bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Extraction Techniques of Phytochemicals from Hedera helix L and in vitro Characterization of the Extracts
Authors: Gavrila Adina I. , Zalaru Christina M. , Tatia Rodica , Seciu-Grama Ana-Maria , Negrea Cristina L. , Calinescu Ioan , Chipurici Petre , Trifan Adrian , Popa Ioana
Published: November 2023

Phytochemicals from Hedera helix L. lead to extracts with good biological properties which are beneficial to human health and can be used to protect plants against different diseases. The aim of this research was to find the most suitable extraction method and the most favorable parameters for different bioactive compounds extraction from ivy leaves. Different extraction methods, namely microwave assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound assisted extraction (UAE), and conventional heating extraction (CHE), were used. The most suitable method for saponins extraction is MAE with an extraction efficiency of 58%, while for carbohydrates and polyphenols the best results were achieved by UAE with an extraction efficiency of 61.7% and 63.5%, respectively. The antioxidant activity (AA) of the extracts was also determined. The highest AA was obtained by UAE (368.98±9.01 µmol TR/gDM). Better results were achieved at 50 °C for 10 min of extraction, using 80% ethanol in water as solvent. In order to evaluate their in vitro cytotoxicity, the extracts richest in bioactive compounds were tested on NCTC fibroblasts. Their influence on the DNA content of RAW 264.7 murine macrophages was also tested. Until 200 µg/mL, the extracts obtained by UAE and MAE were cytocompatible with NCTC fibroblasts at 48 h of treatment.
Organosilicon-Based Thin Film Formation in Very High-Frequency Plasma Under Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Hamzens Afif , Kitamura Kento , Mochizuki Shota , Uon Leapheng , Ohmi Hiromasa , Kakiuchi Hiroaki
Published: November 2023

Owing to recent interest in the production of flexible devices, it is necessary to develop a more convenient approach in which silicon (Si) thin film transistors (TFTs) are fabricated directly onto the flexible substrates at low substrate temperatures. Unfortunately, the physical limitations of conventional plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) under low pressures becomes a critical obstacle. In this study, Si film deposition using PECVD under atmospheric pressure excited by very high-frequency electrical power was investigated to overcome this issue. Tetramethylsilane [Si(CH3)4] is used as a source gas that is much safer than silane (SiH4) gas. We investigated the effects of the reactive gas concentration and specific energy (the ratio of input power to unit volume of the reaction gas) on carbon incorporation into the resultant films. Based on the results, we discuss the possibility of forming Si films with sufficiently low carbon content, which is applicable to Si TFTs.
Automated Process Planning System for Machining Injection Molding Dies Using CAD Models of Product Shapes in STL Format
Authors: Nishida Isamu , Yamada Eiki , Nakatsuji Hidenori
Published: November 2023

In this study, we developed a method for automatically generating computer-aided design (CAD) models of injection molding dies. The method only required 3D CAD models of products in the Standard Triangulated Language (STL) format as the input information. We also developed a system for automatically generating numerical control (NC) programs by automating the system process planning necessary for machining the injection molding dies. The method generated CAD models of the injection molding dies by dividing the STL files of the products into triangular meshes on a specified split plane. For injection molding dies with several free curved surfaces, we acquired the tool positions of a ball end mill (as approximated by a spherical shape) and flat drill (as approximated by a cylindrical shape) from the geometrical relationships of the triangles constituting the CAD model. We generated a CAD model of an injection molding die using the proposed method with respect to the CAD model of a product shape to verify the validity of the developed system. Then, we machined the product based on the NC programs and tool position. In addition, we injection molded a product with a machined die to mold it into its original product shape.
Simple Contact Sensor for Material on Die in Sheet Hydroforming
Authors: Yamashita Minoru , Minowa Nozomi , Nikawa Makoto
Published: November 2023

A simple material contact sensor on the forming tool was devised for sheet hydroforming. The applicability was investigated for the shallow forming of aluminum alloy sheet. A flat bottom axisymmetric die or a conical one was used. An antistatic electric tape was used as contact sensor. It is flexible and attached to the die cavity in the radial direction. Electrical resistance of the tape between the center and the contact position of the material changes as the forming progresses. The change in voltage of the resistance part corresponding to the contact length was captured continuously. The strain at the center of the circular test piece was also continuously measured using a strain gage for large deformation. A short contact length was captured for the flat bottom die, since the test piece deforms into a dome shape, and the tip of the dome contacts to the center of the die cavity. On the other hand, the captured length was longer in the forming with the conical die. The repetitive separation and contact motion of the test piece to the die in impact forming due to the impulsive water pressure was successfully captured by the contact sensor. The accuracy was relatively coarse due to that the diameter of the die cavity was small. However, it was found that the simple contact sensor can be applied to evaluate the deformation behavior of the material. The measured maximum strain of the test piece was larger in impact forming, and the strain concentration occurred. This may be due to the negative strain rate sensitivity of the material.
Effect of dietary supplementation of copepod meal in goldfish Carassius auratus (Linnaeus, 1758) on growth performance, fatty acid profile and colouration
Authors: Gumus Erkan , Gurler Cisem , Gulle Iskender
Published: November 2023

This study assessed the use of copepod meal (Arctodiaptomus salinus) as a carotene source for colour enhancement in goldfish Carassius auratus (Linnaeus, 1758). The effect of copepod meal on growth and fatty acid profile of goldfish was also evaluated. Copepod meal with 4,338 Âµg g-1 of total carotene and 1,655.78 Âµg g-1 of Î²-carotene per gram dry weight was added to the diet containing 0 (control), 50, 150 and 300 Âµg g-1 of Î²-carotene. Four diets with similar protein (35.17% CP) and energy (3745 kcal g-1) levels were prepared. The fish were fed with diets twice a day for 60 days. The results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between body weight, total length, condition factor and survival rates of the groups fed on different diets. Body coloration measured in terms of L* a* b* values increased with the increase in level of copepod meal in the diet. In all experimental groups, copepod meal incorporated diets had a significant effect on the fish flesh fatty acid profile (p<0.05), especially in terms of ecosopentaenoic acid (EPA) and docohehexoenoic acid (DHA) compared to those of the control group. However, a positive trend was observed in terms of all parameters in the group fed with the diet containing 300 Âµg g-1 of Î²- carotene.Keywords: Î²-carotene, Colour, Fatty acids, Live feeds, Ornamental fish, Survival rate
Spatio-temporal variations of phytoplankton assemblage in coastal waters of Maharashtra, north-eastern Arabian Sea
Authors: Mhatre Vaibhav D. , Khandagale Punam A. , Thomas Sujitha
Published: November 2023

Seasonal variations in phytoplankton species and abundance along the coast of Maharashtra from two different locations (Mumbai and Ratnagiri) and depths were investigated during August 2014-May 2017. A total of 84 species of phytoplankton were recorded from the region out of which 67 were diatoms, 16 dinoflagellates and one blue green alga. Seventy-five and 60 species of phytoplankton were recorded from Ratnagiri and Mumbai respectively. Diatoms dominated the phytoplankton community (81.7-93.3%) followed by dinoflagellates (4.7-7.2%) and blue green algae in both locations. Maximum phytoplankton density was recorded during post-monsoon season followed by pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons at Mumbai and Ratnagiri. Highest average phytoplankton cell density recorded was 9.09 x 104 cells l-1 and 4.06 x 104 cells l-1 during post-monsoon season at Ratnagiri and Mumbai respectively. Maximum cell density was observed at 20 m depth from Mumbai and Ratnagiri. Thalassiosira subtilis, Trieres mobiliensis, Skeletonema costatum, Coscinodiscus centralis and Ditylum brightwelli were the most abundant phytoplankton species recorded at Mumbai, whereas Chaetoceros curvisetus, S. costatum, Trichodesmium erythraeum, Chaetoceros lorenzianus and Ditylum brightwelli were abundant in Ratnagiri waters. The blue green alga, T. erythraeum was abundantly recorded during pre-monsoon season. Species diversity index (Hâ€™) ranged from 4.72 to 5.52 and was higher during post-monsoon season compared to pre-monsoon and monsoon. Highest phytoplankton diversity was observed at 20 m depth compared to 40 m depth.Keywords: Arabian Sea, Diversity, Mumbai, Phytoplankton, Ratnagiri
Growth, mortality and stock status of three commercially important catfishes from the River Ganga, India
Authors: Ray Archisman , Kumar Lohith , Swain Himanshu Sekhar , Das B. K.
Published: November 2023

A study was undertaken to determine population parameters and stock status of three commercially important catfishes viz. Eutropiicthys vacha (Hamilton, 1822), Clupisoma garua (Hamilton, 1822) and Ailia coila (Hamilton, 1822) from middle and lower stretch of the River Ganga. Monthly length and weight data of three species from Patna, Buxar and Bhagalpur was collected for determining population parameters and stock status using standard procedures. The von Bertalanffy growth parameters (VBGF) parameters including the total mortaliy (Z), natural mortality (M) and fishing mortality (F) rates for all three catfishes were analysed and compared with past studies. The calculated E value of the three catfishes was above the level of optimum exploitation (0.5) but was below 0.7 indicating that caution need to be excercised in order to avoid overexploitaton of the fish stocks. Management measures such as reduction of fishing pressure either by limiting number of boats or fishing hours, imposing mesh size regulation to avoid growth overfishing, minimum legal size, declaring closed season or closed area throughout the breeding season of the catfish can be suggested for revival of the fish stocks. Further, studies on the reproductive biology, identification of spawning season and spawning grounds is suggested which will play apivotal role in the management of stocks of these fishes in the River Ganga.
Keywords: Exploitation rate, FiSAT II, Length frequency, Population dynamics (Hamilton, 1822)
Nursery rearing of rohu Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822) using water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) compost
Authors: Debnath Chandan , Sahoo Lopamudra , Singh Yadav Gulab
Published: November 2023

Efficacy of water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) compost in pond fertilisation and nursery rearing of the Indian major carp, Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822) was assessed at doses of 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 kg m-3 with an aim of eco-friendly management of this weed. Half of the compost prepared by anaerobic digestion was applied 7 days before stocking the spawn of rohu and the rest half was applied after 15 days of stocking. The stocking density of spawn was 100 nos m-3 and duration of the study was 30 days. No feed was supplemented during the entre nursery rearing period. The basic water and soil quality parameters of the ponds were analysed on 0, 15 and 30th day of stocking which showed a slight increase in pH, total alkalinity and ammonia (p≤0.05) and a decrease in dissolved oxygen of water with increase in compost doses. Plankton density was highest when compost application was @ 1.0 kg m-3 and it was lowest when compost application was @ 1.5 kg m-3. Soil pH (p≥0.05), organic carbon, available nitrogen and phosphorus (p≤0.05) were increased with increase in compost doses. The growth and survival of fish, fish production and profit were highest (p≤0.05) when the compost was applied at a dose of 1 kg m-3. From the results of the study, it is concluded that water lettuce can be used as a compost for pond fertilisation and rohu seed production.
Keywords: Compost, Fish growth and survival, Indian major carp, Nursery rearing, Plankton density, Pond fertilisation
Awareness, perception and adaptation strategies of fisher community towards marine plastic pollution along Mumbai coast, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Saba Nabi  , Qureshi Neha W. , Krishnan M.
Published: November 2023

Plastic pollution in Indian beaches has reached almost unmanageable proportions and practically no documentation available on the views, occurrence and adaptation methods of the coastal communities exposed to plastic discards in Indian beaches and fishing grounds. This study attempted to fill this gap. The 5-point Likert scale was used to determine the awareness level, perceptions and attitude of respondents towards plastic pollution among the sampled fishers of Versova, Mumbai. Indices to measure these parameters were developed. The results revealed that the respondents were knowledgeable about the ill effects of plastic pollution on the environment. Easy availability (48%), substitutability (26%) and low cost (16%) of plastics were the reasons expressed by respondents for its rampant use in fishing. The perception index scores were found to be highest (1) for “juvenile destruction” and lowest for “damage to crafts and gear” (0). Strategies that provide incentives for change, assured government support, along with environmental awareness and community led management measures are necessary to address this menace. If plastic production and availability is reduced, availability of biodegradable substitutes is increased and information through various media sources reaches the unreached from time to time, it will go a long way to reduce marine plastic pollution.
Keywords: Coastal communities, Fishers, Fishing grounds, Indian beaches, Likert scale, Perception index score, Plastic discards
Effect of fungal fermentation on proximate composition, physical and functional properties of five different plant proteins used in aquafeed formulation
Authors: Jannathulla R. , Dayal J. Syama
Published: November 2023

Five different plant proteins such as soybean meal (SBM), groundnut oil cake (GNC), rapeseed meal (RSM), sunflower oil cake (SFC) and guar meal (GRM) were tested for proximate composition as well as physical and functional properties before and after fermentation using Aspergillus niger. Fermentation was carried out in a BOD incubator at 35°C for three days after inoculating with 5% fungal suspension. Results revealed that fermentation significantly (p<0.05) increased the crude protein content and total ash by 12.5 and 10.5%, respectively, while other proximate indices, including crude fat, crude fiber and nitrogen-free extract reduced significantly. The fungal fermentation had no effect on the texture and colour of plant proteins, while fermented samples had slightly fermented odour along with their natural odour. The plant proteins such as SBM, GNC, RSM, SFC and GRM had bulk densities of 0.54, 0.62, 0.79, 0.60, and 0.71 g cm-3 and significantly (p<0.05) increased by 27.1, 0.5, 0.4, 19.9 and 12.3%, respectively. Fermentation significantly (p<0.05) reduced water holding capacity by 11.7% regardless of the ingredients, with the decrease being significantly (p<0.05) greater in GNC (17.7%), RSM (16.4%) and SBM (13.4%). After fermentation, the protein solubility index reduced significantly (p<0.05) from 77.12 to 73.59%, with SBM and RSM having a reduction of about 5.9 and 5.4%, respectively, while GNC and SFC had a reduction of 4%. The difference between fermented and unfermented GRM, on the other hand, was not significant. Results concluded that fermented ingredients could be potential protein sources rather than their counterparts based on their chemical composition and functional properties.
Keywords: Aspergillus niger, Fermentation, Functional property, Physical property, Plant protein, Proximate composition
Effect of different broodstock diets on breeding performance of the critically endangered peninsular carp Hypselobarbus pulchellus (Day, 1870)
Authors: Barlaya G. , Raghavendra C. H. , Ananda Kumar B. S. , Basumatary P. , Hemaprasanth K.
Published: November 2023

Effect of different broodstock diets on breeding performance of the critically endangered peninsular carp Hypselobarbus pulchellus (Day, 1870) was evaluated. Male and female fish were reared in earthen ponds and fed one of the following diets viz. (i) Control - Fishmeal based feed (crude protein, CP-  35%); (ii) Control feed supplemented at 2% with a commercial product used for lipid regulation in poultry (LC feed) and (iii) Specially formulated diet (CP 35%) with horse gram and black gram in addition to fishmeal (PB feed). Breeding trials were first conducted in 2019. No significant difference in fecundity was recorded among fish from different groups. The experiment was repeated in 2020, where, the Control feed was fed to fish maintained in a pond with aquatic weed Vallisneria spiralis (C+V treatment). Highest relative fecundity and spawn to fry survival was obtained with C+V treatment, there being no significant difference among other breeding performance parameters between treatments. The study indicated that the presence of submerged aquatic plants in the culture environment improves the breeding performance of  H. pulchellus.
Keywords: Broodstock diet, Fecundity, Induced breeding, Puntius pulchellus
Microplastic ingestion in Sardinella aurita Valenciennes, 1847 and Lithognathus mormyrus (Linnaeus, 1758) along the Gulf of Bejaia, Algeria
Authors: Zeghdani Zouhir , Aissa Zehira Ait , Kherfallah Lyna , Bouchema Nadir , Gherbi Rachida , Ramdane Zouhir
Published: November 2023

This study reports for the first time, the relationship between microplastic ingestion and biological parameters in Sardinella aurita and Lithognathus mormyrus from the Gulf of Bejaia,  Algeria. Gastrointestinal tracts content of 144 fishes belonging to two different habitats (pelagic and demersal) were examined for microplastics contamination. Our results showed that 74.30% of individuals ingested microplastics. The most common colour of plastic particles was blue (49% in S. aurita and 30% in L. mormyrus) and the most of microplastics extracted from gastrointestinal tracts of samples were fibers (71.64%). There was no significant relationship between age and Fulton’s factors of both the species and the quantity of microplastics ingested by them.
Keywords: Biological parameters, Fish age, Gastrointestinal tracts, Marine pollution, Plastic particles
AI on digital twin of facility captured by reality scans
Authors: Shukla Indu , Agrawal Rajeev , Ervin Kelly , Boone Jonathan
Published: November 2023

The power of artificial intelligence (AI) coupled with optimization algorithms can be linked to data-rich digital twin models to perform predictive analysis to make better informed decisions about installation operations and quality of life for the warfighters. In the current research, we developed AI connected lifecycle building information models through the creation of a data informed smart digital twin of one of US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) buildings as our test case. Digital twin (DT) technology involves creating a virtual representation of a physical entity. Digital twin is created by digitalizing data collected through sensors, powered by machine learning (ML) algorithms, and are continuously learning systems. The exponential advance in digital technologies enables facility spaces to be fully and richly modeled in three dimensions and can be brought together in virtual space. Coupled with advancement in reinforcement learning and computer graphics enables AI agents to learn visual navigation and interaction with objects. We have used Habitat AI 2.0 to train an embodied agent in immersive 3D photorealistic environment. The embodied agent interacts with a 3D environment by receiving RGB, depth and semantically segmented views of the environment and taking navigational actions and interacts with the objects in the 3D space. Instead of training the robots in physical world we are training embodied agents in simulated 3D space. While humans are superior at critical thinking, creativity, and managing people, whereas robots are superior at coping with harsh environments and performing highly repetitive work. Training robots in controlled simulated world is faster and can increase their surveillance, reliability, efficiency, and survivability in physical space.
Examining the Malaria Burden: Estimates of Repeat Malaria Cases in Select Counties in the Lake Endemic Region, Kenya, June 2021-May 2022
Authors: Kiprop Jedidah , Andala Clara , Musumba Cynthia , Karani Vallerian , Githinji Geoffrey , Ouma Fredrick , Odhiambo Fredrick , Owiny Maurice , Oyugi Elvis
Published: November 2023

Background
According to the 2020 malaria indicator survey, in Kenya, the prevalence of malaria in children aged 6 months to 14 years was 6%, with the highest prevalence in Busia at 38.5%, followed by Siaya at 28.8%, and Kisumu at 15.6%. Repeat malaria cases are infections confirmed by lab tests that occur after seven days of treatment. However, there is limited information on the prevalence of repeat cases. Thus, this study aims to examine the characteristics of repeat cases in select hospitals in Busia, Kisumu, and Siaya, with high incidence rates.
Methods
We conducted retrospective record reviews in several hospitals in Busia, Kisumu, and Siaya, which were selected based on their high incidence rates. We extracted patient data from outpatient, laboratory, and inpatient registers into MS Excel, including the date of visit, age, sex, residence, and malaria tests. We analyzed categorical data using frequencies and percentages and continuous variables using the median and interquartile range.
Results
In this study, there were 26,133 cases, out of which 3,136 (12%; 95% CI, 11.6–12.4) were repeat cases. Children under 15 years accounted for 64% (1,993) of the repeat cases, with females making up 58% (1,833), and Busia contributing 72% (n = 2,249). Urban and peri-urban facilities contributed 44% (1,333) and 42% (1,275) of repeat cases, respectively. Microscopy diagnosed 22% (687) of repeat cases in both the first and second episodes, while mRDT diagnosed 43% (1,335) in both episodes. Of those diagnosed with mRDT in both episodes, 80.8% (1,079) exceeded the 42-day interval between tests. The laboratory testing compliance with national malaria diagnosis, testing, and treatment guidelines was 88% for first repeat cases. Children under 5 years were 1.5 times more likely to undergo laboratory testing according to national guidelines than those aged 5–14 years. The use of microscopy versus rapid test in the first repeat episode was strongly associated with patients' age (ꭓ28.2, p = 0.004). The median interval between the first and second malaria episodes was 146 days (IQR, 51–341).
Conclusion
Repeat malaria cases represented 12% of the total, depicting similar distribution in person and place. The majority of these cases were contributed by females and children below 15 years. However, the actual burden of these cases could be greater as lower-level healthcare facilities were not investigated. To curb repeat malaria infections in children, the malaria lake-endemic counties should enhance laboratory surveillance and treatment
Artificial intelligence tools for optimizing recruitment and retention in clinical trials: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Lu Xiaoran , Chen Mingan , Lu Zhuolin , Shi Xiaoting , Liang Lu
Published: November 2023

Background
In recent years, the influence of artificial intelligence technology on clinical trials has been steadily increasing. It has brought about significant improvements in the efficiency and cost reduction of clinical trials. The objective of this protocol is to conduct a comprehensive review that aims to systematically map, describe, and summarize the current utilization of artificial intelligence in recruitment and retention process of clinical trials. Additionally, it aims to identify the benefits and drawbacks, as well as the barriers and facilitators associated with the application of artificial intelligence in optimizing recruitment and retention in clinical trials. The findings of this review will provide valuable insights and recommendations for future development of artificial intelligence in the context of clinical trials .
Methods
The review of relevant literature will follow the methodological framework for scoping studies provided by the Joanna Briggs Institute. A comprehensive electronic search will be conducted using the search strategy developed by the authors. Leading medical and computer science databases such as PubMed, Embase, Scopus, IEEE Xplore and Web of Science Core Collection (including SCI-EXPANDED, SSCI, A&HCI, ESCI), will be searched. The search will encompass all original research, descriptive studies, randomized controlled trials, pilot studies, conference papers, comments and feasible or acceptable studies published in English, without any time limitations, that utilize artificial intelligence tools in the recruitment and retention process of clinical trials. The review team will carefully screen the identified studies and import them into a dedicated electronic library specifically created for this review. Data extraction will be performed using a data charting table, which will include publication details, study design, and specific outcomes/results.
Discussion
The objective of this scoping review is to provide a comprehensive overview of current status of artificial intelligence tools utilized in recruitment and retention process of clinical trials. By examining the existing literature, we aim to identify the barriers and facilitators that have influenced the application of these tools. Through our study, we will uncover gaps in the current knowledge, which can guide future research efforts. Additionally, our findings will offer recommendations to stakeholders regarding the use of artificial intelligence tools and may contribute to the advancement of their application in clinical trials.
Systematic review registration:
Open Science Framework https://osf.io/c9yhk/
A field study on the management practices in a productive vineyard for efficient C sequestration and improved water resistance of soil structure
Authors: Šimanský Vladimír , Jonczak Jerzy , Bordoloi Samandan , Horák Ján
Published: November 2023

The current study explores the soil management practices in a productive vineyard in Slovakia from the viewpoint of soil organic matter and water resistance of soil structure. Five distinct management practices - Intensive tillage system (T); Intensive tillage system with poultry manure (T + M); Strip grass (G); Fertilization in lower rates of NPK (NPK1); and Fertilization in higher level of NPK (NPK2) - were adopted to observed growth of vine. During a period of 14 years, the soil samples were characterized to measure soil parameters including soil organic matter (SOM) and size fractions of water-stable aggregates. The application of NPK1 to grass strips appeared to result in highest improvements in SOM and soil structure while G between vines rows most effectively improved soil structure and C sequestration. Based on principal component analysis, soil organic carbon had a more significant influence on the content of water-stable aggregates than labile carbon. Intense changes in SOM took place in larger size fractions of water-stable macroaggregates more than 2 mm, while smaller water-stable macroaggregates below 2 mm and water-stable microaggregates were more stable.
Chasing Weakly Bound Biological Water Near Peptide Backbone in Aqueous Environment by Ultrafast 2D IR Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Jianping , Zhao Juan , Yu Pengyun , Dong Tiantian , Wu Yanzhou , Yang Fan
Published: November 2023

There has been a long-standing debate as to how many hydrogen bonds a peptide backbone amide can form in aqueous solutions. In this work, the hydrogen-bonding structural dynamics of N-ethylpropionamide (NEPA, a b-model peptide) in water was examined using linear and nonlinear infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The results showed two sub bands in the amide-I mode in heavy water (D2O), which were found to arise from a weakly hydrogen-bonded (WHB) dynamical water molecule in the vicinity of the amide C=O group on the basis of a commonly known nearby water molecule that is strongly hydrogen bonded (SHB). This picture is supported by quantum calculations, molecular dynamics simulations and NMR spectroscopy. Further, the thermodynamics and kinetics of the WHB species, whose amide-I frequency is 13 cm-1 higher than the SHB state (with two strongly H-bonded water molecules on the amide C=O side), are examined by waiting-time and temperature dependent chemical-exchange 2D IR spectroscopy. While the activation energy for the change from the SHB state to the SHB state is about 13.25 kJ/mol, the breaking or weakening the WHB with the amide occurs with a time constant of half picosecond at room temperature. Our results provided experimental evidence of a mobile water molecule nearby the peptide backbone, allowing us to gain more insights into the dynamics of the backbone hydration of both a- and b-peptides.
Dosimetric study of line scanning for prostate cancer in comparison with passive scattering and volumetric modulated arc therapy
Authors: Takagi Masaru , Hasegawa Yasuhiro , Tateoka Kunihiko , Takada Yu , Hareyama Masato
Published: November 2023

Purpose
We performed a planning study to compare the dose distribution of the line scanning (LS) method with that of passive scattering (PS) method and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for patients with localized prostate cancer.
Methods
Thirty patients treated in 2017–2019 were randomly selected. The dose constraints were the clinical target volume (CTV) D98 ≥ 73.0 Gy (RBE), rectal wall V65 < 17% and V40 < 35%, and bladder wall V65 < 25% and V40 < 50%. The CTV doses and rectal and bladder wall dose volumes were calculated and evaluated using the Freidman test. P < 0.05 was determined to be statistically significant.
Results
In all patients, the LS technique satisfied the dose restrictions for the CTV, rectal wall, and bladder wall. Ten (33.3%) and 21 (70.0%) patients using the PS method and five (16.7%) and one (3.3%) patients using the VMAT, respectively, failed to meet the requirements for the rectal and bladder walls. Wide ranges of the rectal and bladder wall volumes of V10–V70 were lower with LS than with PS and VMAT. LS was superior to VMAT in all dose-volume rectal and bladder wall indexes. PS outperformed the other two methods at Dmax.
Conclusion
Compared with PS and VMAT, the LS method enables further reduction of the rectal and bladder doses while maintaining the CTV dose. Our results suggest that proton therapy for patients with localized prostate cancer could lower gastrointestinal and genitourinary toxicities by changing from PS to LS.
Nutritional Value Score rates foods based on global health priorities
Authors: Beal Ty , Ortenzi Flaminia
Published: November 2023

Nutrient profiling systems are used to rate foods by nutritional value or healthfulness using food composition data. Each nutrient profiling system has different purposes and limitations. Existing systems have not adequately addressed energy density and nutrient bioavailability. Recent publications have also called for developing nutrient profiling systems for global use and for assessing environmental impacts of foods. To address these needs, we developed the Nutritional Value Score (NVS), which is based on nutrients of public health priority and nutrient ratios predictive of noncommunicable disease risk. The NVS adjusts for nutrient bioavailability and quantifies nutrient density in terms of Calories and grams, to address limitations in existing systems. Using common foods from Indonesia and Bangladesh as examples, the NVS effectively highlights nutritious items within recommended food groups. It also enables more nutritionally equivalent comparisons in environmental impact assessments. The NVS is a flexible tool for researchers, program implementers, and policymakers in varied contexts to identify healthy and sustainable foods. Although further validation is needed, initial testing suggests the NVS is an adaptable nutritional metric with diverse global applications.
The effects of a new aminosilane external donor on propylene polymerization with MgCl2supported Ziegler-Natta catalyst
Authors: Chang Hefei , Li Huamei , Li Chunguang , Huo Xiaojian , Ding Cong
Published: November 2023

A new aminosilane external donor named piperidine methyl dimethoxysilane (Donor-PMe) was firstly synthesized, and then was used as external donor on propylene polymerization with MgCl2-supported Ziegler-Natta catalyst. The effects of Donor-PMe on the catalytic activity, isotacticity, molecular weight distribution, isotactic sequence length, isotactic sequence distribution of polypropylene were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and self-nucleation and annealing (SSA), respectively. It was found that it was conducive to improving the activity and stereoregularity of catalyst when the new aminosilane Donor-PMe was used as external donor with MgCl2-supported ZieglerNatta catalyst. The catalytic activity of the Ziegler-Natta catalyst and the isotacticity of PP prepared by Donor-PMe increased with the increase of Si/Ti ratio on propylene polymerization.The GPC results showed that the molecular weight distribution of polypropylene was about 6.7, which was broader than that of industrial homo-polypropylene about 3.0. The SSA results showed that the relative contents of the highest isotactic component and the lamellar thickness in the PP chain gradually increased with the increase of Si/Ti of Donor-PMe, indicating the isotactic sequence length of polypropylene got longer with the increase of Si/Ti ratio of Donor-PMe. Meanwhile, the lamellar thickness distribution of polypropylene became broader, revealing the isotactic sequence length distribution of polypropylene got broader, indicating there were more higher isotactic sequence length in PP chain.
Different HLA genotype pattern in patients with Multiple Sclerosis onset after COVID-19 vaccine.
Authors: Bianco Assunta , Sante Gabriele Di , Colò Francesca , De Arcangelis Valeria , Cicia Alessandra , Giacomo Paola Del , De Bonis Maria , Morganti Tommaso , Carlomagno Vincenzo , Lucchini Matteo , Minucci Angelo , Calabresi Paolo , Mirabella Massimiliano
Published: November 2023

Background: Few cases of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) onset after COVID-19 vaccination have been reported, even though the evidence is insufficient to establish causality. The aim of this study is to compare cases of newly diagnosed MS before and after the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of COVID-19 vaccination. Potential environmental and genetic predisposing factors were also investigated, as well as clinical patterns.
Methods: This is a single-centre retrospective cohort study including all patients who presented with MS onset between January 2018 and July 2022. Data on COVID-19 vaccination administration, dose, and type were collected. HLA-DRB1 genotyping was performed in three subgroups.
Results: 266 patients received a new diagnosis of MS in our centre, 143 before the COVID-19 pandemic (until and including March 2020) and 123 during COVID-19 era (from April 2020). The mean number of new MS onset per year was not different before and during COVID-19 era, as well as baseline patients’ characteristics, type of onset, clinical recovery, and radiological patterns.
Fourteen (11.4%) patients who subsequently received a new diagnosis of MS had a history of COVID-19 vaccination within one month before symptoms onset. Patients’ characteristics, type of onset, clinical recovery, and radiological patterns do not differ from those of patients with non-vaccine-related new diagnosis of MS.
The allele frequencies of HLA-DRB1*15 were 17.6% and 22.2% in patients with not-vaccine-related disease onset before and during COVID-19 era respectively, while no case of HLA-DRB1*15 was identified among patients with a new diagnosis of MS post-COVID-19 vaccine. In contrast HLA-DRB1*08+ or HLA-DRB1*10+ MS patients were present only in this subgroup.
Conclusions: Although a causal link between COVID-19 vaccination and MS cannot be detected, it is interesting to note and speculate about the peculiarities and heterogeneities underlying disease mechanisms of MS, where the interactions of genetic and environment could be crucial also for the follow up and the evaluation of therapeutic options.
Complete genome sequence of a novel mitovirus isolated from the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ginseng causing ginseng root rot
Authors: Ma Kai Ge , Cai Li Ping , Wang Ruo Jing , Wang Jun , Zhan Hao Xin , Ni He Chi , Lu Bao Hui , Zhang Yan Jing , gao jie
Published: November 2023

A novel Mitoviridaevirus, “Fusarium oxysporum mitovirus 2” (FoMV2), was isolated from the pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ginseng strain 0414 infesting Panax ginseng. The FoMV2 genome was 2388 nt in length and 30.57% in GC content. It carried an ORF encoding a 713-amino-acid RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) with a molecular weight of 83.05 kDa. The homology between FoMV2 and the viruses isolated from “Botrytis cinerea mitovirus 8” and “Fusarium verticillioides mitovirus 1” was 87.94% and 77.85%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that FoMV2 belonged to Mitoviridae. To our knowledge, this is the first mycovirus isolated from F. oxysporum by ginseng root rot.
Rosuvastatin-laden Nanofibrous Patches for Effective Treatment of Corneal Ulcer in Experimental Animals
Authors: Helmy Abdelrahman M. , Hamed Asmaa A. , Abdelghany Ahmed A. , Hafez Sara Mohamed Naguib Abdel , Rouby Waleed M.A. El , Aly Usama F.
Published: November 2023

Corneal ulceration is a "silent epidemic" that impacts laborers’ lives, particularly in low-income countries, and calls for a unique ophthalmic drug delivery strategy that overcomes ocular barriers to promptly achieve therapeutic outcomes while remaining cost-effective. Rosuvastatin, a third-generation statin that significantly accelerates tissue regeneration and wound healing, could be proposed as a potential treatment for corneal ulcers. Based on these pillars, the current study aims to develop a nanofibers-based corneal patch laden with rosuvastatin, for the first time, as a novel approach for the treatment of corneal ulcers. Several characterizations were performed for the rosuvastatin-laden nanofibers (e.g., drug encapsulation efficiency, drug loading capacity, morphological analysis, elemental mapping, compatibility with other ingredients, and in vitro release studies) indicating the nanofibers' feasibility for the stated purpose. The therapeutic effects of rosuvastatin-laden nanofibers were examined on a surgically generated corneal ulcer rabbit model. The treatment outcomes were evaluated both macroscopically (e.g., corneal opacity degree and area of ulceration) and histologically demonstrating that the rosuvastatin-laden nanofibers heal corneal ulcers promptly. In light of this, the study emphasizes that rosuvastatin has a significant potential for healing corneal ulcers and that fast-release nanofibers may be an ideal drug delivery platform for treating corneal diseases topically.
Post-COVID-19 Retinal Manifestations in Pediatric Patient with Retinoblastoma: A Case Report
Authors: Ng Wei Loon , Tungsattayathitthan Usanee , Trinavarat Adisak , Atchaneeyasakul La-ongsri
Published: November 2023

Background
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with various ocular manifestations, with limited literature on posterior segment findings in pediatric cases, especially in the context of retinoblastoma (RB). We present a unique case of a pediatric patient with unilateral RB who developed posterior uveitis and retinal vasculitis in the fellow eye following a COVID-19 infection.
Case presentation
A one-year and four-month-old boy with unilateral RB developed small retinal infiltrates and retinal vasculitis in the fellow eye at six months after a COVID-19 infection. Laboratory work-up did not identify infectious or specific autoimmune disorders. Given the critical nature of retinoblastoma, it raised concerns about a tumor-related cause in the fellow eye. Ancillary investigations, including fundus fluorescein angiography, were performed to differentiate RB-related changes. However, the results did not align with the typical features of RB. Spontaneous resolution of retinal lesions and retinal vasculitis was observed six weeks later.
Conclusions
Pediatric patients with posterior uveitis or retinal vasculitis post-COVID-19 should undergo comprehensive diagnostic workup, akin to adults, to exclude alternative causes before attributing it to SARS-CoV-2-induced immune responses. Notably, in unique cases like RB, a thorough evaluation of tumor-related cause is imperative.
Descriptive sensory analysis and evaluation of lipid oxidation in mortadella developed with curcumin microcrystals and cochineal carmine
Authors: Henrique Jacqueline Thomé , Biason Maria Victória , Mendes Poliana dos Santos , Cardoso Flávia Aparecida Reitz , Leimann Fernanda Vitória , Gonçalves Odinei Hess , Bona Evandro , de Oliveira Anielle , Marques Leila Larisa Medeiros , Fuchs Renata Hernandez Barros , Droval Adriana Aparecida
Published: November 2023

The effects of adding cochineal carmine and annatto dyes in five mortadella formulations made with curcumin microcrystals were compared, evaluating the preference and describing them sensorially. Based on the optimized formulation obtained with color parameters, two formulations were elaborated, both added curcumin microcrystals and cochineal carmine. During 60 days pH, objective color, water retention capacity, lipid oxidation, and texture profile analyses were performed. The results demonstrate the possibility of excluding sodium erythorbate from formulations containing curcumin microcrystals. There was no significant difference in lipid oxidation between the samples, presenting at the end of 60 days a value of 0.11 mg and 0.10 mg of MDA kg− 1 for the two samples, respectively. There were also no relevant significant differences between for the two samples, nor between the evaluated storage times, and the average values obtained for pH, CRA, objective color, and TPA were expected for this type of cooked meat sausage. In the presence of curcumin microcrystals, the synthetic antioxidant, sodium erythorbate, can be eliminated from the formulations, as it does not affect the physical-chemical parameters studied, such as pH, water retention capacity, color objective, and texture profile.
A Novel Electronics Control Unit for Early Detection of Vehicle
Authors: Arafa Osama , Mansour Ahmed , Abdallah Mohamed , Omar Mohamed , Syam Fathy
Published: November 2023

Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) gets overheated due to several unavoidable reasons. The consequences of missing a timely shutdown of the ICE can be serious and the engine can be considerably injured. In this paper, a novel, efficient and reliable electronic control unit for providing ICE Overheating Early Detection and Alarm (OTEDA) is proposed, implemented and tested. Regular sampling of the engine block temperature and the rate of temperature change within a cooling system stressing period is used to establish an engine’s thermal signature. The theory of early detection based on the engine thermal signature is explained. The OTEDA hardware is built around the latest temperature sensing digital technology provided by Texas Instruments. The main OTEDA unit building blocks and the software structure are explained. Field test on several commercial vehicles of different make and brands proves the value added by the proposed Electronic Control Unit (ECU) in protecting the engine from incidental overheating.
Identification of m6A/m5C-related lncRNA signature for prediction of prognosis and immunotherapy efficacy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jian , Xu Chao , Yu Bo , Cai Yiling , Wang Jianlin
Published: November 2023

Background
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and 5-methylcytosine (m5C) RNA modifications have garnered significant attention in the field of epigenetic research due to their close association with human cancers. This study we focus on elucidating the expression patterns of m6A/m5C-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and assessing their prognostic significance and therapeutic potential.
Methods
Transcriptomic profiles of ESCC were derived from public resources. m6A/m5C-related lncRNAs were obtained from TCGA using Spearman’s correlations analysis. The m6A/m5C-lncRNAs prognostic signature was selected to construct a RiskScore model for survival prediction, and their correlation with the immune microenvironment and immunotherapy response was analyzed.
Results
A total of 606 m6A/m5C-lncRNAs were screened, and ESCC cases in the TCGA cohort were stratified into three clusters, which showed significantly distinct in various clinical features and immune landscapes. A RiskScore model comprising ten m6A/m5C-lncRNAs prognostic signature were constructed and displayed good independent prediction ability in validation datasets. Patients in the low-RiskScore group had a better prognosis, a higher abundance of immune cells (CD4 + T cell, CD4 + naive T cell, class-switched memory B cell, and Treg), and enhanced expression of most immune checkpoint genes. Importantly, patients with low-RiskScore were more cline benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitor treatment (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Our findings underscore the potential of RiskScore system comprising ten m6A/m5C-related lncRNAs as effective biomarkers for predicting survival outcomes, characterizing the immune landscape, and assessing response to immunotherapy in ESCC.
Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy in a Child: A Case Report
Authors: Ismail Ali , Khreis Dima , Assaad Amani , Majdalani Marianne Nimah
Published: November 2023

Background
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) commonly leads to heart failure (HF) and represents the most common indication for cardiac transplantation in the pediatric population. Clinical manifestations of DCM are mainly the symptoms of heart failure; it is diagnosed by EKG, chest x- ray and echocardiography. For the idiopathic and familial diseases cases of DCM, there are no definite guidelines for treatment in children as they are treated for prognostic improvement.
Case presentation
We report the case of a 2-year-old girl diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy associated with homozygous mutation in the Myosin Light Chain 3 gene admitted for edema in lower extremities, muscle weakness, lethargy and vomiting, and she was found to be in cardiogenic shock. Chest x-ray showed cardiomegaly and EKG showed first degree atrioventricular block. Echocardiogram showed severe biventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. After 70 days of hospitalization, the patient went into cardiac arrest with cessation of electrical and mechanical activity of the heart, despite cardiopulmonary resuscitative efforts.
Conclusion
Although rare, pediatric DCM carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality and a lack of curative therapy.