as association with other autoimmune diseases with percentage of 28.3%. Next was neck swelling manifestation in 22.6%. Thyroid disorders in children, both congenital and acquired, constitute an important medical issue for pediatricians to be aware of its variable presentations, and its potential serious health consequences on the affected children if not diagnosed and treated earlier. Acquired hypothyroidism constitutes more percentage of the thyroid disorders followed in the pediatric endocrinology outpatient clinics. Congenital hypothyroidism is the second most common thyroid disorder in the outpatient unit, having the most potential complications. These results support the international studies with the female predominance in most of thyroid disorders.
Molecular Aspects of Hypoxic Stress Effects in Chronic Ethanol Exposure of Neuronal Cells
Authors: Stoica Simona Isabelle , Onose Gelu , Pitica Ioana Madalina , Neagu Ana Iulia , Ion Gabriela , Matei Lilia , Dragu Laura Denisa , Radu Lacramioara-Elena , Chivu-Economescu Mihaela , Necula Laura Georgiana , Anghelescu Aurelian , Diaconu Carmen Cristina , Munteanu Constantin , Bleotu Coralia
Published: February 2023

Experimental models of a clinical, pathophysiological context are used to understand molecular mechanisms and develop novel therapies. Previous studies revealed better outcomes for spinal cord injury chronic ethanol-consuming patients. This study evaluated cellular and molecular changes in a model mimicking spinal cord injury (hypoxic stress induced by treatment with deferoxamine or cobalt chloride) in chronic ethanol-consuming patients (ethanol-exposed neural cultures (SK-N-SH)) in order to explain the clinical paradigm of better outcomes for spinal cord injury chronic ethanol-consuming patients. The results show that long-term ethanol exposure has a cytotoxic effect, inducing apoptosis. At 24 h after the induction of hypoxic stress (by deferoxamine or cobalt chloride treatments), reduced ROS in long-term ethanol-exposed SK-N-SH cells was observed, which might be due to an adaptation to stressful conditions. In addition, the HIF-1α protein level was increased after hypoxic treatment of long-term ethanol-exposed cells, inducing fluctuations in its target metabolic enzymes proportionally with treatment intensity. The wound healing assay demonstrated that the cells recovered after stress conditions, showing that the ethanol-exposed cells that passed the acute step had the same proliferation profile as the cells unexposed to ethanol. Deferoxamine-treated cells displayed higher proliferative activity than the control cells in the proliferation–migration assay, emphasizing the neuroprotective effect. Cells have overcome the critical point of the alcohol-induced traumatic impact and adapted to ethanol (a chronic phenomenon), sustaining the regeneration process. However, further experiments are needed to ensure recovery efficiency is more effective in chronic ethanol exposure.
Effect of C-Type Natriuretic Peptide (CNP) on Spermatozoa Maturation in Adult Rat Epididymis
Authors: Zhao Hu , Yu Yuejin , Mei Chunlei , Zhang Tianyu , Kang Yafei , Li Na , Huang Donghui
Published: February 2023

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is highly expressed in male reproductive tissues, such as the epididymis. The aim of this study is to explore the role of CNP in the maturation of rat epididymal spermatozoa. First, the expression levels of CNP and its specific natriuretic peptide receptor-B (NPR-B) were detected in various tissues of rats and epididymis at different stages after birth. Then a castrated rat model was established to analyze the relationship between testosterone and CNP/NPR-B expression in the epididymis. Finally, CNP and different inhibitors (NPR-B inhibitors, cGMP inhibitors) were used to incubate epididymal sperm in vitro to examine sperm mobility and expression of sperm maturation-related factors. The results showed CNP/NPR-B mRNAs were expressed in all tissues of rats, but were extremely highly expressed in male genital ducts (seminal vesicle, prostate and epididymis). The expression of CNP/NPR-B in epididymis was the highest at birth and the fifth week after birth. In the epididymis, CNP/NPR-B were highly expressed in the caput and located in the epididymal epithelial cells. After castration, the expression of CNP/NPR-B decreased sharply and was restored quickly after testosterone supplementation. In vitro, CNP could significantly promote the acquisition of epididymal sperm motility through the NPR-B/cGMP pathway and induce the expression of sperm maturation-related factors (such as Bin1b, Catsper 1, Dnah17, Fertilin). This study shows that CNP plays a role in epididymal sperm maturation. The mechanism of CNP is to promote the acquisition of epididymal sperm fluidity through the NPR-B/cGMP signaling pathway and also to regulate sperm maturation-related genes. Moreover, the expression of CNP/NPR-B was regulated by testosterone.
Dynamic Light Scattering: A Powerful Tool for In Situ Nanoparticle Sizing
Authors: Jia Zixian , Li Jiantao , Gao Lin , Yang Dezheng , Kanaev Andrei
Published: February 2023

Due to surface effects and quantum size effects, nanomaterials have properties that are vastly different from those of bulk materials due to surface effects. The particle size distribution plays an important role in chemical and physical properties. The measurement and control of this parameter are crucial for nanomaterial synthesis. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is a fast and non-invasive tool used to measure particle size, size distribution and stability in solutions or suspensions during nanomaterial preparation. In this review, we focus on the in situ sizing of nanomaterial preparation in the form of colloids, especially for metal oxide nanoparticles (MONs). The measuring principle, including an overview of sizing techniques, advantages and limitations and theories of DLS were first discussed. The instrument design was then investigated. Ex-situ and in situ configuration of DLS, sample preparations, measurement conditions and reaction cell design for in situ configuration were studied. The MONs preparation monitored by DLS was presented, taking into consideration both ex situ and in situ configuration.
Regional Conservation Assessment of the Threatened Species: A Case Study of Twelve Plant Species in the Farasan Archipelago
Authors: Al-Qthanin Rahmah N. , Alharbi Samah A.
Published: February 2023

Assessing species at the regional level for their conservation is a vital first step in identifying and prioritizing species for both ex situ and in situ conservation actions. The complex coastal geomorphology of the Farasan Archipelago gives rise to promontories and bays that fragment the coastal flora. Climate change studies, combined with a case study of anthropogenic land use changes such as urbanization, tourism, and fishing, highlight the threat to the fragmented plant populations. In this study, the regional IUCN categories and criteria have been used to assess the conservation status of twelve targeted taxa of the Farasan Archipelago based on the data collected during field surveys and a literature review. According to our results, six species have been categorized as endangered (EN), four species as vulnerable (VU), and two species as near threatened (NT). Compared to an earlier assessment at the global level, Avicennia marina and Rhizophora mucronata have been re-categorized with a high degree of threat and ten species have been assessed for the first time. An effective action plan for the protection of the coastal zone and inland area biodiversity of the Archipelago is crucial to reduce threats to the islands’ plants.
User Experience in Cosmetics: Perception Analysis Regarding the Use of an Anti-Aging Moisturizer
Authors: Idalgo Vasques Louise , Ricci Leonardi Gislaine
Published: February 2023

One of the most important characteristics of aging skin is dehydration, which is why the use of moisturizing products is very important, especially with increasing age. Thus, the user’s experience when using a product is interesting for the companies to develop specific cosmetics not only considering the physiological needs of each skin, but also according to the preference of a group if there is any. For this, a moisturizer was developed, containing an antioxidant active, ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, whose sensory characteristics were evaluated by 33 Brazilian women between 30 and 60 years old. The results showed that the formulation was well accepted by all subjects, regardless of their age group, initial hydration, or the presence of visible signs of skin aging. It is suggested that the presence of the active ingredient in different concentrations caused a different perception of the formula for specific attributes such as the aqueous residue, film formation, and the feelings of oiliness and stickiness to the skin after application. These results suggest that the perception of the sensory characteristics of the product was more related to the nature and proportion of the compounds than to the age of the subjects.
The Pandemic and Your Skin—Direct and Indirect Impact of COVID-19
Authors: Imran Mohammad , Jin Xuping , Ali Masood , Tapfumaneyi Pronalis , Lelasseur Pauline , Carlo Laure , Jude Axelle , Bourg Alice Le , Panchal Bhavesh , Dick Arianna , Paudel Keshav Raj , Hansbro Philip M. , Mohammed Yousuf
Published: February 2023

Apart from well-known respiratory symptoms, less frequent symptoms also appear as a direct result of COVID-19 infection, or as indirect effects of the recommended quarantine and related lifestyle changes. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on human skin is predominantly focused on in this article. Cutaneous manifestations, including redness, chilblain-like symptoms (COVID toes), hives or urticaria rash, water blisters, and fishing net-like red-blue patterns on the skin, may appear as accompanying or as systemic COVID-19 symptoms with potential lesions at different skin sites. These symptoms were related to skin phototypes and vitamin D deficiency. Moreover, Black, Asian, and minority ethnic origin patients are found to be more sensitive to COVID-19 infection than Caucasians because of vitamin D deficiency. The region of population with lighter skin phototypes have a significantly higher chance to develop cutaneous manifestations than population with dark skin. In addition, adverse effects, such as skin barrier damage and irritation, may also occur due to extensive personal protective equipment usage (e.g., masks, protective suits, and a few others) and predominately alcohol-based sanitizers. This manuscript covers various aspects of COVID-19 and its clinical skin manifestations.
Exploring Olive Pomace for Skincare Applications: A Review
Authors: Rodrigues Raquel , Alves Rita C. , Oliveira Maria Beatriz P. P.
Published: February 2023

The cosmetic industry is continuously searching for new active ingredients in an effort to attend to consumer demands which, in recent years, are focused on more natural and environmentally friendly products, obtained from sustainable resources. Nevertheless, they are required to provide cosmetologically appealing skincare products, ultimately with the purpose of improving skin appearance. The olive oil industry generates a large amount of liquid and semi-solid by-products such as olive pomace. Their phytotoxicity impairs safe disposal, so valorization strategies that promote by-product reuse are needed, which may include skincare products. Hydroxytyrosol is the main phenolic compound present in olive pomace and possesses biological effects that make it a desirable active compound for cosmetic formulations such as antioxidant and anti-aging activities as well as photoprotector, depigmenting, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory actions. Other compounds present in olive pomace can also have functional properties and skin-related benefits. However, the application of this by-product can be a challenge in terms of formulation’s design, stability, and proven efficacy, so appropriate methodologies should be used to validate its incorporation and may include extraction and further encapsulation of bioactive compounds in order to achieve effective and aesthetic appealing skincare products.
Potential of Icariin–Glucosamine Combination in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis by Topical Application: Development of Topical Formulation and In Vitro Permeation Study
Authors: Pikosz Katarzyna , Nowak Izabela , Feliczak-Guzik Agnieszka
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to develop a topically applied formulation with the potential to alleviate arthritis ailments. A combination of two active ingredients, icariin from Epimedium L. (Species: Epimedium Koreanum) extract as a potential promoter of chondrogenesis and glucosamine sulfate as a precursor of cartilage tissues, was tested. In permeation studies, the potential for skin permeation of both substances was confirmed; however, the in vitro release test did not accurately reflect the degree of skin permeation. The in vitro release of icariin was at a level of 15.0–19.0% for the plant-extract-derived icariin and 29.0–35.0% for the pure substance. The level of glucosamine sulfate release was 38.4% (on average). For icariin of both origins, the release results were higher than those obtained via oral administration (about 12.0%), which shows the potential superiority of topical application. In addition, the physicochemical parameters that affect the in vitro release and performance of topical formulations were addressed. This preliminary research and permeation analysis of the formulation produced a promising picture of its prospects regarding arthritis treatment, although further investigation is needed.
Labour Mobility and Foreign Direct Investment: India during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chattoraj Diotima , Ullah AKM Ahsan
Published: February 2023

COVID-19 has had a negative impact on the majority of rising economies since 2020. The economic effects of the majority of countries were mixed as a result of the lockdown measure they enacted. Economic conditions have a significant impact on the spread of pandemics, as history has proved. This article concentrates on India in order to ascertain the relationship between migration, FDI, and COVID-19. We undertake this study to determine whether labour movement (in/out) inside COVID-19 has an effect on FDI influx. Our research—based on qualitative secondary sources—reveals that multinational corporations prefer native workers over imported personnel in India due to the country’s abundant skilled manpower. This implies that multinational corporations can replace foreign workers with locally employed workers if they can find suitable candidates among the local labour force. According to our findings, FDI and skilled migration to India appear to be linked.
The Effects of Meteorological Factors on Grain Yield of Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica Beauv.) under Different Water Supply Conditions
Authors: Zhang Wenying , Wang Bianyin , Liu Binhui , Chen Zhaoyang , Lu Guanli , Bai Caihong , Ge Yaoxiang
Published: February 2023

Meteorological factors have significant impacts on crop yield. To account for the impact of meteorological factors on foxtail millet (Setaria italica Beauv.) production in different water conditions, a total of 38 collected varieties were grown in nine seasons from 2011 to 2020 (except 2016) under well-watered (WW) and water-stressed (WS) conditions. The results showed that there was a large seasonal variation in GY; the variation ranged from 4.92 t ha−1 to 6.95 t ha−1 under the WW treatment and from 3.50 t ha−1 to 5.77 t ha−1 under the WS treatment. The impacts of meteorological factors on foxtail millet under the WW and WS treatments were different; sunshine duration during the whole stage, vegetative stage and reproductive stage had the greatest impact under the WW treatment, while under the WS treatment, sunshine duration and the diurnal temperature range during the whole stage and reproductive stage were the greatest impact factors on grain yield. This work could help us in high-yield foxtail millet cultivation and breeding.
Study of the Bandgap and Crystal Structure of Cu4TiSe4: Theory vs. Experiment
Authors: Matyszczak Grzegorz , Sutuła Szymon , Jóźwik Paweł , Krawczyk Krzysztof , Woźniak Krzysztof
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the crystal structure and bandgap of the emerging material Cu4TiSe4 using both theoretical and experimental methods. We synthesized the title compound via solid-state synthesis from elements. The occurrence of the single crystals of the Cu4TiSe4 compound was proven by X-ray diffraction and EDX investigations. The resolved crystal structure proves the one recently reported for this compound. Additionally, we utilized the Uspex evolutionary algorithm for the prediction of the crystal structure of the Cu4TiSe4 compound and to check for the presence of potential polymorphs. It turns out that Cu4TiSe4 may theoretically occur in three different crystal structures (space groups: I-42m (no. 121), R3m (no. 160), and P-43m (no. 215)), in which the rhombohedral phase has the lowest energy. The ab initio study of the bandgap of Cu4TiSe4 showed that it is indirect for each polymorphic structure and varies in the range of 1.23–1.26 eV, while experimental investigation revealed a direct transition of energy of 1.35 eV, thus showing the potential of this compound for solar cell applications. Theoretical calculations suggested that the rhombohedral phase of Cu4TiSe4 should exhibit a negative or relatively low (0.64 eV) bandgap.
Study of Flow Pattern Defects and Oxidation Induced Stacking Faults in Czochralski Single-Crystal Silicon Growth
Authors: Yen Chao-Chun , Singh Anoop Kumar , Chung Yi-Min , Chou Hsin-Yu , Wuu Dong-Sing
Published: February 2023

This paper emphasizes that the furnace pressure, crucible rotation, and pulling rate have important effects on interstitial oxygen (Oi) concentrations and micro-defects during growth in a Czochralski single-crystal silicon (CZ-Si) growth furnace. Since oxygen in a silicon ingot influences minority carrier lifetime, different set-points of furnace pressure and crucible rotation were controlled to achieve different degrees of Oi. The Oi content has a positive correlation with furnace pressure and crucible rotation. Various numbers of micro-defects were generated under the influence of different pulling rates, owing to the transformation from liquid to solid. The sample also underwent Secco etching and a high-temperature wet oxidation to observe defects caused by the Oi concentration and pulling rate, namely, flow pattern defects (FPDs) and oxidation-induced stacking faults (OISFs). Optical microscopy was employed to confirm the surface topography, and for defect number counting, to observe the correlation between the defects and the minority carrier lifetime. The overall results show that the minority carrier lifetime is mainly dominated by OISFs under high Oi content and FPDs under low Oi content. Therefore, growth using a CZ-Si growth furnace should be carried out with low furnace pressure, low crucible rotation, and low pulling rate to reduce micro-defects.
Chirality as a Feature of the Crystal Structure of Lanthanide Ion Complexes—Some Simple Examples
Authors: Semenova Lioubov I. , Ling Irene , Sobolev Alexandre N.
Published: February 2023

Single-crystal X-ray structure determinations are reported for four lanthanide complexes, [Dy(bipy)2Cl2(OH2)2]Cl.H2O (bipy = 2,2′-bipyridine), 1; [La2(phen)2(O2CCH3)4(NO3)2] (phen = 1,10-phenanthroline), 2; [Lu(terpy)(O2CCH3)3].NaNO3 (terpy = 2,2′;6′,2″-terpyridine) 3; and [Lu(phen)(O2CH)3(OH2)].H2O, 4. Dispersion interactions within the stacked arrays of coordinated aza-aromatic units found in all four complexes appear to be a significant structural influence in the solid state. For complex 1, there are additional interactions beyond dispersion, which suggests that it may be the means whereby the Δ and Λ forms contribute to the overall chiral nature of the crystal. These weak intermolecular interactions were investigated in detail using the Hirshfeld surface analysis.
First Record of Osphya (Melandryidae: Osphyinae) from Chinese Mainland Based on Morphological Evidence and Mitochondrial Genome-Based Phylogeny of Tenebrionoidea
Authors: Liu Haoyu , Yuan Lilan , Wang Ping , Pan Zhao , Tong Junbo , Wu Gang , Yang Yuxia
Published: February 2023

Osphya Illiger (Melandryidae: Osphyinae) as a species-poor insect group, exhibits a widespread distribution in the Northern Hemisphere, however, the research of the genus is poorly documented especially in East Asia. Herein, an interesting species is discovered in Shennongjia National Natural Reserve (Hubei, China). The examination of morphological characters and comparisons with others show it to be a new member of Osphya, which is described under the name of O. sinensis sp. n. The characteristic photos and a key to the species of Osphya from East Asia are provided. Meanwhile, the mitochondrial genome of O. sinensis sp. n. is sequenced and annotated. Based on this obtained mitogenome and the publicly available data, we reconstructed the phylogeny of Tenebrionoidea by different cladistics methods to investigate the relationships between the new species with others. The results consistently recover O. sinensis sp. n. sister to O. bipunctata (Fabricius) with high supporting values, which further confirm the placement of the new species in the genus Osphya. This is the first time reporting the genus Osphya, the only representative genus of melandryid Osphyinae from mainland China, which enriches the diversity of beetles from the Chinese fauna at both generic and subfamilial levels.