bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood Biomarkers from the Emergency Department Disclose Severe Omicron COVID-19-Associated Outcomes
Authors: Pennacchia Fiorenza , Rusi Eqrem , Ruqa Wael Abu , Zingaropoli Maria Antonella , Pasculli Patrizia , Talarico Giuseppina , Bruno Giuseppe , Barbato Christian , Minni Antonio , Tarani Luigi , Galardo Gioacchino , Pugliese Francesco , Lucarelli Marco , Ferraguti Giampiero , Ciardi Maria Rosa , Fiore Marco
Published: April 2023

Background: Since its outbreak, Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a life-threatening respiratory illness, has rapidly become a public health emergency with a devastating social impact. Lately, the Omicron strain is considered the main variant of concern. Routine blood biomarkers are, indeed, essential for stratifying patients at risk of severe outcomes, and a huge amount of data is available in the literature, mainly for the previous variants. However, only a few studies are available on early routine biochemical blood biomarkers for Omicron-afflicted patients. Thus, the aim and novelty of this study were to identify routine blood biomarkers detected at the emergency room for the early prediction of severe morbidity and/or mortality. Methods: 449 COVID-19 patients from Sapienza University Hospital of Rome were divided into four groups: (1) the emergency group (patients with mild forms who were quickly discharged); (2) the hospital ward group (patients that after the admission in the emergency department were hospitalized in a COVID-19 ward); (3) the intensive care unit (ICU) group (patients that after the admission in the emergency department required intensive assistance); (4) the deceased group (patients that after the admission in the emergency department had a fatal outcome). Results: ANOVA and ROC data showed that high-sensitivity troponin-T (TnT), fibrinogen, glycemia, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, albumin, D-dimer myoglobin, and ferritin for both men and women may predict lethal outcomes already at the level of the emergency department. Conclusions: Compared to previous Delta COVID-19 parallel emergency patterns of prediction, Omicron-induced changes in TnT may be considered other early predictors of severe outcomes.
Systems Metabolic Engineering of Industrial Microorganisms
Authors: Lv Xueqin , Wang Yu , Ji Boyang , Ji Xiao-Jun
Published: April 2023

The green and sustainable production of chemicals, materials, fuels, food, and pharmaceuticals has become a key solution to the global energy and environmental crisis [...]
Protein Interaction Network Analysis to Investigate Stress Response, Virulence, and Antibiotic Resistance Mechanisms in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Hanes Robert , Zhang Fangyuan , Huang Zuyi
Published: April 2023

Listeria monocytogenes is a deadly and costly foodborne pathogen that has a high fatality rate in the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immunity. It can survive under various stress conditions and is a significant concern for the food industry. In this work, a data analysis approach was developed with existing tools and databases and used to create individual and combined protein interaction networks to study stress response, virulence, and antimicrobial resistance and their interaction with L. monocytogenes. The networks were analyzed, and 28 key proteins were identified that may serve as potential targets for new strategies to combat L. monocytogenes. Five of the twenty-eight proteins (i.e., sigB, flaA, cheA, cheY, and lmo0693) represent the most promising targets because they are highly interconnected within the combined network. The results of this study provide a new set of targets for future work to identify new strategies to improve food preservation methods and treatments for L. monocytogenes.
Plasma-Treated Water: A Comparison with Analog Mixtures of Traceable Ingredients
Authors: Weihe Thomas , Yao Yijiao , Opitz Nevin , Wagner Robert , Krall Johanna , Schnabel Uta , Below Harald , Ehlbeck Jörg
Published: April 2023

Plasma-treated water (PTW) possess anti-microbial potential against Pseudomonas fluorescence, which is observable for both suspended cells and cells organized in biofilms. Against that background, the chemical composition of PTW tends to focus. Various analytical techniques have been applied for analyses, which reveal various traceable reactive oxygen and nitrogen compounds (RONS). Based on these findings, it is our aim to generate a PTW analog (anPTW), which has been compared in its anti-microbial efficiency with freshly generated PTW. Additionally, a solution of every traceable compound of PTW has been mixed according to their PTW concentration. As references, we treated suspended cells and mature biofilms of P. fluorescence with PTW that originates from a microwave-driven plasma source. The anti-microbial efficiency of all solutions has been tested based on a combination of a proliferation, an XTT, and a live–dead assay. The outcomes of the test proved an anti-microbial power of PTW that suggests more active ingredients than the traceable compounds HNO3, HNO2, and H2O2 or the combined mixture of the analog.
Mineral Prospecting Prediction via Transfer Learning Based on Geological Big Data: A Case Study of Huayuan, Hunan, China
Authors: Li Shi , Liu Chang , Chen Jianping
Published: April 2023

In the big data era, mineral explorations need to accommodate for the growth in spatial dimensions and data dimensions, as well as the data volume and the correlation between data. Aiming to overcome the problems of limited and scattered data sources, chaotic data types, questionable data quality, asymmetric data information, and small sample sizes in current mineral prospecting data, this paper improved traditional 3D prediction methods based on the characteristics and actual needs of relevant mineral prospecting data. First, for the regions with incomplete data, a new 3D prediction method based on transfer learning was proposed. Meanwhile, random noise was adopted to compensate for the limited sample size in mineral prediction. By taking the Huayuan Mn deposit in Hunan Province as the study area, 22 proposed ore-controlling variables were divided into six groups for comparative tests under different combinations, and each group was further divided into the 3D CNN prediction method and the transfer learning prediction method. After the similarities between the regional metallogenic backgrounds were proven, the convolution kernel of the Minle area was transferred to that of the Huayuan area with poor data. Then, both were used to train a 3D prediction model to realize the training and transfer of the spatial correlation between the spatial distribution of ore-controlling factors and the manganese ore. The results indicated that the accuracy of the transfer learning model in test 6 could reach 100%, with good stability of the transfer learning prediction model and a high convergence speed. By comparing the 3D-predicted targets before and after the transfer learning of tests 5 and 6, it was found that the 3D CNN model of test 5 still performed well, but the transfer learning model of test 6 was superior. In verifications based on superposition with the basin model and the growth fault model, the prediction results were consistent with the geological characteristics of the research area. To sum up, the 3D CNN prediction method has advantages in mineral prediction when big data are available, and transfer learning based on the 3D CNN algorithm helps to realize 3D deep mineral prospect prediction in the case of incomplete data.
Descriptive Sensory Attributes and Volatile Flavor Compounds of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives and Ground Beef
Authors: Hernandez Manuel Sebastian , Woerner Dale R. , Brooks J. Chance , Legako Jerrad F.
Published: April 2023

The objective of this study was to characterize descriptive sensory attributes and volatile compounds among ground beef (GB) and plant-based meat alternatives (PBMA). The Beyond Burger, Impossible Burger, a third brand of PBMA, regular GB, and lean GB were collected from local and national chain grocery stores. Patties were formed and cooked on an enamel-lined cast iron skillet to an internal temperature of 71 °C. A trained descriptive sensory panel evaluated patties for 17 flavor attributes and 4 texture attributes. Volatile compounds were extracted using solid phase microextraction and analyzed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Distinct differences in sensory and volatile profiles were elucidated (p < 0.05). PBMA possessed decreased beef flavor intensity and increased umami, nutty, smokey-charcoal, and musty/earthy flavor compared to GB. Sensory differences corresponded with pyrazine, furan, ketone, alcohol, and aldehyde concentration differences between products. These data support the conclusion that ground beef and PBMA possess different flavor and texture characteristics. Furthermore, the flavor of PBMA varied among available retail brands.
Sulphur- and Selenium-for-Oxygen Replacement as a Strategy to Obtain Dual Type I/Type II Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Prejanò Mario , Alberto Marta Erminia , De Simone Bruna Clara , Marino Tiziana , Toscano Marirosa , Russo Nino
Published: April 2023

The effect on the photophysical properties of sulfur- and selenium-for-oxygen replacement in the skeleton of the oxo-4-dimethylaminonaphthalimide molecule (DMNP) has been explored at the density functional (DFT) level of theory. Structural parameters, excitation energies, singlet–triplet energy gaps (ΔES-T), and spin–orbit coupling constants (SOC) have been computed. The determined SOCs indicate an enhanced probability of intersystem crossing (ISC) in both the thio- and seleno-derivatives (SDMNP and SeDMNP, respectively) and, consequently, an enhancement of the singlet oxygen quantum yields. Inspection of Type I reactions reveals that the electron transfer mechanisms leading to the generation of superoxide is feasible for all the compounds, suggesting a dual Type I/Type II activity.
Fabrication of Naturally Derived Chitosan and Ilmenite Sand-Based TiO2/Fe2O3/Fe-N-Doped Graphitic Carbon Composite for Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue under Sunlight
Authors: Mendis Amavin , Thambiliyagodage Charitha , Ekanayake Geethma , Liyanaarachchi Heshan , Jayanetti Madara , Vigneswaran Saravanamuthu
Published: April 2023

Fabrication of chitosan and ilmenite sand-based novel photocatalysts through the catalytic graphitization of chitosan is reported. Nanocomposites consisted of TiO2, Fe2O3 and Fe nanoparticles dispersed on a nitrogen-doped graphitic carbon framework. The surface area, pore volume and macropore structure of the carbon matrix is disturbed by the heterogeneously distributed nanoparticles. The extent of graphitization expanded with increasing metal loading as indicated by variation in the ID/IG ratio. The nanomaterial’s surface consists of Fe3+ and Ti4+, and graphitic, pyridinic and pyrrolic nitrogen were found in the carbon matrix. The band gap values of the composites varied in the 2.06–2.26 eV range. The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized nanomaterials was determined, and the highest rate constant for the photodegradation of methylene blue under sunlight was 4.4 × 10−3 min−1, which resulted with 10 mg/L MB and 25 mg of the best-performing catalyst. The rate constant rose with increasing concentrations of persulfate added to the medium. The rate constant greatly diminished with the addition of isopropyl alcohol as it scavenged hydroxyl radicals. The presence of co-pollutants including Pb2+, rhodamine B, PO43− and Cl− curtailed the rate of reaction. The activity reduced with an increasing number of uses of the catalyst.
One-Pot Synthesis of Polynuclear Indole Derivatives by Friedel–Crafts Alkylation of γ-Hydroxybutyrolactams
Authors: Abaev Vladimir T. , Aksenov Nicolai A. , Aksenov Dmitrii A. , Aleksandrova Elena V. , Akulova Alesia S. , Kurenkov Igor A. , Leontiev Alexander V. , Aksenov Alexander V.
Published: April 2023

The Friedel–Crafts reaction of novel 3,5-diarylsubstituted 5-hydroxy-1,5-dihydro-2H-pyrrol-2-ones was used for low cost, one-pot preparation of polycyclic indole derivatives structurally similar to Ergot alkaloids.
Valoration of the Synthetic Antioxidant Tris-(Diterbutyl-Phenol)-Phosphite (Irgafos P-168) from Industrial Wastewater and Application in Polypropylene Matrices to Minimize Its Thermal Degradation
Authors: Hernández-Fernández Joaquín , Cano Heidis , Reyes Ana Fonseca
Published: April 2023

Industrial wastewater from petrochemical processes is an essential source of the synthetic phenolic phosphite antioxidant (Irgafos P-168), which negatively affects the environment. For the determination and analysis of Irgafos P-168, DSC, HPLC-MS, and FTIR methodologies were used. Solid phase extraction (SPE) proved to be the best technique for extracting Irgafos from wastewater. HPLC-MS and SPE determined the repeatability, reproducibility, and linearity of the method and the SPE of the standards and samples. The relative standard deviations, errors, and correlation coefficients for the repeatability and reproducibility of the calibration curves were less than 4.4% and 4.2% and greater than 0.99955, respectively. The analysis of variance (ANOVA), using the Fisher method with confidence in 95% of the data, did not reveal significant differences between the mentioned parameters. The removal of the antioxidant from the wastewater by SPE showed recovery percentages higher than 91.03%, and the chemical characterization of this antioxidant by FTIR spectroscopy, DSC, TGA, and MS showed it to be structurally the same as the Irgafos P-168 molecule. The recovered Irgafos was added to the polypropylene matrix, significantly improving its oxidation times. An OIT analysis, performed using DSC, showed that the recovered Irgafos-blended polypropylene (PP) demonstrated oxidative degradation at 8 min. With the addition of the Irgafos, the oxidation time was 13 min. This increases the polypropylene’s useful life and minimizes the environmental impact of the wastewater.
Preparation of MoFs-Derived Cobalt Oxide/Carbon Nanotubes Composites for High-Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitor
Authors: Yang Caiqin , Li Weiwei , Liu Xiaowei , Song Xiumei , Li Hongpeng , Tan Lichao
Published: April 2023

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)-derived metallic oxide compounds exhibit a tunable structure and intriguing activity and have received intensive investigation in recent years. Herein, this work reports metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)-derived cobalt oxide/carbon nanotubes (MWCNTx@Co3O4) composites by calcining the MWCNTx@ZIF-67 precursor in one step. The morphology and structure of the composite were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) characterization. The compositions and valence states of the compounds were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Benefiting from the structurally stable MOFs-derived porous cobalt oxide frameworks and the homogeneous conductive carbon nanotubes, the synthesized MWCNTx@Co3O4 composites display a maximum specific capacitance of 206.89 F·g−1 at 1.0 A·g−1. In addition, the specific capacitance of the MWCNT3@Co3O4//activated carbon (AC) asymmetric capacitor reaches 50 F·g−1, and has an excellent electrochemical performance. These results suggest that the MWCNTx@Co3O4 composites can be a potential candidate for electrochemical energy storage devices.
Recent Progress of 2D Layered Materials in Water-in-Salt/Deep Eutectic Solvent-Based Liquid Electrolytes for Supercapacitors
Authors: Melethil Krishnakumar , Kumar Munusamy Sathish , Wu Chun-Ming , Shen Hsin-Hui , Vedhanarayanan Balaraman , Lin Tsung-Wu
Published: April 2023

Supercapacitors are candidates with the greatest potential for use in sustainable energy resources. Extensive research is being carried out to improve the performances of state-of-art supercapacitors to meet our increased energy demands because of huge technological innovations in various fields. The development of high-performing materials for supercapacitor components such as electrodes, electrolytes, current collectors, and separators is inevitable. To boost research in materials design and production toward supercapacitors, the up-to-date collection of recent advancements is necessary for the benefit of active researchers. This review summarizes the most recent developments of water-in-salt (WIS) and deep eutectic solvents (DES), which are considered significant electrolyte systems to advance the energy density of supercapacitors, with a focus on two-dimensional layered nanomaterials. It provides a comprehensive survey of 2D materials (graphene, MXenes, and transition-metal oxides/dichalcogenides/sulfides) employed in supercapacitors using WIS/DES electrolytes. The synthesis and characterization of various 2D materials along with their electrochemical performances in WIS and DES electrolyte systems are described. In addition, the challenges and opportunities for the next-generation supercapacitor devices are summarily discussed.
Effect of an Immune-Boosting, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Food Supplement in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: A Prospective Randomized Pilot Study
Authors: Reino-Gelardo Sandra , Palop-Cervera Marta , Aparisi-Valero Nieves , Espinosa-San Miguel Ignacio , Lozano-Rodríguez Noelia , Llop-Furquet Gonzalo , Sanchis-Artero Laura , Cortés-Castell Ernesto , Rizo-Baeza Mercedes , Cortés-Rizo Xavier
Published: April 2023

Background: COVID-19 disease is a serious global health problem. Few treatments have been shown to reduce mortality and accelerate time to recovery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential effect of a food supplement (probiotics, prebiotics, vitamin D, zinc and selenium) in patients admitted with COVID-19. Methods: A prospective randomized non-blinded clinical trial was conducted in a sample of 162 hospitalized patients diagnosed with COVID-19 recruited over eight months. All patients received standard treatment, but the intervention group (n = 67) was given one food supplement stick daily during their admission. After collecting the study variables, a statistical analysis was performed comparing the intervention and control groups and a multivariate analysis controlling for variables that could act as confounding factors. Results: ROC curve analysis with an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.840 (p < 0.001; 95%CI: 0.741–0.939) of the food supplement administration vs. recovery indicated good predictive ability. Moreover, the intervention group had a shorter duration of digestive symptoms compared with the control group: 2.6 ± 1.3 vs. 4.3 ± 2.2 days (p = 0.001); patients with non-severe disease on chest X-ray had shorter hospital stays: 8.1 ± 3.9 vs. 11.6 ± 7.4 days (p = 0.007). Conclusions: In this trial, the administration of a food supplement (Gasteel Plus®) was shown to be a protective factor in the group of patients with severe COVID-19 and allowed early recovery from digestive symptoms and a shorter hospital stay in patients with a normal–mild–moderate chest X-ray at admission (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04666116).
Effect of Sugar Replacement with Stevia-Based Tabletop Sweetener on Weight and Cardiometabolic Health among Indian Adults
Authors: Raghavan Govindarajan , Bapna Arohi , Mehta Arti , Shah Akash , Vyas Tejas
Published: April 2023

Added sugars contribute to caloric intake in the diet, which may lead to conditions like obesity. Replacing added sugar with a natural sugar substitute like zero-calorie stevia may help in reducing sugar and caloric intake. Methods: An open-label, single-arm pilot study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a stevia-based tabletop sweetener among overweight subjects with normal blood sugar levels (n = 24) and overweight prediabetic subjects (n = 21). Subjects were instructed to replace added sugar in their daily diet with the test product over a study period of 90 days. Primary outcomes included change in body weight and waist circumference, while the secondary outcomes included change in blood glucose (PPBG), body mass index (BMI), and lipid parameters evaluated at baseline, 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was evaluated at baseline and 90 days. Results: When compared with the baseline, a significant reduction in weight (p < 0.001) and waist circumference (p < 0.001) was observed at Day 90 in overweight subjects. Similarly, in overweight prediabetic subjects, a significant reduction in weight (p < 0.001) and waist circumference (p < 0.05) with non-significant change in HbA1c was observed at Day 90 from baseline. In a subgroup analysis, among the subjects who lost weight, 2.12 kg (n = 35) weight loss and 4.78 cm (n = 32) reduction in waist circumference were observed at 90 days. No adverse outcomes were reported throughout the study period. The consumption of steviol glycosides was within the acceptable daily intake (ADI). Conclusions: Replacing added sugar in the daily diet with stevia-based tabletop sweetener, along with a physical activity regimen, promotes weight loss and reduction in waist circumference in overweight subjects with normal blood sugar levels and prediabetic subjects (CTRI/2019/12/022470).
Temporal Trend of Severe Obesity in Brazilian State Capitals (2006–2021)
Authors: Dias Flávia Santos Batista , Silva Tiago Feitosa da , Lima Yara de Moura Magalhães , Farias Luana Silva de , Gadelha Jhonatan Gomes , Ramalho Alanderson Alves
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to analyze the trend of severe obesity in the capitals of the Brazilian states and the Federal District, from 2006 to 2021. For this purpose, a time-series, population-based, observational study was designed using data from the VIGITEL Survey. The dependent variable of this study was the prevalence of severe obesity, which was defined as a body mass index ≥ 40 kg/m2. Time series analysis was conducted using Joinpoint Regression Analysis Software v.4.9.1.0. In this study, a normal distribution was assumed, and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were presented. In total, 778,445 individuals participated in the study (38.2% were male and 61.8% were female). The prevalence of severe obesity has increased from 1.1% in 2006 to 1.9% in 2021. The average annual percentage change indicates an upward trend for the period (AAPC: 4.7; 95% CI: 3.8; 5.7). When stratifying the trend of severe obesity by sex, a significant upward trend was observed for females (AAPC: 4.3; 95% CI: 1.9; 6.8). There was a significant upward trend for all age groups, skin colors, and education levels. However, the older age groups and those with less education had lower AAPC.
Seroepidemiology of Toxoplasmosis in Hemodialysis Patients in Senegal
Authors: Seck Mame Cheikh , Mbow Moustapha , Seck Sidy Mohamed , Dia Yacine Ameth , Diallo Ibrahima , Cisse Marouba , Gningue Moctar , Daou Victoria , Coundoul Baratou , Kane Yaya , Cisse Mouhamadou Moustapha , Kama Adama , Diongue Khadim , Gueye Papa Aly Thiam , Faye Cheikh , Diallo Mamadou Alpha , Ndiaye Mouhamadou , Badiane Aida Sadikh , Dièye Alioune , Mboup Souleymane , Ndiaye Daouda
Published: April 2023

Toxoplasmosis in immunocompromised patients results in either reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis or acute infection. In the framework of the kidney transplantation program in Senegal, the serological screening of potential pre-transplant and transplanted patients can prevent the disease. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in a cohort of hemodialysis patients, candidates for kidney transplantation. To this end, a multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 in six dialysis units from five regions. Blood samples and sociodemographic data were collected from each patient. IgG and IgM against T. gondii antibodies were assessed by a chemiluminescent method using Architect ci4100, and statistical analysis was performed using R software. Overall, 211 hemodialysis patients aged from 18 to 77 years were enrolled. The mean age was 42.62 years ± 13.6, and the sex ratio M/F was 1.24. The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii was 41.7%, with the highest value being recorded in the region of Kaolack (44.4%). Patients aged over 60 years were more typically infected, at a proportion of 56.0%. Regarding sex, males elicited a higher prevalence (44.4.%) than females did. Patients of an upper socioeconomic status were less affected, and contact with cats was not associated with toxoplasmosis. By education level, the illiterate group was most affected one. Overall, this first study of toxoplasmosis among Senegalese hemodialysis patients indicates high seroprevalence.
Novel Experimental Mouse Model to Study Malaria-Associated Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Bensalel Johanna , Roberts Alexandra , Hernandez Kiara , Pina Angelica , Prempeh Winifred , Babalola Blessing V. , Cannata Pablo , Lazaro Alberto , Gallego-Delgado Julio
Published: April 2023

The impact of malaria-associated acute kidney injury (MAKI), one of the strongest predictors of death in children with severe malaria (SM), has been largely underestimated and research in this area has been neglected. Consequently, a standard experimental mouse model to research this pathology is still lacking. The purpose of this study was to develop an in vivo model that resembles the pathology in MAKI patients. In this study, unilateral nephrectomies were performed on wild-type mice prior to infection with Plasmodium berghei NK65. The removal of one kidney has shown to be an effective approach to replicating the most common findings in humans with MAKI. Infection of nephrectomized mice, compared to their non-nephrectomized counterparts, resulted in the development of kidney injury, evident by histopathological analysis and elevated levels of acute kidney injury (AKI) biomarkers, including urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, serum Cystatin C, and blood urea nitrogen. Establishment of this in vivo model of MAKI is critical to the scientific community, as it can be used to elucidate the molecular pathways implicated in MAKI, delineate the development of the disease, identify biomarkers for early diagnosis and prognosis, and test potential adjunctive therapies.
Monitoring the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Prevalence of Antibodies in a Large, Repetitive Cross-Sectional Study of Blood Donors in Germany—Results from the SeBluCo Study 2020–2022
Authors: Offergeld Ruth , Preußel Karina , Zeiler Thomas , Aurich Konstanze , Baumann-Baretti Barbara I. , Ciesek Sandra , Corman Victor M. , Dienst Viktoria , Drosten Christian , Görg Siegfried , Greinacher Andreas , Grossegesse Marica , Haller Sebastian , Heuft Hans-Gert , Hofmann Natalie , Horn Peter A. , Houareau Claudia , Gülec Ilay , Jiménez Klingberg Carlos Luis , Juhl David , Lindemann Monika , Martin Silke , Neuhauser Hannelore K. , Nitsche Andreas , Ohme Julia , Peine Sven , Sachs Ulrich J. , Schaade Lars , Schäfer Richard , Scheiblauer Heinrich , Schlaud Martin , Schmidt Michael , Umhau Markus , Vollmer Tanja , Wagner Franz F. , Wieler Lothar H. , Wilking Hendrik , Ziemann Malte , Zimmermann Marlow , der Heiden Matthias an
Published: April 2023

SARS-CoV-2 serosurveillance is important to adapt infection control measures and estimate the degree of underreporting. Blood donor samples can be used as a proxy for the healthy adult population. In a repeated cross-sectional study from April 2020 to April 2021, September 2021, and April/May 2022, 13 blood establishments collected 134,510 anonymised specimens from blood donors in 28 study regions across Germany. These were tested for antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and nucleocapsid, including neutralising capacity. Seroprevalence was adjusted for test performance and sampling and weighted for demographic differences between the sample and the general population. Seroprevalence estimates were compared to notified COVID-19 cases. The overall adjusted SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence remained below 2% until December 2020 and increased to 18.1% in April 2021, 89.4% in September 2021, and to 100% in April/May 2022. Neutralising capacity was found in 74% of all positive specimens until April 2021 and in 98% in April/May 2022. Our serosurveillance allowed for repeated estimations of underreporting from the early stage of the pandemic onwards. Underreporting ranged between factors 5.1 and 1.1 in the first two waves of the pandemic and remained well below 2 afterwards, indicating an adequate test strategy and notification system in Germany.
Oral Supplementation with AHCC®, a Standardized Extract of Cultured Lentinula edodes Mycelia, Enhances Host Resistance against SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Singh Ankita , Adam Awadalkareem , Rodriguez Leslie , Peng Bi-Hung , Wang Binbin , Xie Xuping , Shi Pei-Yong , Homma Kohei , Wang Tian
Published: April 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted global public health safety and the economy. Multiple antiviral drugs have been developed, and some have received regulatory approval and/or authorization. The use of nutraceuticals can be beneficial for preventing and treating COVID-19 complications. AHCC is a standardized, cultured extract of an edible mushroom Lentinula edodes of the Basidiomycete family of fungi that is enriched in acylated α-1,4-glucans. Here, we evaluated the effects of the oral administration of AHCC on the host response to SARS-CoV-2 infection in two murine models, K18-hACE2 transgenic mice and immunocompetent BALB/c mice. Oral administration of AHCC every other day for one week before and one day post SARS-CoV-2 infection in both strains of mice decreased the viral load and attenuated inflammation in the lungs. AHCC treatment also significantly reduced SARS-CoV-2-induced lethality in the K18-hACE2 mice. AHCC administration enhanced the expansion of γδ T cells in the spleen and lungs before and after viral infection and promoted T helper 1-prone mucosal and systemic T cell responses in both models. In AHCC-fed BALB/c mice, SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG responses were also enhanced. In summary, AHCC supplementation enhances host resistance against mild and severe COVID-19 infection primarily via the promotion of innate and adaptive T cell immune responses in mice.
Role of MicroRNA-502-3p in Human Diseases
Authors: Devara Davin , Choudhary Yashmit , Kumar Subodh
Published: April 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding RNAs that play a major role in gene regulation in several diseases. MicroRNA-502-3p (MiR-502-3p) has been previously characterized in a variety of human diseases such as osteoporosis, diabetes, tuberculosis, cancers, and neurological disorders. Our studies recently explored the new role of miR-502-3p in regulating synapse function in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). AD is the most common cause of dementia in elderly individuals. Synapse is the initial target that is hit during AD progression. The most common causes of synapse dysfunction in AD are amyloid beta, hyperphosphorylated tau, and microglia activation. MiR-502-3p was found to be localized and overexpressed in the AD synapses. Overexpression of miR-502-3p was correlated with AD severity in terms of Braak stages. Studies have shown that miR-502-3p modulates the glutaminergic and GABAergic synapse function in AD. The current study’s emphasis is to discuss the in-depth roles of miR-502-3p in human diseases and AD and the future possibilities concerning miR-502-3p as a therapeutic for AD treatment.
Do Propylene Glycol, Benzyl Alcohol, and Ethanol in Concomitant Drugs Influence Clinical Outcomes Following Intravenous Acetaminophen in Critically Ill Neonates?
Authors: Sridharan Kannan , Jufairi Muna Al
Published: April 2023

Propylene glycol (PG) and benzyl alcohol (BA) have been shown to inhibit the metabolizing enzyme for acetaminophen in the liver. Ethanol has unpredictable effects on acetaminophen metabolism. Critically ill neonates commonly receive drug formulations containing PG, BA, and ethanol as excipients. Until now, there have been no reports on the influence of BA, PG, and ethanol as excipients in patients undergoing concomitant acetaminophen therapy. We devised the present study to evaluate whether any significant differences in plasma acetaminophen concentrations, liver function tests, and serum creatinine exist between neonates receiving excipients containing drugs compared to those without. We included neonates that were administered intravenous acetaminophen with at least one concomitant drug containing either BA, PG, or ethanol as excipients. Plasma acetaminophen concentrations and levels of liver function were evaluated using tests. The doubling of alanine aminotransferase levels was considered to be a marker of hepatotoxicity. Elevation of serum creatinine >1.5 times higher than the baseline value was considered to be indicative of an acute kidney injury. Fifty-seven neonates were recruited in the study. No significant differences in the serum acetaminophen concentrations, liver and renal function tests, and rates of successful closure of ductus arteriosus were observed between the groups. No significant changes in the serum acetaminophen levels and the clinical outcomes were observed due to the presence of BA, PG, or ethanol in concomitant drugs as excipients. Probably, drugs containing these excipients can be safely administered, and even formulations containing these excipients with acetaminophen are likely to be safe for critically ill neonates.
Safety of Gold Nanoparticles: From In Vitro to In Vivo Testing Array Checklist
Authors: Lopes Joana , Ferreira-Gonçalves Tânia , Ascensão Lia , Viana Ana S. , Carvalho Lina , Catarino José , Faísca Pedro , Oliva Abel , de Barros Dragana P. C. , Rodrigues Cecília M. P. , Gaspar Maria Manuela , Reis Catarina Pinto
Published: April 2023

In recent years, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have aroused the interest of many researchers due to their unique physicochemical and optical properties. AuNPs are being explored in a variety of biomedical fields, either in diagnostics or therapy, particularly for localized thermal ablation of cancer cells after light irradiation. Besides the promising therapeutic potential of AuNPs, their safety constitutes a highly important issue for any medicine or medical device. For this reason, in the present work, the production and characterization of physicochemical properties and morphology of AuNPs coated with two different materials (hyaluronic and oleic acids (HAOA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA)) were firstly performed. Based on the above importantly referred issue, the in vitro safety of developed AuNPs was evaluated in healthy keratinocytes, human melanoma, breast, pancreatic and glioblastoma cancer cells, as well as in a three-dimensional human skin model. Ex vivo and in vivo biosafety assays using, respectively, human red blood cells and Artemia salina were also carried out. HAOA-AuNPs were selected for in vivo acute toxicity and biodistribution studies in healthy Balb/c mice. Histopathological analysis showed no significant signs of toxicity for the tested formulations. Overall, several techniques were developed in order to characterize the AuNPs and evaluate their safety. All these results support their use for biomedical applications.
Coarse Phasing Detection Using Multiwavelength Wavefront
Authors: Qin Rongjie , Yin Zihao , Liu Yinnian
Published: April 2023

Presently, the segmented mirror is the mainstream development direction of large-aperture telescopes. The key problem affecting the performance of segmented mirror telescopes concerns the co-phase of the segments. The segments’ co-phase includes the fine phasing stage with high detection accuracy requirements and a small measurable range, and the coarse phasing stage with relatively high detection accuracy requirements and a large measurable range. For interferometry, the required accuracy of the transition from the coarse phasing stage to the fine phasing stage is half of the measured wavelength (~300 nm). In this study, a piston measure method based on the wavefront data of the interference measurement results of multiple different wavelengths is proposed. The simulation results show that the method can achieve a measurement accuracy of more than 300 nm in a large range of 1 mm. The experimental results show that the method can achieve a more-than-300-μm measurable range and approximately 1.5 μm detection accuracy under laboratory conditions; this method has advantages in terms of the measured range and speed and is suitable for the coarse phasing stage.
A Low-Complexity Joint Compensation Scheme of Carrier Recovery for Coherent Free-Space Optical Communication
Authors: Tang Xinyu , Wang Liqian , Zhang Wei , Cai Shanyong , Li Yuemei , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a low-complexity joint compensation scheme of carrier recovery (JCSCR) for coherent free-space optical (CFSO) communication is proposed. We applied the carrier recovery joint compensation approach to a CFSO communication system in the quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulation format. A signal-preprocessing stage, which effectively avoided the repetitive operations found in traditional carrier recovery schemes, was proposed. Unlike in existing carrier recovery algorithms, the modulated phase of the received signal could be accurately removed using only the sum and subtraction of real absolute values in the signal-preprocessing stage, greatly reducing the complexity of the operation. Since this algorithm avoids the traditional fourth operation, the system’s complexity is reduced while additional noise generated by fourth cross-terms would be prevented and system noise immunity would be greatly enhanced. In addition, this algorithm uses joint compensation of phase errors in the final compensation stage, further reducing the complexity of the computation of the whole algorithmic scheme. A 10 Gbps QPSK CFSO communication transmission experiment was conducted in an atmospheric turbulence channel to verify the proposed technique and improvement in receiver sensitivity.
Requirements and Solutions for Robust Beam Alignment in Fiber-Coupled Free-Space Optical Systems
Authors: Freitas Manuel M. , Fernandes Marco A. , Monteiro Paulo P. , Guiomar Fernando P. , Fernandes Gil M.
Published: April 2023

The continuous growth of Internet data traffic is pushing the current radio-frequency wireless technologies up to their physical limits. To overcome the upcoming bandwidth bottleneck, Free-Space Optics (FSO) is currently deemed as a key breakthrough toward next-generation ultra-high-capacity wireless links. Despite its numerous advantages, FSO also entails several particular challenges regarding the mitigation of the stochastic impairments induced by turbulence and the strict alignment requirements. One of the main issues of FSO communication systems is the mitigation of pointing errors and angle-of-arrival (AoA) fluctuations, which arise from misalignments induced by atmospheric turbulence and vibrations at the transmitting and receiving stations. A common approach to mitigate the impact of pointing errors is the use of an acquisition, tracking and pointing (ATP) system on one or both ends of the FSO link. In this paper, we present a characterization of the pointing errors and the AoA impact on the power budget of the FSO link to quantify the misalignment impairments. Afterwards, we experimentally demonstrate an FSO link with an ATP mechanism at both ends, managed by a control plane that enables the continuous and accurate alignment of the FSO link. To increase the misalignment tolerance, the ATP mechanism comprises two stages: the first one is based on a spatial diversity method provided by a quadrant detector, while the second stage maximizes the optical received power. Lastly, the impact of the beam misalignment on the achievable information rate of a coherent optical wireless system is theoretically addressed and characterized.
Improved Classification of Blurred Images with Deep-Learning Networks Using Lucy-Richardson-Rosen Algorithm
Authors: Jayavel Amudhavel , Gopinath Shivasubramanian , Periyasamy Angamuthu Praveen , Arockiaraj Francis Gracy , Bleahu Andrei , Xavier Agnes Pristy Ignatius , Smith Daniel , Han Molong , Slobozhan Ivan , Ng Soon Hock , Katkus Tomas , John Francis Rajeswary Aravind Simon , Sharma Rajesh , Juodkazis Saulius , Anand Vijayakumar
Published: April 2023

Pattern recognition techniques form the heart of most, if not all, incoherent linear shift-invariant systems. When an object is recorded using a camera, the object information is sampled by the point spread function (PSF) of the system, replacing every object point with the PSF in the sensor. The PSF is a sharp Kronecker Delta-like function when the numerical aperture (NA) is large with no aberrations. When the NA is small, and the system has aberrations, the PSF appears blurred. In the case of aberrations, if the PSF is known, then the blurred object image can be deblurred by scanning the PSF over the recorded object intensity pattern and looking for pattern matching conditions through a mathematical process called correlation. Deep learning-based image classification for computer vision applications gained attention in recent years. The classification probability is highly dependent on the quality of images as even a minor blur can significantly alter the image classification results. In this study, a recently developed deblurring method, the Lucy-Richardson-Rosen algorithm (LR2A), was implemented to computationally refocus images recorded in the presence of spatio-spectral aberrations. The performance of LR2A was compared against the parent techniques: Lucy-Richardson algorithm and non-linear reconstruction. LR2A exhibited a superior deblurring capability even in extreme cases of spatio-spectral aberrations. Experimental results of deblurring a picture recorded using high-resolution smartphone cameras are presented. LR2A was implemented to significantly improve the performances of the widely used deep convolutional neural networks for image classification.
Plant Genotype Shapes the Soil Nematode Community in the Rhizosphere of Tomatoes with Different Resistance to Meloidognye incognita
Authors: Wang Xiangmei , Wang Chaoyan , Chen Ru , Wang Wenxing , Wang Diandong , Tian Xueliang
Published: April 2023

Soil nematodes are considered indicators of soil quality due to their immediate responses to changes in the soil environment and plants. However, little is known about the effects of plant genotypes on the soil nematode community. To elucidate this, high-throughput sequencing and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis was conducted to analyze the soil nematode community and the structure of root exudates in the rhizosphere of tomatoes with different resistance to Meloidognye incognita. The dominant soil nematode group in the soil of resistant tomatoes was Acrobeloides, while the soil nematode group in the rhizosphere of the susceptible and tolerant tomatoes was Meloidognye. Hierarchical clustering analysis and non-metric multidimensional scaling showed that the three soil nematode communities were clustered into three groups according to the resistance level of the tomato cultivars. The soil nematode community of the resistant tomatoes had a higher maturity index and a low plant-parasite index, Wasilewska index and disease index compared to the values of the susceptible and tolerant tomatoes. Redundancy analysis revealed that the disease index and root exudates were strongly related to the soil nematode community of three tomato cultivars. Taken together, the resistance of the tomato cultivars and root exudates jointly shapes the soil nematode community. This study provided a valuable contribution to understanding the mechanism of plant genotypes shaping the soil nematode community.
Ecophysiological Differentiation among Two Resurrection Ferns and Their Allopolyploid Derivative
Authors: Quintanilla Luis G. , Aranda Ismael , Clemente-Moreno María José , Pons-Perpinyà Joan , Gago Jorge
Published: April 2023

Theoretically, the coexistence of diploids and related polyploids is constrained by reproductive and competitive mechanisms. Although niche differentiation can explain the commonly observed co-occurrence of cytotypes, the underlying ecophysiological differentiation among cytotypes has hardly been studied. We compared the leaf functional traits of the allotetraploid resurrection fern Oeosporangium tinaei (HHPP) and its diploid parents, O. hispanicum (HH) and O. pteridioides (PP), coexisting in the same location. Our experimental results showed that all three species can recover physiological status after severe leaf dehydration, which confirms their ‘resurrection’ ability. However, compared with PP, HH had much higher investment per unit area of light-capturing surface, lower carbon assimilation rate per unit mass for the same midday water potential, higher non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity, higher carbon content, and lower contents of nitrogen, phosphorus, and other macronutrients. These traits allow HH to live in microhabitats with less availability of water and nutrients (rock crevices) and to have a greater capacity for resurrection. The higher assimilation capacity and lower antioxidant capacity of PP explain its more humid and nutrient-rich microhabitats (shallow soils). HHPP traits were mostly intermediate between those of HH and PP, and they allow the allotetraploid to occupy the free niche space left by the diploids.
Elevated CO2 Suppresses the Vanadium Stress in Wheat Plants under the Future Climate CO2
Authors: Alsherif Emad A. , AbdElgawad Hamada
Published: April 2023

Increases in atmospheric CO2 is known to promote plant growth under heavy metals stress conditions. However, vanadium (V) stress mitigating the impact of eCO2 as well as the physiological and biochemical bases of this stress mitigation have not been well studied. To this end, this study investigated the growth, photosynthetic parameters, oxidative damages antioxidants, and antioxidants enzymes in wheat plants grown under ambient (420 PPM) and high eCO2 (720 ppm) levels. Exposing wheat plants to higher V increased its accumulation in plants which consequentially inhibited plant growth and induced oxidative damage. An increase in antioxidant and detoxification defense systems was observed but it was not enough to reduce V stress toxicity. On the other hand, wheat growth was improved as a result of reduced V uptake and toxicity on photosynthesis under eCO2. To reduce V uptake, wheat accumulated citric acid, and oxalic acid in soil preferentially under both treatments but to more extend under V and eCO2. Additionally, improved photosynthesis induced high carbon availability that was directed to produce chelating proteins (metallothioneins, phytochelatin) and antioxidants (phenolics, flavonoids, total antioxidant capacity). This study advances our knowledge of the processes behind the variations in the physiological and biochemical responses of the wheat crop under V and eCO2 conditions.