bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncovering the Chemosensory System of a Subterranean Termite, Odontotermes formosanus (Shiraki) (Isoptera: Termitidae): Revealing the Chemosensory Genes and Gene Expression Patterns
Authors: Kaleem Ullah Rana Muhammad , Jia Bao , Liang Sheng , Sikandar Aatika , Gao Fukun , Wu Haiyan
Published: November 2023

Termites are eusocial insects. Chemical signals between colony members are crucial to the smooth running of colony operations, but little is known about their olfactory system and the roles played by various chemosensory genes in this process. Chemosensory genes are involved in basic olfactory perception in insects. Odontotermes formosanus (Shiraki) is one of the most damaging pests to agricultural crops, forests, and human-made structures. To better understand the olfactory system and the genes involved in olfactory processing in O. formosanus, we produced a transcriptome of worker termites. In this study, we identified 13 OforOBPs, 1 OforCSP, 15 OforORs, 9 OforGRs, and 4 OforSNMPs. Multiple sequence alignments were used in the phylogenetic study, which included data from other termite species and a wide variety of insect species. Moreover, we also investigated the mRNA expression levels using qRT-PCR. The significantly high expression levels of OforCSP1, OforOBP2, OforOR1, and OforSNMP1 suggest that these genes may play important roles in olfactory processing in termite social behavior, including caste differentiation, nestmate and non-nestmate discrimination, and the performance of colony operations among members. Our research establishes a foundation for future molecular-level functional studies of chemosensory genes in O. formosanus, which might lead to the identification of novel targets for termite integrated pest management.
«Digesting Crohn’s Disease»: The Journey of Young Adults since Diagnosis
Authors: Touma Nathalie , Zanni Louise , Blanc Pierre , Savoye Guillaume , Baeza-Velasco Carolina
Published: November 2023

Crohn’s disease affects 2.5 million people in Europe (more than 100,000 people in France) and often occurs between the ages of 15 and 30, a period marked by self-construction. However, few studies have focused on the experience of the diagnosis during this sensitive developmental stage. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the experience of Crohn’s disease in young adults since their diagnosis. Fifteen young adults (18–35 years) diagnosed with Crohn’s disease participated in a semi-directive interview. Narrative data were subjected to a thematic analysis, and thirty percent of the interviews were double-coded. The results revealed an evolution of four main themes since diagnosis: (1) course of care, (2) illness perceptions, (3) disease management and (4) self-perception. For most participants, the onset of the disease was difficult, marked by severe symptoms requiring hospitalization, numerous medical examinations and sometimes several consultations before diagnosis. This journey was more difficult when it was associated with negative relations with the medical staff, who were sometimes perceived as unsupportive. Thus, some people described this diagnostic period as an “ordeal”, while others experienced it as a “relief” from their suffering. The announcement of the diagnosis was often a “shock”, an “upheaval” or a “downfall”, followed by phases of denial associated with a desire to maintain a “normal life” and not to be defined by the disease. Despite a difficult start, most participants grew from their experience with CD, with a sense of a personal development that was made possible by self-regulation processes that enabled them to draw on their own experience and resources to adjust to their illness. By highlighting positive possibilities for evolution, this study suggests the importance of supporting the psychological resources of young adults by proposing, at an early stage, psychological support or therapies focused on acceptance and engagement.
Scheimpflug Corneal Densitometry Patterns at the Graft–Host Interface in DMEK and DSAEK: A 12-Month Longitudinal Comparative Study
Authors: Ballesteros-Sánchez Antonio , Peraza-Nieves Jorge , Casablanca-Piñera Anna , Rodríguez-Calvo-De-Mora Marina , Catalán-Coronado Saray , Torras-Sanvicens Josep , Borroni Davide , Sánchez-González José-María , Rocha-De-Lossada Carlos
Published: November 2023

Background: To compare corneal densitometry (CD) patterns at the graft–host interface between Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) and Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK). Corneal densitometry is a quantitative assessment that objectively evaluates corneal clarity and optical quality by measuring the light backscatter from the cornea. Methods: Fifty-one eyes that received DMEK or DSAEK surgery for corneal endothelium dysfunction were evaluated. The primary endpoint included CD patterns at the graft–host interface, which were assessed by the Pentacam HR device at the center point of the corneal horizontal meridian (CDcentral), and at six points on the central circumference of the cornea (with a total diameter of 4 mm) (CDI,II,III,IV,V,VI). Secondary endpoints included the best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), central corneal thickness (CCT), and graft thickness (GT). All of the evaluations were performed at follow-up appointments one, three, six and twelve months after the procedure. Results: DMEK showed a significant overall CD reduction of −7.9 ± 8.5 grayscale unit (GSU) compared to DSAEK (p < 0.001). In addition, the DMEK group showed significantly lower CDCentral,I,II,III,IV,V,VI values at follow-up appointments one, three, six and twelve months after the procedure compared to the DSAEK group (p < 0.001). BCDVA, CCT and GT were in favor of the DMEK group with a mean value of 0.39 ± 0.35 LogMar, 552.2 ± 71.1 µm and 11.03 ± 1.4 µm, respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusions: CD patterns at the graft–host interface seem to be different depending on the endothelial keratoplasty procedure. This provides specific insight into CD changes in this critical region of surgery, which may provide a better understanding of the postoperative evolution of these patients.
Aquaporin 1, Aquaporin 8, and Aquaporin 9 Expressions in Malignant Melanoma: A Possible Correlation with Prognosis and Clinical Outcome
Authors: Camillo Lara , Esposto Elia , Gironi Laura Cristina , Airoldi Chiara , Alhamed Shahd Abdullah , Boldorini Renzo Luciano , Zavattaro Elisa , Savoia Paola
Published: November 2023

Aquaporins (AQPs) are small transmembrane proteins able to facilitate the passive transport of water and small molecules throughout cells. Several studies have demonstrated that modulation of AQPs’ expression contributes to cancer development and progression. However, to date, very little is known about their involvement in malignant melanoma (MM) progression. In this retrospective observational study, we evaluated the correlation between AQP1, -8, and -9 expression and the clinical outcomes of 58 patients diagnosed with MM from 2014 to 2016, of which 14 were diagnosed as nodular melanoma (NM) and 44 as superficial spreading melanoma (SSM). In general, we found that AQPs were more highly expressed in SSM than NM, suggesting a potential correlation with prognosis. While analyzing the expression of each AQP, we discovered that AQP1 was associated with a specific body site and low mitotic index, AQP8 with a negative sentinel lymph node, and AQP9 with the Breslow thickness and lack of ulcerations. Together with the survival analysis performed in this study, our results suggest that the expression of AQP1, -8, and -9 could be correlated with a better prognosis for malignant melanoma.
What Links Chronic Kidney Disease and Ischemic Cardiomyopathy? A Comprehensive Bioinformatic Analysis Utilizing Bulk and Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Data with Machine Learning
Authors: Yang Lingzhi , Chen Yunwei , Huang Wei
Published: November 2023

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) emerges as a substantial contributor to various cardiovascular disorders, including ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms linking CKD and ICM remain elusive. Our study aims to unravel these connections by integrating publicly available bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. Expression profiles from two ICM datasets obtained from heart tissue and one CKD with Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell (CKD-PBMC) dataset were collected. We initiated by identifying shared differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between ICM and CKD. Subsequent functional enrichment analysis shed light on the mechanisms connecting CKD to ICM. Machine learning algorithms enabled the identification of 13 candidate genes, including AGRN, COL16A1, COL1A2, FAP, FRZB, GPX3, ITIH5, NFASC, PTN, SLC38A1, STARD7, THBS2, and VPS35. Their expression patterns in ICM were investigated via scRNA-seq data analysis. Notably, most of them were enriched in fibroblasts. COL16A1, COL1A2, PTN, and FAP were enriched in scar-formation fibroblasts, while GPX3 and THBS2 showed enrichment in angiogenesis fibroblasts. A Gaussian naïve Bayes model was developed for diagnosing CKD-related ICM, bolstered by SHapley Additive exPlanations interpretability and validated internally and externally. In conclusion, our investigation unveils the extracellular matrix’s role in CKD and ICM interplay, identifies 13 candidate genes, and showcases their expression patterns in ICM. We also constructed a diagnostic model using 13 gene features and presented an innovative approach for managing CKD-related ICM through serum-based diagnostic strategies.
Modification of Epoxides with Metallic Fillers—Mechanical Properties after Ageing in Aqueous Environments
Authors: Rudawska Anna , Szabelski Jakub , Frigione Mariaenrica , Brunella Valentina
Published: November 2023

The aim of this research was a comparative analysis of selected mechanical properties of epoxy compounds that were modified with metallic fillers and aged in aqueous environments. The tested epoxy compounds consisted of three components: styrene modified epoxy resin based on Bisphenol A, triethylenetetramine curing agent (resin/curing agent ratio of 100:10) and two types of metallic fillers in the form of particles: aluminum alloy (EN AW-2024–AlCu4Mg1) and tin-phosphor bronze (CuSn10P). Samples were subjected to ageing in 4 water environments: low-, medium- and high-mineralized natural water and in a sugar-containing solution for 1, 2 and 3 months. The epoxy samples were subjected to compressive strength tests in accordance with the ISO 604:2002 standard. It was observed that, among others, the compositions seasoned in low-mineralized water usually achieved the highest average compressive strength. As for filler type, using the bronze filler (CuSn10P) usually achieved the highest average compressive strength results.
Rough and Porous Micropebbles of CeCu2Si2 for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Scarpa Davide , Cirillo Claudia , Luciano Christopher , Nigro Angela , Adami Renata , Cirillo Carla , Attanasio Carmine , Iuliano Mariagrazia , Ponticorvo Eleonora , Sarno Maria
Published: November 2023

Supercapacitors have attracted considerable attention due to their advantages, including being lightweight and having rapid charge–discharge, a good rate capability, and high cyclic stability. Electrodes are one of the most important factors influencing the performance of supercapacitors. Herein, a three-dimensional network of rough and porous micropebbles of CeCu2Si2 has been prepared using a one-step procedure and tested for the first time as a supercapacitor electrode. The synthesized material was extensively characterized in a three-electrode configuration using different electrochemical techniques, such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge and discharge (GCD) tests, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). CeCu2Si2 shows rather high mass-capacitance values: 278 F/g at 1 A/g and 295 F/g at 10 mV/s. Moreover, the material exhibits remarkable long-term stability: 98% of the initial capacitance was retained after 20,000 cycles at 10 A/g and the Coulombic efficiency remains equal to 100% at the end of the cycles.
Electrical Conductivity and Antibacterial Activity of Woven Fabrics through Quercetin-Assisted Thermal Reduction of a Graphene Oxide Coating
Authors: Svyntkivska Mariia , Makowski Tomasz , Kregiel Dorota , Piorkowska Ewa
Published: November 2023

Cotton and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) woven fabrics were coated with graphene oxide (GO) using a padding method and the GO deposited on the fiber surfaces was thermally reduced to impart electrical conductivity to the fabrics. To assist the thermal reduction of GO, quercetin (Q)—a natural flavonoid—was used. To this end, before the reduction, the GO-padded fabrics were immersed in Q solutions in ethanol with different Q concentrations. Q enhanced the thermal reduction of GO. Depending on the Q concentration in the solutions, electrical surface resistivities of the cotton fabric of 750 kΩ/sq to 3.3 MΩ/sq and of the PET fabric of 240 kΩ/sq to 730 kΩ/sq were achieved. The cotton and PET fabrics also became hydrophobic, with water contact angles of 163° and 147°, respectively. In addition to the electrical conductivity, the presence of Q resulted in antibacterial activity of the fabrics against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Crankshaft High-Cycle Bending Fatigue Experiment Design Method Based on Unscented Kalman Filtering and the Theory of Crack Propagation
Authors: Que Tianyi , Jiang Dongdong , Sun Songsong , Gong Xiaolin
Published: November 2023

The high-cycle bending fatigue experiment is one of the most important necessary steps in guiding the crankshaft manufacturing process, especially for high-power engines. In this paper, an accelerated method was proposed to shorten the time period of this experiment. First, the loading period was quickened through the prediction of the residual fatigue life based on the unscented Kalman filtering algorithm approach and the crack growth speed. Then, the accuracy of the predictions was improved obviously based on the modified training section based on the theory of fracture mechanics. Finally, the fatigue limit load analysis result was proposed based on the predicted fatigue life and the modified SAFL (statistical analysis for the fatigue limit) method. The main conclusion proposed from this paper is that compared with the conventional training sections, the modified training sections based on the theory of fracture mechanics can obviously improve the accuracy of the remaining fatigue life prediction results, which makes this approach more suitable for the application. In addition, compared with the system’s inherent natural frequency, the fatigue crack can save the experiment time more effectively and thus is superior to the former factor as the failure criterion parameter.
Solution Combustion Synthesis of Ni-Based Nanocatalyst Using Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid and Nickel-Carbon Nanotube Growth Behavior
Authors: Kim Juyoung , Lee Hwanseok , Lee Jaekwang , Yoo Hyunjo , Jo Ilguk , Lee Heesoo
Published: November 2023

We studied the influence of the ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) content used as combustion fuel when fabricating nickel oxide (NiO) nanocatalysts via solution combustion synthesis, as well as the growth behavior of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using this catalyst. Nickel nitrate hexahydrate (Ni(NO3)2∙6H2O) was used as the metal precursor (an oxidizer), and the catalysts were synthesized by adjusting the molar ratio of fuel (EDTA) to oxidizer in the range of 1:0.25 to 2.0. The results of the crystal structure analysis showed that as the EDTA content increased beyond the chemical stoichiometric balance with Ni(NO3)2∙6H2O (F/O = 0.25), the proportion of Ni metal within the catalyst particles decreased, and only single-phase NiO was observed. Among the synthesized catalysts, the smallest crystallite size was observed with a 1:1 ratio of Ni ions to EDTA. However, an increase in the amount of EDTA resulted in excessive fuel supply, leading to an increase in crystallite size. Microstructure analysis revealed porous NiO agglomerates due to the use of EDTA, and differences in particle growth based on the fuel ratio were observed. We analyzed the growth behavior of CNTs grown using NiO nanocatalysts through catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CCVD). As the F/O ratio increased, it was observed that the catalyst particles grew excessively beyond hundreds of nanometers, preventing further CNT growth and leading to a rapid termination of CNT growth. Raman spectroscopy was used to analyze the structural characteristics of CNTs, and it was found that the ID/IG ratio indicated the highest CNT crystallinity near an F/O ratio of 1:1.
Newly Generated Ca-Feldspar during Sintering Processes Enhances the Mechanical Strength of Coal Gangue-Based Insulation Bricks
Authors: Zheng Yangfan , Cui Jiayan , Gao Pengxiao , Lv Junfan , Chi Lin , Nan Hongyan , Huang Yuandong , Yang Fan
Published: November 2023

Coal gangue is a solid waste with low carbon content discharged during the course of the coal mining process. The resource utilization of coal gangue could solve environmental problems caused by its excessive production, such as soil contamination and land occupation. This study proposed to produce high-strength thermal insulation bricks using coal gangue as the primary material and three other mineral powders as auxiliary materials, including K-feldspar, CaCO3 and fly ash. A systematic analysis was conducted to explore the optimum raw material addition ratio and optimum sintering temperature; then, the intrinsic structure of thermal insulation bricks and their sintering formation mechanisms were revealed. The results showed that the optimal ratios of coal gangue, K-feldspar, CaCO3 and fly ash were 65 wt%, 15 wt%, 10 wt% and 10 wt%, respectively; the compressive strength of the thermal insulation brick produced under this ratio was 22.5 MPa; thermal conductivity was 0.39 W m−1 k−1. During sintering processes, mineral powders sufficiently fused to form a skeleton, and the CO2 derived from CaCO3 formed pores. The optimum sintering temperature was 1150 °C, because at this temperature, K-feldspar had the best effect in promoting the conversion of CaCO3 to Ca-feldspar. The high level of the relative crystallinity of Ca-feldspar (about 76.0%) helped raise the Si–O network’s polymerization degree (NBO/T = 1.24), finally raising the compressive strength of thermal insulation bricks. The innovative method of using coal gangue to make thermal insulation bricks not only solved the environmental pollution caused by coal gangue but also provided excellent construction materials with high practical application value.
The Immunobiological Agents for Treatment of Antiglomerular Basement Membrane Disease
Authors: Yamashita Marina , Takayasu Mamiko , Maruyama Hiroshi , Hirayama Kouichi
Published: November 2023

Combination therapy with glucocorticoids, cyclophosphamide, and plasmapheresis is recommended as the standard treatment for anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease, but the prognosis of this disease remains poor. Several immunobiological agents have been administered or are expected to be useful for anti-GBM disease in light of refractory disease or the standard treatments’ tolerability. Many data regarding the use of biologic agents for anti-GBM disease have accumulated, verifying the effectiveness and potential of biologic agents as a new treatment option for anti-GBM disease. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors were shown to be useful in animal studies, but these agents have no clinical use and were even shown to induce anti-GBM disease in several cases. Although the efficacy of the TNF-receptor antagonist has been observed in animal models, there are no published case reports of its clinical use. There are also no published reports of animal or clinical studies of anti-B-cell-activating factor, which is a member of the TNF family of agents. Anti-interleukin (IL)-6 antibodies have been demonstrated to have no effect on or to exacerbate nephritis in animal models. Anti-C5 inhibitor was observed to be useful in a few anti-GBM disease cases. Among the several immunobiological agents, only rituximab has been demonstrated to be useful in refractory or poor-tolerance patients or small uncontrolled studies. Rituximab is usually used in combination with steroids and plasma exchange and is used primarily as an alternative to cyclophosphamide, but there is insufficient evidence regarding the efficacy of rituximab for anti-GBM disease, and thus, randomized controlled studies are required.
Deployable Lab-on-a-Chip Sensor for Colorimetric Measurements
Authors: Gassmann Stefan , Schleifer Till , Schuette Helmut
Published: November 2023

The infield measurement of nutrients, heavy metals, and other contaminants in water is still a needed tool in environmental sciences. The Lab-on-a-chip approach can develop deployable instruments that use the standardized analytical assay in a miniaturized manner in the field. This paper presents a Lab-on-a-chip platform for colorimetric measurements that can be deployed for nutrient monitoring in open water (oceans, rivers, lakes, etc.). Nitrite was selected as an analyte. Change to other analytes is possible by changing the reagents and the detection wavelength. In this paper, the principle of the sensor, technical realization, setup of the sensor, and test deployment are described. The sensor prototype was deployed at the Jade Bay (German Bight) for 9 h, measuring the nitrite value every 20 min. Reference samples were taken and processed in the lab. The work presented here shows that an infield measurement using a colorimetric assay is possible by applying Lab-on-a-chip principles.
Comprehensive Comparison of MOCVD- and LPCVD-SiNx Surface Passivation for AlGaN/GaN HEMTs for 5G RF Applications
Authors: Deng Longge , Zhou Likun , Lu Hao , Yang Ling , Yu Qian , Zhang Meng , Wu Mei , Hou Bin , Ma Xiaohua , Hao Yue
Published: November 2023

Passivation is commonly used to suppress current collapse in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs. However, the conventional PECV-fabricated SiNx passivation layer is incompatible with the latest process, like the “passivation-prior-to-ohmic” method. Research attention has therefore turned to high-temperature passivation schemes. In this paper, we systematically investigated the differences between the SiNx/GaN interface of two high-temperature passivation schemes, MOCVD-SiNx and LPCVD-SiNx, and investigated their effects on the ohmic contact mechanism. By characterizing the device interface using TEM, we reveal that during the process of MOCVD-SiNx, etching damage and Si diffuses into the semiconductor to form a leakage path and reduce the breakdown voltage of the AlGaN/GaN HEMTs. Moreover, N enrichment at the edge of the ohmic region of the LPCVD-SiNx device indicates that the device is more favorable for TiN formation, thus reducing the ohmic contact resistance, which is beneficial to improving the PAE of the device. Through the CW load-pull test with drain voltage VDS = 20V, LPCVD-SiNx devices obtain a high PAE of 66.35%, which is about 6% higher than MOCVD-SiNx devices. This excellent result indicates that the prospect of LPCVD-SiNx passivation devices used in 5G small terminals will be attractive.
Dry Stacking of Filtered Tailings for Large-Scale Production Rates over 100,000 Metric Tons per Day: Envisioning the Sustainable Future of Mine Tailings Storage Facilities
Authors: Cacciuttolo Carlos , Atencio Edison
Published: November 2023

Communities and authorities have been dismayed by globally recorded tailings storage facility (TSF) failures in recent years, which have negatively affected the safety of people and the integrity of the environment. In this context, obtaining the social and environmental license to operate TSFs has become a challenging process for mining companies. This has promoted the trend of using mine tailings dewatering technologies in the mining industry, with dry stacking of filtered mine tailings being recognized worldwide as one of the most acceptable, safe, and environmentally friendly solutions. This article presents a new paradigm in managing mine tailings, with disruptive and futuristic characteristics, considering the dry stacking of filtered mine tailings for large-scale industrial production rates over 100,000 metric tons per day (mtpd). Aspects of filtered tailings management are discussed, such as (i) dewatering process plant with thickening/filtering equipment, (ii) conveyance using fixed and movable conveyor belts, (iii) construction of dry stacking of filtered mine tailings facility, and (iv) implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies for automation of the mining processes. Finally, the article discusses how the large-scale filtered mine tailings solution is applied, considering the advances in the equipment’s performance and implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies as well as the experience gained worldwide in several mining operations. The future global trend is that mining operations with high daily production of mine tailings will apply dry stacking technology without dams to guarantee sustainability, promote continuity of the mining business, ensure the safety of communities, and conserve the environment.
An Extension of the Susceptible–Infected Model and Its Application to the Analysis of Information Dissemination in Social Networks
Authors: Sidorov Sergei , Faizliev Alexey , Tikhonova Sophia
Published: November 2023

Social media significantly influences business, politics, and society. Easy access and interaction among users allow information to spread rapidly across social networks. Understanding how information is disseminated through these new publishing methods is crucial for political and marketing purposes. However, modeling and predicting information diffusion is challenging due to the complex interactions between network users. This study proposes an analytical approach based on diffusion models to predict the number of social media users engaging in discussions on a topic. We develop a modified version of the susceptible–infected (SI) model that considers the heterogeneity of interactions between users in complex networks. Our model considers the network structure, abandons the assumption of homogeneous mixing, and focuses on information diffusion in scale-free networks. We provide explicit algorithms for modeling information propagation on different types of random graphs and real network structures. We compare our model with alternative approaches, both those considering network structure and those that do not. The accuracy of our model in predicting the number of informed nodes in simulated information diffusion networks demonstrates its effectiveness in describing and predicting information dissemination in social networks. This study highlights the potential of graph-based epidemic models in analyzing online discussion topics and understanding other phenomena spreading on social networks.
The Ethanolic Extract of Lycium ruthenicum Ameliorates Age-Related Physiological Damage in Mice
Authors: Cui Boya , Liu Lanying , Shi Tao , Yin Min , Feng Xu , Shan Yu
Published: November 2023

Aging and age-related diseases are important study topics due to their associations with progressive physiological damage to genes, cells, tissues, and the entire organism, which ultimately affects the functional efficiency of organs. Lycium ruthenicum Murr. is a functional food that is known for its high contents of anthocyanins and spermidines, both of which have been demonstrated to have positive effects on anti-aging activity and anti-oxidation. In this study, we used HPLC-MS to analyze the constituents of L. ruthenicum Murr. Extract (LRM) and investigated their potential mechanism for exerting antioxidative effects in D-galactose (D-Gal) aging model mice. LRM (25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg) improved cognitive function in D-Gal-treated mice, as shown by reduced escape latencies and increased platform crossings in behavioral tests. We measured the contents of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the enzyme activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in mice serum and brain after 6 weeks of D-Gal treatment. LRM decreased the contents of LPO and MDA and increased the enzyme activities of SOD and GSH-Px, indicating the protection effect of LRM against D-Gal-induced oxidative stress. Additionally, LRM can inhibit oxidative stress in cells by reducing intracellular ROS levels and restoring mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby inhibiting paraquat (PQ)-induced cellular senescence and delaying cell aging. Therefore, LRM has the potential to be a healthcare product for the treatment of age-related diseases.
A Ratiometric Fluorescent Probe for N2H4 Having a Large Detection Range Based upon Coumarin with Multiple Applications
Authors: Sheng Xiao , Sun Xinfeng , Zhang Yiwen , Zhang Chen , Liu Shuling , Wang Shouxin
Published: November 2023

Although hydrazine (N2H4) is a versatile chemical used in many applications, it is toxic, and its leakage may pose a threat to both human health and environments. Consequently, the monitoring of N2H4 is significant. This study reports a one-step synthesis for coumarin-based ratiometric fluorescent probe (FP) CHAC, with acetyl as the recognition group. Selected deprotection of the acetyl group via N2H4 released the coumarin fluorophore, which recovered the intramolecular charge transfer process, which caused a prominent fluorescent, ratiometric response. CHAC demonstrated the advantages of high selectivity, a strong capacity for anti-interference, a low limit of detection (LOD) (0.16 μM), a large linear detection range (0–500 μM), and a wide effective pH interval (6–12) in N2H4 detection. Furthermore, the probe enabled quantitative N2H4 verifications in environmental water specimens in addition to qualitative detection of N2H4 in various soils and of gaseous N2H4. Finally, the probe ratiometrically monitored N2H4 in living cells having low cytotoxicity.
Adsorption Affinities of Small Volatile Organic Molecules on Graphene Surfaces for Novel Nanofiller Design: A DFT Study
Authors: Moriggi Francesco , Barbera Vincenzina , Galimberti Maurizio , Raffaini Giuseppina
Published: November 2023

The adsorption of organic molecules on graphene surfaces is a crucial process in many different research areas. Nano-sized carbon allotropes, such as graphene and carbon nanotubes, have shown promise as fillers due to their exceptional properties, including their large surface area, thermal and electrical conductivity, and potential for weight reduction. Surface modification methods, such as the “pyrrole methodology”, have been explored to tailor the properties of carbon allotropes. In this theoretical work, an ab initio study based on Density Functional Theory is performed to investigate the adsorption process of small volatile organic molecules (such as pyrrole derivatives) on graphene surface. The effects of substituents, and different molecular species are examined to determine the influence of the aromatic ring or the substituent of pyrrole’s aromatic ring on the adsorption energy. The number of atoms and presence of π electrons significantly influence the corresponding adsorption energy. Interestingly, pyrroles and cyclopentadienes are 10 kJ mol−1 more stable than the corresponding unsaturated ones. Pyrrole oxidized derivatives display more favorable supramolecular interactions with graphene surface. Intermolecular interactions affect the first step of the adsorption process and are important to better understand possible surface modifications for carbon allotropes and to design novel nanofillers in polymer composites.
Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction Coupled with LC-MS/MS for the Analysis of Two Ochratoxins in Capsicum
Authors: Yang Hongbo , Li Jin , Mao Jianfei , Xu Chan , Song Jieyu , Xie Feng
Published: November 2023

Ochratoxins, a common class of mycotoxin in capsicum, and techniques and methods for the determination of mycotoxins in spices have been increasingly developed in recent years. An innovative and eco-friendly method of dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) was demonstrated in this study, based on a synthesized deep eutectic solvent (DES) combined with LC-MS/MS, for the quantification and analysis of two ochratoxins in capsicum. The DES-DLLME method parameters entail selecting the DES type (thymol:decanoic acid, molar ratio 1:1) and DES volume (100 μL). The volume of water (3 mL) and salt concentration (0 g) undergo optimization following a step-by-step approach to achieve optimal target substance extraction efficiency. The matrix effect associated with the direct detection of the target substance in capsicum was significantly reduced in this study by the addition of isotopic internal standards corresponding to the target substance. This facilitated optimal conditions wherein quantitative analysis using LC-MS/MS revealed a linear range of 0.50–250.00 µg/mL, with all two curves calibrated with internal standards showing correlation coefficients (r2) greater than 0.9995. The method’s limits of detection (LODs) and limits of quantification (LOQs) fell in the ranges of 0.14–0.45 μg/kg and 0.45–1.45 μg/kg, respectively. The method’s spiked recoveries ranged from 81.97 to 105.17%, indicating its sensitivity and accuracy. The environmental friendliness of the technique was assessed using two green assessment tools, AGREE and complexGAPI, and the results showed that the technique was more in line with the concept of sustainable development compared to other techniques for detecting ochratoxins in capsicum. Overall, this study provides a new approach for the determination of mycotoxins in a complex food matrix such as capsicum and other spices using DES and also contributes to the application of green analytical chemistry methods in the food industry.
Concurrent Negative Impact of Undernutrition and Heart Failure on Functional and Cognitive Recovery in Hip Fracture Patients
Authors: Kamijikkoku Shuichi , Yoshimura Yoshihiro
Published: November 2023

Evidence on the effects of frailty, undernutrition, and heart failure (HF) on patients with hip fractures is scarce. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the effects of undernutrition and HF on outcomes in patients who underwent convalescent rehabilitation after hip fracture. Undernutrition was defined as body mass index (BMI) < 20.0 (Low BMI). Heart failure (HF) was defined as a B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) > 100 (High BNP). The study outcomes included the Functional Independence Measure motor domain (FIM-motor) and cognitive domain (FIM-cognition) at discharge. To consider the effects of low BMI, high BNP, and the simultaneous presence of both (“low BMI and high BNP”), we used multivariate linear regression analyses to examine whether these were associated with the outcomes. A total of 110 (mean age 87.4 years, 24.8% male) were analyzed. As a result, low BMI (β = −0.088, p = 0.027) and high BNP (β = −0.053, p = 0.015), each alone, were significantly associated with the FIM motor at discharge, whereas the simultaneous presence of “low BMI and high BNP” was significantly associated with the FIM motor at discharge, while the strength of the association was greater than each association alone (β = −0.152, p = 0.010). Further, the simultaneous presence of “low BMI and high BNP” was significantly associated with FIM cognition at discharge (β = −0.109, p = 0.014). Comprehensive multidisciplinary management is needed, including preoperative or early postoperative nutritional support and rehabilitation, followed by rehabilitation nutrition care management, in patients with hip fracture.
Molecular Mechanisms of Oxygen Evolution Reactions for Artificial Photosynthesis
Authors: Nosaka Yoshio
Published: November 2023

Addressing the global environmental problem of water splitting to produce hydrogen fuel by solar energy is receiving so much attention. In water splitting, the essential problem to solve is the development of efficient catalysts for oxygen production. In this paper, having the prospect for a practical application of photocatalysts to artificial photosynthesis, molecular mechanisms in the current literature are briefly reviewed. At first, recent progress in the function of the Mn cluster at the natural photosystem II is briefly described. The kinds of devices in which oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts are used were designated: water electrolyzers, photoelectrodes, and photocatalysts. Some methods for analyzing molecular mechanisms in OER catalysis, emphasized by the FTIR method, are shown briefly. After describing common OER mechanisms, the molecular mechanisms are discussed for TiO2 and BiVO4 photoelectrodes with our novel data, followed by presenting OER co-catalysts of IrO2, RuO2, NiO2, and other metal oxides. Recent reports describing OER catalysts of perovskites, layered double hydroxides (LDH), metal–organic frameworks (MOF), single-atom catalysts, as well as metal complexes are reviewed. Finally, by comparing with natural photosystem, the required factors to improve the activity of the catalysts for artificial photosynthesis will be discussed.
Study of lncRNAs in Pediatric Neurological Diseases: Methods, Analysis of the State-of-Art and Possible Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Pandini Cecilia , Rey Federica , Cereda Cristina , Carelli Stephana , Gandellini Paolo
Published: November 2023

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in various cellular processes, and their roles in pediatric neurological diseases are increasingly being explored. This review provides an overview of lncRNA implications in the central nervous system, both in its physiological state and when a pathological condition is present. We describe the role of lncRNAs in neural development, highlighting their significance in processes such as neural stem cell proliferation, differentiation, and synaptogenesis. Dysregulation of specific lncRNAs is associated with multiple pediatric neurological diseases, such as neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative disorders and brain tumors. The collected evidence indicates that there is a need for further research to uncover the full spectrum of lncRNA involvement in pediatric neurological diseases and brain tumors. While challenges exist, ongoing advancements in technology and our understanding of lncRNA biology offer hope for future breakthroughs in the field of pediatric neurology, leveraging lncRNAs as potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers.
Exploring CD39 and CD73 Expression as Potential Biomarkers in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Gardani Carla Fernanda Furtado , Pedrazza Eduardo Luiz , Paz Victória Santos , Zanirati Gabriele Goulart , da Costa Jaderson Costa , Andrejew Roberta , Ulrich Henning , Scholl Juliete Nathali , Figueiró Fabrício , Rockenbach Liliana , Morrone Fernanda Bueno
Published: November 2023

Prostate cancer (PC) is the most diagnosed tumor in males and ranks as the second leading cause of male mortality in the western world. The CD39 and CD73 enzymes play a crucial role in cancer regulation by degrading nucleotides and forming nucleosides. This study aimed to investigate the expression of the CD39 and CD73 enzymes as potential therapeutic targets for PC. The initial part of this study retrospectively analyzed tissue samples from 23 PC patients. Using the TissueFAXSTM cytometry platform, we found significantly higher levels of CD39—labeling its intensity compared to CD73. Additionally, we observed a correlation between the Gleason score and the intensity of CD39 expression. In the prospective arm, blood samples were collected from 25 patients at the time of diagnosis and after six months of treatment to determine the expression of CD39 and CD73 in the serum extracellular vesicles (EVs) and to analyze nucleotide hydrolysis. Notably, the expression of CD39 in the EVs was significantly increased compared to the CD73 and/or combined CD39/CD73 expression levels at initial collection. Furthermore, our results demonstrated positive correlations between ADP hydrolysis and the transurethral resection and Gleason score. Understanding the role of ectonucleotidases is crucial for identifying new biomarkers in PC.
Anti-Obesity Drug Delivery Systems: Recent Progress and Challenges
Authors: Ashour Mohamed M. , Mabrouk Mostafa , Aboelnasr Mohamed A. , Beherei Hanan H. , Tohamy Khairy M. , Das Diganta B.
Published: November 2023

Obesity has reached an epidemic proportion in the last thirty years, and it is recognized as a major health issue in modern society now with the possibility of serious social and economic consequences. By the year 2030, nearly 60% of the global population may be obese or overweight, which emphasizes a need for novel obesity treatments. Various traditional approaches, such as pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery, have been utilized in clinical settings to treat obesity. However, these methods frequently show the possibility of side effects while remaining ineffective. There is, therefore, an urgent need for alternative obesity treatments with improved efficacy and specificity. Polymeric materials and chemical strategies are employed in emerging drug delivery systems (DDSs) to enhance therapy effectiveness and specificity by stabilizing and controlling the release of active molecules such as natural ingredients. Designing DDSs is currently a top priority research objective with an eye towards creating obesity treatment approaches. In reality, the most recent trends in the literature demonstrate that there are not enough in-depth reviews that emphasize the current knowledge based on the creation and design of DDSs for obesity treatment. It is also observed in the existing literature that a complex interplay of different physical and chemical parameters must be considered carefully to determine the effectiveness of the DDSs, including microneedles, for obesity treatment. Additionally, it is observed that these properties depend on how the DDS is synthesized. Although many studies are at the animal-study stage, the use of more advanced DDS techniques would significantly enhance the development of safe and efficient treatment approaches for obese people in the future. Considering these, this review provides an overview of the current anti-obesity treatment approaches as well as the conventional anti-obesity therapeutics. The article aims to conduct an in-depth discussion on the current trends in obesity treatment approaches. Filling in this knowledge gap will lead to a greater understanding of the safest ways to manage obesity.
Transcriptome Analysis of Maize Ear Leaves Treated with Long-Term Straw Return plus Nitrogen Fertilizer under the Wheat–Maize Rotation System
Authors: Li Jun , Liu Jintao , Zhu Kaili , Liu Shutang
Published: November 2023

Straw return (SR) plus nitrogen (N) fertilizer has become a practical field management mode to improve soil fertility and crop yield in North China. This study aims to explore the relationship among organic waste, mineral nutrient utilization, and crop yield under SRN mode. The fertilizer treatments included unfertilized (CK), SR (straws from wheat and corn), N fertilizer (N), and SR plus N fertilizer (SRN). SRN treatment not only significantly increased the grain yield, net photosynthetic rate, and transpiration rate but also enhanced the contents of chlorophyll, soluble sugar, and soluble protein and increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes but reduced intercellular CO2 concentration and malondialdehyde (MDA) content when compared to other treatments. There were 2572, 1258, and 3395 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified from the paired comparisons of SRvsCK, NvsCK, and SRNvsCK, respectively. The transcript levels of many promising genes involved in the transport and assimilation of potassium, phosphate, and nitrogen, as well as the metabolisms of sugar, lipid, and protein, were down-regulated by straw returning under N treatment. SRN treatment maintained the maximum maize grain yield by regulating a series of genes’ expressions to reduce nutrient shortage stress and to enhance the photosynthesis of ear leaves at the maize grain filling stage. This study would deepen the understanding of complex molecular mechanisms among organic waste, mineral nutrient utilization, crop yield, and quality.
Structural, Thermal, Rheological, and Morphological Characterization of the Starches of Sweet and Bitter Native Potatoes Grown in the Andean Region
Authors: Luque-Vilca Olivia Magaly , Pampa-Quispe Noe Benjamin , Pumacahua-Ramos Augusto , Pilco-Quesada Silvia , Cabel Moscoso Domingo Jesús , Choque-Rivera Tania Jakeline
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to extract and characterize the morphological, physicochemical, thermal, and rheological properties of the starches of native potatoes grown in the department of Puno. Among the varieties evaluated were sweet native potato varieties Imilla Negra (Solanum tuberosum spp. Andígena), Imilla Blanca (Solanum tuberosum spp. Andígena), Peruanita, Albina or Lomo (Solanum chaucha), and Sutamari, and the bitter potatoes Rucki or Luki (Solanum juzepczukii Buk), Locka (Solanum curtilobum), Piñaza (Solanum curtilobum), and Ocucuri (Sola-num curtilobum), acquired from the National Institute of Agrarian Innovation (INIA-Puno). The proximal composition, amylose content, and morphological, thermal, and rheological properties that SEM, DSC, and a rheometer determined, respectively, were evaluated, and the data obtained were statistically analyzed using a completely randomized design and then a comparison of means using Tukey’s LSD test. The results show a significant difference in the proximal composition (p ≤ 0.05) concerning moisture content, proteins, fat, ash, and carbohydrates. Thus, the amylose content was also determined, ranging from 23.60 ± 0.10 to 30.33 ± 0.15%. The size morphology of the granules is 13.09–47.73 µm; for the thermal and rheological properties of the different varieties of potato starch, it is shown that the gelatinization temperature is in a range of 57 to 62 °C and, for enthalpy, between 3 and 5 J/g.
The Management of Bone Defects in Revision Knee Arthroplasty: The Role of Porous Metal Cones and 3D-Printed Cones
Authors: Marongiu Giuseppe , Capone Antonio , Verona Marco , Piovan Gianluca , Zorzi Claudio , Kendoff Daniel , Bandino Marta
Published: November 2023

Worldwide, the number of revisions to total knee arthroplasty procedures is increasing. Revision surgery is a challenging procedure, required for the management of bone loss after removal of the first implant. Although further long-term follow-up studies are needed, the use of cones in revisions of total knee arthroplasty yields reliability in fixation and stability to restore joint lines, especially in challenging surgeries with poor bone stock. The introduction of 3D-printed cones in revision surgery seems to be advantageous for AORI type III bone defects, especially in reducing intraoperative complications and procedure times. The aim of this study is to review the currently available literature to analyse clinical outcomes, complications, and radiographical results with the use of metaphyseal tantalum cones and new 3D-printed cones for the management of bone defects in the revision of total knee arthroplasty.
Beauty as a Gift and a Call to Goodness
Authors: Barščevski Taras
Published: November 2023

The study delves into terminologies associated with beauty within biblical contexts. Drawing from Dyrness’s examination of “Aesthetics in the Old Testament” the focus is primarily on seven Hebrew word groups to understand the multifaceted nuances of beauty. The exploration further extends to two foundational Hebrew terms, kābôd and tôḇ, essential for grasping the essence of beauty in the Old Testament. Additionally, three Greek terms from the Septuagint—agathós, kalós, and chresós—are explored, bridging the understanding between the deuterocanonical books, the New Testament, and their Hebrew counterparts. It has highlighted that understanding the biblical concept of beauty surpasses mere terminological exploration. Illustratively, the narratives of Judith and Esther are examined to demonstrate how their beauty played a strategic role in the welfare and salvation of the people.