bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Polarized SERS Based on Random Working Domains Composed of Nanorod Arrays for Self-Referenced Detection
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyu , Mao Deyuan , Zhao Shuangshuang , Wang Yuxia , Guo Xiaojie , Wang Yaxin , Gao Renxian , Zhang Yongjun
Published: August 2023

When Ag film is sputtered onto polystyrene (PS) spheres, the curved Ag nanocaps form with scattered Ag nanoparticles along the brim of the Ag nanocap. Ion etching results in parallel PS nanorods due to the masking effects of the scattered Ag nanoparticles when the Ag cap array is transferred to another substrate with the top down. The highly polarized SERS substrate of random working domains composed of parallel nanorods is prepared when another 5 nm film is deposited. The nanorod diameters range from 10 nm to 20 nm, depending on the sizes of the masking Ag nanoparticles prepared by the magnetron control system and the ion etching process. Compared with other techniques, our nanorods have the advantages of highly ordered patterns in each domain, which show the excellent behavior of the polarized SERS for all PS spheres. This polarized SERS substrate is used to detect thiram with a concentration as low as 10−9 M when the background noise is successfully removed by a self-reference technique.
Microstructure, Texture, and Anisotropic Properties of High-Strength Low-Alloy Steel
Authors: Wang Yangxin , Li Aijun , Hu Chundong , Guo Xiaofei , Li Xufei , Bi Wenzhen , Wei Xicheng , Dong Han
Published: August 2023

The effects of cold rolling reduction rates and recrystallization annealing temperature on the microstructure, texture, and anisotropic properties of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel were investigated using scanning electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction. The results revealed that the constituents of recrystallized, substructured, and deformed structures were strongly affected by cold rolling reduction rates ranging from 33.3% to 66.7% and recrystallization temperatures ranging from 780 to 840 °C. At an annealing temperature of 820 °C, when the cold rolling reduction rate was 33.3%, HSLA steel exhibited a low percentage of recrystallization, with cubic, γ-linear, rolled, and Z-texture (the texture at Euler angles φ1 = 30° and Φ = 20°–30°) structures. The rolled texture and Z-texture increased the strength anisotropy and disappeared at high cold rolling reduction rates. When the annealing temperature was increased from 780 °C to 820 °C, the proportion of recrystallized grains increased, the rolling texture disappeared, and grain orientation gradually gathered in the cubic texture and γ line texture, resulting in low anisotropy of strength. At an annealing temperature of 840 °C, the deformation of the grain disappeared; however, the anisotropy increased compared to annealing at 820 °C because of the formation of a new texture of {001}<−1–20>.
A Comparative Study for Creep and Recovery Behavior Characterization of Modified Bitumens Using the MSCR Test
Authors: Zeng Guodong , Zhang Jianjing , Huang Hongming , Xiao Xin , Yan Chuanqi
Published: August 2023

In recent decades, the application of modified bitumens has experienced tremendous growth. However, due to the varying modification mechanism of different modifiers, the creep and recovery properties of modified bitumen have not been comprehensively understood. This study aims to evaluate the creep and recovery properties of several representative modified bitumens using the multi-stress creep recovery (MSCR) test. The MSCR test can highlight the unique delayed elasticity of modified bitumen and it uses a high stress level, which is more comparable to the field. In particular, this test also aims to identify the effects of different aging conditions. To do so, a total of 15 bitumens, including 7 elastomeric-modified bitumens, 5 non-elastomeric-modified bitumens, and 3 plain bitumens, were prepared and examined. Furthermore, 10 different aging conditions were considered. The results suggest that the generation mechanism of elasticity varies for different modified bitumens. There are two types of elasticities, which are energy elasticity and entropy elasticity, and their differences need more attention in the road bitumen material community. Aging changes the percentages of contributions from energy elasticity and entropy elasticity to the bitumen’s overall recovery performance. The increase in “bad” energy elasticity may compensate for part of the “good” entropy elasticity loss, but overall, the bitumen’s recovery rate is decreasing and the ratio of energy elasticity is increasing, which might hinder the bitumen’s road performance.
A COVID-19 Overview from the Perspective of the Brazilian Kidney Transplantation Program
Authors: Requião-Moura Lúcio , Foresto Renato Demarchi , de Sandes-Freitas Tainá Veras , Medina-Pestana José
Published: August 2023

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has significantly affected kidney transplantation activities around the world, thus resulting in a substantial decrease in both deceased and living transplants. This study presents a COVID-19 overview from the perspective of the Brazilian kidney transplant program by comparing its differences or similarities with the situations observed in other countries. During the first year of the pandemic, there was a 40% reduction in the number of kidney transplants worldwide. A similar scenario was observed in Brazil, which has the world’s largest public transplantation program. Beyond its effect on transplant activity, COVID-19 has influenced the outcomes of prevalent kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) because the prolonged use of immunosuppressive drugs and comorbidities increase the susceptibility of such patients to severe disease and death. In the pre-vaccination era, almost two-thirds of KTRs required hospitalization, more than 20% required dialysis, and one-third was admitted to the intensive care unit. In the pre-vaccination period in Brazil, 15% and 21% of KTRs died within 28 and 90 days of COVID-19 diagnosis, respectively. Although high vaccination coverage rates have altered the COVID-19 landscape in many populations, persistently low immunogenicity rates following sequential vaccination shots and the absence of targeted treatments for severe cases continue to classify KTRs as highly vulnerable, thus warranting significant concern.
Scoping Review of Self-Directed Online Learning, Public School Students’ Mental Health, and COVID-19 in Noting Positive Psychosocial Outcomes with Self-Initiated Learning
Authors: Nash Carol
Published: August 2023

During COVID-19, self-directed learning, contrasted with standardized learning, became a necessary and promoted learning method in public schools—one potentially supportive of mental health regularly in public schools through the use of online learning. This is important because negative mental health has been classified as a global crisis, with the highest and lowest student achievers recognized as at greatest risk. Therefore, the conditions under which public school students’ mental health has been improved, leading to positive psychosocial outcomes, are relevant. Studies have identified that positive psychosocial outcomes in this regard require self-initiation of students’ self-directed learning. Also necessary is a reduction in the standardized expectations of parents to lead to positive psychosocial outcomes. Unknown is what research identifies the relevance of both self-initiated self-directed online learning and a reduction in parental expectations of standardization. To investigate this, self-directed learning, online learning, mental health, public schools, and COVID-19 were keywords searched following PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. The result: few returns considered either factor and those that did reinforce the need for both. The conclusion: self-initiated self-directed online learning supported by public schools and parents should be central in the aim of reducing the mental health crisis in students post COVID-19.
Elevated UTI Biomarkers in Symptomatic Patients with Urine Microbial Densities of 10,000 CFU/mL Indicate a Lower Threshold for Diagnosing UTIs
Authors: Parnell Laura K. S. , Luke Natalie , Mathur Mohit , Festa Richard A. , Haley Emery , Wang Jimin , Jiang Yan , Anderson Lori , Baunoch David
Published: August 2023

The literature lacks consensus on the minimum microbial density required for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs). This study categorized the microbial densities of urine specimens from symptomatic UTI patients aged ≥ 60 years and correlated them with detected levels of the immune response biomarkers neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β). The objective was to identify the microbial densities associated with significant elevation of these biomarkers in order to determine an optimal threshold for diagnosing symptomatic UTIs. Biobanked midstream voided urine samples were analyzed for microbial identification and quantification using standard urine culture (SUC) and multiplex-polymerase chain reaction (M-PCR) testing, while NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β levels were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β levels were all significantly elevated at microbial densities ≥ 10,000 cells/mL when measured via M-PCR (p < 0.0069) or equivalent colony-forming units (CFUs)/mL via SUC (p < 0.0104) compared to samples with no detectable microbes. With both PCR and SUC, a consensus of two or more elevated biomarkers correlated well with microbial densities > 10,000 cells/mL or CFU/mL, respectively. The association between ≥10,000 cells and CFU per mL with elevated biomarkers in symptomatic patients suggests that this lower threshold may be more suitable than 100,000 CFU/mL for diagnosing UTIs.
Functional MRI Lateralization [M1] of dlPFC and Implications for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Targeting
Authors: Surya Jean Rama , Habelhah Barshen , Haroon Jonathan , Mahdavi Kennedy , Jordan Kaya , Becerra Sergio , Venkatraman Victoria , Deveney Chloe , Bystritsky Alexander , Kuhn Taylor , Jordan Sheldon
Published: August 2023

The present study investigates a potential method of optimizing effective strategies for the functional lateralization of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) while in a scanner. Effective hemisphere lateralization of the dlPFC is crucial for lowering the functional risks connected to specific interventions (such as neurosurgery and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), as well as increasing the effectiveness of a given intervention by figuring out the optimal location. This task combines elements of creative problem solving, executive decision making based on an internal rule set, and working memory. A retrospective analysis was performed on a total of 58 unique participants (34 males, 24 females, Mage = 42.93 years, SDage = 16.38). Of these participants, 47 were classified as right-handed, 7 were classified as left-handed, and 4 were classified as ambidextrous, according to the Edinburgh Handedness Inventory. The imaging data were qualitatively judged by two trained, blinded investigators (neurologist and neuropsychologist) for dominant handedness (primary motor cortex) and dominant dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC). The results demonstrated that 21.4% of right-handed individuals showed a dominant dlPFC localized to the right hemisphere rather than the assumed left, and 16.7% of left-handers were dominant in their left hemisphere. The task completed in the scanner might be an efficient method for localizing a potential dlPFC target for the purpose of brain stimulation (e.g., TMS), though further study replications are needed to extend and validate these findings.
MAGNETO and DeepInsight: Extended Image Translation with Semantic Relationships for Classifying Attack Data with Machine Learning Models
Authors: Dunmore Aeryn , Dunning Adam , Jang-Jaccard Julian , Sabrina Fariza , Kwak Jin
Published: August 2023

The translation of traffic flow data into images for the purposes of classification in machine learning tasks has been extensively explored in recent years. However, the method of translation has a significant impact on the success of such attempts. In 2019, a method called DeepInsight was developed to translate genetic information into images. It was then adopted in 2021 for the purpose of translating network traffic into images, allowing the retention of semantic data about the relationships between features, in a model called MAGNETO. In this paper, we explore and extend this research, using the MAGNETO algorithm on three new intrusion detection datasets—CICDDoS2019, 5G-NIDD, and BOT-IoT—and also extend this method into the realm of multiclass classification tasks using first a One versus Rest model, followed by a full multiclass classification task, using multiple new classifiers for comparison against the CNNs implemented by the original MAGNETO model. We have also undertaken comparative experiments on the original MAGNETO datasets, CICIDS17, KDD99, and UNSW-NB15, as well as a comparison for other state-of-the-art models using the NSL-KDD dataset. The results show that the MAGNETO algorithm and the DeepInsight translation method, without the use of data augmentation, offer a significant boost to accuracy when classifying network traffic data. Our research also shows the effectiveness of Decision Tree and Random Forest classifiers on this type of data. Further research into the potential for real-time execution is needed to explore the possibilities for extending this method of translation into real-world scenarios.
A Fast Weight Control Strategy for Programmable Linear RAM Based on the Self-Calibrating Erase Operation
Authors: Li Yanfei , Liu Yinchi , Zhou Xinlong , Yang Jining , Li Zehui , Mei Yihang , Yu Wenjie , Zhu Bao , Wu Xiaohan , Ding Shijin , Liu Wenjun
Published: August 2023

Computing-in-memory (CIM) has attracted great attention due to the need for breaking through the “memory wall”. Programmable linear random-access memory (PLRAM) for high-precision weight control is proposed to tear down the wall. However, the slow programming algorithm to tune cells limits its application in multi-level memory. Herein, a fast weight control strategy for PLRAM based on the self-calibrating erase operation is presented. The unique sidewall tunneling oxide utilized in PLRAM for bi-directional Fowler–Nordheim tunneling results in the corner-enhanced poly-to-poly tunneling effect and the self-calibrating capability during the erase process. By adopting this strategy, the efficiency of weight tuning in the PLRAM array is improved by 51% compared with the current method. The worst case is 4.9 ms for erasure, which only needs to be verified 10 times. The improvement of weight tuning efficiency means further development in CIM for PLRAM and also shows the significant prospect of PLRAM used in multi-level memory.
Deconvolutional Neural Network for Generating Spray Trajectory of Shoe Soles
Authors: Li Jing , Wang Yuming , Li Lijun , Xiong Chao , Zhou Hongdi
Published: August 2023

The footwear industry is moving towards automation and intellectualization. To overcome the drawbacks of the high-cost and low-efficiency traditional manual shoe sole gluing process, automatic methods were utilized for generating spray trajectories. Currently, most of the reported automatic methods for generating spray trajectories mainly rely on the outer contour bias method. However, the glue is only applied to the area near the edge/contour of shoe soles and the fixed offset distance in the outer contour bias method cannot adapt to the immense amount of shoe styles with high precision and achieve applicability for irregular and unique sole designs. An intuitive yet logical approach to fulfill the requirements is to utilize the deconvolutional neural network for generating shoe sole spray trajectories. In this work, we treated the glue trajectory prediction as an image-to-image prediction and established a novel deconvolutional neural network to generate shoe sole spray trajectories. The as-proposed deconvolutional neural network for generating spray trajectory offered significant advantages over the existing bias-based methods, including: (1) based on the novel deconvolutional neural network, the proposed method for generating shoe sole spray trajectories exhibits greater applicability to irregular shoe soles, which improves the spray accuracy without compromising the spray efficiency; (2) we discard all the pooling layers, which only consist of convolutional and deconvolutional layers, to preserve more spatial information and achieve higher spray accuracy through end-to-end mapping from shoe sole images to shoe sole spray trajectories, resulting in an improved spray accuracy without sacrificing spray efficiency. The Dice similarity coefficient and Hausdorff distance were used as the evaluation metrics to assess the performance of our approach. Our proposed method showed an ultra-high accuracy and precision with a Dice similarity coefficient over 99.25% and a Hausdorff distance less than 1.2 mm, which are ~10% higher than the spray accuracy of other reported traditional methods. Our findings would bring significant improvements to the field of automatic shoe sole spray trajectory generation, which has the potential to promote the utilization of intelligent technologies in the footwear industry.
Delay-Sensitive Service Provisioning in Software-Defined Low-Earth-Orbit Satellite Networks
Authors: Dong Feihu , Zhang Yasheng , Liu Guiyu , Yu Hongzhi , Sun Chenhua
Published: August 2023

With the advancement of space technology and satellite communications, low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite networks have experienced rapid development in the past decade. In the vision of 6G, LEO satellite networks play an important role in future 6G networks. On the other hand, a variety of applications, including many delay-sensitive applications, are continuously emerging. Due to the highly dynamic nature of LEO satellite networks, supporting time-deterministic services in such networks is challenging. However, we can provide latency guarantees for most delay-sensitive applications through data plane traffic shaping and control plane routing optimization. This paper addresses the routing optimization problem for time-sensitive (TS) flows in software-defined low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite networks. We model the problem as an integer linear programming (ILP) model aiming to minimize path handovers and maximum link utilization while meeting TS flow latency constraints. Since this problem is NP-hard, we design an efficient longest continuous path (LCP) approximation algorithm. LCP selects the longest valid path in each topology snapshot that satisfies delay constraints. An auxiliary graph then determines the routing sequence with minimized handovers. We implement an LEO satellite network testbed with Open vSwitch (OVS) and an open-network operating system (ONOS) controller to evaluate LCP. The results show that LCP reduces the number of path handovers by up to 31.7% and keeps the maximum link utilization lowest for more than 75% of the time compared to benchmark algorithms. In summary, LCP achieves excellent path handover optimization and load balancing performance under TS flow latency constraints.
Evaluation of Soil Heavy Metal Contamination and Potential Human Health Risk inside Forests, Wildfire Forests and Urban Areas
Authors: Panico Speranza Claudia , Santorufo Lucia , Memoli Valeria , Esposito Francesco , Santini Giorgia , Di Natale Gabriella , Trifuoggi Marco , Barile Rossella , Maisto Giulia
Published: August 2023

Recently, due to rapid industrialization and urbanization, many studies have focused on the assessment of soil metal contamination. The present research aimed to investigate the concentration of potentially hazardous elements (Al, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, V and Zn) in three different areas (forest, wildfire forest and urban) of the Mediterranean region. Contamination levels were further assessed calculating different indices: contamination factor (CF), geo-accumulation index (GI) and ecological risk (E). The results showed high concentrations of V, Mg and Mn in forest and wildfire forest soils, as well as high concentrations of Al, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn in urban soils. According to the contamination indices, Pb exceeded the background level in both wildfire forest and urban soils. According to human risk assessment, inhalation appeared the main route of exposure of metals in soils, especially for children. The overall cancer risk was higher than the safe level, especially for Pb. Different relationships were found between the contamination indices and the potential risk of carcinogenic effects according to the diverse metal concentrations. Particularly, wildfire soils showed human health risks mainly linked to Pb, Cu and Cr contaminations, due to human activities, and Ni, due to both anthropogenic and pedogenetic input. Instead, the urban soils showed that Zn contamination, mainly related to urban traffic, influenced the potential carcinogenetic risk in this area. The carcinogenic risk was higher than acceptable values for all the metals assessed. These findings highlighted the need to develop further management practices to protect soils from metal pollution and reduce human health risks.
Excessive Gestational Weight Gain Alters DNA Methylation and Influences Foetal and Neonatal Body Composition
Authors: Argentato Perla Pizzi , Guerra João Victor da Silva , Luzia Liania Alves , Ramos Ester Silveira , Maschietto Mariana , Rondó Patrícia Helen de Carvalho
Published: August 2023

Background: Changes in body weight are associated with the regulation of DNA methylation (DNAm). In this study, we investigated the associations between maternal gestational weight gain-related DNAm and foetal and neonatal body composition. Methods: Brazilian pregnant women from the Araraquara Cohort Study were followed up during pregnancy, delivery, and after hospital discharge. Women with normal pre-pregnancy BMI were allocated into two groups: adequate gestational weight gain (AGWG, n = 45) and excessive gestational weight gain (EGWG, n = 30). Foetal and neonatal body composition was evaluated via ultrasound and plethysmography, respectively. DNAm was assessed in maternal blood using Illumina Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip arrays. Linear regression models were used to explore the associations between DNAm and foetal and neonatal body composition. Results: Maternal weight, GWG, neonatal weight, and fat mass were higher in the EGWG group. Analysis of DNAm identified 46 differentially methylated positions and 11 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) between the EGWG and AGWG groups. Nine human phenotypes were enriched for these 11 DMRs located in 13 genes (EMILIN1, HOXA5, CPT1B, CLDN9, ZFP57, BRCA1, POU5F1, ANKRD33, HLA-B, RANBP17, ZMYND11, DIP2C, TMEM232), highlighting the terms insulin resistance, and hyperglycaemia. Maternal DNAm was associated with foetal total thigh and arm tissues and subcutaneous thigh and arm fat, as well as with neonatal fat mass percentage and fat mass. Conclusion: The methylation pattern in the EGWG group indicated a risk for developing chronic diseases and involvement of maternal DNAm in foetal lean and fat mass and in neonatal fat mass.
Correction: Tan et al. Response of Fine-Root Traits of Populus tomentosa to Drought in Shallow and Deep Soil. Forests 2023, 14, 951
Authors: Tan Jianbiao , Yu Weichen , Liu Yang , Guo Youzheng , Liu Nan , Fu Haiman , Di Nan , Duan Jie , Li Ximeng , Xi Benye
Published: August 2023

In the original publication [...]
Evaluation of Growth and Production of High-Value-Added Metabolites in Scenedesmus quadricauda and Chlorella vulgaris Grown on Crude Glycerol under Heterotrophic and Mixotrophic Conditions Using Monochromatic Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Authors: Korozi Evagelina , Kefalogianni Io , Tsagou Vasiliki , Chatzipavlidis Iordanis , Markou Giorgos , Karnaouri Anthi
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to examine the impact of crude glycerol as the main carbon source on the growth, cell morphology, and production of high-value-added metabolites of two microalgal species, namely Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus quadricauda, under heterotrophic and mixotrophic conditions, using monochromatic illumination from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) emitting blue, red, yellow, and white (control) light. The findings indicated that both microalgae strains exhibited higher biomass yield on the mixotrophic growth system when compared to the heterotrophic one, while S. quadricauda generally performed better than C. vulgaris. In mixotrophic mode, the use of different monochromatic illumination affected biomass production differently on both strains. In S. quadricauda, growth rate was higher under red light (μmax = 0.89 d−1), while the highest biomass concentration and yield per gram of consumed glycerol were achieved under yellow light, reaching 1.86 g/L and Yx/s = 0.18, respectively. On the other hand, C. vulgaris demonstrated a higher growth rate on blue light (μmax = 0.45 d−1) and a higher biomass production on white (control) lighting (1.34 g/L). Regarding the production of metabolites, higher yields were achieved during mixotrophic mode in both strains. In C. vulgaris, the highest lipid (26.5% of dry cell weight), protein (63%), and carbohydrate (20.3%) contents were obtained under blue, red, and yellow light, respectively, thus indicating that different light wavelengths probably activate different metabolic pathways. Similar results were obtained for S. quadricauda with red light leading to higher lipid content, while white lighting caused higher production of proteins and carbohydrates. Overall, the study demonstrated the potential of utilizing crude glycerol as a carbon source for the growth and metabolite production of microalgae and, furthermore, revealed that the strains’ behavior varied depending on lighting conditions.
An Innovative Use of Propolis in the Production of Dipping Sauce Powder as a Functional Food to Mitigate Testicular Toxicity Induced by Cadmium Chloride: Technological and Biological Evidence
Authors: Sheir Marwa A. , Serrapica Francesco , Ahmed Rania A.
Published: August 2023

Propolis is a common natural ingredient used in food production, food packaging, and pharmaceutical products. Therefore, the aim of our study was to prepare dipping sauce powders as an innovative functional product with a regular and spicy taste from economical raw materials with high nutritional value. The developed products were fortified with propolis powder at 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg. All studied dipping sauces were subjected to a palatability test, a nutritional evaluation, and a microbiological assay performed during 6 months of storage. In addition, an in vivo study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of these products in preventing the testicular toxicity disorders induced by cadmium chloride (CdCl2) in albino rats. Based on the palatability test, the dipping sauces supplemented with propolis at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg were preferred. Moreover, all samples were safe to consume within 6 months. Biological results showed that all investigated propolis-enriched dipping sauce samples caused an improvement in all CdCl2-induced testicular histopathological and biochemical changes, especially the spicy dipping sauce powder fortified with 500 mg/kg of propolis.
Can Chocolate Be Classified as an Ultra-Processed Food? A Short Review on Processing and Health Aspects to Help Answer This Question
Authors: Ditchfield Cynthia , Kushida Marta Mitsui , Mazalli Monica R. , Sobral Paulo J. A.
Published: August 2023

Chocolate is a confectionery product whose consumption has increased, particularly dark chocolate. Chocolate is produced with varying amounts of cocoa liquor (CL), cocoa butter (CB) and cocoa powder (CP). The main chocolate types are dark, milk and white. Processing steps for chocolate production are described, and nutritional compositions examined for benefits and risks to health. Chocolate processing comprises steps at farm level, initial industrial processing for production of CL, CB and CP (common for all chocolate types) and mixing with other ingredients (like milk and sugar differing according to chocolate type) for industrial chocolate processing. All chocolate types present similar processing levels, and none involve chemical processing. Nutritional profiles of chocolate products differ according to composition, e.g., dark chocolate contains more CL, and so a higher antioxidant capacity. Chocolate is an energy-dense food rich in bioactive compounds (polyphenols, alkaloids, amino acids). Studies have demonstrated benefits of moderate consumption in reducing cardiovascular risk and oxidative and inflammatory burden, improving cognitive functions, maintaining diversity in gut microbiota, among others. In our view, chocolate should not be classified as an ultra-processed food because of simple processing steps, limited ingredients, and being an important part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
Fusarium Mycotoxins and OTA in Beer from Shanghai, the Largest Megacity in China: Occurrence and Dietary Risk Assessment
Authors: Xu Anqi , Zhou Haiyan , Yu Shenghao , Li Yiqi , Wang Lan , Wu Aibo , Liang Jiang , Peng Shaojie , Liu Na
Published: August 2023

Beer is susceptible to mycotoxin contamination originating from infected grains. It could be that mycotoxins are not completely removed during the brewing process and remain in the final product. Nevertheless, there have been no surveys of exposure to mycotoxin for Chinese inhabitants through beer consumption. This study aimed to investigate the presence of eight mycotoxins in 158 beer samples purchased in Shanghai, the largest megacity in China. The multiple mycotoxins determination was carried out using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Our findings revealed that 48.1% (76/158) of the beer samples were contaminated with Fusarium toxins. Deoxynivalenol-3-glucoside (D3G) and zearalenone (ZEN) were detected in 34.81% and 16.46% of the total samples, respectively. The significant differences between D3G/ZEN contamination and various beer types were performed. Furthermore, this study performed a health risk assessment for Shanghai residents based on data for Fusarium toxins and ochratoxin A (OTA) present in beer for the first time. The results revealed that the 95th percentile dietary exposures of Shanghai residents did not pose any chronic or acute health risks, either individually or in combination. Dietary exposures to Fusarium toxins revealed different risk levels among residents. The cumulative health risk for women is higher than that for men at the same beer consumption. In addition, the acute risk of DONs exposure for adults deserves concern. The insights obtained from this study may be of assistance for beer manufacturers and governmental regulators to further develop beer monitoring and guarantee public health.
Evaluation of Indigenous Yeasts Screened from Chinese Vineyards as Potential Starters for Improving Wine Aroma
Authors: Ge Xiaoxin , Wang Jie , Wang Xiaodi , Liu Yaqiong , Dang Chao , Suo Ran , Sun Jianfeng
Published: August 2023

Exploitation of the biodiversity of native wine yeast is a means of modifying the sensory characteristics of wine. Samples from different regions in China were analysed to screen native isolates as potential starter cultures. Through morphological and molecular biological analyses, we found six species, belonging to four genera (Hanseniaspora, Saccharomyces, Rhodotorula and Metschnikowia). These species were subjected to stress tolerance assays (ethanol, glucose, SO2 and pH), enzymatic activity tests (sulphite reductase activity, β-glucosidase activity and protease activity) and fermentation tests. Saccharomyces cerevisiae showed a high tolerance to ethanol and completed fermentation independently. Hanseniaspora demonstrated good enzymatic activity and completed sequential fermentation. The fermentation experiment showed that the PCT4 strain had the best aroma complexity. This study provides a reference for selecting new starters from the perspective of flavour enzymes and tolerance and diversifying the sensory quality of wines from the region.
Changes in the Fruit Quality Parameters of Medlar Fruit (Mespilus germanica L.) after Heat Treatment, Storage, Freezing or Hoarfrost
Authors: Mikulic-Petkovsek Maja , Jakljevic Katja , Veberic Robert , Hudina Metka , Rusjan Denis
Published: August 2023

The present study deals with the comparison of traditional fruit processing methods on medlar fruits and their effects on sugar content, organic acids, and phenolic composition in the medlar fruit variety ‘Domača nešplja’. The study aimed to analyze which processing methods can be used to make technologically mature medlar fruits that are not yet suitable for consumption edible and to maintain their good chemical quality. The two major sugars in medlars are fructose (59.30 g/kg FW) and glucose (54.43 g/kg FW), and the most abundant organic acids present are malic (8.44 g/kg FW) and quinic acid (8.77 g/kg FW). A total of 38 different phenolic compounds were identified in the medlar fruits: 13 phenolic acids, 9 flavanols, 1 flavone, 3 flavanones, and 12 flavonol glycosides. To explicate: phenolic acids (532.85 mg/kg FW) and flavanols (375.21 mg/kg FW) predominated; neochlorogenic acid had the highest content among phenolic acids; and procyanidins were the most abundant flavanols. The analysis observed statistical differences in metabolite content amongst fruits treated differently (technologically ripe fruits (harvested from the three fruits), edible fruits (technologically ripe fruits stored at 8 °C for 25 days), fruits exposed to the hoarfrost (temperature −1 °C to −4 °C), fruits heated at 60 °C (3 h), and frozen fruits (at −20 °C for 2 months). The lowest levels of fructose (191.77–195.1 g/kg DW) and sorbitol (29.35–31.3 g/kg DW) were detected in the heated and edible fruits. Edible fruits had a 30% lower content of organic acids than technologically ripe fruits and a five times lower content of flavanols, whereas flavonols had an 18.7 times lower content of phenolic acids than technologically ripe fruits. Heating the fruits to 60 °C resulted in a 40% increase in total phenolic compounds in medlars. The results of the study indicate that exposure of medlar fruit to hoarfrost does not significantly affect the chemical quality of the fruit and only minimally alters the composition of sugars, acids, and phenolic compounds. The processing of medlar fruit with hoarfrost, therefore, remains the most suitable method of fruit bletting.
Highly Efficient Synthesis of Rare Sugars from Glycerol in Endotoxin-Free ClearColi by Fermentation
Authors: Gao Yahui , Chen Zhou , Nakanishi Hideki , Li Zijie
Published: August 2023

Rare sugars possess potential applications as low-calorie sweeteners, especially for anti-obesity and anti-diabetes. In this study, a fermentation biosystem based on the “DHAP-dependent aldolases strategy” was established for D-allulose and D-sorbose production from glycerol in endotoxin-free ClearColi BL21 (DE3). Several engineering strategies were adopted to enhance rare sugar production. Firstly, the combination of different plasmids for aldO, rhaD, and yqaB expression was optimized. Then, the artificially constructed ribosomal binding site (RBS) libraries of aldO, rhaD, and yqaB genes were assembled individually and combinatorially. In addition, a peroxidase was overexpressed to eliminate the damage or toxicity from hydrogen peroxide generated by alditol oxidase (AldO). Finally, stepwise improvements in rare sugar synthesis were elevated to 15.01 g/L with a high yield of 0.75 g/g glycerol in a 3 L fermenter. This research enables the effective production of rare sugars from raw glycerol in high yields.
Ephemeral Mediterranean Watercourses Strongly Altered by Growth in Tourism: The Case of Benidorm (Spain)
Authors: García-Botella Estela , Ramón-Morte Alfredo
Published: August 2023

Many ephemeral Mediterranean watercourses are affected by the growth of tourism and the demand for holiday homes. Calculating the runoff threshold in these small basins is vital for understanding the impact generated by urban growth and its incidence on the increase in flood hazards. The reconstruction of paleochannels, as well as appropriate scalar analysis and the use of geographical information variables, are fundamental for the correct estimation of flood risk and the implementation of coherent territorial planning policies. This case study of the Barceló ravine in the city of Benidorm, Spain, demonstrates the importance of the correct and complementary use of official, standardised, and open databases. The correct use of these geoinformation repositories, together with the fieldwork and historical reconstruction of paleofloods, form the set of strategic information variables for the study of flooding in these altered and dangerous watercourses that affect touristic urban zones around the Mediterranean.
The Severity of Pain and Comorbidities Significantly Impact the Dependency on Activities of Daily Living among Musculoskeletal Patients in Jizan, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Zalah Mohammed A. , Alsobayel Hana I. , Algarni Fahad S. , Vennu Vishal , Ajeebi Zohoor H. , Maeshi Hatem M. , Bindawas Saad M.
Published: August 2023

Limited research has been carried out on the effects of pain, comorbidity, and impaired function in musculoskeletal patients in Jizan, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 115 patients (aged ≥ 55 years) with physician-diagnosed musculoskeletal conditions in Jizan to investigate the association between pain severity, comorbidities, and dependence on activities of daily living (ADLs). Self-reported questionnaires were used to collect data on pain, comorbidities, and physical function measured by ADLs. In ADLs, participants were categorized as dependent (n = 36) or independent (n = 79). Logistic regression analysis was employed to determine the predictors of dependence. The results showed that higher pain severity (adjusted odds ratio (OR): 1.69, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21–2.38, p = 0.002) and a greater number of comorbidities (adjusted OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.06–2.17, p = 0.021) were independently associated with dependence in ADLs. These associations remained significant even after controlling for covariates. This study concluded that patients with musculoskeletal conditions in Jizan who experience high levels of pain and comorbidities are at risk of dependence on basic daily activities. Therefore, addressing pain and comorbidities is crucial for maintaining independence and improving quality of life. Personalized rehabilitation programs are needed to manage these conditions in this region.
Vase Life Evaluation of Three Greek Tulip Species Compared with a Commercial Cultivar
Authors: Lykas Christos , Zografou Maria , Samartza Ioulietta , Sakellariou Michalia A. , Papakonstantinou Stylianos , Valanas Eleftherios , Plastiras Ioannis , Karapatzak Eleftherios , Krigas Nikos , Tsoktouridis Georgios
Published: August 2023

Aiming at evaluating new candidate species for the cut flower market of Greece and beyond, in this study, the vase life of three Greek tulip plant species, Tulipa cretica ‘Hilde’ (CRH, local endemic of Crete, Greece), T. clusiana ‘Chrysantha’ (CLC, naturalized in Chios Island, Greece), and T. australis (AUS, native in the Mediterranean and Greece), was investigated in comparison to the commercial tulip hybrid Île-de-France (IDF). To this end, pre-cooled at 4 °C bulbs of the abovementioned Greek tulip plant species were bought from Dutch nurseries and grown in pots placed in unheated greenhouses located at two different climatic conditions in Northern Greece. The plants were uprooted when the flowers reached a slightly open stage. Half of the flowering stems were immediately placed into bottles with deionized water, while the rest were placed in a preservative solution containing citric acid 5% and sulfuric acid 1% and then remained under laboratory conditions until the entire tepal wilted (end of vase life). The measurements performed concerned: (a) flower stem length and flower maximum diameter, (b) fresh weight (FW) of initial stems, leaves, flowers, and bulbs and at the end of vase life, (c) flower color parameters (L, a, b, c, and H) in all treated flowers, (d) leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD values), and (e) initial and final water volume after removing the flowering stems. The aforementioned measurements showed that CRH cut flowers may exhibit consistent floral opening patterns and were associated with a long mean vase life of 5.7 days, which can be further prolonged to 6.5 days by carefully selecting a cultivation location with proper climatic conditions. The vase life of CLC cut flowers was significantly affected by the climatic parameters (temperature) of the area where the plants were cultivated. The immersion of cut flowering stems in a preservative solution with citric and sulfuric acids did not yield a notable increase in the longevity of cut flowers during the postharvest period. Moreover, this treatment did not have any significant impact on leaf chlorophyll content or flower color at the end of the flowers’ vase life. The data of this work show that cut flowers from the native species T. cretica and T. clusiana have satisfactory vase life, especially when plants were grown in favorable climate condition; the latter is an important criterion for their entry into the cut flower market.
Rag1 Deficiency Impairs Arteriogenesis in Mice
Authors: Kumaraswami Konda , Arnholdt Christoph , Deindl Elisabeth , Lasch Manuel
Published: August 2023

Increasing evidence suggests that lymphocytes play distinct roles in inflammation-induced tissue remodeling and tissue damage. Arteriogenesis describes the growth of natural bypasses from pre-existing collateral arteries. This process compensates for the loss of artery function in occlusive arterial diseases. The role of innate immune cells is widely understood in the process of arteriogenesis, whereas the role of lymphocytes remains unclear and is the subject of the present study. To analyze the role of lymphocytes, we induced arteriogenesis in recombination activating gene-1 (Rag1) knockout (KO) mice by unilateral ligation of the femoral artery. The lack of functional lymphocytes in Rag1 KO mice resulted in reduced perfusion recovery as shown by laser Doppler imaging. Additionally, immunofluorescence staining revealed a reduced vascular cell proliferation along with a smaller inner luminal diameter in Rag1 KO mice. The perivascular macrophage polarization around the growing collateral arteries was shifted to more pro-inflammatory M1-like polarized macrophages. Together, these data suggest that lymphocytes are crucial for arteriogenesis by modulating perivascular macrophage polarization.
Liposome-Based Carriers for CRISPR Genome Editing
Authors: Yin Xing , Harmancey Romain , McPherson David D. , Kim Hyunggun , Huang Shao-Ling
Published: August 2023

The CRISPR-based genome editing technology, known as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), has sparked renewed interest in gene therapy. This interest is accompanied by the development of single-guide RNAs (sgRNAs), which enable the introduction of desired genetic modifications at the targeted site when used alongside the CRISPR components. However, the efficient delivery of CRISPR/Cas remains a challenge. Successful gene editing relies on the development of a delivery strategy that can effectively deliver the CRISPR cargo to the target site. To overcome this obstacle, researchers have extensively explored non-viral, viral, and physical methods for targeted delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 and a guide RNA (gRNA) into cells and tissues. Among those methods, liposomes offer a promising approach to enhance the delivery of CRISPR/Cas and gRNA. Liposomes facilitate endosomal escape and leverage various stimuli such as light, pH, ultrasound, and environmental cues to provide both spatial and temporal control of cargo release. Thus, the combination of the CRISPR-based system with liposome delivery technology enables precise and efficient genetic modifications in cells and tissues. This approach has numerous applications in basic research, biotechnology, and therapeutic interventions. For instance, it can be employed to correct genetic mutations associated with inherited diseases and other disorders or to modify immune cells to enhance their disease-fighting capabilities. In summary, liposome-based CRISPR genome editing provides a valuable tool for achieving precise and efficient genetic modifications. This review discusses future directions and opportunities to further advance this rapidly evolving field.
Identification of the Solid Stem Suppressor Gene Su-TdDof in Synthetic Hexaploid Wheat Syn-SAU-117
Authors: Li Hui , Liu Xin , Zhang Junqing , Chen Longyu , Zhang Minghu , Miao Yongping , Ma Pan , Hao Ming , Jiang Bo , Ning Shunzong , Huang Lin , Yuan Zhongwei , Chen Xuejiao , Chen Xue , Liu Dengcai , Wan Hongshen , Zhang Lianquan
Published: August 2023

Lodging is one of the most important factors affecting the high and stable yield of wheat worldwide. Solid-stemmed wheat has higher stem strength and lodging resistance than hollow-stemmed wheat does. There are many solid-stemmed varieties, landraces, and old varieties of durum wheat. However, the transfer of solid stem genes from durum wheat is suppressed by a suppressor gene located on chromosome 3D in common wheat, and only hollow-stemmed lines have been created. However, synthetic hexaploid wheat can serve as a bridge for transferring solid stem genes from tetraploid wheat to common wheat. In this study, the F1, F2, and F2:3 generations of a cross between solid-stemmed Syn-SAU-119 and semisolid-stemmed Syn-SAU-117 were developed. A single dominant gene, which was tentatively designated Su-TdDof and suppresses stem solidity, was identified in synthetic hexaploid wheat Syn-SAU-117 by using genetic analysis. By using bulked segregant RNA-seq (BSR-seq) analysis, Su-TdDof was mapped to chromosome 7DS and flanked by markers KASP-669 and KASP-1055 within a 4.53 cM genetic interval corresponding to 3.86 Mb and 2.29 Mb physical regions in the Chinese Spring (IWGSC RefSeq v1.1) and Ae. tauschii (AL8/78 v4.0) genomes, respectively, in which three genes related to solid stem development were annotated. Su-TdDof differed from a previously reported solid stem suppressor gene based on its origin and position. Su-TdDof would provide a valuable example for research on the suppression phenomenon. The flanking markers developed in this study might be useful for screening Ae. tauschii accessions with no suppressor gene (Su-TdDof) to develop more synthetic hexaploid wheat lines for the breeding of lodging resistance in wheat and further cloning the suppressor gene Su-TdDof.