bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Experimental Methodologies Based on Bulk-Metagenome and Virus-like Particle Enrichment: Pros and Cons for Representativeness and Reproducibility in the Study of the Fecal Human Virome
Authors: Soria-Villalba Adriana , Pesantes Nicole , Jiménez-Hernández Nuria , Pons Javier , Moya Andrés , Pérez-Brocal Vicente
Published: January 2024

Studies on the human virome based on the application of metagenomic approaches involve overcoming a series of challenges and limitations inherent not only to the biological features of viruses, but also to methodological pitfalls which different approaches have tried to minimize. These approaches fall into two main categories: bulk-metagenomes and virus-like particle (VLP) enrichment. In order to address issues associated with commonly used experimental procedures to assess the degree of reliability, representativeness, and reproducibility, we designed a comparative analysis applied to three experimental protocols, one based on bulk-metagenomes and two based on VLP enrichment. These protocols were applied to stool samples from 10 adult participants, including two replicas per protocol and subject. We evaluated the performances of the three methods, not only through the analysis of the resulting composition, abundance, and diversity of the virome via taxonomical classification and type of molecule (DNA versus RNA, single stranded vs. double stranded), but also according to how the a priori identical replicas differed from each other according to the extraction methods used. Our results highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, offering valuable insights and tailored recommendations for drawing reliable conclusions based on specific research goals.
Parenteral Vaccination with a Live Brucella melitensis Mutant Protects against Wild-Type B. melitensis 16M Challenge
Authors: Yang Xinghong , Goodwin Zakia I. , Bhagyaraj Ella , Hoffman Carol , Pascual David W.
Published: January 2024

Susceptibility to brucellosis remains prevalent, even in herds vaccinated with conventional vaccines. Efforts are underway to develop an improved brucellosis vaccine, and possibly a universal vaccine, given that Brucella species are highly homologous. To this end, two B. melitensis mutants were developed, znBM-lacZ (znBMZ) and znBM-mCherry (znBM-mC), and were tested for their ability to confer systemic immunity against virulent B. melitensis challenge. To assess the extent of their attenuation, bone-marrow-derived macrophages and human TF-1 myeloid cells were infected with both mutants, and the inability to replicate within these cells was noted. Mice infected with varying doses of znBM-mC cleared the brucellae within 6–10 weeks. To test for efficacy against systemic disease, groups of mice were vaccinated once by the intraperitoneal route with either znBMZ or B. abortus S19 vaccine. Relative to the PBS-dosed mice, znBMZ vaccination greatly reduced splenic brucellae colonization by ~25,000-fold compared to 700-fold for S19-vaccinated mice. Not surprisingly, both znBMZ and S19 strains induced IFN-γ+ CD4+ T cells, yet only znBMZ induced IFN-γ+ CD8+ T cells. While both strains induced CD4+ effector memory T cells (Tems), only znBMZ induced CD8+ Tems. Thus, these results show that the described znBM mutants are safe, able to elicit CD4+ and CD8+ T cell immunity without a boost, and highly effective, rendering them promising vaccine candidates for livestock.
Characteristics of Electrical Resistance Alteration during In Situ Leaching of Ion-Adsorption-Type Rare Earth Ore
Authors: Feng Xiujuan , Wang Xiaoqing
Published: January 2024

The chemical reaction of ion-adsorption-type rare earth ore during the in situ leaching process is accompanied by ion migration and charge movement, making the leaching process electrochemical in nature. The chemical reaction rate plays an important role in the leaching rate of rare earth elements. In this work, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to reveal the characteristics of electrical resistance alterations and leaching rate of rare earth elements during in situ leaching. The equivalent circuit model of the leaching process was established, and two critical parameters of solution resistance Rs and charge transfer resistance Rt were analyzed to reflect the electrochemical characteristics. According to the characteristics of electrical resistance alteration, the leaching process was divided into four stages: wetting, reaction, equilibrium, and top water stage. The resistance parameters Rs and Rt decreased first and then increased during the leaching process. The maximum value of Rs was 1330 Ω∙cm2 at the end of the top water stage, and the minimum value was 125 Ω∙cm2 at the beginning of the equilibrium stage. The maximum value of Rt was 8310 Ω∙cm2 at the beginning of the leaching stage, and the minimum value was 21 Ω∙cm2 at the end of the reaction stage. Rs and Rt were negatively correlated with the pore size and chemical reaction rate during leaching. With an increasing pore size and reaction rate, the resistance parameters decrease. This study provides a new idea for the intelligent monitoring of rare earth ore.
Lake-Level-Fluctuation Control on Shale Oil Enrichment of the Salinized Lacustrine Organic-Rich Shale in the Paleogene Biyang Depression, East China
Authors: Song Yu , Wan Li , Xu Shilin , Gao Bo , Li Chuang , Li Zhonghui , Paerzhana Paerhati
Published: January 2024

The paleolake level, which is controlled by the moisture balance (precipitation minus evaporation) within the lake basin, is a significant factor in determining the deposition of lacustrine organic-rich shale (LORS) across geological time, and hence influences shale oil enrichment. However, the impact of lake-level-fluctuations on shale oil enrichment of LORS is not well understood. Based on an integration of bulk geochemistry, organic petrography, pyrolysis gas chromatography, and element compositions, we address this issue using the Paleogene Biyang Depression in East China as an example. High lake levels, combined with anoxic–suboxic conditions, brackish–saline water, high productivity, and low detrital influx, are favorable for LORS deposition, which is characterized by a large distribution area and thickness, a high potential for oil generation and emplacement, and a high free shale oil content. In contrast, LORS deposited during low lake levels, with suboxic–dysoxic conditions, fresh–brackish water, low productivity, and high detrital influx, has a small distribution area and thickness, a low potential for oil generation and emplacement, and a low free shale oil content (a comparable maturity was present in all the studied LORS). Our data suggests that the elevated lake level led to higher salinity, stronger reduction conditions, higher productivity, and lower clastic inflow in the paleolake, forming LORS with higher shale oil potential. It has a positive effect on shale oil enrichment of LORS. The findings are also applicable to regional shale oil exploration.
Mineralogy and Geochemistry of High-Sulfur Coals from the M8 Coal Seam, Shihao Mine, Songzao Coalfield, Chongqing, Southwestern China
Authors: Lu Qingfeng , Qin Shenjun , Wang Wenfeng , Wu Shihao , Shao Fengjun
Published: January 2024

Mineral matter, including minerals and non-mineral elements, in coal is of great significance for geological evolution, high-value coal utilization, and environment protection. The minerals and elemental geochemistry of Late Permian coals from the M8 coal seam, Shihao mine, Songzao coalfield in Chongqing, were analyzed to evaluate the sediment source, sedimentary environment, hydrothermal fluids, and utilization prospects of critical metals. The average total sulfur (4.21%) was high in coals, which mainly exists in the forms of pyritic sulfur. Kaolinite, pyrite, calcite, quartz, illite and illite/smectite (I/S) mixed layers, and anatase predominated in coals, with trace amounts of chlorite, ankerite, and siderite. Epigenetic cell- and fracture-filling pyrite, veined calcite, and ankerite were related to hydrothermal fluids and/or pore water after the diagenesis stage. Compared to the world’s hard coals, As and Cd are enriched in the Shihao M8 coals, and Li, Cr, Co, Zr, Mo, Pb, and Tb are slightly enriched. These high contents of sulfophile elements may be related to seawater intrusion. The terrigenous clastics of the Shihao M8 coals originated from the felsic–intermediate rocks atop the Emeishan Large Igneous Provinces (ELIP) (Kangdian Upland), while the roof and floor samples were derived from Emeishan high-Ti basalt. Through the combination of sulfur contents and indicator parameters of Fe2O3 + CaO + MgO/SiO2 + Al2O3, Sr/Ba and Y/Ho, the depositional environment of peat swamp was found to be influenced by seawater. Although the critical elements in coal or coal ash did not reach the cut-off grade for beneficial recovery, the concentration of Li and Zr were high enough in coal ash.
Combating Cariogenic Streptococcus mutans Biofilm Formation and Disruption with Coumaric Acid on Dentin Surface
Authors: Ahmad Syed Sohail , Siddiqui Muhammad Faisal , Maqbool Farhana , Ullah Ihsan , Adnan Fazal , Albutti Aqel , Alsowayeh Noorah , Rahman Ziaur
Published: January 2024

Streptococcus mutans, the primary cause of dental caries, relies on its ability to create and sustain a biofilm (dental plaque) for survival and pathogenicity in the oral cavity. This study was focused on the antimicrobial biofilm formation control and biofilm dispersal potential of Coumaric acid (CA) against Streptococcus mutans on the dentin surface. The biofilm was analyzed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) viability assay, microtiter plate assay, production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs), florescence microscopy (surface coverage and biomass μm2) and three-dimensional (3D) surface plots. It was observed that CA at 0.01 mg/mL reduced bacterial growth by 5.51%, whereases at 1 mg/mL, a significant (p < 0.05) reduction (98.37%) was observed. However, at 1 mg/mL of CA, a 95.48% biofilm formation reduction was achieved, while a 73.45% biofilm dispersal (after 24 h. treatment) was achieved against the preformed biofilm. The MTT assay showed that at 1 mg/mL of CA, the viability of bacteria in the biofilm was markedly (p < 0.05) reduced to 73.44%. Moreover, polysaccharide (EPS) was reduced to 24.80 μg/mL and protein (EPS) to 41.47 μg/mL. ImageJ software (version 1.54 g) was used to process florescence images, and it was observed that the biofilm mass was reduced to 213 (μm2); the surface coverage was reduced to 0.079%. Furthermore, the 3D surface plots showed that the untreated biofilm was highly dense, with more fibril-like projections. Additionally, molecular docking predicted a possible interaction pattern of CA (ligand) with the receptor Competence Stimulating Peptide (UA159sp, PDB ID: 2I2J). Our findings suggest that CA has antibacterial and biofilm control efficacy against S. mutans associated with dental plaque under tested conditions.
Design, Synthesis, and Antitumor Activity Evaluation of Artemisinin Bivalent Ligands
Authors: Zhong Hui , Jiang Qi , Wu Cong , Yu Huanghe , Li Bin , Zhou Xudong , Fu Ronggeng , Wang Wei , Sheng Wenbing
Published: January 2024

Five artemisinin bivalent ligands molecules 4a–4e were designed, synthesized, and confirmed by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and low-resolution mass spectrometry, and the bioactivities of the target compounds were investigated against four human tumor cell lines in vitro, including BGC-823, HepG-2, MCF-7, and HCT-116. The results showed 4a, 4d, and 4e exhibited significantly tumor cell inhibitory activity compared with the artemisinin and dihydroartemisinin; compound 4e has good biological activity inhibiting BGC-823 with an IC50 value of 8.30 μmol/L. Then, the good correlations with biological results were validated by molecular docking through the established bivalent ligands multi-target model, which showed that 4e could bind well with the antitumor protein MMP-9.
Microwave-Promoted Total Synthesis of Puniceloid D for Modulating the Liver X Receptor
Authors: Jung Young Jin , Hosseininasab Narges , Park Jungjin , Hyun Soonsil , Jung Jae-Kyung , Kwak Jae-Hwan
Published: January 2024

A growing global health concern is metabolic syndrome, which is defined by low HDL, diabetes, hypertension, and abdominal obesity. Nuclear receptors are attractive targets for treatment of diseases associated with metabolic syndrome. Liver X receptors (LXRs) have become one of the most significant pharmacological targets among nuclear receptors. Multiple research studies emphasize the essential function of the liver X receptor (LXR) in the pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome. Puniceloid D, among natural products, demonstrated promising effects on LXRα. However, attempts at the total synthesis of natural products were faced with challenges, including long synthetic steps and low yields, requiring a more efficient approach. In this study, for the first time, we successfully synthesized puniceloid D through a seven-step process and conducted docking studies to gain a comprehensive understanding of the interactions involved in the binding of puniceloid D to LXR within different heterodimeric contexts. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of metabolic syndrome could be improved by these findings, which might assist with the development of novel treatment strategies.
Naphthoquinone Derivatives from Angustimassarina populi CF-097565 Display Anti-Tumour Activity in 3D Cultures of Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Mackenzie Thomas A. , Reyes Fernando , Martínez Marta , González-Menéndez Víctor , Sánchez Isabel , Genilloud Olga , Tormo José R. , Ramos María C.
Published: January 2024

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, with breast cancer being the second cause of cancer-related mortality among women. Natural Products (NPs) are one of the main sources for drug discovery. During a screening campaign focused on the identification of extracts from Fundación MEDINA’s library inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cell lines, a significant bioactivity was observed in extracts from cultures of the fungus Angustimassarina populi CF-097565. Bioassay-guided fractionation of this extract led to the identification and isolation of herbarin (1), 1-hydroxydehydroherbarin (4) plus other three naphthoquinone derivatives of which 3 and 5 are new natural products and 2 is herein described from a natural source for the first time. Four of these compounds (1, 3, 4 and 5) confirmed a specific cytotoxic effect against the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. To evaluate the therapeutic potential of the compounds isolated, their efficacy was validated in 3D cultures, a cancer model of higher functionality. Additionally, an in-depth study was carried out to test the effect of the compounds in terms of cell mortality, sphere disaggregation, shrinkage, and morphology. The cell profile of the compounds was also compared to that of known cytotoxic compounds with the aim to distinguish the drug mode of action (MoA). The profiles of 1, 3 and 4 showed more biosimilarity between them, different to 5, and even more different to other known cytotoxic agents, suggesting an alternative MoA responsible for their cytotoxicity in 3D cultures.
Validation of a Web App Enabling Children with Dyslexia to Identify Personalized Visual and Auditory Parameters Facilitating Online Text Reading
Authors: Lorusso Maria Luisa , Borasio Francesca , Panetto Paola , Curioni Mariangela , Brotto Giada , Pons Giulio , Carsetti Alex , Molteni Massimo
Published: January 2024

Previous research has shown the importance of font type, size, and spacing to facilitate text reading in dyslexia. Great heterogeneity in the population of readers with specific learning disorders suggests that personalized parameters should be preferable compared to one-fits-all ones. A special automatized procedure was designed to select the most favorable parameters for both text visualization and text-to-speech conversion. A total of 78 primary and middle school students (29 typical readers, 49 children with atypical reading skills, either diagnosed as specific reading disorder or as special learning needs) took part in this study, which included the application of the procedure and a validation of its outcomes through a systematic comparison of the use of the personalized versus standard fonts and voices in reading and writing tests. The results show a significant advantage for the personalized parameters. Moreover, in the case of text-to-speech personalization, the advantage is significantly larger for dyslexic readers than for typical readers. These results confirm the usefulness of a personalization approach in providing support to facilitate learning in dyslexic students.
Graphene Oxide (GO) for the Treatment of Bone Cancer: A Systematic Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Barba-Rosado Lemy Vanessa , Carrascal-Hernández Domingo César , Insuasty Daniel , Grande-Tovar Carlos David
Published: January 2024

Cancer is a severe disease that, in 2022, caused more than 9.89 million deaths worldwide. One worrisome type of cancer is bone cancer, such as osteosarcoma and Ewing tumors, which occur more frequently in infants. This study shows an active interest in the use of graphene oxide and its derivatives in therapy against bone cancer. We present a systematic review analyzing the current state of the art related to the use of GO in treating osteosarcoma, through evaluating the existing literature. In this sense, studies focused on GO-based nanomaterials for potential applications against osteosarcoma were reviewed, which has revealed that there is an excellent trend toward the use of GO-based nanomaterials, based on their thermal and anti-cancer activities, for the treatment of osteosarcoma through various therapeutic approaches. However, more research is needed to develop highly efficient localized therapies. It is suggested, therefore, that photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and the use of nanocarriers should be considered as non-invasive, more specific, and efficient alternatives in the treatment of osteosarcoma. These options present promising approaches to enhance the effectiveness of therapy while also seeking to reduce side effects and minimize the damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The bibliometric analysis of photothermal and photochemical treatments of graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide from January 2004 to December 2022 extracted 948 documents with its search strategy, mainly related to research papers, review papers, and conference papers, demonstrating a high-impact field supported by the need for more selective and efficient bone cancer therapies. The central countries leading the research are the United States, Iran, Italy, Germany, China, South Korea, and Australia, with strong collaborations worldwide. At the same time, the most-cited papers were published in journals with impact factors of more than 6.0 (2021), with more than 290 citations. Additionally, the journals that published the most on the topic are high impact factor journals, according to the analysis performed, demonstrating the high impact of the research field.
MRI Detection and Therapeutic Enhancement of Ferumoxytol Internalization in Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Petronek Michael S. , Teferi Nahom , Lee Chu-Yu , Magnotta Vincent A. , Allen Bryan G.
Published: January 2024

Recently, the FDA-approved iron oxide nanoparticle, ferumoxytol, has been found to enhance the efficacy of pharmacological ascorbate (AscH−) in treating glioblastoma, as AscH− reduces the Fe3+ sites in the nanoparticle core. Given the iron oxidation state specificity of T2* relaxation mapping, this study aims to investigate the ability of T2* relaxation to monitor the reduction of ferumoxytol by AscH− with respect to its in vitro therapeutic enhancement. This study employed an in vitro glioblastoma MRI model system to investigate the chemical interaction of ferumoxytol with T2* mapping. Lipofectamine was utilized to facilitate ferumoxytol internalization and assess intracellular versus extracellular chemistry. In vitro T2* mapping successfully detected an AscH−-mediated reduction of ferumoxytol (25.6 ms versus 2.8 ms for FMX alone). The T2* relaxation technique identified the release of Fe2+ from ferumoxytol by AscH− in glioblastoma cells. However, the high iron content of ferumoxytol limited T2* ability to differentiate between the external and internal reduction of ferumoxytol by AscH− (ΔT2* = +839% for external FMX and +1112% for internal FMX reduction). Notably, the internalization of ferumoxytol significantly enhances its ability to promote AscH− toxicity (dose enhancement ratio for extracellular FMX = 1.16 versus 1.54 for intracellular FMX). These data provide valuable insights into the MR-based nanotheranostic application of ferumoxytol and AscH− therapy for glioblastoma management. Future developmental efforts, such as FMX surface modifications, may be warranted to enhance this approach further.
Integrated Ozonation Ni-NiO/Carbon/g-C3N4 Nanocomposite-Mediated Catalytic Decomposition of Organic Contaminants in Wastewater under Visible Light
Authors: Alhato Abdullah Y. , Kumar Rajeev , Barakat Mohammad A.
Published: January 2024

Developing a hybrid process for wastewater purification is of utmost importance to make conventional methods more efficient and faster. Herein, an effective visible light-active nickel–nickel oxide/carbon/graphitic carbon nitride (Ni-NiO/C/g-C3N4)-based nanocatalyst was developed. A hybrid process based on ozonation and Ni-NiO/C/g-C3N4 visible light photocatalysis was applied to decolourize the Congo red (CR), Alizarin Red S (ARS), and real dairy industry wastewater. The synthesized catalyst was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Χ-ray powder diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectrophotometry (UV-Vis DRS). The factors affecting the catalytic process were evaluated, including contact time, solution pH, initial dye concentration, etc. The degradation rate of CR and ARS was compared between the photocatalysis, ozonation, and integrated photocatalytic ozonation (PC/O3) methods. The results showed 100% degradation of CR and ARS within 5 min and 40 min, respectively, by integrated PC/O3. The reusability of the modified catalyst was evaluated, and four successive regenerations were achieved. The modified Ni-NiO/C/g-C3N4 composite could be considered an effective, fast, and reusable catalyst in an integrated PC/O3 process for the complete decolourization of wastewater.
Near-Plasma Chemical Surface Engineering
Authors: Navascués Paula , Schütz Urs , Hanselmann Barbara , Hegemann Dirk
Published: January 2024

As a new trend in plasma surface engineering, plasma conditions that allow more-defined chemical reactions at the surface are being increasingly investigated. This is achieved by avoiding high energy deposition via ion bombardment during direct plasma exposure (DPE) causing destruction, densification, and a broad variety of chemical reactions. In this work, a novel approach is introduced by placing a polymer mesh with large open area close to the plasma–sheath boundary above the plasma-treated sample, thus enabling near-plasma chemistry (NPC). The mesh size effectively extracts ions, while reactive neutrals, electrons, and photons still reach the sample surface. The beneficial impact of this on the plasma activation of poly (tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) to enhance wettability and on the plasma polymerization of siloxanes, combined with the etching of residual hydrocarbons to obtain highly porous SiOx coatings at low temperatures, is discussed. Characterization of the treated samples indicates a predominant chemical modification yielding enhanced film structures and durability.
Differential Regulation of Circadian Clock Genes by UV-B Radiation and 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D: A Pilot Study during Different Stages of Skin Photocarcinogenesis
Authors: Lamnis Leandros , Christofi Christoforos , Stark Alexandra , Palm Heike , Roemer Klaus , Vogt Thomas , Reichrath Jörg
Published: January 2024

Background: Increasing evidence points at an important physiological role of the timekeeping system, known as the circadian clock (CC), regulating not only our sleep–awake rhythm but additionally many other cellular processes in peripheral tissues. It was shown in various cell types that environmental stressors, including ultraviolet B radiation (UV-B), modulate the expression of genes that regulate the CC (CCGs) and that these CCGs modulate susceptibility for UV-B-induced cellular damage. It was the aim of this pilot study to gain further insights into the CCs’ putative role for UV-B-induced photocarcinogenesis of skin cancer. Methods: Applying RT-PCR, we analyzed the expression of two core CCGs (brain and muscle ARNT-like 1 (Bmal1) and Period-2 (Per2)) over several time points (0–60 h) in HaCaT cells with and without 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (D3) and/or UV-B and conducted a cosinor analysis to evaluate the effects of those conditions on the circadian rhythm and an extended mixed-effects linear modeling to account for both fixed effects of experimental conditions and random inter-individual variability. Next, we investigated the expression of these two genes in keratinocytes representing different stages of skin photocarcinogenesis, comparing normal (Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes—NHEK; p53 wild type), precancerous (HaCaT keratinocytes; mutated p53 status), and malignant (Squamous Cell Carcinoma SCL-1; p53 null status) keratinocytes after 12 h under the same conditions. Results: We demonstrated that in HaCaT cells, Bmal1 showed a robust circadian rhythm, while the evidence for Per2 was limited. Overall expression of both genes, but especially for Bmal1, was increased following UV-B treatment, while Per2 showed a suppressed overall expression following D3. Both UVB and 1,25(OH)2D3 suggested a significant phase shift for Bmal1 (p < 0.05 for the acrophase), while no specific effect on the amplitude could be evidenced. Differential effects on the expression of BMAL1 and Per2 were found when we compared different treatment modalities (UV-B and/or D3) or cell types (NHEK, HaCaT, and SCL-1 cells). Conclusions: Comparing epidermal keratinocytes representing different stages of skin photocarcinogenesis, we provide further evidence for an independently operating timekeeping system in human skin, which is regulated by UV-B and disturbed during skin photocarcinogenesis. Our finding that this pattern of circadian rhythm was differentially altered by treatment with UV-B, as compared with treatment with D3, does not support the hypothesis that the expression of these CCGs may be regulated via UV-B-induced synthesis of vitamin D but might be introducing a novel photoprotective property of vitamin D through the circadian clock.
Motion and Form Perception in Childhood-Onset Schizophrenia
Authors: Kéri Szabolcs , Kelemen Oguz
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Childhood-onset schizophrenia (COS) is a rare type of psychotic disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, grossly disorganized behavior, and poor psychosocial functioning. The etiology of COS is unknown, but neurodevelopmental factors are likely to play a critical role. A potential neurodevelopmental anomaly marker is the dorsal visual system dysfunction, which is implicated in motion perception, spatial functions, and attention. (2) Methods: To elucidate the role of the dorsal visual system in COS, we investigated 21 patients with COS and 21 control participants matched for age, sex, education, IQ, and parental socioeconomic status. Participants completed a motion and form coherence task, during which one assesses an individual’s ability to detect the direction of motion within a field of moving elements or dots and to recognize a meaningful form or object from a set of fragmented or disconnected visual elements, respectively. (3) Results: The patients with COS were impaired in both visual tasks compared to the control participants, but the evidence for the deficit was more substantial for motion perception than for form perception (form: BF10 = 27.22; motion: BF10 = 6.97 × 106). (4) Conclusions: These results highlight the importance of dorsal visual stream vulnerability in COS, a potential marker of neurodevelopmental anomalies.
Can Pharmacological Conditioning as an Add-On Treatment Optimize Standard Pharmacological Treatment in Patients with Recent-Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis? A Proof-of-Principle Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Manaï Meriem , van Middendorp Henriët , van der Pol Joy A. , Allaart Cornelia F. , Dusseldorp Elise , Veldhuijzen Dieuwke S. , Huizinga Tom W. J. , Evers Andrea W. M.
Published: January 2024

Medication regimens using conditioning via variable reinforcement have shown similar or improved therapeutic effects as full pharmacological treatment, but evidence in patient populations is scarce. This proof-of-principle double-blind randomized clinical trial examined whether treatment effects in recent-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be optimized through pharmacological conditioning. After four months of standardized treatment (n = 46), patients in clinical remission (n = 19) were randomized to the Control group (C), continuing standardized treatment (n = 8), or the Pharmacological Conditioning (PC) group, receiving variable treatment according to conditioning principles (n = 11). After eight months, treatment was tapered and discontinued linearly (C) or variably (PC). Standard treatment led to large improvements in disease activity and HRQoL in both groups. The groups did not differ in the percentage of drug-free clinical remission obtained after conditioning or continued standard treatment. The PC group did show a larger decrease in self-reported disease activity (Cohen’s d = 0.9) and a smaller increase in TNF-α levels (Cohen’s d = 0.7) than the C group. During all phases, more differences between groups were found for the patients who followed protocol than for the intention-to-treat sample. Although the results are not conclusive, pharmacological conditioning may have some advantages in terms of disease progression and stability, especially during the conditioning phase, compared with standard clinical treatment. The effects may be particularly beneficial for patients who show a good initial response to increased medication dosages.
Microbiome and Prostate Cancer: Emerging Diagnostic and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Kim Sung Jin , Park Myungchan , Choi Ahnryul , Yoo Sangjun
Published: January 2024

This review systematically addresses the correlation between the microbiome and prostate cancer and explores its diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Recent research has indicated an association between the urinary and gut microbiome composition and prostate cancer incidence and progression. Specifically, the urinary microbiome is a potential non-invasive biomarker for early detection and risk evaluation, with altered microbial profiles in prostate cancer patients. This represents an advancement in non-invasive diagnostic approaches to prostate cancer. The role of the gut microbiome in the efficacy of various cancer therapies has recently gained attention. Gut microbiota variations can affect the metabolism and effectiveness of standard treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and hormone therapy. This review explores the potential of gut microbiome modification through dietary interventions, prebiotics, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation for improving the treatment response and mitigating adverse effects. Moreover, this review discusses the potential of microbiome profiling for patient stratification and personalized treatment strategies. While the current research identifies the pivotal role of the microbiome in prostate cancer, it also highlights the necessity for further investigations to fully understand these complex interactions and their practical applications in improving patient outcomes in prostate cancer management.
Zinc Oxide and Magnesium-Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Ameliorate Murine Chronic Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Sarhan Mohamed H. , Felemban Shatha G. , Alelwani Walla , Sharaf Hesham M. , Abd El-Latif Yasmin A. , Elgazzar Elsayed , Kandil Ahmad M. , Tellez-Isaias Guillermo , Mohamed Aya A.
Published: January 2024

Toxoplasma gondii causes a global parasitic disease. Therapeutic options for eradicating toxoplasmosis are limited. In this study, ZnO and Mg-doped ZnO NPs were prepared, and their structural and morphological chrematistics were investigated. The XRD pattern revealed that Mg-doped ZnO NPs have weak crystallinity and a small crystallite size. FTIR and XPS analyses confirmed the integration of Mg ions into the ZnO framework, producing the high-purity Mg-doped ZnO nanocomposite. TEM micrographs determined the particle size of un-doped ZnO in the range of 29 nm, reduced to 23 nm with Mg2+ replacements. ZnO and Mg-doped ZnO NPs significantly decreased the number of brain cysts (p < 0.05) by 29.30% and 35.08%, respectively, compared to the infected untreated group. The administration of ZnO and Mg-doped ZnO NPs revealed a marked histopathological improvement in the brain, liver, and spleen. Furthermore, ZnO and Mg-doped ZnO NPs reduced P53 expression in the cerebral tissue while inducing CD31 expression, which indicated a protective effect against the infection-induced apoptosis and the restoration of balance between free radicals and antioxidant defense activity. In conclusion, the study proved these nanoparticles have antiparasitic, antiapoptotic, and angiogenetic effects. Being nontoxic compounds, these nanoparticles could be promising adjuvants in treating chronic toxoplasmosis.
Trans-Cinnamaldehyde—Fighting Streptococcus mutans Using Nature
Authors: Ngokwe Zilefac Brian , Wolfoviz-Zilberman Amit , Sharon Esi , Zabrovsky Asher , Beyth Nurit , Houri-Haddad Yael , Kesler-Shvero Dana
Published: January 2024

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is the main cariogenic bacterium with acidophilic properties, in part due to its acid-producing and -resistant properties. As a result of this activity, hard tooth structures may demineralize and form caries. Trans-cinnamaldehyde (TC) is a phytochemical from the cinnamon plant that has established antibacterial properties for Gram-positive and -negative bacteria. This research sought to assess the antibacterial and antibiofilm effects of trans-cinnamaldehyde on S. mutans. TC was diluted to a concentration range of 156.25–5000 μg/mL in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) 0.03–1%, an organic solvent. Antibacterial activity was monitored by testing the range of TC concentrations on 24 h planktonic growth compared with untreated S. mutans. The subminimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) were used to evaluate the bacterial distribution and morphology in the biofilms. Our in vitro data established a TC MBC of 2500 μg/mL against planktonic S. mutans using a microplate spectrophotometer. Furthermore, the DMSO-only controls showed no antibacterial effect against planktonic S. mutans. Next, the sub-MBC doses exhibited antibiofilm action at TC doses of ≥625 μg/mL on hydroxyapatite discs, as demonstrated through biofilm analysis using spinning-disk confocal microscopy (SDCM) and high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM). Our findings show that TC possesses potent antibacterial and antibiofilm properties against S. mutans. Our data insinuate that the most effective sub-MBC of TC to bestow these activities is 625 μg/mL.
Mueller-Polarimetry of Barley Leaves II: Mueller Matrix Decompositions
Authors: Savenkov Sergey , Oberemok Yevgen , Kolomiets Ivan , Muttiah Ranjan , Kurylenko Roman
Published: January 2024

This paper highlights the application of decomposition methods in Mueller polarimetry for the discrimination of three groups of barley leaf samples from Hordeum vulgare: Chlorina mutant, Chlorina etiolated mutant and Cesaer varieties in the visible wavelength at λ = 632.8 nm. To obtain the anisotropic and depolarizing properties of the samples under study, the additive and multiplicative decompositions of experimental Mueller matrices were used. We show how a rich set of anisotropy and depolarization parameters obtained from decompositions can be used as effective observables for the discrimination between different varieties of the same plant species.
The Development of a Remote Edge-Lit Backlight Structure with Blue Laser Diodes
Authors: Chen Bing-Mau , Ying Shang-Ping , Pham Truong An , Tseng Shiuan-Yu , Chang Yu-Kang
Published: January 2024

In this study, we introduce a novel design of a remote edge-lit backlight structure featuring blue laser diodes (LDs). These LDs were integrated into a remote yellow phosphor layer on a light guide plate (LGP). Blue light emitted by the LDs passes through the LGP and spreads to the remote phosphor layer, generating white light output. Owing to the incorporation of a scattering layer between sequential LGPs, the remote edge-lit backlight structure facilitates the expansion of the output surface of the LGP by combining multiple individual LGPs. Two- and three-LGP remote edge-lit backlight structures demonstrated acceptable white illuminance uniformity. The proposed architecture serves as a viable solution for achieving uniform illumination in planar lighting systems using blue LDs; thus, this structure is particularly suitable for linear lighting or slender backlighting instead of display stand applications.
Mulched Drip Fertigation with Growth Inhibitors Reduces Bundle-Sheath Cell Leakage and Improves Photosynthesis Capacity and Barley Production in Semi-Arid Regions
Authors: Xu Yinping , Liu Jianhua , Ren Cheng , Niu Xiaoxia , Zhang Tinghong , Huo Kecang
Published: January 2024

A better understanding of the factors that reduce bundle-sheath cell leakage to CO2 (Փ), enhance 13C carbon isotope discrimination, and enhance the photosynthetic capacity of barley leaves will be useful to develop a nutrient- and water-saving strategy for dry-land farming systems. Therefore, barley plants were exposed to a novel nitrification inhibitor (NI) (3,4-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl succinic acid) (DMPSA) and a urease inhibitor (UI) (N-butyl thiophosphorictriamide (NBPT)) with mulched drip fertigation treatments, which included HF (high-drip fertigation (370 mm) under a ridge furrow system), MF (75% of HF, moderate-drip fertigation under a ridge furrow system), LF (50% of HF, low-drip fertigation under a ridge furrow system), and TP (traditional planting with no inhibitors or drip fertigation strategies). The results indicated that the nitrification inhibitor combined with mulched drip fertigation significantly reduced bundle-sheath cell leakage to CO2 (Փ) as a result of increased soil water content; this was demonstrated by the light and CO2 response curves of the photosynthesis capacity (An), the apparent quantum efficiency (α), and the 13C-photosynthate distribution. In the inhibitor-based strategy, the use of the urease and nitrification inhibitors reduced Փ by 35% and 39% compared with TP. In the NI-HF strategy, it was found that barley could retain the maximum photosynthesis capacity by increasing the leaf area index (LAI), An, rubisco content, soluble protein, dry matter per plant, and productivity. The CO2 and light response curves were considerably improved in the NI-HF and NI-MF treatments due to a higher 13C carbon isotope (Δ‰), respiration rate (Rd), and Ci/Ca, therefore obtaining the minimum Փ value. With both inhibitors, there was a significant difference between HF and LF drip fertigation. The NI-MF treatment significantly increased the grain yield, total chlorophyll content, WUE, and NUE by 52%, 47%, 57%, and 45%, respectively. Collectively, the results suggest that the new nitrification inhibitor (DMPSA) with HF or MF mulched drip fertigation could be promoted in semi-arid regions in order to mitigate bundle-sheath cell leakage to CO2 (Փ), without negatively affecting barley production and leading to the nutrient and water use efficiency of barley.
Sustainable Materials with Improved Biodegradability and Toughness from Blends of Poly(Lactic Acid), Pineapple Stem Starch and Modified Natural Rubber
Authors: Tessanan Wasan , Phinyocheep Pranee , Amornsakchai Taweechai
Published: January 2024

Poly(lactic acid) (PLA), derived from renewable resources, plays a significant role in the global biodegradable plastic market. However, its widespread adoption faces challenges, including high brittleness, hydrophobicity, limited biodegradability, and higher costs compared to traditional petroleum-based plastics. This study addresses these challenges by incorporating thermoplastic pineapple stem starch (TPSS) and modified natural rubber (MNR) into PLA blends. TPSS, derived from pineapple stem waste, is employed to enhance hydrophilicity, biodegradability, and reduce costs. While the addition of TPSS (10 to 40 wt.%) marginally lowered mechanical properties due to poor interfacial interaction with PLA, the inclusion of MNR (1 to 10 wt.%) in the PLA/20TPSS blend significantly improved stretchability and impact strength, resulting in suitable modulus (1.3 to 1.7 GPa) and mechanical strength (32 to 52 MPa) for diverse applications. The presence of 7 wt.% MNR increased impact strength by 90% compared to neat PLA. The ternary blend exhibited a heterogeneous morphology with enhanced interfacial adhesion, confirmed by microfibrils and a rough texture on the fracture surface. Additionally, a downward shift in PLA’s glass transition temperature (Tg) by 5–6 °C indicated improved compatibility between components. Remarkably, the PLA ternary blends demonstrated superior water resistance and proper biodegradability compared to binary blends. These findings highlight the potential of bio-based plastics, such as PLA blends with TPSS and MNR, to contribute to sustainable economic models and reduce environmental impact for using in plastic packaging applications.
The Domain and Structural Characteristics of Ferroelectric Copolymers Based on Vinylidene Fluoride Copolymer with Tetrafluoroethylene Composition (94/6)
Authors: Kochervinskii Valentin V. , Buryanskaya Evgeniya L. , Osipkov Alexey S. , Ryzhenko Dmitriy S. , Kiselev Dmitry A. , Lokshin Boris V. , Zvyagina Aleksandra I. , Kirakosyan Gayane A.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents data on the macroscopic polarization of copolymer films of vinylidene fluoride with tetrafluoroethylene obtained with a modified apparatus assembled according to the Sawyer–Tower Circuit. The kinetics of the polarization process were analyzed taking into consideration the contributions of both bound and quasi-free (impurity) charges. It was shown that an “abnormal” decrease in conductivity was observed in fields near the coercive fields. This could be associated with the appearance of deep traps of the impurity charge carriers formed by the polar planes of β-phase crystals. The conductivity data obtained from the charge and current responses differed. It was concluded that chain segments contributing to polarization with sufficiently low fields were present in the amorphous phase. A comparison showed that the average size of β-phase crystals (crystals of X-ray diffraction reflection width) was almost one order of magnitude lower than the domain size obtained using piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM). The analysis of the fast-stage dielectric response before and after polarization indicated that as the external polarizing field increased in the ferroelectric polymer chains, conformational transitions occurred according to the T3GT3G− → (-TT-)n и TGTG → (-TT-)n types. This was accompanied by an increase in the effective dipole moment in the amorphous phase chains. The analysis of the IR spectroscopy data obtained in transmission and ATR modes revealed a difference in the conformational states of the chains in the core and surface parts of the film.
Physicochemical and Rheological Properties of Succinoglycan Overproduced by Sinorhizobium meliloti 1021 Mutant
Authors: Kim Jaeyul , Jeong Jae-pil , Kim Yohan , Jung Seunho
Published: January 2024

Commercial bacterial exopolysaccharide (EPS) applications have been gaining interest; therefore, strains that provide higher yields are required for industrial-scale processes. Succinoglycan (SG) is a type of bacterial anionic exopolysaccharide produced by Rhizobium, Agrobacterium, and other soil bacterial species. SG has been widely used as a pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food additive based on its properties as a thickener, texture enhancer, emulsifier, stabilizer, and gelling agent. An SG-overproducing mutant strain (SMC1) was developed from Sinorhizobium meliloti 1021 through N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (NTG) mutation, and the physicochemical and rheological properties of SMC1-SG were analyzed. SMC1 produced (22.3 g/L) 3.65-fold more SG than did the wild type. Succinoglycan (SMC1-SG) overproduced by SMC1 was structurally characterized by FT-IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The molecular weights of SG and SMC1-SG were 4.20 × 105 and 4.80 × 105 Da, respectively, as determined by GPC. Based on DSC and TGA, SMC1-SG exhibited a higher endothermic peak (90.9 °C) than that of SG (77.2 °C). Storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G″) measurements during heating and cooling showed that SMC1-SG had improved thermal behavior compared to that of SG, with intersections at 74.9 °C and 72.0 °C, respectively. The SMC1-SG′s viscosity reduction pattern was maintained even at high temperatures (65 °C). Gelation by metal cations was observed in Fe3+ and Cr3+ solutions for both SG and SMC1-SG. Antibacterial activities of SG and SMC1-SG against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were also observed. Therefore, like SG, SMC1-SG may be a potential biomaterial for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.
Degradation of Plastic Materials through Small-Scale Pyrolysis: Characterization of the Obtained Hydrocarbons and Life Cycle Analysis
Authors: Torres Tovar José Alfredo , Servín-Campuzano Hermelinda , González-Avilés Mauricio , Sobral Hugo , Sánchez-Ruiz Francisco Javier
Published: January 2024

Plastic waste signifies a global predicament, aggravated by deficient management practices. Unearthing methods to repurpose energy from this waste is pivotal. This study delves into the pyrolytic degradation of low-density plastics to convert plastic waste into valuable products on a modest scale. A small-scale, low-CO2 emitting distiller was employed in the process. A zeolite was harnessed as a catalyst to augment the temperature and hasten the pyrolysis process. A comprehensive life cycle analysis was executed to assess the environmental impact of the process. In this scenario, zeolite-facilitated pyrolysis was more proficient compared to traditional thermal pyrolysis, generating a yield of 22.5% with the catalyst, contrasting with 18% without. A kinetic model was formulated, observing reaction mechanisms and temperature escalation and culminating in the extraction of aromatic oils. These oils were further distilled to produce liquid hydrocarbons, beginning the distillation at 60 °C with the catalyst. Characterization of the secured hydrocarbons was conducted using infrared, Raman spectroscopy, and gas chromatography, discovering compounds akin to gasoline, such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes. Additionally, the procedure exhibited a minimal environmental detriment, as validated by the life cycle analysis. This study concludes by highlighting the potential of small-scale, low-CO2 emitting pyrolytic degradation of low-density plastics for energy recovery from plastic waste, demonstrating the practical and environmental benefits of this avant-garde method.