bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Activity Coefficients and Osmotic Coefficient of Electrolyte Solutions Containing Rb+ by the Electrolyte Molecular Interaction Volume Model and the Electrolyte Molecular Interaction Volume Model-Energy Term
Authors: Wu Yanshan , Tao Dongping
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to predict two-electrolyte solutions containing Rb+, explore its characteristics to better solve the problems existing in the natural environment, and promote the development of high technology. We fit and predict the activity and osmotic coefficients of nineteen single-electrolyte solutions and seven two-electrolyte solutions containing Rb+ using the electrolytr Molecular Interaction Volume Model and the electrolyte Molecular Interaction Volume Model-Energy Termmodels. The average relative errors of the activity coefficient and osmotic coefficient calculated by eMIVM in aqueous monoelectrolyte solution were 0.59% and 0.38%, respectively, and for eMIVM-ET they were 1.06% and 0.38%, respectively. The average relative errors of activity coefficient and osmotic coefficient calculated by eMIVM-ET in organic single-electrolyte solution were 1.33% and 0.48%, respectively, while for eMIVM they were 1.49% and 0.48%, respectively. When predicting the activity coefficient and osmotic coefficient of two-electrolyte solutions containing Rb+, the average relative errors calculated by the eMIVM-ET model were 23% and 13%, respectively, while the values calculated by the eMIVM model were 34% and 17%, respectively. The results show that eMIVM-ET has a good fitting effect in organic monoelectrolyte solutions, and eMIVM has a good fitting effect in aqueous monoelectrolyte solutions. In the prediction of two-electrolyte solutions, the eMIVM-ET model performs better than the eMIVM model.
Phytic-Acid-Modified Copper Foil as a Current Collector for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Gan Mingtao , Zhu Mengjun , Tu Jiangping , Wang Xiuli , Gu Changdong
Published: February 2024

Electrolytic copper foil is ideal for use in the anode current collectors of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because of its abundant reserves, good electrical conductivity, and soft texture. However, electrolytic copper foil is prone to corrosion in electrolytes and weak bonding to the anode substance. Surface modification of copper foil is considered an effective method of improving the overall electrochemical performance of LIBs. In this study, a 5 nm thickness phytic acid (PA)-based film is constructed on electrolytic copper foil using a fast electrodeposition process (about 10 s). PA-treated copper foil (PA-Cu) displays an improved corrosion resistance in electrolytes because of a strong complexation between the PA and copper. It is found that PA-treated copper foil also bonds better with graphite particles compared with pristine copper foil. LIBs with PA-Cu foils as their current collectors exhibit enhanced cycling stability, improved capacity retention, and superior rate performance at both low and high current densities. Our study offers a novel avenue for the development of high-performance electrode current collector materials for LIBs.
Hydrophobic Surface Array Structure Based on Laser-Induced Graphene for Deicing and Anti-Icing Applications
Authors: Zhong Mian , Li Shichen , Zou Yao , Fan Hongyun , Jiang Yong , Qiu Chao , Luo Jinling , Yang Liang
Published: February 2024

The exceptional performance of graphene has driven the advancement of its preparation techniques and applications. Laser-induced graphene (LIG), as a novel graphene preparation technique, has been applied in various fields. Graphene periodic structures created by the LIG technique exhibit superhydrophobic characteristics and can be used for deicing and anti-icing applications, which are significantly influenced by the laser parameters. The laser surface treatment process was simulated by a finite element software analysis (COMSOL Multiphysics) to optimize the scanning parameter range, and the linear array surface structure was subsequently fabricated by the LIG technique. The generation of graphene was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The periodic linear array structure was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser imaging (CLSM). In addition, CLSM testings, contact angle measurements, and delayed icing experiments were systematically performed to investigate the effect of scanning speed on surface hydrophobicity. The results show that high-quality and uniform graphene can be achieved using the laser scanning speed of 125 mm/s. The periodic linear array structures can obviously increase the contact angle and suppress delayed icing. Furthermore, these structures have the enhanced ability of the electric heating deicing, which can reach 100 °C and 240 °C within 15 s and within 60 s under the DC voltage power supply ranging from 3 to 7 V, respectively. These results indicate that the LIG technique can be developed to provide an efficient, economical, and convenient approach for preparing graphene and that the hydrophobic surface array structure based on LIG has considerable potential for deicing and anti-icing applications.
Biocatalytic Performance of β-Glucosidase Immobilized on 3D-Printed Single- and Multi-Channel Polylactic Acid Microreactors
Authors: Vasios Andreas-Georgios , Skonta Anastasia , Patila Michaela , Stamatis Haralambos
Published: February 2024

Microfluidic devices have attracted much attention in the current day owing to the unique advantages they provide. However, their application for industrial use is limited due to manufacturing limitations and high cost. Moreover, the scaling-up process of the microreactor has proven to be difficult. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is a promising solution for the above obstacles due to its ability to fabricate complex structures quickly and at a relatively low cost. Hence, combining the advantages of the microscale with 3D printing technology could enhance the applicability of microfluidic devices in the industrial sector. In the present work, a 3D-printed single-channel immobilized enzyme microreactor with a volume capacity of 30 μL was designed and created in one step via the fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing technique, using polylactic acid (PLA) as the printing material. The microreactor underwent surface modification with chitosan, and β-glucosidase from Thermotoga maritima was covalently immobilized. The immobilized biocatalyst retained almost 100% of its initial activity after incubation at different temperatures, while it could be effectively reused for up to 10 successful reaction cycles. Moreover, a multi-channel parallel microreactor incorporating 36 channels was developed, resulting in a significant increase in enzymatic productivity.
Analysis of Culturable Bacterial Diversity of Pangong Tso Lake via a 16S rRNA Tag Sequencing Approach
Authors: Yadav Pooja , Das Joyasree , Sundharam Shiva S. , Krishnamurthi Srinivasan
Published: February 2024

The Pangong Tso lake is a high-altitude freshwater habitat wherein the resident microbes experience unique selective pressures, i.e., high radiation, low nutrient content, desiccation, and temperature extremes. Our study attempts to analyze the diversity of culturable bacteria by applying a high-throughput amplicon sequencing approach based on long read technology to determine the spectrum of bacterial diversity supported by axenic media. The phyla Pseudomonadota, Bacteriodetes, and Actinomycetota were retrieved as the predominant taxa in both water and sediment samples. The genera Hydrogenophaga and Rheinheimera, Pseudomonas, Loktanella, Marinomonas, and Flavobacterium were abundantly present in the sediment and water samples, respectively. Low nutrient conditions supported the growth of taxa within the phyla Bacteriodetes, Actinomycetota, and Cyanobacteria and were biased towards the selection of Pseudomonas, Hydrogenophaga, Bacillus, and Enterococcus spp. Our study recommends that media formulations can be finalized after analyzing culturable diversity through a high-throughput sequencing effort to retrieve maximum species diversity targeting novel/relevant taxa.
Molecular Characterization of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma prunorum’ in the Czech Republic and Susceptibility of Apricot Rootstocks to the Two Most Abundant Haplotypes
Authors: Kiss Tomáš , Šafářová Dana , Navrátil Milan , Nečas Tomáš
Published: February 2024

‘Candidatus Phytoplasma prunorum’ is one of the most destructive pathogens of Prunus species, where susceptible species render unproductive several years after infection. In epidemiology, the molecular characterization of phytoplasmas is based on sequence analysis of variable nonribosomal genes. In this study aceF, pnp, imp and secY genes were used for characterization of the ‘Ca. P. prunorum’ genotypes present in the Czech Republic. In total, 56 plant and 33 vector (Cacopsylla pruni) samples positive to ‘Ca. P. prunorum’ collected in seven localities were used in the study. Based on sequence analysis, four aceF, two pnp, six imp, and three secY genotypes were identified in analyzed samples. The most abundant in both plant and insect samples were the A6, P2, I4, and S2 genotypes. Most of the Czech ‘Ca. P. prunorum’ haplotypes clustered together in the haplotype network analysis. Next, two isolates representing the two most abundant Czech haplotypes (A6-P2-I4-S2 and A5-P2-I4-S2) were used in the susceptibility test of three apricot rootstock types (St. Julien A, M-VA-1, GF-305). Susceptibility was analyzed by phytoplasma quantification using quantitative real-time PCR and evaluation of symptom manifestation. Based on the results, the influence of the rootstock type on the phytoplasma titer and symptom manifestation was greater than of the phytoplasma isolate, while the year of analysis had no influence on the results. The results also showed that the phytoplasma titer is increasing in plant tissues during the vegetation period.
Serotype Distribution and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern of Streptococcus pneumoniae in COVID-19 Pandemic Era in Brazil
Authors: Almeida Samanta C. G. , Lemos Ana Paula S. de , Bierrenbach Ana Luiza , Moraes José Cássio de , Brandileone Maria Cristina de Cunto
Published: February 2024

Despite the introduction of the pneumococcal vaccine, Streptococcus pneumoniae remains a cause of invasive diseases in Brazil. This study provides the distribution of serotypes and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns for pneumococcal isolates before and during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic in two age groups, <5 and ≥50 years. This is a national laboratory-based surveillance study that uses data from the Brazilian national laboratory for invasive S. pneumoniae from the pre-COVID-19 (January 2016 to January 2020) and COVID-19 (February 2020 to May 2022) periods. Antimicrobial resistance was evaluated by disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration. The year 2020 was marked by a 44.6% reduction in isolates received and was followed by an upward trend from 2021 onwards, which became evident in 2022. No differences were observed in serotypes distribution between the studied periods. The COVID-19 period was marked by the high prevalence of serotypes 19A, 3, and 6C in both age groups. Serotypes 19A and 6C were related to non-antimicrobial susceptibility. We observed a reduction in S. pneumoniae, without changes in serotypes distribution and epidemiological capsular switch during the COVID-19 period. We observed elevated resistance rates, mainly to penicillin and ceftriaxone for non-meningitis cases in children under 5 years of age.
The Effects of Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) on Thermophilic Bacteria: Antibacterial, Morphological, Physiological and Biochemical Investigations
Authors: Jahan Israt , Matpan Bekler Fatma , Tunç Ahmed , Güven Kemal
Published: February 2024

Since thermophilic microorganisms are valuable sources of thermostable enzymes, it is essential to recognize the potential toxicity of silver nanoparticles used in diverse industrial sectors. Thermophilic bacteria Geobacillus vulcani 2Cx, Bacillus licheniformis 3CA, Paenibacillus macerans 3CA1, Anoxybacillus ayderensis FMB1, and Bacillus paralicheniformis FMB2-1 were selected, and their MIC and MBC values were assessed by treatment with AgNPs in a range of 62.5–1500 μg mL−1. The growth inhibition curves showed that the G. vulcani 2Cx, and B. paralicheniformis FMB2-1 strains were more sensitive to AgNPs, demonstrating a reduction in population by 71.1% and 31.7% at 62.5 μg mL−1 and by 82.9% and 72.8% at 250 μg mL−1, respectively. TEM and FT-IR analysis revealed that AgNPs caused structural damage, cytoplasmic leakage, and disruption of cellular integrity. Furthermore, cell viability showed a significant decrease alongside an increase in superoxide radical (SOR; O2−) production. β-galactosidase biosynthesis decreased to 28.8% level at 500 μg mL−1 AgNPs for G. vulcani 2Cx, 32.2% at 250 μg mL−1 for A. ayderensis FMB1, and 38.8% only at 62.5 μg mL−1, but it was completely inhibited at 500 μg mL−1 for B. licheniformis 3CA. Moreover, B. paralicheniformis FMB2-1 showed a significant decrease to 11.2% at 125 μg mL−1. This study is the first to reveal the toxic effects of AgNPs on thermophilic bacteria.
Select Cover Crop Residue and Soil Microbiomes Contribute to Suppression of Fusarium Root and Crown Rot in Barley and Soybean
Authors: Aiyer Harini S. , McKenzie-Gopsill Andrew , Mills Aaron , Foster Adam John
Published: February 2024

Fusarium root and crown rot (FRCR) negatively impact several economically important plant species. Cover crops host different soil and residue microbiomes, thereby potentially influencing pathogen load and disease severity. The carryover effect of cover crops on FRCR in barley and soybean was investigated. Field trials were conducted in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Two cover crops from each plant group, including forbs, brassicas, legumes, and grasses, were grown in a randomized complete block design with barley and soybean planted in split plots the following year. Barley and soybean roots were assessed for FRCR through visual disease rating and Fusarium spp. were isolated from diseased tissue. Fungal and bacterial communities in cover crop residues were quantified using amplicon sequencing. The disease-suppressive effects of soil were tested in greenhouse studies. The results indicated that sorghum-sudangrass-associated microbiomes suppress Fusarium spp., leading to reduced FRCR in both barley and soybean. The oilseed radish microbiome had the opposite effect, consequently increasing FRCR incidence in barley and soybean. The results from this study indicate that cover crop residue and the associated soil microbiome influence the incidence and severity of FRCR in subsequent crops. This information can be used to determine cover cropping strategies in barley and soybean production systems.
Identification of Genes Associated with Resistance to Persulcatusin, a Tick Defensin from Ixodes persulcatus
Authors: Shimoda So , Ito Junya , Ando Tasuke , Tobe Ryuta , Nakagawa Kiyotaka , Yoneyama Hiroshi
Published: February 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are present in a wide range of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Since AMPs are characterized by their effectiveness against emergent antibiotic-resistant bacteria, they are attracting attention as next-generation antimicrobial compounds that could solve the problem of drug-resistant bacteria. Persulcatusin (IP), an antibacterial peptide derived from the hard tick Ixodes persulcatus, shows high antibacterial activity against various Gram- positive bacteria as well as multidrug-resistant bacteria. However, reports on the antibacterial action and resistance mechanisms of IP are scarce. In this study, we spontaneously generated mutants showing increased a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of IP and analyzed their cross-resistance to other AMPs and antibiotics. We also used fluorescent probes to investigate the target of IP activity by evaluating IP-induced damage to the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. Our findings suggest that the antimicrobial activity of IP on bacterial cytoplasmic membranes occurs via a mechanism of action different from that of known AMPs. Furthermore, we screened for mutants with high susceptibility to IP using a transposon mutant library and identified 16 genes involved in IP resistance. Our results indicate that IP, like other AMPs, depolarizes the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane, but it may also alter membrane structure and inhibit cell-wall synthesis.
An Efficient Peptide Screening Method for Mineral-Binding Peptides
Authors: Ku Lam Ian , Forbes Liza , Brito e Abreu Susana
Published: February 2024

In mineral processing, arsenic-bearing minerals are particularly difficult to separate from their non-arsenic counterparts because they possess similar surface properties. Peptides are well known for their target specificity and can offer a ‘green’ alternative to traditional flotation reagents. However, the use of peptide technologies in mineral processing for developing novel flotation reagents has not been explored. Hence, this work aims to develop a screening method to identify mineral-binding peptides as potential reagent candidates. It is hypothesised that peptides can selectively adsorb onto mineral surfaces, and this method can efficiently identify mineral-binding peptides with high specificity toward the target minerals. The methodology presented involves a selection of peptide candidates from existing literature that show affinity toward arsenic species. These peptides were tested for their adsorption performance onto selected mineral surfaces to evaluate their mineral selectivity under flotation conditions. The study demonstrates that the screening method developed is effective in identifying peptides that have an affinity for target minerals, in this case, arsenic minerals. The screening method can be applied to other minerals, thus, unlocking the potential for developing new reagent chemistries for use in mineral processing.
Silver-Sulfamethazine-Conjugated β-Cyclodextrin/Dextran-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles for Pathogen Inhibition
Authors: Shatan Anastasiia B. , Patsula Vitalii , Macková Hana , Mahun Andrii , Lehotská Renáta , Piecková Elena , Horák Daniel
Published: February 2024

In the fight against antibiotic resistance, which is rising to dangerously high levels worldwide, new strategies based on antibiotic-conjugated biocompatible polymers bound to magnetic nanoparticles that allow the drug to be manipulated and delivered to a specific target are being proposed. Here, we report the direct surface engineering of nontoxic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONs) using biocompatible dextran (Dex) covalently linked to β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) with the ability to form non-covalent complexes with silver-sulfamethazine (SMT-Ag). To achieve a good interaction of β-CD-modified dextran with the surface of the nanoparticles, it was functionalized with diphosphonic acid (DPA) that provides strong binding to Fe atoms. The synthesized polymers and nanoparticles were characterized by various methods, such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopies, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), etc. The resulting magnetic ION@DPA-Dex-β-CD-SMT-Ag nanoparticles were colloidally stable in water and contained 24 μg of antibiotic per mg of the particles. When tested for in vitro antimicrobial activity on Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria and fungi (yeast Candida albicans and mold Aspergillus niger), the particles showed promising potential.
Organismal Function Enhancement through Biomaterial Intervention
Authors: Tian Fengchao , Zhou Yuemin , Ma Zaiqiang , Tang Ruikang , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: February 2024

Living organisms in nature, such as magnetotactic bacteria and eggs, generate various organic–inorganic hybrid materials, providing unique functionalities. Inspired by such natural hybrid materials, researchers can reasonably integrate biomaterials with living organisms either internally or externally to enhance their inherent capabilities and generate new functionalities. Currently, the approaches to enhancing organismal function through biomaterial intervention have undergone rapid development, progressing from the cellular level to the subcellular or multicellular level. In this review, we will concentrate on three key strategies related to biomaterial-guided bioenhancement, including biointerface engineering, artificial organelles, and 3D multicellular immune niches. For biointerface engineering, excess of amino acid residues on the surfaces of cells or viruses enables the assembly of materials to form versatile artificial shells, facilitating vaccine engineering and biological camouflage. Artificial organelles refer to artificial subcellular reactors made of biomaterials that persist in the cytoplasm, which imparts cells with on-demand regulatory ability. Moreover, macroscale biomaterials with spatiotemporal regulation characters enable the local recruitment and aggregation of cells, denoting multicellular niche to enhance crosstalk between cells and antigens. Collectively, harnessing the programmable chemical and biological attributes of biomaterials for organismal function enhancement shows significant potential in forthcoming biomedical applications.
Powders of Diamond Nanoparticles as a Promising Material for Reflectors of Very Cold and Cold Neutrons
Authors: Lychagin Egor , Dubois Marc , Nesvizhevsky Valery
Published: February 2024

More than 15 years ago, the study of nanodiamond (ND) powders as a material for designing reflectors of very cold neutrons (VCNs) and cold neutrons (CNs) began. Such reflectors can significantly increase the efficiency of using such neutrons and expand the scope of their application for solving applied and fundamental problems. This review considers the principle of operation of VCN and CN reflectors based on ND powders and their advantages. Information is presented on the performed experimental and theoretical studies of the effect of the size, structure, and composition of NDs on the efficiency of reflectors. Methods of chemical and mechanical treatments of powders in order to modify their chemical composition and structure are discussed. The aim is to avoid, or at least to decrease, the neutron inelastic scatterers and absorbers (mainly hydrogen atoms but also metallic impurities and nitrogen) as well as to enhance coherent elastic scattering (to destroy ND clusters and sp2 carbon shells on the ND surface that result from the preparation of NDs). Issues requiring further study are identified. They include deeper purification of NDs from impurities that can be activated in high radiation fluxes, the stability of NDs in high radiation fluxes, and upscaling methods for producing larger quantities of ND powders. Possible ways of solving these problems are proposed.
Integrative Approach for Designing Novel Triazole Derivatives as α-Glucosidase Inhibitors: QSAR, Molecular Docking, ADMET, and Molecular Dynamics Investigations
Authors: Abchir Oussama , Khedraoui Meriem , Nour Hassan , Yamari Imane , Errougui Abdelkbir , Samadi Abdelouahid , Chtita Samir
Published: February 2024

In response to the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus and the limitations associated with the current treatments, there is a growing need to develop novel medications for this disease. This study is focused on creating new compounds that exhibit a strong inhibition of alpha-glucosidase, which is a pivotal enzyme in diabetes control. A set of 33 triazole derivatives underwent an extensive QSAR analysis, aiming to identify the key factors influencing their inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. Using the multiple linear regression (MLR) model, seven promising compounds were designed as potential drugs. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations were employed to shed light on the mode of interaction between the ligands and the target, and the stability of the obtained complexes. Furthermore, the pharmacokinetic properties of the designed compounds were assessed to predict their behavior in the human body. The binding free energy was also calculated using MMGBSA method and revealed favorable thermodynamic properties. The results highlighted three novel compounds with high biological activity, strong binding affinity to the target enzyme, and suitability for oral administration. These results offer interesting prospects for the development of effective and well-tolerated medications against diabetes mellitus.
Carbon-Based Nanostructures as Emerging Materials for Gene Delivery Applications
Authors: Yazdani Sara , Mozaffarian Mehrdad , Pazuki Gholamreza , Hadidi Naghmeh , Villate-Beitia Ilia , Zárate Jon , Puras Gustavo , Pedraz Jose Luis
Published: February 2024

Gene therapeutics are promising for treating diseases at the genetic level, with some already validated for clinical use. Recently, nanostructures have emerged for the targeted delivery of genetic material. Nanomaterials, exhibiting advantageous properties such as a high surface-to-volume ratio, biocompatibility, facile functionalization, substantial loading capacity, and tunable physicochemical characteristics, are recognized as non-viral vectors in gene therapy applications. Despite progress, current non-viral vectors exhibit notably low gene delivery efficiency. Progress in nanotechnology is essential to overcome extracellular and intracellular barriers in gene delivery. Specific nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), carbon quantum dots (CQDs), nanodiamonds (NDs), and similar carbon-based structures can accommodate diverse genetic materials such as plasmid DNA (pDNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), small interference RNA (siRNA), micro RNA (miRNA), and antisense oligonucleotides (AONs). To address challenges such as high toxicity and low transfection efficiency, advancements in the features of carbon-based nanostructures (CBNs) are imperative. This overview delves into three types of CBNs employed as vectors in drug/gene delivery systems, encompassing their synthesis methods, properties, and biomedical applications. Ultimately, we present insights into the opportunities and challenges within the captivating realm of gene delivery using CBNs.
Biological Properties and Medical Applications of Carbonate Apatite: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yotsova Ralitsa , Peev Stefan
Published: February 2024

Bone defects represent an everyday challenge for clinicians who work in the fields of orthopedic surgery, maxillofacial and oral surgery, otorhinolaryngology, and dental implantology. Various bone substitutes have been developed and utilized, according to the needs of bone reconstructive surgery. Carbonate apatite has gained popularity in recent years, due to its excellent tissue behavior and osteoconductive potential. This systematic review aims to evaluate the role of carbonate apatite in bone reconstructive surgery and tissue engineering, analyze its advantages and limitations, and suggest further directions for research and development. The Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus electronic databases were searched for relevant review articles, published from January 2014 to 21 July 2023. The study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eighteen studies were included in the present review. The biological properties and medical applications of carbonate apatite (CO3Ap) are discussed and evaluated. The majority of articles demonstrated that CO3Ap has excellent biocompatibility, resorbability, and osteoconductivity. Furthermore, it resembles bone tissue and causes minimal immunological reactions. Therefore, it may be successfully utilized in various medical applications, such as bone substitution, scaffolding, implant coating, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.
Precise Therapy Using the Selective Endogenous Encapsidation for Cellular Delivery Vector System
Authors: Tatarūnas Vacis , Čiapienė Ieva , Giedraitienė Agnė
Published: February 2024

Interindividual variability in drug response is a major problem in the prescription of pharmacological treatments. The therapeutic effect of drugs can be influenced by human genes. Pharmacogenomic guidelines for individualization of treatment have been validated and used for conventional dosage forms. However, drugs can often target non-specific areas and produce both desired and undesired pharmacological effects. The use of nanoparticles, liposomes, or other available forms for drug formulation could help to overcome the latter problem. Virus-like particles based on retroviruses could be a potential envelope for safe and efficient drug formulations. Human endogenous retroviruses would make it possible to overcome the host immune response and deliver drugs to the desired target. PEG10 is a promising candidate that can bind to mRNA because it is secreted like an enveloped virus-like extracellular vesicle. PEG10 is a retrotransposon-derived gene that has been domesticated. Therefore, formulations with PEG10 may have a lower immunogenicity. The use of existing knowledge can lead to the development of suitable drug formulations for the precise treatment of individual diseases.
Progress of Drug Nanocrystal Self-Stabilized Pickering Emulsions: Construction, Characteristics In Vitro, and Fate In Vivo
Authors: Zhang Jifen , Dong Fangming , Liu Chuan , Nie Jinyu , Feng Shan , Yi Tao
Published: February 2024

A drug nanocrystal self-stabilized Pickering emulsion (DNSPE) is a novel Pickering emulsion with drug nanocrystals as the stabilizer. As a promising drug delivery system, DNSPEs have attracted increasing attention in recent years due to their high drug loading capacity and ability to reduce potential safety hazards posed by surfactants or specific solid particles. This paper comprehensively reviews the progress of research on DNSPEs, with an emphasis on the main factors influencing their construction, characteristics and measurement methods in vitro, and fate in vivo, and puts forward issues that need to be studied further. The review contributes to the advancement of DNSPE research and the promotion of their application in the field of drug delivery.
Innovative Drug Delivery Systems for Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Verron Elise
Published: February 2024

In the past two decades, research on drug delivery systems has achieved significant advances [...]
Medication Review: What’s in a Name and What Is It about?
Authors: Robberechts Anneleen , Brumer Maja , Garcia-Cardenas Victoria , Dupotey Niurka M. , Steurbaut Stephane , De Meyer Guido R. Y. , De Loof Hans
Published: February 2024

Background: Medication review is a multifaceted service aimed at optimizing the use of medicines and enhancing the health outcomes of patients. Due to its complexity, it is crucial to clearly describe the service, its variants, and its components to avoid confusion and ensure a better understanding of medication review among healthcare providers. Aim: This study aims to bring clarity to the origins, definitions, abbreviations, and types of medication reviews, together with the primary criteria that delineate key features of this service. Method: A narrative review approach was employed to clarify the diverse terminology associated with “medication review” services. Relevant references were initially identified through searches on PubMed and Google Scholar, complementing the existing literature known to the authors. Results: The study uncovers a complicated and sometimes convoluted history of “medication review” in different regions around the world. The initial optimization of medicine use had an economic purpose before evolving subsequently into a more patient-oriented approach. A selection of abbreviations, definitions, and types were outlined to enhance the understanding of the service. Conclusions: The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive information and standardization regarding the content and quality of the services, collectively referred to as “medication review”.
Sub-Bin Delayed High-Range Accuracy Photon-Counting 3D Imaging
Authors: Yin Hao-Meng , Zhao Hui , Yang Ming-Yang , Liu Yong-An , Sheng Li-Zhi , Fan Xue-Wu
Published: February 2024

The range accuracy of single-photon-array three-dimensional (3D) imaging systems is limited by the time resolution of the array detectors. We introduce a method for achieving super-resolution in 3D imaging through sub-bin delayed scanning acquisition and fusion. Its central concept involves the generation of multiple sub-bin difference histograms through sub-bin shifting. Then, these coarse time-resolution histograms are fused with multiplied averages to produce finely time-resolved detailed histograms. Finally, the arrival times of the reflected photons with sub-bin resolution are extracted from the resulting fused high-time-resolution count distribution. Compared with the sub-delayed with the fusion method added, the proposed method performs better in reducing the broadening error caused by coarsened discrete sampling and background noise error. The effectiveness of the proposed method is examined at different target distances, pulse widths, and sub-bin scales. The simulation analytical results indicate that small-scale sub-bin delays contribute to superior reconstruction outcomes for the proposed method. Specifically, implementing a sub-bin temporal resolution delay of a factor of 0.1 for a 100 ps echo pulse width substantially reduces the system ranging error by three orders of magnitude. Furthermore, Monte Carlo simulations allow to describe a low signal-to-background noise ratio (0.05) characterised by sparsely reflected photons. The proposed method demonstrates a commendable capability to simultaneously achieve wide-ranging super-resolution and denoising. This is evidenced by the detailed depth distribution information and substantial reduction of 95.60% in the mean absolute error of the reconstruction results, confirming the effectiveness of the proposed method in noisy scenarios.
Fabrication of Micro/Nano Dual Needle Structures with Morphological Gradient Based on Two-Photon Polymerization Laser Direct Writing with Proactive Focus Compensation
Authors: Xu Chenxi , Zhang Chen , Zhao Wei , Liu Yining , Li Ziyu , Wang Zeyu , Lu Baole , Wang Kaige , Bai Jintao
Published: February 2024

Micro/nano structures with morphological gradients possess unique physical properties and significant applications in various research domains. This study proposes a straightforward and precise method for fabricating micro/nano structures with morphological gradients utilizing single-voxel synchronous control and a nano-piezoelectric translation stage in a two-photon laser direct writing technique. To address the defocusing issue in large-scale fabrication, a methodology for laser focus dynamic proactive compensation was developed based on fluorescence image analysis, which can achieve high-precision compensation of laser focus within the entire range of the nano-piezoelectric translation stage. Subsequently, the fabrication of micro/nano dual needle structures with morphological gradients were implemented by employing different writing speeds and voxel positions. The minimum height of the tip in the dual needle structure is 80 nm, with a linewidth of 171 nm, and a dual needle total length reaching 200 μm. Based on SEM (scanning electron microscope) and AFM (atomic force microscope) characterization, the dual needle structures fabricated by the method proposed in this study exhibit high symmetry and nanoscale gradient accuracy. Additionally, the fabrication of hexagonal lattice periodic structures assembled from morphological gradient needle structures and the size gradient Archimedean spiral structures validate the capability of the single voxel-based fabrication and proactive focus compensation method for complex gradient structure fabrication.
Correlations between a Friabilin Content Indicator and Selected Physicochemical and Mechanical Properties of Wheat Grain for Processing Suitability Assessment
Authors: Kaliniewicz Zdzisław , Markowska-Mendik Agnieszka , Warechowska Małgorzata , Lipiński Seweryn , Gasparis Sebastian
Published: February 2024

A new approach to determining the friabilin content of wheat grain was proposed. Electropherograms were taken, and the intensity of the friabilin bands was compared in the analyzed wheat cultivars and the cv. Chinese Spring. The friabilin content indicator was calculated in the grain of 17 common wheat cultivars, which differed mostly in their crude protein content and hardness index (HI). The basic properties of the kernels were measured in each wheat cultivar, and the correlations between the measured parameters and the friabilin content indicator were determined. In the analyzed wheat cultivars, the friabilin content indicator ranged from around 0.21 to around 0.77. This indicator was significantly correlated with the kernel length, thickness, mass, vitreousness, HI, and rupture force. The strongest correlation was observed between the friabilin content indicator and kernel length. An increase in the mean kernel length from around 5.4 mm to around 8.0 mm decreased the friabilin content indicator by approximately 51%. After the mean kernel length had been calculated in a given wheat cultivar, a certain value of the friabilin content indicator could be ascribed to this cultivar, and the energy consumption during grain grinding or milling could be partly predicted. In the group of analyzed wheat cultivars, the process of grain grinding would be the most energy-intensive in the cvs. Ceres, SMH200, and SMH214 and the least energy-intensive in the cvs. Chinese Spring, Julius, and Askalon.
Wise Preaching: Furthering the Wisdom Homiletics Conversation in Both Model and Method
Authors: O’Lynn Rob
Published: February 2024

This essay will contribute to the emerging conversation related to “wisdom homiletics”, both in method and in content. “Wisdom homiletics”, as a homiletic–theological model that embodies the role of the Hebrew sage, resembles the wise teacher who seeks a more practical approach to biblical discipleship. This essay will begin with a discussion of the emerging conversation related to “wisdom homiletics” in order to establish the tone for the remainder of the essay. Next, a rhetorical and ethical introduction to the Hebrew wisdom literature will be offered. This will establish the role of “sage” as a significant member of the Israelite and Jewish political and religious system, following the scholarship of Joseph Blenkinsopp, Roland Murphy, and Mark Sneed. Then, the essay will offer an assessment of Robert Stephen Reid’s, Lisa Washington Lamb’s, and Alyce McKenzie’s different homiletical concepts of the “sage” to transition to laying a foundation for “wisdom homiletics” as both a model of and method for preaching. The essay will conclude with a sermon précis drawn from a core Wisdom literature passage (Eccl 12:1–8) and presented in the method articulated in this essay.
Hybrid Social Spaces and the Individualisation of Religious Experience in the Global North: Spatial Aspects of Religiosity in Postmodern Society
Authors: Bognár Bulcsu
Published: February 2024

This paper interprets the changing traits of religiosity in modern and postmodern societies from the perspective of spatial turn. The analysis examines the impact of social experience and action on spatial structure and how changes in spatial structure have influenced individual actions and experiences over the past decade, with a specific emphasis on the relationship to transcendence. The analysis explores the impact of the interaction of social spaces and actions on religiosity, in order to provide new insights into the interpretation of religious phenomena through a novel approach to the study of religion. It focuses on the consequences of individualisation, hybridisation, and globalisation, and analyses how these transformations are shaping contemporary religiosity in the global north. The paper argues that spatial structural changes are reinforcing more individualised forms of religiosity, often separated from traditional institutionalised religiosity. This gives greater scope to subject-organised ‘patchwork religiosity’, which inevitably reinforces a new kind of religious syncretism. The reflection unravels the spatial aspects of this transformation in a novel way.
Analyzing Size of Loss Frequency Distribution Patterns: Uncovering the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Xie Shengkun , Li Yuanshun
Published: February 2024

This study delves into a critical examination of the Size of Loss distribution patterns in the context of auto insurance during pre- and post-pandemics, emphasizing their profound influence on insurance pricing and regulatory frameworks. Through a comprehensive analysis of the historical Size of Loss data, insurers and regulators gain essential insights into the probabilities and magnitudes of insurance claims, informing the determination of precise insurance premiums and the management of case reserving. This approach aids in fostering fair competition, ensuring equitable premium rates, and preventing discriminatory pricing practices, thereby promoting a balanced insurance landscape. The research further investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these Size of Loss patterns, given the substantial shifts in driving behaviours and risk landscapes. Also, the research contributes to the literature by addressing the need for more studies focusing on the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on pre- and post-pandemic auto insurance loss patterns, thus offering a holistic perspective encompassing both insurance pricing and regulatory dimensions.
Design and Control of the Rehab-Exos, a Joint Torque-Controlled Upper Limb Exoskeleton
Authors: Chiaradia Domenico , Rinaldi Gianluca , Solazzi Massimiliano , Vertechy Rocco , Frisoli Antonio
Published: February 2024

This work presents the design of the Rehab-Exos, a novel upper limb exoskeleton designed for rehabilitation purposes. It is equipped with high-reduction-ratio actuators and compact elastic joints to obtain torque sensors based on strain gauges. In this study, we address the torque sensor performances and the design aspects that could cause unwanted non-axial moment load crosstalk. Moreover, a new full-state feedback torque controller is designed by modeling the multi-DOF, non-linear system dynamics and providing compensation for non-linear effects such as friction and gravity. To assess the proposed upper limb exoskeleton in terms of both control system performances and mechanical structure validation, the full-state feedback controller was compared with two other benchmark-state feedback controllers in both a transparency test—ten subjects, two reference speeds—and a haptic rendering evaluation. Both of the experiments were representative of the intended purpose of the device, i.e., physical interaction with patients affected by limited motion skills. In all experimental conditions, our proposed joint torque controller achieved higher performances, providing transparency to the joints and asserting the feasibility of the exoskeleton for assistive applications.
Cripping Girlhood on Service Dog Tok
Authors: Todd Anastasia
Published: February 2024

This article explores how disabled girl handlers crip girlhood on service dog tok, the emergent subculture on TikTok comprised of disabled handlers who upload and post videos about their everyday life in partnership with a service dog. Looking at the TikTok accounts and self-representational practices of three disabled girl handlers—Ava of @avaandcheddar, Claire of @rosie.the.sd, and Lexy of @muslimservicedogmom28—this article traces how their videos evince an audio–visual representation of interspecies intimacy, a becoming with, that complicates the familiar story of the disabled girl handler/service dog dyad that one might see or scroll past online—one of rehabilitative exceptionalism, disability disavowal, and chrononormative understandings of girlhood. On service dog tok, Ava, Claire, Lexy, and their service dogs broadcast the quotidian and move against a service dog sentimentalism that seeks to depoliticize disability and the relationship between disabled handlers and their service dogs. Their videos produce and circulate a nuanced understanding of interdependence, care, and ableism forged via the mutual entanglement with their service dogs. Ultimately, this article argues that disabled girl handlers on service dog tok upend what we think we know about disabled girls and girlhoods, recasting the meanings ascribed to their bodyminds, experiences, and their relationships with their service dogs in their own terms.
Consumers’ Reaction to Greenwashing in the Saudi Arabian Skincare Market: A Moderated Mediation Approach
Authors: Adil Mohd , Parthiban Eden Samuel , Mahmoud Haitham A. , Wu Jei-Zheng , Sadiq Mohd , Suhail Fatima
Published: February 2024

Amidst the abundance of skincare options, the process of identifying the most fitting products is a daunting task. This challenge is further intensified when brands frequently lack transparency concerning their environment-friendly characteristics, fostering skepticism among consumers or potential adopters. As a result, to resolve the problem of consumers’ mixed emotions towards skincare brands, it is necessary to understand how greenwashing, green skepticism with two moderators (information quality and brand reputation) shape consumers’ intentions. Drawing on a theoretical conceptual model rooted in the consumer behavior literature, the present investigation tested the hypotheses through cross-sectional survey research. Using convenience sampling, 441 participants were recruited through social media platforms and skincare-related forums. This study establishes the mediating role of green skepticism and the direct impact of greenwashing on consumers’ purchase intentions. Consequently, the statistical significance of the path coefficients provide empirical support for the influence of greenwashing and green skepticism on consumers’ intentions. Our research contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable consumption, offering theoretical advancements and practical implications for the researchers, policymakers, and businesses involved in the Saudi Arabian skincare market.
A Decade of Olive Oil Tourism: A Bibliometric Survey
Authors: Pato Maria Lúcia
Published: February 2024

Olive oil tourism is a recent type of rural tourism; hence, it remains a field of research that is still overlooked. Therefore, it is fitting to provide a quantitative overview of the literature regarding this promising area. Drawing on an analysis of 42 articles on olive oil tourism indexed in the Web of Science, it becomes clear that olive oil tourism is predominantly a Spanish phenomenon, as the large majority of the authors are affiliated with academic entities located in Spain. The outlets with the highest number of papers published on olive oil tourism include Sustainability, Tourism and Hospitality Management, and the International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science, which confirms the multidisciplinarity of this phenomenon. The demand approach and particularly the focus placed on tourists’ psychological traits have garnered considerable attention. In contrast, the offer approach is still in an incipient stage, which hinders the understanding of the strategies used by the stakeholders in the field. Considering the potential that olive oil tourism represents for the sustainability of rural areas, there is a need for further research in the field, particularly focusing on the product itself and on institutional frameworks and governance.